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agentexeider · 8 years ago

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Zootopia: Kaiden’s Story...Chapter 8: Love, Honor, Duty.

Kaiden Ellison friend and comrade of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, he has been a source of companionship and strength in their fight against darkness. In the months since the plague incident, their friend has been slowly falling apart, now it's their turn to be the strength and hope for their friend as they journey through his history and help him recover that which he lost. SitD Pt.4

Bunnyburrow…Present day…

Kaiden stepped off the train, the sun beaming down; all the reminiscing made it feel like all those years ago. Nick and Judy stepped off the train with him taking a look around. Kaiden was half a world away though, seemingly stuck between the present and all those years ago. Things had changed, modern, renovated, a marked changed from the sepia toned memories inside the fox’s brain.

Bunnyburrow Station’s concrete platform hadn’t changed that much, but several years ago they put a new coat of paint on it, changing its color from yellow to pink. The three walked off the platform and out of the station, heading towards the town a distance away.

“Strange coming back here for non-Hopps related reasons,” Commented Nick

“I guess you never did get to see the town itself last time we were here,” Judy replied.

“Yeah, by the way, how are we getting to the south burrows? We don’t exactly have a car,” Nick stated.

“I have something in town that will help us with that, we just need to get there,” Replied Kaiden.

The trio walked about half a mile to the town proper, getting occasional glances from the town folk. Seeing a rabbit flanked by two foxes certainly gave cause for a glance or two.

“Where are we going?” asked Judy.

“Just a place I keep a few things,” Kaiden replied vaguely.

They made their way to the middle of the block and took a turn down an alley till they got to a freestanding building on a lot behind the businesses of Main St.. The lot was no larger than the building itself, which resembled a garage like one would expect to see attached to a house. The building faced a small driveway nestled among the trees that emptied out into the street off Main street.

Approaching the side access door from the alley, the trio stopped in front of it. Kaiden took a hard glance down the alley one way, then the other. He crouched down and pulled a loose brick, turning it in his paw, the brick had a small cavity that had been cut into it. Kaiden retrieved the contents of the brick, a single key on a small metal ring and then placed the brick back in its void, pushing it flush to maintain its appearance of being mortared into the wall.

Standing back up and unlocking the deadbolt and the handle, he opened the door and stepped in. Judy and Nick followed, the musty wood smell filling their noses. Kaiden went over to a nearby metal switch box, opening it and turning on the connected box lights which illuminated the inside. The garage contained a small workbench, several shelves filled with boxes and a beat up old pickup truck.

“Wait a second, that pick up…Is that the one from…”

“Yes,” Kaiden chuckled.

“You kept her truck?” Judy asked.

“Yeah, I did. Her dad gave it to her and she always kept it running. It’s one of the reasons why I love this old hunk of junk,” he replied, patting it,“ This is how we are getting to South Bunnyburrow.”

Kaiden grabbed a nearby gas can, giving a shake, feeling the weight of the liquid and doing some mental calculations. He walked over to the truck and opened the gas cap, folding the spigot forward and inserting the narrow top into the gas line, tilting the can and hearing the liquid sloshing out of it.

“So what kind of place is this?” asked Nick

Kaiden looked at the pair. Reluctant to answer, he turned his attention back to the truck.

Feeling that they must have struck a chord, they felt a bit awkward. Kaiden sighed audibly.

“It’s a storage shed I bought after the fire. I needed to leave a few things here.”

“I haven’t gotten to telling that part yet…But we’re getting close.” The fox added.

Kaiden finished off the gas can, folding its spigot back. It made a low hollow reverberation when he placed it back on the ground. He grabbed the keys off a nearby hook, unlatched and opened the garage door.

“Nice day for a drive,” he commented with a small smile.

The weather truly is good today, Kaiden thought, Lily would have loved this weather. Taking a deep breath of the clean air, he paced back inside. He opened the passenger side and ushered in his companions. They stepped up and into the old truck, the bench seat squeaking as they put their weight on it.

When Kaiden got in and started the truck, the engine at first gave a small groan of effort but nothing else. He pumped the pedal a few times, then turned the keys again; the truck roared to life. Kaiden smiled as his dependable truck managed to come alive yet again. He drove it just outside, jumping out to close and lock his shed before jumping back into the seat. The trio made their way south.

Bunnyburrow…17 years ago…

This last year had been a bit of a homecoming for Kaiden, and the happiest he’d had in a long time, which only made the fact that he soon had to return to the employ of the MIA all that much more heart-wrenching.

He had tried to put it out of his mind best he could; they both did. ‘Enjoy the time we have together’ was the mantra. They had gotten to know each other again, and caught up on their respective lives. Kaiden, despite protocol and everything he’d been taught not to do, confided in Lily. The inexorable draw he had toward her, and her non-judgmental belief in him, were gifts he knew he didn’t deserve, but accepted graciously, if only for her benefit.

In truth there was a part of him that wanted to believe her, that maybe everything that happened, everything he told her was simply some endurance trial, some test presented by fate to measure his character. Part of him wanted to believe that, but the other also told him that it was a lie. There wasn’t any rhyme or reason to it; it just happened. It could've happened to anyone else, and yet the nagging question of ‘why him’ always plagued him. No evidence or information ever presented itself and no answers were forthcoming.

‘Do I really need all the answers?’ he would often ask himself. Was it important to know? Perhaps knowing the answer to the ‘why’ of his past would somehow give him some kind of possible strategy or control over the present, maybe even the future. He knew that he didn’t want to go back, not now; they would hunt them both.

He was mulling over his thoughts as he sat on a wooden table a fair distance away from the nearby ice cream shop. He was jolted out of his thoughts when Lily came up from behind him and brushed a cold paw on the back of his neck, snapping him back to the present.

She sat on the bench seat across from him and laughed at his surprised reaction.

“Hey, you supposed to be here, not a million miles away,” She smiled, placing a sundae between them.

“Sorry about that, you’re right. So you were saying?” he said.

Lily held up two spoons, offering one to the fox.

“I was saying how glad I am that you’re back, and that I wanted to talk to you about something.”

“What is it?”

“I was thinking that…” she started reluctantly, “We could go to Zootopia.”

Kaiden looked up from the sundae.

“You know we can’t. You know they would hunt us down.”

“They wouldn’t find us. You would always be one step ahead…” said Lily.

“And what kind of life is that, always looking over our shoulders, always living in fear, moving constantly? What kind of life is that?”

Lily didn’t reply, she just took a bite of the sundae. Kaiden relaxed his expression and heaved a sigh.

“Lily, I don’t want that kind of life for you,” he said softly, reaching over and petting the top of her paw.

“You’re going to go to ZU, and become a doctor like you always wanted.”

Lily’s expression turned sad and she shook her head slightly.

“How Kaiden? How? With what money? Also, I can’t leave my parents; I can’t leave my brother and my new sister. My family needs me.”

“I don’t think your family would want you to sacrifice your hopes and dreams for their benefit - not forever.”

“Lily, you are just as entitled to the possibilities of life as any of them, you just have to be bold enough to take it and chase it with all your heart.”

“It’s not that easy,” she said.

“Yes it is,” he retorted.

“More than anything, I learned that when someone is committed to something, and I mean truly committed, there is nothing that can stop them,” he said, before adding, “I believe in you, Lily.”

“Isn’t that my line?” she asked with a smirk.

“Normally,” he said, mirroring her expression.

“But I’m serious; don’t let your dream die just because it’s hard, Lily.”

“It just seems so far away. I mean I know I’m taking some community college courses, but…sometimes I just wonder if I’m kidding myself.”

“No, I know it seems like it’s far away, but if you just keep going, you’ll make it.”

“You really believe that?” she asked.

“I believe it…because it’s you,” he said.

Lily’s head twitched at that statement, and she cracked a smile.

“I’m serious Lily, I think between the two of us, it’s you who can do anything,” he said.

“Says the fox who has done everything,” Lily countered.

“Heh, I just know how to do what I’m told; I’m no leader,” he said.

This time Lily placed her paw over Kaiden’s. Her eyes, perfect pools of blue, fixed on his.

“That’s not true, you are so much more than that.”

“You’re stronger than you know and better than you realize,” she added.

They studied each other for a brief moment. A small smile crossed the rabbit’s lips, and she came over to sit next to him.

“There is something I want to tell you...,” she started, picking at the edge of the table with one of her claws, “My feelings never changed, even back then. I’ve always felt some kind of connection to you. Even when you were gone, there were nights I would stay up thinking about where you were, what you were doing. I just want to know…In all that time, when you thought of me, what did you think of me as?”

Kaiden wasn’t quite sure of the nature of the question but thinking about it for a moment he had to divine an answer.

“I told you about training right?” he said at last.

“Yes,” she replied, not understanding where he was going.

“And our final test?”

“Yeah.”

“What I didn’t tell you was what happened after that. I felt so ashamed and horrified by what I had done... I felt filthy, dirty...the kind that doesn’t wash off. I tried anyway.”

Kaiden told her the details of his breakdown, and wasn’t sure how to gauge her reaction. He hoped for understanding, but life had a tendency to throw him for a loop on occasion. Fortunately, Lily understood and didn’t hold it against him. In fact, in a strange way, she felt flattered.

“My point is, it made me realize how I felt,” Kaiden said, “How I always felt. I just never knew what it was, I just…”

Kaiden’s tendency to over explain things and ramble was hushed by a simple rabbit finger across his lips.

“Just hold me,” she whispered.

He held her close in a warm embrace. He felt her nuzzle his cheek, her breath flowing into his ear, softly tickling its hairs which made it instinctively flick. He relished the slow hiss of air from her nose and the soft caress of her paw against the fur on the back of his neck. They closed their eyes and held each other, enjoying each other’s warmth.

The moment was shattered when a loud obnoxious voice called out.

“What in the blue fuck is going on here?!”

The rabbit and fox snapped out of their daze and turned to see something they would have preferred not to: two very drunk Zebras, often a thorn in their sides.

“Clay? Clay Vancolt?! When the hell did you come back?” Lily snapped.

“Never you mind that, now what in sam hill are you doing with that there fox?” asked the elder Zebra.

“Wait, Clay, I recognize that fox…That’s….that’s Kaiden,” said Jesse, pointing over his brother’s shoulder.

Kaiden stood up and faced them.

“Well I’ll be…it is you, fox. So what are you doing here?” asked Clay, crossing his arms.

“Does it really matter, Clay? I’ll be gone soon enough,” said Kaiden.

“Why’d you bother to coming back?”

“Unfinished business,” he said.

Clay turned and shot a glance at Lily and then back at the fox.

“Really? That what you call it? Cuz ‘round these parts we call it something else,” The zebra chuckled suggestively.

“Look Clay, you’re drunk, just go home before you do something you’ll regret,” said Lily.

The drunk Zebra turned around in a slow stupor, and stumbled over to her.

“What the hell do you see in that fox, huh?”

“Well for one he isn’t you,” she said with a scowl.

The older zebra chuckled and then back-hoofed Lily across the mouth, knocking her to the ground.

“You got a smart mouth rabbit!” Clay told her as he towered over her.

“You son of a--!” Kaiden rushed forward to attack Clay when he heard a small click and felt a cold blade against his throat.

“Nah uh uh,” said Jesse.

The younger Vancolt had snuck up behind the fox, and was keeping him at bay with a switchblade to the throat, using his other hoof to hold his shoulder. Kaiden was staring daggers at Jesse, when he heard Lily scream out. He eyes turned back to see that Clay has picked her up and slammed her on the table holding her down with one hoof.

“You disgust me, Harrington, the fact that you would see yourself with this fox. God damn predo chew toy, you are,” he sneered.

Lily struggled to breath as Clay in his anger wasn’t paying attention to the fact that he was pressing his weight down on the small rabbit’s chest. She gasped trying to pull in air.

“Heh, squish her good, Clay!” said his drunk brother.

Kaiden’s heart started to race; the adrenaline flowed and everything went red.

When the redness faded back into reality, Kaiden heard a voice calling out to him--it was Lily’s. He was somehow on top of Clay, knee to his chest, pommeling the knife that was previously in Jesse’s hooves and centimeters from driving it into Clay’s brain through his eye socket. Lily was tugging at Kaiden’s shirt pleading with him to stop. Kaiden blinked a few times, getting his bearings and focusing on the voice from the zebra below him.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” The drunk zebra kept repeating over and over, holding his hooves up.

Kaiden noticed a bleeding wound on Clay’s shoulder, the knife had blood on it, dripping, spattering on Clay’s face, a combination of Vancolt blood. Kaiden’s teeth were still gritted, a loud canine growl emanating from his throat. Every muscle in his body was tuned, ready to act, ready to kill. Every instinct and training regimen was telling him to kill. “You do not wound the enemy, you kill the enemy,” Sergeant Kerberos’ words echoed in his brain. The only thing slowing him down was Clay’s attempts to hold back the knife and his own hesitation.

“Kaiden, please don’t do this!” Lily said.

Kaiden snarled and pushed a little closer.

“Kaiden, no!!” she screamed.

Her words finally reached him, and like a switch his expression changed. He stood up, and the zebra immediately took the opportunity to push back and away, clambering to his hooves. Jesse was on the ground holding his elbow; Kaiden must have broken it. A gash across Jesse’s wife beater showed how the fox managed to curtail the younger brother. Clay gathered up his brother and took off.

“You’re a fucking psycho, Ellison!” Clay screamed back over his shoulder.

The scene was quiet for a time, the fox’s panting the only sound. He turned to look at Lily.

“Lily…What did I do?” Kaiden asked, dropping the knife.

“I’ve never seen anybody move that fast,” she said, impressed.

“But….what did I do?” he asked again, stepping back.

“Kaiden, you saved me.”

The fox didn’t hear. He winced in guilt. ‘I hurt everyone I come across,’ he thought. He ran from the scene, trying not to let his tears blur his vision.

Kaiden ran until he was out of breath. He had run through so many fields, he wasn’t sure where he was. It was now the dead of night; if not for the almost full moon, it would have been pitch black. He stumbled out of the field near a dirt patch, falling to his knees, the sound of his panting breath filling the silence. Wracked with guilt, he sobbed a few times, but the tears ran dry a mile ago.

A bright light came on nearby, causing him to look up, putting his paw up to shield his eyes. “Who’s….Who’s there?” he said.

The figure approached and leaned down, turning the flashlight towards them. It was Lily, she had gotten ahead of him with her pickup truck.

