The winter weather seemed to briefly lift and shift to allow the slightest rays of winter sun to come through the clouds; the clouds themselves still seemed heavily loaded with snow, sleet or rain but withheld from unleashing anything on the lands below them. It didn't make the day feel any better, or any worse. Each day was a similar, nothing particularly changed, and the snows of the season soon became more of a hindrance than something to enjoy anymore.

The river which travelled through the woodland kingdom still seemed unaffected, the waters still churned, the tide still ripped right through, white frothy foam with small pieces of ice would land on the bank now and then, only to dissolve. These little pieces of ice should've been enough of a telling sign to everyone present, but instead they were merely ignored. The river was freezing on further down the way, these small chunks of ice had grouped and banded together to make drifting deadly sheets which could seem flat on the surface, but jagged and dangerous underneath the water. In some places these even froze together and to the bank itself, creating a very unsafe, glittery icy bridge.

As if an oncoming visit from a monarch wasn't enough, rather short written letters in what could possibly be the worst handwriting Thranduil had perhaps ever spied, arrived. It wasn't just one. There were several. It seemed unlike previous winters; this one had been especially bad so far. They were barely in the season; how much worse could it possibly be?

But because of the ice, and some parts of the river freezing, they were unable to trade. It was a problem, one which seemed to be apparently their problem. Like elves had the ability to change the weather and have control over it, the sheer impotence and presumption of it all had Thranduil rolling his eyes disdainfully.

It didn't help that in some letters it was specifically written that some men had fallen within the icy waters, just in an effort to chip the ice away so a barge, or barges could get through. Some boats had been abandoned in the ice too. Yet again, Thranduil was uncertain what exactly this Master wished for him to do. Did he respond to the letters? No. The way in which they were written was sheer childish scrawl that was barely legible both physically and mentally, there wasn't a real coherent thought trail.

Thranduil was still receiving letters from the Master, along with any other correspondence from within the kingdom when it came to Voronwë's visit. He had broached the topic to Legolas; he had been reserved. If Thranduil didn't know any better, he'd say his son was equally confused and displeased.

Legolas didn't know the elf, this could be most awkward for him, and for that Thranduil sympathised. Though just not verbally saying so, he conveyed enough through a look and Legolas just nodded in return. Thranduil would have very little qualms about putting himself in the firing line of a relative stranger for the sake of defending those closest to him.

Legolas wasn't so much a problem, he held himself much like Thranduil. Even how he reacted sometimes was very similar, although there was definitely a more defiant streak which Thranduil was adamant came from his mother. But if Voronwë commented badly towards Legolas, Thranduil knew he'd handle himself with poise and calm.

Liruliniel, no. She was the main concern of having to put himself in between her and the visiting elf. She didn't have poise, well, she did, it was selective and her tactful way with words was sometimes missing in action and sharp. Thranduil didn't want an argument, because it would put him in an incredibly hard position. Defend his love, which he would do without a second thought. But also, not defending a guest let alone a royal one was extremely bad form.

Even if Thranduil wasn't keen on Voronwë...hard to like someone when they were missing in action and barely vocal in letters. If he defended Voronwë, even if he was in the wrong, would then put Thranduil in the wrong; and he didn't want an argument with Liruliniel, it pained him mentally and internally, his heart would feel like someone had taken hold of it and clenched it slowly. He didn't like that feeling.

Standing and musing over these possibilities amongst other things, Thranduil was only minutely aware to Liruliniel appearing nattering on. Much like any other time, his attire played off the woodland home around them; standing in a long tunic with a trail to match of elegant shades of blue and silver, Thranduil couldn't possibly embody the snowy weather in clothing more than he did now. His crown was barren of the usual spring looking sprigs and leaves, his long hair trailed straight down his back as his hands were clasped behind his back too. His eyes still stared off and out of the window, despite the sun which had appeared within the day, it had started snowing again.

He sighed, Liruliniel was still talking, and he felt bad because he wasn't sure she realised she was having a one-way conversation with herself. Thranduil turned his face, he was prepared to reply or at least say something to her, but his words died within his mouth. He just stared at her with wide eyes and Liruliniel blinked large, confused eyes and looked around and then back at him, as if he was staring at someone else in the room.

Soft loose ringleted curls cascaded down her back, Liruliniel had gathered a small cluster of strands at her temple and twisted them up and off of her face and clasped them at the back of her head with a small trinketed pin. The circlet upon her head differed from the other, simpler one he had seen before; instead, this had a few trailing strands off of it, some of them looped and interconnected. But this design seemed more at the back, at the front the trailing strands shimmered in the light, and it wasn't until he looked closer that he realised they were studded with small jewels.

Some of these small jewel encrusted wisps were even weaved and twisted in amongst her hair; it meant if she turned her head in a certain way and the light caught a jewel just right, her hair would twinkle. Her attire matched the exquisite appearance of the circlet, Thranduil wasn't sure just how many dresses she had received from Galadriel, but this was surely one of them. The dress looked like something which would surely be worn by the Lady of Lothlórien herself; long flowing white lace which seemed to just be layered upon more lace and a soft looking material underneath.

The neckline was just under her collarbone but came off her shoulders slightly, where almost floor touching billowing sleeves hide her small hands from view. This too seemed to glimmer and shine in certain lights, everything she seemed to be wearing was encrusted with some small jewels or another. She was a walking star, his little walking star and Thranduil was walking over to her before his mind fully registered it.

The kiss he was suddenly sending her way had her almost falling against him as her hands clutched at his chest while her face was gently held between his palms. The rings on his fingers felt cold against her skin, yet his fingers gently found ways to thread into her hair without ruining what she had done. He hadn't expressed to her to look the part for meeting Voronwë, Thranduil presumed he wouldn't need to because she would just know this was something she couldn't attend while wearing a simple tunic.

Though from watching her lean back from him, he did note however that she was shoeless, he just looked at her frankly, Liruliniel smiled, "I really don't like shoes."

He just raised an eyebrow at that, what could he say? But then, she spent most of the time while they were in here without boots, or shoes on. There were also the times she'd been out and about in the kingdom bare foot too. Without the possible heels of footwear, it made her appear small and dainty, whereas it just made him appear so much taller than her. Liruliniel sighed, Thranduil seemed conflicted over something to her, and she looked at him patiently.

"I'm sure it won't be bad." His eyes snapped to hers; they were just staring off at nothing from over her shoulder. He still held her face gently, even if she had sought to find space to get air from his kiss, it hadn't meant he allowed her much room. As she took a step back, it was like he took one forward because there was still barely any space between them.

With a sigh he let her face go and turned away from her with a bland look. "Your optimism is misplaced today." It was going to be awful, Thranduil had a bad feeling dwelling within his stomach and he couldn't place it. Would it be seeing the male he hadn't seen for so long? Or would it be the male reacting to both Legolas and Liruliniel?

Thranduil brushed off whatever whoever said about him, but questioning loyalties; the way in which he raised Legolas and found solace, comfort and a new future in Liruliniel was a no. Somehow, Thranduil knew one of these two things was going to come up. And he wasn't looking forward to it.

"You can always kick him out, if things go badly." Thranduil found himself smirking slowly over that as he turned to look back at her. Liruliniel shrugged and looked about confusedly. "Just saying, it is your kingdom."

"I am unsure how well that will go down."

"Well, he's sailing with his people anyway, who's going to hear of this?"

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, "I think you misjudge how much communication can happen between here and the harbours."

Liruliniel blew out a sigh and waved a hand. "People don't like us anyway."

Thranduil tilted his head and walked back to her, Liruliniel's nonchalant disposition went as she looked up at him awkwardly. "That does not sound like something you would say. I distinctly remember a younger elf proclaiming wanting to be friends with all and any, no matter what."

Liruliniel crossed her arms and shifted her weight, the stance was somewhat ridiculous looking when standing there looking so beautiful. "I still stand by that, within reason. But mortals don't like us, I doubt he'd speak to any if he's like you make him out to be." Thranduil had briefly told her more of Voronwë's possible character, he sounded like a self-conceited nightmare to her. "I cannot imagine him stopping off in Lórien or Imladris. If he kept back contact with you and his daughter, then I cannot think he'd speak to Lady Galadriel or Lord Elrond." He seemed like a hermit to a new level did this Voronwë.

