A/N: this is the way I picture Tia.

Ered Luin-mid autumn

It had been almost two months since Kechi, Ahmi, and Alysi had disappeared and things were progressing along...very well. Tias belly was getting rounder and rounder by the day..she couldnt even walk properly anymore..it was more of a waddle now. Griegur was getting bigger all the time..he was crawling everywhere...to all their delight..and his smile was what got her through each day since Bofur left. Each day upon waking she began counting down till he came home to her and his unknown family.

"Five months and fourteen days to go..then he will be home." she looked down at Griegur who was sucking on his fist..must be teething ...talking to him in her sweet voice. "You hear that love? Soon your daddy will be coming home to us..just a little more than Five months to go." He giggled at her as she cooed at him and went back to rubbing her sore belly as she rocked back and forth in the rocking chair that Tohlm had carved for her awhile back. She sighed heavily as she rubbed her sore abdomen as another round of kicking ensued inside of her..making her sore even more...Dis happen to walk through at that moment, glancing over at her sitting there over by the fire.

"Kicking again?" Tia nodded wearily as she rocked..Dis laughed softly as she knelt on the floor with the baby..playing with him." I remember when I was with both boys..Oh by Mahal..they could kick ..I thought any moment they were going to break my ribs trying to get out." Tia couldnt help snickering at her whoa begone expression over those days. "Well I survived them and youll survive these two." she saw Tias inquisitive eyes staring at her." Yes..I do believe your having twins lady." she saw her getting worried and quickly tried to give her some hope. " I believe you will be fine and so will the babies...I mean after all look at the girls and their grandma. Ahmi and Alysi survived and their grandma Mier survived herself..so theres hope...besides you have a strength within you that will pull you through this, you have me.. and soon your going to have Bofurs momma..Beryl..here to help." at the mention of Beryl coming Tia perked up again..she had forgotten that she was coming to visit soon ..to be here in attendance when her grand babies were born...and she became excited once more.

As Tia sat there rocking back and forth, stroking her stomach , her thoughts wandered to Bofur as it tended to do each day...she hoped he was doing well and not in harms way.

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1 week before Durins day:

The sun was rising in the east as it cast its warm waking glow before it , chasing the shadows away for the day and bringing life to the sleeping land. There on the road was three dark shadows racing along it leaving a trail of dust behind as they pushed harder trying to make Rivendell before sunset.

"Hurry Kechi..we are losing time." Ahmi looked back at her sister as she spurred her horse on faster..trying to make Rivendell..where her healing teacher of elvish medicine..Elladan..resided at. She had met him thirty-five years ago when she had begun her studies in medicines and healing in Duillond of Ered Luin. He was escorting a friend of his ..a wizard by the name of Gandalf the grey..when he chanced upon Ahmi, who was out in the forest one day collecting components for her medicines, when she was attacked by some roaming orcs.

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35 years ago near Duillond

Ahmi had gone out into the forest early in the morning to find some special mushrooms that were used in making a certain elixir for sleep. As she bent over examining some mushrooms upon a tree she heard a sound that brought fear in her heart..it was the call of an orc pack..and it was nearby. She turned back to the village she had come from ..running as fast as she could when she saw one appear and she ran faster. Suddenly she felt a sharp pain in her shoulder, knocking her to the ground , screaming from the burning pain that overwhelmed her. There was footsteps ..heavy..omnious..coming closer to her...turning her head she saw a orc with a sword making its way to her. Ahmi clawed herself away from him.. trying to get away, knowing it was impossible and her death was imminent..she still tried to fight her way to safety.

Unexpectantly an arrow appeared in the orc standing over her and she could hear in the distance the thundering of hooves coming closer. Peering behind her she saw two men on horses ..one was an elder man wearing grey robes and the other rider ,who looked like an elf, was firing arrows rapidly into the retreating orcs. As they got closer Ahmi could hear them slowing down but she couldnt watch anymore as everything faded into darkness around her..thinking ..this is it..im dying.

First thing Ahmi knew as she came back to awareness was a fire blazing next to her prone form that was under a warm blanket and there was male voices near her. She opened her eyes as she turned her head towards the sound of them seeing the two men who came to her rescue earlier sitting across the fire talking to each other and she stared at them for a moment..studying them. The elderly man was human..tall one at that..his hair was grey and long like a unkempt dwarfs and his robes were grey also. Her eyes then moved to the other male and she saw an elf sitting there talking in some unknown language ...must be elvish ..she thought. He was tall also, but his hair was long and dark as it fell to his waist in intricate braids down the back..his clothes were dark greens and greys..to better in blending with his surroundings. She noticed the elderly man had a staff next to him and the elfs bow leaning against the tree as his sword laid across his lap..all within easy reach if danger presented itself.

Ahmi must have made some kind of noise for the elf quickly looked over at her, motioning to his companion who turned towards her smiling.

"Ahh...it appears our young lady here is finally awake."He smiled at her as the elf got up from where he sat coming over to her. Ahmi started to scoot away..afraid of what he was going to do...there was immense pain but she stifled it. He saw the fear in her eyes and stopped a little bit aways from her as his melodic voice sought to calm her.

