To say that Thranduil was displeased, was the understatement of the century; or in his case, the many centuries that he had been alive for. The tent, which he first thought was an ideal, yet quiet place for Liruliniel to eat and continue resting, soon got changed. Some of the survivors had managed to clean it, slightly with broken brooms and whatever else was to hand, and light the torches and braziers within the main hall of the town. From what Thranduil had learned, it was where the women and children were to hide during the battle.

It wasn't this which was causing the displeasure, and his face was a fair representation over how he felt at this point in time, no; his displeasure came from something as simple as food and drink. Perhaps, more the drink than the food. It seemed, despite of everything, the dwarves were rather rambunctious to say the least, especially when Dáin had come over to greet his cousin loudly, almost thunderous laughter was tinged with some sly comment about who Thorin was currently keeping in company of.

And who would that have? Well, none other than Thranduil and Liruliniel, more her than himself. Thorin, through some act or another, Thranduil swore down that it was just to irk him some more after their conversation earlier, was sitting on the other side of Liruliniel, the pair nattered on and off, but Thorin sat at this table with them.

The clean-up of the city had not been forgotten, nor those which still laid in the bloodied streets, but for the most part, the orcs had been cleaned away; or at least, some had, a great many still remained. As for those of the allies which were lost and, in the streets, they had been moved and all covered with any material possible in another large space, perhaps an old manor house or another hall. Of course, there were still a lot of the undead to recover, to lay out, and allow those closest to come and mourn before a burial was to take place.

But as for now, it seemed those that survived were wishing to celebrate the victory, while also celebrating those that gave their lives for this victory. Though they could not be here to see them, to know that this city would prosper once again, they would not be forgotten that without them, this perhaps would not be possible. Victory always came with a great loss, unfortunately that was the way in which battles and sieges went.

Hearing some remark or another, Thranduil merely and silently turned his face towards the two dwarves which were still conversing, Dáin being louder than Thorin, evidently the drunker of the two. Liruliniel awkwardly sipped at her cup and looked around with wide eyes. She didn't have a comment to Dáin's, no response, asking his cousin if he was now a lover of woodland sprites was...awkward, Liruliniel coughed quietly and rubbed at her chest, the alcohol burned a little on its way down and she probably didn't help matters by coughing suddenly. Her ribs didn't like her for that action at all.

Shutting his eyes, Thranduil just relented, he didn't even bother to voice anything, the cousins were still here, still talking, and he wished he could opt out of listening to them, but they just spoke so loudly! Sipping at his own cup, Thranduil just watched those which had crammed into the hall. Beorn was still present, his hulking frame looking most comical as he sat at a table, surrounded by some of the dwarves who seemed to be pestering him too, and some elves which were curious to talk to their neighbouring skin-changer; some had never seen him, heard him perhaps, but never seen and any tales usually came from Liruliniel as she had had contact with Beorn already.

Some of the other dwarves, be them from Dáin's army or those that were in Thorin's group, had commenced a drinking contest to one side, taking over a whole table just for the occasion. The one which Thranduil recalled being called Dwalin seemed to be winning, although he seemed to be tied with the redhead known as Glóin. Thranduil had not really learned their names when he had them imprisoned.

It was only Thorin which he conversed with, but Liruliniel had said a quick run-through of their names. Though he dearly wished to say otherwise, he wasn't sure whether Legolas was watching or taking part. He was standing alongside Tauriel and Kíli, the dwarf hadn't been too hurt in the fight, only mere cuts and bruises which had been seen to rather speedily earlier on.

It was hard to tell if they were all trying to get along, or just awkwardly standing in silence. Legolas's face perhaps mirrored his father's, this tense apprehension of being torn between voicing something, which may come off offensive, or staying awkwardly silent and coming off rude and ignorant. Tauriel luckily stood in between them, Thranduil didn't know who he felt sorrier for at this point, Kíli and his nervous looks at the two elves beside him, Tauriel for being the buffer, or Legolas for clearly believing he was overstepping and being an intruder for the pair. Of course, Thranduil sided with his son, like he wouldn't.

Thranduil perhaps more than anyone else understood how fickle and painful love could be. He continued to muse and watch his son, while also lifting up a hand and placing it over the cup which Liruliniel was going to lift to her lips again. He didn't even really look her way, though hearing the discouraged sound come from her, his eyes slid sidelong at her, rather plainly at that.

With a pout, she pushed the cup away and shifted painfully in the chair with a frown. He didn't think, though whatever healing properties the wine may have, ironically from their own kingdom, someone had the hindsight to save it during Smaug's siege, he didn't think it would actually do her any good. Drunks became so uncoordinated, clumsy even. She was already hurt, though yes, it took a lot for elves to get drunk, in her current state he doubted it would take much. He just wished to deter any worse case scenario from possibly happening, before it even could.

With a slightly pained look, if only from the look sent at the pair, Legolas left them be and soon found himself conversing with Gandalf. Thranduil inhaled heavily. Liruliniel looked up at him oddly and even Thorin leaned past Liruliniel to look quizzically at the elf. Dáin by this point was resting his head on the table, it seemed he had currently passed out.

Feeling eyes on him, Thranduil turned and looked passively at the pair. They didn't understand his hesitance at having his son and the wizard talk, well, more in-depth than they already have. Thranduil was acceptant that Legolas was leaving, it seemed surprising that he was still here but then when he thought about it, he was no doubt waiting for his moment to talk to Liruliniel on his own. Thranduil knew his son was likely to want to say farewell to her, of course he would, Legolas wasn't going to just leave her without exchanging words.

Elrond was later to this celebration than anyone else, he was readying to leave and clearly wished to bid farewell to those that he knew here. Thranduil resisted rolling his eyes at how friendly the elf-Lord and wizard were, Legolas too got drawn into the conversation and really, Thranduil didn't quite know how to feel here. He wasn't envious his son got along with both fine, in all honesty, what better two to know?

It was more the resignation that giving his son the nudge to explore the world around him, was clearer and more evident now, more than it ever had been. Had he held him back for years? Doubtful. Had he clearly ignored Liruliniel saying Legolas was meant for bigger things? Sort of.

Hearing an awkward voice, Thranduil wasn't surprised to see the hobbit had come over. He seemed close to both Thorin and Liruliniel, through some friendly loyalty to both. Though having Thranduil suddenly staring him down, almost, Bilbo practically stuttered out something and looked awkward. Thranduil raised an eyebrow. He could quite easily defend the dwarves, bring the Arkenstone to those that had used it for bribery, had been beside Liruliniel and Thorin as the former slipped into another world, yet now he was all awkward? Thranduil didn't think he'd understand the hobbit.

Liruliniel picked at what food was before her, most of the food had been rationed, it was not a feast fit for the celebration and occasion that it should've been, but it made do. No one was complaining, no one saw fit to complain, and how could they? They survived; others didn't. Something Bilbo said had Liruliniel double taking, even with a piece of bread poking out from between her lips. She waved a hand from the long sleeve of her tunic and wagged a finger at the hobbit, bread still between her lips. Wasn't the most threatening sight, but it had Thorin laughing. His laughter had Dáin suddenly waking, he looked sceptical at Bilbo and he in turn awkwardly smiled. Thranduil just sighed and sipped from his drink again.

Feeling a hand on his arm, Thranduil looked to Liruliniel, through all the bruising and little cuts, she still tiredly smiled his way. "Do you wish to leave?" He asked, earning a raised eyebrow from her. He perhaps sounded strangely optimistic. It wasn't that he wasn't enjoying the experience of, well, this whole thing. But it wasn't like elves celebrated such a thing or celebrated in general unless it was for something. Not that this wasn't something to celebrate, but they would do so in their own fashion.

