#filixyou

[shiinata-library]

Jewellery and bad-tempered [2/2]

_/~\_ PART 1 _/~\_

Relationships: Fíli x You (Fem!Dwarf)

Content: Fluff

Summary: You have a very bad temper and you know it very well. When you were little, you used to have Fíli and his brother tease you when you lived in the Blue Mountains. Now you live in the Iron Hills and you see them again in Erebor, you think they still haven’t changed …

On AO3: here    -    French version: here

Back at the Iron Hills, you quickly resume your habits. You missed your little jewellery shop. Still living with your mother, she hurriedly asked you to tell her about your trip. She was delighted to hear from Dís. She hastened to send a letter to her old friend.

Weeks and then months pass quickly. Unintentionally, you keep hearing from Erebor; either by your mother who exchanges letters with Dís, or by your friend who corresponds regularly with Kíli. Considering how your last meeting with the Princes was, in the rain in a muddy forest, you aren’t particularly trying to hear from them. And you can imagine they don’t try either. However, you can't help but think from time to time of Erebor: its craftsmen, its materials, the mountain ...

One evening when you close your shop, your friend comes running to you. You invite her to have a drink at your home. She accepts but she says she won't be staying long. She explains she is leaving for Erebor the next day. Lord Dáin explained Dís was in pain and no one could find a solution there. That’s why King Thorin asked the Iron Hills’ healers and herbalists for help. You smile mischievously at her. You tell her this is a good opportunity to spend time with Prince Kíli. Blushing, she tells you she probably won't have time to see him. You are happy for her. She seems really attached to Kíli. He's an idiot, but he would be perfect for her.

.

Several weeks pass. Your friend has already arrived at the Lonely Mountain and she explained to you by letter that Dís is very unwell and there’s a good chance she will stay there for a long time. This doesn’t reassure your mother and she hesitates to go join her. Knowing she will be of no use by her side, she prefers to wait for her recovery before going to see her.

One day when your shop is quiet, you are organizing some jewellery on your counter. When you hear the bell of the front door ringing, you take your professional smile and look up. At the sight of the Erebor’s princes approaching you, you lose your smile.

- “K-Kíli, Fíli? What are you doing here?” - “Hello. Yes, I'm fine. How about you?” Fíli sighs, looking at the jewellery in the shop. - “(Y/N)! We saw your mother when we were with Dáin. She told us where to find you. Your shop is beautiful!” - “Ah um, thank you,” you say, blushing a little. - "By the way, excuse me for ball night. I didn't recognize you," he smirked foolishly. “And in the cave, I didn't have time to say much.” - “Don’t worry. I know you're an idiot,” you laugh. - “You've become pretty, right Fíli?” he says, turning quickly to his brother, who ignored him. “But you haven't changed your character!” - “I don’t know how I should take it. Coming from you, I guess it’s a compliment.” - “Of course! And your friend, do you know where she is?” he asks with sparkling eyes. - “My friend?” you ask puzzled. “She's in Erebor, for Dís.” - “W-what?!” Kíli shouts. - “You don’t know?” you say, seeing Fíli worried, approaching. “Thorin asked for help in finding healers to look after your mother. She is ill and they can’t find a solution.” - "We left Erebor a few months ago because of some orcs attacks and nobody told us anything…" Fíli says, crossing her arms. - “Nooooo, she's in Erebor while I am here! Mahal, did she do it on purpose or what?” - “You didn't tell her you were coming here either. She thought you would be in Erebor.” - “Kíli, we're going back to Erebor tomorrow. Orcs or not, we must return to our mother. - “Y-yes of course …”

Seeing Kíli disappointed and Fíli worried, you decide to find something to change their minds; even if they leave tomorrow.

- “If you want, there is a nice bar around the corner. We can have drinks tonight to clear your mind.” - “Hmm, I don't know ...,” Kíli begins. - "We'll meet you there at the end of the day," Fíli says, patting her brother's shoulder.

You smile at them. Kíli seems to sulk and Fíli laughs at him. They eventually leave and you return to your reorganization of your counter.

In the evening after closing your shop, you go straight to the bar. Once inside, you don't see them. Either they will arrive later, or they stand you up. In any case, you are hungry and order the dish of the day with a cold beer. When your dinner is over, you face the fact they won't come. So, you are watching the bar in case a friend of yours is around. Unfortunately, you get to see someone you know: your ex. The one who cheated on you after a few months of dating. You are about to leave but you see him sit down at your table.

- “(Y/N), I'm glad to see you again! What are you doing here alone?” he says calmly, smiling. - “How does that concern you?” you ask on the defensive. - "You don't have to be that aggressive," he says, putting his hand on yours and stroking it.

The feel of his skin on yours disgusts you. You get up abruptly. Not wanting to create a scandal since your shop is just a stone's throw away from here, you take your hand back and answer him kindly.

- “Look, I don't want to talk to you. Neither here, nor now, nor ever. Go back to your pretty dwarf you cheated on me with.”

You leave the bar to get some fresh air. The door behind you opens and you step aside to let people out. Seeing it’s your ex, you make your way home. He follows you and grabs your arm to stop you.

- “Wait (Y/N)! I left her a long time ago. Come back with me please! Follow me, we'll chat in peace.” - “No way. Let go of me.”

You try to stay calm, but with a dwarf like him it's very difficult. You are in the middle of the street. It's dark and he's squeezing you so tight that you wince.

Your fist is clenched. You were ready to punch him, but a dwarf stepped in between you two. Even from behind, you recognize him: Fíli. Surprised to see him here alone, you don't care what they say. You come to your senses when your ex hits Fíli’s face. The prince takes the other dwarf by the collar of his jacket and squeezes him so tight that his feet lift off the ground. Your ex must certainly understand who he is dealing with since he apologizes and leaves without further ado. Fíli turns slowly towards you, rubbing his bleeding lips. He asks you if you are fine but you lose your temper.

