It was an impossibility not to watch the leaving elves with a sad countenance and teary eyes. Liruliniel stood at the gates of Erebor, alongside the dwarves, watching the army leave. A few horses which had survived the battle were given to them to use, some pulled wagons with whatever remained of the supplies that were bought. Whereas some who were still healing, had a simple ride and journey home without stressing and pulling wounds. Wherever and however possible, the treasure which Thorin gave was bundled up anyway it could be.

No longer with Arthion, Thranduil was seated upon a dapple-grey horse, with a reasonably good nature from what Liruliniel had seen when saying a farewell to him. Making sure the horse was saddled and ready, their exchange was brief, short even as very little was said, but expressions and words unsaid actually did enough. It wasn't as if they hadn't already said their farewells, in fact, standing and watching the elven host march downwards into Dale, Liruliniel could very well remember their farewell with somewhat blushed cheeks.

It was always somewhat of a contradiction, that someone so strong and powerful could be the opposite, gentle, loving, any hard edges and unsympathetic looks were gone. Their last night together was spent lost in each other's arms, Liruliniel had been so carefully cradled against him as they made love. Seemingly wishing to tease her, to perhaps make her remember and recall this night as they parted ways, Thranduil's pace varied and at the slowest points, it had Liruliniel close to crying and stuttering out his name as she clung to him anyway she could.

"A month," Thranduil had said when they were both sated and laying surrounded by disarrayed bedding. Liruliniel was resting her head against his chest when he spoke, an arm around her back kept her in place while his other came to rest behind his head.

It had been silent for a while, since ceasing any activities and enjoying the radiating peaceful feeling which travelled through them and the now silent air. Contentment had never truly felt so good before. It wasn't something he was typically thinking of, more something that had come to his mind quite suddenly. Any more time had an unsettled feeling creeping into the otherwise peaceful silence, an unwanted feeling encroaching into his mind.

Liruliniel, bundled against him yet slightly swaddled in the throws on the bed peeked up at him. Pulling his eyes away from the ceiling, Thranduil looked back at her. Liruliniel smiled and nodded, "A month."

"You can permit me that?" There was a smirk evidently pulling at the corner of his lips as he asked this. Liruliniel rolled her eyes, her fingers which had been absentmindedly tracking over the pale skin above his ribs, suddenly moved away and playfully hit him on the shoulder. He didn't even try and stop her like he usually did, he was allowing her this one time. "I am sure you can get all you need or wish to help with out of the way or near completion for another by then." He mused, turning on his side and watching as she slipped from him and nestled against the pillows of the bed.

Liruliniel gave a small fidget, looked at him as he propped himself up on an elbow and looked patiently back down at her. "I am not going to do a half job."

"Of course you're not." He stated simply, "But surely a month will be sufficient time here?"

"To get help, and to get Erebor out of my system, you mean?" She asked back, a wide smile appearing on her face as she quietly laughed about this. "You are going to miss me, as I am you. A month will be long enough, too long still I know despite it being barely anything. We have been apart for longer and have come through relatively fine."

Thranduil tilted his head slightly at that, his fingers prodding gently at his temple as a troubled look flitted across his face. "Relatively fine is putting it mildly, I believe. But for the sake of agreeing, I shall just say yes." He had to admit, each time they parted and reunited, it was never easy.

The first time was dramatic, slightly traumatic in a way, Liruliniel had been cut out of part of his life and was naturally unaware to him now having a son. Likewise, she was upset she had missed out on seeing him and Vanadessë wed. In fact, Thranduil was glad she wasn't there, because he believed it would've just been awkward. He had always known Liruliniel cared for him, she came off nonchalant and ignorant, but she was bad at it.

The second time, he outed her in front of everyone for who she actually was. Thus, incurring her wrath and anger over and at the moment in general. No, things were not relatively fine whenever they reunited, and he couldn't help but dread over what the problem or thing would be this time.

Liruliniel quietly laughed over what he said, she knew what he was thinking, or there about. But she wasn't going to comment, she just smoothed her hands over the warm fur of the throw and looked around the now darkened room. At some point some of the candles had burned out, the fire had died down and the moonlight which was seeping through the windows had now gone and hidden behind clouds.

Raising her eyes, she looked suddenly back to him, Thranduil just looked at her curiously seems her sudden change in disposition. She seemed to have bouts of thoughtfulness, well more so now than she did before. It was something he was used to, but he didn't really get used to how quickly her character could shift.

Propping herself onto her elbows, she looked at him excitedly. "If timed right, I should miss the first heavy snowfalls of the season." Though she loved all seasons, travelling through the winter snowstorms were not fun. Though the woodland would be mainly free of spiders, and other foul things, it still didn't mean it would be an easy trip.

Liruliniel rubbed her chin in thought suddenly, seeing the curious look which flitted onto her face, Thranduil knew there was a high chance he may not appreciate what she was about to come out with. "I heard some talk of a seasonal holiday. Bilbo too has heard of it, and says it is celebrated back in his homeland." Blinking and sliding her eyes up to his, Liruliniel smiled and laughed quietly. "Something about present giving, or something."

Thranduil raised an eyebrow and took her into his arms again. "Mortals have odd traditions." He felt Liruliniel nod against him before giving one last fidget before curling around him and holding onto him tightly as he tucked the throw more around her and found himself drifting off to sleep too.

Thinking of that, Liruliniel couldn't help but smile. Sure, it sounded a little odd, but it sounded fun to do. She had half a mind to do it, surely there was something she could trade to bring back with her for him? Tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear, Liruliniel's eyes stared onwards. The forms of the elven army were growing ever more distant, none of the elves looked back, even Thranduil didn't as their pace was steady, and continuous. And here Liruliniel was, feeling a stab in her chest as she realised that actually, this was the second time she had been the one to stand and watch him leave.

This must've been what he felt, those few times when she had walked away from him. It was different, or it was easy to tell herself that, but the facts still remained that a piece of what was a whole, was split and going, gone even. He was going home, so Liruliniel took solace in knowing Thranduil was returning to somewhere safe, he was no doubt going to be inundated with meetings, catching up on what he had missed out on, and what needed to be done. There was always something to do within the kingdom.

She felt bad for him, sitting practically all day in meetings or scheduling one to happen did not sound appealing, or fun. Not that she disliked council meetings, more...actions spoke louder than words. It was easy to sit and say something, but it was so much better to take action and do it.

"Well," Liruliniel stood slightly to attention and looked downwards. Thorin had stayed with her, watching the elves retreat back home. Everyone else who was present, had all but dispersed. He could see she was deep in thought about something, every so often her eyes would flicker, dim or grow distant. Thorin didn't want to disturb her, but seeing as how she looked around quizzically, he thought it was safe to talk without disrupting her.

"Well?" She prompted with a smile, Thorin had started speaking, yet not finished. She couldn't help but laugh, perhaps he was at a loss, for once. Yet she nodded backwards, turning on her heels she entered the Mountain with Thorin beside her. The new gates, large wooden structures which were truly immense, had been put in place. The dwarves really were very fast at working, but to be fair, there was enough of them now here to aid and construct everything, Liruliniel couldn't help but think that maybe she wouldn't even be here a month.

Thorin sighed and rolled a hand in the air, "I didn't know what else to say. I didn't wish to ask if you were free for a walk, but you answer you wished to be alone; or even if you are to go back and find Bodur to work, only to get hunted out by him, or another."

