Of Mine

VI

Thranduil descended the passage to his throne, entering from behind the large carven seat of authority. He could see the Dwarf closely now.

Thorin watched eager to see what the ElvenKing would say, but he wanted to make a statement. He drew his courage again, standing a little taller. "Thranduil, ElvenKing of Mirkwood," he started proudly, bowing slightly to Thranduil, "I do not bring with me any maliciousness or malevolent intent. I am Thorin, Son of Thrain, Son of Thrór. I do not wish to disrupt-,"

"I am aware that you are no spy. I had suspicions of your bloodline, and they are true. However, that does not then result in a truce. You have entered my kingdom, and must answer my questions." Thranduil stated clearly.

Thorin hesitated, unsure how to react. The young prince then nodded. "As you command," he said obligingly. He would do whatever the ElvenKing ordered, as long as that meant staying in his ethereal presence.

Thranduil felt his lips almost twitch upward, but he forced them to still. "Why have you been trespassing in my kingdom?"

"I had been travelling through, but I had the sudden urge to stay when I came upon your palace and it's magnificent gardens," Thorin stated simply, though it almost seemed too easy. "As far as I am aware, I have not caused a disturbance."

Eyeing Thorin suspiciously, Thranduil took one pace around him. "Any other than an Elf in this land cause disturbance. Do not be impertinent."

Thorin felt anger grow in him, but he dared not let it out. He had no
authority here. He was outside his kingdom, trespassing. Thranduil was
angry with him, and that caused sadness to extinguish the rage building in him. He was causing the ElvenKing trouble. Such a beautiful creature should never be disturbed this way.

Thranduil sensed a change in the Dwarf, and slowly leaned down toward him. "You sense it too, Dwarfling. Your instincts are good. Tell me, would you stay in this kingdom with me? There are matters I must attend to, but your presence will give me perspective."

Thorin's eyes widened slightly despite his attempt to be neutral. He watched the ElevenKing, trying to think over the offer before accepting, but he found hi swords escaped him far too eagerly for his comfort. "Yes--,' he said, but quickly tried to mend his reply. "It would be an honor." He tried.

Thranduil's lips tugged upward, nearly forming the traces of a smile. The ElvenKing rarely smiled, unless Haldir or Legolas were concerned. "Very well," he said turning to one of the guards. " Escort our guest to the Birch hall. He is to stay there, be sure his needs are attended to." Facing Thorin again, he said, "You are to stay in your suite, do not wander. I will send for you, if you are needed. If I deem it necessary, you will join us for supper."

Thorin finally nodded, not daring to speak. He knew his situation was already precarious, and if one word were out of place, the ElvenKing would make his life much worse than it had ever been.

He was shown to his suite and stayed there for the remainder of the night. And Thranduil sat in his gardens, awaiting the return of his friend and son.