"I wish to walk," Liruliniel corrected, she didn't mean to shoot his idea of leaving down. She didn't wish to go, she wished to walk around, to see and talk to her friends. Sitting in one place was making her seize up, she could feel it, her muscles contracting and her bones aching.

There was an attempt to find her the most stable chair possible, and they had tried, but it still was causing her pain. She could feel her spine particularly hate the chair; her ribs were protesting with each move she made. Walking perhaps wasn't the best idea, but she was bored of sitting and watching everyone.

Thranduil pushed himself to a stand, the dwarves and hobbit present looked up a bit warily. He just rolled his eyes and turned away from them, while helping Liruliniel to a slow stand. She kept a firm grip on his hand with her one good hand; he could see the fingers on her other one instinctively flex. "Where to then, my Lady?" He asked quietly once away from the table, he got a small laugh from her even if she hissed painfully. "Apologies," he didn't know what he said would've made her laugh, he felt for her moment of pain.

Liruliniel shook her head and looked at him with a smile still in place. "It will be short lived. I will heal. You have nothing to apologise for." She said while setting her eyes forwards again, nodding in a direction, Thranduil took slow and measured steps, he didn't rush and walked in pace with her. One of his arms stayed around the back of her, just to keep her steady while his other arm and hand kept tight hold of her own hand still.

It seemed the more the day was dragging on, the slower she was getting and the more tired too. Her pace wasn't fast to begin with, but now she practically limped and dragged her feet around. Yet, from the expression on her face, she wasn't letting this deter her at all in her mission to get where she wanted to. It just so happened that where she wished to go, was to the three figures which Thranduil had been watching on and off throughout the evening.

Naturally, Gandalf and Elrond looked surprised, pleased to see her, though perhaps surprised Thranduil was in tow. In all honesty, they did look rather mismatched right now, him in his rather clean and regal attire, and her in some tunic that was found and happened to be clean, untucked and stopping near the middle of her thighs as the trousers were too long in the leg for her. She still didn't have shoes on either, so her bare feet made shuffling noises against the ground as she went. Whereas he seemed to naturally glow within the torchlight within the hall, all the light did for her was accentuate the dark bruises and how muddy her hair still was in places.

Legolas just looked between them, some form of lingering on his face as Liruliniel tilted her head and nodded. Letting go of Thranduil's hand, she reached forwards and grasped onto Legolas's arm. He steadied her and looked at his father, Thranduil just inclined his head, they had made peace and there was not a whole lot else to say, their words earlier said enough. But Liruliniel wasn't privy to that and had her own words to say to him.

They went outside, Liruliniel taking in a big lungful of air before wincing, Legolas kept hold of her arm as she looked at the sky. The stars were shining brightly, pinpricks amongst a dark velvet sky; even the moon glimmered from its position high above them, casting everything in a silver glow. Though cold, their breaths came out in small plumes, neither were cold nor suffered as such from its effects. Snow littered the street; it seemingly had started again while everyone was inside. The bodies which hadn't been moved were now being buried under the white flakes. It was sad, lonely even and Liruliniel let go of Legolas's arm, much to his hesitance, and shuffled over to a wall.

She heavily sat down at an odd leaning angle to relieve the pain in her ribs. Wincing and rubbing her side gently, she looked up at him. "Oh, come now. Do not look at me like that, you are much like your father right now. I will heal." She commented with a sigh.

Legolas rolled his eyes and got a pointed look from her. Yes, he was exactly like his father right now. Yet he moved over, he sat beside her and looked around too. He listened to Liruliniel's slight ragged breathing, he looked at her worriedly. How could he not worry? She was his friend, but also, she was like a mother to him, and no one liked to see their mother pained.

"You gave us both cause for alarm." Legolas's calm voice echoed out into the night air, Liruliniel opened an eye and looked at him before straightening the best she could. "Do not blame us for worrying. How could we not? We both believed you dead."

"I did die." Liruliniel frowned, a solemn expression on her face as she shook her head sadly. "For a little while, that is. I was surrounded by darkness, yet I was so light, glowing even like the moon above us. It was beautiful in its isolation. I was scared, but I didn't feel any pain." She explained, Legolas couldn't help but tilt his head curiously, listening as her voice got softer. He could see the far off look on her face as she recalled the experience.

"Does my father know?"

Her eyebrows raised then as she looked at him guiltily. "He knows I died. But you are the first that will hear of my experience. I awaited entry into the Halls of Mandos, Legolas. But I was not alone. I saw my family, even my grandfather and mother. I felt so much joy, burning almost was the feeling as I looked upon my brother's face again and my father...you don't realise how much you truly miss someone, until you meet them again in the afterlife. Their deaths have always hung over me. Mainly because I blame myself not being able to see the attack, which was to come, they essentially in some ways blindly walked into a trap, and I didn't know until it was too late. The same went with your father, of course. It is after all how we lost your mother." Liruliniel blinked, with a gentle sigh, she placed her hand on his arm again. "Your mother was there, Legolas. So was your grandfather. Do you remember them?"

Legolas visibly tensed then, he was not expecting to hear that come from her. The thought of his mother, and his grandfather caused a weight to settle upon his heart, in his stomach too he felt something plummet. His father was all he had, for so long, same went for Liruliniel. As far as Legolas could fully remember, they were his family. But his mother, his grandfather? A smiling face with flowing blonde hair came to mind, a whispering kind voice and arms which would hold him so tightly came to mind; but likewise, so did a sterner face, a serious aura which wasn't too dissimilar to his father, yet underneath that there was honest, earnest care.

The former his mother, the latter his grandfather; Legolas recalled distantly tales which both would tell him, his mother's tales more optimistic and sweeter, his grandfather's more realistic and detailed. Slowly he turned and looked at her, almost distantly, "I do, though their faces are hazy; I recall them vividly when I really try."

Liruliniel smiled softly, "You shouldn't deny yourself dwelling over them. It pains me to think of my father and brother, but fondly I remember them. Because we need to, you know? They were all so important to us, we cannot forget them."

"You were older than me when they passed." Legolas didn't mean to sound bitter, but it was true. Liruliniel was much older when she lost her father and brother, Legolas was so young when his mother and grandfather were taken from them.

Liruliniel's hand tightened on his arm, "True as that may be, but my words are still true. They awaited entry into the Halls, Legolas. Those which wait have nothing to do but watch the world pass. What do you think they have spent their time doing?" She looked at him quizzically, even with a small smile seeing if he'd reply. "They have watched us, Legolas. More importantly your mother has watched you grow up with pride, and your grandfather is pleased with the elf you have become. Well, I suppose in part they are both incredibly proud of you, how could they not be? There was nothing but love coming from them, even if they did not voice anything the mere thought of you and I was surrounded by that warmth, that adoration that they have for you."

Legolas was silent for a long time, Liruliniel watched him muse over what she had said. He looked distant, saddened even in some way, before nodding his head slowly and turning on the wall to look at her. "Thank you."

"Oh, Legolas...you have nothing to thank me for. Like I would not tell you." Liruliniel said honestly, her face softening as he looked thoughtful, he supposed she was being true there. Liruliniel had been most honest to him, for as long as he could remember.

"Did father tell you I am to leave?" Legolas asked suddenly, the comfortable feeling passing by as he returned to business. Liruliniel smiled, he was too like his father, what was it about affection and sentiment that made them both a little awkward?