“Ya know, I thought about all the places you could have gone, but in the end, I knew it would be here,” she said.

“Here? Where’s here?” he asked, puzzled.

She pointed the flashlight at the nearby barn. His night vision resolved and he could see the forms of the house and barn; it was the Harrington’s old farm.

“Come on,” she said, offering her paw.

He grabbed it and she pulled him to his feet, leading him toward the barn.

“Where are we going?” he asked.

“Oh, I’m finishing our conversation,” she replied

They made their way inside. The layout hadn’t changed, only the contents. The ladder to the upper floor was there like always. Closing the door behind them, the pair made their way up the ladder into the loft.

Obviously, Lily’s collection of things, the antiques and other collectibles she had gathered over the years, was long gone. Instead, the loft was being used for storage of whatever extras the current tenants of the farm had no immediate use for. In this case, spare housewares and furniture.

She sat him down on a couch that was propped against the back wall. The moon peered through the nearby skylight, casting its pale glow down on them. She sat down next to him, still holding his paw and looking not just into his eyes, but past that, to his core.

“I need you to know something, and it’s very important you let me finish before you say anything.”

Kaiden nodded attentively, staring back at her.

“There are so many assumptions about us rabbits, and for some, they might be true, but not me,” she began, “I want you to know that in all these years, no one has ever made me feel the way you have.”

“Growing up, going through puberty, going through school, not one person. The other boys didn’t interest me, because there was already someone I was thinking about. Even on those lonely spring nights, when I burned for that kind of feeling, and had to figure myself out...It was always you…Every thought and fantasy, every dream and wish…it was your name I would say.”

Lily’s emotions finally overcame her, releasing her tears. Not tears of any particular emotion, but more of release itself.

Kaiden was blown away, with an expression to match. He knew how he felt, but he was never sure until this moment how she did.

“I love you, Kaiden Ellison...I’ve loved you since we were kids, and I want to know…,” she sobbed, “I need to know, do you feel the same?”

Kaiden was halted by the lump in his throat; he had to swallow and take a breath to keep his voice from cracking.

“Yes…a hundred times, yes! Without you, I don’t think I would be here right now,” he admitted, “Lily…I love you.”

She leapt into his arms without warning, knocking him onto his back, hugging him with a few squeezes for good measure. She looked lovingly into his eyes, leaning down to give him a peck on his lips, followed by a longer kiss. Kaiden pressed his lips against hers, a small smack escaping when they parted. With a loving look into into each other’s eyes, they kissed again more deeply. The fox ran his claws softly through her fur; she shivered under his touch, a small coo escaping her throat as his claws sent wonderful tingles through her. More kisses followed, Lily tugging on Kaiden’s lips with her front buck teeth, giving it a slight pull, which earned a pleasurable chuckle from the fox. She smiled almost mischievously before letting go. The fox kissed gently along her sensitive ears, her gasps letting him know that it was certainly the right direction.

Kaiden buried the tip of his muzzle into her soft, supple neck, peppering it with kisses. Gauging by her small huffs and coos, he grew bolder, softly using his teeth and tongue along her neck, which sent even sharper waves of tingles right into her head.

“Oh cheese and crackers,” she muttered as she gripped whatever fur she could find.

The tingle gave way to a loving smile and a happy giggle. Looking back down at Kaiden, she ran all of her fingers through his fur, grazing the soft tips of her claws against the skin underneath. Letting out a warm huff of breath.

They fumbled around trying to disrobe one another without breaking their moment; all at once they forgot about their pasts and simply existed in in the here and now. They marveled at each other’s forms the sheer primal, wildness of it, their hearts beating like tribal drums and the buzz of the excitement forming that slight tightness in the chest.

She embraced him again, this time pressing herself against him fur to fur. She felt him tremble.

She petted his cheek with a gentle caress. “What’s wrong?” she whispered.

“Sorry, I’m just a little nervous,” he whispered back in a dulcet tone.

“It’s ok, you’re not the only one,” she said, reassuring him with a smile and another kiss.

He probed his muzzle into the soft white of her fur, starting from her neck, letting out a soft coo as he reached her tender belly. He gave it a lick, earning him a happy giggle.

“That tickles,” she said through her giggle, smiling down at him. “...Use your teeth,” she added.

“You sure?” the fox asked with a raised eyebrow.

The last thing he wanted to do was make her feel uncomfortable, though from her expression discomfort seemed the farthest from her mind. He opened his mouth, carefully nibbling with his sharp front teeth across her fur, adding a few flicks of his tongue for good measure. Lily shuddered; Kaiden instinctively shot his head up.

“Oh god, don’t stop,” she whispered pressing his head back into her midriff.

Returning his attention to her belly, he kept his paws busy by massaging whatever he had inkling to, her legs, her sides, chest and belly, tracing a circuitous path around and around.

Kaiden could feel Lily’s heat now, realizing what she meant by burning desire. She pushed the fox on his back and clambered onto him. She kissed him ever so gently, it sent a surge of electricity through him, his passion swelled for her, twitching softly as a soft rabbit paw directed it towards its destination.

They both gasped loudly as they met, nuzzling each other as their hips slowly drew together. The sensation and experience completely different than anything they had ever known before and sharing together at long last.

They stared into each other’s eyes, illuminated by the cool blue reflected light of the moon casting down upon them from the skylight.

“I love you” she whispered.

“I love you too.” He replied back.

A slow rhythm, seemingly in tune to the beating of their hearts, soft and gentle, living in the moment, taking joy in every kiss, every touch, every sound and motion. Two long lost mammals now finally together at last. Seeking the peace and contentment so many search for but few ever find.

The pain of the world, of loss and the horrible history they’ve had seemed far away. The world fell away and for a time there existed only the loft, the moon and each other.

Soft panting, thin beads of perspiration forming a soft glisten; she gripped his fur as she let out a short and soft cry. Passions building, like a fire starting as an ember and building into a bonfire.

She slowed for a moment to kiss him sweetly again, and whisper lovingly into his ear.

Her words excited him to his vulpine core, he kissed her deeply, his tongue flicking against her soft rabbit incisors. She moved his paws to her hips and he abided by his instinct, pressing further into her, a deep resonating growl in his throat as he felt the even more intense sensation.

Their pace picked up further, taking on a sense of urgency, the fire becoming an intense blaze, their restraint to be quiet in the barn gave way to the brilliant heat and sensation as their passions crested together like a tidal wave crashing upon the shore.

Embracing tightly, like an intense brilliant flare.

“Ah, Kaiden!” she screamed out, gripping tightly against him, digging her claws into his back.

Kaiden let out a growl, pulsing into her, her small white furred body trembled in his arms, nuzzling her, kissing her, caressing her, all the time looking upon her like a goddess from above.

He wrapped his tail around her to keep warm. She felt safe and content in his embrace, content with the fox that she loved so much.

They lay there for quite some time holding each other, listening to the soft gentle sounds of their panting breaths, staring at the moon as its light blanketed their bare forms. She laid her head on under his chin.

“I’m really glad you came back,” she whispered, giving a wet sniffle and a few joyful tears.

“I am too,” He replied kissing the sweet bun on the top of her head, drying her eyes.

Bunnyburrow Station…The Next Day…

Kaiden and Lily were at the station waiting for the train that would come to take him back to Zootopia. She was holding his paw the entire time. Lily was still reluctant to let him go, even knowing the consequences. It would be a lie to say the fox didn’t consider staying, but he realized that the wrath of the MIA could come down upon them both.

Lily hugged him, squeezing hard. Kaiden held the small, sad bunny in his arms, nuzzling her cheek.

“Please don’t go,” she said.

“I don’t want to,” he said, “But you know I have to...you know what will happen if I fail to report in.”

“I don’t care.”

“You should.”

“Why?”

“Because I don’t want that life for us,” he said resolutely, “I committed to something, and I need to see it through, no matter what I ultimately think of it.”

“I…I don’t want you to die,” she said softly.

Kaiden paused a beat. He continued to pet her, the thoughts of what could be rolling around in his mind. He moved his head to look at her in the face.

“I won’t” he said, hoping to reassure her, “I won’t because, I have something now that I didn’t before.”

“And what would that be?”

“A reason not to,” he replied.

She smiled slightly, but tears welled in her eyes.

“I have a reason to come back, a reason to fight that much harder so I can come back.”

They embraced again, hot tears running silently down her cheeks, the occasional wet sniffle coming from her. The train drew up to the station and a voice over the station intercom announced: ‘Zootopia Express: Now Arriving, Platform A.’

The train came closer, it’s engine noise becoming louder as it approached the platform. Slowing to a stop, it's doors of all sizes opened and a plethora of mammals great and small came forth from inside its metal shell. It took several minutes for the passengers to debark. Kaiden and Lily took that time to drown out the world and simply enjoy their remaining time together. Looking into each other’s eyes, they thought of the loft and what they shared there.

Kissing lovingly, the warmth of their emotion heating the air. They knew that moment was coming, like the inevitable raincloud on the horizon. The announcer’s voice rang out: ‘Zootopia Express: Now Boarding, All Passengers.’

They both winced at the announcement, squeezing each other again.

“You come back to me. You do whatever you have to, but damn it…You come back to me,” she ordered through the tears.

Kaiden smiled, pulling up his ID tags with his thumb. On the chain with them was his half of their heart pendant. “You’re never away from me,” he said.

Lily wore the lace necklace she always had, Kaiden had noticed it in the diner that day and every day since then.

“There’s never a day I take it off,” she said with a warm smile.

“Atta girl,” Kaiden smiled back.

They shared a laugh, enjoying the memories of their childhood, completely forgetting where they were only to have the moment shattered by the intrusion of that dreaded voice again. ‘Zootopia Express: Final Boarding Call, All passengers. Final Boarding call,’ the announcer droned, snapping them back to the depressing present.

“I love you,” Kaiden offered.

“I love you too,” she replied.

“I’m coming back...” he said, not intending to leave such an awkward pause.

“I know you will,” she replied with false confidence.

“And I will be with you… for the rest of my days.”

“I’ll hold you to that promise.”

They shared one final embrace, their tears flowing freely. They didn’t want to let go, but they knew they had to. Kaiden broke the embrace first, because someone had to. He backed away, looking at her. He didn’t say anything, just giving a nod, which she mirrored.

“I’ll be waiting, right here,” she said, pointing at the ground.

“I know,” he whispered, his eyes starting to water again.

He gathered his duffel and walked onto the train. Thankfully it didn’t take any time in prolonging the wait. The doors hissed as they shut. Kaiden looked at Lily on the platform and she looked right back at him through the glass.

‘Zootopia Express:…..Now Departing,’ called out the announcer.

The train’s engine hummed to life, the chug and clank of the car connectors tightening, the train starting to move forward. They held each other’s gaze as long as they could, each holding back tears to remain strong for the other. There would be time for tears later. The train chugged ahead and with that, Kaiden, the love of her life, was gone again, on a course for an unknown future.

As the train departed and the station quieted again, Lily breath shuddered, placing her paws in the side pockets of her shirt. She wore a form fitting undershirt, and often wore the over shirt open, so she hadn’t noticed that there was something in one of her pockets. She pulled out a folded envelope. She glanced in the direction of the train, now gone over the hill, then looked back to the envelope.

“When did you…” she said quizzically.

Wasting no time opening the envelope, she found two things: some official looking form that was filled out and signed, with the word “Photocopy” on it, and a folded paper with handwriting--she could see it as the sunlight glowed through the paper.

She examined the form; it was part of the enlistment paperwork Kaiden had filled out, specifically in regards to benefits and pay. Puzzled, she opened the folded paper and read it.

‘My Lily,

You have been the light of my life before I even knew what it was. You have saved me in more ways than I can count.

Don’t give up. You are stronger and more powerful than you know. Go be a Doctor, Go get your dream.

Because you’ve already given me mine.

Love, Kaiden.’

Lily’s was stunned by the letter, but also confused. She knew that Kaiden was aware that she had no money, so she went back to the form and looked closer. She had to read it twice to be sure it was saying what she thought it was saying. The form was in regards to salary, and Kaiden apparently had told the military to forward all of his paychecks to her instead of himself, as he had no need since the MIA provided whatever he could possibly need while away.

It suddenly dawned on Lily what Kaiden was doing; he was giving her a chance, a fighting chance like he always did, taking the burden upon himself to save another. It was his trait, and it came around again. She closed her eyes and held her paw up to her mouth, kissing it and placing it onto Kaiden’s words. She whispered into the air,

“To the end of my days and forever, I shall always be with you.”

#zootopia #zootopia: shadows in the dark #zootopia: kaiden's story #fanfiction #fanffic

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uromasty-blog · 8 years ago

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I’ve made 3 chapter photos because I wanna

#helpme #south park #southpark #sp #fanffic #southpark fan #fanfic #sp fanfiction

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polizwrites · 9 years ago

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Chapter Four of “A Quiet Spree” is up over at AO3. This is a rather fluffy chapter; even tho they sleep together (!) - smut (such as it is) is still on the horizon.

#FanfFic #SelfPromo #MCU #WinterIron

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anki-of-beleriand · 10 years ago

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Fic: I Don't Think I Love You pt.9 (Thorin/Thranduil)

Summary: Prince Thranduil of the Woodland Realm promised himself to never love again.Thorin of Erebor promised himself to never need love. Both of them are different in all the ways you can imagine, and yet they are more alike that they care to admit.

When a political marriage force them to share their time with one another they will realize some promises are meant to be broken.

Pairing: Thorin/ Thranduil - One-sided Thranduil/Bard

AN: This story is Canon-divergent, but submerge in the world of Tolkien. It is different for what I’ve been doing lately and is my try to political marriage and hate/love interactions. I hope you enjoy it!

Chapter Summary: Thranduil says good-bye, there is a new addition to the family, tension is building up and Thorin does something he isn't pretty sure he regrets.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2- Chapter 3- Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 10 - Chapter 11 - Chapter 12 - Chapter 13 - Chapter 14

Chapter 9

The heart of a dwarf, the perceptiveness of the elf

Part 2

“Ada…” It was a mere whisper but it was enough to jerk Thranduil awake.

