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Chapter Text

There was not complete victory when fighting darkness.

Victories were moments of light in the lives of those who were born to rule and were trusted with wealth and power. There was always fear and greed growing in those hearts, sometimes it was the only thing they held dear. Dwarves knew of this, they felt it every time they worked on the mountain, on the mines or their different crafts. The pride of their hands and positions were usually their downfall.

Still, there was honour in their actions, there was also affection and love to those closest to them. Thranduil could say he was witness to both: the worst and the best of dwarves. He closed his eyes thinking about it, about everything he had seen and had lived so far. Night had just fallen and dinner would be served soon; the Elven-King stood up feeling the coldness of the room touch his wet skin. The bath had been refreshing, just what he needed after a long day and a heavy heart. He missed Thorin, he missed him dearly but Thorin was King and his duty usually called upon him for days.

Thranduil exited his bathroom with a white, linen robe tied loosely and barely covering the lean, strong body under it. His hair falling like a cascade down his back was still wet, his features relaxed showing the rest he had been enjoying in his new rooms in Erebor. He lifted his blue eyes, cold and ancient eyes to fixate on a case on his bed. The elf felt his lips curled up but instead of approaching his bed he made his way to his wardrobe. There wasn’t much of his clothing there, some of the garments had been brought to him and some others Thorin had gifted him. He let his hand caress the softness of silk and linen, of cotton and mithril thread; Thranduil tensed up but didn’t turn around when he felt a familiar presence in his room.

“You should wear the blue one; it drives me mad every time I see it on you.”

Thranduil frowned with his back to Thorin. It was one of those days, the dwarf’s voice was dark and husky, as if he was lustful and enraged at the same time. Thranduil knew this was a constant battle inside Thorin’s head, it was something he was trying to overcome to prevent becoming in his grandfather.

Thranduil wondered briefly if Thorin felt this way because of some discussion with one of the dignitaries or because it had been four days since they last saw each other.

The Elven-King turned around and his eyes fell upon Thorin, the dwarf had his arms crossed, his own eyes a darker blue, almost black as they brushed with desire and hunger over Thranduil’s body.

“I like the silver one better,” said Thranduil dragging his words in defiance,“it fits my needs and adds the necessary effect to my personality.”

Thorin smirked tilting his head looking into Thranduil’s eyes, “I think right now I would love to see you with nothing but myself on you.”

Thranduil shivered feeling his desire ignited at the dark voice. His mouth went dry when Thorin started approaching him slowly. The dwarf stood right in front of him never once taking his eyes off of Thranduil, his hand sneaking inside the robe moving swiftly to open it completely. Those fingers brushed expertly on the elven skin, caressing teasingly while Thorin promised pleasure with his eyes. A part of Thranduil hated the way his body seemed to surrender to Thorin, to give in whatever Thorin desired. Another part of Thranduil loved it and was ready to give everything if only he could feel those lips loving him forever.

“Aren’t we expected to dine with your friends and family?” Thranduil asked with a faint tremble on his voice. Thorin frowned stopping his hand.

“Four days, Thranduil,” he said and Thranduil noticed the hurt tingeing his voice; Thorin opened his mouth to speak again but desist, he put his hand away and Thranduil knew right then something had happened.

Tilting his head, Thranduil grabbed Thorin by his hand. For a moment Thorin struggled trying to pry his hand away but Thranduil directed it right to his chest. His heart was beating fast as he moved Thorin’s hand down to his abdomen, lower until Thorin was brushing his hands on the hardness Thranduil was offering. Thorin growled and pushed Thranduil down not bothering to place him on the bed. The floor was cold and Thranduil gasped before letting out a moan when Thorin closed his mouth around him.

It was late into the night when Thranduil rested on his back breathing heavily. There was a thing sheer of sweat covering his skin, the light coming from the candles in his room making it glow slightly. If at some point someone had come to call them, they would probably left as soon as they approached the room. Thorin was an avid lover that night, and Thranduil struggled with him from time to time only to let go eventually. The elf closed his eyes before turning around; Thorin had left the bathroom refreshed after the night’s events.

Their loving had not been tender that night, Thranduil still ached and he could see the marks on his body. He would be lying if he were to say he didn’t enjoy it, but he also knew Thorin felt ashamed at his own desires and he felt guilty because of the marks he had left behind.

Standing up, Thranduil wore his robe once again making his way to Thorin. The dwarf allowed his lover to direct him to the window where both of them could enjoy the freshness of the night. From this place, the room Thorin had built for him, they could watch the night and the stars glinting in the sky. There was no moon, but Eärendil was shining brightly above them.

