Archive of Our Own

Work Text

With the sunlight breaking through the layer of brown leaves, the forest looked rather beautiful - on the outside. It didn’t help much from inside, with the huge crooked trees, looking sick with their dark demeanor and all greenery drizzled away in the middle of summer. It was quiet as well. No birds singing, no bunnies running over grass, no deer jumping over any roots, no fish swimming in small ponds, nothing that made a forest feel alive.However, there was the sound of an intense gasp as it erupted from a woman, who was situated on a particular wide branch, high up in the trees. Her legs were wrapped around it and her front pressed against the bark, while she breathed as if she had run a mile.She swiftly pushed herself up in a sitting position, looking around to observe her surroundings. It didn’t escape her attention that she was about twenty feet above the ground. She looked down on the path beneath her through the many other branches far below.“Jesus Christ.” She sighed and tried to figure out a way to get down without breaking a leg. She groaned as she felt a pain in her head, but didn’t think much about it as she had probably just sat up too fast. Taking a deep breath, she carefully swung her left leg over the branch to join her other. Ignoring the heights she was in, she scooted to the trunk and wrapped her limbs around it, finding some cracks she could hold onto.Slowly but safely, she worked her way down the tree, sometimes reaching a smaller branch she could have an easier hold on. Other times, she only had the trunk and the small grooves in it to rely on. She had always loved climbing so luckily it was something she was good at.After many minutes, she felt the ground beneath her feet and sighed, relieved to be on a surface without the chance of falling to her death. As she stepped out on the stomped earth that made the path, she took an actual look around the place she was.The air felt thick and the small amount of light that shone through the tree tops made the undergrowth seem like the bottom of the ocean.She knew exactly where she was.“Am I really here?” She whispered unbelieving. “Is this really Middle Earth?” The questions got no answers, but the forest looked very much like what Greenwood did in the movies. She laughed and looked up to the canopy. “Thank you, God!”She glanced in both directions, wondering which way she should go. She settled on right and started following where the path led her. Then the realization of where she actually was hit her. Greenwood. Or Mirkwood, which was a title she had never liked. Greenwood had creatures in its forest that no one wanted to meet. Spiders, that were bigger than one wished for them to be. The thought made her pick up a thick stick nearby as if such an object would help if she ever met any.Elves lived here, somewhere, who she hoped she would meet at some point. Elves. It was weird to think about, really.She had always been an enormous fan of Tolkien’s books and loved the movies Peter Jackson had made to no end. But she had had many questions that still needed answers, and it of course made her turn to fan fictions. Even though it was made-up stories by millions of fans, many had had the same beliefs of characters so they made her believe it too. Perhaps, they were the most accurate facts there was.With her joining the fandom, she knew very much about pretty much everything. What she knew most about was her favorite characters, of course. Elves. Wood-elves, to be more exact. Thranduil Oropherion, to be honest. The mysterious, inverted, ‘cold’ king that no one really truly knew? Was it a surprise she had always wanted to meet him?That thought made her realize another problem.She was not from here.But she was here - where no one knew her.If she ever met the elves... what would she do? They would most likely take her in as a threat instead of shooting her like an animal and probably imprison her in the process out of distrust. She needed an explanation to why she was here. She needed a plan.This was something she hadn’t thought about. She was no enemy. She wanted to be able to see the realm, the world, not stare at a cell wall the rest of her life.She couldn’t exactly go to the king and tell him she knew everything about them and their world’s history, especially about the death that awaited them. That wouldn’t make good friends.That would definitely make her an enemy they would like to kill. She wouldn’t trust anyone with such knowledge about her. What would she do if she met someone that knew everything about her? Probably kill them... Or at least imprison. No. She couldn’t reveal too much. That would lead to her downfall. Thranduil was not a person you wanted to insult or make him yearn to kill you.Another realization popped up in her already troubled mind.She knew where she was.But not when she was.Oropher could be king at the moment. Him she knew absolutely nothing about, characteristically. Only he was Thranduil’s father, that he was once crowned as King of the Woodland Realm by the Silvans after he arrived from Doriath with his people and that he died - or would die - in the Battle of Dagorlad during the War of the Last Alliance. Nothing more. He could be even worse than Thranduil. She didn’t know how to handle such an elf.She had not even figured out Thranduil yet. Maybe he was king, but his wife was still here. Maybe she was gone, but Legolas was an elfling. This could go in so many ways. What was she to do?The faint sound of something approaching caught her acute hearing and she stopped in her tracks.Spiders?No, there was no cackling from their fangs to be heard. They would probably be louder too. This was something else. Something much stealthier.She smirked.She threw away her stick as it would not help anything anyway. Doubt flashed through her mind as she thought if it actually was an evil creature coming by.Fortunately, a dozen of elves emerged from the trees in seconds, showing off their agility in a rather annoying way. Now she was just to figure out if any royal elf was present, and which one in the family it was.And quite unsurprising, a blond elf appeared in front of her, smoothly moving around his companions. He held a bow in his hand, knocking an arrow on the string and pointing it at her so fast that her eyes couldn’t even hold up with the movement.Legolas.Relatively relieved that she was closer to the timeline she had hoped for, she smiled kindly and gave the slightest of all bows. He looked her up and down, a little surprised of her actions and her clothing.She looked down at herself and realized that what she wore was not anything that could be found in Middle Earth. She had on a tight, burgundy t-shirt that hugged her curves and her favorite stretchy black jeans with streaks on her thighs and at the back of her knees. For shoes, she wore a pair of black Nike sneakers with its usual white logo on the side. Her bare arms showed some of her tattoos, but she crossed her arms, hiding a few.“Who are you and why are you here?” Legolas demanded to know, giving her something close to a glare.“I’m not from here.”“You are a human in an elven realm, we know you are not from here.”“You misunderstand. I’m not from this world, which you can probably see from my clothing.”He pulled the string further back and looked her straight in the eye. “Why are you here and not in your own world?” He asked, immediately sounding further suspicious to who the stranger before him was.“God sent me.” That was in fact true. Though, she would like not to answer why he did that yet.She looked at the arrowhead that was a few feet from her nose. “Listen, I have no weapons whatsoever. I’m not gonna hurt you or try to run. You can remove that arrow from my face now, please.” She lightly tapped the side of its shaft and he almost recoiled in surprise at her boldness.He didn’t answer her, but let his eyes roam over her again. Then he put his arrow back in his quiver. “Put her in chains and we will bring her to my father.” He ordered while two guards walked up to her. One inspected her for weapons in case she lied, the other bound her hands in front of her with thin ropes of cold steel.She arched a brow as she was quite surprised by the choice of shackles. She would be able to break them in a heartbeat. Now when she thought about it, there would presumably be magic involved. Elves weren’t that stupid.Like magical mind reading, the brunette female guard that worked on her binds said, “These chains are enchanted so if you try to break them, they will burn you. Think wisely.”“Will do.” She responded and the guards stepped back.She eyed Legolas before she walked forward as the group started moving, keeping a rectangular formation around her.She walked in silence and felt no fear to the elves nor to the forest, now that she was with them. Like if she had been under a spell without their company, she now heard the small chirping from birds in the forest and the sound of running water nearby. She enjoyed it. It seemed lighter now, like if her surroundings had been overshadowed in darkness before her union with the elves. It made her wonder if it was a method to frighten unwanted guests or if it was just because of her solitude.The group stopped by the signal of their prince as she saw him holding up his hand. He looked about, observing every move and sound around him. Suddenly, the dreaded spiders broke out from the tree lines and attacked the elves. Fear curled its fist in her mind and she inhaled sharply, moving to avoid the fight.Spiders fell, left and right, screeches of agony echoing through the woods as blades penetrated and sliced through limbs. She stood in the middle of the chaos, dodging fangs and arrows, and waited for everything to be over. She did her best to ignore her anxiety for the creatures, but it was quite different when she was actually in it. But she was with elves. She wouldn’t get hurt. Right?A space between the elves in front of her seemed to form out of nowhere and a spider crawled towards her like it had only waited for the opportunity.Her heart beat faster, adrenalin going unused, pumping through her veins and her breathing became unsteady. What if she got injured by a spider bite and she had to endure such a pain? What if it killed her?She stood still, hoping it would lose interest as the creature advanced on her. A lump in her throat started to form, her head feeling heated and heavy. She swallowed, her throat dry as if she hadn’t drunk in months and as its fanged mouth opened in a deafening cry, she closed her eyes.The blunt side of its fang grazed her forehead and she froze, before an arrow shot through its skull from the side.It seemed to have been the last spider, when Legolas stepped up and pushed her roughly on the shoulder. “Do you wish to die?” He hissed, annoyed by her impotent behavior. It was a death sentence to stay still in an active fight.“You are elves with great archery skills and I am a prisoner, from another world, who you wish to present to your king. You would never have let me die, would you?” She explained as she began to breathe again, relieved.“Let us decide that matter.” He answered and turned her around with another push on the back of her shoulder, however gentler this time. The rest of the patrol fell back into formation as the prince returned to the front of the group, continuing their walk to the palace.She was surprised by Legolas’ behavior. She had expected him to be kinder, more open and less violent. Was it different here? Was he... darker? Perhaps she just didn’t know him. She had probably given him a bad impression and had seen the soldier in him.. which made a lot of sense.Before long, huge wooden doors with a stone bridge in front of it appeared in the horizon and the group sped up. The woman prepared herself of what was to come and entered her usual unemotional space out of habit for the unknown.As two guards outside held the gates open, Legolas led the group inside. As she expected, Thranduil’s Halls were an astonishing place. Nature itself was braided into the architecture of the palace. The walls, the doors, the archways, everything. Even the floor had been carved to embrace its natural surroundings, creating a calm atmosphere. A few guards glanced at her to see her reaction of the place, as it typically astonished.She gave them nothing. ———The king was sitting on his throne with one leg slung over the other, admiring one of his jewelry rings, when his son walked into the room. He looked more serious than usual. Perhaps, also a bit disturbed.“Legolas.” He welcomed.“Father.” Legolas responded stiffly.“Is something wrong?” Thranduil frowned slightly, confused.“There may be.”Thranduil looked disapprovingly at his son. “If you would elaborate.”“On my patrol, I met a woman who stated that she was not from this world, nor did she look like it. Her clothing is not something I have ever seen.” He said and his father frowned, walking down the steps.“Who is she?”Legolas opened his mouth to answer, then closed it again.Thranduil gave him a glare stronger than the last. “Are you telling me, that you have met a person from another world, but you failed to get her name?”“She failed to introduce herself and I thought you would like to ask personally.” Legolas excused.“Where is she now?” Thranduil inquired and descended the stairs to retrieve a glass of wine.“She is with a few of your guards outside, waiting for you to speak with her.”“Send her in, then.” Thranduil ordered bluntly, waving a hand at the door as he went back to his seat.“Yes, father.” Legolas bowed and turned around, leaving the room, only to return with two guards and an unusual clothed woman in chains. ———The throne room was surprisingly quiet, despite the sole sound of rattling armor and synchronized steps. The woman seemed oblivious to her state of temporary imprisonment and walked with squared shoulders and a straight back, focusing on nothing in front of her.Until she stood in front of the throne platform. Here, she looked up at the king and gave him a slight smile.If Lee Pace had made his character look beautiful, it was nothing compared to the elf in front of her. If she should choose, she definitely preferred this version. It was an unreal feeling to stand in front of the actual Elvenking. He was looking at her like he was staring through her soul. Like he read every detail about her to figure out who she was. Elves could read minds in some of the stories, the fan fictions, that she had read back home. Maybe they actually could. She took no chances and did her best to shield her mind from unwanted visitors.“Leave us.” Ordered his deep voice and the guards spun around to wait outside. Legolas stepped over to stand by the side, leaving the woman to herself in the centre while his father dramatically rose from his throne and descended the steps.He eyed her curiously with a hint of coldness as he towered over her.She didn’t seem intimidated by the slightest, calmly looking back at him.“Who are you and what are you doing in my forest?”“My name is Kiera Lagos Jones. As I told your son over there, I am from a different world than yours.” She replied.“And why are you here then?” He asked further, starting to circle around her, another one of his intimidation tricks. It didn’t work. She didn’t want to give him that advantage, so she kept looking straight forward, where he had stood a second ago.“God sent me.”She spoke truthfully, however confusing that was to hear.“God?”“Yes.”“Why did he do that?”“You must ask him that question, I cannot answer it.” She lied without batting an eye.He quickly advanced on her from behind and she felt his breath on her ear.“Are you sure about that?”“Absolutely, Your Majesty.” She stated and continued to focus on the stone steps in front of her.He barely let out a huff as he proceeded his interrogation, circling her to end up in front of her. She met his gaze.“You seem quite confident.” He observed with an almost insulted look.“I have done nothing wrong.”She admitted.“You trespassed my land.”“Actually, I didn’t. I woke up here. So the only realm I have ever been in, here, is yours.”He glared into her aqua blue eyes. “And for how long have you been that?”“Four hours.” She responded, arching a brow.His eyes narrowed, searching for any lies in her own, but he found none. “How was your journey here?” He asked further.“I don’t know. I woke up on a branch, then got found by your son and his squad, then got led back here. We met some unusually big spiders on the way though, and the dear prince managed to kill a spider before it bid my head off.” She said and turned to Legolas. “You have skill, I’ll give you that. Credit to anyone who can beat you.” She said and stifled a smirk while she nodded her head in respect. Legolas was hard to read, but she sensed he wasn’t sure how to react.The king frowned angrily. “Cockiness and arrogance doesn’t get you far.” He warned and Kiera looked back at him.I could say the same to you, Kiera thought smugly as she recalled the stories of him. “I usually call it humor, but if you don’t find it amusing then my apologies, Your Majesty.”He glared at her.She calmly stared back.Thranduil continued to scowl at her, offended by her behavior.After a long time of silence, he turned to his son, who now stood with his arms crossed. “Legolas, lead Kiera to her new chambers. She is our guest.”Legolas gestured to the door, indicating that she could start moving. She gave a barely noticeable inclination to the king and followed the prince’s recommendation, her chains clinking quietly around her wrists.What a white lie, she thought, smirking discreetly.Taking a turn down a corridor, Legolas stopped outside a set of doors. He turned to her and gestured to her hands. She held them before him and he started unwrapping the chains from her wrists. They had no lock, but were tight anyway. Kiera could testify to that. He took the chains in one hand and opened one of the doors for her with the other.“Your chambers.” He said.She nodded in thanks and entered the room.The room contained a rather big bed that had been neatly made, a closet standing against the wall and a desk beside it. On the other side of the room was a window with a build-in bench to sit on, cushions softening the seating.“If you need anything, you need just to voice your words to the guard posted out here in the corridor.” She heard Legolas say behind her and she turned to see him close the door. The sound of a lock turning didn’t escape her ears.As she had expected, she was no guest - yet. She was merely a prisoner in a nice environment.She turned to the closet and discovered three garments. A grey nightgown, a dark blue tunic and a green dress with a shawl hanging over the hanger that seemed to have been worn many times, but still shined with its beauty.She walked to the build-in bench at the window, throwing her bag on it and looking out on the forest she had just been in. Quickly deciding what to do, she went back to the door and knocked. A moment passed and it swung open to reveal a guard whose expression was impassive, but his eyes shined of slight amusement. Perhaps he welcomed the thought of something to do rather than standing still.“Sorry to bother, but is it possible for me to take a bath?”“Yes, my lady. I will have a maid bring you to the baths, if you would please wait a moment.” She smiled kindly at his hospitality, but it quickly disappeared again as the door was closed and she was left alone again.She sighed and rubbed her wrists where the chains had burned her slightly, returning to the bench. Her head still pounded since she had woken up and she was yet to figure out why - perhaps just the travelling between worlds. She sat down and rubbed her legs in comfort, when she felt something in her back pocket. She reached down and pulled out a smooth piece of folded paper. It surprised her that the elves hadn’t found it when they inspected her, but it was very smooth - hard to see on the outside.Unfolding it, she recognized her own writing on the parchment, where only two words were written in black ink.
List:

Jump
Yes, elves were not at all trusting at first. Trust was a thing you earned. This made it worse. It would take a whole lot of time and effort to win the king’s.

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

"You know, it's very kind of you to help me, miss, but I prefer to bath in privacy, please." Kiera informed the maid, who was patiently waiting for her to enter the bath with soap and towel in her hands. Kiera herself was nervously fidgeting with her hands behind her back as she was used to being alone when bathing.It didn't comfort her much to have a stranger in the room along with her to silently judge her body and gossip about it to others. Also, just to know that somebody was watching her. It made her feel vulnerable. No, she preferred to enjoy bathing by herself.  "Of course, my lady, I will leave you to it." The maid said, and she blushed slightly in embarrassment of her agitations. "Call for me if you need me. My name is Miriel.""Thank you." Kiera gave her a hint of a smile as Miriel put the soaps and towel aside on a table and walked out the door, quietly closing it behind her.Taking a deep breath, she took off her bra, shirt and tight jeans, letting them fall to the floor in heaps she didn't care about. Kicking off her shoes in a swift second, she quickly got into the water and felt the warmth surround her and loosen her surprisingly sore muscles. Her head ached less, but she still felt it mingling, sure that it would take a while before it disappeared entirely. She hadn't exactly done much other than getting here - and switching worlds. Considering that, she had been through some kind of exhaustion.She slowly drifted in the water and admired the room she occupied. It was the most beautiful bathroom she had ever been in. The room was carved into the cave walls, and the floor was made of matte sand stone. Another wooden table than the one Miriel had put her things on, was placed up the wall with a huge stone bowl on it and lotions beside it. A mirror was placed behind the bowl and a pitcher with water on the other side of the lotions, waiting to be used.Light shone through windows that were build in high up in the walls, enlightening the room with a calm aura, relaxing Kiera further as she turned in the water. She inhaled slowly and dipped her head under the water, letting the pressure push at her head. The headache pounded louder, but nonetheless eased after a few seconds and she broke through the surface, sighing softly at the suddenly cold air flush against her skin.After enjoying the bath for longer than what was considered legal, she got up and dressed in a dark blue robe, gathering her shoes and clothes from the floor. Walking out of the door in long strides, she was again reminded of the king's current state of mind as the guard who had been posted outside her room, instantly caught up with her and started leading her back to her chambers.As she pushed aside the urge to talk with the guard, who probably would ignore her, she focused on her surroundings. The corridors were long and tall, fairly narrow but still wide enough for ten men walk side by side without touching the walls. Guards occupied the spaces in the shadows, watching Kiera and her 'companion' walk past them, continuing down to her own chambers. She thanked the guard as he held the door open and she stepped into her newly appointed home. He held out his hands for her clothes to give to the maids."Please don't destroy them. I would like to keep them." She pulled the bundle out of reach. She loved the jeans and the t-shirt too. And living here without a bra? I think not, she answered her own question in thought."I will make sure they return to you, my lady." He answered with a kind smile, a glint in his eye."Thank you." She said and narrowed her eyes in suspicion, though nevertheless gave him all but the shoes and bra. They wouldn't know how to wash it anyway.He bowed and retreated, Kiera closing the door after him. Sighing, she turned to the bed, throwing the shoes and bra towards it, and she looked forward to sleeping for a few hours. She had no idea what time it was exactly, but out of the window, the sun had gone down and she could see the stars twinkling in the sky.She threw herself on the bed, not worrying about nightgowns, and buried herself beneath the sheets and the soft pillows. It felt like five minutes had passed when she woke up by a knocking on the door. She mumbled a growl and got up, tightening the robe around her. The sun was high up and she bet on the life of humanity that her hair looked like a bird nest, but she couldn't care less as she walked to the door."Yes?" She sneered loudly enough for the person to hear and the door was opened to reveal the familiar guard."The king requires your presence. I would suggest you don't make him wait, my lady, and make haste." He said, glancing down the corridor nervously as if he was in a hurry."Would you please let me breathe for a second, and tell me what time it is?" Kiera asked, barely noticing the guard as she rubbed her eyes, running her hand through her hair, which she quickly gave up on after it was caught in small knots."It's two hours before noon, my lady. You have slept a rather long time." The guard explained hastily."Well I had a rather long journey, let a woman rest, for the love of God." She grumbled, not noticing his rush in her sleepy state as she saw the bundle he had in his hands. "Oh, you actually didn't destroy them?" She asked, her mood changing by the discovery."No, I did not." The guard replied, slightly surprised that she hadn't believed his first words the day before."Thank you." She flashed a short smile and took the bundle. "I'll get dressed."He nodded and closed the door.Turning to her closet, she chose the green dress and shawl to wear and studied it with her hands as she took it out of the closet. It was made of silk and almost felt like water that could slip through her fingers anytime if she didn't hold tightly onto the fabric.Letting the dress glide over her head and hug her form, she stepped into the small slippers on the floor, that had similar color to the dress, and draped the shawl over her shoulders. She snatched the brush on the vanity and brushed her hair in an attempt to sort out the mess some eagle had been making overnight. Half done, the door opened without warning and the guard stepped in. "There's no time, we must go now.""What?! But I'm not ready!" She yelled, referring to her unfinished hair, as the guard took her brush and threw it back on the vanity, pushing her out the door and down the corridor before she could do much else. "You have to survive with what you have.""I never caught your name." She sneered."Castien." "Well, Castien, I'm Kiera. I hope you're fine with me cursing your name down to the deepest part of hell for this." She growled and turned to see his offended expression. She huffed. "How dare you let me see the king with hair that's been visited by a storm.""My apologies, my lady." Castien answered, but Kiera didn't believe him. "Yeah, you better give me a shitload of those." She rolled her eyes and started to walk normally instead of resisting Castien's pushing.After a longer journey through the cavernous hallways, Castien stopped outside a pair of magnificent oak doors that were tall enough for a giant to walk through without bumping its head on the door frame. "Wait here." He bid and entered the room. She heard his mumbled voice announce she was here and another person, supposedly the king, answer. Before she could blink, Castien had returned and led her into the room.Thranduil was standing at his desk looking at a few papers with whatever information was on them. A quill and pen was beside them, assembling dust on their surface. Legolas was sitting on a puffy chair to the left, beside a window that showed a great view of Mirkwood, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees and a wine glass in his hands, observing every move she made. They hadn't exactly started off on the right foot. He seemed surprised by her appearance and eyed her disapprovingly.She heard Castien leave again, and she was left with the two royals."I hope you enjoyed your sleep." The king said, not removing his eyes from his work as his voice traveled around the room."I did, thank you. I hope you did as well. What can I help you with, Your Majesty?" Kiera asked, jumping over the formalities and going straight to the matter."Tell me of your world." He said, finally looking at her. He eyed her hair. "Are you… alright?" He continued."Your guard, Castien, didn't let me finish. He thought there wasn't enough time for me to look presentable." "I apologize for that. Let me take care of it later." He gestured for her to sit in one of the chairs where Legolas was and she gracefully sat opposite the prince. Thranduil walked over with two wine glasses that she hadn't noticed before and handed one to her. She took it and he sat down beside his son, sipping at the drink in his bejeweled hand.Kiera felt like she was being interrogated. Despite her discomfort, she kept a calm demeanor and confidently met the monarch's gaze. "What do you want to know?" she asked as she crossed her legs, making sure the silk dress didn't reveal too much. The king and prince noticed the inked snake circling around her left calf but said nothing about it."Everything." Thranduil answered, swirling the wine around in his glass."Well, I can't exactly do that, I'm not an all-knowing genius, but I can tell you what I do know." Kiera replied, sipping at her own glass."Excellent." The king declared, indicating that she should start.Kiera leaned back in her seat and took in a breath, contemplating where she should start. "I come from a world called Earth. Humans and all sorts of animals live there.""What of elves?" Legolas inquired, frowning as he too settled back in his seat."Elves don't reside on Earth as a people. They're creatures of fairy tales and only exist in stories, just like dragons and magic do. They're not real." Kiera said, wondering what they would say to that."And dwarves?" Thranduil asked right after."Dwarves don't exist as a race either, but we do have human dwarves.""So what races do you have?" Legolas proceeded. "Humanity.""An entire world with only one race?" He frowned."Yes.""How many are you?" Thranduil asked as Legolas took a sip of his own wine.Kiera looked up at the ceiling as she thought back. "Last time I checked, we were about seven and a half billion."Legolas coughed as he choked on his drink. "That is a lot of people.""It's a big place and we've been there for a long time." Kiera smiled, drinking again."Since it is one race, do you all live in the same realm?" Thranduil questioned."No." She wondered how she could explain and got an idea, but wondered if she dared. "Let me show you." She decided and got up, placing her glass on the table in front of her. "Please don't be mortified, I'm not gonna flash you or something." She informed and ignored their confused looks.Turning around, she brought all her long, messy hair over one shoulder. She took a breath and let her shawl fall down to her elbows, allowing the thin dress straps to glide with it and rest on the sides of her arms. She clutched the top of her dress to make sure it didn't slide down. All that was bared was her upper back. "This is Earth." She declared, and she noted both elves got up from their seats to see.On her back was a tattooed map of Earth, with all the country borders marked. Some shapes were colored in different shades, but most of them were still her skin color. "Earth has about two hundred countries - realms - spread out in the seven continents." She felt a hand on her shoulder blade, following the line of whatever country was there."Why are some of them colored?" Thranduil asked behind her and she realized it was his hand that were touching the tattoo. She ignored the slight chill that went through her."They are the countries I've been to." She said bluntly."You've seen much in your life. How long have you walked on your Earth?" his deep voice asked. "Have you not learned never to ask such a question to a lady, Your Majesty?" She smirked feeling his hand retreat. It quickly returned with a finger on a spot."Where is this?" "I can't see my back. Do you have a mirror?"Immediately, she was handed a mirror and she saw into a second one that the king held. It clearly showed her back. "That's Europe. The country your pointing at is Spain."His finger slid over to another colored spot. "France." Again, his finger slid to a spot. "England, my homeland." Another. "Brazil… Kenya... Italy. Egypt. Do you need to know every single one?" She asked, feeling rather awkward to stand there and say a bunch of countries to thin air. She quickly grew tired of saying them."I do, but we can take the rest another day." The king replied with an impassive voice, removing his hand from her back.She sighed, rather relieved, and rearranged her dress. “If it makes it any easier, I can do it myself.”Turning around, she saw Legolas was in the middle of drawing a half-finished copy of the map that looked incredibly accurate of what he had drawn so far. "If you would help us finish it later on, I would be thankful." Thranduil continued and folded his hands behind his back."Of course, I'd be glad to." She answered him, pulling up her sleeves and she stepped up beside the prince to admire the drawing. "That's impressive. How did you do it with such precision, freehand?"Legolas gave her a slight grin, surprising Kiera. "Magic."She smiled a little, happy that the prince had some form of humor. It was a sign that maybe they could start over on better terms. She observed the king stepping closer to her out of the corner of her eye, watching him study her body. It made her quite uncomfortable. She turned to tell him to back off, but he gently grabbed both her wrists before she could say anything and stared at her forearms."Who did this to you?" He asked, tracing them just like he did with her back. "Who gave you the map?" He was studying a few of her other tattoos. On her left arm was a woman fighting to get up, on her right was a tattoo of hands shaking, though one was shattered to pieces. "I did." Kiera told him. "A tattoo artist made them, though.""What are they?" He continued, focusing on the shattered hand."Promises.""To whom?""Myself." She pulled her arms to herself and took a few steps back. "Was there anything else?" She asked, folding her hands in front of her."No, I'm sure we will have lots to talk about another time.""So, I can leave?"Thranduil arched a brow. "Yes.""Brilliant." She clasped her hands in front of her. "It was nice seeing you again and good talk. Have a lovely day, Your Majesties." She smiled and turned around, quickly exiting the room before he changed his mind.Taking a deep breath, she glared at the amused Castien, who again led her back to her chambers. "I will kill you." She declared and Castien started smiling as if they had been friends for ages, leaving Kiera surprised for the second time. It was nice to see some elves were a bit more human — and welcoming. "Not before the king does, though."Castien instantly stopped smiling. "Pardon me, my lady?"Kiera glared at him again. "I haven't forgiven you for my hair yet," she said, and his excitement drizzled out. “Why were you in a rush?”“I had a watch shift I was late to.”Kiera smirked. "Karma. But if you do that trick on someone else, I predict that you and I are gonna be great friends."