Legolas was deeply asleep with a wolf cub licking his face and snuggling closer to his chest, guilt started filling up Thranduil’s heart at having fallen asleep while trying to watch over his wounded son. He was about to stand up when he was made aware of a heavy weight but comfortable warm body on his left side. With his body tingling in anticipation, Thranduil tilted his head to see Thorin Oakenshield sounded asleep with his head resting on the elf’s shoulder. Thorin had been using the shoulder of the elf as a pillow, his mouth was hanging open drooling unaware of those blue eyes watching him with amusement. For Thranduil, It had been such a long time since he felt so safe under the protective arms of someone sharing his sleep, Thranduil couldn’t help but stare at the Dwarven-Prince with wonderment and confusion. The Elven-Prince lifted his hand, trembling fingers brushing away the frown on the dwarf’s forehead. Thorin softened his features mumbling something unintelligible while putting Thranduil closer to him.

Aware they weren’t alone in the cave, Prince Thranduil turned his head to see Legolas curled up with the little wolf watching him with big curious eyes, and the Elven-Prince smiled his fingertips still brushing the face of the dwarf while he tried to look around the cave. It was morning already, with the light of the sun slipping through the falling water hitting the stone of the cave. In the moment of silence, Thranduil closed his eyes again while his mind started working on the thoughts he had been scaring away as of late. Thoughts regarding the dwarf now snuggling closer to him while wrapping a possessive arm around his body. Thranduil couldn’t help but wonder why his body seemed to be tingling all over at the closeness of Thorin, his heart beating a tad bit faster while his blue eyes took in the short beard and the young rough features of Thorin’s face. Thranduil looked away hating his own vulnerability and his weakness at the mere thought of Thorin actually looking rather handsome while sleeping, or smiling, or fighting or being attentive to him.

Thranduil let out a heavy sigh looking away from the confusion that was Thorin Oakenshield to turn his attention back to his son. The Elven-Prince almost pushed the sleeping form of the dwarf off of him when he realized Legolas was looking at him with a tired smile adorning his features.

“Ada?” Legolas moaned chuckling when the cub licked his face whimpering. “Hey, little fella.”

Legolas followed his father’s movements as the Elven-Prince tried to put Thorin off of him with care, the Dwarven-Prince furrowed his brows trying to keep the warm of the elf closer. Thranduil unwrapped himself from the dwarf pressing a calming hand on Thorin’s cheek, soon the frown disappeared and Thorin was back to his sleepy musings. Legolas quirked a brow at the tenderness behind his father’s actions, Thranduil dismissed this while kneeling down in front of Legolas his hand trembling while moving away a blond lock from his son’s face.

“Ion-nîn, you have me worried.” Thranduil couldn’t hide away the sorrow on his eyes, or the relief he felt when Legolas looked back at him. “I thought…you scare me greatly, if it hadn’t been for Thorin I do not want to imagine what could have happened to you.”

“I’m sorry, Ada.” Legolas tried to incorporate with the help of his father, the little cub sitting down whining at being suddenly ignored. Legolas smiled picking the wolf up rubbing the grey fur lightly. “He was hurt, a warg was about to kill him when I saved him. I didn’t see the other warg coming at me and then…Thorin saved me.”

“I know. Legolas, I thought I lost you.” Thranduil said with a trembling voice putting Legolas closer, Legolas wrapped his good arm around his father trying to comfort him the best way he could.

“I’m sorry, Ada. I won’t do it again.” Legolas promised closing his eyes with a warm smile adorning his features at the soft pressing of his father’s lips on his forehead.

“Did you and Thorin sleep together?” Legolas laughed at the faltering in his father, Thranduil glared at his son finding annoying the fact his cheeks were burning red.

“You need to learn how to ask these questions, Legolas.” Thranduil sat back looking at Thorin who was still fast asleep. “He was supposed to watch over us, I think he just fell asleep. We both fell asleep watching over you.”

“Aw, Ada, that’s kind of cute, you know?” Legolas bumped against his father who merely shook his head trying to get his feelings under control. “You just wait until I tell Master Glorfindel; he is going to be delighted.”

“Stop it right there, Ion-nîn, you won’t… you shouldn’t say things like that.” Thranduil finally said Legolas rolled his eyes scratching the back of the ears of the wolf. “And, if you tell Glorfindel I will find a punishment fitting of such mischief.”

“You still don’t see it, do you? Either that, or you really don’t want to admit it.” Legolas said softly wincing slightly. “I think I’m going to be sick.”

Thranduil ignored the first comment in favour of his son’s well-being; he leaned forward pressing his hand on the younger elf’s forehead furrowing his brows.

“You’re not cold anymore, but I think you need rest and something to eat.” Thranduil turned towards Thorin then back at Legolas. “We should wake him up, then get out of here and look for the others. I believe by now Glorfindel must be tearing away the forest looking for us.”

Legolas chuckled looking as his father approached the Dwarven-Prince, a moment of hesitation with a strange flickering behind his father’s eyes told Legolas Thranduil was thinking if he should wake Thorin at all. The Dwarven-Prince looked tired but he also was looking at ease, the frown that was forming on his face was soon erased when Thranduil let his fingertips trace the soft features of his face. Legolas tilted his head narrowing his eyes to analyse his father’s every move, Thranduil tensed when he noticed what he was doing just how close and tender he was acting towards the Dwarven-Prince. Looking out of the corner of his eyes, Thranduil felt the weight of his son’s stare on him. The Elven-Prince shook away his thoughts and puzzling feelings placing his hand on Thorin’s shoulder to shake him gently.

“Thorin?” Thranduil called in what he thought was a soft yet firm tone, Thorin grumbled stirring slightly without waking up his voice rough asking for five more minutes. The Elven-Prince smirked chuckling alongside with his son. “Oh, the things I could do with this information, the venerable heir to the Throne of Erebor asking for five more minutes of sleep.”

Legolas rolled his eyes but he too was thinking of the ending teasing moments he could get out of this moment. Thranduil turned to Thorin trying to wake him up again.

“Thorin, wake up.” This time Thranduil tried to shake him a little harder, but Thorin was still sleeping grumbling with only one single name leaving his lips in a longing whisper.

“Thranduil…”

The Elven-Prince knelt frozen on the spot his cheeks warming up when Thorin tried to seek his touch rolling to his right side. This, however, turned out to be counter-productive as the Dwarven-Prince slid almost falling to his right side making Thorin jerked awake rather alarmed hitting his head with the wall while the cave filled with the clear sound of elven laughter.

Thorin straightened up with his face warming up, his left arm rubbing the back of his head while he tried to glare at Legolas and Thranduil that were still laughing at his expense. The Dwarven-Prince furrowed his brows rather upset when he realized he fell asleep during his watch, as if that wasn’t enough he knew he probably mumbled and said something embarrassing. Thorin rolled his eyes crossing his arms while shooting a quick glare at Legolas then setting his black eyes on the Elven-Prince. Never before had Thorin seen Thranduil so relaxed or beaming with such happiness, certainly the Elven-Prince held the tiredness of the events of the day before but his blue eyes were gleaming with laughter and his face was exuding that ethereal light Thorin had come to associate with him. It took his breath away; it made him warm inside his hand twitching to get closer and be allowed to touch and to embrace the male sitting in front of him. Thorin would happily fall over his ass when necessary if that meant he could see Thranduil smiling the way he was doing right now.

When Thranduil could finally control himself, the Elven-Prince noticed the intensity behind those black eyes. Thranduil looked away unable to hold Thorin’s stare for he felt a pull deep inside him trying to make him do something utterly crazy. Thorin tried to smile back but he thought his smile was a poor imitation of the beauty that was Thranduil, his eyes warmed up while he shook his head trying to conceal the raw love he was feeling at the moment.

“Aye, laugh all you want, elf.” Thorin tried to sound menacing but he just couldn’t, Legolas sat back arching his brows while watching the scene, his father had stopped laughing but the smile was still present, those blue eyes of the Elven-Prince were gleaming the same way Thorin’s were. Legolas knew right there and there the fate of his father and Thorin had been sealed, even if none of them could see it yet.

“This is your fault.” Thorin stood up working the kinks on his knees, Thranduil tilted his head smirking.

“How is it my fault, dwarf? It was you the one asking for five more minutes of sleep.” Thranduil followed Thorin, standing up while still teasing the dwarf. “And here I thought you were an early raiser, no wonder you’re so moody in the mornings.”

“I’m not moody in the mornings.” Thorin replied narrowing his eyes at Thranduil. “Besides, look who is talking? The mighty elf that doesn’t need sleep but falls asleep not sooner he rests his weight against me.”

“Ada is a heavy sleeper as well.” Legolas snorted receiving a glare from Thranduil and a grateful smile for Thorin none of them really noticing the slip coming from Legolas.

“That’s not completely true.” Thranduil turned to Thorin who was smirking at him. “And you don’t flatter yourself; me resting against you was a necessity.”

“Oh, really? What kind of necessity? Tell me, O Elven-Prince?” Thorin replied smirking enjoying the red tingeing the cheeks of the elf.

“Perhaps the same need you have when you decide to call my name in your sleep?” Thranduil then retorted. “Or when you told me you would keep watch and then fall asleep?”

Thorin stuttered opening and closing his mouth several moments before crossing his arms, “I didn’t call your name, you must be delusional!”

“Delusional? Legolas, tell our Dwarven-Prince over here he called my name.”

Legolas soon found himself under the heavy stares of both Princes; he lifted his good arm shaking his head.

“Oh, no, you won’t drag me into this.” Legolas curled his lips shooting his father a meaningful stare, the Elven-Prince narrowed his eyes at him going back to his little quarrel with Thorin.

“Besides,” Legolas smirked shooting his father and then Thorin a cheeky stare. “This lover’s quarrel is only for the both of you, I think me and little Beleg over here are going to just watch and enjoy the show.”

Legolas was so tempted to laugh at the look of pure horror on their faces, but he remained pleasantly silent while both Princes huffed indignantly sealing their lips before something else were to escape them. Something neither of them was ready to admit.

“Wait a minute, who is Beleg?” Thorin asked furrowing his brows in confusion; Legolas opened his eyes before glancing down to the cub trying to eat his boot.

*****

Bard clenched his fists in frustration while his eyes inspected the surrounding area in which Bilbo and Dwalin had decided to stop. They had started the search for the Princes early in the morning trying to go back to the spot where the fight against the wargs took place. Bard had seen blood and signs of struggle, fear gripped his heart at the thought of Thranduil being hurt at the mercy of the natural elements and the probably incompetence of Thorin and Legolas. Glorfindel was standing a few feet away his keen eyes looking beyond the dense forest, his ears twitching to hear every word from the search party; Bard had only met with the Elven Captain a couple of times, for a while he also felt jealous of the closeness the male shared with Thranduil but soon he understood what Glorfindel and Thranduil shared was a deep friendship forged through the centuries they had been living on Arda.

“Why don’t we follow the tracks left in the cliff?” Bard asked making sure Glorfindel could hear him; the Elven Captain turned to him his grey eyes glancing tiredly at the King. “The blood track goes the other way not this way. Besides, I do not believe they will try to go further inside the forest, that wouldn’t have been wise if one of them is hurt.”

Bilbo made a sound of disapproval he approached the King crossing his arms, “Thorin knows this forest as well as you do, King Bard. Believe me; if one of them was hurt and there was not a chance for them to join us he would have sought a safe place for them.”

“The river and the waterfall are this way, that’s not a safe place to me. Wargs could go down this path for water.” Bard retorted seeking agreement from the elf; Glorfindel however had been silent following everything the Halfling proposed.

“Prince Thorin is no fool, King Bard.” Dwalin grumbled kneeling down to touch a black stain on the road. “You saw the body of the warg we just passed, he took this way.”

Bard opened his mouth to retort and let his frustration know, the man however decided not to argue any more. It was obvious the Dwarves and Captain Glorfindel were not going to hear his advice and either way Bard had already sent two of his best men down the road the others didn’t want to take. Now all he had to do was wait and hope Thranduil was doing fine. King Bard sighed again following Bilbo, Dwalin, Oín and Glorfindel down the improvised path his mind working darkly on thoughts about Thorin and Thranduil and how, little by little, Bard had been losing whatever chance or hope he might have regarding his relationship with the Elven-Prince.

*****

Once they made sure Legolas was doing well and he was ready to walk, the three of them left the safety of the cave with Thorin leading them down the road. Legolas had been quite stubborn about his state assuring his father and Prince Thorin he was ready to go back to the main camp, his sword, his quiver and his bow were now being carried by Thorin and Thranduil both Princes ready to fight off any enemies if needed it.

Beleg whined softly moving his paws while trying to get on the ground, Thorin glanced this with some curiosity as Legolas spoke in elvish to the cub. Thranduil shook his head pursing his lips while Legolas struggled with the wolf.

“We should make sure his leg is well before you let him go, Legolas.”

As soon as this words left Thranduil’s mouth Thorin could see the heartbroken expression on Legolas. Wisely, Thorin decided to step back and merely watch what was about to come; a part of Thorin, a suspicious one, told him there was something off about the relationship between Thranduil and Legolas. But his suspicions were soon shut up in favour of the oncoming show.

“We can’t!” Legolas exclaimed energetically. “He is hurt! And he can’t defend himself if we’re to leave him, Ada.”

Thranduil opened his eyes slightly shooting a warning gaze to his son; Thorin tilted his head but decided to pretend he wasn’t hearing the whole discussion. Thranduil sighed trying to soften his tone while approaching the topic from a different angle.

“Legolas, we can’t take a wolf into the mountain.” Thranduil reasoned softening his features a little. “You save him and we have cured him, now you have to believe he is strong enough to survive.”

“He isn’t! He is a cub! A baby! I won’t abandon him for another pack of wolves or wargs to come over and devour him!”

The wind blew softly amongst them, the blond locks shift covering the tired features of both elves. Observing them this close, Thorin could see the same stubbornness in the pair of blue eyes, the pursed of the lips the wounds of the battle fought the day before. Even if Legolas was still shorter than Thranduil there was so much familiarity, so much similarities between the both of them if Thorin didn’t know better he would have thought he was beside father and son and not brothers. Thranduil let his concern stare examine the form of his son, the blood still covering the left arm and the side of his head, the wince Legolas couldn’t hide when they were walking. He felt guilty at being incapable of protecting him, his heart shrank when Legolas put a protective arm around the wolf and for a brief moment Thranduil was reminded of himself…he remembered the time Legolas had been born, how he had wrapped his arms protectively around his son before his father took Legolas away.

