Liruliniel couldn't help but wince every so often, she thought it was a good idea to try and sort out her hair; her hair that was tangled, soot covered and braided together or escaping in wild wisps. She was sitting on the broken wall looking outwards towards Erebor. Behind her was the tent that belonged to Thranduil, a small almost semi-circular courtyard was behind her leading to this point. She just thought she could sit, stare, grimace and she was regretting at least one of those decisions.

Thranduil was elsewhere, no doubt overseeing how everyone else was settling in...or meeting with Imrathon, Liruliniel knew he was here, of course he was, but she hadn't seen him yet. Pulling a particularly locked piece of braid in front of her face, she glared at it quite irritably. With nimble fingers, she plucked and pulled, twisted and weaved everything free. Didn't mean the hair looked better for it.

Liruliniel breathed slowly, she had become quite aware to the fact that without a proper wash, her hair was going to remain wrecked. She didn't particularly care, but the soot and smoke residue were starting to make her itch. It was as if her mind and thoughts had been read, she jumped when the sounds of metal quietly clinked against the stone behind her. She turned, Thranduil just stood back and looked downwards and then at her, a small pail sat with water within it.

She threw her legs over and sat facing him, her hands reaching for the cold water before pausing and retreating. "There is plenty, do not worry." He said simply, still remaining standing and watching as she looked relieved and dived her hands into the water. She winced again, it was very cold, what else was she expecting? Turning and sitting beside her, Thranduil looked forwards at the camp before them.

So many were bustling about, training was happening in another large courtyard; it was more centred, the large stone building before it, from what he recalled, was the main hall. It was where Girion would've resided' a long-ago memory. Liruliniel side eyed him worriedly, a troubled look was on his face and really, it was an expression she wasn't used to.

Straightening up, she shook her hands gently in the air and nodded his way. "What is it?" Thranduil raised his eyebrows and looked, or tried, to look at least a little surprised that he'd been caught lost in thought. Liruliniel leaned her elbows against her knees, "Come on, you looked utterly lost in your head."

"Merely remembering another time." Thranduil responded simply, watching recognition flick across her face. It seemed like something she too had mused over. He kept his hands hidden within the large flowing sleeves of his robe as his eyes watched sidelong, as people pottered close by them. He didn't know what they were doing, but they were doing something.

"I suppose that is a burden we must carry. To remember, always remember and tell the stories of times gone by." Liruliniel looked down at the reflection in the water, her face just stared right back up at her blankly. "It is a little weird being here though, no?" Tilting her head, she watched him think over the question. His eyes stared up at the sky, the rest of him was motionless, silent almost apart from his quiet breathing. "I found it strange walking into the city."

"Another fallen kingdom, we are unfortunately used to seeing such things."

"Well, the new Lord, sorry, King has plans, I think." She joked; it was easier to tease Bard when he wasn't present to glare at her for it. She did chuckle quietly to herself, looking quite chuffed in a small way and Thranduil just looked at her a little confusedly.

He didn't reply, he just shook his head and looked over his shoulder briefly, the braziers were still lit and from here, both of them could see the completely barricaded doorway had been fully blocked. He didn't know what the dwarves were doing in there, and in part he didn't wish to know. He knew though, that he would need to go there. Thorin needed to be confronted, Thranduil was incredibly tempted to force an apology out of the dwarf while he was at it. Whatever he said to Liruliniel would've been unfounded, rude, and unneeded; but also, his general behaviour was something he would need to apologise for. Liruliniel has been most accommodating and polite, where most aren't.

"What are your thoughts on this?" Thranduil asked after her quiet chuckling ceased, she looked taken back that he had asked her such a thing.

Liruliniel looked at him sceptically, surprised really but Thranduil was patient to hear her reply, he watched as she leaned forwards and scooped water into her hands. With her hair all over the front, she poured it over the tangled locks with a shiver. This water was very cold. "I think needlessly that Thorin is leading everyone to a situation that doesn't need to happen. But also, unfortunately, I do not think he is himself. Think of what it would be like to be within your home after years of exile? Can you even think about how he feels?" Liruliniel trailed off thoughtfully and distantly as she turned her head to look his way, she could peek through slightly damp locks to him. "But there are others coming. Us being here is just an obstacle. What do I think of this? I think it will be an awful waste of lives, and the end may not justify the means." Liruliniel said while rubbing her damp palms into her hair and frowning. She grumbled under her breath; her hair was so stubborn right now.

She all but jumped when she felt pressure on her scalp, peering through her hair again she could spy Thranduil trying his best to untangle more hair, some forgotten braids no doubt. But seems they were so small, she probably forgot they were there. He understood why she did this with her hair, but at the same time this didn't look fun, or easy to rectify. Thranduil soon abandoned the silvery slate robe, he only half paid mind to it draping over the wall they were on. Only rolling his tunic sleeves up passed his wrists, Thranduil didn't really seem to care about getting his hands wet, trying to gently pour water over her hair and listening to her yelp had him sighing.

"The alternative is less pleasing, if only quicker." Thranduil offered, Liruliniel's eyes looked his way through slightly different wetted strands. Inhaling slowly, she inclined her head, Thranduil took that as a go ahead.

He stood, leaned down and picked the pail up before tilting it and watching as the water trailed over her hair. Liruliniel's reaction was a small scream and a jump before running her fingers through her hair. Thranduil stood to one side and watched her twist and wring out the water before just pushing it over her shoulder and regretting that with a groan.

