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Kilidoescartwheels
Valinor
Aug 22 2016, 2:51am
Post #1 of 7
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Brothers to the Bone, Part VI - the final chapter
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Well, this was a short, breezy little thing, I hope you enjoyed it! Justice for some, and wedding cake for others!
Part Six – Bombur’s Big Day
Nori and Dori came running around the corner just as Bombur pulled Lor to his feet. “Looks like we missed the capture,” Dori grumbled.
“Aye, but Bombur didn’t!” Bofur chuckled. “We need to bind his hands.” He pulled a napkin loose from under Bombur’s chin. “Do you think this will work?”
“Absolutely.” Dori took the large napkin and twisted it into a rope, stretched it and used it to tie Lor’s hands behind his back.
“Bilbo,” Thorin asked, “this is the Dwarf you saw?”
“Yes, yes that’s him.”
“We need to notify Dain.” Thorin turned to his nephew. “He may be resting in his apartment – see if he’s there.”
“Right.” Kili left quickly.
Thorin then addressed Lor. “Well, what do you have to say for yourself?”
Lor glared at Thorin. “You don’t deserve the throne. Dain is twice the commander you are!”
“Oh, I could just put you down right now,” Nori hissed as he pulled a dagger from its sheath.
But Thorin shook his head. “I don’t care what you think – but do you suppose Dain will be pleased with you? I don’t think so.”
“Is that him?” The Dwarves turned as Balin approached, angrier than they’d ever seen him. “Did you try to kill my brother?”
Lor spat on the ground. “I hope he dies!”
Bilbo noticed Balin’s weapon, and tried to intervene. “Balin, you don’t want to do this. We have him. He’ll be judged and sentenced ….” He turned to Thorin. “There will be a trial, won’t there?”
“Yes, and we’ll need you to be a witness.” Thorin sighed. “It’s unfortunate that our first tribunal will be for such a crime. Nori, have you read up on tribunals?”
“Well yes, but I’ll need to read up on laws of sentencing.”
“I know the laws!” Balin’s outburst caught everyone off guard. “If Dwalin survives, he will pass judgment on his assailant – but if he dies, as his closest surviving relative I would pass judgment.” He held up his sword threateningly. “And by Durin’s blood I swear, IF my brother dies, I will kill you myself!” A single tear rolled down his cheek as he spoke – a hot and angry tear.
Thorin grasped his advisor’s arm. “Dwalin is not going to die – he is the strongest Dwarf I know.” He turned back to his captive. “Lock him up,” he ordered, “get him out of my sight!”
“I know just the place,” Dori announced. “Come along, Nori.” *****
A few days later, Dwalin had recovered enough for the tribunal to be held – in the same private room that Fili had shared with Bilbo. Dain was present, looking very aggrieved. He listened sadly as Dwalin reported what happened, and then Bilbo described what he saw. Lor was present, wearing shackles, with Dori and Nori on each side. Balin was next to his brother, ready to take his revenge against Lor, assuming that’s what Dwalin wanted. Fili sat near Thorin, who stood next to Dain. The only other Dwarves present were Ori, who recorded the testimony, and Oin, who kept an eye on his patient. Everyone else waited outside, for the room was simply too small for anyone else; however, the door was left open so they could at least hear the proceedings.
After Bilbo finished his testimony, Dain shook his head. “After what I’ve heard, I have no choice but to find you guilty. And worse, I am ashamed that one of my own soldiers could commit such a heinous crime against another Dwarf.” He looked at Lor. “I wash my hands of you. I will abide by whatever sentence this court hands down.”
Thorin nodded in agreement. All eyes were now on Dwalin. He could sentence Lor to death if he wished. Bilbo quietly hoped he wouldn’t do such a thing. Dwalin turned to his brother. “I’ve seen too many Dwarves die recently – I haven’t the stomach for another one. But I don’t want to see him again, so I would have him banished from Erebor forever.”
Thorin’s brow rose in surprise, but he nodded. “Banishment – I think that’s appropriate. What say you, Dain?”
“Agreed. Banishment from Erebor, and the Iron Hills,” Dain added. “You can make your way to Dunland, try your luck there.”