“I promised him I would look after him.” Legolas finally said. “I can’t leave him.”

Thranduil snorted shaking his head, “This is Mr.Rabbit, Red-tail, and Sebastian all over again.”

Thorin quirked a brow when he saw the embarrassed blush covering Legolas face, he couldn’t help it he leaned forward with amusement.

“What are you talking about?” Thorin saw as Legolas looked away but Thranduil curved his lips up.

“This is what happens when I let you forge friendship with crazy wizards. I will have another serious talk with Radagast regarding you going around taking care of all the wound animals you find in your way.” Thranduil then turned to Thorin but the Dwarven-Prince saw whatever attempted at being firm from the elf’s part was a mere act.

The decision about Beleg coming with them was already taken.

“Radagast? I’ve heard of him…what does he have to do with this?”

“Hn, he and Legolas had come to an agreement of taken care of the helpless. Mr.Rabbit was his first friend.” Thranduil smirked when Legolas let out a frustrated sigh.

“I was five, Prince Thranduil.” Legolas exclaimed.

“You were a grown elf when you saved Red-tail and Sebastian.” At Thorin’s perplex stare Thranduil continued. “A squirrel and a hedgehog.”

Legolas looked mortified by the memories of how he came across these creatures, Thorin found the whole deal hilarious while Thranduil was certainly charmed by the unchanging nature of his son. Thranduil took little Beleg from Legolas arms, he lifted the wolf that tilted his head his big eyes looking into Thranduil’s ones.

“You will look after him.” Thranduil said firmly. “You will teach him to behave and, more importantly, you will ask for permission to keep him.”

Legolas whole face lit up, this was enough for Thranduil who returned the wolf to Legolas arms and step away. Thorin soon found himself being the focus of elven eyes, Legolas approached him looking earnestly at him.

“You won’t mind, do you?” Legolas asked to the Dwarven-Prince who soon was looking like a startle animal.

On one hand, he had come closer to killing the little beast. Beleg was an hybrid after all, they did not know much about what he could do once he grew up; they would need to watch him closely and make sure he was not a threat. On the other hand, Legolas had almost died to protect the cub, and the little beast was looking all cute and defenceless snuggling closer to the Elven-Prince.

“I promise I will look after him, he is already understanding me.” Legolas smiled proudly while he called the wolf by his name and the wolf lifted his face seeking him out. “See?”

“What if he turns out to be dangerous?” Thorin questioned.

Legolas hesitated his eyes rolled down to Beleg then back at Thorin, “Then, I’ll take care of him myself.”

Thorin stood up shaking his head while ruffling Beleg’s head, the little wolf lift his muzzle his tongue out to lick the dwarf’s hand.

“You are right, he is hurt and he won’t survive alone.” Thorin shrugged. “I guess we take him back with us to Erebor.”

Legolas grinned triumphal thanking Thorin while telling the news to Beleg. Thranduil was observing all of this at a safe distance, the Elven-Prince thought of how everything had change in less than two months. His blue eyes sought Thorin finding the Dwarven-Prince talking with Legolas while they resumed their stroll down the forest hidden paths. It was strange how Thranduil felt drawn to the dwarf he hated with a passion on their first meeting. A voice, soft and entrancing, asked him if it was really hate or if, perhaps, it was mere frustration regarding the situation both of them found themselves in. Thranduil felt a sudden need to go over to Thorin and do something, it was such a strange sensation, a need building up inside his chest expanding all through his body making him react without thinking.

“Are you well?” Thorin grabbed his hand furrowing his brows in concern, Thranduil found himself far too close to the Dwarven-Prince with his hand squeezing the strong shoulder protected only by a linen shirt and a leathery vest.

Thranduil lowered his gaze his heart beating fast, his mind couldn’t provide him with an explanation of this sudden reaction. The Elven-Prince let go of Thorin taking a step back aware of the stares of his son and Thorin on him.

Thranduil cleared his throat unable to look away from Thorin, “I just want to thank you. For everything.”

Thorin squeezed the elf’s hand giving him a half-smile, “Don’t be a fool. There is nothing you need to thank me for.”

“You could at least be more polite and receive my thanks.” Thranduil retorted rather annoyed.

“Don’t be so sensitive, O Elven-Prince.” Thorin rolled his eyes. “I was merely pointing out you didn’t need to thank me.”

“Still, I did it, the least you could do, O Dwarven-Prince, was to answer more gently.”

Legolas huffed tiredly shaking his head and walking ahead of both Princes who soon were engaged in another discussion. Thorin and Thranduil soon settled in their bickering with ease, it was comfortable and it was familiar and it made them forget whatever they were starting to feel with intensity for one another.

*****

Midday had arrived with the light of the sun sneaking into the forest, the cold air of fading winter touching the tired faces of the search party with refreshing caresses. It was Bilbo the first one to spot them coming down the hidden road looking just as tired as the others felt.

“Thorin!” No one had ever seen Bilbo Baggins so gleefully or childish before, the Hobbit ran as fast as his legs could take him throwing his arms around the Dwarven-Prince who hugged him back with a half-smile adorning his gruffly features.

“Master Baggins, it’s good to know I’m still very welcome in your arms.” The dwarf teased before groaning when Bilbo hit him hard on his arm and chest.

“You, inconsiderate Prince! You have us all worried!”

Thranduil had stopped moving as soon as Bilbo reached them, those blue eyes of his gleamed strangely at the way Thorin and Bilbo interacted, the Elven-Prince couldn’t help the sudden annoyance wanting to push away the little hobbit. Feeling ridiculous at such strange and unnecessary reaction, Thranduil turned making his way to Glorfindel who was standing right beside King Bard.

“Mellon nîn, the next time you decided to scare me like this, please consider my old age.” Glorfindel smirked when Thranduil bowed his head.

“I will try, Yaaraer.” Thranduil flickered his eyes to Bard who was tensed shifting from one foot to the other undecided if he should approach Thranduil or not. “I do apologize for the inconvenient we caused.”

“It was my fault, actually.” Legolas took a step forward and the company tensed when their eyes fell upon the grey form of the wolf in his good arm.

“Legolas! Are you well?” Glorfindel approached his young apprentice with worry attached to his features. “Yes, Master, Prince Thranduil and Prince Thorin attended to my wounds while I was unconscious.”

“What is that you have there?” Bard finally spoke his black eyes narrowing at the sight of the wolf, his hand moving immediately to the hilt of his sword. “What kind of creature is this?”

“His name is Beleg and Prince Legolas almost sacrificed his life to save him.” Thorin stepped forward placing himself beside Legolas, the tension was palpable when both King and Prince face each other with the matching frown on their foreheads.

“You name a beast such as this? Look at it; it is obvious warg blood runs through its veins.” Bard shook his head. “This hunting has cost many lives and many wounded, Prince Legolas amongst them.”

“It’s a cub. He can’t protect himself.” Thorin replied. “I am well aware of the death and the wounded, King Bard. But, I couldn’t let those beasts take Prince Legolas or even little Beleg over here.”

Bard took a deep breath trying to calm himself a little, his frustration regarding the situation with Thranduil and Thorin was reaching a breaking point. He couldn’t stop his dark thoughts of both Princes getting closer, of Thranduil giving in whatever kind of charm this Dwarven-Prince could possess; because it was obvious to him Prince Thorin was already enchanted by the Elven-Prince and Thranduil didn’t seem far from being charmed by Thorin.

“Of course not, I wouldn’t imply your actions were uncalled for. However, it was a luck this beast didn’t call upon his kin, it could have been dangerous for the three of you if you were attacked by what was left of the pack.” Bard retorted trying to gain some sense of control over the conversation. “Why not disposed of him instead of putting it a name? An hybrid such as this should be put down instead of being kept as a pet.”

“No one is going to touch Beleg, King Bard.” Legolas chimed in frowning at the man. “I saved his life, he is my friend and he will come with me. You need not to worry, if his cries call upon his kin I’ll take care of them.”

Bard shook his head he opened his mouth to speak when Oín squealed indignantly approaching Legolas gravelly waving his hands away.

“You lad! How can you stand like that while carrying those wounds?” Oin shook his head pointing to a log on the ground. “Sit! Sit right now or so help me Mahal I will make you sit! I’m going to look over those wounds. Now, Prince Legolas I won’t take a no for an answer.”

The conversation seemed to have been cut by the quick intervention of the Dwarven healer, Oin winked at Legolas who hid his smile away while the dwarf took the bandages mumbling what he was about to do while the rest of the company stood rather uncomfortably. Bard looked over at the wolf with mistrust, then straightened up to face Thorin.

“The wolf is coming with us, King Bard. I thank you for your concern but, if something is to happen, I think we can deal with it.” Thorin spoke clearly and firmly, the man clenched his jaw nodding curtly.

“Very well.” Bard tilted his head finding Thranduil staring at him.

“What happened after we got separated?” Thranduil approached the King speaking softly.

“We dispatched the last of the wargs. We heard you scream but couldn’t come to your help until it was too late, by the time we reached the bottom of the cliff you were gone and night had already fallen.” Bard didn’t care many eyes were on them, he made sure Thranduil understood his anguish when the thought of losing Thranduil crossed his mind.

Thranduil tensed lifting his chin, “Prince Thorin reacted fast. It is thanks to him Legolas and I are well.”

“Then I should thank Prince Thorin for his wit and bravery.” Bard answered boldly, Thorin clenched his fists turning away. “Even if you two allow such a dangerous creature to roam near you.”

“Beleg is not dangerous.” Thorin interrupted suddenly standing very close to Thranduil, his eyes gleaming dangerously at the King. “I will appreciate it, King Bard, if you stop saying such things. The only dangerous thing he did was lick Prince Legolas face and almost kill his boots.”

Bard regarded Thorin with the same warning in his eyes, “This isn’t a laughing matter, Prince Thorin. Prince Thranduil was in danger, all of you were. He will grow and then, what?”

“Then Prince Legolas, me and even Prince Thranduil will deal with this in Erebor.” Thorin retorted. “This is, after all, where he is going to be living. With us, he is now a part of the family.”

Glorfindel glanced at Bilbo and Bilbo stared at him back, most of the company were scouting the surrounding area which was a relief so no one could see this building tension amongst their leaders. Bard gritted his teeth looking up at Thranduil but the Elven-Prince had his arms crossed furrowing his brows while staring at Thorin then at Bard.

“Let’s make peace now, King Bard.” Thorin finally said. “I do not wish to keep discussing this, over all, if you and I know this has nothing to do with the cub. Now, if you excuse me, Bilbo, come with me.”

Thranduil lifted his eyes to see Glorfindel quirking a brow at him, the Elven-Prince understood the message tilting his head to regard Bard who was looking at him rather tiredly.

“Come with me.” Thranduil finally said turning around and walking away from the group, Bard swallowed wishing Thranduil didn’t have so much power over him. Still, he followed him hating the growing hope and wariness in his heart.

To the other side, Thorin was walking rather fast mumbling while Bilbo tried to follow him. They finally stopped and Thorin dropped to the ground huffing while closing his eyes. He didn’t need them open to now Bilbo sat down beside him staring at him with his prying eyes. Thorin opened a single eye to see Bilbo arching a brow at him.

“You need to tell him.” The Hobbit finally said, Thorin snorted shaking his head.

“Sometimes I hate how much you know me. It’s like having Dís here with me.” Thorin watched the soft red forming on the Hobbit’s full cheekbones at the mention of his sister.

“I’m merely mentioning something that must be done.” Bilbo leaned forward shooting Thorin a concerned stare. “I never thought it possible, you know? But now I think Lady Dís was right.”

Thorin shifted turning his head away, “What good would it do? It would cause nothing but trouble.”

“It could be the beginning of something nice. It could be a chance to happiness, Thorin.”

“He doesn’t need this, he doesn’t need me.” Thorin remarked rather bitterly, Bilbo and Thorin lifted their heads hearing sounds in the distance. There amongst the trees moving away from the spot they were sitting; Thranduil and Bard appeared walking down the road disappearing through the density of the forest.

Bilbo turned to Thorin whose face fell, his hands playing with the dirt on the ground, “He has made his choice, Master Baggins. I don’t think it wise or even dignified to keep chasing an impossible dream.”

Bilbo thought this was turning rather dramatically; he wished Thorin wasn’t so stubborn or insecure about his own worthiness. Not for the first time, Bilbo cursed Thráin and his poor parenting skills that lead Thorin to believe he shouldn’t fight for this, for making him believed love was not something meant for him. But the Hobbit knew he had lived amongst dwarves long enough to know this was more than a simple infatuation, even Dís had noticed it but decided to not mention it to Thorin before leaving. Bilbo hesitated for a moment; he looked around before leaning in closer to his friend.

“Thorin,” Bilbo’s voice was but a whisper, seriousness decorating his chubby features. Thorin furrowed his brows leaning closer to hear him better. “Thorin, had you…I’m going to tell you this but you have to promise not to overreact or act all dramatic and such.”

“I do not do such a thing, Master Baggins.” Thorin rolled his eyes but at the pointed look coming from the Hobbit Thorin grumbled. “Very well, I promise to not overreact or be dramatic. What is it?”

Bilbo took a deep breath looking directly into his best friend, “Thorin, had you considered, perhaps, Prince Thranduil may be your One?”

*****

All around them was a mixture of grey, white, dark green and brown; the cold was still present in the atmosphere but the sun was also trying to bring warm to the earth. Everything was silent but the muffled conversation coming from the camp nearby. Thranduil had kept on walking until he stopped right beside a huge tree, his lips curling in a smile while he remembered how much he had liked this forest. Bard stood a few feet away from him, his black eyes contemplating the form of the Elven-Prince engulfed in hunting gear with two quivers on his back, two bows and two swords, King Bard was sure he had seen these on the brother he never knew about. What else he didn’t know about Thranduil? What else did Thorin know about him?

Approaching the Elven-Prince with care, Bard made sure to stand right beside him, his warm breath caressing the expose curve of a white neck. Thranduil shivered lowering his stare feeling uncomfortable as he had never felt before in the presence of Bard.

“Are you going to face me or are you going to present your back to me?” Bard spoke softly, reverently while his trembling hands grasp those of the Elven-Prince.

Thranduil turned around letting go of the man’s hands stepping away, Bard’s expression fell but he didn’t make any attempt to get closer to Thranduil. The Elven-Prince wondered when had his lust for this man turned into a warning inside his head, when did all the physical need had gone and turned into an act of treachery. It was absurd, he didn’t understand why being close to Bard felt as treason, treason to whom?