- “What are you doing here? Where is Kíli? What happened to you getting in between us?!” - “Oh, you're welcome! I'm fine. Don't worry, I've known worse,” he says, sighing at your attitude. - “I could manage on my own! I thought you hated me and you came to help me against this kakhuf inbarathrag! [Goat turd] - “What?” he exclaims, quickly turning his gaze to you. “Are you sure it's not you who hates me? You shout at me every time we see each other!”

You turn your back to him and cross your arms on your chest. There are times when you want to strangle him but come to think of it, he really helped you here. The other kakhuf inbarathrag shouldn't talk to you for a while! You sigh before turning back to Fíli. Concentrated on examining his bleeding lips, he doesn't look at you. You take his arm and pull it, saying "Follow me".

Your home is calm. Your mother must already be sleeping. You ask Fíli to be as quiet as possible. You make him sit in a chair while you bring something to treat him. Placing a chair in front of his, you sit down next to him and begin to disinfect his wound. He hasn't said anything since he spoke to you earlier. It's up to you to break the ice.

- “Thanks to my herbalist friend, I have everything I need to heal you,” you start quietly. “You shouldn't have a scar.”

Fíli listens to you but still doesn’t speak. You clear your throat and continue to gently disinfect it.

- “T-thanks for helping me.” - “You're welcome. I wouldn't have let him hurt you. Can I ask you who he is?” - “Ah hum,” you hesitate. “He is my ex. Our relationship didn't last long.” - “What were you doing with such an idiot?” - “Um, I don't know,” you sigh. “I guess I didn't see who he was until I was with him.”

You no longer dare to speak and neither does Fíli. The wound is now disinfected and you can apply a balm.

- "I wouldn't have let him hurt you,” you repeat, laughing. “Your ready-made seducer phrases won't work with me!” - “Really? What if I get closer to you?” he asks, approaching you.

His face is now a few centimeters from you and you are still applying the balm to his lips. Mahal, he's way too close. Although the only light in the room is a candle on the table near you, you can see every detail of his face. His lips, his eyes, his beard, his braids ... Your heart races but you manage to keep your calm. Your only usual defense is provocation so let's go.

- “Nope!” you laugh as you finish applying the balm. “Putting your orc head near me won’t help you.” - "Hmm, let me think," he says, looking around the room.

While he is thinking, you put the treatment box away and try to calm down. As you sit back in your chair across from him, you smile. Still provoking, you grab his chin and incline his head a little.

- “It looks like you don't have any other injuries. And anyway, what if I let you seduce me?”

He takes his time to answer. You are close to him, still touching his beard. You would almost be tempted to pull his face towards yours to kiss him, but the joke would go too far.

- “I would start by asking if I can court you,” he says slowly, taking your hand and kissing it. Amrâlimê [my love], you would be the princess of Erebor ... my princess. You could do and have whatever you wanted. And by agreeing to marry me, you would become the future Queen of Erebor.”

The candle softly lighting his face, his almost whispered phrases, your hand still in his, his blue eyes staring at you, you are on the verge of giving in. Your throat becomes dry. Your cheeks are scarlet. Since then is he so attractive? You laugh to hide your embarrassment and try to change the subject.

- “I imagine you tell this to all the pretty dwarrowdams in Erebor. I would almost be flattered.” - “Not at all (Y/N)! I-”

Fíli wanted to continue his sentence, but the front door of the house opened. Your brother comes in and closes the door behind him as loudly as he had opened it. You tell him to make less noise but at the sight of the prince, your brother can’t help but shout Fíli's name.

Fíli ends up leaving when your brother is too tired to continue talking. You walk him back to your door house and wish him safe return to Erebor. He smiles and stays silent for a while. He ends up thanking you for treating him and telling you to go home safely. Once the door is closed, you lean against it. You can finally relax. You were not at all ready for such an evening when you got up this morning ...

.

A few weeks later, your mother hands you a letter. Your friend has decided to live in Erebor to stay with Kíli. You suspected that would happen. Staying in Erebor and finding her One on top of that, you understand her but you can't help but feel sad and envy her. Ever since Fíli and Kíli came to the Iron Hills, every time you think of Erebor, the image of Fíli comes to you. You wonder how far your last conversation could have gone.

.

A month passes and one evening when you are having dinner with your mother and brother, she announces to you she has decided to move to Erebor. Dís is doing much better and she has offered your mother a house in Erebor. Without a husband, your mother sees no reason to stay longer at the Iron Hills. She prefers to join Dís who has also lost her husband.

- “I'm coming!” your brother shouts. “There is no way I will miss such an opportunity!” - “And you (Y/N)? I know you have your shop here but I'm sure you can open another one there.” - “Or find you a husband!” her brother laughs. - “Um, yes I will come with you. Just give me time to organize the closure of my shop.”

Your mother is delighted with your decision. Your brother's joke isn’t far from what she really thinks. At your age, many dwarrowdams are already married, especially according to your rank.

.

In Erebor, you are delighted to have your own place. Your mother shares hers with your brother. For more than a month, you train with several artisans and then you finally open your shop. In a few weeks, your business becomes fashionable. Many dwarves and dwarrowdams come to buy your creations.

One evening when you are better dressed and with more styled hair than usual, you accompany your mother to a dinner organized by Dís. This is your first meal with dwarrowdams aristocrats, mothers with their daughters, since your arrival. And you weren't used to going to the Iron Hills. But since Dís has personally invited you, you can’t refuse. From the moment you arrive, you feel out of place. You spot the two dwarrowdams who were accompanying Fíli on the evening of the incident in the forest. Your mother seems quite comfortable. You take a seat next to her.