"In a passing comment, yes. You are to go on an adventure; I believe this adventure will have you seeing the wider world. You will meet new people, and I am sure you'll make many friends." Liruliniel smiled, kicking her bare feet against the ground, she grinned up at the sky and rocked a little, feeling her ribs clench with a wince.

Legolas remained silent for a moment before looking at her with a slow growing smile. "I'm surprised that is all you have to say."

Liruliniel chuckled, only to groan and her hand was against her side again. "Don't make me laugh, I haven't even got started."

"And here it comes," Legolas whispered with a sigh, raising an eyebrow when she simply swatted her hand at his shoulder.

"The only reason why I am not fretting, is because I trust you. I trust you, and I know you will not do anything foolhardy. You are a kind soul, with an even kinder heart, Legolas. I am more than certain that wherever your path takes you, you will grow and learn from the experiences along the way. I have always said I foresaw more for you, and I like to see I was right. Finding a lost King, or one to be...I am envious," she said lightly with a smile, only to shake her head.

"I have been around too many Kings in my life. Not sure I could deal with another right now." She mused with a light sigh, glancing up at him as she tilted her head thoughtfully. "You'll be fine. I know you will be." She groaned as she stood on shaky legs, Legolas just sat and looked up at her cautiously, he didn't know if she was about to keel over. "Let me know what this King is like, I am curious."

"I'm sure if you ever meet him, he would like to be regaled by you and your stories of his ancestors."

"You're not too old to get clipped around the ear."

"I am not sure you could move so quickly, you may fall over." Legolas retorted back quickly, Liruliniel let out a pained laugh yet nodded. Legolas smiled as he stood too, he took her arm in his and steadied her as it really did look like she was about to fall.

"I will miss you, in all seriousness."

"And I you," Legolas's tone was hard, admitting such a thing was always going to be hard for him. Yet, Liruliniel had always believed he was the less emotionally stunted out of him and his father. Thranduil really did struggle, she'd have better luck getting blood from a stone at times.

They reentered the hall, the loudness within almost deafened them from the eerie silence of outside. Liruliniel saw where Legolas's eyes were drifting, with a sad sigh she nudged against him gently. Legolas looked down, trying his best to look as if he hadn't been caught out watching.

"Kíli is a good dwarf, Legolas. I know it does not help soften the blow, but one-sided love is a painful thing. You can love Tauriel, but it will be in a different way, and even if she doesn't voice it, I can see she loves you too. I think you will find love, Legolas. And when you do, you will see that it is different than the feeling now. As I said, you are kind, caring, understandable and tolerable; when you find love, or new friendships, you will protect it with everything you have. She will be looked after, if she isn't, I will lecture Kíli, and you know I will. I hear his mother is on her way, I'll get her to do my work for me."

Legolas smiled softly, bowed his head so it wasn't obvious how much her words had settled warmly over him. He believed her, all of what she had said he wholeheartedly believed. Hearing quiet footsteps, he looked up and wasn't surprised to see Thranduil there. Of course, his father would approach them, the moment he saw them reappear he'd come and collect Liruliniel from his care. Legolas turned, noting how Elrond too was standing close by, he would travel partway with the elf-Lord before Legolas's road would diverge elsewhere.

Liruliniel, despite of Thranduil trying to deter her in sudden movements, she still pulled Legolas to her. Her chin resting against his shoulder and Legolas looking up at his father with wide eyes. Thranduil didn't aid his son, he knew trying to tear them apart would have Liruliniel frowning unhappily. So instead, he just raised an eyebrow and watched the pair. Both knew that he was to leave before this whole celebration had ended.

He had a long way to travel, the sooner the better even if that meant travelling through the night. But it wasn't like he had bad company, Liruliniel couldn't help but think really that travelling and being around Elrond had done wonders for her, it could only further Legolas's character.

"I think I understand how Caladhiel feels whenever she's had to watch me depart. The unknown of when I will see you again has my heart feeling heavy. But I know I will see you again, and I look forward to that. I am excited to hear of what you get up to, by all means, you don't need to coast over the details; I truly didn't hold back with Caladhiel or your father." She chuckled and frowned at the stitch like pull in her side. She pulled away or was going to before she found an arm loosely around her, hesitant even as Legolas's head rested against hers. Liruliniel was sure he was grateful they were shielded and away from direct view, or else he'd probably not embrace her back.

"I think I understand how you felt in regard to Lady Caladhiel," Legolas replied his eyes shutting slowly before he pulled back and looked at her.

Liruliniel looked up with wide eyes, a distant look flitting onto her face before she fully realised what he was trying to imply. Thranduil looked torn, between the past and the present and future; Legolas knew his mother, if but for a short time, it was no one's fault his memories were faded and confused, it was even more so no one's fault that he imprinted onto Liruliniel.

"In that case, I suppose our parting words will be me channelling my honorary mother; be safe, be well, do not do anything too reckless, or well, what I would do...maybe do the opposite but with more grace. If you are to go to Imladris, don't annoy Lindir like I evidently did, he is tolerable at best, but I think even he has a limit. If you venture to Lórien, I am sure my cousin shall welcome you, Marchwarden Haldir and his silent brothers are more welcoming than they appear. All in all, I wish you a safe journey, and I'll see you when you return, son."

Legolas could only silently nod, his eyes pricking a little as the familiar burning sensation that came with tears was lingering behind the bright blue irises. Even behind her Thranduil looked on sadly, her words were so heartwarming, so honest and with so much care how could it not take either back slightly? Legolas looked to Elrond as he stepped closer, he had that expression which usually accompanied a reprimand.

"You are doing a lot of moving, if I remember rightly, I did say to rest." Elrond even looked at her sceptically, Liruliniel smiled awkwardly, "But then what do I expect? You never listened in the past whenever I instructed you on such things."

"In all fairness, this battle was much different than me being beaten in a training session." Liruliniel commented with an awkward smile and half-shrug.

Elrond seemed to think over this before sighing and shaking his head. It wasn't like he could argue against that. He all but remembered the small elf girl whining almost and having a strop because she could not beat whomever she was training against, or if she couldn't get something right. "If you ever wish to visit, you are welcome, both of you." Elrond's almost lavender eyes flicked from Liruliniel to Thranduil, he inclined his head in thankfulness of the offer, Liruliniel beamed. She had loved the waterfall city so much.

"Thank you, for saving my life."

"It was mainly all you." Elrond replied placing a hand on her good shoulder, Liruliniel just smiled up at him quietly. "Take care, and I am sure our paths will cross again."

"I will keep an eye on the horizon, I may be hurt at the moment, but it won't stop me from guarding and protecting our homelands."

"Of course it won't, there really is no stopping you." Elrond despaired, though he was eased to hear this. Those parts of the world needed a guardian, and Liruliniel had accepted that role without truly realising. Elrond guessed the responsibility was thrusted upon her when she first had visions, but never truly understood what it meant. Not just for her home, but for everyone else. It was the same for him, in a way.

"Even death couldn't stop me."

"You probably shouldn't say that while smiling like that." Elrond pointed out, Liruliniel was grinning almost. But he relented, there was no changing her, she wouldn't listen. So, with a sigh, he inclined his head to the pair and glanced in Gandalf's direction before doing the same to him. He left soon after, Legolas looking between his father and adopted mother with a lingering smile before he followed Elrond outside. Once the doors shut, they were gone and Liruliniel let out a breath she didn't know she was holding.