Thranduil turned away with a shake of his head. "I am not going to banish him, Liruliniel." There was a whine from behind him, he looked over his shoulder to see her hanging her head and her hands placed on top of her hair. She seemed to be despairing, "Perish the thought of what you would do if someone displeased you within your kingdom."

Liruliniel laughed, her head lifted, and she brushed strands back and sorted her hair out again. "Ask them to leave."

"Evidently." Thranduil placed a hand on the door and opened it slowly, "Come along then, little bird. We have a guest to welcome."

Liruliniel smiled, that was a nickname she hadn't heard him use for a bit. She picked up her skirts and trotted after him anyway. "Well, you can't put him in prison..."

"Stop, Liruliniel. If he says or does something displeasing, then I will deal with it in my own way." Thranduil frowned down at her as they walked along the corridor, there was no need to wait for Legolas because he had already gone out on an early patrol to be back in time. Though Thranduil wouldn't put it past Legolas or blame him rather if he purposely arrived back later. Thranduil had dodged important meetings through some way or another when he was the same age as his son, after all what youngsters didn't or wouldn't do that to avoid uncomfortable situations?

Liruliniel hummed, "You think I'm going to put my foot in it, don't you?"

Thranduil was silent, he didn't want to openly offend her. "Yes, but I believe you will possibly be lured into such a situation." Thranduil explained, Baramaethor did it enough, Voronwë would probably be much the same. If Thranduil's memory was correct, they knew each other before Thranduil married Vanadessë and Thranduil wasn't sure how they struck up a friendship, but he could guess they had similar views.

"I'll leave it to you then."

"As if you can," Thranduil didn't mean to scoff, but that was ridiculous. Liruliniel just sent him a knowing look, he conceded with a wave of his hand. His point exactly, even she knew her words were ridiculous. "I wish him luck," Thranduil thought while they descended a staircase, Liruliniel looked confused over his words. The corners of his mouth turned up, "You're the wrong person to take for being weak willed and unable to hold your ground." Even more so while looking like she did now; she was the image of a perfect princess, Voronwë would surely be in for a surprise when and if she went off on one.

It just so happened, that they reached the lower, ground floor levels just as the returning patrol were coming through the guarded doorways. Liruliniel inhaled sharply, Thranduil looked at her questionably. He even paused in the middle of a stair to turn back and look at her. Liruliniel swung her arms loosely by her sides and shook her head. "No matter my thoughts and feelings on this whole thing, this must be truly surreal for him." Liruliniel stepped down to be on the same stair as him as her gaze drifted to Legolas's form. "It is ridiculous to ask, but have you spoken to him about, well, who he is about to meet?"

Thranduil just sent her a blank look, Liruliniel sheepishly smiled. As if he hadn't, she was being ridiculous she knew it. "I have no pleasure in saying this, but I doubt you will be an option to talk to." He decided to say instead, verging off the topic of his son and the soon to be meeting of his missing grandfather.

Liruliniel sighed, "Alas, I am used to being ignored. This is maybe the one time where I will not force my company on someone." She commenced walking down the stairs, Thranduil watched her go for a few moments before following suit. She instantly gravitated towards Legolas, Tauriel was close beside him and looked at her with a questioning look. "Formalities, it is boring, uncomfortable but needs must. How is it out there?" She said in an utterly bored tone while waving a hand, or where a hand should be, a billowed sleeve was just flapping about where her hand would've been, if visible.

Tauriel, of course being Captain, had been promptly told about the oncoming guests. Half the reason for such an early outing was to make sure so far, everything was clear, and the way here was fine. "There are no visible signs of any nests, or webs being close to us. I cannot say there is none further afield. But we had limited time to search." She recounted their venture out, Thranduil had joined them at this point, unlike Liruliniel's highly interested face, he looked borderline disinterested. It was painful for Tauriel to admit, but most times his expression was like this when she came to give reports.

Liruliniel frowned thoughtfully, "You say all of them are to sail? Then surely, they have what remains of their army with them." She said while turning and looking to the blonde behind her. He seemed to not agree with something she said, she could see it in the way his eyes dimmed.

"I will speak to Imrathon," Thranduil said while turning and intending on finding where the elf in question was.

Liruliniel, Legolas and Tauriel watched him go. Legolas frowned, and he was the first to break the silence. "He's displeased by this all. Nothing has even happened, and he's already displeased." He could see how his father was standing tightly wound and trying to play off as totally casual. Thranduil was concerned about this, but Legolas didn't know what or where his concerns were placed.

Tauriel and Liruliniel exchanged a look, Liruliniel sighed and clasped her hands behind her back. "I think I would be displeased too, with all things considered your grandfather has been missing in action since you were a child. Your father does not paint a pretty picture of him, which doesn't help. I would be stressed, if I were in his position."

"Surely you're in a slightly worse one?" Tauriel couldn't help but muse.

Liruliniel looked slightly apologetically at Legolas, he merely shook his head. She wasn't a replacement anything, but he understood where his friend was coming from. "I am not worried about me. I am worried about you, and your father. You two have a habit of inwardly dwelling on things to the point where it will come out in some form or another. You are about to meet a family member, that you've never seen. Trust me when I say, I know how that feels. But also, your father will have judgment cast at him from not only your grandfather, but whoever else has come with him.

Because they are your mother's kin, and they will undoubtedly disagree with most, if not everything that is happening within the kingdom, and they too will most likely dwell on how things may be better if your mother were still here to rule too." Liruliniel paused, patting Legolas gently on the arm before looking at Tauriel. "I am worried for you too. You and your guards are stretched thin as it is, what with doubled patrols and everything. This is pushing you to another limit, regardless of if Imrathon and the army intervene to help too. You can only do so much, and I am worried you'll tire yourself out." Her other hand came wiggling out of the sleeve and was placed on Tauriel's arm. "Now, I'd say you have a limited amount of time to get ready, Legolas. If I have to look like this, then so do you...just minus a dress, of course." She said with a laugh, earning a grin from Tauriel and a frown from Legolas. "I'm just saying! I'd rather wear my usual attire, but sometimes it isn't possible. If you didn't hear this from me, I am sure you'd hear it in a backhanded comment from your father." Liruliniel crossed her arms and just sent him a knowing look.

Legolas rolled his eyes and took a step back, "As you said, Princess. I must get ready," he even bowed for good measure, earning her to exclaim shortly at him as he walked away with a smirk and confident stride.

Tauriel looked about them, the foyer area they were within was buzzing with life. Elves were busying around preparing for this visit in some way or another. And here they were, just standing here. Liruliniel blinked slowly and looked to the auburn-haired elf beside her. "Can I just say, if at any point you wish for a break from this-"

"I am Captain, Liruliniel. I can't just...go." Tauriel sighed quietly, not bothering to use a title because, well, Liruliniel just sent her a look in warning not to.

Liruliniel blew out a slow sigh, she understood, of course she did; she also understood what she had possibly tried to propose was ridiculous and unreasonable too. But honestly, she didn't want her friend to tire herself out to the point of being useless from exhaustion. Sighing and shaking her head, she smiled softly at Tauriel. "I understand," Liruliniel looked around before sighing again and shifting awkwardly from foot to foot. "I do hope someone else reappears, I do not wish to be the one to greet these unwanted visitors."

Tauriel probably shouldn't have laughed, but she did, although quietly. Liruliniel wasn't one for holding back on honesty, but even still, she could've turned it down a little. It was true though, many of the elves present did not understand why this visit was happening. Some were borderline sceptical, others were a little excited, most seemed to be wandering around with the air of blasé nonchalance. All in all, no one present seemed to be welcoming with open arms.

"I can stay with you, if you want?"

Liruliniel looked thankfully at Tauriel for her suggestion and her offer. "I would like that, thank you."