This dinner is the longest and most boring you have ever attended. The topics don't interest you. The atmosphere and the food are too distinguished. At one point, Dís notices you are bored and tries to get you into the conversation by presenting yourself as a childhood friend of her children. You see the gaze of some dwarrowdams change; maybe not hate but jealousy for sure. One of the mothers asks if you are the new dwarrowdam who has opened a jewellery shop and you politely confirm it. Some young dwarrowdams can't help but giggle. Jewellery isn’t a profession made for a dwarrowdam and even less for an aristocrat. Dís stands up for you. You smile at her and thank her. You kindly explain to them you really like what you do and neither your gender nor your rank has ever stopped you from doing what you wanted. Gradually, your mother manages to change the subject of the conversation.

When dinner is finally over, you leave the room quickly so as not to have to exchange formalities with some. The dinner has exhausted you both physically and mentally. You won't even have the strength to argue with one of them. You are depressed when you think back to when the discussion turned to you.

At this moment, you feel lonely. You have no one to talk to. Your mother stayed with Dís. Your friend is definitely with Kíli and you don't want to disturb them. You have spent a lot of time with your friend since you arrived, but never alone together. Kíli never lets go for more than an hour and Fíli is always next to his brother to watch him. You no longer even count the number of evenings spent together every four. But right now, you miss your friends in the Iron Hills. It might just be homesick but you feel lonely.

You walk the Erebor corridors to take your mind off. Clearing your mind under a mountain is a difficult task. There aren't many windows and it's too late to go out and join your shop. You suddenly remember a discussion with your friend about a library and walk towards it.

The library is bigger than you thought. You are surprised to find it is still lighted and you are happy there is no one around. It's perfect! You've spotted the shelves about jewellery, but what interests you now are simple, quick-to-read stories. Tales or fables. Once found, you pick up several and sit down on the floor to start reading. Your beautiful shoes hurt like hell!

You don't see the time passing. The library door makes a particular sound when it opens. A long squeak that gives chills but you don't pay attention. It's only when two feets stop in front of you that you look up from your book. Fíli smiles at you. He still wears his princely clothes. Maybe he's just got out of a meeting. He sits down gently next to you.

- “What are you doing here at this hour?” you ask gently. - “Good evening (Y/N), I'm fine since the last time we saw each other, thank you. And you?”

You remain silent for a few moments before giggling. The contrast between his prince clothes and his casual demeanor makes you smile.

- “Did something happen?” he asks and continues, seeing you don’t answer him. “You always came to read tales in the library at the Blue Mountains when something was wrong.” - “Do you think I should stop the jewellery shop and do like all aristocrats?” you sigh. - “What? Getting ready for hours, wearing unbreathable dresses, drinking tea and chatting all day? You won't last three days.”

Fíli laughs and you chuckle too. You close your book and put it next to you. Dinner and reading have left you exhausted. You rest your head on the shoulder of the dwarf next to you.

- “Did the dinner go so badly? My mom told me she would eat with your mom, you and other dwarrowdams tonight. You can tell me about it if you want.” - “You’re nice, it’s strange. Aren't you sick at least? You have one day to live, is that it?” you joke without moving your head. - “I'm always nice and I'm fine. It's just for once you're not angry and we're both alone. So that sure sounds strange to you.”

His remark makes you laugh. The two of you remain silent for a while. Fíli's head rests gently on yours and he begins to sigh.

- “Do you miss Kíli?” - “Is it that noticeable? Since he's been with your friend, we've barely seen each other. But I'm not going to blame him.” - “You may be like him when you find the one that suits you,” you tell him to try to cheer him up even if it hurts you. “During dinner, some dwarrowdams asked if there would still be a ball to find you a wife, since you're the only bachelor.” - “Already? By Mahal, don't they have more to think about? I know I'm irresistible but still.” - “Do you want me to tell them anecdotes from when you were little? If she knew you as well as I did, I'm sure she would think twice before wanting to marry you,” you are kidding. “On top of that, they have to be motivated or insane to want to become an Erebor Princess.” - “It doesn't seem to bother your friend.” - “It's because she doesn't know what’s coming,” you sigh. “I will help her as best I can …”

Fíli's head comes off yours. Maybe now is the time to take yours off his shoulder. In the library, there is no way to tell what time it is, but you've been glued to him for so long that your neck is numb. You slowly straighten up and stretch. After you have gathered the books scattered on the floor, you get up and put the books back on the shelves. Fíli, who had remained silent, leans against the book column and speaks. You don't have to look at him to know he's already smiling at you.

- “What if I wasn't a prince? If I were just a dwarf, could I court you?”

You're stuck on his question. You never asked yourself. Do you really don't want to be queen or is it just an excuse to avoid starting a relationship with Fíli? Deep down, you know your feelings towards him. They are not new. You cried for days when you moved to Iron Hills because you couldn't see him anymore. Let’s not even talk about when you learned he was involved in the recapture of Erebor. On the other hand, you know Fíli loves to mess with you since he was little. For once you were alone and calm, he couldn't help but joke about it.

You sigh and put the last book away. You then lean against the books like him.

- “Aren't you taking advantage of my fatigue to confuse my mind? I'm sorry Fíli, but I don't have the strength to joke about it tonight. If you want, I can introduce you to a couple of dwarrowdams I met tonight who would love to joke with you.”

It’s only when you’re finished speaking that you realize the dry tone you used. You were about to leave when Fíli resumed the conversation.

- “What if it's you I want?” he asks, turning to you, his shoulder still against the books. - “Me? Why me? I don't know if you remember but I have a bad temper,” you laugh. - “It's hard to forget. But it would suit a dwarf princess perfectly and even better a queen.”

