16 | Top Tips to Anger an Elf

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Location: Caras Galadhon, Lothlórien, Middle Earth

Time: September 2941 T.A

Then arrived the day she needed to get through.

As much as she was equally annoyed at the so-called half-elven Lord of Imladris, Illyria was too nervous to approach him.

Even at the presence or even the mention of Elrond Peredhel, she felt sick to her stomach like she had just gotten off Space Mountain in Disneyland (with half of the population gone, there was half the amount of people to line up for the rides so she didn't waste the opportunity to get on with Harley and the Starks.). When Arwen or the twins or Glorfindel mentioned Elrond, if she had seen him or talked to him, Illyria would freeze from the spot and send her mind projecting elsewhere. [1]

She didn't want to talk to him, not when he was her husband.

Another turn insider her stomach churned as she swallowed her at any existence of her true nerves as she headed towards his temporary quarters. Her entire mind was chanting every bit to force her not to do anything stupid or just plain wrong in front of him. If the plan was to continue, Illyria needed to play her part and act calmly.

Turning around the corner, she found him leaving his quarters and headed towards the bridge. But damn his elven ears and eyesight when he spotted her just entering his vision.

When her eyes laid over to his, her heart twanged like a bell.

Shit. Calm down Strange.

'Were his eyes this wonderful before-' Illyria partially froze from her spot and clammed up her mind. This was not the right time to be thinking about his appearance!

Thankfully, the half-elf in question gave her a small, serene smile that wavered slightly – tilting his head to indicate for her to follow.

Striding as coolly as possible to his side, they walked over the bridge across the trees.

She was not sure how to begin the conversation, so Illyria came up with the next best topic. "How is she?"

Elrond took a breath and responded, "Much of power was drained when using Nenya. But she is growing stronger to her usual self."

She knew that tone really well. Again and again, the same set of tone that even he was doing right now at her. Because Elrond didn't want to have a conversation about it. About what happened in Dol Guldur. Illyria didn't need to read his mind at the anger and frustration he was holding back.

And somehow her chest skipped at a coldness that drew her out his name.

Illyria slowed down to a stop where they stood, an open platform. She spoke aloud, "Elrond..."

He quickly spun with his heels, questioning her with an irritable tone. "What possessed you in going against him?"

And what came out of her mouth made her soon regret it. "Well, you went against him-"

"I meant alone." Elrond glared, inhaling sharply. "You have no idea how there could have been a trick or a mistake-"

She interrupted him frantically, "But I didn't mess up, didn't I? I kept him away as long as I could before Galadriel used her ring-"

"It does not mean you risk your life!"

As her jaw tightened, something in her head clicked.

Illyria snapped back, "I am not your wife, Elrond Peredhel!" She continued, her rage growing. "And if she was here, I think she would be very upset that you thought she could not handle on her own!"

Elrond stopped. His eyes narrowed.

She wasn't sure what he was about to do. She could sense his anger growing. But to her surprise, he simply stared at her before walking away.

Wait, no. She didn't want him to leave!

Argh, why did she have to use her idiotic mouth?

Illyria paused and ran up to him, reaching out but quickly flinching it away. "Wait, Elrond I didn't mean it." She exasperated and clenched her hands to her sides. "You...You just frustrate me!"

He raised an eyebrow. "I frustrate you?"

Huffing, she rolled her eyes and spoke, "You know what I mean." Illyria then rushed out, "Look that was stupid of me to say."

Turning to face her, he listened.

She took a shuddering breath. "Look. I know. That was stupid and reckless. You can say all those things." Illyria opened her eyes and gazed at him. "But I'm angry because you didn't think I take care of myself. I've been on my own for many years with my magic. I've been taught how to defend myself and how to tackle dark powers."

Illyria could feel her energy surging up her chest, almost charging up.

"How you treated me in front of them...I felt like a child when I am nowhere near one!" She gritted her teeth, not caring anymore who heard her. "I am not a child anymore. Not when I had to grow up to not only lose my father but a close friend who might have been like an uncle to me. You don't know my entire past, Elrond Peredhel and you don't understand how recent everything that's happened and-"

She couldn't breathe. All she heard was the buzzing in her mind and a sense of heat prickling up to her fingertips. Her heart was beating so fast until someone grabbed her hand.