Liruliniel simply smiled at his honesty, even if he did sound a little awkward. Placing a hand on his shoulder had Thorin pausing in a step, he looked at her with a slightly awkward expression. "I would like a walk. There are parts of your home, I haven't been reacquainted with yet."

That is how she spent her first day after the elves had departed the lands of Erebor and Dale. Thorin seemed quite pleased really, Liruliniel believed that much like Thranduil, he too had been thrusted into the joys of palace, and formal royal duties. Not fun. The thing is, whereas Thranduil had been bought up with this task looming ever since he was a child, Thorin had a fair few years were none of that was needed, nothing happened because of it.

He was in exile. What use was knowing court affairs and how to do business within such a thing, when on the run, and in exile in a foreign land? Liruliniel was sure that many years the thought of being back here had escaped him, had maybe even been given up on in some part. All in all, she did sympathise, and she didn't blame him one bit if he wished to have an escape from such a thing. Likewise, she didn't even mind being the excuse.

Many of the great halls within the kingdom had been cleared, tidied, aired and furnished the best they could be. The many staircases still led to places in which Liruliniel was clueless over. The garden area had simply gone wild; she shook her head at this with a sigh. Of course, Smaug would not have ventured through the halls and corridors to get to the simple, yet beautiful area at the back of the kingdom. But it had gone wild. Plants were overgrown, threes had simply taken over, and weeds and thistles could be seen sprouting up here and there.

"I think I have found where I will be working." She joked to Thorin, it wasn't that she was turning her back on the forges, just nature seemed to need help here, and who was she to ignore it? She couldn't help but laugh a little, though she had said she could not hear the call of the trees back home whispering her name, here she was aiding trees regardless.

"I think it may take more than the time you have, to fix this up." Thorin said with a puzzled look, they stood at the doorway arch to the garden area. It was built in such a way that natural sunlight came flooding in from above, due to part of the cavernous ceiling being chipped away for it to do so. A small stream of clear water seemed to flow through this part of the Mountain too, providing fresh water for the plant life. It was just a natural little slice of woodland.

Liruliniel shrugged, "If that is so, then so be it." She didn't mind hard work, nor did she mind working long hours. Wasn't like she hadn't already done as such in the forges, was it? Creating hinges for the great doors that made up the gate, wasn't easy either. But she had succeeded and now the doors were in place. She wasn't too sure how useful she'd be with actual building work. Some of the bricks they were using did look mighty heavy.

The two moved away from the wild garden and simply walked about. They conversed now and then, but often slipped into silence, comfortable and amicable silence; which only got disrupted by the bustling dwarves around them. A few faces they knew were passed by, Dís seemed to have it in mind to go to Dale for some reason or another, both declined accompanying her, however.

She shrugged, "Suit yourself." She had commented while wrapping a cloak around her shoulders and pottering off casually. It was a mystery really as to why she was going there, maybe just to have a look around? It wasn't like the trade was back to normal yet. Knowing Dís she'd wind up either helping somewhere or getting something somehow.

An all too familiar face was that of Tauriel's. The auburn-haired elf noticed Liruliniel and Thorin as they meandered around, she hadn't exactly been present when the elves came to go. Kíli had tried to persuade her, clear the air and say farewell, but she had stayed within their room. Kíli at the moment was elsewhere with his brother, and that left Tauriel to just walk about, thinking and minding her own business.

Thorin looked between the pair, sensing a conversation he may not be all too welcomed in, he inclined his head to both and left. Though Liruliniel pretty much knew full well, that she would end up seeing him later. No doubt when dinner was happily being served. Tauriel looked a little awkward at first, avoiding looking at Liruliniel and inspecting the brickwork corridor around them.

Liruliniel crossed her arms, looking at her friend knowingly all she had to do was wait. She didn't have to wait for long, Tauriel sighed and looked troubled as she cast her eyes at Liruliniel. "I did not say farewell."

"No, I had noticed." Liruliniel gestured a hand and started walking, standing in a corridor was not the place to have a conversation, not really. Especially seems the conversation was clearly going to revolve around troubled thoughts and feelings. "In all honesty, I would've probably stayed away too."

"Really?"

"No. Sorry, I was trying to cheer you up. Listen, whatever heated words you both shared, it is all in the past. It is nothing to dwell over, look around us, all is fine. Everyone has adapted, everyone is happy. I never pried, I don't want to know what you said for you to avoid contact at all costs. As for the banishment thing...our King has a way of throwing things out such as that, because he does not know how else to cope with the fact he feels hurt and betrayed." Liruliniel said while they made their slow way forwards.

The sun shone through the windows again; work was still happening within Erebor and Dale. Even now figures came and went, some aiding in both places of construction. Tauriel frowned her way, Liruliniel looked confused before smiling. "Even the strongest of us, have weaknesses. Sometimes the strongest, are the most fragile. Ever thought of that? He is how he is, to cope with the world around him. You went off on your own, but Legolas went too; you may think what you think, but he has watched on proudly as the pair of you grew into a pair of fine elves. In some way, I mean I could be wrong, but you are quite possibly the daughter he never had." She laughed, it would explain a lot for his reaction, hurt father and all. Tauriel frowned more at that and didn't look bought. "I know for certain, that if I turned up with you in tow, he wouldn't have you escorted out."

"How, how do you know that?" Tauriel had taken onboard everything she had said quietly. Yet, she still found herself unsure. She did miss home, but that was only because here was new and unknown. Kíli was aiding as best he could, making her feel welcomed, loved. Even Dís had stopped trying to be the overprotective mother.

Liruliniel smiled her way, "My friend, if he tried having you escorted in my presence, he would have to suffer a barrage of commentary from me."

"At the price of hurting your feelings too...I wouldn't ask or want that." Tauriel said honestly, she knew how much hurt could come from the simplest of arguments between them, she had seen it.

"You're not banished." Liruliniel said finally, with finality that she wasn't even going to entertain the thought any longer than needed. "Words thrown out in the heat of the moment may have some truth, but most often than not, they're just thrown out to hurt."

"I called him a coward for trying to retreat."

Liruliniel stopped walking, wide eyed and staring onwards, Tauriel faltered beside her and looked awkward. It seemed like now Liruliniel fully understood just what the problems were, or rather why Tauriel avoided Thranduil and he in turn had not spoken about the elf to Liruliniel in turn. "I must say, that is more than hurtful."

"I didn't mean it. I was just trying to get him to stop!" Tauriel exclaimed and sat heavily down on a stone bench that was nearby. There were many dotted about the Mountain, and Liruliniel sat beside her slowly. She watched as Tauriel buried her face in her hands before sitting up straight and looking narrow eyed up at the ceiling, Liruliniel could see she was pained by this.

"I think you may have missed your chance to apologise."

"That isn't helping. I thought you were meant to be helping me?" Tauriel shot a glare in Liruliniel's direction.

Smiling and placing a hand on her shoulder, Liruliniel sighed softly. "I am an ear to listen. I give advice if I think I need to and just state the obviousness when the moment calls for it. You called our King a coward, when he is far from it, I understand why, I do not agree, and he probably registers why you threw such heated words out too. You're both too stubborn to admit that you were both in the wrong. You shouldn't have said that, and he shouldn't have been trying to leave the battle. You said what you did to get him to stop, to get him to aid because you wished to help too, and he just wished to protect what was left of our army. We lost a great number the last time we fought against the dark army, Tauriel. Retreating wasn't cowardice. It was to protect, preserve and live."

