A/N: Oh ho ho, my lovely little readers, I have one surprise more up my sleeve. It was a while back that I mentioned the story would have two endings, so as to mend the hearts that were surely broken by Tolkien's end (A.K.A. mine), I made this. So I've written this, a soppy little fluff piece that should ease along the pain, also, it is quite long. Oh and warning, and obvious implications of sex, but nothing graphic. So to everyone out there, have a very Happy New Years! I mean it this time when I say until the next piece I write, goodbye!

Alternate Ending;

~l l~

The Battle of Five Armies had been devastating indeed, but slowly, Dale and Erebor were rebuilt. The dwarves from the Iron Hills stayed, always under the watchful eye of Dain and Thorin. The people of Dale looked up to Bard, and the cities helped each other as they grew. But within these towns, between two young archers, a love most profound blossomed.

Months after the battle, birds twittered around the entrance to Erebor, which seemed to be booming with life. Everyone within the now lively dwarven city was bustling about, doing something of the utmost importance. Men and women from Dale entered and dwarves greeted them, guiding them inside. If one looked closely, they could even see a red-haired elven woman walking in quietly with the rest of the crowd.

Deep in the halls, important things were happening. The man who now led Dale talked to the King of Erebor, discussing a treaty of sorts between the two races. The halls were well lit, but they poured over the table covered in written documents as if it were a war hall. Bard insisted, "They'll be doing it this way, it is tradition!"

Thorin merely looked at the man over his thick eyebrows, "No no, there are dwarven rituals they must follow. She is being inducted into a dwarven kingdom, not the other way around. We will proceed with things as planned. Is that understood?"

Bard shook his head, arguing, "She must have someone give her off, if nothing else. It is a sign of trust between the two kingdoms, come now Thorin, even you must see that."

Yet an elder dwarf walked quietly in, having heard most of the conversation from down the hall. He glanced at the two, still fighting as they used to. Balin interrupted, "My King, Bard, why don't we just let the lad and lass do as they've already planned? They decided on a mostly dwarven ceremony with just a few human traditions. It is their day."

Thorin pushed back, "It is not just a wedding Balin, this is the peace between a kingdom of man and dwarf, something that has not happened yet. We must assure that they know she is becoming of dwarven kin, not a union between the two kingdoms."

Balin shrugged it off, before muttering, "Let it be, you get far too worked up over your nephews Thorin. And Bard, try not to get too upset either, the young ones are both happy and that is all that matters."

So the conversation stopped for a moment, Bard giving in and agreeing, "I suppose it is time we finally bury the hatchet, we are to be kin soon, are we not?"

Thorin nodded slowly, before relenting, "I suppose we are. Well then, let us proceed!" This trio split while another was formed in deeper halls. In a well-furnished bedroom, two princes sat conversing while another dwarf walked in. The pair looked up only to see Bofur smiling down at them. The two smiled wide, though one of them had an obvious happiness radiating off of him in waves.

Kili had heard long ago of 'cold feet' but he has never been more excited for everything that the future would hold. In a few hours, he would be married to the love of his life at last. It nearly didn't happen, but yet another reason to be in love with her: when he was next to death, she had saved his life. In the midst of the battle, she had shot her dagger straight into the orc's brain, and so he went down. He had still received a small wound from the falling spiked hammer, but alas, he was alive.

Bofur's voice finally pervaded the silence, and he questioned, "Are ya ready Kili? No more bar wenches for ya." He winked, knowing perfectly well the lad had never been like that.

Laughter rang through the room, but Kili suddenly grew nervous. He paled somewhat, before looking back up at them. He asked, "You don't think she thinks I was like that, do you?"

Bofur shook his head hastily while Fili grabbed his brother's shoulder. He spoke calmly, the way only he knew how, "Kili, listen. Imagine all of the feelings you have for her, imagine them in their fullest extent. All of the love, happiness, bliss, everything, hold onto that feeling. Now that, that is how she feels about you. I've heard her talk of it enough, she is as deeply in love as you are, so calm down."

He nodded, allowing that to sink in. He felt a fire deep in his heart and he knew, this was what it was meant to be, this was what he wanted more than anything. He just had to trust her, had to trust the secrets they've told and the promises they've made.

And so Fili helped his brother put on the Erebor blue robes, covering him in ceremonial jewels. He was required to have a sword on him to promise protection, a blue pendant that went down to his heart to ensure successful love, and a heavy crown to indicate his status as well as show further the importance of the wedding, this was no one-night love.

They set about preparing the young prince while across the city, a woman sat on her temporary bed, thinking of every possible thing that could go wrong. Two girls were in the room with her, trying to get her to relax, shushing and nullifying her possibilities.

