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When I was five years old, I traveled with my uncle, Balin to visit a hobbit. Everyone, who I grew to see as family, applaud this particular hobbit. Especially our King, he says to my brothers and I this particular hobbit helped regain Erebor. He helped my mother when my father and the rest of the company lost sight about their 15th member of the company. My mother always added to the conversations, if she was there that is, she only did what she needed to do. Both my parents, or anyone for that matter, never spoke about the hatred for elves that flows through dwarves. I can see it in the older generation of dwarves towards my mother, my brothers and I. Sometimes the older dwarves forget Daemon is half elf and treat him like one of their own. I am not blind and could see it has to do with his features. He looks like a silver haired version of our father. Both of my brothers were able to grow beards when they hit of age. Sure it is sparse, for now they claim, but its a beard none-the-less. I am not sure if I am fortunate or unfortunate of my lack of beard. My face is as smooth as a babe's bottom. I am a little more stockier than an average elf but I look like my mother if she were to have my father's eyes and hair. I am as strong as a dwarf and can fight like one.
I was only nine years old when I gave Barric a black eye. He wouldn't let me play with him and the others due to my gender. I proved him wrong. My father was proud of me when he came back on his walk with my mother. He took me to the training arena, without mam knowing that is, and we fought against each other with training wood swords. It was thrilling. I had to ask him why there wasn't any wooden versions of other weapons. He explained swords are the basic weapon. He had to learn the sword from his older brother and the king. Since I was 'old enough', my father and cousins taught me how to fight. When my mother could get away from the twins, she would teach me a little bit her style. Of course, she would have my father and cousins try to wrangle my brothers. My brothers, I love them I really do, however they were little dragons when they were younger. Now they've matured to an extent. My parents were relieved when they grew out of their dragon stage. Halvor decided he wanted to learn what our father does. Daemon, on the other hand, wanted to travel with our mother to and from Lothlorien to speak about matters. I am really happy for my brothers for learning what they would like to do when they are older. I am quite the opposite. I do not want to be strapped down to a position on the royal court or become an ambassador. I am not sure what I want to do. I have not figured it out just yet.
"Kallan! Hurry up!"
I looked up from horse's saddle. My twin brothers, along with the King and princes, were ahead walking on the path leading to Hobbiton. The king of Erebor would not miss his old friend's birthday. I felt a lithe hand tap my knee. My mother's soft voice reached my ears, "Are you okay gnwnig? You seem to be in thought."
I nodded sliding off of my horse's saddle. I looked around seeing my father was already up the path with the others. I answered, "I was thinking about what I would like to do in the future."
I watched my mother's lips turn into a smile. Her finger tapped the end of my nose lightly, "Do not worry about that, Kallan. You will be fine. Remember I've seen it."
She hitched my horse to the hitching post with the others. I nearly forgot my mother is a see-er. I wonder if my brothers or I would inherit her powers. I would think at my age of being 58 I would show some king of sign. My brothers are still young at 48 years old. However considering we have elvish blood, we age differently than a dwarf. No one knew how we were to age, mature or learn with our mixed heritage. My mother held out a hooked arm, "Shall we go see Master Baggins?"
A smile lifted my face. I hooked my arm with hers. We caught up with the little group. The others from the original company could not make it due to their own personal business. They did wish the little hobbit a merry birthday through letters and gifts. I called out to my brothers, "Daemon, Halvor! You do not know where the hobbit lives."
Halvor placed his arm around Kili's neck, "Yes but they have."
I nearly rolled my eyes. My mother's words got everyone's attention, "I do not think I have been to Bilbo's home."
Fili nodded in agreement as he thought back when the company arrived to the hobbit's hobbit hole, "No you were not. We met with you in Rivendell."
Thorin commented, "You were against joining the quest to Erebor."
My mother corrected the king, "If I recall right you were also against me joining the company. If it weren't for Gandalf's meddling, I wouldn't have been on the quest and..."
My brothers and I could feel the air grow solemn after our mother's words died on her tongue. Luckily the silence ended when we arrived to the gate of Bilbo Baggins. One the gate was a sign posted, "No Admittance. Except on Party Business."
I felt my mother adjust her shoulder. The very shoulder that is branded. My father caught the movement and decided to switch places with me. Now my parents are hooked in arms. My brothers and I do not know the story behind the scar. Our parents made sure of it. Thorin walked up the little path to the hobbit's home and ringed the bell. An elderly voice called out, "No Thank you! We don't want any more visitors!"
Thorin's deep voice ringed out, "Is that a way to greet an old friend, Mr. Baggins?"
The door immediately opened revealing an older hobbit. The older dwarves and elf greeted the hobbit with a hug. I noticed my mother winced when the hobbit accidentally touched her shoulder. Bilbo pulled away instantly in concern, "Are you alright?"
My mother tried to cover it up, "Oh yes. Sore muscle is all it is. How does it feel being 111 years old?"
I narrowed my eyes at my mother who changed the subject. Bilbo placed his hands in his waist coat pockets, "Never better, I suppose. How did you feel when you turned 111?"
My mother laughed, "I was born in the second age if that puts it to perspective."
Those who knew their history, the second age was not a walk in the park. It was dark and dangerous. Our grandmother taught of the history of the ages whenever we visited. I piped up, "What do you have planned for your birthday?"
Bilbo smiled big at my question, "Something big, my dear. I promise it'll be enjoyable."
Halvor and Daemon spoke at the same time, "Will there be a ton of food?"
Our father smacked the boys upside their heads. Both of them rubbed their heads in pain. Fili looked amused. He remembered when they were traveling with their uncle and Thorin would hit them upside the heads. The twins asked, "What was that for, adad?"
He scolded them, "All ye two think about is food."
Daemon nearly whined, "We are always hungry."
My mother mumbled, "Their appetite came from you, Dwalin."
Father huffed crossing his arms. Everyone chuckled. I had to ask, "Is Gandalf going to be at your party?"
Bilbo answered, "I am not quite sure. I was expecting the wizard last week but he has not arrived."
Kili rubbed his beard, everyone mentioned how thin his beard was when he was 77 years old but now it grew a few inches, "Maybe he is doing wizard business with his wizard friends."
I rolled my eyes elbowing Kili in the ribs, "I do not think that is what he is doing."
Bilbo asked my brothers and I, "Do you remember Frodo? I am sure he is around the Shire if you three want to go find him."
I have a subtle hint that means for the younger ones to leave so the adults can talk. I like to think we are adults but I guess among dwarves and elves we are still children. Halvor answered, "We can go find him for you if you want."
Bilbo nodded, "Ah yes. I want to make sure everything is prepared for tonight."
I moved between the elders to grab both of my brother's arms. I called out to the adults, "We shall be back."

I placed my hands behind my head. Hobbits scurried in the plaza to prepare for Bilbo's birthday. Halvor crossed his arms on the left of me. Daemon took interest on the hobbit's way of doing things on the right of me. I huffed, "Emel and Adar are acting weird."
Halvor answered, "Emel's shoulder is acting up."
I nodded, "I noticed it as well. They'll won't tell us what the cause is."
I glanced at Daemon who graciously accepted an apple tart from a friendly hobbit merchant. He started to stuff his face with it. I shook my head, "All I know is that in that quest 60 years ago to take back Erebor, something big happened."
Daemon spoke while licking his fingers away of the apple glaze, "It doesn't matter now. Everyone is well and happy. They were able to take back Erebor. Thorin became the rightful King and Adad is the chief of guard. I'd say the quest was a success."
Halvor peered around me to look at his twin, "Did you not feel the air change when emel spoke about if she wasn't-?"
Daemon waved at little hobbit children who peered at us curiously. He answered, "Of course I did. An idiot would be stupid enough to not feel the change. Obviously knowing emel is a see-er, she saw things that could be detrimental to the current present day. Leave it be, emel joined the quest and therefore changed the outcome."
I blinked, "Aren't you curious on what the original outcome was?"
Daemon shrugged. Halvor rolled his eyes at his brother. In the distance, I saw a carriage rolling in with a familiar grey hat and a curly haired hobbit. I pointed in the direction, "I see Gandalf and Frodo. Let's meet with them."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

I stopped my brothers for a second, "Let's not bring up emel to Gandalf and Frodo."
The twins furrowed their brows trying to understand but nodded nonetheless. I released my brothers' sleeves allowing them to walk ahead. Daemon called out to the wizard and hobbit, "Mithrandir! Frodo!"
Gandalf started to go around the bend before slowing the carriage. A quick smile raised on his lips. Frodo smiled big, "What are you three doing here?"
I pointed behind us with my thumb, "We are here for Bilbo's birthday. We came with a little travelin' party."
Gandalf raised his brows, "The King is here?"
Halvor nodded, "As well as the princes."
Halvor felt a nudge to his side. Daemon, this time, has two tarts in his hands. He decided to give his brother one while he nearly shoved a tart into his mouth. I frowned giving a disapproving look to my younger siblings. Halvor took care with his tart. I shook my head trying to ignore my siblings. I pushed them slightly to be in front, "Are you here for the hobbit's birthday?"
Gandalf nearly hesitated but nodded with a smile, " 'Course."
Frodo hopped off the wagon before shoving his hands in his pants' pockets. He piped up, "I'll let you four get together. I best to be going to see if the preparations are going according to plan."
Halvor cleared his throat, "Actually Bilbo sent us for you."
Frodo's brows shot up, "Did he?"
Daemon nodded, "Aye, so we would be joinin' you."
The little hobbit looked up at Gandalf, "I am sure you would like to go see Bilbo. Try not to give us Baggins a bad name!"
Everyone could tell his tone had some humor to it. Gandalf chuckled, " I will try not to, dear ole Frodo."
With those being his last words, he clapped the reins against the ponies' backs to urge them forward. Halvor and Daemon immediately put their attention to the little hobbit. However, I watched the old wizard leave the area. I narrowed my eyes. The wizard would know what is going on but I do not think he would like to include us in the little story time of everyone's pasts. Daemon snapped his somewhat thick fingers in my face, "Ay, Kallan."
Halvor noticed my look. He looked at me suspiciously. I blinked before grabbing my younger brother's fingers. I growled while squeezing his fingers, "Stop that."
He fake-yelped, "Let go, you she-demon!"
I released my brother's fingers. I rolled my eyes before moving towards Frodo, "Shall we?"
The other two knew I wouldn't harm my family. I barely used any strength towards his fingers. I would die before letting my brothers come to harm. Frodo released his hands form his pockets. He pointed towards where the gathering would be held, "They're putting up the tents. Let's help them out."
Daemon tapped his brother's shoulder, "I'm stronger so let me do all the work."
Halvor huffed, "We are the same strength, idiot."
Daemon smirked, "Bet I can get more tents up than you."
Halvor narrowed his eyes at his brother. Frodo and I watched as my brothers silently headed to the gathering field with the intent to beat other. I sighed, "I do apologize about their behavior."
Frodo laughed, "It's refreshing. Don't worry. We, hobbits, are a very non-competitive and relaxing race."
The two of us slowly took our time since my brothers were already at work. I asked, "Would you like to have my brothers? They'll change your life in an instant."
Frodo shook his head, "I wouldn't be able to keep up with them. Aren't dwarves and elves supposed to be really strong?"
I nodded, "We are. However those two are almost equally in strength. The only difference is due to my brothers' body structures, Daemon is a wee stronger."
Frodo snapped his fingers as the thought came to his head, "Is that because he looks more dwarf than you two?"
Once again, I nodded, "Aye. They may be joking about it with these competitions that they adopted from our parents but they would always tell you they're equal."
I watched my brothers help the hobbits pull the ropes of two different tents. I crossed my arms before continuing, "Those who are close know Daemon is stronger but if you mention it to the two or hell just one they would argue with you saying they are equal. I think it has to do with they don't want the other to feel weaker or being compared to each other."
Frodo asked, "Compared to each other? Is it cause they are twins?"
I blew out a smoke ring, "Fili and Kili did. It was a birthday present."
He nodded. I looked at the pipe seeing the intricate details of dwavish language. On the back holds the house of Fundin's markings. Despite me being a female, I would be head of the house. Emel fought for my right as the eldest child. I remember the fights caused between adar and emel. I nearly shivered at the anger between the two.

Miriel looked over at her husband over a meal, "Dwalin. You know we need to talk about Kallan."

I silently ate my meal. My brothers were the same. Dwalin looked up from his slice of vension. He hummed. Miriel started, "I believe she would be quite fine in the position of being head of the house."

Dwalin clenched his teeth, "We discussed this, Miriel. Halvor would be the head when he becomes of age."

My brothers and I could feel the air shift. Miriel switched her attention to me, "Kallan, make sure the boys eat. I need to speak with your father."

Dwalin spoke with a mouth full of meat, "Vhat?"

Miriel turned her eyes to her husband. He swallowed his food, "Miriel we have discussed this."

Miriel stood up from her chair, "Outside."

Dwalin placed his fork and knife on his plate with a clang. I nearly winced at the sound when the door closed behind them. The three of us could hear their voices move away but getting louder. Halvor looked over at me, "If it means anything Kallan, I would give you it. I don't want to be the head of the family. You came here first, you should get it."

I moved my potato around my plate, "Eat, Halvor."

Daemon spoke with a stuffed mouth. Neither of us could understand him. I glared at him, "Swallow then speak. I will not have another incident where I have to get adar to release you of the pain of choking."

Halvor spoke quietly, "And it's not a good idea to get either of them right now."

"Dwalin don't you walk away from me! We aren't done talking about this!"

"Aye we are, ya she-wolf!"

I looked over at the door. I am sure the whole palace could hear them arguing. Daemon finally was clear from food, "I said that it does not make sense for them to not have you as the head, Kallan. Isn't it supposed to be whoever is the eldest?"

I pushed my plate away from me, "Aye it is. I am not a male if you two haven't noticed. Adar and any of the older generation sees whoever the first male of the family came to be would be the head."
The door creaked and a loud sigh escaped Miriel's lips. None of us asked but our mother thought she should provide the answer. Miriel ran a hand through her hair careful of the braids our father gave her, "Your father is going to go train for a bit. Also Kallan, gwnig when you become of age you are going to be the head of the house."
Neither of us wanted to know what our mother did to convince the one of the most head strong dwarves to accept his eldest daughter as the head. Halvor couldn't help but ask, "Kallan is going to take my place with lessons with adar?"

Miriel gave a small smile, "Yes. Now you'll be able to focus on what you'd like to do being the liason between elves and dwarves."

I don't know if I would be truthful about that I am happy for getting to become the head of Fundin. Our uncle Balin was head of the Fundin house. It's been years since we last heard of him. Adar and Emel accepted what could of possibly of happen to him. I believe they do not know if he is dead or alive but it is weird we have not heard from him in a few years. I do hope he is alright. I asked the hobbit, "How do you feel about your uncle being 111 years old?"
Frodo's face held amazement, "He is one of the oldest hobbits to live. The oldest is my great-grandfather, Gerontius Took."
I raised my brows puffing on my pipe. I asked after blowing smoke out, "Really?"
Frodo nodded, "Bilbo's great, you know?"
I smiled, "Oh I know. He is the only person other than our mother who is brave enough to put their foot down at a dwarf."
Frodo couldn't help but laugh, "That does sound like him!"