These words and his tone are far too serious for you to continue joking. You stop laughing and your cheeks redden as your heartbeats quicken. The best solution is to leave the room and tomorrow everything will go back to normal.

You were about to run away when Fíli grabs your hands. Focused on your thoughts, you didn’t see him approaching you. He is so close to you that you can hear him breathing. Fíli pulls your hands up to his lips, tenderly kissing them. As you followed his gesture, you couldn't dodge his blue eyes staring at you. You realize you had stopped breathing until he spoke to you again.

- “(Y/N), I know you love me too,” he whispers to you. - “W-what? What do you mean ‘you know’? What do you mean ‘too’? What-”

Fíli cuts your babbling by kissing you. Despite the suddenness of the kiss, he kisses you gently. One of his hands lets go of yours and slides over your cheek. The other grabs your hip. With your back to the books’ column, you can’t run away. But on the other hand, you don't really want to anymore. Your hands are placed on Fíli's chest. Thinking you want to stop the kiss, Fíli steps back and looks you in the eye. None of you dare to speak. Through his blond beard, you see his cheeks flushed. A smile appears on his lips.

- “If you didn't love me, you would have already left. Do I finally have your agreement to court you?”

Fíli's hand that was stroking your cheek is now passing through your hair. Your throat is still dry with what just happened. His hand in your hair is warm and pleasant. You can feel him playing delicately with your hair. Seeing you are still silent, Fíli chuckles lightly.

- “If I had known kissing made you shut up, I would have done it a long time ago!” - “Hey!” you are shouting louder than you think. “If this is to make fun of me, you can-”

Fíli kisses you again. This time you are responding to his kiss. He uses his hand on the back of your neck to deepen it. You run your hand through his blonde, braided hair, too. The kiss becomes more and more intense but Fíli ends up breaking it. You catch your breath and don't dare look him in the eye. But you keep stroking his hair. You have always wanted to put your hands in it, untangle all of his braids and do them all again.

- “What are you doing?” he asks, laughing softly. - “I'm looking for the best place to make you a courting braid. All the dwarrowdams must understand immediately you’re mine. Especially those of this evening …”

Focused on the dwarf's hair, you don't see him smiling at you with eyes sparkling of joy. He takes your face with both hands so that you look him in the eyes. You can't help but smile at him. He kisses you furtively. After letting go of your face, he takes your hand and pulls it.

- “Follow me, we'll tell Kíli the good news!” - “W-what? Already? Are you sure this is a good idea?” - “No, but I'm in a hurry to tell him anyway!”

You end up laughing and following Fíli. At this time, you're sure Kíli is sleeping but his brother seems determined to wake him up, so why not!

This story takes place at the same time as this one: Plants and cakes

[amerrierworld]

Stronger Than Diamonds

Part III of Fiercer than Fire

Pt. 1: x

Pt. 2: x

Summary: Thorin is stubborn, though secretly beginning to crumble under the persuasion of Fili and his comrades. You, however, have no time to worry about his opinion with goblins capturing your friends.

Characters: Fili x fem!reader, Thorin, Company

Word Count: 2,664

Warnings: Goblins

-

You’d lost count of how much you had been sneezing since you had started the hike up the Misty Mountains. Having reluctantly left the blissful haven of Rivendell, you’d been brainstorming options on how best to survive the oncoming storm and encounters you were going to have inside the mountains. Nothing was coming to mind.

Maybe you should’ve stayed behind with Gandalf and joined him as he left Rivendell. But no, you thought, you belonged with the Dwarves. You would see this through to the end, even if it meant facing near death in the mountains.

As you were thinking, your hand gripped Fili’s tighter without realizing and he looked over at you.

“Are you alright?” he asked softly. Your head snapped up and you managed a wry smile at him.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Just worried, is all. Rivendell was such a nice place compared to- well, everything else we’ve encountered so far.”

Fili chuckled in agreement.

“No need to worry, Y/N. You have me by your side, and the others. In case anything happens, we’ll all have your back.”

You smiled and felt someone staring at you. You looked over your shoulder to find Thorin, once again, glaring at the two of you. Your face fell immediately.

“Maybe not all of you,” you mumbled.

-

Thorin was unhappy. As usual. Though he was content with leaving the wretched Elves behind, he hadn’t expected you and his nephew to grow even closer, defying his orders so blatantly and seemingly enjoying it too.

He was marching, brooding and trying to remind himself why you angered him so, and why you were no match for the Durin family.

The two of you chuckled up ahead and the sound made Thorin’s eyes look up, landing on your hand entwined with Fili’s, walking side by side. It made his blood boil.

“Ah, young love. What a wondrous thing, isn’t it laddie?”

Thorin was startled to find Balin next to him, not realizing the white-haird Dwarf had joined him to interrupt his thoughts. He, too, was looking at you and Fili up ahead.

“I do not know of what you speak,” Thorin retorted gruffly. Balin pressed his lips together in a tight line.

“Come, come, now, Thorin, have you ever seen Fili this happy before? Certainly not with any lass like this.”

Thorin furrowed his brows, ready to argue. “Nonsense. Fili’s been perfectly happy with other courtships. This quest has simply got in the way of that. I’m to make sure one of them continues after we’ve taken back our home.”

Balin raised an eyebrow, much like Dwalin had mastered to do. “Name one.”

Thorin blinked in surprise. His mind raced to respond, not letting down so easily.

“There were plenty of potential suitors. The young noble lass from Ered Luin, ginger.”

“Ran off with one of the stableboys more than once, if I recall correctly.”

“They liked each other.”

“But they didn’t love each other, Thorin.”