Tauriel was silent for a long time, simply thinking and dwelling over everything that they had exchanged. Liruliniel leaned back against the wall, her hands in her lap as she looked up at the tapestry in front of them. Durin the Deathless stood looking quite mighty in his armour, triumphant looking even yet scarily stern faced and serious. Liruliniel had to admit that was one dwarf she would probably be worried and fearful of ever meeting, if of course she was around when he was.

Noticing movement, Liruliniel looked and watched as Tauriel turned and looked at her. "If I write a letter, will you take it with you?"

Liruliniel's expression softened, "You are staying?" She pushed away from the wall; she placed a hand over one of Tauriel's and smiled. "But yes, yes I will." How could she deny such a task? The pair needed to clear the air and be on speaking terms again, or else this awkwardness would forever drag on. And Liruliniel couldn't be bothered to be surrounded by that heavy tension.

Tauriel looked about, looking happier, lighter now they had changed the topic but having addressed the root. "I am, I think."

"Think?" Liruliniel narrowed her eyes playfully. "I do not think Kíli will let you go without a fight," she laughed gently and nudged her shoulder against Tauriel's. Tauriel looked a little awkward, but this time through embarrassment. Liruliniel laughed and clapped her hands and stood, "Do not look so embarrassed! Love is not something to be ashamed about." She leaned against her knees and tilted her head, looking at her friends with a wide smile. "Do not dwell on negative thoughts, Tauriel. If the world cannot accept you, if others have comments, it gives you more reason to stand your ground and defy them. Do not be ashamed, Tauriel. You treasure what you two have." She stood upright and sighed, placing her hands on her hips she looked each which way and hummed. She knew full well that some, both dwarves and elves, whispered commentary behind her friend's back. It wasn't fair without knowing facts and them.

The days were full of busy tasks, seeing and spending time with friends and nonstop moving about, yet the nighttime was full of solitude and loneliness. Liruliniel enjoyed the days, she didn't enjoy the nights. The room in which she had shared with Thranduil, seemed all too big now. It seemed like there was too much space, the fire warmed the room up nicely, but Liruliniel spent most time watching the flames. Sometimes she sat in a nearby chair, wrapped up in a blanket and fell asleep like that. The days were very fun; the evenings were very lonely.

The only way in which she combated against this, was to work well into the night. It was perhaps not the healthiest thing to do, but it beat being alone, left thinking over whatever came to mind. It did not surprise herself too much that her still healing body did not agree with what she was doing. She all but keeled over one day, having worked later and pulling herself into bed very late or early in the morning, she couldn't remember. But she had been feeling not herself, quite withdrawn and unwell. Dís had ordered her to rest a day, seeing the dwarf woman babying her was amusing. Yet there was something very motherly about Dís that Liruliniel couldn't ignore her.

It was her own fault, what else was she expecting? Though her injuries had healed, the mental toll and her muscles still remained hurt and harmed in some way. She was pushing herself to exhaustion, just for something to distract her from the fact that she did feel terribly alone without Thranduil present. Mealtimes were fine enough, being surrounded by so many faces, but afterwards? No. Everyone went on their own ways and Liruliniel would return to this large, empty room and sigh heavily.

"You look like death." Dís had commented one day, Liruliniel was strolling about, albeit slowly, and the dwarf-Princess had spotted her friend. She had been concerned, and worried that Liruliniel was pushing to help for matters that weren't just because she was their friend.

"Honestly, that is not reassuring. I feel fine, honestly."

"Yes, and I am a troll. Lark, you look unwell. Have you even slept?" Dís narrowed her eyes sceptically, Liruliniel rolled her eyes and nodded, yet again slowly. Movement seemed to make her want to fall and Dís placed a hand to her back, she could see she wasn't steady.

It was something which troubled Dís. She was well aware that the menfolk around were a bit oblivious, as often the ways to the troubles women went through, but even if it was anything attached to that, a few days would knock her off kilter and then she'd be back to normal. Liruliniel had been almost laid up for a week. That was a week gone from the month she was meant to stay. "You're going back to bed."

Liruliniel tried to argue, yet Dís wasn't having any of it. That's how Liruliniel found herself pouting a little, propped up in bed and with Dís fussing before sitting on the edge facing her. Leaning her head back against the pillow, she inhaled slowly. Truthfully, she did feel better not moving and being comfortable in bed. She could almost hear the lecture Thranduil would give, knowing she had done this to herself. She was even berating herself; she was a fool.

"Lark?" Dís's tone had an edge to it which had Liruliniel looking at her worriedly. Dís smiled softly, she reached over and held onto one of her hands, she tilted her head and uncovered her a little, her hand was clammy feeling. "I'm going to ask you something, and I am sorry for the sensitivity of it. But we are both old enough, and women, so there is no shame in it."

"Right?" Liruliniel ventured to say, shifting a little against the pillows and regretting moving. The room spun a little and she felt ready to either faint or have to rush to be away from Dís as she vomited.

Dís seemed to notice and reached to grasp the glass of water from the bedside table. Liruliniel sipped it hesitantly, her eyes never leaving her friend and likewise. Dís's expression was a little hard, but her eyes were full of concern. "Have you had your monthly bleed?" That had Liruliniel choking, Dís leaned forwards and rubbed her back carefully. "Just, I was much the same with my boys." She explained softly, watching as Liruliniel's glare lessened, she seemed to understand where Dís was coming from.

"No." Was all Liruliniel said while leaning back against the pillows, sipping the water every few seconds. It helped cool her down, she even pressed the glass to her forehead, eyes shut and a pained expression on her face. "How did this happen?" She lamented almost, her voice wavering as she seemed to despair.

"Well, you see it happens when-"

"I know the mechanics, Dís. It was rhetorical." Liruliniel shot her friend a look, lowering the glass and drinking slowly from it, Dís pouted and crossed her arms, yet said nothing else. Looking up at the ceiling, Liruliniel licked her bottom lip in thought. "Truly?" Liruliniel asked, Dís raised an eyebrow and tilted her head in thought before nodding slowly. Liruliniel let out a whine and hung her head, she regretted that and leaned back against the headboard.

"Is it not a good thing?"

"Dís, I am an elf-Princess possibly pregnant with a child that has not been conceived inside wedlock. It isn't a good thing. I am unsure what your kin's principles are on this, but elves...it isn't too favourable, regardless of who, it doesn't matter."

Dís could see the panic rising in Liruliniel, likewise she could see the tears starting to appear in her eyes. She scooted forwards and wrapped her up in her arms, Liruliniel buried her face against her neck while Dís reassuringly rubbed up and down her back. "But it is a child that has come from love. From what I have gathered and learned about you; it is that you don't really care much about rules and regulations."

Liruliniel laughed a little at that. "I do though. I just...it comes off as I don't." She leaned away, brushing the back of her hand against her eyes, somehow the water hadn't spilt while Dís embraced her. Liruliniel looked down at herself, resigned and with a small frown she placed a hand to her stomach. "It would explain some troubling moments."