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Merriment spread throughout the Shire. It felt great. I held a mug of ale up to my lips. Bilbo pulled out all the stops to have a wonderful celebration for his birthday. I wouldn't blame him. When I become of age, I would have a feast of some sorts with family and friends. I hope in 42 years, mother and father would still be living. I felt a sudden sadness at the thought of my parents leaving for Valinor. I hope mother can bring father to the elvish lands. I'd be heart broken for them to be separated in death.A voice broke me out of my thoughts, "Aren't you going to drink that?"My eyes met with my cousin's eyes. I took a large gulp before wiping my lips of any liquid, " Course I am, Kili. Why wouldn't I?"Kili eyed me suspiciously, "Well you've been holding the mug to your lips for a while now. Whatcha thinking?"I scoffed, "Nothing."Kili raised his brows. His hand went to his little beard in thought. He paused in his petting of beard, "Wait does this have to do with the whole One business?"I furrowed my brows. I chugged the last of my ale. A light burp erupted from my lips. I answered, "No."I've seen the prince cozy up with his elven maiden. The two should be expecting within the next year. It makes me wonder when the King would find his One or the next-in-line. Thorin is up in his age and would soon make the young blond prince as his successor before he dies. She's seen the One business happen at any age. Of course certain things wouldn't develop like say wanting to have sex or kiss their One till later. While father was out doing long weeks of patrol, she would tuck us in giving us the story about her and father. It was nice AFTER everyone started to accept their relationship.I sighed knowing Kili has not stopped staring at me for the actual answer. I answered truthfully, "I was thinking what would happen when my mother has to sail to Valinor. Would she take my father with her? No race other than elves has been to Valinor."Kili walked up till he was beside me. He placed an arm around my shoulders, "What brought that on?"I looked around seeing hobbits eating and drinking. Father and Thorin joining the old hobbit in his story telling. With the experience with children, my brothers and I, the two dwarves added effects to the hobbit's story about retaking Erebor. My shoulders slumped, "By the time I'm of age, my parents won't be on these lands."Kili rubbed his chin with his free hand, "Well you'll have Fili and I to embarrass you. Also they wouldn't want to see you sad. I'm sure Miriel can take Dwalin with her to what was it?"I answered for him, "Valinor."Kili nodded, "Aye, that. There's gotta be a loop-hole somewhere about one bringing their Ones with them."I mumbled, "I hope so."Kili rubbed my shoulder with his already wrapped hand, "Come on! Let's enjoy the party! Don't be such a downer. I heard Gandalf brought fireworks!"I raised an eyebrow, "Did he?"Kili smiled big nodding, "Big ones."A small smile started on my lips, "Alright. Let's join the group."Kili tried to place his cheek against my own like when I was actually his height as a child. He, among the other male figures in my life, would rub their beard onto my cheeks. I tried pulling away from the dwarf but he kept a good grip on me. I nearly whined but laughed instead, "Kili! Stop!"Kili's smile got bigger releasing me, "There you are. Now let's go."I grumbled to myself while rubbing my abused cheek. I followed the dwarf through the dancing hobbits till we got to the table where mother and Fili sat. Halvor and Daemon was already dancing with some hobbit maidens. I noticed Frodo tried to urge a hobbit to go dance with a hobbit maiden. Halvor headed to the table. He grabbed my hand, "Come on."I groaned, "I don't want to go and dance. I'm tall."Halvor rolled his eyes and yanked me off of my feet. He didn't release me till he placed me in front of a merry hobbit. The hobbit didn't seem to care of my height. I was taller than my brothers making me taller than the taller dwarves. The hobbit grabbed my hands and we started to twirl. A loud sizzle went to the sky. Everyone stopped to look at the bright firework. It was definitely big. Kili wasn't lying. My eyes widened when it took shape of a dragon. Frodo's voice called out to Bilbo, "Bilbo! Dragon!"Immediately the hobbits started to scatter. I was grabbed by thick hands to move with the crowd. The firework, dragon, swooped low to the ground making everyone drop into the dirt. A protective hand was placed on top of my head. The sizzle of the firework sounded far and everyone looked up seeing it explode in the distance. The hobbits cheered at the spectacle. I moved to sit up and looked at who came to my 'rescue'. Father's chest was moving up and down quickly. He groaned when he sat up. Mother's voice sounded like it was getting closer, "You're not as young as you used to be, Dwalin."Father grunted as he accepted his One's hand to stand up, "Amrâlimê, I'm still the same."Mother and I both know he's lying. A thick hand came into my vision and it was father's. I grabbed his forearm for extra security. He pulled me up, "Are you okay, my little azaghâl?"I nodded, "Yes, adad."His hand ran through my brunette locks with a small smile playing on his lips fondly. Halvor and Daemon ran over to us, "Are you okay?"Mother nodded and answered for the rest of us, " Of course. It's a firework. It cannot do much harm unlike the real thing."The twins and I stayed quiet as we thought over what our mother said. To change the mood, some of the hobbits called out to Bilbo, "Speech! Speech!"Bilbo walked up to the makeshift stage. Our family moved to sit with the king and his princes. All of the hobbits especially Frodo looked at Bilbo dearly. The two oldest dwarves crossed their arms. I narrowed my eyes at the motion. Why would they be closed off to their great friend's speech? I was too focused and in thought to notice the 111 year old hobbit disappeared. However, a quiet cry of pain brought my attention. I moved quickly towards mother. The twins followed my actions. Father was already placing his hand on top of mother's turned white hand by the intensity of her grip. Halvor asked, "Are you alright, emel?"I watched her nod giving a light smile trying to hide the pain. Father helped her up. He whispered something into her ear which she responded by a nod. Neither of us could hear what was being said with our hearing as the hobbits tried to figure out what happened. I looked past my parents, seeing the other three dwarves watch them leave the area to where I presume we left our ponies. Thorin spoke to his nephews before standing up. Halvor grabbed my arm, "Kallan!"I broke away from my thoughts to look at my younger brother. His lips turned into a firm line. Daemon's knuckles was turning white as he clenched his fists. He's not happy with this turn of events. Bilbo disappeared. Mother is hurt by some unknown scar on her shoulder. Father went to comfort and remove her. Thorin went to who knows where. The two princes had a grim look to their faces. A merry celebration turned into pain. I am not sure what to think anymore. Our parents and the dwarves who are older keeping a secret from my brothers and I. I knew they were hiding some parts of the story of when they took back Erebor. Why keep it a secret? What darkness is out there?
azaghâl means warrior.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Before we left Hobbiton, Halvor and mother broke away from the group to head to Lothlorien. On our travel on our way back home, we decided to stop at Rivendell. Lindir greeted us at Rivendell's gates, "Welcome back to Rivendell."Thorin stood up straight to appear taller, "I need to speak with your lord."Lindir gave a light nod, "Of course. I'll send word for him to meet you in the library."Thorin nodded heading up the steps with Lindir. Kili looked around, "There's less elves around."I looked around seeing he was right. That's rather odd. I could ask uncle about it but I doubt he will give me a definite answer. I nudged at my brother, "Let's go see if Elladan and Elrohir are around."Daemon nodded turning to Fili and Kili, "Would you like to join?"Fili and Kili both smiled wide, "Why not!"Kili shoved his shoulder into his brother's, "We haven't fought with them in a long bit."I raised an eyebrow. I piped up to my father, "Adad, we are going to search for the twins and possibly Arwen."A gruff nod came from Dwalin. I grabbed Fili's hand and dragged him up the stairway. The others followed quickly. We looked every hall and room for the twins. It wasn't till we got to the archery range where we could hear teasing in Elvish. Kili called out to three familiar elves, "I think you should try going against me!"The three turned around. The twins called out, "What are you doing here?"Arwen searched the little party and saw her two cousins were among the dwarves. Arwen broke away from her brothers to approach the group, "It's been a while."I smiled, "That it has! We were traveling back from Hobbiton to head home. The king wanted to speak with uncle."Daemon added, "Halvor and emel went to Lothlorien to speak with grandmother."Arwen nodded with understanding. The cousins didn't notice the two dwarves broke off and went to talk with the elvish twins. I bounced on the balls of my feet, "Arwen, do you mind if we take a bath? I'm in great need of one."Daemon rolled his eyes, "Women with their want to smell like flowers."I smacked the back of my younger brother's head, "Be quiet you. I don't want to smell like I've been wrestling with ten horses like you. You've may of embraced your smell but I would like to smell nice every once a while."Daemon rubbed the back of his head, "If it fits yer fancy. Like adad said to emel yer're not gonna find a good dwarf like that."I scoffed. The tips of my ears burned. Arwen tried to diffuse the slowly escalating argument between siblings, "Daemon, why not you join my brothers and your other cousins? Kallan and I are going to head to the baths. A good female time."Daemon shrugged heading to the other men. I glared daggers into my brother's thick skull. Arwen placed a small hand on my shoulder, "Let's head that way, shall we?"I broke my glare away from my brother and looked up at Arwen. Despite myself being taller out of the elf-dwarf hybrids, I'm still incredibly short compared to Arwen. I mumbled, "I didn't ask to be a lady and head of my father's house."Arwen lightly pressed her hand inbetween my shoulder blades, "We are born into our families. We don't exactly get to choose who we are family with."I let out a large sigh.My brunette locks created a circle around my person above water. Arwen undid her braids. She suggested, "Maybe you should undo your braids to give your hair a good cleanse."I sat up straight to finger the braids on the side of my head. Since I do not have a beard, adad braided the house beads into two side hair braids. I brought a bead to my eye level, "I would be afraid to lose the bead."Arwen moved closer, her brunette hair following her in her quake, in the water to look closer. She gestured to it, "Do you mind?"I dropped the wet braid into her hand. Her lithe fingers inspected the intricate design of daughter of Dwalin. She released that bead and gentle took hold of the other bead. Her thumb lightly grazed across the design for the House of Durin. Arwen piped up, "I remember Auntie mentioned Dwalin was cousins with the king."I let out a sigh, "Yes. It brought more pressure. As my adad would say, 'Remember you would need to marry a good strong dwarf. A lord, oh Mahal a prince.' Then emel would interject and say 'Dwalin, she can marry whoever she wants. The boys can too! If they want to marry an elf or dwarf, then so be it. Oh, even if the man is of Men!' That didn't go well with adad, of course."Arwen chuckled, "He only wants what's best for you."I mumbled, "Well what's best for me is to go on with my life and travel just like emel did."Arwen took over my hair after she undid the braids. She placed the important beads to the side on a towel. Her lithe fingers massaged my scalp. I closed my eyes at the sensation. Arwen spoke up after a few moments, "You don't want to be a part of the dwarven king's court or be an ambassador like your brothers?"I lightly shook my head, "The two have a passion for such things. You can leave me in the forest and I'll be content. I am not sure what exactly I want to do with my life."I thought for a moment and snorted, "Hopefully not a princess. Imagine the responsibilities and pressure just being that!"Arwen lightly poured a bowl of water over my head. She was careful not to get the water into my face. Arwen chuckled, "If you were to look for your One, should it matter what his or your station would be?"I shrugged moving to clean Arwen's hair. My fingers massaged her scalp. With a free hand, I sprinkled some hair oils into her hair. I continued my ministrations of massaging her scalp. After a long bit of silence, Arwen thought to ask once more, "Kallan?"I blinked, "Hm?"Arwen repeated, "If he were to be your One, should it matter what his or your station would be in the end?"I tossed the idea around. I let out a defeated sigh, "I guess not. If a prince, lord or even a farmer would be my One, Eru chose him for a reason. Doesn't mean I would like the outcome."Arwen pulled away to dunk her head under the water. She surfaced shaking her head, "You're incredible."I stuck my tongue out, "Not my fault I just want to travel and live."By the time we were done, it was time for dinner. Elrond noticed the two women heading this way, "Ah nice of you two to join us. I presume your bath was satisfactory?"Daemon commented while holding his hand over his nose jokingly, "You reek!"I got close to my brother and pulled on his dwarvish ear, "Oh hush up!"Daemon childishly called out for their father, "Adad! Make her let go!"Dwalin didn't do anything but take a bite of his deer meat. I released his ear, "You're 48 years old. Act like an adult and a man."I plopped myself between Kili and Fili. Arwen took a seat on Elladan's right side. I pulled a few greens and deer meat onto my plate. I figured father went on a hunt for the deer off of uncle's lands. I complimented to father, "The deer is quite good, adad."A grunt came from him as he took in the compliment. Elrond started, "Kallan, I was asking your brother how his training was going."I raised my eyebrows. I glanced at my brother who was scarfing down more meat down his throat. I swallowed about to answer but Arwen intercepted, "Father I would like to ask Miriel and Kallan if they would like to travel with me."Elrond's eyebrow raised. Dwalin shook his head, "No. No, no, no. Kallan has lessons to attend to."I nearly groaned but Daemon piped up, "Adad it wouldn't hurt. From my understandin', Kallan have been doin' great in her lessons to be head. It would be a good break from it. I mean that's what the king did for Fili after a long time of lessons."Dwalin glanced at his long time friend who minded his own business. Thorin sipped at his ale. Fili whispered in my ear, "I'm sorry you have to go through with this."I let out a sigh. Dwalin huffed, "Fine."My eyes met my cousin's which were filled with happiness. Daemon pulled at my hair resting on my back. I leaned back to have a view of my brother. He gave a smile and a thumbs up. A small smile graced my lips as I shook my head. My brothers and cousins knew of my wants and needs. After every lesson, I would find one of them and vent to them. I like to think our father is only hard on me due to the expectations of the court and neighboring dwarf kingdoms. A head of a dwarven family should and always be a male. It's written in their biological code. I believe it had to do with the lack of females in the dwarven race. However, our mother was raised differently. The two headstrong people, mother and father, fought relentlessly on who were to take over the family affairs. Obviously, mother won. I lightly stabbed my greens and took a few bites out of it. I don't know what Arwen is trying to do but as long as I'm with the forest it shouldn't be too bad, right?

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

I drew back the string keeping a sharp eye on the target far from me. The only good thing of having elven blood is the eye sight. All three of us were blessed with vision compared to a dwarf's vision, if I must say. It's great have that as an advantage for hunting. When some of the royal court, the ones who went to reclaim Erebor, go on a hunt, they would ask one of us to join. We always find the hidden creature in the trees. A melodic deep voice caught me by surprise, "Don't miss."
I huffed releasing the arrow angling it towards the ground to ensure someone's safety, "Elladan!"
I turned around seeing the taller elven cousin with amusement on his face. Elrohir appeared on my other side placing an arm on top of my head, "So we were thinking cousin, would you like to come join us for a day's ride to the little human tavern for a couple drinks?"
Shoving his arm off of my head, I walked over to the embedded arrow pulling it from the ground. I mumbled, "Ask Daemon. I'm sure he would be over the moon for some ale."
Elrohir waved his hand side to side, "We wanted to ask you. Daemon couldn't. Your father, the ever strong dwarf he is, is keeping your brother on a tight training schedule with the princes."
Once turned around, I rolled my eyes pointing the arrow at Elrohir, "I hear the sarcasm dripping from your words. Watch what you say about my father."
Elladan gave a dirty look to his younger twin. Elladan tried to clean up the now sour mood of his cousin, "Ignore Elrohir. He had sour wine this morning. Now will you join us? It would be fun. Better than practicing your archery by yourself."
I glanced at the targets a few meters away then back at my cousins. I let out a heavy groan, "Yer're not goin' to leave me alone aren't you?"
Elladan smiled widely, "Oh you know us so well, dear cousin!"
He wrapped an arm around my shoulders pulling me to his side. I adjusted my grip on my bow, "No, yer're just like the dwarven princes. You four are supposed to be the older and wiser ones than me."
I wiggled out of my cousin's grip, "Well let me notify my father and the king of this side excursion I would be forced to go on."
Elrohir huffed, "Don't be like that. We aren't forcing you to."
I raised an eyebrow. The brothers avoided my eye contact. I shook my head, "That's what I thought. Now if you excuse me."
I headed to where I am sure the four men would be lingering about.

clink.

clink.

I rounded the corner seeing Fili having a go with my brother. I piped up, "Don't loose your footin', Daemon."
Daemon's bushy brows furrowed as he regained his concentration. He effectively blocked Fili's under swing. My father, with crossed arms, turned towards me, "Don't distract the boy."
I chuckled handing Kili's bow to Kili, "If he were to be in a battle, he cannot afford to get distracted. I'm a welcomed distraction."
A grunt came from my brother. He pushed Fili's sword off of his. He breathed out, "I've gotten better, you goblin."
I scrunched up my nose. I walked towards the two sparring. My hair fanned out when I ducked from a swipe coming from my brother. I reached for his sword wielding hand and pressed on his palm's pressure point. A clank sound was made as he dropped his sword. Before my brother officially register what happened, I twisted my grip to twist his arm behind him. I kicked my foot at his legs making him fall on to his knees. I bent down to his ear and breathed out, "Who you callin' goblin?"
I released my sibling. Our father scolded at my brother, "Be more aware of your surroundin's. An enemy could easily come up from behind ya and take ya down."
Daemon turned to glare at me. I shrugged, "He's not wrong, Dae."
Our father turned to me. His eyes hardened, "Ya interfered with his training. Yer were goin' to train later."
I could see my two elvish cousins peering around the corner. Dwalin caught the subtle switch of eyes. He turned around and saw my cousins disappearing from view. Daemon and I could hear our father clearly as he mumbled under his breath, " Those two are always a thorn in me side."
I proposed the trip to my father and king, "Adad, King Thorin. I request to head to the neighboring trading town of Men with Elrohir and Elladan. It would be during our stay here so it would not interfere with our trip back home."
Thorin looked over at his chief of guard. He knew the younger dwarf has been protective over his daughter. However, he knew what kind of capable fighter his friend's daughter is. Thorin switched his eyes over to me. He gave a friendly shoo wave, "I don't mind. The nearest town, if I recall, is about a day's trip, am I correct?"
I nodded, "Aye it is."
Dwalin stared at me then looked over at his long time friend. Their eyes met and if one were to be paying attention to the king of Erebor they would notice a subtle nod. Dwalin let out a haggard sigh, "Alright. Fine. You two!"
Two pairs of feet scrambled from the corner. Elladan playfully saluted to my father, "We will ensure her safety, Dwalin. You know we would."
I huffed crossing my arms, "I can handle myself, thank ya very much!"
Daemon grumbled, "Oh she can go on a wee trip and skip out on trainin' while I'm over here bustin'-."
Fili held out his hand for his cousin to take, "Let's start over, future chief of guard."
Daemon sent a glare my way. Daemon slapped his hand into Fili's hand. In one swift movement, Fili had Daemon on his feet. I cleared my throat, "Well I shall be headin' out with them. I'll be back in three days."
Dwalin gave a curt nod before turning to his son, "Start."
Clashing of swords replaced the silence. I headed to my two cousins, "I'll grab my pack from my room and meet you at the stairs?"
Elrohir smiled big, "Yes. We will bring the horses."

Being the oldest of the three of us, Elladan led our small group. I'm in the middle and Elrohir pulled the rear. I piped up to replace the silence, "Why the sudden trip to the trading town?"
Elrohir answered, "We were bored."
I glanced briefly behind me to see a bored looking Elrohir. I turned my head forward. I asked, "Who is goin' to pay for the room?"
Elladan teased, "You are, of course!"
I narrowed my eyes at the older twin. He laughed, "It was hard to resist. I'm teasing you. I'll be paying for the room and board."
I might regret accepting this little side trip with these two.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

My eyes stayed on my opponent's face. A small smirk graced my features, "Yer're sure ya can beat a mere woman?"My opponent gave a smirk placing his elbow on the barrel's top, "Oh I know I can, lass."My twin cousins leaned against a pillar nearby drinking two separate jugs of ale. Each of them had a knowing smirk hidden behind their ales. I flexed my fingers before placing my elbow on the barrel. Another man stood near by collecting bets on who would win. Once he finished, he went back to the two of us. He eyes the two of us, "Now I don't want any dirty dealin'. On the count of three. One."Our hands conjoined."Two."With a silent three, the two of us battled in strength. I was blessed to have the type of strength I was given. Having mixed blood gave me the advantage. Less than a minute, the man's hand was pushed down claiming me the winner. The man stood up in anger, "She cheated!"I held up my hands up in defense, "I did no such thing. I played fair just like anyone else would have."The man who collected the bets and officiated this arm wrestle looked between the two of us. My opponent kept going, "I know she cheated, Randolph! There is no such thing of a woman of Men to beat a man with brute strength!"Another voice piped up, "I'll have a go, if I may."The voice sounded of a deep melody. Not too deep like my father's. My opponent huffed, "No I want a do over!"The not so official officiant, Randolph, tore his eyes from the grumbling angered man to the owner of the voice. His brows shot up, "Jack, go get a pint. It's on me."My brows furrowed. I looked around before I found a blond heading this way. My eyes narrowed at the sight of him. He's an elf. That's why this so called Randolph pushed the other man to the side. He wants to see if I can beat an elf. The twin elves narrowed their eyes on the sight of a familiar prince. Elrohir whispered harshly to his cousin, "Kallan."I ignored my cousin's whispered calls. My previous opponent moved over to the bar grumbling. My new opponent sat in front of me. This time Elladan tried, "Kallan."A twinkle was behind the blond's blue eyes. I smirked, "Ya sure?"The blond looked amused, "Of course."He placed his elbow on the barrel. New bets were pushed around. I flicked my braid towards my back. I adjusted m y elbow on the barrel. Right when our fingers touched. My mind was sucked out of this moment and placed into another. It felt surreal.
Lithe fingers touched my face. Brown eyes met grey. A smile graced the older elf maiden's features. Her words came out soft, "You are a seer, my gwning."

Soft lips reached down and kissed my forehead. Mother pulled away with a sense of happiness, "I can help you with it. We will start with lessons tonight."
It was a few seconds but it was enough for me to lose the little match. I blinked pulling my hand away like his hand burned mine. I studied the one eyebrow raised blond. I stood up abruptly. I mumbled out, "I'm turnin' in for the night."Elrohir called my name, "Kallan!"Elladan stared down at the blond prince. The older twin didn't stop his brother who went after their cousin. Someone had to be with her when she found out she had gained her power. Elladan's lips turned into a frown, "Legolas."The blond perked up at the sound of his name. The blond shoved himself off of the chair. He studied the brunette who nursed his ale, "Elladan, am I correct?"The blond walked over to the brunette. He lowered his voice, "By the sight of your brother running after the girl, you three know each other. You three were deceiving the people here."Elladan nearly rolled his eyes, "Hardly. She never once claimed what she is. They pieced it together and came out she was of Men."Legolas glanced where the brunettes ran off to, "Guessing she is of Rivendell."Elladan moved in front of Legolas' sight, "No. She's not. Now I appreciate it if you don't have interest in her. Her parents aren't in favor of elves from Mirkwood."Legolas held up his hands in defense, "An elven girl with the guard of Lothlorien in a tavern filled with Men. It looks odd."Another voice intervened in the conversation, "Elladan."The brunette and blond turned to the exact version of the brunette. Elrohir scrunched up his nose at Legolas, "You're close to Rivendell, for what reason?"Legolas eyed the brunette before answering, "Traveling. My father allowed me to travel throughout the lands."Elrohir grabbed the prince's traveling tunic and pulled him close. His words turning into Elvish, "If you come near our lands or come near her-."The older twin unlatched his twin away from the prince. He lowered his voice, "You're causing a commotion, brother."Legolas fixed his tunic with a huff. Legolas spoke, "If you must know, I'm only near your lands to travel to Erebor. I'm going to be visiting someone from my own."The brothers looked at each other for a split second. They know they would have no say in keeping the King's caravan back. Dwarves are stubborn creatures. The only thing to make sure the prince wouldn't come near their cousin is Dwalin. Elladan wrapped an arm around his brother's shoulders, "We are done here. Safe travels, Prince."I stared at my hair beads. The deep engravings showing of my position and family reflected light. The door to our room opened and in came two hushed voice s. I piped up, "You do know I can hear you. I did inherit elven hearing."That made the two immediate close their mouths. Elladan sat down next to me on the bed. His hand rested on my knee and gave it a squeeze. He asked, "How are you feeling?"I squinted at the House of Durin bead before letting out a sigh. I mumbled, "I wish emel was here."Elrohir crossed his arms sitting on the other bed, "What you described to me sounded like a vision. You were able to tap into your power of seer."Elladan glanced at his brother before fixing his eyes on his cousin, "You know, auntie was able to talk to grandmother through mind link or something of the sort. Maybe you could try that since she is in Lothlorien."I looked between the two elves. I let out a haggard sigh falling onto my back, "How would one even do that? You two don't even have such power. How come now all the sudden I am able to tap into this so called seer power."Elladan knew his brother wouldn't speak of this as much but he thought to share it with his cousin, "Your mother had problems with her visions just about right before you were born."I turned my head on the bed and narrowed my eyes, "How is that supposed to make me feel better?"Elladan continued, "Well it had to do with your father. Your mother didn't know why her visions weren't clear till after she met her One. Elrohir and I told her it had to do with her not being able to find her One. Anyways, despite not having clear visions she was still able to have normal visions about certain things. She said she was able to see a dwarf in danger and was able to save him. I think his name was Ori."My face lit up at the sound of the name, "The King's Scribe! He was really nice. I've met him when I was a wee lass. He gave me a book to draw pr write things in for my birthday."I felt my shoulders sag down. My lips turned into a frown, "However, we have not heard from 'im and Uncle Balin in a long while. I really would like to go see them if they're still alive."Elladan quickly changed the subject, "Anyways! Your visions could have great things to it. Auntie told us, when we were younger, stories of her travels and how her visions helped her help people. Just don't take too long with finding your One. It can have repercussions just like Auntie had."I tched, "I don't need a One. I'm fine on me own! Soon I'll figure out what I want to do and I'll have a nice home of me own."Elrohir nearly rolled his eyes. He felt this is just like how their aunt acted when her visions started to get blurry. Elrohir undid his crossed arms, "To get in contact with your mother, try meditating. It might help. We've seen her do that."I sat up crossing my legs over one and the other. I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath. Slowly, I slowed my breathing and focused. I will figure out how to get in contact with mother if its the last thing I do.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