Thorin frowned at Balin. “That daughter of one of Dis’ friends, then. The seamstress, they got along just fine.”

Balin laughed. “Oh, aye, but only to ogle other pretty ladies together. She was never interested in Fili, my lad.”

Thorin cast his eyes down in thought. Had he really been so blind to all those suitors?

“Look, Thorin. You are meant to take the throne at Erebor when we reclaim it. And if Fili does become King after you, what harm would having Y/N as Queen do?”

“She’s of the race of Men.”

“Yes, but not the race of Men here. She’s been beyond this world, Thorin. Seen things, learned things that we can hardly imagine. Wouldn’t that be an advantage for Erebor at least?”

Thorin hadn’t thought of it that way. He had never thought of you being an asset to the rebuilding and growth of his kingdom, only a hindrance. He was silent for a moment.

“All I’m saying lad, is that you and I have both seen Fili grow up, and he’s still growing into a fine young Dwarf to this day. We both know that there hasn’t been any other lass that’s made him smile so.”

Thorin looked back towards the two of you ahead of him and Balin. You turned your head to meet his gaze and the smile you had for Fili faded instantly. Something in Thorin’s chest felt heavy after the glare you two shared, something like guilt.

He pushed it aside as rain began to fall. He’d worry about it later.

-

“Y/N! Are you alright?”

“Who would be so bold as to come armed into my kingdom? Spies? Thieves? Assassins?”

“Y/N, wake up! Please.”

“Dwarves, Your Malevolence.”

“Y/N, it’s Fili, please, please wake up. They’ll throw you over or torture you if you don’t.”

“Dwarves?”

“Hm, huh? Fili? My head hurts…”

“We found them on the front porch.”

“It’s me, darling. It’s me, please wake up. Open your eyes.”

“Well, don’t just stand there; search them! Every crack, every crevice.”

Claws were tearing at your skin and pain seared through you. Your eyes flew open and immediately you began fighting back. The stench of goblin filled your senses and you remembered where you were. The blow from falling down from the trap had knocked you unconscious, and blood was dripping down your face. You blinked and shook your head to wake up, struggling against the goblins as they tore off your coat and emptied your pockets.

“What are you doing in these parts? Speak!” The Great Goblin cried out, swinging his staff and staring the Company down.

None said a word, and you wormed your way through all the bodies to stand flush against Fili. His chest was rising rapidly, and your own skin was covered in a cold and terrified sweat. His eyes glanced over to you quickly, and you saw a moment of relief in them, but only briefly.

“Well then, if they will not talk, we’ll make them squawk! Bring out the Mangler! Bring out the Bone Breaker! Start with the youngest.”

He pointed a gnarled finger at Ori, who’s face was one of shock. Nori grabbed his arm and tried to wrestle the army that began grabbing at his younger brother. Thorin stepped forward.

“Wait.”

Everyone halted and turned to him. Thorin took another step forward, blocking Ori and met the Goblin King’s gaze, who looked on in surprise.

“Well, well, well, look who it is. Thorin son of Thrain, son of Thror; King under the Mountain.”

Your eyes were flickering about, stepping even closer to Fili. The goblins were eyeing all of you hungrily. Whether for sport or for a meal, you couldn’t tell.

“Oh, but I’m forgetting, you don’t have a mountain. And you’re not a king. Which makes you nobody, really.” 

“You don’t think goblins like man-meat, do you?” you whispered to Fili, trembling. “I mean, the Trolls were picky about eating you lot, so maybe these won’t wanna eat me.”

“I know someone who would pay a pretty price for your head. Just the head, nothing attached. Perhaps you know of whom I speak, an old enemy of yours. A Pale Orc astride a White Warg.”

Fili smirked a little. “I don’t think they’re going to care about what we taste like when they’ve skinned us and hacked us up in pieces, lass.”

You grimaced and nodded weakly.

“Azog the Defiler was destroyed. He was slain in battle long ago,” Thorin was practically spitting the words at the Great Goblin, his hands in fists at his side.

“So you think his defiling days are done, do you?” The Great Goblin chuckled lowly, moving towards a small creepy goblin hanging in a basket. “Send word to the Pale Orc; tell him I have found his prize.”

The tiny messenger goblin was cackling as it left, and your blood ran cold.

“You’ll be pleased to know that your long-term rival is still very much alive,” The Great Goblin snickered. “And your battles against him have meant nothing.”

Thorin visibly sneered and hurled forward as if to attack the giant monstrosity single-handedly.

“Uncle, no!” Fili exclaimed, grabbing Thorin’s arms before he could foolishly attack. You stood close behind him, keeping a hand wrapped around Fili’s upper arm, his presence being the only reassurance to prevent you from going into full panic-mode.

“Uncle, eh?” The Goblin King repeated. “Oh, what a wondrous mistake you’ve made there, King,” he snarled the word, “bringing your own kin into my realm.”

The cackling grew loud around them and echoed in the cave. Your ears hurt from the goblins’ laughter and you held onto Fili firmly. Then, four goblins dashed forward to throw Thorin to the side and seized Fili by a limb each.

The scream that ripped through your chest didn’t sound like it belonged to you, but your throat hurt nonetheless. Fili was struggling, trying to reach for one of his many daggers hidden in his clothes, but the goblins were holding him firmly, tearing through fabric and skin as they hauled him forward.

“So, you’ve managed to have a pathetic little bloodline after all?” The Goblin exclaimed, leaning down a little to examine Fili closely. “Hm, a little thin-looking, but I suppose he’d make a good meal or two for this lot.”

The goblins holding Fili down snickered maniacally. Your face went pale and you tried to reach for him, but Bofur held you back.  They forced him to his knees. One of the larger goblins held up a thick whip with many tails. Cheering ensued around them.

