Thranduil had lost Liruliniel. It just happened, it was perhaps an impossibility really to lose someone, when they were clearly still in the area; but he had lost her. Each day that came and went, she had vastly improved, whatever ailments that were still troubling her, didn't seem to trouble her so much anymore. Her arm, though still littered with spidery scars from where a bone or two had protruded from the skin, was better. Her ability to move it had improved, she seemed stiff, but she could still move it, straighten it, lifting her arm caused her to wince a little, but it no longer needed to be in splints or a sling.

Bruises and cuts had all but vanished, any bandage and dressing she had was removed. A healer had commented rather surprisingly how elves heal, Thranduil hadn't a comment, and Liruliniel had just smiled. The healer was a woman, small of build and quiet, Liruliniel had noted that she was the same one which tried to see to Imrathon.

Thinking of which, Thranduil's blue eyes slid to the elf. He too had healed remarkably quickly too. His leg, though he limped a little still, had healed and he was up and moving within two days of their first visit. Thranduil had given Imrathon a rather easy task, if he was up to it. Imrathon was readily accepting even before he knew what his king was going to ask of him.

It was simple; find Liruliniel. Admittedly, Thranduil had not seen her for about half a day, and he was a little confused to say the least. As yet, she hadn't openly ventured too far from his side, which bought him comfort, always having her in sight bought relief to him. But now? No. He did not feel relief, he felt concern, confusion and a little apprehension bubbling away inside him.

Thranduil looked curiously at Imrathon as he stopped in front of him, Thranduil remained seated and leaning back in his chair. "She's in the Mountain, sire." Thranduil's eyes dimmed, his expression went distant as he eventually rolled his eyes and stood slowly. Of course she was. Thranduil had hoped really that Liruliniel would've had the sense not to rush headfirst into aiding the dwarves to clean and tidy their home up. Apparently not.

Thranduil just inclined his head, Imrathon bowed before limping off. With a sigh, Thranduil called out his name, the elf stopped and looked miffed that he had been called for. "Perhaps you best see a healer, you seem to be limping more." It seemed Liruliniel was not the only one rushing off before they were fully healed. Yet Imrathon bowed his head again and walked away, Thranduil watched him go and was rather pleased to see him divert into what little tents remained for the healers.

In truth, the city of Dale, though still utterly wrecked and ruinous, was coming along quite quickly. Debris, foliage, artefacts left from the war had all been moved. In fact, some debris had even been reused in building materials. The dwarves had readily seen to this, hitting and breaking more chipped parts up and mixing them in with mortar to create new, solid and sturdy walls.

If parts were more solid, still in shape and a decent size, they were reused as they were, there would be something for them, a cornerstone, a part of a wall, some foundation or another; the dwarves were very fast at putting plans into action, and even quicker into seeing them get done. No one could fault them on that, although it seemed the mortals who were going to call this city home, had been somewhat shirked and pushed to the side.

Thranduil had seen more than one look out of place and awkward in trying to aid a dwarf or tell one to perhaps lessen and let them aid them. The dwarves would come out with something, most times really bluntly, and deter whomever who would then walk off with their head bowed. In experience, Thranduil had learned just to leave the dwarves to it. Nothing was going to get through to them, nothing. He had tried, and he had learned it never really worked, so leaving them be seemed ideal.

Really, there was no reason as to why the elves were still present. They had buried their dead, those who were injured had healed, and really, they didn't seem to wish to aid the dwarves in building. It was more the dwarves looked rather hesitant and even commented comically about how would an elf know what a dwarf would want their kingdom to be. Or something along those lines.

If he remembered rightly, Liruliniel had butted in, held a hand up and grinned saying; "My grandfather helped dwarves in building work quite often. I've heard tales of him aiding your kin in making the secret door in Khazad-dûm." This had shut some up, the dwarf called Bodur had laughed.

However, though her words were meant to be a contradiction, a retort to silence whoever spoke, it had roped some elves into building works. Some begrudgingly did so, some seemed to take to it, seeing it as fair in aiding those here set up their new lives. Thranduil was missing home though. He had been away from his kingdom for too long. Perhaps the longest he ever had been, seeing he doesn't and hasn't actually really left it before.

He had received messages, Baramaethor had said all was well, he had reported that the spiders and the nests had seemingly become deserted; of those that remained, were few and far apart. So, whatever evil had taken over his old home had truly been banished, it wasn't that he didn't believe what Liruliniel said, she was right more often than she was wrong, but proof was more often better than none.

Regardless, Thranduil was missing home. He was missing the call of the trees, the lulling sound of the river running through and the peace which came from being surrounded by familiar things. The forestry and tree lines here were ruined, some remained, struggling to revive themselves after the dragon's initial attack and even after the battle; blackened ground here and there, twigs which were once trees were sprouting from the ground, twisted, gnarled and not resembling a tree at all.

It was a sad sight. Nature, trees, all things which came from the earth beneath their feet deserved better than that fate, the trees deserved to flourish as much as those back home. Who was he kidding though? The dwarves would not tend to the nature beyond their walls, he knew this as much.

The walk to Erebor was silent, there were figures coming and going, a few bands of dwarves bustled past him now and then, Thranduil's long legs equalled in him easily overtaking them again. He heard a few muttered annoyed words, which had him smirking. He was under no illusion; some still disliked him. He didn't particularly care. The worst they would do is say something, he'd either reply or just stare emphatically at their attempts and that would be that.

Thorin and himself had an impasse, and it would perhaps be asking for too much for the other dwarves to follow suit. But Dáin, he still wasn't really one for this sudden line in the sand, and Dís, who Thranduil had never met before, was on the fence about it too.

Dís however, Thranduil had noted, had become rather fast friends with Liruliniel. If his missing other half was anywhere, she was no doubt going to be with the dwarven-Princess. Thranduil was wrong. So wrong. So wrong that he almost slapped a hand to his forehead in despair and muttered something under his breath.

No, Liruliniel was not with Dís, for Dís was with her son and Tauriel; it seemed Kíli's mother was taking Liruliniel's advice, she was spending time with the pair to get to know just who it was her son had fallen so quickly in love with. Thranduil passed them as they were on their own walk. Tauriel's expression was awkward, whereas the two dwarves looked at him with the same irritated look. Thranduil just sighed and continued on his search, it was by chance that he found perhaps one who would know where she was.

Which lead to the almost impact of his hand to his forehead as he despaired and the almost discouraging muttering, so quietly only he would hear. No, Liruliniel was in the forges. This was according to Bodur, who upon seeing him seemed rather cheerful. A bit off seems the smith didn't initially seem like a friend to Thranduil, not that many dwarves were...

