Ambassador to Madness

Credit goes to SunnyRose

Chapter 9: Feast and Fashion

Summary:

Bilbo tries to wrap his mind around this courting business and Thorin's first gift has some...scandalous connotations.

"Your Highness?"

Bilbo was jerked out of his musing by the meek voice. Spinning around he saw Ori clutching a quill and book as usual, poking his head into the library common room.

"Master Ori!" Bilbo grinned brightly.

The dwarf returned the smile as he stepped into the room, taking his seat at their usual place. Bilbo hadn't been too sure about the dwarf upon their first meeting. He had thought the scribe to be too shy, too cowed by Bilbo's position to teach him anything. However, Bilbo quickly learned that there was no one better to teach Bilbo about dwarf customs than Ori. He knew tomes upon tomes of information and was eager and patient with sharing it. For all that Ori was the ideal teacher, he was also the ideal learner.

In the early days of Bilbo's marriage, it had been his spiteful game to Balin and Thorin to see how often he could distract the dwarf with stories from his trip or stories from the Shire. Something he would be quite regretful of if the two of them hadn't grown to enjoy the exchange of information. Ori was one of the first dwarves Bilbo had ever felt truly listened to him. And while he wouldn't quite describe him as a friend, Bilbo was certainly fond of him.

"I was informed by Master Balin that I'm to instruct you in dwarven courtship today, Your Highness?" He asked curiously.

"Please, just Bilbo is fine." The hobbit reminded him yet again.

The scribe nodded as always, and Bilbo knew not to hold his breath that this would be the time Ori would actually follow through with his suggestion.

"It seems a little late to learn about courtship, doesn't it?" Ori teased.

Bilbo cleared his throat, finding himself unusually flustered by the question. No, in all honesty, it wasn't too late in their relationship. Bilbo has frequently told himself over the past few weeks as he lay awake thinking about the dwarf only a room away, that it was too soon. He may have been married to Thorin for months, but he has just gotten to the point where he trusts him. Where he considers him a friend. What was he thinking by jumping into a courtship that could have disastrous results? If all that happened was, they revealed to each other that they were incompatible as partners, how awkward would that make the remainder of their marriage?

Of course, Bilbo conveyed none of these worries to Ori. Instead, he spouted the story that Thorin and Balin approved.

"My husband and I's relationship was a rather whirlwind affair, and while we did everything right the hobbit way, we never got the chance to court the dwarven way. And the terrible romantic that he is, Thorin feels obligated to hold true to his promise even now that we're married."

Bilbo had always been a well-practiced storyteller, and he added just the right number of fond chuckles and exasperated shaking of his head that the dwarf had perked right up in understanding.

"That is rather romantic." The young dwarf ducked his head with a slight blush. "It would be my honor to assist you...only..."

Bilbo frowned. "Only?"

The dwarf blanched. "No! Not only! Of course, I am happy to be of service and will perform my duty to the fullest of my abilities. I just...well I am terribly curious if you wouldn't mind sharing the story of how you courted the hobbit way?"

Bilbo fought to keep a neutral expression. Of course he would ask that.

"I-It's not a terribly entertaining story." Bilbo tried to laugh off.

"Still, as a scribe, I'm always interested to hear about other cultures. Besides, I think this soft side of our warrior prince ought to be recorded. At least just to offer perspective for future generations."

Bilbo tried to resist the urge to sigh. "Of course. You teach me to court the dwarven way, and I'll be more than happy to teach you to court the hobbit way."

Ori beamed as if Bilbo had just presented him a gift at Yule. "Thank you, Your Highness."

"Bilbo." He corrected once more.

Ori nodded, but didn't look the least bit sheepish. A wry grin split his face as Bilbo tried to rehearse the story a few more times to himself before he said it out loud.

Bilbo began by telling Ori about the courting practices of hobbits. That there were essentially three gifts that had to be given, and they were all flowers. The first described you as the suitor, the second described how you saw your intended, and the third described how you saw your lives together. Other than that, it was usually expected to share a few meals together, maybe even eat off each other's plate if you were feeling bold. And of course, share a dance in front of everyone under the Party Tree.

Ori was scribbling down notes about as fast as Bilbo could provide them.

"Okay, now tell me about you and the prince." Ori beamed.

Bilbo chuckled nervously hoping he was remembering their fake story correctly.

"Right. Well, you know that we met after I found him wandering the Old Forest by himself?"

Ori nodded eagerly.