Thorin… His mind whispered to which Thranduil could only scowl before shutting down his thoughts.

“I’m going to face you one last time, Bard, because I want to say good-bye properly.” Thranduil wished things had turned out differently between them; he could see the broken heart in those black eyes. “We couldn’t say it last time, but I think it is time we do.”

Even if he wanted it, Bard couldn’t look away. He stood frozen in front of the elf that held his heart and soul. Bard lifted his hand unable to stop himself from touching those features; if this was a good-bye he wanted to, at least, have the memory of his smooth skin under his fingertips.

“I do not want to part from you in enmity.” Thranduil continued containing himself from flinching away from the touch. “Whether you believe me or not, I mean it when I told you I consider you a dear friend.”

“It breaks my heart every time you say this.” Bard finally spoke in soft tones of defeat. “I do not believe myself capable of being near you and not wanting to touch you, to kiss you, to love you.”

Thranduil went to speak when Bard stopped him with a simple gesture, “Please, let me finish.”

Thranduil nodded while his eyes shifted to the hand now cupping his cheek.

“I do not think I should be closed to you in the near future but, if friendship is all you can offer then friendship is all I’m going to take.” Bard finally said each word taking a great effort.

“It was never my intention to hurt you.” Thranduil said clasping his own hand around the King’s wrist.

“I know.” Bard nodded his black eyes looking deep into those blue orbs. “Do you love him?”

The question caught both males by surprised; Bard couldn’t stop the question from leaving his mouth it had never been his intention to ask such a thing. He didn’t need any confirmation of the Elven-Prince’s feelings; this would only bring more bitterness to his already broken heart. Still, there was a need to know deep inside him, it was a need to know what Thorin had done that Bard hadn’t to win Thranduil’s heart.

Thranduil from his part was contemplating the question with care and wariness. Love was such a strong word, it held so much meaning and emotion he was scared to even consider this accursed feeling could be taking home in his heart again. Now Thranduil only believe in one form of love and that was the love he held for Legolas. However, as he thought this, something inside him stirred making his heart beat a tad bit faster at the thought of Thorin Oakenshield and what could mean for them to actually fall into the trap of love.

“This has nothing to do with my feelings towards Prince Thorin.” Thranduil finally said creasing his brows. “Love is not amongst my plans, only the well-being of my Kingdom and my family.”

Bard wished those words were true; he wished this could be simpler. The man gave Thranduil a force smile.

“I think this has everything to do with your feelings towards Prince Thorin.” Bard felt the need to say more and thus he spoke before he could control himself. “I wish I know what he did that I didn’t to win your heart.”

“He didn’t…He hadn’t…” Thranduil sputtered with some indignation, he tried to move away from Bard but the man stopped him before he could walk away.

“I’m sorry this is…it’s my jealousy speaking, I don’t…”

“This is why we can’t keep doing this, Bard.” Thranduil said firmly, he placed his hands around the wrist of the man moving away. “Tell me we can still be friends, when you are ready.”

“We can. We will.” Was all Bard could say dropping his arms to his sides. He thought this meeting would turn out differently and still a part of him knew this could only end in one way.

Thranduil bowed his head placing his right hand on his heart as a way to say good-bye; the Elven-Prince was caught by surprised when Bard’s lips pressed against his. The kiss was quick, needy and everything that had meant their relationship in the past. Bard moved away giving one shaking smile at the Elven-Prince before turning and walking away.

The Elven-Prince massaged his temple wondering what the future would bring after this, his conversation with Bard was something he should have done a long time ago but decided to postpone in favour of his own selfish needs. Now, he just hoped they could really build an honest friendship after this. Thranduil soon buried all his thoughts when his traitorous mind tried to wring back the question regarding Thorin. This was something he didn’t need right now; Thranduil walked towards the camp never noticing the hidden form of Prince Thorin who had been just in time to be a witness of the kiss and the silent good-bye.

They weren’t expecting an attack in the middle of the night.

Winter was starting to recede, but the cold was still present and the dwarves and men of the Land of Khand were sleeping peacefully in their homes by the time night was already old. The city rested at the shore of the Sea of Rhûn, a great lake that went beyond their sight that joined the rivers coming from Erebor and the Iron Hills in a single stream only to move forward down the river that met with the Anduin. It was a great extension of water, the veins of Middle Earth, but only housed two different cities: Khand and the elven city of Dorwinion. While everyone knew the city of Khand, there wasn’t much someone could say about Dorwinion; the elves of these parts of the world were more secluded, more secretive but as good people as their kin on the other side of Arda.

Khand only counted with a single defence system: a deep fringe filled with water and oil and three different bridges linking the city with the main land. It had been more than two hundredth years since an army or bandits or any other dangerous threat had dared to attack the city, thus no one was really expecting danger to call upon their doors in the middle of the night.

Lord Orik ran down the streets with his Dwarrows close behind, the fires were consuming the northern entrance of the city, warriors and common folk all armed themselves with buckets of water to control the fires. The screams of people being attacked and others being consumed by the flames filled the city, blood and dead were surrounding the inhabitants of Khand. The confusion was great as Lord Orik looked around with his sword at the ready putting down the orcs or wargs he found on his way.

“To arms! To arms!” Orik screamed while guiding a small militia down the streets all of them crashing against the orcs in fierce battle, the swords and the axes came clashing with sparks against the scimitars of the orcs.

Orik turned to his left lifting his arm while crashing the skull of an orc; it took them most of the night and part of the dawn to finally have the city back in their power. The dead orcs were put in a pyre outside the city, the wounded were being attended in the house of the governor while the rest of the people were trying to extinguish the fires and recover their dead friends and family.

Lord Orik sat down wearing a nasty cut on his head, his sword had broken when he repealed the last attack to the gate. To his side his grandson was giving him a debriefing of what had happened to the rest of the city. All around him he could sense the tension and the questions unasked, why they were attack? Why now? What they were going to do now?

“Grandfather, there is…there is something else.” Orik’s grandson said shifting from one foot to the other. Lord Orik sighed looking over at his grandson with the years marking his features.

“What is it?”

“We just found the bodies of the messenger from Lord Dáin Ironfoot. They are dead, the message you sent to the last camping mine where he was doing the inspection…It never got there.” The young dwarf looked around leaning in. “People is not happy, grandfather. They are speaking about how this wouldn’t have happened if King Thráin had listened to you, they are whispering about how the King took everything and abandon us to our luck.”

Orik lowered his gaze knowing these words to be only a part of the truth, they had sent what King Thráin asked almost emptying the production of the city but the help or the payment never came. Orik had trusted the Prince but it seemed as if either the Prince didn’t care or the King really wasn’t listening to anyone. Lord Orik stood up placing a hand on his grandson’s shoulder, the news about Dáin being in the mine deep inside the wild of the eastern shore of the Sea of Rhûn was something to be concerned about. Dáin was the only ally Khand had that was still part of the Royal family of Erebor, Orik didn’t want to think what could happen if something were to happen to the Lord of the Iron Hills.

“What are we going to do?”

“For now, we need to tend to the wounded, bury the dead and be ready for I do not believe this would be the last attack.” Orik moved past some guards towards the Raven tower. “I will send word to Erebor and, if they refuse to help, we can declare ourselves free of our obligations with Erebor. I won’t let our people suffer through this without the resources to get back on their feet.”

“Yes, sir.” The young dwarf pursed his lips slightly worried, he glanced at his grandfather a part of him fearing the rage of King Thráin, but there was another part of him that understood what his grandfather was doing. Paying homage to Erebor had cost them greatly and they had gained nothing but suffering.

“Narog, I want to get our best warriors watching over the city and be at the ready.” Lord Orik commanded. “We will wait for an answer from Erebor, if nothing comes then I will send you and these warriors towards the mines to see if Lord Dáin is faring well.”

The road back home was equally silent and tense as their trip to the forest.

Thranduil would try to engage Thorin in conversation only to be refused time and time again by a very grumpy and upset Thorin. The Elven-Prince wondered what had happened for this sudden change of attitude but he came out without a satisfactory answer. Thranduil soon felt frustrated when Thorin seemed to act normal around everyone including Legolas and Bilbo whereas his whole demeanour changed into a cold façade when addressing him.

No one dare to intervene or venture to say something for all of the presents had been equally baffled by this. Thranduil would sometimes establish conversation with Glorfindel, Balin, Oin and even Bilbo but Thorin always seemed to find an excused to not get include in these conversations. It was getting rather frustrating and the Elven-Prince was awaiting anxiously their return to Erebor where he could just walk away and hide in the mountain so as to not feel this strange sting in his heart at Thorin’s rejection.

Almost a week later, Thorin and his company along with Prince Legolas, Prince Thranduil and Captain Glorfindel arrived to Erebor after such an eventful hunting trip. The news they brought with them were worrisome and need to be dealt with immediately, but afternoon was already falling and Thorin thought it pertinent to present himself before his father and the council early in the morning.

As soon as they arrived surrounded by some townspeople greeting them with love and interested, Thorin saw Fundin approaching them.

“My Prince, it is good to see you, all of you well after such a long trip.” Fundin bowed waiting for Dwalin, Balin and Thorin to approach him, the rest were getting the ponies and the horses away dismounting some of the baggage and packages. Thranduil was arguing with Legolas on the wisdom behind sleeping with Beleg on the bed, Glorfindel watching rather amused at the sight of yet another pet Thranduil couldn’t deny his son.

“It was a rather productive trip, Lord Fundin. Something I will share with the council tomorrow.” Thorin eyed the Lord in front of him, Fundin was trying to look relaxed but his eyes were hard as steel and the wrinkles around his eyes were more notorious.

“I know my Prince must be tired and wished to retire to his quarters but, would it be too much to ask council with you and Prince Thranduil?”

Thorin was startled at the request; he tilted his head to see Thranduil still arguing with Legolas when he returned his attention to Fundin. The Lord quirked a brow much like Balin would do to him when there was something they couldn’t discuss in public, Thorin nodded briefly pointing to the mountain.

“I believe, Lord Fundin, it has been a while since I last visit Gilda.” Thorin said Fundin smiled nodding.

“Of course, my Prince, she will receive you gladly.” Fundin eyed his sons nodding to the mountain. “I will wait for the both of you then, Prince Thorin.”

“Don’t worry, I will go over there and…talk to Prince Thranduil.” Thorin waved his hand vaguely to the elf feeling suddenly very awkward at having to seek the elf after having ignored him for more than three days.

Thranduil sensed eyes on him, looking out of the corner of his eyes he noticed Thorin staring at him while scratching his beard. Thranduil furrowed his brows but soon concealed his emotions behind a stone façade with gleaming cold eyes, Thorin called to him approaching him while making sure they were left alone. Before Thranduil could call upon his son and Glorfindel both elves had scattered away not without shooting Thranduil a meaningful stare, they knew Thranduil had been annoyed and rather hurt at Thorin’s indifference. Well, the dwarf in question was now approaching him; it was time for Thranduil to just be directed with him and voiced his discomfort.

“Oh, Prince Thorin, I didn’t notice you there.” Thranduil sneered looking way above Thorin’s head, Thorin tensed shooting a quick glare to the elf.

“I need to tell you something.” Thorin started not being able to finish when Thranduil scoffed at him lifting his chin.

“Now you want to talk.” Thranduil wasn’t even sure why he was trying to show his annoyance at being ignored. He supposed it was because he had gotten accustomed to Thorin talking or arguing with him, to the Dwarven-Prince to be by his side to make sure he didn’t feel out of place. It was such a childish feeling, but Thranduil found satisfaction at the wince of guiltiness crossing the dwarf’s face.

“I…Lord Fundin needs the both of us, I believe he needs to tell us something.” Thorin tried to explain trying to avoid the topic of him avoiding Thranduil during the trip back home.

This time around the Elven-Prince looked rather interested, he shot a quick glance to his son but he noticed Bilbo had already engaged him in conversation. Glorfindel was the only one close enough to the both of them.

“Do you know what it is he needs of us?” Thranduil questioned Thorin, the dwarf shook his head.

“No, but he usually doesn’t do such thing unless it is important.” Thorin looked back at the mountain then at Thranduil. “Look, Bilbo is going to feed everyone today, you can let them go and we will join them after this meeting.”

Thranduil nodded he went directly to Glorfindel speaking softly to his Captain before turning away and joining Thorin. Thorin and Thranduil never noticed a pair of eyes following them at a safe distance; they couldn’t have known they had been watched from the moment they arrived to Erebor.

Both Princes took the short way to the mountain entering a zone Thranduil hadn’t known until then. Right to the left side of the Royal Palace and away of the main districts of the Kingdom of Erebor was a small but well-build neighbour with houses build into the mountain giving different geometrical forms to their homes. It was a solitary path with only a couple of well-dressed dwarves walking around in the streets or resting at their homes entrance. As soon as Thranduil got the chance to observe his surroundings, he realized this was a place where the important members of the council, the generals of the Royal Army or important members of Erebor resided. Sometimes, as they walked rather fast down the streets, Thorin would greet some well-dressed dwarves that would shoot curious glances at the both of them.

Thorin took a deep breath while placing his hands on top of his belt, glancing out of the corner of his eyes at Thranduil who was taking in the new scenery before him. The Dwarven-Prince hesitated wanting to speak about what happened in the forest; however, this would mean admitting he had been spying on Thranduil. Thorin opened his mouth to speak up yet he couldn’t bring himself to address the topic.

“Are you going to stare at me all the way or are you going to speak your mind?” Thranduil cocked a brow at him looking rather unimpressed.

Thorin scowled looking ahead while grumbling some sort of answer, embarrassed he was discovered while staring and trying to say something. They soon reached Lord Fundin’s house without any more conversation between them, frustration was starting to build inside Thranduil who could not understand this sudden tension between them. He thought they were past this but, apparently, he had been wrong.

No sooner had they arrived, a Dwarven female appeared on the hall, her eyes opening while her lips draw a beautiful smile.

“My dear Thorin, look at you!” The she-dwarf approached Thorin cupping his face looking him over with the same grin. “I thought you forgot all about me!! Look how handsome you are! I still remember when you were running around naked playing with my Dwalin.”

“Lady Gilda, please…It is a pleasure to see you again.” Thorin muttered his face burning in embarrassment when Thranduil stepped forward grinning from ear to ear.