Jumping a little when a hand was placed on her shoulder, she looked up at Thranduil. "I think I'd like to retire now. Perhaps Lord Elrond was right, I am and have been doing too much moving." Thranduil merely nodded, he pushed open the door while leading her out. His tent was still up, and her bunk was still in there, so he guided her back to it, aiding her to lay and get comfortable before she fully gave into the sleep nagging at her.

"We will be staying, if only for a short time." Thranduil said, perching on the edge of the small bunk and brushing wisps of hair out of her face, Liruliniel looked up happily at that. "Do not misunderstand me, we all need rest, and we need to recover. Our dead must be taken care of; we have to do right by them. We are not staying because it is a trip, Liruliniel. Our stay is business."

"Sure, sure," she didn't believe him as she smiled his way.

Thranduil sighed, of course she wouldn't believe him or take his words seriously. "That means rest for you."

"Oh, I got that." She replied, eyes shut, and head nestled against the pillow.

"Are you sure? I am doubtful." Thranduil watched as she let out a heavy sigh, the bunk may not have been comfortable, but she seemed to be so tired she didn't care. He was about to stand and leave her, when he paused hearing her voice, he turned back, sitting back down as her tired eyes looked up at him. "What was that?" He wasn't too sure whether he fully caught her words or not, his eyes looked her over, assessing her as she propped herself up before sitting up awkwardly.

"I said that your father is proud of you." She rubbed her chest with a wince, smaller bruises and cuts seemed to be giving her bother now, especially the stab wound near her collarbone. She looked to the almost lost expression on his face, Liruliniel moved her hand and placed it against one of his.

Thranduil seemed to snap to attention then, his eyes looking sharply at her. Without words, his look said enough and Liruliniel smiled, she relented. "I was relieved of the burden of his death. In fact, I discovered that he saved my life during that battle. He looks like you, or rather you've grown to look very much like him. Beautifully terrifying, yet so honest with your thoughts and feelings; even if you keep your feelings guarded. I actually threw my arms around him; your father didn't really react. It was awkward, but I got carried away. He, there were no words exactly but I...they opted not to go to the Halls, in favour of giving what remained of them to me. It sounds weird, but each of those that greeted me...I can feel them in my heart." She tilted her head, sounding confused over her explanation as she put a hand over her heart, feeling how it beat so steadily underneath her palm.

"You found your solace." Thranduil spoke, his voice didn't sound like it came from him. He was aware how distant he sounded as he stared at the injured elf before him.

She blinked rapidly and looked back up at him, lowering her hand to her lap while her hand in the sling twitched again. He watched the almost pathetic wiggle of her fingers before fixing his eyes back on hers. "I told Vanadessë that you still love her and think of her often. She too was filled with pride in over how Legolas has grown. The pair of them couldn't be prouder of you two, honestly. I have never seen two who could be fuller of hope and concern over how things could've turned out but didn't. I am not sure you have heard it before, but you have done brilliantly in the face of adversity, you really have." Liruliniel said with a smile and a nod.

Thranduil's expression was still blank, but his mind was reeling still from everything she had said, or more or less everything. "You said that?"

Liruliniel looked confused, "Why wouldn't I? I spent a while conflicted, but who am I to deny the ability to love more than one? Both loves have a time and a place, and one may burn brighter than the other; but it is still love, nonetheless. I am not going to lie to her, not when she was before me looking so...ethereal, beautiful and without any pain, just...peaceful..." Liruliniel trailed off, her eyes staring at some unknown spot in the tent.

With a sigh, she moved with speed which caused her to groan and regret doing so. But she threw her legs over the bunk, with her good hand she held onto his hand and pulled it into her lap. With a smile sent up at him, she gave a sure nod. "All is good. All will be good." She leaned her head against his shoulder and shut her eyes with a small sigh.

"You better not be planning on sleeping sitting up." Thranduil quipped, his voice still unsure sounding as he thought over all she had said. Frowning and gently nudging her away when she let out fake snoring noises, he just shot her an incredulous look. "Lay down and sleep, Liruliniel. It has been quite the day." He said while helping her back down, brushing hair out of her face as she went.

"It's been quite a life."

"No need to be dramatic." He despaired with a roll of his eyes yet watched her sink against the bunk and struggle to sleep again. "I will be here," Thranduil all but whispered, staying awkwardly on the edge of the bunk as his hand sought out to hold her one.

"Perhaps I shall have pleasant dreams for once." Without the opposing force of Sauron nearby, Liruliniel's sleep had been reasonably peaceful, whenever she could sleep that was. She could only hope this would stay, she would like some nice dreams for once, or just nothingness. Either was good by her as she felt her mind growing numb. "Who do you think won that drinking contest?" Her voice was distant, her eyes shut and Thranduil could feel the grip on his hand lessen with every second that passed.

He wasn't surprised that somehow in her sleepy state, that this was the one thing which came to the forefront. He didn't reply, he was going to until he realised that heavy, yet slightly rattled breaths were coming from her. She was asleep, and he had to admit she did look peaceful. Thranduil could only hope she got what she had asked for, he hoped she had pleasant dreams as he leaned forwards and kissed her on the forehead. She murmured a little in her sleep, yet he managed to pull his hand free.

He would stay within the tent and keep vigil in case she had any nightmares in the night or woke in pain. Pouring himself a glass of wine, he sat down in the chair and looked onwards at the sleeping elf within the poorly padded bunk.

=

Camp life echoed throughout the tent and into Liruliniel's subconscious, her eyes squeezed shut before opening slowly. Her eyes dully stared up at the tent roof above her before she even contemplated moving, she just absentmindedly stared; her mind was waking up slowly, and her body and limbs even slower. She ached. She couldn't even deny it, she ached horribly.

She felt awful for thinking, and longing for a bath and a fresh bed, the people around her didn't have that luxury quite yet. She wasn't even sure if there was any running water nearby. She hoped so, or else, where was everyone getting fresh water to drink? Surely what Thranduil had bought with him, had all but ran out now?

Liruliniel frowned and slowly tried to move, she was stiff and her back clenched at her even trying to move. Her legs felt heavy, and the arm in the sling was as responsive as it had been last night. She tentatively sat there with her hand gently against it. A small frown was on her face. Nerves would fire off every so often, her fingers twitched on response, but it wasn't her choice to move the digits.

The thought of potentially being without it for the rest of her life had her frowning in thought, no more fighting was the first thing which crossed her mind, she could train those around her with one arm, she would have to give up archery; not that she would weep over that...

All in all, she could do it. She could do it, and she wouldn't even care that much. With a shrug from her good shoulder, Liruliniel just accepted it for what it was; her arm could heal perfectly fine, or it could not. She wasn't going to sit here worrying about it. Especially because of how she was sitting was making her ribs feel like they were encasing her tightly.

With a wheezed breath, her legs were heavily flung over the bunk. Her bare feet shuffled against the ground as she sat there looking around, Liruliniel's expression softened at the sight of Thranduil within his chair, not so much that, but more for the fact that he was clearly asleep.

She knew he was, because if he knew she was awake, he would be over here trying to help. He'd be trying to not look like he was fussing, quite like yesterday; he was very bad at blatantly trying to be ignorant, it came naturally to him yes, but when trying to act it...no. To her his worrying was as clear as the sun no doubt in the sky.

But he seemed to have gone to sleep leaning against one of his hands, balled into a fist and his elbow against the armrest. If anyone saw him, they'd think he was merely thinking with his eyes shut. So deep in thought he was oblivious to everything around him.