"After that, I showed him to the nearest inn and expected that would be the last I saw of him. So, it was rather surprising to me when I found him in the markets the next day, asking after me."

"Aww, I bet it's because you're Ones." Ori sighed.

"Right, because we're...hold on."

It suddenly pricked at Bilbo's senses that he's heard this term before. In fact, he's heard it from Thorin a couple of times and always in the presence of his grandfather. He thought it was some sort of endearment, but Ori made it sound like something else. Could he ask though? Would that make sense if he didn't know what that was? He sat there staring for so long that Ori almost seemed hesitant when he interrupted Bilbo's thoughts.

"Your Highness? You were saying?"

"Sweet William." Bilbo finally mumbled.

"I'm sorry."

"Thorin, he brought me Sweet William for the flower that represents me."

"Oh!" Ori grinned. "And what does that mean?"

"Gallantry." Bilbo answered automatically. "Which is actually the Baggins' family flower."

"Each family has their own flower?" Ori questioned.

Bilbo nodded. "It reminds us of our roots, if you pardon the pun. Baggins are meant to be perfect gentlehobbits in every way."

"That's nice." Ori hummed. "So, what was his next flower?"

Bilbo's wits had returned to him as he explained that Thorin then brought him holly to show Thorin was willing to defend him and provide domestic happiness. And then their joint flower was forget-me-nots. So that way even when Thorin left to go back to Erebor, they would not forget each other. They were all flowers Bilbo had daydreamed many times in his youth with the exception of forget-me-nots which he knew would be the best flower for their fabricated story. But now he couldn't help but wonder. What flowers would Thorin give him if he knew of such things? Would it be much like the gems? Impersonal and obvious? Or would his romantic side show through more?

"Thank you for indulging me, Your Highness. I love a good love story." Ori hummed happily.

Bilbo gave him a wry grin. "I'm the same way. Remind me to lend you a copy of my favorite book."

"I would be honored!" Ori exclaimed. "Now, let's talk about dwarven courting."

It was very straightforward if Bilbo were being honest. Dwarves also did gifts in three: a gift to Provide, a gift to Protect, and a gift to Cherish. They could be given in any order, but it was a back-and-forth interaction. So Thorin would give a gift and then Bilbo and then Thorin until they reached their final gifts.

"Those gifts will be given at the same time, usually in front of others. Most dwarves choose their family and friends, but for Prince Thorin, it will probably have to be in front of the entire kingdom. After all, he has to prove himself a good suitor to his people."

Bilbo felt stopped short. In front of the kingdom? This wasn't just a private thing then? Oh, what was Thorin thinking? There was no way they could sell this and maintain that they were already a loving married couple. Bilbo was going to have to talk with him later. Tell him that while a sweet idea, it just wasn't feasible. He listened to Ori give him some ideas on what constituted for each gift, citing texts about couples long dead. It really was charming how knowledgeable Ori was, but before long he had to say goodbye to him. He had a husband to talk to.

Bilbo meandered back to their suite, nodding at the guards in the hallway who grinned back at him. Bilbo felt like he really won them over when he shared his Meema Baggins' Famous Butter Biscuits with them. Thorin swore all the dwarves who served in his wing were completely trustworthy, but it never hurt to 'butter them up' just in case. When he walked in, he was greeted by a strange sight. Thorin was lounging on the settee, booted feet kicked up over the arm, reading from a book. Although, it wasn't just any book. Bilbo crossed his arms with a smirk.

"I thought we were against books with Elvish titles."

Thorin immediately jumped to his feet, the book hanging down at his side and slightly behind him.

"Oh, yeah. I got...curious. And you never said it was a romance." He accused.

"I seem to remember not being allowed the chance." Bilbo smirked.

"Yes, well..." Thorin coughed. "I perhaps reacted rashly."

"Perhaps." Bilbo teased. "But that's all behind us now. Let's circle back to the part about romances. That's your type?"

If anything, the flushed look and fidgeting by the dwarf made the whole scene even more endearing.

"Your mother's name is in the dedication." Thorin quickly changed the subject.

Bilbo allowed it as walked over to pluck the book out of Thorin's hands, his fingers ghosting over the section fondly. "Yes, she helped the author understand flower language for the story."

"That's like our gem language, right?" Thorin asked.

Bilbo nodded.

"Would you translate this part for me then?"