Tauriel just inclined her head, turning on her heel she effortlessly turned and stood beside her finely dressed friend. She cast a look her way every so often, Liruliniel looked as uneasy as the two blonde royal elves that left them a small while ago. Tauriel still believed she was in a worse position than them two though. "Do we know when they are expected?"

Liruliniel frowned and looked at her friend. "You know what? No. Well, I don't exactly. We were just coming to greet them, apparently, so I presume they're expected soon? I am not sure though. But I am sure that I am bored standing here waiting. Are you hungry? I'm a little hungry, let's go get something to eat. If they come, they come. Someone will come alert us, I'm very sure of that." Liruliniel said casually while rolling her eyes and turning to walk towards the communal hall. She was sure breakfast things would still be present.

Tauriel looked from the gates, closed now with the guards present, and to her retreating friend. She jogged to catch up with her, "You're just trying to avoid this, aren't you?"

Liruliniel laughed and waved a sleeved hand in the air, she was trying to laugh the comment off. Yet Tauriel looked at her pointedly, and Liruliniel sighed while hanging her head. "I am hungry. That isn't a lie. And I wish to say your words are, but they're the truth. I offered to stay in the background, but it was shot down. I am fine with being a united front. But I feel like I will be overstepping a boundary here. This is going to be very awkward."

"But at least you are not alone," Tauriel pointed out while they speedily walked down a small flight of stairs. Liruliniel had to pick her skirts up to do so. "Legolas and you shall be in the same position, I believe. You can very well face this head-on with our King, but truly, I think you and Legolas are going to be more together through this experience." Tauriel paused, the prince in question was spotted crossing a higher platform.

"Well, doesn't he clean up well?" Liruliniel laughed and stepped forward waving her hand and gently calling his name.

Legolas spotted her and Tauriel and made his way over. He looked confused, why they were here he didn't know. But Liruliniel looked over him, much to Legolas's discouraging look. He had changed from the forest green tunic he seemed to live in, to a sharply tailored tunic of silver and white. Liruliniel had to admit, he looked very handsome indeed.

"What are you doing?" Legolas's tone was sharp, sounding questioning yet slightly lilted with humour. As if he couldn't guess, they were so close, and the smell of food was very clear in the air. He was a little surprised that his father hadn't thought to eat first before trying to welcome their guests.

"Are you hungry?" Liruliniel just questioned with a grin, Legolas rolled his eyes and conceded with a gestured hand. She pottered past him, side eyeing him with a smile. She couldn't help it, Legolas had many characteristics and mannerisms that were so similar to his father, that dressed in such attire, she couldn't help it, he looked very much like his father did when he was younger. Even down to the simple circlet on his head and the colour scheme of his clothes.

The three of them sat down at a table, food was still laid out before them ready for eating. The table where the higher ups and royals sat was forgotten and ignored. Honestly, Liruliniel and Legolas looked a bit out of place sitting amongst those still present in their finery. Liruliniel didn't care, she took to placing things on her plate and took to eating cautiously. Last thing she needed was to spill something on her dress. The two younger elves sat as silently as her, eating away and looking around at the equally uncertain looks of those near them.

There was a hesitance in the air which surrounded everyone, it was so present, yet no one was fully registering it being there. It was like everyone was waiting for something to happen. Liruliniel sipped at her cup slowly with a frown appearing on her face. They weren't the most welcoming of elves, she couldn't see how any of this was going to go down well. Liruliniel looked to Legolas as he was sitting opposite to her, she looked a bit confused when his expression hardened and he straightened up in his seat.

Liruliniel shut her eyes and turned slowly in her seat, cracking open an eye she looked to the doorway where Thranduil stood. He didn't look so happy with them being here, but he just turned away and sent them a look as he did so. Legolas abandoned his seat and food, Liruliniel picked at something on her plate one last time before having another drink. Tauriel rolled her eyes as she stood too, she supposed she better go find the rest of the guards to secure the way in while her two friends went to their king's side.

Legolas caught up with his father first, Liruliniel bid farewell to Tauriel as she quickly walked away and joined the small group of guards which were present in the main foyer again. A small number of the army were present, Imrathon being one of them of course. Liruliniel stood at Thranduil's side, Legolas being on the other. She stood and watched as the armoured-up elves turned and exited silently. They had their orders, and they were going out to fulfil them.

"I sent out a scout, he returned saying that the company had been spotted closing in on us." Thranduil said suddenly, his eyes just staring outwards to the forest beyond the gates, the snowy landscape looked barren and unforgiving as flakes drifted past in the wind. He was just waiting for the first sight of those coming here, and those returning.

Liruliniel looked around behind Thranduil to Legolas, he turned his head and looked as uncharacteristically bemused as possible. It was a look Liruliniel rarely saw on his face, and she turned away with a slow inhale, she was exhaling just as slowly to calm her nerves. Her stomach did flips, her heart hammered slightly more now and Liruliniel's nerves were growing the more they stood here in silence.

She rubbed her hands against the sleeves which hid them, she was so glad this action was minute, because she kept doing it to rid her hands of sweat. She couldn't help but despair over this, she had faced numerous bad things, been here there and everywhere within their lands, yet was standing here absolutely terrified of this meeting.

But there was something else, a knowing that no matter what would happen or what would be said, she was still likely to be hated. Liruliniel was fighting a losing battle, and she wasn't one for losing. Her eyes snapped to the winter forest that they could see from the gates, the distant sounds of marching could be heard. The sound seemed almost deafening within the white landscape before them. Steadily, like a beating drum it kept on coming ever closer. By the time that the first elves were spied leaving the tree line to cross over towards the open doorway, Liruliniel was staring wide eyed.

She cast an uncertain look up at Thranduil, even he seemed to frown slowly at the sight before him. Sure, from what they both presumed there had been loses in an attempt to keep hold of their home; but what they were not expecting was a larger number than expected that formed the army, which was marching ever falteringly towards them with a tall dusty blonde elf at the front. Voronwë was blank faced as he kept his pace and didn't rush towards the safety of the kingdom which he, and his army were coming upon and within.

There was something inherently cold about Voronwë, he was as freezing and frigid as the winter weather which he and his kin had traversed through. The aura of general displacement which surrounded him made him a very hard character to gauge. Liruliniel was not expecting someone welcoming, that was ridiculous. Likewise, even Legolas seemed put off by this suppose long lost family member. Thranduil by far had the most obvious reaction despite not really doing anything.

He didn't appreciate an army marching into his home, an army which was bigger than what he expected. Yes, he imagined a few, not this. No, it did not rival the forces within his kingdom, and it seemed like seeing this many armed had Imrathon acting a similar. With a look exchanged between the pair, Imrathon merely inclined his head and departed down a corridor. Thranduil's stance straightened up more, not that he needed to appear taller than the leader before him, he was already that.

But showing zero reaction to what was currently coming through his doors, was the best Thranduil could do to show he was in no way intimidated or potentially impressed so many had survived. To be honest, Thranduil wasn't sure if he was inclined either way. The former a definite no, the latter, a no too after a moment of thought. That wasn't to say he wasn't pleased, relieved, content perhaps that some of Vanadessë's kin were alive and...well would be pushing it, but alive. But it was more a miracle Thranduil guessed, that so many were standing here, he wasn't exactly aware to Voronwë having military prowess let alone a brilliant track record of, well, leading.

But his eyes narrowed minutely, his hands clasping tightly behind his back and absentmindedly his fingers twirling rings on his fingers. His eyes just watched the number pour in through the gates, eventually an end was in sight and the doors were pulled shut. A few flurries of snow swept inside too, but no one paid mind to the flakes as the guards returned to their positions. They tried to look casual over the armed forces too but weren't as good as schooling their expressions into a mask of emotionlessness.

It was this current mask which was on Thranduil's face, his posture remained taught, and his eyes narrowed sceptically. He was as forthcoming and welcoming as the blonde elf approaching where he stood. Thranduil stepped forwards, leaving behind Liruliniel and Legolas who - now having a space between them, - stepped together to close the gap his form left behind. There was something rather unnerving standing where they were, being stared at blankly by so many weary eyes. At least when Thranduil was still present he took the brunt of those looks.

