#Frerin x OC

[middleearthpixie]

Better Days ~ Chapter Twenty-Three

Summary: Frerin Durin had the perfect life, until he found out his wife was cheating on him. Now, he’s navigating uncharted territory as an about-to-be divorced single dad. Dating is a mess, he’s dealing with the fallout where his kids are concerned, and really, he would just love a vacation away from all of it. 

Elena Madison is new to Sidleburg, and also navigating life as a newly single parent. The last thing she needed was for her daughter to come down sick, when she hasn’t even had time to unpack the moving boxes, never mind find a pediatrician. And the last thing she ever expected was to meet a man like Dr. Frerin Durin…

Neither Elena nor Frerin were looking for anything, but fate has a way of messing up even the best laid plans. However, both have been hurt and both aren't at all sure they trust themselves, never mind trusting someone else...

Pairings:  Modern!Frerin x ofc Elena Madison

Warnings: None

Rating: T

Word Count: 2.7k

Read on AO3

Elena thought she might hear from Frerin sometime the next day, but that didn't happen. She thought about calling him, but talked herself out of it each time. His family wasn't hers. She had no right to barge in on their trauma as if she belonged there. He would call her when he was good and ready and she just had to accept that. 

Which was something she tried really hard to convince herself. Even so, her mood was grayer than it should have been as she waited at Newark Airport for Alyssa to come down the jetway. 

“Mommy!” Alyssa’s voice rang out through the terminal, as loud and boisterous as ever, and she bounded toward Elena to throw her arms around her neck like it had been years since Alyssa had gone.

Elena stepped back, smiling at the sight of her suntanned daughter, who looked far healthier than she had when she left for Florida. “Well, I guess you are definitely feeling better.”

“I am. It’s amazing was a little sunshine and beach will do for you.” Alyssa slung her backpack over her left shoulder. “Now, just keep your fingers crossed that my luggage made its way home as well.”

Thankfully, her large black wheelie (the handle tied with a scarlet satin ribbon for easy identification) had made it home, and so a little more than an hour after Alyssa’s plane had touched down, they were in the car, on their way home, and Alyssa was already complaining about the cold.

When she finished, she said, “Well, at least the snow is pretty. I hate that I missed a snowy Christmas break . We could’ve done something fun, like go skiing.”

“You don’t like to ski, remember? And besides, you had a good time, you got spoiled rotten by your grandparents, and you have a tan. I think that’s a fair trade.”

“Maybe.” Alyssa leaned forward to change the radio station from Classic Rewind to Octane. “So, how is Dr. Hottie? Did you behave while I gone?”

Elena chuckled. “Yes, Mom.” 

“Are you used to the beard yet?”

“Alyssa!” Elena couldn't hold back her laughter.

“What? I’m curious.”

“Don’t you worry about it.” Elena shook her head, checking the side mirror before switching lanes. “But, yes, I’m used to.”

“I knew it. So, are you seeing him tonight, since it’s your last night of freedom?”

“Not tonight.” 

“Let me guess, you two just were inseparable all week. Like, I’ll bet there was a montage of all the things you guys did while I was gone, like in the movies? With like a stupid Herman’s Hermits song playing throughout, like in that old Leslie Nielsen movie you showed me last summer.”

“Not quite.” Elena sighed softly. “But, I don’t know when I will be seeing him.”

“Oh, no. Mom, that sounds so ominous. What happened?”

“Just a family thing.”

“A family thing?”

“Yes, Miss Nosy,” Elena grinned at her, “a family thing.”

“Is he married? Mom, are you fooling around with a married man?”

“He’s not married, technically.”

“Technically?”

Elena could practically hear Alyssa’s raised eyebrow and she chuckled as she nodded. “Yes, technically. He’s in the process of divorcing his wife. So not married, but not unmarried, either.”

“Scandalous.”

“Hardly. Now, tell me about what all you did in Florida…”

****

If the day before a vacation was a long, rough one, that was nothing like the first day back from it. Elena sat back in her chair as her period seven class filed in, all looking the way she felt—about done in. 

“Hey, Ms Madison,” Ashleigh Brenner greeted her as she slipped into her chair at table in front of Elena’s desk.

“Hi, Ashleigh. How was your break?”

“Not nearly long enough.”

“I feel that.” Elena pushed back her chair and stood as the rest of the class filed. “Welcome back, everyone. I know how you’ve missed being here.”

“Damn it,” Lindsey Keller blurted, dropping her Chromebook onto the table next to Ashleigh’s machine, “I forgot my paper, Ms Madison.”

“I expected there would be a few people who might not remember,” Elena told her, “so I’m pushing the deadline to tomorrow.”

With that, she picked up a blue Expo dry erase marker and at the top left side of the white board at the front of the classroom, she wrote the new due date, and as everyone else took their seats, said, “I hope everyone had a restful break. As you can see, I pushed the date back to tomorrow, so make sure you bring in your research papers because any that aren’t turned in tomorrow, I will still accept late, but you will be marked down half a grade for every day.”

“What?” Sadiya Hartwell asked.

“If you hand it in tomorrow, you’ll get starting grade of full credit, which may or may not come down depending how you’ve done on it. But, if you forget tomorrow, and bring it on Thursday, you will start out with a ninety-five and I’ll grade it from there. If you bring it in on Friday, you start with a ninety, and so on and so on.”

There were a few expected grumbles, but that was it, and as she moved toward the center of the whiteboard, she said, “So, we’ve wrapped up our segment on the American Revolution and move into the ratification of the United States Constitution and the election of 1800. Then we will move into the Era of Good Feelings and then Jacksonian politics and how the election of 1824 led to the Second Party System.”

“When are we going to get to the Civil War?”

“Not for a little while yet. Probably by the end of the month, maybe first week of February, Brayden. We will spend a couple of weeks talking about it, and then move through Reconstruction. So, let’s get started. Does anyone know when the United States Constitution was ratified and which state was the first to do so?”

****

“Dr. Durin?”

Frerin turned away from the Keurig, peering over his shoulder. “What is it, Katie?”

“Dr. Reese is looking for you.”

“Did you tell him where I was?”

She winced and nodded. “Yeah. Was I not supposed to?”

“No, it’s fine. Where is he?”

“He said he had to scrub in on a lap-chole at ten, but that he’d be in his office otherwise.”

Frerin glanced down at his watch. “If I milk fixing this coffee I can avoid—”

“Avoiding me, Frerin?”

 “Not at all, Jay.” He forced a smile he didn't really feel to his lips as he lifted his cup from the Keurig’s tray and turned to face Reese. “What did you need me for?”

“I wanted to talk to you about the pedes ER. You have a minute?” Jay Reese smiled at Katie. “Unless I’m interrupting something?”

“I was just leaving,” Katie replied dryly, rolling her eyes as Reese brushed by her to come into the lounge. Normally, Frerin would just use the Keurig in his office, but he’d been called down to the ER for a consult and halfway up realized he’d left his coffee cup in the ER’s doctors’ lounge. That meant he had to scrounge a cup from the lounge near his office and hope that his remained untouched downstairs.

“She’s cute,” Reese remarked as the lounge door swung closed. 

Although he secretly agreed, Frerin rolled his eyes just the same. “She’s too young for you and you’re too married for her.”

“Too married. Is that even a thing?”

“Did you want to talk to me or flirt with my secretary?”

“Christ, you’re touchy today.”

“I’ve been under more stress than usual these days.” Frerin lifted his cup to his lips for a sip. French vanilla. Not his favorite but it was caffeinated and that trumped flavor today. 

“How’s your boy doing?”

“He’s doing well. Naismith is discharging him on Friday and he’ll do a six week outpatient program through Gen-Psych.”

“Yeah? They’re good. They really helped Tiff a few years ago.”

“They did?”

Reese nodded, moving to the cabinet to take down a mug for himself. “Yeah. I didn't broadcast it to the hospital, but she spent time there and at Wakeman. They do good work.”

“I hope so. I don't think I can do another week like this last one.” Frerin sank into one of the mismatched chairs around the table in the middle of the lounge. “This place is almost as much of a dump as the ER lounge.”

“Well, the ER is were the derelicts all end up, so no surprise there.” Reese slid a K-cup into the machine and set his cup on the tray, then pressed brew. “No offense to you, of course.”

“Well, considering you keep sending me there…” Frerin set his cup down. “But, they’re good docs down there. You wouldn’t last a week in the ER and we both know it.”

“I did my time in the trenches.”

“You were never an ER doc.”

“No, but I’ve covered.”

“I hate to break it to you, but one ER shift every ten years does not count.”

Reese chuckled. “I’m glad you feel at home enough to defend those burnouts, considering you’ll be joining them in a few weeks.”

“What?”

Reese joined him at the table, tugging out another chair to sink into. “Yeah. Where else would we put a pediatric ER?”

“Wait… you mean… you’re signing off on it? But I haven’t even sent out a single grant application. I don't even have a list of foundations to hit up.”

“I know, but Danielle somehow found out about the idea and she thinks it’s a good one and fortunately for you, her daddy has really deep pockets. So, go down there, let me know exactly what you need and put in the requisitions and work orders and we’ll get started.”

Frerin smiled. “I knew I liked your wife for a reason.”

Reese chuckled. “And that’s why I’ll never go beyond flirting with your hot secretary. If Daddy Warbucks ever caught me giving it to anyone other than Danielle, I’d be sleeping in my Beemer.”

“You’re too old for Katie anyway and she’s seeing a pro hockey player, so I’m gonna go out on a limb and suggest you’re really not her type anyway.”

Reese chuckled. “She’s also two years younger than my daughter. It would be too creepy outside of my imagination.”

“It’s too creepy within the confines of your imagination as well.” Frerin reached for his coffee. “So, when you think we can get this up and running by?”

“Spring at the latest, if all goes well. The board will approve it, and they’ll approve you being charge of it. Once we get everything signed off, I’ll expect a list of possible employees and if you go outside the hospital, we’ll need to get them vetted.”

“I’ll draw up a list in the next week or two and we what we need downstairs.” 

“Good. And this coffee sucks, by the way.” Reese rose and moved to the door, where he paused. “Hey, did you ever hook up with your gorgeous brunette?”

Frerin couldn't help his grin. “Yeah, I did.”

“Good. I’ll see you.”

“See you later.” 

As the door to the lounge closed, Frerin finished his coffee and sat back as a feeling of triumph washed over him. He had never thought Reese’s wife might be the savior to getting a pediatric ER set up, but now what had been more fantasy than reality was really going to happen and it was the best news he’d had in weeks. 

Without thinking, he picked up his cell phone from where it lay on the table and toggled to contacts, where he scrolled down to Elena. He hesitated for a moment, since he hadn’t talked to her since the night of Jake’s suicide attempt, and while he’d hoped she’d understood, he had no way of knowing for sure. Still, he’d risk it and there was only one way to find out. It was after three now, so she should be finished with her last class.

With that, he tapped on her phone number and tried to ignore how his heart sped up as he waited for her to answer. 

One ring. 

Two. 

“Hi, Frerin.”

He almost groaned at the heat that swept through him at the mere sound of her voice. “Hi, Elena. Are you busy?”

“No. My last class ended about ten minutes ago. What’s up? How’s Jake doing?”

“He’s doing well, actually. His doc thinks he’ll be discharged at the end of the week and then he’ll do a six-week outpatient program at Gen-Psych.”

“That’s wonderful news! Although, I confess, I don’t know what Gen-Psych is, exactly.”

“It’s a program that will involve basically helping him learn to cope with stressors so we hopefully don't find ourselves back at ground zero again. They’ll tutor him so he doesn’t fall behind on schoolwork and if he’s doing well, when it’s over, he’ll be back in school with his friends again.”

“Oh, that would be fantastic,” she replied and he could almost hear the smile in her voice. “You and his mother must be thrilled.”

“I am, but I neither know nor care if she is.”

“Uh-oh… what happened?”

“I’ll tell you when I see you.” He hesitated. “I mean, if you want to see me, since I basically went MIA on you.”

“You didn't go MIA, Frerin. You had a family emergency and your kids—especially Jake at the moment—come before me any time.”

He couldn’t help his smile. “I confess, I thought you might be pissed off at me.”

“I might, if it was anything other than one of your kids. Especially considering these circumstances. I didn't want to butt in, so I figured I’d give you your space and you’d call me when you were ready. It’s all good.”

“I’d like to see you later. Are you free?”

“What’s later?”

“I’m on until seven. I’ll leave here and head over to Wakeman until eight. Could I swing by after?”

“And what about Maura and Flynn?”

“I can drop them at home first.” 

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, I’m sure.” He chuckled softly. “But that’s not the only reason I’m calling. I just… I got some great news and wanted to share it with somebody and you were the first somebody I thought of, so…”

“I—I was?”

“Yeah. Why do you sound so surprised?”

“Because I am surprised, that’s why.” 

“The Pediatric ER is a go.”

“You got the funding?”

“I got the funding. Seems my chief of staff’s wife loved the idea. And since she comes from a family with more money than they know what to do with, I’m getting my pet project. I’ll need to find a few more hours each day, and hopefully the kids won’t suffer too much as a result, but when all is said and done, Sidleburg Memorial will have a pediatric ER.” 

“That is fantastic, Frerin. And I wouldn’t worry if I was you. I think they’ll understand. Especially when you tell them this has been your passion project.”

“We shall see. I can hold off telling Jake until he’s more settled, but the other two can know now.”

“I’m really happy for you, Frerin. Really. I think it’s wonderful.”

“Thanks, Lena. I’m feeling pretty good, myself.”

The lounge door opened and Katie poked her head in. “Dr. Durin? They need you in the ER again.”

He sat up and nodded, shifting the phone to whisper, “I’ll be right there.” Then, as Katie backed out of the lounge, he said, “I’ve got to go, Lena. They need me in the ER again. Fourth time in the last three hours.”

“It’s the universe telling you that’s where you’re really needed,” she replied with a hint of a laugh.

“Probably. Okay, so I’ll see you later? You sure nine’s not too late?”

“It’s fine, Frerin. Promise.”

“Okay. I’ll see you then.”

“Bye, Frerin.”

He clicked off the call and stood, pushing his chair in with his left hip. He swept up his stethoscope (hot pink, thanks to Jerry, the clerk who handled requisitions for the ER) to drape about his neck, then hurried out to the elevator banks to go down to the ER, his spirits higher than they had been in weeks. 

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[thetempleofthemasaigoddess]

Vassal of the King (part 7)

Frerin x OFC

Author's annotations are here!

*****

Frerin is one hundred and eighteen when he becomes a father.

"Fjalar?"

"Hmm..."

"Fjalar! Wake up!"

He yawns as he turns towards his wife, lying on the other side of the bed even though the dark of the room forbids him from seeing her; they are still living in the tiny house they moved in after their wedding, but now they can almost afford to buy it, which is comforting. "What is it?" he inquires, rubbing his eyes with an hand as he attempts to remember where he is and what day today is; he has always been an heavy sleeper, and a consequence, a slow riser "Are you hungry?"

Verdandi has never been a glutton, but a few months ago she has started experiencing bouts of hunger in the most unexpected moments, and for foods she had never appreciated before. It is a common, even natural behaviour for a woman in her condition, according to Skai (the healer who has assisted Verdandi ever since they realized she was expecting... and who for the last two years has also been their brother-in-law, after his and Skuld's long-anticipated wedding) because now the Dwarf woman is eating for two. And since for a while his poor wife has also been suffering from nausea bouts every time she raises from the bed, Frerin has gotten used to get up and fix her something to eat; he does not mind, even though leaving his bed in the middle of the night is far from pleasant... not much, at least, and the simple sight of Verdandi, ill at ease with hunger and queasiness, her belly heavy with the child they have waited for so long, is enough to repay him ten times over.

But tonight is different; tonight, his inquiry is answered with a grimace, Verdandi's azure eyes already filled with panic. "No, my love; I am not hungry. It is time."

"... what?"

"I need to give birth. Your child is ready to be born."

Frerin goes from half-asleep to clear-headed, and panicky, in less than a blink. "Now?" he asks, for a moment convinced their child could have really chosen a more suitable moment to announce their arrival "But... but it is too early! I thought you were not supposed to give birth before..."

Verdandi sighs; she is more scared than she lets on, and uncomfortably sticky, but she is also determined not to give in to panic - not yet, at least. "I am sorry, my darling; but your child wants to be born, and they want to be born now."

Frerin lives the next minutes like a dream, only vaguely aware of what he is doing as he realizes the moment he has waited for months has finally come, and he could not be less ready. He dresses himself, brings Verdandi a blanket, tells her he loves her as he kisses her temple, and runs out of the door as if he had every Orc in Middle-earth on his heels. It is the middle of the night, and the streets are empty; Frerin runs faster than he thought possible for a Dwarf, heart pounding in his chest, the thump of his boots reverberating on the cobblestone. He is scared, and excited, and happy, and concerned, and never, he realizes, has he missed his family more than now. Does Thorin has children? Does Dís? Would they be able to reassure and comfort him? They would undoubtedly try, and that for Frerin would be enough...

But he cannot count on his siblings' support; he is alone now, and by Mahal, he will not disappoint his family once more!

Thank the Maker, Verdandi's old house, where Skai has moved with his wife and her mother, is not far; Frerin gets his siblings-in-law out of bed, and in a few minutes they are both ready to follow him. Mistress Sigyn promises she will be there soon as well; age has slowed her down, but she would not miss the birth of her first grandchild for the world.

Frerin knows next to nothing about childbirth, but when he reaches Verdandi, it takes him a moment to realize she is close: his poor wife, usually brave as a warrior and with an almost preternatural ability to remain hevel-headed even in time of danger, is crying, and screaming, her azure eyes full of fear. "It hurts." she moans, blindly reaching for Frerin, as if thinking he could deliver her from the pain, and protect her as he would from a sword-wielding enemy "Fjalar, it hurts so much... I fear I am dying..."

The blanket he had brought her has fallen on the floor, and there is a wet patch on the mattress between her legs. She looks so helpless, so young and fragile, and when Frerin takes her hands, she shakes her head, as if being stubborn could help her... or stop what she is going through. "I cannot do it."

"Verdandi..."

"You were right; this is not the time. I do not want this, not now, I am not ready... I do not know what to do!"

Frerin softly tells her that Skai and her sister are here to help her, and that actually she does not have to do anything, but let a natural process happen and her body's instincts take over, but his wife is not listening, and when she grabs his arm, he can feel her nails clawing his skin. "What if they are not ready?" Verdandi says, her eyes wide open with fear "Skai said I would not give birth before a fortnight! What if they are not strong enough? What if they are not... fully formed?"

Even if Frerin had the words to reassure her (and he does not, Mahal deliver him!) he could not utter them, because Skai, with Skuld not for the first time in her role of midwife assistant, immediately takes command, and Frerin finds himself banished from his own bedroom, with the order to light a fire, heat water, prepare clean rags, and keep out of the way.

These are the longest minues of his life. The terror seizing his heart and mind is nothing compared to what Verdandi is going through, but Frerin would rather face Azog and his whole army alone than being there, as he listens to his wife's screams of pain and fear and knows there is nothing he can do to help. Even the arrival of mistress Sigyn, who sits by his side and holds his hand, puts his mind at rest; Frerin is fond of his mother-in-law, and believes her when she tells him she also screamed loud enough to wake the dead and then gave birth to two healthy daughters, but still, he is scared, as much as he was on the day Smaug arrived, and on the day of the battle at the gates of Khazad-dûm. It is an horrible sensation, that makes him restless and fills his mind with grim thoughts.

What if something went wrong? After all, the baby is early; what if they are still too small and weak to survive? Even worse, what if they are born dead? It would destroy them both, after all the love and the hope they have poured on the tiny creature growing in Verdandi's womb, after they have already bought a cradle and tiny blankets and clothes. Losing their child would mean losing themselves, a bereavement they could survive, but never heal from.

Also, the danger does not only concern the baby. Verdandi is young and strong, but Frerin could name at least two Dwarf women who were roughly her age and died on the birthing bed, and she has already lost so much blood! He cannot lose her; Frerin cannot even imagine a future without Verdandi, he needs her, his very existance is now indissolubly linked to her smile, her voice, her soothing presence and steadfast support. If he loses his wife, he reflects as he paces restlessly on the corridor outside his bedroom, there will be no reason left for him to...