Bilbo's heart was beating wildly in his chest especially when he could probably guess what part Thorin was at. Sure enough, as soon as the book was passed over to Bilbo, he saw that Thilion had just given the longing bouquet to Linnadis even though she had told him she was accepting Míriedir's proposal to court. Thorin leaned over Bilbo's shoulder so he could see the words as well, and as his breath tickled his neck, Bilbo thought he was going to combust.

"A-ah, yes. So, the pink camellia means "longing for you". The edelweiss is "courage in one's devotion", and the red salvia..."

Bilbo trailed off as he looked up into Thorin's uncomfortably close face. Unable to pull away from the encouraging blue of his eyes and wistful smile across his face.

"Forever mine." Bilbo ended up near whispering.

Thorin hummed in sympathy, but did not pull away or take the book back. He merely continued to stare at Bilbo the same way.

"In gems, we would have used Ruby, Amethyst, and Diamond for such a message. Although it's not an exact translation. Ruby is strengthening the decision making in passionate displays. Amethyst is about clearing one's mind but also being courageous in relationships. And then Diamond is practically indestructible so it's a symbol of eternal love. Then there's the matter of where you would place it. Possibly in a bracelet because our hands are our greatest gift from Mahal."

At this, Thorin stroked the inside of Bilbo's wrist causing the hobbit to gasp lightly.

"Or a necklace to keep close to your heart."

As the large hand padded softly to the back of his neck, Bilbo allowed his eyes to briefly flutter close. His breath caught as he waited for Thorin to press his lips to his. After a long moment with nothing happening, he opened them again to Thorin backing out of Bilbo's space, his eyebrows pulled together. Oh no. Why did he do that? Why did he think Thorin would actually...his cheeks felt hot enough to fry an egg and he realized he was suddenly light-headed.

He opened his mouth to say something, when Thorin spared him by giving a small cough and reaching back for the book.

"Thank you. Your flower language is very...interesting."

"Right." Bilbo replied breathless. "Of course. Anytime."

Thorin nodded, looking like he was about to walk away when Bilbo spoke up again. After that rather embarrassing mistake, he wanted to let Thorin off the hook of this courting business.

"Ori was telling me about dwarven courting..."

Thorin perked up before asking Bilbo to wait right there. Bilbo deflated before nodding in assent. He turned his gaze to the empty fireplace as he tried to make sense of what just happened. Was he crazy? Wasn't Thorin flirting back with him or was Bilbo reading far too much into it? He knew what his heart still rabbiting away from the feel of Thorin's hands on him would say. The truth of the matter remained to be seen. Bilbo did know one thing though. He would never make that mistake again. There was nothing physical between them, and Bilbo would do well to remember that no matter how charming or unexpectedly sensual Thorin would act.

"Bilbo Baggins, I would like to present my first gift. My gift to Cherish." Thorin announced.

Bilbo spun around, denials on the tip of his tongue when he caught sight of what Thorin had gifted him. It was a delicate golden coronet with fire lilies blooming up around it every so often. Soft blue forget-me-nots and little snowdrops weaved amongst the larger orange flowers making it look more like a true flower crown than anything he had seen upon his own husband's head. It was gorgeous craftsmanship, and the flowers looked more real than gem. There was just one thing that had Bilbo reaching for the collar of his shirt to pull it away from his suddenly flushed neck.

"Did you make it yourself?" Bilbo asked softly.

"Of course!" Thorin declared, proudly. "Silversmithing is my master craft, but I do know some of gold and jewelry. I will say I didn't know of the flowers' language before I put them on there. I just chose some of what I thought were the prettiest from the mountainside. I hope there's nothing offensive about it?"

Bilbo felt his throat go dry. Offensive was certainly not the word he would use. The forget-me-nots and snowdrops were perfect for a flower crown. Promising long memories and hope for their marriage. It was just coupled with the fire lilies made the whole thing a little less...innocent. Long memories and hope for the more... primal aspects of a relationship, it was quite a lewd declaration and Bilbo hated that it stirred something warm and needy deep inside him.

"It's fine." Bilbo finally answered, only to quickly correct himself at Thorin's dejected expression. "I mean! It's obviously more than fine, it's quite wonderful that you were able to make something so...alluring. "

Thorin puffed up at the compliment, clearly not catching on to what Bilbo was trying to tell him. He decided to let it be. He didn't want Thorin to feel bad over it when he had worked so hard at it. And perhaps there was a part of Bilbo that didn't want to give it up either. It was his after all, and it certainly was the most beautiful thing he's ever seen. No one would know in this mountain that it was sultry in nature.

"But Thorin, we need to talk." Bilbo declared, finally taking his eyes away from the coronet.