Some of the elves hadn't ever seen him before, in fact most wouldn't have ever stepped foot within the forest and the kingdom before. Still didn't stop them looking so indifferent. But underneath that indifference was an agitated tension, exhaustion perhaps too was playing a part in the unease which seemed to be affecting and hanging over the visiting elves.

"I have a tremendously bad feeling about this." Legolas looked slowly to Liruliniel when she whispered this quietly, her polite smile and expression still in place as she continued looking onwards. He had to give her credit for keeping the façade up, despite of the words she had spoken. Her whispered voice didn't waver, and her lips barely moved so it was like she hadn't spoken at all, yet he heard her so clearly.

"Why do you say that?" Legolas's words had her tilting her head, a look flitted across her face as if she was sifting through memories and thoughts to find the correct way or terms to answer his question.

How could Liruliniel put it? There as a dissociated feeling travelling through her, as if she wasn't actually here at all. But she was, it was like she was airily watching these events from afar, but she wasn't. Something just didn't feel right to her, and she couldn't place the feeling. She'd had similar feelings before, and she had listened to them and managed to steer clear of anything bad.

But glancing at Legolas, she could see he wanted a decisive, certain answer. "There is a tension, a feeling...it is like when faced with a great unknown, a sudden drop even. What do you do? What would you do? Turn back, face away, or do you run and jump; take a leap of faith and see where you land?" Liruliniel whispered, her voice low as a hand unconsciously came to her chest and fisted over her heart. It was still hammering away, and the borderline dirty looks didn't help.

They were all trying to measure the stance of her and Legolas, just as much as they were trying to do with them. Liruliniel wondered if either party were successful, because she was still at a lost as to know how to feel or what to think of these visitors. Liruliniel couldn't help but dwell, the feelings which were ebbing within her usually came hand in hand with visions, it was very similar. All hauntingly similar, yet she had not seen anything for quite some time.

This was perhaps the longest time where she hadn't seen anything, even if that space of time was very narrow. Why was this feeling appearing, despite having no reason to? Perhaps it was just apprehension of meeting new elves. She didn't know, she did know she didn't like it all too much.

Legolas naturally didn't look pleased by her cryptic reply, yet he shifted his weight and held his hands behind his back. He, alongside Liruliniel stood and watched the somewhat painful meeting. Liruliniel was trying so hard not to wince. Despite clasping Voronwë's hand in one of his own, Thranduil's spare hand stayed fisted by his side. He was hating this; Legolas was right earlier when he said his father was displeased. Hearing marching, both herself and Legolas looked to the side, she inhaled through her teeth sharply at the sight of some of their army with some guards, Tauriel being present too.

"We can't have a show of strength, I mean...we can but this isn't going to help matters."

"In all honesty, I am not sure anything will help matters." Legolas said, he wasn't too pleased by the two forces trying to show off in a standing position, but he understood why. In warning not to potentially do anything, though Legolas wasn't sure why his supposed grandfather would, they were merely showing they had the numbers. They had the numbers, and the upper hand.

"Do we go over?" Liruliniel asked, straightening the front of her skirts out for something to do, just to distract herself from the looks of the elves, army and civilians alike.

"I don't know." Legolas was honest in his reply as he looked down at her, "What would we say? Is it not best to be introduced?"

Liruliniel sent him a pointed look, she wasn't going to want to be met. "I...am not used to these things." She paused with a sigh, "They make me feel very awkward and uncomfortable." She wanted to run. She couldn't even lie; she wanted to run.

The elves from Voronwë's kingdom were not looking too forgiving or friendly, she would find no solace or companionship there. The elf himself had not even glanced her way. In fact, she couldn't even recall if he had looked at Legolas yet. That ticked her off more than she liked to admit. Ignore her, sure, ignore him? No.

"You should go," Liruliniel peeled her eyes away from the dented armour on some of the elves. She wasn't under any misgivings; they had had a rough time in getting here. If their kingdom was truly overrun, then they most likely had to fight to get out.

From what Liruliniel was led to believe they hailed northwards, Ered Mithrin would be a mountain range which stretched in and around their homeland. But that therein caused something to twist inside her gut, Ered Mithrin, the Grey Mountains, were neighbours to Mount Gundabad. From her experience of what dwelt from there, the orcs and goblins were not ones to let prey go easily.

Furthermore, their kind hated elves, or just about anything, even their own species weren't above slaughtering each other; although that detail could go for any that lived in Middle-earth. But Liruliniel knew that to get away would be a hard task within itself, let alone actually getting away.

Something about that didn't settle well with her, and though she was sceptical and unsure about having more of the army and guards present, she suddenly felt a bit safer for it. She was thinking of taking her own advice, the advice she gave to Tauriel...opt out if she could with some make-believe tale, otherwise; lie.

Shaking her head slowly, she shoved that thought aside. How could she leave Thranduil to deal with this viper on his own? With the chilling look he was still sending to the older elf, it was clear that given half the chance he may have listened to her earlier words of throwing him out, if he could. Inhaling slowly, she glanced at Legolas. Likewise, she couldn't leave him. She sympathised and understood how he felt, and he would need that support, no offence, Thranduil wasn't exactly going to freely give it, was he?

Blinking rather hazy eyes, Liruliniel watched with a mixture of dread and concern as both elves turned at last. The moment of them exchanging brief greeting words seemed to stretch on in her mind, but in all honesty the moment itself lasted only a few minutes. Legolas was polite in greeting, bowing his head and talking in a way which seemed like he had known the elf before him for years. Honestly, Liruliniel was jealous there. From meeting her rightful king without knowing, to a distant cousin, Liruliniel had been in different stages which ranged from excitement, hesitance, fear and perhaps slight hysteria and sadness. She definitely, most certainly wasn't calm. Polite yes, calm like Legolas was? No.

And then it was her turn, the look Voronwë sent her way would surely be enough to make many others wither to the floor and convulse. The glacial look was like a shard of ice had literally shot through her heart, she swore it missed a beat as she almost gasped for breath before also lowering herself in a sign of respect. And what did she get for it when she raised herself back up? Nothing. No words. Just the same look one would give to an enemy.

Liruliniel put on a smile regardless, because when all else failed, why not be happy? His dislike to her meant very little. She knew he wouldn't like her. Her smile had him looking even more unhappy. Liruliniel all but jumped when Legolas's hand appeared on her shoulder, "I feel like I need a drink," Liruliniel said, blinking and realising she was standing and staring at nothing really. Shaking her head, she looked questionably at Legolas. "When did everyone go?" How long had she been staring off into space for?

"They just went. I believe grandfather is having a tour." Legolas said, recalling what his father had said while Liruliniel and Voronwë stood staring unblinkingly at each other. "I believe it was father's way of getting him away from you." Even Legolas could see that Thranduil wished to keep the time Voronwë and Liruliniel spent together to a minimum. "As for everyone else, they have been led away. Shown to where they can rest and recuperate before meals are made and there's a chance to socialise with everyone here." Liruliniel looked at him dryly for that last comment, Legolas sighed shortly. "I'm aware to how fruitless that may seem." She shifted her weight, her arms crossed, and she tilted her head. Legolas removed his hand and clasped it behind his back again as he looked at her flatly. "You said something about a drink?"

Liruliniel soon smiled, a quiet laugh coming from her before she nodded. "Yes. Because I see the only way we will survive this, is to be drunk."

"No."

"I'm joking!" Liruliniel laughed and placed a hand to his back and nudged him forwards. Worst part was, she was only partially joking. But then, she couldn't go getting inebriated. Legolas relented, in all honesty being somewhere safe and hiding away seemed like a good idea, until he was perhaps needed. Until that point though, he might as well stay with Liruliniel.

