A/N – Hello again, Gentle Readers. Thank you so much for all the likes and follows. I particularly want to send a very special thank you to Ani-maniac494, who has graciously volunteered to help beta this story. You are the best! :)

– x- x-x-x-x-

She walked beside her king, thinking it strange that he seemed to be willing to spend such simple time with her, although she found that she appreciated his presence. Both were healing emotionally after the battle. They both knew far too many who had been lost.

"Do you recall when you were young, Tauriel, and you used to come to me when something troubled you?"

She smiled as she called to mind a time when she was very, very young and completely enamored with the beautiful and protective monarch who had become her guardian. Of course she remembered. Elves had notoriously long memories. She ducked her head in embarrassment and blushed. "It was most improper of me, my Lord," she said abashedly.

The king chuckled warmly, making Tauriel hide a smile of fondness at the sound. She was no longer a child and now held to propriety - in most cases.

"You would interrupt me, regardless of what I was doing, or whom I was with, and tug at my robes until I held you, and if I tried to ignore you, you would evade capture from your caretakers and crawl onto my lap." His voice was merely stating the fact, yet, Tauriel caught a glimpse of warmth and humor in his eyes.

Again, she blushed and was unable to look at him. "I am sorry for that, my Lord."

"You were a child who knew nothing better at the time. Legolas always found great amusement when you came to me."

She smiled again at the fond memory. Having been too young to understand that he was a king, she had adored Thranduil and would run to him whenever any childhood fear plagued her, regardless of whether it was big or small. He'd never failed to comfort her, making her feel safe and loved. "Elthasar eventually informed me that my actions were not appropriate," she said, thinking of her childhood teacher, who always seemed so alarmed by her actions.

Thranduil made a sound of agreement. "I would have preferred that he kept you uninformed for a bit longer."

Those words made her finally gather the courage to look up, although she said nothing, her heart warmed at the fond glimmer in his eyes. It was a rare sight, and she was reminded that once she'd loved and revered this elven king as the center of her universe. Guilt wrapped around her heart, remembering how she'd threatened him in Dale.

Feeling uncomfortable, she diverted the topic. "He is a fine teacher. It was his duty to teach me proper manners."

"Elthasar no longer walks the forest. He was killed while fighting to protect Dale," he informed her, his smile gone, replaced by an impassive stare. It was mere fact, stated as if brought by messenger, but Tauriel knew that this hurt the king deeply. Elthasar had been a trusted aide - even friend - to the king, and had been a beloved instructor in Tauriel's youth. The pain struck deeply as a sudden and unwelcome sadness overtook her. The losses during the battle had been painful and this was a reminder of how dark that day had been for the elves.

She sucked in a sharp breath to maintain her composure, although her voice broke slightly. "He will be missed."

"He was a teacher and a scholar," Thranduil said evenly, showing no emotion, although Tauriel knew it was only a practiced facade. "He had no place on a battlefield."

"But, my Lord..." she started to say.

The king leveled his gaze, his expression turning just a bit colder. "I ordered him, and hundreds of others who were just as ill-suited, to join a legion intended to intimidate a dozen dwarves who were holed up in a mountain fortress. It was never my intention that he see true battle."

She thought of the carnage she'd seen in Dale. Every elf, trained warrior or not, had been needed to defend against Azog's legions. "Had he not been there..."

"Had he and the others not been there, the battle might have gone far worse." Thranduil released a sharp sigh, but there was only coldness in the sound and he waved his hand, effectively stopping her from speaking further. "Do you think that I regret my decision?"

She did not wish to respond. It was far too personal a question.

He raised an eyebrow, silently demanding that she comply.

Her voice trembled slightly. "It is not my place to say, my Lord."

He gave a dismissive sniff at her obvious discomfort and leveled an unwavering stare at her with his cold, blue eyes. "You had little difficulty in stating your opinion during the battle."

She immediately averted her gaze, blushing deeply in embarrassment at the memory. She did not regret her decision, but it was awkward to revisit it with him now.

"The choices of a king affect many," he said, almost gently, as he continued to stride regally down the hall, Tauriel feeling small and insignificant as she trailed by his side. "I made the decision to bring as many as I could to intimidate a far inferior opponent. I chose to bring those lesser trained and leave those more capable here, so that our Halls would not be left defenseless. And I wished to make a favorable impression on the people of Dale to gain their respect and allegiance. In this case, had I arrived with twice our number, Thorin Oakenshield would still not have been swayed, nor would he have been affected had I brought only a small group of diplomats and a generous gift to honor him as king. It was reasonable to presume he would be stubborn, but not to the point of insanity."