I was not able to get any sleep last night. I had no luck in contacting mother. I nursed a tankard of ale. The bartender cleaned a few glasses from the early hour rush. Elladan and Elrohir went into the trading town to pick up some supplies for their father. Someone sat onto the bar stool two down from me. I sipped on my ale in thought."Your guard is not with you this morning."I turned my head to the side glancing at the person who decided to occupy the seat. I hummed, "Hm? Guard?"The blond elf sipped on his ale, "Elladan and Elrohir, Lothlorien's guard. They were with you last night and seem protective over you."I snorted. I chugged the remainder of my ale. I corrected him, "Protective? I can handle myself on my own. The two know what I can do. I was trained by the best warrior. I am sure if I did not feel a sudden wave of sickness, I would of beaten you."The elf next to her chuckled, "I am sure. We are equal in strength as you are the same as me."I mentally thought, hardly. I tilted my head side to side, "You keep thinkin' that, blondie."An arm wrapped around my shoulders, "While we were out, we gathered the horses. We should head out."I turned my head seeing Elrohir was the owner of the arm. I pushed myself off the stool glancing at the blond who kept an interested ear and eye on us "Alright. Well blondie, when and if we meet again I want a rematch."A smirk played on the blond's lips hidden by his tankard. My cousin guided me outside where Elladan held onto all three reigns. Elrohir murmured to Elladan, "He was by her at the bar."I feel my cousins forget how much I can hear and make out. I decided against pointing out my hearing capabilities to them. Instead, I thought of why the two did not like the blond elf as much and what past the three have. I slid onto my horse's saddle. Leaning forward, I gave some loving words in Elvish and Khuzdul to my horse, "My sweet, I will treat you an apple from Uncle's apple grove."The three of us headed back on the path to Rivendell whereas the blond prince gathered his horse and supplies to head to Erebor. Despite his previous fancy with the red head, he cares for her as a friend. In her recent letter, her pregnancy with her first child has been eventful and would like comfort from an old friend.When the three of us were at Rivendell's steps, my father stood by the steps with his arms crossed. A pipe was between his lips. Elladan hopped off of his horse and clapped the brute on his shoulder, "I did mention we would bring her back in one piece, didn't we Elrohir?"The younger twin huffed. Elladan rolled his eyes at his brother. I gave the reigns to Elrohir who offered to take my horse to the stables. I fiddled with my braid heading to my father. I piped up, "Adad I think my elven power manifested."Dwalin was midway of putting his pipe back his mouth before he turned to his only daughter. His brows knitted together, "Aye? They did?"I nodded then became unsure by tilting my head side to side, "I think so."Elladan saw his brother coming up the path. He turned to the two, "I shall take my leave."With the twins gone, it was just my father and I. I released my braid before letting out a huge sigh, "It felt like a dream and it had emel in it sayin' she would train me."I huffed, "Elladan and Elrohir claim it was a vision and I was able to awaken my seer power. If I did not touch that blond elf's hand, I would not be in this confusing state."Dwalin's teeth clamped onto his pipe. His words were lightly muffled by the pipe, "Blond elf? A man? What is his name?"My lips went into a firm line, "Adad I did not deem his name important on a mere arm wrestle match. Yes a man. He did not make an effort to hide he was in fact an elf. I will not have this conversation about men as I know I can and will handle my head of family duties by myself. No dwarf, elf or man will hold me down, remember?"Dwalin puffed on his pipe while he listened to his daughter get frustrated at his questions. While his daughter was growing up to now, he made sure no man take away his baby girl. He knew the way he was acting always irritated his daughter but he cannot help it. She is a dwarven elvish woman. He felt the need to protect her. His wife would say different as if she knew something he did not. His wife, mother of his three children, did enforce their children did not need a significant other till they are ready or want one. She would not force them like her parents and family did. It worked out in the end for Dwalin and Miriel as they are happily married with three beautiful children.Dwalin blew out a ring of smoke, "We are to leave for Erebor tomorrow so get some rest. Your brother is already asleep."I gave a light bow of my head before leaving my father at the steps. On my way to my room, I found my cousins speaking to my other set of cousins. I narrowed my eyes in suspicion. I called out to my dwarven cousins, "Fili, Kili I heard we are leaving in the morning so I suggest you two get some sleep. It is a long journey from here to back home."Fili scolded me, "Why aren't you in bed?"I thrusted my thumb behind me, "I was speaking with my adad."Kili came up with a retort, "Well... Well we were talking to Elladan and Elrohir about Legolas."I knitted my brows together when I saw Fili smack his brother upside the head and the twins give him a look. I asked, "Who is Legolas?"Elladan tried to change subject, "Shouldn't you head to bed? Fili and Kili said your company will be rising early."I eyed my elven cousin before flicking my eyes to my dwarven cousins, "Who is Legolas?"Fili looked apologetic to my elven cousins before turning to me. He headed over placing his hands on each side of me, "He is an arse. He sent your mother to a cell and had your father in chains. Just because they were together."I felt my temper rise. I shoved my cousin's hands off my arms, "Who does this Legolas think he is?"Elrohir crossed his arms explaining, "The prince of Mirkwood. He was heavily influenced by his father who was a tyrant. After the five army war, he disappeared."Elladan spoke under his breath, "Until recently."Luckily for him, I did not pick up his words as I fumed. I clenched and unclenched my fists, "If I see this prince of Mirkwood I will give him a piece of my mind. He has no right to judge or anythin' to treat people like that because they were destined to be together."I turned my heel to head to my room, "I'm goin' to bed before I ruin somethin'!"Once in the safety of my room, I huffed taking off my tunic and throwing it to the side of the room. Next came my trousers and boots. I grumbled, "I don't understand why people have a problem with those who were destined to love each other. Sure, emel and adad are two different races but that should not mean anythin'!"I headed into the shared bathing room between my normal assigned room and my brothers' assigned room. I locked my brother's shared bathroom door and turned back to the bathing tub. I turned the knob releasing the water from its confinements. I undid my hair braids and placed the beads on a stool. A mirror was across the room. Slowly, i walked towards it. My eyes picked out the differences between an elf and dwarf separately comparing to my body. I mumbled, "Being two separate races would be easy but having the two mixed together, who would want such creature?"I gripped my hips seeing the amount of cushion rested there, "If people had trouble with two different races being together, what about a mixed child?"I reached up touching the sides of my cheeks feeling the smoothness. No hint of stubble growing. My hands slid down to my chest. They were decent size but not busting from the seams like a dwarven woman's. They were as small like an elf maidens. My shoulders were smaller than my hips. A few dwarven men, I overheard, commented on my body having a dwarven woman's behind but a filthy elven's top half. I stared at my body once more before turning away with a feeling of resignation. I turned off the water and slipped my body in the warm water. Body and hair oils were arranged near the bathing tub. I picked up a rose infused oil and took a deep breath in of the scent. Slowly, I released my breath. Rose scented oils helped me relax. It might be because when we were younger, Daemon shoved a rose into my face and I fell in love with the scent.
Halvor pointed to a flower bed, " Let's get Kal these!"

Daemon went ahead of his brother towards the flower bed. Daemon held out his arm to stop his brother from running over the Princess and their mother's flower garden, "Watch it! We don't need another scolding!"

Halvor stuck out his tongue. Daemon's eyes searched the flower beds. Halvor pointed to a peony, "What about this one?"
Daemon shook his head, "No, let's get a rose! Emel said good smelling flowers are good to give to girls."
Halvor scrunched up his nose. He shook his head, "I don't know about that. I would think the prettiest one would be good to give to girls."

Daemon made up his mind. He reached over to the bush and plucked a Damask white with red edges rose. Daemon gave a satisfied nod, "You can pick what you wnat but I am giving Kallan this one."

Halvor looked at his brother's choice of flower and decided to go for the biggest flower the women had. He plucked a purple sphere like spiked flower. He raked his mind for the name of it. A Blue Glow Globe Thistle, if he recalled correctly. Daemon looked at his brother's choice, "I don't know if she will like that one. Plus you took away the bees' flower!"

Halvor gestured to the whole bed of them, "They have a whole bed of them! It'll be okay."

Daemon let out a sigh, "Fine, let's go give these to her. It'll cheer her up!"

The twins searched for their older sister. Sitting on the royal steps was their sister. She rested her cheeks against her hands which were propped up on her knees. Daemon and Halvor thrusted their flower choices in their sister's face, "We got you these!"

Halvor nodded, "We hope you like them!"

I looked up seeing two different flowers in my face. I glanced over the flowers seeing my brothers' expectant faces. A small smile graced my lips, "Thank you, you two. I love them both."
Daemon saw the wounds littering over my knuckles. He pointed to them, "Did you get emel to look at those?"Halvor nudged his brother, "Emel and Adad does not know about this, remember?"
I saw a familiar dwarven woman trailing after one stocky dwarf. I breathed out, "Well now they know."

The shrill of the dwarven woman's voice trailed up the hill, "If ye do not put yer daughter in line, I will ask an audience with the King. She had no right to beat Barric like that! Ye raisin' an barbarian, Dwalin!"

My eyes started to sting. Halvor and Daemon stood in front of their sister with their arms crossed. Dwalin didn't see his children ahead. The woman continued, "This what happens when ye have a non-dwarven mother. The children don't know how to act-."

Dwalin turned his heel to the enraged mother. He felt his anger bubbling up. He growled, "Naryn, for the love of Mahal will you be quiet! My daughter does not raise her fist unless it was called for. I taught her such things. Yer son have been raggin' on her for her being a girl and from what I hear nowadays her bein' a half and half child. It's more ye need to teach yer son some manners. Miriel is a wonderful mother, more than ye'll ever be. And if yer forgettin' I am the King's Chief of Guard, I have an audience with 'im and dinner every day. Now get goin', ye she witch!"

The mother huffed and pointed her finger towards Dwalin, "Just ye wait, Dwalin son of Fundin!"

The mother of Barric turned her heel. Dwalin yelled back at her, "Oh don't worry, I'll be waitin'!"

Dwalin watched the enraged woman go down the slope. He let out a haggard sigh turned up the mountain. He finally took noticed of his children. The one in the heat of it all pushed her brothers aside with the flowers still in her hands. She ran up to her father and hugged his waist. I nuzzled my face into the comfort of the smell of pipe smoke and sweat. I mumbled, "Thank you."

Dwalin looked at his sons who gave their father a satisfied nod before looking down at his eldest. Dwalin placed a comforting hand on his eldest, "How about we go and find Uncle Thorin and train for a bit?"

I nodded into his waist. Halvor and Daemon got excited, "Oh yes!"

Daemon pointed out to their father, "Did you see the flowers we got for Kallan?"

Dwalin glanced at his daughter's hands seeing two different flowers gripped. Dwalin reached over at his sons' heads and messed up their hair, "They're good. I hope ye asked Princess Dis."

Immediately the boys' faces turned red in embarrassment. Dwalin shook his head. He picked up his daughter and placed her on his shoulder. With his free hand, he gather his twin boys, "Alright, alright.. Let's go ask her. I'm sure she be alright with it."
A light knocked on the conjoined door accompanying a voice, "Kallan?"I emerged from the water with a light gasp. The voice started again, "Kallan? Are ye okay?"I answered, "Daemon?"Daemon's voice went through the door, "I got worried when I didn't hear anythin' else."I adjusted my position in the tub. I ringed out my brunette hair. I reassured my brother, "I'm fine. I was under the water for a bit."His voice came out strong, "I heard ye earlier. A man would be near stupid to not want to be with ye."I glanced up at the ceiling. I moved the water to remove the excess oil on my arms. I spoke quietly enough Daemon could hear, "Can we not talk about this, Dae? I want to be free of such thoughts during our journey home."On the other side of the door, Daemon clenched his fist. He seen his sister go through hardships. He noticed from an early age that females and females who are mixed do not have the same rights as those of the separate races. Elven maidens are accepted among elven men. Dwarven women are rare among dwarves so they are protected by the males. Elves are slightly against an union with Men but agree to it if it is what was written. Dwarves only see themselves with a dwarven woman and if not then they are busy with their craft. Unless Mahal or any other sole maker of race, decide it to be destined like his parents, you cannot argue with it. There would be those who are against it like his parents and the company at first... Then due to circumstances, they accepted it. His parents fell in love and had three children. The company, his Uncle Elrond and his grandmother accepted the union and the children that came from it. Their grandfather is a different story. Each of them could see the distaste of dwarves and the reluctance of seeing the children. Daemon wouldn't tell anyone but he didn't like going to see his grandfather. He didn't want to see the judgement and prejudice towards him and his siblings.Daemon rested his forehead against the door. He piped up, "Well if ye need anythin' ye know I'm here."His sister's voice came through the door, "Aye, I know. Go to bed and get some rest, Dae."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Daemon didn't speak of what happened last night. I didn't bring it up again. Fili and Kili were on each side of me riding on the path. I glanced at the two of them, "What is it that you want?"
Kili leaned forward to get a glimpse of my face, "Oh nothing. We heard from the elf twins you gained your seer power. Is that right?"
Daemon overheard and exclaimed, "What! And ye didn't tell me!"
I let out a deep breath, "I don't know what it is or if it is what one would call a seer power."
Dwalin interrupted the conversation between us, "Ye got what yer mam got."
Daemon clicked his reigns forward and his pony was a little ahead of our three. Daemon turned around on the saddle, "Can ye tell me if I get to win this year's tournament for Durin's Day?"
I clicked my tongue, "That's not how that works and you know it."
Daemon's face held fake disappointment, "It was a worth to try."
I rolled my eyes. Daemon commented, "I am quite jealous of you though."
I mumbled, "Don't be."
Thorin cleared his throat, "From what yer mother done for us, ye bein' able to be a seer is a good thing. Ye can help Fili when he becomes King or whoever ye may see fit."
Fili leaned over his pony and patted my leg. I brought my attention to him and he winked. Fili piped up, "We would make a good team. And you could help me protect our people, that is if you want."
I moved a few strands of my brunette hair behind my pointed ear. I didn't know what to say or think at that moment. The boys talked among themselves. I half-listened to their words as I kept drifting to my thoughts. Thorin and my father spoke quietly between the two of them. I just want to go home and not think of my new founded power.

I adjusted my pack on my shoulder, "I'm goin' ahead."
I turned to the left of the King's Hall down a path. I slowed my pace when the flower beds came into view. I reached for the two flowers my brothers gave me that day. The two flowers do not go well together but they are still beautiful in their own way. A female voice caught my attention, "Oh, Kallan you're back. That would mean Kili is back as well."
I stood up straight seeing a familiar red head but latched to her arm was the familiar blond. I narrowed my eyes at the blond, "What are you doin' here?"
The blond's brows raised his brows, "I should ask the same for yourself but seeing you know Tauriel..."
His words started to die off on his lips. I looked between the two elves then pieced it together, "You're from the Woodland realm."
This is one of the times where I wish I had elven height. I stood on my tippy toes pointing the flowers in his face, "If I was in the mood for a rematch, I would, Blondie."
Tauriel looked between Legolas and her friend while rubbing the swell of her belly. Legolas chuckled pushing the flowers out of his face. Without thinking, he took the flowers out of my hands before he challenged myself by leaned down close to my face, "I would still win, oh all mighty."
I pulled away leaning back on the balls of my feet not thinking about my flowers. I huffed hearing him using my name's meaning, "I cannot and will not deal with you right now, Blondie. You don't know who you messin' with truly."
I moved passed the duo. I called out to Tauriel giving a little wave of a hand, "Kili should be finished with the King."
Tauriel gave her thanks.

Tauriel rounded onto her friend, "Were you just flirting with Kallan?"
Legolas shook his head, "I wouldn't have thought of it. I had an arm wrestle match with her in the trading town a half a day or so from here."
Tauriel rubbed the spot the babe kicked her at. She breathed through her nose to release the pain. Legolas asked his red headed friend, "If she had Lothlorien guard with her, what is her relationship with the twins?"
The red head slowly changed the topic, "If Kili is done with the King, do you mind walking me back to my quarters?"
Legolas' lips went into a firm line. He crossed his arms, "Tauriel."
The flowers' stems gripped tightly in his fists. Legolas felt a tug between his fists. Tauriel lightly pulled at the flowers, "I would rather you not destroy these beautiful flowers. They are Miriel and the Princess' flowers."
Legolas released the two separate flowers. His brows knitted together in confusion. He asked, "What is this Kallan's relation with Miriel? Those Twins? Let's go back to that question, Tauriel."
Tauriel looked up from the flowers to her friend. Legolas noticed his friend was hesitant so he shook his head, "Nevermind. I'll ask later. Shall I escort you to your husband now?"
Tauriel gave a light nod, "Please."
The two hooked arms together once more before heading to Tauriel and Kili's quarters. Tauriel can only think on how he can put the two together once her friend is near her family. It's not that hard to miss.