"Fjalar?"

He blinks, feeling as if he were waking up from a deep slumber. "Yes?"

Skuld's (pale, stressed, scared) face peeks out of the door. "We need your help."

The fact itself is terrifying, even more than the potential motives for that request; Frerin feels his blood freeze in his veins. "What is happening? Is... is something wrong?"

"No, no. But Verdandi is scared to death; would you come in to keep her company?"

"I can go instead, if you wish." mistress Sigyn offers, but Frerin has already slipped past the threshold, and past Skuld, and beyond his fears.

The air in the room is heavy with sweat, and the even less pleasant stench of blood; Frerin runs to his wife's side, immediately overwhelmed but determined to be strong, for both of them - or at least to try.

Verdandi (brave, calm, soft-spoken Verdandi) is sobbing, completely beside herself with pain and the terrifying sensation her body is no longer her own, that the sparkle of life she has cared for and protected for six months, is now threatening to destroy her from the inside. "It hurts... Fjalar, it hurts so bad..."

If Frerin felt powerless as he contemplated his duty of protecting the people of Erebor after the loss of their home, that is nothing compared to what he is feeling now, the torment he sees reflected on the face of the woman he loves and that he cannot share and take on himself. He knows Verdandi would never blame him, because having a child is something they both dearly desired, and she knew, being a woman, what awaited her, but still, she is in so much pain, and there is nothing he would not do to ease her suffering, but he cannot...

... or can I?

"Would it help, if I sang for you?" he suddenly inquires; Verdandi stops mid-scream to look at him, baffled. "What?"

"It is something my father used to do for my mother, to divert her mind from fear and pain; he sang her favourite song for her as she gave birth to me and my siblings. Apparently, it made her feel better. Safe."

Verdandi smiles; if that is the most absurd idea she has ever heard, it is a thought she does not betray, and later, when everything is over and she is happily looking at their child avidly sucking on her chest, she will reflect on how, in the hour of fear and powerlessness, her husband thought of the family he had lost. "Yes. I would enjoy -hnnnn- hearing you sing."

Frerin smiles. "Would that be all right for you, Skai?"

"You can start juggling balls over your head for all I care, brother." the healer answers, perfectly unperturbed; he is kneeling at the foot of the bed, looking at Verdandi's body from an highly unusual perspective for a brother-in-law "As long as Verdandi keeps pushing."

Among the tears, Verdandi smiles, clutching his hands like a castaway fighting the tide as he holds on a rock. "If you are with me I can do it." she promises; it goes for that night as well as any other moment of their life and they both know. And so, sitting on the side of the bed with her hands in his own, Frerin starts singing, the words and the melody still clear in his mind after so long, and suddenly he is not afraid anymore.

Far over the misty mountains cold

To dungeons deep and caverns old

We must away, ere break of day

To seek our pale enchanted gold

The dwarves of yore made mighty spells

While hammers fell like ringing bells

In places deep, where dark things sleep

In hollow halls beneath the fells...

He has never considered himself a good singer, not to mention he has not performed in more than half a century, but somehow it works, and focusing on the song, on those verses his mother had taught him and his siblings when they were children, actually diverts both his and Verdandi's attention from the fear and the tension that fill the room. Verdandi has her kinswomen there with her, to comfort and give her strenght, but for a precious, almost magical moment, it is as if Frerin's family is present as well...

There many a gleaming golden hoard

They shaped and wrought, and light they caught

To hide in gems on hilt of sword

On silver necklaces they strung

The flowering stars on crowns they hung

The dragon-fire in twisted wire

They meshed the light of moon and sun...

A new cry pierces the air, but it is not Verdandi's.

Skuld, by now an expert midwife assistant, tends to the baby, washing the blood and the dirt away and then swaddling him. "Congratulations." she says with a smile as she offers the tiny bundle to her sister, the hands of both shaking slightly; she has to raise her voice to make herself heard "You have an healthy baby boy."

"A boy." Verdandi whispers, as if she had never uttered those words before; she is crying as well, but Frerin has never seen a smile bigger or happier than the one on his wife's lips; she rocks their son for a while, whispering sweet nothings to him until his screaming subsides to a quite babbling, and then, wordlessly, she offers him to Frerin.

"Your son, husband."

He is light as a feather, so light it feels as if he might disappear, as Frerin holds his son against his chest; the baby has beautiful, familiar azure eyes, but the shape of his little face is unmistakably that so common in the Line of Durin, and a surge of emotion fills him, unlike anything Frerin has ever felt: it is pride, and jealousy, and humbleness, because how could someone as small and flawed as him, create something so perfect and beautiful?

He is crying, for all to see and he is not ashamed of it; he looks at his wife, and Verdandi smiles back, radiant and still in pain and even more beautiful because of it. He sits next to her, and together they contemplate the creature in Frerin's arms, and it may be the most natural and ordinary event in the world, but that tiny, perfect baby is also a miracle, and a blessing he could never hope to receive.

"Sindri." he whispers; there are no words in any language in Middle-earth to express the joyous turmoil inside him "Sindri. My little gem."

TAGGING @starlady66 and @elvenenby.

[fellowshipofthefics]

Oh Brother Where Art Thou

BRose87, Frosticenow

Summary:

In which an injured Prince Frerin finds himself in an unlikely position with his memories gone and surrounded by peculiar creatures with large feet and a fondness for being kind. For the prompt: 25 - Injured and on his last leg, Frerin didn't know where to go after he was left on the battlefield of Khazad-dum. Part of The Hobbit an Unexpected Collaboration 2022 event.

[avaria-revallier]

Blacksmith and the king

New story for you to enjoy on my AO3 Account

Had this idea together with our sweet @lathalea but sadly we had no time to write it together, so I will write it alone for you all to enjoy!

Love, Ava ;3

~

„We all lost family that day,“ Balin choked out.

Bilbo stared at him across the fire.

„The day the dragon came,“ Dwalin continued in a low voice, „we‘ve lost our baby sister, our Freya. It was my fault. I should not have fought with her. I couldn’t find her that day, no matter how long I searched. I have no right to call myself her brother.“

Dwalin stood up and left the lit space. The company fell silent again.

The hobbit heard a lot of stories from the dwarrows along their journey, about home and family, but seldomly about loss and not once from Dwalin and Balin about the day the dragon came.

Bilbo could see how Balin sheepishly wiped away some tears, and he witnessed an expression in Thorins face he had never seen before. Regret and the pin of a broken heart.

~

Freya's ear itched as if someone was talking behind her back. Probably Thranduil, that pointy eared drama queen of the woodland realm. She shifted her attention back onto her son, a splitting image of his father, riding a large black bear as if it was a pony. She could not help but smile, pushing away the sorrow in her heart, as she thought about her brothers and how she had lost them the day the dragon came.

@shrimpsthings @i-did-not-mean-to @kumqu4t @grunid

[pistachiozombie]

Commission ~ Client's Hobbit OC, Deuteria and her design of Frerin!

[theepolynesian]

The Aim of Elves

Overall Summary: You disobey Thranduil’s orders and decide to help the dwarves which has a better outcome than you expected.

Chapter Summary: You and Thorn start plotting.

Pairings: Thorin x Reader

Previous Chapter: Chapter 7

Next Chapter: Chapter 9

A month after you and Thorin had begun courting, you had decided to give the throne to a very respectable lord. Dalimir was a respectable man that treated everyone fairly. He seemed like the perfect person to become the Steward of Dale until Gliad became of age. The elves were still on the council, but you had decided to pull away from politics altogether. You had done enough, according to every single person in the city. That made you laugh and you were happy that you had more time to spend with Thorin.

Being with Thorin made you feel alive again. He was so quirky when you two were alone and it had to be the greatest thing ever. You were elated when you had found out that he returned your feelings and was not, in fact, in love Lillian. This new revelation, however caused a new problem: getting Frerin and Lillian together.

Now that they had gotten you and Thorin together, you knew that Lillian did not like him and after watching her and Frerin interact, with Thorin by your side, you knew that there was a spark there and you had to do something about it. Which was why you were currently in Thorin’s chambers, sitting on his desk as he finished his report of the day.

“I don’t think shoving them in a closet would help, at all,” Thorin laughs and you pout. “I don’t see you coming up with any ideas, you say, tossing your courting braid back behind your back. “I told you. I’ll help when I’m done with this report,” Thorin scolds. “That was an hour ago,” you groan and he chuckles. “And now I’m done. Happy?” he asks, blowing on the parchment a bit before rolling it up and sealing it with wax. “Very,” you say, before jumping off of his desk and pacing.

Thorin rolls his eyes, watching you. You were supposed to be taking a break not getting more worked up. “Don’t roll your eyes at me, Thorin,” you say, not turning to look at him. “I was not rolling my eyes. A prince does not roll his eyes,” he scoffs making you pause. “Yeah, and I’m not an elf,” you retort before continuing your pacing. “Love. Just relax,” Thorin says, standing from his seat and grabbing your hand to stop you from pacing.

“I just want them to be happy,” you mumble. “I know,” he says, cupping your chin, “but you can’t do anything if you’re stressing over it.” You sigh and nod. Thorin gives you a smile a presses a kiss to your cheek. You go back to sitting on his desk and he joins you. “Now, knowing the both of them, they are less stubborn than we are,” Thorin says and you laugh, “so it won’t be as hard to get them together.”

You smile, thinking of the ways to get them together. “We could just tell one of them that the other has feelings and say to the other that we told them,” you suggests. Thorin shakes his head, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms. “That was exactly what Frerin did. If I stole an idea from him, he would never let me live it down.”

“Live what down?” Frerin asks as he enters the room. You and Thorin exchange looks. “Nothing,” you both reply, a little too quickly. Frerin narrows his eyes and crosses his arms.

“What are you two planning?” Frerin asks, suspiciously. “Absolutely nothing,” you say, leaning on your palms. If anything Frerin’s eyes narrow further. “Don’t give me that bullshit. We’ve known each other for far too long,” Frerin says.

“What do you want Frerin?” Thorin asks, trying to change the subject. “Adad had asked me to get both you and y/n. You are both to report to the throne room,” Frerin says and you and Thorin had exchanged looks. Last you knew, which was yesterday, Thrain had very much approved of this relationship. He was ecstatic actually so why would he want the both of you in the throne room?

“Did he say what for?” Thorin asks as the both of you stand. “Yes. He thinks that whatever is going on between Thranduil and y/n need to stop immediately especially if y/n is to become the queen in the future. He wanted you to talk to the three of you about it,” Frerin says as the three of you make your way out of Thorin’s chambers.

You sigh. Six years of not seeing the King only for it to come to this. You were definitely not ready.

Tags: @jotink78 @sdavid09

[legolasbadass]

Masterlist

👑 Thorin 👑

A Lifetime Apart (Thorin x OC, Pre-Smaug, rated T) — This fic was written for the Tolkien Reverse Summer Bang 2021 for the lovely @gwen-ever​.  [1] [2] [3]

Blame it on the Dress (Thorin x reader, rated E) — ​[1] [2]

The Castle on the Mountain (Thorin x OC, Gothic AU, rated E) — [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

Heart of Gold (Thorin x OC, Pre Quest of Erebor, read the whole fic on AO3, rated E) 

In Your Arms (Thorin x reader, rated G)

Just Like the Ones I Used to Know (Thorin, Dís, and Frerin, rated G)

New Pleasure (Thorin x OC Dania, rated E)

The Shadows Which Fire Throws (Thorin, Dís, and Frerin, rated G)

Shelter From the Storm (Thorin x reader, rated E)

Waterfall (Thorin x reader, rated E)

Welcome Home (Thorin x reader, rated E)

📚 Richard and Lorelei Series 📚

Office Hours (Richard Armitage x OC, Professor AU, rated E, read the whole fic on AO3)

Italian Holiday (Richard Armitage x OC, Professor Au, rated E)

Home for Christmas (Richard Armitage x OC, Professor AU, rated E)

💗 Other Characters 💗

Against All Odds (Dís x OFC, rated M, read the whole fic on AO3) — This fic was inspired by the talented @lathalea​'s wonderful art for the Tolkien Reverse Summer Bang 2022.

Candlelight (Ori x reader, rated T)

All of my works are also available on AO3. 

If you’d like to be tagged in my fics, let me know!

[lathalea]

The Hobbit Advent Calendar 2021 Masterlist

Yes! it is happening! December is here and you know what that means: fresh snow, cozy evenings, hot cocoa, warm smiles, fluffy blankets, lots of cuddling and... gifts! 💚💖💙 My gift to you all this year consists of sweet, bite-sized fics this month ☺️

Here you will find the list of my fics written for The Hobbit Advent Calendar 2021 event.

It will be updated throughout December.

The Gift (Secret Santa, Thorin x Reader)

An Excuse for a Kiss (Modern AU Fili)

Flint it! (Yuletide in the Shire, Bombur and the Company)

Rematch (snowball fight, Thorin x Wife)

The World Can Wait (cuddling by the fire, Fili)

Mistletoe (braids, Thorin x non-Dwarf!Reader)

Sapphires (little Kili & Fili & Thorin & Dis)

If On a Winter's Night - part 1 (Modern AU Thorin x f!Reader)

Hug Attack (Thrór & his grandkids)

Dwalin Has a Bad Day - part 1 (Dwalin x OC)

BAM! (little Frerin & Dis & Thorin & their grandma)

North and East (a snippet of a Thorin WIP)

A Wish (Bilbo/Bofur, a TSS2021 entry)

Dwalin Has a Bad Day - part 2 (Dwalin x OC)

If On a Winter's Night - part 2 (Modern AU Thorin x f!Reader)

All Is Fair in Love and Trade - Epilogue snippet (Thorin x Ragna, rated: M)

How Do You Shop for a King? (Thorin x OC)

Dwalin Has a Bad Day - part 3 (Dwalin x OC)

A Kind of Magic (Thorin x gn!Reader)

Dwalin Has a Bad Day - part 4 (Dwalin x OC)

...

I shamelessly stole Santa Thorin from here.

[middleearthpixie]

Better Days ~ Chapter Twenty-Two

Summary: Frerin Durin had the perfect life, until he found out his wife was cheating on him. Now, he’s navigating uncharted territory as an about-to-be divorced single dad. Dating is a mess, he’s dealing with the fallout where his kids are concerned, and really, he would just love a vacation away from all of it. 

Elena Madison is new to Sidleburg, and also navigating life as a newly single parent. The last thing she needed was for her daughter to come down sick, when she hasn’t even had time to unpack the moving boxes, never mind find a pediatrician. And the last thing she ever expected was to meet a man like Dr. Frerin Durin…

Neither Elena nor Frerin were looking for anything, but fate has a way of messing up even the best laid plans. However, both have been hurt and both aren't at all sure they trust themselves, never mind trusting someone else...

Pairings:  Modern!Frerin x ofc Elena Madison

Warnings: Attempted suicide

Rating: T

Word Count: 3.4k

Read on AO3

“Dad?”

Frerin jolted awake at the sound of Flynn’s voice. “Yeah, I’m up. What’s up, Flynn?”

“Your phone’s ringing.”

Frerin flipped onto his back, rubbing his eyes with one hand. “Who is it?”

“Someone named Leigh Addams.”

“Fuck.”

“Dad?”

“Sorry, Flynn. It’s the hospital and there is only one reason they’d be calling me.” He rose onto one elbow and held out his free hand to take the phone. “I’m not coming in.”

“I’m so sorry to call you, Frerin, but Reese threatened to fire me if I didn’t. And when Dee tried to tell him only the nursing manager can fire us, he threatened to fire her as well. He’s in such a mood, it isn’t funny.”

“Tell him you left a message and I’ll deal with him when I’m on tomorrow.”

“We’re down three docs and the moonlighter in for Craig hasn’t shown up yet, either.”

“I don't care, Leigh.” He squinted at the clock. “I worked a double until seven yesterday morning, then I spent all afternoon up in Psych or at Wakeman, and only finally got to sleep sometime around midnight. I’m going to hop in the shower and go see my son. Wakeman’s strict about visiting hours and I don't care if Sidleburg burns to the ground, I’m seeing Jake. If Reese doesn’t like it, he can fire me. I don’t give a damn at this point. I am not setting foot inside that place until seven tomorrow morning. ”

“Are you sure?”

He scowled even though she couldn’t see it. “You did not just ask me that.”

“No, I know, it was stupid. I’m sorry. I should’ve told the jerk to call you himself.”

“Don’t worry about it. Like I said, I’m on tomorrow so I’ll deal with him then.”

“Okay. I’ll see you tomorrow morning?”

“Yeah. I’m on at seven.” 

“Go and give Jake a hug for me.”

“I will. I’ll see you tomorrow.” 

He ended the call and tossed the phone on the bed alongside him, narrowly missing Flynn, who said, “They wanted you to come in?”

“Yeah. We’re down three docs and a moonlighter. But, Wakeman was real clear that they only allow visiting from seven PM to PM eight and I’m not going to be anywhere other than there.”

“Can Maur and I come?”

Frerin nodded. “Yeah, of course. I think he’d like seeing you both. Probably more than he wants to see your mother or me.”

“I think the only one he wouldn’t want to see is the Skeeze.”

“What exactly happened yesterday?” 

“Nothing, really.” Flynn picked up Frerin’s phone to set it on the bedside table. “I thought everything would be okay by yesterday morning. It usually is, you know?”

Frerin’s gut twisted. “What usually is.”

“Skeeze picks fights with Maura all the time. Let me guess,” Flynn offered up a long look, “Mom’s never mentioned them before.”

“Not a word to me about it.”

“Well, he does. But then again, so does Mom. She’s always harping on Maura, saying she wears too much makeup and you should’ve heard her when Maur told her she wanted to get her nose pierced. That really sent Mom into orbit.” 

“Why?”

“I don’t know. All I know is she and Maura were arguing about it and Skeeze butts in and tells Maura she’s gotta listen to Mom and all that crap.”

“Flynn.”

“I’m not apologizing, Dad. It is crap. Who cares if she gets a nose ring? Like, almost all the girls in school have their noses pierced and no one even notices it anymore. But Mom said something about her looking like a slut and Maura said takes one to know one and that sent Skeeze into orbit.”

Frerin bit back a smile. “I can imagine.”

“So, they’re all yelling at each other and Jake just must’ve had enough of listening to it, ‘cause the next thing I know, he’s yelling at Mom and telling her to leave Maura alone and that’s when Skeeze stuck his stupid nose into the fight for real. He told Jake to shut up and mind his manners or else he’d take his Switch from him and that he shouldn’t be playing a crap game like Breath of the Wild anyway.”

“Your mother said they’d been fighting over the game.”

“Let me guess,” this came from Maura, who just appeared in the doorway to his bedroom, “she left out all the important parts.”

“She didn't tell me you wanted to get your nose pierced.”

Maura just shrugged. “I don’t care what she thinks about it. I’m doing it whether she likes it or not and the Skeeze is the last person I’m listening to.”

Frerin offered up a long look. “We need to discuss this nose thing, Maura.”

She stared balefully at him. “Really, Dad?”

“Yes, really.”

“Either way, it was stupid and Skeeze should’ve just kept his stupid mouth shut,” Flynn said before Maura could reply, “But, he didn't and then he really lost it when Jake told him that he wasn't his father and he didn't have to listen to him.”

The floorboards creaked softly as Maura came completely into the room. “It was kind of scary, really. Skeeze turned purple, he was so mad and he screamed at Jake that he was a better father than you were to us and that Jake’d better wise up and realize it because when it was all over, he and Mom would take us away from you and we wouldn’t get to see you any more.”

Frerin’s gut twisted. “He said what?” 

Maura nodded. “Yeah, he said that. And Mom didn’t correct him or tell him to shut up. She just told Jake to go to his room and when he did, Skeeze followed him. Next thing I knew, Skeeze is back with the Switch and Jake was crying.”

Frerin rubbed his eyes with one hand. “And then what?”

Both Maura and Flynn shrugged, and Maura said, “I don't know. It got quiet and when Mom went to check, she said Jake was asleep. So, we thought it was all settled.”