Thranduil sat Thorin down moving to his right side to start braiding the usual lock of hair. His hands moved slowly but surely enjoying the task without any hurry. Thorin closed his eyes enjoying the moment as he organized his thoughts, glancing out of the corner of his eyes he saw one of the marks he had left behind. Thranduil had teeth marks on his abdomen, the otherwise unmarked skin of the elf was burning with the signs of Thorin’s passion and possessiveness.

Thranduil perceived the change of mood, his hand rushed lightly against the beard of his dwarf and Thorin lifted his eyes. Thranduil was looking down with worry gleaming in his eyes.

“What has bothered you tonight, Thorin?” Thranduil finally asked without receiving an immediate answer, the Elven-King was patient. He finished his task lingering only for a moment before sitting down in front of Thorin, offering the dwarf the left side of his head and the lock of hair for the braid.

It was a ritual Thorin never thought Thranduil would accede to engage in. Thorin had never been good into bringing up these subjects, always getting tongue tied and impatient when he could not express his intentions. He just did it one day, while still recovering after the battle and Thranduil had merely smile gleefully and allowed it. Now, after almost eight months of being beside him it had become an intimate routine for them. It was their time and no one and nothing could interrupt it. Even if they were apart, Thorin would dedicate the same time of the day to his braiding happy with the knowledge somewhere in Erebor Thranduil was doing the same.

Half an hour later and when Thorin had finished his task he spoke up. Thranduil decided to rest his head on Thorin’s legs giving the dwarf privacy as he voiced his concerns.

At first it was about the dignitaries from the other kingdoms and his own. They spoke of the numerous troubles Thorin had to attend, the food and the supplies, the workers and the mines. Salaries, orphans, widowers….Everything Thorin had been training to do from a very young age. It was hard, over all, when Thorin realized some of his choices for his closest advisers were frowned upon.

“What did you do then?” Asked Thranduil listening with care and interest.

“I was tempted to curse them,”replied Thorin earning a smirk from Thranduil,“but decided to tell them my companions were the most trusted subjects I have. I reminded them that when I called upon the help of the other dwarves only them attended to my call.”

“I would have paid to see their faces,” said Thranduil turning to Thorin, the dwarf chuckled moving Thranduil to the side only to sit beside him.

Thranduil lifted an eyebrow confused but please with the change, he soon found himself wrapped around Thorin thankful for the warm he was providing.

“That was a sight to behold. They sputtered and then…” Here Thorin trailed off unsure, Thranduil felt as his arms closed tightly around him,“and it was then Orik spoke.”

Here Thorin tensed but Thranduil waited for the continuation of the story. The Elven-King lifted his eyes to Eärendil smiling softly while enjoying the company of Thorin, the dwarf had been right. Four days. Four long days in which Thorin had been away from him and Thranduil was starting to feel his absence. Glancing to the side he saw the frown adorning Thorin’s expression then Thorin spoke again.

“Orik started talking about making amends; he spoke of his own suffering and his many losses due to my grandfather’s greed,” Thorin trembled clenching his right fist, his sight darkening with the shadow of a familiar sickness inside him.

Thranduil placed his soothing hand on top Thorin’s one, leaning in to nuzzle the beard and mumbled soft words of comfort in elvish. Thorin lifted his chin but little by little he started to calm himself. Thranduil shivered just thinking about how Thorin had reacted in the council chamber.

“He spoke of lack of honour from my family, he told me we were in disgrace and the only way to return honour and glory to Durin’s Line was by paying with wealth and a real heir.”

Thranduil clenched his jaw listening with care, “A real heir coming from one of his daughters, of course. He threatened me to a blood feud if I denied him for he saw just most of his demands.”

Silence wrapped around them tensely, Thranduil didn’t move but it was obvious he was feeling distress. Thorin tilted his head his hand moving under the elven chin, lifting Thranduil’s head to place a tender kiss on his lips. Thranduil kissed back and suddenly he felt desperation trying to climb up his heart. Thorin moved his hand down the slender neck and put Thranduil closer; Thranduil moaned when Thorin nibbled on his lower lip, making a wet path down his throat to his now uncovered shoulder.

“D-do you?” Asked Thranduil suddenly, Thorin stopped what he was doing lifting his face to look into Thranduil’s eyes.

“What?” Thranduil hesitated.

“Do you want a child of your own flesh and blood?” Then as an afterthought. “A real heir.”

Thorin scowled cupping Thranduil’s face in his hands, “No, I have a proper heir of my own flesh and blood. Fíli is my nephew and a proper heir of Durin. I do not need a wife or anyone to give me what I already have.”

Thranduil felt relief filling his heart, but still he lowered his blue eyes evading Thorin. Thorin sighed putting two fingers under the elf’s chin making him look up then he leaned in and kissed him with everything he was, everything he felt.