"Such as?" Dís asked curiously, Liruliniel looked at her and Dís rolled her eyes. "Lark, I am perhaps the only woman here that you could speak so freely with. Face it, your Tauriel hasn't born any children. And don't even try broaching this topic with the likes of my brother, sons, or anyone else! Can you imagine how awkward that would be?" Dís actually shuddered at that and Liruliniel laughed. She knew she was joking, Dís knew Liruliniel had more sense than to do that.

"Food. I was at dinner the other day and the smell of something sweet just had my stomach turning. I had to leave, I think your brother asked if I was fine, I lied about something and came back a few moments after getting air. I ate and picked, then left."

"It was flowers for me. Don't ask why, couldn't stand the smell of them, any of them actually." Dís scrunched her nose up, clearly just remembering the whole experience caused her to become discomforted.

"It passes though, right?"

Dís laughed, not in a joking way but in a truly understanding, good natured way. She held Liruliniel's hand and patted it, "Yes. Yes, it will pass."

Liruliniel let out a relieved noise, sitting in quiet thought for a moment she looked at Dís. "Thank you."

"Think nothing of it, what are friends for? As I said, I think I am about the only one of your close friends which understands right now."

"So...rest?"

Dís smiled knowingly, "Yes. No more working in the forges, and no more pushing yourself to help elsewhere. You need to take it easy, especially so early. With all luck, everything shall be fine."

Liruliniel looked around the room thoughtfully again, "I think I may need to cut my stay here short."

"Well, I did wonder." Dís rolled her eyes, she wasn't silly.

Liruliniel nodded slowly, "It is an invisible pull, which now is pulling ever more. There is this indescribable need to be home, to be with Thranduil, and to be safe. I know I am safe here, but...I can't describe it." She shook her head slowly, hesitantly even but was relieved she didn't feel like she was about to collapse.

Dís smiled, "I know what you mean though. Been there, done that."

Liruliniel smiled, "Yes, I suppose you have."

"There is no question you could bring up, that I probably won't have the answer to."

Liruliniel beamed, "Dís, Princess of Erebor and fountain of knowledge!"

"Too right! Don't make it sound like such a mockery," Dís seemed to puff up a bit there, bristled even as she tried to make herself look more impressive as she sat on the edge of the bed. Only for the pair to end up laughing and shaking their heads gently.

"I need to tell your brother." Liruliniel said softly after they calmed down. Dís nodded, she understood that, and really, she supposed it was best coming from her, why she had to suddenly leave earlier than planned.

"When shall you go?"

"Whenever I feel like I am not about to collapse under my own weight. I do hope what you said is right, I don't think I can put up with this for much longer, Dís." Liruliniel admitted, Dís merely laughed and didn't have the heart to say that this really was just the beginning.

=

Two days, it took two days for the overall feeling of ultimate queasiness to pass her by. Liruliniel did not have much to pack and take with her, due to Thranduil already doing that. She had the bare essentials which fitted in a saddle bag, her swords had been left with her, but she had parted with her bow. Even her swords were attached to the saddle in a way that it would be easy for her to grasp them, if needed. She patted down the tawny horse she was given, he seemed mild mannered, not skittish and if anything, cautious around her. Liruliniel knew animals could sense things, and she wondered if her new friend could sense the new life within her.

Thorin stood with the other dwarves watching her, he moved forwards a little though when she came to say her farewells. His reaction to being told that she was with child was to stare wide eyed and silently. Dís had been with her, and she had hit him on the shoulder, instructing him to shut his mouth before a spider or fly makes a home within it. He snapped his mouth shut and awkwardly congratulated her. Liruliniel guessed that was always going to be the way. But she didn't mind. The other dwarves, the hobbit and the remaining wizard had been clued in too, and they had all in turn given her a warm reaction, if not still a bit tenuous.

Dís was right, menfolk when it came to this sort of thing were truly fish out of water. Thorin looked up at her with a soft smile. "There are no words, no reward I could ever give you that would be equal to what you have given and done for me." He said seriously, he meant what he said; if he could put a price on what she had done for him and his kin, he would pay it without question.

Liruliniel smiled, she knelt down and straightened up much to his trying to stop her. Yet she waved him away, she was now on the same eye level as him and she preferred it like that, in a way. She couldn't describe it. "Thorin, you are my friend and there is nothing that I would expect to get given for what I have done for you, and your kin. I did what I did out of love, and out of friendship. If I had to do it again, I would. Only, I suppose not so frankly now, considering." She laughed quietly and placed a hand on her stomach. Thorin nodded his head, a smile appearing on his face too as he couldn't help but agree. She looked up though when she heard the others come close. "I will miss you all, very much. If there is ever a celebration, please do invite me. I would love to see you all again, likewise, I will send one out to you all. Even if a certain someone may have a comment. You are all welcome within my home." She said, wiping a thumb under her eye and laughing quietly, Dís did say her emotions may be heightened and fluctuate at any time. Turning to Bilbo, Liruliniel smiled. "I am sorry we cannot travel back together. But you have Gandalf, you will be fine."

"Oh, it is all right. I understand completely." Bilbo said, feigning nonchalance as most eyes flickered to him and he just sniffed and shrugged casually. Truthfully, if he were to travel back with a pregnant elf-Princess, Bilbo would definitely feel the pressure to make sure she got home safely. He'd have loved to have travelled back with Liruliniel, but the pressure...not so much.

Thorin placed a hand on her shoulder, earning Liruliniel to look at him suddenly confused. "You say there is nothing you would ask for, yet it stands to reason that you deserve something regardless. I know nothing can compare to what you have done for us all but at least take this as a token of appreciation."

Liruliniel was baffled yet watched as Bofur and Bifur ran off quickly to collect something then came back with a small parcel. Thorin took it gently and gave it to her, Liruliniel, although kneeling on the dry grass which had started to regrow outside Erebor, took to opening the paper gently. Taking the string away and opening the paper gently she was all but taken back by the sight before her. Her fingers trailed over the smooth filigree pattern, the shimmering and shining silver had her eyes widening as she could feel them pricking with tears. Thorin held a hand up to try and start consoling her, but it was too late; she started crying and all but pulled him into a tight embrace.

The poor dwarf-King had no choice but to just sigh, embrace her back and gently pat her on the back. He had gifted her a dress, but within the dress some cleaver weaver had managed to weave in traces of mithril; the soft malleable substance could be used in a number of ways due to how easy it was for the dwarves to harness. In this instance, thin traces made up a collar of a filigree pattern, interlinking ovals which looked like leaves with trailing wisps of the shining strands creating a bodice shape, yet also evidently flowing into the skirt. Liruliniel hadn't and wasn't going to get it out to properly look at, this was enough to see the beauty of it.

"Your grandfather, he was quite open with plans and patterns of what mithril could be used for. A side note had explained that elves would properly prefer it in the form of jewellery or clothing." Thorin explained while feeling Liruliniel slip away from him. Honestly, some must have been mined from Khazad-dûm and been left in the horde. That's where what made up her dress was found, yet Thorin smiled and shrugged, "I did not think your King would appreciate jewellery given to you, by anyone other than himself."

She laughed and nodded; she understood that all too well. Although he had only really gifted her a circlet which was on her head at the moment amongst her braided hair. She had dressed simply in a tunic and trousers, she had quite a ride to get through, best to be comfortable. "This though..."

"Your kin like stars." Thorin said with an awkward cough, he gestured a hand, "It is rather like one, yes?"