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

Kiera grumbled as she stared out the window of her room, tired of sitting there, locked inside. It was late afternoon, three days after she had arrived and she wanted to get out after having spent all day in her chambers. She wanted to move. Experience. Explore. She didn’t know if she was allowed to though. So far, the elves had been kind to her - save for Castien who had nearly humiliated her to death - but she wasn’t sure if it was sincere or simply a facade.She still felt at unease of being in Mirkwood. She wasn’t sure what to think. She felt safe, but the thought of something dangerous lurking behind every corner she turned kept tingling in the back of her mind, poking at her anxiety like a demon. It was nerve wracking to sit there, feeling like something was right before her eyes and she couldn’t see it. As if it was just waiting for her to take the wrong step.As she watched the wind blow around yet another tree in the forest, the leaves wavering violently by the force, she got up and walked to the door, settled on a task. She knocked on the door once with a fist rather than a knuckle, and it quickly got opened to reveal a surprised Castien. “My lady?” He said hesitantly.“Evening, Castien, how’s it going with you? Care to accompany me for a stroll?” Kiera asked bluntly and leaned against the doorframe. “I’m bored to death in here and I’d like to know if you’d allow me to see this beautiful place you call home.”Castien raised his eyebrows at her bluntness but nodded. “Why of course, my lady. Where would you like to go?” He asked and stood at attention, looking at her with curious eyes.“Wherever your elven mind finds interesting.” She answered and Castien smirked.“Let us go then.” He said, and Kiera nodded, walking out to follow beside him.On, Castien went, to show her the Woodland Realm. As she had already seen the Throne Room two days prior, he thought to skip that and instead started in the kitchens where he let her speak with the chefs of how they made the variety of foods and meals in their stock, along with some information on whatever ingredients they used. Kiera was happy to find out that elves weren’t vegetarians as a species but was by simple personal preference, just like humans. That meant that she indeed could eat meats while she was here. She didn’t know how to survive without, so this was a great discovery.Most elves were hesitant to talk with her, eyeing her suspiciously and unsettled by the thought of this strange woman that the rumors had said were from a different world. They seemed just as nice as everyone else when they found the courage to approach her or answer the questions she had, but when they weren’t in a situation of confrontation, they stayed further away and settled with simply watching her.Castien was quick to tell her that the kitchens were only one of his many beloved places in the realm and urged her to let him show her the rest before dusk would creep upon them. He led her through many corridors that all seemed the same in design yet different altogether. Kiera thought that perhaps they were similar in architecture but different in their context, which explained the answer to her slight awe.She was soon followed to what Castien revealed to be the Barracks, showing her the rows of doors that closed off the soldiers’ rooms. He then led her to the guards’ Common Room, a place where most of them either dozed off or played games and talked in between watches.After Castien had said hello to a few of the guards that appeared to be his good friends, only introducing Kiera as they had glanced at her and she had nodded in return without a word, Castien dragged her along to the next place he wanted her to see: The Training Grounds.This was a place that certainly interested Kiera.She watched every soldier pull back the strings on their bows at the archery plains further away from the rest of the grounds, studying how they held the bow and let the arrow fly, hitting the targets rather close to the center. Turning her eyes to the guards closer to her, she observed the many groups of two that sparred with one another. In one of them, one guard lashed out at the other with a dagger, determined to bury it in his lung, but he quickly got pushed to the ground with a shield to the chest and a sword to the throat. Having yelped in surprise, the guard looked at the blade pressed to his skin and slowly showed his hands in surrender. The victor helped him up and they both bowed to each other, peace reformed between them.Kiera arched a brow at them, surprised that the loser hadn’t noticed the dirty trick the other had done so he could win. She clearly had seen him kick out his opponent’s knee while he had pushed, making sure that the loser fell to the ground - and stayed there long enough for the other to win.She huffed a chuckle and turned back to Castien who eagerly stood beside her, watching her as well as the grounds. “Is this where your soldiers become such great warriors as you say?” She asked, and he nodded with a smile.“Indeed, my lady, that is here.” He answered and looked proud to admit such, straightening his back and pushing back his shoulders to look further appealing.Kiera raised an eyebrow at him and stifled a laugh. “I see it still needs a little improvement.” She mumbled, only him to hear, and she watched as his pride fizzled out, surprise sporting his face. She gestured to the guards she had just watched and turned back in to the corridor to explore the rest of the realm. “Come, show me everything else.” She requested and Castien slowly caught up, a little less excited than their prior adventures.He continued to show her around as promised, telling her of the few herbs he knew of in the Healing Quarters before a healer took over to elaborate, which she found rather interesting. She had never been much of a doctor, but it was always good to know what to use if you got injured, and certainly in this place.Further she was shown to both the Grand Hall and the Dining Hall. The Grand Hall was a huge space, a room with but a floor waiting to be filled with people or tables and chairs at the sight of a feast. A few guards were found around the pillars, the light cascading through windows to the sides and high up at the rock ceiling. The Dining Hall that followed had been rather empty and dull to look at without anything in it, and was now occupied with tables and benches and the voices of a thousand elves or more.The elves filled the room as they sat upon the wood, eating their dinner eagerly after a long day with duties and bustled with gossip about the next elf that had managed to do something interesting. Kiera thought to join, when the nearest elf mentioned a strange human that no one knew who was. So she settled with snatching some bread and a glass of wine, gulping it down before they continued. She looked back at Castien, thinking that it was time to leave once more.Except Castien wasn’t there anymore.Kiera looked around to find him, furrowing her brow as she tried to locate her guard. Such was hard when everyone was either gifted with brown or black hair and each looked worthy enough to be enlisted as one of Victoria’s Angels. Yes, Castien was long lost in the crowd of his beauty kin, and he most likely was stuffing himself with the food at some table. Kiera sighed, pondering on what to do now.She could stay. Sit down and enjoy the feast of a dinner in front of her, perhaps make another friend than Castien who clearly had left her hanging. He must have grown tired of her or simply gotten hungry. Maybe both were the case.She could also go on her own. There was a small risk she would get caught but that wouldn’t happen would it? Was she not allowed to see the realm? She was here after all, and no one had stopped her. Would they notice that she didn’t have Castien with her? Weren’t they all busy with their duties? Yes. She could go herself. It was fine. She was safe.Kiera let her eyes roam over the crowd one more time, just to see if she was able to find Castien in faded hope, but walked away empty handed as she exited the Dining Hall and continued aimlessly through the corridors.She glanced at the few guards that walked by her and those who stood watch at every other corner. She resisted the urge to nervously fiddle with her hand. They could call on her at any moment, step forward, maybe point their spear at her and ask what she was doing there all alone. And what would she say? You can piss right off before I put that spear up where the sun doesn’t shine, Kiera thought at her question and had to suppress a chuckle as she had eye contact with one guard, who frowned at her. She nodded in greeting and continued down the corridor where more guards seemed to appear, standing outside every door there was. As she saw her surroundings grow grander, more protected and more upheld, she figured that this was the Royal Wing.She wondered if the king was there or if he was in the Throne Room. She certainly didn’t want to stumble upon him here, so she discreetly steered away and walked down a quieter corridor where it appeared that less guards stood watch, doing her best to get away from the king’s quarters.She hardly looked back as she walked through the hallways, the place silent as no guards occupied the shadows anymore, only her footsteps echoing against the bare walls. It was only when she reached the last turn, with the last hallway before her, that she realized there were no ignited torches on the walls and the corridor lay empty with nothing but the spiders on their webs to accompany her.She stopped in her tracks, staring down the corridor where there was a door at the end. It had a golden flow to it, the moonlight, that indicated night had fallen, shining onto the metal engraved in the door as it wound up around the doorknob and around or into the cracks in the wood. It looked flawless from her perspective. But it seemed to have a story.A story she had yet to hear.She was tempted to take a step down the corridor and then follow it with another. But it felt wrong. Was this what she thought it was?It was so quiet that if she dropped a pin, it would surprise her by the sound. She barely dared to breathe as she frowned in wonder, her eyes roaming every inch of the door like it could tell her more of what was behind it. Her hand had subconsciously reached out as if she wanted to touch the wood that stood so far away.With a stubborn sigh, she retracted her hand and turned away.It was a story she could yet be told.She walked back along the corridors as she tried to leave the area, searching for glimpses of guards and lit torches and every time she found either, she followed them, trying to find a way out.Curse these god forsaken maze corridors and the architectures as well, Kiera internally spat and nearly let out a groan of frustration as she saw the amount of guards that were further away. She gritted her teeth in annoyance, determined not to be caught in the wrong place, and she turned to the left, hurrying down another corridor with quiet steps as she searched for an exit. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she managed to get away without any guards catching her or the king cutting her head off by being in the Royal Wing without permission.She hurried down staircases, settled on the task of getting as low as possible and as far away from the king as she could. Surprisingly, she indeed ended up long away from the Wing as she admired the doors of the cells, deep down in the dungeons.Here, guards too stood watch despite that barely anyone seemed to occupy the cells they guarded. If there even were any. She knew this to be the place where the dwarves had been imprisoned and where Bilbo had freed them after taking the keys. She studied the nearest cell, looking over it before glancing at the nearby guard who eyed her curiously.“What do you do here?” He asked, and she smiled innocently.“I’m just exploring the realm. Going on adventures.” She answered and placed her hands behind her back as she leaned against the wall with a shoulder.He narrowed his eyes in suspicion. “You shouldn’t be here. Explore other parts of the realm, my lady.” He ordered, and Kiera arched a bold brow.“Am I at your command?” She asked and instead crossed her arms in front of her.The guard looked at her surprised, never having expected such a question and he seemed at a loss of what to answer.“I thought so.” Kiera smirked and leaned back off the wall, walking away to bring her adventure elsewhere.She eventually ended up in the cellars where it was stocked with bottles of wine and barrels of just the same. She eyed the yet-to-be-build pyramid of the barrels that had been emptied and stocked onto the ramp, knowing that it would later come in handy for a certain company.She turned to the rack of wine bottles, letting a hand brush over her chin as she thought of drinking one. Would she be allowed that? Probably not. Would she do it anyways? Probably, but that would be very stupid.She was sure that among the wines, one legendary drink could be found and enjoyed by just the right person. She had always wondered if it was as good as vodka or if it ran a strong second place.Perhaps, the question would never be answered, for at that moment, the Elvenking silently stepped up beside her with his hands behind his back, looking over each wine as she did.“Are you searching for something, Kiera?” Thranduil asked with his deep voice and Kiera struggled not to smile right in his face and take the wine in front of his eyes.“I could be. I was wondering if I was allowed to enjoy such delicacies as this or if I must confide in water until I no longer stand on my own two legs and call myself alive?” She said and turned her head to look up at him with an impassive look.He arched a brow at her question but otherwise didn’t show any emotion. “Perhaps you should.” He answered and pulled out a dark red wine bottle before he turned and sat at a table, pouring a glass for himself. He didn’t say which beverage he meant for her so Kiera remained standing where she was, watching him as he took the glass in hand and looked back at her. “Perhaps not?” He asked and looked at her with a raised eyebrow as he sipped the wine.Kiera finally understood that he had invited her to drink and she sat down beside him while he poured a glass for her. She took it gracefully and leaned back against the table, resting her elbow on the surface as she kept her eyes on him.“So, what do you do here, Your Majesty?” She asked and tasted her wine, immediately sure that this was the famous Dorwinion wine that she knew the king loved. She pulled back to study the glass, taking in the scent. “This is good wine. Perhaps a favorite?” She asked and raised the glass in question before taking another sip.“Indeed, it is.” Thranduil answered and looked at her with piercing eyes, searching for the smallest trace of weakness. “And to answer your first question, I believe this is my realm. I could ask you the same thing.”Kiera smirked and put down the glass. “I wanted to see your realm. I happened to end up here after seeing most of the interesting halls. You have a beautiful home.” She complimented, and he resisted the urge to glare despite appreciating her words.“Sometimes, your adventures should be kept to where they are allowed.” He said and watched as Kiera’s eyes widened slightly in shock and she realized he had discovered her explorations in the Royal Wing. “You wouldn’t like to find me in an angry mood, and especially not if you are the cause.” He warned, scolding her with his cold gaze.Kiera finally let out a laugh and Thranduil arched a brow at the mocking tone she projected. “We are not ourselves when we are angry, Your Highness.” She said and Thranduil managed to keep an impassive expression. “So, if you are angry, I wouldn’t find you, but someone else.”The king leaned forward and narrowed his eyes at her while she took another sip of wine. “And who would you find?”“How should I know?” Kiera answered and blinked innocently at him.He leaned back again and finally drank some more of his own wine. “Who would I find if it was you?” He asked and eyed her suspiciously.Kiera looked back at him, having somewhat expected the question. “Someone unrecognizable.” She answered calmly and finished her glass. “I hope you never see me as such.” She said and the cogs in Thranduil’s mind instantly started churning to figure out what she meant by that.Kiera got up and placed the empty glass on the table, watching the king with a bold look. “Thanks for the wine, Your Majesty. It’s as good as I expected.” She commented and then left him before he could say more.Thranduil looked after her with the coldest glare he could muster, angered by the arrogant demeanor she radiated towards him. He wasn’t sure who she was or why she was there, but he knew she was hiding something. She was smart, and he noticed how she seemed to think over every word she spoke. There was something she didn’t want him to know. But he would find out.He finished the wine and grabbed both glass and bottle, stood from the wooden bench and walked out of the cellars in long strides, determined to focus on his duties as king rather than the impotent human who had accompanied him.He would find out.

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

Kiera was simply drawing on a piece of parchment, doing her best attempt of making a sketch of the quill on the desk, when a knock on the door disrupted her focus and she nearly messed up the entire piece. It wasn't a master's work, and she hadn't intended it to be. Just practice, but it was nonetheless still frustrating to almost ruin it.She sighed, getting up from her seat to answer. It seemed that everyone wanted to talk with her at some point during the day where she was busy, but never when the wind was quiet, and her room seemed to freeze in time. Never was she interrupted in boredom, but indeed she was, when she finally found something productive to do.Yesterday had been quite interesting for her. She had seen most of the realm, including Castien's favorite spots; the kitchens and the training grounds as well as the dining hall where everyone seemed to enjoy each other's company during meals. She had seen the depths of the dungeons before being shooed away by a guard and had seen the rakes of wine in the cellars with more bottles than seemed possible. She hadn't been there for long before Thranduil had joined her, asking curious questions about her. She knew he didn't trust nor like her and she wasn't surprised. She wouldn't either, but she rather needed him to do so if she wanted to stay here.And then there was that door she had found. Thranduil hadn't wanted her to see it and he certainly seemed angry that she had snuck around in the Royal Wing. It made her curious. Something hid behind it and she wasn't supposed to know what. Was she the only one? Was everyone else allowed? As she tried to shrug off her annoyance, she once more opened the door like the day before and met Castien's eyes as he stood straight, giving her a friendly smile despite the seriousness of his job."You are to meet Prince Legolas in the library. I am here to bring you there, my lady." He explained, and Kiera arched a surprised brow."Am I going there in chains?" She asked bluntly, thinking back to the last time she saw Legolas - apart from her visit in Thranduil's chambers - where he had insisted she was in restraints.Castien's smile vanished as he looked at her confused. "No. Why would you?" He asked cautiously, suddenly unsure if he had heard the command correctly."Because I think he prefers me helpless rather than free." She stated and Castien shook his head, discarding her assumptions."No, my lady, that's not true. You won't be in chains." He assured and gestured for her to follow.Kiera looked herself up and down, wondering if her unworldly clothes would be accepted as an attire and thought that if it wasn't, what would they do? Strip her bare on the spot? Ask her to go back and change? If the first happened, she'd fight her way out of it before they even laid a finger on her. If the second did, she'd simply do it.Taking a deep breath, she shrugged and walked out the door to do as Castien said, following beside him. She wondered why Legolas needed her, but surely it wasn't something she had done wrong.Had Thranduil told him of their meeting the day before? Was that what he wanted to talk about? Would they practice? Was he taking her on a patrol? Why were they meeting in the library?Leaving all her questions without answers, Castien mumbled on along the way of how he had been on guard the whole day and why he looked so much forward to dinner."They say there is chicken tonight. Rice and asparagus." He said excitedly, clearly loving the menu for the evening so far. "If she isn't finished with her duties yet, I'll bring something for my sister."Kiera raised an eyebrow. "Who's your sister?" She asked, open for developing further friendships than the ones she had at the moment.Castien smiled brightly, obviously proud to admit who it was. "Her name is Miriel. She is a maid, favored by the king, actually. He is very satisfied with her work and I'm very proud of her for all she's done. I'll introduce you!" He suggested happily, and Kiera let out a short laugh."How ironic," she started and Castien frowned. She smirked at him and shrugged. "I met her the day I arrived when I took a bath. She was my maid." Kiera explained, and he couldn't help but laugh with her. "She was very kind. I hope to get to know her better." She admitted, and he nodded eagerly."I'm sure she would like to as well." He replied and opened the door to the library as they finally arrived, revealing one of the last grand places that she had yet to see.It was stunning to say the least.The bookshelves reached all the way to the roof, containing thousands of books and scrolls of all sizes. One book on a nearby shelf seemed to be at least a foot thick and Kiera wondered how in the world it had been possible to create, and who had had the patience to write so many pages. The afternoon sun shone through windows that hid in the corners of upper walls, the cavernous tree pillars wrapping up around the sides and turning into the ceiling. Dozens of tables occupied spaces throughout the hall, split in smaller groups and situated in the middle of the room between the shelves, following all the way down to where it eventually ended.A few elves walked down the paths between the shelves, reading the backs of books or pulling out a number of them to carry to a table along with scrolls or quills to work with. They clearly seemed occupied and deep in thought. Some appeared to study for their profession while others were just reading for entertainment.How gorgeous, Kiera thought in awe and looked closer at the detail in one of the pillars that was built in as the side of a shelf. I wonder how long it took to build...She suddenly noticed Legolas stand at a bigger table separated from the others, leaning against it with his hands on the surface as he studied whatever was on it. She cautiously walked closer, expecting him to give her a glare and order her to be chained up. Glancing back at Castien, she saw that he had stopped and waved goodbye, indicating that this was where they parted. She nodded in return, glad that the chance for restraints was lessened, and held her breath as she approached the prince, looking over his shoulder at what he was admiring.Finally, she realized why she was there and why he had asked for her.On the table was the map that Legolas had started two days before, Earth drawn out in a detailed sketch with the continents and countries marked. Now, only the names of the lands and the seas waited to be written, and the map would be finished."I don't know what you find so interesting about Russia." She said, and he turned to look at her, clearly having heard her arrive with his elven hearing. As he hadn't flinched the slightest at her sudden interruption of his thoughts, she figured nothing less. Kiera frowned at him and shook her head. "It's cold, people are insane and the only good thing you can find, is vodka." She declared and sat down on a chair beside him as she looked from him to the map. "I found out first hand."Legolas arched an eyebrow and crossed his arms as he looked down at her, eyeing her foreign clothes. "I find it to be a rather big place compared to your other realms." He stated and cocked his head to the side. "What is this so called 'vodka' you speak of? Is it a place you can visit there?" He asked, and Kiera had to laugh out loud at his innocence.It seemed to offend him somehow and he leaned forward, scowling at her. "Is it a question you wouldn't want to answer?" He asked calmly, annoyed by her rude attitude."No." Kiera disagreed and leaned forward in response, only resulting in Legolas moving back slightly as to not get too close. "It's a drink." She answered and smirked. "Strong alcohol." She continued and leaned back in her seat again. "Good alcohol."Legolas huffed and straightened again, looking down at her in slight disgust as he only thought of his father with his craving for wine. He turned back to the map and gestured to it. "If you could help with this, please." He suggested, and Kiera eyed the map of her home. "What do you need it for?" She asked, narrowing her eyes as he pursed his lips."My father wants to know of your world, and a map of it would be a start. If you know anything about each of the countries' history, we'll make note of it." He explained bluntly and Kiera nodded in understanding."Interesting." She said and moved a hand to point at the massive country she had just mentioned. "Russia - the place made me curious, taught me a few things..." she said and continued to explain a few things about it before she moved to the next."China - most populated country with over a billion people..." She explained and did as before. "Thailand ... Japan ... India ... Germany ... Denmark ... Sweden ..." on she went to tell of the countries she had visited, while explaining the history she knew and her experiences in each of them. United States of America. Canada. Argentina. South Africa. Australia. The list was long and it surprised Legolas how much of the world she had seen. She seemed young of her human years, maybe a little over two decades. And yet, she had seen more tides turning in her world than the times a star seemed to twinkle in the sky.She spoke of what she called 'continents' and that there were seven of them, equal to the seas. She explained how each were different in culture and that each had their own stereotypical emotion. Europe was cold and empty, said by Kiera herself, while Africa was hot and filled with life. North and South America were united yet couldn't be further apart when it came to opinions, hence her reference to their names. She told him of how Antarctica wasn't cold, but frozen, and it wasn't filled with life, but neither was it empty.She spoke of how Asia seemed to bustle with people more than any other place in her world, a home for the markets and various religions. And then she mentioned Australia, a continent and a country like no other as it was split from the rest of world, different in every way you could imagine.Legolas found himself to like her more after each story she told, deeply intrigued by the tales of this world he had never known existed. His disapproval lessened to nothing and respect started to grow. She was something else.She seemed excited to tell of her home, sharing what she had known for her whole life, and she smiled brighter after every tale had finished. She told of her travels and how she got around, telling of her grandmother and how she loved to go places with her while her father was busy with his work. She spoke of the deep love that she had for the old woman and that she had almost been a mentor in her life, guiding her through it after her mother had left the world to join the spirits.Legolas frowned slightly in sorrow as she mentioned her mother. "My condolences." He said quietly and Kiera shrugged with a barely visible smile. "Thank you." She replied quickly and mentally pushed away the subject as she looked over the map that was close to finished after having most of the names added."What of your father?" He inquired, and Kiera's smile faltered, vanishing as it was replaced with a thin line."My father lives in England. Working as always." She said, silently hoping that they could change subject again. "I haven't talked to him in some time.""Why not? Do you not converse through letters in your world?""We did once, now we have a different technology, but that isn't the reason. We parted," she explained, thinking back to when she moved to the US for a change, three years back. "And it appears that he preferred that. We had an... argument of sorts. I concluded that my time to leave had come." She said and decided to leave it at that, sending him a stern look that told him to do the same.Legolas nodded in understanding, taking a deep breath as he discreetly stretched. "Well, Kiera, I don't believe we can do much more. Thank you for your help and for your many stories." He thanked and looked down at both the map and the many notes he had taken for each place she had talked about.Kiera forced on a smile and nodded. "Of course. Please do call for me another time if I am needed." She offered, and Legolas smiled back, taking his papers and leaving the room with a final nod at her.She looked after him, happy that they had come to terms with each other and finally had started to form a sort of friendship. At least he doesn't hate me anymore, she reasoned with herself and turned to the many shelves in the room, curious to see if she could find something interesting to read. Surely, there was a story or two about the history of Middle Earth as well as some more information about Mirkwood. Tolkien never really did focus much on the Woodland Realm, but now that she was here, there would most likely be something hiding among the pages.She walked down one path, brushing her hand over each back of the books as she read the titles. Some were in English - or Common Tongue as they called it here - and some were in either Sindarin or Quenyan, which she had yet to learn. It was indeed on her bucket list, and she had endless of time to learn it here. Smiling to herself, she decided to start studying the language as soon as possible and thought of how she could be taught.The sound of a quiet bump made her flinch out of her thoughts, the silence around her having deafened her senses. It almost sounded like something had been dropped, or if a book had fallen onto the floor after slipping off a shelf.Kiera looked down the path, the tall rows of books towering over her. The floor slowly grew darker as she moved further down and tried to find what was there, the light barely seeping in as she walked deeper into the narrow space. It was harder to read book titles and it grew quieter. Almost as if she was leaving the room and entering another. The path felt endless and only flickers of light from torches managed to break through the spaces in the shelves, shining onto the pages and the book covers. Swallowing the slight nervousness that had settled in her throat in the form of a lump, Kiera stopped disappointedly as she was surrounded by the silence again. Apparently, it had been nothing. Perhaps it was just something she had thought she heard, while nothing had happened at all.She resisted grumbling and looked at the shelf in front of her, attempting to read what letter she had reached.Her eyes widened suddenly as she saw her old sketchbook lay on top of the scrolls, having appeared out of nowhere.She gasped quietly and grabbed it, pulling it to her as she flipped it open.How was her sketchbook here? She hadn't brought it with her. She hadn't drawn in it in days, perhaps weeks. She couldn't remember when. It had been long. Very long, and how it had managed to end up in Middle Earth was beyond her. Old sketches she remembered drawing all too well flashed before her eyes as she flipped through it, trying to make herself believe that she had found the real one. Trying to figure out if it was a trick. Were they playing games with her? Was this Thranduil's work? Legolas'? It couldn't be - they didn't even know she had one.Kiera closed the book quickly and looked down each way of the path, the light from the sun shining awfully bright into the opening of the path. She clutched the book to her chest as she wondered what people would say if they would have found it. She rushed back along the path to get out. There was private stuff in it. Stories and memories. Some that only she knew what meant. Others were related to this world - what if the wrong person saw them? No, this wasn't a book for strangers. This wasn't art to be admired by unknown eyes. It was hers and only hers.Deciding that her time in the library had run out, she hurried out from the path and out of the room, darting her eyes around in the corridors as she searched for any elves that perhaps waited for her.What did this mean?Why was it here?And why in the world were there no answers to all her questions?

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

The scratching sound of lead against parchment filled the quiet room that was Kiera’s chambers as she worked on yet another drawing in her book at the wooden desk.She still had little idea of how it had ended up in Middle Earth and she couldn’t figure out why it had landed somewhere in the library where she had been those two months ago. It could easily have ended up in the wrong hands and then she would only have further complications. So, she had simply pushed the question aside and spent her time looking through the book that contained so many of her thoughts and memories and continued to live in the realm in the privacy of her chambers.She mostly spent her time confided in that little room, away from prying eyes and curious whispers of who she was and why she was here. If she roamed the halls, she mostly went to the dining hall or the kitchens, sometimes going to the training grounds to watch guards practice. She had yet to do so herself, but she waited for the right moment to start. She didn’t know if they would allow her, a stranger, close to weapons and she refused to ask. She wanted them to allow her on their own accord. Trust her with it.Kiera had seen little of the king throughout the months, only catching a glimpse of him in the throne room or the dining hall, watching him at his royal table along with his son. She was sure he kept a close eye on her, the clear distrust towards her evident in his gaze every time his eyes pierced hers. He rarely talked with her and when he did, he asked what she was up to and how she was faring in his home even though he always carried a cold mask and a harsh voice. Wishing to be kind and faithful, she answered truthfully and told him that she indeed did enjoy it and was happy to live among his people.Legolas on the other hand, had become better friends with her and they often roamed the halls or the gardens where he told of Mirkwood and the elves along with the traditions they had. He beamed of pride with every question he answered and was happy to feed her information of his people’s history when she asked. Unknowing of her already broad knowledge of his world, she inquired of anything that came to mind, so she could fall better into place among the elves and win their trust more easily.In return, the prince asked questions about her own world, her own life, and she told him of how she had grown up in London with her father. Having no siblings and her father busy with his job as an architect, she explained why her grandmother always took her around the world and saw the different wonders of the earth.“You see, my mother came from Greece.” Kiera said and thought back to the fond memory of her, “her name was Sophia. She and her sister, my aunt Alena, grew up in Athens with my grandparents. But after my grandfather died in a work accident, my grandmother moved to England. It was too hard for her to live in Greece from the memory of my grandfather.”She sighed quietly after Legolas extended his condolences and shrugged with a slight smile, aware that there was little pain left for him anymore. “It’s a long time ago. When my mother died when I was five, my aunt did the same thing: She moved back to Greece. I haven’t seen her much in my life because I remind her too much of her sister.” She explained and stopped to admire the flowerbed in the garden.Legolas stopped beside her and looked down at the white rose that twirled around the twigs. “May I ask how she died?” He inquired hesitantly, turning his head slightly to look at her.Kiera nodded. “Cancer. It’s a disease that is rarely found a cure for. She was... infected... after I was born. My father didn’t take it well.” She ended, remembering how he had reacted to her mother’s death.Legolas didn’t ask further, sure that it was a sore subject.Changing into a milder topic, Kiera forced on a smile and proceeded to tell him about her travels with her grandmother, Athena. She told about the different sightseeing of the famous countries: Big Ben in her own country; The Pyramids in Egypt; The Eiffel Tower in France; Colosseum in Italy. There were many places to tell about; the history and the culture. And Legolas could once more admire the eagerness Kiera showed when telling about her world’s beauty. Many of those, she had drawn as she saw them, having brought her sketchbook around the world to keep a memory of each place she had seen.At the thought of the conversation, Kiera finished the drawing she had been working on of Miriel, Castien’s sister. She had apparently been appointed to be her personal maid of a sort since it was always her who helped. The drawing was of her currently folding some new clothes on Kiera’s bed.She flipped through the book, finding the drawings of the famous landmarks, and she stopped at the one of the Eiffel Tower. Her eyes fell on the form of a man laughing, his eyes smiling at her as she had drawn him.
Alain.
She missed him. Who he had been. It was years since she had seen him, and they hadn’t been together for long. Only the two short months when Athena and she had visited Paris, and Kiera had met him beneath the Eiffel Tower — a summer night where the stars shone brightest.When she had returned home, determined to ask her father to move to France or let him move to England, he had shot it down immediately and told her such a thing could never happen. He had parted them, broken them, and made sure their relationship perished for both of them to see. Never had she cried as much as she did those months following their split. Her heart had been shattered, physically paining her. She had kept herself to her room, never wanting to leave it again.She had been young. Nothing but sixteen, so of course it had been an overreaction for brief, young love. That’s what she had told herself, to move on, and it was true. It could never be. And to have hoped to be with him was stupid of her. Yet a part of her still missed him, four years later, and still he haunted her dreams once in a while with his smile and his laugh. An image of what could have been if the chance was given.Closing the book, Kiera looked up at Miriel and smiled, resolute to think of something else. “So how are you doing? Can I help?” She asked, wondering if a maid ever received such.Miriel shook her head and smiled back, oblivious to the many thoughts that had crossed Kiera’s mind. “No, my lady, I am fine. Can I get you anything? Would you like some food or something to drink?” She asked and folded her hands in front of her after having finished with the garments.Kiera shook her head in return. “No thank you, I’m go—“she started, but got interrupted as Castien barged into her chambers, seemingly having ran faster than the wind as he breathed hard and almost stumbled into Miriel.“Muinthel! Valar, save me!” He pleaded, and both Kiera and his sister frowned. “What’s up, Cas?” Kiera asked, and the guard frowned as well, confused by her unusual speech.He sucked in a breath and grasped Miriel’s gown, looking almost desperate. “She’s going to kill me, sister! I’ll lose my position!” He said and whimpered slightly in his distress.Kiera arched a brow and walked up to him, grasping his shoulder with a hand. “What did you do and why did you do it without me?” She asked, resisting a smirk at him.Castien ran a hand through his hair and started pacing the room. “Okay, first, I missed my watch. I forgot that I was on duty at the borders yesterday, after having drunk some wine with my fellow guards in the common room until I was well past drunk.” He explained, rubbing his forehead. “She threatened to give me kitchen duty for a month. And then today, I’ve had duty in the dungeons, but fell asleep for hours!” He groaned and flopped down on the chair at Kiera’s desk, burying his face in his hands.Miriel sighed, annoyed by her brother’s stupidity, while Kiera nearly laughed out loud. “Okay, first off,” the woman started and crossed her arms as she looked at him. “Who is ‘she’?”Castien looked up at her and threw his hands in the air as if she should’ve known all along. “Captain Tauriel! Eru, what if she tells the king? I’m doomed, Kiera!” He let out a deep sigh and she rolled her eyes at his dramatic behavior.“Okay, let’s take things a little easy, shall we?” She asked and squatted down in front of him, folding her hands with her elbows propped onto her knees. She hadn’t heard anything about Tauriel’s presence in this realm, and it surprised her to know that she indeed was here. Legolas hadn’t mentioned her a single time, which only made her question what he told her and what he didn’t, for she knew that in the movies they were very close friends. “I’m sure Tauriel won’t say it to the king and she hopefully won’t take away your position. Just breathe, my friend.” She chuckled, knowing that he was always one to worry far more than he needed.Miriel grumbled, giving Kiera a glare at the absence of scolding and slapped her brother lightly over the head. “You’re supposed to think, toron!” She growled, irritated that he wasn’t more careful when on duty. “I can’t feed us both with only my job.”Kiera arched a brow at Miriel, never having thought about how their financial system worked. “He’ll be fine, Miriel. Don’t worry. Just breathe you two, I’m sure everything is gonna turn out alright.” She waved a dismissive hand in the air and got up. “But why are you here now, then?” She asked, suddenly wondering if he was still on duty.Castien froze in his seat, staring at her. “Lord.” He mumbled and jumped up, running out of the room to return to the duties he had left.Kiera burst out laughing and watched as Miriel nearly screamed in frustration, more than angry enough over his mistakes. Kiera was now the one to slap Miriel, simply gentle on the shoulder, and she chuckled quietly.“Come on, let’s go get dinner and hope he survives the night.” She laughed, dragging the maid along without caring if both were allowed or not.