Squinting open an eye, she looked at him. "Thank you." He just nodded slowly, although she looked slightly drowned, at least she was not so smudged with smoke. There was still water in the pail, he hadn't used it all, so he sat back next to her and looked around before just wetting his hands and cleaning her cheeks fully.

Liruliniel let out a quiet noise, sounding almost discouraging. Thranduil looked at her pointedly, "Do you not wish to be clean? Yes, I thought as much. So, stay still." He watched her shut her eyes and accept this was happening. "There is still some water, if you wish to use it up. On the off chance that you were here, and we were to see each other, I bought clothes for you." Liruliniel's eyes lit up at that and she all but sprung up and looked at him happily. Thranduil didn't think he had ever seen someone so happy at the prospect of clean clothes.

Unfortunately, others present weren't able to share this luxury. It was something that upset her a little, a lot actually. But there was nothing she could do, she couldn't sew, weave, or do anything of such. Although from the looks of things, some were wearing clean tunics, and mail which could've only come with Thranduil and the other elves. Liruliniel smiled, it wasn't just food and water which was bought here then.

Watching him shut the flaps of the tent, he simply placed the pail on the table near the wine jug and gestured to a trunk to one side. Liruliniel followed him and watched as he lifted the lid to show her the clothes within. But it wasn't just a tunic or trousers, her armour was there too. She let out an almost breathless sound as she placed a hand against the plating which made up a shoulder guard. "Thank you," she thanked him again while looking his way.

Thranduil brushed a hand over her damp locks and smiled lightly, "I cannot have you walking into a fight unprotected. Or at least, properly suited for it." He corrected; he would protect as much as he could. But her being kitted out for battle would help. "Wash, change, I will let you have peace."

"You make it sound like you make so much noise!" She laughed yet watched him roll his eyes dully, they both knew she was the louder one, but she watched him leave before looking to the water on the table. She retrieved it and placed it on another trunk; no doubt it had his armour within it. Shedding herself of her tunic, she shuddered, it felt practically stuck to herself. She threw it to the ground; it landed where she had placed her weapons. Her boots were easily kicked off; the trousers had a similar reaction to the tunic. Everything was just grimy, sooty, smoky and dirty.

Rummaging through the trunk she pulled out the clean tunic, trousers and even underwear. She managed to use up the last of the water, feeling reasonably better but even more so once she changed into the new set of clothes. She brushed her hands down the royal blue tunic, the filigree and embroidered silvery patterns shone in this low light. With a sigh she shoved her dirty clothes into the bottom of the trunk before picking up the pail and leaving the tent.

She ended up leaving it near the barrels which housed the water, looking about she couldn't help but suddenly run forwards. Imrathon stopped talking or rather instructing some of the men's movements to reach out for her when she practically flew at him. He was of course a little taken aback, they hadn't ever had such closeness before, but Imrathon just presumed it was relief from seeing a close friend.

Imrathon put her at arm's length, eyed her damp hair questionably yet smiled with relief. "Caladhiel will be most happy to hear you are in one piece, and well."

"She isn't here, is she?" Liruliniel looked around worriedly. She couldn't think of anything worse. She honestly couldn't. Caladhiel couldn't be here.

"No, don't be absurd. She is back home, but messengers come and go back. Just to inform those which were left behind what is happening."

"Lord Baramaethor, you mean," Liruliniel crossed her arms, pouted and looked at him flatly.

Imrathon held his hands up, "Liruliniel, without the King, or even Prince present, it falls to him and the elders of the council to lead, protect and look after the kingdom. Once we return, all shall be back to normal." Liruliniel looked troubled by that, Imrathon sighed. "It'll be as normal as it can be. We will continue, and we will carry on and not forget." Imrathon was a soldier, he knew her troubled exterior came from thinking of those they were perhaps to lose. Imrathon, being who he is, was perhaps one of few that had known of her visions, truly known, not just because of anything Caladhiel had said, but Thranduil too. Imrathon was in charge of the army, he had the right to know what may happen from what she had seen.

"What are you saying? I was half expecting him to be here, readying himself for the battlefield."

"Not funny, Liruliniel. Not funny. Now, why are you here in such a state?"

"Believe it or not, I look better than what I did." She said while flicking a wet strand out of her face. "I knew you were here, I just didn't know where. I wished to find you before, well, before anything happened..."

"I understand, but I believe you are being sought out too." Imrathon said with a soft smile, Liruliniel was confused before turning and seeing Thranduil a little behind them. His robe was back in place, and he was seemingly indeed looking for her, Liruliniel bid farewell to Imrathon and ran back to Thranduil's side.

Thranduil didn't say anything, he just turned and led the way back to the tent, Liruliniel followed after him quietly too. In fact, she was too busy trying to rake her hands through her hair to comb it, having a hand nudge her, she looked up confusedly before letting out a quiet noise and sitting down on a stool. Though she was confused before her hands were gently swatted away, Liruliniel tensed a little with a frown on her face.

She couldn't help but look over her shoulder, "Are you doing my hair?"

"I'm trying," Thranduil replied casually, a frown on his face as he tried to figure out how locks of her hair were still so heavily entwined. Liruliniel just faced forwards again, admittedly the feeling of his fingers gently combing through her hair was relaxing. She could feel her eyes slowly drift close, letting out a quiet yawn she rubbed her eyes with the backs of her hands.