"Oh, aye I've seen the lass! She and a few of my boys have gone down below." Bodur himself looked a little sooty, smelt of smoke and metal. His hands were filthy from both the forge work he clearly had already taken part in, and the building work in which he was doing now. "I get that something about what I've said has not appeased you." Bodur stated blatantly from the blank look being sent down at him. Oh yes, Bodur could definitely feel the aggravated waves practically flowing off of the elf in front of him. Bodur in retort just itched a finger to his cheek, spreading soot more around.

Thranduil just turned away silently, he heard Bodur shout out a sarcastic bye. Thranduil had been shown the forges, years ago by Thrór, the dwarf had been most proud of what was happening here. Thranduil did not wholly blame him because the forges were vast, large and the workers within were very capable at their craft. They were, simply put, some of the best the dwarven world knew. Now, those who survived and returned were happy to get back to their job, reacquainting themselves with forges they had long since left. Newcomers had zero problems settling into work either.

Amongst the newcomers, in a way, was Liruliniel. Thranduil rarely visited the forges within his own kingdom, there was no real need to; the smith would get the orders, he'd make the item, and then it would be bought to him. After inspection, Thranduil would give a response, dwarven forges were a lot more chaotic, a lot louder; some were laughing while they worked, others were chatting simply, and a pair were singing a rather loud, and rather crude song which had Thranduil merely inhaling deeply.

The smell of smoke, metal and fire filled him, unaffected he pressed on. Honestly, he looked tremendously out of place, at least Liruliniel, in her sleeveless tunic looked like she was a worker. Thranduil was displeased still to see a lack of footwear, now more than ever in such a place. Whoever the dwarf was on the opposite side of the bench she worked at was, spotted him and patted her on the arm gently before nodding.

Liruliniel, all sooty faced and grinning looked at him happily. Thranduil held a hand up from where they were clasped before him, he just held it up and she ceased moving, half-pivoted and on one foot she looked wide eyed and confused before levelling her footing out again. No offence to her, but he did not wish her to readily embrace him while she was so...Thranduil didn't mean to be particular, but dirty. And she was.

She had been down here half a day, dusty, sooty, smoky and just dirty from her work with the forges. The others down here were exactly the same. Liruliniel still looked at him happily, even looking at him patiently before he spoke. Seeing as how he was just staring at her blankly, she rolled her eyes and tilted her head. At least her hair was all tied up and off of her face, even if she was still barefoot.

"Is something the matter?" She asked carefully, from the way he was staring at her with quite hard eyes, she was inclined to say yes. But she wouldn't know until he spoke to her.

"Amman odúleg hi, nin meleth?" He asked, his voice low, yet curious as he looked around at the burning forges, the fire almost spurting out viciously as dwarves scrambled to control the flames, and the hot liquid coming from little rivets grooved out in the ground and spilling into moulds and other such things. He wasn't stupid, he could see, and he knew why she came here. His first feeling was annoyance she had come to a place, which was quite dangerous at the best of times. Yet, he remembered how content, and how happy she had been to come down here when they had first visited.

"Alae, a'maelamin!" Liruliniel all but beamed and jumped to the side, her arms directing his attention to the bench, or rather what was on the bench. Even through the soot, he could see her mouth spread into a wide smile. She was pleased with herself, and Thranduil was more than pleased to see her as such. But...

"Mani naa ta?" Thranduil's confusion, him asking plainly what it was he was meant to be looking at had her looking dejected.

Her shoulders slumped, a sad look flittered across her face, and her eyes looked rather sadly to the side. Even her arms slacked and fell back to her sides, her fingers tapping her thighs as she heaved a sigh. "It doesn't matter," she shook her head and leaned back against the bench. Despite of her words, and how sure she seemed to try and make her voice sound, Thranduil could still see and hear it, the hurt.

"But it matters to you," Thranduil stepped forwards and looked over her shoulder at the bench. Many pieces were laid out; it was like a metallic jigsaw puzzle. Some parts where already attached, from the tools she had dropped upon seeing him, it seemed like she had been the one to do so.

Liruliniel shrugged stiffly, she glanced over her shoulder and looked at him simply. "It's going to be part of the new gate. Hinges, to be specific." Liruliniel thought it was obvious; the joints weren't that hard to decipher. But then she had to remind herself, that Thranduil was not this way inclined. Book smart, yes. Battle hardened and tactically intelligent, definitely. But the arts, the act of making and creating, no, not so much.

She didn't honestly think that Bodur would put her to work on this, the gate was important. She thought he'd lump her off with something silly, just to appease and silence her. But no. She had been down in the forge for several hours, only taking breaks to get water, and go to the toilet.

Thranduil nodded, "I had wondered where you went."

Liruliniel smiled and nudged her sooty shoulder against his, Thranduil narrowed his eyes downwards at her. He did also look to his shoulder; the silvery tunic was still clean but probably wouldn't be if he stayed down here for much longer. "We both know that deep down, I am a craftswoman."

"If I remember rightly, the last time you were down here you didn't exactly pass the test."

Liruliniel laughed and wiped a hand down her face, she just tracked soot more over her features as she shrugged. She looked at her hand and just simply wiped it on her tunic, Thranduil frowned. She hadn't always acted like a typical elf, but the more she spent around the dwarves, the more he was seeing those little traits she picked up as a kid start to shine through again.

He was surprised she wasn't joining in with that crude song, well, another one had picked up which it was clear she understood to a point, because she looked over with a smirk. Thranduil shook his head. "Are you finished?" He asked, watching her look over at him with surprise. Thranduil looked around and then back at her, Liruliniel wasn't going to say he was uncomfortable in the forge, or even muse as such. Even she could sense his question had a hidden meaning; can we leave? Or even; can we spend time together?

She hadn't ever pinned Thranduil for being the clinging type, perish the thought of tarnishing his nonchalant nature, but this had been the longest they had been apart in recent times. She knew he was still worried about her healing injuries. "I hear that the rooms are ready now." Liruliniel pushed away from the bench and looked at him with a smile. "Thorin is trying to get as many to reside in rooms here, while building work continues in the city. Naturally, it is getting cooler, and mortals aren't really well adapted to the cold. It does keep snowing, and I am half surprised none have got frostbite yet."

Now it was Thranduil's turn to understand the hidden meaning in her words. "Lead the way then," he gestured a hand to her, she smiled and quickly turned to bid farewell to the dwarves she was working alongside. Thranduil wasn't all surprised more than one group of dwarves bid her a quick bye, either with words or a wave of the hand to register her. People joked that they weren't sure if her grandfather wasn't secretly a dwarf, seemed the apple didn't fall far from the tree here.