“Whip him til he breaks!” the Goblin screeched. “Make him bleed!”

Your cries mixed with those of the Company, and you managed to worm your way out of Bofur’s grasp as the whip came bearing down.

What happened next was all a blur to you. You were shoving bodies out of the way and hurled yourself over Fili’s crouched figure just as blinding pain coursed through your back. Fili gasped as he felt your body cover your own, turning his torso to catch you protectively.

“What’s this?” The Goblin cried. “A saviour for the pretty little princeling?”

“Y/N, what in Durin’s name are you doing?” Fili whispered raggedly in your ear. The goblin was rearing to slash the whip across your back again and you looked him in the eyes.

“Protecting you,” you whispered back. Your hand trailed over his cheek, damp with sweat, before reaching into his coat and grabbing one of his many hidden daggers.

Before the goblin could strike again, your blade was in his throat and he dropped the whip before the goblins could register what had happened.

“What?” The Goblin King was infuriated as goblins began falling at your hand, your battle skills having improved thanks to the Company’s lessons. “No! Slash them! Beat them! Kill them! Kill them all! Cut off his head!”

Your back was in pain, but adrenalin got the better of you. The Dwarves sprung into action as you began fighting back, grabbing their weapons and attacking the goblin army who were caught off guard.

Then, a blinding light threw all of you down on the floor. You yelled at the pain as you landed on your back, but relief spread through you as you made out Gandalf’s figure approaching the group, staff and Glamdring in hand.

A hand grabbed you by the bicep and hauled you up to your feet. You were surprised to find Thorin getting you up and ushering you down the rickety bridges, following the Wizard as the lot of you sprinted for your lives.

-

Somehow, you were still alive. The blood had become crusty on your back and your head was spinning from flying so high in the air.

You remembered vaguely what had happened after Goblin town. Bilbo had come back, you all rejoiced at the sight. But Azog sent you all running up into the trees. Fili had held onto you like a lifeline as your loss of blood began weakening you even more. Your vision had blurred when the fires began.

You recalled Bilbo running to save Thorin, and then you were being supported by Bofur as Dwalin, Fili and Kili all jumped into battle to fight against the Wargs.

Then everything had gone dark. Until Gandalf brought you back.

“Now now, lass, we need to take a look at those wounds.”

You waved Oin away, leaning heavily against Fili. “No, not until we get off this rock.”

“You were brave,” Fili whispered softly at you. “You saved my life, but you’re in no state to climb down yet.”

“I’m fine, Fili.”

“No, you’re not,” Thorin spoke up. “Do as Oin says. We have no time to wait for your stubbornness.”

Despite his kind words to Bilbo not mere minutes ago, his attitude was once again harsh and crisp towards you. You saw Fili’s eyes harden and he gently lowered you to sit on the ground as he marched towards his uncle.

“Her stubbornness may have saved all our lives in those caves, Uncle,” Fili said defiantly. You blinked in surprise. His tone had lowered menacingly and he didn’t waver one bit.

“She has tried time and time again to meet your approval!” your love continued. “And yet, even on the brink of death, you still cannot bring yourself to take a liking to her?”

“Fili-,” Thorin began.

“She has done more for this Company than any of us! And for what?”

“Fili…”

“Erebor isn’t her home, and yet she still comes with us. She owes us no allegiance, and yet she still fights for us! She puts up with all the foul words you throw at her, right up to the moment where she could die, saving my skin! Why would she do any such things when you still treat her like vermin?”

“Because she loves you, Fili.”

Fili froze mid-rant. He tended to ramble when passionate about something, you remembered fondly. You stared as the King Under the Mountain looked past his nephew at you. You clambered to your feet as he came closer to meet him at his height.

“I am realizing many things, Y/N. I realize that Hobbits may be more stubborn than us Durinfolk, and that the dead still live.” He paused a moment and his eyes flickered to the ground. “And I also realize that I was wrong about your intentions with my nephew.”

Your ears couldn’t believe what they were hearing. You stared at Thorin, dumbfounded at his confessions.

“I apologize it took me so long,” he apologized! “and that it took a brave but foolish action on your behalf to make me see that, truly, the two of you were destined for each other.”

Fili had rejoined your side and your hand squeezed his tightly, both for support and in disbelief.

“What are you saying, Uncle?”

“I’m saying that I give my blessing to your courtship. Though I hardly think that would’ve stopped the two of you from getting married anyway.”

You grinned at that, because it probably was true. “Thank you, Thorin.”

You wanted to scream, celebrate and cry all at once, but you slumped against Fili in exhaustion. All your resources were almost spent. Fili wrapped an arm around you.

“Let’s get you fixed up, love,” he murmured before looking back up at Thorin. “But, Uncle, all the things you said. The traditions we’ve had, the expectations of me as crown prince…”

Thorin rested a hand on Fili’s shoulder and smiled. “Let me deal with that when the time comes, Fili. None will stand in the way of me and my family’s happiness. Even old laws and their rules.”

Fili smiled and tears formed in his eyes. The two Dwarves pressed their foreheads together for a moment before he picked you up in his arms and lead you to Oin and Gandalf, promising to take care of you from now on until the end.

-

So! I promised this third and final part a very, very, very long time ago, and many of you had asked for it back then. Then I disappeared and never looked at Tumblr for years, up until now. I’m beyond sorry for not writing for so long, and I hope I’ve made it up to you with this. Let me know what you think, or if you want to see me write more. Even after all these years I’ll always come back to Middle-Earth and their stories.

[amerrierworld]

Brighter than Stars

Part II of Fiercer than Fire x 

Summary: You and Fili are courting, despite Thorin being against it, and are ready to stick by one another to face anything, including a grumpy King who still demands proof of your loyalty for his nephew and the life you’re committing yourself to.