She felt more like a child than she had in centuries. There was a lesson being taught and she felt that there was something she was missing. "I do not understand, my Lord."

His eyes took on a faraway look, as if he was recalling the weight of every decision in the many centuries of his lifetime. "Sometimes we make the right decision for the wrong reasons. Sometimes we make the wrong decision with the best of intentions. But," he paused and looked at her with intensity, "far, far too often, there is no right decision and we must learn to live with the consequences of our choice."

She sucked in a breath, knowing that his words were a warning. "Do you feel you made the wrong choice in saving Kili?"

A small smile lifted the corner of his mouth. "No."

"But there are decisions to be made," she said, her voice feeling heavy with the dread of knowing his answer would not be what she wanted to hear.

"Your dwarf has asked to summon Dain," he said evenly, his voice and expression showing no emotion. "When Dain learns of his fate, there will be many possible outcomes."

"Once Dain knows that he lives..."

"You're dwarf will be faced with great responsibility. Remember, Tauriel, that you also have a responsibility beyond that of your heart. What you choose to do and say will affect your life, that of your dwarf, that of our people and even the dwarves under the mountain. There may be no correct path to take and you must be prepared for the consequences. What is best for all may not be what your heart desires."

"I understand." Her voice broke slightly, and she could feel a weight of dread settle in her chest. Once the dwarves knew Kili lived, he would be leaving. He had a responsibility to the mountain and his kin that lived there, and it would likely outweigh his youthful infatuation with her. Whatever was between the dwarf and herself would change forever - and probably not for the better. Thranduil had warned her that this would happen. He'd warned her and tried to prepare her for such an outcome from the moment that they'd begged the Valar for a reprieve over his broken body, but a part of her had not fully believed that it would happen so quickly.

"First, however, I must speak with Mithrandir," he said, and there was no mistaking the hint of annoyance in his expression. "He is observant and knows that we hide something of importance. He will need to be told of the dwarf soon. Once he learns, I can no longer delay contacting Dain."

It almost made her smile to see how the wizard vexed him. She loved her king but, like many, she knew how he hated when others challenged him. The Grey Wizard was one who seemed to delight in the task.

"Would you prefer that I speak with him?" she asked, a hint of amusement sparking in her eyes at her mighty king's discomfort.

His eyes softened with affection. "I might prefer that, but no. When the time comes, I will deal with the wizard," he informed her, his expression turning grave. "He can be obstinate in such matters."

"I understand, my Lord."

Again, her king smiled, this time in encouragement. "Go speak with your dwarf. He has much to consider. If he is able, bring him to dinner."

She bowed, placing her hand over her heart, indicating that she acknowledged her king's wishes and turned to leave. They would need to build trust with the dwarves and her relationship with Kili was an opening to establishing a new alliance between the two peoples. She needed to be able to lose him to his duty to his kingdom, but there was now the hope that her loss would bring a better future for all in their united fight against the darkness.

"Tauriel..."

She stopped, turning back to her king, but she was moved by the genuine concern that she saw in his eyes. "Yes, my Lord."

"You are not alone."

Her heart warmed at the sound of such sentiment from her king. He had never been an elf of many words - at least never in her short lifetime - and what words he spoke rarely allowed a glimpse into his personal thoughts or feelings. No matter what came of these choices, and despite her recent rebellion and disobedience, she knew that this king loved her much like a daughter and she would always have a place in his heart. His words gave her the strength to do what she must when the time came.

x

She entered quietly, finding the room darkand she assumed that Kili was asleep. He was recovering well but his body was still mortal and required much rest to heal from the terrible blow he'd suffered. She'd been encouraged by how much he'd improved with each passing day. Her heart clenched at the memory of Bolg's hideous weapon slamming down onto his chest. It replayed in her mind and she knew it would be part of her nightmares for decades to come.

But, she would have decades, perhaps centuries ahead. She would not fade. Her love lived, even if only for a few years or decades, or perhaps a century or two. Decisions would be made, and those might lead Kili to live his time on Arda apart from her. Yet, he remained in Arda, at least for a while, and that was the comfort she needed.

She loved him enough to let him go to live under his mountain without her, if circumstances warranted that.