"Ai' atar!" Liruliniel called out, waving an arm in the air. Bodur looked up with a frown, he clearly didn't appreciate what she just called him. Thranduil looked confused too, "Little father," she explained in a whisper as she jogged away from his side and stopped before Bodur. Thranduil shook his head, she had more adopted family then he could probably count...her extended family just kept on growing, it seemed.

Regardless, he ended up catching up and stopped beside her. Bodur looked between the pair, he seemed to be repairing a piece of wall that Smaug had utterly wrecked in the effort to get into the Mountain, and out of it again. "Slacking, madtithbirzul?"

She scrunched her nose up and narrowed her eyes, though she thought the name was cute, the sarcastic way Bodur said it, ruined it completely. He had heard Dís call her it, and he had jumped on the bandwagon. It was sweet coming from Dís, Bodur was ribbing; joking as he may be, his expression was endearing, he had heard all of what she had done for his kin from various dwarves here. It wasn't just his kin, the mortals too seemed to love her in their own right, especially the little girl he hurriedly got introduced to as Tilda.

Liruliniel huffed, "I have not slacked at all in my life!"

Bodur looked at her curiously. "Is that so? Then how about that time-?"

"No! I was a child, and, well, you were so much bigger...I was struggling with movements, and blocking! Not my fault you kept knocking me down, and in the end I just laid there. Being beaten and admitting defeat, is not slacking, ai' atar." She said in a sure tone, even crossing her arms with another huffed sigh and a nod.

Bodur shifted his weight, adjusted the hold on the large mallet he had in hand and looked at her dubiously. "Not my fault you kept jumping up. You kept getting knocked on your arse, and you just kept springing up like a damn spring flower." Was Bodur's defence, Thranduil sent him a frown, Bodur smiled widely at him not caring at all he had said something else to offend the elf. "Go. You're still healing, to keep straining and working all you'll do is harm yourself more. From what I can gather, you've been on death's door enough already, don't think you want to keep knocking and get invited in, eh?"

"That is an invitation I would have to decline. Thank you," Liruliniel smiled and inclined her head at him.

Bodur guffawed, even waving his spare hand hurriedly in the air and shaking his head. "Not sure why you're bowing to me, lass. You go and get some rest, but I'll expect you back to work tomorrow bright and early." Liruliniel laughed and nodded eagerly, Thranduil just looked pointedly at the dwarf, Bodur grinned cheekily and waved as they walked away.

Thranduil realised quite quickly that this negative feeling that was turning slowing within him, was in fact a small ounce of jealousy. He had never dwelt on Liruliniel being popular, perhaps because he knew within their own home, he was of a select few who were a friend. But here, it was like everyone was. But not only that, with them, came the fact that her time was spent split between them all. He did miss her. He missed and he worried that she was doing too much too soon, not that she would take that seriously.

He watched her bound happily by his side, her arms swinging by her sides and she smiled widely and looked around what had been repaired already and cleaned. The tapestries which were hung had been taken down, cleaned and aired and hung back up. Now they shone out, the bright and beautiful colours were picked up from the light coming from the windows, and what torches were burning in the corridors. She didn't seem tired out. If anything, this was perhaps the fullest of life he had seen her in so long.

Back home she had been leeched, tired, withdrawn at times and quiet. She had practically retreated into herself and only ventured out if she needed to. But here she was, in Erebor, sooty, dirty from work, her bare feet making quiet pattering noises on the stone beneath them while her tunic looked as much as in a state as her skin. She hadn't looked like she belonged somewhere so much before.

And a part of that hit him hard. That wasn't to say she didn't belong in Mirkwood, that was a constant struggle and inner battle he knew she had, but one she had defeated. But there, she had always seemed to accept and act in a role and in a way, she didn't want or enjoy. Here, she was more than free to act and be herself, her wonderful, charismatic, bubbly and energetic self; she could walk around barefoot, soot stained and in a sleeveless tunic and no one batted and eye, no one judged at all.

Those they passed smiled her way, exchanged greetings and fleeting smiles before parting ways again. He was envious in how easily she adapted. Elves weren't designed to enjoy the inside cavernous spaces of dwarven cities and kingdoms, she revelled in it.

Liruliniel looked over at him, ready to say something only to pause on seeing his expression. Thranduil was looking at her with this sort of resigned sadness, like something just clicked in his mind and a realisation he did not wish to acknowledge, had shone through. "What is it?" She asked instead, she looked at him worriedly thinking the worst.

"Are you happy here?" Thranduil asked, Liruliniel blinked wide eyes and looked baffled by his question, and his tone. He sounded as resolute and resigned as his expression, something which she found was unsettling her tremendously.

"Well, you've always known that I have had a fondness for Erebor. So, yes." Liruliniel answered carefully, she chose her words carefully as to not wishing to say something to further whatever this mood was, that was hanging over him anymore.

Thranduil nodded minutely, he cast his eyes around the corridor, long stretching and grey bricked, it could've felt dark and gloomy if it wasn't for the large windows letting in streams of light and any alcoves that were present, were lit with torches. Erebor hadn't looked so full of light, not for many, many years that is. "Do you wish to see it rebuilt? To see it become the kingdom it once was?"

"Thranduil, what are you trying to ask me? Be clear and honest, you know there is nothing you can ask that will offend me too much," she joked, or tried to, he just looked at her as they paused at a large staircase. There were many around, all interconnecting in some way and leading to all places within the kingdom.

"Do you want to stay and help rebuild the city, Liruliniel?"

Liruliniel felt herself frowning slowly, she stared around her and at the many that were hurrying around working away before looking at him. "It would please me greatly. I feel like it is the least I can do. I feel this calling; this need to help them and those within Dale too. I cannot explain it. I do not think I could simply go, without seeing a resolution, a conclusion even." She said while absentmindedly rubbing a hand to her chest above her heart, Thranduil was rather uncertain whether she realised she was doing it.

"I have put in place plans to leave within the next few days." Thranduil said while picking up walking again, he heard the gasp from her as she pottered after him. She was the one which was meant to be leading the way to whatever rooms they had been given, after all.

"We're going?"

Thranduil looked at her with a sigh, "I have helped in the only real way I could. Yes, I admit to my shortcomings in attempting to leave, but there is nothing else here for me to do. Others too are missing home, they can feel it calling out to them. Can you not hear it, Liruliniel?" He asked, watching as her nose scrunched up and she looked utterly perplexed by his question, Thranduil sighed again. That was something that he had feared would happen, hearing the call of the trees and home was suddenly lost on her ears.

"I hear the rush of water, the river running so rapidly through our home that the waves would sometimes hit the bridges. The constant thudding of water on bridges, so many times I have fallen asleep listening to the water, found solace in it; that no matter what happened come tomorrow, that that river would still be there, even if I weren't. Because it brings life to the woodland, and to those which live downstream of it. It would be nearing the end of one season, and the coming of another; we may have even had the first snowfall, and we wouldn't even know. I do love the snow, even if it makes everything look so sad, and lonely." Liruliniel said while lowering her hand from her heart and looking up at him, she had paused near a window while he continued walking, trying to collect his thoughts only to pause and turn to look at her when he heard her words.