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

Kiera arched a brow as she looked up from a book, sitting on the plush bench in her window as she watched Miriel move around the room while she worked like always. Something was different about her, and she wondered what could be wrong. The maid rushed around with quick steps, darting from one side of the room to the other as she dusted off tables and laid out the little clothes that Kiera had been provided with, despite that she had gotten more over the months.Miriel nearly slammed the stack of clothes onto her desk before she roughly pushed in the chair, continuing her work in a rush and Kiera’s eyebrow rose further towards her hairline. This was something she had never encountered with the maid-turned-friend.“Care to explain what bothers you, my friend?” She asked, taking a sip of wine from the glass that had been standing on her windowsill as she watched Miriel nearly rip out the drawers as she cleaned them inside.The maid barely glanced up before focusing back at her work. “Nothing is wrong, I’m fine, my lady. Just a bit busy.” She explained bluntly, swallowing hard to keep her voice and anger under control before she did something she would regret.Kiera arched her other brow and set aside the glass, leaning forward to rest her elbows on her knees. “I’m sure my drawers and my clothes are busy being ripped apart from the anger you’re holding in as well.” She said, putting Miriel on the spot as she closed the book and moved to plop down on her bed instead. Patting the quilt gently, she gestured for her friend to join her. “Sit and speak your mind.”Miriel sighed, annoyed by herself that she had to burden her mistress with personal problems just because she couldn’t hide her frustrations. It wasn’t right. However, she evened out the slightly crumbled fabric of her maid uniform and hesitantly turned, walking to the bed as she sat on the edge and focused her eyes on her hands. “I’m frustrated.”“And why is that?” Kiera asked.“Castien doesn’t think. He acts without thought sometimes.” Miriel explained with a sigh, scratching the inside of her thumb out of habit when she was nervous.Kiera frowned and laid her hand on Miriel‘s to catch her attention, noticing the obvious discomfort she felt. “You don’t have to be anxious in my company. You can come to me when something is on your mind. What did Castien do wrong?” She asked and retracted her hand to give her friend some space.Throughout the months, she had come to know Miriel rather well as a friend despite that she still felt distance between them. She knew Castien was a century or two older than Miriel, but still the sister acted like the more mature in the family. Born in the middle of winter, she had always been an intelligent young elleth who was kind to everyone. Often when she was off duty, Kiera had found her in the halls among other elven friends where she played the fiddle in the dark nights or sang songs in the early mornings. She had a peaceful demeanor and reminded Kiera of a deer jumping through a spring field, unaware of the dangers around it.Whenever Castien and the woman started talking about fighting techniques or guard posts, Miriel disappeared to spend time with herself or help in the kitchens when it was needed. She was an elf who knew every corner of the palace and everyone in it, making it efficient for Kiera to understand how to get around within her new home, discover new places or know where to go depending on what she needed. She was different, yet still reminded Kiera of a particular friend from Earth who she hadn’t seen in at least a few years. If Miriel and Rose ever met, she knew they would get along very well, and the mere thought made her smile softly.“The captain found out.” Miriel revealed, pulling Kiera out of her thoughts and she blinked to get back to reality. “He was stupid enough to drink before duty, then fall asleep on a watch!” The maid groaned and threw her hand out as she got up and started pacing the room just like Castien had done, a sharing trait they had.Kiera leaned back against the headboard of her bed and watched her pace, knowing she couldn’t stop her. “What punishment did he get?” She asked and Miriel let out another frustrated sigh as she stopped at the end of the bed.“He’s getting kitchen duties for at least a month, and if he makes trouble there or doesn’t do his job right, it can be even longer, or he’ll be imprisoned!” She cried, nearly pulling her hair out as she was in clear distress, worry evident on her facial features and her eyes glistening with threatening tears.“Hey now, let’s all take a breather for a hot sec, thanks very much.” Kiera said and held up her hands to calm her down, but it hardly helped. Miriel seemed to have worried about it for at least a day or two and had driven herself into a fit of anxiety by the thought of her brother in a cell. “He can hardly be imprisoned for not doing his job right... right?” Kiera continued, now questioning her own knowledge as she thought of how strict the Wood-Elves could be.“This is Mirkwood, my lady. This is Captain Tauriel!” Miriel whimpered and restarted her pacing as she thought of what could happen to Castien.Kiera sighed and rolled her eyes at the idea of Castien messing up again, pushing aside the fact that it most likely would happen. “Well, it’s his own fault if it happens. He might do mistakes, but as far as I know, he’s not stupid. He won’t fool around if he knows the consequences for it.”“Yet he fooled around when he knew he could lose his position if he didn’t do his duty as a guard.” Miriel argued and placed her hands on her hips as she looked at Kiera, making her shrug against the headboard.“And now he tried it. If he knows the act of one consequence, then he won’t try it again. Trust me, I know.” She grumbled and got off the bed, throwing a few coins into Miriel’s hand from the dresser. “Take the day off, go buy a dress or whatever you prefer and ask in the kitchens if they have any bread that they can spare. Get your mind off things, I know you need it.” Kiera said as she looked herself over in the mirror and Miriel silently admitted that she was right. “Relax and stop worrying about your brother for a moment. Focus on yourself, mellon.” She gave a warm smile at the elf who barely noticed the foreign accent in the elven word as the woman spoke, and Kiera went for the door as she looked back at Miriel.“If the King manages to find you and ask for me, I’m sure he’ll figure out another way to get to me. Tell him I’ve given you time off, we all need such a day once in a while. Meanwhile, I’m gonna go search for his son and see if he has other adventures for me unless he’s busy playing Tarzan. Toodles!” Kiera waved goodbye and walked out the door, leaving behind a puzzled Miriel as she watched her go so hastily. Giggling slightly, she shrugged and counted the coins she had been gifted, looking around the room to see if she was done. Seeing that she was, she smiled and ran out the room to do as Kiera had said.The woman at the other end of the corridor now fully ignored the stoic silent guard who caught up to her like a shadow, hearing only the hurried steps of Miriel far behind her who was going the other direction. The quiet sound of birds chirping and water running through the cavernous halls sang in her ears as she went towards the broader areas in search of the prince, and she wondered when she would be able to leave without a soldier stepping on her heels.———Kiera laughed out loud in merry, something she hadn’t done in quite some time as Legolas explained the cleaning of a restroom’s dirtier areas. He seemed quite entertained by the idea as well and smiled along, keeping a hand on his bow around his torso to keep it in place. They were walking through the gardens, catching up on another one of their conversations that they usually had occasionally when he wasn’t busy on patrols, practicing at the training grounds or doing duties as Prince of Mirkwood.Over the months they had become very good friends, or so Kiera liked to think, and they often spent their time in the library where he would teach her Sindarin, the gardens where they enjoyed the nature, the dining hall at a lunch or sometimes at the grounds where Kiera watched him practice. He was as great with a bow as they had said he was in the books. What he did in the movies could hardly be considered as good as what she saw with her own eyes. His reflexes were swift and precise, and he could fire arrows faster than the strike of lightning. She had never seen anything like it.Legolas, who had slowly started to open up to Kiera and greeted her to their home rather than keep her in the dark, was still skeptical of her trust. When he sometimes asked questions about her life and home, she would dodge them with another in response. He knew that she thought he hadn’t noticed and that she was gaining his trust, and a part of him felt like she was, but the continuous absence of an answer for his questions held him back from trusting her completely. Something was wrong, and she wasn’t telling.“So, if I told you that the toilets in fact clean themselves in my world, would you be surprised?” Kiera asked and moved to walk in front of him but turned so she was walking backwards.Legolas raised an eyebrow and couldn’t hold in a chuckle. “Why, I would certainly be intrigued. How does that work?” He asked and looked at her curiously with a glint in his eye.Kiera smirked and shrugged. “To be honest, I’m not sure how the system works, but we just have to press a button and it runs out through a pipe and down to the sewers.” She explained, and Legolas smirked as he had learned something new about a distant world, nevertheless unpleasant. He was sure that eventually he would regret knowing it, but it was rather funny after all.“That sounds very interesting.” He said jokingly and turned down a beautiful path that had a canopy of tree tops hanging over it as a roof, casting a shade down onto them both as the branches blocked out the sunlight. Kiera fell in to walk beside him again and looked forward to admire the pretty garden. It was different and gave her a sense of peace and quiet. It had clearly been tended to with love and care, not to mention the hard work to make it all look so beautiful throughout the seasons. Fall was starting to show, the leaves still green and blossoming, but the edges were slowly turning brown and the wind had grown colder and harder, while the sun gradually began to set earlier and rise later.“Can you te—“ Legolas started his next question but stopped as he suddenly heard the sound of ruffling in the bushes. Kiera heard the same and they halted, looking around to find the source.“A bunny?” Kiera asked, and Legolas shook his head in response.“No, they’re lighter on foot.”“A deer then?”“I would’ve found such long ago.”Kiera rolled her eyes then, realizing that he was showing off his abilities in his answer. “Alright, Leggy.” She said, and he shot her a glance that only asked a question of authority. “Prince Leggy.” She corrected, and he nodded with a slight smile. “What is it then?” She asked, and his eyes scanned their surroundings.Kiera turned and looked too, waiting to find an answer. If it wasn’t a bunny and neither a deer, what then? A dog?Suddenly, a tiny hairy creature jumped out from a bush and Legolas pulled his bow, nocking in an arrow by the unfamiliar animal. “A monster.” He declared, and Kiera’s eyes widened by the sight of the small thing.“Hey, hey, hey!” She exclaimed and jumped out in front of the arrow, making Legolas frown angrily at her. “Excuse you for a damn second, Prince Charming!” She continued and held up her hands to stop him. He looked confused at her and pulled back slightly with the weapon, trying not to stab her in the eye with the sharp head of the arrow.“I have never seen such a thing as that, it is foreign and therefore a threat to us.” He said and pulled the string further back.Kiera arched a brow and grabbed the shaft of the arrow then threw it away, knowing that he could just load another. Legolas nearly growled at Kiera’s carelessness when she held up a hand and glared back at him. “I swear to Jesus and his twelve disciples, Legolas, let me fucking speak!” She hissed and turned back around to face the animal.It was currently occupied with nibbling at an acorn, trying to break through the hard shell. When it saw the two stand mere feet from it, it first looked at Legolas with the weapon in hand and then Kiera who snapped all her fingers like a wave of sound.The creature’s ear twitched from the familiar noise and let go of the acorn, crawling closer as it sniffed the air. It seemed to find something special about the woman and chattered quietly. Kiera frowned as she looked it over. She had no idea what it did here but now she was even more suspicious of herself being here.Kiera looked back at Legolas who skeptically eyed the animal as it started to climb up Kiera’s leg. “This,” she started and pointed down at the exotic creature. “Is Mojo. He’s my monkey.” She explained and nuzzled his chest as he reached her shoulder, perched there proudly like he had been for many years.Legolas’ brow furrowed in confusion and he pulled his bow back around his torso as he stared from Kiera to the animal. “What is a monkey?” He asked, perplexed.A surprised eyebrow raised on Kiera’s face, as she thought back to what she knew of Tolkien’s world. It seemed they didn’t have such here. “This is a monkey.” She answered and gestured to Mojo with a smirk, then looked at the said animal.She had little idea of how he was able to be there. How had he arrived in Middle Earth? Why was he in Middle Earth? She hadn’t seen him in years and had thought him to have found another life after a while, maybe having been picked up by another person to be cared for. It was like the sketchbook. Both from Earth, suddenly here with her. Neither were they random, but they had a relation to her. It puzzled her, and she didn’t know how to find answers.“He is my childhood pet and friend, harmless, of course... I’m unsure of how he could’ve ended up here.” She mumbled and scratched the monkey behind his ear.“Perhaps he followed you.” A deep voice said, and Kiera nearly whipped around to see Thranduil approaching between the trees with a great grey robe and his staff while his hair cascaded down his back in long soft and silken locks. Kiera tensed her jaw automatically and watched him approach, scanning Mojo suspiciously. “He could have come from your home and continued all the way from there to here, where you are.” He said and met Kiera’s gaze, telling her that the story of her origin was hardly believed by the king at the moment.“Where do you think he came from?” Thranduil asked and looked Kiera in the eyes with a near cold glare. Legolas stood beside them, looking from father to woman as he felt the sudden tension that had emerged along with the king’s arrival.Kiera arched a brow at him and stopped petting Mojo, making him chatter quietly but she ignored it. “I do believe I told your son already, Your Majesty. I am not sure.” She said, almost offended that he didn’t trust the true story she had told.Thranduil eyed Mojo, narrowing his eyes at the curious animal before glaring at Kiera at her obnoxiousness. “And what are you going to do with him?” He asked, wondering if she was going to leave him there or dare to ask about keeping him.“Well,” Kiera said and forced on a kind smile, holding the king’s cold gaze. “I thought to ask you if you’d allow me to keep him.” She answered, confirming one of the two wonders that Thranduil had had. She didn’t want to send away her old friend, her pet, that she had had since she was a young child and now she wanted to know how he was even here to begin with.“And if I didn’t allow you?” The king continued, and Legolas frowned in confusion beside him. He couldn’t see why she couldn’t keep her animal with her if it was harmless.“Father—“ He started, but Thranduil stopped him with the wave of a hand, keeping his eyes on the woman in front of him.“If I didn’t allow you to keep that creature, what then?” He asked again, and he could see how Kiera’s jaw tensed and the cogs in her head churned as she thought of an answer that wouldn’t offend him too much.“I must ask you that question.” She replied and cocked her head to the side. “What then?” She crossed her arms and Mojo shifted slightly on her shoulder, murmuring in protest from the movement. “Would you send me along with him and never see me again?”Thranduil looked at her with great suspicion, trying to figure her out. She looked at him with calm composure and it frustrated him to no end that she always seemed to be uncaring of what he said or did. He wasn’t used to it. A man would crumple to the ground just by his cold eyes, but she looked back at him with just the same glare and stood taller than before. She was different and it both annoyed and intrigued him.“Good question.” He answered and then turned, taking his leave and strolling out the garden with his staff and his robes flicking over the ground.Kiera looked after him coldly and felt Mojo tap her head gently, chattering again. Legolas looked from his departing father to the monkey and to the woman, furrowed brow upon his face. Kiera locked eyes with him and shrugged, reaching up a hand to help Mojo down on the ground again. “I take that was permission to keep him.” She mumbled as the monkey jumped over the grass towards the palace, and she let out a sharp sigh then started walking back as well, Legolas following close behind.He knew things were happening and he had a feeling that Kiera was aware of what they were. Little did he know that Kiera hardly had any idea of what exactly that was, but she knew more than anyone else in this place.

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

In the great hall, where many elves were eating their well-deserved lunch while enjoying some time with their friends, Kiera was merely picking at her food as she stared at the cold carrot on her plate. She had little appetite at the time being and she struggled to get down the simple vegetables and fruits.The king had offered her a seat at his table and she had kindly accepted. Thus, she sat with him, Legolas and Castien, among other elves she had yet to know the names of. She didn’t know why Thranduil had chosen to give her a place at his table, because he never had, and now things suddenly changed. Their encounter in the gardens a day before had been rather tense like their interactions always seemed to be, but now he was being nice and welcoming. It made Kiera suspicious and she hardly trusted the king more for it. She didn’t like fake people and if he was one, then she didn’t want to be here much longer. But she was friendly and kept a pleasant demeanor, wishing to show Thranduil and his people that she wasn’t a threat.A few elves at the table were loudly talking about a report the last patrol had come in with, debating how many spiders had been killed and if they had retreated or had come closer.“The last time I was out with my patrol, they had pulled further north and we were having trouble clearing out the western area. They must be close now.” One elf said, who appeared to be a general, gulping down a goblet of wine without much shame.The two other elves who were part of the discussion objected and proceeded to explain how it had been rumored that the newly returned patrol had cleared the nearest nests and the spiders were retreating.Meanwhile, Castien and Legolas were in deep conversation as they sat on the other side of Kiera, talking about sparring later on the day and if it would be possible for the prince to train some soldiers in the process. “According to the captain, some of the archers need to improve their precision and their sword skills could be better.” Castien explained and Legolas nodded, telling the younger guard that he would train them unless something else came in the way.Thranduil, who sat beside Kiera at the end of the table, was observing her and her gentle fork stabbing. He had kept his eyes on her throughout the whole meal and barely ate anything himself as he wondered how she would act this day. “Is something wrong with the food, Kiera?” He asked, and she looked up.“No.” She admitted.“Then what is the problem?” He continued coldly and arched a brow.Kiera laid down her fork and placed her hands flat on the table as she leaned forward, looking straight at him. “It’s Mojo. He’s hungry and hasn’t been able to get any food.”“But we can’t have that.” The king said impassively, sipping his wine as if he didn’t care in the least.“I usually feed him when I eat, but I would not disrespect you by letting him sit at the table.” She explained honestly, surprising Thranduil. She cared about respect towards him? That was a first in his opinion.“I see.” He nodded, looking deep in thought. He hadn’t seen much of the monkey since the day before and neither of her, but there was a reason why he had invited her to his table. “Well, as long as he behaves and is clean and it stays that way, then it should be fine.” He answered begrudgingly, contemplating if he made the right choice.“He definitely will. I’ve raised him that way. Thank you, Your Majesty.” She smiled and leaned back, looking at the entrance at the other end of the hall. “You can come now, Mojo.” She declared loudly and turned to eat her food, much easier now that that was off her mind.Despite the loud talking in the hall, it quickly lessened to quiet voices when everyone saw the small animal run down in between the tables. He glanced up at all the faces that looked surprised at him, but only focused on the person at the last table. However, Kiera just reached a hand down to the ground behind her, patiently waiting for him. Mojo jumped up on her hand and crawled along her back, finding rest on her shoulder with his hand around her neck and his tail trailing down her spine.“Hands.” Kiera said bluntly, and both small limbs came down in front of her face. She inspected them, silently approved and handed him a grape, which he took and started gnawing on.Everyone looked at her.She glanced up.The king arched a brow and everyone at their table had stopped talking.“What? He needs to have clean hands.” She said and gave the monkey the small carrot she had pierced after the grape was gone. He gratefully took it and started eating that too.Thranduil nodded and his usual mask of indifference came back to play on his face as everyone returned to their conversations. Castien looked hesitantly at Mojo, seemingly debating if he should keep quiet or say something. Eventually, he chose the latter.“I have never seen such a creature in my life.”“That is because it apparently doesn’t exist in your world.” Kiera explained, flashing a smile as she handed Mojo another grape. “You see, Mojo is a capuchin monkey. They are considered one of the most intelligent kinds of the monkey species and are often kept as pets, like he is. I’ve had him for most of my life and he’s very obedient, which I greatly appreciate. In the most distant of ways, he is related to humans.”“Pardon?” Thranduil intervened. “Are you implying that this animal is your family?”“Not exactly.” Kiera shook her head. “When the humans first appeared about five million years ago, they had earlier been apes - monkeys. Eventually, they split from the ape race. One later became Homo Sapiens, my human race. The other became the monkeys.” She shrugged like it was common knowledge even for other worlds and pierced a strawberry before eating it.“Interesting.” Thranduil said and Castien looked completely flabbergasted, staring from Kiera to Mojo and back.Kiera laughed. “Do you wanna try and have him on your shoulder? He’s not gonna hurt you.” She assured him quickly as he started shaking his head violently.She gave the monkey a last grape and beckoned Castien with a quick wave of the hand. “Give me your hand and straighten your arm.”Castien looked like he would rather fight an orc.He desperately wanted to walk away and drag the prince along to have support, but hesitantly, he reached over the table with his right hand and Kiera grabbed it with her left. She straightened her arm as he did, holding back a smirk by his obvious nervousness.She clicked with her tongue and Mojo used the arms as a bridge, walking from Kiera to Castien and settled against his retreating head.“Aaaaahhhh!” He blurted and ducked to avoid the monkey’s hands that tried to grab his hair.“Sit still!” Kiera laughed, and he froze. “He’s just trying to hold on.” She giggled, and he closed his eyes when Mojo finally got a hold of the hair strands on the top of his head.Castien peaked at him out of the corner of his eye, unsure if he was going to be killed the next instant.Kiera had to hide her grin to prevent giggling too hard as this was something very entertaining in her eyes.He nuzzled the monkey on the head and back, and the little creature leaned into his hand, enjoying the petting. Mojo straightened and chattered with a hand hitting his own chest, then led it up to his mouth.“He’s asking for food.” Kiera explained after Castien frowned slightly.“I can feed him.” The guard admitted and Kiera near laughed out loud at the fact that only half a minute prior, he was screaming in terror.“Yeah, just give him a grape and pass him on to the dear prince.”Legolas’ head whipped up. “What?!”Kiera broke out in a fit of laughter. “Unless you would prefer that he returned to me.” She suggested and Castien pouted.“I had just started to actually like him.” He confessed as he handed the monkey a grape as told. “What did you say his name was again? Milo?”“Mojo.” She repeated with an arched brow, almost hurt that he had forgotten his name already but set it aside as new acquaintance problems as he nodded.Thranduil leaned forward in his seat. “I would like to try.” He said and Castien immediately looked disappointed, reluctant to give away his new friend. Kiera looked at the king with some disapproval, finding it annoying that he hadn’t asked her first. Nevertheless, Castien took the king’s extended arm and Mojo walked over, sitting on Thranduil’s shoulder with his dark eyes shining. Mojo did the same gesture to him as he had done to Castien, tapping his chest before pointing at his mouth.Thranduil obliged and gave him another grape, watching the monkey with both fascination and caution. When Mojo had eaten the fruit, he repeated the motion.Kiera clicked twice with her tongue and Mojo looked at her. She shook her head. “No, you’ve had enough.” She told him, and he turned to play with the king’s hair instead.To Kiera and everyone else at the table’s surprise, Thranduil didn’t object and let him have fun with it.Kiera’s eyebrow twitched and looked at her plate, realizing her cutlery wasn’t showing she was finished. She laid it as so and then gazed up at the king, who was back to observing her.“Well, thank you for letting me enjoy lunch with you, but I would like to return to my quarters.” She said and leaned forward, taking his hand without much thought. Thranduil near glared at her but kept it to a cold gaze as he watched her suspiciously.“Did I give you permission to touch my person?” He asked calmly, and Kiera chuckled quietly, then slid her hand up to hold his forearm beneath the robe, feeling the heat from his body wrap around her as her palm brushed against his soft skin. Thranduil looked both furious and shocked, all mixed together with his cold composure as he stared at her behind his calm mask.“Did I give you permission to touch my monkey?” She asked in a whisper as Mojo jumped from his shoulder and back to his owner. Kiera released him and felt oddly cold after being enveloped in the warmth of his sleeve, but she got up from her seat before he could reply.Then she turned and walked out with the king and the rest of the dining hall watching her.———Thranduil was observing the training grounds, standing at the corner of the entrance with Galion at his side, while Legolas trained some archers how to shoot longer and more precise, just like he had told Castien he would earlier on in the day. Galion was telling him about a meeting the king had later that day, mumbling on about what was planned to be discussed and all the letters from his people that he was expected to answer before the sun set.But Thranduil paid him no mind. He was focusing on Kiera, who stood at a table with a bow and arrows, testing the bowstring and the arrows’ quality. At her hips hung two daggers she had borrowed along with the bow while she fiddled with the weapons on the table, studying every inch of them in curiosity of their unique style.Since she had arrived, the king had pondered much of who she was and why she was here, never finding an answer. He couldn’t figure her out and it frustrated him. She was kind and showed his people respect from what he had seen and heard in the whispering corners of his palace, not to mention the friendship she has forged with his son. He didn’t trust her, and he knew Legolas shouldn’t either, yet did, but he was skeptical of what was real or not. Why was she here and why was she acting as she did? She had showed him respect and kindness as late as a few hours ago, apart from the incident at her departure, yet managed to offend him and subtly disobey what he wanted. If he asked questions, she would slither around them like a snake and never give him a straight answer. He knew she was keeping something from him and he couldn’t find out what.His mind drifted back to their conversation in the cellars, the first time they sat down and spoke one to another. They had conversed of their identities, of who they were depending on moods and he wondered what exactly she was, in situations like they had talked about. He quickly realized that she had given him the answer the same evening: Unrecognizable. Was she who she said she was? Was her name Kiera? Was she from Earth? Did she know why she was here? All these questions circled Thranduil’s mind and he wished for answers more than ever. Her comment on her own anger had made him ponder for endless nights as well. How was she when she was angry and why did she hope he never saw it happen?Thranduil dismissed Galion with the whisper of a command and called Legolas over by the wave of his hand as they locked eyes, an idea flickering with light as he watched Kiera again.Legolas noticed the king observing the grounds and saw the silent summon for him. He looked to the archer he had advised and gave him a nod, then turned around and walked up to his father. “Yes, Ada?”“You see Kiera?” Thranduil asked, gesturing to her with a nod as he kept his eyes on her with skepticism raging in the ice blue depths of them.“Yes, she asked if I would allow her to practice and she is about to get started.” Legolas replied, watching her as well.“Does she know how to handle a bow?” Thranduil arched a brow, eyeing the way she held the bow.“It looks like it.” Legolas answered in a mumble.“That may be, son, but perhaps she doesn’t.” The king argued and resisted a sigh.“Perhaps.”Thranduil looked at him like only a king could. “Don’t let her practice.”“What? Why not?” Legolas frowned, looking at his father in confusion. He didn’t see what was wrong with that.“Make her angry.” He ordered, and his son looked at him with surprise.“Pardon me, father?”“You heard me, ion. Provoke her, make her furious. It would perhaps reveal a side of her she hasn’t yet shown and we will see if she is a skilled archer or merely a beginner. Let her practice and she might show less than what she is capable of, if that is the case.” He explained, and Legolas grumbled.“She is a friend, father...” he argued, but Thranduil looked at him sternly.“She is a stranger and you are wrong in trusting her.”“I don’t trust her!” He protested with a hint of offense in his voice, but he knew it wasn’t completely true.“Don’t lie to me, Legolas!” Thranduil shot back in between gritted teeth, annoyed by his stubbornness. “I know you’re on better terms with her and I expected better of you not to trust someone who doesn’t show it.”“She shows trust... but we both know that she’s hiding something.” The prince sighed and looked down at Kiera, feeling bad that he deliberately was to anger her and risk ruining the friendship they had built. He didn’t wish to, and he debated if he should disobey his father. But he wished for answers like his father and according to him, this might be a way to find them.“Tell her to let go.” Thranduil ordered, ignoring his son’s last words and left him to approach the woman while he stayed at the opening, watching closely in the shade.Kiera was putting arrows in a quiver when Legolas came up beside her.“Good afternoon, Kiera.” He started and flashed a short smile as his mind rushed over ideas of angering her, each of them he didn’t like.“Hello, Legolas.” Kiera greeted and smiled in return, barely noticing the tense posture the prince had as she moved to tighten the string on her bow.“You’re doing it wrong.” Legolas lied as a start, taking the bow from her and did just the same she had.Kiera scoffed a laugh and took back the bow. “No, I’m not.” She replied and frowned at him, slightly confused at his demeanor.“Do you know how to use a bow?” He asked and looked at her in fake disbelief.“Yes, I do in fact, thank you very much.” Kiera answered, slightly offended by the accusing tone in his voice and she could see that he didn’t think she could as much as lift the weapon properly.“Are you sure?” He quipped, kicking himself for saying every mocking word.Kiera looked at him with an arched brow, feeling the offense build. “Yes, I am.”“Do you need any help?” He asked, offering a genuine hand.“No.” Kiera said bluntly and batted away his hand like she didn’t care.“Are you sure? You look a little lost. It seems it’s your first time even seeing a bow.” He taunted further, skillfully hiding his discomfort of the situation.“I’m fine.” She narrowed her eyes but turned and walked up to the mark for archers to stand, laid the first arrow on the string and left the prince to watch as she aimed for the target. “Now, fuck off.”“Let go.” Legolas quickly said, repeating his father.Kiera’s head shot up and she stared at him, thinking through why he was all of a sudden acting like this rather than the friendly prince he always was. “No.”“Why? Are you scared? What are you trying to hide?” He boldly dared, taking a step closer as he clenched his fists discreetly with a mocking smirk playing on his lips.Kiera lowered her weapon and marched up to him, smashing a finger to his chest. “I’m not hiding shit. And if I was scared, I would be scared for your sake and everyone else’s. I refuse to let it take control.”“That sounds like a threat. Are you threatening me?” He asked further, narrowing his eyes at her and ignoring the guilt as his own curiosity drowned it out.“Do you have a death wish, Prince?” Kiera hissed and glared into his eyes, wondering where he even heard of her.“No.” He answered calmly.“Then I suggest you leave me alone and stop asking questions.” She almost growled and let out a huff through her nostrils.“Why should I? We were just getting started.” He proceeded.“Because I don’t want to hurt you!” She yelled, slapping him on the arm and the nearest elves turned in surprise.Legolas didn’t think any of it other than he rather deserved it. To his right, out of the corner of his eye, he saw his father step out from the opening with his arms crossed in front of his chest, slowly approaching.He continued as he held his breath from showing how he truly felt about the situation he had put himself in. “Why don’t you want it to get out? Isn’t it you?”“I’m not the same. Don’t do this.” She requested.“Really?” He asked.“Yes.”“Why?”“Because I choose not to.” She revealed.“Why? Tell us your secret.” He proceeded.“Because. Get lost, Legolas.” Kiera rolled her eyes and tensed her jaw in frustration.“No.” He objected, wishing that he could do as she said but needing to know more.“Then stay and watch.” She grumbled and turned the bow in her hand.“Watch what? You missing the target every time?” He teased hesitantly and stepped closer to make her uncomfortable.“Depends on if you leave.” She sneered and shot him a glare, sharp enough to make him stop.“And if I leave?”“Then I’m the happiest woman in the realm.” She admitted and kept her fists closed tight in annoyance.“You are the only woman in the realm.” Legolas observed.“I noticed.”“Isn’t it sad to be all alone? To have no one you know?” He asked, and Kiera looked at him with such a suspicious expression that Legolas wondered if she saw through him.“Excuse you? I’m not alone. I have you here.” She answered and gripped her bow, feeling the smooth wood resist beneath her palm.“So, you do want me here?” Legolas asked, continuing his spree. “Even though I’m no woman.”“No, but since you insist on staying, I can’t do much can I?!” She snapped and threw her free hand in the air, finally having had enough of his teasing.“I don’t insist.”“If you don’t wish to be here then bugger off and stop asking for things!” She yelled and felt her blood starting to boil.“Only if you let go.”“Absolutely not. What’s your problem, Legolas?” She scowled and turned back around to practice again before she would punch him in the face, loading the arrow and aiming at the red dot so very far away.“Does it take a beating to make you angry?” He inquired mockingly, grasping for anything left in the air that would work as he too grew tired of small games. His guilt poked at his heart as his want for answers had washed over him. He hesitated for a second and looked up in the sky, wondering if he should be rational or not. “Is that what your father did?”As fast as lighting, Kiera turned her aim from the target to Legolas and shot him in the calf, the arrow going straight through and staying put in his leg. He shouted a groan and fell on one knee, not having expected her sudden attack as his eyes moved from the clouds to the woman. He looked Kiera in the eyes. They had darkened to a deep ocean blue, clouded with a flaming rage.She loaded a second arrow and aimed it at his head. “I can kill you faster than you were ever destined to be.” She hissed, her voice raspy and cold.“A skilled archer then.” Legolas declared through clenched teeth, feeling the pain wrap up around his leg.“How dare you.” She snarled and pulled the arrow on the string further back, only focusing on the prince before her. “How dare you speak of what you don’t know.”“Yes, how.” Legolas huffed and angrily glanced at his father out of the corner of his eye while all trust that had ever been built towards Kiera crumbled like an old cliff clashing into the sea. This was who she was then: A threat.“You have no right.” She spat, infuriated that he had said what he did.“I have every right to know who you are.” He shot back as multiple elves came to aid, a few coming up behind her and ripping the weapon from her as they pulled her down on her knees and locked her arms behind her back.The king had rushed forward and now stood in front of her, glaring down at her as he grabbed her collar and shook her. “Who are you?!” He inquired, his icy gaze shooting daggers at her ocean blue.“I’m human.” She snarled. She was different from who they had seen for months. She sounded different, but still they could see a hint of Kiera there, behind the dark eyes.That was when Thranduil realized that she spoke the truth all those nights back. This was pure rage, someone unrecognizable. Someone who only knew anger and pain, and one who only woke through trauma.“Kiera!” He yelled angrily and shook her violently, having had enough of angry ego. “Wake up!” He ordered, hoping that he was doing the right thing.The darkness in her eyes seemed to disperse and then returned to her normal aqua irises.She furiously groaned and got up on her feet as the anger in her retreated. “What did I tell you about me?!” She roared and pushed at the king, but he stood still as a rock. “I told you I would be unrecognizable. I told you!”She turned to Legolas who still kneeled with the arrow through his leg. “I’m sorry, Legolas. I told you. I’m sorry, but I told you. I told you...”The prince forced a nod in response as two elves helped him up, wincing slightly from the weight on his leg. “I don’t know who you are.” He whispered and glared at the woman he thought was a trustworthy friend.Thranduil pushed Kiera back towards the three guards and he scowled down at her. “You best leave and calm yourself, before I do it for you.”“You did that to yourselves. Don’t guilt me for something you caused!” She spat as they dragged her back towards the palace. “You are to blame!”Thranduil watched Kiera with cold eyes before turning back to his injured son, thinking over the whole incident that had just occurred.Legolas was glaring at him just as much as he had glared at Kiera.“If you had told me what that was beforehand, I would have dealt with this in a safer way.” He said with great annoyance, hurt and feeling betrayed of who he had gotten to know. He wished he had disobeyed his father and gone against him like he usually did, but curiosity and skepticism had gotten the better of him.“If I had told you beforehand, it would have never worked.” Thranduil disagreed and wrapped an arm around his son’s shoulders as he himself helped the young elf towards the healing quarters. “But now we know what she is made of.”