Thorin's face that was so easy to read mere moments ago became locked away behind an impassive mask. Bilbo hesitated in pointing out what a bad idea he thought this courting business was. They've been doing so well. Bilbo didn't want to go back to fighting with him every five seconds.

"I can't...craft anything on my own. I hope that won't be an issue?"

Thorin's face lit back up as he gave Bilbo a small grin and a shake of his head.

"No. Nothing has to be handcrafted. It just adds a layer of personability. Anything you deem worthy of giving will be fine."

Bilbo nodded trying to force a weak smile in return.

"Now, there will be a celebration next week for the summer solace. A perfect opportunity to show it off." He grinned only to falter at Bilbo's expression. "If, if you want. It's completely your choice."

Bilbo was quite certain his face had turned several shades of red by this point as he somehow managed to grit out his words.

"N-Nothing would make me happier."

It was only as Thorin walked away leaving him with the saucy coronet that Bilbo blanked. Oh dear, what has he done?!

***

The day of the solace had arrived, and Bilbo found himself sitting on his bed, staring at the flower crown on his desk. Bifur had made him a wonderful outfit for the night. It was a beautiful golden tunic that had two sets of buttons like one of his waistcoats that he tucked into a pair of burnt orange silken trousers. The ends of the trousers and tunic tapered off into a set of ornate gold cuffs that buckled against Bilbo's shins and forearms. Then the whole thing was topped with a deep, rich purple surcoat that only came down to his waist in front and was fastened together with a buckle made to look like the Sweet Williams Bilbo had told Ori about last week. Clearly, that story was making its rounds. The entire ensemble paired beautifully with the coronet if he could actually bring himself to put it on his head.

"Bilbo? Are you ready to go?"

Thorin knocked on the door as Bilbo jumped to his feet.

"Just about!" He called out. "But please, come in."

Thorin entered, only for his face to spread into a bright grin.

"You look...colorful."

Bilbo snorted. "I usually am. Which I greatly appreciate."

"Perhaps I can get Bifur to dress you in Durin blue one of these days." Thorin hummed.

Bilbo cocked his head, his bead hanging from his ear cuff hitting the side of his face. He saw Thorin's eyes drawn to the movement before he reached over to pick up the crown.

"May I?"

Bilbo flushed before slowly nodding his head. Thorin carefully lifted the coronet before setting it gently on Bilbo's curls. He was rather surprised that it wasn't too heavy or tugging at his hair. It was a perfect fit, and from Thorin's soppy grin he took it the dwarf thought so as well. Bilbo smiled. Any worries he had over the flowers' meanings drifted to the far corners of his mind as he allowed himself to enjoy the pride in his husband's work.

"Shall we?" He asked, extending his arm out.

Bilbo placed his hand in the crook of Thorin's elbow, like he had a thousand times at this point, and felt a shiver travel down his spine. Alright so maybe not the farthest point of his mind, but it definitely fell by the wayside when Thorin said the one thing that could distract a hobbit the fastest: I hope you're hungry.

They entered the Great Hall to a cacophony of feasting dwarves. Bilbo hadn't been in this particular room since his own wedding feast and took the time to appreciate it now. The hall was grand, and gold trim clung to every balcony, every chandelier, even the dishes and cutlery on the tables. It was divided into levels. The royal level being just below them, the noble and guildmaster level being below that, and then what was referred to as the 'common level' but was really cleared for dancing and drinks was at the very bottom.

Bilbo and Thorin were announced as they descended the stairs to the royal level, silence sweeping through the room as every dwarf stood and bowed. Bilbo half expected to find Thror at their table and was relieved that the 'king's chair' remained vacant.

"He doesn't participate in events anymore." Thorin whispered in his ear as he saw where his eyes were drawn.

Bilbo smiled and nodded as if his husband had shared something sweet. A servant held out their chairs for them and as they took their seats, the rest of the dwarves did so as well. The noise level resuming immediately.

"My Prince. My Consort." Balin greeted from his seat across from them. "I take it that the courting is going well?"

His eyes twinkled in mirth seeing the crown upon Bilbo's head. For a single heartstopping moment, Bilbo thought the old dwarf actually knew what it was that Thorin had placed upon his head. However, Bilbo realized more rationally that Balin's humor was probably from the courting in general rather than anything to do with his crown.

"It is proceeding." Thorin murmured, shooting him a sharp look.

"Balin was trying to explain that to me." Gloin stated from his place beside Bilbo. "Why exactly are you two courting after marriage?"