“I only need you,” he whispered against those lips, Thranduil had his eyes closed nodding with a smile forming on his lips,“and I told Orik I accepted his blood feud for I have no care no interest in enriching a greedy bastard like him, I told him I was already wed to you so there was no need of me getting a espouse and I told him Fíli was my heir so the Throne would forever be a part of the Durin Line.”

Thranduil chuckled nuzzling Thorin’s neck putting the dwarf closer to him. “What did he say afterwards?”

“I do not know. Since he has declared an open war to me he is no longer welcome in Erebor.” Thorin smirked. “Dwalin was no kind to him when he dragged him away. No one seemed interest to keep fighting on the subject after that.”

Thranduil looked at Thorin, his hand caressing the hair and the face he had come to need like air. The Elven-King knew there would be trouble ahead, he knew Thorin and he would be facing some serious things in the near future. But right now, right then, it did not matter at all.

Thorin kissed Thranduil again and again, moving down his throat until his eyes finally noticed something he had not seen moments ago. Thorin frowned and his fingertips touch the hickey softly making the elf shivered.

“I hurt you.”then Thorin passed his eyes on the body before him and he realized just how marked it was.  

Thranduil gave the dwarf a half smile, “you did nothing I didn’t want, Thorin.”

Thorin shook his head angrily.

“Do not justify my actions,” he all but growled out and Thranduil frowned back at him.

“I am not. I enjoy your passion and this,” Thranduil signalled the red marks on his body and the visible hickey on his neck. “Are I sign I belong to you.”

Thorin set his jaw in a stubborn gesture, his eyes gleaming with something Thranduil couldn’t quite grasp. Thranduil leaned in opening his mouth and biting tenderly right on Thorin’s neck. The dwarf moaned loudly all the while Thranduil sucked and work his mouth on the same spot. Thorin grabbed Thranduil by his hair, putting him away crashing his lips to his.

“You have one wicked mind, O Elven-King. And I haven’t satiated my thirst of your body and your mouth,” whispered Thorin grinning widely, Thranduil laughed and for the rest of the night they spend it in each other’s arms, forgetting all about the world around them.

There was a knock on their door; Thorin was the first one to wake up disoriented at first not seeing the blue patterns of his room. He looked to the side and saw the sun light entering from the balcony. Then his eyes fell upon the fair figure of Thranduil who was sleeping peacefully. The knock became insistent; Thorin stood up and put on his leggings opening the door with a frown.

“Yes?” There was a young lad, his beard was just growing up and he blushed a nice shade of red when the King in person opened the door. He made a deep bow and said the right formula used to address the King.

“I’m sorry, My Lord b-but…Lady Dís sent me to…to call upon your…your consort,” the dwarf said nervously trying to keep his eyes from intruding in the private room, “I…I did not know you were here but…but your presence is also required.”

“Very well, tell my sister we’ve been down in a moment. You are dismissed.” The boy bowed again and left.

When Thorin turned around he saw Thranduil smirking at him, one single eyebrow lifted and two marks on his neck. Thorin shook his head throwing a shirt to Thranduil before moving to get dress.

“We should move or my sister will come herself and drag us by the ears if she has to,” Thranduil laughed at the image and Thorin felt warm inside him at the sound. It was like a dream to hear the Elven-King laugh so lively again.

“Very well, My King. I believe we better save ourselves of such a humiliation.”

Thranduil exited his bathroom feeling rejuvenate by the night’s events. A few minutes later he exited completely dressed in the blue, linen shirt and matching leggings, much darker than the shirt. His silver-gold hair contrasting with the circlet on his forehead, the braid and the long necklace Thorin had gifted to him.

The attire was carried with strength and elegance, Thranduil wore his garments with pride and dignity still carrying himself like a King. Thorin wore something much simpler but what caught Thranduil’s attention was the same case he had seen the night before on his bed. He had forgotten it in favour of the pleasurable things he did with Thorin all night long. But now, the case was back and Thranduil’s curiosity had lifted once again.

“What do you have there?”

Thorin smirked not saying a word, instead he pointed at a close chair right in front of a mirror. Curious and highly amused Thranduil did as he was told, never once taking his eyes from the case.

“In Linden, when I didn’t want to know anything about elves I met with a strange one. A meddling, crazy elf called Círdan,” Thorin couldn’t keep the affection out of his voice, the elf had been a dear friend to him. He still was and Thorin had made sure to extend an invitation to him.

Thranduil quirked an eyebrow scowling slightly, it was a gesture Thorin didn’t miss and he enjoyed greatly.

“A very interesting and unusual meeting I bet,” Replied Thranduil, Thorin tilted his head smirking.

“You sound rather jealous, my lord.”

“Should I be?” Snapped Thranduil more forcefully that he intended to. Thranduil opened his eyes surprised by his own reaction whereas Thorin seemed rather amused.