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

It nearly made Kiera jump when Thranduil slammed down a goblet on the table before her, sending her a furious glare in the process before he calmly sat down in his much larger chair. They were sitting at a long table in the throne room, illuminated only by a few candles with Kiera at one end while the King scowled at her from the other. It had been tense throughout the whole realm and only a few elves had yet to find out what had happened. Gossip spread like wildfire in Mirkwood and to Kiera’s dismay, it made it much worse for her situation.This was the opposite of what she wanted. She wanted them to trust her, to let her in and know she was a friend. To keep her there as someone more than a human guest or a prisoner, someone they could find peace in. She had no desire to be elsewhere in Middle Earth. Mirkwood was a beautiful and fascinating realm that spoke volumes, others did not. Being somewhere without those trees and those cavenous halls would be a distant light of true excellence. But currently, the light in those halls had faded by the recent events.“Do you have something to say for yourself?” Thranduil’s voice boomed to interrupt her thoughts, looking coldly back at Kiera who sat lounged back in her seat and picked absentmindedly at a splint of wood in the table. He was enraged that he not only had let such a careless woman have a weapon at hand but let her grow a friendship with Legolas and hurt him, his own son.“You believe I was the cause of what happened?” Kiera asked bluntly, ripping out the splint and flicking it across the table to watch it land in a vase. She hadn’t been the one to trigger her anger.“You believe you’re not?!” Thranduil snapped in return, standing up from his seat to tower over her. “You were the one that shot my son out of anger.” He spat coldly, offended that she had the audacity to think otherwise after all she had done the prior day.“And he was the reason why!” Kiera shot back, jumping out of the chair and slamming her fist down on the table. “Did you not see how he kept pushing at me?! How dare he ask about my father in such a manner!” she hissed, glaring back at Thranduil.“How dare you not warn us of what was at stake!” The King snarled back, not hesitating to walk back and stand before her in his fury, denigrating her with his looming character. “You think you’re better than us.You are nothing but a human, a stranger that I allowed to be in my realm.” He hissed down at her, gazing into her eyes to find a trace of fear. “Perhaps I made a mistake.”Kiera tensed her jaw, glaring up at him and felt hurt by his words, almost as great as her rage. “If you think you made a mistake, then why don’t you reconsider your choices, Your Majesty?” She whispered coldly. “I warned your son to stop several times because I knew that it never should see the light.” She explained, tempted to push him away and give her space but she wasn’t that stupid. “It’s a shamed part of me that I struggle to control, even though I want to. It’s built off trauma, and he provoked that trauma.”Thranduil was almost surprised that Kiera decided to tell him the truth, but made sure not to expose his emotions. “You never told of us of this trauma that could hurt your hosts when you first arrived.” He argued in return. “You want me to trust a woman that hides a weapon behind her eyes?” he asked, quieter now as their faces were only inches apart. Kiera’s heart beat fast from the adrenalin and the proximity of Thranduil, but still she felt the tingle of something else that she didn’t yet understand. A beat not only loud in her chest but in her mind as well.Kiera nearly scoffed and shook her head slightly to push away the sense of her heart, determined not to back down even as he lashed out at her in all aspects of the word. “I want you to trust those that give you reason enough to.” She replied and finally pushed past him, deciding that her time with Thranduil was up.“You were not dismissed, Kiera.” Thranduil called out to her, causing her to stop and glare back at him as their eyes met.“Do you need me to kneel before you and beg?” she clapped back, wishing to leave before she revealed a her anxiety or did something irrational.Thranduil shook his head, taking his time to go to his throne and sit, establishing his power over her for good measure. “I need you to learn control.” He demanded and as if she was called by those words exactly, a red headed elf entered the throne room and interrupted the two’s correspondence.“Tauriel.” Thranduil greeted and the elf bowed, barely glancing at Kiera. “Take Kiera to the training grounds, teach her a calm composure. You will report to me of her process.” He commanded and finally Tauriel nodded with a formal reply, turning to the woman curiously, but Thranduil wasn’t finished. “If any trouble ensures, come to me.”Kiera seared in annoyance at the King’s order, realizing that he was undermining her and making her look like a child. Yet Tauriel made no comment and simply bowed. “Yes, my lord.” She said soundly and gestured for Kiera to follow. The woman only just managed to ignore Thranduil, but instead counted herself lucky that he had chosen not to imprison her. She followed Tauriel out of the throne room in cold silence.---As usual, the training grounds were flooded with guards practicing their skills and a few superior generals or others of rank observing their work. Kiera noticed one female guard with brown hair and dark eyes correct how a soldier had flicked his dagger and displayed of how to do it properly. She seemed to be one of the superiors, intriguing Kiera by how she handled the situation. It was different compared to other generals because she showed what to do rather than just lecture.But Tauriel wasn’t intent on staying with the crowd and instead approached a more closed off area among the trees, so Kiera turned and followed Tauriel just in time before the guard caught her looking at them work.“Are we leaving the realm for this?” Kiera huffed as they passed through the trees, but she was met with silence from Tauriel. However, the captain decided they were far enough and stopped in the clearing to look back at Kiera who arched a brow. “And now?”“Now you show me what you can do.” Tauriel revealed and threw her a dagger to fight with. Kiera caught it, but realized she had never fought with a blade as such before and the situation she was in would prove quite something. She knew how to fight — maybe not with medieval weapons — but she had the gist of it. Now she just had to get better.“Just positions and maneuvers?” she asked and flipped the blade in her hand, showing a few spins and steps before Tauriel quickly stopped her. “You fumble too much. Don’t grip the hilt too hard, but don’t drop it either. Keep it loose and balanced in your hand.” She instructed and Kiera ignored the embarrassed blush creeping onto her cheeks as she corrected herself. It seemed to satisfy the captain and Kiera took a breath of relief.“You’re here to learn control.” She announced and Kiera grumbled quietly.“I know control.” The woman countered and the captain raised a brow as she brushed the red mane over her shoulder.“Not from what the king knows.” Tauriel disagreed and Kiera scoffed, gripping the dagger. “If you prove him wrong, I might think otherwise.” She said and Kiera laughed, already eager to charge.“Then come at me.” She challenged and it was almost like the captain had waited for it, already unsheathing her dagger to fight back.Kiera lunged forward in less than a second, too impatient to wait for Tauriel and she threw her hand around to hit Tauriel’s face with the blade. The captain blocked it and swirled around, stepping back to give her space. Kiera whirled with her and sucked in a breath, grumbling at how easily the captain had flicked away the dagger with her own.Kiera turned to the side and tried jabbing her in the lung. Again, Tauriel dodged it with her blade and walked off to the side and faced her again. Kiera wasn’t used to blades. She had spent many years learning to use her hands and had been taught the bow since she was a small girl, but swords and daggers weren’t part of her skills. Unbeknownst to herself, she was too fast to attack and didn’t think of how her body would move if she took a certain step or threw her dagger at a certain spot on Tauriel.“You strike too soon.” The captain announced, causing the woman to growl in annoyance. “Focus on what your move would do and the consequences from it, don’t do something simply for the hope of damaging.” Tauriel said and waited for Kiera to try again.“Maybe you could show me what to do instead of making me find out myself.” Kiera huffed in return, thinking of the guard she had seen earlier that did just that with her subjects.Tauriel wrinkled her nose, clearly knowing what she talked about. “I don’t use methods like that.” She said with a certain annoyance in her voice and Kiera wondered if the two had something against each other.Kiera wringed her free hand and gripped the dagger tighter in the other, but she thought of what Tauriel had said and loosened it. “Like this?” she asked, walking closer before twisting to kick at her dagger which was hardly visible in the darkened corner of her left eye. So, it wasn’t surprising that Tauriel pulled back her hand before her foot crashed into it and grabbed Kiera as she lunged for her abdomen, locking her in her arms and yanking Kiera’s blade out of her hand.“Too quick, Kiera.” She said and pushed her away, sheathing both of her daggers in the scabbards as she decided the sparring was over. “As King Thranduil said, you lack control.”“Not just yet.” Kiera countered, ignoring the statement. She shook her hands, cracking her neck as she pointed at the daggers around the captain’s waist before curling her hands into fists. “Now we do it on my terms. Without weapons.” She said.Tauriel seemed rather arrogant as she smirked, throwing her daggers to the ground and readying herself. “You think you’re going to win this when you did not with a blade?” she asked confidently, and Kiera smirked as well.“Oh, I know I will win this.”Tauriel was the one to attack now, her fist flying toward Kiera’s face and the woman dodged it easily, twisting to the side and keeping her hands before her, ready to hit. This was her home ground; she had been in many fights after leaving for the United States and had learnt to defend herself. Using her hands was like walking, unlike flipping those daggers. Clearly, she had to work on that – but now, she needed to prove herself for Tauriel and keep her pride.She jumped forward, slamming her fist into Tauriel’s side and stepping back again as she planted a kick with the knee in her thigh then she moved away again. Tauriel winced, throwing her hands out after Kiera, but missed when she ducked.It surprised Kiera that Tauriel wasn’t as good just with hands as she was with a blade. It seemed she was used to let a dagger do the work rather than her fists. Surely, the captain must have been taught that first before continuing to the weapons, however, it must have been a long time ago because she was less talented in this than with the blades.Kiera smirked, noting the huff that escaped Tauriel when she slammed her elbow into her stomach and leaned back, dodging the captain’s fist that approached her face. She grunted when she felt Tauriel’s foot kick into her shin that she hadn’t seen. She knelt on the ground before Tauriel, making herself small, and hit back with a strong uppercut as she got back up, entering the space Tauriel had found safe just a moment earlier.The captain cried out, falling back to tumble into the dirt, and grabbed her chin in a wince. As she got back on her feet and glared at the smirking Kiera, she whispered Sindarin curses under her breath.“Seems to me that my prophecy came true.” Kiera snickered, picking up the scabbards and throwing it to Tauriel so she could wrap her blades onto her waist once more.“You fight well when these aren’t included.” Tauriel grumbled the compliment, Kiera nodding in thanks. The captain looked down at her leg, thinking of her kick and she remembered how the woman allegedly injured Legolas. “At least I didn’t injure you as you did the prince. Do you happen to know how he is doing?”Kiera’s smirk dropped and she looked at her coldly. “I wonder how you would know of that; the times we were together he hasn’t mentioned you once.” She said, being rather snarky.Tauriel clapped back. “Neither has he mentioned you.”Kiera laughed and shrugged, walking closer to get past the captain. “I couldn’t care less if he hasn’t mentioned me, it is none of my business. After what he did, he is nothing but the prince to me.”Tauriel arched a brow. “What did he do?”Kiera scowled. “Nothing that concerns you, but he stepped over a line that I had already drawn for him.”“If it isn’t my business to know what yours is, then stay out of mine.” Tauriel shot back and Kiera cocked her head to the side with a teasing smile.“Well, that’s no fun.” She said. “Thanks for the fight, maybe next time you can actually hit me properly.”Before she saw Tauriel’s glare, she walked out of the trees and back to the training grounds, smiling at Castien who joined her side as she went for her chambers. Her newfound ‘friendship’ certainly would be interesting.

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

The flame flickered. From the gentle evening breeze entering the chambers through the balcony, it gave little warmth to the room as Thranduil sat at his desk, watching the fire move like a dance atop the wax. The study lay empty and silent aside from the King’s breath that teased the flame every time he exhaled.He still pondered over his meeting with Kiera that morning. She was a brave soul to stand up against him in such away, and he shouldn’t let her get away with it. But something was hiding behind those aqua blue eyes and he wanted to find out what. She intrigued him. He loathed that she had injured Legolas, that she hadn’t told him about this fury-driven ego, who could fire an arrow so deadly. It gave him all the more reason to doubt her trust and consider banishment before she did more damage.But he couldn’t give her all the blame, and neither did he feel it was the right choice to send her away. He had asked Legolas to provoke her and therefore he was the reason for his son’s injury. There was more to it than just a simple woman who thought she could do or say what she wanted. He sensed that she could be careless and mock him out of anger, but she was still mindful. She was smart and thought before she spoke.Thranduil let out a grunt, getting up from his seat in a graceful swing that caused the candle to go out as he strolled past his desk, tired of constantly having Kiera on his mind. She puzzled him. But he would solve her, yes, he would. Eventually, the pieces would fit. He was sure of it and he had patience to wait for it.Meanwhile, not very far from the Royal Wing, Kiera was watching as her own candle flame was ignited and burning right before her eyes. She felt the rapid thud of her heart beating in her chest at the proximity of the fire, but she ignored it.She often did this: tested her fears. It helped overcome them and allowed her to better cast them aside when she needed to keep focused or, in other words, keep her cool.Hesitantly, she took in a deep breath and held up her hand just beside the flame, feeling the heat embracing her fingertips. She bit her lip, waiting. It was just fire. Just one flame on a candle, bringing nothing but light. It wouldn’t hurt her if she was fast, as long as she didn’t keep her hand in the tinted blaze.Kiera quickly let her hand brush across the flame, not even feeling it touch her. She had done this countless of times, yet the first time was still the hardest.She sighed, repeating the motion back and forth, until she in the end let her fingers sway with the flame, drawing them around and through as it licked along the fingertips like a dance. Despite it being one of her fears, when she overcame the first part, it would always help later on and it was rather calming to watch. She felt no pain, only the soft heat. It was but her smothered hand from the ashy fire that was left behind as an echo of what she had done.What did she want to challenge this night? It was calm. She hadn’t heard from the King since the morning and no servant had summoned her to be anywhere after she had gone to her room. Perhaps he was already asleep or sat in his study with his own arrogant self. Or maybe he still sat slung on his throne to order more of his subjects. Kiera doubted it. What she knew of him, he would most likely have retired for the night.She wondered how grand rooms he must have had, considering just her own and how beautiful the rest of the realm was – she had only seen the study, and that was already large in itself. She knew, as there were depths in the king’s cavernous halls, there were also heights. During earlier explorations, she had discovered caves not far from the cellars with ponds and minor waterfalls emerging from the rocks. Meanwhile, she had also discovered cliffs in the tops of the mountains, corridors expanding to wide openings, serving a view of Mirkwood and whatever could be seen in the horizon.Kiera recalled finding one in particular with a beam built into the cliff, a lift hanging below to carry large materials from lower to the upper levels easier. She had always been tempted to use it for simple fun or crawl out on it, but something held her back.As she had wondered, Kiera’s eyes had fallen close and the candle had gone out with a light blow of her breath. Now they shot open, an idea coming to mind. She jumped up, running straight for the door and she pulled it open to see Castien stand guard outside.“Come on, Castien, I’m going on an adventure.” Kiera declared, Castien jumping awake in the dark corridor as the chamber door was loudly closed by the woman before she dragged him down the hallway, only illuminated by a few torches.“M-my lady, it’s late, why are you going somewhere now?” He asked and Kiera smirked at him, turning a corner as she went for the many stairs that led up to the levels above them. “It is close to midnight, Kiera.” He whispered, wishing to keep quiet now that many servants who needed to be up early had gone to bed, not to mention the citizens within the palace themselves.“It’s a night of testing oneself, and I want a challenge, so here we are.” Kiera quickly explained in a ramble, hardly even glancing at her friend as he stumbled along. She rushed up the stairs, never slowing down for Castien, who usually was the athletic elf, now heaved for breath when they reached the cliff she intended to find.“Why.. did you bring… me.. to this Valar forsaken cliff?!” Castien grumbled in annoyance as he gasped for breath. Kiera smiled at him while he bent over to support his weight with hands on his knees. “Oh, I could have left you behind and you’d follow me anyways.” Kiera shrugged, walking closer to the edge of the cliff. “Stay there and catch your breath while I do my job.”Castien frowned, looking on as she moved closer to the edge and he grabbed her arm. “Kiera, you can’t..” He whispered, thinking of all the wrong reasons for this.She frowned at him. “No!” Kiera said after a moment, basking away his hand. “I’m not gonna kill myself, damn it. I’m just trying to do as usual… challenge my fears.” She whispered the last part as her foot planted on the beam, her arms going out to balance herself. It was a long way down, she saw. In the dark, she could spot a lake deep below her, filled by the water from the waterfalls.Castien held his breath. “Are you mad?” He asked in shock, walking closer in an attempt to pull her back to safety. “You can fall down!”“Exactly!” Kiera laughed, snapping her fingers as she danced out on the beam, closer to the edge now and she felt her heartbeat starting to quicken. She kept her eyes on Castien. “Don’t go near me. Lest I lose balance.” She warned and winked, her balance still somewhat stable.Her second test of the night. She had long been scared of falling, not of heights themselves. She could stand at that very cliff and look down at the trees below, feeling no fear of the simple distance. It was the fact that she might lean too much to the side and plunge into the water far below or crash against the hard ground, that caused her heart to thump anxiously in her chest. She tried to ignore it, tried to push away the fear picking at her mind of all the possible ways she could manage to trip, and still she sensed that possibility of death.Her mouth had run dry and she swallowed nonexistent saliva to wet her throat. Her teeth ground into her lip and she took a slow, steady breath to calm herself. Castien was forgotten in the deafening silence, only broken by the heartbeat pounding in her ears. Keep breathing, it’s nothing, she thought to herself, her gaze trained on the beam’s tip. She tended to have a good balance, but still it wasn’t her expertise. Falling was as achievable as returning to the solid cliff.She stayed there for minutes, determined to calm down. The beat of her heart never soothed, but instead accelerated every moment she felt a high wind push at her side and made her squeal quietly in an attempt to straighten herself again. Only when she felt the rapid flutter set into a slower pace did she drop her arms at her sides and smile to herself.“See? Easy peasy!” Kiera said loudly, twisting around in a swirl on her foot to walk back across the beam. Her grip on the beam loosened and she slipped.Kiera screamed, her heartbeat shooting through the roof to end somewhere in her throat. Her arms flailed around, grabbing after the wind as she felt dizzy at the sudden height and her body started tipping to the right. Her sight seemed awfully dark and there was nothing but a feeling of falling, utter falling.“Castien!” Kiera yelled in despair, desperate for help and finally she felt a strong hand grab her wrist and pull her back to safety. She collided with a solid chest, a subtle scent of wood and water slipping in to fill her nostrils. Kiera planted her hands against something that could be a chest as much as a wall, and she blinked to thank Castien.Only it was King Thranduil’s gaze she met when she looked up, his blue eyes searching hers as his warm, gentle hand still held her wrist in a firm grasp. Kiera gaped, her heart beating so much faster than his own, feeling it beneath her hand through his garments. Kiera felt extremely awkward and wasn’t sure if her pulse quickened even more or not.“Yo-Your Majesty.” Kiera choked in greeting, standing much closer to him than she had ever imagined, as their bodies pressed against each other, and she tried shaking off her anxiety. Her chest rose and fell rapidly in need for breath, and Thranduil, surprisingly, offered her a soft smile in comfort.“Perhaps, you should be more careful next time and listen to the guard I ordered to stay with you.” Thranduil said in a deep voice, his eyes boring into hers with a hint of annoyance.“Yes.” Kiera whispered, holding her breath as he let her go and stepped back. “I probably should.”“Goodnight, Kiera.” He said, satisfied with her reply as he turned and walked towards the corridor to leave.“Your Highness.” She called after him, and Thranduil stopped in his tracks to look over his shoulder, waiting. “Thank you, and… goodnight.” Kiera said, biting her lip as she watched him nod and walk away. Still, her heart thumped loud in her chest and she didn’t comprehend why. It annoyed her and she wondered if it was simply out of overwhelmed nerves.She sighed as she rubbed the back of her neck and went for the exit, finding Castien waiting at the stairs. She gave him a glare. “You didn’t mention that the fucking king decided to come by!” Kiera hissed, batting his shoulder and it gave Castien reason to look offended.“I didn’t see him before you fell! Don’t give me the blame!” He grumbled, the both of them descending the steps to get back, quietly retiring for the night.---It wasn’t really because she wanted to. She was still furious at him. But Kiera felt a need to check up on Legolas, so that was the reason why she found herself walking down the corridor towards his chambers the next morning. According to whispers in the corridors, the prince had been released from the healing quarters and had now returned to his own rooms.Kiera had never been to his chambers and never thought she was going to either. It was surely as big as his father’s with a touch of his own personality, but she didn’t give it much thought.Suddenly, Kiera narrowed her eyes curiously, noting someone exiting his chambers at the end of the hallway, clothed in a light blue dress with long dark hair cascading down her back. A female. As the elleth turned, Kiera immediately caught sight of the green eyes, complimenting her face.She seemed in a small rush, walking down the corridor towards Kiera in an elegant but swift manner, clearly of higher rank than a maid. Kiera stopped in her tracks, and it seemed that the female finally saw her as well.“I’m sorry, I don’t believe we’ve met.” Kiera said, nearly offering her hand in greeting before she remembered that elves never shake hands. “Have you been here before?” She asked, frowning curiously at the elf. There was something different about her, an aura that she hadn’t seen in other Woodland Elves.The elf smiled. “Mae g’ovannen. I am Alannah.” She greeted and Kiera wondered if she was supposed to bow. Alannah had, after all, come from Legolas’ rooms and she didn’t give the slightest hint of being of a lower class – rather higher. “I have been here for some time, but neither do I think we have crossed paths yet.” The elleth continued, eyeing Kiera skeptically.Kiera smiled back. “I’m Kiera. Been here for a few months, but I can’t say I belong. That would be obvious to anyone.” She shrugged, not noticing the curious frown that played on Alannah’s face. “Anyways, I was just on my way to visit the Prince.” Kiera said, changing subject.Alannah raised an eyebrow. “Yes, he told me someone shot him through the leg with an arrow out of sheer annoyance.” She explained and Kiera resisted to comment.I’ll give the damn Prince annoyance, who was it that decided to earn a foot up his ass? Kiera thought quietly, knowing that he had received the arrow for something more than simple frustration.“Oh, yes, I’m sure it was a mess. But it was nice meeting you, Lady Alannah. I hope we meet again.” Kiera ended the conversation quickly, wanting to move on soon. She had a good feeling about the elleth, nonetheless. If time and place allowed it, perhaps she had found another friend.“To you as well. If there ever is a chance, I enjoy spending time in the gardens. Navaer, Kiera.” Alannah said, offering her another smile. Kiera greatly appreciated the little hint to a blooming acquaintance, but she could see how Alannah’s mind seemed to churn in wonder before the two parted. Clearly, Kiera hadn’t convinced the elleth of complete innocence.When Alannah had left the corridor, Kiera was alone to cope as she laid her hand on the door handle. She didn’t exactly have a plan of how to greet Legolas, nor if he would even let her be there for more than a second – but she needed answers, and as far as she knew, he had them.She knocked on the door twice before entering, not waiting for him to call out.“Prince.” Kiera greeted, closing the door behind her as she gave him a cold look.Legolas was dressed casually in trousers and a loose shirt, his blond hair in waves rather than the usual braids as he stood at an armoire, looking over his clothes. He gave her a glare, stepping away and towards the bed. His leg seemed to have healed from the look of his posture, but it was still wrapped in a bandage.“What do you want, Kiera?” Legolas asked in a huff, crossing his arms as he held her gaze and Kiera could almost see the venom dripping from his words.“I wanted to see how you were doing.”Legolas chuckled and shook his head, turning his eyes away as he thought. “I would be doing better if you hadn’t planted an arrow in my leg.” He spat, glaring back at her.Kiera arched an eyebrow, leaning against the door behind her. “Yeah, but you didn’t tell your friend that. Did you still want to keep my image somewhat pure?”“You met Alannah? She didn’t know about you at all, so the point wouldn’t matter — unless she’s next in line?” He jumped up and stood mere inches from her. Kiera could see in his eyes that he cared for the recently acquainted elf she had met. Perhaps a relationship blossomed between them?Kiera pushed him away, grumbling at him. “I only shot you because you gave me every right to, and I apologized! You dared to push me all the way to the edge and you stepped over the line. Alannah seems to have more of a brain than you, and I only know her name.”“Do you think I wanted to?!” Legolas snarled, clearly starting to get angry and frustrated with the woman. “I was given an order, and I knew I was pushing it, but that gives you no reason to shoot me!” He shot back.Kiera froze.“Who gave you an order to push me to the absolute limit?” She whispered, looking into his eyes in shock as she stepped towards him. Legolas was a prince. The only one that could command him was…“My father.” Legolas replied coldly. “He told me that you had to let go, that I couldn’t allow you to practice before he saw what you were truly capable of.” He explained, his nostrils flaring in anger. “I definitely did.”Kiera felt her heart drop. Thranduil was the real cause of her losing control, and she had hurt Legolas in the end. If he had never given the order, it had never happened.“I’m sorry.” She whispered, feeling betrayed that it was the king deserving her anger and instead she had blamed Legolas.She stumbled back towards the door, laying her hand back on the handle. “I… I’m sorry, Legolas. I did not know.”And then she was gone, running off to find the actual problematic.