“But, then yesterday morning, at breakfast, Skeeze made a big point of telling Jake he’d thrown his Switch out and that got Jake going all over again.” Flynn scowled and Frerin saw how Flynn’s one hand balled into a fist so tight, his knuckles were white. “He told Skeeze that he didn't have the right to do it, Skeeze said he did, and I kid you not, Jake looked him right in the eye and said, Fuck you. And Mom sent him to his room. Next thing we know, Mom goes up to get him for breakfast—like he’s even going to eat at that point—and she started screaming and—”

Flynn’s voice cracked and Frerin reached over to cover that white-knuckled fist with his own hand. “It’s okay, Flynn. I know the rest.”

“I hate him, Dad. I wanted to fucking kill him right there. You should’ve let me kick his ass in the hospital.”

“You really should’ve, Dad.”

He looked from Flynn to Maura and back to Flynn. “And what would have been accomplished by that? Nothing.”

“It would’ve felt awesome,” Flynn told him. “Uncle Thorin would’ve done it.”

“No, he wouldn’t have. Your uncle isn’t quite that hot-headed. Now, the two of you go and find something to do while I call your mother.”

“Can’t we just stay here?”

“No, Maura, you can’t.”

“Dad’s gonna rip Mom a new one,” Flynn told her with a hint of a grin. “Aren’t you, Dad?”

That was exactly what he planned to do, but since he couldn't very well tell either of them that, he shook his head. “Don’t you worry about what I’m going to do. Go.”

Both kids grumbled but left his room just the same and Frerin waited for the familiar creak of the stairs before dialing Toni’s cell. 

“What do you want?”

He rolled his eyes at the sound of the Skeeze’s voice. “Obviously I want to talk to Toni,” he growled. “Put her on.”

“Look, I don’t want—”

“I don't give a flying fuck what you want, Tim. Don’t you get that? I couldn’t give a rat’s ass about anything having to do with you. Now, go and get Toni. Or do I have to come over there and get her myself?”

“Hang on.”

“Good boy.” Frerin rubbed his eyes once more. Somehow, he didn't think it would matter how much sleep he got, it wasn't going to be enough until Jake was back under his roof. And if Frerin had his way, Skeeze would never be left alone in a room with any of Frerin’s children.

“Frerin?”

“You didn't tell me the entire story, did you, Toni? Why not?”

“This isn’t a good time—“

“The fuck it’s not,” he cut her off, gripping his cell so tightly, he thought for a moment he might actually crush it. “You left out more than one key part and when my lawyer hears about it, you’ll be lucky if you can have unsupervised visits with any of them.”

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Try me, Toni. I dare you.” He shook his head. “Any judge we get is going to be real thrilled to know you’ve put a sleazeball boyfriend before the best interests of your kids. And that will be after learning you were fucking a guy barely out of high school himself and god only knows who else behind my back. But, when he or she finds out about Tim? You think they’d just ignore that?”

“Oh, you’re one to talk, Frerin. I know you stuck your dick—”

“We aren’t talking about me.”

“Of course not. We never are. Tell me, does your newest whore know about the other whores?”

“Toni, I mean it, you should just stop, right now.”

“You didn't tell her, did you?” A hint of triumph wove into Toni’s voice. “I’m sure you told her about how I slept with every man I’ve met while you were the poor, innocent husband who did nothing wrong ever. I’m sure she doesn’t know about the charge nurse, what was her name again? Or the social worker? Maybe I should tell her about them?”

“Toni, you leave Elena out of this. She has nothing to do with this at all.”

“No, you were only fucking her while I was trying to get ahold of you tell you about Jake’s accident.”

“His accident?” Frerin’s already tenuous grip on his temper slipped free. “His fucking accident, Toni? It wasn’t a goddamn accident and you know it. That goon you moved in with threatened him and you did nothing to stop it. You did nothing, you—” He clenched his jaw was he fought to contain the epithets rising to his lips. Clenched his jaw and swallowed them forcefully and then growled, “Don’t you ever threaten any of them with being taken away from me, you got that? Because I swear to Christ, I—”

“You’ll what, Frerin? Are you threatening me?”

“No. I’m promising you. If I find out that shit is anywhere near my kids, all of the lawyers in the world won’t save you. I will bury you, understand me? I. Will. Bury. You.”

“They’re my kids, too, so don’t you—”

“No, don’t you. I’m done, Toni. Jake is in a psych hospital because your sleazy ass fuckbuddy thinks he gets any say in what they can or can’t do and he’s in the find out stage of fuck around and find out. And you didn't even have the balls to tell me the whole truth. Did you think I wouldn’t find out?”

“You’re turning all three of them against me.”

“No, I’m not. You’ve also reached the find out part of that. And guess what, it’s not all about you, either. It’s about fucking time you learned that. And I mean it, Toni, I don't want him anywhere near Maura or Flynn and definitely not around Jake and I’m not letting them stay with you as long as he’s in the picture. You want to see them, you come here—alone—or else you don't see them and if you want to go crying to your lawyer, just know I’ve already been in touch with mine.”

“You are such a bastard, you know that?”

“I do, yeah. And I’m also dead serious. So—”

The line when dead and he smiled despite his fury. He’d been more than willing to work with Toni when it came to custody before. But now? That was gone. He wanted sole custody and was not about to budge on that any time soon. 

Which meant he had to call his lawyer.

Sigh.

The rest of the day flew by for Frerin. After talking to his lawyer, who assured him, as always, that he had nothing to worry about, Frerin showered and then made dinner for him and the kids. It was a quiet meal, as Jake’s empty chair was a stark reminder of what had happened only the day before, but then they made the twenty minute drive to Wakeman, which was in neighboring Morris County. His gut kinked at the sight of Toni’s car in the visitors’ parking lot, but thankfully, she made no mention of their conversation earlier or of the Skeeze, who was not with her. 

But, seeing Jake was far more difficult than Frerin had thought it would be. He’d brought Jake a few things, but nothing that had to be laced or belted, for string, shoelaces, ties, and belts were strictly forbidden. He’d had to buy Jake slip-on shoes for that reason as well. Anything that he might use to harm himself was not allowed and as they sat in the lounge, Frerin was acutely aware of all the eyes on them. 

Jake seemed better than he had the day before, although he was still so pale, with dark smudges beneath his eyes. He sat between Maura and Flynn and fidgeted with the bandage on his wrist, and refused to look at or speak with Toni the entire time she was there, which wasn't long, actually. After twenty minutes, she made an excuse about why she had to leave and when she went to kiss Jake’s cheek, he turned away and she missed his entire head. 

“I’ll see you tomorrow, baby,” she’d told him, plastering a smile on her lips. “I love you.”

Jake just fiddled with his wrist as he mumbled something that sort of sounded like, “goodbye.”

After she left, Jake shifted to sink onto the leather sofa next to Frerin. “Are you leaving, too?”

“In a bit, but not until they make me.” He reached down to brush several dark russet curls away from Jake’s face. “Did you talk to anyone today?”

He nodded. “Dr. Naismith. He seems nice.”

“Good.”

“I made a friend. A kid named Jamie. He’s in the bed next to mine.”

Frerin nodded. “That’s good, I think. Is he close to you in age?”

“He’s twelve. He’s been here before.”

“Well, I hope they’re able to help him like they’re helping you.”

Jake nodded solemnly, then said, “Dad, are you mad at me?”

“What?” Frerin shook his head. “No, of course not.” He carefully gathered Jake into his arms. “You did nothing for me to be angry over, little man. Now, I just want you to get better and they’ll help you with that here.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Frerin gave him a gentle squeeze. “And before you know it, you’ll be home and we’ll keep working on whatever you need our help with.”

“When can I come home?”

Frerin’s throat tightened. “I’m not sure just yet. That’s up to the doctors and we won’t meet with them for a few more days.”

“We?”

“Your mother and I.”

“Does Mom have to be here?” Jake lifted his head from where it rested against Frerin’s collarbone. “Can you tell her not to come?”

“Why? She wants to see you.”

“Then why did she keep checking her watch when she was here?”

Maura muttered something under her breath, while Flynn said, “What?”

“Yeah,” Jake nodded, “she kept looking at her watch. Was Skeeze outside?”

“I didn't see him,” Maura said.

“She never goes anywhere without him. She asked me if I wanted to see him as well.”

“What?” This came from Flynn and Maura in unison.

“I told her no.”

“Good,” Flynn said. 

“So that’s when she started checking her watch. I bet you he was in the car.”

Frerin swallowed the oath rising to his lips, instead clearing his throat. “She probably just didn't want to get in trouble with the staff.”

“Well, you’re still here and you’re not in trouble.”

“Jake, they will have to tell me to leave. And as soon as I can be back, I will. But, you need to concentrate on listening to the doctors, okay?”

“You can come back and so can Maura and Flynn. Tell Mom I don't want to see her.”

“Jake, I can’t do that. Talk to Dr. Naismith. Tell him what you told me and let him make the call, okay? He has the authority that I don’t.”

“But you’re a doctor, too.”

“I am, but I’m not your doctor and that’s the difference.”

“Dr. Durin?”

He looked up at the nurse striding toward them. “Yes?”

“It’s eight o’clock. Visiting hours are over now.”

He nodded. “Okay.”

Flynn and Maura both slid off the sofa, and Maura bent to kiss the top of Jake’s head. “I’ll see you tomorrow, little man.”

“Me, too,” Flynn told him, rumpling Jake’s mop of russet curls. “Don’t flirt with any of the nurses.”

Jake wrinkled his nose. “Ew. They’re all old.”

Frerin bit back his smile. “When you’re ten, buddy, everyone over the age of twelve seems old.” 

Jake reluctantly slid off his lap. “Are you coming back tomorrow, Dad?”

“Of course I am.” The sofa squeaked as he rose, and his eyes stung as Jake wrapped his arms about his waist.

“Please let me come home with you, Daddy…”

“I can’t, Jake.” He slid his arms about Jake’s thin shoulders. “You have to stay here, baby. But we’ll be back tomorrow. I promise.”

“But… I won’t do it again, I promise.”

“I know, but this is where you need to be.” He carefully untangled himself from Jake, crouched to catch his face in his hands and said, “And as soon as you can come home, I’ll be here to get you. I promise.”

Jake’s hazel eyes welled with tears. “I don't want to stay here. I want to come home.”

“I know, but you can’t. Not yet.”

“Jake,” the nurse came over to them, “would you like to play MarioKart before it’s time for bed?”

Frerin held his breath as Jake just stared at him for a long moment. Then, Jake sighed and slowly nodded. “I suppose.”

“Okay. Give dad a hug and you’ll see him tomorrow.”

Jake did just that and the backs of Frerin’s eyes stung as he caught Maura and Flynn around the shoulders to guide them toward the doors that led to the foyer. There, in said foyer, stood a bank of lockers, where Frerin, Flynn, and Maura all had to stow their cell phones and other personal items upon their arrival. Those belongings were collected, keys returned to the receptionist, and then they were out in the freezing cold in the parking lot, where Frerin made the mistake of looking back to see Jake peering at them through hotel narrow window in the door. Frerin had never seen him look so young and little and helpless before and it took every last bit of will he had to not go barreling through those doors to grab Jake and run with him. 

None of them said much in the car on the way home and once they were back home, Flynn disappeared into his room, Maura into hers, and Frerin sat at the kitchen table for the longest time, staring out through the French doors that led to the deck behind the house, lost in thought as snow began falling. 

Time meant nothing, and he had no idea how long he sat there for, watching the peaceful darkness, but finally, his eyelids grew heavy and since he had to be at work in only a few hours, he dragged himself upstairs. 

It wasn't until he was just about asleep when he realized he’d forgotten to call Elena. 

Tag List: @mrsdurin @i-did-not-mean-to @lathalea @linasofia @fizzyxcustard

@legolasbadass @kibleedibleedoo @xxbyimm @arrthurpendragon @exhausted-humxn-being

@rachel1959 @laurfilijames @sherala007 @enchantzz @notlostgnome

@myselfandfantasy @medusas-hairband @guardianofrivendell @jotink78 @sorioosyaa

@ruthoakenshield @frosticenow @quiall321 @dianakc @glassgulls

@evanstaredits @heilith @asgardianhobbit98  @albionscastle @absentmindeduniverse

@way-too-addicted-to-fandoms @sazzlep @court-jobi @masterofhounds @genius2050 

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[thetempleofthemasaigoddess]

Vassal of the King (part 11 - ending)

Frerin x OFC

Author's annotations are here! (moodboard)

*****

Frerin is one hundred and thirty-four years old and feels his life is closer to perfection than Mahal concedes to the lives of his children to be.

Thorin's Hall (this is the name the village has kept, even after the departure of its founder, almost fifteen years ago) lies in the heart of the Blue Mountains, a town of eight hundred Dwarves who, even if distant from their homeland, have not forgotten they belong to the noblest of the dwarven families, and to the richest kingdom in Middle-earth.

Frerin rules over those Dwarves. He is not a King, nor a prince; eight hundred subjects make a town at most, certainly not a kingdom, and he is simply an emissary of his liege lord, and rules in the name and on behalf of Thorin. He is, just like his father had foreseen, a vassal of his brother.

He likes it.

The house Frerin and his family live in is spacious and comfortable, but not much different from those of the Dwarves subjected to his authority. He has neither advisors or council, only two magistrates who he chose personally and who assist him in his duties, nor an army, rather a small group of soldiers who train with him and mainly patrol the borders of the city, stop brawls and escort merchants convoys. He wants nothing more, neither does he needs it.

His days are full and fulfilling, and not a day passes that no Dwarf in the city asks for the governor's opinion on some capital matter like the ownership of a farrow of piglets (the boar belonged to a farmer, the sow to another) or the punishment suitable for a young man who was caught in a bed other than his own, but not before he had gotten the owner pregnant. Frerin settles every dispute at the best of his ability, considering both justice and mercy, and begging the Maker, his father's spirit and his brother's example to guide his hand.

As darkness falls, once his duties for the day are fulfilled, Frerin returns to his family, and in those hours he is content with being nothing more than a husband and a father.

The Dwarves of the Blue Mountains are a practical people, fair and proud. They welcome their new governor with respect, and even more in friendship; they make him feel like one of them, and the family settles easily in their new home. Sindri quickly makes friends with the Dwarves of the Blue Mountains, not necessarily of the same age as him; he is now old enough to begin his education, and spends his mornings with an elderly Dwarf who teaches him how to read and write, and the rest of his days at home with his mother, or playing in the streets with the other children. The relocation from Tharak Bazan to Erebor and then to the Hall, not to mention the knowledge of being a prince, has not changed the child, and Sindri is still the kind, clever and loving son Frerin and Verdandi love more than themselves. At times, his father looks at him, and prays in his heart he will keep making his child proud, as he once hoped he would make his own father.

And Verdandi... Verdandi thrives.

Discreet, attentive, the Dwarf woman assists her husband with his duties every time she is able, entertains the spouses and the families of the (very few) visiting dignitaries and makes sure that even during his busiest days Frerin can count on an endless supply of coffee and gingerbread cookies. She takes care of the house and of all the duties that require the specific and delicate care of a woman; she stands by Frerin, she advises him, encourages him, comforts him, and her company is a source of constant strenght and peace. Verdandi might not be of noble birth, but for him, she is and has always been a Queen.

His Queen. They are close once more, much closer than in Erebor, maybe even closer than they were in Tharak Bazan, and do not need words or gestures to express how much they mean to each other. When they are alone, she keeps calling him Fjalar.

And Frerin, who was not born to be a prince and is well aware of the fact, discovers that governing eight hundred Dwarves can be difficult, and frustrating, but it is not impossible, especially when one can count on people who love him, and when he is determined to prove that Thorin made the right choice placing his trust in his brother.

On a cool summer morning, Frerin wakes early, but the other side of the bed is empty already. He gets up, dresses himself and peeks in his son's room to make sure the child is sleeping peacefully: he is. Frerin leaves Sindri to his dreams and returns to the master bedroom.

Verdandi, who was in the bath room when he woke, is waiting for him on the balcony next to the master bedroom. They share a smile, as usual without the need to utter a word, and look at the dawn rising above the Mountains. Verdandi rests her cheek on her husband's shoulder and sighs, thanking the Maker in her heart that every problem found a solution, that her husband does not need to hide anymore and, more importantly, that the three of them are still together.

Frerin circles his wife's shoulders with his arm and rests his free hand on her belly, full with the tiny and precious life growing inside. She is due in only a few days, and this time everything will be fine. For the baby, and for all of them.

Frerin is determined to make sure of it.

TAGGING @starlady66.

[fellowshipofthefics]

Chapters: 9/9 Fandom: TOLKIEN J. R. R. - Works & Related Fandoms, The Hobbit - All Media Types, The Hobbit (Jackson Movies), The Hobbit - J. R. R. Tolkien Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Frerin (Tolkien)/Original Female Character(s) Characters: Frerin (Tolkien), Original Hobbit Character(s), Original Dwobbit Character(s), Original Dwarf Character(s), Thorin Oakenshield, Dís (Tolkien), Balin (Tolkien), Dwalin (Tolkien), Fíli (Tolkien), Kíli (Tolkien), Bifur (Tolkien) Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Canon Universe, Frerin Lives, Fluff, Fluff and Angst, Pining, Mutual Pining, Friends to Lovers, Hair Braiding, Dwarf Culture & Customs, Dwarf Courting, Dwarf & Hobbit Cultural Differences, Pre-Canon, Pre-Quest of Erebor, The Shire, Dwarves in the Shire Summary:

In which an injured Prince Frerin finds himself in an unlikely position with his memories gone and surrounded by peculiar creatures with large feet and a fondness for being kind.

For the prompt: 25 - Injured and on his last leg, Frerin didn't know where to go after he was left on the battlefield of Khazad-dum. Part of The Hobbit an Unexpected Collaboration 2022 event.

[midearthwritings]

Day 2: Winter Cookies

Naya and Dís share a moment around some freshly baked cookies.

Pairings: Naya & Dís, Naya x Thorin

Warning: Pure Fluff

Author's Note: Today's piece is about my dearest OC, Naya. I hope you enjoy!

Cinnamon was slowly falling onto the cookies like soft brown snow. They were all perfectly baked, sitting there with their perfectly round shape, begging to be devoured. Although, rare were those brave enough to snatch one from the very hand of the lady who had baked them. 

Dís was one of those few adventurous souls. Letting go of her round belly, she reached out from behind Naya to grab a cookie, immediately shoving it in her mouth.

“Dís!” Naya scolded, turning around to face her friend. Anyone else would have been terrified by her stormy blue eyes; anyone but Dís. Unphased by the accusing cinnamon stick that was being pointed at her, Dís licked the crumbs off her fingers. “These were not for you to eat now!” 

“It was not for me,” Dís explained childishly, her hands going back to caress her covered stomach, “it was for the child.” 

Naya snorted. Putting the cookies away, she shook her head disapprovingly. “That poor infant is not born yet. Do not use him as an excuse for behaving like a filthy thief.”

Dís laughed, the sound of her voice filling the small kitchen. Sometimes, when she heard her, Naya could not help but think that, despite her strong facade, Dís was still the young, reckless dwarf she used to be. 

“If bearing a child does not allow me to act foolishly, then what is the point?” the eldest lady asked. “How do you know I will birth another son anyway?” 

“Because you are as infuriating as you were when Fíli was growing inside your womb,” Naya deadpanned, undoing her apron and putting it away. 

As if his name only had been enough to summon him, the little dwarf entered the kitchen, dragging his uncle along with him. There was something of Frerin in Fíli, Naya thought as she watched the child letting go of Thorin’s hand to walk up to her. 

“Did you make cookies, Nana?” he asked, looking at his soon-to-be aunt with his big blue eyes.

Naya offered him a soft smile. “Would you like one, Fee?”

Not waiting for the child’s response —although she had seen how fervently he had nodded—, she grabbed one of the still-warm cookies and handed it to Fíli. Just like his mother, he ate all of it almost instantly, not caring that it might cause him to choke. 

“I thought these were not to be eaten yet?”  

Ignoring Dís’ offended look, Naya walked up to Thorin and wrapped one arm around his waist.