The last elf they expected to see frantically rushing through the corridors though was Anameleth. Her hair flowed behind her as her pace quickened upon seeing them. Her hands clutched at the skirts of her richly auburn coloured dress, "Prince! Princess, I am so happy to see you!" She all but panted out, clearly, she'd been rushing for some time, Liruliniel rolled her eyes, letting the title slip. "Please, do tell me, or maybe I do not wish to wholly know-"

"Nothing has happened," Legolas cut their friend off, friend and former minder. The elf before them let out a relieved sigh. "What did you think would happen?"

Anameleth sent a guilty look to Liruliniel, she pretended to be affronted yet just sighed. "Apologies."

"Will you talk to your former King, Anameleth?" Liruliniel was curious there, considering she was with Vanadessë as a friend, a servant, basically anything Vanadessë probably needed her to be. Liruliniel felt bad, Anameleth must've lived a trying life really. Least she had more freedom to do as she pleased now.

No longer needing to tend to a royal, Liruliniel point blank refused to allow her to do things for her; she wasn't incapable and no longer needing to mind an overactive elf-Prince, Anameleth had free time to spare. But before all of that, she was foremostly a servant. Liruliniel never looked at her like that, and nor did Thranduil. Legolas had come to see her as a friend, but before that she was a nuisance to him always trying to stop him from doing things. As was her right, as his guardian at times.

She looked flustered all over again; she dispelled that notion with a wave of her hand. "I do not think he will wish to exchange words with me."

"But you were closest to his daughter, other than your father." Liruliniel said glancing from Anameleth and then to Legolas.

"I was below him, Liruliniel." Anameleth stated with a sigh.

Liruliniel rubbed her chin thoughtfully, yes, she understood class all too well. With a shrug she placed a hand on her shoulder and turned the younger elf around. With Legolas on one side and Anameleth on the other, Liruliniel picked up walking again, her hands now against their backs. "My friend, I have never looked at you in any other way than my equal. We all come into the world the same way, we all go the same; if good grace allows us, that is. Now, we're off for a drink, care to join?"

"It's so early in the morning-" Anameleth said although Liruliniel's words had warmed her heart.

"It's been a trying morning." Liruliniel's voice was clipped as her eyes went distant.

Legolas shook his head, looking past Liruliniel, he looked to their friend. "Just humour her, sometimes it is best too." Anameleth laughed quietly, she had learned that long ago though from the look suddenly on Liruliniel's face, she wasn't as lost in thought as both presumed.

=

The day honestly seemed never ending, she could've sworn the hours were dragging purposely. Liruliniel had found herself on her own soon after noon, an awkward midday meal had been taken by everyone and then everyone parted ways again. Legolas was having the joy of conversing with his grandfather, Liruliniel sympathised. When this was broached, the pair were together talking with Tauriel in the hall.

They hadn't seen their friend since earlier, and both wondered how she was doing basically keeping tabs on these newcomers. She had said it was dull but understood why she was. Likewise, she was shocked by the numbers of the army that had survived too. But regardless, an elf who looked perhaps the same age as Anameleth had approached, brazen as he was, he simply cut into the conversation and said that Legolas was needed.

Not, nor was there any kind words such as; "Your grandfather wishes to speak with you." Or even; "Apologies, King Voronwë would like to see you, Prince Legolas." There was nothing of the sort. Legolas had looked perturbed by the simplicity and the rudeness displayed. Respect seemed to be nil, and he didn't like it.

Tauriel had to get back to her tasks and Liruliniel was left on her own, though she did briefly converse with Caladhiel. In a chance moment, she caught Imrathon by the arm and pulled him aside to ask if anything had happened, he had said no. Liruliniel still felt troubled, and when like this there was only one she truly wished to confide in, but it seemed Thranduil trusted Voronwë even less to be alone with his son. Though the look sent from across the hall to him had him understanding, Legolas had simply nodded. Though he didn't express it, he thought it best his father checks in with her.

Liruliniel had left the hall and had made her way elsewhere, fully aware that eventually she wouldn't be alone for much longer. As if on cue, the door to the balcony opened and she turned and looked at Thranduil. This was perhaps the lone place other than their room that she thought they could talk freely without worries of someone hearing them.

Even before he had lifted his arms up, Liruliniel had walked forwards and buried her face against his chest. Her small hands gripped at the material of his tunic at his back and Thranduil for one was confused by her actions. Not so much the affection, Liruliniel had always seemingly been that way inclined, but how readily she jumped to it. Yet again, he shouldn't be surprised, yet with the way her shoulders were tense said something else had bought this on.

"What is it?" Thranduil asked, his arms enveloping her form and his cheek resting gently atop her head. Though he was careful to miss the circlet there, not wishing for the shiny metal to dig into his skin or her head.

"I have to admit I am not feeling very comfortable within any of their presences." Liruliniel peeked up at him, yet she didn't move back too much. "Something doesn't feel right. I cannot explain how, I said to Legolas it was like being at the edge of a drop...there is a tension in the air, and it is suffocating."

"I know." Thranduil wasn't ignorant. Everything about this visit had been awkward. From the moment Voronwë stepped through the door he seemed to presume everyone would bow and pander to him, they didn't. It was like he forgot this wasn't his kingdom. None of Thranduil's kin were going to kowtow to him, and he wouldn't expect them to, nor would he ask them to. "I do not think my father would approve of my methods of dealing with our visitor," Liruliniel looked confused by that. Thranduil tucked a piece of hair behind her ear, regardless of if it messed up how she was styling it. She didn't seem to mind, instead she leaned against his hand. "At least my father put on a pretence to care; to show he was at least interested. I cannot pretend to like him, nor can I try to especially to someone who looks upon our home as if it is below him. He doesn't wish to be here, Liruliniel. I think he is only because he feels like he has to."

She scoffed, "My love, you do have a way with words...or lack thereof. I am sure he is getting the message that you don't want him here, or anyone else." She returned the favour, unclasping a hand from his back she tucked hair over his shoulder instead. Though she kept a gentle hold, twiddling the platinum locks in her digits. "I reckon he is trying to find a trace of his daughter."

Thranduil tensed against her, Liruliniel looked at him worriedly. "He was displeased to hear there was not a place for her. He did not wish to listen to reason that she was not the lone one lost to war."

"And?" Liruliniel could tell there was more, and he was holding it in. Thranduil bottling things up was by far the worst thing ever.

"He said that considering she was my wife, the mother of my child, that there should be somewhere for her, regardless of if there isn't a body. Which I understand, of course I do."

"There's something else...if you're keeping something at bay to save my feelings, don't. I can take being humoured from anyone else but you." Liruliniel said, what he said was painful, but she understood too. But likewise, if he did that for Vanadessë others would want the same for their loved ones lost, and there was just so many.

Thranduil inhaled slowly, he looked at her clear expression and imploring eyes. The winter light truly made her appear like something from another world. "Apparently, if there was a body to bury and a grave to mourn at, then how long would the body have been cold for before I moved on." He watched her eyes dim, even the hand on his shoulder playing with his hair suddenly felt like a lead weight.

"I do not feel the need to justify reasons and whatnot...but I was the one who was trying to somewhat avoid this..."

"Not that I feel like I need to justify, but I did say you were innocent in this."

"You and I are both guilty parties."

"Oh well," Thranduil's dry tone and the roll of his eyes had her chuckling. He didn't care.

"He wasn't keen on our home then?"

"I have never seen someone more displeased by a tour."

"I'm not sure, you hated walking around Erebor." Liruliniel said, bringing her other hand from his back and pointing a finger at him. Thranduil's expression hardened as his eyes stared out at the wintery forest before them. He could spy the many arrays of trees, some with barely any leaves left and others totally bare. Liruliniel just grinned up at him, she playfully patted him on the chest. "I have got you on that one!"

Thranduil shot her a half-felt glare before inclining his head. "How cruel this Princess is to laugh at another's misfortune." The glare gone and a softer expression now on his face as he looked downwards at her.

Liruliniel chuckled quietly and placed both her hands against his chest as she looked up at him. "My King can take it, he is made of stronger stuff and not so easily torn down and hurt by jesting words."