"Because I didn't get a chance to give Bilbo my gifts beforehand." Thorin defended.

"My Prince, take my word for it. The gift giving doesn't stop just because you're married." Milja, Gloin's wife, teased.

The conversation just stirred up the doubts over Thorin's people being suspicious about the whole thing as he looked to Balin for help. The older dwarf raised an eyebrow before giving him a slight shake of his head. He didn't think Bilbo should think anything of it. He had to hope he was right.

"Your meal, Your Highness." Bombur appeared, setting down two trays before them.

It was uncovered to reveal a lovely summer chowder that smelled absolutely heavenly. Bombur revealed a spoon from his pocket and reached over to take a bite of Thorin's soup before inviting him to enjoy. Bilbo was starting to get annoyed by the gesture. It was rather irrational to think so, considering it wouldn't mean anything outside of the Shire, but Bilbo was Thorin's husband. If anyone should be sampling his plate...well, he would think it would be him.

"Why does Bombur do that?" He asked before he could think better of it.

"Do what?" Thorin questioned, his brows pulling together adorably.

"Sample your meal. Doesn't he do that back in the kitchen while he's making it?"

Thorin chuckled. "He's demonstrating to me that no one had a chance to poison the meal before it got to me."

Bilbo gasped, any misplaced ugly emotions evaporating as he stared down at the plate suspiciously.

"Is that a legitimate concern?"

Thorin's smile dropped as his spoon danced around the potatoes in the soup without picking one up.

"I would hope not."

Bilbo heard the undertone though. It was a possibility. Being royal must make you enemies, and being at odds with your goldsick grandfather, more so. It was enough to make Bilbo sick at the thought that Thorin might just die at their table one day. And what about poor Bombur! He had a wife and kids, yet he would take such a risk anyways for his prince. It didn't sit right with Bilbo. Thorin must have sensed his thoughts, because he reached for his hand under the table and gave it a quick squeeze.

"Bombur would not serve me if he wasn't absolutely confident in the safety of his meal. I would never put my head chef at such risks, and he deems it an honor to protect me in this way."

Bilbo hummed, still feeling out of sorts about it. That's when an idea popped in his head. One that he immediately chided himself for as it threw Shire propriety right out the window. Then again, he was already wearing Thorin's crown...

"You know, I could sample your dishes for you." He mumbled.

The silence that set between them was far too long for Bilbo's comfort. Why was it suddenly so hard to speak or be around Thorin? He's never had this problem before. He blamed the coronet. It was clearly doing something to him. Thorin finally gave him a wry look.

"While that is a brave offer, I wouldn't want to see you poisoned any more than I would Bombur."

"Yes, but I wouldn't be poisoned." Bilbo explained.

Thorin raised a brow, not following the logic. Bilbo didn't blame him. He would never have known that poisons could be created from the plants they used had Gandalf not brought it to the attention of all hobbits. Otherwise, the Shire healers might serve you their very lovely blend of Belladonna tea that would wreck a whole lot more on your system than unclog bowels as it was intended.

"Yavanna granted all of her children with a certain...resistance you might say. As a hobbit, I cannot be killed by anything plant based. It is unpleasant, certainly. But not deadly."

Thorin snorted as if Bilbo had told him a joke instead. When Bilbo didn't join in, he cocked his head and dropped his mouth open into a surprised 'o'.

"You can't be poisoned." He murmured, a touch of awe to his voice.

Bilbo shook his head, and Thorin's shoulders seemed to slump.

"I must say that is a relief to hear. Not that I expect for you to be poisoned, but I've been feeling neglectful that the same courtesy hasn't been extended."

Bilbo cocked his head to the side. "Are you worried someone might try to kill me?"

Thorin immediately shook his head, but it certainly wasn't enough to keep the idea from Bilbo's own head especially around the echo of the threat from Thror. Here he had been more worried about a public beheading. He never really thought about Thror trying to kill him with such underhanded tactics. It was almost enough to turn his stomach if he hadn't thought it would be such an offense to Bombur and his staff.

Their soup bowls were carried off, and in their place was a well-basted pheasant, sliced candied carrots, and bread stuffing. Bilbo absolutely could get used to eating like this. Bombur once again moved to cut a piece of Thorin's pheasant, and Bilbo couldn't take it. This time it was something hotter and uglier and with a distinct tone of ' mine' that roared inside him at the insult of watching someone else eat from his husband's plate again. Bilbo was definitely blaming the coronet at this point.

