Take My Pain Away

Chapter 13

"Balin," Thorin was consulting with his clerk before speaking with Arfindel. "How am I to get my point across without creating an incident?"

Balin chuckled and shook his head, "I am not sure that you are capable."

Thorin knew that the learned-dwarf was likely correct. He wasn't exactly the most diplomatic of kings; that was what Balin was for. Thorin ran a hand over his face and groaned, "I wish Dain had not sent him."

'Well, he is here and he must be dealt with." Balin made a face and looked pointedly at his king.

"Out with it, Balin. I know you want to say something I won't like."

Balin nodded, "Perhaps it is time to accept your duties." He held up a hand as Thorin flushed and tried to speak. "I know that you care deeply for Abrâ, we all do, however you are the king and as such, must make sacrifices."

Thorin considered his friend before heaving a sigh. "You are right, of course." He placed a hand on Balin's shoulder. "I will go speak with Arfindel...and take my office more seriously."

***

The king, his general and his clerk made their way to the rooms assigned to Arfindel and his contingent. As they walked through Erebor Thorin was surprised by the number of dwarrow occupying the space.

"Where have all of these dwarrow come from?"

Dwalin explained, "These folk came from towns and cities nearby as soon as they heard that the mountain was open. We have been scrambling to get them housed and fed. There is not much usable space in the mountain yet."

"We'll have to get someone assigned to taking care of preparing rooms..." Thorin paused for a moment. "And we will have to negotiate for food..." he sighed, "which means either Laketown or Mirkwood..." he rolled his eyes.

As they approached the rooms occupied by Arfindel Thorin's stomach started to feel tight. He did not like this dwarf, he felt that there was a certain sliminess to his dealings. Nevertheless, he knocked on the door.

The door was opened by a young serving woman dressed in rich fabrics. She did not bow before gesturing for the 3 to enter. Dwalin's eyebrow shot up and he glanced to see Thorin's reaction. He saw the hardening of Thorin eyes and the slight flare of his nose.

Thorin inspected the room. It had been furnished with couches and chairs covered in soft chenille; through the bedroom door he could see a grand bed hung about with velvet curtains. It was much more luxurious than his simple bed in the corner of a room.

They were forced to stand in the entryway for many minutes. Thorin could feel his rage growing. Balin was shooting him 'keep calm' looks.

Arfindel entered through the bedroom door, attired in furs; his hair was elaborately braided into his beard. Unlike most dwarves, he carried himself with an almost foppish air. It was no wonder he got along so well with Thranduil. Thorin could not fathom how his cousin could stand him.