She smiled his way and walked slowly forwards, "I miss visiting Thalion, and my father. I miss telling them what they have missed, and how everyone is. I even miss annoying Lord Baramaethor in the council meetings!" She laughed and stopped before him, Thranduil looked at her as she glanced from the window and the blue sky to him. "I do miss home, Thranduil. But not so much home...because you are here. Home is what you make it, the people within it. When those you love are with you, anywhere is a home. If you are to leave, and I am to stay to help here, then I would miss home even more so because you would no longer be by my side. I love the woodland, I love the trees and everything that is not foul that lives in our home, you know this. I just...I can't feel the calling and lulling of trees."

Thranduil smiled, he reached up and pushed a piece of hair behind her ear. "You have always had other things calling for you, to you."

"So, does that mean I can stay and aid?"

"Yes."

Liruliniel grinned and without even thinking threw her arms around him with a happy noise leaving her lips. "Thank you! Though, it will pain me to part ways, if only for a small while."

Thranduil patted her on the back, shutting his eyes and feeling her pull back he looked down and wasn't all too surprised now to see soot and smoke traces against him. "We said we would not part ways again. But I feel like our paths are going in different directions, if only for the moment." He brushed a hand over his chest; the soot wasn't leaving the material.

Liruliniel grasped onto his hand and tugged him forwards, "Come, in an ironic twist, we are having the room we had when we last visited." She laughed, she didn't see Thranduil frown, not that there wasn't anything wrong with the room. "If you are not to leave yet, it means you will still be here when Thorin's coronation happens. He has been in meetings all day, well, for the past couple of days in fact. I didn't know so much really went into it, I know I sort of went off on one for when you had to be coronated, but well, I think everyone is invited. That is immense, no? All those people...and the party after! I heard Bofur joke that the party will no doubt go well into the night, or even into the day after! It is also after he has been officially crowned King, that Thorin intends to split and divide the treasure which is here."

Here Liruliniel awkwardly smiled his way, "You may finally get Vanadessë's necklace." She commented awkward still as she let out an exclaim and let his hand go to totter forward and push the door open. "Here we are!" She said in a cheerful way that it was clear she was trying to erase the awkwardness her words could've caused.

"You seem well endowed with the news that is travelling around." Thranduil looked about the room and noted how similar it looked, well, it was the same room, but nothing seemed to differ. It was clean, tidy, the bed freshly made with throws and clean bedding.

He heard Liruliniel laugh from the bathroom, her head stuck around the doorframe, and she smiled his way. "I've been around dwarves for quite a few hours. They talk, a lot. So yes, I am well in tune with the news. Right down to the seating arrangement for the banquet at the party. Not that I think food will last long before the drink comes out but...well..." Liruliniel rolled a hand in the air as she disappeared back into the room.

Thranduil merely passed her by and looked out of the cleaned balcony window. Hearing movement again, he peered over his shoulder as she smiled around the doorframe again. "Why don't you join me?" Liruliniel held out a hand and wiggled her fingers his way, Thranduil looked mock displeased with the suggestion before swiftly turning on his heels and reaching out for her sooty hand when he was close enough. Liruliniel's smile just grew as she let out a quiet laugh, her happiness was contagious as he too found himself smiling.

"How are you feeling?" Thranduil asked a few moments later, Liruliniel was within his arms as they both relaxed within the welled pool which made up the bath. She had been mindlessly lifting her arm up and watching droplets fall from her fingers, the water itself had been lightly scented with natural ingredients which were, somehow, still alive around the area. Plants, herbs and flowers were hardy and someone within Dale had already capitalised on the moment to make fresh smelling liquids.

"Heavy." She replied, Thranduil wasn't expecting that as an answer and felt worried. His arms loosened from around her waist as she seemed to move, if only to turn and return back to his arms. Her arms going over his shoulders, the water level barely reached them, holding onto him meant she was able to take advantage of his height and not struggle in the well and the lowest parts of it. "It is hard to explain."

"Try." Thranduil moved an arm, if only to comb a hand through her hair. The majority of the auburn locks were drifting in the water behind and around her, curling and twisting in the small current any movement made.

Liruliniel tilted her head and looked to the window with narrowed eyes, blinking and looking back to him, she smiled. "It is like...I feel rooted, here. Before, I felt airy, even though I also felt weighed down by seriousness, responsibilities. Clearer though, I feel like I can see things with clearer eyes, my mind is similar, my thoughts seem less clouded and sure. But the heaviness, I suppose that is my body reminding me that I am still here." She said while removing an arm from his shoulders and clenching her hand and watching her fingers curl and straighten.

"You are not in pain?"

"No, no. Do not worry, I am not in pain anymore." She smiled and reassured him; she felt and saw him relax at that. Leaning forwards, she rested her head against his shoulder, only to let out an exclaim and laugh when his arms tightened around her suddenly and he easily moved more into the water where it was deeper.

He knew full well she struggled, she'd tread water, and by doing this it just meant she held onto him tighter. She leaned away and looked up at him, fully envious that he could stand unaffected in the deep water where she'd struggle so much. He just raised an eyebrow at her almost childish pout before she placed a hand to his cheek and pulled him closer to herself, as she leaned up within his arms.

Her lips lingered almost painfully against his, it was like a jolt, a scorching feeling of familiarity and love before he pressed his lips against hers with more force, with more longing that had her shuddering in his arms as a content and heavy sigh came from her. Even within their little quiet bubble, the work could still only just be heard, not that it fractured the peace or even deter either in loosing themselves to the feelings and emotions which were travelling through them and being expressed so easily and readily without a second thought.

=

To say that the coronation and the banquet afterwards wasn't lavish, or as lavish as it could be right now, was an understatement. Truly, although everyone did not seem to have much, everyone had tried their very hardest and best to pull together again for this moment, for this celebration. It was amusing to Liruliniel, Thorin, though somewhat awkwardly humbled by what everyone had done, clearly enjoyed it regardless.

Whereas she was more than privy to knowing that earlier in the day before, those within Dale had appointed and celebrated in their own way, of Bard being well and truly their leader. Liruliniel had great fun, whenever seeing the stern-faced male, in bowing and addressing him as such; "It is good to see you, sire." Or even; "Whatever brings the King of Dale here?" If he happened by somewhere she was, without much of a reason. He had appeared in the forge at one point, hence why she asked such a question much to the amusement of the dwarves.