“I am the one who baked them. I can do as I please,” Naya said. “Plus, you gave one to your baby. Fíli has every right to have one as well.” 

“The baby got one?" Fíli exclaimed. "But I'm bigger than the baby! I need more cookies than it does!"

At the little pout that painted his face, both Naya and Dís burst out laughing. Even Thorin cracked up a smile. With such gluttons in her life, Naya would never be done baking...

----

Winter Taglist: @shethereadinghobbit @laurfilijames @i-did-not-mean-to @enchantzz @shalinizhara @blairsanne @thespiritoflife @aidhwvqhkcnsnz @acupnoodle @emrfangirl

[arofili]

Worldbuilding Exchange Letter 2021

Hello lovely creator, thanks for creating for me in the Worldbuilding Exchange! I’m very excited and grateful for whatever you create for me <3

This letter will restate my DNWs, list my likes, give you a brief rundown of my canon preferences, and then dive into specific prompts for each of my requests.

I’ll warn you upfront that I tend to ramble, so feel free to skip prompts that don’t interest you and/or use ctrl+F to search for whatever it is you want to write for.

My requests are divided by fandom, and in the case of the Silm + Middle-earth Legendarium, by topic too, so hopefully that will be helpful for you! Also, my TAZ request is waaay down at the bottom, so if that’s what you’re here for, just go to the bottom of the page.

Housekeeping:

DNWs:

Non-con

Unrequested dub-con

Abusive/Neglectful parenting (especially wrt Fëanor)

Sibling incest, parent-child incest (cousin pairings are fine)

Unhappy/Unhopeful endings (unless otherwise specified)

Jealousy/Possessiveness

Cheating

Character or ship bashing

Hanahaki/any scenario where unrequited love is physically damaging

Soulmates, especially soulmate AUs (soul bonds are OK, if there is choice involved)

Porn without plot (Porn with plot is fine!)

Food involved in sex

Unrequested Modern AU

Non-trans mpreg

If you’re writing a slash ship where the characters are/were married to/involved with someone outside the ship, please don’t have the character(s) hate their spouse or not have been actually in love with them (the one exception is Finrod; I’m fine with him and Amarië not having been actually in love, but please don’t do this for anyone else, especially not Fëanor)

Hobbit/LOTR-specific DNWs:

The concept of a dwarven “One”

Any Fíli pairing

Alfrid

Legolas or Gimli paired with anyone other than each other

no smut for these fandoms, please

Silm-specific DNWs:

Evil/irredeemable/incel Maeglin

Elwing bashing

Fëanorian bashing

Over the top Fëanorian apologism (they did bad stuff; it was at least partially their fault. you don’t have to address that, necessarily, but don’t rewrite the story to claim they were blameless)

Fingon with a wife

Fingon or Maedhros ships that don’t take Russingon into account (polyamory, an open relationship, Mae with someone after Finno dies or vice versa for an AU, them with other people while they’re separated on the Ice/in Angband - all of these scenarios are fine, but in the end I need them to be with each other first and foremost)

Dark!Maedhros

Elvish re-embodiment after death being an actual, literal rebirth that requires the characters to have a second childhood; I much prefer them being granted a new hröa in their prime (feel free to explore what “in their prime” means, though, especially wrt scarred and disabled elves)

~~~

Likes:

(these might not all apply to worldbuilding, but they might give you a place to start from!)

Gen fic

Found family

Family dynamics

Loving families, even when things get complicated

Friendship, intense/important platonic relationships

Relationships that defy categorization

Queerplatonic relationships

Polyamory

Queer headcanons (especially aromantic-spectrum headcanons)

Trans/nonbinary headcanons (genderbending is also fine, but I prefer trans/nb hcs)

Angst with a happy ending

Gray morality

Explorations of magic

Most tropes

Fanon and fandom tropes

Deconstruction/Inversion of fanon and fandom tropes

Interspecies relationships

Peredhil

Secret relationships

Secret relationships coming to light

Secret kids (especially secret peredhil!)

Giving ships OC kids

OCs interacting with canon characters

Confessions of love

First times

Hurt/comfort

Redemption, forgiveness, mercy

Ironic foreshadowing

Canon divergence AUs/X Lives AUs

Politics and scheming

Resolving conflicting canonical details

Historical/Narrative bias affecting what is and isn’t “canon” (to an extent; changing motivations, consequences, etc is great, but please don’t ignore canon entirely)

Elrond & Elros having complicated relationships with both their bio and adoptive parents

Names fitting the time period (Quenya names in Valinor, please; if this is difficult for you, that’s okay, no pressure, but I do strongly prefer it)

Names having a lot of thought put behind them (does the character go back to their original Quenya name upon rebirth? or do they keep their Sindarin name? or come up with something else entirely? do they hate their new Sindarin name and resent having to use it, or do they embrace it? As long as you put some thought into it, I’m sure I’ll like whatever you decide!)

Author’s notes where you explain your thought process, if you want; I love hearing how the story took shape!

~~~

Preferences re: Canon:

LaCE compliance is always completely optional (except if you’re choosing a prompt that is specifically about LaCE, lol). If you do want to include it, that’s great, but if you just want the characters to fuck without having that be an issue, go for it. I love explorations of LaCE that take into account the exceptions, boundaries, definitions, etc; I also love takes that emphasize that they are Laws and Customs, not biological imperatives.

I’m not picky about my Amrod deaths. He can die at either Losgar or Sirion (or, hell, some other time/place if you make it interesting enough!), whatever works best for the story. I do like Lightly Toasted Amrod, aka he almost burns to death at Losgar but survives/gets rescued at the last minute.

Gil-galad theories are all very fun. Please don’t make him the son of Fingon and a wife; if he’s Fingon’s son, I want Maedhros to be involved at least a little bit (adoption or trans mpreg are both fine in this scenario). Otherwise, I don’t have a particular preference, though if it’s not really relevant I usually default to the son of Orodreth (who is in turn the son of Angrod). Also, I’ve requested “Origins of Gil-galad”; there’s more information on him in that section.

Honestly, when it comes to theories and headcanons, my rule of thumb is “convince me”! I’m down for whatever, for the most part, as long as you can justify it :)

~~~

For all of these, “suggested characters” pulls from the list of characters I requested with that signup, but if you’ve got an idea involving other characters then go for it! And in the end, all characters are just suggestions, this exchange is more about the worldbuilding :)

~~~

The Hobbit (Book)

Adventuring Hobbits Before Bilbo: Who were they? Did they ever come back, or was Bilbo assumed dead because of precedent? Were they all Tooks, or did some other hobbits tag along on adventures, too? Suggested Character(s): Belladonna Took

Dragon Magic & Dragon-hunting: Talk to me about dragons! I’m interested in dragons & dwarves, especially in relation to the first time dwarves were driven from Erebor and into the North and the War of the Dwarves and Dragons. What kinds of dragons set their sights on the mountain? How old was Smaug when all that was happening; did he learn anything from the failures of his kin? Who were the dragon-hunting dwarves who fought in that war? Suggested Character(s): Smaug, Original Dwarf Character

Dwarven Craft and Magic: Enchanted weapons, enchanted armor, runes and spells...all so interesting! Borrowing from the movies a bit, did Kíli’s runestone from Dís have any magic power? What’s the deal with the Arkenstone’s thrall? How do elf and dwarf magics intersect when it comes to objects like Bilbo’s mithril coat? Suggested Character(s): Dís, Frerin, Thorin, Original Dwarf Character (perhaps a craftsdwarf?)

Dwarves and Gender: We need more dwarf women! And I’d love any takes on nonbinary dwarves and/or dwarf-specific genders. Were there female dwarves in the Company that Bilbo mistook for male dwarves? Are dwarven women really only a third of the population? If dwarf men and women are very similar in appearance, how do they differentiate between them, or do they differentiate at all? If you included something about dwarvish braiding styles indicating gender, class, marital status, I would be delighted. Suggested Character(s): Dís, Frerin, Thorin, Original Dwarf Character; in this case I’d prefer a focus on canon characters, but OCs interacting with them would be marvelous, especially people like Dís’ spouse.

The Black Arrow: Bard’s little pep talk to his arrow has always intrigued me. I’d love to see your take on the origins of the Black Arrow. Does it really come from Erebor, and if so, who made it? How did Bard and his forefathers come to acquire it? (I like the movie version that ties it into Girion’s attempt to kill Smaug, so feel free to incorporate that if you feel like it.) Is the arrow enchanted? (Perhaps that could be tied to the Dwarven Craft and Magic tag!) Suggested Character(s): Bard, Original Character from Dale, Original Dwarf Character

The Stone Giants & Were-worms: I don’t have many thoughts on these guys except “neat! tell me more!” I’m fascinated by the creatures Tolkien only gives us a passing mention of; if you feel like it, maybe you could combine these tags with some of the creatures in the LOTR tagset (crebain, cold drakes, Watcher in the Water, Mearas, Kine of Araw, etc...I didn’t sign up with all those tags, but it would be neat to hear about them anyway!)

~~~

The Lord of the Rings (Books)

Cold-drakes and Fire-drakes & Crebain & The Watcher in the Water: Like with the Stone Giants and the Were-worms, I just think they’re neat and I’d love to hear your take on their origins and how they affect the history of Middle-earth. Feel free to combine this with other creature-related requests. Suggested Character(s): Scatha

Ghosts and Hauntings: Barrow-wights? Nazgûl victims? Just your crotchety old hobbit neighbor who still holds a grudge about losing the biggest pumpkin contest despite having been dead for 20 years? There’s a lot of potential for stories here; maybe you could combine a ghost story with some other prompt to add a murder mystery or haunting plot to a relationship you’re exploring!

Dwarf-Elf Relations: I don’t believe All Dwarves and All Elves hated each other! We have famous elf-dwarf friendships across the ages, and really it was just the Sindar vs. the Broadbeams/Firebeards that had the feud. Still, Legolas (a Sinda) and Gimli (raised among Broadbeams and Firebeards in the Blue Mountains) are caught up in that, so their friendship is quite remarkable! I’d love interrogations of how that feud continued across centuries and discussions of what really went down in Menegroth, perhaps with one of the Durins having an elf friend at some point in the past that sheds light on how Legolas and Gimli can get along. (I am here for any and all Gimli and Legolas combinations; I love them as friends, I love them as boyfriends or husbands, I love them as queerplatonic partners, I love them as anything in between! Do whatever you’d like with them!) Suggested Character(s): Gimli, Legolas, Original Elf Character, Any of Durins 1-7

Elvish and Mannish settlements in post-Ring War Ithilien: How do Legolas and Faramir get along, both living in Ithilien after the war? What do Legolas’ people think about being neighbors with a bunch of Men? Faramir and Imrahil were Aragorn’s chief commanders after the war, and Legolas expressed admiration for Imrahil; I imagine Imrahil visited his nephew in Ithilien, so what are the interactions of those three like? I’d love to see an exploration of Silvan elves and their culture here, with Legolas leaning into his Silvan heritage and maybe some Silvan OCs who have spent their whole lives in Mirkwood up until now and have never met Men before now! Suggested Character(s): Faramir, Legolas, Imrahil, Original Elf Character

Relations between the Dúnedain and Rivendell: Talk to me about the Grey Company, or Elladan and Elrohir fighting alongside their distant kin, or Rangers taking breaks in Imladris, how the Rangers think of Aragorn who was raised among elves, etc. I’d love an outsider POV here, such as an OC observing the oddities of a canon character. Suggested Character(s): Original Elf Character, Original Ranger of the North

The Glittering Caves of Aglarond: More Gimli and Legolas stuff - but with a focus on Gimli this time :) Gimli as a lord in his own right, Gimli who takes elves on tours of his dwarf-kingdom and weirds out his people (is it just Legolas, or does he take any Silvan elves with him, or like...his elvish in-laws??), Gimli as a craftsman... Or, alternatively, you could explore the caves before Gimli gets to work on them, what the Rohirrim thought of them and how they were created - by natural processes, or by magic, or a mixture of both? Did Aulë make them for the dwarves to find, perhaps? Suggested Character(s): Gimli, Legolas

~~~

The Hobbit (Movies)

Dragonsickness/Goldsickness: The parallel to mental illness in the movies was really interesting. I’d love to see lingering effects of the goldsickness on Thorin after the Battle (Everyone Lives AU, probably), or an AU where Fíli or Kíli inherit the throne of Erebor and are afflicted by it as well. Or, sticking to canon, how did Fíli and Kíli and the rest of the Company deal with Thorin falling into madness? Were the other dwarves affected by the thrall of the gold? Bard and Thranduil were observers of Thorin’s madness; what did they think of him? Did Thranduil remember Thrór under dragonsickness? Or, since movie!Thranduil is a far cry from book!Thranduil when it comes to going to war over jewels, was he affected by the dragonsickness even from a distance? Was Bard? Suggested Character(s): Thorin, Fíli, Kíli, Bard the Bowman, Thranduil

Dwarves who "choose craft"/Aromantic-Spectrum and Asexual-Spectrum Dwarves: This is pulling more from the books than the movies, but I didn’t have enough nomination slots to include any book nominations, so it went here, lol. Anyway: as I’m sure you can tell from my tumblr url, I headcanon Fíli as aromantic, and I love seeing that in fanworks! It’s really wonderful that Tolkien mentioned that many dwarves choose their craft over marriage, and I’d love to see an exploration of that aspect of dwarvish culture, and how Fíli fits into it. It seems to be fairly common/accepted, but are there different cultural pressures around marriage for the crown prince? How does Fíli figure out he’s aromantic? If aro and ace dwarves are expected to be choosing a craft over romance and sex, what’s Fíli’s craft? Or does he not have one, and people judge him for that? The “choose craft” language I use is very much inspired by this post and the Neo-Khuzdul word “bijebtorva” :) Suggested Character(s): Fíli, Original Character(s)

Governance and Politics in Mirkwood: How did Thranduil and Oropher come to power in the Greenwood? I hate the “lowly Silvan elf” line from the movie; can you somehow justify that with worldbuilding, or show how it’s not accurate? Is Legolas half-Silvan like is implied in the LOTR books? Who are Thranduil’s advisors? Is Tauriel really the only one who dislikes and defies Thranduil’s isolationist policies? Is Mirkwood very patriarchal, and is Tauriel’s appointment to Captain of the Guard something she faced opposition or competition for? Are the Sindar elite colonizers, or did they integrate into Silvan society? How does the average Silvan elf feel about their king, or do they not even think about him? Suggested Character(s): Thranduil, Tauriel, Original Character(s)

Poetry and prophecy: Bard uncovers that tapestry that turns a song from the book into a somewhat ominous prophecy; there’s a lot of discussion of fate and signs from the thrush at the door to the last light of Durin’s Day; Thranduil has seen enough in his thousands of years to have had time to brush up against a prophecy or two. What do these three believe about fate and prophecy? Are any of them prophets in their own right? How does poetry/music lend power to prophecy? (Bonus points if you tie it back into the Ainulindalë...) Suggested Character(s): Bard the Bowman, Thorin, Thranduil

Poisons and antidotes: I love Kíli/Tauriel and the scene where she heals his wound...but the worldbuilding around morgul poison and athelas is a little murky. It’s a decent parallel to Frodo’s condition in the LOTR movies, but it’s confusing lore-wise. Can you make sense of it? If Tauriel is a warrior, where did she learn healing? (In my own headcanons, her foster family are healers, which is how she learned those skills even though she’s primarily a warrior - but feel free to take it in whatever direction you’d like!) Suggested Character(s): Tauriel, Kíli, Original Character(s)

Rebuilding Erebor & Relations between Dwarves + Elves + Men: (I’d prefer an Everyone Lives AU for this situation.) How do Thorin and his Company put Erebor back together again? What are the renovation projects like? How long does it take Dís and the rest of the Longbeards to arrive in Erebor and help out? How long does Dáin stay to help his cousin? I would love to see some politics both internally within the Longbeard dwarves and externally as they relate to Mirkwood and Dale. Smaug’s corpse is just lying in the Long Lake...how do the dwarves feel about their old enemy’s body so close by? Do some Men want to re-establish Lake-town, and demand help from the dwarves who flushed the dragon out of the mountain? Do the dwarves want to harvest Smaug’s corpse for resources? (He’s probably got gold and jewels stuck in his scales, and dragon-skin/scales is probably a good raw material for crafting things.) What’s the process of Bard becoming King of Dale? Does he face any opposition? I love the idea of Hilda Bianca challenging him for leadership, or maybe insisting on some kind of democracy/representation in Dale! And if she doesn’t get her way, maybe it’s her leading some people back to Esgaroth and founding a democracy there that would make the old Master roll in his watery grave... How do Bard and Thranduil and Thorin reconcile after the battle? Does Thorin pay up like he said he would? Does Tauriel hang around, or does she go somewhere else? Are any elves inspired by her, or is she a total outcast? If you choose to explore the Kíli/Tauriel relationship, how does that affect politics between Erebor and Mirkwood? Suggested Character(s): Thorin, Fíli, Kíli, Bard the Bowman, Hilda Bianca, Thranduil, Tauriel, Original Character(s)

Tauriel's fate after the Battle of the Five Armies: This is for exploring what happened to Tauriel in canon. Does she wander the world and explore new places? How long does she mourn Kíli? What does she do with the runestone? Does she return to Mirkwood, and if so, how does she manage to get back into Thranduil’s good graces? There are a million different ways to take this, I’d love to see your take on her! Suggested Character(s): Tauriel, Thranduil, Original Character(s)

~~~

The Silmarillion: Magic & Spirits

Houseless Elves: Why did they refuse the call of Mandos? Do Avari even go to Mandos? Can Melkor and Sauron ensnare these spirits for their necromantic purposes? If the call of Mandos is refused once, does that bar them from listening in the future? What kinds of ghosts are haunting Middle-earth in the First Age? What kinds of ghosts haunt Aman? Suggested Character(s): Original Character(s), Melkor

Magic as a connection to the Music/the Song: Magic isn’t always the best-explained in Tolkien’s universe, but what we do know is the incredible power of the Music. How do the Maiar and Valar, who are not technically beings of Arda, interact with the world? How do elves and men (and dwarves! and orcs!) tap into the Song and manipulate it to their benefit (or detriment)? I have the headcanon that Elemmírë, the elf who sung the Aldudénië, is a priestess of Varda; what was the power of that mourning song, and how was it received by her patron Vala? Suggested Character(s): Elemmírë, Varda, Melian, Melkor, Original Character(s)

Nature Spirits: These holes in Tolkien’s worldbuilding are fascinating to me. What role do nature spirits play? How many are there? I’m thinking particularly of river spirits, like the River-woman and Goldberry, but there are probably also mountain spirits and water spirits and-and-and... Are they Maiar? Lesser beings? What do the Maiar we know of think about them? Gandalf seems the kind to listen to them and learn their stories, but perhaps Melian sees them more as servants in protecting her realm... Suggested Character(s): Melian, Original Character(s)

The Shadow-shapes in the hills above Cuiviénen: What were these shapes? Melkor’s prototypical monsters, Maiar who didn’t know how to interact with the Children, something else entirely? What did the original elves believe about them? Did they fear them, did they try to appease them, did they try to confront them? I headcanon that Elemmírë is an Unbegotten elf, so perhaps she lost friends to the Shadows, or thought she did. If the Shadows did take elves, was it out of malice or curiosity or a desire to protect them from whatever Melkor was planning? Suggested Character(s): Melkor, Elemmírë, Original Character(s)

The Void: Melkor spends a whole lot of time here. Does he have any company? Something or someone he makes to pass the time with? Do the Valar (like Manwë or Námo or Varda or Nienna) visit him there? What is the nature of the Void, is it pure emptiness or chaotic magic or a nightmare machine? Is Melkor being punished or is he being contained? And where are the boundaries of the Void? Varda rules the heavens; does her realm bleed into Melkor’s prison? Suggested Character(s): Melkor, Varda, Original Character(s)

~~~

The Silmarillion: Elven Relationships

Note: This request deals with relationships, and while I’m open to pretty much anything, please keep in mind my DNWs. Exploring these topics using canon relationships is a safe bet; I adore Maedhros/Fingon so having a look at them through this lens would be amazing; I have Aredhel as a character request here, and I see her as aromantic (“to none was her heart’s love given”) so while showing her in a relationship is fine, I’d love it if you could take her lack of romantic feelings into account; if you have a question about another ship, you can check to see what I’ve written and/or send me anon message! Additionally, a lot of these talk about soul bonds, which I’m very interested in, but one of my DNWs is soulmates. To me the concepts are very different things; it’s the destiny and inevitability and universal assumption of romance that really squick me out about soulmates. Soul bonds, on the other hand, have an aspect of choice to them that I really dig. So, please don’t make characters Fated For One Another, but please do explore what joining souls is like!