Sigrid, the easier to frustrate of the two, finally demanded, "Kiralyn, do you even want to get married?"

Immediately, the woman in question grew fierce, eyes blazing and back straight. She countered, "Of course I do, I love him more than the world. I didn't save him just to see him fade out of my life. I've never wanted anything more in my life."

Tilda, young though bright, calmed everyone down by beginning to stroke the woman's hair. She offered, in her small voice, "Then get out everything that is troubling you. We're here to help, sister." They both had taken to calling her sister, though they had traced her lineage to find that Bard was actually her uncle. Her father had never talked of his family much, so she never realized they were this close.

She looked up nervously, before she began rambling, "Well, I'm not nervous about marrying him. I only feel joy when I think about the days, months, and years ahead. But, I-I'm worried I'm going to mess up one of the ceremonies, I'm worried I won't be any good as a princess, I'm worried no one will accept me because I am human." She began to blush at her last thought, whispering it so they could barely here, "And I'm worried about the wedding night."

Tilda looked up curiously, "What do you mean?" Before the younger girl could say another word, Sigrid shushed her as her face began to turn red itself.

Sigrid asked politely, "Tilda, would you actually find either Bofur or Oin? Kira's hair still needs to be done and they are the best with braids. Just ask the first dwarf you see, I'm sure they can help you find them. Now hurry on!" She was suspicious, but left the room without much argument.

The eldest child then turned to her, an eyebrow raised. She sat down and took Kiralyn's hands in her own, before asking, "What are you worried about?"

She shook her head, trying to shake off the thought, but it kept coming back. She nervously mentioned, "My mother said once that it hurt and I suppose I've gotten enough injuries that pain scares me more than most. But, what if I'm no good, what if it's awkward?"

Sigrid, barely younger than Kiralyn, simply shrugged, continuing to hold her hands tightly before she assured, "I may not know a lot in that area, but I know how you love him and he loves you. No matter what happens, I'm sure you will both be happy."

And so the archer nodded, feeling a bit better. She was still jittery, but she knew that it would be okay. A deep breath in, and she calmed down, before looking at the wardrobe in front of her in awe. She finally commented quietly, "It really is a beautiful dress."

For a moment, they stared there just admiring it. It had long sleeves and a ruched, but somewhat low bust line. It was long, draping to the floor with what she was sure would have a train. Everything about it was gorgeous; she couldn't wait to try it on.

The younger woman nodded, before ushering her off of the bed. She added, "There is still much we have to do, come on now. This dress needs to get on you as soon as we can, don't want one of the dwarves coming in to see you in your chemise."

They began the complicated task thusly, minding the corset and baubles attached the dress. It was difficult enough to figure out without the layers of different fabrics, but at last, Kiralyn struggled into it. As Sigrid tied her up, she began laughing, adding, "We didn't untie the front lacings, it would've gone on quite a bit easier."

As they finished lacing her up, draping the fabric in the way it was supposed to lay, and adjusting the hemline, Oin rushed into the room with Tilda by him, the two at the same height. She smiled at the dwarf before questioning, "What shall we do with my hair then?"

The elder dwarf shushed her, before murmuring, "You'll make the most beautiful princess yet." But the warm smile that was brought to her voice was ripped away as she was sat down and felt her hair being tugged in all directions. She strained to keep her features calm as he pulled on her hair, adding beads and jewels as he continued working. She felt a small headache begin to grow, but knew it would be worth it.

As he did this, the two ladies fussed over her dress and face, adorning her with light makeup they had come across. Sigrid had to watch Tilda carefully, but the trio around her worked as diligently as ever.

Finally, Oin huffed out, "Lass, just wait until they see you."

She looked at him gratefully, about to say something, when they guided her to the mirror. She stared in awe, amazed at how beautiful she looked. Her hair had silver and sapphire flowers woven throughout the complex braided up-do, though a few curled strands rested on her shoulder. Beads decorated a braid that draped over the rest in the back. Her makeup was just blush and some sort of light lip coloring; though she thought her own blush was plenty. The dress was a midnight blue fabric that glimmered and shone as she walked, silver accents covering the dress on her bust line, shoulders, hem, and sleeves. Around her waist lay another silver belt, metal made though shockingly comfortable, a bright sapphire in the center. She was in awe, and the butterflies came back full force. What would he think?

Sigrid and Tilda awed, until Tilda commented, "Kira, you are the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. You look simply perfect."

Sigrid assured, "He's quite the lucky dwarf, sister."

Even Oin added, "You'll make a good princess, Miss Kira, don't let anyone tell you different. Now I'll leave you ladies alone, though prepare, it'll be starting soon!"