Bard as ever, quick as anything, had merely smirked, looked at her and tilted his head. "Perhaps for the same reason why a Princess is here too." Bard had come here to help, he was a quick learner and aided where and when he was needed.

Liruliniel was more than certain that the dwarves and elves knew about his sudden, and little private coronation, but no one made a fuss about it; mainly because it was not what Bard seemed to wish. He was a private person at the best of times, Liruliniel didn't blame him for not wanting all this fuss. It was incredibly...well, incredibly dramatic. Her head was dizzy, and she was just a guest!

Truthfully, the presentation and coronation of the crown and the new king was something. It was truly something, and Liruliniel felt herself smiling throughout the ceremony. Thorin's family, and his friends too were looking on with rather similar tearful eyes and watery smiles. It was fulfilling, wholesome even. It was also beautiful, and felt like an end, in a way. Thorin was finally where he belonged, what he had fought so hard for, almost given up, was now his; he had his home, he had his kingdom and his family, and he now had his throne and crown.

The dwarves naturally made the most noise, seeing as how there was so many of them present for the ceremony. The cheers, shouts, both in the common speech and their own was practically thunderous. The elves were more reserved, bowing their heads in recognition to Thorin and his new title, the mortals from Dale just sort of followed suit with the elves. No one made as much noise as the dwarves, and no one present seemed to wish to compete with them to do so.

Thorin had given a speech, small, to the point and honest. He had been very honest, and apologetic, yet he had promised that he would do his utmost to keep the peace here, that no other foul creature would take Erebor away from them again; this if anything had the dwarves cheering even louder, if that was possible. But his words had struck a chord in everyone, there was an underlining meaning, that he was not removing himself from his kingdom ever again, and nor should those within Dale do so, or need to either. But for the moment, those that were calling the city home, were welcome within his home until theirs was stable. The people had cheered and shouted then, quite openly.

It was all very heartwarming, and peaceful. There was something so heartwarming and endearing about the acceptance, the open trust and truce amongst them all. Yes, they had almost squared off against each other, but they were now friends. Liruliniel smiled at it all really, here she was a part of another alliance, fought against the same enemy, but it was another alliance which had hit him back to the lands he came from. It felt different though, perhaps because she was older and she fully understood everything now. But it was still rather prideful of her to take such feelings in being present and accountable for this.

She was rather pleased, or rather, she laughed to see her words about the food being hurriedly shared out was right. The drink did not take long to appear, a drinking game soon followed suit, and some mortals thought they'd try their luck, got totally joked and laughed at, but eventually everyone was loosened up, having fun, laughing and dancing about. Someone had found and cleaned up some instruments, a fiddle was being expertly played, but other instruments too were present. Quite a merry tune was filling one of the many large halls of Erebor.

Liruliniel climbed over the bench and sat at the end of the small group, Fíli was beside her, and beside him was Bilbo. Bofur soon appeared on her other side, with Bombur following suit with a large, stacked plate in his hands. Shaking her head, she tilted her head and raised an eyebrow. Liruliniel leaned forwards a little when an arm rested against her good shoulder, though her other had healed it was still a little twinging. She glanced up, seeing Dís look puzzled too. The small group were just sitting and watching as Kíli seemed to be struggling to think up the words to ask Tauriel to dance.

Liruliniel took a sip from her goblet, "She isn't a dancer, as such." Truthfully, she hadn't ever seen her friend dance. Whenever festivities were on, Tauriel, along with most of the guards, would still have to work and protect the borders.

"Nor is my brother." Fíli muttered and took a swig from his own drink, his own drink being in something more akin to a tankard.

Liruliniel clicked her tongue in thought, Bilbo shifted and drunk some of his drink and watched wide eyed as, clearly having enough of the pussyfooting, Dwalin just placed a hand on both of their shoulders and pushed them towards the dance floor. The group watching laughed, it was even funnier because Dwalin had stopped taking part in the drinking game and went to sit back down, only to almost sit on a person who had clearly flaked and fell into his chair.

The poor man got rudely shoved out of the way before Dwalin returned to the game. It looked painful, but the man just crawled under the table, which caused the group to laugh. The poor man didn't stand a chance, but it was his choice to take part in the game, no one forced him. It was no surprise that no elves were taking part, though some were more than content to stand by and watch. Liruliniel couldn't help but smile, curiosity was too much, and they lessened the distance to watch, she wouldn't be surprised if some weren't secretly taking part in the bets on who would win.

Much like it had been, everyone shared and helped each other; as such, most present had swapped, shared, fixed and cleaned clothes so everyone looked reasonable for this celebration. As such, Liruliniel found herself dressed within a rather simple cream coloured shirt, she hadn't cut the sleeves off because it wasn't for a male and long and annoying. But this shirt had simple ties at the neckline, and it was tucked into a layered skirt of dark green and black, the underlay being black with another, thinner piece of material on top being a lovely forest green.

Her hair she had left down, soft curls of amber and auburn flowing down her back, the circlet which Thranduil had gifted her was upon her head. It was an odd mix, the elvish jewellery and her clear elvish looks, but the very un-elvish clothing, but Liruliniel wasn't complaining. She actually liked the simple attire; others were dressed as similarly. Of course she'd have loved to have dressed up for this, but it wasn't possible. Thranduil had not bought a full wardrobe with him, a few tunics for himself, a few for herself, one of which was ruined in battle and the other she just forgot about.

Everyone seemed happy though. Despite of the differences between them all, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, joking, singing, dancing and conversing. It really was quite pleasing to see, Liruliniel felt at ease with the relaxed air that surrounded her. The tension which had been between the three races had been so uncomfortable. It was a shame that it took a war to bring them all together. But it was a common cause, and a common problem, and a celebration further relaxed whatever tensions may still have been lurking.

"This is just uncomfortable to watch, I'm getting another drink." Fíli stood, he was shaking his head sadly. It wasn't that his brother and Tauriel were bad at dancing, it was just awkward to watch. Both although coordinated in battle, fast and quick with attacks, they were clueless out there. Fíli slipped from his seat and walked away, Bofur exclaimed after him and practically scrambled to catch the younger dwarf up. It seemed he too wished for another drink.

Dís took Bofur's seat, looked at the plate in Bombur's hands and took something from it blatantly. The redhead looked at her with wide eyes, yet she sent him a charming smile before holding something out for Liruliniel too. She took the piece of, what seemed to be bread smothered in something which she supposed was honey, it was hard to tell because of how much was on it. Regardless she nibbled it, awkwardly licking honey from her wrist when it trickled downwards.

Looking to the side, she slid along and sat next to Bilbo. He seemed happy to sit there watching everything. "Are you enjoying yourself, Bilbo?" He startled a little, lost in his people watching he hadn't noticed her come closer. He looked up with a wide smile, Liruliniel smiled too. "It is good, isn't it? To see everyone get along so well. It makes me happy. Are you staying long?"