“No, of course not. My heart has always belonged to you, O Elven-King,” replied Thorin with sincerity in his voice, but Thorin couldn’t help but mess with Thranduil a little. “Although, he does have a nice beard, now that I think about it.”

Thranduil glared at Thorin, pursing his lips while adopting an angered stance. “Are you going somewhere with this idle chat? Or should we leave now since Lady Dís is waiting for us?”

Thorin sniggered stealing a kiss from Thranduil who tried to keep away from him, Thranduil narrowed his eyes but Thorin paid him no mind as he opened the case. Thranduil gasped his eyes going wide open at the sight of the familiar jewel lying there. He lift his hand but was incapable of touching it, he turned his face to Thorin who was smiling softlye

“He gave me this destroyed necklace to fix it. I took the job because it was him who asked me,” said Thorin putting it out and leaving the case on another chair,“every time I would work on it I couldn’t help but think of you. Think of your neck, your features, your eyes, and your presence. I poured my heart and my feelings on this task.”

Thorin then open the necklace moving behind a still dumbstruck Thranduil, Thorin stood there leaving the necklace hang in front of Thranduil’s face while Thorin whispered in his ear.

“Once I finished, Círdan gave it to me it wasn’t until I saw you again I understood I was meant to gift you with this.”

Thranduil closed his eyes his mind filling with the memories of warm pyres, fine wine and joyful feasts. He remembered King Thingol and Lady Melian, the fair and kind features of Lúthien and the rough, strong features of Beren. Thranduil remembered his time in Doriath and the fair princess that had worn such a gift before.

He shook his head but soon stopped when Thorin clasped the necklace around his neck. Then Thorin turned him gently and Thranduil saw his reflection.

“Círdan told me the story about this necklace. And later on I found out what it meant to you and your people,” commented Thorin, “I read the ballad that spoke of the mortal man Beren and the daughter of the kingdom of Doriath, Lúthien.”

With shivering hands, Thranduil caressed the material tentatively his eyes taking in the beauty and the fine craftsmanship that had returned it to a more magnificent state. The necklace of white gold and silver gleamed under the light of the room, the sapphires and emeralds glinted teasingly at the Elven-King. 

“Why?” Thranduil finally asked looking at Thorin.

Thorin shrugged suddenly feeling inadequate, “I asked myself the same after I read the stories. Why would you allow yourself to lay with a dwarf after what happened to your home?”

“Why would you…love one?” Thorin sighed, “I hate the stories; they told me just how impossible my feelings were. How unrequited my love was.”

“It was not unrequited,” said Thranduil glancing back at Thorin.

“I didn’t know it back then,” Thorin then smiled turning around to stand in front of Thranduil again. Thorin admired the way Thranduil wore the necklace, it was a perfect fit on the elf’s neck and along with his attire it shone brightly.

“I grew frustrate and bitter knowing I was not enough because of what I was,” Thorin then clenched his fist, “and in the last four days I was remembered of that. Of how this between you and me is not natural.”

Thranduil lowered his eyes trying to give understanding to Thorin’s words. The conversation they had shared last night was back in his mind, but Thorin didn’t allow Thranduil to dwell too much on it. Thorin then grabbed Thranduil by his chin and lift his face until they were looking into each other’s eyes. Thorin smiled leaning in to kiss Thranduil tenderly.

“I already have a proper heir, Thranduil,” said Thorin bumping his forehead against Thranduil’s,“I do not want a lass to make me a proper King. I am a proper King already. What I want is to be by your side until the end of time. And with this necklace I want to promise you my loyalty, my undying love, my devotion to you.”

There was a moment of silence between them then Thranduil smiled leaning closer, “I have always known, Thorin, you were softer and kinder that you let on. I was unaware of how romantic you could be.”

“Don’t get use…” Thorin was shut up by a pair of lips against his, the dwarf wrapped his arms around Thranduil and they shared a hungry kiss right before going to meet with Dís.

The elves were finally getting ready to leave.

There was only a small group left behind some of them forming Legolas personal guard and some others a small contingent of the elven army. They had stalled as long as they could but Legolas knew his return to Mirkwood was inevitable. Life was going back to normal in Erebor and Lake-Town, commerce was starting again and the mines inside Erebor along with the forges were back to work.

Saying good-bye was never easy.

Legolas had learnt this the moment he found out his father was going to leave him to cross to the Undying Lands. For the young King it had been hard and he had fought to keep his father by his side. Perhaps Legolas resented Thorin because he had triumphed whereas the elf had failed; but he also was grateful because now his father would be near. Not with Legolas, but near.