“I believe we haven’t been introduce, Prince Thranduil, at your service.” Thranduil bowed to the she-dwarf his eyes flickering with amusement from Thorin to Gilda.

The she-dwarf narrowed her eyes at Thranduil, her lips lifting up while she too bowed respectfully to the Elven-Prince.

“I’m Lady Gilda of the House of Fundin at your service.” Gilda tilted her head wriggling her eyebrows to a very mortified Thorin. “My Prince, you sure know how to set your eyes on rather handsome prospects. Prince Thranduil, it is finally a pleasure to meet the lucky elf that would stand beside Thorin in the near future as King of Erebor.��

“I believe the pleasure is all mine, Lady Gilda. This is the first time I’ve heard someone mention Prince Thorin’s childhood.” Thranduil pressed a little trying to look completely innocent.

Gilda opened her eyes pushing both Princes deep inside her home, “Oh, no! You can’t tell me you haven’t heard of the naked adventures of Prince Thorin, my dear Dwalin and Bofur! Because, let me tell you, for some reason these three were against wearing clothes when…”

“Lady Gilda!” Thorin said again when Gilda started another rather colourful narration about Thorin’s naked adventures around the Royal Palace with Dwalin and the rest of their friends.

Gilda stopped talking blinking rather confusedly while Thranduil was beaming as if he had just gotten the best present ever. Thorin knew he wouldn’t hear the end of this as soon as they left Lord Fundin’s home.

“Mother, please. Can’t you see you are embarrassing him?!” Dwalin appeared from a side door frowning at his mother who was looking rather scandalized, Thranduil had sat down with one leg crossed enjoying the embarrassing stories about young Thorin.

“Oh, I’m so sorry dear! Here, let me ask for the tea and everything! I believe your father and Balin are waiting for you and the Princes.” Gilda then ran off to the kitchens leaving the Princes and Dwalin alone.

“Well, let’s go, father is waiting for the both of you.”

“Not a word.” Thorin grunted when Thranduil moved closer to him.

“Naked?” Thranduil finally said chuckling when Thorin shoot him a glare with the tip of his ears completely red.

“Seriously, not a word.”

“You are asking too much without giving nothing in exchange, Prince Thorin.” Thranduil smirked Thorin narrowed his eyes at him. “Perhaps I should go back to Lady Gilda and ask for more charming stories.”

“You will do not such a thing, you insufferable elf.” Thorin wrapped his hand rather alarmed around the Elf’s wrist. Thranduil stopped walking his blue eyes looking deep into Thorin’s black ones.

Thorin let go backing away, “We will talk about the price later on. Now, let us have this meeting in peace.”

Thranduil snorted moving closer to Thorin until he could lean in to whisper in the dwarf’s ear, “Whatever you say, dear.”

This was the first time Prince Thranduil was in an actual Dwarven house. It certainly was different to his room or the Royal Palace. The thresholds were made of perfect lines and geometrical figures, all with the colours identified in the coat of arms of each family. Balin and Dwalin seemed to favour a dark shade of red with blue; the private study of Lord Fundin had a single oaken desk near a fireplace with three different chairs in front of it. There were three bookshelves all of them filled with either books or scrolls. Fundin stood up from his place behind the desk, he along with Dwalin and Balin bowed deeply to the Princes.

“My Lord Thorin, Prince Thranduil, welcome to my humble home.” Fundin waved his hand and the door closed behind the Princes. Fundin regarded Thranduil for a moment before indicating the chairs. “Please, sit my Princes.”

“I have to say it was a surprise for me when I hear you require my presence in here as well, Lord Fundin.” Thranduil didn’t bother with idle chat. He sat down resting his cheek on the palm of his hand while crossing his legs. “Tell me, why the secrecy?”

Fundin snickered sitting down with his brown eyes gleaming slyly at Thranduil. “Prince Thranduil is showing the sagacity and wisdom of the elves. I am happy to know you will be beside Thorin when the weight of the Throne befalls him.”

Thranduil furrowed his brows leaning back on his chair, “Thank you, although my question is still unanswered.”

“Indeed.” Fundin sighed tiredly his eyes turned then to Thorin softening his expression when he mapped out the features of the young Prince. “We received a letter two days ago from Khand. The city was attacked, many died and many more are wounded. Our help was not received and now Lord Orik had taken upon himself the governance of Khand declaring himself an independent country.”

“What? Why? What happened?” Thorin leaned forward clenching his fists. “What do you mean the help didn’t get there? I thought we have sent more dwarves to the city.”

“Your father overruled this order.” Fundin declared seriously. “He said we shouldn’t give them more than they deserved. Now, they had been attacked by a group of orcs and wargs. Thorin, tomorrow your father would seek the support of the council to attack and submit Khand.”

“He can’t…they…” Thorin sat back letting his forehead hit his hand. “This is madness; he should have given them the help they need. Why don’t we send a diplomatic mission instead of a military one?”

Fundin eyed Thorin turning his eyes to Thranduil then to his sons, “Lately, my Prince, your father has been paying more attention to the richness of his position and something…something he has been hiding in his office.”

Thorin straightened up hearing attentively to what Fundin had to say, the old dwarf stirred massaging his long, white beard.

“He told the council Mahal himself gifted him with something precious, something so unique it was a proof of his reign.” Fundin then turned his eyes to Thranduil. “He told us this was a sign he would endure the years and the millennia to see Erebor grow into a greatness not even the Kingdoms of the elves on the First Age could achieved.”

Thranduil tilted his head distressed by this; his blue eyes noticed the strange look coming from Fundin.

“You say he has been paying more attention to his richness and this object he has in his power?” Thranduil questioned, Fundin nodded briefly with a hint of sadness in his eyes. “Could it be…dragon sickness you’re speaking of?”

Fundin gave a half-smile accompanied by a nod, “Indeed, this is what me and my sons are thinking. If this is the case, Thorin you must start gaining the favour of the council and the rest of the noble families.”

Thorin felt dizzy, he was trying to understand what was being discussed but dread was filling his heart. He stared at Fundin, his father’s best friend and he could see sadness and concern there. He had noticed his father’s sudden change, he knew Thráin spent too much time in his office mumbling and acting possessive and jealous over what he thought was his. The treasure vault had become a forbidden place for anyone who wasn’t the King or his most trust advisors. And now, this?

“What is this dragon sickness?” Thorin finally asked seeking Thranduil for an answer.

“A deep desire for treasure and gold, it turns the best of men, elves or dwarves into possessive and violent creatures who held only one passion, one true love.” Thranduil mumbled staring at Thorin seriously. “Gold, or whatever they believe to be precious to them. It is usually a gem, a treasure…a necklace.”

Thorin sensed there was something else to this; he could see the stories untold in those blue eyes. A pain so deep Thorin had a sudden desire to reach out for Thranduil and give him the relief he didn’t seem to have. Thranduil found himself drawn to the Prince, a waved of comfort accompanied with protectiveness surrounded him. Without really understanding what he was feeling, Thranduil offered a weak smile to the Dwarven-Prince turning around to face Fundin and his sons.

“I don’t understand why you have called me here, Lord Fundin. What can I do?” Thorin finally said. “If it is true father is suffering from this, shouldn’t we do something?”

“Thorin, he is still King. There aren’t many that would go against his wishes unless someone of the Royal line would guide them.” Fundin lifted a hand to stop Thorin from answering back.

Gilda entered the room with a couple of servants; they placed the tea and some food on the table before leaving the office as fast as they had come. Everyone took their cups drinking their tea while sharing the same restless silence.

“I know what it looks like; it seems as if I’m betraying my best friend. My brother.” Fundin finally said. “It is far from the true. I want to save him, I think a time away from the Throne, from the power may help cure this, to perhaps return him to the same good dwarf he was once. But for this, we need you to be ready and take upon the Throne, people already loves you and many council members have a high regard of you.”

Thranduil noticed the tensing coming from Balin, Dwalin and Thorin. Somehow, Thranduil thought the three of them didn’t quite agree with Fundin and his assessment of Thráin, but no one contradicted the dwarf.

“Someone must take care of the business of the Kingdom paying attention to everyone instead of focusing in only the finances or the gold filling the vaults.” Fundin leaned forward. “As soon as we found about Khand, we all have the same thought. Diplomatic measures should be used before restoring to the military ones. If you can get this situation under control then the council would happily show his support to you and ask King Thráin to abdicate.”

Thorin felt the weight of these words deep inside his heart; he knew he thought about this before. But to actually have Fundin saying it and probably forming a strategy to help him out was too much. Thorin wanted what was best for Erebor and his people, but he couldn’t help the sense of guiltiness at the betrayal he would orchestrate against his own father.

“What can we do then? Father won’t budge so easily.” Thorin replied. “But I agree with you, this situation must be put under control before it turns into something worse.”

“Lord Orik seemed to believe you were an approachable help.” Dwalin chimed in.

“Look how well I did.” Thorin clenched his fists in frustration.

“You can’t expect to control everything, Thorin. Ruling a Kingdom it is rather hard as it is without you feeling guilty.” Thranduil looked at Fundin. “If what Dwalin says is true then Thorin must go to Khand. He will need this army but not to fight them instead they would stay there to provide the protection Khand asked for, am I right?”

“Yes, if Prince Thorin goes as an ambassador to calm things down then this whole business would end with a pacific resolution.” Fundin shot Thranduil an impress look. “This is the reason, Prince Thranduil, as to why I want you here. In a few months you and Prince Thorin would be joined in marriage you should know what is happening in the Kingdom for you to be an ideal consort and King to Thorin and Erebor.”

Thranduil went rigid his eyes flickering to Thorin then to Fundin, he wanted to say something but found himself out of words.

“I believe this is the best course of action.” Thorin broke the uncomfortable silence his eyes focused on his empty cup. “Tomorrow at the meeting I will ask for this, I believe father would be glad to get rid of me and the chance to get this solve peacefully.”

“This is why I want to talk to you before the meeting, Thorin.” Fundin said smiling fondly at the Prince. “There is one more thing, though; you will need to take Prince Thranduil with you.”

Balin would have laugh at the astound expression both Princes were wearing, each one them couldn’t hide the sudden panic filling their eyes only to try and cover it up showing a rather tense and impassive face. Thorin didn’t even dare to look at Thranduil, this trip was a four day trip and doing it with Thranduil would mean he could not run away or avoid the Elven-Prince like he had been doing since the Long Forest. Thranduil for his part was trying to decipher why this affect him so much, why did he feel so unsettle and anxious to travel alongside Thorin to a far city; like Lord Fundin had said, if he was to be a King to this place he would need to learn more about them. Besides, Thranduil was starting to realize what was happening in Erebor should be reported to King Oropher thus he needed to be there to assess the situation.

“Why would I have to go?” Thranduil finally asked to which Fundin centred his attention on Prince Thorin then on Thranduil.

“I do not know how much you know about Dwarven costumes, Prince Thranduil. Or why Prince Thorin and not King Thráin became your fiancé.” Fundin started talking with a business like voice making sure what he was about to say could be understood without making Thráin look like a monster, it still hurt him to see the transformation on his friend watching him slip away into something no one could understand completely.

“When a dwarf marries he does it for live, our costumes forbid us of getting involved in another marriage unless we meet our One.” Fundin smiled suddenly looking over at Balin and Dwalin. “I was fortunate enough to meet my One and get marry to her, even if at the very beginning we couldn’t stand each other. I believe your sister, Prince Thorin, was fortunate as well.”

Thranduil didn’t even stir; he was listening to this with attention as Fundin spoke about the long conversations held in the council chamber. At first, Thráin had been eager to propose his son for this engagement, he wasn’t overly eager to get involve with an elf and besides, Erebor costumes didn’t allow him another marriage. However, lately Thráin had been sharing pieces of disturbing conversation regarding Prince Thranduil and how Thráin was more deserving of this union than Thorin. Fundin spoke clearly trying to justify Thráin’s actions while blaming the sickness in the King; but to everyone in the room it was evident it was more than this.

Thranduil changed his position in the chair his face an unreadable mask while he mused over this information.

“You have mentioned this One; I think I heard of this before. Is it only a romantic liaison amongst Dwarves?” Thranduil questioned his emotions stirring deep inside him, a mixture of curiosity, apprehension and something he wasn’t quite sure it was completely his, something akin to sadness. Thranduil furrowed his brows trying to understand why he felt such an emotion.

“It is not necessary, though many build a friendship with their One before ending up in a deep romantic relationship.” Fundin explained. “This individual doesn’t even need to be a Dwarf. We called it our One, but I believe your race would call it a soul-mate.”

Thranduil lowered his gaze while Fundin continued speaking. “Your father, Prince Thorin, married your mother because she was his One, not only did he married her he also joined his life with his mate. To get into another marriage would be sacrilege; he would lose respect from everyone. But lately, whatever he has hidden in his office it has given him the confidence to change the laws.��

Balin saw realization hitting the Elven-Prince with the force of the implications behind his father’s words. Thorin paled closing his fists while furrowing his brows, his beard trembling with the silent rage filling his mind. Fundin sighed massaging his forehead and for the very first time ever Balin saw tiredness in his father’s features. Of all the council dwarves, Fundin had always been the closest to Thráin, they had been best friends from a very early age much like Dwalin and Balin had been to Thorin.

“My father didn’t honour her, she…” Thorin hated how his voice trembled as he spoke while memories filled his mind. He had seen the love in his mother, how she had fallen under her own feelings while his father mistreated her until it consumed her. “He is really mad if he thinks I will, that I’m going to allow…”

Thorin trailed off, to say what he wanted to say would be admitting what he had been feeling for the Elven-Prince sitting right beside him. No one, especially Thranduil, needed to know just how pathetic and how sentimental he was.

“I know.” Fundin finally said smiling a little. “Because I’ve been near your father all this time and, recently, with his talks about being a King for a thousand years and believing himself designated by Mahal to be King Under the Mountain. I do not know how long would it take for him to act on his own desires…”

Thranduil felt dizzy he wrapped his hands around the armrest of the chair, his blue eyes looking over at Fundin with disbelief written on his face. It was pretty obvious to Thranduil Fundin knew all about him, about Thranduil and what could it mean for a mortal to mate with him. Thorin stirred in his own chair when a wave of desperation and helplessness reached his mind, he furrowed his brows confused at such feelings overwhelming his senses. If he were to concentrate enough, he would say it was anger more than anything what he was feeling. Still puzzle, Thorin turned to Thranduil to see those blue eyes gleaming with unshed tears of anger, trembling under the implications in the conversation they were having.