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

It was morning. Very early morning, the sun had only risen above the horizon and still the birds sang quietly before everyone would wake and start the day. Though Kiera didn’t care if the King was asleep or not as she stormed towards his chambers. She doubted he was in the throne room at this time, Legolas had only just woken from what she saw.She ignored the two guards, who eyed her suspiciously and reached out to stop her as they informed that the King was not to be disturbed. “Well, he is now.” She scowled at them, pushing past as she went for the door. Her fist knocked harshly on the wood twice, crossing her arms as she waited. “Your Majesty!” she yelled, pointing an angry finger at the guard as he approached to take her away. “Do not dare.” She hissed coldly and glared at him when he opened his mouth to protest.“Don’t bother. Return to your post.” Kiera heard the King speak, turning to see him stand in the door opening. He clearly had been up for some time, wearing a comfortable tunic and boots, but no crown. The guard bowed and obeyed his command silently while Kiera looked up at Thranduil, waiting for him to speak. He looked back at her. “I assume you have a reason to disturb my peace?”“Yes. May I come in?” Kiera asked bluntly, emanating no sense of warmth.“Since you ask so kindly.” Thranduil replied coldly, then opened the door wider to let her in.Kiera brushed past him and planted herself amidst the room, watching him return to his seat at his desk. They were in his study it seemed, decorated with the said desk, a few book-hoarded shelves, a sitting area and a window offering a view of the realm. She realized this was where she had first told them about Earth and where she had shown him some of her tattoos.“May I ask what that reason is?” The King questioned, folding his hands as he leaned back in his seat. Kiera looked at him searingly.“You lied. You are the reason why your son was injured.” Kiera declared, placing her hands on the desk as she looked down at him. His eyes narrowed.“Are you accusing me of risking my son’s safety, when it was something you did?” He asked in such a cold whisper, that Kiera barely heard. She could feel her heart beating fast and loud in her chest, either from nerves or anger.She was angry that she had poured so much blame on Legolas, when he only did something he was told to do – even if it was a stupid choice to obey. It was Thranduil that had wanted to provoke her and push her to the brink. And somehow, oddly and incomprehensively, it made things much worse in her opinion.“If you had not given him an order to push me so far to fucking shoot him, then I believe nothing would have happened at all! Why did you not just leave me alone and let me practice?” Kiera asked, glaring at him as he got back up from his seat to tower over her.“I wanted to see what you were capable of, to show what you may not want us to see.” Thranduil snapped back. “How could I trust someone that hides such information from me?!” He thundered, and Kiera shook her head as she stepped back to pace in the room.“If you had asked, I would have told you.” She scowled, breathing rapidly as she threw her hand in the air. She fought to control herself as she paced, trying to stay calm and speak with him in a normal manner.“And you want me to trust that?” Thranduil asked coldly.Kiera sighed, rubbing her forehead as she sat down in the chair on the other side of the desk, facing Thranduil. “I understand that you don’t trust me. I’m a stranger in your eyes. I can see that I pose a threat to you if shit like that happens.” She said, inhaling sharply before she let the air seep out of her, finding a softer voice within herself. “But it doesn’t change the fact that you told your own son to provoke me until I snapped. How could you do that?” she asked quietly, watching the moment play over in her head.He looked at her for a long time, surprised that she had calmed herself. “He’s my son.” He answered simply.“That’s exactly what I mean.” Kiera grumbled back, shaking her head in disbelief. “If you suspected that I was a threat that could harm your people and your son, how could you put him in that danger rather than yourself?” She asked. “I had become good friends with him, if you hadn’t noticed yet. I ended up shooting him, and I wouldn’t have if it wasn’t for you.” She accused, displeased.Thranduil growled in displeasure. “You will not accuse me of being responsible for your mistakes and your inability to resist violence.”“I am not.” Kiera argued in return, leaning back in her seat as she kept her gaze locked with his. “I take responsibility for my violence; it is my anger that injured the Prince.” She declared soundly, recognizing her temper was at fault. “But I will accuse you for causing the provocation to begin with, and the ruin of my friendship with your son.”Thranduil nearly hissed at her, but he couldn’t deny it either. She had shot Legolas, and she knew she was responsible, but it was him that had let it happen. He straightened his back, moving around the desk to stand in front of Kiera, but she stood from her chair, not wanting him to undermine her. “You need to be careful.” He said firmly, and Kiera nodded solemnly.“I know I do.” She agreed in a whisper, breathing in deeply as she collected herself, her heart still beating soundly in her chest. “But with all due respect, Your Majesty, I think you should consider your choices by heart more than mind.” She confessed, resting a gentle hand against his strong chest, right over his own heartbeat and it was like time stopped for a moment.“When I first arrived here, I saw an Elvenking who respected and protected his people, his family. I expected more from you than this.” She whispered softly, gazing into his ice blue orbs. “Consider those words, Your Majesty. Words from a stranger, who you find to be a threat to your people. Do you think I haven’t come to care for you? For your servants, your guards and your son?” She asked, trailing her fingertips along the pattern on his tunic, but he rested his hand over her own, stopping it.“Perhaps,” Thranduil’s deep voice muttered, “but I have also seen a stranger that keeps her secrets well hidden.”Kiera gave him a genuinely soft smile, something she had never done before. “I know nothing that you won’t in the future as well. I vow that I will share it with you, when the time is right.” She promised, then stepped back and slipped her hand from his grasp, quietly exiting the room as she left him standing at the desk, a thousand thoughts running through his mind.---Months had passed since Kiera had woken on that broad branch in Mirkwood, and still she had so many questions about her arrival. She knew why she was roaming Middle Earth, of how she had gotten there. But she couldn’t tell that to Thranduil, not yet. Certainly not an hour ago.She could still remember the sense of her soul fluttering through thin air so lightly, and she could still recall the bright light of God before her, ready to invite her into Heaven. The shock in his grey shaded eyes when she requested a different journey, could still bring a smile to her lips.She hadn’t truly thought of it before now, not really, but still it had lingered in her mind since the day she came to the realm, desperate to be heard and wondered of.Most people who died were sent to Heaven or Hell. Others were reincarnated and returned to Earth in a new life. But no one had ever considered to ask for a different path, a different life in another world, and still be the same person when one died.But Kiera had. She had asked God to come to Middle Earth and continue life after she had perished, in the one realm that she had long admired through Tolkien’s books, and Peter Jackson’s movies.She knew she had lost her life by the mere age of twenty and started a new in Mirkwood – or at least she wished to start one. The reason why she was there was simply because she had requested it after her death. What she questioned, was how she died. Nothing in her memory could recall what had happened, everything she remembered of her life on Earth was a mush of despair and pain. She had no one to ask – only God. But how did you ask a mythical spirit from a world she no longer was a part of? She could only think of praying.Kiera flopped on her bed, covering her face with her hands as she tried to remember the last moments she had on Earth, but all she saw was the thick air, dense with dust and dirt in the dark rooms of her old apartment.She couldn’t recall.Kiera groaned, grabbing her pillow as she threw it across the room. “Why did I die, why did I die..” She whispered to herself, jumping to her feet as she started pacing. “Ugghhh!” She exclaimed, slamming her hands onto her desk in frustration. The answer was so close and yet still out of her reach.Though slowly, almost without her sensing it, a pain in her chest started growing as if someone had grasped her heart and was clutching it tightly. Oh no.. no, not now.. she whispered in her mind, feeling it expand to her full torso. It was hardly anything, but still she could feel it limiting the air in her lungs and caused her to cough.“Mhpf..” She huffed, choking slightly as she curled together, trying to take in air, but every time she drew a breath, her chest hurt more. She groaned, gripping the edge of the desk as she waited, holding her breath. “Stop, stop, stop, stop…” She whispered rapidly, closing her eyes as she stayed bent over and inhaled in smaller breaths.It felt like minutes passed before she was relieved of the pain, though it was gone as quickly as it had come. She took in a deep breath and collected herself, getting back up as her mind started to race. Why had the agony come? She hadn’t experienced the chest pain for months nor had it been very strong.The dagger that she had borrowed from Tauriel for sparring laid on the desk, waiting to be taken and a new thought struck her mind – could she get physically injured? She had come here after dying, did that make her immune or not? Was it only minor injuries, or could she battle major ones?Taking hold of the blade, she pushed back the sleeve of her tunic and slowly grazed the edge along the side of her bicep. It wasn’t a deep cut, but enough for blood to trickle down her arm.“I take that’s a yes.” Kiera muttered to herself, dropping the dagger back on the table as she cleared her throat, wiping away the blood with her sleeve as she cleared her throat and plopped back on the bed.The shock from the chest pain still mingled and she couldn’t comprehend why it had come. Last she felt it was on Earth – so why was it here?With a deep sigh, she took hold of her sketchbook in an attempt to distract her thoughts, finding lead to draw with. Considering the past few days, she truly needed a break.---The day had turned to night when Thranduil roamed the corridors of his halls. The moonlight shone through narrow spaces at the top of the hallway, illuminating his path with help from the torches on the walls.Ever since Kiera had left his chambers, his mind had stumbled through theories and questions. He had found himself stunned as he felt her hand so gently resting over his heart, and he didn’t know what he was supposed to feel. If anyone did what she had done, he would bat away their hand and reprimand them.So why hadn’t he done it with hers? He had felt frozen, only able to look into the aqua blue eyes of her and listen to the soft words she spoke. This was a side of her he hadn’t yet seen, and he didn’t know what to think of it. Always, she had snapped back when he spoke or given him a cold glare, rolled eyes at his warnings and done everything to be a trouble.He didn’t understand and repelled it at that moment, considering it one of her mind games. But he knew now, in the best of definite, that she had been right. She was to blame for the shot, but he was to blame for the trigger. And for that, he needed to apologize.He sighed as he stopped in front of her chamber doors, finding nothing but silence within. Perhaps she had gone to bed, he wondered, though no guard stood stationed outside her rooms.Quietly opening the door, he slipped inside and found himself in complete darkness, only the moonlight giving him a hint of what was around him. “Kiera?” He called softly, letting the door stay ajar for luminescence to seep through.No one replied, but he could see something huddled together on the bed. Approaching slowly, he rested a hand on one of the bumps, expecting to touch the lower end of her calf, though his hand pressed the sheet straight down to the mattress.“Hm?” Thranduil hummed to himself, frowning as he patted over the rest of the pile, but he quickly realized that Kiera wasn’t in the room – his elven hearing would have caught her soft breathing after all. However, when he went to adjust the pillow that he had turned from under the sheets, something square and hard came into view.Silently, he picked it up and studied it, realizing it was a book. It wasn’t from his library, or he would recognize it. No, this book was new compared to his scrolls and tales, though it had seen years pass by, judging from the scratched sides, smooth leather and damaged edges.When he opened it, he didn’t know what to have expected. Perhaps a journal or a novel. Maybe pressed flowers or notes, something foreign to his eyes that he had yet to imagine, or perhaps simple blank pages.What he hadn’t expected at all, was to find a perfect drawing of his face, looking down at who most have been Kiera’s point of view as he saw the hand laying against his chest. Flipping the page over, he found another drawing, though this was of him in the throne room, amidst a meeting with twenty other lords. Then another, but this was of him sparring at the training grounds.Each of them had small scribbled notes, either the date and what was happening, a quote or something about his appearance. ‘Heartbeat’ was scribbled on the first drawing. ‘Obey me.’ Was jotted down on the second. On the third was ‘Bored blonde at its finest’ elegantly itched onto the paper and Thranduil had to smirk, for how had she known that the soldier he had spared with hardly gave him a challenge?A fourth drawing, however, was of a man he didn’t know. It wasn’t as detailed as his drawings, but still he could tell that he was young, had blond hair and wore glasses to accompany his smile. ‘Lion’ stood in the corner, though the rest of the page was clean.A pang of something miserable within him snapped, causing his smile to drop and for him to close the book soundly. Surely, this had clues of who Kiera was, and who she had known. What relations did she have with the man?He didn’t look back at the bed as he strolled out of the dark and now-cold room, nor did he drop the book from his hands before he was back in his chambers, leaving it on his desk for further studying in the morning.

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

The wine slushed quietly against the curved walls of the wine glass as Thranduil slowly twirled it in his hand, his mind absent from the guard’s report of how his soldiers fared and how many nests had been destroyed in the wood. His chin rested upon his knuckles as he leaned against the arm of his throne, sighing frustratedly before he took a sip of the Dorwinion wine.Nothing could bring his attention away from what was discovered the night before. The drawings were burned into his mind, constantly tugging at his interest in Kiera. She drew beautifully, as if the person she had drawn was simply taken from reality and put on the page. The detail, he had noticed, was very clear and it seemed to him she had studied his facial features very closely. He had never noticed himself, that he had a small spot right beneath his brow. Barely visible, but still seen up close.Despite the talent Kiera showed in the drawings of himself, it was not what kept Thranduil occupied while the guard attempted to do his job. It was the man with glasses who kept circling around in his mind, continuously accusing the stranger of whatever role he had in Kiera’s life. He could be a brother, a cousin or a friend. But was he really? Maybe he was a partner, a husband who waited for her to come home. He seemed to be her age, and something within Thranduil didn’t like that idea.The King had grown used to Kiera’s presence. He didn’t know for better or worse, but he felt something splinter just by the thought of sending her away – home, to wherever Earth was. She was difficult to figure out, a puzzle who enjoyed to be a mystery, but still through the months she had been there, he had come to know her, mostly through hostility, but their conversation yesterday had given him hope for change. A long process it may become, but it was, at least, a process.“Stop.” Thranduil commanded, breaking his train of thought as well as the long ramble of the guard. “I believe I shall see for myself how well my subjects are doing, if you would simply focus on the progress of the patrols. Find Legolas and tell him of the report, he will take a few guards and see to it that the endangered area in the north is cleared. You’re dismissed.” He ordered, rising from the throne as the elf bowed and left. Thranduil finished drinking his wine and descended the many steps of the staircase, his robes swishing across the stone floor as he left the room shortly after his subject.He walked down corridors with a brisk and steadfast pace, wishing to busy himself with his duties, so he could rid the drawing of his mind for just a few minutes. He was steering towards the training grounds and hoped he wasn’t met with disaster, but instead pleasant improvement. Perhaps he should find the general to spar for a while — it had been a few days ago since he last had drawn his sword to practice.Grunts and sounds of metal clashing against one another reached Thranduil’s acute ears as he turned down the last hallway, arriving at the training grounds with dear hope for a distraction. He didn’t get what he expected when he finally cast a look over the yard, but his track of thought faltered when he caught sight of Kiera sparring with Tauriel.Thranduil stopped, remaining unseen as he watched them fight against each other. Tauriel had obtained her title for a reason, but Kiera seemed to challenge her skills with the same level. Red and dark hair flurried through the air and the sunlight glinted in the blades as they each tried finding the other’s weakness.Kiera had a smirk on her face as she twisted, her dagger going straight for Tauriel’s thigh, but the captain moved and knocked away the blade. “Too slow, Kiera.” She chuckled and pushed at her. Kiera grunted and smashed her elbow into her side, causing Tauriel to lose her breath, flipping her dagger to throw at the woman in revenge. Kiera felt her skin break as the blade cut through just slightly above her brow, a few blood drops trickling down her temple and she took a few steps back.Thranduil felt something jump inside him as he watched from the shadows, seeing the blood cover part of her face, but refrained from revealing himself just yet.Kiera laughed, fighting unbeknownst to the King’s presence, and wiped the blood away with the back of her hand as she turned, discreetly slipping out a smaller blade from her boot to knock it into Tauriel. The moment she saw red locks in the wind, she felt the earth press against her back as well as the captain’s dagger on her throat when she was pushed to the ground, Tauriel kneeling over her. “Admit your defeat.” She whispered and Kiera smirked wider.“Only when you admit you’re too blind.” She replied with a grin, watching Tauriel’s shock as the small blade rested against her stomach, slid between the armor of her uniform. The captain grumbled in annoyance and pushed herself off the ground, sheathing her blades as an embarrassed blush tinted her cheeks. “I suppose, I win.” Kiera concluded with satisfaction, getting up as well as she put the blade back in her boot.Thranduil finally stepped out in the clearing and folded his hands behind his back, locking eyes with Tauriel, who suddenly blushed even harder. “My lord.” She greeted and Kiera turned to see Thranduil, her face slipping into a neutral expression.“As my Captain, I would think you a better opponent, Tauriel.” Thranduil said, noticing the elleth was embarrassed that she had lost to a woman with so much lesser experience. Tauriel bowed deeply, ignoring Kiera completely as she was in Thranduil’s focus.“She was slyer than I expected.” Tauriel defended quietly, but he stopped her with a raise of his hand.“Don’t break the ice which you stand upon. We shall continue this conversation later, Captain.” Thranduil said and watched Tauriel bow again before she left, then turned to Kiera who was silently picking dirt off her hands. “Kiera, I believe you just excelled my own Captain. A cunning touch to your victory.” He said and gestured to her boot where he knew the blade was stashed away.“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Kiera replied in surprise, glancing at Tauriel trotting off while she rhythmically tapped her thumb to each fingertip on her hand. Thranduil frowned at her small cut and pulled out a silk cloth, drawing Kiera’s attention.“Albeit she did give you a challenge.” He admitted and she froze as he gently albeit efficiently started wiping the small amount of blood off her face. He glanced at her as she rubbed her arms and he noticed another long cut on her bicep. “Quite the one.” He motioned for the injury and went to clean it as well as he gently took hold of her wrist, his thumb gliding over the small tattoo on her skin. It was a small symbol of four connected lines, although he didn’t recognize it. Kiera, meanwhile, was watching him curiously.When he pressed the silk to the wound, the sliver cut had already dried up.“Perhaps you fought for long?” He asked, releasing her arm as Kiera cleared her throat, knowing the cut on her arm wasn’t from fighting, but from the day prior. She realized now that she hadn’t needed to make the cut herself to find an answer, but just have a sparring match and cause injury.“I suppose.” She lied, taking a step away from him as she touched her brow. “You didn’t have to do that, Your Highness.” She commented, feeling no liquid covering her skin other than beads of sweat.“Yet I decided to.” Thranduil said, then offered the cloth for later use and she thanked him. “Will you walk with me?” He asked and instantly, the skeptical eyebrow of hers started to arch.“Is this why you’ve come? What do you want to tell me, that all the pies in the kitchens are mysteriously gone?” She inquired in part teasing and part skepticism, having grown used to being in conversations with him when apprehensive things were about to happen. Nonetheless, she moved and began to walk towards the entrance.“Well, are they gone?” Thranduil asked wondrously.“Not that I know of.” Kiera quickly replied, glancing back and forth before she passed down the hallway and followed him.“Good. To answer your question, I simply came by and decided to watch you spar. I suppose this is spontaneity.” The King continued, passing through corridors and he slowly felt his previous thoughts beginning to roam when he was left only in Kiera’s company. He was tempted to reveal he had seen the drawings and ask further about it, but knew it would most likely end on worse terms than he hoped for, so he refrained.Kiera, in the meantime, was unsure of what to feel. She was uneasy with Thranduil’s behavior, of how he had yet to scowl at her or show distrust. His kind gesture to remove the blood was unexpected and the fact that he had done it by his own hand, did not go unnoticed. It wasn’t that she did not trust him. In ways, she did, but she knew he had yet to trust her. And so, she held back and did her best to show her true self and true intentions.It had not been a good start on things, she knew that, but was it ever with her? She had a reputation of messing things up before it even started. Too many times in life on Earth could she recall, where she had upset another or been hostile even if she needed help. She hoped, with the promising conversation she had had with him the night before, they could perhaps form a better friendship or at the very least, acquaintance.“If I do remember correct, you said you’ve come to care for my people.” Thranduil’s voice shattered its way through Kiera’s mind and she felt her thought trickle away as she thought of an answer. It was true, she had admitted it yesterday. And, despite the awkward tension she felt between him and her, she nodded.“Yes, I do care. Your people are kind towards me, and I feel welcome.” She replied and glanced at him as they turned another corner, noticing he was keeping his focus on their path. “Most of the time, that is… the guard doesn’t help.” Kiera added in a mutter and looked back at the corridor’s wall, knowing she was always followed around by Castien or someone else. She thought of the times she had been arguing with Thranduil and when she had been dragged away by guards after injuring Legolas, adding them to the list of negatives.“I am glad to hear you enjoy your time here.” Thranduil responded, finding himself at the library and he invited her to go inside. Kiera cast a look over the interior, recalling her enamor when she first entered the hall. “Even if it is not pleasant at all times.” He, too, added.“This place is stunning to me. I don’t quite understand how you’ve built it.” Kiera said and looked to the ceiling as they walked, changing subject while she ignored his comment. If there was someone who could change the dislikable things such as her constant escort anywhere she went, it was him, so she hoped that eventually, she could prove herself trustworthy enough to roam alone. Not that she hadn’t done it before, sneaking around in the dead of night after Castien had fallen asleep during duty. But Thranduil didn’t have to know that.They eventually ended up at a comfortable alcove with plush pillows and reading space where Thranduil offered her to sit. Kiera slid down to sit while he took a particular book from the shelf a few feet away.“My people did not build this library from its beginning.” Thranduil explained, taking his own place on the other side of her as he opened the book. It was in his own elven tongue, telling the story of the Wood Elves with many drawings to illustrate the tale. “I was not born in the Greenwood; I spent the early years of my life in Doriath. My father, Oropher, took me with him when we left Lindon and traveled towards Greenwood, and this is where the Silvan Elves lived. They found my father worthy as their lord and he was crowned King, hence the Woodland Realm came to be.” He started, unexpectedly finding himself explaining his life story, but it all connected to the creation of his home.“We spent many years moving further north through the forest, and never settled anywhere before we found this place here. We thought it fit to live here permanently. The library was placed here, because the cavernous space was far bigger than the others, and there were slits higher on the walls where we could have the sunlight pour in. From there, we had it expanded and everything came to be what you see now.” Thranduil ended, showing Kiera a page where someone had made a sketch of the original view of what was now the palace. The caves were not decorated or carved, nature had extended its eagerness whenever sunlight and water was connected to any earth, and so, Kiera could see that Greenwood had always continued to live on inside the palace unlike the darker forest outside.She knew already that Thranduil was not Silvan, that he was Sindar and had seen his own father die many centuries earlier. She was aware he hid away insecure ‘imperfections’, but he did not know that. And she didn’t plan to tell him yet. But even with her knowledge from the books, she did enjoy hearing him tell about his life, even if it was not much. Considering the tension and hostility that had long been between them, Kiera took this as a chance and a good sign.“I will admit, it interests me a lot. The life of your kind, the way you protect one another and the connection between each of you, even if it was you and an unknown servant.” Kiera replied, beginning to flip through the pages to find more drawings since she could not read the language.“I know all my servants.” Thranduil asserted, as if he was almost offended by the spoken word.“Yes, but do you speak to each of them on a daily basis, to the point you know them as an acquaintance?” She asked and raised a brow.“Not all-““Then they are unknown.” Kiera interrupted in a light voice and shrugged, trying to hide her grin when Thranduil looked annoyed for being cut off. She inhaled to wear off her playful gesture and turned serious. “What I mean, is that you treat everyone with respect no matter the rank. Even if you do not know them and you are the King, you give them equal respect as they give to you. If they’re treated with less, they probably deserve it.” She said, aware that he had not given her respect for all the time they knew each other.Thranduil looked at her for some time, silence falling between them. He sat with his legs crossed and hands folded in his lap as he watched the emotion play over on her face. She didn’t seem happy nor angry as the black hair cascaded over her shoulders, but casual as if her last comment didn’t matter. But he knew that even though he had shown her respect, he had also scowled at her and speared her with cold glares during the several arguments. “Do you claim to have deserved it?” He asked finally, breaking the silence.“You protect your people.” Kiera replied, meeting his blue gaze. “You had your reasons whether I liked them or not.” She shrugged again. “But I respect that you don’t invite strangers into your home without some sense of vigilance. Where I come from, hostility is everywhere. You will rarely find someone who treats another as you elves treat each other. Respect, love and wisdom. Three traits that are hard to find in one. It’s a great reason to my liking for your people.” Kiera whispered, pausing on a page that showed the image of gathered elves in the forest, dancing beneath the moonlight.Thranduil listened intently, curious to hear more about her own world and kin. It was not often she told stories about either, not to him at least. He had heard whispers of this and that from Legolas, but it was very little she had told him personally since their first meeting.“Did you ever find one?” He asked, the drawing of the man resurfacing in his mind.Kiera smiled softly, nodding. “Yes, I did. My grandmother was the greatest.” She replied, and Thranduil had to make sure his surprise did not show – he had expected another answer. “She and I used to travel the world together.” Kiera continued, thinking back on the different places they had explored with one another.“Well, I am sure you miss her.” Thranduil replied sympathetically. “Are you not going back to see her? Are there not anyone else who miss you in return?” He asked further, and the smile slowly dropped from Kiera’s face.“No. She died some years ago.” Kiera lied, breathing in deeply. “Besides there are no one else there for me. Not anymore.” She proceeded, thinking back to the small number of people who had ever meant anything to her. Her close friend, her faded love and her grandmother, who she had not seen since she left England three years earlier.Thranduil felt the rush of his thoughts burst into pieces at last, the long time he had been wondering if the man was someone of importance finally coming to an end. If she longed for the stranger, surely she would have answered differently to the inquiry.Their conversation was suddenly disrupted when Kiera turned her head, only just seeing the slip of Mojo’s tail on the ground as warning before he jumped onto her shoulder, chatting quietly. “I believe I have a hungry friend.” Kiera smiled, rubbing Mojo’s chest with her knuckles as she turned back to Thranduil.“I thank you for your time and telling, Your Majesty. I enjoyed our talk.” She said and got up, nodding at him while the king rose as well.“As did I. Thank you for sharing your stories.” He replied and watched as she turned to leave with the little creature snaked around her. Things would prove interesting with all this new information.