Thranduil stood proudly in the shadows, his lips where curved up in amusement and his eyes danced around the scene. They were out of the mountain near the stables where ponies and horses were trained or taken care of. Thranduil had been accompanying Dís and Bilbo who were joining some of the younger dwarves in their games. Right now they were engaged in a game consisting on throwing a leather sphere filled with water trying to get the others wet. Legolas lifted his chin not understanding what was so fun about the game. Still, Thranduil was smiling which was enough for him.

“I haven’t seen him laugh like that since you were an elfling,” Legolas turned around to see Haldir smiling at the sight, “he is looking better.”

“Yes, he is,” Haldir glanced at Legolas, his features softening at the sight of the young King.

“You seem sad,” Legolas shook his head trying to smile.

“I’m going to miss him,” he whispered not noticing Haldir lowering his face hiding a wince.

“But he is going to be near you,” said the Marchwarden, “I bet you can even give him asylum whenever he and Thorin fight.”

Legolas chuckled amusedly with Haldir joining in. Legolas had seen the effects of their fights in which Thorin and Thranduil would be as dignified, proud and childish as they could be. They would sulk with their respective families until one of them gave in. Still, Legolas knew the fight had to be epic if Thranduil were to go back to Mirkwood.

Haldir observed as Legolas relaxed a little, taking a deep breath Haldir straightened up and spoke again.

“There is something I need to tell you.” Legolas glanced at Haldir with curiosity, the elder elf looked nervous suddenly.

“What is it?”

“After I escort you back to Mirkwood, I will take my leave,” Haldir said bluntly, suddenly Legolas felt cold and empty. The young King adopted a serious semblance lifting his face a little.

“I see. Of course, my father is well now and…”

Haldir turned Legolas to him, wrapping his hands on the young elf’s shoulders. The Marchwarden locked his silver eyes to Legolas blue ones.

“Lady Galadriel sent me here with a specific task in mind,” said Haldir seriously, Legolas couldn’t look away,“I took care of a dear friend and my heart rejoiced to see him happy and alive again. But now, a shadow is darkening my heart because I never thought I would get attach to the forest.”

“The forest?” Asked Legolas glaring.

“Yes! No!” Haldir growled in frustration,“You! I never thought I could get attach to you.”

“So, you are leaving.”

Haldir wanted to kiss him to show him what he was trying to say, but he noticed Thranduil was looking closely and he decided he better explain everything before taking that route. Haldir nodded at first, then remembered the statement from Legolas and shook his head. Valar helped him he was not good at this.

“Yes, I’m leaving but…”Here Haldir moved closer,“but I want to come back; I want to have a chance to get to know you better without the drama surrounding your father.”

Legolas arched an eyebrow and suddenly his stern expression was just like Thranduil’s one making Haldir grin.

“It was more than a simple drama.”

“I know,” Haldir then moved closer to Legolas aware of what his intentions were. Legolas lifted his face and his eyes fell on Haldir’s lips then on his eyes. “would you give me the honour of getting to know you better?”

Legolas stepped closer to Haldir ready to give his answer when something heavy hit the back of his head and cold water soaked his whole back. Haldir opened his eyes in surprised but whatever he was going to say was cut off by another sphere colliding with his own head.

Everything went silent, Legolas turned around with fire on his eyes only to see Tauriel laughing with Kíli at her side. Thranduil was pursing his lips holding onto his own laughter, his blue eyes locked with Haldir’s silver ones. The Marchwarden understood there the Captain and the young Prince had no acted on their own accord.

“I believe, my Lord, that we have been challenged to a childish battle,” Legolas nodded curtly eyeing Tauriel and quite surprise when Bilbo smiled at him offering the young King a leather ball filled with water.

“Then, it is a challenge accepted,” Tauriel opened her eyes and started running with Legolas going after her.

The childish battle went late into the morning with some of the younger elves and dwarves joining in. At some point, Thranduil had ended up in the game when Haldir decided to include him.

It wasn’t until they were ready to go down to dinner when Haldir noticed the newest addition of Thranduil’s neck. The Marchwarden paled at first, his eyes going big with shock.

“That’s…”

“Yes, it is,” said Thranduil softly. Haldir frowned trying to collect his memories.

“But, I thought it was lost.”

“Apparently, Lord Círdan kept it. He gave it to Thorin…” Haldir showed his understanding then he smiled gently.

“And Thorin gave it to you.” Thranduil nodded smiling back. “It looks good on you.”

Thranduil rolled his eyes at the teasing behind those silver eyes, “Don’t get cocky with me, Haldir. I haven’t forgotten of what happened between you and my son earlier today.”

“Thranduil, I was going to tell you…” Haldir held a hand up stopping his friend from speaking any longer.

“You are like a brother to me, Haldir,” said Thranduil, “I have seen the way you have been looking at my son these past years.”

“I never thought your son would ignite this inside me,” said Haldir with honesty, he showed it in his face the confusion he felt. But Thranduil also saw the affection there.