“I will take Thranduil with me then, if you are agreeable to the idea.” Thorin said firmly while addressing the Elven-Prince. “I can also make up an excuse and…you can go to Esgaroth. Whatever you desire.”

Fundin observed the interaction with interest, he couldn’t understand why Thorin was proposing Esgaroth instead of the Woodland Realm but it was rather obvious Prince Thranduil understood. The Elven-Prince opened his eyes turning to Thorin his face unreadable as the both of them engage in a staring contest. Fundin couldn’t help but smile, even amongst this disaster, it was good to see Thorin was finally finding his way away from his father’s clutches. He was so much like his mother, Fundin could only hope this situation would solve without any misfortune.

Thranduil lowered his gaze turning his face away from Thorin, “Lord Fundin is right, if I am to be of any use to you in the near future I need to know how the Kingdom and your people work. I will go with you.”

The only sound filling the room was that coming from the flames in the fireplace. Thorin should feel content Thranduil chose to go with him, but knowing this was something out of duty more than anything else only made him a little bit miserable. He stood up approaching the desk, his black eyes looking downcast and tired.

“Is there anything else you will like to tell me, Lord Fundin? I believe the trip is finally getting to me.” Thorin couldn’t help his puzzlement when Fundin chuckled lifting a single eyebrow at him.

“There is only one more thing, something I think it may please you and improve your mood.” Fundin shoot Thranduil a quick glance before returning his attention to Thorin. “The task you commission two weeks ago is done. Everything is ready for you now Prince Thorin.”

*****

Thranduil was utterly baffled by the sudden change of mood in Thorin.

He was starting to think the Dwarven-Prince change moods at an erratic rate and he kept on wondering how Thorin could do it with such freedom and ease. Thorin walked fast down the streets towards the Royal Palace refusing to say anything to Thranduil who was trying to keep up while making questions.

They reached the back of the Royal Palace in less than fifteen minutes, but before Thorin could enter the place Thranduil placed his hands on the dwarf’s shoulders turning him around to face him.

“Are you going to explain to me what are we doing here? Or are you going to make me run after you again?” Thranduil sounded rather annoyed his eyes piercing Thorin for answers.

Thorin lifted his face his black eyes gleaming with satisfaction, there was also a hint of embarrassment and Thranduil was left perplex all over again.

“I have a gift for you.” Thorin finally said unable to hide his excitement, Thranduil blinked trying to keep his serious façade, to still be angry at the Dwarf for dragging him all through the mountain to the back of the Royal Palace, especially after the conversation they held with Lord Fundin.

“A gift?” Thranduil hesitated not even sure how he should take this sudden gesture; he narrowed his eyes at Thorin wondering if perhaps the cheerfulness coming from Thorin could be some kind of joke. “What kind of gift? Why?”

“Stop looking at me like that, it’s nothing bad.” Thorin huffed indignantly, Thranduil opened his mouth but Thorin stopped him. “It’s a gift; you know the concept, right? Those are a surprise, if I tell you it won’t longer be a surprise.”

“You can tell me, gifts aren’t necessary surprises.” Thranduil retorted stubbornly.

“Come, it will be better if I show you.” Thorin stopped at the service door turning towards a still reluctant Thranduil.

“Why?” Thranduil asked again suddenly noticing this was the first time they were alone or that Thorin had such a gesture with him.

Thorin hesitated, “Because I want to.”

The simplicity of the answer caught Thranduil by surprised, the Elven-Prince saw as Thorin disappeared behind the service door leaving him behind. Forgetting about his doubts, his feelings or the implications behind what they were doing Thranduil followed Thorin. Ten minutes later, Thorin was grinning while Thranduil shoot daggers at him cleaning up his clothes and fixing his blond hair.

“I surely hope this gift is worth making me crawl down those stairs to this hall.” Thranduil grumbled as dignified as he could. Thorin remained wisely shut for Thranduil seemed to really hate the road they had taken. If he was to be honest, Thorin forgot the service entrance was only meant for Dwarves and not Elves but the Elven-prince had been rather inventive to keep up with Thorin.

“I promise you.” Thorin said with his lips forming a smile, Thranduil narrowed his eyes at Thorin before lifting his stare.

“This looks idly familiar.” Thranduil arched an unimpressed brow at Thorin, “Don’t tell me the surprise is in your room?”

Thorin sputtered indignantly at the suggestion behind Thranduil’s voice, the Elven-Prince smirked enjoying the faltering behind Thorin.

“No! It’s…come, there is only one more set of stairs.” Thorin made his way down the hall with Thranduil complaining behind him all the way to another door hidden behind a tapestry made with the image of Thorin, Frerin and Dís.

Thorin put the tapestry away showing a wooden door, he took a silver key from his pockets opening it to reveal a set of darkened stairs. Thranduil crossed his arms shooting an incredulous stare to the dwarf beside him.

“You won’t convince me to go up there.” Thranduil leaned forward before stepping back. “Is it even safe? Is it even made for me to walk?”

“Ugh, would you stop complaining? I promise you will be capable of walking without any trouble and…” Here Thorin trailed off, he shifted slightly and Thranduil soon found rather endearing the timidity Thorin would try to conceal behind his confidence.

When Thorin couldn’t finish his sentence because he was trying to look for the right words to justify this trip, Thranduil chuckled decided to not give Thorin more trouble, even if he was still hurt after being ignored by him.

“Let’s go, then. Before you start stuttering and pretend you know what you are doing.”

“I don’t stutter!” Thorin replied rather energetically. “And I always know where we are going.”

Thranduil smirked moving ahead of Thorin up into the dark stairs leading to some place up into the mountain. It didn’t take them long to reach the top of the stairs and find themselves in front of another door, Thorin moved past Thranduil bumping into the elf while pressing their bodies together. For a brief moment, neither Thorin nor Thranduil moved both of them finding themselves in a very awkward situation. Thorin cleared his throat apologizing while he proceeded to move forward, his hand trembling while opening the door that lead to another hall.

Thranduil looked around only to find the hall, another set of stairs that seemed to be well-illuminated and a couple of doors all through the hall. Thorin, however, moved to the farthest one. With a shaky smile, Thorin opened the door indicating with a gesture of his hands for Thranduil to enter the room.

Thranduil’s breath caught in his throat when his eyes fell upon the room. Around him everything remained him of the colours of his forest, the decorations were made to resemble the Woodland Realm ad any other elven decoration. Thranduil entered what seemed to be a living room with a silver fireplace, golden chairs, green walls and wooden furniture; Thranduil broke into a content smile when he realized there were vines smelling like lilies and chrysanthemums, he walked in a dream while his fingertips brushed against every single surface in the room. The Elven-Prince approached another room, his eyes going wide at the sight of the bed with silken bed sheets and equally high-quality bedspread, all his things had been organized inside a white wardrobe and his room smell like the forest. Earthly and homely.

“There is only one more thing.” Thorin startled him appearing from behind walking rather confidently to another door made entirely of glass. With curiosity filling his heart, Thranduil follow the Dwarven-Prince and soon he was baffled at the sight before him.

The door led to a balcony from where the world and the sky spread in a mixture of beauty and starlight firmament. It was then Thranduil realized they were at the highest point in the mountain with fresh air filling his lungs and cold air brushing against his heated skin. The Elven-Prince took a few steps towards the rail looking the world spreading at his feet. He lifted his face and his blue eyes soon filled with the sight of the stars twinkling merrily above his head.

Thorin watched him mesmerized, his heart stopping at the sight of a sincere smile drawing on the beautiful features of the Elven-Prince. Thorin stood there watching Thranduil while Thranduil stood watching the night sky. Soon, Thranduil tilted his head and blue eyes found themselves staring into black ones.

“Why?” Thranduil finally asked shakily.

Thorin tore his eyes away from Thranduil standing beside the Elven-Prince while leaning in to watch the world under their feet. For a brief moment, a fear like no other gripped Thranduil’s heart at how close to the edge Thorin was; Thranduil took a calming breath when Thorin merely smiled at him without any hint of danger in his features.

“This was supposed to be your home after our engagement was announced.” Thorin spoke clearly suddenly feeling rather liberate standing beside the elf. “I was really mad at you, I thought I hate you. Thus, I decided to make the caverns your home. Those are only meant for…well, for driving you crazy, I suppose.”

Thranduil nodded snorting, “It was driving me crazy. I felt trap, it was a dark and solitary place, I hated you for it.”

Thorin smirked, “That was the idea. Then, I got to know you and I realized you weren’t as bad as I thought you to be. After the Winter Festival I started organizing everything to make this your new home. Yours and Legolas and Captain Glorfindel, the rest of your guard has already been given their rooms on the floor below us.”

Thranduil was left speechless he stared down at Thorin who soon stirred rather uncomfortably under the intense stare from the elf. Never before had anyone done something like this for him, Thranduil realized Thorin always did something to surprise him or to contradict whatever he thought about him. Whatever had happened the last couple of days, whatever they had converse about with Lord Fundin and all the other problems surrounding them; Thranduil could say with certainty this place with Thorin right beside him made him feel at ease.

“I don’t know what to say. How to thank you…” Thranduil started leaning closer to a very distracted Thorin.

“Don’t be an idiot, you don’t have to thank me. This…I mean, I did it with pleasure.” Thorin shrugged when he turned back his attention to Thranduil he jerked back finding the face of the elf too close to his own. “Wha-What are you doing?”

“I was going to thank you.” Thranduil said his lips drawing a mischievous smile.

Thorin opened his eyes taking a step back when Thranduil leaned closer, “You…you don’t have to. I already told you.”

“I know, but I want to thank you, Prince Thorin.” Thranduil made a reproving sound, his eyes gleaming amusedly. “When someone wants to thank you, you shouldn’t reject them.”

“Something tells me, this kind of thanks I should avoid.” Thorin replied feeling his cheeks warming up; his heart was beating fast while his abdomen filled with tingling and fluttering making him apprehensive of what could happen.

“Why? Haven’t you experienced this before?” Thranduil didn’t know what was happening to him, he threw any common sense out of the balcony when he realized everything Thorin had done to this place to make it feel like home. The Elven-Prince felt the sudden need to feel those bearded lips against his, if only for a moment. He felt the need to thank Thorin for being there, for…for making him feel again.

“Of course I have!” Thorin replied rather indignantly, he then shook his head taking another step back cursing when his back hit the rail. Thranduil chuckled but his features softened, his blue eyes stared sincerely at Thorin.

“Then, what are you afraid of? It is only a thank you, nothing else.” Thranduil tried to sound rather casual, but he soon realized his own words sounded painful to him. Something changed, something happened and Thranduil was getting out of excuses to deny what was happening between himself and the Dwarven-Prince.

“If you do this, Prince Thranduil…I don’t think I can stop myself from doing something you and I will regret.” Thorin said furrowing his brows conscious of how much he was revealing with this. Thranduil lifted his eyebrows in surprised; he stared at Thorin for a long time before forgoing any common sense and pressing his lips against Thorin’s.

Thorin opened his eyes feeling the pressure of those warm lips against his, it was for a brief moment in which the Dwarven-Prince saw Thranduil closed his eyes smiling contentedly. Thranduil fluttered his eyes open to stare at Thorin, his breath caught on his throat at the intensity behind Thorin’s stare. The Dwarven-Prince swallowed shaking his head before placing his hand around the back of Thranduil’s neck and crashing their lips together. Their lips joined in another kiss, this one deeper and more sloppy and inexperienced, Thranduil sighed giving into the need behind Thorin’s kiss. The kiss ended as sudden as it had started.

Thranduil realized he was breathing hard, his lips part slightly while his eyes darkened at the burning fire he felt inside his heart. The kiss had left him wanting more, needing more while Thorin was staring at him with big, shocked eyes. Before Thranduil could do or say anything, Thorin turned around and left.

#Thorinduil #Thrandorin #The Hobbit AU #Fanffic #Story #Thorin/Thranduil

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ladysalamander · 10 years ago

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I went looking for the source of a WTF FanFiction post and I just ... those tags.

#fanffic #wtf

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lapuslazulli · 11 years ago

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Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Sherlock (TV) Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Sherlock Holmes & John Watson Characters: Sherlock Holmes, John Watson Additional Tags: Sensory Deprivation, Bondage, First Time Summary:

It wasn't always comfortable, this transport of his; sometimes he just needed to get off.

#Fanffic #AO3 Link

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wizardofgay · 11 years ago

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Aftermath, part 2

((I've decided to just continue the storyline from aftermath as a series of fics from several points of view.)) Tali'zorah waited at the far end of the Normandy's war room, using one of the consoles to run yet another diagnostic on the systems there. Now that the QECs had been repaired, she had decided to see if she could reconnect it to the status updates it usually received. They hadn't been here for too long, but she needed to know more. This was all she could do for now, as Garrus was speaking with officials on Palaven over the QEC. She didn't begrudge him the time; he was worrried about his family.as if the thought of the Turian had conjured him, he stepped out of the room. They came together, and he raised a hand to her helmet's faceplate. "The news?" she asked him. "Palaven as a whole is recovering, but slowly. It definitely will not be the same again, but we'll pull through. But... they have yet to confirm all survivors," he answered her in that beautiful voice of his. Tali's heart went out to him. "Oh, Garrus. We just need to wait, I-i'm sure they're fine." Damn this stutter! Why couldn't she ever get past it?! But as she did so, Garrus' mandibles split into a turian smile and he nuzzled his nose on her faceplate. "Thanks, Tali. You've kept me sane." "You too, Mr. Vakerian," she responded with a splash of her usual sass. He grinned again. "I hope Rannoch is doing even better."