He hustled off, ear horn still in hand in case anyone else needed his help. She looked at her hand, the ring Kili had offered her long ago still on her finger. She twisted and turned it, growing more and more nervous as each second ticked by. She felt the sudden urge to run to him and just let them marry without everyone watching, but resisted the temptation.

She rehearsed the ceremony in her head until a heavy knock came at the door. A blond dwarf entered the room, a smile on his face. She turned, only slightly disappointed to see Fili, before smiling wider. She stood up, feeling graceful in the dress, and walked over to him. He just stared at her, a gentle grin on his features. He finally spoke up, "I'll be lucky to have you as my sister Kiralyn. My brother got his chance, and thank Thrain he took it."

He brought her into an embrace, full and close. He whispered, "Just don't be too loud tonight; my room is next to yours after all."

She fell out of the hug and smacked him on the arm, glaring at him but only lightly. She muttered to herself, "The day you marry, I swear Fili, you'll never hear the end of it from me."

He laughed heartily, before another knock came at the door. She called out, "Come in, the door is open."

At long last, Bard walked in the room, more than a little surprised to see who all was in attendance. He cleared his throat, and Fili left with a small wave. He looked toward his girls before asking, "Girls, would you go take your leave? The ceremony is about to begin."

Hurriedly, the girls left the room, though Tilda threw a thumbs-up, before shutting the door. She felt a small laugh escape her, before she looked up at Bard. Over the past few months, he had become like a father to her, always there to make sure she was okay and things were going well. Though she wished her family could be here, he was a great addition.

His voice came out in a near whisper, "You look beautiful Kiralyn. The years ahead will be wonderful for you; I wish you only the best. Though be sure to visit Dale often."

She nodded, her eyes growing shiny as she felt like one chapter of her life was closing. But another thought came up; a new chapter was just about to begin. She was moving on, not to something worse or better, but to something different, something that she wanted. And so, it was okay.

He tugged on her arm and she walked over, putting on her slippers on the way over. The two settled walking side by side with her arm in the crook of his and she breathed out shakily. He asked, "Are you ready Kiralyn?"

"More than I've ever been, my true desire is to be with him," she replied, sure of herself now. A new chapter and the words written in it were to be ones of love and happiness.

So he guided her or more so she guided him while he held her arm, through the hallways of Erebor. Each stone pillar brought her one step to closer to an apex moment of her life. Each step brought on more anxiety, and yet, more hope.

After a short walk, they found themselves just outside the doors to the great hall where the ceremony was to take place. She looked at Bard, and nodded, before the doors opened. Great numbers of men and dwarves were gathered in the halls, most of Dale and Erebor coming out to see this. The halls were filled with decorations and jewels. Even the King of Erebor had to stand to the side on this occasion.

But that wasn't where she was looking. Her gaze only kept forward, smiling widely at a handsome dwarf that she was ready to wed. He only grinned larger and she felt her blush come back full force, as her eyes grew cloudy. She had never been happier than these moments. All of the pain, the backbreaking journey, the fights, the tough times, the injuries, the illnesses, it was worth it. Here they were, ready to start their lives anew.

She walked forward with purpose, when Bard gave her off at the podium, handing her to Kili while watching the young dwarf carefully. Kili took her arm gently, sparks flying at their touch. She noticed his eyes shining with unborn tears too, and never felt luckier. They were brought forward to the altar.

Balin began speaking in dwarvish as several instruments were brought forward, the last of them being her very own crown. First, he looked towards them and they separated, both bringing forth a piece of metal they held dear. She brought out her pendant she had always worn and he used his old hairclip. They threw the pieces in a fire and watched as Dwalin forged it into a knot of sorts, showing never-ending love.

Next, they had to drink from the same glass of wine to represent shared woes as well as joys. She felt her hands shake; he cupped his hand over her own, steadying her like he always would.

Then, it came the time for her to prove herself. She lowered herself as Thorin delicately placed a silver crown on her, a jewel in the center to top all others on her person. She rose herself to full height, before speaking to the crowd, in dwarvish, "I, Kiralyn Arwald, swear fealty to the King under the Mountain, Thorin, son of Thrain, son of Thror. I give my heart and life to the dwarves as I have given my heart and life to my love." She breathed in deeply, praying that her wording was correct. She then finished, "Long live the king, and may I bring joy upon the kingdom."

Relief flooded her as her biggest worry was now over. Color returned fully to her cheeks and she could only smile up at Kili until Balin at last finished the ceremony. He bellowed, as so many human elders have been known to do, "You may now kiss the bride."