Well, he definitely was oblivious to her awkwardly stretching down at the other end of the tent. Liruliniel stretched on her toes, her good arm above her head before stretching before herself. She felt and heard joints popping, she felt the protest her ribs and back gave before commencing walking forwards. Reaching out, Liruliniel just smiled when the reaction from her fingers lightly trailing over his cheek, had a pair of slightly sleepy eyes staring up at her. Thranduil's eyes may have opened quickly enough, but even she could see he was still more asleep.

With more grace than what she showed this morning, he moved from his hand and looked up at her fully. He seemed surprised she wasn't swaying in place, that she seemed quite stable and smiling his way. In truth, Liruliniel passed out into sleep last night. Her body was screaming for sleep, and she couldn't ignore the pull it had on her.

The bunk was uncomfortable, the sleep had been restful despite of the lack of comfort, but she didn't see how she had any standing to complain; some out there didn't even have bunks, because they were all given to the injured. Yes, she may have been injured too, but she was rather sure she was perhaps one of few injured that actually woke come the morning.

Shaking her head, Liruliniel sighed. She couldn't help but feel melancholy. How could she not? So much had happened, in such a small space of time. Things escalated so quickly, honestly, Liruliniel didn't think she had had a moment to fully comprehend what had actually happened. Thranduil clearly saw her turmoil, the way her eyes clouded over, and she stared through him.

Standing and placing a hand on her shoulder, he turned and slowly and gently pushed her to sit. He knelt in front of her, his hands remaining holding onto her one. His eyes flicked to a twitching finger before looking up when she let out a small laugh, it didn't sound all too happy. "It's not my doing. I can't actually feel anything from my shoulder downwards." Liruliniel explained, Thranduil understood where her bitterness laid then. She bowed her head and nodded slowly, Thranduil leaned up and tilted her head back up, he wasn't all too surprised to see her eyes filled with tears. Liruliniel scrunched her nose, she tried to smile but all that did was cause tears to finally escape. "It's hit me."

"I did wonder when it would." Thranduil replied softly, the last battle they'd been in had been as bad, they both equaled, but she had ridden a high of relief before crashing. And she really did crash. It was the same here. Her relief and happiness over everyone being well and good had ebbed away to realisation.

"I think I did a lot of reckless things."

"But without doing so, I believe a few would've died." Thranduil said, hoping she'd get the hint. If she didn't do certain things, Thorin and his nephews would definitely not be here now. Liruliniel brushed the back of her hand over her eyes with a laugh. She sounded a bit happier now, Thranduil was relieved of that, even if she did still look sad.

Shaking her head and looking around the tent, Liruliniel stared long and hard at the armour to one side. Even Thranduil glanced over before looking back up at her. Liruliniel opened her mouth and shut it, thinking of the words she looked tearfully down at him. "True. But I think recently I have done a lot of reckless things; a lot of unnecessary things. I needlessly went hunting for trouble within our home. I idiotically faced a dragon. I went running headfirst into battle without much of a worry. Then I, without even a second thought, sacrificed all of myself to save Thorin. I know my actions bought good, in a way. But it is awful for me to say, that only a few times I thought of how you would be if things went sour. And for that I feel dreadful. I am so sorry, Thranduil. I am so sorry that I have acted so ridiculously, and idiotically."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, he wasn't expecting this much retrospective. Inhaling slowly, he stood, Liruliniel looked up at him, biting her bottom lip looking almost worried about his reply. He wiped a thumb under her eye and looked to the tent doorway, he shut it late last night, but he could see shadows flitting, people were busying with some tasks or another. "It is what you do, you do the ridiculous and idiotic. You always have done. Do I expect to always be at the forefront of your mind? No, of course I do not. It has taken me a long time to accept that your care, your heart is for everyone. Your actions are for the good of our lands. It just so happens, that in this instance I have relented and will have to accept sharing." Thranduil said while nodding his head to the side, he held out a hand and helped her stand.

Liruliniel smiled his way, her eyes narrowing slightly when he opened the tent flaps and the sunlight hit her. It was warm out, she couldn't help but be struck with how ironic it was in a way; yesterday, the weather reflected the mood of everything and everyone, it was dreadful, foggy in some areas, drizzling in others. The sun did not shine until the end, and even then, it was the late afternoon, it would've been the last of the sunlight in a day. And now, now the new day had bought with it warmth, sun and not a sight of a rain cloud or fog.

Thranduil didn't rush her, he just stood there and let her take it in, to get her bearings before smiling his way. Thranduil took that as his cue, he started leading her away. It seemed like most of the tents had been taken down, the only ones that were still up were the ones which had been formed into field healer rooms. The smells of incense, herbs, and the less pleasant smells from the injured and dying could be smelt.

Liruliniel paused, she rubbed a hand to her temple before almost doubling over herself. If Thranduil wasn't holding her, Liruliniel probably would've just gone face planting the mud. "Imrathon! Please...where is he?" Liruliniel looked up at him with pleading eyes, she was mentally kicking herself.

What an idiot! The elf had been with her on and off on the battlefield, they had fought together, lost each and reunited only to depart again. "Please tell me he is not still out there, if he is...I will have to go out there, no-!" Liruliniel's voice was getting a little hysterical, she even tried to go walking back to the battlefield, only for him to grasp onto her a little tighter and stop her. "Thranduil, please let me go!"

"Your attempts to go charging out into a graveyard is unneeded. Unwarranted even. He is well, he is alive." Thranduil explained, Liruliniel's relief was almost palpable as she sighed heavily. She blinked and slowly looked back at him, Thranduil tilted his head. "As you wish," he said to her silent plea. He led her slowly away, towards a set of tents which didn't have the smells of herbs coming from them, the sight of healers and helpers coming in and out of the tents they were going to was less.

Liruliniel was not sure what she was expecting, she could only presume that she got so caught up in the moment, of everyone greeting her that unfortunately...her mind got carried away. She felt horrendous for forgetting him, she truly did. Yet, when inside the tent she was surprised to see that those within, weren't so horrendously beaten and wounded. There were men and women from all of the races here, other than the dwarven women that was.

A few children were present too, evidently caught in skirmishes and come off a little hurt from it. But, sitting in the middle of one of the rows of bunks, was Imrathon. The elf himself sat propped in bed, he seemed to be trying to deter a healer from looking at him. From the outside he did look fine, yet Liruliniel narrowed her eyes. One of his hands was favouring one of his legs, the palm would grip painfully onto his knee, his eyes looking sceptical.

Liruliniel sighed, looking at Thranduil she nodded, he let her go and she walked slowly over. With a heave, she practically collapsed on the edge of the bunk. Imrathon and the healer naturally looked perturbed by her appearing, so caught up in their argument, neither saw her coming. Liruliniel grinned their ways before sniffing quietly and fidgeting to sit upright. Thranduil just rolled his eyes yet graced the side of the bunk with his presence, causing the healer to blanch and turn rather pale, and for Imrathon to look wide eyed and rather confused.

Liruliniel smiled as the healer bowed and practically scuttled off, Liruliniel raised an eyebrow, she shook her head and looked away from the beetle like scuttling woman and stared at her friend. "What's wrong with your leg?"

"Took a hit."

"By?" Liruliniel frowned in thought, his words could mean anything. She would quite like to have some specifics. Imrathon though, no, he stayed silent. Liruliniel sighed, "You should let them take a look. Yes, we heal faster, we can take more damage than the mortals; but you are still hurt, and you still need help. Let them look." Liruliniel spoke softly, worried even that Imrathon would still decline help when it was right there next to him.