I laid on my cot with my hands behind my head. A few voices sounded inside of our little home. A knock was made against my door. I called out, "Come in!"
The door slowly opened and it revealed Fili. Fili asked, "May I step in?"
I moved to a sitting position and gestured to a spot beside me, "Aye."
Fili closed the door behind him and sat down on my cot. He looked around the room noticing a couple of swords rest to the side in a cloth, a few drawn portraits hung on the walls and a journal of some type laying on the table. A few things weren't there before since he was last here. Fili clapped his hands together to refresh his thought process, "Alright, Kallan."
I hummed, "Hmm?"
Fili's mustache wiggled side to side as he spoke, "I didn't mean to place that weight on yer shoulders earlier."
My fingers fiddled with the blanket. Fili continued, "I know you are not wanting to be held down and I understand that. When I do become King, you do not have to be at my side on the council."
I opened my mouth then closed it. My lips went into a firm line. Fili noticed the difficulty I am having. Fili let out a deep breath, "How about this... With what ever you may decide to do, it is your power. You decide what you want to do with it. I want you to feel more comfortable with this new found power."
I finally piped up, "Fili, thank you for coming by. I have been in thought since I was able to tap into this power. I do not want word to get out. I..."
Words started to die on my tongue. I tried again, "I..."
My words weren't coming together. Fili placed a hand ontop of my fiddling hands. He gave it a squeeze, "It's okay."
I gave a soft smile towards my cousin. I reached over and gave him a hug. My voice came out small, "Thank ye."
I don't want to have any word other than those close due to those around would try to take an advantage. I don't want to be used for such thing. I want to live as normal as one can.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The day still had daylight. A few of my father's guard was training on the grounds. Adad stood at the edge with his arms crossed. Halvor was beside him mimicking our father. With the dull flat side of my sheathed blade resting on my shoulder I called out to the two as I head down the path, "Mind if I join in?"
The two males of my family whipped their head to my person. Dwalin looked down at his son as he waited for what his son had to say. It was Halvor's training session, not his. Dwalin was overseeing his son's training. Basically he was there for show. Halvor undid his arms pointing to a dwarf who was recently recruited, "You, Torren I have a new challenge for ye."
The other guards paused in their mock fights to see the new cocky guard walk towards the son of the chief of guard. I arrived beside my brother with my sheathed sword resting against my neck. Torren saw myself standing next to my brother and gestured with his axe, "Want me to fight an elf? That is a bit of an height advantage, isn't it?"
Some of the senior guard chuckled. Halvor looked up at me and gestured to the training ring, "Kallan."
I smiled, "Pleasure."
I headed to the training ring, "Torren, am I right? Yer're from the Iron Hills?"
Torren eyed me, "Aye, that's right."
I unsheathed my sword tossing the cover to the side, "I don't think ye ever seen an elf as I'm not one."
Quickly, I lunged forward and he brought his axe to meet my metal. I kept trying to push his guard down, "I understand I may not look like 'im but I assure ye I am a dwarf."
I pushed his axe off of my sword. He slid a few away from his original position. He raised his axe as he gave a battle cry. He charged towards my person but I side-stepped the dwarf turning around to push my foot into his knees. Torren fell one knee to the ground. He seethed through his teeth as he twisted his upper body to give my body a swipe. I placed my sword down to guard. With myself distracted by the blade, Torren pushed himself up and knocked myself into a surprise with a tackle. His arms wrapped themselves around my hips. My back landed onto the ground. Wind was knocked out of my lungs. I may of underestimated this dwarf by his attitude.
Dwalin tried to hide his laugh. Halvor noticed Gimli and Fili entering the training hall. He called out, "The Prince is here!"
Torren pushed himself off of me. He went over where his discarded blade was and picked it up. The guard gave a light bow of their heads. Dwalin held out his hand to his daughter, "I think ye need more training if ye let an Iron Hills dwarf take you out like that."
I scoffed. I ignored my father's outstretched hand and pushed myself up. I have my pride. I gave a light bow of my head to Fili. Gimli departed from Fili and headed over to me. He clapped my back with a teasing tone, "Ye lost, eh?"
Halvor cleared his throat, "Gimli, take a group with you and start patrol at the edge of the lands. Then report back to me when you come back."
Halvor met up with the prince. Halvor asked, "What do we have the joy of your visit, Fili?"
Fili could see the irritation on his female cousin's face. Anyone who knew of her closely knew that she was cycling back in her head what of her mistakes during the mock fight. Miriel and Dwalin tried to get her not to be too swept up by it. Fili raised an eyebrow when he saw a relaxed face on her face. He could only think she shortened her cycle back of her progress.
Fili piped up, "Actually I am here for Kallan."
I raised an eyebrow. Gimli and a few of the guard already left to their ponies. Fili's mustache tails swung side to side as he spoke, "Mother asks of you to join her and Tauriel down to Dale."
I scrunched up my nose, "I hope it's not dresses. Again."
Fili laughed boisterously, "Nay, it's more of yer speed."
My eyes gave a light twinkle, "Maps and books?"
Fili nodded. He held out his arm for me to take, "I shall escort my favorite cousin to them."
Halvor overheard when he pulled away to speak with his father, "Hey!"
I chuckled, "Sorry Hal, I'm better."
I heard my brother huffed as Fili guided me towards where his mother and sister-in-law would be at.

Dis grew fond of her son's wife, however she felt like she was getting pricked by the sudden appearance of her blond friend. Out of the corner of her eye, Dis noticed her son in arms with Dwalin's only daughter. Fili released my arm, "I brought Kallan like you asked, mother."
Fili noticed one extra person to the usual female outing. He squinted his eyes, "Legolas."
When I heard the name, I turned to Fili then saw his eyesight. The conversation back with my two sets of cousins came back into my mind. I pointed a finger at the blond, "YOU!"
Legolas' brows knitted together, "Me?"
I huffed, "You're the one who locked up my emel and wouldn't let her be with her One!"
Legolas moved past his red headed friend and towered over the elf-look-a-like. His blue eyes picked out the similarities between the woman infront of him with the two people he once locked away and tortured. Fili pulled at my bicep and pulled me behind him. Fili crossed his arms. He was pulling the protective brother stance. He did the same when him and Kili were growing up and dwarves would pick on his brother for the lack of facial hair. Having dwarvish blood pumping through my veins didn't help this situation but I could hear it thunder in my ears. I called out to the blond, "What did you have against two people of different races who were meant to be together? You seem fine with Tauriel and Kili's union!"
Legolas felt his pointed ears heat up. Dis cleared her throat, "Enough. Kallan, I'm sure yer parents handled with this. Thank you my son for bringing her to me. If ye please, take Legolas with ye."
Fili glanced behind him seeing the taller than him female with her jaw clenched. Fili turned back around grabbing the elf prince's bicep, "Let's go."
Legolas allowed the dwarf prince to pull him away. Before they rounded the corner, he got one last glance at the fuming half-breed. Tauriel let out a breath, "That went better than I expected to go."
I turned to the pregnant elf, "You knew?"
Dis moved slightly in front of the elf blocking my view of the elf. Well as much as the tall for a dwarf but shorter than an elf woman can. Dis placed her hands on her hips, "Kallan. I think the one of the reasons why yer father has not kicked the prince out is because he was able to get his One and be able to have ye and yer brothers."
I scoffed mumbling, "I am sure he doesn't want to get an earful of a possible war with Mirkwood."
Tauriel heard the mumble. She bit her lip as she rubbed the swell of her stomach. Tauriel has been there in the dungeons. She knew if Miriel was here she wouldn't let it down. She would make the prince's stay miserable. Dis placed a hand on my back and Tauriel's back, "Alright let's just enjoy the rest of the day shopping. I am sure a few gowns would cheer us up."
A groan left my lips, "Fili said it was maps and books!"
Dis scolded the younger woman, "It was but after that spectacle I changed my mind. We are going to look at gowns."
I took in a deep breath to reign in my temper.

Legolas pulled away from Fili. Legolas crossed his arms, "So she's Miriel's child."
Fili glanced at the tall prince, "Aye, she is. She has both of her parents' temper, stubbornness and loyalty."
The blond prince scoffed. Fili stopped and pulled out a dagger hidden on his arsenal. Fili pointed the dagger at the tall elf, "If ye go near her and hurt her, I'll be sure to cut off yer precious hair."
Legolas stared down at the dagger . If he held it, it would look minuscule. He didn't budge from his position. Legolas placed a finger on the blade and moved it out of his direction, "Wasn't planning on it, dwarf. I wouldn't be caught near a dwarf or a half-breed such as herself. Now if I am 'allowed' I am going to head back to my quarters."
Fili couldn't help but feel the protectiveness towards his younger cousin. When she was a wee lass, him, Kili and Gimli would help protect her. There would be times she wouldn't need protecting as she handled it herself like Barric. The three older cousins had duties to attend to but they heard about it. Everyone who was close to the King's court heard about it. Also the mother of Barric wouldn't keep it down as she demanded to see Dwalin and the King about Kallan's misbehavior. Fili and Kili tried hard to keep in their laughter when the mother came with her son sporting a black eye.
Fili twirled his dagger and placed it back on himself. Fili held out a hand for the prince to take his leave, "Dinner would be at dusk."
Legolas gave a light nod and disappeared from the dwarf prince's view.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

I placed three gowns on my bed with a groan. The seamstress was finished with the alterations the next day. A knock was made at my door, "Had fun yesterday?"
I grumbled, "Oh shut up, Hal. I am not in the mood."
Halvor crossed his arms leaning against the doorway. His silver hair glistened from the sunlight shining through. Halvor took a peak at the different colors and fabrics of the gowns. He commented on them, "They look nice, ye know? It's only for formal affairs. Ye could be a princess with those gowns."
I glared at the offending clothing, "I prefer trousers and tunics. I'm a warrior. I'm an adventurer. I do not have time to wear these useless things."
Halvor rolled his eyes. He pushed himself off of the door frame, "Well clean up. Emel and Daemon should be arrivin' any time now. Adar wanted me to fetch ye."
I looked down at my outfit, "I am clean unlike someone I know!"
I moved closer to my brother and reached up with my sleeve to rub off a smudge of dirt off of his cheek. He pulled away quickly, "Oi!"
I felt my lips curl upwards, "What? Ye tell me to clean when it's ye should."
Halvor saw my sleeve covered hand come towards him again. He ducked out heading to the living area, "Stop it, ye orc!"
Dwalin was waiting for his two children at the door. He saw his soon-to-be-replacement running away from his older sister. Dwalin grunted, "Kallan."
I chuckled placing my sleeve on normally, "Alright, I'll stop."
Halvor fixed his tunic with a huff. I wrapped an arm around his shoulders, "Don't look like ye ate rotten elk."
Dwalin nearly rolled his eyes at his children's antics. He opened the door ushering his children to go first. Dwalin couldn't help but feel the weightlessness of being able to see his One again.

On the steps of Erebor stood a burly dwarf with a brunette and silver haired half-breeds on each side of him. The burly dwarf had his arms crossed. His eyes never left the horizon where his wife and other son would walk up from. I only had half the nerve to ask if my father seen the one elf who tortured him in Mirkwood while we wait. I glanced up at my father seeing how his gruff face softened. The smallest smile graced his lips. I turned to the horizon seeing my mother walking with my brother. A breath left our father, "Miriel."
The only elf out of the five of us had a large smile on her lips. Despite their ages, the elf maiden ran up to the burly dwarf and he caught her in his thick hands. He held her up while she put both of her hands on his bearded cheeks. Their lips connected. I looked away from our parents towards my brother Daemon. I moved away from my spot with a smile, "Ah, Daemon! It felt like it's been a very long while since we last seen you."
Daemon dug through his over the shoulder pack, "Oh grandmother wanted to give this to ye."
He pulled out a necklace. It had an emerald jewel. Behind the emerald jewel was her parentage houses. Half of the pendant was of House of Durin and the other half was Lothlorien's symbol. I slowly reached out for the necklace. I whispered out, "But why? My day of birth isn't in a few months."
Daemon gave a shrug. Miriel answered her daughter for him, "You developed a beautiful power and you can do what you may with what you may see fit."
I opened and closed my mouth. Halvor huffed, "Aye, Dae! She got them visions like emel."
Daemon raised an eyebrow at his older sister. Daemon asked softly, "Ye got visions now?"
I sighed nodding, "Aye."
Emel placed a hand on top of my head, "It'll become useful when you need them to. You'll get use to it gwning. I'll help you with them. It's better to not avoid them. I learned that the hard way."
Halvor rubbed his stomach, "Can we join the King for his midday feast?"
Miriel chuckled moving to her dwarvish-like son. She ran a hand through his silver locks, "Alright, alright. Let's go."
Dwalin placed an arm around his wife's waist. Daemon stayed behind with me as we followed up the steps. Daemon asked, "Do you mind me askin'?"
I stared at the jewel our grandmother had crafted for me. I hummed. Daemon took that answer as a yes. He continued, "What did you have a vision of?"
I tore my attention away from the jewel to our mother. Her head was ontop of our father's. I answered, "Emel. She knew and congratulated me on being able to develop such gift. She promised to teach me that night but I never had another contact with her."
Daemon let out a sigh, "That might be because we were busy. Some Lothlorien elves are not too happy that I would be takin' over for emel in the near future. Emel had to oversea the debate I had to take a hand in. Grandmother was there as well, of course. By the time we were able to show reason, it was nearly too late. She was worried about you but didn't want to disturb you."
I lightly stopped Daemon before entering the King's hall, "Can you put this on for me?"
Daemon reached up on the tip of his toes after he grabbed the necklace. I bundled my brunette hair off to the side so he had an easier time to clasp the metals together. I felt the cool metal rest against my skin in between my tunic's upper cut. I felt my brother go to my side peering at the new piece of jewelry. He gave a nod of appreciation. Each one of us had an appreciation for metals of any sort. Our mother jokingly said it's part of being a dwarf. She isn't wrong. We heard stories of the King's sickness and other dwarves being attracted to jewels, metals and weaponry.
I added to the previous conversation, "I needed the distraction. I apparently ran into a certain blond elf who locked emel and adar away and tortured them."
Luckily for the two, their mother was already in the bustle of the little gathering. It was the usual gathering of the company and their families. Speaking of our mother, she came back taking my hand. She had a smile on her face, "I have someone you must meet, gwning."
My brows furrowed together. Daemon was also curious on who must be new to the gathering. Everyone knew everyone. I saw a familiar blond speaking with Halvor. Our father was speaking with the King. I dug the heels of my feet into the ground hissing, "Emel."
I thought I would never see that face again. The two of us could feel a light power seep out of our mother. I swallowed at the look my mother was giving. Daemon cleared his throat, "Uh, emel who must this be?"
Miriel gave one last look to her daughter before turning to her son. She introduced them to the blond once they were in range, "Daemon, Halvor and Kallan this is the little prince elfling who locked your father in the deepest parts of the dungeon and took him away while I was recovering from dying."
The twins blinked at the new found information. I could see a teasing smile on my mother's face towards the elven prince. I pulled my hand away from my mother's grip, "I know. We met. How can you be alright with this emel?"
The four of us watched her open and closed her mouth. The older elf saw Dis speaking with her brother now which gave her the opportune moment to leave. Miriel came up with an excuse, "Ah, there's the Princess of Erebor, Dis. I remember her telling me to come greet her as soon as possible. Now if you excuse me. Also gwning you shall sit next to Legolas."
The older elf left her children with the other elf. Halvor and Daemon watched Miriel walk across the hall to the King and the princess. Halvor brought it up, "That was a lie."
Daemon agreed, "She knows somethin' we don't."
I took a glance at the blond elf who met my sight. I narrowed my eyes. Halvor and Daemon crossed their arms turning to the blond elf. Halvor thrust his thumb towards his two siblings, "Ye got somethin' against a dwarf and an elf, eh?"
It would be suicide to claim hatred towards dwarves in a dwarven kingdom, Legolas knew that. One could say he tolerates them. He didn't persay like them nor did not like them. From what he heard from his father, King Thorin returned his mother's jewels. The words that came form Miriel all those years ago stuck to him. He didn't believe it of a dwarf becoming his best friend. He would also be lying if he didn't travel the lands to see if he could find this elleth she speaks of. It wasn't his main purpose, more of a side quest. If he found her then he shall count his blessings but if not then he had the whole eternity to find her.
Legolas noticed the frowns on the three half-breeds' faces. He finally answered, "I have nothing against it. Manwë and Varda saw your father and mother to have a union. They saw some form of greatness with their union."
Legolas could now see the traits of Dwalin and Miriel in each of their children. One, if he recalled right Halvor, looked like a silver haired dwarf. Whereas the other two took upon more of an elvish appearance. I moved closer to Legolas. I stood on the tip of my toes poking his chest with my finger, "Emel may of seem to be on great terms with you but you can count me out. I rather die in a troll cave than be near you."
I turned my heel to head to the table. I spoke with Gimli who would've been on my left if he could switch seats with me. I would be sitting inbetween Bofur and Gimli instead. Legolas studied the half-elleth's movements as she interacted with the company. Daemon piped up, "When she says somethin', she sticks to her word."
Halvor nodded, "Aye, ye won't bee seein' her much of anymore other than at gatherin's which is a good thing."
Daemon continued, "I'm sure Halvor have been trained with our adar about such situations as this like I am with our emel. Kallan, however, have not. We would like to hear both sides of the story before comin' to a conclusion."
Halvor undid his arms, "Aye but that don't mean we like ye. We really don't. Now if ye excuse us, foods a' callin'."
Daemon felt the rumble of his stomach. Despite looking more of an elf, Daemon inherited the dwarven hunger. He has better control than his brother but they each could pack an elk or two in. Legolas' lips went into a firm line. He moved from his spot while processing the new information about the House of Durin's half-breeds. Tauriel whispered to him, "Are you okay, Legolas?"
Legolas took a sip of mead, "Just curious."
Tauriel raised an eyebrow at his words. She said nothing else of it.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Dwalin sipped on his tankard of ale. He watched his wife packing a pack for their eldest daughter. His brow raised, "And yer sendin' our daughter on a trip, why?"Miriel folded tunics and trousers in a cloth sack, "I have my reasons, Dwalin."Dwalin pointed a finger to his wife with his tankard still in his hand, "She's only 58 years old. She's too young to wander off."Miriel avoided her husband's stare. She continued adding items into the bag, "Kallan is old enough. She will have Daemon. Daemon wanted to take a trip to the neighboring elven cities. I mentioned to bring Kallan with him on his visits. He agreed to it."The burly dwarf squinted his eyes at his wife. Miriel finished packing her daughter's bag, "There, she is all set."She turned to her husband who sipped on his ale. Her hand on her hip, "What? I think this would be great for her. Plus, I rather have her be with Daemon. I feel he is ready to be on his own for diplomatic trips however, he is still very young to travel alone. I do not see you go up at arms about Daemon going 'alone'."Dwalin grunted, "Tha' different. I know for a fact ye would have me extend some guards to travel with him."Miriel headed over to him. He placed his tankard on the eating table. She ran a hand through her husband's beard. His thick hands made their place on his wife's hips. Miriel's thumbs lightly grazed over his cheeks. She commented on him being against the idea, "I think you don't want your baby girl venturing out into the world. Maybe you don't want her to meet her One or be around the elven men."Dwalin pressed his thumbs into his wife's hips. His thumbs rubbed in circles. Dwalin huffed, "I want her to meet her One. I don't want her to meet him now if he is of elven folk. She's too young."The elven maiden pulled away from her husband. She rubbed her arms letting out a soft sigh, "Well I have some unfortunate news."Dwalin's bushy brows knitted together. Dwalin tapped his fingers on the family home's eating table. His lips went into a firm line as he spoke, "Let me guess. She already met her One."Miriel took a peek towards him behind her fallen strands of hair. Miriel nodded, "Yes. She has."Dwalin waved his hand to gesture her to continue, "Go on. Who is he?"She bit her lip. Miriel reached up to toy with her married family's coat of arms bead in her hair. Dwalin watched his wife open and close her mouth as she thought over her words. She started, "Well he is-."The door of their home opened revealing their son, Halvor. Miriel asked him, "Weren't you supposed to be on patrol detail, Halvor?"Halvor walked past his mother to his sister's room. He fetched his sister's blade. Once he came back out of the room he answered, "Aye, I am. I'm bringin' Kallan. That blond elf, Legolas keeps appearin' where she is. Kallan feels he's doin' it on purpose. She looked like she was thinkin' of his murder."Dwalin's jaw clenched. He was close finding out who his daughter's One is. Dwalin grunted, "Well, let her-."Miriel cleared her throat stopping her husband's sentence. Dwalin turned his attention to his wife. She knew Dwalin does not like the blond elf. He didn't understand how she could be so forgiving to that elf over what he have done to the both of them. Halvor looked between his parents. He could see his parents having a silent stare down. Halvor's mother broke away turning to her silver haired child, "Well then be safe, gwinig. I am sure after an afternoon of patrol would keep her mind off of the prince."Halvor gave a curt nod before heading out. Dwalin tapped his fingers against their eating table. His eyes haven't left his wife's person. He asked her, "What was that?"Miriel curled her hair behind her pointed ear. She asked him, "What was what?"Dwalin gestured to her then to the door where their son left out of, "That. Ye are defendin' that princely trash."She pursed her lips. She took in a deep breath. Miriel thought instead of beating around the idea of Legolas being their daughter's One she should just rip it off like getting stitching off a freshly made wound. Miriel moved close to her husband. She knew the dwarf would not like it one bit. Dwalin waited for his wife to answer to her strange ways.Finally she told him explaining along with the answer, "Legolas is her One. I... I have seen it while I was still with child during Smaug's attack. He stopped me in my tracks when the vision came. He called her meleth. She hated it, of course but the vision felt... The exact same when I had visions of us. Warmth, safe and loved. That was the last vision I had of the two."Dwalin's fist slammed on the table. The tankard wobbled before falling to the ground. The remaining ale spilled on the stone floor. Miriel slowly backed away from her husband to allow the anger seep out of him. Dwalin rubbed his face in order to help calm down. His thick index and middle fingers scratched at his beard in frustration. While he was calming down, Miriel went and picked up the tankard. Dwalin lightly grabbed his wife's hand pulling the tankard away. He spoke softly breathing through his nose, "I'm sorry for doin' that. I would ask if ye sure but yer visions don't lie. They never did. It's not like I can prevent somethin' as life changin' as that but don't expect me to be nice to that elf."The corner of her lips curled upward, "I wasn't expecting you too, meleth. I am not too happy about it when I found out but after all these years of not finding my One and then rejecting the idea I do not want that to happen to our daughter. I want to her to live a long, happy and healthy life."Dwalin moved to go put the tankard into the washing pot. Miriel went to one of the closets pulling out a long cloth. He cleaned the dishes as she cleaned the floor. The two stayed in a comfortable silence. Dwalin had many thoughts swirl around his head about his daughter and the new found One business. Miriel moved behind her husband and gave a small peck to his cheek. She piped up softly, "I am sorry for not telling you all these years. I had no idea when she would meet the prince."Dwalin used a cloth to dry the newly washed dishes. He grunted in response. Miriel lightly tugged on a braid of his in his beard, "From my understanding, Kallan and Legolas cannot stand each other right now. So we both have that going for us right now. When the time comes for the two to realize they were destined to be together, we shall be supportive. Our creators chose the two to spend the rest of their life together like they have for us."Dwalin finished up drying the dishes before he turned around. His thick hands found themselves on his wife's hips. Dwalin grumbled, "Fine."Miriel leaned down giving her husband a soft kiss. Once she pulled away, "Since the children are busy, would you want to retire to our bedroom?"Dwalin's lips turned into a smirk, "Amrâlimê."I pulled my horse beside my brother's. His guard flanked the siblings. Halvor side-ways glanced towards his sister. He could see her jaw clench and unclench. Halvor spoke up, "Ye know ye need to calm down."I turned to my brother, " I am calm."Halvor loosened his grip on his pony's reins. He ran his fingers through his pony's mane, "Oh I can see that. Yer jaw is wound up tighter than Bofur's toy soldier. What's eatin' ye?"I scoffed, "You know why. Every where I go, he's there. That damned blond elf. I do not know how emel can act so..."Halvor briefly glanced at his guards. The guards seemed to look like they're not listening but he knew better. Once they get a whiff of something juicy to spread, they will spread it to their Ones or friends. It is a never ending gossip. He would have to make this conversation have as little detail as possible. Luckily for the siblings, the dwarven guard do not know elvish. Halvor switched to their mother's native language, "Maybe because emel sees something else in the prince. A redemption, perhaps. It was before each of our times, so why must you be angry towards him when our parents seem okay around him?"
"Those who are against with two different races being together when its our gods will are revolting."
Halvor pointed out, "That is true however if you remember in one of the many stories emel have told us... She could see the prince's father's hatred flow through him. The King lived a long time and forgot how to forgive for something that was out of either races' hands."I huffed. I remember the childhood stories well. I overheard our parents speak to the others about the jewels of Thranduil and what would be a wise decision. Mother was able to convince and see the logic of handing over the elven kingdom's jewels to the King. 'Course the King of Erebor found it would be helpful to strengthen their dwarven ties with the elves. After a month of cleaning and fixing the jewels, he invited the King of Mirkwood to his kingdom.
I hid behind my father's legs as an ethereal looking King walked towards the throne room. He was an elf I could tell due to how he walks and dresses himself just like my grandmother. I peered around my father's left leg when all I could see is the king's back. His blond hair flowed down beautifully. It shined just like mother's. I reached up and tugged on my father's tunic. He glanced down with a hum. I asked, "Who is that?"