Bilbo took another sip of his drink, he looked thoughtful. "That depends," he paused and fidgeted a little in his seat, Liruliniel smiled and looked around when she heard an exclaim from the drinking table. Someone else seemed to have just passed out. Liruliniel laughed quietly and looked back to the hobbit. "I haven't bought the topic up, of me going home I mean. I think that I will do so soon, you know it is funny, in the early stages of this...I missed my home so much, so much happened that my home grew further away and even more so in my mind. But, seeing this all happen, everything has come to fruition, and I think it is time, or soon enough." He nodded slowly, kick his legs on the bench, his feet barely touching the ground as he looked around the large hall and then looked back up at her with a smile. "I have seen the beginning, and the end of this quest and I think I am about ready to go home."

Liruliniel looked around thoughtfully before frowning slowly. "I do not wholly miss my home. I think that is because I have had so many temporary homes in my life. I know that when I return, I return to boredom."

Bilbo looked confused, shifting to turn sidewards and look at her curiously. "But surely there must be something to do?"

Liruliniel shrugged, "All my life, it has been building up to moments. I had the War; I had this one too. I want peace, and it seems peace is here now. But I do not know what to do with peace. Do you know what I mean? I am not saying I am restless, but I do not know what to do with peace."

Bilbo looked thoughtful again, "You mean to say you are not going when the elves leave?"

Liruliniel raised an eyebrow and shook her head, sipping from her drink as she looked away from the dancing couples. "No. I am helping rebuild the kingdom here." Bilbo looked wide eyed and Liruliniel laughed, "You cannot be surprised by that!"

"No, I suppose I shouldn't be. But it means you will be travelling back home alone."

Liruliniel pouted in thought before placing a hand gently on his shoulder, "Let us coincide our journeys, yes?" Bilbo looked up at her with wide eyes, yet a smile slowly crept on his face as he nodded agreeing with her. She held out her goblet, his tankard which was far too big for his small hands clunked against her drink in return. "That way you can figure out how to bring the topic of returning home up, and I can continue to help. Then once we are both done, we can move on. You should be able to follow the path through Mirkwood with ease now. But I can guide you some of the way, maybe I can send you Beorn's way?" She giggled, the skin-changer had long since gone home, he explained that he was worried about his animals and that he wished to return to the peace of his cabin and to caring for them. No one stopped him, not that any could or would dare. He was thanked, he declined any of the treasure and went on his way.

"He didn't like visitors the first time!" Bilbo exclaimed with wide eyes and looking uncomfortable all of a sudden. Just remembering the run in with the bear had him shuddering.

"Times are different now." Liruliniel stated, "And I doubt there are any dwarves to surprise him with." She laughed, she didn't know what happened, but she could bet a guess. Bilbo's expression said it all, which had her laughing more. Patting his shoulder, she moved away, the long skirts rustling as she moved, happily she walked away from the small group and dancing, before hearing her name being called.

Tilda had been changed into a simple, yet pretty little dress of navy and cream, she looked up at her fresh faced and smiling. Her doll was naturally gripped in her arms, "Lark, would you like to dance?" She was rocking on her heels, a bashful smile on her face as she looked up at her.

Liruliniel crouched down, "You will be my first dance partner of the evening."

"You'll probably be my only one. Bain is...somewhere, and Sigrid said she would dance with me later." Tilda pouted a little and looked put out.

Liruliniel could only guess her older siblings had ushered the smaller girl away, because they were currently caught in other conversations. She sympathised, she had been the youngest sibling and knew what that felt like. Only, Thalion always shirked her to spend time with Thranduil, and that was forever irritating.

"Come, we'll make them jealous when they see how much fun we are having. Once they do, they will wish to be as happy too!" Liruliniel beamed, she stood and grasped onto the small girl's hand, her other still held her doll to her chest. Liruliniel waved a hand, she took a hold of the doll's hand too and Tilda kept hold of the other. It was only fair her beloved doll got involved too, the doll hung limply as they twirled and laughed as they adjusted to whatever pace of music was played.

When Tilda's little legs were starting to tire, Liruliniel picked her up. She was quite light and laughed as she was twirled about too, her small hands held onto Liruliniel as her laughter grew in volume when Liruliniel tickled her sides slightly. In the end she rested the small girl against her hip and swayed and twirled about that way, it still amused Tilda as she laughed and beamed her way.

"Is Princess Tilda enjoying herself?" Liruliniel asked, watching the girl laugh and rub her eyes a little tiredly. Using the title amused the younger girl, Liruliniel had remembered all too well her reaction to finding out that Liruliniel was royalty. Now it was her turn really, laughing quietly at calling the girl a princess, she, much like herself, had literally fallen into owning that title.

"This is fun. But I do not think your idea worked." Tilda admitted with a small yawn, Liruliniel didn't know the time, but had surmised it was late because from the windows around the hall, she could see the brightness of the moon and the stars shining.

Liruliniel shrugged and readjusted her hold on the girl. "Oh well, it does not matter. Believe me when I say there will be many more dances for you. As a Princess, you will forever find yourself invited. And there will be many who will want to dance with you! Princesses and Princes alike will want to dance with you. Perhaps even Kings and Queens. Doesn't that sound like fun?" Liruliniel asked in a quiet tone, even with the noise of the music Tilda could still hear her, she was tiredly resting her head on her shoulder as she nodded. "I hope you like pretty dresses too, Tilda, because you will be wearing many of them." Liruliniel looked down at the girl's face, she was tiredly staring at nothing in particular. Liruliniel sighed, it was past someone's bedtime clearly.

"Is that what you do? Will you come to dances here, if you're invited?" Tilda's voice was as sleepy sounding as her disposition; she looked up at Liruliniel with a hopeful expression.

Liruliniel smiled, "I like dances, the dresses I could give or take," she whispered with a wink, earning a tired laugh from Tilda. "But yes. Though, much like you, I usually only have one dance partner. But I find that is enough for me." She admitted, using her spare hand to sweep a stray piece of hair from Tilda's face. "If you invited me, Princess Tilda, I would come in an instant. Because we're friends, aren't we? How could I miss the opportunity of seeing my friend?" Liruliniel watched a wide, albeit tired smile appear on her face as she listened to Liruliniel's honest tone. Liruliniel in turn smiled and looked up, she should really find her father.

"You only dance with your King?" Tilda asked, sounding almost wistful as she was thinking of some tale she had been read before bed.