"You are sweet and thoughtful, Thorin. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart." Liruliniel inclined her head.

"You thank us for a dress, yet I still feel it is not enough. But as I said, what can I give you for what you've done?" Thorin shrugged, a dress was nothing, it took Dís's planning and the cleaver work of some other dwarven women to make the dress, but Thorin still felt it was a simple reward for her self-sacrificing.

"Friendship, Thorin. Your ongoing friendship is enough for me. Seeing your kingdom rebuilt and inhabited, is enough for me. Knowing you have finally become King, that your family have got their home back, is enough for me. Overall, knowing that you all will live happily, and in peace here, from now until the end is truly enough for me. I could not ask for anything more for a reward, other than that. But I still thank you for the dress," she finished with a laugh, earning quiet chuckles from everyone else.

Liruliniel inhaled softly, she looked up at the sky, saw the sun and nodded. "I had best start off. I will see you all again, for that I am sure of." She said while staying where she was, she wrapped the dress up carefully and looked pointedly around. "Can I have a farewell now?" She beamed, that seemed to be it, that was the cue they were waiting for and Liruliniel was soon crowded into an embrace by many arms. She couldn't help but laugh, it was so disorganised, what else was she expecting? Yet it was warm, it was lingering with friendship and a promise of seeing each other again before she slipped away. "If you travel through, perhaps you can visit?" She asked while looking at Gandalf, the wizard had stood to one side along with Bilbo.

"We shall see, but then I think this open invite is more pointed than you're letting on." Gandalf said with narrowed eyes as he looked her up and down.

Liruliniel laughed, "I do not know what you mean!"

"Hm, that I doubt." Gandalf said yet smiled, he knew she got humour from watching himself and Thranduil interact, no doubt she wished to witness it again. Yet he bowed his head, though when he straightened, he got a kiss to the cheek like all the dwarves did.

"I would like to see your Shire, Bilbo." Liruliniel knelt to his level, Bilbo looked confusedly at her. Liruliniel smiled, "I always wanted to travel, you see. Now things are a little safer, I may do that. Once you know...perhaps I can bring the little one with me?" She mused with a chuckle, "Safe journey home, my friend."

"Are you to travel home alone?" Bilbo asked worriedly, he may have felt relief of not guarding her home, but that didn't mean he felt peace of knowing she was going alone.

Liruliniel tilted her head and shook her head, "No. Bard will accompany me as far as the woodland, some have moved back to Esgaroth, so he is going that way too. Though between us all, I believe he is lying just to have peace of mind knowing I get home safely." They all nodded and looked between each other, before a chorus of cheers went up in offering to accompany too. Liruliniel laughed and stood. "Settle down! You all have things to do, do not stress yourselves, I shall be fine. Now I really must go, I have a feeling Tilda will try at any costs to stop me going. I wish you all luck, and I look forward to our next meeting." Liruliniel smiled, she felt immensely sad, yet their looks mirrored hers completely. Tauriel and herself embraced, "I will give him your letter, I promise you." She whispered to her friend, Tauriel was saddened by Liruliniel going, yet got a gentle kiss to the cheek too.

Tauriel struggled to find her words, she felt heavy and Liruliniel just smiled, she understood yet looked at Kíli as he stood there wanting to comfort Tauriel in turn. Liruliniel knew her friend was in good care, with a sigh she nodded slowly, they were all sad they were finally parting ways, yet she mounted the horse slowly and turned in the saddle to smile their way one more time before clicking her heels against its side.

As suspected, the farewell with Tilda was not easy. "Remember what I said? Any parties, you are to invite me, and I will do the same! We will see each other again, Tilda. We will." Had been Liruliniel's reassuring words, Sigrid and Bain had comforted their little sister as they bid her farewells too, Bard had mounted his own horse, and the pair were soon taking the long way around to get back to Esgaroth. Well, they continued onto this path only stopping when they needed, Bard was going to the burnt remains of the small settlement once he saw her off and into her homeland.

Liruliniel looked around herself, the forest and woodland around them was changing, snow had fallen, the trees were becoming bare, and animals could be seen making larders for the oncoming change. Birds flitted, sung and swooped in the clear air; some were possibly even migrating to escape the cold. Yet Liruliniel found herself smiling, the change in nature always captivated her and her silent riding partner didn't seem to mind the quiet either.

With a frown, Liruliniel looked at Bard, he noticed her looking, or rather he felt eyes on him and looked back at her as they rode side by side. "Yes?" He simply asked, he didn't know why she was looking at him with narrowed eyes. "Is something the matter? Are you in pain?" Bard, being a father of three and knowing the pains his own wife went through with each, was worried. Yet, rather like Dís, he knew what this whole experience entailed.

"Are you accompanying me, so you can get out of your new duties?" Liruliniel asked plainly, it seemed a common thing, she didn't mind being the reason why duties were skipped, but she didn't want her friends getting into trouble. Bard's dark eyes widened, he tried to look indifferent, and she pointed a finger at him. "Knew it!"

"No, Lark-"

"Seriously!" She laughed and shook her head. "I could've managed this on my own. Though I am thankful I am not alone." She admitted, quietening down and Bard, whatever he was going to retort with, went out of his mind.

He smiled and nodded, "Anyone would do the same. How could we expect you to travel home alone, and unprotected?"

"I'm pregnant, Bard. I can still fight; I am not an invalid." She laughed and looked at him simply. Although, a few days ago she wouldn't be saying this because she could barely move without feeling sick, close to falling and sleeping, a lot.

"That isn't...I am sure you can, but you shouldn't have to." Bard sighed, the horses snorted quietly in the cold air yet continued on unbothered.

"Have many moved back to Esgaroth?" Liruliniel asked, shifting a little in the saddle and wincing. This was really uncomfortable, yet she ignored it and looked at Bard curiously. She had heard that some were trying to relocate, she wasn't sure why.

Dale seemed like an excellent prospect, safer in a way too. Esgaroth was practically burnt down, not a whole lot remained. It was definitely dangerous, and the buildings were all fit to collapse. How or who would want to move back there, she didn't know. Bard nodded his head, he didn't look happy about the prospect either, but he wasn't going to stop people doing what they wanted. He wasn't a dictator, nor a tyrant, he was too well mannered for that. That was half the reason the town failed in the first place, it was underneath the rule of a greedy, narrow-minded man. Two things which Bard definitely wasn't.

"They wish to return, in some way I don't blame them, it is all some have ever known. I grew up there, but I do not find myself wanting to hurry back to it. Perhaps, in an odd way, it burning down was a good thing. I feel awful for admitting such a thing, considering how many perished, but perhaps it needed to start afresh. Though I wish it could have done that, without the loses of those who died."

Liruliniel understood, "You shouldn't feel bad for admitting such a thing. It is something that some used to do back in Ered Luin, if some woodland was sick, it would get burnt down. The ashes would be turned over, toiled even, and what would grow back would be healthy. Though, yes, I too would've preferred everyone within your town to have survived."

Bard looked at her measuredly yet nodded, he could understand that. And something he had quickly learned, Liruliniel was perhaps one who would not judge him for his words. "What do you think you'll do when you get home?" He was curious, from experience...he could foresee Thranduil not allowing Liruliniel much leeway for anything. Admittedly, he had been the same, and he had got a rather hormonal argument from it. Bard felt sorry for Thranduil all of a sudden, Liruliniel was strong willed, and minded, perish the thought of telling her no, even while pregnant.