Thranduil just breathed steadily while thinking over her words while she looked up at him with those emerald-like eyes of hers, the winter light of the day made them clear, twinkle almost. Smoothing his hands gently over her cheeks, he cupped her face with his thumbs rubbing against the warm and soft skin. "What had you looking so troubled?" Having her like this meant she couldn't turn away or walk off. Confrontation didn't always go well with Liruliniel.

Shutting her eyes, Liruliniel thought for a moment before looking upwards again. "Their kingdom is practically next to Gundabad. Surely you have thought it too?" Tentatively she went there, watching Thranduil's eyes glaze over slightly before he came back to the present by her yet again returning the favour and ghosting a hand across his cheek. "They take no prisoners, and they have trackers that would hunt down anyone fleeing. All in all, it is rare to not cross paths with orcs from there and come away. Especially with a small army like King Voronwë's, or what remains." Liruliniel had been thinking this over all day, but also, she was uncertain whether what remained of the army was half, or a quarter or what.

"He abandoned his home."

"Did he?"

Thranduil frowned, he leaned away from her and let her face go. "Careful with what you say, Liruliniel." He may not like Voronwë, but Thranduil wasn't sure he could hear her bandy insults and presumptions around. Mainly because what if she was right? Liruliniel had a horrid habit of being right too often.

"Or did they let them leave for another reason?"

"What reason?" Thranduil asked, nodding his head towards the railing. Turning in his arms she walked over and looked downwards, few were out and about.

"You, perhaps?" Liruliniel asked, opening her eyes and looking down when arms wrapped themselves around her shoulders. She was pulled close as he stood behind her, easily overlooking her thanks to the lack of shoes. Frowning, he didn't approve of her walking around on the snow-covered balcony without something on her feet.

"I would like to see him try. If perhaps they were let go, surely it would be noted quite easily over how inept they are to even try anything like you're suggesting." The thought of assassination, let alone his, was not settling at all and he could see where she was coming from, which was the worst thing. "To what gain?"

"Have the kingdom. Without a King, we'd be lost."

"Not made of stronger stuff like the Princess presumed then if such a lowly coward would be my end."

Liruliniel looked over her shoulder and up at him, "But you see where I am coming from? Something isn't adding up, Thranduil. And I cannot place which part...but something isn't right. I have thought it since you first mentioned the visit. Sailing, sure, visiting his grandson I can believe too to a point; but...if the fights were so vivid and bad, why did we and everyone else not hear word of it?" Which they hadn't, at all, and that didn't seem right. From the way his arms tensed, and he looked steely eyed at the greying sky, Liruliniel could tell it was something that he had perhaps dwelt on too and she now bought it to the forefront of his mind again. "Thranduil?" He was silent for a long time, and it worried her.

"A move against him would result in a fight in the kingdom. Many would be harmed, mostly innocents. And I cannot, I will not have that happen. Those within the army and guards are keeping constant watch, if something happens, they will quell it. They have orders to not act first, to not harm whomever if something happens."

That made Liruliniel nod, she looked forwards again. Leaning back against his chest she smiled slowly, after a few moments of thought she couldn't help it, she looked back at him with a sheepish look. "He hates me, doesn't he?"

"He said to me that you were not what he was expecting from a long-lost Princess."

"What was he expecting?"

"Perhaps someone not dissimilar to his daughter? At least then that would help him cope."

"He does dislike me then."

"Join me in that minuscule number then. As I said, he has had a disliking for me since day one. And anyway, I thought you were not going to let this matter bother you?" Thranduil leaned down, his chin resting against her shoulder as he looked to her face.

She sighed, "I may have been still foolishly hoping to sway him."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, "Can charm a dwarf-King, and seemingly a whole royal dwarven family, but cannot do the same to an elf-King." He knew deep down her childish hope of befriending whoever she came across was still present, no matter how much she knew it was likely to fail.

Liruliniel perked up and smiled up at him, "I charmed one Elvenking though, no?" Thranduil couldn't disagree, instead he leaned forwards and placed a quick kiss to her lips. Liruliniel just smiled widely and Thranduil leaned his forehead against her temple while she reached up and placed her hands against his arms. "Can I spend the rest of the day with you?" Liruliniel's whispered voice had Thranduil leaning away and looking at her with a knowing look. "Oh...you had already planned that?"

"I just wished to know what was troubling you, then I had planned on asking if you'd be interested in a walk. Obviously, any business is suspended within the kingdom until our guests have gone. I would say everyone else is trying their best to interact with them, but it isn't going well. Legolas is or at least was still with Voronwë, and Tauriel is out on a patrol, you are without company."

"What about Anameleth and Lady Caladhiel?" Liruliniel smirked at him.

Thranduil just tilted his head with a smirk of his own. "If that is what you prefer," he went to retract his arms from her, only to get clutched onto. He couldn't help but let his smirk grow as he just sent her a rather smug look, Liruliniel pouted and looked away.

"Can I ask for one place we visit on our walk?" Liruliniel turned in his arms, Thranduil nodded. "The stables, I haven't visited for a while."

"I presume firstly you wish to stop by the kitchen?" Thranduil quipped, turning on his heels and placing a hand against her back, Liruliniel didn't even try and deny it. "You spoil him," thinking of the pampered elk had Thranduil sighing and shaking his head. It wasn't like the beautiful creature was against the attention sent his way, totally the opposite. Thranduil had to say this is something they shared, they both revelled, enjoyed and felt privileged and fortunate to have someone such as Liruliniel gracing them with such praise and gentle attention.

And so, the rest of the day they spent within in each other's company, Thranduil could only sigh and standby and watch as Liruliniel fawned over the animal they came to visit in the stables. Honestly, it had been a while since he too had visited, but his displays of affection were a lot calmer than Liruliniel's; who had no trouble leaning over the stall and wrapping her arms around Arthion's thick neck.

The elk just snorted and accepted the attention while his brown eyes stared at Thranduil. If he didn't know any better, he was giving Thranduil a triumphant look, being the centre of Liruliniel's attention right now. Arthion even stood straighter, taller and looked quite proud as Liruliniel fed him another apple and complimented him to no end. Thranduil ran a hand down his face while leaning against the wall. Enough was soon enough and he approached, Arthion naturally leaning his head down to get attention from his owner.

Thranduil stood behind Liruliniel, a hand at her waist while the other stroked the soft fur on Arthion's neck. He had to practically pull the elf away from the poor animal, and the elk didn't look pleased by them leaving. Or rather he didn't like Liruliniel going because she pampered him so much.

They took a walk around the kingdom like planned. They saw some of Voronwë's kin trying to do the same, but they were met with bland looks of scepticism and guards nearly everywhere. Thranduil didn't want strangers walking so freely around his home, and he made that clear. But in all honesty, the guards felt the same. All in all, there was about as much trust here as sitting a starving man in front of a platter of food and not expecting him to dive at it and devour everything in sight. Of course, the pair got looks, hard to pin down looks which seemed distantly thoughtful, contemplative as they tried to register something within their minds.

Thranduil was definitely not inclined to ask what, because he simply didn't care to know. Their thoughts were their own, and as long as they stayed within their heads, he didn't care what they thought. He decided the walk was to be cut short on the account of Liruliniel not only having no shoes on, but she had no cloak either. She shivered a little and Thranduil guided her back inside. A guard promptly told them that Voronwë was finished talking with Legolas, and thus the elf had returned to his room to rest.

"Where is the Prince now?" Liruliniel had asked before Thranduil had the chance, though from how indifferent he looked he was perhaps not going to and was going to leave his son to himself and his thoughts for a while. There was little surprise to Liruliniel to learn he was in the space used for archery training. Liruliniel sent Thranduil a look just before turning on her heels and walking off briskly. The guard sent Thranduil a sympathetic look, he merely frowned and turned away silently. Yes, he sympathised with himself too, trailing after Liruliniel like some lost pup.