"Hiril vuin, av-'osto" he held up his hands in the gesture of peaceful as he spoke once more." My lady, dont be afraid. No harm shall befall you here..you are safe now." she relaxed a little bit at his words." Please allow me to tend to your wound..im well versed in elvish healing." she peered at him briefly then inclined her head to him..he came over to her kneeling next to her. He eased her shirt to the side so he could tend to the angry looking wound upon her shoulder..as he went to touch it she cringed in anticipation of the agony she knew was to come..but his touch was light. She saw him reaching into a pouch on his side, pulling out some leaves then placing it gentely on the wound..holding it there with his hands as he began speaking in elvish. The sound was beautiful, yet hypnotic as he chanted..instantly she felt a warm sensation flowing into her from him and she stared at him as he kept on chanting. Finally he stopped and she looked down at her shoulder expecting to see it still angery looking but instead finding it almost healed and healthy looking. Her eyes flew to his in awe at what he had done.

"How?" he smiled as he began to wrap her shoulder, but it was the other man who answered.

"Its elvish medicine my dear dwarf lady." she glanced down as the elf finished and made his way back to his seat next to the other gentleman. " Im Gandalf the grey and my companion is called Elladen..hes of the house of Elrond. And you are?"

"Ahmi...daughter of Dahl...Uhhmmm.. thank you both kind sirs." they smiled at her as she glanced down briefly before raising her eyes once more.

"What brings you out into these dangerous parts lady Ahmi?" Elladen spoke as he watched her.

"Im..I was out gathering some ingrediants for making a sleeping elixir." she noticed his eyebrow raise in curiosity. "Im training to be a healer and i needed some herbs and such to make medicines." it seemed his interest was peaked at the mention of her studying the art of healing.

Elladen was very interested in talking to this young dwarf and they got into a discussion over different types of medicinal plants and their uses. Before any of them realized,it became late in the evening and Ahmi knew if she didn't get back to town her master would come looking for her..if he wasn't already. She quickly apologized to the two men and made to leave when a wave of dizziness passed over her, bringing her to her knees..Elladen rushed to her side.

"Mellon (my friend) what are you doing? You cant walk back to town." she made to argue but he interupted her." We will escort you back to safety..please." She saw the truth in his words and allowed them to ride her back upon thier mounts. Later on he had decided to teach her some elvish healing and with her masters approval she became a very adept pupil.

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Present day

Ahmi felt her mount tiring..snapping her out of her thoughts as she hollered for them all to stop for a break for a while. Leaving the road they made their way into the forest..just in case a certain someone came along finding them when did not want to be found by them. Deeper in they went until they stumbeled into a clearing..Alysi screamed as she saw three trolls before her. ..stopping finally when she realized they weren't alive anymore. Frozen forever in stone stood three of the ugliest creatures any of them had ever seen...standing in a ring around a pile of charred wood that once had been lit..now it was just a mound of rotting logs. The three wandered around the statues inspecting the ground when Kechi noticed something...a metal hair clasp over by a tree. She picked it up..brushing the dirt off of it, her eyes widened as her heart sank into her stomach...it bore the symbol of the house of Durin..Thorins.

"Ahmi?" Her voice quivered as she turned around towards her sisters who were walking between the statues towards her...peering at what she held in her hands. Alysi gasped but Ahmi knew he was still safe..her dreams said so.

"They're safe for now..the true danger lies in Erebor..that's where they will fall if we can't stop this." Ahmi quickly reassured them and turned back to the statues when suddely they heard a most horrifying sounds...Wargs...they were some distance aways but not for long if the girls didn't hurry. They realized they had no choice...no rest for any of them...they were about to become hunted and time was running out in reaching Rivendell. They quickly mounted upon the tired horses and spurred them on back to the road and onto Rivendell..safety.

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The Great East Road

The sun was reaching its mid-point in the sky..blazeing down upon the land and anyone traveling upon it at that time...which happened to be two dwarven men riding on some tired horses, grumbling as they rode them hard.

"When I get my hands on those three girls of yours Dahl, they won't be able to sit down for a year." Kahrns dark hair was gnarled and unkempt from their wild ride as they chased the three girls all the way from Ered Luin..through the shire..Bree..and now they were just passing the Trollshaws, all with no resting periods. They were livid.

"Not if I don't get to them first..thier never going to be able to sit." Dahl growled back to his brother." Not if I get to them first." They raced onwards..hoping they find them soon..both very worried for them.

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A howl rent the air in glee as it closed in on its prey ..three dwarven women. The women were being hunted by a pack of wargs ridden by foul orcs..Ahmis favorite creature..NOT..and they were close...firing arrows that whizzed past their heads as Alysi returned fire..hitting one in the head and another in the chest, toppeling them from their mounts. Alysi smiled and went to reach for another arrow when suddely her horse stumbeled, breaking his leg in the process...throwing her to the ground stunned...hearing the other two shouting her name as they whirled their mounts back towards her. She heard a low menacing growl , turning to face the noise Alysi saw a warg stalking her with an orc chuckeling evilly upon its back as they drew closer..she heard the panic in her sisters voices, knowing they wouldn't make it in time. As she stared down the orc, reaching for her sword, a horn rang out over the land and there was a thundering of hooves moving closer by the moment...hope flaired in Alysi at the sight of the approaching men upon horseback. The orc that was in front of her became distracted by them, taking her chance she swiftly drew her sword.. decapitating the beast as an arrow flew past her..sinking into the riderless warg.

Alysi smiled as she eased up onto her feet watching the riders chase the orc pack away ... except for two who stopped next to her.

"Mellon? You alright?" One of the dark haired riders spoke as he peered down in concern at her. Her eyes flew up ,staring at him as he sat there..she recognized that voice..suspicions confirmed as Ahmi spoke.

"Elladan."Ahmis tone filled with relief and joy at seeing her long time friend and mentor."Oh thank Mahal you came. We would of never made it if you all hadnt shown up." kechi and Ahmi slowly rode thier mounts closer to the two men as Elladan removed his helmet revealing a dark waterfall of hair and intense blue eyes as he smiled at the sight of Ahmi.