Liruliniel sat and rode in thought for a while, she watched birds fly in the air and laughed quietly. Larks were flitting here and there; she recognised their songs and singing quite well. "I don't want to do anything. I said to Bilbo, all I have ever wanted is peace, and I don't know what to do with it. But I've thought of it, even more so now, I have spent my whole life training, fighting, striving and helping...I can stop. I can truly stop, Bard. I can stop, I can breathe clearer than I ever have done before, and I can prepare to be a mother. I am scared, and I would be a fool not to admit that. But I intend to do nothing but look forward to that meeting." Liruliniel said with a soft sigh and a smile as she thought about it all.

"It sounds like a much-deserved break then." He admitted, letting out a quiet laugh of his own. He remembered too well how old she had said she was, and honestly, he thought she was entitled to a rest now. Even more so with the life growing within her, anything stressful would do no good.

Liruliniel laughed at that and nodded, how could she say otherwise? Inhaling the fresh air, she ran a hand over her horse's neck and patted it gently. "Too right." She agreed wholeheartedly. "What about you? How are things in Dale?" With how she took a turn for the worse, Liruliniel hadn't been able to check in with him and everyone there.

And that is how they spent their journey to the outskirts of Mirkwood, friendly conversations, moments of silence and the silence being broken by laughter now and then. "Good luck, Bard, King of Dale. I shall look forward to seeing you again, but also, I will write often; I expect to hear how everything is going, don't think otherwise! We may have become friends through odd means, but I am glad we did, you are a good man, and I wish you and your family all the best." Liruliniel said so honestly that he couldn't rebuke her for the kingly title, which often she used in a joking tone.

She meant every word she said while smiling lightly his way. How could she not? She liked Bard, even if he could be too serious at times, she understood why he was, and accepted that was just how he was. But it didn't take away from the fact that he was a good man, and she hoped the future was kind for him.

"Princess Liruliniel, have a safe journey, and I hope your future is as kind as you are to strangers you deem as friends in an instant." Liruliniel laughed at that, he had her on that one and he knew it, because he smirked her way and clasped a hand to her shoulder, he gave it a reassuring squeeze as she looked tearfully at him. "You will be fine, that I am sure of. All three of you," he said with a nod, his eyes darting to her stomach before smiling kindly her way. "You best be off, before it gets too dark."

"Farewell, Bard!" Liruliniel waved his way and started riding off, Bard held a hand up and watched as she made her way through the trees. The forest had changed, it was quiet, yet not heavy with an uneasy tension. It felt clean, it felt safe, and she felt safe travelling through it. Truthfully, she hadn't told Thranduil she was returning early...she wished to surprise him, was that so bad?

She followed the river until she had to divert and urge the horse onwards in another direction, not before allowing him to have a drink and one herself. She led him by the reins, stepping carefully over roots and under branches. Pausing and standing opposite the bridge, Liruliniel looked to her horse. "Well, my new friend, we are home. I have yet to give you a name, apologies. Perhaps I won't name you after a family member, that was awkward." She joked to herself, the horse snorted while leaning his head down to sniff at her. It seemed like even he agreed with that one.

"Come, I shall settle you in the stable unless someone beats me to it. Then, I shall do what I did with a good friend of mine, I shall bring you apples to really settle you in. I can imagine it now, Thranduil telling me not to spoil you..." Liruliniel trailed off and looked at him, there was something majestic about the tawny horse, something wise within his eyes as he stared at her as they walked steadily closer to the bridge. "I think I will name you after that good friend. You are now Arthion. Welcome home, shall we go find those apples?" She joked, the guards on the gate noticed her and went on the offensive before realising it was her.

Of course, it was nearing night, and it was unheard of and not normal for travellers to just appear outside the kingdom. "Hello! Can I come in? I have had a long ride, Arthion needs to get settled and truthfully, I would really like to sit on something softer than a saddle. But can you do me a favour? Can you keep me being here quiet? Thank you!" Liruliniel said all very friendly like and watched as another guard led the horse away, he sent her a look, yet she smiled and waved. "I will find you in a bit!" She promised and nodded before sighing and shouldering the saddlebags which had been hurriedly taken off the horse by herself, before he was led to the stables.

She had seemingly timed her arrival right indeed, even before seeing the gates shut, she saw snow start to drift. But not only that, it seemed the evening meal was still happening. Because of that, there was no one really around. Liruliniel grinned to herself, at least she didn't have to avoid anyone. She could go to her room, place her stuff, find the dress and bathe in peace and quiet before getting changed and ready and moving silently down the corridor again, heading to the hall.

The fact of the matter was, the closer she got to the hall, the more nervous Liruliniel was growing. Everyone would be in there, obviously, some she had not seen for so long...Anameleth, Caladhiel; just the thought of Caladhiel had Liruliniel pausing and putting a hand to her heart. She had missed her adopted mother, Imrathon too! She had to see how he had healed, she hoped he was well, along with everyone else. Naturally Thranduil was perhaps most of the worry, or wear it lied. But that was just because it was him. Who wouldn't feel that way?

The dress in which Thorin had gifted her with, was truly more beautiful than she had ever thought. Ivory and flowing, the trail long and interwoven mithril glimmered within the light, she was glad actually she wasn't showing or else this dress would be very uncomfortable. Naturally it was made before this revelation. Smoothing a hand over her stomach, she smiled to herself. Only to wince, now how does one go about announcing a pregnancy?

Shaking her head, Liruliniel shoved that thought from her mind. She had to survive eating first. Oh, she hoped her sense of smell wasn't thrown off again, at the moment it was all fine, but it could come back. Dís had said symptoms came and went and could last a few months before going completely. She was inclined to believe her friend, so far, she had been right and most helpful.

Walking towards the doorway and turning she looked into the hall, bustling with so many figures and there was music playing somewhere, she didn't know the occasion, but it made for a merry sight. Obviously, her presence wasn't unnoticed for long, someone exclaimed her name and that did it really. A slightly awkward silence appeared as she moved from the shadow of the doorway, all shining in her dress and slightly curled yet still damp hair. The trailing beads and jewels on her circlet that she had changed into, just aided to the effect of being walking light.

It was Anameleth, she had come rushing forwards, instantly taking Liruliniel into her arms without a second thought. Liruliniel shut her eyes and wrapped her arms around her too. "It is so good to see you! When we were told you were to stay, we were all so worried!"

"I helped with building work, it wasn't exactly fantastic, Anameleth." She joked, though really, she only made a dent on that and the garden space before having to come back here. Yet, Liruliniel pushed that from her mind too and shook her head. "How are you?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that? You have done so much! Seen so much and I...have been here, with grandfather." She pouted a little at that, Liruliniel just laughed and looked to the side when Caladhiel appeared, watery smile on her face and her eyes looking her over. Liruliniel didn't have a chance to say anything before she was pulled tightly to Caladhiel.

"Mother, I cannot breathe!"

"Let me have this moment, please." Caladhiel said in a broken voice, she sniffed and held her at arm's length, assessing her and admiring her dress before cupping her cheeks in her hands. "I cannot express how much joy I feel, seeing you here now."