Before he could stop himself, he grabbed Thorin's hand with his fork, stabbed a piece of pheasant, and stuffed it in his own mouth. Bombur's jaw dropped while Thorin couldn't seem to settle between surprise and amusement.

"It is safe to eat, Your Highness." Bilbo declared after swallowing the bite.

He had rather thought that would be the end of it when Thorin held out his fork, this time with a small carrot round.

"And the rest?"

Bilbo blinked owlishly at him, noting the hot, ugly something was rather tame and mewling with the prospect of being fed from Thorin's plate. That couldn't be a good sign. He should refuse. He should not encourage this, yet despite the voice screaming in his head, he slowly leaned over, wrapping his mouth around the tines and sliding the carrot into his mouth. Thorin's eyes followed the movement in a way that Bilbo felt like the romanticism of the act was not lost completely on him.

"I think you'll find it to your satisfaction." Bilbo finally answered when he finished chewing.

Thorin didn't immediately turn back to his meal, and Bilbo felt like he couldn't either as they sat there staring at each other. Bilbo felt like sighing. Thorin truly did have the loveliest eyes in Arda. He started to lean towards Thorin, and the little voice cranked up the volume, reminding him of the moment in the sitting room not so long ago. Bilbo hesitated, his breath hitching finally heeding the warning. But then why was Thorin still leaning towards him? Whatever this was, whatever was going to happen, never reached fruition as they were interrupted by Balin clearing his throat.

"Your Highness? Your toast?" He reminded, smirking at the two of them.

Bilbo immediately averted his gaze, almost feeling exposed and raw by the prolonged moment. He certainly needed to get a grip. To everyone in the room, he has been in love with Thorin for months. It wouldn't look right for him to suddenly be starry eyed over his husband now.

"Right." Thorin stated. "I'll be right back." He whispered in Bilbo's ear.

Bilbo watched Thorin walk off before turning to see Balin watching him with a smile.

"I take it things are going well?" He asked.

"Things are proceeding." Bilbo, unintentional echoing Thorin from earlier.

It was all becoming too much. He needed to know if this was as far as they could go, and he needed to hear it from Balin. His voice dropped to a whisper as he leaned forward as far as he could.

"Balin, are we...out of line, doing this? Ori said our final gift will be in front of the whole kingdom and I don't think the whole kingdom and its king are going to understand why we're just now doing it."

Balin's smile fell, his eyes looking sad. "Aye. I expressed the same doubts."

"So why are we doing it?" Bilbo pressed.

Balin turned to look at Thorin who stood proudly before his people, glass in hand as he spoke to the prosperity of the mountain and the fine craftsmanship of its people.

"I couldn't deny him." Balin admitted softly. "I want him to be able to have this happiness, no matter the cost. Don't you?"

It was a loaded question for Bilbo. Was he doing this for Thorin's happiness? And did that matter to him more than his own wellbeing? He knew what the Bilbo of three months ago would say, but he wasn't that same hobbit anymore. In the same way, Thorin wasn't that same dwarf who dismissed him so readily and then complimented his feet to try to win back his favor. Bilbo snorted at that particular memory, finding it more humorous now. Certainly, the hobbit back then wouldn't wear a crown like this in front of all these people. And if he could walk around declaring such a thing in his language, why couldn't he stand before Thorin's own and say what he felt? He was...fond of his husband, Thorin Oakenshield. What was wrong with exchanging a few gifts to say that? Suddenly, the perfect idea for a gift to Cherish sprang into his mind. He wondered if that would count though?

Bilbo found himself trapped in thought over what his other gifts would be as Thorin wrapped up his speech with a few more words on his hopes moving forward and all the dwarves stomped their feet in response. Bilbo was jerked from his musings as he rushed to do the same. Apparently, it was a sign of approval in dwarven culture whereas hobbits would merely clap their hands. Thorin approached their table once more, but instead of sitting, he held out his hand to Bilbo.

"Dance with me." He stated.

Bilbo stared at the offered hand in confusion before trying to laugh it off.

"Thorin, I don't know any of the steps. This is why we didn't dance at our wedding." He reminded.

Of course, that was just a convenient excuse. They hadn't danced at their wedding because of how unbelievably overwhelmed he had been and knew they would find some way to mess it up and make it apparent their disdain for each other.

"I'll teach you." Thorin remained firm.

Bilbo was running out of reasons why he should say no. He looked over at Balin, but the older dwarf merely encouraged Bilbo to accept with a smile and a wave of his hand.