It just so happened that the talk with Legolas was brief, he expressed simpered down displeasure about the male he had spent the better part of the day unfortunately with. "He told me stories of my mother that I hadn't heard before," Legolas had said, noting the pained look which flitted into his father's eyes. Legolas, regardless of his regal attire, merely notched another arrow and aimed. "Seeing as he is the one who knew her best, he thought it best he tell me things I didn't already know." Legolas had practically scoffed, almost, but he let the arrow fly, and it hit the mark dead on. "I know what he is doing, and I dislike it." He didn't agree or take any pleasure in his grandfather trying to power play off this.

Thranduil regained his perfect composure as he looked down at Liruliniel when she let out an overdramatic groan. Legolas merely glanced her way too, completely used to her dramatics when something happened, she didn't agree with. "Of course he would've known her the best! What sort of father doesn't know their child?! Seriously...he is petty. How do you feel?"

"What do you mean?" Legolas had eyed her oddly then, he was fine.

Liruliniel raised an eyebrow. "You've spent most of the day talking to someone who is meant to be your family, regaling you with stories of your mother and no doubt her homeland; in an attempt, I no doubt believe, to try and get you swaying to him through some family loyalty."

"This is sounding like a conspiracy theory."

"Liruliniel, we've been through this." Thranduil sighed and placed a warning hand on her shoulder. He looked at her hard, she couldn't keep this on, even if something didn't add up.

Liruliniel held her hands up, "Fine. But how are you? I'm not trying to make us the same, but I've been in your position, with someone a lot more terrifying as she is beautiful and smart."

Legolas notched another arrow, though he paused in raising his bow. "I don't like him." He stated, taking aim and firing. The arrow thudded painfully against the target, Liruliniel looked up at Thranduil and he just inaudibly sighed. Yes, they got the message loud and clear that Legolas wasn't a fan or happy, why else would he be taking his feelings out on a target here? "He seems to presume in knowing what I wish to know, and what I don't know. Because my mother was his daughter, he thinks that is automatic entitlement to treat me like a fool, like a child even. He was disinterested in hearing about how my life was growing up, how both you and everyone here were..." Legolas trailed off, rolling his hand with a troubled look.

Liruliniel smiled, as emotionally crippling as his father sometimes, she couldn't help but smile widely over him struggling. Thranduil just stared at him silently, Liruliniel looked at him and then at his son. Both seemed to have this expression of confusion. "We're as good as a family as you could've asked, even though you would've wished your mother to be present?" Liruliniel offered, she didn't know Legolas struggled to compliment, even his own father. But then again, she couldn't help but frown, Thranduil didn't need an ego boost...

"Yes," Legolas agreed.

"He only spoke of himself?" Thranduil asked, deciding now was a good time to speak up again. Sometimes they didn't need to talk, he could see his son was not happy, and he didn't need to ask for the root of the problem. Liruliniel however, seemed to think talking worked. He supposed in a way it did, Legolas didn't stand so rigid, and his bow was relaxed in his hands now.

"Yes," Legolas said again and shook his head gently. "I asked about how he came to losing his kingdom, and he went silent and said it was too painful to speak about. Which I understand, I am not ignorant." Before him were two beings who had been there and done that and missed what was left behind. "But he tensed, he looked fit to running out the room and away from me."

Liruliniel sent Thranduil a knowing look, "Doesn't mean anything," he whispered to her, perhaps a little harsher than he planned. Didn't deter her from turning and looking at him plainly. Thranduil shook his head and looked away from her, Legolas too was looking uncertain. "Did he give you cause for alarm?"

"I don't trust him, if that is of any help. Family or not, I do not trust him."

That was enough for Thranduil to further distance himself from the visiting royal when they next crossed paths. Which was dinner, until that though both himself and Liruliniel left Legolas to it. It was clear he wasn't going to leave practising for a little while, so they retreated. How they ended up within the library, Thranduil could not remember. But they did, and finding a quiet corner they settled down, although by this it was him on a window seat and Liruliniel within his lap having found a book and leaned back against him comfortably.

If anyone saw them so comfortable and at ease, neither knew but Liruliniel was engrossed in her book and although Thranduil's reading tastes differed then her fanciful tales of valour, he read the book from over her shoulder. If he finished both pages before her, he'd sit and run his fingers through her hair, his chin coming to rest on her shoulder and waiting patiently for the page to be turned.

But soon dinner came, and both entered the hall side by side, Legolas had run to catch up with them and he stood on his father's other side, much like earlier they flanked Thranduil and walked to their seats. Voronwë's entrance was watched by most in the hall, and there was a great many, his kin and theirs alike. A heavy tension settled over the space before quiet chatter picked up. They were silent however, though hearing talking, Liruliniel looked up from her plate and almost choked. Baramaethor and Voronwë were talking like old pals. Legolas, who sat in between her and his father much to Liruliniel's pushing, looked at her worriedly.

That was a partnership she didn't want to see, and here it was! Legolas patted her back, even Thranduil frowned her way confusedly before seeing where her eyes had landed. Baramaethor stood opposite the table bowing his head every so often talking to the visiting king. When it came to greeting the three of them, the jovial expression had gone, and he looked totally uninterested in them.

Liruliniel hadn't really heard Voronwë's voice, she wasn't sure what it would sound like. She definitely wasn't expecting it to sound so charming, it was cruel for such a kind voice to come from someone who wasn't kind. "I hear there are whispers of a group of dwarves trying to return home."

"They are foolish to even try it." Was Thranduil's clipped response. Of course, that fool Thorin would try and reclaim his home, if anyone didn't think he would, then they were a complete idiot. "That is a quest destined to fail if I have ever seen one before." No matter the dwarves that survived, how many were now able to take arms against a dragon? A dragon which hadn't been reported in these parts for many, many years. Some presumed it dead, but then those were as big of an idiot as those who believed Thorin wouldn't try and get his home back. Thranduil knew dragons lived for a great number of years. That thing was still alive, somehow, he just knew it.

Unfortunately, the conversation had caught Liruliniel's attention, and she turned and looked their way. "They have any right to try; it was their home. But I do not believe it is the right thing if it means the dragon will take vengeance on those around it." Liruliniel wished she was older when they left Amon Lanc, she wished there was something they could've done to keep it. Perhaps if they did, things would be different. But the dragon Smaug had already decimated Dale, what if it went for Esgaroth?

"I would not heed opinions from a refugee."

That cut, Liruliniel's expression sharply turned to one of pain as she looked lost and in Voronwë's direction. He didn't look at her, merely swirled the wine in his glass completely ignoring the heated glare sent his way by Thranduil too. "She is no refugee. She is as much a part of these lands as any other." He said in a clipped tone, trying hard not to seethe too much. Legolas was between his father and Liruliniel still and didn't quite know which one to try and console or calm down first.

Liruliniel, definitely. Legolas knew his father could keep his anger in check for the sake of face value; he turned and placed a hand on Liruliniel's shoulder. The action making her jump, she looked at him with watery eyes. "It is not true," he whispered, no one saw her that way.

"I heard rumours of a hidden away Princess who could see things no other could. I am surprised you have not seen this quest to be." Voronwë continued plainly.

Liruliniel's eyes widened as she tensed in her seat, Legolas schooled his expression and looked at her calmly, or as calmly as he could. It was clear Voronwë was baiting her, but likewise, Liruliniel had not let her skill or curse slip. Others present or nearby heard and were now whispering about it behind their hands. Voronwë didn't even try to look ashamed or sorry.

"Someone who is, as you put it, as much of these lands as any other, surely wouldn't keep such a thing quiet? It is a skill, yet a hindrance. What if you saw something truly tragic about someone present, how could you not tell them?"

"I do not see personal futures. And any futures I have seen have been dark, dismal and full of death. Nothing good has been seen within my visions. I saw the oncoming darkness, I saw the war, I saw the dragon and I have been spoken to in a language I do not understand. I keep what I can do to myself, because it is my burden to bear, no one else's. I have had enough pitying looks, looks of disgust and disapproval to last me a lifetime. If someone believed I could see their future by a mere glance, I would be completely and further ostracised than what I have been already by some." Liruliniel said, her voice shaking a little as she tried to keep her tone level and calm.