"You seem...well."

Liruliniel scoffed, "Ribs are still healing, bruised back and a few cuts here and there. Took a few hits to the head, and this," she pointed to her sling, Liruliniel smiled softly. "Yes, I am well."

Imrathon sighed, "If that is well, then I am not sure what you class unwell as being."

"I do believe you wouldn't wish to know." Thranduil commented dryly, staring between the two yet staying standing by Liruliniel's side. He didn't trust her not to topple, considering how she fell almost on the bunk. Even now she was fidgeting trying to get comfortable.

Imrathon scoffed, trying to hide a laugh yet from the smirk on Thranduil's lips, the laugh soon slipped out. Liruliniel raised an eyebrow, if she could've crossed her arms, she would've. Instead, she fidgeted, got a hand to steady her between her shoulders, and she stared at Imrathon pointedly. "My point is that I am up, and moving, and I will heal. To be honest, I feel better than yesterday. I wouldn't be feeling this, if I didn't have someone look at my injuries." Liruliniel decided not to let slip just who looked at them and that she wasn't in a state to decline aid.

Liruliniel didn't know how much information Imrathon would've received while in here. She didn't know if he was even conscious when she was bought in, or if he was out cold. Liruliniel decided to just act as if any other healer had seen to her, not Elrond. Much like any other elf, Imrathon was proud, accepting help seemed to be a flaw. When it really wasn't, if help was needed and there, it was foolish to turn it down.

Imrathon looked sceptical, well, more so than he did previously when the healer was still buzzing around him. Thranduil could see this was going nowhere fast. "She is right. Unless you enjoy being within this tent?"

Imrathon sighed, "Not particularly."

"This is sorted then. Let a healer look at your injury." Thranduil's tone wasn't exactly one for arguing or trying to contradict. Imrathon bowed his head and nodded slowly, he was accepting that defeat while Liruliniel grinned Thranduil's way. He just sighed in response. Liruliniel's tact wasn't working, Thranduil's did. Like Imrathon would ignore something which came from his king.

"Caladhiel is going to not leave us alone. She will be like a mother hen, fussing and clucking around us." Imrathon said, leaning his head back against the pillows with a heavy sigh.

"I will tell Caladhiel you said she clucks." Liruliniel smiled softly, Imrathon let out a laugh and opened an eye to look at her. "Be fair...I don't mind her fussing." Liruliniel picked at some invisible fluff on her trousers. Caladhiel's fussing always made her feel warm, wanted, almost fuzzy on the inside. No, she didn't like how worried the elf got. But the feeling of being wanted, to be worried over? Liruliniel felt odd for revelling in that, but she did.

Imrathon tilted his head, "Surely you have not got out of your own sickbed, to come all this way to see me?"

Liruliniel smiled, "I did. Well, that and food. But you are first."

"That's nice to see I am a priority before filling your stomach."

"I am healing, and healing people need to eat!"

"Yes, fine. Be that as it may-"

"Do not accuse me of feasting greedily."

Imrathon looked baffled then. "I was actually going to ask you to bring something for me. But if you eat everything before anyone can share it out..." Imrathon trailed off, Liruliniel laughed out and looked rather mock offended while swatting her good hand against his arm.

Thranduil just shook his head and left them to it, though at the sight of the healer trying to venture near again, he aided Liruliniel up and they left. Perhaps it was best they weren't around, Imrathon would probably feel like his pride and ego hadn't taken a total bash by them two being present watching.

=

It was within the week after the battle had taken place, that Liruliniel found herself sitting outside of the tent which had yet to be taken down; in truth, it probably could be, she had become used to the uncomfortable bunk and waking to see Thranduil definitely asleep in the chair, but there was nowhere else to relocate to.

In truth, it had taken this long to get some of the healer tents taken down, the occupants either sadly being taken to a place of rest or walking about aiding where they could. It had also taken this long to clear the city of the bodies; the orcs, goblins and foul creatures which had been within their company were burned, far, far away from the city, or anywhere within the vicinity of the allies.

The dead which had fallen in battle, and those which were laid out in some of the abandoned buildings of Dale, were about ready to finally be put to rest. Everyone felt awful that it had taken this long, but it was never going to be a quick fix, so many had perished. It seemed only right that everyone be laid together, as they fell together. Didn't mean it wasn't still hard to watch.

Liruliniel had stood beside Thranduil, her a lot more emotive than him, everyone around them were equally so; some distraught women tried to clutch onto bodies of men, of boys they clearly knew and loved, and it was all so hard. It was dreadfully hard to watch, and Liruliniel had had a little cry later on in the evening, even more so when Arthion's body was put to rest along with valiant horses and other animals which had been used in the ally armies. Thranduil had comforted the best he could, but truthfully, he didn't think it would truly be enough; she was as close to the elk as he ever could be.

At some point, Liruliniel had grown fed up of the long sleeves on the borrowed tunic. When she got given a replacement, one equally long in the sleeve, she had taken a blade and sliced the sleeves off. Right now, she sat in the newly fashioned sleeveless tunic, her own trousers seemed in fair condition, her boots were still abandoned. Thankfully, running water had been discovered within a nearby stream that was in the woodland surrounding Erebor and Dale, so soon everyone was able to clean themselves of the muck of war.

Liruliniel's hair for once wasn't braided, the fiery locks trailing over her shoulders and down her back as she sat there looking suddenly up at the sound of running feet. Sitting upon a stool, she held a ball in her hand. Feeling had come to her arm suddenly one night. She was surprised, so surprised that she almost choked on her drink at the sudden twinging sensation. Thranduil had been confused, to say the least. His eyes looking at her widely, his face just set in this confused expression as she explained what happened.

He had been pleased. But though he was pleased, he had been the one to push her to try and use her arm as soon as she was able to. With the sleeves of the tunic off, she was truly able to see her arm; the splints were still in place, one against the top of her arm, the other on her forearm. Her elbow was free to bend, now she could because before this, she couldn't feel it. But, even with the splints and bandages keeping them in place, she could see the spidery trails of scars.

She scrunched her nose, her hand tightening on the ball, which was in her hand, apparently it was meant to help the muscles or something, she didn't know, but she went along with it. She was still squeezing what seemed to be a child's toy when those running footsteps seemed to fully come her way. She raised an eyebrow, watching Fíli send her a sheepish yet cheeky look as he shoved his brother into the tent behind her and shut the tent doors.

Liruliniel tilted her head, something was evidently happening that involved them two for them to go in that tent. Thranduil wasn't in there for the moment, or else this would be extremely awkward. Liruliniel grinned at the thought, blinking and tilting her head, she lowered her hand to her lap, the ball forgotten as she heard their names being shouted.

Her eyes narrowed slowly, she didn't recognise that voice, there was something soft, yet determined about it. Liruliniel straightened on her stool, her eyes blinking as she looked at the dark-haired figure seemingly scouring the area. Liruliniel almost winced when the figure looked at her, she got looked up and down before she was no longer alone.

A dwarf. Not just any dwarf, but a female one. Liruliniel smiled sheepishly, with a foot she kicked out a nearby stool and nodded towards it. She remembered Thalion saying that dwarves got confused, they struggled to find females of their race because of the similarities. True as that may be, Liruliniel was surprised to see this female was not bearded like the men, her hair was dark, her eyes were bright and blue. Liruliniel sighed softly, Dís was basically the spitting image of Thorin. The siblings couldn't look any more alike, well, maybe they could if Dís grew a beard...