She couldn't help it, it seemed exhaustion had come creeping from nowhere. Thranduil wasn't surprised, admittedly he was wondering when the quiet yawning would appear. He had seen how exhausted Bard looked, how everyone looked; Liruliniel suffered from exhaustion more than any other elf he knew, he wasn't surprised she was now yawning and tired.

Liruliniel rubbed her eyes again, trying to stay awake and with it. But she found herself lost in thoughts, Thranduil hadn't ever done her hair before, play with it, stroke it, but never do it. There was something incredibly intimate, innocently as well, about the whole situation. She wasn't going to deter him, by all means if he could work wonders on her hair, she was going to leave him to it. Thranduil's long fingers combed through, brushed, and untangled before he actually took to braiding pieces together.

For the most part, he didn't go overboard like she did with braids, instead he nimbly did two parallel to each other at each of her temples before incorporating them into one main braid which trailed down her back. It was simple, but it suited her. Placing his on her shoulders, he leaned forwards and kissed the back of her head before letting her slip and turn on the stool. Thranduil leaned back in the chair casually, now that his task was done, and she sat there looking up at him with a small smile in place.

As if he had just remembered something, Thranduil's expression turned to one of realisation as he sat forwards and leaned against the rests of the chair. "There is something else, I forgot to give you." Liruliniel tilted her head, she looked over her shoulders and even pointed. "No, no. It isn't any of those, or more weapons. I think you have plenty enough, don't you?"

"I'm sure I can find room for more."

Thranduil frowned, though he looked at her with a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Yes, that I do not doubt. No, come," he stood and walked around her as she slowly got up.

She could feel herself seizing up, she needed to probably find somewhere to bunk and sleep, if only for an hour or so. But she followed him anyway, she looked a bit confused when amongst the small amount of luggage which was here, he bought forth a small square box. Liruliniel took it with a sceptical look, Thranduil sighed, "Just open it." He sounded almost bored by her examination of the item in her hands, and she hadn't even opened it yet.

The box itself was perhaps the length of both her hands, maybe equally as wide, dark wood which was simply carved. Liruliniel was confused, yet side eyeing him quickly and getting nothing in his expression, Liruliniel steadied the box in one hand, while the other unfastened the catch and lifted the lid. The last thing she was expecting to be within the slightly padded interior, was a circlet. Liruliniel was confused, she didn't recognise it.

"This isn't mine," she even turned to him, holding the box out in confusion as she glanced from the silver item to him.

Thranduil reached out and picked it up, Liruliniel double took almost, she also almost cursed herself for not being more observational; the circlet in his hands which he held so delicately, was more or less a copy of the one which he wore upon his head this very moment. The simple intricacy of the threaded and woven metal together was beautiful; it shimmered in the light of the tent.

But Thranduil merely looked it over before reaching forwards and placing it on her head gently. "It is now."

Liruliniel, still with her head bowed looked at her boots with a small frown. "I don't understand." Which she didn't. She had circlets at home, and they were all fine enough and did the job. Why was there a new one on her head?

Liruliniel perked up though when she saw his boots leave her line of vision, she looked up and watched him as he idly walked towards the table. Thranduil gave the slightest of shrugs, "What is there to understand, exactly?" He asked back, turning and looking sidelong at her as he poured himself a glass. "It is a present."

Liruliniel's eyes narrowed, "Why?"

"Must there be a reason?" Thranduil commented while waving a hand in the air, Liruliniel looked at him with a blatantly obvious expression, yes, was the general unspoken response she gave. Her look did it alone.

Thranduil put his glass down, he walked back to where she stood. "I asked you earlier, what your thoughts were of this situation. And I do agree with you, to a point. I believe that Thorin's actions are taking everyone down a path that none of us need to tread. But I also believe that if we had been listened to originally, none of this would've happened. I think his use of jewels that already belong to me, to make petty jibes is unwarranted and really quite childish. Liruliniel, this whole thing is about what is right, and what is wrong. It is wrong for him to keep doing this, so whatever is to happen, do not try and defend someone who will not give you the same kindness. What is right, is for him to give us and these people what we require."

Liruliniel was just staring up at him as she listened, she nodded. "I understand. But...if this is because I said you had not ever given me a present-"

"You are my Queen, Liruliniel. It is as simple as that. Yes, I could've bought a circlet that already belonged to you, but I chose not to. I chose not to, because I didn't want to. I wished for you to have this, and now you do. Perhaps my actions were spurned on because of what you said, I cannot wholly deny that. But I also wish for you to realise that it is a symbol, I am not still clinging to the past, Liruliniel. The past has happened, and dwelling on it, or trying to reclaim it will do nothing for anyone." Thranduil explained rather eloquently as he just looked right back at her. He watched her morphing expressions, the shock, the contented smile and the almost watery eyes. "There is still a future awaiting us, Liruliniel."

"Was this an inadvertent proposal?" She couldn't help but ask with a quiet laugh.

Thranduil tilted his head slightly, a thoughtful look flitting across his face as his eyes studied her for a moment. Eventually he nodded, "I can only say yes."

Liruliniel laughed quietly yet moved forwards to wrap her arms around him. "You certainly chose your moment. But also...maybe don't sound so confused."

Thranduil just sighed and shook his head, he didn't have the heart to say this was something he was utterly new to. He didn't wish, after what he just said, to remind her that his last relationship, he had no say in, he did not have to say such things because Vanadessë was arranged for him, there was always going to be a marriage there, whether love came from it or not did not matter to anyone it seemed. But of course, he did love her hugely, Liruliniel however, love felt different with her because of the lack of pressures and customs.