My father guided me towards the throne room with a gentle push. He answered, "That's a question for your mother. Now let's head inside. We must make sure yer mam is on time to see Oin."

I felt a rush of excitement pulse through me as we walked through the doors, "It's a baby sister! I just know it , papa."

Dwalin placed a hand ontop of my head. The occupants of the throne room quieted down when they heard my outburst. I felt eyes on me and I immediately hid behind my father. I saw the bluest eyes on me. My mother cleared her throat, "Oh, King Thranduil you have not met my daughter."

I saw my mother held out her hand for me to grab. I buried my head into my father's pant leg. Dwalin couldn't help but feel light pride of his daughter not wanting anything to do with the wicked king. My mother introduced me, "Her name is Kallan. Sorry about that, she is wary over strangers."

The King commented, "Like one should be."

My mother turned to the King under the mountain, "It seems I must make it to my appointment with Oin. If I may, may I be excused?"

Thorin nodded. My mother met with my father and I down the first flight of steps. I moved myself between my parents as they started to head out of the throne room.

I could hear the voices of the two kings.
It took mother a long time to convince to hand over the jewels to the elven king. I scoffed mumbling, "Still doesn't excuse it, Halvor."Halvor let out a deep breath. His brother and him had to be taught to be reasonable. Halvor knew what happened in the past does not constitute it was a right thing to do. However, whenever they visit their grandparents or just Halvor visiting with his mother for diplomat reasons, they never see their grandfather. Their grandmother always greet them with a smile and happiness by herself. He knew their grandfather is family but it doesn't excuse it for something that cannot be changed. When his mother and himself visited months ago to Mirkwood, he saw a change within the King. The root of the prince's hatred. He's not sure if he should tell his sister about it.I rubbed my stomach to push down the feeling of nausea. My heart started to race earlier and it didn't feel comfortable. I clenched my hands around my horse's reigns. I do not like this feeling and wish for it to go away. I am sure I caught something when I went down to Dale. That could only be the only explanation.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Miriel was seriously thinking of shipping her daughter and son off to Mirkwood right now. Her daughter and the prince of Mirkwood, both are giving Miriel a headache. If the elven maiden brought it up to her husband, she was sure the dwarven chief of guard would grab the tall elf and throw his butt across the lands.
Tauriel gently rubbed the swell of her belly keeping an eye on her only elven friend in the dwarven kingdom. Miriel rubbed her temples mumbling in Khuzudul, "I am going to throw my own child and her One out and have them figure things out."
Miriel was lucky for the younger elf not knowing the dwarven language. If she slipped that Legolas was her daughter's One... Who knows how trail of events would lead. It was going to be a given that her husband would know of their daughter's One. However add one of their sons into the mix... One who tells the other everything and vice versa. It would surprise Miriel if her other son doesn't know yet.
Tauriel cleared her throat, "I'm going to pretend I know what you said and agree. Or should I disagree?"
Miriel's lips quirked upward, "I think you should say you agree. Anyways, I think I am going to send my son and his little band out to Mirkwood a day early."
Tauriel was about to open her mouth to object but Miriel waved her hand dismissively, "Don't worry. I'll send a hawk to the King explaining on why. After all these years, he soften up slightly. Especially towards Kallan, a mother can see that. If I bring up her, he will be alright with the new arrangements."
The red head raised an eyebrow. The only time she seen the king 'soften' was having to do with his own son. The door to the silver haired elf's home was busted open. If it wasn't for the hearing of the two elves, they would've jumped.
"Kall, come now. Will ye just hold it right there?"
Miriel saw her daughter passed the two women with her hands clenched. Right behind her was Daemon, the ever diplomatic one.
The two older elven women glanced down the hall seeing Daemon at the door of his older sister's room.

I held my pack behind me against my shoulder, "I think we should leave tonight. I cannot stay here any second longer, Daemon. I am sure his majesty would understand."
Daemon huffed, "It doesn't work like that, Kallan. Ye know it."
I pointed a finger towards my brother's face, "Doesn't mean we gonna follow it, aye? All ye have to do is gather the guards Halvor is willin' to lend us and head off. If ye really want to, we can go extra slow but we are leavin' today. Right now."
A clear of throat caught the two's attention. Their mother was now standing with her arms crossed her chest, "What are you two doing?"
The two of us looked between the two women who we just noticed. I readjusted my grip on my pack and pushed past Daemon, "Daemon decided it would be best for us to leave right now to Mirkwood. And of course we will visit uncle and grandmother once we are done."
Daemon interjected, "I did not! Emel, Kallan is only wantin' to go early due to that blond prince. As ye and I know, we cannot simply barge-."
Miriel held up a hand to stop him, "It's alright just this once, Daemon. I'll send a letter to the king for a change of plans. If he seem to be 'not in the mood' for visitors, I'll take the blame as I'm the one sending you on your first solo trip. Now go on and get your provisions and everything in order."
Daemon's jaw seemed to unhinge. I let out a relieved breath, "Thank you, emel. "
I headed over and gave her a kiss on the cheek. Daemon watched his sister leave the cabin. Daemon took a deep breath before mumbling, "I swear to Mahal and everything above I am going to need strength."
Tauriel nearly had to hold in her giggle. Daemon mumbled, "I guess I have to go and pack."
Daemon turned his heel and went to his bedroom.
Tauriel piped up once the boy was gone, "I am guessing it has to do with Kallan and Legolas."
Miriel rolled her head to the side giving the red head a look. Tauriel covered her mouth as she released a giggle.

I called out to my brother with a big smile, "Halvor! About those guards, you were goin' to lend to Daemon and I. We are goin' to need them now actually. We are leavin'."
Dwalin, who had his back against the wall and arms crossed, knitted his brows. Halvor turned to his older sister, "What? I thought ye cannot barge-."
I interrupted, "Emel is goin' to write to the king of the new arrangements. She said it would be okay just this once. Daemon has to pack."
Dwalin pushed himself off of the wall to add himself to his children's conversation, "What do ye mean ye leavin'?"
I answered our father, "I uhm... I told Daemon we need to head on early."
Dwalin eyed his daughter, "Why?"
I stood up straight knowing he started to be the interrogator, "I thought the faster we can get through Mirkwood and its dealings we can head to Lotheriel. I have many questions about the power I gained that emel does not know. Of course, the faster we can get things done, the faster we can be home."
I hope he doesn't see through the half-lie. Dwalin studied his daughter. He could feel the lie coming through but he placed in his mind that the faster his children would go through this journey the faster they would be home. Halvor squinted his eyes at his sister. He knew what was wrong with his sister. Daemon wasn't the quiet one about it. However, neither was she. When he wasn't with his full guard, he was with one during the change of guards. He could hear the two go back and forth about Legolas. He wouldn't be surprised if the royal court or anyone else hear what has been going on.
Dwalin gave a curt nod, "Okay. Halvor."
Halvor gave a nod in response before turning to his guard, "Alright! Those who I assigned to be diplomatic protective detail, get yer things ready. Apparently yer're leavin' right now."
A few guards paused their sparring before leaving the rings. I hugged Halvor, "Oh thank you for lendin' some of your guard, Hal."
Halvor grumbled, "Emel and adar wouldn't let ye nor Daemon travel alone so I had to."
I nearly rolled my eyes at the protectiveness. Dwalin cleared his throat, "Be safe out there, Kallan. If trouble seem to come, let the guards pro-."
I interrupted my father, "Let the guards protect me, aye aye. I'm not the wee lass I used to be, adar."
Dwalin huffed. I moved away from Halvor and gave our father a hug. I felt him undo his arms placing his arms around my upper torso. Dwalin leaned up and gave a kiss to his daughter's cheek. Of course, I leaned down slightly to help him out. He used to be a taller dwarf but age got to him. He shrunk. He would not admit it though. I pulled away, "I should gather the ponies for us. I will see you two later when we get back."
The two males watched the soon to be head of the house disappear to the stables. Dwalin grunted, "Good. Glad she gettin' away from that princelin'."
Halvor's brows rose as to say wait what excuse me. Dwalin noticed his son's look. He patted his son's back, "Continue the trainin', Halvor."
Halvor nearly grunted at the force but turned to his guard. Halvor cleared his throat before calling out to his guard, "Continue!"
Immediately the training room was filled with grunts.

I already saddled my pony and started to brush their hair out. Soon the guard and me brother would join me. I hope the blond wouldn't find her like he has been by 'accident'.

Miriel asked Tauriel to keep the prince occupied by asking to head to Dale. Miriel didn't want her daughter and the prince to run into each other. At least for now. Like she thought of earlier, she really will toss the two of them out of the kingdom and deal with it on their own. For now, they need to be separated at least till Miriel decide to give the proper nudge.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Fire crackled sending tiny embers into the dark sky. Daemon sharpened his blade. His grandmother had the blade to be made with Lothlorien metal. She told him it suited for him as he is liaison for Erebor dwarves and any Elven kingdom who are willing to create ties with the dwarves. I leaned against a tree with one knee up. An arm laid on top of my knee. I had some of the guard on first watch while the others on sleeping duty. The same weightlessness bubbled up inside of me. A groan left my lips as I laid my head against the bark. Daemon glanced up from his blade briefly towards his sister. His eyes went back down to his blade, "What's eatin' ya?"I scoffed closing my eyes, "It's nothin'."The sounds of sharpening stopped then the light sheath sound of his blade. Daemon moved from his seat to grab a bowl of stew, "I find that hard to believe."I cracked an eye open, "No, it's not."He pointed with his spoon towards me, "That's a look of discomfort, am I wrong? Just tell me. The lads are asleep and the first watch are too far for their hearing. Now spill it."I pushed myself off the bark to lean forward. My arms wrapped around my legs. It did nothing to the weightlessness. I spoke softly, "I just feel like I'm weighed nothing and it could carry me up."Daemon paused mid-way of his spoon to his mouth. His eyes flicked over studying his sister's body language. He placed his spoon back in the bowl. He looked around before getting up from his spot. He sat down next to me. His voice dropped, "Do ye think... ye know?"He tapped his heart. I gave him a weird look and shoved him lightly, "No, I doubt it."Daemon balanced his bowl from spilling from that 'light' shove. Daemon huffed, "Watch it! That's me food yer threatin'."I rolled my eyes, "There's more. We made too much, remember?"Daemon coddled his bowl, "No food shall go to waste. But really Kallan, have ye thought maybe just maybe ye came across yer One?"I shook my head, "No. No I have not nor have I came across such person. We both know no sane person of any species would want a half-and-half. Ye heard how people were against emel and adar's relationship and marriage. There are too many of those who think we shouldn't exist."Daemon's fingers clenched around his bowl, "Aye, there may be some but ye shouldn't let a thing like that stand in yer way. Do ye remember what mam said?"I rested my chin on my arm mumbling, "If one rejects their One, they'll be dead or ill. More likely dead. So try to move past differences and accept who Mahal, Manwë and Varda destined us to be with."Sipping on his stew, he hummed. I turned my head so my cheek was now on top of my knee. I watched my brother slurp up the stew. I scrunched up my nose, "Must you be disgusting?"He was about to speak with a mouth full of beef but I stopped him with a warning tone, "Don't you dare, Daemon. Swallow that piece of beef."Daemon closed his mouth and swallowed. He retorted now his mouth free of food, "Must ye be-."I straightened up with pursed lips, "Finish that sentence, Daemon."My brother scooped up the remaining stew and shoved into his mouth. I could hear him grumble but couldn't make out the words. I rolled my eyes at his childish antics. I leaned back against the bark. I mumbled, "I'm going to sleep. Make sure the second watch goes out on time."Daemon gave a two finger salute mockingly, "Aye, aye."A deep breath slowly left out of my nose in irritation. I moved my cloak above my shoulder.The little company of dwarves along with three elves and one hybrid sat along the royal table. Miriel took the chance to speak to the blond elf prince who was one seat away across from her. Miriel cleared her throat moving her green leaves around on her plate, "Legolas, do you remember back in Laketown before the dragon?"Legolas stopped his sentence with Tauriel, "I beg your pardon?"Miriel repeated herself, "The talk of how I knew but didn't know of your One."Halvor glanced at his mother in curiosity. Tauriel was interested from the start of the interruption. Dwalin's ear twitched at the sound of his wife's voice but he was speaking to Fili and Kili about the guard's training and their future plans of travel to take note. Miriel glanced up from her greens seeing the blond elf took interest in her words. Miriel continued twisting the truth, "Well, on my last journey to your father's lands I got to know an elleth of the same physical description as the elleth in my vision... She is from Lothlorien."Legolas felt his heart catch at the thought. Legolas leaned forward as if the two of them were old elves gossiping, "Go on."Miriel felt a twitch of her lip go upward, "She is of brunette hair. Blue eyes like a summer sky. A fighter she may be. Shorter than most but height doesn't effect her."Dwalin's attention turned to his wife as he heard his wife start to describe their daughter. Dwalin felt his jaw clench at the thought of this elf near his eldest. Miriel thought a nudge might be great for the two. Legolas tried to casually ask, "Where may I find her?"Miriel took a bite of her green leaves. Lucky for the two elves, only Dwalin, Halvor, Tauriel and Kili are paying attention. Miriel took in a breath, "If I were to tell you more than what I have..."She purposely let her words die. Miriel felt her husband's hand give her hand a squeeze. She glanced over at her husband who gave her a warning look. She tore her sight away from her husband to glance at Legolas who seem to be in thought. The seer placed her eating utensil down, "My King, if I may retire for the night?"Thorin was about to answer but Dwalin was quick to add in, "If I may as well, Thorin."The King under the mountain looked between the two of his friends before nodding with knitted brows, "Go ahead."The couple stood and headed out of the hall. Once the two were out of ear shot, Dwalin turned to his wife, "What. Are. Ye. Doin'?"Miriel let out a sigh running a few fingers through her hair, "I was simply giving the two a nudge."Dwalin crossed his large arms, "A nudge? A nudge for my daughter to be with some elf pest of a prince!"Miriel rounded towards Dwalin, "Your daughter? She is our daughter. I rather not have our daughter be in a similar situation we once were in! I almost died back then, Dwalin. You were in pain and who may have been dying as well. I understand your hatred for that prince as I have it as well but I rather our daughter live long and happy."A third voice entered into the small hallway towards the outer homes of the distant royal family, "Kallan's One is that elf?"The parents of three turned towards the voice. Dwalin nearly cursed outloud at the sight. He nearly forgot the time of early rise in the morning for training. Miriel breathed out her second youngest's name, "Halvor. You came back as well."Halvor caught up with his parents. He thrust a thumb towards the dining hall, "Kallan hates him."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Halvor watched his- no not yet- his father's guard duel against each other. His hands were laced behind his back. He called out to one of the younger dwarves, "Kelvar, adjust your handle on your blade. Ye'll grow tired in a fight."
Kelvar and his sparring partner paused so he can fix his handle on his blade. None of the dwarves heard the light footsteps entering the training hall. Halvor tilted his head to the side slightly when he heard the footsteps come closer. His eye caught blond. He tore his sideway glance away to look back at his father's men. The blond's presence stopped beside the young dwarf hybrid. Halvor asked, "What can I do fer ye?"
Legolas crossed his arms, "Are you a seer? Just like your mother?"
Halvor snorted, "Nay, but if I was it doesn't work like that. Ye should know that."
The tall blond elf's eyes scanned the dwarven guard. Halvor asked the elf prince, "Is this about what me emel said last night? If yer're tryin' to get information from me then yer're barkin' up the wrong tree. I don't know anythin' and if I did-."
Legolas interrupted with a huff, "You wouldn't tell me. I thought she would-."
It was Halvor's turn to interrupt. He licked his lips, "It's not a dinner topic. If ye haven't noticed me adad doesn't particularly like ye. So I suggest keepin' to yerself when it involves me emel."
Halvor mentally thought of his sister as well. Halvor called out to the guard, "Pause! It's time for group A to patrol the perimeter of the kingdom. Group B, ye'll be the King's guard for the day till group C comes in to take over."
A series of 'Ayes' came from the guard before leaving the training area. Halvor turned to the blond elf, "Now if ye excuse me, I have to report to the royal table."
Legolas watched the stocky version of Miriel head out. Legolas pressed his lips together. His mind wandered to who can be his One and how he could find her. If the son of the silver haired elf and brown haired dwarf was heading to the royal table, then it must be a meeting only the heads of each area with the royal members. Legolas scanned the area once more before leaving in frustration. He shall find his red headed friend.