Her hand reached out to his neck, as he held her back, dipping her and looking deeply into her eyes, before at last their lips met. Every feeling she had known before, every happiness, every pain, didn't matter. Bliss covered her features and she kissed back, hopes for the future flooding her mind as she relished in the feeling he brought to her, memorizing the way his lips felt on her own. It was like she had turned into gold, shining and glittering for all too see.

But alas, so as not to disturb the young ones, they pulled away. They shared a look of pure joy, before looking onto the crowd as their hands stayed intertwined. The crowd clapped and cheered, before everyone was ushered into the feast hall. She did not have a care in the world but that the dwarf to the side of her remains there for the rest of their days.

They were sat down at the middle of a long table and a few other dwarves brought out plates of meats, cheeses, and even some greens upon Kira's request. Dinner was incredibly enjoyable, the food was amazing and stories were passed around, but the highlight was simply being next to her new husband.

Halfway through the feast, she whispered, "I love you."

His response was to kiss her lightly, squeezing her hand as they had kept them together for most of it. Many of them congratulated the couple and every time she would thank them, but she felt a nearly eternal blush. When Sigrid and Tilda came by, they mentioned she was positively glowing. And truly, she was happy.

At one point, a woman came up to them, tall and lithe with long red hair trailing behind her. Kiralyn got up just to hug her when Kili returned to her side. Tauriel bowed lightly and commented, "It seems you've become a splendid princess, Kiralyn. I wish you two the best."

They were joined by smiles as Kili responded, "It is very good to see you alive and well, we didn't have much time to check on you in the battle. By the time we did, you were gone. Thank you Tauriel."

She nodded once more, adding something in elvish, before finishing with, "May your love be immortal and your hearts shine throughout the years." Though her words were somewhat cryptic, the pair was still ecstatic to see her, unsure that she was even alive until this point.

But finally, the young ones were taken to bed and the mead and ale was pulled out. She and Kili both had their share, joining in the festivities, but decided to stop before it got to be too much. She grew crimson at the thought, but she still had quite the night ahead of her.

At one point when the party was getting too raucous, Kira looked at Kili and began biting her lip. She was debating whether to say something when he asked, "Would you like to go to bed princess?"

She relished in the sound of the nickname now, it meaning so much more, but she saw the heat behind what he said. She was nervous, but when he took her hand, she knew it would be alright. She returned, "I'd love to."

They said quick farewells to the rest of the party, Fili adding a wink as they walked out. As they exited the room, Kili even picked her up and mentioned, "I heard it was customary to carry a bride into her bedroom suite."

She laughed lightly, still amazed at the strength in him. But it wasn't long before he opened the door into a beautiful one bed room. It was fit for royalty, truly. The rugs were of the finest thread, metal ornaments decorated the wall; there was a vanity in one corner for her and a large wardrobe for both their things. A chest lay along the wall accented with golds and bronzes, there was even a weapons rack in the corner and a shield/sword hung on the wall for display purposes.

The bed crowned it all though, deep blue and bronze blankets covered the large mattress while the pillows seemed to be woven of pure gold, and perhaps they were. It had a canopy atop it and she could only stare in awe as he set her down.

But a silence then took over the room, and he sat down beside her. He brought her close, kissing her deeply and truly, not just love, but passion lighting them both up. Hands were suddenly on him, on her: her waist, his neck, her hips, his chest.

But he broke away and looked up bashfully at her, a look he didn't often hold. He finally asked, as politely as possible, "Kiralyn, I know it is tradition and all that, but that doesn't matter. Do you want to do this?"

Suddenly, with him looking at her so tenderly, with so much affection in his eyes, her fears and anxiety washed away. Whatever happened, he loved her, he would be gentle, he cared for her so much, it would be okay. So she nodded and before anything else, he took off her crown and murmured, "You don't need a crown to be my princess."

In a moment, clothes were scattered around the room while warm bodies played in the game called love. Both felt bliss and love beyond what could be imagined. And that night, for the first time, Kira fell asleep with Kili's arms around her.

~l l~

Slowly, her eyes creaked open and she yawned, feeling Kili still holding onto her tightly. She wanted to stay like this, and for once, she could.

So instead of causing trouble, waking up like they would have to most days after this one, she lay there, feeling his warmth until she felt him stir. He woke up with morning voice, "G'morning beautiful, how did you sleep?"

She curled his arm further around her as she put her hand and head on his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat. She groggily responded, "Best of my life, you are by my side after all."

He made a humming noise in response, happy with the answer.

Somehow, he pulled her even closer and the warmth of their bodies faded over each other. A calm quiet fell over the room and all that could be heard was strong heartbeats and deep breaths. For just a moment, the rest of the world continued, but in that little room. In the bed, underneath the covers, between two bodies, things were still. And they were happy.