Thranduil was about to respond, only to pause when an elf appeared within the tent doors. He removed his arms from around her, even side stepping and approaching the elf, who stood looking inwards with a troubled expression. "What is it?" Thranduil asked, any fondness and kindness that was in his tone moments ago, was now gone. The serious tone which he used had the elf snapping more to attention while Liruliniel moved around the tent, even going as far to sit in the chair present.

She gave a contended fidget before shooting a look in the elf's direction. "A wizard, who?" She listened to the hushed tone which the messenger used, he said that a wizard had come charging into the city upon a horse. Bard was awaiting affirmation from Thranduil to perhaps approve of a meeting.

Thranduil sent her an almost serious look, he couldn't quite take her seriously as she was practically slouched in the chair, her feet propped on the stool she was sitting on earlier. She looked quite comfortable, in an odd way. With a gentle sigh, Thranduil shook his head and looked back at the messenger. "Tell them both to come here. I can only presume that whatever information is about to be shared, needs to be done so in private."

"Yes, sire." With a bow of his head, the elf turned on his heels and disappeared through the bustling masses outside.

Liruliniel sat herself up when Thranduil approached, he gently placed a hand on her shoulder before nudging his head slightly to the side. With a dramatic sigh, Liruliniel stood up and away and let him sit himself down. Liruliniel stepped to be beside him, "A wizard?" Liruliniel repeated, watching Thranduil get comfortable himself before glancing up at her.

"There is but one I could think of which would meddle in any and all affairs." Thranduil replied, Liruliniel looked puzzled but before she could even try and respond, the tent doors were occupied; firstly, by Bard, who for the most part looked a little cleaner too and in new clothes.

He looked at her a little oddly, wide eyed and taken back perhaps by how dressed up and smart she looked. But he smiled kindly her way, getting a smile in return as Thranduil's expression remained neutral, though Liruliniel got a dry look sent up at her by him. Of course she befriended him too, Thranduil didn't know anyone she crossed paths with that she didn't end up being friendly with. After Bard came a taller, older man, dressed completely in grey even with a hat to top it off. His long grey hair was trailing over his shoulders and down his back, there was dirt and blood still etched on his face.

It was clear that wherever he had come from, he had to fight to get here. His sharp blue eyes stared long and hard at Liruliniel, before an almost relieved, if not quirked smile appeared on his face. Something about her, or her being here amused him it seemed. Having another chair bought in for Bard, he sat down and to one side, eyeing the wizard up with slight confusion too.

He hadn't ever met one before, but then it was the same for elves; it seemed as of late this was a new thing going on in his life. Regardless, the almost agitated state of said wizard did little to ease anyone. He seemed hugely troubled and contemplative over something which only he knew, and it seemed that he was trying to think of a way of starting his train of thought vocally.

"You are Gandalf, are you not? Lord Elrond would mention you in lessons I had as a child." Liruliniel spoke up quietly, in some way Bard was a little thankful of someone breaking this tension in the silent air. He didn't think it would be Thranduil, he was too busy just staring at their guest.

Though he had been somewhat shuffling on his feet, Gandalf paused and looked at her, with his hands by his sides and smiled. "And likewise, you have been mentioned to me, Liruliniel." She all but beamed over not having a title put in front of her name by a stranger. It seemed the natural go to. But Gandalf refrained and got a smile for it, he couldn't help but smile in return.

Liruliniel looked at the ground in thought before her eyes flicked back up to his. "You were helping the dwarves, but something went...wrong." Her eyes narrowed slowly as she shifted her weight, "And you've come here, to pass on a message of some sort, have you not?"

Gandalf sighed, his shoulders slowly slumped as he couldn't help but be reminded of a certain Lady, especially with how simply and disjointedly Liruliniel spoke. What else did he expect? They were related. "I believe we have somethings to discuss, somethings which may not go down all too well." Gandalf said instead of answering her question, but then in some ways, his reply was an answer. It was the tone of voice he used which had those present looking sharply at the wizard, all readying themselves to possibly hear the worst-case scenario. "You must set aside your petty grievances with the dwarves. War is coming; the cess pits of Dol Guldur have been emptied," Gandalf commenced speaking really quite passionately, and seriously.

It was a shame that some of his words caused Bard to shoot Thranduil a look, and for him in turn to look almost bored, an eye roll almost happening. It didn't, but the premise was there as Thranduil returned Bard's glance with a pointed look, overall, he remained motionless in his seat with Liruliniel standing beside him with wide eyes. It seemed she was the only one taking the wizard's words seriously.

Before speaking, he had placed his staff to one side along with his hat, he was also permitted to quickly wash the blood and dirt from his face. But even with it all gone, Gandalf still looked tired. But he also looked annoyed that he wasn't being taken seriously, his hands were on his hips as he looked between the figures before and around him. "You're all in mortal danger!"

That had Thranduil snapping to attention, if only to look surprised the wizard had exclaimed, but with wide eyes which weren't taking this all too seriously, Thranduil just waited. Eventually he knew Gandalf would stop...once he got out all he had to say. Bard however, the mere thought of that and that being near his children was enough for him to look confused. Worried, but confused. "What are you talking about?" Bard stood and dared to take a step or two forwards. He didn't understand what Gandalf was trying to say. It was all...a little confusing.

