daughterofforgottenkings:

A hint of a flush colors her pale cheeks but she remains grinning all the same, though her lips ease into a smile at his next words. “You are a good father, Bard; your children as well as your people are lucky to have you.” Amera nods once, allowing herself a quick laugh. “Such wisdom, as well! Aye, it is good to recognize such. When all of this is settled, you are welcome always at the Lonely Mountain, you know.”

“Mm, the Mountain, indeed. I suppose that is where your journey leads you now,” Bard says thoughtfully, his brow furrowing. “Such strange stories we live in, Amera, that you and I should now both find ourselves with the promise of a crown resting upon our brow. After so much loss, so much devastation…” His smile comes with some difficulty, but is genuine in nature. “A ranger and a bargeman, a kingdom each. Our true challenge has only just begun, hasn’t it? A time to rebuild, a time to heal…”