Sitting at the edge of the bed, she stroked the soft chestnut waves of hair from his face. He was not the definition of beautiful for an elf, but his eyes, even when closed, showed gentleness. He was a being of such open emotion that it drew out her own. He'd told her that she made him feel alive, yet he had no idea that he'd done the same for her. With him, because of him, she saw the world anew. It was a place of adventure and hope. He held no Eldar light, but his spirit shone just as bright.

He turned in his sleep, his head resting against her hand as if seeking her comfort. With little thought, she leaned down and kissed him on the forehead. He smiled and she felt his breathing change as he awoke.

"I could wake up to that every morning," he said, his eyes opening to show a twinkle of mischief.

"It is nearly evening," she informed him with an amused smile. She started to withdraw her hand but he caught it, holding it firmly.

Slowly he sat up, and she was encouraged to see that the action held far less pain than it had only a day ago. But then, unexpectedly, his other hand reached up to wrap behind her head, his fingers burrowing into her hair, pulling their faces closer together. She allowed it, relaxing and leaning toward him almost without thought. The feeling was so natural to be close to him that, when his lips touched hers, she felt a surge of elation flow over her like water in a river. It was something she'd hoped for and even expected, without conscious thought.

The sensation of his lips against hers riveted her attention, tender and almost shy, and quite contrary to his sometimes brash and suggestive remarks. It told much about him. It was such a simple act, yet so intimate and special. It was a closeness, a bond. Somehow, it made her feel as if she was more than she was. It was a feeling more powerful than the Light of the Eldar. It was life.

The kiss did not last long, yet it felt like an eternity and only a brief instant at the same time.

Her mind touched briefly on the great love sagas and now she understood the driving force behind them. She had been completely consumed by the feeling of kissing him, and it made her realize that she felt closer to him, heart and soul, than she'd ever been to any other - not her parents, not her king, and not even her best friend, Legolas, all of whom she loved dearly. None could bring out the intensity of what she felt for this dwarf. Her life was tied to his in a way that she'd never imagined.

But, the words of her king, and the warnings about mortals cast a doubt in her heart. Mortals did not love with the intensity of elves. Perhaps his infatuation with her was only a passing fancy and, now that he had the responsibility of a dwarven kingdom on his shoulders, she would be cast aside.

His focus on her was so complete that he noticed the concern on her face immediately, even though it only lasted a moment. "You're sad."

"No," she denied quickly. She was far from sad. Her heart sang with joy to be near him and the feeling of the kiss still echoed on her lips. She felt doubt, confusion, fear of losing him again in any of a number of ways. But, not sadness.

"I'm sorry if I..." he paused, looking at her lips longingly, then with guilt. "I'm sorry if I took advantage. I just wanted to do that since I first saw you and I thought..."

"No," she said again, not wanting him to regret the kiss. She felt herself blush and she looked down, unsure of how to respond. "I... It was..." She had no words that could describe her feelings without sounding foolish. Perhaps someday, when she knew him better she might be able to describe it. "It was not unwelcome," she said, as she looked up to meet his eyes, giving him a small smile.

His face brightened and his dark brown eyes sparkled with warmth and a touch of impish adoration. "Good. Because I may have to do that again."

She blushed at the insinuation. It wasn't common for elves to kiss. The action held far too much meaning, which once again brought forth her doubts.

"Tauriel?" he prompted.

"You have asked to speak with Dain."

His smile lessened, but changed to something that seemed reassuring. "He thinks I'm dead. If they find out that I'm being held here, without their knowledge, Dain will react badly. Any dwarf would. It's best if I meet with him soon - explain that you helped."

She nodded, her concern showing in the weight of her next words. "You have obligations."

Understanding and worry flashed on his expressive features. "You don't want me to return to the mountain."

"It is your home." She said the words as a simple fact, but there was much more meaning in the tone behind them. It is your duty. It is not with me.

He released a grunt that sounded a bit ironic. "I've never lived there."

Without thought, her hand reached up to touch his cheek and she marveled at the softness of his light beard. "I would not be welcome there."

Surprisingly, his face lit with a bright smile, as if the sun suddenly shone. The look surprised her. He'd smiled in her company since he'd awoken, but she could tell he had been reserved, his feelings constantly tainted by the grief he felt over the loss of his kin. But this was a true, unguarded smile, one that she'd seen when they'd first spoken. The smile that had initially drawn her to him.

She couldn't hide her confusion - and no small amount of hurt. "That makes you happy?"