Characters: Fili x fem!reader, Thorin, Company (some highlights on Dwalin, Bofur, Dori and Bilbo)

Word Count: 2,184

Warnings: uh, some wound fixing, some river playtime, some kisses I guess??

Dori was fussing over you and binding a minor scratch you’d acquired during the troll fight, but your leg was jittering impatiently. You wanted to stand up, move around, stretch even. The risk of the oncoming orc chase was biting at the back of your mind. Trolls had been a breeze compared to what you would face.

“Honestly, Dori, it’s just a scratch,” you snapped, pulling your arm away. “I’m fine.”

He continued to scold and tell you of the risks of infections but you had zoned out, scanning the group for a certain golden-headed dwarf. Once you found him, you saw he was already looking at you, and he smiled. Your heart swelled at the sight and you made your way over to him, though you were intercepted by Thorin himself. You cursed inwardly and tried not to look too sour. His arms were crossed again, his face cold like stone and you tried to imitate the expression, if only to appear tougher than you were.

Honestly, you were exhausted from the night’s events and could barely stand up, nevermind faced Thorin’s wrath right now, but your brain was fuelling your body, making you hyper and nervous for the next couple of hours.

You’d been so preoccupied with your thoughts you nearly missed Thorin’s words when he started talking to you, finally.

“…good job on distracting the trolls.”

You blinked. Was that a compliment? Was it really that easy?

“I may have underestimated our burglar’s skills.”

Oh. Never mind. You looked over to where Bilbo was awkwardly standing amongst the others, still covered in snot and also clearly tired from the fight.

“He’s brave,” you had to agree. Thorin was clearly just making small talk so you wouldn’t go over to Fili. You shifted on your feet. “He’ll make a fine burglar, you’ll see.”

Thorin was quiet for a minute.

“You were the first to agree with Master Baggins’ deception to prevent the trolls from eating us.”

"Well, yeah,” you shrugged. “Anything to not be troll snacks.”

Nothing. Not even a chortle of a sarcastic chuckle. Silence, again.

“You should know your efforts have not convinced me, anyone with a brain would have done the same.”

You rolled your eyes.

“Then why didn’t you do so?” you bit back, temper rising. “And why are you even telling me that? Is this a game to you?”

“My nephew’s well-being is not a game to me. You seemed so set on making this fight one that would seem memorable to me, but you must know that your clever plan has not worked.”

“Plan?” you scoffed. “You thinking this whole thing with Fili is to get at you someway, huh?”

Silence. Again.

“You really don’t think what I feel is genuine, do you?” you muttered darkly.

“You are of the race of Men. Nothing any of you do has ever been genuine,” he bristled before stalking past you.

You scowled after him and kicked at a stone. An arm was slung over your shoulder and you looked to see Bofur with his topsy hat and tipsy behaviour, in his hand a flask of something red from the troll’s cave. 

“Don’t worry lass, he’ll come ‘round eventually. You should know that me, my brother and my cousin are all fully supportive of your union with our wee lad over there.”

You smiled at that. “Bofur, is there really no way to impress that guy? I mean, sure, Thorin’s had a lot on his place, but I honestly don’t understand why he despises me so.”

“It’s not you he despises, it’s the idea of you.”

“…okay, that's very helpful.”

“It’s quite simple. Dwarves are very secluded, very traditional. Our ways have already shifted when we got a Hobbit on our hands, and now you. Thorin is the epitome of Dwarven culture and tradition because of his upbringing. He wants to start Erebor off right, and you being there and quite possible holding more power than him is bothering him.”

You blinked, surprised by the monologue from the drunk Dwarf and sighed, your shoulders sagging. “I suppose that makes sense.”

"Furthermore!” Bofur said brightly. “You are human, and he doesn’t quite understand humans. Back in the Blue Mountains, before he really established us Dwarves there, they weren’t the nicest to him. I’m hoping you’ll be able to change his mind.”

You nodded. “I’ll try, but no promises.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it, lass.”

Thorin’s POV:

Elven dinners were extremely dull. As Gandalf and the pointy-eared son of a -ahem, Lord Elrond, continued their conversations on their apparently very exciting adventures, and the elf scolding the wizard for his past involvement with some elf witch lady, Thorin finds himself glaring daggers at you. Fili was seated next to you, much too close for comfort, and had whispered something amusing in your ear which led you to nearly choke on your drink.

He didn’t exactly know what made him so suspicious of you. Mahal knows his nephew has had worse offerings for courtships thrown at him, but you came as a surprise.

Fili had already approached him multiple times since that wretched night where you stood before him and claimed you could prove yourself worthy of his hand. Thorin’s face scrunched up subconsciously at the thought of it. Thorin, shamefully, had tuned out some of the factors that could perhaps change his mind. He was deadset on forbidding your marriage.

It wasn’t so much the fact that you were human, but that was something to consider. That’s essentially all you were, just human. No notable bloodline nobility or royalty that counted in this world, no exceptional skill he deemed useful for any upcoming part of the quest, no striking personality trait that he thought to be beneficial from a political and financial point of view.

You were, quite simply, no match for some of the duties that came with the potential of being queen. Dis and Thorin had often discussed the options for an arranged marriage, there were quite a few that would be very good unions for the Dwarven kingdoms and the re-establishment of Erebor. He had discussed it with Fili many times before, but then you appeared. Like a wisp out of a dream, bewitching his nephew.

Elrond and Gandalf were discussing roads and swords. He needed a drink.

“Excuse me,” he muttered before quite abruptly standing from the table. He knew your wary eyes were following him, afraid that at any second he might behead you to get this whole ordeal done and over with. He’d have to handle a hysteric nephew for a while, but in the end the results would be much better for his kingdom.