"I had thought of so much, so many things to say...it has all gone from my head." Liruliniel said with teary eyes of her own, "I am glad to be home, mother." She admitted nodding and getting pulled back in, Anameleth stood to the side smiling widely before patting Liruliniel on the shoulder. She all but laughed with relief when Imrathon stood there, one arm around Caladhiel's waist before pulling Liruliniel close, with more care and gentleness. It wasn't like they hadn't already seen each other. "I am glad to see you are better!"

"As if you can talk, I barely recognised you." Imrathon said with a pointed look yet smiled regardless.

"I wasn't that bad!"

"We both know that is a lie, but it is in the past. You are well, and you are here, and that's all that matters." Imrathon, getting a sceptical look from Caladhiel and Anameleth just continued to smile at Liruliniel. They were unaware to how bad her injuries were, but as Imrathon said, it was in the past. Imrathon leaned forwards a little, Liruliniel did the same with a curious look. "I can feel eyes burning into my back, if you do not hurry and say your hello, I fear what may happen."

Liruliniel slyly looked past Imrathon, true to his words Thranduil was seated and staring intently their way. Even from where she stood, she could see the longing hope of having her back and close, it was the same feeling she had. Just the knowing of him being close had her heart beating a little faster and a pure sense of relief flooding over her. She was truly home, or at least she would be once back with him and in his arms.

"Maybe he'll come charging over and push you away?" She joked, Imrathon actually scoffed, and side stepped. He inclined his head, Liruliniel didn't need encouraging, she stepped forwards and walked onwards. Her bare feet pattered against the ground, and she simply watched as Thranduil pushed himself from his seat and moved around the table to meet her halfway. Liruliniel was more than aware to the fact that it was painfully silent now in the room, yes, being watched was unnerving yet she just stared at him. Because he was truly the only being which mattered the most right now.

Liruliniel was all prepared to say something, only to find her cheeks getting gently cupped again and his forehead to rest against hers. Liruliniel shut her eyes and took that small contact for all it was worth. That was as affectionate as he was likely to be here, at the moment, but it meant the world to her that he would even do that. Opening her eyes, she looked into his and smiled, the relief she felt was easily seen in his eyes too, straightening up and gesturing a hand, he led her back to the table and sat back down with her beside him.

Didn't take long for noise to enter the hall again, Liruliniel declined the wine which was offered to her. "I have travelled for a long time, that isn't going to help me." She said with a smile, Thranduil seemed to think that over before agreeing silently. Liruliniel let out a slow breath, she remembered Dís's list of things to avoid, alcohol was on that list.

Thranduil reclined as much as he could in the straight-backed chair, if anything he just stretched out one leg and rested the other over it at the knee. Resting his hands against his stomach, he looked around the room then at her. "You did not send word of your return. Had I known you were coming, I would've sent someone out to meet you."

"I can travel home on my own, Thranduil! I have done it before, remember?" She laughed softly, though something in her pulled, she wasn't alone though, was she? It wasn't just herself she'd be endangering if anything did happen. Shaking her head, she dispelled those thoughts quickly enough. "I had Bard for company, for a little bit. He was going to Esgaroth. Some have decided to try and rebuild."

"It is in their nature." He commented simply and took a sip from his drink. "Eat, you must be hungry." He saw her eyeing up the table before them, what he took for hungry looks was the opposite. Liruliniel's senses were being assaulted, and she took a sip of water before picking safe foods up and placing them on her plate. Thranduil frowned a little, "For someone who has travelled quite the way, that does not seem like much to restore your energy." Which it didn't, if anything he'd say she was having measly scraps.

Liruliniel smiled, she waved a hand and looked at him assuredly. "I had some provisions with me." Which was a lie, but he didn't need to know that most of the food present was making her stomach turn. Regardless, Thranduil shook his head and left her to it, he didn't comment and left her to pick at what she had collected. "Everyone looks well, did you all return safely?"

"Yes. We did not lose any more in the journey home, and since returning everyone has easily slipped back into their ways. Patrols hunt out what nests remain, yet none seem to be appearing, if they do it is not like it was. Orcs had been seen trying to escape through our lands, not sure where to, no doubt to a stronghold in the north. With the aid of the skin-changer, they were easily dealt with." Thranduil said all rather matter-of-factly that Liruliniel just found herself nodding while eating a piece of bread with a scraping of butter on. "Are you sure that is enough?" He was worried, he wasn't saying Liruliniel was a large eater, but even for her that didn't seem much at all.

"Mhmm, yes, honestly!" She nodded with a smile, "Everyone is well in Erebor, just so you know. It is getting there, slowly but surely."

"I am sure they appreciated what help you offered. Not for free though, I see." Thranduil looked her over, "You look beautiful." He said quietly so only she would hear, whatever businesslike authority that was hanging over him, slipped in that moment. Any pretences were gone, and he was looking at her with a look which had Liruliniel smiling and a blush rising to her cheeks slightly. He looked at her with pure adoration.

"A walking star." She joked with a grin, that is what this dress made her seem like. Or at least that's how she felt whether she did or not was another thing.

Thranduil felt his mouth pulling into a slow smile before he even really realised it. He couldn't disagree there, "I think that is the happiest I have seen them," Liruliniel followed his line of sight and looked at Caladhiel and Anameleth. Thranduil glanced sidelong at her and took a sip of his drink. "They both had been so disheartened upon learning you were not to return for a month. So, fancy the chances of you appearing before the month has passed. I believe you have made their days."

"But I imagine, not as much as yours." Liruliniel said with a wide smile as she leaned against the arm rests of her chair and looked at him plainly.

Thranduil sighed and looked upwards, Liruliniel just laughed quietly. He was doing that thing, the whole attempt at appearing unfazed, yet he was. She saw the look he sent her when he saw her, she felt how tenderly he held her face when he rested his forehead against hers.

"I have missed you terribly too." She vocalised the look he suddenly sent her, Liruliniel did not mind him not saying it, she knew he felt it. With a sigh, she looked him over one last time before returning to her food.

She had noted, that whereas she was walking light and shimmering jewels and mithril, he had changed his attire to match the frosty weather which was coming. The icy blue tunic with its high collar, if anything just accentuated how tall and slim he actually was, true as this may be, there was still muscle there and he was still as deadly as he was in armour. The light colour of his clothing made his skin seem paler, and his hair even more so. His crown was the one he often wore during winter, and Liruliniel just smiled. She hadn't forgotten how beautiful he was, but it felt a little surreal to now be beside him again.

When the noise and the food seemed to be petering out and down, Thranduil stood and aided her from her chair. He walked slowly beside her out of the room, Liruliniel seemed a little confused that instead of going back to their room, they instead soon found themselves upon the balcony, which was tucked away, that no one else seemed to ever venture onto. Liruliniel beamed and walked forwards quickly, her hands clutched onto the railing as she looked around, it was silent, still and snowing steadily.

She looked upwards, feeling flakes fall on her skin and in her lashes, she just laughed and shook herself free before looking up at him as he stood beside her. She didn't hear him approach, his footsteps as ever were silent. Grasping onto an arm, Liruliniel wrapped it around herself as she leaned against his side. She shut her eyes, she heard his heart and felt the heat radiating from him, and she found herself relaxing. She let out a slow breath, home, she felt it now more than ever, she felt like she was home.