Gandalf looked at him, somewhat sympathetically. He wasn't surprised Bard, or at least one of them was struggling to keep up. They thought the dragon alone was the problem? No. Even Thranduil got another look sent at him, Gandalf was certain that with Liruliniel in tow, he wasn't in the dark. At the moment, he was just playing ignorant.

"I can see you know nothing of wizards," Thranduil spoke up before Gandalf even had the chance.

He shut his mouth, a resigned expression flitting onto his face. There was an almost comical ring to Thranduil's tone, he couldn't help but be a little amused. Bard was a little out of his league here, just a little. Regardless, Thranduil moved slowly out of his chair, giving Liruliniel a look when she eyed it up. He inclined his head; he could see her almost swaying on her feet.

"They are like winter thunder on a wild wind rolling in from a distance; breaking hard in alarm, but sometimes a storm is just a storm." Thranduil didn't know whether his analogy helped Bard, but he sought to filling up one of the goblets present. Taking his time with the action while talking before moving past Gandalf and Bard with silent footsteps.

"Not this time, armies of orcs are on the move. These are fighters, they've been bred for war. Our enemy has summoned his full strength." Gandalf shook his head firmly, outwardly and easily disagreeing with Thranduil. Gandalf had seen them; he had witnessed so much before coming here with being held hostage.

The two males didn't react as such; Bard still looked thoughtful, torn whether to believe Gandalf's words, and Thranduil lowered his head and inhaled slowly, eyes shut and trying to evidently stop himself saying something that may be regretted.

"Excuse me?" Liruliniel spoke up, Gandalf couldn't help but find himself smiling as she awkwardly sat with her hand held up. "May I speak?"

Thranduil looked confused, Gandalf couldn't help but smile more. It seemed Liruliniel did not ask for permission, least of all to speak. Perhaps this was just special treatment for him? Liruliniel drummed her fingers on the arm rests, "Gundabad too, Gandalf. It isn't just the old fortress. But I feel like you may already know this. I have seen them, at night, marching; thousands of boots thunder against the ground, and their commands are brief but deadly. I do not disbelieve you." Liruliniel tilted her head, her eyes narrowing in thought before looking at him with a smile.

Gandalf smiled back, how could he not? At least someone was trusting his words. But he wasn't surprised. No, the surprise was still written over Thranduil's face, or rather in his eyes as he stared at her. Liruliniel just swung her legs and smiled softly. Why should she not say the truth? Regardless, Thranduil turned his head slowly and looked at the wizard. Gandalf looked away from Liruliniel, and back to him.

"Why show his hand now?" Thranduil's tone was still one of huge indifference. Unlike Liruliniel's earnest tones and looks, or even Bard's confused ones, Thranduil was still airing on the side of indifference. Why at the moment should he take the ramblings from the wizard seriously? Where was the proof of his words?

"Because we forced him. We forced him when the company of Thorin Oakenshield set out to reclaim their homeland." Gandalf said firmly, tone unwavering as he looked at the elf before him before turning and walking away. At least now Thranduil was looking at him seriously. Something about his words had hit home within the blonde Elvenking, and Gandalf was relieved, at least. It was about time he took this seriously, because they were all in the beginnings of the thick of it now. "The dwarves were never meant to reach Erebor, Azog the Defiler was sent to kill them; his Master seeks control of the Mountain." Gandalf explained, leading the way out of the tent. He made his way to the small brick wall, which was still standing in place, from here, they could all see Erebor in the distance.

The two males followed rather promptly, and Gandalf quirked an eyebrow when Liruliniel soon darted out, clearly not wanting to be left behind. Instead of going either side, she ended up just standing between Bard and Thranduil with a troubled look. So, it seemed she was privy to some of this, Gandalf sighed. What details didn't she know?

"Thorin told me he had crossed paths with Azog while journeying. Legolas encountered his son, Bolg in Esgaroth. It was a skirmish before the destruction which came from Smaug...it seems both Azog and Bolg are still trying to hunt them out, I'm afraid." Liruliniel said from between the contrasting males either side of her.

"Indeed, that may be true. It seems that neither are going to give up on this task, because they fully intend to complete it." Gandalf agreed, which would of course mean the deaths of Thorin, and his nephews. Any other dwarf was probably a plus. "But the interest in the Mountain isn't just because of the treasure. But because of where it lies, its strategic position; this is the gateway to reclaiming the lands of Angmar, in the north. If that fell kingdom should rise again, Rivendell, Lórien, the Shire, even Gondor itself will fall." Gandalf said, the gravity of his words sinking into the three of them, although for the most part Bard still looked a little dubious, thoughtful over the seriousness of the subject.

Thranduil was sending rather icy, void looks at Gandalf, his hands clasped in front of himself as he watched Gandalf direct hands to the Mountain and look back at them. Much like earlier, Liruliniel was the only one visibly pained by what he was saying.

"These orc armies that you speak of Mithrandir. Where are they?" Thranduil asked, staring intently at the wizard as he looked troubled by the fact that, well, he didn't honestly know. Not fully at least. Thranduil just inclined his head, dry look on his face as he turned away. "That is what I thought." He walked away, leaving Liruliniel shifting from foot to foot and Bard to watch him go.

Hesitating, Liruliniel held a hand up and moved forwards. Gandalf looked at her curiously, his expression softening slightly, only because her companion made him a bit short with words, didn't mean she had the same reaction. Or warranted the same. "May I ask you some questions?"