The hand on her shoulder tightened, Legolas hadn't let go of her, and didn't intend to remove his hand, she needed to know she was grounded and that someone did not believe Voronwë's words. "Aren't you already ostracised? Being that you are of Lady Galadriel's kin, and not of here, that is."

Something plummeted in her stomach, that was information that would've been hard to come by. Presuming alone would make it a fair bet, but that person would be lucky to guess right. She felt unbelievably sick, the room too close and the air too hot as she tried to breathe steadily. "Legolas, take her away." Thranduil's tone was deadly and low, he just continued to look forwards yet saw his son do just that.

Liruliniel was shaking, but Legolas steadied her enough to get her away from the table, the pair found Tauriel, and she was within Anameleth's company. Being in amongst a caring circle, Thranduil merely watched her for a few moments before turning to Voronwë. "I do not particularly care to what ill will or grudge you hold against me, but to push those feelings towards someone who is completely innocent is as petty as it is pointless. Picking a fight with Liruliniel will not fare well, and you are lucky that she composed herself so well, or else I am rather sure you would've had a completely different argument on your hands."

Voronwë sipped at his glass before turning and looking at Thranduil flatly. "I do not like how you have moved on to someone who was clearly kept on the sidelines as a replacement; that regardless of what her suppose heritage is, that you have moved on so readily and erased any image or memory of my daughter away as if she didn't even exist." He said, practically talking through his teeth as his eyes narrowed at Thranduil.

"Do you not think it pains me enough to speak of Vanadessë, let alone have images of her around? Her memory is not forgotten. How could I forget someone like her? That is impossible. She was someone truly worthy of reigning alongside me here."

Voronwë laughed bitterly. "By saying your new wife is not worthy, does not buy you any kinder feelings."

"She isn't my wife." Thranduil didn't feel like he needed to justify himself to anyone, but Voronwë was seriously pushing it. He looked startled by that, Thranduil smirked. "We are in an agreeable state of merely being together. Whatever you think you know, you really do not. You are trying to degrade someone who has no interest in being a Queen, a ruler, and has never tried to be such a thing. In fact, she has completely forgone the title if a marriage does happen. Something about Vanadessë being the only Queen our kingdom needed, because she cannot stand up to such a figure. Your harsh words were directed to someone who tried to befriend your daughter, who vowed to guard both her and me; Liruliniel is a soldier first, before she is anything else and you probably couldn't meet a more genuine being. Despite all her troubles, she will always put someone else first. Truly unselfish."

Voronwë was silent for a long time, musing over Thranduil's honestly spoken words. He felt a mixture of emotions, with a slow growing frown, he looked back at Thranduil. He was still staring at him with unblinking eyes. "You truly love her."

"Only because I do, does not mean I did not love your daughter."

"She's a weakness."

"Then I will aid her anyway I can." Thranduil said lowly, not appreciating Voronwë's further words. He needed to be silent.

Voronwë's expression changed, and Thranduil was confused when he looked slightly apologetic. "You misunderstand; she isn't a weakness to you." Voronwë's words had Thranduil almost vaulting out of his chair when there was a scream and the sounds of a fight. His eyes snapped to where Tauriel stood with one of her swords blocking another and a knife in her other hand at the ready.

The scream hadn't come from her, more the elf behind her, Liruliniel stood holding onto her shoulder. But even with her hand there, Thranduil could spy red seeping through the white of her dress and through her fingers. Legolas was guarding her with a knife he clearly had borrowed from Tauriel.

Thranduil looked downwards at Voronwë, "Oh, so unwise." He said lowly and merely watched as muted golden armoured elves dragged the king from his seat. Others from the army and the guards seemed to flood from the shadows of the rooms, from hidden passageways and platforms within the room, all of them aiming a weapon of some sort at Voronwë's kin in warning.

She was right, again. Something wasn't right with Voronwë, did Thranduil think he was a turncoat? No. "What promises were you given? That your kingdom would be safe, that you could have this one too? That none of your kin would be further killed? You sold yourself out to a being who will ultimately betray you. What, you thought because you had nothing left to lose, that you would try this foolhardy attempt? I know what Liruliniel is, she knows too, but all the while she is here under my care, nothing will befall her. Understood? So, you made an alliance, and they sent you here, which means something of importance must be on the horizon for them to be concerned."

"Did-"

"I really do not wish to hear any more of your lies. You're a deceitful creature, my father was wary of you from the beginning and though I have tried, I cannot help but find and see for myself why my father did not trust you either. You had a chance to come clean, to get aid from us rather than seal your fate. I am merciful though, if any of your kin wish to stay, they are free too. But they will be guarded until fully trusted. Why should they follow you to your demise if they were innocent?" Thranduil smirked and gave a slow shrug, knowing full well this whole conversation was heard by all.

With a nod, much to Voronwë's kicking and screaming, he was dragged away. Those who had attacked or tried to attack Liruliniel were taken too. Thranduil turned, his hands by his sides and looked frankly at those which had come with Voronwë. "I will not stop you from leaving, but the forest is an unforgiving landscape, especially in winter. You can take your chances with your King, see how you fare and his alliance with the foul things of the land. Or you may stay. As I said, I am merciful." It was of very little surprise that the civilians within the number wished to clearly stay, Thranduil could see they were weary of this. The soldiers, they took longer, some did go though. Thranduil admired their loyalty to their foolish king, but ultimately, their loyalty will be their undoing.

Moving around the table, he ignored the look that was on Baramaethor's face, Thranduil would speak with him another time. He paused near the trio, Tauriel still on guard and Legolas trying to check Liruliniel's shoulder. Thranduil merely glanced to the side to see Caladhiel and Anameleth desperately wanting to come over too. Of course they would, Thranduil nodded and Caladhiel rushed over, her quiet fussing was endearing and Liruliniel practically crumpled against her adopted mother.

With a look to Tauriel and Legolas, they nodded and gestured them out of the room. Thranduil couldn't think of two better elves to protect them and make sure they got somewhere safe to check on Liruliniel's wound. He would have to wait until he could see to her too, to console and make sure she was well. But also, to get the story of how and what happened.

Until then, he walked to the gates Voronwë was still under guard and Thranduil just stared at the small group that he was banishing from his kingdom and sight. Voronwë didn't say anything, and Thranduil wasn't sure if that was good or bad. He seemed to regret what he had signed himself up to, or was it because he knew the moment the gates shut, he was dead? Thranduil didn't know, yet he gestured a hand to the guards, they let those here go and stepped back, their lances still pointing the sharp ends forward in case they decided to charge forwards in a last-ditch effort to get in.

None did, and with a simple turn on his heels, Thranduil walked away while the doors shut behind him and the guards. Something told him for definite that would be the last time they would see or hear from the weak-willed king, dismissing the guards, Thranduil commenced walking towards his room. He was almost surprised that the others that accompanied Liruliniel weren't still present.

Liruliniel herself seemed to be pacing, though seeing the door open and Thranduil walk in, she paused in the doorway to the bedroom. Her beautiful dress had been replaced by a simple nightgown, her circlet gone and her hair still loose and curled. Thranduil could see the peeking bandage from the neckline of her attire, she looked at him with wide eyes and he acted much like he did earlier, Thranduil was marching towards her after kicking the door shut, and before he knew it he had taken her into his arms and lifted her up, pressing his lips against her hastily.

It sunk in, if Tauriel didn't block the attack from getting any worse than it did, Liruliniel may not be here. She let out a surprised noise yet stiffly placed her hands against his cheeks as he carried her with ease back into the room where she had paced hurriedly out from. The thought of her perhaps not being here had Thranduil's kisses turning more longing and slower, the thought of not kissing her, or holding her again had Liruliniel returning the feelings in kind.

He was intending to question her, but emotions which were usually kept so schooled and under control were disagreeing with his plan and wished to come to the forefront and Thranduil didn't stop them. Even as Liruliniel's hands carefully swept his crown off and dropped it to the floor, her hands raking into his hair as her nails lightly ran over his scalp, Thranduil would've had a comment but right now he didn't care, he just cared that she could've very well not be here still.

——

Edited: 4/July/2025