"Ahmi..is that you?" she nodded her head at him."My you have grown up.So what brings you Hiril (lady) here?" her eyes became downcast as she figured out how to tell them of thier mission.

"Well..I..uhmm." she sighed as she thought." We seek rest for a short time in Rivendell and You." he raised his eyebrow but inclined his head as the other riders who had chased the pack away earlier rode up.

"Then rest you shall have and food." the other man spoke as he took off his helmet ..there was a round of gasp as they realized who he was..Elladans father...Lord Elrond himself. He smiled at thier reactions ,and offered his hand to Alysi..since her horse was unfit to carry her now, and commanded one of his men to take charge of the poor animal. She took the offered hand, mounting behind him, they rode to Rivendell ..safe from any harm.

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Rivendell

It was late afternoon by the time Ahmi, Alysi and Kechi was seated at Elronds table along with Elladan and his younger sister Arwen,eating the fair set out before them..of friuts and vegetables-no meat..sigh...listening to the lovely elven maidens playing the harp as other elves served them sweet wine . Earlier after they had arrived they were given a room for each of them to bathe and change into clothes that were laid out for them..which was a nice feeling but where the heck did they got dwarf sized dresses was beyond any of them. As they sat there sipping thier wine Ahmi saw Elrond turn towards her and the words that fell from his lips gave the women such joy and hope.

"Not long ago, we had other dwarven visitors..thirteen. Would you happen to have known anything about them?" he saw all three eyes training on him and he continiued." They did not stay long."

"You saw them..were they ok? Did they seem hurt? What happened?" thier questions flew around as they felt a renewed vigor for thier task...he smiled briefly then his eyes went solemn.

"Yes I did see them, they were unhurt. We gave them our hospitality for the night..as we are doing for you. But Im afraid they are heading for trouble." Ahmi closed her eyes and taking a deep breath she replied to them.

"I know they are. Thats why we have come and must go as soon as we are rested in the morning."she had everyones attention at the table as she related what brought them here.They listened intently as she spoke followed by Kechi and Alysis own part in it all..by the time they were done the elves sat deep in contemplation ..thinking over all that had been said. Elrond stood suddenly and looking at the girls intently he asked for them to follow him, leading them down stairs and to a gazebo type structure encased in flowering vines. As they entered there stood the most beautiful elven woman any of them had ever seen..her hair was long and golden like the finest silk, her skin glowed like the fresh morning dew, and her eyes sparkeled as if they were carved from the finest blue gems ever seen...her smile could warm the coldest of hearts..she was perfection. Ahmi knew this could be no other than Lady Galadriel herself..the lady of the wood, lady of light...The ruler of Lothlorien...and she was nervous at meeting her.

Elrond and her began to speak in elvish to one another as he directed the three of them to seats, which they took , watching the exchange and finally he sat down as Galadriel walked behind them.Elrond asked for them to repeat all that they had told him earlier to her and as they all spoke she listened calmly..not saying anything till they were done. As they sat there waiting for her to say something..anything..Ahmis head began to spin without any warning and she felt herself falling into blackness.

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Ahmi stood in a desolete and dreary place, the very air filled with death and decay all around her. She could hear someone chanting up above her...raising her eyes she saw Gandalf in a large metal cage trying to cast a spell. There was something behind her coming closer..drawing a sense of evil with it as it walked...speaking it voice sent fear crawling down her spine as she slowly turned towards it...it was a foul sight to see..it was an orc

"Spells will not save you old man." he cackeled malicously at the imprisoned wizard..he grabs the cage and throws it across the stones smashing it aside, spilling Gandalf out of it to be picked up once more..smashing him forcibly to the ground.

Ahmi gazed at a bleeding Gandalf as his head slowly turns in her direction..mouth falling open..barely any sound coming out. She rushed forward not paying the orc any attention, to the fallen wizards side, leaning her head closer to him so she could hear him.

"My friend..they are coming..you must go now..post haste. Death is coming..it draws near..go now...GO NOW!" he pushes her away as the forgotten orc makes to impale her on his drawn sword but misses and instaed strikes the wizard dead. Her screams piercing the darkness that began to consume her as she fell into its icy cold hold.

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Ahmi felt hot hands like branding irons on her skin ..shaking her as screams kept filling the air, until finally a voice broke through into her mind.

"Be at ease..you are safe in Rivendell." ,she began to calm down and breath easier as the voice spoke once more in her mind." I have seen what you have seen..and I know what you know now." he voice then spoke for all to hear. "You have seen Dol Goldur and what will transpire if events stay on the course they are on. You are losing time in this and wil not make it before the threshhold of salvation passes..." thier eyes went down..crestfallen at her words. "..unless you have help." looking up at her they see her smile and felt hope arise. Galadriel looked out towards the sky as if she saw something as she spoke to Elrond who was kneeling by Ahmis side concerned at what was happening. "This young woman has the gift of foresight..she has seen something that will transpire soon and must be away quickly." Elrond inclined his head and softly spoke to a guard who was standing outside the area..he ran off after listening to the lord. Shortly there was a scream up above as the two largest eagles any of the women had ever seen landed next to the lady whom began to quietly speak to ithem while the guard who had left earlier returned with thier stuff plus some other bags..by the smell was filled with food.