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

Kiera tapped her fingertips against the table as she sat in the dining hall, glancing around the room. Castien and Miriel were casually talking about a fun story from their past, spiraled far into the details and several other memories, after Miriel had gossiped about another maid. The maid had accidentally washed the Prince’s white trousers with a batch of his red clothes – hence, now they were rose-colored, one of his lesser favorites.Castien snorted loudly as Miriel reminded him of when he had hid Legolas’ bow and quiver before a patrol, may it be two centuries ago or so, where the dear Prince had responded by disposing the guard’s entire uniform so he couldn’t show up on duty. It had led to a great scolding by the King.“That is a fun story until we get to the part where I couldn’t find my codpiece!” Castien defended, causing Miriel to snicker into her goblet full of water.“This is why I have more brain than you, toron.” Miriel laughed and Kiera smirked as she listened. She knew Castien and Legolas had known each other for many years, and they over time had grown to be good friends through their work in the guard. “If you would only be a little more responsible, perhaps you had become a Captain many years ago.” She heard Miriel continue, only causing Castien to roll his eyes.Although, Kiera wasn’t listening much further than that. Her gaze was fixed on a table not far from them, where Legolas sat with the elleth she had briefly talked with a few days earlier, Alannah. A smile grazed Kiera’s lips, hoping that she could get to know her a little better over time and perhaps form a friendship – albeit her current relations to Legolas were standing on thin ice, and she didn’t know how it would go with Alannah, if that wasn’t sorted out first.She frowned slightly when she realized Thranduil wasn’t sitting with them – throughout the months she had been there, she could always find him enjoying his meal at this time of day with Legolas, surely Alannah too, or by himself. It was very few times he had invited her to eat with him.Kiera looked down when she felt a tug on her finger, and she smiled at the sight of Mojo. “What is it?” She inquired in a mutter, ignoring Miriel’s quiet giggle when she saw the monkey had come. The elleth had adored the little creature ever since he first arrived - in whatever way he had managed to, was still a mystery to Kiera.Mojo chattered and pulled at her harder, pointing towards the table where Alannah and Legolas ate. “They wouldn’t want me to interrupt their meal! That’s rude, they should have their privacy.” Kiera objected quietly, but Mojo chattered louder and tugged more. As always in her life, Mojo had been able to sense when bridges were either burning or certainly weak, and he seemed to know she had things to clear up properly with Legolas.“Bruh...” Kiera sighed and closed her eyes, rising from her seat as she glanced back at Castien and Miriel. “I’ll see you later.” She said with a resigned mutter, letting Mojo bounce along as she walked towards the table.Behind her, was Castien confusedly looking from her back to Miriel. “Bruh? What is that for a word?” He asked, Miriel shrugging in response.“She’s from that Earth, maybe it’s another tongue. I haven’t heard of it.” Miriel snickered, looking over his shoulder to see Kiera approach Legolas and Alannah. “Maybe it’s a feeling.” She hummed, much aware of the incident where the prince had been shot and their friendship had crumbled.Legolas looked up when Kiera stood at his side, the smile that had adorned his face quickly diminishing into a thin line when he discovered who had come. “Kiera.” He greeted and Kiera nodded in return, feeling rather sheepish to disturb them at this time.“I don’t believe we had much time to acquaint one another.” She said to Alannah as she tried pushing the confrontation with Legolas a little further, and Alannah gazed up at her with a kind smile. “I hope to remedy that in the future.” Kiera admitted and Alannah seemed happy to hear.“Why I will look forward to it – only say the word, and we can find each other’s company.” She replied kindly and glanced down to see Mojo at her feet, immediately curious of the animal. Kiera felt relieved of such a good start and let her pet him carefully. It appeared that Legolas still hadn’t told her who had caused his injury – that was some decency at least, not ruining another bond before it was forged.Kiera glanced over their table, once again reminded that Thranduil wasn’t there. “Where is His Majesty, by the way? I don’t believe I’ve seen him today and he usually has a marvelous habit of keeping watch over me.” She commented and Legolas raised a brow.“I’m not quite sure. He’s surely busy attending to his many duties as King.” He muttered and sipped at the glass of wine that stood ready for him. “Why do you ask?” He continued and Kiera blinked.“Oh, for nothing, I just wondered. He’s usually here and I wanted to hear if.. well, no matter.” She waved off her answer before it could die out, clearing her throat as she looked back at Legolas. Alannah was watching her with skeptical eyes as she focused back on them, looking between her and Legolas like something was left unsaid.“Your Highness,” Kiera inhaled deeply, pursing her lips as she felt she couldn’t escape it any longer. “I feel that a flower has died out between us and I hoped we could start anew. You know I only wish for our friendship to blossom.” She explained and held out her hand to make peace, wishing to keep the problem somewhat quiet so his sweet ‘friend’ wouldn’t know.Legolas stared at her for a while.Then finally, he took her hand and shook it, so unlike the elven ways and Kiera offered him a smile. “Thank you.” She said, then let go and looked over to Alannah, finding the elleth frowning back at her.“What has happened?” She asked suspiciously, causing Kiera to shake her head dismissively.“Just disagreements that got tangled.” She answered quickly, then left them quickly before Alannah could ask further. Desperately hoping that Legolas kept his silence, she swept her way through the dining hall with Mojo behind her and hunted down her chambers. It was one thing that her friendship with Legolas was broken and now needed repair – she didn’t want it to happen yet again, especially not with this elleth that seemed so nice already. No, she needed things to go smoothly.---A great sigh accompanied with a groan sounded in Kiera’s room as she flopped on her bed, punching the bed linen as her mind raced. She had looked everywhere, and not one spot could she find her sketchbook. It wasn’t under her pillow or the bed, it wasn’t on the desk or in the drawer, neither on the pillowed bench at the window, she had even looked in the closet but to no avail. It simply wasn’t there.So many memories were saved in that book. So much of herself had been expressed on those parchment pages over time, over years of her life since she was barely a teenager, it was a place where she could feel herself and let out her emotions. Apart from Mojo, it was her only connection to Earth, the only reminder of what she once was.Kiera felt her eyes burning as she buried her face in the sheets and groaned, rubbing them to keep any tears from slipping away. This was not something to cry about. She was weak if she cried over a silly book. Lord, but it was a part of her was it not? Was it not fair to mourn over losing a part of herself? A subtle pang of pain in her chest reminded her of the odd sensation that had haunted her for a while. She grunted, truly needing to find out what was happening and how she would find answers. Who would know that?“My lady? Is everything alright, Kiera?”Kiera jumped as she heard Miriel’s voice, and she scrambled to sit up straight and gather herself. She hadn’t heard her come in and moved away slightly when Miriel approached.“Yes, I’m all good. I was just resting.” She lied, getting up as she began organizing the nearly bare desk. “Have you perhaps seen my sketchbook anywhere? Do you remember it?” Kiera asked, having spent many times drawing while Miriel was in the room.“I do, but I haven’t seen it. I apologize.” The maid replied quietly, worried if she had missed something during cleaning or at other times. “Have you looked everywhere?” She asked and Kiera nodded, turning to brush her hair as she looked in the mirror, her dark hair falling over her shoulders in soft waves.“I can’t find it, but it’s here somewhere. In the palace, that is.” She muttered, going through every place she had been with it in her mind. The best and quickest thing she could do to find it, was to let everyone know it was missing. Maybe someone had stolen it, or it was lost somewhere in the gardens. Or she could have unknowingly dropped it over one of the bridges throughout the realm when she had walked over, with the ever-deep space just beyond her side.She would have to tell King Thranduil, but how would she explain that? She had to try at least.Turning around, she offered Miriel a small smile. “You’re free for the night, mellon. Go enjoy some fun time.” Kiera said, still unused to the life of having a maid – she had always done things on her own. Miriel smiled back, appreciating it. “I need to go to the King if he’s not occupied with a wine barrel or barking at servants, so I hope to see you come morning.” Kiera explained, scratching the back of her neck as she went for the door.Miriel stopped her, suddenly at her side, and the woman could see how she hesitated. “Please call for me if you need anything. I’m here to help you.” She said quietly, and Kiera nodded slowly.“Thanks, Miriel.” Kiera said, then left before she changed her mind.Taking a deep breath, the woman walked towards the king’s chambers. She had no idea if it was a good idea or not – perhaps he would find it pathetic of her to request a search, or at least simply a notice that she had lost her sketchbook. Why did she care what he thought?She had no reason to worry about asking, really, that wasn’t it: it was rather having to explain what was gone. If he ever saw it, surely he would know it wasn’t one from the Elven Halls. Wouldn’t he? The design and content were far from anything existent in Middle Earth. She had drawn things that identified with something much more different than torches and tunics – skyscrapers, monuments and people.If she wanted to keep from more accusations or questions about herself, she had to keep it secret. It needed to be ‘just this book she had grown to love’.“Come in.” Came the sound of a deep voice, breaking through her thoughts as she had subconsciously arrived and knocked on the doors. Kiera cleared her throat and slipped inside, finding herself in the King’s study like usual.“Your Majesty.” Kiera muttered a greeting, catching sight of him as he looked out the window, but he looked back when he heard her voice.“What brings you here, Lady Kiera?” He asked, noticing the surprised expression that crossed her face.“You never call me Lady.” She stated in confusion, allowing Thranduil to smirk and step away from the window. “Why the change?”“There’s a first time for everything.” He replied, taking a glass to pour wine as he watched her. “You didn’t answer my question.” He reminded her and Kiera nodded before she once again remembered why she had come.“Right. So, I came to ask for some help.” She started, pursing her lips as she looked at Thranduil. She had never taken into account how beautiful and majestic he looked; not since her arrival. His long silver blond hair seemed to flow in the softest of waves, and his blue eyes pierced her own with all the knowledge in the world. His full lips seemed perfectly kissable and his jawline was so sharp that she would probably cut herself if she touched it. The way he moved across the room was more like a sweeping dance rather than steps, and she didn’t have to admire him in any less clothes to know that he was very strongly built, the muscles already defined through his tunic.Kiera blinked.Thranduil was looking at her with a frown on his face, only a few feet from her. “Is everything alright?” He asked, finding her gaze oddly blank as if she had been lost in thought.“I- uhm, yes- no, I mean yes.” Kiera stumbled over her words as she shook her head, met with a river of thoughts that had never occupied her mind and she scrambled to be rid of them. She inhaled deeply and closed her eyes as she quickly gathered herself again, a flush on her cheeks when she constantly failed to explain herself, for more reasons than one.“Yes, so, I came for help. I’m missing this book, my sketchbook.” She started, not seeing Thranduil’s face drop for a moment. “I was given it while I was here, but I can’t find it.” She partially lied, although much truth was in her words. “I was hoping that you could give a notice to your servants, in case they would catch sight of it at some point.”Thranduil sipped his wine, humming to himself. He was well aware that Kiera kept something from him. She said nothing of it’s true origin, yet he knew it was an object stemming from Earth with the drawings of so many places he didn’t recognize. People, he didn’t know of.“I suppose it could be arranged.” He said in a low voice, walking away as he closed in on his desk. Kiera sighed quietly in relief, moving further into the room as she folded her arms. “And you say you got it here?” He asked further, his eyes on the desk, but Kiera couldn’t see what he looked at.“Yes, here. A few weeks or so ago.” Kiera confirmed, still uneasy that she kept part of the truth hidden despite not deceiving him.“Interesting.” Thranduil murmured, then looked up at her. “Although, I’d say you draw that tower rather well.” He said and closed her sketchbook after gazing at the page with the unknown man.Kiera’s face dropped. “Excuse me?” She whispered, looking at the desk as she finally saw Thranduil’s hand pressed against the very book she was in search for. A gasp left her abruptly and she glared at him. “You took my sketchbook?!”Thranduil shrugged, finishing his glass of wine before he placed it on the desk. “I had gone to find you in your chambers, but you weren’t there.” He explained and Kiera scoffed, stomping up to the other side of the table.“And that suddenly means you can take something of mine and pry into?!” She inquired in a yell, throwing out a hand in the air for emphasis. “That book is private to me!”Thranduil’s face turned stern very quickly. “And clearly something you are hiding.” He snapped back. “You lie of its origin, but I know it is from whence you came.” He said and lifted the book slightly in frustration. “You didn’t have this with you when you arrived, so do tell me how you got it!” The King demanded and Kiera snarled, shaking her head as she took the book before he could do anything else.“That is none of your business, just like it doesn’t concern you what it contains. This is mine, it’s a violation to my privacy. What gave you the authority to look?!” Kiera questioned angrily. She couldn’t believe that he would do such a thing, to break such an unspoken promise and ignore simple respect.“I am King in the very realm you reside.” Thranduil defended poorly, pointing at the sketchbook. “Anything could’ve been in that book, threats to my people!” He said and Kiera couldn’t believe what she was hearing.“Just because you are King, does not allow you the audacity to look in another’s private belongings!” She hissed out of hurt, breathing rapidly to keep her anger under control. “You think a drawing book threatens your realm?! It’s my damn heart!” She laughed in disbelief, taking herself to the head as she stumbled back a few steps. “I can’t even fathom how you could do this.”Thranduil glared back at her, finally beginning to reach his limit of patience. “You know I protect my family, my people. I need answers when I find secret things.” He said coldly. “Who’s that man at the tower? You haven’t mentioned him yet.” The king continued his interrogation, mindless to what Kiera was feeling.The woman stared at him, pure fury in her aqua blue eyes. “Fuck off your high horse, King Thranduil.” She growled at him, causing a look of shock and anger in his eyes. She knew she had stepped far over a line, but hardly as far as him. “Since when have I ever posed a threat to your realm unless you, yourself or your people, have incensed me already?” She asked in return, then stormed out before she let him see her tears.Kiera didn’t know what to feel. She was shocked, yet it still didn’t surprise her that Thranduil was so self-centered and thoughtless to what she would feel if he snooped around in her things.Left behind in his study, Thranduil reevaluated everything he had ever thought of Kiera. For a while, she seemed to have changed and he had genuinely started seeing her in a better light – now he wasn’t so sure. Or was that his fault?

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

Quiet sniffles and a shaky breath filled the silent room as Kiera curled together on her bed, clutching her sketchbook as she cried. It had been so long since she last had felt so betrayed and disrespected. She was hurt that Thranduil could keep up his façade of lies, he had taken her book without her consent and had not even told her the truth before she confronted him about the missing item. If she had not come on her own, what then? Had he simply continued to keep his little secret and study all her drawings further?An embarrassed blush coated her cheeks as she hid her face in her pillow, aware that he had seen the many drawings she had made of him. There were too many times where she had snuck around in the shaded corners while she admired him, drawing every detail of him to the last hair strand. What now would he think of her, ‘stalking’ him so intensely that she could draw so detailed? She hoped he didn’t think worse of her, although something else told her he most likely was.It wasn’t exactly wise of her to curse at him with such an attitude when he was the King himself, and she felt obliged to let the ground swallow her whole. Surely she would be sent away by now, kicked out of the palace never to return, and it broke her to think about. Kiera didn’t know what it was, but over the time she had spent in the Woodland Realm, despite the many quarrels they had shared and the frustration she had had towards him ever since she arrived, she enjoyed spending time with him. She couldn’t help but admire his beauty and she could feel her protective walls that she put around herself was very slowly crumbling away for him. She had felt it in the library.It scared her. She didn’t want to be vulnerable, and the more times she looked into those ice blue eyes, she wanted to step a little closer and gaze a little further into them and see what was hidden behind them. She sighed amidst her sniffling, pushing away all the emotions she couldn’t understand and reminded herself again what he had done. Still, she knew she had to apologize for what she had said, otherwise it was clear she wouldn’t be there to enjoy the halls much longer.It felt so surreal to be a part of Middle Earth, to experience the Elvenking and his home in person, and something inside her questioned the whole ideal. She had grown up with the stories of the elves, dwarves, orcs, and many other races, of how a mere hobbit could have the most important impact on a whole world and the wars fought in it. Was it all a dream, or was she truly dead like she believed, sent here by her wish?Her inner debate was suddenly jolted out of course when she felt a swiftly building pressure on her chest, crushing her torso as if her lungs had stopped working. “Not again-“, Kiera choked out, grimacing as the pain stabbed at her insides and she squeezed her eyes shut. Quick and unsteady breaths escaped her lips, but every inhale left her in more pain, and she whimpered with strain.It was so unexpected and sudden, she crumbled together, and she hated that she recognized the agony. It was far from the first time that this had happened, and it stemmed from Earth. She remembered it, vaguely, a sensation around the last phase in her time there, but it was far from this severe. She recalled only a twinkling feeling, a push or clench that lasted for a few seconds. But this, this was double the pain.Kiera coughed as the pressure finally ebbed away again, sitting up to have better breathing space. She needed to figure out what this was, and how she would find these answers, and she needed them now. She frustratingly wiped away the tears soaking her skin and stumbled off the bed. Who or what could give her the understanding she needed?Only one came to mind.How is someone going to contact a god from a different world, she thought. She knew she had tried before, a ritual she had created during her time on Earth, although she had never succeeded despite her attempts. Yet it was her only idea and if anyone could answer the many questions she had about herself, it was the one being who supposedly brought her here. She could try and perhaps get to speak with Him, or she could fail in the attempt again and be left to figure it out on her own, if she ever would.Where would she go? Somewhere that was spacious and contained the few things that could connect her to Earth. The gardens. Kiera looked around her room, wondering if she could bring any of the needed items, but realized all had to be found there. She took in a deep breath and eyed the door, much aware of the guard that stood outside. Thranduil still did not trust her to walk about without someone watching, but at least the door wasn’t locked anymore. It was never the same guard and she hadn’t seen who it was after she came back but hoped dearly they were preoccupied and wouldn’t comment on her leaving.So, as Kiera slowly pulled the door open, she was pleasantly relieved to see Castien asleep against the wall, quietly mumbling nonsense to himself. For once, she was glad he wasn’t the best at his duty. She slipped out of the room and closed the door behind her, tiptoeing down the corridor before she snuck towards the gardens.Thranduil continued to roam her mind like a pest needing attention and she grumbled quietly, annoyed that she couldn’t escape him for longer than a few minutes. She forced all her thoughts of him to the back of her mind again and focused on the matter at hand. It was lucky that she had been there so many times before, as one of her favorite places, so it was easy to find her way to the entrance. It was rather the few guards stationed here and there that she had to avoid lest they knew of her restrictions and would alert the king.Fortunately, Kiera managed to slip past all the guards without detection and she rummaged through her memory to recall the small recitation and quickly held onto the thought of it. Her gaze scanned the garden as she searched for the elements she needed. A lit torch caught her eye on a path down through the gardens and she quickly grabbed it, hunting for the next thing. A birdbath was perched just at the edge of the path, abandoned of any winged friends, and she nodded to herself.“Okay, two to go.” Kiera muttered to herself, now looking for a proper spot. A few feet from the path, there was a cleared space of the lawn where the flowers and plants weren’t in the way, and so, she took her place. The four elements of nature were believed to be the creators of all things on Earth, hence why this ritual she now attempted could connect to another world. Kiera didn’t know if the elements counted in Middle Earth as well, but it didn’t matter either. All she needed was a connection.“Dear God, hear my wishes, hear my words…” she started and took a handful of dirt, scattering it across the grass where she drew a circle, before she blew at the flames of the torch towards the space she was making, “hear my prayers and my promises…” she continued and set aside the torch, turning to the birdbath and she scooped water into her hands as she walked into the circle then threw it in the air, letting the drops cascade down on her and the ground beneath.“For I seek to speak with you.”Silence followed.Kiera waited breathlessly for anything to happen, just the smallest sign to prove if it worked despite her doubts. Only after several anxious seconds, if not minutes, did a bright light blind her eyes and she felt a surge of air go through her like a breath to her soul.---Thranduil paced his study restlessly, a cold expression on his face as his long blond hair whisked over his shoulders from the breeze he created. His mind was roaring with the conversation he had encountered with Kiera only an hour earlier, and he didn’t know where to put himself.He had had enough. She dared to insult him in such a reckless and disrespectful manner, and not only that, but she kept secrets from him. What kind of repayment was that for his hospitality to allow her into his home? Had he not given her a place to live and allowed her to acquaint herself not only with her people, but his very own son as well? He knew that the leaves of that tree had withered, and it was his fault, but he had still allowed it to grow in the first place.So much trouble had formed since Kiera’s arrival. Before she came, life was smoothly running on course with every day presenting itself with the same peace and the same entertaining duties as King of the realm. Now, he could not even imagine what tomorrow would bring. She was skilled in occupying his mind in every way, and he didn’t want to think of it. He did not have a single minute, where he was not wondering what she might be up to, or if she would step inside the chamber with yet another surprising item or animal.But what troubled him the most was the constant battle about what he thought of her. It was never settled, never balanced and clear, and it drove him mad. He was angry and despised the many things she had done; shooting his son, spitting remarks and insults at him; keeping secrets he knew she didn’t tell. She showed him no respect as a King, nor did she obey his command. This was his realm; he ruled and deserved the respect as such. And still she managed to defy him, time and time again.Albeit, he was conflicted. He could not deny himself that he enjoyed spending time with her when he learned of her stories and ideals, and neither of the many times he had admired her from afar. Her long dark hair always flowed down her back in gentle waves, begging to have a pair of hands run through the tresses, and her sharp aqua blue eyes pinning him to the spot every time she glanced in his direction. It was more than once, where he had seen her walking down the corridors, or he had been with her, where he had gazed at the sway of her hips and the beautiful curves of her form, where he had glanced at her plumb lips and wondered how they tasted. He had caught himself before, the image of him in his mind, wrapping his arms around her slim waist while his face buried in her hair from behind – and immediately, he had banished the thought and cursed himself for imagining such improper visions.He would not think such thoughts. He could not. It was a disgrace and a great disrespect to his deceased wife, who he still thought of daily. What would she not think of him if he had any interest in others, whether it was something real or not? He didn’t even understand it himself; but he knew he couldn’t be interested in Kiera. The woman was an enemy, perhaps not a lethal one, but she was not a friend - not for what she had done.Thranduil huffed to himself, dragging a hand through his long hair in frustration before he darted out of his chambers. He needed some air, a bit of peace and quiet to free himself of those wretched thoughts that kept bothering him, and so he steered towards the gardens where he was always able to relax in solitude.Guards and servants who had night watch were keeping out of his way as he passed through the corridors. He left behind a fiery atmosphere with every turned corner before he was met with the soft breeze in the quiet gardens, finally able to calm down. He sighed to himself, inhaling deeply as he closed his eyes and enjoyed the silence around him.Except it was not silent.He frowned as his eyes opened once more, instantly sweeping his surroundings with his gaze to find the voice he could hear. He was both confused and intrigued when he saw a figure at the other end of the gardens, standing frozen in place as a soft blue light seemed to surround them. Without a weapon on him, he could not defend himself from who or what it was, yet still, he walked closer.---
The air didn’t feel cold, but it was not warm either. No sound came from anywhere, and Kiera couldn’t see anything taking form. It was merely a white space, never ending until her eye could no longer see what was up and down.

She waited with bated breath to see if He would truly show himself, if this was the place of contact or if she would talk to thin air. She pursed her lips.

“Is it real?” Kiera asked in a whisper, casting a look over her shoulder just to see a glimpse of anything she might miss.

“Why should it not be?” A deep and powerful voice responded all around her, gentle despite that it resonated through her being and caused her to inhale sharply.

“Because of where I am, for who I am with and what is happening to me.” She replied, curling her hands before she released them and repeated the gesture. “This world is of Earthly make. Tolkien made this, a fantasy world that I have always dreamed of. Is it real, or am I dreaming? Am I really there?” She asked again, still alone with only the voice to be her depiction of God.

“Of course, it is real. Did you not come to me after your death and request to continue your life there?” The voice replied, only encouraging Kiera to rub her forehead.

“I did, yes, but how come Mojo is here then? How did my pet get here?” She asked, unable to understand how the monkey would otherwise have arrived if he had not...

“The capuchin is a strong little friend, but he was unlucky. An accident occurred in the habitat you had given him as new home, and he passed away. I sent him your way because I recognize the strong bond between you, and I would not break it even in death.” God explained, and Kiera bit her lip to hold back the sorrow she felt after failing her furry friend, albeit she was glad it ended this way.

“Well, thank you for that.” She said gratefully, glad that two questions had at least been answered for her now. “I need to know…” Kiera continued, folding her hands as she looked around the wide space she was in. “I don’t understand this pain. What is this I feel?” She inquired, holding her hands to her chest where the pressure returned now and then.

“You are not of this world, Kiera. You are of Earth, a very different place even with their similarities.” The voice revealed, and Kiera nodded in understanding. “Find the one who watches over all, and they will give you your answer. I cannot.”

Kiera instantly frowned. “What? But you brought me here!” She asked in confusion, having expected that He could tell her why.

“I did, but I cannot aid you in something beyond my power.” He replied in a soft tone, making Kiera sigh and scratch the back of her neck.

She knew she was dead, now living a life in Middle Earth, she knew of her old life back on Earth and the story she had lived, yet still there was a blindspot.

“How did I die?” She asked finally, her gaze scattering over the white light as if to find where the source of the voice was.
“That is for you to find out.” The deep voice replied, and a small piece of white parchment materialized in the air above her, fluttering down for her to catch in her hand and she saw the two words stand out, those that she had not seen in many months: List; Jump.
Just as Kiera’s eyes widened and it clicked for her, the same rush of wind she had felt before coursed through her body once more, and brought her away from the space she had only just entered.
Kiera gasped for air as she returned to the gardens with the crisp night air to fill her lungs, but as she blinked her way back to reality, she saw a pair of ice blue eyes glaring into hers a mere inch away.“Shit.” She whispered.