Tauriel's eyes went back and forth. Legolas rubbed his smooth chin as he paced. Tauriel rubbed her swollen belly, "You need to rest your mind, Legolas."
Legolas paused mid-step looking over at his seated friend, "If you were given information on your One but you don't know more than a description of their One... Wouldn't it drive you insane?"
Tauriel pressed her lips together. Legolas went back to his pace. The blond waved his pointed finger up and down in thought, "If I were to go to Lothlorien, maybe it would-."
Tauriel nearly rolled her eyes, "Prince Leoglas, stop that thought right now. You aren't going to Lothlorien to see which brunette elleth may be your One. Lady Galadriel's lands have as many elleth as your father's lands."
The blond snapped his fingers, "Miriel said she met the elleth on my father's lands. It can be possible she could still be on those lands."
Tauriel let out a light groan, "I wish she didn't speak a breath of your One if this is the way you're going to be. Now it's an off chance she would still be there. You, the prince of Mirkwood, aren't even there."
Legolas kept his mouth shut about how his father's captain of the guard is here married to a dwarven prince. It would bring out the elleth's anger. Tauriel pushed herself out of her seat, "I suggest you visit the King."
Legolas nearly sneered, "What would the dwarven King know that he already found out last night like everyone else had?"
Tauriel lightly pushed the prince out of her and her husband's living quarters, "I mean the King of Mirkwood. Your father. I am sure you haven't visited him in years. I would think he would like to know about his son's discovery of his son's One."
Legolas scoffed, "I do not think-."
Tauriel interrupted him, "Your father cares about you. Any Mirkwood elf could see that even all those years ago. Now get your pack ready for your journey back home."
Before Legolas could get a word, Tauriel shut the door behind him. Legolas' jaw tensed up. He could try Miriel again.

The blond leaned against the outer wall beside the mountain's gates. He found he couldn't find the silver haired elleth anywhere in the mountain. Laughter caught his ears. A familiar silver haired elleth headed up the stairs towards the mountain's gates with the princess of Erebor. Legolas held back the scrunch of his nose when the two women caught sight of the blond elf. Miriel piped up once they were within speaking range, "Oh, princeling. This is a surprise."
Dis gave the female elf a small squeeze to her shoulder, "I'll see ye tonight, Miriel."
Miriel gave a smile towards the princess, "I promise I won't tell him."
Dis chuckled, "Oh don't. He'll kill me for tellin' ye."
Miriel winked before Dis headed through the mountain's gates. Miriel turned her attention to the brooding prince. The older elf crossed her arms, "You're not out here to watch the sunset. You were waiting for me. The only reason for you to search for me is about the information I gave you last night."
Miriel started to walk, "Let's go on a walk through the garden the Princess and I cultivated."
The silver haired elf turned her heel to go down the steps. Legolas pushed himself off the wall to follow the elleth. The two stayed silent. Once the two reached the garden, Miriel bent down to the floral bushes. The floral scent spiraled upwards bringing a sweet smell. Legolas couldn't take it anymore. He broke the silence, "Miriel, are you going to tell me anymore about my One? I feel I have the right to know."
Miriel didn't stop smelling the floral bushes as she continued to pass each one. She reminded him, "Careful, I cannot give too much information. I can tell this is tearing you from the inside. I cannot give you her name or her lineage. I can however give you her known location."
Legolas' ears perked up at that small tidbit. He nearly acted rash but he caught himself. Miriel glanced out of the corner of her eye to see the blond trying to hold back. Mirel turned out of his sight with a small smirk on her face. Her lithe finger tips brushed against the petals. Her voice cleared, "Well she's in Mirkwood if you would like to know. The elleth would be staying there for a few days before heading back to Lothlorien. She spoke of this trip when I met her a time ago."
Legolas took Miriel's words as a mental note. He breathed out, "I should visit my father."
Miriel tilted her head to the side, "Your father? I was thinking you were thinking of going to your lands to see if you can find your One."
Legolas corrected her, "No. No, I am going to visit my father. I should prepare my pack."
Miriel nearly rolled her eyes at the young prince, "I should warn you she can be a fiery elleth. If you do happen to find her, do not approach with the word of ' I'm your One.' I can tell you she will not accept it. To prevent your and her demise, do not mention or approach her till it's time. It has to be at the right time."
Legolas sneered, "I don't need advice from a dwarf lover."
Miriel turned around. Her pointed finger jabbed his chest, "I have you know I will not tolerate you for treating my family and I like we are garbage. You will not treat me as such after I exchange you her location."
He stared down the elleth. She did not back down from his staredown. Legolas tched looking away, "Fine."
Miriel added, "You will continue to treat my family and I with respect. Now I am going to retire to my quarters. Enjoy your night, princeling."
The silver haired elf pushed past the taller elf to head back inside. Legolas' jaw tensed.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Seeing the sunrise, especially when you're on a journey, is incredible. Footsteps came from the camp to my location. I didn't dare to remove myself away from the sight of the sun rising. A gruff voice cleared their throat, "Kallan, Daemon wanted me to find ye to tell ye we are packin' up the camp and we should be headin' into the woods by midday."
I pushed myself off the boulder I found with great height. I gave a nod, "Thank ye, Gavil. Let's head back, shall we?"
The two of us headed back to the camp. Gavil immediately helped his guard brothers with packing the ponies. I found my brother rolling his bed roll, "I hope the King is in a kind mood."
Daemon snorted, "When is he? Matters not, emel wanted me to speak with him about our trade routes."
I scrunched up my nose taking the pack from his hands, "That might take days from the King's track record."
Daemon adjusted his blade to his side. He winked, "Not with me. I've gained his good side. Emel was impressed."
I shook my head, "This time, she isn't with ye. He might treat ye different now ye're doin' stuff by yerself."
My brother headed to his pony with a shrug, "Only time will tell."

Despite telling Miriel he was going to see his father, he felt the light need of wanting to go to his father's lands without stopping. He knew it was possible but if he didn't rest before calling an audience with his father he would be of the walking dead. Legolas wasn't surprised how long it took before his body decided he needed to rest. He was a little bit mid-way towards the woods. He could only think of the thought of the description of his One. His heart beat with excitement. The one elleth he thought and hoped was his One turned to find her One with a dwarven prince. He only heard stories from his own emel about how his father and her met and finally acknowledge each other as Ones. Legolas kept it to himself but he hoped his One would be like his mother who was caring but knew when to put her foot down especially when it came to important matters. The blond elf lightly slid off of his horse and pulled his pack from the horse's back. He placed his pack down by the tree trunk. Legolas gave his horse a handful of oats, "Wander but stay close, my friend."
Legolas turned to his pack. He got the area ready for temporary living. Tauriel was kind enough to give the prince some lembas bread for his journey home. He had gave his word to his friend that he would be there for the birth of her first born. By the healer's words, she wouldn't give birth till the following year. His lips pressed together at the thought of his One. Going back onto the seer's words, she was of brunette hair, short stature with the bluest eyes around. She shouldn't be hard to find, would it?

The two half breeds stood as an audience to the King of Mirkwood. I kept my eyes on the elegant elven king. He had his hands behind his back. Daemon piped up, "Thank you, yer majesty for allowing us to stay within yer walls. I look forward to speaking with you about our kingdoms' trades."
Thranduil glanced at the female half breed for a moment before turning his attention to the male diplomat, "My... Pleasure. I'll have someone show you to your rooms. If you're up for it, the nightly meal would be at dusk in the main dining hall."
Daemon gave a light bow of his head, "After freshening up, I'll take up on that offer. Thank you."
I tilted my head towards my brother before giving a alight bow of my head to the king, "I'm afraid I will turn in for the night, King Thranduil. Thank you."
Thranduil's piercing blue eyes turned to the oldest half breed. He remembered the young child all those years ago. Miriel brought her on a trip when she was coming back from visiting her parents. The girl's curiosity caught his attention before. He briefly wonders if the girl would skip dinner to find her way back into the library.

Thranduil wandered into the library to grab a new book to read before bed. He reached on the top shelf for book he used to read to his own son. Paper fell onto the ground. Thranduil turned to the noise, "Hello?"

An untamed brunette head poked around the book case when she saw the elven king turned around to the shelf. The young one studied the elegant king as he dressed in his night time robes. The king glanced out of the corner of his eye behind him. He saw the brunette hide back behind the book case. A small smile graced his lips. This brought back the time of his own child watching over himself. Thranduil piped up softly, "I know you're there, little one. Don't need to be afraid."

The little one moved back into view if the king turned around. She was about to step forward but her foot got caught on the paper. She slipped jamming her face into the ground. The sound of her slipping made the king turn around. He started towards her. The little one pushed herself up from the ground. Tears welled from her eyes. It's threatening to fall. He knelt down holding a hand out for the girl to take, "Are you okay, little one?"

Kallan sniffled nodding, "Papa and mama told m-me to be brave e-especially w-when my sister comes out."

Thranduil reached inside of his robe pockets pulling out a handkerchief. Blue eyes looked at the piece of cloth then at the king. The king saw a few tear droplets drip down. A couple slid down. Kallan grabbed the piece of cloth and wiped her eyes. Thranduil asked, "Where is your mother? It is late, young one."

Kallan looked down fiddling with the piece of cloth. Thranduil slowly suggested, "Let's go find her."

Kallan shook her head, "No! Emel said it was time for bath and bed. I-I'm not ready yet."

Thranduil thought for a moment before asked, "What made you come to the library?"

Kallan stood up straight, "I wanted to find a story."

The old king glanced down at the book in his side. Kallan noticed the gesture. She peered to try to read the title. Her brows knitted together as she mentally tried to sound out the elvish words in her head. The father of one spoke, "It's an elfling story. Would you like me to read it to you?"

Kallan's eyes brightened. She nodded quickly, "Yes, please!"

Thranduil knew he should bring the child back to her mother. If he was her, he would be worried however you could be a child once. He will send a maiden to send word on where Miriel's daughter is at. Thranduil scooped up the child into his arms. He brought the child to a garden his late wife cultivated. On their way to the area, he stopped a maiden to find Miriel and gave information of her daughter's location. The two of them became comfortable underneath a hanging tree. He allowed the young one nestle into his lap and side. Thranduil opened the book and started the story. It took the mother of the daughter to find the king and her daughter. She waddled towards the king and her now sleeping daughter. Miriel huffed, "I wish she have gotten her bath before she fell asleep. I'm sorry, King Thranduil for having to deal with her."

Thranduil's eyes trailed up to the very pregnant elleth. If he recalled his visits to Erebor, he never seen her this round and large. The king closed the book setting it to the side, "She was fine, Miriel. She didn't realize how tired she was."

The mother held out her hands to take her child, "I can take her."

Thranduil stood up having the child nestled into his chest and the book in his free arm. He shook his head, "I got her. I'll follow you."

Miriel's lips pressed together.

The two half-breeds excused themselves from the king once he gave permission. Thranduil only dealt with her siblings through his visits to Erebor and Miriel's visits. He felt grateful for the elleth pushing to give his late wife's jewels back to him. He saw her in a different light. A thankful light. He may of felt light regret of how he treated the elleth and her One all those years ago but he wouldn't tell or show it. That he wouldn't be able to admit outloud.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Eyes buried in an old tome about Imladris. It was based on a different point of view of an elf who came from these lands. A historian viewing different realms when they visit. Having elf hearing seemed great when in a mountain filled with rowdy dwarves but when it came to staying at an elf kingdom, it's difficult to pinpoint the light steps. Fingers turned the page as I kept walking through the King's halls. A clear of the throat caught my attention. I raised my eyes from the pages to the owner. My ears and cheeks flush red in embarrassment.
"Oh. I'm sorry, your majesty. I will take my leave."
I started to turn my heel away from the elven king. Thranduil, dressed in his night robes, went out on a walk before he came across the half-breed. He stepped out of her way at the last moment before the half-breed collided with him. Thranduil quietly called out, "I see you have taken a book from my library."
The heat in my face turned up a notch. I quickly glanced at the page number before slamming it close, "I-I'm sorry! Here, you can take it back. I am sorry for not askin' if I could borrow the book during our stay."
Thranduil's lips quirked upward. He clasped his hands behind his back when he replied, "You can borrow it. You can borrow any of the books you find in your favor. If you don't mind me asking, what caught your interest?"
Despite my words about the king to my brother, I find being in the king's presence alone a little overwhelming. He had the same energy of prowess and regal as uncle Thorin but I was raised with the dwarven king. He had a soft side for my cousins and my father's children. I moved a fallen strand hair behind my ear answering, "It's an elven historian's view of Imladris from when it first was founded to the last time he visited before going to the undying lands."
The elven king's brows raised before giving a slight nod of his head, "I know and met that historian. He was an interesting elf who was the life of the party. I am sure if you were to ask Lord Elrond of him, he could tell a few stories of his own."
I hugged the book to my chest. The king asked, "Why are you up so late, young one?"
I retorted, "I could ask you the same thing, your majesty. You have a day of meetin's with my brother after mornin's food whereas I'm free. We would like to have your full attention on these trade topics."
Thranduil unclasped his hands and left them to his sides. He raised one blond brow at the young one. He knew one day Miriel's children would have her or her husband's personality considering he seen both of their's. I cleared my throat, "I mean, I think I should turn in for the night. It is late for one to be up."
I started to turn my heel but his voice stopped me, "If you say you are free, I shall have my captain of the guard allow you in on the training and patrols for the day. I am sure you wouldn't want your time to be wasted."
I glanced behind me seeing an amused king. I gave a bow of head, "Thank you for the opportunity, King Thranduil. I bid you a good night."
Thranduil watched the brunette head her way to the guest quarters. He lightly shook his head breathing out, "Too much like her mother."
The older elf rubbed his temples at the thought of her and Miriel in the same room together. He had the silver haired elf to thank for the return of his late wife's jewels as well the convincing of himself and the dwarven king to come to terms for the sake of their kingdoms. He wouldn't admit it out loud but his kingdom have flourished with the suggestions the silver haired elf brought to the table to both kings. That may be why the old king wouldn't treat the elf's children horribly as he have done to her and her One. Also all those years ago when the young one visited, it reminded him of the times with his own son. It softened his heart just by a little.

A loud knock interrupted my sleep. I let out a groan before grabbing the pillow to place over my head. I grumbled Khuzdul into the bed, "Daemon, if you don't leave me alone, I will take your blade and place it on the table in a round of cards."
The knock started up again. I huffed pushing myself out of bed. My braids were a mess meaning I tossed and turned in bed heavily. I huffed, "Daemon, I said leave me alone."
A voice, not my brother's, carried through the door, "The king requested for you to join my guard today. We are to start our training exercises before breakfast. We meet in the courtyard."
I stared at the door trying to think on the captain's words. My sleep-hazed mind was reminded of the king's words early this morning. I blinked before jumping out of bed cursing in my father's language. Quickly, I changed and fixed up my family braids. Carefully I placed the Durin bead and the head of family bead on their respective braids. Satisfied with my appearance, I headed to the meeting place.
Some of the guard were in groups talking among themselves. The captain of the guard, by the way their braids look similar to Tauriel's, was standing with their arms crossed. I headed down the nature made steps towards the captain. I cleared my throat, "Sorry for any delay."
The captain tilted their head in my direction before releasing their arm hold. She turned towards me, "The king seemed to spring this out of nowhere but he seem to have reason for doing so to have our dwarven guest to join us."
I felt my pointed ears burn slightly. It was because I didn't keep my mouth shut. The captain studied me for a second before breaking into a small smile, "Well today would be interesting, say to the least. I am sure you had training in dwarven fighting skills. Have you had some in elven fighting skills? I am sure the previous captain, Tauriel, have added some suggestions to your kind."
The thought of my mother not training my siblings and I seemed to feel just as it is, a thought. The captain started to correct herself, "Oh, I am sorry. You are a peredhil. I didn't see at first."
I purposely moved my hair behind my pointed ears. I knew the captain meant well by how nice she was. In my mind, I knew she knew I was a part of the dwarven travel party and she didn't mention I do not look dwarven but I couldn't help but over think of the thought of not looking elvish enough to bring in not looking dwarvish enough. I cleared my throat, "Uh, yes I am familiar both in dwarven and elvish fighting skills."
The captain introduced herself, "My name is Meldiriel. Yours?"
I answered, "Kallan."
Once again Meldiriel studied my person before giving a quick nod. She turned to her guard, "Listen up! We have a guest joining us today! She is from the dwarven traveling party. Her name is Kallan. Welcome her. Now grab a sword or bow and be off with you."
The groups started to separate heading to the barrels of training blades and bows. I grabbed a training blade. A male elf of red hair headed towards me. He called out with a smirk, "Hey, spar with me!"
I moved my blade to my other hand before grabbing another. Back at home, I secretly was training with my cousins. Dual blades. I haven't tried it in front of others other than the three. I didn't want my father or brothers to know of my chosen weapon path. Hopefully Daemon doesn't see the training session on his way to the king. I wanted to be well trained in the area before showing my father how far I came. The red head raised his brows, "Dual blades? Interesting."
His lips turned into a smirk. He walked to a different part of the courtyard and I followed.

The red headed elf named Aldon pulled his horse towards my own. He had a smile as big as one can have it on his face, "You fought pretty well earlier. I'm surprised at how quick you can be. Though my back may not be as thankful to you for the spar."
I raised an eyebrow. My back straightened at the praise. I cleared my throat, "I learn from the best."
Aldon's eyes brightened, "Oh, I heard among your traveling party that Lady Galadriel's grandchild would be here."
I corrected him, "Children. My brother and I."
The other two elven guards trotted in front of the two of us. The captain, Meldiriel, had groups of four break off and patrol around the kingdom's lands. Aldon, who was the only other elf I knew, volunteered to have myself in his group. Aldon have been nice towards me which I felt like I gained his respect during the spar. He didn't treat me as a wee weak female nor did he take it easy. It was a nice change from the elven realm. When it came to spars at Imladris, uncle's guard didn't use their full strength. I think I could see a friend within this Mirkwood elf. Aldon maneuvered his horse around a fallen tree limb, "Does your brother know how to spar like you?"
I snorted, "Of course. We train everyday if possible with our father."
One of the two elves ahead of us pulled out a bow and arrow, "Halt! Make your presence known."
A few crunches of twigs and leaves from underneath someone's feet finally reached Aldon and I's ears. We were absorbed into our conversation and a little ways back that we didn't hear the crunches. A person adjusted their pack as they showed themselves to the group of four. I felt my stomach fall and I felt like I was going to be sick. At least that what it reminded me of but it was actually my heart pounding hard and I felt warm. Especially when the one voice I wanted to forget ringed through my ears.
"Well, isn't this a welcome home."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