"He is the only partner I ever truly need in my life." Liruliniel admitted, watching Tilda's expression turn even more wistful as she smiled sleepily, "He never wanted to dance with me when we were children though. And I always teased him for not being able to dance, and that I would outshine him." This had Tilda laughing as Liruliniel made her way off and away from the dancing couples around her. They were getting rather rowdy again seems some drunken dwarves had joined the fray.

"And now?"

Liruliniel smiled slightly in thought. "He'll always outshine me. He's annoying like that. But shh, our secret." She joked with a wink, Tilda laughed and nodded against her shoulder, her face burying against her doll's hair. Liruliniel teased in earnest, Thranduil could be annoying, but she loved him dearly. Thinking of such, he seemed to be walking towards them with a curious expression on his face. "Have you seen Bard?" She asked, hoisting the almost asleep Tilda in her arms. Actually, with the way her breathing had changed and the weight of her, Liruliniel was sure the girl had suddenly just flaked. She was surprised, they literally were just talking, how exhausted was the girl?

Thranduil couldn't help but look at her with the distant expression on his face. There was just something about how she looked, how she held the girl and seemed worried about her that just struck something within him. Looking away from the pair, he placed a hand on her shoulder and turned her. Liruliniel's eyes landed on Bard, with a relieved sound she sent him a smile before hurriedly leaving Thranduil's side. Thranduil watched the exchange from the distance, the way she carefully deposited the girl in her father's arms and bid the barely awake Tilda a good night, the movement had woken her clearly.

He was without any doubt in his mind that she would be an excellent mother. Just thinking of how she cared for the small girl in her care, and even how she was with both Legolas and Tauriel had Thranduil very sure; Liruliniel was the most caring elf he had ever met, her compassion and ability to care outdid anyone he had ever known, but this predominantly seemed to shine through and show the most when children were present.

"That is the first time I believe my dance partner ever fell asleep against me!" She laughed when she stopped in front of him again straightening out the borrowed skirts and shirt. Even within the simple attire, she still seemed rather beautiful to him, Liruliniel looked at the hand which was held out to her with a raised eyebrow.

With a grin, she grabbed a hold of his hand and backtracked quickly. Thranduil didn't appreciate being practically pulled, but he accepted it only to reign her in and hold her close to himself when the pace of the music changed. "She is really quite taken with you." He said after a few moments of silence, both had seen Bard return.

He sent Liruliniel a thankful look and a nod, Liruliniel smiled back and waved a hand his way. Thranduil was rather stoic faced throughout the exchange, he played no real part in reuniting father and daughter and saving Liruliniel from being a pillow all evening. Truthfully, Thranduil remembered the heart wrenching noise which came from Tilda upon seeing Liruliniel's lifeless body. It was the most heartbroken sound he could recall ever hearing, other than when Liruliniel was told of her father and brother's passing. It was the sound of despair. He was under no illusion, Tilda loved Liruliniel in some part or another.

Liruliniel smiled, "She's dear. I know what it is like to be the youngest, and I sympathise. But they are all a close family, I suppose I have taken to her too, because she reminds me a little of myself. I do not need foresight to know that there is a good future for her, one of peace, and love. I haven't seen her future, I can't, but good people deserve good things in turn, and there isn't a malicious bone in her body."

Thranduil nodded, he could see the parallels. Liruliniel came to tuck her head under his, Thranduil rested his chin against the top of her head and shut his eyes slowly. He felt her arms encircle him, as he did the same to her, just enjoying the warmth of her body against his as they danced slowly. Others were in a similar situation, some by force and some on their own violation. Either way, from her resting position, Liruliniel watched as dancing pairs flitted by every so often, it was amusing to watch the struggle of those that didn't wish to dance.

Leaning away, she looked up at Thranduil. "You will be leaving soon, won't you?"

"In the next few days, why?"

"Didn't know if you had changed your mind."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, he looked around themselves, he listened to the merry tune being played. There was so much for the senses to truly take in, that any other person would surely be overwhelmed. He couldn't say the dwarves did not know how to throw a party, they were definitely the life and soul of it right now. "Or you," he retorted simply a few moments later.

Liruliniel sent him a dry look, she had waited for his reply only for it to be this simple. Thranduil also knew her expression was because of what he had said. "Perhaps this is a topic I shouldn't have bought up. At least now, of all moments. I am happy, are you happy? I think everyone's ease and good spirits is rubbing off on me." Liruliniel admitted with a smile, honestly, it could've been from the heat of the room, or the wine she had consumed, but she did feel a little giddy. There was even a small rosy tint to her cheeks, it was the most flushed with colour that Thranduil had seen for a while.

"I think someone else wishes to dance with you." He decided to say instead, he could see the figure slowly lurking on the sidelines of the space. Liruliniel looked confused before turning and looking in the direction that he was sidelong looking in.

She let out an exclaim, Thranduil let her go, missing her warmth and her presence yet found himself quietly scoffing as she pulled Bodur to dance. The dwarf did not look amused. Thranduil smiled and stepped back, his hands clasped behind his back as Bodur shot him narrow eyed looks.

He was calling this just rewards for the commentary from the few past days. Bodur seemed to enjoy irking Thranduil in some way or another, he was blunt, didn't hold back and clearly knew what to say to get Thranduil reacting in some way or another. Not so much with words, but more with facial expressions and icy looks. It wasn't that either disliked the other, more, they were coming from different avenues and care for Liruliniel.

Looking downwards when someone else appeared at his side, Thranduil wasn't all too surprised to see Thorin. The dwarf-King had abandoned the thick fur lined cloak from earlier, standing simply in a cobalt tunic and dark trousers, he looked rather casually around before looking at Thranduil plainly.

"Got usurped by another, I see."

Thranduil inhaled slowly. Perhaps it was just dwarves in general, maybe they just knew what and how to say things to get him despairing in some way and feeling annoyance in another. "She is popular." Thorin scoffed as he slowly drunk from his cup, Thranduil frowned down at him. "I do not see many lining up for you."

"About as many as there is for you."

Thranduil just rolled his eyes. "I do not think you came here, to exchange petty words." The last he saw Thorin, he was with his sister. He was nowhere near the dance floor; he was across the room if anything. Which meant that Thorin had come over this way, for a reason. Thranduil did not think it was for him, but for Liruliniel perhaps. She had well and truly bewitched everyone; there was no doubt about it.

Thorin looked over the rim of his cup, lowering it and placing it on a table, he inclined his head. "True, no I did not. Will you follow me?" He asked, turning on his heels and not even watching or seeing if Thranduil was following.

The elf in turn looked at Liruliniel, full of life, rosy cheeked and laughing as she turned and twisted in the space, her hand gliding across and linking with different partners as the dance permitted. She was happy, she was enjoying herself and Thranduil wasn't going to take that from her. She deserved the happiness, truly she did.