"When asked so politely, how can I say no?" Gandalf countered, Thranduil was still near the tent doorway, he shot a look over his shoulder before rolling his eyes and disappearing fully within the small structure. Bard just bowed his head and decided to leave them to it. He got the feeling whatever they spoke of it would be beyond his comprehension.

"Walk and talk with me, Gandalf. I have only met one other wizard, Radagast." Liruliniel admitted while they made their way away from the tent. Gandalf sighed heavily and his eyes widened warily, Liruliniel laughed. "He is a curious one! But he means well."

"He does try his best." Gandalf admitted, after all, without him how'd he have escaped his imprisonment?

Liruliniel watched as Gandalf's expression turned thoughtful, distant too. She knew that look, that was a look of someone who had seen too much and was trying to process it all. Liruliniel bit her lip in thought, looking about them, she looked at Gandalf with another kind smile. The wizard of course looked down at her suddenly from her quick action, the height difference wasn't as much as it was with Thranduil, but Liruliniel was still shorter. "Have you eaten? You must have travelled far to come here, and I bet no one has offered you anything to eat or drink."

Gandalf sighed slowly, he looked thankful at her, a soft smile appearing even through his beard. "You are a most kind elf, Liruliniel."

"Better watch it, not all my kin are rude, or...well, rude." She giggled quietly and gestured a hand to the tent where the food and drink was.

Gandalf helped himself to a few pieces, he shook his head though. Liruliniel was confused, it was like he was discouraging her. "No, no. I have it on good accord just what sort of character you are, Liruliniel."

"You have seen Lord Elrond recently then, I take it?" Liruliniel crossed her arms loosely with a smile. She didn't know who else he'd be socialising with to find out about her.

Gandalf's eyes widened as he paused drinking, his eyes staring over the rim of the cup at her. She couldn't help but laugh a little, he did look comical. "And your cousin."

Liruliniel's mouth faltered to form words, her mind reeled for a moment before she frowned his way. "Are they well?"

Gandalf tilted his head, looking around he decided here perhaps wasn't the best place to have this conversation. The pair moved throughout the makeshift camp; people were still training nearby while others just pottered about. Alfrid was seen skulking too, and both of them glared his way. "They indeed are, although they had to step in to aid me." Liruliniel looked confusedly at him, her eyebrows pinched tightly as her eyes looked questionably around. "I had somewhere to investigate, Radagast, you may not know, but he discovered something that was not of this world."

Liruliniel's boots scuffed against the broken ground, "You went to Dol Guldur. That is how you know what is going on."

Gandalf nodded his head slowly, he looked saddened. "I went, and I was captured for quite a while."

"Lord Elrond and Lady Galadriel came to your aid?"

"Along with Saruman the White," Gandalf said, although he doubted, she'd ever meet him. It was just worth mentioning he was present too. Liruliniel placed a hand to her chin, rubbing it slowly in thought as her eyes looked calculatingly downwards. "You do not need me to tell of what has dwelt in that place, harboured even and grown over the years."

"The Necromancer." Liruliniel's tone was low, hollow even as she seemed to even struggle the word. Flicking her eyes warily around she just sent a knowing look at Gandalf. "I would feel safer continuing to use that title while we are here, these people do not need to be burdened fully with him."

Gandalf nodded, "Quite right," he agreed, at least she knew the Necromancer was not all he seemed to be. "There were words of times ending, elves have fleeting time, and all will come to an end and change. He means to bring war upon us all again, Liruliniel."

She shifted and looked pained again, rubbing her arms she shook her head and looked at him with worry in her eyes. "The last war took so much from us, everyone suffered. And, well, when the time of elves comes to an end, I will just have to trust that our mortal friends will not do anything irredeemable." Liruliniel smiled slightly, giving faith to those around her who were not her kin.

"Truly, you are very understanding."

"I had a brilliant teacher," Liruliniel laughed and looked at him surely. It felt good to have some humour and light-heartedness before anything turned. "What happened? I am to presume you encountered a ghost, a shade of what was him?" She asked as they meandered along a path, the path itself just seemed to twist and turn upwards into the higher parts of the city.

"Banishment was inflicted; he has run back to Mordor where I fear he will grow ever stronger."

"It is a foul land, anything with wicked intent will enhance in such a place."

Gandalf sighed and placed his hands on his hips as they stopped and looked out from a balcony. Erebor could still be seen really quite clearly. Gandalf's eyes flitted to her, Liruliniel was staring intently at the Mountain and Gandalf couldn't help but feel like she had been wronged somehow. Not that he was surprised. Thorin was seemingly making it a habit to wrong those which were trying to help. He had already heard of Bard's attempt at reconciling, with reaching an agreement for which he got nothing but threats in return.

"Will you march to war against the dwarves?"

His question caught her off guard, she gasped and looked at him with a hesitant look. "I do not wish to. Thorin is my friend, and so are the others...I do not wish them to be my enemy, or an enemy of theirs. But if I am given an order to march, I cannot disobey."

"Now, I heard it from a good friend that you were one to disobey and not listen when in the company of Lord Elrond." Gandalf said in a knowing low tone, like what one would use when scolding. He looked down at her with raised eyebrows and a smirk, Liruliniel looked bashful. Gandalf knew he had caught her out trying to lie.