"Come..This is Gwaihir and Landroval..Lords of the eagles they have agreed to carry you to Mirkwood ..to King Thranduil..who with this message will give help..if you can convince him." the eagles began to dip thier heads as the three women approached them...suddenly there was a loud roar coming from behind..pounding up the stairs towards them. It was thier father Dahl and uncle Kahrn..and they were furious..faces red as they barreled towards them with Elladan trailing behind apologizing at the intrusion of the men. Galadriel motioned to the women to get on Gwaihir quickly, who didnt hesitate at all..niether of them were ready to face the mens wrath ..yet. As they drew nearer screaming at the gilrs to get down the eagle leapt from the balcony and flew away ..leaving the elves to handle this..hopefully.

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Dahl and Kahrn finally made Rivendell and Dahl saw his old friend coming down the steps to greet them...seeing the dwarves faces made him faulter in his steps.

"Welcome Mellon. It is good to see you once more." he noticed Dahls eyes going over to some horses that were resting to the side of the courtyard and he saw anger crossing thier features at the sight of his daughters mounts. "As you can see your daughters have made it safely before you." Dahl took a step towards Elladan as he growled.

"Where are they?" the elf was shocked at his tone.

"They are currently with my father talking. I will lead you there if you wish." all Dahl and Kahrn could do was nod thier head..they were too angry to speak. As they walked..stomped in the dwarves case..they saw two eagles flying over head towards where his father was talking at."it seems as if a new transportation is being provided." he smiled not realizing that he had just ignited a powder keg in the men. With a roar they began to run ahead of him screaming ..Kechi, Ahmi, Alysi!..leaving Elladan to follow behind trying to get them to calm down. As they came into view they saw the women jump onto the eagles backs and flying away swiftly...as Lady Galadriel turned in thier direction smiling at the enraged men..not afraid.

"Master Dwarves. How may I help you?" looking upon these two she formulated an idea..that may save those they all cared about.

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(1- week before Durins day)

Dahl and Kahrn were once more riding upon horses..racing along the north side of Mirkwood with the largest bear bounding along with them carrying an elf upon his back.

"Beorn!" The elf hollered out as he rolled in his seat. "Do you need to rest or you think you can keep going?" The bear just roared and kept up the pace signifing they were moving on. Elladan shrugged his shoulders at the two dwarves as his hips rolled in synchronization with Beorns pitching movements..as they pressed on trying to get around the mirkwood forest and towards Erebor.

Elladan couldnt believe the audacity of Lady Galadriel as she stood there in Rivendell facing the two dwarves wrath as they verbally lashed out in anger at her for letting the girls escape them. He chuckeled to himself as he remembered the sight of seeing her smiling calmly down at them as they screamed and growled at her while pacing and gesturing . Elrond and him kept apologizing to her but she just stood there till they finally were done shouting..then she spoke in her melodic voice that calmed them further at the two men.

"I realize you have traveled far to bring them home..but thier quest is of the utmost importance and it could be the life or death of us all if they fail." she saw thier intrest was peaked and she began to explain all that she saw and knew..by the end of her explanations she knew she had thier begrudging support and thier readyness to help. "I have a special task for you both..if your so willing of course." Dahl and Karhn inclined thier heads for her to continue." I need you to take the northern route with a friend of mine to Erebor and help in the women in thier endevours in saving the last of the line of Durin." Dahl looked hard at her for a moment then held up his finger as he rose an eyebrow in her direction.

"One condition Lady." she tilted her head to the side as she smiled..inviting him to go on." I want Elladan to join us. If what you have said is true about this army then healers are going to be desperately needed..and hes a good one. I trust him to be by my side on this." he saw the shock on the elfs face and then pleasure at Dahls words.

"I would be honored greatly to be by your side mellon..le hannon ( my friend..thank you)."elladan bowed in respect to his old friend.

After agreeing to come he found himself on the back of the eagle flying towards Galadriels friend who happened to be the skinchanger Beorn..the bear. He wasnt happy to see dwarves but agreed that his help was needed...so here they were now racing towards erebor on two horses he lent to the dwarves and offering a ride upon his back to Elladan. All three knew time was running out for all of them.

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Mirkwood-mid autumn-hell(thranduils kingdom)- 3 days till Durins day

It had been several days since the three dwarf women had arrived at Thranduils kingdom and they were just as close to convincing him now as they were when they arrived..which was not at all it seemed. He seemed genuinely nice enough in an arrogant way since after he read Galadriels letter ..but they knew it really was all just an act..it was no secret how he felt about dwarves..especially those of the line of Durin. They each tried reasoning with him, begging him, even trying to shame him..which didnt go over well..now they found themselves under heavy guard..more like prisoners than guests. The only visitors allowed in thier room was the king (of course), his son prince Legolas, and the captain of the guard Tauriel..who it seemed got along with Alysi... both felt a connection that niether could explain..from the start.

Ahmi was pacing the floor again..sighing heavily at the newest dilemma before her. Once more Thranduil denied seeing her again..to listen to her pleas for help against the impending army making its way to Erebor ..while here she was a pampered prisoner. "Why cant that shirumundu khalamdul thane (beardless elven king) see reason! Doesnt he realize if he doesnt do something against these Rukhas (orcs) then eventually all will be destroyed..even his people wont be able to stand against them."

"He has his reasons." the women swung around towards the door as Captain Tauriel came through ,with a tray of food, without the women hearing it open. " He is the king and it is not for us to question him but to follow." Tauriel walked over setting the tray down on a small table...seeing Alysi slowly make her way over to her side.