Thranduil turned away, Liruliniel had somehow managed to pull poor Bard in for a dance and the man looked about as enthused as Bodur did. Bodur was currently stuck with Dís as a partner which was amusing seems Bodur was still trying to look grumpy, yet he evidently was enjoying himself. He just wasn't allowing this to come through. Thranduil's ears rung a little, the aftereffects of the loud music lasted even when not in the hall. The lulling melody echoed throughout the corridors as the two walked down it. Torches lit the way now; the night sky was fully visible through the windows that the pair walked past.

Thranduil did not ask where they were going, nor what Thorin's intentions were, he just followed after him; past the almost floor touching tapestries, the large windows with the streams of silver light, and past many doorways and alcoves. Thorin soon came to pause at a door, he sent Thranduil a curious look before pushing it open. He was coming off quite secretive, and Thranduil found himself frowning. He did not really wish to witness Thorin transforming back into that figure he was before the battle. He may not have been the dwarf's biggest fan, but it was painful to see what had become of Thorin. Thranduil knew particularly it had hurt Liruliniel gravely to see her friend like he was.

Thranduil followed silently, Thorin stood to one side and watched as Thranduil looked over what was before him. He did not think that Thorin would so openly bring anyone to a part of the treasure horde. He, along with everyone else knew, that the dwarves had already divided it all up, stored it in different places in accordance with who it belonged to. From the fact that Thranduil was within this room, he could only surmise this was what Thorin was willing to part with, for the elves and for himself. Silently moving forwards, Thranduil looked around the small collection, pausing and reaching out his fingers skimmed over an all too familiar necklace with shining jewels attached.

"I do not suggest gifting your Princess that."

Thranduil's expression went deadpanned as he heard Thorin speak bluntly from behind him. Yes, he sounded blunt but also like he was trying not to laugh. Thranduil turned on his heel, frowning his way and looking at him expectedly, "Yes, because I would do such a thing."

Thorin raised an eyebrow, "I wouldn't put it past you."

"Meaning?" Thranduil was very curious, what was Thorin trying to get at exactly?

Thorin sighed heavily and moved from his spot against the wall. He gestured a hand, scooping up a small handful from the trove he dug his hand into. "Just, not a wise choice. But this is yours. I have sought to separate what my grandfather collected, each is equal, everyone has the same amount. It is fair, and it is only just that you, much like Bard, take this back with you, when you go." Thorin said while putting his handful back into the trove and turning to look at Thranduil. "I heard word you are to leave in a day or two. Thought it best to pack this up sooner rather than later. I hope that it proves you well. We all know that it has caused enough problems, and hopefully those problems have gone now." Thorin said while casting a wary eye around the room before looking back up at Thranduil.

He stayed silent yet bowed his head slightly, Thorin took that as recognition enough and nodded in return. "You know Liruliniel is staying?"

"She did mention it to me, several times. I do not think your Princess can handle her drink all too much." Thorin admitted with a wry grin, she did seem overly merry and chipper while telling him this information. Either she was excited about the prospect of staying, or she was a little tipsy.

Thranduil smiled softly and looked at Thorin, "She is happy."

Thorin looked up suddenly, with a familiar look, he nodded. "And if she is happy, you are too?"

Thranduil half shrugged and gestured back to the door, he saw no reason to hang around in here anymore. He had silently thanked Thorin, he knew that tomorrow Thranduil would have to get some to parcel and pack this lot up for transporting. There was no need to loiter in the room. The two silently went back the way they had come, only upon entering the hall the noise seemed to have double and Thranduil could not see Liruliniel.

He had already lost her to the Mountain once, now again? He moved silently and swiftly forwards, he only spotted her by chance because of seeing the tail end of her skirt shift around the corner of the door. Thranduil followed suit, she was on a balcony, clearly getting some much-needed air. She was leaning her hands against the cold brickwork before her as she looked upwards at the night sky. The stars really were shining brightly, a clear night and all of them were in view.

Thranduil moved forwards, silently as ever. He didn't mean to make her jump when his arms encircled around her waist gently. She seemed to sense and know it was him though and relaxed back against his chest within moments, her own hands placing themselves over where his rested against her stomach. Thranduil pressed a soft kiss to her temple before resting his cheek against the top of her head and looking upwards too. Every so often they would each in turn frown or look curiously behind themselves, the singing and the jeering was a new level, and it was just all so loud.

Liruliniel shook her head with a sigh, Thranduil wasn't even going to comment or register the noise. "Are you tired?" He could only guess she came out here for peace and quiet, or to recover and be by herself for a few moments.

Liruliniel peered up at him and smiled softly, "I am utterly shattered, I must admit. It has been a long day, hasn't it? It seems to be nearing early morning, if my guessing is right." She looked to the moon and nodded in its direction, Thranduil couldn't say she was wrong. He had suspected that midnight had been and gone quite a while ago.

Slipping away from her, he took hold of her hand gently and led her back into the hall. Liruliniel yawned quietly behind her hand, she found Thorin and kissed him on the cheek to congratulate him again, say how much fun this has all been, but she was calling it a night. Thorin didn't deter them, he just waved a hand at them leaving the festivities behind. Liruliniel's pace was slow, and she'd yawn every so often, Thranduil paused, and she stopped walking too. She looked confused only to laugh when he looked each which way before reaching forwards and picking her up with ease.

Liruliniel just laughed and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Combing a silvery strand of hair through her fingers, Liruliniel tilted her head and looked at him. "Thank you."

"I fear if I allowed you to continue walking, you would've eventually done so while asleep." Thranduil said with a small smirk, Liruliniel swatted a hand against his shoulder. She wasn't that bad! Yet she rested her head against him and shut her eyes, joking aside this was comforting and it gave relief to her legs.

"I think I danced too much."

Thranduil nodded and nestled his face against her hair slightly. "I think you were the most popular dance partner of the evening."

"I will miss them, when it comes to leaving." She admitted, though he already knew this. At least she could drag out going, if only for a few weeks or so. Looking suddenly up at him, she placed a hand to his cheek and made him look at her.

Thranduil looked over her slightly concerned face, he knew the unspoken words yet kissed her on the forehead, that seemed enough to quell her worries. Space apart caused a rift, a pull even to appear, it was a feeling that would be felt by both within their hearts and their very beings. It was something that would not go, not until they were reunited again. Thranduil knew it was something they had succumbed to and accepted before, it was something they had come through and continued on from, so he knew they could do it again.

——

Inventory:

Why are you here, my love? - Amman odúleg hi, nin meleth?

Behold, my beloved! - Alae, a'maelamin!

What is it? - Mani naa ta?

Little father (an adult male dwarf, I find this cute, as a nickname, just saying xD) - Ai' atar

——

Edited: 14/July/2025