During the escort of Mirkwood's Prince towards his father's kingdom, I did not want to acknowledge the prince. The two of us had one look at each other then looked away. And we haven't took one glance at each other since then. Once we had the horses back in the stables and the prince was on his merry way to see his father, I decided to branch off from the little patrol group to find my brother. Aldon saw I branched off and headed on my own little journey around the palace. The king's guard who was on patrol in the morning had time to themselves before their next outing. He caught up to my shorter leg pace within seconds, "Hey, wait up!"I glanced behind me seeing Aldon slowing his pace. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Legolas briefly glanced our way before turning away to head to the king's throne room. I raised an eyebrow turning towards Aldon, "I didn't think your captain would appreciate you slacking off on your duties."Aldon's lips went into a sly smile, "She wouldn't be mad. After patrols, we can break off if we would like."I narrowed my eyes. I found it hard to believe but I am not one to get into another kingdom's way of doing things. Aldon clasped his hands behind his person, "So, what are you going to be doing now considering the captain only mentioned you joining during the training and morning patrol?"The two of us continued walking to wherever. I answered, "I'm tryin' to find my brother, Daemon. I'd like to discuss something with him."Aldon straightened his posture, "Is it about the prince?"I spoke defensively, "What? No."I nearly winced at the high pitch of my voice. The male elf walked at a faster pace then turned around walking backwards. He reminded me of my twin cousins. Amusement washed over Aldon's face. My lines went into a firm line, "On the contrary, it has nothing to do with your beloved prince."Aldon raised an eyebrow suspiciously. He pointed out my behavior earlier, "You two briefly acknowledge each other when he came upon our patrol group. Afterwards, you two said nothing to each other."I licked my lips, "Am I supposed to have a conversation with your prince? Last I checked, I can speak to whoever I want to and be near anyone I want to."He snapped his fingers as I reminded him of something, "That's right you pushed your horse forward so you'll be up front. I had to catch up with you. I hardly saw the three behind us with the amount of distance you put between us and them."I scoffed. With a change of luck, I saw my brother coming out of a room with one of the king's advisors. I called out, "Ah, Daemon!"Daemon turned towards the sound of my voice. He turned back to the advisor giving a nod and a bid farewell. Aldon turned around so he was walking normally. Daemon waited for the two of us caught up to him. Daemon raised an eyebrow towards Aldon. Aldon smiled, "My name is Aldon. Part of the king's guard.""Ah, Kallan mentioned she was going to join the captain's guard in the morning, " Daemon glanced at his older sister before turning his full attention to Aldon.A deep feeling of regret came bubbling inside of me for letting these two meet. Aldon decided to turn our previous subject towards my brother, "Maybe you can tell me about why Miss Kallan here refused to acknowledge my kingdom's prince and they clearly know each other."Daemon let out a deep breath, "Well... That is a long story... Too long, in fact. Not sure if I got the time to..."I turned towards the two men interrupting, "And I like to keep it that way. Now I think I am regretting to have you two meet. I'm takin' my leave now."Aldon pursed his lips, "So it's something romantically involved, then."Daemon looked like he was about to burst out laughing. Especially when he saw his sister's face who turned around and took hold of Aldon's tunic. I pulled him down to my height where our faces were inches away. I hissed, "If ye think him and I were... him and I..."I scrunched up my nose in disgust at the mere thought of Legolas and I romantically involved. I released Aldon's tunic. He held up his hands in defense, "Okay, okay."I turned my heel leaving the two males by themselves. My ears and face turned red. Daemon chuckled, "Oh, just wait till Hal hears 'bout this. Thank ye, Aldon. I think this might be a start of a good friendship."Aldon's brows knitted together, "So they did have a romantic involvement?"Daemon patted the elf's lower back as that is all he could reach, "I wouldn't say that. The two had brief rivalry that ended upon knowin' his identity. Our parents and him don't exactly get along. Civil, I would think if ye call me father wantin' to stab him everytime he comes near."A spark of interest rushed through Aldon. The pair of them continued walking around the palace. Aldon asked, "What about your mother?"Daemon rubbed the back of his neck, "Well, she...""Miriel wants to serve me on a plate to orcs, " a voice appeared behind the two.The two turned around seeing Legolas with his arms crossed. Aldon cleared his throat, "Prince Legolas."He gave a light bow of his head to the prince. The prince waved it off. Legolas turned to Daemon and asked, "I need to speak with your sister, where is she?"Daemon's lips went into a firm line, "I'm not her keeper. She ran off."A scoff came from Legolas. Aldon kept his mouth closed waiting for the prince to take his leave. Daemon crossed his arms, "I don't think it is wise for ye to speak wit' her. She don't particularly like you."Daemon had an inkling other than his sister not liking the prince for his past. There was more than just their parents' relationship not being accepted among their kinds. Legolas couldn't help but give a sneer as he walked past the half-breed. Once the prince was out of elven ear shot, Aldon turned to the half-breed, "I apologize for-."Daemon shook his head, "A king's guard shouldn't apologize for their kingdom's prince's actions. When it comes towards me family, he is... Not sure I should say as I'm here for diplomatic reasons."Aldon remembered when the prince used to live here wit his father. He could see the hatred seep from the king to his son towards the dwarves then. Aldon did notice a light change within the prince. He actually can be within a room and speak with them.Daemon held out a hand to gesture to continue, "Shall we continue talkin'?"Aldon's lips curled upward, "Sure, but I have a feeling that your sister doesn't hate him as much as everyone thinks."With a shake of his head, Daemon let out a laugh, "Yer're not gonna let this one go?"The elf just grinned while the two of them continued on to talk.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Legolas paused in his walk. The half-elf held onto a couple books to her chest. She looked like she came from the library. Legolas picked up speed. He called out to the half-elf, "Kallan."I heard the familiar voice and start to pick up speed. Legolas' lips turned into a firm line, "I need to speak with you."I sneered, "I do not want to speak with you. Leave me alone."The blond continued to be on my heels. A long sigh came from his lips. With a light roll of his eyes, Legolas grabbed hold of my wrist, "Kallan, stop."Coldness washed over my person. I took in a sharp breath.
"Kallan, you need to stop. You cannot reject your One."

An older looking self turned heel towards the silver haired elf. My lips lifted up baring my teeth. I growled, "I will not stop! I will not accept someone who doesn't see me for what I am. I cannot help to be a dwarf elven woman. I was born that way and I am proud of what I am. I rather die proud than be miserable with-with some insufferable One."

Miriel let out a huff. She ran a hand through her silvery hair. Dwalin intervened pointing a finger towards his daughter, "Now ye listen here, ye better apologize to yer mam for that tone. Ye're a child. Ye have a long life ahead of you. I do not want my eldest child and only daughter to suffer and die because of somethin' happen before... What I'm tryin' to tell ye
 is don't reject it at least not till ye get-."

The mother of three interrupted her husband, "Not till you have a better understanding of him. He's not what-."
The vision was cut off. I gasped for air. The books dropped and my hands went to my throat. Legolas' brows furrowed together in light concern. He released my wrist and placed his hands on my upper arms. My eyes met his as my breathing slowly started to calm down. Legolas released my arms and asked, "Are you okay?"I rasped, "Glad to know you have some kind of heart to show some concern for someone like me."Legolas scoffed, "Gasp for air for all I care, half-breed."He looked to leave my person in the corridor. I was about to step over the books to catch him but I hesitated. I growled out, "Stay away from me."The prince stopped his stalking away. He turned his heel and rounded back to me. He towered over me, "I'm the prince of this land. I do not take orders from some lord's daughter. I however can tell you to do something for me."Unknowingly between the two of us, we were slowly getting closer into each other's faces. I let out a hollow laugh, "You are funny like I would listen to you a forlorn prince. I have better things to do than be stuck around you."A deep elegant voice cut through the air, "Ah, am I interrupting something?"The two of us turned to the source of voice. The elven man who holds this kingdom at his fingers stood with his hands clasped behind his back. Legolas stood up straight straightening out his tunic, "Father, I actually needed to speak with you concerning my One."Thranduil raised his brows and hummed. Picking up the dropped books, I snorted, "Whoever is stuck for the rest of their life with you, I feel sorry for them. Give them my condolences."Legolas shot a glare towards my person. I hugged the books to my chest and gave a nod to the king, "Thank you once again for allowing me to use the library."The king gave a nod back. Legolas eyed his father and the half-breed elleth at the sudden pleasantries between the two. I took this as a sign to depart from the two royalties. Last he knew his father hated anything and everything dwarf. Legolas spoke low once the female was out of hearing range, "I thought you despised anything dwarf."Thranduil looked down at his son. Thranduil answered with his head held high, "Despite her lineage, I have grown to like the young lady. She is bright and well versed in sparring and political."Legolas thought of the half-elleth. The way she didn't stand down. She had a fiery personality which in no doubt he felt got from her mother. The way her body was built, he had no doubt she could take a person down with sheer strength. A shiver went up his spine but he mistaken it for disgust. Legolas scrunched his nose, "I highly doubt she is versed in diplomatic treaties and visits. She has a trollish personality."Thranduil's lips thinned. Thranduil sent a scolding look to his son. Thranduil couldn't describe it but he has a feeling about the girl. Thranduil nearly had to resist to roll his eyes, "If you got to know her, Legolas you'd find she is good company."Legolas changed the topic from the girl to his One, "Miriel mentioned an elleth of brunette hair with blue eyes. She's shorter than a normal elleth. A fighter, if I recall her describing her. She came from Lothlorien. Do you have any visitors from Lothlorien currently, father?"Thranduil pursed his lips and shook his head, "No I do not. The only visitors we have are from Erebor. Is this elleth you described your One?"Thranduil watched his son's posture straighten up. The king raised an eyebrow at the sudden posture fix. Legolas gave a nod, "Yes, that was how Miriel described her to me. She said she should be here visiting your lands."Thranduil clicked his tongue, "Unfortunately for you my son, there are no visitors from Lothlorien here. I do not have anyone from those lands coming to visit in the near future either."Legolas' brows knitted together. He thought he would finally get to meet his One and get on with his life. Despite the relationship him and his father have, he would like to at least have an elfling for his father to meet before his father decides to cross. That was the last of his worries in a short and long run. He is more worried about his health and life if he doesn't find his One at all.The king studied his son for a moment before looking over where the half-elleth disappeared towards. He hummed, "I must retire to my chambers for an hour or two, Legolas. You should join the afternoon patrol."Legolas half heard his father but nodded nonetheless. Thranduil turned and left his son to his devices. He needs to contact a certain someone.Thranduil proof-read his letter before he rolled it up and tying a thread around it. Gently, he tied the letter on a raven's leg. He gave the raven a light scratch underneath its beak, "Now, take that to Lady Miriel of Erebor at once. I shall wait for your return."The raven let out a coo before flying out of the king's window. Thranduil tapped his finger tips on his writing desk. He is only concerned of his only son's welfare and if a certain someone is toying with his son he needs to know about it. He will not have his son be sent on a wild goose chase over his One."And I told him, I will thrust a dagger-."A couple caws interrupted Miriel in her story-telling. The listener looked surprised, "That's King Thranduil's Raven. I wonder what he wants with you."Miriel found the rolled letter attached to the bird's leg. She untied it and read its contents.
Miriel,

Why are you sending my son on a wild chase for his One? I will not have you make a fool of my son. I do not have any visitors from Lothlorien in my lands. Not now or in the foreseeable future currently. The only visitors I have are your children and a couple of Erebor's guards. Who is this 'short brunette elleth with blue eyes'?

-King Thranduil
Miriel clicked her tongue. She breathed out, "Oh I knew that was going to come back at me one way or another."The elleth rubbed her forehead with her index finger. Light annoyance started to bubble up inside her at herself. She turned towards the closet person, "Can you hand me a piece of parchment and a quill, Dis?"Dis grabbed the requested items from a drawer in the writing desk near her."What does the King want from you, Miriel?"Grabbing the requested items, Miriel answered the red-headed elleth, "Answers. He thinks I'm sending his son on a chase of his One which I am not."Dis bravely asked, "Who is his One?"Miriel paused in her writing. She thought for a moment of the pros and cons of telling the two women. Miriel continued writing, "It's a big secret to keep. It may take years for the two to realize what they are to each other. I unfortunately cannot tell you nor the king himself.""It's already hard enough to keep Dwalin back from interfering too much," Miriel mumbled.She finished up, "The two have to figure it out themselves. I already placed myself in between the situation too much. Everyone involved will have to be patient and wait. That's all I can and will give."Dis crossed her arms. Tauriel added, "You do know the King would not like that answer. Legolas is his only son and heir."Miriel rolled up her answer and tied it around the raven's leg, "Go back to your owner."The raven flapped its wings and distanced himself away from the women. Miriel turned to the two women with her hands on her hips, "And? Is that supposed to mean anything to me? If the King wants an answer about his son, then he will have to come here himself. I was sure to mention that to him. Legolas was lucky to even have a hint from me on his One."Tauriel rubbed her swollen belly in thought. Dis let out a breath shaking her head, "Ye're goin' to give my brother a headache if that pesky elven king comes marchin' up our door step."Miriel grabbed the elven king's letter and crumbled it into a ball, "Well I'd be sure to warn him then. Now if you two excuse me, I may go find him now."The two looked at each other when the seer left Tauriel and Kili's living quarters. It didn't take long for the annoyed elleth to find the king of Erebor. He was having a tankard with her husband. The two were laughing at something one have said. Dwalin noticed his wife enter the king's private dining chambers. A smile graced his lips, "Ah there is my beautiful elleth."Miriel would've returned a smile and give the dwarf a kiss to the lips in greeting but she was on a mission. Miriel crossed her arms in front of the two dwarves. Her attention was solely on Thorin. Miriel let annoyance slip through her tone, "The King of Mirkwood may visit your lands."Miriel was kicking herself in the behind for nudging the prince into her daughter's way. Now everyone wanted to know who is the prince's One. Thorin knitted his brows together and looked over at Miriel seriously, "And why may he be visiting Erebor?"Dwalin asked, "What did they do?"Miriel waved Dwalin off, "They didn't do anything. It was I who did something."The two male dwarves waited for Miriel to explain. Miriel rubbed her temples, "The king thinks I am sending his son on a wild chase of his One."Thorin snorted, "Well are you?"Dwalin glanced with a serious face towards his royal cousin before setting his sight on his wife. Miriel breathed out, "Oh I wish."Miriel answered, "I am not. His One is there. I may or may not give him accurate details about her is all."Her husband stayed quiet drinking his ale. Thorin thought for a moment. Before giving a light nod, he piped up, "Alright, till I get word of his arrival I'd be sure to have the guest chambers ready."Thorin glanced over at his best friend, "I'm surprised you're not finding this amusing. Your wife is essentially sending that elf on a miniature chase."Dwalin half-cracked a smile to have a facade but once his friend turned to his wife his smile disappeared and he grumbled into his tankard. Miriel decided to change the subject, "Daemon and Kallan should be on their way back in two days time."Thorin nodded, "I am sure the king of Mirkwood would accept the new trade routes due to the new recent activity."Miriel agreed, "He nor you wouldn't want to have your goods pillaged."Dwalin glanced up at his wife before setting his tankard down on the table, "Thorin, I think I'm goin' to turn in for the night."Thorin waved him off while he finished up his tankard, "I'll see you two in the morning for the season meeting."Dwalin stood up placing a hand on his wife's waist guiding her out of the king's private dining quarters.The only occupants of the mixed household was the parents. Thorin had sent Halvor and a few guards to patrol on the outer kingdom line which will take a few days to do a full circle. Dwalin crossed his arms over his chest. He watched his wife pace in their bedroom. The two got ready for a bath they planned to take together but they have not moved after taking half of their clothing off."Let's soak in the bath, Miriel."Miriel shook her head, "I cannot right now. I knew I shouldn't have messed with our child's future. I shouldn't have told the princeling of his One. Now I am annoyed with myself about this situation."Dwalin pushed himself off their bed before grabbing hold of his wife's biceps. He held her still. Dwalin didn't remove his sight off of his wife, "Ye did what ye thought was best. Ye didn't want our daughter to fall in the same circumstance as ye when ye were younger."Miriel was tense. She started, "She has my gift. If she didn't the only thing I had to worry was her life and health. Now she has it, I'm worried about what would happen if she did the same as me. My visions weren't properly showing. It showed the bad events, not the good ones. I didn't think it had to do with you till I gave it thought. My sister was able to see the good events before she..."Miriel's words started to trail off. Dwalin hooked Miriel's chin with his index, "I don't like that scrawny elfling to be her One. I'm not acceptin' of it but I don't want our child to suffer. You did the right thin'. Others can try to pester ye for an idea but they would have to go through me. When and if the king will come to see ye, it is up to you if you want to tell him. Ye aren't an on-demand future teller."Miriel connected their lips together, "I think I am ready for a soak now."A smirk graced Dwalin's lips. He surprised his wife by hooking his arms underneath her legs and back. Miriel let out a light yelp, "Dwalin!"Dwalin nuzzled his face into his wife's neck taking in her scent. The two of them were definitely lucky their other son wasn't home.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Between each bite, Daemon glanced between his sister and an elf who he saw with her two days prior. If his memory served him right, the elf's name is Aldon. Daemon's eyes quickly glanced over at another elf. A particular elf that has not taken his eyes off of his sister and this other elf.
Daemon isn't the only one who noticed this. The king cleared his throat, "Daemon. Kallan. I would like to announce that I will be joining you and your guard back to Erebor. I need to speak to the king about a particular matter."
I paused my conversation with Aldon once I heard my name. Daemon turned his attention to the king. His brows furrowed. The king noticed the hybrid's confusion. Thranduil sipped on his wine, "No need to worry, dear child. I just need to speak with your king and mother in person is all. You were planning to leaving in the morning?"
A teasing smile graced my lips. I threw a teasing smirk towards Daemon, "Only if my little brother wake up in time, your highness."
A scoff came from a particular elf's lips. Thranduil's eyes switched over to his son briefly. The old youthful looking king pursed his lips in thought. He clicked his tongue before turning to the two hybrid 'children'. Thranduil didn't feel he had to clarify on his reasoning to accompany the dwarves to Erebor. He's King. This matter was between himself and the children's mother. I continued on with my conversation with Aldon after feeling my attention wasn't needed anymore.
The king turned to his son, "Are you going to be staying here or are you off on your own wild adventure, Legolas?"
Legolas answered, "I'll be heading out tomorrow."
An idea appeared into the king's mind. He voiced his idea, "Why don't you accompany us at least half way to Erebor? It would be nice to spend more time with my son."
It was a minuscule gesture but Thranduil and one other caught the brief glance towards the female hybrid. Daemon raised an eyebrow. Daemon took a sip of his wine. He rather prefer ale from Dale or Erebor but he was raised to be polite when given food you may or may not like. His mother had a hand at that. His father only liked one particular food choice and it wasn't on leaves. Daemon piped up, "Prince Legolas, it really wouldn't be a problem if you do decide to join us. We are two separate traveling parties heading to one or more destination in the same direction. I'm sure if I was traveling majority of the time, my da would like to spend some time with me while it was still convenient for both parties."
Thranduil was impressed at the word usage the young dwarf elf used. He was afraid he wouldn't see his son for months towards a year if Legolas had his way. Legolas let out a deep breath. He gave his answer, "Fine. However, once it is time to separate to our own paths, do not try to stop me, father."
Thranduil's lips went into a small smirk, "Alright fine."
When all eyes left Thranduil, his lips went into a frown. He doesn't understand why his son does not want to be around him. He loves the boy and wishes he would take on his responsibilities as heir to Mirkwood. The sudden interest his son shown about his One did make it uncharacteristic of him. What made him all of the sudden be interested? He didn't show interest of any kind other than the false hope of Tauriel being his One. Thranduil sipped on his wine in thought.

Daemon walked through the King's halls. He came across the captain's guard during training. He paused with his hands clasped behind his back. Despite being in two different roles, each twin made an effort to accompany each other to gain insight in each other's roles to be well rounded. Their parents didn't think to give the two the idea. The two came up with it on their own. It surprised their parents when they each saw either of them with the other at their respective roles.
"I am sure if you're interested in their training regimen you can ask her, the captain."
Startled by the voice, Daemon felt a jolt in his bones. It wasn't noticeable to the eye which Daemon was grateful for. Daemon cleared his throat, "Ah your majesty I didn't see you there. What can I be of service?"
Thranduil breathed through his nose, "Your mother taught you well."
Daemon raised an eyebrow at the type of tone he used. The hybrid diplomat knew how his mother can be especially at diplomatic journeys. Daemon let out a snort, "My mother is eccentric kind of elleth. She may be polite but she wouldn't have this kind of politeness towards certain matters."
Thranduil raised his brows. He didn't expect that answer. He replied, "That's true. You are certainly different from her."
Ever since Daemon saw how his mother could be when a king or lord become stubborn, he wanted to go about it differently. It worked so far but he is afraid down the line he would have to be like her in order to bring the matters into Erebor's favor. His mother deals with Lothlorien and Erebor's matters when needed but once he became of age to slowly take the role, he took over for Erebor's matters.
Daemon has an inkling he would be doing both lands soon so his mother can rest with his father in Erebor as they age. The king asked, "Your brother... He does the training for the dwarven guard?"
Daemon nodded answering, "Yes, he had an interest in being the chief of royal guard. Our father has yet to give him full reign. I just recently been giving to deal with only Erebor's matters in a diplomatic setting."
Thranduil gave a curt nod. Thranduil pursed his lips before calling out to his captain, "Meldiriel."
The captain of his guard parried a blade with her own. The two blades rubbed against each other as both elves placed their blades to their sides. Meldiriel gave a light bow of head to her opponent. She stepped away from her opponent to stand in front of their king.
She answered to her beckon, "Yes, my king?"
The king of Mirkwood voiced his thoughts from his little conversation with Erebor's diplomat, "I'd like you to join myself to Erebor. I think it'd be quite nice for us to give the Erebor guard a few pointers."
Daemon wanted to open his mouth and say something but he doesn't think it'd be wise to go against a king's light ruling. He's not sure how his own king and his father and brother would like an elven captain nudging in. Thranduil turned to the Erebor diplomat, "Would that be a problem?"
Daemon blinked looking between the captain and the king of Mirkwood. Daemon laced his fingers behind his back clearing his throat, "I...uh I don't think that would be a problem."
Thranduil's lips curved upward, "Excellent. Meldiriel, you may prepare for the travel. I am sure Aldon would be able to take over the training and patrols for today till we arrive back home."
Aldon tilted his head very slightly, not enough to be distracted and lose his training match, when he heard his name leave the king's lips. Aldon was able to get the upper hand tripping his opponent with a leg swipe. He pointed the tip of his blade at his opponent's throat, "Of course, my king. I will be sure to protect the lands and train the guard in her absence."
Meldiriel knew Aldon is a goofy elf but when he is needed and can be counted on, he does his duty. Meldiriel excused herself away from the king. Daemon was about to take his leave as well with the excuse to pack for the travel in the morning but the king's voice stopped him.
"Is your sister a seer as well? Or any of you?"
Daemon felt a slight surge of protectiveness over his older sister. Daemon's lips went into a firm line. He lied to the King's face, "No, my King. None of us inherited our mother's gifts."
Thranduil glanced at the boy out of the corner of his eye. Thranduil turned his attention back to his training guard. He hummed. Daemon piped up, "If it is alright, my king... I must turn in and be sure to be ready to travel in the morning."
He needs to talk with his older sister.