His hand immediately covered hers on his cheek, before she could withdraw. Quickly, he turned his head to kiss her palm and then turned back, that mad grin still plastered on his lips, his eyes twinkling with delight. "You would go with me."

She blinked, her mouth dropping open slightly, although, after a moment of watching his expectant look, she realized he wanted confirmation. She nodded her head, slightly.

His grin became brighter, if that was possible, and he leaned in and kissed her quickly on the mouth, so quickly that she hardly had time to register the act.

"I don't understand."

"You would go with me, even to Erebor. You want to be with me."

She nodded again, although she was still deeply confused. "Of course."

His hand clasped hers, firmly, with such warmth that she could almost feel the happiness flowing from him. "Amralime." His voice was husky as he said the word, his dark eyes sparkling with adoration and happiness. Truly, there was depth to the meaning that could not be translated into common.

Finally, the doubt that had nagged her lifted as she began to understand. She remembered his sweet and heartfelt plea while on the shores of Esgaroth. She remembered the deep hurt that he'd shown when she'd told him she couldn't go with him. And, she thought of the runestone, still in her pocket, close to her. His promise.

She pulled it out with her free hand, since he'd claimed her other with no apparent intention of letting go. "You kept your promise."

He put his other hand over hers, holding the stone solidly between their adjoined palms. "I will always keep that promise."

There was no stopping the tears that started flowing down her cheeks as she realized the truth of his words.

"I left my brother behind," he said, his eyes filling with tears, although they did not fall. "For you. I don't know what happened during that time, but I'm certain that he sent me back to you."

"But your people... The mountain..." she started to say.

"That is why I have to speak with Dain," he said earnestly, and she focused on the tone: deep and warm and gently reassuring. "I've asked that he come here, partly because I'm not yet up to the travel, but also so that we can decide, privately, what is best for the mountain."

She looked down at their joined hands, the stone still resting warmly between their palms. Her king had warned her to guard her heart because Kili might not return her love with the same fervor that she felt as an elf, or that he might feel his obligations to his people were greater than his personal feelings, but she couldn't stop the hope that now welled within her.

"You wish to return," she said slowly, with trepidation. "They will wish for you to become king."

"I was never meant to be King under the Mountain," he said, his voice breaking with emotion. "That was Fili's role. He was the heir – and I was only the younger brother. I was supposed stand by his side, make him laugh, and keep him sane. I was supposed be there to protect him."

Shamelessly, the tears finally broke free and rolled down his cheeks. "But that wasn't supposed to happen for another hundred years or so, when Thorin passed after a long reign."

She placed a hand on his shoulder, offering little comfort.

He looked up at her. "Would you stand by me? Be my queen?"

She felt as if the air had been taken from her lungs. The word queen was not a title she could even fathom for herself. It felt wrong. "Kili..."

He sat up and smiled, tightening his hold on her hand. "That would be the only way I could stand it, is if you were there beside me."

The words were impulsive. Reckless. She knew that what he suggested would never be accepted among his own people but the look of hope and honesty in his eyes matched the day at the lake – when he'd first asked her to come with him to the mountain.

Her heart yearned to say yes, but the words of her king nagged at the back of her mind – telling her that it was an unwise choice, one that would affect many more than just the two of them. She would never be welcome among his kind. He would have to face insurmountable opposition.

But Kili's eyes were shining as he continued, undaunted and unencumbered by such doubts, "I would build you a room that was open to the stars. You would never be without them, if you wished. I need you, Tauriel." He paused, looking so sad that her heart broke. "I've lost them – my brother, my uncle. I cannot do this alone."

But could she? A life away from the forest, from her people, from her king – if it were only that, she could accept it without hesitation. But the situation was far more complicated.

"Your people would not accept me. They would fight you if I am with you."

He nodded, knowing that she was speaking the truth. "Aye, they would. But, if I've won you, and could return from death, how could I not succeed?"

She couldn't help but feel buoyed by his stubborn enthusiasm. "You could do anything, melleth nin."

He smiled at the endearment. "I do know what that means," he said with that precious, impish smile coming to his lips.

When her gaze lifted back to his eyes, she saw something new there. The young, reckless dwarf that she'd met had grown greatly in the past few weeks. He had matured. His reckless nature had led him to flirt shamelessly and fall in love with an elf, but he was now thinking ahead, planning not for himself but for her as well. She loved him all the more for it, but the advice from her king still made her wary for the future.

Xx

melleth-nin – my love