"You have outmatched me, Gandalf. It is not fair. You have Lord Elrond, Lady Galadriel, not doubt Veryan and Aearion. Not to mention Lindir too!" Liruliniel exclaimed with a shy grin while stomping a foot a little childishly on the floor. Gandalf just tilted his head, knowing look still on his face. "And also, if any of them are referring to the incident with the warg...I didn't disobey ranks, that thing came at me and I had to go for it and the rider." She held her hands up in defence, she felt like she was completely compelled and honest with her answer.

"Trust me, Gandalf. I don't want to fight Thorin. I tried to help him, and he didn't seem to appreciate it all too much. But that doesn't mean I will give up on him. There is still good in there, I know he is good. But I cannot disobey my King when in front of so many, I can't...I need to be close, Gandalf. Not only am I a guard, a soldier, but I need his protection too." Liruliniel looked at him sadly, there was something incredibly trustworthy about the older man before her.

Gandalf looked patient, seeing she was going to explain what she meant. "I have seen my death, and I know it comes for us in many forms, and it cannot be outrun. But, well, much like the last war, we have each other's backs." She said with a shrug, hoping he understood what she was saying without giving too much away. Liruliniel was rather certain Thranduil liked to still have the image of the cool, calm and collected Elvenking that he was; the almost dispassionate, indifference which he radiated daily practically constantly was in danger of showing that there was genuine care lurking beneath the surface too if she used specific terms.

Shaking her head, she looked up at him solemnly, "I spent most of my life verging this way and that, drifting almost between tasks I set myself. At some point I believed I was not for this world. But actually, I quite like being alive. It sounds selfish, I know."

"We are all prone to those moments," Gandalf reassured her, Liruliniel looked undecided. Sighing, he placed a hand on her shoulder, Liruliniel looked up guardedly. "It at least brings me some solace knowing you are not up for this oncoming fight. You take no pleasure in it, and I can see you are torn. Do you believe your King will feel the same, if he could?"

Liruliniel looked about themselves, eyes flicking up to the sky, she watched the clouds drift. Licking her lips in thought, she shrugged loosely. The action had Gandalf's hand retracting and being put back at his side. "Thranduil has his own reasons to dislike the dwarves. I do not agree with them and never have. It is something we always disagree on, and it is something he does not understand; how I can be so lenient and tolerant, when he sees them as perhaps the most intolerant beings alive." She admitted with a coy smile and a quiet laugh.

She couldn't say she was wrong though. "He knows I will be marching on a heavy heart; it is something which is unspoken between us. He doesn't understand the friendship, not really, I don't think, but he will not ask anything of me; just to march, and to be present. He however, no...he intends to finish this decisively, Gandalf. And I must admit I do fear what that could mean for our friends in the Mountain. They cannot take on everyone who survived Esgaroth, plus the elven army. Unless Thorin sees sense, unless he talks, Thranduil will take matters into his own hands. And really, I do not think that is anything anyone wishes." Liruliniel's lips pressed into a thin line, it would perhaps be a lie if she said Thranduil hadn't been waiting for a time to put Thorin in his place.

She didn't think he'd be outwardly violent, more, destroying verbally and making an example; which to be honest, in her eyes was worse. Gandalf listened to her words, spoken so thoughtfully and heavily. He could physically see she was trying to figure out a way in which everyone would come out of this in one piece. But then, admitting she had seen her death, it was clear to Gandalf that sense wasn't reached. "I will still have to try and speak sense, reason with him. You understand this, don't you?"

Liruliniel smiled, she didn't envy him there and her expression relayed as much. "I wish you all the luck, Gandalf. He is as stubborn and hardheaded as any dwarf I know, though he'd disagree, of course. I have spent most of my life trying to get through to him on some matter or another and come up with nothing."

There was a quiet cough from the wizard, he patted his sides and looked around sceptically. "Well, I'll just have to try very hard, won't I?" He said, a smile growing as he looked at her. Liruliniel couldn't help but quietly laugh, she couldn't fault him for his attempts at enthusiasm already. "Plus, if he tries to ignore, I will just have to keep talking. Don't think I didn't see him tuning out earlier."

Liruliniel grinned, "Yes, well, who doesn't tune out of things when it is things we do not wish to hear? Through it all, Thranduil doesn't want to fight, I don't think. But I think he sees it as who else can put a stop to this?" Liruliniel frowned in thought, that was how it was coming across. He was putting a lot of pressure and responsibility on himself and continued to look utterly unfazed by the situation at hand. Putting a hand against Gandalf's arm, she smiled softly. "Rest up a little before confronting him again. If it helps, I can try too? Though...I think he is aware that I'm likely to try anyway." She admitted with a quiet laugh Gandalf chuckled quietly too before relenting with a nod. They parted ways, him in the direction of somewhere to sit and think, and she returned back to the tent.

Thranduil was standing at the other door, looking outwards at the creeping early evening. But mostly she could tell he was just directing his gaze towards Erebor. Liruliniel shuffled in quietly, "I take it that he expects you to be the start, to plead the case and try and dissuade my thoughts otherwise, and he is to finish where you left off." Thranduil spoke calmly, lowly and with a rather dissatisfied expression on his face as he looked over his shoulder at her.

Liruliniel paused in the middle of a step, looked rather sheepish before looking around for inspiration. "Do not even try and lie, I can see it, and I know it." Thranduil just watched as she awkwardly came to his side, with a quiet mumble she reached down and sought out his hand. He didn't deter her, if anything his fingers naturally laced through hers.