Thorin walked to the doorway. “Kili, Bifur, get a week’s worth of food for this man and escort him to the southern border of Mirkwood. Take a few guards with you, and get back as quickly as possible.” *****
Now that Lor’s sentence had been carried out, it was time to prepare for Bombur’s wedding. Dori found the happy couple a nice apartment with three bedrooms – enough for their future children, and located near the kitchens, of course! Dori also made a list of items that the newlyweds would need for their new home, for proper wedding gifts. Members of the Company gave them furniture, bedding, and wall tapestries. Edna picked up some candles in Dale, while Oin and Gloin mounted candle sconces on the walls. Nori and Ori gave them a tea set, Fili and Kili gave a huge, decorative mirror, and Balin and Dwalin gave Bombur a polished suit of ceremonial armor, to wear at the wedding.
King Thorin ordered a feast of ham, lamb, roasted potatoes and parsnips, hearty bread and various puddings. Bina was in charge of this, and insisted on preparing the wedding cake. Bofur purchased a dozen bottles of Dorwinion wine, and several kegs of ale for the feast. Bryn set to work on Betina’s wedding dress, and endured no small amount of suggestions that she make one for herself! “Soon,” she replied, knowing that her own wedding would be a smaller affair. Tami created a headpiece of lace, silver and pearls, while her father crafted a silver wedding goblet – etched with their names and the wedding date.
But the most splendid gift came from Bifur, who made his cousin a set of gold wedding rings. Bombur was astonished at their quality. “Thank you, cousin,” he blubbered while hugging the crafty Dwarf.
Bilbo agreed to stay until after the wedding, but was at a complete loss as to a gift. He finally settled on some fine handkerchiefs, much like his own. Likewise, Jerusa wasn’t sure what to get her sister. “You and your intended already have so much,” she cried, “what is left for me to give?”
Betina hugged her younger sister. “My dear Jerusa, the only thing I want from you is a formal announcement of your engagement to Prince Fili.”
Jerusa blushed. “Well, Fili is waiting until he can ask me properly – but perhaps that time will come soon.” *****
The wedding ceremony took place in the afternoon, in front of the Throne. As King, Thorin would give his permission and blessing once the contract was read by Balin. Dori had arranged benches for the guests to sit on, although most of the Company stood. Fili and Dwalin were still recovering, and were under orders to sit. As Crown Prince, Fili sat on Thorin’s right side; Kili stood on the left.
Dwalin sat next to Tami, and Boak sat on her other side. Edna and Bryn sat with Keruk and Bina – Danko and Manko were notably absent. Rom and Revann stood off to the side with a few other musicians. They played a traditional Dwarvish wedding march as Bombur came in, followed by his brother.
The tune shifted to bridal music as Jerusa came in, wearing a soft dress of a lavender hue. Fili watched in amazement as she came nearer, earning a wary glance from Thorin and a snicker from Kili. Then Jeruk and Betina came in; she floated like a cloud in her white dress. Thorin gave his permission for the wedding to proceed. After Balin read the contract, he asked Jeruk to verify his signature. “Yes,” Jeruk announced, “I signed the contract, and agree to this Union.” He rather sadly released Betina’s hand before stepping away to join Bina. Betina stepped over to Bombur and joyfully took his hand. They pledged loyalty and fidelity to each other, drank from their wedding goblet, and then were announced to riotous cheering as Bombur and Betina, husband and wife!
Then everyone moved to the King’s Hall for the wedding feast. On the way, Thorin conferred with Balin. “I understand Nori will wed soon. We should offer Edna a permanent position as midwife, don’t you think?”
“Yes,” Balin agreed, “I expect a few fine beards to come along in the next year.”
Fili had been using just one crutch since the day of Dwalin’s surgery. He approached Jerusa, still enamored by her appearance. “May I walk with you?”
“Of course!” She took the arm that wasn’t occupied with a crutch; unknown to anyone else, she helped support Fili by doing so.
After everyone was seated, Thorin raised a wineglass. “A toast,” he proclaimed, “to Bombur and Betina – may you have many long years and many fine children together!” After he drank, Thorin continued, “This is a day to remember for all of us; the first wedding in Erebor since reclaiming our home. The first wedding in our halls for over 130 years!” Shouts of joy echoed in the chamber for several minutes before Thorin could continue. “And I believe we have other reasons to celebrate – starting with an announcement from Nori!”
Dori and Ori cheered and clapped the loudest as their brother stood. “Well yes, Bryn and I are planning to marry in the springtime.” He helped Bryn stand, and at this point the ladies were cheering louder than the men. After the cheering died down, Nori added, “But ours won’t be the only one, eh, Dwalin?”