"Tauriel..if one follows blindly then how will you know your about to go over a cliff and die? We must not follow things blindly for that makes us not but sheep..and i am no lamb to be led to my slaughter just because someone wants to stick his head into the very sand and hide away. Hes being blind to the world in which he lives in. How can I blindly follow someone whos also blind himself...knowing the path he has me on leads to nothing but death..of me and those I love?" Alysi spoke calmly next to her..seeing her words having a little bit of an impact. "Mellon (my friend)..I do not belive you are blind..No I brestanneth ani rach ti rad vi Arda ( Be the change you wish to see in the world)." with those words Alysi turned back to her sisters ,leaving a stunned Tauriel to make her way out of the room. She walked,pondering over what Alysi said as she made her way down towards the cells for watch guard duty on the dwarven prisoners below.

"Well Alysi..it looks like we will get no help here..i say we must leave as soon as we can..Durins day is fast approaching and we are almost out of time."Ahmi felt that she had failed but she knew she still had to try...for the princes..for her Fili. The other two agreed and they all began to quietly prepare and plan a way out of here.

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Dungeouns

Bofur was being forcibly guided towards some large doors that was being guarded by several elves in armor on either side of the opening that led into hell..otherwise known as thranduils kingdom. As they passed through Bofur glanced over seeing disgust in the guards eyes and then he was beyond their eyesight being led down to an area that had many metal barred doors...an elvish prison..Great. Bofur was led to a cell where he was searched once more then shoved inside as the door slammed shut behind him. He turned to look at his companions through the bars seeing Fili being checked again..of course they found a knife hidden on his back hidden by his hair. Bofur couldnt help chuckling as he looked over at Kili who was escorted by the very same elf who saved him earlier from spiders. As he entered he turned around to look at her holding out his arms to his side as he spoke.

"Arent you going to search me?" bofur silently laughed at him over his audacity and sense of humor."I could have anything down my trousers?" the elf looked at him in surprise , then she gathered herself as she smirked down at him.

"Or nothing." closing the cell on his face as she walked away. Bofur couldnt stop the laugh over her response. As she walked away she was momentarily stopped by the blond elf who didnt seem happily that Kili was staring at her while smiling from his cell. They talked in elvish briefly then left as he saw Kili slump down in his cell..looking upset over what was said..in that moment Bofur realized he understood what had been said.

After some time passed they all heard some loud voices..couldnt make it out but some of them sounded like Thorins booming tones..and he didnt seem happy.

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A couple of guards led the leader of the company across a walkway towards some spiral staircase that led to a throne that was perched a short distance above the approaching group. Upon the throne sat a tall blonde elf with a wooden crown that was adorned with the leaves of autumn upon his head, watching the dwarf come closer to him as he sneered down at him.

"Some may imagine that a noble quest is at hand." his voice sounded arrogant and smug as he stood up, slowly making his way down the steps to stand before Thorin."A quest to reclaim a homeland and slay a dragon. I myself, suspect a more prosiac motive.Attempted burglary, or something of that ilk." the elf leaned down closer ..inches away from Thorins face..as he studied his reaction to his words..then he straightened up , walking a little bit away."You have found a way in. You seek that which would bestow upon you the right to rule, A kings jewel. The Arkenstone. It is precious to you beyond measure, I understand that." the elf turned back towards the dwarf..with a seemingly understanding smile." There are gems in the mountain that I too desire. White gems of pure starlight. I offer you my help." his smile and words spoke of benevolance..but his eyes told a different story. Thorin smiled at the elf, knowing this was all an act...Thranduil only wanted the gems..he wasnt really interested in helping the dwarves at all...he decided to play along.

"I am listening." his deep voice flowed smooth and richly across the room as he waited for the rest.

"I will let you go, if you but return what is mine."Thorin raised his eyebrow.

"A favor for a favor." Thorin turned his head away so Thranduil wouldnt see his expression.

"You have my word. One king to another." the elfs words sounded kind and generous...Thorin felt the fire of anger burning within him over his words.

"I would not trust, Thranduil, the great king,to only his word." he mocked the elf..then swiftly turned around facing the elvish king as he spat out."Till the end of all days be upon us!" Thranduil was visibly shocked at Thorins obvious hate of him."You, lack all honor! I have seen how you treat your friends!" the rage that had been harbouring within Thorin all these years spilled out of him at the king before him."We came to you once, starving, homeless; seeking your help. But you turned your back! You, turned away from the suffering of my people and the inferno that destroyed us!" taking a deep breath he faced down the stunned elf as he spat out in khazdul..Ishkh khakfe andu null! (may you die in dragon fire)" swiftly Thranduil moved into Thorins face his rage evident upon his own as he hissed at the dwarf.

"Do not talk to me of dragon fire! I know its wrath and ruin. I have faced the great serpants of the north." suddenly the side of Thranduils face became distorted..burning away..then as he steps away from Thorin it goes back to normal, clouding over once more with illusion..hiding it away. "I warned your grandfather of what his greed would summon, but he would not listen." he stepped away going back up to sit upon his throne once more as he signaled for his guards to take Thorin away..but not before imparting his final words for Thorin to ponder over." You are just like him. Stay here if you will, and rot. A hundred years is a mere blink in the life of an elf. Im patient. I can wait." his smile was full of malice as Thorin was drugged out of the room towards the cells below.

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 Eventually Bofur saw some elves leading Thorin to his own cell next to Balins where they began talking.

"Did he offer you a deal?"Balin spoke from where he was confined at.

"He did. I told him he could go Ishkh khakfe andu null. Him and his kin!" Bofur could see Thorin was pissed as he talked to Balin whos shoulders fell in despair over his words.

"Well, thats that then The deal was our only hope." sighing he sat down.