"Alright." Bilbo sighed. "But this will be our last dance if those monstrosities on your feet come anywhere near my toes."

Thorin chuckled, accepting his terms gladly. Bilbo could feel all eyes on them as Thorin moved down the levels to the bottom where the band was just beginning to warm up. They quickly pulled themselves together at seeing Thorin and Bilbo approaching the dancefloor with another round of stomping following them. Bilbo felt himself shaking as he realized they were suddenly the center of attention. Any mistake, any discomfort on his face would be seen by most of the leaders of Erebor.

"Just watch me. I'll lead us in the right direction." Thorin murmured softly.

Bilbo slowly lifted his gaze, only to quickly duck his head again under the intensity of Thorin's bright blue eyes. The music started up. A slow pace at first, and Thorin whispered his first instructions.

"Left...I mean right! M-My left."

Any apprehension Bilbo felt immediately evaporated as his laughter rang out above the music as he and Thorin fumbled to get back on the correct beat. Thorin's face was beet red, and his smile was crooked making Bilbo almost feel bad for the outburst.

"I guess I'm not as good a teacher as I thought."

"It's alright. We'll just make up our own steps." Bilbo grinned brightly.

Thorin laughed and ducked his head. They muddled their way through the first dance, and by the time the band started up the second one, more dwarves had stepped down to join them. Bilbo and Thorin found a groove and became more confident in their movements, and to Bilbo's relief, no crushed toes. He felt able to look around and started to notice something about the other dwarves. Particularly their clothes. He laughed and shook his head.

"What?" Thorin asked.

"I can see Bifur is becoming more popular. I might have to watch out. He may be too busy to keep me on as a client."

Thorin snorted. "You're the Prince Consort. He would drop all his other clients for you in a heartbeat, and I don't know how you haven't noticed. You've become something of a fashion icon around here."

Bilbo shook his head in wonder. "Me?"

Thorin smirked. "Like I said, you're the Prince Consort. People look at you, and your tastes are...different. For a lot of these nobles, different is trendsetting. "

Bilbo laughed. "Indeed. I am glad this is helping Bifur settle in though. I had heard Roku wasn't too keen on his designs last time we had tea."

"From what I'm to understand, that won't be a problem anymore. I've heard there's a change in leadership in the Tailor's Guild." Thorin explained.

Bilbo hummed, always interested in a bit of gossip and planning out his next trip down to the markets to ask Bofur and Bifur about it.

"Let's hope it's for the better."

Bilbo and Thorin danced for a few more songs before retiring for the night. Thorin had a council meeting in the morning, and Bilbo had some shopping to do now that he was taking this courting business seriously. And he knew just who he wanted to make his first gift.

***

The crowd gathered outside Torlan's smithy was as large as Bilbo remembered. He was rather thankful Dori closed his shop early to come help him as they seemed to have no notice for the hobbit in their midst.

"Torlan doesn't usually take on commissions." Dori warned as Torlan announced he was done for the day.

Bilbo felt his chest puff out at the implication that he couldn't haggle. If he could convince Mrs. Burrows to give up her prize-winning blueberry pie recipe, he certainly could convince Thorin's old master to make him a gift. Once most of the crowd had thinned, Bilbo approached the shop as Torlan puttered around, dousing the fire, and hanging up his tools. Before Bilbo could even open his mouth to say a word, the dwarf beat him to the punch.

"You fiddled with my design."

"I'm sorry?" Bilbo asked, his brows furrowed together.

The dwarf pointed up at Bilbo's ear making him reach for the cuff. He felt the chain that Thorin attached to hold his marriage bead in place.

"Oh, right. Sorry about that."

"You should be." He grunted.

Irritation laced through him as he turned to see Dori wincing but motioning for him to continue.

"Right, well, Torlan Forge Whisperer, I was wondering if you would make me something. It's for Thorin." Bilbo prefaced, hoping that would sweeten the deal.

"Are you going to change it later?" Torlan demanded.

"I suppose if it better fits my purpose, I might." Bilbo snapped.

Torlan snorted. "If you don't respect the craft, then you don't need me. There's a lovely silversmith just down the path who does shoddy enough work that it probably is in need of improvement. Why don't you try him?"

So much for Bilbo charming the dwarf. He's felt wrong-footed since this conversation began, and it was clear that this dwarf held no respect for him as Prince Consort. He was just another customer and seemed to be a rather ungrateful customer at that. Bilbo decided he only had one last card to play, appealing to his fondness for Thorin.