"Have you seen my boys?" Dís was sitting on the stool, her eyes leaving Liruliniel to glance around again. "I could've sworn they came this way, and I couldn't help but see you and how you looked...suspicious."

"I think that's just my face. I have been told that I look like I'm scheming quite a bit at times." Liruliniel said with a shrug, her hand clenching the ball again and sniffing quietly. Thalion was such a charming brother, honestly.

"I know you," Dís nodded, Liruliniel looked sidelong at her. She never met Dís, not the last time she had come to Erebor. Nor did she meet Thorin and Dís's brother, Frerin. Dís leaned an arm against her thigh, her blue eyes looking sharply over Liruliniel as she looked back at her with a soft smile. "You are the one who saved my boy, my brother, my kin even." Dís's voice was soft, she looked rather kindly at her, whatever hard lines that were on her face, were gone now.

"I would do it again."

Dís let out a laugh at that, she looked quite laid back now that she wasn't hunting for her sons. "You, yes. Others? Perhaps not."

"Others and what they do are none of my concern, as long as they don't intend to harm my friends and family." Liruliniel nodded, she pushed a lock of hair out of her face and looked at Dís. "Why are you hunting for your sons?" She was curious, what had they done to annoy their mother?

"You see, I have only just arrived; imagine it, trekking so far, the last words I had was that Fíli was close to death, and Thorin was dead. Only for this message to get retracted and changed. But and this is quite a large one, what do I spy upon returning to this land?" Dís's voice turned hard again, Liruliniel winced expecting the worst here. She didn't know the dwarf; she had no clue what would irk her. "Thorin in cahoots with whom I can only presume is your King, and Kíli canoodling with another one of your kin."

Liruliniel narrowed her eyes, "Hm...whatever problems your brother and my King have, I think have been put to the side for the sake of everyone here. What use is squabbling amongst us, when there is so much to be done here? The only way it will succeed, is if we're together. As for Kíli...Tauriel is a good elf, she is kind, compassionate, she is very smart, and quick. She is one of my oldest friends, I think they're rather sweet together." Liruliniel giggled awkwardly.

Dís shot her an icy look which had her laughing more. Honestly, of course she always believed Legolas and Tauriel would become something, but as they grew, even Liruliniel could see there was more of a sibling relationship there than anything else. Dís sniffed, she tilted her head, pushed a small braid with a clasp on the end out of her face, before looking back at Liruliniel. "Aye, true. I cannot argue with that logic. But..."

Liruliniel looked up at the sky, her eyes tracked the clouds before narrowing in thought. "You will always be the one woman in his life, which will always be there, Dís. Sorry, sorry. I have not introduced myself, not fully-"

"You are that missing Princess my brother spoke of."

"Ah, yes. I should probably thank Thorin in some part for introducing me to you, inadvertently." Although she guessed she wasn't pleased that was the thing he went for. "I am Liruliniel. Although, some of the mortals here call me Lark. I find and they find that it is easier and less awkward. Some interpretations of my name have been...interesting to say the least."

Dís laughed, "Oh, aye, I can very well imagine that."

Liruliniel smiled, "Do not fret about Kíli and Tauriel. Honestly, just be there if anything happens."

Dís looked long and hard at her, "Do you have children?" Dís questioned, there was something in Liruliniel's tone, the way in which she spoke which had her thinking, it caught her that their tones were similar, fond and wistful even.

Liruliniel blinked with large eyes and shook her head. "No. No, I have no children. There is one who is like a son to me, I have watched him grow, trained him, watched him go off out into the world. I love him dearly as if he was my son."

"You can choose your family. They don't always have to be blood." Dís nodded in thought, Liruliniel agreed with a nod in her direction. Dís shifted on the stool, she looked at Liruliniel curiously and she eyed her worriedly. It seemed, much like herself, if Dís had something in mind or on her mind that bothered her, she would just come out with it. "A man, perhaps?"

Liruliniel burst out laughing, she slapped her good hand to her knee and managed to shakily reach up and wipe her eyes with her injured one. "Yes, there is a man. You?"

"Oh no," Dís looked saddened then, "No one since their father." Liruliniel looked on curiously again. "Mavli died alongside my brother, and many others in an attempt to reclaim a lost homeland. He was and will always be the only one for me. Even now I know he awaits me, for when my time comes."

Liruliniel felt herself earnestly smile, that was such a wholesome way of looking at it, even through the heartbreak. Liruliniel squeezed the ball again, "My brother died in an ambush, of sorts, alongside my father. I am tied to the aforementioned King." Dís double took, even pointing a finger at her in shock. Liruliniel smiled, "That wasn't the expression I was expecting. I do not know you very well, Dís. But I did not think that, out of everything, would've made you silent!" Liruliniel laughed, "But it is true. Much like you and your Mavli, I feel entirely the same about Thranduil. There will be no one else who could have my heart, like him." Dís's shocked face changed, she softly smiled and nodded, understanding the similarity here. "So, you are chasing your boys down to berate one for canoodling as you say, with my friend; and the other?"

"Near death, Lark! The near death!" Dís exclaimed with a dramatic flair which had Liruliniel edging away a little on the stool, yet she smiled when Dís looked at her suddenly. Some around the camp looked over suddenly from her exclaiming, yet none ventured near or even asked what was going on.

"I saw them run in that direction," Liruliniel waved a hand casually to the side.

Dís looked, she seemed to think before slipping from the stool and coming closer. Liruliniel looked at her with a smile, though she tensed a little when Dís grasped her cheeks gently in her hands, pulled her close and rested her forehead against hers. Liruliniel just let out a breath and shut her eyes too, "Damâm uru 'aban, madtithbirzul." Dís whispered, Liruliniel could safely say this was the quietest she had heard Dís so far in their small moment of knowing each other.

Liruliniel opened her eyes, staring into the sharp blue eyes of the dwarf woman before she pulled back. "I don't really know how to translate that. My knowhow of your language is...not great, to say the least." She admitted with a bashful look. She knew how secretive they were, yet she was ever curious.

"Blood over stone, little golden heart." Dís replied, Liruliniel, although older, was being sent a look which should've come from someone much older than Dís. The honest, sheer heartwarming glow within her eyes just had Liruliniel smiling lightly.

She understood, family was more important, as for the name, she guessed she would accept that too. Thranduil had already told her what Thorin had called her, azaghâl Uzbadnâtha, not the first time she had been called a Warrior Princess. But Dís's name for her was endearing, it warmed her on the inside.

The moment would've been complete, Dís would've gone off in the wrong direction if only the tent flaps weren't opened suddenly. Fíli and Kíli who were clearly crouching listening intently to their conversation jumped and fell over each other, Thranduil stood behind them with a raised eyebrow. He could see from the sidelines that the two women were in discussion before the way in, so he went around the other door. Only, he didn't expect to see the brothers whispering and chatting in hushed tones to each other. They hadn't heard him, Thranduil's steps were barely audible, they only noticed him when the tent flaps were opened, and they jumped in surprise.

"You two!" Dís exclaimed, pointing at the pair as they scrambled up and stood up, they brushed themselves down and looked somewhat guilty. "And you!"

Liruliniel looked surprised, she even blanched a little as Dís's finger was suddenly in her face, from a disagreeable noise behind them, Dís flashed a very Fíli and Kíli sheepish, yet cheeky grin before lowering her hand. Thranduil rolled his eyes and turned away, he didn't appreciate the finger pointing in Liruliniel's face, even if this moment was ridiculous. He sat down and looked at the four of them. Dís seemed to say something to her sons before linking an arm with them and being in between them as she hurried off.