"Its not our only hope." Thorin looked up beyond his confinement out into the realm before him as Bofur goes to get comfortable for the long stay here.

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In a cell not far from from Thorins across the way was Kilis..who was holding a stone that had the words...be safe..etched upon one side of it. Remembering when his mother had given it to him before they had left out on this journey. He also remembered Alysi being there, attempting to hide her fear of him leaving, not being completely successful about it. ***************************************

Dis hugged her son to him..trembling a little bit..and then she let him go as she turned to Fili to also give him his promise stone. Kili turned to look at Alysi with a sad smile, gently taking her hands into his own as he gazed into her eyes..memorizing every feature..every hair upon her...wishing he could kiss her then and there but unsure if she would allow it. As they stared into each others eyes she suddenly took the descision out of his hands..as if she read his mind..she threw her arms around his neck as she pulled him close..kissing his lips as he stood there in momentaily shock. Alysi became embarressed over her actions and began to pull away from him only to be stopped as his arms embraced her to him and he kissed her just as ardently. After a few moments there was a clearing of a throat..breaking away from each other they saw Dis giving them both a look..which was slightly ruined by the smile on her face as they both blushed. Kili looked away briefly, noticing Fili and Ahmi walking away from them together...he smiled..knowing what was on his brothers mind .

After Dis had let Fili go from her embrace he also turned around to take Ahmis hand in his own..walking her away a short distance from everyone gathered..so he could speak sortof privately with her. He peered into her soft amythyst eyes ..his nervousness very clear as he spoke softly to her ..low enough that only she would hear.

"Ahmi..I..I wanted to tell you something." he took a deep breath and took her other hand into his own..feeling how soft they were to his own that had callouses on them from all the hard work he had done working next to his uncle at the forges. He saw her eyes become hopeful and her breath hitched..waiting for his words." I ..wanted you to know that since the first time I laid eyes on you I have been hopelessly in love with you and......I wish to court you whenever we come back from this." He waited with abated breath for her answer which was swift in coming.

"Yes!" her face beamed in happiness at him as did his in return.

"Will you please wait for me Ahmi? I promise i will return to you and then I will make it known to all that you are mine..now and forever...my princess." with those words he slowly leaned down..gently brushing his lips across hers and then leaning back up..smiling with his love very apparent in his eyes.******************************************************************

Bofur was sitting on his bed thinking of Tia as he rubbed his chest where his heart was aching unmercifully...Oh by Mahal. How he missed her. As he sat there he felt a tear come to his eye and he bowed his head covering them so if someone peeked in they wouldnt see him appearing weak. Suddenly he vaguely heard a noise..peering out from behind his hand he saw the red haired elf strolling by...checking on the dwarvish prisoners. Being curious he goes over to the door watching her as she stops at Kilis door who is sitting on his bed tossing into the air a stone and catching it as it fell.

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There was the sound of footfalls approaching his cell..snapping him out of his memories of that moment so long ago it seemed. He began to slowly, carefully toss the stone up in the air..catching it over and over as the person got closer then they stopped in front of where he was at. Turning his head he saw it was the same red haired elf that had rescued him from the spiders earlier...she seemed friendly enough..reminding him of Alysi.

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Tauriel stops next to the cell with the dark haired dwarf she had saved in the forest..watching him fiddle with a stone in his hand. Finally her curiousity got the better of her and she asked him what it was.  

"That stone in your hand, what is it?" kili stops briefly to look at her.

"It is a talisman" he answered her, then peered back down at the stone in his hand as she curiously looks on. "A powerful spell lies upon it, if any but a dwarf reads the runes on this stone..." he shakes his head then suddenly thrusts out his hand with it in his hand towards her."...they will be cursed forever!" she stepped back startled and makes to move on past him when his voice stops her once more." Or not. Depending on whether you believe in that kind of thing. Its just a token" he laughs softly as she smiles at him..Bofur watches the exchange smiling too. "A rune stone. My mother gave it to me so Id remember my promise." the lady elf asked him what promise he had given to his mother..bringing another smile to Kilis lips as he answered her."That I would come back to her. She worries. She thinks Im reckless."

"Are you?" she inquired..watching him keep tossing the stone into the air..catching it over and over again.

"Nah." as he tossed once more he missed it and watched with fear as it rolled out of cell heading for the edge where it would fall away forever to be lost. Its flight is stopped by the woman who uses her foot to stop its path and she picks it up examining it as Kili races over to the bars to cautiously watch her.

"Sounds like quit a party youre having up there."he glances up above as Bofur listens on..curious himself about what was going on.

"It is Mereth Nuin Giliath; the feast of starlight. All light is sacred to the eldar, but the wood elves love best the light of the stars." there was a glow in her eyes as she spoke.

"I always thought it is a cold light, remote and far away." she turns swiftly towards him with astonishment written all over her face.

"It is memory, precious and pure." looking at him closer." Like your promise." bofur saw her hand back the stone Dis had given him , with thankful eyes he took it from her. They talked some more ..Bofur listened to her as she sat down on the steps next to Kilis cell listening to him relate a time he was traveling. Bofur remembered that time..they were escorting some merchants from Ered Luin to trade for some furs when up overhead there was a full moon that looked like it was on fire...beautiful beyond belief.

 "Whats your name lady?" he heard Kili ask her when there was a lull in the conversation.

"Its Tauriel..yours?" she smiled at him kindly as she stood up to leave.

"Kili..at your service" he smiled cheekily at her as she returned it..

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She couldnt help standing there talking to him ..he reminded her of another dwarf..Alysi...chatting into the evening over what they had seen in their life..neither noticing the elvish prince above, watching them with jealousy written all over his face.