Dwalin glared at Nori, who smirked mischievously at his friend. Dwalin was still recovering, and moved too slowly as a result. Before he could say anything, Boak jumped to his feet. “My Lord, and fellow guests, I’d like to take this opportunity to announce the engagement of my daughter Tami, to Dwalin, son of Fundin!”
“It’s about time,” Balin shouted, but he couldn’t be heard above all the cheering that came from the Company. It took several minutes for the wedding guests to calm down. “Well, this is quite exciting, isn’t it?” Balin looked around before asking, “Does anyone else have an announcement to make?”
All eyes went to Fili and Jerusa. Fili looked terribly embarrassed, and couldn’t think of anything to say. Kili looked confused as he turned to Thorin. “Didn’t you say that they had to wait for mother to arrive?”
“Yes, indeed I did. My sister should arrive in the summer,” he added. This seemed to satisfy the guests, who turned their attention to the feast.
Jerusa also felt some relief. “So, that is what you meant by asking me properly?”
“Not really,” he replied. “I meant, when I’m strong enough to give you the proper honors. But Thorin did tell me the wedding must wait until mother arrives.”
“Well, yes, of course.” Jerusa tried to not sound disappointed. “My parents would certainly want to be at MY wedding.”
“And they will,” Fili promised. “It will be such a grand affair – as grand as this, maybe moreso!”
Jerusa smiled, a tinge of sadness touched her face. “Still, summer feels so very far away.”
“It does indeed.” Fili picked at his lamb slowly.
After many of the Dwarves were finished with the first course, the musicians (including Bofur) gathered and began playing dancing music. Bombur and Betina took to the floor and moved in surprisingly graceful steps. Gradually they were joined by Jeruk and Bina, Nori and Bryn. Fili sighed again. “I look forward to the day I can dance with you.”
“I do too, my love.” Jerusa smiled, looking so radiant that Fili threw all caution to the wind. He stood a bit clumsily, catching himself on the crutch, then signaled to Bofur to slow the music down. He then turned back to her, extending his hand. “Fili, are you sure you want to do this?”
“I have never been more sure of anything in my life. Would you do me the honor of dancing with me?”
“Well,” she mumbled, “alright, but you must be careful.”
They made their way slowly to the dancefloor. Fili pinned the crutch tightly under his arm, so that he could take Jerusa’s hand; his other hand rested lightly on her waist. They mostly just rocked back and forth, barely moving their feet. Thorin began to protest, but Kili leaned close and whispered, “He’ll be fine, Uncle. She’s practically holding him up!” Thorin kept quiet, but nervously watched his nephew, ready to rush to Fili should he stumble.
Dwalin also watched, but not so much nervously as enviously. He glanced at Tami, who was swaying to the music. A wave of feeling swept over him, and he suddenly found the strength to stand and reach for her hand. “Would my lady care to dance?” Her eyes swelled in surprise, but she quickly stood and joined him on the dance floor. If it were possible, Dwalin moved even more stiffly than Fili. She leaned her head on his shoulder, while he ran his fingers through her hair. “I never want to leave this mountain home, or your side, for the rest of my life,” he whispered to her. “You have changed me, Amralamine, for the better.”
Fili was also nearly overwhelmed by his love for Jerusa. The music ended, but he would not let her go. “You have been so patient with me, waited for me to speak. I think you’ve waited long enough.” He slipped the crutch out from under his arm, and used it to steady himself as he dropped to one knee.
Everyone stopped what they were doing – Thorin looked chagrined, while Kili mumbled “Here? Now?” Betina inhaled noisily and held her breath, squeezing Bombur’s hand.
But Fili didn’t care about protocol or what people would say. The only person that mattered was Jerusa. “I have been yours since the moment I first laid eyes on you – it had to be you, and no one else. Jerusa, will you –.”
“Yes! Oh, Fili, YES!” She leaned down and kissed his mouth. And what a commotion that caused! Bifur cheered loudly, Gloin looked almost as shocked as Thorin, and Oin was asking what it was that Fili said. Ori also laughed and applauded, while Dori complained that this public proposal was highly improper.
Fili was so happy that he wanted to leap to his feet and sweep Jerusa off hers, but for now he needed help to stand. Kili was there in a flash, pulling his brother off the floor and pushing the crutch back in place. “Thank you, brother,” Fili said, though he felt a bit annoyed at Kili’s treatment.
“Think nothing of it,” Kili replied as he slapped Fili across the back. “That’s what brothers are for! And may I be the first to congratulate you, Jerusa – for finally getting him to ask!”