A knock caught my attention. I didn't look up from the book I was borrowing. I called out, "Come in!"
Light footsteps entered my room. I turned the page piping up, "I hope ye're done packin', Dae. I'll be sure to wake you up an hour before we leave. I want to be sure you have food in yer system before we leave."
"Sweet you are about your siblings."
My eyes shot up at the voice. I scrunched up my nose, "What are you doin' in my room, prince?"
Legolas had a glance of the book title before he announced himself. Legolas couldn't help but feel the memories of his mother reading the book the hybrid was holding. A light warmth filled in his chest. It was a good happy memory with his mother. Legolas came back from the memory to see the hybrid staring at him with the book at her side and her arms crossed.
I kept my arms crossed, "Prince?"
Legolas cleared his throat, "I'm here to tell you to keep to yourself when we leave. I don't want to be traveling with you as much as you with me."
I stood up from my seat uncrossing my arms. I stepped up on the balls of my feet to appear tall when I got close to him. I poked a finger on his silver garment clad chest, "You don't have to worry about me, prince."
I felt a light jolt when my finger came in contact with his chest.
"Kallan, I need to talk to you about- Am I interruptin' somethin'?"
Legolas took a step back turning his heel, "I'm just leaving."
He pushed past Daemon disappearing from view and earshot. I bounced back down to my height with a cross of my arms, "I swear.. He drives me insane."
Daemon had to halt himself in tilting his head to the side. Daemon closed the door behind him to prevent any easedroppers walking by, "Kallan. I need to speak with you."
I tore my thought process of handing the prince to orcs away to my brother. He noticed he finally got his sister's attention. He continued, "Thranduil was asking if you or any of us were seerers. I, of course, lied. I am afraid what he may do if he knew the truth."
I grabbed hold of my brother's hand pulling him to my bed. I made him sat down and I took my seat next to him. I hissed lowly, "Are you insane? Why'd you lie to a king? A king who we have good ties with!"
Daemon's lips went into a deep frown. He hissed back, "I was only doin' it to protect you, Kall! Ye remember what emel said not many should know of the seeing gifts. I didn't want someone to take an advantage of you."
My jaw clenched. After taking in his words and the clouded thoughts went away, I let out a sigh. I whispered, "Thank you, Dae. I'm sorry for being angry towards you. Next time, don't lie to royalty. You must tell emel what transpired to ensure no bad blood between the two kingdoms over something so little like this."
Daemon leaned his forehead onto mine. We both closed our eyes. Daemon spoke quietly, " I cannot promise anythin' when it comes to my family. You're the next head of the house. You're my sister. Halvor and I want to protect you like you do with us. Let us do our duty. Especially with your gift."
I let out a heavy sigh. I moved reaching upward to his forehead. I pressed my lips to his forehead. No words were passed between the two siblings. When you are half of two different species, you learn to stick with each other.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A soft smile played on my lips while I lightly ran my fingers through my pony's mane."Kallan, we are all packed up to head back home."A pair of blue eyes met green across the pony, "Ah ,Gavil. Thank ye. I am sure we cannot leave till the King and..."Gavil noticed the change in the young woman. I continued my trailed off sentence, "Till they're ready. We are tryin' to keep good ties with Mirkwood. I don't think it'd be in the kindness in our hearts to leave them."The gruff voiced dwarf snorted. His thick thumbs were hooked around his belt. For a young dwarf, he acts like he is my father's age. It might be due to the long training sessions he asked for with my father. Gavil mumbled while he handed my pony an apple, "I rather leave them or at least the prince. He's been a prick in the side since we arrived."I quickly hushed Gavil with a giggle, "Oh shush ye old bat. Ye know we can't."Leaning against the stable door was a prince with crossed arms. He was about to get his horse but he stopped when he saw the pain in his side with her pony."Till they're ready. We are tryin' to keep good ties with Mirkwood. I don't think it'd be in the kindness in our hearts to leave them."He could hear the sarcasm towards the end. Legolas glared at nothing in particular. It was only he heard a melodic giggle his glare became non-existent and he felt a leap inside. His lips turned into a frown.It seemed to be a day for crossed arms. Not far from the stables were the dwarven party. One in particular with crossed arms seen the whole thing from start to finish. When his sister and Gavil exit with her pony to the prince putting up a front to sneer at his sister when she saw his presence at the stable doors. He saw the change of emotions run through the prince."If you keep up that stance, young lord you might be stuck that way. Might have to tie you to the back of the horse."Daemon tore his attention away from the stables. He looked up to the female captain of the Elven guard. He relaxed his stance to a clasped hands behind his back. Meldiriel tried to hold back a light laugh, "I can only take a guess. You're protective over your sister."Daemon saw his sister hop onto her pony out of the corner of his eye. Daemon cleared his throat, "She's the soon-to-be head of me family."The brunette dwarf climbed onto his pony. It helped his height disadvantage between himself and the elven maiden. The captain of the guard smiled leading her horse next to his, "I find it admirable. Family being there for each other. However, I don't think you have to worry about the prince. He's too much of a wanderer this half century. I couldn't say about your fellow dwarf as I do not know him."Daemon saw the prince coming out of the stable with his horse but this time with the King behind him. When did the King arrive? Daemon's lips went into a firm line. Daemon lightly shook his head, "Gavil has a wife at home. 'M not worried about 'im."Meldiriel gave a light shrug of her shoulders before hopping over her horse. The King made his presence known, "Shall we head out? I'm sure your mother would like to have you back within your kingdom walls."A trot of hooves sounded. The King and those around saw a smirk off of my lips, "If any danger comes through, just stab it."Daemon rolled his eyes at his sister's vulgarity. He made his pony catch up to his sister's. Daemon shook his head, "Ye have a way of words, my dear sister."I winked patting my bicep closest to him, "Don't worry I'll protect you."Daemon reached out with his leg to nudge his sister in the thigh but I maneuvered my pony away. I stuck out my tongue. Daemon let out a long sigh, "Yer're in a good mood."A smile graced my lips, "Of course. I had some lovely one and one time with Aramdir."A neigh sounded in response to his name. I leaned down and ran my fingers gently through his mane. The elves of the party kept quiet but listened to the conversations of the dwarves. Two particular are listening in on the hybrids.I stretched trying to loosen a few tight muscles, "Ya think Halvor survived being by himself with emel and adar?"Daemon had to resist the urge to roll his eyes. They both knew their brother would be fine. Their father would of sent Halvor off on patrol or have the King assign him protective duty to the future King. Their father is not ready to give the reigns to Halvor. It took a couple years, which is understandable, for their mother to give Daemon ties for Erebor. As their oldest sibling, it would've made sense for me to already be chief of guard or a sole diplomat for Erebor and Lothlorien. However, my brothers knew what they wanted and found interest in their respective line of work. It makes sense with their age they wouldn't fully gain full responsibility for their roles.The King decided to interject into the conversation, "Kallan, my dear. What may your plans be for the future?"I glanced back at the platinum blond King. I haven't come to a decision other than being the head of house. I answered, "It's still undecided."The dwarves in the party seemed uncomfortable from the question the elven king asked. To me, it seemed harmless. The King, himself, seemed harmless from what I grew to know of him. Thranduil took a glance at the beads braided into my brunette silvery locks. The conversation grew cold and stayed that way for a couple hours.Gavil stopped his pony, "We should set up camp for the night."The two hybrids looked around to take in their surroundings. The elven captain looked as well but turned her head towards any sounds around the traveling group. Gavin called out towards me," Kallan scout around to ensure the safety of this area."I hopped off of my pony, "Aye, aye will do."A voice piped up," If you don't mind I'd like to join as well."I turned towards the voice to the tall female captain. I raised an eyebrow before giving a half shrug, "If you like."Meldiriel gave a small smile grabbing the standard Mirkwood weapon, the bow from her saddle. I already had my sword attached to my hip and felt no need for anything else. Meldiriel and I headed out to scan the perimeter. Once we were far enough from elven ears, she spoke, "Your brother told me you were to be the head of the family."I glanced her way before turning my attention back to the trees, "I'm the oldest so it's natural for me to take that role."It seemed Meldiriel was thinking of what else to say. I decided to break the silence, "In dwarven custom, women are sacred as there are not many dwarven women around. It's acceptable to become the head of house if the woman was born first or she the last of her family, well now it is."Meldiriel asked, "Among the dwarven women are there are any warriors?"I ducked underneath a branch hanging low, "Very very rare. I could say I would be an exception as I'm only half dwarf. I can go out into battle if needed. I don't think anyone other than my adar would stop me. No male dwarf wants to dirty their blood line with mine."The elven captain raised a brow, "What happens if he was your One?"I sighed, "It wouldn't be a happy time if he plans on living. As my parents said before, both have to accept their bond and if not then its true suffering before you're wasted away. I hope to not go through that but I cannot change a way of thinking that has been pounded into their heads."The two of us didn't say much as we got back to the camp. Daemon was already on his third lembas bread, "Did you go to Hobbiton and back?"I rolled my eyes dropping my sword off with my pack, "Oh you wish. You wish I would bring back Bilbo's seed cakes."Thranduil perked up at the sound of the hobbit's name. The king asked the two hybrids, "You've seen the halfling?"Daemon swallowed his last piece of lembas bread before speaking, "For his birthday. Don't know where he went though. He disappeared."I sat beside my brother and another dwarven guard. I pulled out the long pipe I grabbed before heading to my seat. Shoving some pipeweed into the bowl, I didn't take in any looks from the elvish party. Daemon sniffed the air smelling the pipeweed, "I'm surprised you still have some left over."After lighting the pipeweed, I huffed on it before blowing a smoke ring, "I was busy."Legolas scrunched up his nose, "Must you do that?"My eyes flicked over to the prince. I licked my lips before huffing once more. I stood up, "If it bothers you so much, I'll just leave."I held onto my pipe maneuvering away from the camp but not far enough to cause trouble if trouble arises. Thranduil had half the mind to scold his son. Over the years, he worked on respecting other species' cultures. He didn't expect the dwarven woman to be smoking a pipe as to count who her mother is. However to take into consideration of who her father is and where she was born and raised, it shouldn't have been a surprise. Daemon glanced back where his sister headed to. He could see the smoke rings floating into the air. This is going to be a long trip with the two. Despite his sister acting 'civil', he could feel the tension in the air. At least between the elven prince and his sister, that is.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Despite Legolas claiming he is going to part from the traveling party, he stayed. Or at least that is the way it is looking considering we are just over the hill that overlooks Dale and Erebor. A sigh left my lips at the sight of home. Daemon nudged his pony into hers, "I call the baths first."
I frowned, " I think as oldest and only female of the house of Fundin I should be first."
Daemon smirked, " We shall see 'bout that, Kall."
Thranduil glanced at his son who have yet to break from the party. The elves of the traveling party is having the same thought process as their King. Why haven't the prince, who was adamant, left to be on his own? Thranduil's icy eyes traveled to the only female dwarf who kicked her brother off his pony. A rupture of giggles escaped from her as her brother shouted a 'hey'.
"Has me ears betray me? Is that the one and only sister of mine?"
A voice came from behind the traveling party. I turned at the familiar face then smiled big, "Ah Halvor! Nice of ye to meet us!"
Daemon grumbled climbing back onto his pony. Halvor maneuvered his pony through the party. He gave a head nod towards the elven king,"Yer majesty Fancy seein' ye here."
Gavil piped up, "Yer're headin' back to the mountain?"
Halvor waved his hand back and forth," More or less. I decided to go on a light patrol around."
I scrunched up my nose moving my pony to face my younger sibling more, "Sorry your majesty, ye may have to wait a bit longer for our emel. However the King may see you considering the main reason for yer travels to Erebor is... indisposed of."
Legolas hardly said anything nor he gave reasoning to him staying slightly longer than he or anyone expected. Halvor caught sight of the prince among the elven guard. He frowned then snapped his fingers, "My dear sister that reminds me. King Brand would like to speak to you."
As Halvor spoke, he watched the prince and his reactions. I furrowed my brows, " Of what? If it has to be of dealings with Erebor then Daemon is who he is looking for."Halvor shook his head," Nay none of that. A talk of sorts. A betrothal. It would be yer first dealin' as soon to be head of house."
Thranduil was watching his son. He has some kind of feeling. The king could see his son's knuckles turning stark white. His blue eyes searched his son's face but saw no reaction. The king himself feels his son is reacting unknowingly. He turned to the female dwarf, who looked confused but unsure what to say. Thranduil cleared his throat, "Enough of this. I rather go ahead and meet with your king, if we may."
Daemon looked between his two siblings as if it would give him an answer to this puzzle their brother sprung upon them. Daemon cleared his throat, " Ah yes, your majesty. Let's head on down."

Daemon escorted the elven travel party to the guest rooms. He led the king to the throne room where his king would be waiting. The dwarven party handled their ponies and split away to head home to their families. Halvor and I were still in the stables. I took my time with my pony to ensure their happiness. I have questions on Halvor's proclamation of a betrothal. If it has to do with one and myself as soon to be head of house, then it would have to do with Halvor himself. Has he found his One?
I watched my brother who placed his pony's saddle on the rack. Knowing no one is around the stables, I had to ask, " Did you find your One, Halvor?"
Halvor snorted, " Nay I have not."
My face must of be a funny one as Halvor shook his head with a sigh, " You don't have dealings with Brand. Don't cha worry."
I crossed my arms. I waited for him to explain. Halvor held up his hands, "Technically I cannot tell ye. Emel and adar were talkin' and I overheard. I know who is yer One."
I licked my lips. My shoulders slacked. It was below a whisper, "Tell me."
Halvor saw my lips moved but no sound formed. He raised an eyebrow, "Are ye goin' crazy on us?"
I swallowed hard before speaking up, "Tell me."
Halvor shook his head. He grabbed the pony brush and brushed out his pony's hair. I stowed my pony's brush away before heading to Halvor. I breathed out, " Tell me, Halvor. Ye cannot say ye know and then don't tell."
Halvor paused his brushing before looking at his sister. He pointed a finger towards me," Ye didn't care 'bout that stuff. Why the change?"
I spoke quietly, " I had a vision. Emel and I got into it about 'im. I disapprove of 'im and I'd rather die than be with 'im. I would like to know what foul creature has been bestowed the name as my One."
Halvor wished he could rewind and take back what he said. Never mentioning of his sister's One. Havlor's voice came out weak, " Ye know I can't. Ye have to find out yerself."
Halvor felt horrible as he watched his sister's face fall. Halvor decided he would help her out in a different way, " Ye have met 'im."
I searched my brother's eyes. He took in a deep breath before slowly releasing it. He whispered to himself to have mercy on him. He gritted out," He comes from a long line. A family friend of ours."
I raised my eyebrows. A family friend? That can be a good handful. Elf or dwarf. Halvor added quickly, " That's all I am sayin'."
Maybe if I knew who it was before I despised their innards the vision won't come true? Emel have told me of times she changed the fate of her visions. Maybe I could too. Whatever my One has done before, surely I could stop it.

"Miriel. It's nice to see you again."
Miriel was at her home's dining table taking any stock of what needs mending and what doesn't out of her children and husband's clothes. She looked up from a tunic seeing her son with the King of Mirkwood. Thankfully she wasn't in her nightgown. Miriel looked from the king to her son, " What a surprise. I am glad you've made it home safe, my son. And you've brought home a visitor which I have no doubt insisted to come."
Daemon rubbed the back of his neck. He stepped beside her to give his mother a forehead touch which they both closed their eyes too. Daemon pulled away, " Thank ye emel. Kallan, last I've seen her if she hasn't stopped by, was with Halvor. We have came across each other's path on the hill."
Miriel nodded. She pointed to his sack, " Empty your sack and clean your lining. If any are ruined, hand them to me."
Daemon nodded heading to his sack. He could feel the tension in the room. The quicker he can get this done the faster he can leave. The halfbreed headed to his room leaving the two older adults alone.
Thranduil glanced down the hall asking a silent question. Miriel answered, "Their hearing can work like ours however one of them already knows. It would escape that twin's lips to Daemon soon. As long he speak none of it to their sister or those involved, everything would be fine."
Miriel made sure her son, who she was sure was listening despite emptying his sack, heard every word. Miriel continued with shifting through the tunics and pants, "As you heard from your son, he came to Mirkwood in hopes to find his One. He did in a sense. Do the two of them know? No. It shall continue that way. Will I mettle anymore than I have? No. You were wondering who is the brunette elleth with blue eyes, am I correct?"
Thranduil narrowed his eyes. He crossed his arms, "It's your daughter isn't it?"
Miriel didn't deny or confirm. She placed a green tunic to the side after fiddling with a hole made by a blade. Thranduil let out a deep breath. A clash of blades sounded on the floor. Miriel called to her son, "Clean up your and your brother's blades, Daemon before you leave."
Thranduil sucked in a deep breath while shaking his head. Miriel moved another tunic to the side, "I'll also would like to apologize for future mishandlings between the two. It was mine and Dwalin's fault. We didn't persay stop the stories of claiming the mountain, I should say when it came to Mirkwood or your son and I, and our 'love story'. Curious children happen."
Thranduil didn't say anything about the lady's mishandling of information when he did same thing to Legolas when he was younger. The stories are truth and it wouldn't do any good to hide truths from their own children. Miriel continued, "However I would say you are in the same situation as we when it came to Legolas. I don't blame you. Neither of us can blame each other. Dwalin might blame you and your son for simply existing however he's a stubborn mule. You and I are both too old to hold such grudges at least anymore. Things have been cleared up and we three have worked with our strained relationship for the sake of the future generations and our people."
Thranduil ducked his head slightly. The three of them, Dwalin begrudgingly included have many talks for the sake of Erebor and Mirkwood. Despite the King under the mountain and King of Mirkwood resolved their dispute, Miriel was pretty sure if they didn't patch things up with Thranduil, Erebor wouldn't have a liason with her family and his kingdom. Considering her, herself was the liason peacekeeper and such for Erebor and Lothlorien at the time, she felt it was crucial. King Thorin didn't want to have a separate liason for Erebor and Mirkwood when he only had one. One he could trust to give his word between kingdoms.
Thranduil finally spoke, "You think your daughter won't accept it?"
Miriel let out a drawn sigh. Daemon cleared his throat, "If I may?"
The two adults looked at the young dwarf halfbreed. Miriel gave a nod. Daemon didn't wait for his mother's okay. He waited for Thranduil's. Thranduil gave a light nod. Daemon took in a deep breath before speaking, "Considering I'm one of two people Kallan speaks to about her... herself. She doesn't tolerate the prince however I've noticed a change. She may be resistant to it but knowing of our parents' near death experience I do not think she would go down the same path. She may say things but her actions speak louder."
Miriel raised her silver brows. Miriel stood up gesturing to her son, "As you hear from one of my sons, that's the path he knows she would take. Only time would tell. We cannot interfere."
Miriel turned to her son, "Do you hear me, Daemon? Do not interfere. The two stubborn hardheaded beings have to figure it out themselves. If they do stray from the path of One then we have to speak to them as I don't want to lose a daughter."
The only female in the room turned to the king, "As I am sure you with your son. That's the only time we must interfere to ensure they are happy and well. It helps that you so happen to like Kallan."
Thranduil didn't deny or correct the woman. He already knew of such. Daemon let out a long breath turning it into a low whistle, "This will be draggin' feet emel."