"With all that I have told you, and with everything you know; how can you be so unsure? Legolas has no doubt spied that which Gandalf has spoken of. If they're amassing from both fortresses, does that not beg the question of why? They are coming here, Thranduil. The dwarves aren't our enemies; they are once again our allies." Liruliniel said, her tone low and gentle while her thumb stroked soothing circles against his skin.

His eyes stared sidelong at her for a few moments before staring outwards again. He sighed, looking down at the ground as he exhaled, Liruliniel hated to say it, but he sounded tired, exhausted even of having to be in this situation. Blinking slowly, his face lifted and turned to her, Liruliniel wasn't quite expecting to be bought close and into his arms. But she wasn't going to decline the offer.

His hand got free of hers, and his arm went over her shoulders and pulled her close. "I will not continue to stand here and humour the possibility of Thorin seeing the light and error of his ways. If he was going to, he would've surely by now. Or at least, I would hope in some ways he wasn't that disengaged from everything around him. It does not please you, I know," Thranduil said, his eyes narrowing at some spot in the tent while his chin rested atop her head. "It brings me no pleasure to bring this down on him."

Liruliniel looked upwards, Thranduil moved his head away and was met by a rather amused, if not questionable expression. "Not even a little bit of pleasure?"

Thranduil rolled his eyes and let her go, returning to standing rather statuesque and looking at the scenery outside. Liruliniel just smirked, how could she not? As she previously thought, Thranduil would have been waiting a while to put Thorin in his place, this was perhaps that time. "It amuses you." He could see her out of the corner of his eyes, the laughter she was trying to keep in despite of the seriousness.

"Oh, no...no..."

"You are awful at lying." Thranduil said seriously, he wasn't sure whether he was being laughed at, or if she was laughing almost at the whole predicament.

"Listen, you two were never going to be best friends, that much was obvious from the start. But I do not see, still, how the two of you cannot put aside your problems and figure things out. You honestly have more in common than you realise. I do not think really either of you wish for a fight...well, perhaps Thorin does actually you're right." Liruliniel corrected when she was sent a rather shocked expression. With how he hauled himself up in the Mountain, it was clear what Thorin's intentions were. "But you are right, it brings no pleasure to hear the obvious spoken; least of all by you. But I do understand, it just hurts. I find it amusing that I believe you are getting some form of weird entertainment from this. A small part of you perhaps has been waiting to take Thorin down a peg or two, even if you won't admit it to me." Liruliniel said while moving to stand in front of him, she smiled softly and watched as he would flick his eyes to her then away.

Diverting was pretty much answering and affirming what she already believed. Regardless, she got silence as a reply, sighing shortly she turned on her heels and looked forwards too. It wasn't like she was blocking his view, what with being quite a bit taller than herself.

"He doesn't see sense, or reason, excuse me if I open his eyes to both." Thranduil replied, it wasn't exactly an answer to her previous words, but along with the distant looks and silence it did enough.

Liruliniel's head bowed, with a confused look he leaned forwards slightly. The stern expression on his face disappeared rather quickly, she was yawning quietly. Or she was trying to, without alerting him to her doing so. Thranduil placed his hands on her shoulders, Liruliniel jumped to attention and looked over her shoulder at him.

"These matters are troubling to everyone involved, but to contemplate anything more while tired is something else entirely. You need sleep, Liruliniel." He had maybe sounded a little lecturing, but by the end his tone had grown gentle as he looked at her worriedly.

She did look basically asleep on her feet, she mutely nodded, though instead of retreating to find somewhere to sleep, she instead leaned backwards. Thranduil's silvery dark patterned robe was long and big enough for her to take advantage of; she grasped a hold of it and wrapped it around herself too.

Thranduil's arms stayed wrapped around her, Liruliniel stared slowly up at him. "Admittedly, I am a little frightened." She whispered, not that there was anyone else around to hear.

"I know," Thranduil had known for quite some time that she was afraid.

"Do you remember last time? You found Thalion and I sitting peacefully, we all sat together, and it was and is perhaps one of the last proper memories I have of us three."

"Yes, if I remember rightly, you accused me of sneaking." Thranduil was discouraged by that, well, he got over it but remembering it had him frowning again while the elf in his arms laughed quietly.

"I did!" She sounded proud, and Thranduil just rolled his eyes skyward, looking for some strength here that it still amused her so much. With a resigned sigh, she leaned back against him, her head against his shoulder as she found herself being comforted by his warmth and presence. "I have been sleeping in a watchtower." She said offhandedly, Thranduil looked down at her a little appalled. Why didn't that surprise him? Liruliniel was going to leave the more stable places for the survivors to sleep on and in.

"You cannot return there." He said, underlining meaning of his words were; he wasn't letting her. He did not think a watchtower could provide a good place to sleep, regardless of if she managed. Liruliniel turned her face into the crook of his neck, her eyes shutting and turning silent. "Don't even try and go to sleep standing up."

"Would I dare?" She whispered, smiling regardless of how irked he seemed by the prospect.

"Yes, it seems like something you would try and do." Was Thranduil's rather simple reply as she sighed and turned out of her hiding spot to look up at the darkening sky, evening was creeping ever closer to night, and the clouds had grown considerably darker. The stars though could just about be seen trying to shine out in the gloom, whereas at the moment the moon was still in hiding. Inhaling slowly, Liruliniel was admittedly scared to go to sleep, she didn't know what she'd see, but also the prospect of tomorrow coming filled her with unimaginable dread.

——

Edited: 10/July/2025