“I could not think of anyone better to take care of Legolas Haldir,” Thranduil patted Haldir on his back making the Marchwarden smiled, “however, if you ever hurt my son I will kill you.”

Haldir couldn’t help it, he laughed and Thranduil joined him. Haldir knew Thranduil was speaking seriously, if he ever hurt Legolas there wouldn’t be a save place in Arda or beyond the seas to protect him from Thranduil’s wrath. However, Haldir also knew he would die first before hurting Legolas. And this, this banter between him and Thranduil he had missed. There was only joy and relief in Haldir’s heart at the thought Thranduil was well enough to threaten him.

Bilbo watched the newest addition to the valley.

It was two hours away from Dale and just one hour away from Erebor but it counted with the right protection and the same architecture as Bag End. He felt his hear warm at the sight, he felt nostalgic for his home but he could not deny this gift made it possible for him to make the right decision. Staying in Rhovanion was one of the hardest choices he had ever made; but Bilbo realized he had come to love Erebor and his friends like he never did in the Shire. Of course he had go back just in time to see everyone auctioning his things and the Sackville-Baggins trying to steel his silver spoons. Everyone had been quite shocked when Bilbo was back in one piece and the rumours about his horrid dead highly exaggerated.

“What do you think, Master Baggins?” Bilbo turned to Dís who had her eyes on the workers applying paint and decorations to Bilbo’s new home.

“I believe, Lady Dís this is fantastic. I’ve never felt more at home as I do right now,” Bilbo smiled and saw Saradoc Brandybuck shouting orders left and right to the few hobbits that decided to accompany Bilbo outside the Shire.

It wasn’t surprising for Bilbo or Gandalf when the few ones ended up being Brandybuck or Took. Most of them had already adventured outside the Shire to the town of Bree but this was the first time they travelled so far east. It had not been easy and it took more than two months to bring them all. But, once they arrived the welcoming had been warm and, as good hobbits, they set out to work just before taking a well-deserved rest.

“As long as you like it,” Bilbo turned around to see Thorin smiling at him, the new King Under the Mountain had changed from the dark and angst character that had arrived at Bilbo’s home more than a year ago. Now Bilbo saw someone lighter, happier with a tad of gentleness in him.

“Yes, I like it. I still don’t know how to thank you for this.”

“Please, this is just a minimal part of what we promised you and this is nothing in comparison to what you did for us,” Thorin patted Bilbo on his back, “I’ve come because tonight we will say good bye to the elves and Thranduil has asked me to drag you back into the mountain if it was necessary.”

“Of course, I won’t miss it for anything in the world,” said Bilbo, “besides, I’ve come to realize your family meetings usually end up in something amusing for me.”

Dís snorted agreeing with Bilbo. Thorin glared at the Hobbit but Bilbo shrugged unfazed.

“Come, Master Baggins, let’s show my brother what has been done to your new home.”

*********

Thranduil heard carefully as his son told him what he had been doing in the last few days. Legolas had been evading whatever topic regarding his oncoming good-bye and Haldir; Thranduil had allowed him a moment of peace while asking if his son was in need of help from his part. Legolas had jumped in the chance to speak with his father and took him from Thorin’s grasp early in the morning. Now, with dinner approaching Legolas felt sadden knowing this would be the last time he would speak to his father in a long time.

“They mentioned something about the guards around the palace and in our borders,”continued Legolas, “I believed Tauriel was right about the limits with Dol Guldur and I was thinking…”

“No,” his father’s answer was so firm and filled with authority Legolas turned to him surprised. Thranduil shifted in the chair tilting his head to the side.

“Dol Guldur is no longer our concern, Legolas,” Legolas frowned.

“But, Father…”

“The White Council took care of whatever evil was breeding inside the fortress,” once again Legolas seemed surprised at the revelation he sat down eyeing his father carefully.

“You want me to drop this?” Thranduil remained silent then he shook his head.

“No, but I don’t want you taking unnecessary risks,” Legolas nodded grabbing his father’s hands in his.

“I won’t, Father. You taught me well, let me make you proud.”

“You already make me proud, Legolas,” Legolas smiled brightly but Thranduil semblance remained serious, “still, I do not want you or any of our people raiding in that fortress unless is necessary.”

Legolas thought about it for a minute, he knew in these matters regarding Dol Guldur and other evils in the world his father knew better. Some stories had not been told to the young King and some others he had read and heard about. There was something about the fortress, something Thranduil and Gandalf had discussed in private that had left his father tired and wounded. Legolas had seen it but Thranduil refuse to say anything to him or even Thorin.

“Very well, Father. I’ll do as you say. However, I will keep it under tight surveillance from now on and make sure not evil coming from there keep damaging the forest.”