Laws & Customs of the Eldar: Boy do I have a lot of feelings about LaCE—and I’m always intrigued by other people’s feelings, too! I’d love to see an exploration of how these laws and customs came to be, which parts of the rules around marriage and children and re-embodiment are social constructs and which are innate to the fëa and hröa, and/or relationships that defy the norms. If your take on the laws is hetero/cisnormative, how does that affect queer elves? If your take is free of bigotry, what are the flexibilities around queerness, including asexuality and aromanticism? Laws and customs and rules always have loopholes and exceptions, so what do elves who don’t fit into the expected relationship mold do about these norms? Suggested Character(s): Aredhel, Maedhros, Fingon, Elrond, Any Unbegotten Elf Character(s)

Arranged Marriages among the Eldar: Russingon arranged marriage AU?? Orrrr....Maedhros or Fingon are politically engaged to someone else, and they have to deal with the ramifications of that? (Please don’t have them actually go through with the marriage if you go that route; I’m not interested in a story with Fingon having a wife, even if she’s a beard.) If elves (usually) only love once, and by declaration of the Valar can only marry once (Finwë being the somewhat disastrous exception), how is an arranged marriage justified within the cultural emphasis on these bonds? Are they more like arranged romances, people pushing their children together in hopes that they’ll fall in love? Or is it a stricter rule about “you do what’s best for this family”? (Note: Bad/cruel parenting is one of my major DNWs, so if you’re going that route, please don’t make the parent uncaring or malicious. Stubborn and narrow-minded is fine, as is the genuine belief that this is what’s best for the child, but ideally they’ll learn from their mistakes or perhaps everything will be interrupted and derailed by Canon Events. This is especially important wrt to Fëanor.) Suggested Character(s): Maedhros, Fingon

Creation/Discovery of soul bonds: How do soul bonds work on a metaphysical level? Can they be broken? Do they have to be nurtured and maintained? What’s long-distance communication like? Heck, what’s short-distance communication like, is it like talking in your mind or sharing your feelings or more abstract than that? Can elves form soul bonds with mortals? And most importantly—how did elves figure out they could soul bond with one another?? I can imagine that would be quite a shock when they’re discovering sex and then suddenly they’re inside each other’s minds! Suggested Character(s): Any Unbegotten Elf Character(s)

Non-romantic/sexual soul bonds: I’m good with practically any relationship here. Explore sibling bonds, twin bonds, parent-child bonds, queerplatonic bonds, found family bonds, adoption bonds, the bond between a Vala and their Maia...any kind of soul bond that is familial or platonic or chosen without regard to romance! (Feel free to take a canon romantic relationship and turn it queerplatonic, I live for that shit!) How are these bonds formed outside of sex? What are the rituals and ceremonies around forming them? Is it a public or private thing? Are non-romantic soul bonds taken seriously, or are they seen as less important than marriage bonds? Since elven parents literally give part of their soul in the creation of the child, is that parent-child bond innate? Suggested Character(s): Aredhel, Any Unbegotten Elf Character(s)

Elven adoption: I nominated this with Kidnap Dads in mind (if you go that route I love fluff for them as well as more nuanced/complicated takes on the situation, but whatever you do don’t make M&M cruel, and please include Maedhros as a parental figure alongside Maglor)...but hey, it could work for Fingon (and Maedhros) adopting Gil-galad! What are traditions around elven adoption? Are there soul bonds created between the adoptive parents and children? Was adoption even a thing in Aman, or is it only practiced in Middle-earth? Did elves adopt mortals and vice versa? Is adoption extended to found family other than a parent-child situation? How is adoption viewed by elvish society, especially if inheritance/succession is a concern? Suggested Character(s): Maedhros, Fingon, Elros Tar-Minyatur, Elrond

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The Silmarillion: Noldorin Politics

Original Fëanorian follower(s) who turned on their lords at Sirion: Okay, this is a character tag, but I’m absolutely obsessed with this line: “For the sons of Fëanor that yet lived came down suddenly upon the exiles of Gondolin and the remnant of Doriath, and destroyed them. In that battle some of their people stood aside, and some few rebelled and were slain upon the other part aiding Elwing against their own lords (for such was the sorrow and confusion in the hearts of the Eldar in those days).” Who were these people who followed the Fëanorians into exile, into a Kinslaying, through the burning of the ships, through 30 years of Maglor as a king-regent incapable of treating with the Nolofinwëans, through the scattering of their lords and the harsh conditions of the North, through the Bragollach and the Nírnaeth and a “wild and woodland life” and the Second Kinslaying (where some of them went as far as to abandon children in the winter woods to die because they thought it was what their lord/s would want), through isolation and hatred from every other elven group, through the plan to attack a refugee camp—through ALL OF THAT, and THEN they turn on their lords at Sirion??? Why betray your lords NOW? And the people who DID keep following them after that (after kidnapping children!!!), what were they thinking?? — I firmly believe that Maedhros has many escapees from Angband in his service who are ride or die for him and whose morality was somewhat warped by Angband, but what about Maglor’s followers? Caranthir’s? Ambarussa’s? Even Celegorm and Curufin’s?? There’s just SO MUCH potential for story here, I’m dying to read about them!

Noldorin lines of succession: Was It Sexist Or Was It Not: The Eternal Question aka Why Didn’t Idril Become High Queen After Turgon? Also, what does “eldest of the house of Finwë, and not the least wise” even MEAN, Maedhros?? How did Gil-galad come to power? I find it hard to believe he became king immediately after Gondolin fell; was it a wartime power grab? A battlefield promotion? How did the kingship get established in the first place? Why was Finwë chosen to go with Oromë to Aman? Was Maglor ever really king, or did he only rule as a regent for the missing Maedhros? Suggested Character(s): Finwë, Gil-galad, Maglor

Origins of Gil-galad: I am always so interested in takes on Gil-galad’s parentage. My favorites are Russingon baby Gil (through trans mpreg or adoption, both are good) and secret peredhel Gil (probably an Aegnor/Andreth baby adopted by Orodreth), but I also love Finduilas Is Gil-galad and honestly, any situation is fascinating here—just convince me! A possible way to explore this is through Outsider POV; some noble or historian trying to figure out just what the heck is up with Gil-galad. His parentage being confusing in-canon is so fun!! Suggested Character(s): Gil-galad, Original Nobility of the Noldor

Maglor's Kingship between Maedhros' capture and rescue: Was Maglor ever really king? Did he give up on Maedhros early on, or did he cling to the hope that he still lived? Did his brothers turn to him for support, or did they connive to take responsibility from him? The rift between the Noldor wasn’t healed until Maedhros’ rescue; did Maglor try to cooperate with Fingolfin, or did he keep his people isolated? Was he relieved when Maedhros came back and took responsibility, or was he resentful to lose his power? How does this situation (and Maglor not going to rescue Maedhros) affect M&M’s relationship later on? Suggested Character(s): Maglor, Original Fëanorian follower(s)..., Curufin, Caranthir

Dwarf-Elf relations in the First Age & Dwarf-kingdoms: Dwarf-friends!!! Yes!!! I love elves and dwarves being buds (or partners if you’d like to go that route!) <3 IIRC, Curufin learned Khuzdul, and I’m sure Celebrimbor did too; Caranthir was supposedly rude to the dwarves, but what if that’s just his (and their!) love language? How did relations between the Sindar and the dwarves sour over time? Maedhros was friends with Azaghâl; how did that relationship begin? How did Finrod’s contract with the dwarves blossom into a real friendship? Eöl was also buddies with the dwarves; did he ever bump into Curufin or Caranthir while at a trade festival or something? And the dwarf kingdoms of the First Age are fascinating on their own, too; what was the political structure like? Did the dwarves bring items from the other side of the mountains into Beleriand? How did the petty-dwarves get exiled? What happened to Nogrod and Belegost in the War of Wrath, and were they ever re-established after the sinking of Beleriand? Suggested Character(s): Curufin, Caranthir

Guilds and Noble Houses of Tirion: Give me a Tirion political drama! Finwë trying to appease his lords and craftseldar? Indis integrating into Noldorin society and making connections with the noble houses? Arranged marriage situation between Nolofinwë and Anairë? The younger princes running amok and causing chaos in their elders’ carefully-laid plans and delicately balanced alliances? Suggested Character(s): Finwë, Indis, Original Nobility of the Noldor, Curufin, Caranthir, Maglor

Roles and Responsibilities in the Noldorin Royal Family: There were oodles of princes in Valinor. What did they all do? How did they get the followers who came with them to Middle-earth? Were they free to pursue their own crafts, or did they have responsibilities to the common people? How did this change in Middle-earth when suddenly everyone was in danger and had more pressing needs? What is it like being a re-embodied royal in a society that’s adapted to life without you? Suggested Character(s): Finwë, Indis, Maglor, Curufin, Caranthir, Gil-galad

Fashion as Political Statement: This is an excuse to request Color Coding Politics. Fëanorian red! Nolofinwëan blue! Findis wearing Aggressively Neutral White! Lalwen in orange? Arafinwë in yellow? Finwë in an amazing technicolor dream-coat...or more likely just red, showing his bias once more? Art of this would be absolutely fantastic. I have lots of headcanons about color politics; feel free to ask me about them if you choose this option. Suggested Character(s): Curufin, Caranthir, Gil-galad, Finwë

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The Silmarillion: Trauma & Religion

War of Wrath: For a war that took so long and had such wide-reaching repercussions, we really don’t have very many details about this. It’s free real estate, basically! I have my favorite characters (Maedhros, Maglor, Elrond, Elros, Gil-galad...) that you could use to explore this time period, but literally anyone who’s alive at this point is fair game. And OCs! What do the Noldor and Vanyar (and Telerin sailors) feel about the War and interacting with the war-weary exiles and Sindar and Men of late-stage Beleriand? What kind of culture shock/culture clash is there? Were re-embodied exiles permitted to return to Middle-earth, or were they barred from going to war again? Suggested Character(s): Original Noldorin Character, Original Vanyarin Character

Trauma after the War of Wrath for elves and humans & Exiles adjusting to life in the Undying Lands post War of Wrath & Dealing with psychological trauma in Valinor: Trauma was commonplace in Beleriand, but not so much in Valinor. What’s it like for exiles who sail West to be in a society that doesn’t know how to support them? Are the Valar having to learn how to deal with the trauma of living elves super quickly, or are they reticent to change? How do the exiles interact with their re-embodied kin? What do the Vanyar and other Amanyar think of these elves who have been so deeply hurt? What kinds of treatises on psychology are penned by scholars with little to no previous experience? What is therapy like in Valinor? Do the exiles get together for support groups since no one else understands them? Or did the trauma of the Darkening and the First Kinslaying wake up the Amanyar and get their act together before then; are the exiles surprised by the structures already in place to support them? And what about Avari who have been dying steadily all this time from accidents and incidents in Middle-earth? If they’ve been re-embodied, how do they engage with the Eldar who have similar traumas? Suggested Character(s): Estë, Finrod, Maeglin, Original Noldorin Character, Original Vanyarin Character, Rúmil, Any Avarin Elf Character(s)

Worship of the Valar and Religion & Avarin religious culture: Do the Vanyar really worship the Valar, or do they seem them as hyper-powerful neighbors? What are priests and priestesses like in a world where the gods walk among you? How does each kindred of the elves interact with the Valar? Are Maiar viewed as equal worshippers/servants or as deities in their own right? Do the Avari even know about or acknowledge the Valar? Do they worship the stars, or simply Eru? Suggested Character(s): Pengolodh, Rúmil, Any Avarin Elf Character(s)

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Middle-earth Legendarium: Magic & Spirits

Afterlives: This is pretty vague, but I think it’s referring to the various kinds of afterlife. What are the Halls of Mandos like? What happens to spirits who don’t go to Mandos? Do Men pass through Mandos on the way to Beyond? What happens to Men? Are they reincarnated in the more traditional understanding of the word, do they go to some other realm similar to Arda, are they just endlessly partying it up with Eru? Do dwarves really go to the Halls, or is that just a superstition? And of course, what about orcs? Suggested Character(s): Námo

Fate of orc souls after death: Yeah, really, what about orcs? If the orcs were originally elves twisted into Morgoth’s servants, are their spirits still elven? Are they reborn as they once were, elven despite their life as an orc? What about orcs who are many generations removed from their elvish ancestors? Do they have fëar? Can orcs be rehabilitated? I refuse to accept that all orcs are inherently evil; but what does everyone believe in-universe? Suggested Character(s): Námo, Original Orc Character(s)

Foresight and Prophecy and Doom: I’m honestly not sure if this fanon or canon, but Finarfin and his line having foresight through Indis is a wonderful concept and I’d love an exploration of that. How accurate is foresight? Can fate be circumvented? Are prophecies like the Doom of the Noldor self-fulfilling, or are they warnings about possible futures, or are they curses upon people? If you have a high Doom upon you, does that end with your death, or does it follow you to Mandos and beyond? Suggested Character(s): Námo, Finarfin

Songs and Words of Power: Rap battles with Sauron! ...joking aside, song as magic is just fascinating to me. How does this connect to the Ainulindalë and the Song of the World? The elves named themselves Quendi, the Speakers; how do they view the power of words and their ability to change the world around them? Can music be used as a force of destruction or a weapon (battle bard Maglor)? Can it be used to manipulate someone’s mind (Sauron)? Suggested Character(s): Maglor, Sauron

Stars and Starlight: “All light is sacred to the Eldar...but wood-elves love best the light of the stars.” Okay, sorry for being a Hobbit movie apologist on main, but I do love Tauriel! How do elves view starlight? Is it holy, or are the stars more like their friends and guides? Did the Avari choose to remain in Middle-earth partially because of their love for the stars, which were drowned out by the light of the Trees? How does Eärendil feel about being a star; does he feel blasphemous or holy? What legends and superstitions are there among Avari and Men and others who don’t know the origins of Gil-Estel about the new star in the sky? Suggested Character(s): Morwë, Eärendil

The Unseen Realm: This is the in-between world where Frodo goes when he wears the ring, the world that the Nazgûl in their half-life inhabit. Are Ainur able to slip into this realm at will? Did Gandalf walk invisible in Gondolin? How does Sauron manipulate this realm to his purposes? Is this where elves go if they fade? (I don’t usually like Maglor fading, but it could be an interesting way to explore this...) Suggested Character(s): Námo, Sauron, Nazgûl, Maglor

Magical Artefacts & Magical Communications: Palantíri! Galadriel’s mirror! Ósanwë! All sorts of cool ways to talk with magic. Do the Rings of Power enable long-distance ósanwë? Did the Silmarils contain pieces of Fëanor’s soul? What other marvelous magical creations were there that didn’t make it into the Legendarium we know? Suggested Character(s): Sauron, Maglor, Eärendil

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Middle-earth Legendarium: Politics & Lore

Feudalism between Eldar and Edain: We have Edain entering into the service of Noldorin lords (Bëor and Finrod, Hador and Fingolfin, Amlach and Maedhros) and land being given to Men by elves (or not, in Haleth’s case)...how far did this feudal relationship extend? Were the Edain mostly autonomous or were they very much bound to their elven lords? Were there common elves who paid tribute to Edain lords? Can any relationship between elves and Men truly be equal if this is the way they originated? Fealty kink? Suggested Character(s): Curufin, Original Elf Character

Fourth Age Tirion: What’s Tirion like with a bunch of dead people walking around living again, and a bunch of weird legends now imposing in daily life? What’s the first meeting of Rúmil and Pengolodh like—who geeks out over whom? Are the Fëanorians back yet? Is the average elf even really aware of all the nonsense that happened in Middle-earth, or are they extremely unimpressed with King So-and-So of a square of land that’s now underwater trying to cut them in line at the coffee shop? Suggested Character(s): Original Elf Character, Pengolodh, Rúmil of Tirion, Celebrimbor, Elrond, Galadriel

Relationship between Noldor and Dwarves: See “Dwarf-Elf relations in the First Age & Dwarf-kingdoms” in my Silm request for a starting point...but also, was Elrond’s Last Homely House open to dwarves? How did Galadriel come to respect the dwarves, especially after her Sindar kin grew to hate them? Suggested Character(s): Curufin, Celebrimbor, Elrond, Galadriel

Timekeeping between the Death of the Two Trees and the Rise of the Sun and Moon: Tolkien’s math drives me ABSOLUTELY INSANE. His timelines are contradictory, I get headaches just thinking about the length of elf pregnancy, what does aging mean for an immortal species, WHY ARE TREE YEARS LIKE THAT and WHAT IS A YÉN? Please try and make sense of this for me, I beg of thee. I’m especially interested in the time period between the Death of the Trees and the Rise of the Sun and Moon. Did the Noldor wander the Helcaraxë for 3 years or 30? How long was Maitimo in Angband? Did the Sindar even realize something was different? How did people start calculating Sun years? When was the calendar of the First Age adopted? Who did all this math? Is there an in-universe explanation for these contradictions? Do people fight over math? Do the Ainur experience time the same way the Children do? Did some Noldo genius come up with a timekeeping system that worked with the Moon, only for the Sun to come along and muck it up? Suggested Character(s): Pengolodh, Rúmil of Tirion, Original Elf Character, Fëanor - really any scholarly character, tbh!

Treatment of Angband's Escaped Thralls: Which kinds of escapees choose to go to Himring with Maedhros the Tall, and which choose to go to Gondolin and the House of the Hammer of Wrath? Was Rôg an escapee too? Can Maedhros really tell who’s been turned by the Enemy? Does Thingol have the right of it in turning away thralls from Doriath? (If he even does that, I’m now researching this and I’m not sure it’s actually canon...) What was it like for Maedhros and Gwindor to readjust to elven society? Did Elrond grow up surrounded by Fëanorian followers who escaped Angband, and is that where he learned healing? Suggested Character(s): Original Elf Character, Elrond

In-universe authorial bias in historical texts: All of the Legendarium is a history, which means there’s bound to be unreliable narrators. Was Maeglin really as evil as the story says? What gets left out of the narrative? What gets lost in translation? Who lives, who dies, who tells your story? Suggested Character(s): Pengolodh, Rúmil of Tirion

Trade in Middle-earth: What was trade like in First Age Beleriand? What about Second Age trade between Númenor and the mainland? Was Ost-in-Edhil a trade hub? After Sauron returned and traveling became dangerous, what intrepid traders braved the wilds for the sake of goods and money? How was currency developed around the world? Suggested Character(s): Curufin, Celebrimbor, Elrond, Galadriel

Orcs Surviving the Wars: Again, I don’t believe that all orcs are irredeemably, inherently evil. Were they persecuted and stamped out after the Ring War, or did some escape and adapt to a life without a harsh overlord? What’s orc agriculture like? Would Elrond take a chance on rehabilitating an orc in Rivendell? What if orcs were more complicated all along, and it’s the histories that simplified them to cardboard-cutout villains? Suggested Character(s): Original Elf Character, Pengolodh, Celebrimbor, Elrond, Galadriel

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The Adventure Zone: Balance

My only non-Tolkien request, oops. Don’t think I’m not as interested in this request, though; I’m the only one who nominated for it, so I picked my very favorite concepts and I’d love to see what you do with them!

Angus McDonald’s Grandfather: This guy’s name was lost to time, and he loves silverware, and he has a grandson, and that’s pretty much all we know about him. Was he involved in the Relic Wars somehow? Did his name get eaten by the Voidfish? I imagine he’s a rather eccentric fellow; how much of that did he pass on to Angus? Is he even real, or was Angus lying to Tres Horny Boys about his destination?