Thranduil pressed a kiss to the top of her head, he shut his eyes and wrapped his other arm around her middle. He must've made her jump because she jolted a little in his arms, yet she laughed and looked at him apologetically. "Sorry, I had my eyes shut and I was lost in thought!" She explained when he looked at her oddly. She rarely jumped in his arms, or from his touches. Yet he shrugged loosely, accepting that even though it was a lie. Liruliniel looked at where his arm rested across her stomach and sighed. She was musing how to say the words, so she leaned her head back against him and watched the snow falling. "Why did you bring me here?"

It seemed this time he tensed, Liruliniel looked up at him curiously. He was rarely thrown off, always calm and collected for him to have such a moment caused her to be ever more curious. Thranduil thought over his words, he was silent for a while in fact, not that she minded. Liruliniel would patiently wait for him to speak, not just to hear what he had to say, but to take and find relief and solace in the sound of his voice. "It is where everything truly started, is it not?" Liruliniel found herself feeling a little more baffled. Thranduil could see that, he looked at the moon for inspiration. "The mortal tradition you spoke of-"

"The presents?" She laughed, not out of any jesting, but more shock. Thranduil blinked and looked around before nodding. "I think it's usually at the end of the month..."

Thranduil frowned, "That makes no sense to me." Which was true, most elvish holidays, apart from the few, usually were celebrated near the beginning or the middle of a month.

"You have something for me?" Liruliniel ventured on gently, Thranduil looked a little guarded, yet found himself nodding slowly. "Oh..." Liruliniel thought over it and looked downwards, she smiled and looked at him. "I have a gift for you too!"

Thranduil seemed taken back by that, not expecting it yet looked more relaxed than he did moments ago. Though there was still something which seemed off, yet Liruliniel couldn't exactly say she was the most relaxed she'd ever been. Perhaps her own nerves were playing off him? She didn't know.

"Shut your eyes."

Liruliniel frowned a little, she was confused yet did so. It was still quiet, the sounds of snow falling and night animals could be heard, but overall, it was so silent and peaceful up here. She was a little confused yet laughed when she was turned, she didn't need her eyes open to know she was now facing him. She felt his hands on hers and something else, being told quietly to open her eyes, she did so and looked down.

Her eyes stared at the ring, the small silver ring on her finger. It was often the way with elves; the silver ring would be swapped for a golden one when it came the time to wed. Liruliniel stared at it, her mind reeling and her breath almost leaving her. This was not what she was expecting, yet she felt her eyes burning as she looked and turned the ring over on her finger. "Thranduil-"

"Ni mestathol, Liruliniel?" Thranduil cut her off, not harshly but suddenly in a soft voice.

It seemed like he was worried to speak any louder. Liruliniel wasn't sure why, they were at peace here. But just being proposed to had her looking up at him with wide eyes. He seemed unsure, perhaps more for the fact that he didn't have to do this the first time, that was just expected; no this, this was a first time even for him and even Liruliniel could see he felt unnerved, and perhaps even a little vulnerable by the moment.

"Le mestathon, Thranduil. Le mastathon!" How could she say no? With a gleeful laugh, tears escaping her eyes and her hands to her mouth before nodding and reaching upwards to him, Liruliniel buried her face against his neck before leaning away and seeking out his lips. She pressed a kiss to his lips, almost a little feverishly because of the emotions travelling through her, and she was trying to calm her breathing and crying. "Ni melathog n'uir?" She whispered while resting her forehead against his, she shut her eyes and felt herself relax in his hold.

"As if you need ask such a thing." Thranduil smoothed his hands over her hair and kissed her on the forehead before allowing her to slip back, if only to create a small amount of space between them.

"Were you just carrying this around?" She asked with a laugh, she did wonder where he suddenly got this from. Was it in his pocket?

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, holding up a hand he gestured to his little finger, the ring was enough to fit on his finger. But she also noted how one of the many ornate rings on his finger was missing, a matching silver ring was already in place. She raised an eyebrow and looked at him sceptically, yet with a smile on her face.

"Already foresaw a yes, hm?" She quirked, of course he knew that would be her answer, she couldn't even deny it. Even though it was funny to already see a ring on his finger too.

"I did, yes. I already said to you, all those years ago on this very spot, that we are tied together and we have been for as long as I can remember. Why should we continue to live as we have been? There is nothing wrong with it, but you have always known I planned to ask you to marry me."

"I just didn't know when, but that is true."

Thranduil brushed the back of his hand over her cheek, he looked at her a little sadly. "You almost died. If that is not reason enough to spur me on to ask you, then I do not know when or what would be."

Liruliniel opened her mouth, only to shut it slowly and look downwards before easily thinking that perhaps her little nugget of information would've also been an apt moment. Thranduil sensed her disposition change, yet she looked up suddenly with a smile. "I suppose, it is only fair that I give you your present too. Although...I am unsure if that is really the correct term..." Liruliniel trailed off, actually it sounded wrong now that she thought over it. Yet she shook her head, whatever, here she went.

Thranduil just looked at her patiently, Liruliniel suddenly hated the silence yet inhaled slowly and grasped a hold of his hand gently. She turned it over in her grasp before placing his palm against her stomach. She was glad that Thranduil was as quick and sharp as he was. There were no visible signs yet, but he figured out just what she meant, by actions alone. From the look on her face, she seemed a little hesitant, scared even but also very close to crying.

He felt utterly unrooted for the moment, distant and not in the present moment as he fully registered this whole moment. Not only were they now to be wed, but a child too? Thranduil had suspected one then the other, a little while apart, not literally right after the other. It was a shock to the system, but one which he disregarded easily as he pulled her close and kissed her passionately.

Liruliniel practically sagged against him, he heard the heavy sigh come from her as she held onto him. How could she look as if he was going to suddenly react badly? As if he would ever do such a thing. He was well aware to tears flowing down her cheeks, and Thranduil pulled away slowly to dry them and her eyes. "This is why you return to me."

"I couldn't be apart from you. Something in me was just screaming at me to return. I couldn't take the loneliness anymore. I now know how you felt whenever I had to go...but this was worse, so much worse I swear!" She laughed a little brokenly while sniffing and brushing a hand over her eyes too as she felt more tears coming. "Dís helped me a lot, actually. I wasn't totally alone. But it wasn't the same, because it wasn't you. I knew, I knew as soon as I was sure that I had to come back. I had to return to you, because it was going to be the only real time where I felt restful, at peace and safe."

"And you always will, I do not wish for you to ever feel any other way, Liruliniel. To make you feel like that, to protect both you and our child, believe me when I say I would do anything to achieve that."

"Even allow the dwarves to visit?"

"You're pushing it," Thranduil replied to her quipped comment with narrowed eyes, yet a smirk was on his face too. He knew she was joking, just trying her luck but she still laughed regardless and patted a hand to his chest before her finger traced the embroidered patterns on his tunic.

"Fine...not straight away..." Liruliniel pouted, Thranduil sighed shortly and tilted his head. She just laughed, "Fine!" She continued to quietly laugh before growing silent and looking up at him.

The snow still silently fell around them, not that they paid mind as they looked at each other. Thranduil kissed her forehead before lowering his face down as she looked upwards more to kiss him back. She pushed herself onto her tiptoes and held onto the tops of his arms gently as he pulled her close; keeping his arms safely cradled around her as the love which had been between them now seemed to double more, especially with the new life which would surely come along with the turning of the seasons.

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Inventory:

Will you love me for eternity? - Ni melathog n'uir?

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Edited: 14/July/2024