His kingdom. That’s what this was for. Erebor was priority number one from the moment he stepped inside the burglar’s home. He couldn’t afford a decision that would prove fatal to the kingdom’s stability in years to come.

He took a sip from his flask and glanced over to see your nose covered in cream, reaching over to do the same to Bilbo and Fili. Balin expertly dodged your incoming hand, chuckling fondly.

Something in Thorin’s heart tugged quite harshly and he looked away, cold eyes staring down a wall just to have something to glare at.

Fili would have to wake up soon. For the sake of Erebor.

It was nearing dusk and you were, quite stubbornly, not willing to go back inside. Your were knee-deep in one of Rivendell’s smaller rivers, with a certain dwarf’s arms wrapped tightly around your middle. Beard hairs tickled your neck as you both watched the orange sun nearing the horizon. The wound on your arm had healed up nicely thanks to Elven efforts and you had convinced Fili to meet you in the secluded area that evening for a couple minutes of alone-time.

“You never quite told me what happened between you and Thorin that night of the trolls,” Fili said softly. “And you’ve barely spoken to him since. Are you sure you’re alright?”

“Yeah,” you said with a determined set of eyebrows, nodding. “Thorin’s just a stubborn mule, that’s all.”

Fili chuckled. You could feel the jostling of his chest easier like this, he had stripped of his thick fur coat and many layers until the two of you were almost inappropriately clothed. You’d gotten rid of the bodice and shoes that came with the dress and Fili had abandoned his gloves and knives. All for sharing body heat, he had said.

Sure.

“Well, it runs in the family I can assure you,” he pressed his nose to your cheek and inhaled. “I’m not willing to give you up.”

You giggled at the absurdity of you two running around, hiding from Thorin like he’s the big bad wolf and meeting in dark corners and at night like two love-sick teenagers.

“What’s so funny?”

You sighed and stared ahead of you. “You are.”

“I’m glad I amuse you then. Good humour is a cornerstone of a good marriage, I’ve been told.”

“Who told you that?”

“I believe it was Bofur.”

“Was he drunk?”

“When is he ever sober?”

The ordinary conversation between the two of you was very relaxing, and you leaned your head back against his shoulder, before responding, “He is quite an amusing dwarf I must say.”

“More amusing than me?” there was a hint of joking envy in his tone and you smirked, your eyes closed.

“Oh, most definitely.”

You barely registered when the hands moved from your waist lightning quick and you found yourself tossed into the deeper end of the river.

You came up, spluttering, to the sight of Fili who was laughing until his cheeks turned red.

Once the initial shock of being soaked passed, you ended up laughing along with him but not before tackling him and dragging him under with you. He quickly dominated the wrestling match, ending with the two of you on your knees in the water, his hands gripping your wrists so you couldn’t squirm away. You were flushed and gasping for breath, but more so for the continuous laughter than lack of oxygen.

He stole a kiss that made you gasp and you quickly returned it, resulting in heated kisses that were extra sloppy this time with the amount of water you had dripping from your hair and faces.

A grumbling cough made you splash back and Fili turned around to see a scowling Dwalin, arms crossed, standing by your piles of clothes. You decided then and there that Dwalin had mastered the art of the one eyebrowed lift.

Fili quickly stuttered an apology and made to stand up, only to catch his foot on a rock and stumble and fall with an unpleasant smack into the water. You snorted and coughed, trying not to laugh and trying not to get more water up your nose. Fili appeared again, shaking his head to get his hair out of the way.

Dwalin’s scowl had long since disappeared and a humoured smile tugged at his lips. Fili turned to look at you and started at the sight of you clutching your middle and your shoulders shaking. Afraid he’d startled you, he made to reach and hold you close.

“Darling, what’s wrong?” he said, concerned. But his worry was quickly wiped away when you threw your head back, cackling. This time Dwalin joined in.

“Oh-o, dear, oh boy,” you said when you got most of your breath back. “Gods, Fili, you look like a drowned cat.”

Fili rolled his eyes and huffed, but was comforted by the touch of your hands smoothing his mess of hair out of his face and kissing his cheek.

“You two lovebirds should get out before either of ye ge’ a cold. Thorin’s grumpy enough as i’ is, a sniffling Company member I'll not help tha’,” Dwalin said gruffly, and you realized that perhaps it wasn’t you or Fili he really was angry at.

You held his hand, or rather, he held yours captive, and led him safely up to dry land. Dwalin clasped him on the shoulder and you pecked him on the cheek before wishing the both of them goodnight. You wanted to get out as quickly as possible before Thorin came out, because he usually wasn’t far behind Dwalin and you’d had him staring the two of you down like a hawk.

Fili caught your hand. “Are you sure you won’t stay with us?” he asked. The rest of the Company were given one massive room with lots of open space that was almost a patio looking over some nice forestry.

“I’m sure,” you said. “A goodnight’s sleep away from a dozen snorers will be good for me.”

Fili sighed, not entirely convinced, but let you go for you to enjoy your luxury. “Goodnight then.”

He kissed you once more, not caring that Dwalin swore under his breath and turned around, grumbling about idiotic behaviour and you hurried inside with a blush staining your cheeks for the rest of the night. The stars were out long before you actually fell asleep, a happy grin on your face.

OH. oh. Oh? Is that it?? NO my lovelies. There is more Thorin-being-an-ass and Fili-being-a-cheeky-devil coming up in a third parter to this series. Why, you may wonder? Well, I wanted to get some Thorin POV in here and some Rivendell fluff, but the big climax is coming up shortly in the story line where hopefully Thorin can finally see Y/N’s potential (maybe). Let me know what you thought! Apologies for the late updates, but Part III should be up this week if not tomorrow.