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Sighing he was about to go sit back down..noticing out of the corner of his eye he saw the blond elf staring down upon the two talking..he didnt seem happy at all. He tried to remember what his name was..heard it earlier as some guards were pacing outside their doors, one of them saw the elf..calling him over to say something before he left again.

What was his name....it was....Legolas..thats right. King Thranduils son..Prince Legolas.

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 Tauriel realized it was getting late and she stood up to leave this dwarf..Kili he said..to his own when unexpected words fell from his lips..quietly where none other than herself could hear.

"Le hannon. Na-den pedim ad. ( I thank you..until we speak again)" she was surprised he could speak sindarin and she just stood there staring at him for a few moments as he spoke once more." And please know Hiril nin, gwend sui lotheg I edlothia an -uir (my lady, friendship is like a flower that blooms forever)."she couldnt believe how much he sounded like Alysi at that moment.

"Do you know of an dwarvish woman who goes by the name Alysi?"she blurted out before she could stop herself..seeing shock on his face.

"How do you know of her? " he saw her hesitate as her eyes glanced around, seeing if anyone was listening..then leaning down closely so as not to be heard by anyone she spoke a few words that she knew in khazdul to him.

"Demup telek menu, miz meri (honor acts through you, my friend) she is here..seeking help from the elves." Kili rushes to the bars anxiety clearly on his face as his breaths become rapid.

"Why?" tauriel looks away as someone approaches..another guard coming to relieve her, she quickly glances back at him she turns to leave when she feels his hand gently upon her arm."Please you must help her..and if you ever need something then please remember Kili..im at your service." he took his hand away and she swiftly left him standing there, watching her retreating form disappear up the stairways.

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 Bofur leaned his head against the wall reflecting on the last time he held his beloved in his arms.

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Bofur was still sitting in his cell wondering how much time had passed while they were in this place..he couldnt help voicing his concern.

"Ill wager the sun is on the rise. Must be nearly dawn." he sighs heavily as Ori remarks.

"Were never gonna reach the mountains, are we?" his tone is filled with despair. Suddenly there is a voice that surprised them up on their feet.

"Not stuck in here youre not." Bilbo pops up in front of Thorins cell with a sneaky smile as he goes to free them all. They all were ecstatic that they were free finally.. following Bilbo down to where ever he was leading them....which happened to be the wine cellar...of all places. When they saw where they were at there was disbelief clear on all their faces as they hesitated on the stairs staring at the sleeping guards.

"Your supposed teh be leading us out..not further in!" bofur loudly whispered at the hobbit..who hushed him, then turning to point towards some barrels off to the side.

"Everyone climb into the barrels, quickly!" seeing them all give him a confused look..refusing to do it till Thorin spoke up...do as he says..which they all complied swiftly.

"What do we do now?" bofur poked his head out to look at Bilbo who was running this show...making a remark about holding his breath as he pulled a lever..opening up the floor beneath them..rolling the barrels they were in down into darkness below. Bofur felt his container connect with a splashing sound as water spilled into his barrel..he sputtered as he looked around...seeing Bilbo fall near him as they all began to float through a large cavern into daylight...and down a waterfall..pouring more water in the barrel with him. Wiping his face he sees them approaching a gate as a horn is heard on the wind behind them...looking he sees elves pouring out of some doors up above..one of which was the elvish prince..Legolas. Immediately Bofur heard a grating sound as the very gates they were hoping to get through are shut tight..trapping them in the city...as Thorin screams out in denial. Bofur sees the elves about to recapture them when suddenly one of the guards sprouts an arrow in his neck..toppling into the water next to them dead. Peering up Bofur sees an orc jumping up onto the gate structure overhead being followed by more orcs flooding down the river ravine like rats..killing any elves who get in their way.

Bofur watches in horror as some orcs jump into the water trying to get to the dwarves..fighting for their  against these vile beasts. As he fought his attacker he can hear around him screams and grunts as arrows are fired into the invaders by the very same elves who tried to imprison them shortly ago.Bofur hears Kilis name being called but he was too busy trying to repel the orc whos intentions are seperating Bofurs head from his body at that time. Bofur finally gets the upper hand on the orc..killing it ..as the gates fly open releasing the dwarves down another waterfall and too freedom..maybe.

Bofur looks behind him as he floats down the river away from the elves..being followed by the orc pack that is in persuit them down the river...seeing a flash of red hair fighting some of the orcs..then he cant see anymore as the flow whisks him out of sight.

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Shortly after Tauriel had left him below there was a cry from the guards..the dwarvin prisoners had escaped. She ran out of the fortress through a side door..seeing Kili about to be killed by a sword weilding orc and she fired an arrow at him saving once more him. As more orcs spilled down from the ravine , attacking the escaping dwarves she noticed he was struck by an arrow as he reached for the spillway lever..releasing the barrels that the others were in..then rolling off the ledge into his own awaiting barrel to be swept down the river with orcs trailing behind in persuit of them. She sees Legolas giving chase briefly and she followed...finding him stopped by the river, watching the disappearing dwarves floating away, not paying attention as an orc creeps up upon him about to shoot his arrow at the elvish prince. Seeing Legolas standing there unaware of the danger behind him made her heart stop briefly..but her hands knew what to do ..she swiftly fired her arrow deflecting the orcs arrow from its path..legolas head..and alerting him to the danger, as she quickly subdues the black heart. Suddenly Legolas melodic voice rang out ..stopping her hand from killing the orc.