Any Wonderland Adventurer(s): I’d love to see what happens to the other people who go to Wonderland before our boys. Do they all die? How many get what they want and get out? Do any of them have weaker moral compasses than THB and agree to advertise for Edward and Lydia? What if Edward or Lydia fell in love with an adventurer and trapped them there? What kinds of things do people sacrifice to the Wheel? We know about the Escape Game and the Healing Game; what about the Recovery Game? How long has Wonderland been around? How has it evolved over time? What was it like before Edward and Lydia got ahold of the Animus Bell? How did they get ahold of it? (Personally I think Barry just gave it to them...but did he have to go through the trials first?)

Differences within species between the Two-Sunned World and Faerun: I love the fanon that Two-Sun elves are juuust a little different from Faerun elves...like Taako’s echolocation, for example. But what if this applies to the other species like gnomes and dwarves and even humans? How are the Seven Birds just a liiiitle off from everyone else around them? Also, Cat Elves. This is an excuse for Two-Sun Cat Elves. GIVE TAAKO A TAIL. (I mean, or not, do what you want, but I’d love to see that, lol.) Suggested Character(s): Any Member(s) of the IPRE, Original Character(s)

Reclaimers before Tres Horny Boys: Who were the other Reclaimers? Who did Lucretia trust to carry out this dangerous mission? How did they all each, inevitably fail? What if Magic Brian was a Reclaimer gone wrong? What was the last straw for Lucretia, the last failure that made her scheme to get her boys back? And the other Reclaimers weren’t officially disbanded right away; how did they feel about the new guys in town, and losing their jobs to these doofuses? Suggested Character(s): Lucretia, Original Character(s)

The Relic Wars: There were wars about the Relics!!! Wars!! That everyone forgot!! Wars where people that THB knew died!! And then we never get into this in canon! It drives me nuts! I would love to see an exploration of this chaotic time period, what the IPRE did to mitigate the damage, which relics were obvious and terrifying and which were secret and terrifying, etc... I’ve written a bit about Relic War-era Hurloane, but what were the other NPCs doing? (Or Hurley and Sloane too, I’d love to see your take on them too!) When Lucretia wiped everyone’s memories, what was lost? (I suspect Angus’ Grandfather got caught up in that...) How did those missing memories lead people to the Bureau of Balance? Suggested Character(s): Lucretia, Any Member(s) of the IPRE, Angus McDonald’s Grandfather

The Robot World's crystal post-Story and Song: The IPRE promised to return the Robot World’s crystal if they ever managed to defeat the Hunger...and we know they can plane hop from the casino liveshow...so, did they ever return the crystal? How did that go down? How does the Robot World rebuild itself? And if we’re going into it being the (K)nights Arc’s setting, are there other characters than Troth that we might recognize? Suggested Character(s): Magnus Burnsides, Lucretia, Any Member(s) of the IPRE

Worlds that survived the Hunger: In the worlds where the IPRE found the Light of Creation before the Hunger arrived, what was it like for the people there who had to endure the Hunger’s attack? What was the scope of the destruction? How did they rebuild afterward? Does uniting against a common enemy bring the people of the world together and create more Tesseralia-like societies? How many people knew about the IPRE, and what did they think about them? When they hear the Story and Song, what’s the reaction? If they didn’t know about the IPRE what myths do they create to explain the Hunger? Suggested Character(s): Lucretia, Original Character(s)

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Alright, that’s the end of my prompts/requests! Thanks for reading this far, and whatever you end up writing for me I am super excited to read it!! And if you have questions or ideas or something, my askbox is open and I have anon messages on, I’d love to talk! Thank you again for creating for me, you are the best! <3

[loverichardarmitage]

His love ( 1 )

Pair: Thorin x oc Miira

Warning: fluff, a tiny Little bit angst

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Miira's POV:

Hello my name is Miira and I am half dwarf half hobbit. Even though I am a dwarf I do not have any facial or body hair, but I do have little hairs on my big feet.

I'm not very tall for a half dwarf. I'm way smaller than the average dwarf but a little taller than the average hobbit. I'm 15 years old and I live with my three brothers and my father on a farm near Erebor.

My best friend is Dis younger sister of the princes Thorin and Frerin. Daughter of Thrai­n. And I'm gonna tell you a little secret nobody knows but Dis who fancies this. I'm in love with Thorin even though I know it will never happen him and I. Well that's what I thought.

One day I was wandering around the markets in dale. I wanted to buy a birthday present for my best friend Di­s who would have her birthday in a weeks time from today on.

She loved everything which had to do with fashion. She even was a little spoiled, being her fathers and brothers little princess. Sometimes I whished I had such a strong bond with my brothers.

Sure I loved them and all but we weren't that close. While my brothers were outside learning to fight with my father I was doing the household which I learned from my mother. Means cooking, cleaning, being on the field.

I wanted to learn how to fight as well. Wanted to learn how I could defend myself if something were about to happen. Anyway back to the birthday present. I was searching for something when someone ran past me and knocked me to the floor.

Cursing I tried to stand up when I saw a hand appearing in front of me. Sighing quietly I took the hand and let myself being pulled up by this stranger. But as I wanted to thank the person in front of me the smile on my face froze.

In front of me was standing Thorin with a somewhat stern look which held a little mischief in it. But the stern look turned into a soft look and he gave me smirk. I blushed furiously and made a curtsy.

Thorin just shook his head and softly pulled me up by my chin. " you don't have to curtsy in front of me. You're my sisters best friend" he said to me. And of course my heart sunk at his words but it didn't stop my heart from beating heavily inside my chest as he spoke.

His voice made me weak in the knees. So I just nodded quickly. But his words kept repeating themselves in my head again and again ' you're my sisters best friend '. Hearing these words from him hurted me more than everything else would have.

I just looked at him and he quickly put his stoic expression back on his face as others came walking towards us and he went forwards before giving me a sign to follow him. With my head hung low I followed him. I still had no presents for Dis and her birthday was in a weeks time already!

And I had plenty to do before that. I probably would have to sneak out tomorrow to buy that gift for her or else I would be a bad friend. Even if that means getting yelled at by my brothers. And that I really had not enough gold to buy an expensive present.

Back at Erebor Thorin walked me to Dis chambers where she is with her mother. We stopped in front of the chambers doors and I turned to him giving him a short curtsy and whispering under my breath " thank you for walking me here, your Majesty " and quickly hiding inside the chambers.

Whilst Thorin still stood in front of the chambers and looked surprised at why I have disappeared so quickly. But then he shook his head and walked away to talk with Balin about something important.

Di­s must've heard me because she called out " Miira is that you?" I took a deep breath before responding " yes, yes Dis it is me" and walked into her bed chambers to see her sitting on the bed with her mother behind her doing her hair.

I gave them a weak smile before slumping down onto a chair and watching Thora, Di­s' mother, doing her daughters hair into a braided bun on the back of her head before turning to me and asking me " Miira dear shall I braid your hair, too" that made me giggle a little.

So I nodded my head yes and swapped places with Di­s. Thora began to braid my hair on two sides of my head. She was also something like a mother to me since mine has died two winter ago. It still broke my heart and I missed my mother dearly. She taught me everything I know now.

I let out a soft but heavy sigh and stared holes into the wall in front of me and so I didn't see how Dis and her mother exchanged a worried glance with each other. Only as Dis coughed lightly I fell out of my ' dizziness '.

Then a huge smile began to form on her face and even Thora smiled brightly. Both of them probably knew that someone who brought me in such a state. Indeed Thora knew about my feelings for Thorin. If I could believe her everyone knew but Thorin.

That he's the only one oblivious to the fact that I had fallen head over heels for him. Well and my brothers. They'd rather leave me in the wild getting eaten by wolves than seeing their sister being in love with a soon to be king.

A quiet sniffle leaves me at this thought and tears began to stream down my face. Di­s who saw this first made her way over to me and gave me a slight hug before whispering in my ear " it's him , isn't it?" I could only nod. The pain I felt making it even more difficult to answer properly.

I was utterly in love with him and it hurted to not be with him. People said that it was just a crush and that it will end soon. But does it hurt so much to not be with the person you crush on when you wouldn't love that person?

Thora even told me once that Thrai­n would be happy if I was the person who would make their son happy. And not some princess who was just after his title. They wanted someone who would love Thorin with his difficulty and all his flaws. And I loved everything about him even when he could be really intimidating. But his grandfather was kind of in the way. I'd probably never get any way near Thorin as long as Thror does have to say something.

At that I let out a chuckle and I was sure I also was flushed. Di­s grinning showed me exactly that. But I couldn't believe that they wanted me to be with their son. I mean I was just a farmers daughter. Had almost no money and didn't know how to actually behave in front of monarchs.

I knew the important things of course but now when it came to etiquette. With a sigh I looked at Thora and who smiled at me and showed me that she was done doing my hair. So I stood up and walked to the big wall mirror and watched myself in the mirror with a small smile.

Then Di­s came and took my hand and we ran out of her chambers with Thora laughing at our excitement. We went to find Frerin. We found him in the stalls with his pony. Dis screamed after him and Frerin's pony rose and almost kicked Frerin in the guts who shot Dis a glare.

Frerin wanted to show us how to ride and today was our first " lesson". Di­s was the first. Frerin showed Di­s what she had to do to climb the pony properly without hurting it or herself.

So Dis climbed onto the pony gently and I walked outside standing in front of the gates and waiting for Di­s to come outside with the pony. When she did she already galloped. The pony ran around the outer pasture.

Smiling happily she encouraged the pony to gallop even faster. When Di­s was finished I went back inside the stable. Back inside Dis climbed off of the pony and made place for me. Frerin also told me what I had to do. He said " you have to hold the reins loose, and just hold onto them when you really have to. The pony knows what it has to do".

I nodded at that and gently climbed onto the pony. On top I softly patted its head and whispered into his ear. Frerin gave me an approving look and gave his pony a slight slap to its backside. The pony ran out and I had problems keeping myself on top of the pony.

As soon as i managed to get the pony to slow down I could have a good look around the pasture. Around the fence stood several more dwarfs than before. They must've seen Di­s and had made their way over to watch.

I could make out my brothers, Di­s, Frerin, Thora, Thrai­n and even Thorin. My heart began to beat unsteadily and I felt very uneasy about myself suddenly. Thorin was watching and I didn't want to embarrass myself in front of him. Or Thrai­n.

I took in a deep breath and let out a quiet sigh, then I softly kicked the pony into its flanks so it would start into gallop. And so it did. It took of quickly and ran around the pasture. Letting out a squeak of enjoyment, a big smile placed itself onto my features.

But then out of nowhere a wolf jumped in front of the pony and it began to rise. I threatened to fall of the saddle and then the wolf began to attack. The pony tried to keep me on its back but it couldn't help and I fell off the saddle. But before I could hit the ground I felt two strong arms around me.

Full of panic and held onto the person tightly and the pony ran away into safety. Now the stranger and I were facing the wolf all alone. The stranger shed their sword and kept the wolf away from us. Ready to kill the beast. Opening my eyes for the first time I looked up and saw who my saviour was.

It was Thorin. My heart began to beat three times faster than normally. Hoping he wouldn't notice that I buried my head into his neck, closing my eyes again. Too scared to look back and see the wolf. But then finally the other dwarves arrived and Thorin ran back and to the mountain, with me still into his arms.

Letting out a sigh I looked over his shoulder to see if the others were ok. Then blackness took over me and I fell unconscious in his arms.

[legolasbadass]

Heart of Gold, Chapter 16

Characters: Thorin, Dis, Thrain, Dwalin, Balin, Original Characters

Relationship: Thorin x OC

Setting: Post Azanulbizar, Pre Quest of Erebor

Notes: Hi everyone! I hope you are all well and staying safe! These notes are becoming redundant, but I will still apologize for the long wait I have imposed on you (again)! I had a crazy finals season, and then I had barely any inspiration or motivation to finish/edit this chapter! I have spent the last week and a half editing, so I would really appreciate any feedback on this chapter. I also promise (I know, big word, but I really promise!) that you won't have to wait as long for the next chapter. Some exciting things are happening in the story, and I could not be more eager to share them with you! Without any further ado, here is the long-awaited 16th chapter. I hope you enjoy it! 💙

This is the 16th chapter to my Thorin Oakenshield fan fiction, Heart of Gold, which can be read in full on ao3. Go check it out there to read from the start! Please consider liking or reblogging if you enjoyed this chapter or if you are enjoying the story so far! 

Word Count: 6893

Thorin could not for the life of him concentrate on the council meeting. It felt as though they had been at it for hours. Glancing up at the clock, he saw that it was now four o'clock in the afternoon, only to realize he had no idea when the meeting had started. All he knew was that it was probably too long ago. 

Four o'clock. That meant Dania would be sitting with his mother and sister for tea time. Despite all his best intentions, he could not help but think of her at the most inappropriate times. 

Being the heir was his duty. 

But she was his heart. 

His One. 

Why did his father have to recount their whole eventless journey to Lord Yngvi? It was as though he was inciting Thorin's mind to wander; like he was inviting him to drift down deep, secluded dreams where he and Dania were together, and they faced neither enmity nor aversion. 

In this fanciful world, he held her proudly, boldly, and loved her frankly and openly. That was what she deserved. Nothing less. The image of her being his — wearing his clasp in her braid, his colours on her gown, and his hand on her arm — was driving him mad. That image almost made him stand up on his feet at that very moment and profess his undying love for her in front of all these council members — their opinions be damned. 

But he knew he could not. He must not because he knew what their reaction would be. He knew the frown that would cover their faces and the scandalized revulsion that would flicker in their eyes. And he knew their opinion did matter, regardless of how much he wished it did not.

Dania deserved nothing less than his undivided devotion and to be adored and respected like the jewel she was. That was why he could not forgo their support and condemn her to a life of shame and shunning because she was not the one their kin approved of. Even though he knew there was no one better for him than her, that there was no one better than her to stand by his side and support him through his life. He had to keep it inside. 

He could not stand the fact that she had to suffer because of their closed minds. The sight of her tear-stricken cheeks as she told him of the venture she was forced to undertake to keep their union secret haunted him. He despised all the people in this room because of it. 

But he had to keep it inside. Sulking, he pressed his fists into his thighs to stop himself from screaming in rage at the injustice of it all. 

A hand on his arm pulled him back to reality. Vili was looking at him; concern etched onto his face. Thorin nodded to let him know he was alright and forced himself to concentrate on the conversation unfolding before him. 

"With all due respect, My Lord, we are still recovering from Azanulbizar. At this time of the year especially, our supplies are lower than they have ever been, " one of the council members was saying. He was young, perhaps even younger than Thorin, but already he stood right next to Lord Ynvgi; a sign of the trust his lord had in him, a sign of his influence in this room. 

Most of the council members were young, yet already they occupied the most influential positions and already led their families. 

We are still recovering from Azanulbizar. 

How long would that battle haunt them? 

So many people — too many — had perished, had suffered, or had been forced to grow up too fast just as he had, many years ago, on the other side of the world when that wretched worm had attacked his homeland. 

"I agree with Master Agnar," one of the eldest members said as he stood up. "However, Lord Thrain, like his ancestors before him, is an ally to the Firebeards*." Thorin looked around at those words, assessing where people's loyalties lay. "He has chosen our Halls for his only daughter's wedding — a most joyous occasion — is it not our duty to lend him our hand?" 

Lord Ynvgi gave a slight nod, though whether this was a gesture of agreement or dissent, Thorin did not know. 

"Master Mundi is right," said a younger Dwarf whom Thorin recognized as Master Airi, the one who had warned them of the orcs' numbers before the battle. "Besides, a wedding would be a welcomed distraction from the hard winter we have suffered." 

Several side glances were shared in response. His words rang true, though perhaps they did not form the most persuasive argument. 

At the other end of the table, a tall Dwarrow stood and looked to Lord Yngvi.

"Yes, Lady Ragnhildr," Lord Yngvi nodded. 

"Perhaps a bargain may be struck, My Lords," she began in a silvery voice. "I believe it is safe to say that I am not the only one who would be honoured for the wedding to take place here in Lord Yngvi's Hall. We may even lend Lord Thrain a hand as he ventures further South and finds a place to settle permanently — "

"Lay Ragnhildr, I usually applaud your council, but this is preposterous. We do not run a charity," the Dwarf right next to Lord Ynvgi interjected. 

Thorin heard his father sigh as Lady Ragnhildr smiled scornfully. "Perhaps if you would let me finish speaking my mind, there would be no need to insult my intelligence and hurt your own in the process."

A few, including Vili, had to stifle their snorts. 

"As I was saying," she went on with a side glance to the one who had interrupted her, "Perhaps we may strike a deal. The wedding takes place here, and we offer help as you find a place to settle. In exchange, as soon as your forges are up and running, you must give us a third of the weapons produced within the year, and we have your word that if any orcs, or even Men, come to attack us, we can count on your support." 

She and Lord Yngvi were staring at each other as she spoke, and he was nodding in approval as she went. 

"This is not charity," she said, scanning the table until her eyes landed on Thrain. "Nor is this a favour. This is business. As many of my colleagues have pointed out: times are hard. We will only survive if we can count on one another." 

Thorin found himself nodding in approval. Of course, fulfilling such a deal would be a strain on them, but what other choice did they have? They needed their help. And his father, who was intent on Dis being married as soon as possible —  "for the good of the line of Durin," as he put it — would find even more cause to agree to this plan. 

Thorin had to admire Lady Ragnhildr's negotiation skills. He only had to place himself in her shoes to see that,  given the circumstances, this was the best offer she could make and that it was actually an advantage to both parties. 

Fortunately, Thrain agreed with his son's unspoken opinions. It only took one glance between them, and the king was nodding. "Very well, Lord Yngvi." 

"I am honoured to host your daughter's wedding, Lord Thrain," Lord Yngvi said formerly, but there was something in his tone that hinted at old friends coming together rather than two lords signing an agreement. "Especially since, long ago, I was very close to Lord Viljar, Lord Vili's father," he added for the benefit of the younger council members. "This wedding shall be a celebration of my friendship with him as well as my friendship with you, Lord Thrain.

"There is much planning to get through before that joyous day is upon us," he went on. "But I think this is progress enough for today. I, for one, would like a very large ale." As soon as he said so, the boy sitting next to him stood to fulfill his request. "This meeting is adjourned, for now."

Finally, Thorin thought with a quiet sigh. He was satisfied with how the negotiations had concluded, but all he wanted now was to rest. He still would not get that. There was to be a feast tonight, and then there would be more negotiations tomorrow, and then soon enough, they would be back on the road. 

"Are you alright, brother?"

Thorin turned to face Vili and froze. Images of warm Spring days filled with honeycakes and laughter flashed in his mind, juxtaposed with blood and screams. Brother. Frerin always called him that. Not Thorin. Brother. 

"Thorin?" 

"I am fine," Thorin said firmly, then, more gently, "I am fine. Thank you."

His father, along with Mimir, Dania's father, and Nar, was still conversing with Lord Yngvi, so Thorin made his way out of the council room. He was halfway down the hallway when he realized Vili was walking next to him. 

"So," Vili said tentatively. "How are you, truly?" 

"I told you: I am fine." 

"I am sorry, I did not mean to offend you by calling you brother, I just thought — "

"You did not offend me," Thorin said as he looked at him. "Really. You did not."

"Alright," Vili said with a tilt of his head. "Then, do you want to talk about it?" 

"About what?" Thorin sighed. 

"About what is making you so irritable — so . . . distracted," he said. 

Thorin frowned, his jaw set. "I am not — "

"Come now, Thorin," Vili chuckled. "I practically had to push you so that you'd listen in there. And your jaw was clenched so tight I was worried you would break your teeth."

How insolent, Thorin thought. He hadn't realized it was Vili's place to study him like he was some sick animal. He had half a mind to tell him off, but then his anger might be interpreted as a sign that there was some truth to Vili's observations. There was truth to it, Thorin did not deny that, but he would not admit it aloud either. 

"Is this about Dania?" 

Thorin could not hold back his outburst this time. 

"What does she have to do with any of this?" he demanded, looking down at him. 

His need to protect her — and their secret — mingled with the fear of being discovered, and what that would bring about fogged his mind. He could not let anyone take her away from him. He would not. 