#mass effect 3 #tali'zorah #garrus vakarian #fanffic

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doing-itwrongff · 11 years ago

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“Tell me how should I feel When you made me belong And the thought of you just touching her is what I hate most.” Beyonce x Ring the Alarm

Tonight was game night, I looked around and saw everyone in their silver, black and royal blue. I knew this game was going to be a packed one, I was looking around for a few people hoping they would be here. We were out on the floor doing warm ups, we had forty five minutes until the game. I was bouncing the ball and feeding it to Jeremy, our center. I was so amped for this game, I always got hyped when we played King University. Only one team can claim the throne, and it would be us of course. It was the last few moments of the game and I was coming up the court with the ball, the shot clock was now off. I glanced over at Kyree, he had two people on him. “Aunt Sally.” I said calling out one of our plays. Everyone got into the right formation, but we still couldn’t get Kyree opened. I looked up at the scoreboard, we had to do something. We were down a point, 93-92. I looked all around and nobody had an open shot. I knew I didn’t have one neither, I drove into the lane full speed and attacked the basket. The dude from the opposing team came and knocked the ball from the rim causing it to hit the floor. The opposing crowd roared, as ours groaned. My coach was on the sideline yelling something out. The ref blew the whistle, as everyone looked over at him to see what he was calling. "Goaltending. Two points for the opposing team.” Everyone erupted out into excitement. I flexed out and clapped my hands. “Let’s go!” I said throwing my fist up in the air. All my teammates ran on the court, no this wasn’t the championship, but they beat us last time we met and they whooped us bad. This was our comeback. My teammates put me up in the air. I was able to see everything, I looked around and I saw Paige talking to Cammy. My facial expression changed as they put me down. I started walking towards the stands but they were all too busy crowding around me pushing me towards the back. I knew I had to hurry and get back out there, the way Paige was looking I could tell she was a little perturbed. “Aight, aight. Settle down.” Our coach said lowering his hands, chuckling. “That was a great win for us. We were a little sloppy, but we pulled it off in the end. King thought they had us, but even in a tough situation we always pull through.” “Like shoelaces.” Jeremy said. “Ahh, corny nigga.” We all said laughing throwing our towels at him. “Naw, but foreal. I want to just say good game and keep up this level of competition. Play hard to the end and pull it out.” “Something Howard don’t know shit about. Pulling out.” Marc said laughing. “Fuck you.” H laughed along with the rest of us. Our coach shook his head laughing, “I don’t know what I will do with you niggas.” “Shit, we untameable.” Charlie said shaking his dreads and tossing his head back. “Cause we some Wild Wild Boyz.” Everybody laughed, “Naw, but foreal can we go now?” Terrance said looking at coach. “Somebody has somewhere to be.” Coach eyed Terrance. “Naw.” He chuckled. I know if he didn’t I did, I needed to hurry up and go back out there with Cammy and Paige, this shit was not sitting right with me at all.

I was cheering with the rest of the crowd, we had just won the game and I had my pom poms flailing my arms. I was so proud of the team, they pulled through in the last few seconds and made a way. Winning against King University was like winning the Championships. They all were hoisting Siah up and saying their school chant. “Why do you have my man’s jersey on?” I heard a feminine, ratchet, voice from the side of me. I looked around to see who else she could be talking to before looking at her. “Excuse me?” I said cocking my head to the side. “That is Jessiah’s jersey right?” I chuckled now knowing who this was, “Cammy, right?” “Yes.” She smiled a littled. “I see he talks about me.” “If you only knew.” I said chuckling. “Yea, we are so in love. We were together last night. He really loves his Martin.” I rolled my eyes as she went off into her little moment. “Oh, look at me babbling on. I’m sure you don’t want to hear about our little sexcapades.” “If you say.” “I don’t want to sound so pushy, but I really appreciate it if you didn’t wear his jersey anymore.” This girl was really about to get on my nerves. “I’ll stop wearing his jersey when he tells me to. He gave this to me to wear. I’ve worn it every home game that he’s had. Get your life girl.” “Yea, I know. But tonight is where it stops, you and his friendship is cute in a little high schoolish, cutesy type of way. What he and I have is longevity and security.” “Yea, a summer fling is longevity.” I chuckled sarcastically. “It’s not a fling.” “Then, what was it? Please inform me.” I said now crossing my arms, ready to hear this far-fetched explanation she was about to give me. “What we had was love.” She stepped closer. “And your time is over. Like I said, I appreciate it if you didn’t wear his jersey again.” She backed up looking at me with a smirk. I had to give it to her, this girl was relentless. “ ‘Sup?” Siah said walking up behind me. “Hey Jessiah.” She said smoothing the collar on his shirt, giving it a little pat. “Yea.” He said nodding and stepping back from her reach. “You ready Paige?” He asked looking over at me. “Sure, bye Cammy.” I smirked at her the same way she did to me many times before.He put his hand around my waist and guided me towards the door. “Siah!” She said calling out. I rolled my eyes and sighed. “Can we just.. I just need to talk to you. Please?” She said pleading. Knowing the type of person Jessiah was, he wasn’t going to keep walking. I looked over at him. “I’ll be outside.” “See, you in a minute.” He kissed my cheek and walked back towards Cammy. If I could be a fly on his shoulder right now. I walked out to the parking lot and a lot of people were still there, mostly the team and the girls who wanted to get on the team’s roster. “Yo Paige, where your boy?” Marcus came jogging over to me. “In there with Cammy.” I said rolling my eyes a little. “Oh.” He said laughing. “Something is wrong with that chick.” “Yea, I believe it.” I said walking over to my car and sitting on the hood. “So you gone show me some moves?” Some girl said in a baby’s voice looking at H. I shook my head and ran my fingers through my hair, “Pathetic.” “Yo, ‘sup Paige? Where’s yo boy?” H said finally noticing me. “In there dealing with something.” “Oh.” He said laughing like he knew what I meant. “Not like that.” I looked over at him. “Oh. Aight.” He looked at me. “You seen my moves on the court? “Naw, I only saw Jessiah’s.” I licked my tongue out and started texting. “I can’t stand you or Jessiah. Both y’all niggas get on my nerves.” “And neither one of us like yo ass.” I said flipping him off. “Hater.” “We saw you Howard, you look real nice handling that ball.” “Nasty.” I chuckled and slipped my phone back into my pocket. “I love you Jessiah, how dare you do this to me?” We all looked over and saw Jessiah walking out with Cammy behind him having a fit. “You know how I feel about you and you acting this way. I gave you the best two summers of my life.” She was becoming more belligerent and loud. They got over to me and it was like Jessiah didn’t even hear her. “Yo Marc, I’m riding back with Paige. Pop the trunk.” He said walking past me towards the rear end of my car. “So, you don’t hear me? You going to leave with this girl, you’ve only known her for what all of three weeks and you choose her over me.” He put his stuff in my trunk and walked past her opening the passenger door, she didn’t care who was around or what she looked like, she went and tried to stop him from closing the door. “No.” “Okay, now it’s getting ridiculous. If she messes up my car we’re going to have a problem.” “You shut up.” I almost lost my cool but Marcus came and blocked me. “Just get in the car Paige, it’s not worth it at all.” “Marcus, H, Siah, somebody get her.” I said sitting down in my seat and closing my door. “Who gone get me boo.” “Jessiah, get her away from my car before she gets handled.” “Cammy, stop. I’ve told you a million times we’re not together and we will never be. Get over it.” “Get over it..over it?” She said yelling. “Jessiah, I’m about to pull off. I’m tired and don’t have time to deal with this shit at all.” “You can leave. Jessiah, I’ll take you home. Come on.” She said trying to open his door. I powered locked them and started the car and drove off. I saw her chasing after the car in my rearview window. “Check your bitches.” I said looking over at him. “That chick escaped straight from the looney bin.” He said putting his head back and rubbing his forehead. “You should’ve checked her out before you decided to date her.” “We’re not dating, nor did we ever date.” “Hey, hey.” I said chuckling. “I’m just going by what she was saying. “Real funny.” “I know.” I said cheesing. “You hungry, where we headed?” “Naw, and we can head on over to your spot. I don’t feel like being home. I need a nice quiet place to relax.” “Well, it’s a slumber party going on over there, I don’t know how quiet it’ll be.” “I’ll sleep through it, or y’all just act like I’m not there.” “They can do that with me too. I’m not about to attend, I’m going straight to my room.” “Well change of plans.” He said looking down at his phone. “We can head to my spot, the fellas are going out to celebrate.” “Aight, cool.” I said a little relieved, I knew if I was to go home that they would all pile in my room, making me attend the slumber party.

We pulled up to my house and sat in the car for a minute, I felt Paige looking over at me. “ ‘Sup?” I said looking over at her with my head back. “Good game, you showed yo ass out there.” She chuckled and turned over resting her elbow against the headrest. “30 points, 12 assists, 1 steal and 3 rebounds.” She rested her head on her hand nodding. “Impressive.” “Ain’t I always?” I said stroking my chin. “Cocky ass.” She looked down chuckling. “You need to stop telegraphing, shoot more with your legs and not your feet, pull up and all the way through. And when you’re coming up the lane dish right and not left, and watch that pivot foot. It always be flirting with travel.” She said calling me out and looking dead at me. “Damn, aight.” I said laughing, I forgot she knew her shit and she observed a lot. “Just some tips for next game. Tonight you were nervous, I could tell if couldn’t nobody else.” “And I still put up those numbers, so imagine when I’m not nervous?” I smirked. “Come on.” I said smacking her thigh and getting out. She got out behind me and walked on over to the curb and stepped on as I grabbed her waist and pulled her into me. She wrapped her arm around my waist and I kissed the side of her head. I saw a car out the corner of my eye and it instantly slowed up, I watched it as it rolled passed and realized it was Cammy. I shook my head and kept on walking, I didn’t need Paige to even know that Cammy was on some stalker type shit. We got into the house and I closed the door looking out of it discreetly seeing if the car had gone by. Paige had already started her way up the stairs with no means to look back. I watched as she got to the top of them and hooked a left to my room, I made sure my door closed and looked out the window. This girl was crazy enough to circle around my house, I kept watch for a few more minutes and realized she was done patrolling the neighborhood and proceeded upstairs. I walked in my room and seen her snuggled up in my covers watching Limitless. Bradley Cooper was one of her favorites, I chuckled and stripped down and climbed in my bed. “Had to make sure your crazy chick didn’t follow us and circle the block a few times?” She asked laughing. The fact that she didn’t know how right she was made me chuckle and shake my head a little. “Chill.” “What?” “You focus on this damn movie and easing up on some of these covers.” “Why?” “Cause, a nigga getting cold.” “So.” She laughed. “Cole World, find that snuggie.” “Bye nigga.” I said pushing her. “Aww this shit about to go off.” “I know, I missed it.” She pouted, “But, Criminal Minds is coming on.” She said with her eyes wide, you would’ve thought it was Christmas morning. I shook my head and flicked her nose laughing. “Stop loser.” She said swatting my hand, giggling. She turned the channel right on time and I knew she was about to go into one of those tyrants yelling back at the screen and trying to guide the people to freedom. “Dr. Reid knows he’s sexy, he just doesn’t show it in a Derek Morgan sort of way. But when he starts speaking in nerd, his mind turns me on.” Paige said gawking at the TV. “You know?” She said stealing a glance at me. “No, I don’t know.” I chuckled, we were thirty minutes in and Dr. Reid had diagnosed the Unsub with Schizophrenia. I had to admit this guy was good and this show grew on me each time Paige made me watch it. “Whatever hater, but I’m hungry.” She looked back at me poking out a lip. “I think I want some burgers and fries.” “I don’t know what I should tell you.” “That you’ll make me some food.” She smiled and added a little pout. I hated when she did that shit, she knew I couldn’t stand her pouting. “Thanks.” She said smiling knowing she had me. “I’ll be back.” I got up and walked down the stairs. I was a little hungry myself and fries and a burger sounded like it could hit my appetite just right. I saw a light flashing in my house as I jogged down the stairs, I walked over to the window and peaked out. I sighed and shook my head as I saw Cammy walking up to my door. “Jessiah, open up. We’re not done with this.” She said banging on the door. “Yo, go away.” I said talking through the door. “No. Bring yo ass outside.” She said stepping back crossing her arms. I opened the door walking outside to avoid all the mayhem. “Cammy, what do you want?” “You. Stop ignoring me.” “Cammy, you can’t be coming around causing commotion.” “Well, talk to me.” “I’ve talked to you so many times. I don’t know how I can say it any other way.We’re not together, we never were. What we had was just a fling.” “I broke up with my boyfriend for you.” “I didn’t tell you to.” “But I knew you wanted me to.” I rubbed the back of my neck sighing. “Cammy, go.” “Jessiah.” “Go.” I said getting more pissed at the sound of her pleading. I looked to the side and saw a light flick on, I knew Paige was walking down the stairs. “Cammy leave now.” “Jessiah, can’t you see? I’m in love with you.” I grabbed a hold onto her wrist, I was tired of this. “Cammy, go. I’m not going to ask you again, I can’t keep doing this shit with you.” “Jessiah.” She pleaded trying to get out my grip. “Too tight.” I wasn’t even listening, I gripped a little tighter when Paige opened the door. “What’s going on?” “Cammy was just leaving.” I said throwing her wrist down. “Ain’t that right Cammy?” I eyed her with a cold glare. “Um, yeah.” She said looking at me hurt, before walking away. I went inside and slammed the door walking into the kitchen. “Jessiah, you didn’t have to be so rough with her.” “Man, fuck that. That was the only way she would’ve gotten it.” I said shrugging and getting out some pre-made patties. “I understand but you were hurting her, I could see it in her eyes.” She said hopping on the counter. “Fries and burgers right?” I said not really caring about the whole Cammy situation. It was no other way to get her to leave me alone. “I’m not hungry no more.” She said sliding off the counter and going in the fridge. “Are you serious?” “Yea.” She said getting a Naked Strawberry Banana smoothie and heading up the stairs. I shrugged it off and put the stuff back and decided to order a pizza, I knew that would make her happier and cheer up some. I jogged up the stairs for what seemed like the hundredth time and walked in my room. “I ordered a pizza.” “Fine.” She said stale. “Don’t act like your eyes are not about to gleam with excitement. And like your heart not beating outside of your chest. I know yo ass wanna dance.” I said getting in bed tipping her head. “You don’t know me.” “I know you’d twerk for some pizza.” “Goodbye.” She said almost choking on her juice. “I’m just saying.” “Well don’t hush, matter of fact no talking until my pizza gets here.” “Like that there huh?” I said chuckling. “Yep.” I pushed her lightly to the side and chuckled, “I guess you can pay for the pizza when it gets here.” I laughed and laid back. “Sure will. I seen a few dollas on your dresser.” She answered laying back on me. I pulled her closer to me laughing, this girl was something else. We continued to watch TV and wait for our pizza.

#Christina Santini #Lucien Laviscount #Fanffic

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