"Well, isn't she a character?"

Liruliniel couldn't help but laugh from Thranduil's dull tone. She turned and looked into the tent, "She is actually very nice." Thranduil didn't look like he believed her as he tilted his head, eyes looking at her sceptically as she just smiled and looked forwards again. "I never asked if she came here alone."

"She didn't," Thranduil stood and moved over, he watched her hand clench the ball slowly as she looked to him to continue. She seemed to have improved, whether she fully realised this, he didn't know. "Glóin, his wife and son have come too along with some other dwarves, workers, smiths, craftsmen and craftswomen." Thranduil explained and looked at Liruliniel oddly when she leaped to a stand, "What is the matter?"

"You said smiths?"

"Yes."

"Dwarf...smiths?"

"Yes." Thranduil narrowed his eyes as she turned on her heels eyeing everything up. "Why?"

"Where? Where, Thranduil?!" Liruliniel placed her good hand against his shoulder and practically shook him with excitement.

He didn't like the action and put a stop to it rather quickly with a glare and his hand swatting hers away. Thranduil didn't answer with words, but gestured, and that's all it took for Liruliniel to turn on her heels and run. Thranduil watched her go, with a resigned sigh, he picked up walking after her. He was curious, how could he not be? She had gone off on such a sprint he was surprised the momentum didn't actually make her topple.

Liruliniel was easy to see, leaping and jumping and running about as quickly as she could. Thranduil could see her pace wavering, her lungs no doubt cramping and her ribs protesting her moving so quickly and suddenly. The speed was something which hadn't been used in a small while, yet Thranduil paused near a small settlement which had the appearance of a makeshift market. There wasn't anything to trade as such, but it was where those here gathered to share what they had managed to garner, make or bake.

Liruliniel was screaming and shouting something, others looked at her oddly, but she didn't care. She didn't care because she soon sunk to her knees before a dwarf, even from where Thranduil stood he could see he was greying, almost white haired in places, like those around him he had a long beard with braids within it. He had an axe strapped to his back, but a bag within his hand, something like a tool bag no doubt. Thranduil could not hear what she was saying, being too far away, but she was speaking something.

Liruliniel however could not believe it, at all. What fates were looking down and favouring her right now, she did not know. The moment Thranduil mentioned smiths, her mind reeled. Did she believe an old friend would miss out the opportunity to bring Erebor back to its former glory? No. "Bodur, brother of Ralgor, son of Rúdir." Her breath came to her short and sharp, she looked up with a grin. "It is really you!"

Bodur looked at her curiously, his mind was clearly trying to piece everything together before laughing loudly. He clapped a hand tightly to her good shoulder and beamed her way. "Well look at you! Haven't you become a wily little scrapper, eh?"

Liruliniel laughed and winced, she tilted her head and straightened herself despite being knelt on the ground still. "I'm an adult now, and I'd be taller than you!"

Bodur rubbed a hand to his chin, it got lost in the thick beard as he thought over what she said before laughing again. "Nay, nay, see as your elder you'll still be a scrapper to me."

"I still have the sword you made me." Liruliniel said suddenly, her eyes wide as she just came out with it.

Bodur scoffed, "Should bloody well hope so, what with how you kept on wanting one."

"But you're such a brilliant smith!"

"Don't you come raining praise on me, lass. I am well aware, why else do you think I was asked to come here?"

"As if you wouldn't have come anyway." Liruliniel had him on that as she stood up and brushed dried mud from her knees.

Bodur shot her a look as she grinned down at him. He could say all he wished, she knew he would've come here. He had never been to Erebor, Liruliniel had got told of the dwarven kingdoms by Bodur when they were in Ered Luin; it was mainly because of him her interest in the dwarves and their kingdoms was so high. He spoke so highly of places he had never been to, only heard stories of, but she wanted to see the stories, see the things which enamoured so many. She wasn't disappointed to say the least.

Bodur put his fists on his hips and looked her up and down now she was standing. Liruliniel frowned a little, he shook his head and shrugged. "You don't look much like a Princess, may I just say?" Liruliniel laughed, she couldn't help it, "Don't know many who'd get so beaten in a fight, or willingly fight. You look like you've been dragged to and from the Halls of Mahal, lass."

"Try the Halls of Mandos, then we're talking quite accurately, Bodur." Liruliniel said, shifting her weight and crossing her arms, her injured one cradled, splints and all with a small sigh.

Bodur looked up at her sympathetically, "You've had it real rough, by sounds of it, and I don't mean because of how you look, half-beaten and healing."

"Life hasn't been easy. You?"

Bodur smiled and stiffly shrugged, "Have finally left home to come and see the kingdom of Erebor." He turned and looked towards the Mountain, work was already underway there, a front door was in the process of being made but Liruliniel believed now Bodur was here, he'd quite easily take charge and get things done.

"I'm proud of you, Bodur." Liruliniel said while placing a hand on his shoulder.

With a raised eyebrow and a laugh, he looked up at her. "That is the last thing I need, elvish sarcasm."

Liruliniel laughed and shook her head, "I was being sincere!"

"Didn't bloody sound it!" Bodur exclaimed back and frowned her way, he looked a little grumpy only to sigh and smile up at her.

Liruliniel just smiled back at him before noticing how Bodur was eyeing something to the side of her. She turned and looked at Thranduil, he had ventured near and stood beside her silently and looking from the Mountain to them. Bodur inhaled deeply, he seemed to grab his belt and hike it a little before stepping around Liruliniel and stopping before the pair.

Thranduil looked down a little confused, he blinked slowly and frowned a little as his eyes stared at the elderly dwarf in front of him. "Now, listen here. King or not, this kid better be getting looked after. If any more harm comes her way, you will have to answer to me."

"Liruliniel, I do believe you have beguiled all dwarves alike. They all seem so ready to come to your aid if anything foul falls over you." Thranduil's tone was casual, if not a little blunt as an eyebrow rose and he smirked at the dwarf, Bodur grumbled under his breath, he narrowed his eyes and looked close to saying something else before Liruliniel stood between them with a smile, a very awkward smile.

"You remember Bodur, right?"

Thranduil tilted his head, "Vaguely." Bodur double took, his eyes wide before narrowing dangerously again. "I do believe you have mentioned him before." Thranduil just watched as Bodur went to take a step forward, only to have Liruliniel push at his shoulder with an awkward sounding laugh. In truth, Thranduil did remember the dwarf-smith, very well in fact, but he was just irking the older dwarf just because he seemed to take the bait quite easily.

Liruliniel sighed and rolled her eyes, double taking, she edged away calling out; "Glóin! Is that your son? He is a sweet looking boy, what is his name?" To be honest, Liruliniel was using Glóin and his family appearing on the site as a distraction to get away from these two. It was a little stifling, and it seemed to only get a bit worse as more dwarves seemed to side with Bodur and Thranduil just icily stared them down before sighing and walking away, rather elegantly and silently at that.

His next action just had the dwarves speaking up in what seemed like outrage, and annoyance as Thranduil picked up an apple, and with ease threw it towards Liruliniel. She caught it in her good hand with a smile sent at him before kneeling and looking at the young boy who had been introduced to her as Gimli. With her smile still in place, she held the apple out to him and he took it with a hesitant look; seeing that the elves were in fact doing a pass the parcel of food for the boy, those behind Bodur quietened down, Thranduil smirked and turned away again before hearing Liruliniel call out to him to wait for her.

——

Edited: 11/July/2025