"I — I do not know," Vili stammered. "I just thought — "

Looking around, Vili took a deep breath, then looked back to Thorin with softness and determination in his eyes. "Listen, Thorin, I spoke with Dis and from the things she said — I gathered there might be something between you two."

Thorin eyed him intently for a moment. "You mean Dis told you?" 

Vili sighed. "Yes, she told me," he admitted as he scratched his pale beard. At least he had the decency to sound embarrassed. 

Exasperation stretched Thorin's already overloaded mind. Leaning toward Vili to avoid behind overhead, he groaned, "you cannot tell anyone." He did not even wait for an answer before moving away, though he heard Vili trailing after him. 

***

Staring at the soaked leaves at the bottom of her cup, Dania sighed inwardly. The afternoon was passing away slowly, and with each minute, the respite it had promised was diluted like the taste of honey she chased in her tea. 

Dania was sick of tea. And most of all, she was sick of the idle chat. Dis didn't seem to mind too much. After all, she was being bombarded with questions about her upcoming wedding, which kept her mind occupied and her cheeks warm and red. Dania, on the other hand, felt out of place. 

Sitting on a luxurious, currant red sofa, Dania found herself more easily invested in her surroundings than in the conversation. After all, it went on as it usually did. Ester gossiped, Nal laughed, and Illiana scolded them when they went too far, though a smirk always tugged at her lips. Beside Dania, Lady Adis was silent, while Ester's mother, Lady Inger, and Lady Vigga, Lord Yngvi's wife, participated in the conversation enthusiastically. 

Lady Vigga was also quite the gossiper, though everything else about her was still a mystery. The many beads and jewels in her hair and beard marked her as a lady of high standing. She had a handsome face, though her thin lips and her wide-set eyes made her appear stern. The dark red of her dress did nothing to counter that impression. 

She obviously had expensive taste, if this room was anything to go by. A stone table stood between the sofa Dania and the queen sat on and the other on which Dis, Illiana, and Nal were sitting.  Ester, her mother and Lady Vigga occupied three of the four other chairs, made of some dark wood of which Dania should have remembered the name, and upholstered in faded golden damask. Covering the stone floor was a thick rug, its colours similar to those on the tapestries on the walls. One depicted a large figure with a long beard adorned with dozens of intricate, coloured beads. Dania recognized him as Mahal, their maker. In front of him were seven Dwarves looking up, cowering before him as he raised his hammer.* 

Lady Yngvi had offered this sitting room, along with its adjacent chambers, to Lady Adis and Lord Thrain as long as they remained in his Hall. Lord Thrain, however, had insisted on them remaining in their encampment just outside the gates. Whether this was because of pride or simply because he did not wish to abuse their hospitality, Dania was not sure, but she was grateful for it. 

When they had first entered the sitting room, Lady Vigga warmly welcomed them, but her eyes soon halted on Dania. 

"You must be Dania," Lady Vigga had said with a wry smile. "I have heard a lot about you."

Dania had no idea how to respond to such a greeting. Of course, she was used to people giving her odd looks and whispering behind her back, but that did not make it pleasant. And while she was used to it, it was clear that Lady Adis was not, and somehow she seemed to have taken personally the looks Dania had received. 

"Yes, Dania is quite the accomplished young lady," Lady Adis had responded in the same tone as she placed an arm around Dania's shoulders. 

Lady Adis and Lady Vigga had glared at one another for a moment as the hand on Dania's shoulder tightened its grip. It was a protective gesture, Dania had realized with embarrassment.

Lady Adis had been quiet since then, and Dania felt terribly guilty. Always, her presence seemed to be asking people to pick a side, as it had now. Dania hated it. Yet, at the same time, she could hardly believe Lady Adis had taken her defence. Did she feel obligated to do so? Or did she actually care? Dania knew her enough to know that the answer probably resided in the latter, but she still could not believe someone would go so far as to ruin their afternoon to defend her. Once again, she was immeasurably indebted to Lady Adis, but even more than this, she was profoundly touched.

As though sensing her inner turmoil, Lady Adis squeezed Dania's hand, a gesture that made her feel like a child, but not in a bad way. It told her that it was alright for her to be upset, that she was not weak for feeling so, and that she was allowed to seek comfort — comfort which Lady Adis wanted to give her. 

Promise me that you will tell me if you are feeling scared or lonely ever again. I am here for you, she had said the night the soldiers had returned from Azanulbizar. 

Her touch was a reminder of that conversation they'd had, and Dania was so grateful for it.  

It was the mention of Thorin's name that brought Dania's attention back to the Dwarrows before her. 

"I almost did not recognize him when I saw him yesterday," Lady Vigga said. "He has grown into a very fine young Dwarf. And he looks so much like you, Lady Adis."

"Yes, he does," Lady Adis replied with a small smile. 

"I imagine it must be odd for him to see his younger sister married before him," Lady Vigga said. 

So they had come to it that quickly. Ester shifted in her seat at those words; that alone was enough to provoke the monster inside Dania. 

"Not at all," Lady Adis replied. "I see no reason to rush him into an unwanted marriage. When he finds the right person, he will be ready." 

From the corner of her eye, Dania saw Dis glance at her quickly. Dania left her face a blank canvas, yet she could feel moisture forming in her hands, and the ever-present ache she'd fought so hard to bury bloomed again in her stomach. 

Whatever Lady Adis said, Lord Thrain did appear to be in a hurry to marry his daughter. Dis, like Dania, was only forty-five years old, and that thought did nothing to ease Dania's worries. Of course, they could not force Thorin to marry, but they could very well place him in a position where he had little choice but to consent to it. Dania hoped it would not come to this because she would have no right to get in the way if it did. 

She would not let him sacrifice everything for her. 

"Who said anything about 'unwanted'?" Lady Inger said with a chuckle, sounding as though she was attempting to lighten the mood, yet her eyes spoke a different language entirely. She wanted something. "So many young Dwarrows must have their eyes set on him."

Dania hated the way they talked about Thorin. She hated how they talked about him as though he was a piece of meat; a pawn in their grand game of chess. 

"I do not think my brother would be overjoyed to learn you were using his personal life as tea time entertainment," Dis said dispassionately. Dania wanted to kiss her in thanks for voicing her thoughts.

"Oh, my dear," Lady Vigga said with a laugh, "this has nothing to do with his personal life."

"You are talking about his marriage prospects — that has everything to do with his personal life!" Dis retorted. 

"Not if you are the heir to the throne of Erebor," Lady Vigga said. "Whomever he marries will be a queen one day. This is politics; not love."

"Perhaps these two concepts are not mutually exclusive," Illiana said. "Dis and Vili's upcoming marriage is a political one, but they do love each other." 

Smiling softly, Dania and Illiana exchanged a glance. Dis' cheeks had turned a bright red. 

"If the prince has his sister's sense then, yes; he will learn to love the one who will make the right queen," Lady Vigga said with a wave of her hand as though they were discussing whether one should wear red or blue to a feast. 

"Ah, and the prince is so devoted to his duties. He will make the right choice," Lady Inger said as she shared a look with her daughter. The monster inside Dania coiled its tail and roared. 

Nevertheless, Dania could not help but notice that Lady Adis was silent. Everything — or, almost everything — Laddy Vigga had said was true, and yet the queen's silence appeared to Dania as a small beacon of hope. Perhaps it was foolish. It probably was. Yet Dania clung to it like it was a ray of sun, and she was a flower that had bloomed too early in the Spring and found itself in a dark and barren world. 

"It is getting late," Lady Adis said as she rose from her seat, "and we must get ready for the feast tonight."

"Yes, and what an event that will be," Lady Vigga replied with a too-wide smile. "I look forward to seeing you there." 

Lady Adis nodded, then turned to Dania. "Are you coming, dear?" 

Dania smiled shyly at the term of endearment and stood. She gave a quick curtsy to Lady Vigga then gladly followed Lady Adis and Dis out of the sitting room. A long sigh escaped her lips when the door closed behind her. 

"Yes, I quite agree with that sentiment," Lady Adis said in response. 

Dania blushed, having hoped her most improper display of irritation would go unnoticed, but the queen did not seem to mind. 

"I hope you girls will excuse my behaviour," Lady Adis said as they walked down the curved hallway. "It is not like me to lose my temper in this way. But, then again, I have always despised Lady Vigga, and she was particularly bothersome today."

"You mean to say she was an absolute wretch," Dis said with a grimace, causing Dania to snicker. 

"Dis!" Lady Adis hissed in reproach, but there was an amused gleam in her eyes. Then a dry cough escaped her lips, causing Dis and Dania to stare at her in concern. "I'm alright — the air was just — quite stuffy in there." When her breathing recovered, she went on, "Dania, I do hope you will not let that viper's words get to you."

"It's alright," Dania said with a shrug. "I'm used to it."

"That does not mean you should accept it," Lady Adis replied.

They had made it back to the crowded entrance hall. Beyond the large stone gate, the sun was beginning to set so that the whole room basked in its warmth. 

"Vili!" Dis suddenly called out and walked ahead to where her betrothed had appeared. He smiled widely when he saw her, and the two exchanged a warm embrace, without a care for the stares they were attracting from the crowd of people around them.

"Listen to me carefully, Dania," Lady Adis' voice called her attention away from the couple. "You are a wonderful girl; smart, brave, and above all, you have a kindness that can warm even the coldest of hearts. Many people in this world are close-minded and will seek to tear you down because they refuse to challenge their beliefs. You must not let their words reach your heart."

Dania stared at her with wide eyes, silent as she let the motherly care in Lady Adis' eyes wash over her, feeding her the courage to speak. 

"My Lady," she said hesitantly. "What is it that they say?" Lady Adis frowned. Taking this as a sign of misunderstanding, Dania went on. "Lady Vigga said she had heard a lot about me. . . ."

Closing her eyes for an instant, Lady Adis took a deep breath. "Some — like Lady Vigga — believe that you are not one of us; that you are — "

"An outlander," Dania said flatly, looking down at the ground. She only looked up when she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. 

"We are all outlanders in this part of the world," Lady Adis said. "And you are one of us. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. Besides, in what world is it acceptable to scorn someone based on where they come from — something that is out of your control?"

Dania nodded slowly. Lady Adis' words seemed contradictory to her. She was one of them, but she could not be proud of the blood that flowed through her. The blood of their enemies. 

As though she heard these thoughts, Lady Adis' grip on her shoulder tightened. "You have nothing to be ashamed of, my dear. You must know that we cannot judge an entire race based on the actions of a single individual. Whatever words you might have heard thrown around behind your back, know that your mother — she did not bewitch your father or do anything ridiculous of the sort; they loved each other, and you carry their love within you every day.

"Lady Vigga was wrong about many things, but about this in particular: not everything is about politics; and in times such as these where grief has its claws on us all, it is more important than ever to cling to love." 

Tears stung Dania's eyes, and she knew Lady Adis would have understood — perhaps even more than she did herself — but they were in a crowded space; the last thing Dania wanted was to give these people more cause to stare at her. 

"Are you alright, Dania?" spoke the deep voice she knew so well and loved dearly. 

She curtsied before nodding, but he could read her eyes better than anyone. Concern marked his features as his mother spoke, but neither of them was really listening. All Dania could think of was the conspiring looks Ester and Lady Inger had shared earlier. Don't let them take you from me, she begged him wordlessly. 

"Thorin, love, are you listening to me?" Lady Adis said, causing both Dania and Thorin to blush. 

"Sorry, amad, I have a lot on my mind," Thorin said as he tore his gaze away from Dania. "What did you say?" 

Lady Adis stared at him for a moment before speaking. "I asked you if all was well? I have not seen your father anywhere." 

"Yes, all is well. There are still many things to discuss, but, so far, we have struck a good deal with Lord Yngvi. Father is still with Nar and Master Mimir; I imagine they were finalizing some arrangements with Lord Yngvi." 

Dis and Vili reappeared at that moment. Dania frowned as Dis looked at her brother for a moment, then at her, a guilty expression on her face.

"Are you coming to the feast tonight, Dania?" Thorin asked her. She could not read his mind, but it seemed to her as though he was deliberately avoiding his sister's eyes. 

"Yes, I am, Lord Thorin," she replied. 

"Speaking of which," Dis interjected, "we should go and get ready, don't you think?" she asked her. 

"Yes, I suppose," Dania said hesitantly. She barely had time to curtsy to Thorin and the queen and give Vili a small smile before Dis dragged her away from the crowd. 

They scurried along the path just outside the gates, passed by the guards, and cut across the encampment until they entered their tent. 

"Mahal, what's your hurry?" Dania said breathlessly as Dis started pacing in the small space between the two makeshift beds. 

"Oh, Dania I'm sorry — so sorry — I didn't think — I thought it would not matter — but of course it does; you told me it was a secret — "

The world froze around Dania. "What?" 

"Thorin already chastised me for it so," — she waved her hands in the air in defence — "there's no need to do it again. It is only that — well, we are going to be married, I should not keep secrets from him. But then Thorin went on and on about how it was not my secret but yours and — "

"You told Vili," Dania said with a relieved sigh. 

"Yes and — "

"Well, start with that next time! You had me worried!"

It was Dis' turn to freeze. "You mean — you mean you are not mad?" 

Dania did not know what she was feeling. How had Vili reacted? He certainly had not taken the first opportunity to divulge the secret to King Thrain — and she doubted he ever would — yet instead of being relieved — if not outright happy — that someone else knew of their love for each other and was not repulsed by it, Dania felt even more dejected. 

Judging by the bits and pieces of information she had gathered, Thorin did not seem overjoyed that Vili knew their secret. She knew how important it was for them to take their time before they could try and convince their kin of the viability of their union and the strength of their bond, but this was Vili, not the whole council chamber. Yet letting even one person know, someone they knew well, and that would soon be part of his family, appeared to Thorin as one stroke too many on the battered barrier that protected their shared heart.  That only reminded Dania of how little they could trust anyone with their secret, and by extension, just how fanciful was the idea of their parents blessing their union.

But Dania was not mad. Despite her befuddled thoughts, despite how much she wanted to scream at Mahal for placing the other half of her soul so close to her yet so beyond her reach, that foolish and naive part of her mind was glad that Vili knew. He was her friend, and he would soon be her best friend's husband. It felt . . . right for him to know. 

Shaking her head, Dania frowned. "No it's — it's Vili. I trust him. You trust him." 

"Thank Mahal," Dis exclaimed, relief flooding her every word. Dania wished she could feel the same relief. 

Dania let herself fall onto her makeshift bed. They were silent for a while before Dis sat down beside her, their knees touching, and she gently grabbed her hand. 

"Amad was right, Dania," she said. "Don't listen to what Lady Vigga says." 

Bitting her lips as a cascade of emotions climbed up her throat, Dania shrugged. "But Dis — she was right. Whoever Thorin marries one day, she'll be a queen — "

"You mean you will be — "

"Dis — " Dania said breathlessly, shaking her head. She opened her mouth to speak but then resigned herself to the fact that she knew not how to translate her feelings into words. "I don't want to talk about this for now, alright? Let's just get ready for the feast."

***

The dining room was even more imposing than the sitting room they had visited earlier. Columns and complex geometric patterns were carved directly into the stone walls and had been polished so skilfully that they shone like marble. Most remarkable were the blue streaks of colour that gave these mountains their name gleaming in the candlelight, rippling through the stones like the waves Dania had once admired on the Long Lake.

Dozens of early Spring flowers and candles decorated the long stone table; an effort made to make the guests feel welcomed, but all it did was make them feel slightly out of place. Dania knew this was not just her own impression. Dis had not let go of her arm since they had walked inside, except to let Dania curtsy.

When the doors opened to reveal Lady Vigga, holding onto Lord Yngvi's arm, all Dania wanted to do was shrink up and disappear, but she was already at the back of the room, and no one paid her any mind. Lady Vigga looked even more imposing than she had a few hours before. She wore purple this time, and the cuffs and neckline of her gown were adorned with golden embroidery that matched the ornamental belt at her waist, attached with a large clasp bearing the sigil of the Firebeards.

Despite having had the chance to discard her travel-worn dress and don her only other gown, which Lady Adis had a seamstress restore to a suitable state, the other Dwarrows' fine attire intimidated Dania. She should have known better than to feel this way. With everything that had befallen them in the past year, fabrics and accoutrements should have been the least of her worries, but they became one of the many things that reminded her that she simply did not belong to this life. Her gown was a dull ash grey where the Dwarrows around her wore bright fabrics, embroidered and bejewelled, and her braids were plain compared to the precious beads that adorned their hair and beards. Even Dis was not so richly dressed, for they could not afford it, but then again, the princess did not require such embellishments to appear more elegant and regal than all the people in this room. Something in her countenance spoke more about her status than any jewel ever could.  

"There you are!" 

Dania and Dis turned around to see Ester, Nal, and Illiana walking towards them. They all wore their prettiest gowns, but only Ester looked like she belonged with the Firebeard ladies. Dania wondered how Ester could wear such expensive fabrics and so many jewels and not feel guilty when most of them had barely had anything to eat during their journey from Dunland. 

"Oh, Dis, you look beautiful!" Ester said. Then, without giving anyone else the chance to speak, she asked, "is your brother here?" 

Dis' hold on Dania's arm tightened. "Er — well, if he is not, he should be here any minute," the princess said. 

"Ester has been talking about him our whole way here," Nal said teasingly. "I do not think I could stand another minute of it!" Me neither, Dania thought. 

"Look, there's Dwalin!" Dis said in an attempt to change the topic. Something flickered in Ester's eyes, but she looked away, perhaps to appear uninterested or perhaps because she truly was indifferent to the warrior's presence. Dania was having more and more trouble understanding her motives. But then she remembered the look in Lady Inger's eyes, and she realized that it was possible that a union with Thorin was not something Ester wanted but that her parents wanted for her. Dania did not know which of these two scenarios bothered her more. 

Illiana was talking about Lady Vigga's offer to give them a tour of the Hall the next day when Dania's attention was stolen by a group of people entering the room, or rather, by one Dwarf in particular. Thorin was standing next to his father and mother, along with Balin, Nar, and Mimir, looking as handsome as ever. His hair appeared to have been freshly washed and braided, and he was dressed in the deep blue tunic he usually wore to such occasions. The colours were more faded than Dania remembered, but nothing could affect the majesty of his presence. 

As she slowly made her way toward her father, Thorin's eyes met her own, conjuring a deep blush from her cheeks. When she was finally close enough to the group, she curtsied, then grabbed the arm her father was extending toward her, but all she could think of was escaping this room to be alone with Thorin and feel his soft lips scorching her skin. As though he could hear her most improper thoughts, the corner of his lips curled up in a smile. That only made the heat inside Dania grow. Damn that Dwarf!

She was glad when they finally took their seats, if only because it might be easier for her to control herself while they sat at different tables. Mimir led her to a table near the main one where the king and his family were sitting with Lord Ygnvi and his wife, so Dania could still see Thorin quite clearly, but she forced herself not to look, or at least, not look as often as she wished to. Her father sat on her right and immediately began conversing with one of Lord Yngvi's advisors while she turned to another young Dwarf who had just pulled up her chair. 

"Oh, thank you," Dania said, startled by his kindness. 

"Not at all," he said with a warm smile before sitting down. "My name is Airi." 

Dania bowed her head in reverence. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Master Airi. I am Dania."

"Airi will do; not Master Airi," he said with a chuckle. "And the pleasure is all mine, Lady Dania."

It was Dania's turn to chuckle. "I am no Lady."

"Really? Well, you have the countenance of one," Airi replied.

Blushing, Dania looked away, only to find Thorin staring at her through the many people separating them. He looked at her questioningly, but she could do nothing but give a short, almost imperceptible nod and tear her gaze away from him. 

Dania had not thought she could be more confounded by her surroundings until the food was served. There was chicken, roast beef, and sausages, too many kinds of cheese to choose from, freshly baked bread, roasted potatoes, and enough wine to drown in. She had not seen this much food in years. 

"Have you been enjoying your stay in the Blue Mountains so far?" Airi asked her as she delved into the dishes. One taste of the potatoes was enough to convince her to fill her entire plate with them. 

Dania thought of her afternoon with Lady Vigga, but the delicious taste of the wine made her nod in response. "Yes, it is lovely here."