"Tauriel, wait! This one we keep alive." His hand reached out to further still hers...making her heart pound faster at the nearness of him to herself..and trying to not let it show how he effected her. *****************************************************************************************************

Bofur was exhausted as he slowly paddeled his barrel to the river bank along with the others...ready to get out of the water finally. Dragging his body up onto the dry rocks..he sees Kili fall to his knees as he tries to stand in pain. Bofur looks on in shock along with Fili who is also standing next to his brother. Kili sees him looking at him and he quickly remarks hes fine and looks away from thier concerned faces.

"On your feet." Thorins voice is sharp as he walks by them...until Fili voiced his concern over Kilis legs which he turned to his nephews ordering him to bind it quick. Bofur wandered over to his brother Bombur to check on him, concern for Kili evident on his face.

"How is he?" bombur glances over at Kili.

"I dont know..it looks pretty bad Bombur." He turns his head back to his wifes cousin..hoping he would be fine.

As they all are catching thier breaths..a shadow passes over them..turning around Bofur sees a human armed with a bow pointing it at Ori who is sitting on a rock emptying his boot of water. Dwalin makes to intervene holding a large piece of wood in his hands..but the man shoots his arrow..impaling it into the wood..making him pause briefly. Kili grabs a nearby rock readying to throw it at him when it is blasted out of his hands by another arrow fired by the man.

"Do it again and youre dead." his tone was menacing as he aimed another aroow at the group...Balin quickly steps up towards the man with his hands raised in the gesture of peaceful as he speaks to the man.

"Excuse me, but umm..your from Laketown, if Im not mistaken?" Balin looks over behind the man then back at him once more." That barge over there, it wouldnt be available for hire by any chance?" the man lowers his bow ...staring at the dwarf..then turns and walks away from them all. They all follow him down towards his boat as he begins pulling the barrels they had just vacated out of the water ..loading them onto his boat as they watched on. Bofur stood aways from them as Balin talks to the man..it doesnt seem as if hes overly excited by his gruff tones to the elder dwarf..but eventually it seemed as if they came to an understanding as they all loaded onto the barge..heading for Laketown and closer to thier destination.

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Tauriel was racing down the hallways heading for the dwarven womens rooms...she knew she had to help them..to get them out of this place. Alysi and Kilis words kept ringing in her mind...how Thranduil was being blind to everything before him and how her friends needed help. She realized as she saw Kili floating away that was what he truly was..him and Alysi..and friends helped one another. As she neared the rooms she slowed down to walk calmly to the guard outside thier doors.

"Guard. You are being relieved... Ive been ordered to bring theses dwarves. Yuo have other things to do..leave." he knew not to argue with his captain and saluted her as he left. Soon as she saw him disappear around the corner she quickly opened the door seeing the three women standing there looking warily at her..until she spoke. " Come. We are leaving here..now." tauriel saw they didnt hesitate as they rushed over to her..she eased the door open peering outside to see they wer still alone then quickly motioned for them to follow her.

She led them down many stairways and towards the very front gates..being stopped by the guard there briefly..questioning her.

"Where you off captain Tauriel." The guard saluted smartly as she raised her eyebrow at him."

Sorry captain..I just needed to know in case anyone asks." She sighed knowing she needed to say something if her plan was to succeed.

"I have been ordered to escort these dwarves to the edge of the forest safely. So if you have anymore questions then I would like to dispense with this task immediately." He stood at attention while apologizing quickly for holding her up...she inclined her head then ordered the women to move on.

It wasn't too long before Legolas approached the gates ordering them to be sealed per order of the king...as he was turning away one of the guards spoke out..bringing the prince to a halt.

"What about Tauriel?" Legolas turned swiftly around staring at the elf as trepidition entered his heart.

"What about her?" The guard could hear steel enter into his voice and he nervously responded.

"She went into the forest escorting the dwarven women to the border with her bow and sword on her hands. She hasn't returned yet." Legolas stood there stunned as he gazed out on the path that led out of the forest with mixed emotions...fear, anger, jealousy, but mostly fear.

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Ered Luin -mid autumn-apple season

It was apple picking season and the orchards were full of dwarrowdams as some picked the fruit from the trees and other began turning the bountiful harvest into different things..apple cider, vinegars, there was even some that were making applesauce right there in the orchards. The women smiled as they watched the antics of children as they ran around the trees screaming in delight while plucking the sweet fruit off the ground..eating as they played amongst the harvest gathers. Tia was one of the women helping the group making applesauce..peeling, slicing, and coring them steadily as Griegur slept peacefully next to her chair. Periodically she glanced down at him smiling at the glorious gift she was blessed with...feeling a sense of peace steal over her as she went back to work.

The day was almost over..sun casting its last glow across the land as everyone made thier way home with thier bounty they had collected and processed throughout this day. As Tia waddled her way back to Dis house..which was closest to the orchards...she suddenly felt a wave of loneliness come over her as her mind thought of Bofur and how bad she wanted him here. She held herself together until her and Griegur were alone in the living area..then as quietly as she could she began to softly cry while the baby played on the rug in front of the fire. Sitting there with the tears pouring down her face she noticed Griegur crawling over to the other chair..slowly kneeling at its base...then cautiously he began to pull himself up till he was standing there. Tias eyes went wide as she watched him standing there happy and so proud of himself while smiling at her for approval.

"Dis!..Dis!..come look. Griegur is standing all by himself!" she crowed in joy ..all her sorrow disappearing as Dis came running in to the room. The rest of the evening was spent with both women helping him walk back and forth between them , holding onto thier fingers for support...giggling in joy at his new found trick.