"Look, I'll stop wearing the cuff if it offends you so. I'll...find some other way to wear my marriage bead. But this is a gift for Thorin. He always talks about how you're the best teacher he's ever had, and he would definitely appreciate it more if it came from you."

The dwarf stopped puttering about and heaved a sigh. He held his hand out, and Bilbo wasn't sure what it was he wanted. He reached for his purse only for Torlan to shake his head.

"The cuff." He demanded.

Bilbo knew it was not socially acceptable to remove his bead outside of his and Thorin's suite. He looked to Dori for guidance, and the silver haired dwarf narrowed his eyes at Torlan, almost as if accusing him of knowing better. Luckily, he understood immediately and stepped closer into Bilbo's space asking permission to touch before he did so. Bilbo granted it to him, standing still as the dwarf closely inspected the cuff.

"Thorin was one of my best students. Shame he was royal. Would have set him up right here next to me. This is his work, isn't it?"

Bilbo nodded his head, not trusting himself to speak.

"The chain is simple enough, but to arc the top to fit to your offensive pointy ear is seamless."

Bilbo would have been quite outraged over the assessment of his perfectly respectable ear if Torlan hadn't said the words he was hoping for.

"I'll do it. But it won't be cheap, and don't even look at me again if you change a single thing on it, Hobbit."

"Of course!" Bilbo agreed quickly.

"Now what is it you want me to make?"

"Well, I was thinking...of a spoon."

There was silence for a long moment as the dwarf just stared at him incredulously before exploding. "A SPOON?! You came all the way down here to utilize my talents for a spoon ?"

Bilbo gaped at him. A spoon was a perfectly fine gift. In fact, it was rather romantic in the Shire. Bilbo had thought it was perfect for a 'gift to provide'. Especially after his and Thorin's conversation about poisons.

"Are you so... egotistical that you're really going to argue with me over making a spoon?" Bilbo scoffed.

"Yes." The dwarf sniffed haughtily. "He really doesn't know who he's dealing with, does he?" He snapped at Dori.

"And you seem to forget that you're dealing with the Prince Consort." Dori defended.

Torlan snorted. "Royals."

"Well, what would you suggest if you know so much?" Bilbo snapped.

Torlan didn't respond right away. Instead, he reached under his worktable before pulling out a slate and some charcoal. He began drawing out a design. Bilbo found himself physically exhausted by this dwarf as he crossed the space to stand on his tiptoes and look over his shoulder. Bilbo blinked in surprise. Oh! That was rather spectacular.

"Well?" Torlan asked as he put the finishing touches on it.

Bilbo glared at him, as he raised an eyebrow in challenge. There were, in fact, a few changes Bilbo would make to the design, and when he offered them, he was surprised that Torlan actually nodded along. They went back and forth on a few points but ultimately settled on an image they both liked. Well, it certainly wouldn't do for a provider's gift, but Bilbo grudgingly had to admit, Torlan had good taste.

Considering how much bigger it was compared to the simple spoon Bilbo wanted, he could only imagine the mind-boggling price that would be quoted to him. He was fairly surprised when it came down to about fifty gold pieces. That was how much Thorin had spent on his earcuff and that was a small piece. Bilbo hesitated, never before having to haggle the price up from the starting amount when he caught sight of Torlan's face. The softness around his eyes as he stared down at the drawing. Something that was so Thorin, it was impossible not to see the love the dwarf held for his former apprentice.

"I think that's more than fair. As long as I can add twenty pieces onto the price." Torlan raised an eyebrow and Bilbo continued. "As a tip."

The dwarf rolled his eyes as he finished putting things away. "A tip. Here's a tip for you. Quit messing with a dwarf's work!"

However, he accepted Bilbo's offer with a promise to have it delivered as soon as it was done. Bilbo had no idea when that would be and decided he still needed to find someone who would make his spoon, so he had a gift ready for Thorin soon. After all, he had to give it before Thorin gave his second gift. He couldn't go to another silversmith at this point or Bilbo was quite certain Torlan would throw him into the forge fire the next time he saw him. So, some other material.

Images of Bofur whittling away when they met for tea surged to the forefront of his mind. That would work! He wondered if the dwarf took commissions? Only one way to find out, and luckily for him, the Tailors' Guild was on his way. He would be able to pay Bifur a visit and compliment his new surge in business while asking Bofur to help with his gift. It was almost so perfect a solution, that Bilbo honestly should have foreseen something going terribly wrong.