"Have you had a chance to take a tour of the Hall?" Airi asked. 

"No yet, I am afraid," Dania said. 

"It would be my honour to accompany you around the place."

"I would be honoured, whenever that may be," Dania replied as she took another mouthful of sausages. 

"Well, there should be plenty of time for that, given that you will be staying here for a while, I gather," Airi said. "I am certain there are many things that would interest you. The ballroom for one — "

"Is there a library?" Dania asked before she could stop and think twice about interrupting him. She needed to look for other plants to help with her . . . problem, and a library was the place she would find information.

"Yes, of course there is. I could show you, if you would like," he said with a smile. 

"I would like that very much," Dania replied in the same tone. 

"What would you like?" Dania's father asked as he leaned in toward her. 

"I was just telling your daughter that I would be more than happy to accompany her to the library, Master Mimir," Airi explained. 

"You know my father?" Dania asked. 

"I was at the council meeting today," Airi said, nodding. 

Dania turned to her father. "Yes, about that — How did it go?" 

"Quite well, I would say, given the king's fixed ambition." He spoke using courtly equivocations to avoid being misunderstood by overeager ears, but Dania knew he was talking of Lord Thrain's hurry to marry Dis to Vili. "Besides, the important thing is that Lord Ygnvi will lend us a hand when we are ready to make our way further South along the mountains. And he has extended his hospitality so that those who are not fit to travel may stay behind in the meantime."

Dania knew that "those not fit to travel" probably included Dwarrows, meaning she would have to stay behind while Thorin left with his father's chosen companions, for Mahal knows how long. The thought left a bittersweet taste in her mouth. 

"You will have plenty of things to do while we are gone," Mimir said as he noted the slight frown on her face. "There is also much to look forward to before that moment is upon us. Do not fret, gehyith."

Dania gave her father a small smile to ease his worries, but she stopped listening to what her table companions were saying. Glancing up toward Thorin, she saw that he was now conversing with Ester and a Dwarf Dania recognized as her father. They were standing next to the seat Thorin had just vacated to greet them, and she was smiling and laughing at every little thing he said. Somehow, Ester looked even prettier than she usually did. Grinding her teeth, Dania tried to look away, but it was as though an invisible hand was holding her head in place, forcing her to watch as her heart was slowly being ripped away from her. Don't let them take you from me. 

When the desserts were served, she regained some of her spirits — that was the power of a perfect trifle — but her mind was still preoccupied with Thorin and the dismay the thought of their separation was causing her. Mimir noticed his daughter's change of mood, and as soon as the first opportunity presented itself, he excused them and led her toward the exit. Dania was both thankful for and annoyed by this gesture, for now, she would not even be able to steal a glance at Thorin, who would undoubtedly be stuck at the feast for at least another hour. 

Before stepping out of the room, Dania daringly glanced back to the main table, and she noticed Thorin staring back at her, evidently not listening to a word Ester was saying. Even from this distance, she recognized the fiery look he was giving her, full of promises for their next secret meeting. Perhaps her father was right; she did have much to look forward to. 

[lathalea]

I'm just... speechless... 🥺🥺🥺 You're super sweet @linasofia 💙 It warms my heart to know you enjoyed it 💙💙💙

Thistle. A Midsummer Night's Dream

Happy Midsummer weekend to all who are celebrating! You know how on Midsummer you are supposed to gather seven different flowers or herbs and put them under your pillow to dream about the person you are going to spend your life with? I've been talking with @linasofia about how Midsummer would look in Erebor. I got a little bit inspired, and this is how this fic came to be. Thank you for the inspo and for your support 💙 Let me know how you like it. If this little story catches your interest, I may write more, so let me know if I should continue! Rating: G * * *

Thistle. A Midsummer Night's Dream

“Thorin, let’s go! Frerin is waiting for us! He has already left!” Dis tugged at Thorin’s sleeve.

“Patience, let us wait for a better moment,” he leaned towards her and whispered.

They were sitting at a large table in the Main Hall of Erebor, surrounded by song, dance, festive music, delicious food, and happy Dwarves. The whole Erebor was celebrating Midsummer. Everyone was there, even their Grandfather. King Thror had been lately avoiding the crowds and spending more and more time in the treasure chamber, which worried Thorin immensely. Now however, his long, elegantly coiffed silver beard glistened with beads and precious gems, and he seemed as cheerful as he used to when Thorin and his siblings were tiny pebbles sitting on his lap and playing with his crown. It warmed Thorin’s heart to see his Grandfather smiling once again, without that ominous dark frown on his face.

The King stood up and proposed a toast to the prosperity of the kingdom. Cheers and merriment followed, and in the commotion, Thorin and Dis managed to sneak out, leaving the sounds of the feast behind them.

“Do you think Frerin asked Dvala to join us?” Dis wondered as they were walking along one of the corridors leading out of the Mountain. Thorin frowned, “I thought we agreed on keeping this silly idea a secret.”

“Oh, come on, Brother, do not be so gloomy!” she nudged him with her elbow. “You can survive one evening of fun in a good company. Dvala is a sweet girl, I am quite fond of her!”

“Frerin should focus on his mining apprenticeship, not on girls.”

“Just like you are focusing on your dwarven law studies by training with Dwalin instead?”

They took a turn and walked down the staircase that led to the gates of Erebor. Frerin was supposed to meet them nearby. Thorin grunted, “Grandfather says he expects his heirs to be well-versed in many different…”

“You’re such a bore, Thorin! There’s more to life than duties and studying,” his sister insisted, making him groan inwardly. “You will see, one day you are going to meet a lovely girl who will steal your heart and show you that there are more things to life than musty old tomes and swords.”

“I doubt it. I do not wish to complicate my life with affairs of the heart. I am expected to wed someone chosen by Mother and Grandmother. My marriage has to benefit our kingdom. Now, we need strong allies more than ever,” a shadow passed Thorin’s face at the thought of the recent serious disagreement their grandfather had with his brother Gror, the lord of the Iron Hills, ceasing diplomatic relations between both dwarven strongholds. And then, there was that catastrophe of an audience when King Thror suddenly refused to hand over the necklace made of the Gems of Lasgalen to King Thranduil. As it turned out, the ruler of the Woodland Realm hadn’t planned to pay for the work of dwarven master jewelers in the first place, but Thorin had seen King Thror solving more delicate issues without any problems before. Now, whenever he looked into the eyes of his Grandfather, he saw only darkness and greed. But not tonight. Tonight they sparkled with joy, and that was a blessing from Mahal.

“Stop talking about politics, Brother!” Dis scolded him once again. “It’s Midsummer today, have you forgotten? We are going to sneak out of the Mountain, gather seven different flowers, make wreaths out of them, and then…”

“Only if you’re going to make the wreaths for us, Dis!” Frerin exclaimed, jumping from behind one of the green marble columns.

“Do you want everyone to hear us, you clot?!” she hissed, making Thorin smirk. Dis wasn’t of battle age yet, but she already started resembling their mother more and more, growing just as fearless and fierce. She rested her fists on her hips, stomped her foot, and declared, “You are going to make your midsummer wreaths yourselves! That’s what the tradition says!” “Remind me, brother, why are we doing this?” Frerin rolled his eyes and looked at Thorin helplessly.

“Dis bribed you shamelessly, and I... may have lost a bet,” Thorin admitted reluctantly. Indeed, he made a bet with his sweet, little, supposedly innocent sister. A simple bet, and a very stupid one. He still couldn’t believe he let himself be tricked so easily. Dis was supposed to challenge Dwalin to an arm-wrestling match. If she were to win, Thorin would fulfill her wish. Just one simple wish. But if she were to lose, she would write a two-scroll essay on the history of settlement in the Blue Mountains for him, a week’s worth of work. He hated history, but his tutor was very exigent. Besides, since Dwalin was a formidable arm-wrestler, Thorin was sure his best friend would win. To his dismay, Dwalin didn’t, and Thorin still had trouble wrapping his mind around that fact. Dis. Won an arm-wrestling match. With Dwalin, one of the strongest Dwarves he knew. He still remembered how Dwalin grinned at him in triumph, pushing her arm down slowly, but then Dis gasped quietly. Dwalin looked at her as she said, or rather purred, “Oh, my, you are really strong!”, and then she batted her eyelashes. This was enough for the mighty Dwalin: distracted, he loosened his grip – and that was exactly what Dis was waiting for: she slammed his arm down in a blink of an eye.

And now Thorin had to fulfill his little sister’s wish and follow her out of the Mountain instead of drinking ale with Dwalin and discussing his latest axe design. Who would have thought that younger sisters were such a menace?

“You are doing this because you are my beloved brothers and care for me greatly,” Dis grinned and added with a wink. “We can’t win with her, Thorin, can we?” Frerin looked at him pleadingly.

“A warrior knows when a battle is lost. We must wait for a better opportunity to counterattack,” he offered, making an imitation of Lord Fundin and his lectures on war strategy, causing his brother to chuckle.

When all three of them finally found themselves on the slopes of the Lonely Mountain, the summer evening surrounded them with warmth. Scents of nature wafted into Thorin’s nose. It was long after sunset, but the surroundings were bathed in the silvery light of the moon. In the clear air, Thorin could see the silver ribbon of the River Running below and the distant lights of Dale. “Granny says it’s the perfect time for picking the midsummer flowers!” Dis announced behind him. Frerin groaned in despair and followed her, but Thorin didn’t move. Perhaps if he pretended he hadn’t heard her she would let him be, he thought. “Thorin! You lost the bet, remember?” his sister addressed him pointedly and he had to capitulate.

“I do. Something tells me that you will never let me forget about it for as long as we live,” Thorin offered, disheartened. It turned out that picking flowers was much easier than he thought. Besides, he wanted to be done with that silly flower business as soon as possible and return back to the Mountain.

“So, Frerin, why haven’t you invited Dvala tonight?” Dis asked in a light-hearted tone after they wreaked sufficient havoc on the meadow. She was busy weaving her wreath that consisted of lots of red, yellow, and blue flowers. Thorin hadn't the slightest idea what each of them was called nor did he care. After a pause, Frerin responded, sticking his tongue out as he tried to copy her movements, working on a bunch of pink flowers, “I did, but her aunt wouldn’t let her go.” “Oh, bother, that aunt of hers. Oh, I know!” Dis smiled mischievously, “I will talk with Mother, and she will invite them both for a picnic, so you and Dvala can…” Thorin’s sister’s voice drifted off into the air as he shook his head, focusing on his own cursed wreath. After having his fingers assaulted with thorns, he came to the conclusion that neither thistle nor blackthorn twigs were the best choices for this pointless task. “Great! Now, put your wreaths on your heads and show me how you look!” Dis ordered. Thorin raised an eyebrow, “Is this really necessary?” “Dwalin says that if you give me any problems, he will stop training with you!” she crossed her arms across her chest. “Traitor,” Thorin muttered. He expected many things but not his best friend taking his sister’s side.

“Are you surprised, Thorin?” Frerin chuckled, putting his pink wreath on his head and making a funny face. “You should have seen them both in the northern passage! Oh, Dwalin, those flowers are so pretty! – Not as pretty as ye are!” He imitated Dis’ and Dwalin’s voices and then proceeded to make kissing noises.

“Be quiet, Frerin, or I’ll tell Mother that I’ve found Principles of Love and Lust under your bed!” Dis furrowed her brow. It was interesting, Thorin observed, to see how Frerin’s face turned from pale to strawberry red. And as for Dis and the kissing noises, he decided to procure a cask of ale and visit Dwalin to assess the intentions that he might have towards his little sister. They will either drink the ale together or he would smash the wooden cask on his best friend’s stupid head. That thought put him in a somewhat better mood.

“Tell me, sister, how do I look?” Thorin put that misery of a wreath on his head. The things he has to endure for his siblings.

“Thorin!” she clasped her hands and beamed. Thorin tried to ignore Frerin’s chuckling from behind. “You look stunning! Like the Forest King in his flower crown!” “Are you telling me I look like the ruler of Mirkwood? Like an elf?” he huffed. “Not at all, silly! More like one of those fairy tale creatures, with horns, furry legs, and hooves. Like a grumpy satyr!” giggling, she closed the distance between them, stood on her tiptoes, and placed a wet, affectionate kiss on his cheek.

“Thank you,” she whispered into his ear.

“How long are we supposed to wear those wreaths?” Frerin said before Thorin could say anything.

“Until you go to bed tonight. Make sure to put them under your pillows and then each of you is going to dream about the love of your life. At least that is what Granny says!” Dis explained, putting her own wreath on her head.

“That means Thorin is going to dream of Deathless and his anvil!” Frerin sniggered.

***

Thorin hadn’t given much thought to his sister’s last words until he returned to his chambers. Getting ready to retire for the night, he removed the prickly wreath from his head with a grunt as it turned out to be entangled in his braids. It took him a while to separate his hair from the stems, twigs, and flowers and Thorin solemnly promised himself to comb and wash his hair properly first thing in the morning. Falling on his bed in exhaustion, he managed to put the mutilated plants under his pillow, just like he promised his sister. And in the morning, he would have a serious talk with Dwalin.

Sleep came to him quickly, mere moments after he closed his eyes.

He stood at the edge of a forest clearing, breathless. She was there, sitting with her back towards him, in the middle of a runestone circle. He could make out the shapes and Khuzdul runes carved into them, but he paid them no heed, his eyes drawn to her bright silhouette. Bathed in sunlight, she seemed like a glowing, luminous being and not a… dwarf maiden. Clad in a long white gown, with a flower wreath and a couple of simple braids adorning her flowing hair that made him think of pale marble with gold veins, she seemed like a benevolent spectre from another world, like a glittering pearl found at the bottom of the sea.

And then he realized she was singing. A soothing, soulful melody reached both his ears and his heart, and it was as if the day became even brighter, the air even clearer, and he felt a sweet taste in his mouth as if he had been drinking the sweetest mead.

Wanting to hear her voice better, Thorin took a step forward, but the song suddenly stopped.

“Who are you?” she turned towards him and asked in a gentle voice, a curious smile dancing on her lips.

“Thorin, son of Thrain, my lady,” he made a customary bow and approached the circle.

“A dwarf… here?” she tilted her head.

“You seem surprised, my lady,” he replied, trying not to think of how bright her eyes were and how pink and full her lips were against her sun-kissed cheeks. “Indeed I am. No one ever comes here, only me,” she said absentmindedly. “Then I am honored to be your first guest,” he added quickly. “Welcome to my meadow, Thorin, son of Thrain,” after a hesitant pause, the maiden stood up and curtsied elegantly, as if she was in Erebor’s throne room and not in the middle of an ancient forest.

She gestured at him to enter the stone circle and asked him to sit down beside her, just before she lowered herself gracefully on the grass. His heart was beating fast, but he moved slowly, carefully, not wanting to startle her, as if he was on a hunt and she was a prized doe.

“Tell me where you come from, Thorin, son of Thrain. Tell me of your homeland,” she whispered, and he noticed a faint blush appearing on her cheeks. It was at that moment that he realized that her eyes were green as priceless emeralds, like the soft grass beneath them, and he drowned in the boundless sea of her gaze completely.

He spoke of the kingdom of Erebor, of its beauty and wealth, of the skilled miners, jewelers, and stonemasons. He spoke of the wonders hidden deep inside of the Mountain and of the breathtaking view from its top. And she listened and listened like no one ever before has listened to him, and she asked insightful questions, and wanted to know more and more. “It seems like a wondrous place to live at,” she confessed, bringing a delicate white flower to her nose and smelling it with her eyes closed, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her lips. He wanted to smell it together with her. It was beautiful. She was beautiful. And he forgot that he was supposed to dislike flowers. “If you ever happen to travel to Rhovanion, it will be my pleasure to show you the beauty of Erebor,” he offered with an encouraging smile. The thought of walking beside her through the endless passages of the Mountain and having her smile back at him just the way she was smiling now was making him almost dizzy with inexplicable joy. This is what he wanted more than anything else.

She nodded in reply, and the blush on her lovely cheeks deepened, and his heart skipped a beat.

“May I ask you something, Master Thorin?” her sweet voice reached his ears. Hearing her speak his name, as she wrapped her shapely mouth around it, made his breath hitch. He didn’t even notice that she hadn’t called him ‘my lord’, as it was customary since he was a prince. He didn’t care. She simply glanced at him shyly from under her eyelids and it was everything he needed, and more. “Do all the dwarves of Erebor have as unruly hair as you do?” her question rang in the air, her eyes glittering with mischief. Trying to mask his surprise, he ran his hand through his hair, realizing that he had his wreath on his head only when his fingers bumped against its prickly surface. His hair underneath seemed indeed tousled and unkempt. Thorin grunted, feeling warmth spilling on his cheeks. That was not the first impression he was hoping for.

“Forgive me, my lady, I must look like a wild beast to you.” “You are too well-mannered to be a beast, Master Thorin,” she giggled. “But wild, yes, I have to agree with you.” That will teach me not to pick thistle for my midsummer wreath. A truly useless plant,” he shook his head and chuckled.

“I was rather happy to see your head adorned with these flowers. As you can see,” she pointed at her own wreath,” I too chose thistle. My hosts say that it is prickly and unpleasant to touch, but it symbolizes bravery, strength, and determination. A thistle wreath becomes you.” Thorin had to stop himself from puffing up his chest proudly, trying to convince himself it was simply courteous flattery, nothing more. “I thank you for your kind words, my lady. May I ask who your hosts are? Does this forest,” he gestured around them, “not belong to you?” “Not at all, Master Thorin,” she shook her head, pale golden locks spilling down her shoulders, making him want to run his fingers through the soft sea of her hair. “We are in an elven realm called… In Khuzdul, we would say ‘The Flower of Dreams’. We are dreaming, so it sounds very fitting, do you not think?” “Yes… it does. We are indeed dreaming, are we not?” he spoke slowly as the realization washed over him. This was indeed a dream, he remembered clearly the moment when he fell asleep in his bed in Erebor. What was surprising, this dream felt more coherent, more vivid than any other dream he had before. He smelled the sweet scent of flowers in the air, he touched the soft grass, he heard the birds chirping, and he saw a lovely maiden’s face in front of him, so real that he had to ignore the sudden urge to kiss her soft lips. Yes, this dream was different. “It is the Midsummer Night, the night of wonders and magic,” she nodded. “You said this place lies in an elven realm. Is it elven magic that brought me here?” Thorin frowned. He knew the history of his people, he read of the great friendship between the great artisan of Durin’s folk, Narvi, and the elven prince Celebrimor, of the creation of the Doors of Durin. His Grandfather’s dealings with the king of the Woodland Realm, however, taught him to be suspicious of elven intentions. Silvery laughter rang in the air. “Neither of us has pointy ears, Master Thorin. I have never heard of dwarves dabbling in elven magic. Or are you an elven wizard in disguise?” Thorin chuckled, “Not that I know of.” “Then it very well may be dwarven magic, the magic of Mahal and Kaminzabdûna bequeathed upon us on this very night. Or perhaps it is just an exceptionally vivid dream, nothing more,” she offered, looking away, her small hands resting in her lap idly, the flower forgotten between them. “No, my lady, you are not a dream, you cannot be merely a figment of my imagination!” he protested vehemently and, on the spur of the moment, he took her hand into his. Her skin was cool under his touch, but as soon as their fingers met, a tingling sensation rushed through his body.

She gasped, “Have you felt it too…?” Thorin looked into her widened eyes, her lips parted in astonishment, her hair glowing like a halo around her head. “As well as if I were wide awake, my--” he interrupted, bringing her delicate hand to his lips and kissed it gently, reverently.

“May I know what I shall call you, my lady?” Her melodic voice reached his ears in a whisper as if she was entrusting him with her greatest secret, “My name is Saga.”

Thorin opened his eyes. His chest heaved. He took a deep breath. It was dark, except for the faint light of a forgotten candle. Instantly he knew where he was. His bedchamber in Erebor. He closed his eyes again, hoping to return to that meadow, to her. To no avail. Sleep wouldn’t come. He felt hot. Something prickled against the skin of his palm. Thorin brought his closed hand to his eyes, but before he opened it, he knew what he was about to see.

A thistle flower.

* * *

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