Legolas spoke with force and assured as he straightened himself up. Thranduil gifted his son with a half smirk seeing a subtle change in him. The former Elven-King knew his kingdom was safe in the hands of his son, a part of Thranduil’s heart longed to go with him. Legolas returned his father stared with curiosity, then something in his blue eyes flashed and Legolas lowered his face.

“I’m going to miss you,” Thranduil stood up and walked towards his son, he put him up and Thranduil admired just how tall Legolas was.

Thranduil saw the fair features of the elven face, the electric blue of Legolas eyes. The long, golden hair and the strong bearing, everything in Legolas was a mixture of both his parents. And yet, there was something unique to him, the innocence and competitive nature due to being an only child. Legolas liked to think he was ready to take over the world and yet he was always seeking out his father’s guidance; Thranduil knew if Oropher had been alive he would have done the very same thing.

“You are going to be an excellent King, Legolas,” Legolas moved forward and wrapped his arms around his father. Thranduil was caught by surprise but soon enough he embraced his son.

Legolas held onto his father thinking on how much things could change in the blink of an eye. He remembered the first time he saw his father fading away from this world. His mind brought to him those moments in which he would see his father suffered under the pain of heartbreak. Legolas recalled how he had cursed the invisible lover that had dared to break his father. And never before had he hated another being as he hated Thorin Oakenshield when he found out his part on Thranduil’s fading.

But Legolas had learnt two things while watching his father and Thorin interact. The first one that Thorin loved his father above everything else, Legolas had seen how Thorin care for him, protect him and was ready to give the world to Thranduil if it was necessary. For this and for having the courage to try and win his father over, Thorin had earned Legolas respect. The second was, whenever the cold of dead and heartbreak tried to reach Thranduil it was Thorin the only one capable of scaring it away. Legolas had seen his father’s happiness, the brightness of his smile whenever Thorin was with him.

So Legolas knew without a doubt Thranduil had beside him the one who could take all the pain away. And, even if it hurt him, Legolas was ready to say good-bye to his father knowing he would be taken care of and loved without measure.

“I’m going to miss you, Father.”

“I’m going to miss you too,” Thranduil smiled softly then putting his son at arm’s length he added, “and, I’m still going to ask you to send to me Dorwinion wine.”

Legolas couldn’t help it, he laughed shaking his head allowing his father to ruffle his hair the way he did when he was but an elfling.

“Are you planning on getting Thorin and his companions drunk from time to time?” Thranduil raised an eyebrow adopting an innocent posture.

“Me? Please, Dorwinion wine should not be so strong from them,” said Thranduil with a hint of false innocence on his voice; Legolas shook his head for he knew that wine was made especially for elves,“unless, I want to cause havoc in the mountain and have my dearest with a serious case of hangover.”

Thranduil trailed off with strange glint in his eyes. It was something Legolas was sure he should not ask for, unless he wanted more information about his father and Thorin’s nightly activities.

“Of course, it would be amusing to see just how much they can take of real wine,”mumbled Legolas to his father, Thranduil chuckled shaking his head, “to test the resistance of the dwarves.”

“Oh, believe me, at some point I’ve tested just how resistant dwarves really are,” Thranduil answered smirking lightly, Legolas groaned rolling his eyes.

“Father!”

The room was small in comparison to the others inside the mountain. It was intimate; decorate with red and brown with a big fireplace. There was fire making the room warm, but there was also a fresh atmosphere making the presents feel rest and relaxed.

The table was filled with food and drinks: mead and beer, wine and water, meat, rice and fruits. There were also cakes and pastries and all sort of delicacies for the guests. The room had also chairs, sofa and furnished recliners. There was one word to describe the room, and that was: homely.

In the darkened part of the room, near the entrance, sat Thranduil with his legs crossed playing with the wine in his golden cup. His blue eyes swept the room tore between amusement and disapproval.

To the private party had been invited every single one of Thorin’s company along with Gloin’s wife and his young son, Gimli. Dís and Bilbo were also there with Legolas, Tauriel and Haldir. It was, indeed a private and very familiar dinner one Thorin and Thranduil were enjoying immensely.

It was a sight to behold, elves and dwarves eating and laughing, some of them singing and just being at peace. Legolas could not hide his amusement and enjoyment; he could also not hide his curiosity and his growing friendship with Kíli and the youngest Dwarves Gimli and Ori. Haldir was enjoying his conversation with Bilbo and Dís whereas Tauriel seemed enchanted by Kíli, Fíli and Thorin all who determined to share conversation with her.

Thranduil was enjoying the feast in the shadows, not because he had not wanted to join because, at some point, he and Balin had shared an interesting conversation. But everything unfolded before Thranduil that the former Elven-King felt his soul rested peacefully.

Thranduil felt his lips curl upwards when suddenly he felt a familiar presence behind him. Strong arms wrapped around his chest and familiar lips nibbled on his ear.