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

Thranduil narrowed his gaze down the long path that stretched through the gardens, having only just caught the quiet sound of someone speaking. All he could see was a dim figure in the dark, only illuminated by a soft blue light around the person, as well as the sharp glow of a nearby torch that they must have taken with them for whatever it was that had led them out here in the dead of night – it explained the missing torch on the rack he had just passed.He was keeping quiet, ensuring that they wouldn’t hear him when he got closer, although he heard no speaking anymore. Were they alone or not? He continued down the path, noting them facing away from him so they couldn’t see him coming. The closer he came, the more he realized that the person was in fact a female.A female with pitch dark hair, soft curves and a face he knew all too well as he finally reached the space where she stood.Kiera.However, she was different than usual. The soft blue light surrounded her upper body in a soft mist and her mouth moved as if she spoke, yet no sound emitted. But it was her eyes that made him even more suspicious, with a bright white blaze laced over the orbs where he normally would see piercing blue irises. Around her he saw a simple pattern in the earth, a drawn circle to mark her space. To him it looked like magic. A ritual, perhaps. Was Kiera even the person she had said she was?The thoughts that had nagged Thranduil for days flared to life like a silent storm, reminding him of the distrust he now felt towards her. She had far too many secrets it seemed, none of them he knew even a fraction of, and she had cursed at him before lividly leaving his study only a few hours ago. What was this, then? Did she spend every night here? Why were her eyes now clouded in gleaming white and her body surrounded in a blue haze?Too many questions poured through his mind as his eyes narrowed, waiting for something to happen, and he knew he needed his answers now. No more games. So, it was a great satisfaction to see the blue mist disappear and watch Kiera’s eyes return to their usual aqua blue color as she gasped and rapidly blinked, as if she had been in a daze and didn’t know where she was.Thranduil was closer than comfortable for her when she realized she wasn’t alone. “Shit.” She whispered and the King huffed bluntly.“In deep, yes.” He snapped at her, then grabbed her by the arm as he pulled her back towards the palace. “I need a word with you.”Kiera hardly even winced at his tight hold, but she did try to pry his hand off. “Listen now, I can walk by myself!” She told him, writhing to be free of his iron grip. She could tell he was fuming; he had seen what she had done – but how much of it and had he heard the conversation? Now she had to deal with the consequences and find a solution very fast.“What a surprise to me.” Thranduil quipped in reply to her protest, but his jest fell short of his mood. He didn’t loosen his grasp nor let her walk on her own, and it was obvious Kiera was irritated by it. Thranduil couldn’t care less.“Then let me go!” She snapped at him, but to no avail as he dragged her out of the gardens and back through the corridors, steering towards his private study.Her mind was still circling the end of her brief visit to wherever she had been, the sight of the small piece of paper with the two words finally making sense to her. As she curled her fists together, she felt something in one hand and knew instantly that it was the list. Kiera couldn’t even remember where she had let it disappear to in her room, but knew it was all she had come with on her first day, tucked away in her pocket.Occasionally, she had thought of it and pondered on what riddle that was and how exactly she was supposed to work it out, but now it stood clear: It was a death list. It was a tool for her, something for her to figure out her death and remember. It was far too easy for ‘jump’ to be the cause, firstly, it was clearly meant to be a list, and the first thing couldn’t possibly be the answer. Secondly, she couldn’t think of any possible way for her to have jumped to her death in her previous life – for the times she had considered ending it all, which had always been altered by her best friend Rose, that had never been an option; it took too long.But now she had something to do. A task to fulfill and figure out answers of herself. She needed to think of every way she knew of dying, and hopefully, one of them would light the candle she was scrambling for in the dark.Thranduil practically threw Kiera into his study as he opened the door and stepped inside, her hands catching herself on his desk so she wouldn’t fall. She only just straightened and heard the wood creaking as Thranduil slammed the door closed again before his ice-cold gaze was narrowed on hers again, fury flooding from every inch of him.“I am tired of you, Kiera.” The King hissed at her, huffing as he began pacing the room. Kiera followed him with her dangerously sharp eyes. “You carry secrets that you have yet to tell me, and I will not tolerate it any longer!” He snapped, Kiera huffing as she adjusted the sleeve of her shirt after his rough grip.“Does that suddenly mean you can manhandle me so violently?” She asked in a quick remark, which was a stupid idea.“Don’t you dare question my authority again! You will understand this, Kiera. I do as I please, and I will not have you manipulate my control.” He spat at her, making Kiera frown in confusion as she glared at him. He made no sense, and she couldn’t think of how she was ‘manipulating’ his control – she only spoke of simple manners.“What the hell is that supposed to mean?!” She inquired furiously, batting him on the shoulder to have him stop moving and focus. Instantly, Thranduil’s hand curled around her wrist and held her arm away, glaring down at her.“Do not touch me.” He snarled, realizing his conflictive feelings towards her had affected his decisions. “I don’t want your repetitive judgement to alter what I do. I could ask you the same and hear why you continue to keep secrets from me!” He replied, releasing her wrist as Kiera laughed mockingly.“Do you think you are entitled to know every single thing about me? To know my every thought and every part of my life? You see, Your Majesty, there’s a thing called privacy!” She shot back, but she knew deep down that this had nothing to do with privacy. Finding someone in a garden amidst a ritual in the dead of night was quite suspicious, if Kiera was being honest with herself, and it didn’t help when Thranduil was incredulous of her.The King’s glare swelled with so much anger that it knocked off her confidence and she started feeling small. He had never managed to crawl under her skin, but in that moment, he did.“You wander over thin ice as if it would never break under your feet, Kiera.” He scowled, leaning down to level with her eyes. “You curse at me and reprimand me as if I was below you. Your behavior with me is equal to how you act with my servants. You tell me of your respect for my person, yet you show me none. I would advise you to tread carefully, since the water is colder than you can muster.” He warned, roughly pushing her away.“Tell me what you were doing.” He ordered sharply.Kiera swallowed as she looked at him, anger beginning to blend together with regret. She hated that the small glimmer of trust that had been building between them had now distinguished, while nothing she told him seemed to abide with him. She had truly started enjoying the good times with him and even more the fleeting moments where they seemed to connect on some level, but it was always broken by their arguments and the skepticism that dwindled between them. It was difficult for her to keep the tears at bay, like she had failed to hours earlier, but she refused to hint any weaknesses.“It’s nothing of your concern, Your Highness. I was meditating.” She partially lied and crossed her arms, finding it reasonable enough to acknowledge the ritual as meditation. She didn’t bat an eyelid as she spoke, however Thranduil still noticed the unease in her eyes, anxious of what he would say.The King growled in frustration, grabbing Kiera by her collar as he pushed her against the wall and leaned dangerously close to her face. Kiera gasped at the sudden rush of being dragged through the air before she collided with the wood, making her muffle a whimper.“You infuriate me, Kiera!” He sneered, knowing she was lying. “That was not a simple meditation, you spoke with someone. I saw you and the preparations you made, and the blue haze around your form! Your eyes were blazing white!” He told her despite that he had only heard a muffled voice when he first arrived. The message was the same.He noticed how she for once wasn’t looking at him, but instead turned her head away. None of the details he described was anything she had known would happen and she feared he had heard her part of the conversation. “In what sense is such a scene mediation for you?” He hissed.Kiera had never experienced him like this. He had never turned physical with her, was never this enraged and beyond negotiable, and it saddened her. She knew she was losing, and he wanted answers, yet she could not tell him anything. It wasn’t the right time. What would she say; that everything about his world, the history and the future, was comfortably stored within her mind? She knew of the death and ruin that the enemy would bring, but she could do nothing about it. She dared not think of how he would react if he knew. He would hardly accept that she knew about the scar which hid beneath the glamour on his face. Furthermore, what would he do if he found out she had a bigger connection to an actual god?He would kill her. It was all an immense sense of power and it was one he would misunderstand. He would be rid of her, she knew it, and no longer was it merely about her wish to live the afterlife in the Greenwood, it was also about the emotions she had started to feel for him. Despite the obvious rift between them, she wanted desperately to mend it and once more enjoy those tender moments with him that were forever perplexing her. She yearned to see him smile again. And she knew she wouldn’t if she told him now.Kiera bit her lip as Thranduil shook her, urging her to look at him and answer, albeit with no success. “Who were you speaking with?” He inquired coldly, but Kiera wouldn’t say.“I can’t tell you.” She whispered, barely audible for them to hear while she avoided his gaze. Thranduil narrowed his eyes at her, scoffing in dismay.“You lied to me. How can I trust you, when you are deceitful?” He asked her with a whisper in her ear and Kiera ached to tell him of the reality. Thranduil scoffed at her as she remained silent. “I have been far too kind to you. I have disregarded issues which I would punish others for. No more.” He revealed, tightening his grip on her collar as Kiera shivered at the thought of the consequences.“If you can’t tell me your secrets by own free will, perhaps the dungeons will make you.” He decided, watching as her head raised and she met his gaze, shocked.“You cannot…” She whispered, not having expected that he would go so far. No one could know how much time she would be spending there.“I can. I am King, if you have failed to notice as of yet.” Thranduil snapped, dropping her to the floor as he called for the guards.“Your Majesty, it isn’t-“ Kiera tried to explain while she got up, but she quickly fell silent by the King’s foul glare.“When you have reconsidered your choices, perhaps we can speak again and see what the future will hold.” He told her, Kiera watching him in defeat as the guards took hold of her and brought her away.Thranduil looked on with impassive eyes as the guards dragged Kiera out of his study, ignoring the subtle protest he could feel in his heart as he imprisoned the one person who had been the greatest mystery and caused him the most tremendous interest ever before, and still double the trouble. He dismissed every signal his emotions sent him, of his admiration and interest in her, as it was naught but a distraction. What he did was the right choice, and she would have to deal with the outcome.Even as Kiera was taken down to the dungeons to her great despair, she still understood Thranduil’s choice, or so she was attempting to tell herself. As he said, he was King, and in his eyes she had betrayed him. If she was in his place, perhaps she would have done the same. But her heart withered for how far it had gone, and how distant they now were. It surprised her to realize how much it affected her, and it confused her all the more. She knew she felt nothing for him, but she couldn’t deny that she was somehow interested in him in spite of their many complications.As she was pushed into a dark cell in the depths of the palace, the barred door clicking shut behind her, Kiera feared what Thranduil had said. She wasn’t sure if the future would truly be known, the next time they spoke again. Looking down at her fisted hand, she opened it to reveal the paper she had arrived with long ago, the words standing out against the white parchment. At the moment, the future seemed pretty dark to her.

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

Kiera stared down at the dark stone floor as she sat there, slouched against the cell wall with the shadows enveloping her like a thick cloak. She was facing the cell door, able to see everyone or anything that passed by, although it was barely possible for them to see her in return as she remained against the opposite wall.She caught the small flint stone in her hand as it came back down, sensing its rough edges as she turned it over in her hand and rubbed her thumb across the surface. Once again, she threw it in the air and caught it for the hundredth time, a cycle of entertainment amidst her silent home. As much as she had hoped for it to calm her nerves and find some occupation, it hadn’t. She was still feeling the anxiety inside, rushing like a wicked storm in her chest.It had been hours since she had been thrown in the cell and there was more than one reason for her panic. She was anxious because of the room, having always had claustrophobic fears nagging throughout her life, although the cell door eased her a little with the spaces between the bars; it gave her a feeling that she wasn’t entirely locked away. But she was also experiencing a great deal of anxiety because of what had happened, and how Thranduil would see her now.It was no surprise to her that he had zero trust in her at the moment, otherwise she would be sitting in her chambers. Her heart ached for the broken bridge between them, but she pushed away the reasons why. She couldn’t possibly have any interest in him, and neither could he have in her, it was simply a lost cause with no chances.She didn’t know what to do. She could either tell Thranduil what she knew about him and Middle-Earth and risk being killed or banished, or she could keep quiet and be imprisoned forever — and then be killed or banished. It was a no-win situation. Perhaps she could negotiate with him, but that seemed to be an impossible feat.“God damnit!” Kiera groaned and threw the stone towards the cell door, ignoring the sound of it hitting the steel before skipping off the ground in the hallway. The sound of rushing waterfalls was the only quiet music for Kiera as it bustled a few corridors away. She had seen how the dungeons had both multiple levels and enough space to have a river pass through, but she had been placed in a more secluded cell, away from the open space and only a quiet hallway with a guard or two as company.She rubbed her face exhaustedly and stared up at the cell ceiling, seeing nothing but pitch-black shadows. Maybe she could actually negotiate. But what would she negotiate with him on; the amount of information she should give him in turn of freedom? That sounded like a failure already. Her freedom in turn of all her information? That was all he wanted. Kiera felt like her mind was making somersaults across the earth as she tumbled from one thought to the other and she had not a single idea of how to sort herself out.She buried her face in her hands in a desperate attempt to find peace, to shut everything out and ignore her fears for just a little while. Of course, it was to no avail.But she heard something. A different sound, not footsteps or armor clinking, but a quiet chip. Kiera looked up and stared out through the cell door, still hesitant to approach and leave her safe hiding spot. She didn’t speak as she heard another chatter, and then she realized what it was.“In here!” She hissed quietly, inching closer to the door and peering out through the spaces to see where he was. “Mojo!” Kiera called in barely a whisper, sticking her arm through the door and waving her hand to catch his attention, listening intently for any guards who might have noticed.Fortunately, she heard no footsteps and when she laid eyes on the little monkey, she smiled in relief and moved back to let him jump through the bars. “Hey, little guy,” she whispered and cupped her hand as she leaned back against the farthest wall again. “What are you doing down here?” She asked in the softest whisper, the monkey chattering back just as quiet, as if he knew he couldn’t be too loud down here.The pet suddenly crawled up on her shoulder and across her neck to the other, then rolled down her torso to be caught in her lap, a game they had played since she was a young child. She called it rollercoaster, for obvious reasons. Mojo chatted and practically smiled up at her. Kiera sighed and nuzzled his chest softly with her fingertips.“Thank you, but your comforting is only a little affective in these circumstances.” She whispered, appreciating that he was trying to cheer her up. Despite that he was a capuchin monkey, an animal, he was clever in many ways and one of his abilities was the skill to read her better than most humans – or elves. Besides, she could gather that since she had spent thirteen whole years with him, he had probably gotten to know her rather well, just like other intelligent pets did with their owners.Mojo pouted up at her, his small limbs wrapping around her fingers. “You have to be careful now.” Kiera whispered, realizing that for the short time he was with her, she couldn’t feel her anxious thoughts poking her heart. “You can’t be seen by others. The King isn’t happy with me and I don’t want you hurt.” She told him, afraid that Thranduil would capture the little monkey or use him against her.Mojo chattered a little before he raised his small hand, showing Kiera the flint stone that she had hurled out of the cell only a few minutes before. “Thank you.” She smiled, taking the stone as a sign that he understood what she said. “You can find some food in the kitchens, so eat. If the guards see you, then hide. I’ll be fine here.” She whispered, giving him a final nudge before placing him on the floor. “Now go, fílos.”Kiera had to smile so Mojo knew she was okay, and he chatted for the last time before he slipped through the door, disappearing to a place beyond the dungeons. Kiera sighed quietly and looked up at the barely visible ceiling. It had somehow helped to see Mojo and she felt more collected. The anxiety had mostly subsided and it was easier to think.She rolled her eyes as she heard quick approaching steps and she glared through the bars to look at the guard that stared down at her. She had been unfortunate enough to have a guard stationed, who most definitely didn’t like her, and she wondered if it was because of the incident at the training grounds or the reason behind her imprisonment.“Who are you talking to?” He asked bluntly, a little too late to find the true answer.“My invisible friend, Jerry.” Kiera responded sarcastically, getting up from her spot on the floor to stand at the same height as him by the door. “I was not talking with anyone, but rather preparing my speech for the King.” She smoothly lied, noticing how the guard was regretting his trip down to her cell. “I want an audience with him.” She said, which was genuinely something she wanted so that she could speak with Thranduil.The guard shook his head. “You will get an audience with the King, when he sees fit. Now quiet down before I have your meals cut down to nothing.” He responded and turned on his heel, stalking off in a frustrated trot.Kiera sighed for the hundredth time and turned back to the dark of her cell. She might as well figure out what to do when she would speak with him, because so far, she was very conflicted on the matter.---Two weeks passed, where Kiera tried to figure out what to do. She went from deciding on telling him everything she knew, to hiding it behind lock and key because she feared the consequences. She felt both furious and terrified, but some moments she dared to hope for a better outcome, and it was a continuous cycle that she never saw the end of.But, she had settled on what she felt was best. So now she was only waiting for whenever Thranduil would let her speak with him. Multiple times since her first request, she had asked to have an audience, albeit every time she had gotten the same reply; Thranduil would be the one to decide the day, and so far, he didn’t seem interested.On the fourteenth day, loud footsteps came from outside her cell, and it was certainly more than the usual guard — whom she had grown to loathe with his conduct. No, this was a whole squad.Kiera had found some comfort in the dark corner of her cell by now and only looked up at the visitor when she noticed the usual sparse light was shadowed by a large figure; Thranduil. “Your Majesty,” she called sweetly with no smile on her lips. “How kind of you to join me here.” Kiera said with a scornful tone and watched as the door was unlocked before the King stepped inside.“Oh, what sort of visit is this?” She asked in surprise, finally getting up to be level with Thranduil as he walked inside. She didn’t want to feel even smaller with him around, if she had a say in it. “Are you planning on being chained up here with me?” She continued, but Thranduil neglected to answer her questions.He could sense that she was extremely displeased by the thick sarcasm, probably hurt and angry with him, but none of it could possibly be equal to his own emotions. He didn’t like seeing her so malnourished and dirtied, a part of her beautiful glow considerably dulled, and he could feel something inside him splinter from the sight, but he brushed it off. She was no one to trust if she wouldn’t tell him the real truth of why she was here, and if that meant making her uncomfortable, he would.“Are you ready to speak your mind?” Thranduil asked with a voice she barely recognized, cold and out of touch.Kiera held her breath for a moment, her otherwise frustrated demeanor dropping. This was it. She had to stand by a choice now, and after endless consideration, she knew what to do. Neither of her options were anything she liked, but she knew which of them was the best one.“Yes, I am.” She admitted solemnly, laying aside her emotions for a moment as it clearly wasn’t affecting him.Thranduil wasn’t sure what he had expected her to say, but he was nonetheless surprised that she didn’t protest as she had done two weeks prior. It seemed her time in the dungeons had proven beneficial. “Good.” He said darkly, turning back around to exit the cell, hesitating as he looked over his shoulder. “Follow me.”Kiera didn’t wait one second to do as told, for once obeying his word as she left the cell and was now surrounded by four guards. Before she could say anything, her hands were shackled and hereby chained to Thranduil through iron rope. The links rattled loudly throughout the cavernous dungeons as she moved, and Kiera frowned. “Do you expect me to kill you with such escort and precaution?” She asked, hurt even further by his assumptions.“Perhaps not, but I won’t be surprised if you try.” Thranduil responded with ice cold words, attempting to keep his eyes away from her, so he didn’t see the pain in her eyes. He had seen her even clearer after she stepped out, and it was obvious that her body had been put on a test after such little movement. What confused him, however, was how thin she was. As if she had gotten little to eat, yet he had made sure that despite the imprisonment, she was to have three meals a day. So, he made a mental note to ask the prison guards of that subject.The unit made their way through the palace after they fell silent, making quick work of reaching Thranduil’s chambers, although to Kiera, it felt like she was being dragged through each corridor so that each and every elf they passed could get a good look of her. It was embarrassing, and for all she could do, she desperately didn’t want to return to that cell.It was a long way to the royal wing, but as they finally stood outside the doors to his study, Kiera was glad to be rid of the public eye. She felt shy and belittled, and somewhere in her mind, she had a feeling it was deliberately planned by Thranduil. He wanted her to feel small, to shred the confidence she so often expressed. That point was further proven when the guards took off the shackles before Thranduil opened the door to walk inside. Or he just thought he could handle her alone.“Sit.” He demanded, pointing to a chair that she recalled to have sat in as a guest long ago, but now it was an interrogation seat. Kiera quietly sat down on the plush chair while he took his own seat on the couch in front. “So, tell me.” He said, crossing one leg over the other as he stared at her with emotionless eyes.Angry and hurtful eyes stared back.“Where should I begin? With what I feel or what I know?” She asked with a snap to her voice, trying hard not to wrong him yet she wanted to scream at him. He acted as if they had never met and as if she was one of the enemy. Like a spy.“Do you think I care of your feelings at this time?” He responded bluntly, ignoring the slight touch of regret that poked at his heart for his unsympathetic words. “Tell me what you know. What is it that you hide from me?”Kiera bit her lip. “I need your word, Your Majesty.” She said, unsure if he would even agree to such a simple request or not. “You are someone who keeps loyalty and truth in high regard. You must promise me that no matter what I tell you, do not end my life.” She explained, noticing the frown that crept onto Thranduil’s face.“Why should I not?” He inquired solemnly.“Because you will still be in need of me.” She responded.Thranduil nodded hesitantly after a moment, considering what she meant by that. He was eager to finally learn the secrets she had kept hidden, and the tension could be felt like a raging battle within him. “I promise you, then. You have my word.”Kiera nodded. This was it. She still was not ready to tell him of her personal secrets, but she was ready to tell him of her knowledge. Of him and of Middle Earth.“Where I come from, it is a very different world. People do not thrive on war and agriculture alone. Not all our people become soldiers and fight for their homes, or healers to tend to wounded, or farmers to make sure there is something to live for.” Kiera explained firstly. “People can write and sell their stories. They can paint or sing and sell their talents. Creative minds are something great in our societies, just like legends of old are shared here.” She said and Thranduil wasn’t exactly sure where she was coming from.“I understand. But what do you mean by this? What relevance does it have?” He asked in confusion and Kiera hesitated.“One of the legends we have was written by a man named Tolkien.” Kiera started. And so, she began to explain the story of his works, of Bilbo and the dwarves, who he joined on a quest to Erebor. Gandalf as well, but even more than that. She told him of the elven realms, of him and Legolas. Most difficult was it to speak of the future, and what she knew would transpire seventy years hence, but somehow, she was able to lay it all out.It took hours for Kiera to tell him everything, the day slowly turning into night, yet Thranduil remained quiet at all times and allowed her to tell him the details needed. He was baffled and all the more shocked, unable to understand it fully. Yet he did his best and tried to find reason in what she was saying – despite that she had lied to him before, he doubted that she lied now. No matter how smart she was, this could not be something she had made up herself – or could it?“And that is what I know.” Kiera finished quietly, her hands having begun to shake lightly from both exhaustion and the nerves that had built over such a long time. “That is what I have kept from you all this time. It has never been to deceive you or to use you, but because I feared how you would react. If I was in your place, I’m not sure what I would think of anyone who came to tell me of my life and my world as I have now.” She explained, hoping dearly that he would take this well. He had been motionless all this time.“This is all a lot to take in.” Thranduil replied as he inhaled deeply. “I did not expect anything like this, but I understand why you have hesitated thus far.” He said and Kiera sighed of relief. “However, there is still something you have left to explain.” Thranduil pointed out, causing Kiera to frown. Had she missed anything?“My trust is not earned on a single night, nor is it easily given after this with still more to uncover. So, what were you doing in my gardens?”

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

Kiera hesitated. Of course, she hadn’t expected Thranduil to forgive and forget everything after telling him about Tolkien and his works, but she most definitely had not presumed that he would ask about the gardens again. Had she not distracted enough for that to be out of mind? Apparently not.“I can’t tell you that.” She whispered, an uncomfortable feeling clutching her heart as she forced herself to hold his gaze. She remembered clearly how he had reacted the last time she refused to tell him about it, and she did not wish for him to do the same a second time – and she definitely did not want to see her cell again.“How is that?” Thranduil replied bluntly, his composure - which had gotten more lenient while Kiera had told her the story - now expressing cold displeasure once more. A part of him held no surprise for her disobedience, but he was still frustrated that she wouldn’t cooperate. He was split between emotions, unable to determine what he felt for her. He was angry and part of him hated that he had to deal with a cynical pest like her. She had betrayed his trust too many times.Yet, as he looked her over and thought of when he first laid eyes on her after the weeks she had spent in the dungeons, he felt remorse and guilt for what she had gone through. Her ribs were visible through the thin sheet that was her blouse, and her ruffled hair along with her dirtied skin that once shone like the softest touch only told him that she hadn’t been cleansed for a long time. It made his heart ache – a feeling he did not understand.“It isn’t the right time. I would say if I could, but I can’t, Your Majesty. However, in the future, when the puzzle pieces fit together, you have my word that I will tell you what happened.” Kiera promised, distractedly drawing her fingertip along the edges of her tattoo on her arm. The shattered hand that held onto the other described the situation she was in quite well, but she could only hope that the trust she had built with Thranduil could be restored in the future. This was the first step towards such a goal.Thranduil had to resist scowling, contemplating if he should throw her back in the dungeons as she clearly needed more time than a few weeks. But no, he didn’t want to. She had told him something after all, even though that information was beyond something he could progress. He had a hard time fathoming that she knew of him before they had even met, and to hear that she knew of the future only made her a bigger threat. But still it was… different.For the first time, it seemed, he had cracked the shell that Kiera so nicely kept as protection and he caught a glimpse of a different side of her. As he watched her, sitting there on his intricate chaise with her dirtied clothes, she was weakened. She still kept up her confident demeanor, that she had proven already, but as she told him her story and gave him her promise, he only found truth in her eyes. She was not lying, and she was not attempting to deceive him. And that was something he had not expected.“It is good that you have said what you know about this world.” Thranduil told her, “But I still demand to know what happened that evening. Since you don’t wish to tell me that yet, you will remain imprisoned.” He declared calmly, and he saw the despair she was trying to hide in her gaze. When she opened her mouth to protest, Thranduil lifted a hand to show he wasn’t yet finished. “But it will not be in my dungeons.”Kiera frowned; her anguish broke for a moment in her confusion. “What do you mean?” She asked and began to ponder of what was worse than the dark cell.“You will be relocated to a chamber in the royal wing with your belongings and you will remain there until I deem it fit.” He said and watched the surprise play over Kiera’s face.She didn’t like the idea that she would have to be confined in such a space in however long time he wanted, but she much rather preferred that than a dirty cell. But still she did not trust him. Either he was trying to manipulate her, or he was rewarding her for the little she had told. “Why would you do that?” She asked quietly, hesitant to say or ask the wrong thing.“Because I want you to be fed and washed.” He admitted, “I did not imprison you and wish for you to be starved and left uncared for, but simply to be contained. And for what I see, it seems my guard has not followed my orders.” He continued, hoping that he wouldn’t regret sharing that information. He had not wanted to reveal too much, yet in the spur of the moment it felt right to say.“No, your guard wasn’t very fond of me. He liked to make my time as miserable as possible, but I thought that was simply of your doing.” Kiera explained, unsure of how to feel as she processed this new information. So Thranduil had simply put her in the dungeons to pressure her and keep her in place… not to make her hate him almost as much as she hated her father. But was that a lie or not?“I apologize for that.” He said, sincerely, and rested his hand over his heart. “When you reside in your new chambers, I vow to you that you will be cared for as intended.” He asserted.“Thank you.” Kiera said gratefully, however, her eyes narrowed at him as she leaned forward. “But I am still your prisoner. Do not think I will forget that just because you treat me like a guest. I have tried it before.” She stated seriously, loosely indicating that she had seen through his original antics when she arrived, where a guard had stood at her locked door – the only difference now was that she couldn’t leave at all.“I do not want you to forget that either, Kiera.” He responded sharply, standing from his seat. “You need to learn your place.” He said, and Kiera tried to ignore the harsh sting those words left behind. “But I still have enough respect for you to care. You have shared some of your secrets after all.” He admitted calmly, hence confirming for Kiera that it was a reward to her.Kiera didn’t know what to say but stood to join him as well, knowing this was the conclusion of their little meeting, and watched him walk towards the door so that she could leave. It surprised her then, when she realized no guards were coming to shackle her, but that he was personally bringing her to the chamber.Kiera inhaled deeply to collect herself as she adjusted her ragged clothes, then followed him out of the room and down the corridor.It took only a few seconds before they stood outside a door that undoubtedly was an old guest room, and she saw when he opened the door to let her inside. She only wondered, however, why he decided to confine her there rather than her old quarters. This was ten times better quality than her old room.“There is higher security in the royal wing than anywhere else in the palace.” He said, as if he had read her thoughts. “And as this room has a better bed for you than the cell as well, I hope you see my gratitude for your honesty.” He explained, Kiera only glancing at the room for a second before she looked up at him. From this spot he looked as magical as when they had stood in his study a few weeks back, but her chaotic emotions didn’t allow her to appreciate it in the same way.“I do. Thank you, Your Highness.” She replied quietly, indeed grateful for this change despite the circumstances.“Good.” He finished, turning on his heel to leave.“Thranduil.”The King stopped, turning back to look at her. She had spoken his name with the softest of voices, the word rolling off her tongue so naturally, and he tried to ignore the odd shiver that slithered over his spine. It had been many a year since someone spoke his birthname, and this was not a time or the person he had expected to be next. “Yes?” He asked, allowing himself not to correct her.“I will tell you.” She assured him, her eyes meeting his ice blue orbs for a second and she felt her heart skip a beat, and she was only more confused. “I promise you.”Thranduil nodded stoically. “For your sake, I hope so.”And then he left, leaving her in the glamorous room that only spoke of endless hours, chained to an undesired grandeur.---It was only a few hours after Kiera had been left in this new chamber that she now called her own. The skeptical part of her named it a ‘fancy cell’, but no matter how much she wanted to hate it, she knew this was a better outcome than she had ever expected.The room included the most luxurious bed she had ever seen, and had a big wardrobe placed in the corner. An intricate desk also stood against the wall, and a large window gave her a marvelous view of the gardens she had snuck through two weeks earlier. On top of that, she also had a lounge like the King had in his chambers, and a linked bath chamber that stored a wonderful bathing pool for her to relax in. It all seemed a little too good to be true, and she would not find herself enjoying it. She almost expected that there was something hidden to trick her, but when she had ransacked the place as the first thing on her agenda, she didn’t find a thing. All she could do was exist and wait.For the moment, she was pacing back and forth around her bed, dressed in a grey tunic she had found in the wardrobe after washing off all the dungeon dirt – a bittersweet relief she had craved for far too long.She was playing over the last minutes of her conversation with the King and couldn’t believe what had come over her, when she spoke his name – she hadn’t meant to do so, yet she did, and surprisingly enough, he had not reprimanded her for it. Ever since the garden incident, he had been cold, harsh and had shown a side she had never wanted to see. And suddenly he admitted that he wanted her to be cared for and accepted first-name addressing? After having spent weeks in her dungeons without a word? No, there was something wrong. It couldn’t be.A knock on her door broke the trance she had slowly grown into, and Kiera thought perhaps it was her belongings that were being delivered. She had no time to respond, however, before the door was unlocked and Tauriel opened the door.“Kiera. You have been summoned to the throne room.” She announced, spotting the arched brow that perked on Kiera’s face as she stepped closer.“Why? I just spoke with him.” She said, confused more than ever.“That may be, but there is someone who you should meet. The King has ordered it.” Tauriel explained, still waiting at the door for Kiera to follow, but the woman was hesitant.“Who is it, my executioner?” She asked impassively, Tauriel not even noticing her dry humor as she shook her head in response.“No, but they are asking for you. I suppose you could call them a fellow stranger.” She continued, and despite the reluctance Kiera felt of leaving this newfound space, she nonetheless complied and followed the captain out of the room.It almost felt like the minutes turned to hours with how long they walked, either due to her nerves or maybe it was only because Kiera hadn’t roamed the palace in so long. Yet when they neared the great hall where she had first met Thranduil, she began to pick up on the voices within.A familiar voice.“I don’t understand why this is so complicated. Why can’t I leave and go find her myself? Oi, are you even listening?!”Kiera’s jaw slackened in disbelief as she stepped inside the throne room and saw a blonde girl waving her hand wildly in attempt to catch Thranduil’s attention, who had looked away when she entered. She would recognize that voice anywhere.“Rose?!” Kiera shrieked, not thinking twice before she ran to the woman, who spun around and hugged her tightly. “What on Earth are you doing here?! How did you get here?” She asked bewilderedly and pulled back to look over her, completely forgetting the fact that Thranduil stood beside them.“I don’t know!” Rose exclaimed and shrugged, half a smile and half worry displayed on her face. “All I know is that I fell asleep and woke up - outside whatever this fancy castle is - with a message to find you.” She explained, flicking her hand out to gesture to the place.“It’s called a palace, you daft-“ Kiera corrected with an eyeroll, but stopped to get back on topic, “Listen, what is this message? I don’t understand.” She said, her mind jumbled as she tried to figure out this new twist. It had been three whole years since she last saw Rose, her best friend, yet as they now were united it only felt like yesterday.“Oh, well, I have something for you.” Rose declared, turning to dig through the apparent purse she had managed to bring along.“Vodka?” Kiera asked out of old habit, remembering the times she had always come to the rescue, although the chance was small. She didn’t catch Thranduil’s confused expression at this, but all he could do after all was to watch.“No, I brought you this. The message said to give it to you.” She said, handing over a small pendant with two circles within one another, and she recognized it immediately.“Am I allowed to decline?” She asked blankly, disgusted to hold the necklace in her palm once again. It was a gift her father had given her when she was a child and she had later grown to hate it.“Probably not.” Rose responded with a shrug, and Kiera sighed.“What is it?” Thranduil intervened, reminding Kiera that she was not alone with her old friend.“It’s an old pendant of mine. My father gave it to me.” She admitted honestly and showed him the jewelry. It was of silver and the smaller circle could spin freely within the other.“It is beautiful.” He complimented, reaching over to hold it up for closer inspection, but Kiera snatched it back to the depths of her pocket before he could.“Thank you, but I have to disagree.” She muttered, whisking her hand towards Rose to bring the conversation back on track. “Do you remember anything at all before you woke up? What happened before you slept?” She asked and noticed that Thranduil watched Rose with just as much intrigue as she.“I was doing our ritual.”