Before Jerusa could thank him, the musicians started playing a much faster reel. Bofur had signaled for them to resume, before putting down his clarinet and dragging Revan out to the dance floor. He spun her around so fast, others barely had time to get out of their way. Kili helped Jerusa get Fili back to his chair. The three of them laughed at Bofur’s antics. “How long do you think Bofur will chase the lady,” Fili asked.
Jerusa smiled a bit mischievously, answering, “Until she catches him.”
The End
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Kilidoescartwheels
Valinor
Aug 28 2016, 10:10pm
Post #2 of 7
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So I see a HUGE dropoff after Chapter 1 - guessing it's a little too "fluffy" for most people. But I see an almost equal number reading chapters 2 and 6, and then fewer still reading 3, 4 & 5. I wonder if there are a few that are skipping to the end, just to see who ends up with whom. Well, shucks, and I thought the attempted murder was very interesting; not to mention the Dwarves that tried to extort Nori. Oh well, hopefully a few people like it.
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Otaku-sempai
Immortal
Aug 29 2016, 5:19pm
Post #3 of 7
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I finally found the time to read the rest of your tale. I think part of Lor's punishment should have included the shorning of his beard to mark him as dishonored. He was only given a week's worth of food? Dwarves aren't exacty famous for their ability to live off the land. Lor better hope that he meets some generous Woodmen on his way to Dunland (if that is where he decides to go). Or maybe he'll try his luck in the Grey Mountains.
Is it me? Or did the sickness subplot just sort of die out?
"He who lies artistically, treads closer to the truth than ever he knows." -- Favorite proverb of the wizard Ningauble of the Seven Eyes
(This post was edited by Otaku-sempai on Aug 29 2016, 5:21pm)
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Kilidoescartwheels
Valinor
Aug 30 2016, 2:59am
Post #4 of 7
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Wow, didn't think about that. I suppose in some ways a banishment could be a death sentence, but then again once someone is banished it's hardly Thorin's problem whether the banished dwarf can survive. I thought a week's worth of food was generous. Grey mountains? Don't really know anything about that. Are there Dwarves there?
Yeah, the "sickness" did kind of die out, once they found the culprit. "Blood bugs" are ticks, which can cause all kinds of infections. It could have been longer I suppose, but I'm not well-versed in infectious diseases - surely something that will require more research should I ever decide to write something more serious.
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Otaku-sempai
Immortal
Aug 30 2016, 11:48am
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I don't think that Lor would be given a proper shave. His beard would just be hacked off as a mark of shame. Any Dwarf who met him would be suspicious of him, wondering what he did to warrant such a punishment.
There might be Dwarves in the Grey Mountains, stubborn hold-outs who still hope to reclaim their halls that fell to dragons in earlier times. If they are there then they probably scratch out a marginal living, mining if they can, or working as wandering smiths and tinkers for the Woodmen and Beornings of the Anduin Vales.
I've got to figure that if Lor was headed to Dunland (probably on foot), one week's worth of food and supplies would not even take him tothe southern end of Mirkwood (about 400 miles from Erebor) unless he found some way to supplement his rations. He might manage 15 to 20 miles a day, perhaps twice that if he has a pony. I know that Peter Jackson played very loose with time and distance, but I don't hold with that--it is lazy storytelling.
"He who lies artistically, treads closer to the truth than ever he knows." -- Favorite proverb of the wizard Ningauble of the Seven Eyes
(This post was edited by Otaku-sempai on Aug 30 2016, 11:53am)
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Kirly
Lorien
Sep 7 2016, 9:32pm
Post #6 of 7
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When you sent Kili off to Mirkwood
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to escort the banished dwarf, I thought you were going to have him run into Tauriel.
My avatar photo is Lake Tekapo in New Zealand's South Island. Taken by me in 2004 on a Red Carpet Tours LOTR Movie Location Tour. 'Twas the Vacation of a Lifetime!
pictures taken while on the tour are here:
https://picasaweb.google.com/Kirly7/LOTRNewZealandTour#
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Kilidoescartwheels
Valinor
Sep 8 2016, 12:18am
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I kind of deliberately sidelined both Kili and Thorin, because so many romantic fics have already been written about them. I decided Kili wouldn't hook up with a Dwarf-maid because he was already smitten, but chose to leave Tauriel out of the story. This was about Dwarves, darnit!!!
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