“You…you shouldn’t do that,” Thranduil closed his eyes trying to keep his feelings under control. Thorin smirked directing his eyes to Kíli who was trying to impress a very young Gimli but, apparently, Legolas had been the one catching the young dwarf’s attention.

“Why not? Is it making you uncomfortable, Lord Thranduil?” Thranduil wrapped his hand around Thorin’s wrist, his nails digging on the flesh while Thranduil tried to hold onto his emotions. Once again Thorin took the ear between his lips, his teeth brushing slightly.

“You…You know what it does to me,” then Thranduil turned his head kissing Thorin harshly,“you are behaving like a pubescent lad, Thorin. Control yourself.”

“Oh, I didn’t hear these complaints last night, or the night before, or the night before that.”

Thranduil chuckled kissing Thorin again, “Tomorrow Legolas is leaving, let us enjoy this time a little longer.”

Thorin rolled his eyes but Thranduil could see the softening in those eyes. Thranduil tilted his head to turn his attention to the table when something heavy fell right beside him. Thorin was now sitting to his left side, one leg on the sofa the other down.

Both of them sat quietly simply enjoying the time. Legolas would glance at his father from time to time before turning his attention to Haldir, Ori, Gimli and Bilbo.  It was well into the night when tea was brought and the table was removed, everyone sit around still laughing and talking animatedly. Ori and Gimli were snoozing off somewhere, while Kíli had made Tauriel rest her head on his chest while he played distractedly with her hair.

Dís was talking narrating some of her adventures while making her way back at Erebor. From time to time, Gloin’s wife would help with the story or the others would make mention of their own adventures.

It was a moment of peace in the midst of a changing world.

Thranduil had his conversation with Mithrandir fresh in his mind; he knew the darkness in his forest was still alive if diminished. The Elven-King also knew of the hate brewing in the hearts of some of the dwarves, many which were opposed to Thorin and Kíli involving themselves in a romantic relationship with the elves. But this moment, these faces, the sound of laughter and warm conversation gave Thranduil hope. Something he had lost little by little after the First War before Thorin had turned his life around in ways Thranduil never expected.

There was a long road ahead of them and Thranduil was decided to fight to keep his happiness at hand. Thorin glanced at Thranduil; his eyes softened at the sight of the elf resting his cheek on his hand a soft smile playing on his lips. How many times did he play with the idea of being with him? How much fear he felt when he realized how deep his feelings for Thranduil ran?

Thorin never imagine it would end like this, he didn’t imagine it would begin like this either. Thranduil had been a dream far away from his grasp; Thorin thought of him as a seductive character luring him into his arms only to leave him brokenhearted and alone. They were definitely the most stubborn and blind of all kings in Middle-Earth. They could call it luck or fate but it was a good thing they had a chance to love each other. And this time around Thorin would do it right, he would make sure Thranduil would never fade but remain to light the world with his presence. From as long as Thorin would live and even beyond dead.

Thorin smiled when he felt Thranduil leaning in, the elf’s nose nuzzling his beard moving up until his lips brushing against his ear. The locked eyes and Thorin saw exhaustion in Thranduil’s ones, he frowned worriedly caressing the fair face tenderly.

“Are you feeling well?” Thranduil curled up his lips still surprised at how tender, how thoughtful Thorin could be.

“I need you to hold me tonight,” Thranduil whispered,“take me to our room and just hold me.”

“Are you…” Thranduil pressed a finger to Thorin’s lips shaking his head.

“I’m just tired; the day was a long one and I believe I just need you tonight.”

“Whatever you wish,” replied Thorin back caressing the white cheek with tenderness; they stood up saying good-night to the presents ignoring the knowing smirks on some and the roll of eyes on the others.

After everything they had lived, everything they had suffered they knew time would be their ally to build their lives, to reinforce their love. The oncoming storm was heavy in their minds but fate had brought them together for a reason.

Thorin did just as Thranduil had asked and he held him tightly enjoying the warm of the elf’s body against his. Thranduil rested his head on the strong chest hearing the heartbeat under it; he smiled his hand resting in the hard abdomen.

“Your heartbeat…it is soothing to me,” said Thranduil suddenly, Thorin furrowed his eyebrows looking down at the elf. He caressed the golden hair trying to wrap his mind around the situation. But Thorin found it impossible and decided whatever was happening was due to the love between them and the moments shared in the privacy of their rooms.

“Well, I guess it’s soothing because is beating for you,” Thranduil chuckled nodding his head.

“Good because mine has always beaten for you. Even when I did not about it.”

This was but a moment in their lives and for them it was the most sacred thing they shared. Love might not be enough, but it was a start.

Thorin and Thranduil were ready to leave the pain behind and forge a great future.