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

Thranduil’s hand tapped slowly against the wine glass in his hand, the clicking of his extravagant rings serving as the only music around him and the woman in front of him.Kiera had quickly been stowed away in her given quarters before she could convince Rose to keep her mouth shut, so now he sat in his study with the still very confused woman on the other side of the desk while she observed every inch of the chamber.He hoped to learn something from her.“So, I understand that your name is Rose?” He asked to break the silence, sipping at his wine as he offered her a glass as well. She didn’t touch it, but nonetheless gave it a promising glance.“Yes, Rose Callan.” She responded, her voice gentle but carrying a harsher tone than Kiera. It was thicker than Kiera’s, tinted with some type of accent that he had only heard in Kiera during brief moments of revelation.“And who are you exactly to Kiera? I was not expecting to find any more strangers in my realm, without explanation of their arrival. She seemed eager to see you.” He inquired, narrowing his eyes at her in suspicion and Rose gradually began to feel this was an interrogation.“Yes, she did.” She said quietly, inhaling deeply to keep her cool and let her nerves calm. “We haven’t seen one another for a long time. I’m a very close friend of hers and have known her for most of my life.” She explained, hoping that was an answer that satisfied enough. Rose didn’t understand what was going on, nor did she quite know where Kiera had gone. It had all happened so fast; as soon as she had mentioned the ritual, Thranduil had ordered this red-headed guard to bring Kiera back to her chambers, and he had invited herself to his own.Now, as a first impression, it sounded very shady to be invited to a man’s private chambers by some Elven King on the first day of acquaintance. But Rose couldn’t deny that he was a fine piece of meat. Albeit this was not a very romantic situation… and she was not enjoying her time in the hot seat. She would rather he finish up his inquiries so she could go and find Kiera.“So, you two have a lot in common I suppose?” Thranduil asked further and hoped to find similarities between them both. If possible, he could achieve a much better understanding of Kiera, and perhaps, the reason behind her night in the garden.“Well, we did once. I haven’t seen her in three years since she left England, but we used to do everything together. She was only sixteen, so she still lived with her father despite how much she hated it, but after turning seventeen, she left and never looked back.” Rose explained and pursed her lips to hide her emotions. For a long time, Rose had been angry with Kiera for disappearing without a word. Quite frankly, she had stopped looking for her in hopes of closure, as Kiera had made it clear she was done with their friendship. But when Thomas disappeared from London as well, Rose made one final attempt to find her. And when Kiera ran towards her in the throne room, or whatever that hall was, it made all her anger melt away.Thranduil pondered quietly on the explanation Rose had given. “Is England the realm you hail from?” He asked and was pleased to see her nod. “And so does Kiera?” Another nod. “Then where has she been since last you met?”Rose opened her mouth to respond. Then she closed it again.She didn’t know. Kiera had gone into a state of no contact and had pretty much disappeared from the face of the Earth. No letter had been left, no hint of her whereabouts. And Rose knew well enough why Kiera had been smart enough to do so. It was too dangerous to leave a trail.“How can such a close friend of yours disappear for so long, and suddenly both of you are united in my world? In my realm, even.” Thranduil asked further, and Rose felt embarrassed for not having an answer. The King did not trust her any more than he did Kiera, and she knew. The tension in the room was so thick, she could cut through it with a knife if she had one.“I apologize for not offering a fitting answer.” She said as nicely as possible even though the bitterness on her tongue still left a mark.“No need.” He spoke frigidly. “This ritual you mentioned earlier; what is that?” He asked, getting to the most important part of the conversation.Rose frowned upon the change of subject and wondered why exactly he asked. Perhaps to know more of their world? “It’s a routine Kiera and I created, when we were younger. We’ve always been spiritual and thought something greater must be at play in the universe, and I suppose we were right.” She said, a thick brow raised in address to the elf she sat across now.The King did not look amused.“You could say it was our attempt to connect with that.”“I see.” Thranduil drank the last of his wine to show the conversation was over. He was not sure if he could believe her or not. “I haven’t yet a quarrel with you, Lady Callan, but forgive me for my skepticism of such a closely related woman as you are to Kiera.” He spoke with a tint of sarcasm that Rose easily noticed, as she had grown used to Kiera’s medicine.“You’re forgiven, sir.” Rose said and smiled genuinely, following the guard out of his chambers while her mind pounced on a billion thoughts. For what reason does the Elven King not trust Kiera? Why was she imprisoned to begin with? Why did he inquire on so much information about their relationship and her past? So many questions and none of them answered.Only one other person had those answers, and where was she?---“I will murder him, Miriel.”The pillow exploded in a furry of feathers against the painted wall as Kiera fumed back and forth in her chamber only a stone’s throw away from the King’s. Miriel jumped a few inches further towards the backdoor as she had set today’s supper on Kiera’s desk, yet the woman refused to touch it.“I don’t think that’s wise to speak aloud here, my lady…” Miriel began, the always emphatic maid still afraid of the palace’s ability to spread word.“I don’t give a flying shite what’s wise!” Kiera exhaled, another pillow rounding her shoulder and it now decorated the top of her closet with white fluff. “I’ve known Rose all my life and this bloke puts me in shackles the moment I finally get to be with her. What did he expect; that I’d take her hand and fly away before he could have his way?” She questioned vigorously, and Miriel had no response. She thought it wouldn’t help any to reply.“I want to know why he takes me out of that bloody cell and then puts me here instead. I know well enough that the door is locked even while you’re here. I know I’m allowed no visitors. Why let me see her if he doesn’t want me to see her now?” She continued, and Miriel sighed.“Because he is in unknown waters.” She whispered.Kiera paused amidst raising the sixth pillow. “Huh?”Miriel repeated herself and walked closer to take away the pillow and place it back on the bed. “He doesn’t know much about you, he doesn’t know anything about your friend, and it might scare him to see you know each other. It makes him outnumbered and thus you are both a threat.” She explained knowingly.“How are you certain of this?” Kiera asked.“Because I’m a maid, Kiera, and maids gossip.” She admitted with a sense of pride, as she could finally contribute to something. “I know many who have tended to him and overheard conversations or seen his behavior. He is conflicted.”For some reason, this pleased Kiera. It felt a bit freeing to know he was affected to some degree. But it also helped her realize why she’d been locked away.“He hid me away to keep me from influencing her!” She gasped, Miriel’s simple nod confirming the thought. “Because she mentioned the ritual.” Kiera groaned tiredly and flopped on the bed, staring at the stupid necklace Rose had brought with her.When she had heard of the ritual, Kiera had realized how Rose had arrived in Middle Earth. She might be wrong, but if she had completed the ritual, then maybe she was sent for a reason. And the ritual was just the part that Kiera didn’t want to tell Thranduil about.A knock on the door surprised both her and Miriel.“More messages?” She asked Miriel and readied to load another pillow on her shoulders.Miriel grabbed it and threw it back on the bed. “Probably not.”With three short steps, Miriel had opened the door halfway and stood face to face with Tauriel and Rose.“Captain, what are you doing here?” Miriel said, barely noticing the redhead as she stared at the blonde woman. She was beautiful with thick eyelashes and sharp brows, her face soft and her eyes bright with a glint that could only speak of confusion. Miriel had never seen anyone so enchanting.“Oh, sorry, this must be the wrong ro-“, Rose began and blushed, but was stopped quickly when the door swung open fully and Kiera took her place beside Miriel. “Tauriel, I am not in the mood to see his dear Kingship, so will you kindly tell him to stick his foot up his ar- Rose!”Kiera threw her arms around the woman, breaking the spell between Miriel and her, while Tauriel stood idly by in attempt to ignore Kiera’s insult. “But... I’m allowed no visitors?”Tauriel shook her head. “That rule has been lifted.” She spoke, and Kiera figured there was a reason, but cared not to ask.“Hannon le.” Kiera said gratefully in broken Sindarin, and Tauriel bowed her head briefly before leaving.Rose was practically yanked into the chambers and Kiera promptly slammed the door shut. “Rose, this is my maid, Miriel, Miriel, this is my friend, Rose.” She introduced swiftly and pointed to each respectively.The two stared at each other for a second too long and Kiera felt oddly misplaced. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Miriel finally said in a breathy smile, laying a hand on her chest and bowing, while Rose had stuck out a hand to shake.The awkward exchange made her blush and she quickly corrected herself. “To you as well.” She said and sheepishly bowed. Was this how elves did it?Kiera grimaced inwardly. She had never seen Rose behave this way. But neither had she seen her in years. “Anyways…” she started, and the tension broke. “Do you wanna tell me what you’re doing here?” She asked Rose expectantly. She had presumed it would take a day or more before they would meet again.Rose blinked at Kiera. “I came to see you.” She said matter of fact and Kiera rolled her eyes.“No shit, Sherlock,” she laughed lightly, “but how come the King accepts that?”Rose shrugged. “Well, I don’t know if he does or not, I just asked the guard, if I could… or the Captain, I suppose.” Kiera realized that Rose talked about Tauriel.“Then there’s probably no issue.” Miriel wondered aloud, and Kiera noted the obvious interest in the conversation. Usually, Miriel always kept to herself whenever Kiera had visitors in her presence. Albeit she had started seeing her as a good friend, so her presence was no bother.“Where were you before this? Did you speak with the King?” She asked, and it seemed a lightbulb brightened behind Rose’s eyes.“Yes! That’s actually another reason why I’m here.” She explained and instinctively moved to sit down on the ruffled bed, glancing perplexed at the vast amount of feathers spread across the floor. While Miriel regretfully exited the chamber to attend other duties and offer them privacy, Kiera, who followed Rose, managed to play off the scenery with a charming smile. Rose gave her a disappointed yet unsurprised stare that expressed it wasn’t the first time she had walked into Kiera’s chaotic activities.“He started asking about you and your past.” She continued, deciding to ignore the feathered room. “About our relationship, and… our ritual.”Kiera visibly groaned as she lay back on the bed and realized now that she was, quite frankly, screwed. “What did you tell him?” She asked, her hands covering her face protectively as if to escape the situation.“Well, the truth. That the ritual is our way of praying, that we’ve known each other since we were kids, all those things.” With every word Rose spoke, the more Kiera dreaded what was to come. She had spent ages in the dungeons for not being honest with Thranduil, and now Rose had told him everything within a day. How would she win him over now? Would Thranduil banish her for good?“I doubt he was satisfied with that, though.” Rose added quietly and interrupted her line of thought.Kiera peeked through the space between her fingers. “What do you mean?”“Kiko, we haven’t seen each other in years. The person you were, when I knew you, might not be who you are now.” Rose stated realistically and Kiera paused, staring at the intricate ceiling that hadn’t yet been a pillow target. “And even though I hate to think so, I still hope it’s not the case.”Kiera sat up straight and stared at her friend, forgetting about pillows and kings as their discussion found a harrowing tone. She could tell there was something Rose wasn’t saying – or hadn’t said yet. “I can promise you that I am still me beneath all of this.” Kiera admitted honestly, pointing at the grey tunic she wore. “And I was still me before I came here.” She narrowed her eyes at Rose, who seemed to avoid her gaze. “Are you upset with me?” She asked hesitantly.Rose sighed. “No, not anymore. But I was angry with you for a long time and thought you dead.” She met Kiera’s eyes. “You left me no letter. No word of your leave. And I expected something, at least, since we had each other.” She admitted and Kiera felt an awful sense of guilt scraping at the depths of her heart.“I’m sorry. I still remember that day. I wanted to tell you and I wanted to leave a note. But you know how he is, and I just feared he would stop me, if he found out, or trace me if I contacted you.” She explained, even though it didn’t feel like it helped any. Like plastering a wound that had long turned into a scar. Kiera laid her hand on top of Rose’s to show sincerity and was relieved when she didn’t move away.“I know and I don’t blame you for it. It just still hurt.” Rose said, clearing her throat before a halfhearted smile cleared her eyes. “It doesn’t matter anymore. We’re here together now.”“It matters to me. I’m sorry. I won’t let it come to that again.” Kiera continued and squeezed her hand, genuinely upset for failing her. It was clear that Rose appreciated the extra apology. “But yes, we’re here now.”The atmosphere in the room seemed to lighten and they embraced each other to leave it at that, and Kiera felt like a weight had been lifted off her chest.“Now, please tell me where the hell you’ve been for three years and why in God’s name you’ve been imprisoned by a pointy-eared King?!” Rose screeched and Kiera had to hide her grimace. This was the Rose she knew.

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

Kiera and Rose talked for hours on end about her life after leaving England. Even though some details were hard to recall, and she had to be vague, it felt like she was getting a different perspective on life before Mirkwood, now that she finally discussed it with someone she trusted.She had fled to get away from her father, when he as drunk as a lord tried to poison her – but she found refuge in Chicago. It was short-lived though, as she fell in with the wrong crowd.It had worked for a time, and she had been protected. The son of a mafia boss had become a friend of hers and had made sure she was cared for. But Matteo had fallen in love with her, and she had not with him. It had simply been a convenient friendship that kept her safe.Matteo’s father wasn’t pleased with his heartbreak, and Kiera was bound to flee for a second time. But she found no reason to search for happiness or safety elsewhere. She didn’t believe there was any. At least not on Earth.Kiera told Rose everything, except about her death. Not because she didn’t want her to know, but because she couldn’t. She didn’t have the heart to tell her best friend why she had died, and she worried it would break a heart she cared for yet again.Maybe one day, she would tell her. But, perhaps, it could be after she had figured out how exactly she died. The list still lay in the pocket of her ragged clothes, but at least she had managed to edge another word onto it with some lead she found in the cell many days past.
Choking.
“Kiko, your life sounds like a Hollywood-movie.” Rose snorted and pounced on Kiera’s attention, ever the hunter for opportune moments to laugh. Kiera smiled.“Thank you so much, Rosie, how kind of you to say.” Kiera rolled her eyes, but she smiled at the sweet nickname. She had missed it. “The worst thing is, I don’t remember anything after that. The last thing I remember was me in my apartment, doing what needed to be done, and then I woke up here… in a tree.” Kiera rubbed her forehead, shrugging off the exhaustion that comes with hours of conversation. “At least I’m safe from drunk maniacs and gang lords in this world. And I have you and Mojo here.”Rose watched her expectantly. “Mojo is here too?” She asked, a glint of joy in her eye.Kiera smirked. “He is.”“Shut… the front… door. Where is he?!” Rose happily smiled and wiggled on the wrinkled bed sheets, having missed the little ball of hair all these years.Kiera was actually unsure and shrugged unknowingly. “That’s a good question. He came to visit me in the dungeons a few days ago, but I haven’t seen him since.” She whistled the two tones he knew as a long calling and waited to see if he would magically appear somewhere in the chamber.To no surprise, the monkey never showed, and Kiera huffed. “Oh well, he’s probably in the kitchens somewhere. I’ll ask around to see if anyone knows, whenever I’m allowed to leave this stupid room.” She waved at the said chamber and sighed, hating that she in truth liked the place. It was very nice and comfortable compared to her cell, which was kind of the King to offer, but she kept reminding herself that it was still just another cell to keep her in, even if it was better looking.Rose stared at her disappointedly. She had hoped to see Mojo, and worried if he was all alone, but tried not to voice those thoughts aloud. He probably knew the palace better than them both combined and would find his way here soon.Kiera rested against the pillow – that at some point during their conversation had found its way down from the wardrobe and now lay on the bed – while Rose picked at the soft locks of her dark hair. A calm atmosphere settled between them.“So, this mafia bloke fell for you?” She asked quietly, a grin on her face.“Yes, Matteo. But to be quite honest, I barely think about him. I never thought of him that way, and just wanted a safe place to stay. He offered that.” Kiera mumbled, rolling her eyes at Rose’s arched eyebrow.“Stop that!” She pointed an accusatory finger at her face. “You know the only person I ever liked was Alain, and I cared a lot for him no matter how little time we were together.”Rose smiled and shook her head. “True. But I still can’t believe you were talking for two months only, and he left such an impact on you.”“I was also sixteen, if I must remind you.” Kiera replied. “I was easier affected than I am now and believed in a love that probably never existed. Still, he was sweet, and I will relish in that memory forever.” She defended proudly and Rose backed off dramatically by holding up her hands.“I shall offer my greatest of apologies for slandering your pride then, m’lady.” Rose quipped sarcastically and Kiera rightly considered slapping her for good measure, but she smiled knowingly at her friend instead. She had missed being able to joke like this with someone, and Rose had always been a master at comedic timing, so it never hurt any.“But truly – has there been no other?” Rose continued in a more genuine tone, hinting that she asked with earnest intent.Kiera stared at her for a moment and was momentarily bewildered by Thranduil’s eyes flashing through her mind.She blinked. “No. Not yet at least.”Rose gazed down at her friend and frowned. “Really?”A knock on the door interrupted their conversation, which in Kiera’s opinion, was at the best possible time ever.“I’ll answer it.” She spoke swiftly and jumped off the bed, hoping dearly that whoever was on the other side was someone she liked and someone who wasn’t royal.Tauriel stood on the other side, to Kiera’s relief and dismay. She had wagered on Castien. When the Captain showed, it usually meant bad news.“King Thranduil demands your presence.” She spoke, her voice stoic and unreadable. Tauriel and her had never been on the best of terms, but she had always kept professional at least. Perhaps it was her chaotic nature that went against her principles, or Kiera had just offended her for winning their spar so long ago – either way, she had never shown interest in friendship.Kiera’s lips flattened, further peeved by this news. “Does he take a rain check?” She asked and Tauriel’s unimpressed expression told her that it wasn’t up for discussion.“Fine. Rose, I have to go. His Kingship wants to chat.” Kiera called back to the room, where Rose sat, waiting. She seemed to understand the gravity of the situation despite Kiera’s casual behavior and nodded.Tauriel had grown impatient and began to walk down the corridor, so Kiera had to catch up before she would disappear around the corner. She had expected to head for his chambers, since they had had so many conversations in his study so far, but instead they were going the other way, into the vague palace domain. Perhaps the throne room, then.“You’re in a rush.” Kiera muttered quietly, not intending to make conversation out of it, but Tauriel heard.“My King is a busy ellon. I’d rather not be reprimanded for your tardiness by being late.” She spoke, the words brusque and judgmental. Kiera’s brow gradually rose.“I’m sorry? It took a moment, not an age.”Tauriel barely glanced at her in response. “I’d rather not take any chances.” She said and turned another corner. “He is not one to wait patiently for his prisoners.”Kiera felt like she had been slapped across the face. Where the hell did this attitude come from? “Excuse you, Captain? What have I done to deserve your temper?”“Well, for one, you’ve endangered both the Prince and the King, if not my people as a whole, several times.” She listed confidently. “Secondly, I was released from duty for days when you cheated your way to your win in our spar.”Kiera had to laugh, and it echoed through the halls. Tauriel looked at her as if it was the greatest disrespect. “Tauriel, you are centuries older than me and have been in battle so many times. You know well enough that there are no rules in a fight and if I beat you, then that’s on you for losing and not on me.” She replied and stopped walking, now annoyed with the elf. It seemed Tauriel had bottled up quite a few opinions about her, and now she was finally telling them.“And this danger you say I’ve brought on you: What I did to Prince Legolas was a result of your King’s own actions, which he has yet to admit. What I did in the gardens was nothing that could endanger anyone, so I think you’d be wise to take your opinion and shove it up where the sun doesn’t shine.” Kiera spoke loudly, her voice rising with her temper as she glared at the now flushed Captain.Tauriel looked like she wanted to banish her on own accord.“Why is it that you disapprove so much of the King, yet you choose to stay and manipulate your way into his heart? Why do you befriend Legolas and then attack him for a simple question?” She asked, seething to the point that her hair flared, and Kiera narrowed her eyes dangerously.“Perhaps it’s because I have no ill intent for your people and your Royal Highnesses. But as dear Captain of the Guard, have you not noticed that yet, or were you too busy being jealous about Legolas having a lover who isn’t you?” Kiera dared to ask, knowing well enough that Tauriel was fond of the prince despite having no chance with him.“You have a lot of nerve, woman—” she started, her hand resting on the dagger at her side.“Yes, I fucking do, but I seem to have more restraint than you, if you get this eggy for a damn spar and a lot of wrong accounts.” Kiera spat back, and she could hear the quiet grating of steel sliding against each other.“Tauriel!” Thranduil’s voice bellowed, making both of their heads whip towards him. “Ego!”Amidst their argument, the two had arrived at their destination, albeit it was not in the throne room. It was outside the cellars.Thranduil stood in the hallway, glaring at his Captain in a way she had never seen before, and Tauriel slid her dagger back in place. She had moved to use it, but the blade had never left its scabbard fully – fortunately. Embarrassed and frustrated, she did as she was told and left them.Kiera watched her leave before she stared back at Thranduil. How much of their conversation had he heard?“Kiera.” He greeted, his composure quick to enter a collected state once more, yet it took Kiera quite some time before she was on the same level. On the inside, Thranduil was fuming over Tauriel’s behavior, but he would not let that ruin the conversation to be had.“Your Majesty.” She replied and inhaled deeply, walking closer to him so they could speak. “I did not expect us to be meeting here.” She said, and Thranduil just about indicated a shrug.“The first time we had a proper conversation was here. I thought we should have the same luck this time.” He reasoned and Kiera had to admit that was a fair point. “Please forgive my Captain for her foul behavior. No matter the subject of your discussion, intent to attack without orders is unacceptable, and I will not allow it.”Kiera twisted in surprise but evidently decided not to challenge him. “Thank you, although I did push it.” She admitted.“Don’t defend her. She will speak for herself alone.” He demanded, and Kiera could tell this was something he was extremely somber about. She nodded in understanding and followed him down the stairs to the cellars.Kiera felt awkward when she reached the space, especially because Thranduil was behind her, and she couldn’t see what he was doing. But as soon as they entered the room, her survival instincts became the least of her problems.Thranduil had set the same table they had spoken at months ago, and two glasses of Dorwinion stood waiting. A small platter of fruits and vegetables was also at disposal.What was this?“I understand if you are confused of the circumstances.” Thranduil spoke as he walked by her, naturally reading her mind as she stared at the table. “I’ve learned from the guard stationed during your… stay, in the dungeons, that he barely fed you any. I thought that the least I could do to remedy that was to offer some warmth for our conversation. I am hoping that this meeting can make way for a new chapter with a clean slate.”This interrogation, you mean, Kiera corrected silently, both appreciative and terrified of this change. It was kind of him to be this considerate, but with the way their strained relationship was aching, she had a feeling this was just another way to trick her. It had to be.“I must say this is very different from what I’ve seen so far.” She commented and hesitantly sat at the table as she watched the King.“Well, things have changed.” He pointed out.“Have they?”“Yes.” He affirmed and sat, raising the glass in his hand as if it was routine. “But before we get to that part, I’d like to assert a few things that I haven’t yet had the chance to.”Kiera’s eyebrows began their usual ascent towards her hairline. This elf continued to surprise her, and she worried why. She quickly grabbed the wine glass and took a long sip. She had an awful sense that she would need it.“I am listening.” She responded as she sat the glass down again, uncomfortably folding her hands on the table.“I would like to apologize for wronging you twice, as you noted with my Captain.” He said solemnly, and Kiera, for once, did not have a snarky reply. So, he had heard. “Firstly, I truly was faulty of endangering my son by intentionally provoking you – even if I still believe it was necessary to figure out your limits.” He reasoned.Kiera lifted a finger at him to speak her mind.“Just let me finish, before I change my mind.” Thranduil stopped her, glaring at her intensely. Kiera considered it for a moment and sheepishly agreed, deciding to slowly turn her glass to keep busy.“I intended to apologize for that long ago when we first spoke of it. But when I came to your chamber to do so, you weren’t there.” He spoke softly, and Kiera could tell that he was making an effort to discuss things rather than argue. “That’s when I found your sketchbook.”Kiera pursed her lips to keep from commenting and let him finish.“I see now that it was wrong of me to take it, as it is clearly special to you and private. I would not have wanted you to search through my things either and for that, I am sorry.” He explained, and Kiera felt her heartbeat slowing down and her shoulders loosened. For some reason, she felt relaxed.“At the time, I was angry and wanted answers, and the book to me was a solution for that. I did not know that it was private, but when I saw the drawings… I thought, perhaps I could learn from you.” He said, studying his wine rather than her.Kiera’s brow twitched and she looked at him, waiting to catch his gaze. He seemed genuinely sorry. “Thank you for your apologies, Your Majesty. They are appreciated in their sincerity. But if you wanted to learn from me, you could just ask rather than intrude.” She reasoned quietly, still hurt that a part of her had been exposed without consent.“You did not want to speak with me, Kiera. We were both angry.”“And I wonder how that is solved in a healthy manner.” She muttered regrettably, rubbing her temple. “Listen, if you want to understand…” she said and inhaled, conflicted whether she should explain it or not.“The book is very special to me, because it is my refuge.” She said, noticing that Thranduil once more focused on her. “I draw in it when I have good moments and bad moments. Memories or lessons I’ve learned through life. It gives me some peace of mind to put the thoughts on paper.” She said uncomfortably, although it felt oddly safe to say. “Because of that, it’s sacred to me, and nobody else can see it.”Thranduil nodded and a moment of silence passed.“What lessons are in the drawings of me?” He asked necessarily, too curious to leave it be. Neither of them could deny the fact that he was in there.Kiera hesitated, but she couldn’t help but smile. “That’s daring of you to ask, Your Highness.” She teased, and for the first time, she saw him smirk back. “But if I must tell you, I did not draw you for lessons. I drew you because your demeanor fascinated me, and the scene of you working was quite artistic.”Thranduil’s brow arched, unsure if it was a compliment. “Artistic?”“Yes.” Kiera confirmed. “I might have travelled between worlds, but also between ages. I would never see this type of life on Earth during my age.”The King seemed satisfied with that answer and leaned forward to rest his elbows on the table. “Is that the same reason why you drew the man at the tower?” He asked, but the softness on Kiera’s face melted away as soon as he finished the question and was replaced by her usual stoic expression.“No. That was different.” She put it simply and drank more of her wine, making it clear that he shouldn’t ask further on that point. “Now, King Thranduil, what more did you want to talk with me about?” Kiera spoke in a gentle but fierce voice, dreading the truth already.Thranduil considered pushing for more information. He still did not know who the man and for whatever reason he had yet to divulge, it bothered him immensely. Still, it was quite clear that this conversation was giving him more answers than any of his other tactics, and he did not want to ruin the progress because of impatience.“Your friend, Rose, told me a few things about you.” He disclosed, deciding to follow his gut. “Most importantly, about this ritual of yours.” He continued solemnly and attempted to keep up the comfortable atmosphere, yet it was impossible for Kiera to relax.Of course, he wanted to hear about the ritual. The answers he had sought for weeks. Now she was stuck because Rose had snitched, and she didn’t feel ready to share anything.“Do tell me what you know.” Kiera requested, her usual tone already back in play. She had been right from the start. Maybe his apologies were just to warm up to her – albeit they had seemed sincere.“Well, it seems quite spiritual and somewhat religious for you.” He pointed out, swirling the wine around in his glass, and Kiera swallowed. “A connection.”“Yes.” She replied simply, watching the wine run across the crystal.“What do you connect with?” He inquired finally, leaving his glass alone.“Your Majesty…” she sighed, glancing down at her hands.“No.” Thranduil demanded. “Quit your games, Kiera. I am tired of them.” Thranduil’s hands pressed against the wooden desk, and he leaned closer. “Unless you’d like to continue this never-ending cycle, you will tell me this. Otherwise, my Captain must be right.”Kiera stared at Thranduil, conflicted by his word. He was giving her an ultimatum, yet it resonated with a truth that told her this was her last chance.“I spoke with God.” She admitted ultimately, holding her breath.“Eru?” The King frowned.“No.” Kiera shook her head. “Eru is your god. I spoke with the god of my religion in my world.”Thranduil was confused but all the more impressed by this feat. He had never imagined that could be possible. He could not even contact the Valar. “Why?”Kiera sighed and dragged a restless hand through her hair. “I can’t say. But I did it because I wanted answers myself, and God is the... person… that brought me here.” She explained, hoping desperately that Thranduil would take all of this well.“How is that even possible?” His face was strained with perplexity and Kiera didn’t know how to clarify.“I don’t know. But I attempted to create the connection, and it worked. He is the only one who would know.” She said, finishing her wine to ease her nerves yet it was no help.“Know what?” The King continued, and Kiera became frustrated in her fluster.“I can’t say, Thranduil!” She declared boldly and stared at him, her anxiety too obvious in her eyes.“With respect, Kiera,” he corrected her soberly, “I am King, and you shall address me as such.”“I can’t say, Your Majesty.” Kiera barked, embarrassed for her mistake and she stood to leave before she would humiliate herself further. “Your title does not change that.”“And how is that?” He said, rushing from the table to halt her escape. “Why will you not tell me?” Thranduil grabbed her wrist as she reached the stairs.“Because I’m afraid, god damnit!” She confessed frustratedly, turning back to him as she glared into his eyes.Calm ice blue orbs looked back. “What is it that you fear?”Kiera didn’t take notice of the thumb grazing along her skin, far too upset to realize his attempts to help.
“Sharing answers that I don’t know myself.”