Illyria looked up and saw Elrond's worried look. He had not let go of her hand.

In fact, his thumb began to rub circles on the back of her hand – which started to ease her breaths.

He spoke softly, "Illyria. Take a breath."

Following his advice did cool her down, taking a moment to concentrate on his gentle caresses before she bit her lips and murmured.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't be rambling, but I needed to get it off my chest."

"I perhaps had lost my temper there as well." Elrond took a breath.

Illyria looked back up.

Never had she felt like this before. Watching someone's eyes almost look at her like that, with care and compassion. And she was so urged to reach up to him to cup her hand around his own face.

Elrond breathed, "You are correct, I may have stepped over my boundaries." He whispered to her, "But you must understand that I- we lost you in the same circumstances. And I cannot leave you assured only by Mithrandir's protection and your own...magical abilities."

This was the face of someone who genuinely cared for her. Not even as a family, but something more than even her mind was bewildered by.

She wasn't sure anymore if this was her own growing liking for this elf or the love that was buried within Elemmírë's memories. Could she be able to know the difference?

Did he like her or was he just seeing her as Elemmírë again?

Despite it all, Illyria knew she was falling. And not in the pit she had thought it will be.

All she could do was muster up a response, gently pulling away from her hand from him. "But I won't be alone." Illyria smiled a little, "I'll have Gandalf and some others with me."

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"We're coming with you? We didn't say anything-ow!"

Elrohir had yelped after Arwen lightly smacked his arm with a stern look.

They were currently heading down to the main gates of the forest, each carrying a pack along with a horse in tow.

"Are they always like this?" Illyria creased her eyebrows, amused at the trio's antics.

Elrond, who stood at her side, answered: "When the three are together, they are always like this."

Both Elladan and Elrohir were dressed for travel much like her, over towering most of the elves with their tall genes (whatever of her and Elrond had, she didn't know how they could be so tall) as she tied their packs on their horses. Beside them, Arwen had decided to stay behind, chiding each of her brothers.

Arwen cleared her throat and sweetly said, "What the two mean to say is that they're coming with you." Her grey eyes focused on hers and assured her, "Don't worry Lady Illyria, they will behave. And Glorfindel can come with you too."

Glorfindel arrived with Asfaloth in tow, draped in his own travelling attire. "That I am." He glanced at Elrond and plainly stated: "Mellon, you are drained and need rest. Allow to make sure the Lady of Lothlorien is cared for."

Illyria was not sure how she can do it, but at the right time – Galadriel just gracefully waltzed in with Lord Celeborn at her side. The Sindarin elven lord had yet to speak to her, only eyeing her and his wife and probably was waiting for them to have some ugly catfight.

Bitch, if they fought: Illyria was going to be on the ground in less than twelve seconds.

Beside them was Círdan, who she had the most time to discuss about aeroplanes, helicopters and ships. The old Teleri elf was extremely interested in her explanations and hoped for them to meet again and discuss drawing new boat designs.

Maybe he might even like the movie Titanic. [2]

On second thought, perhaps try not to terrorise the elves and start a fear of ships around them when they're supposed to sail West.

Elrond on the other hand looked lost in defeat and huffed, "...I feel outweighed by this outcome."

She patted his shoulder, assuring him with a grin. "At least I know your wife raised your daughter well." Illyria glanced over to her daughter, who secretively smiled from her periphery before approaching Elrond.

Gandalf precisely when he needed to be, saying his farewells and thanks to both the Lord and Lady of Lothlórien, Círdan and Elrond before ushering her and the twins with Glorfindel.

Though beforehand, she did walk over to the three elder elves, saying her thanks for their shelter for the past few weeks. Lady Galadriel smiled as gracefully as ever. Even after Dol Guldur, where Illyria knew that her strength hadn't completely returned: she still held the same poise and sophistication as any other leader.

"Illyria Strange, it is time again to say farewell." The Lady of Light spoke.

Illyria nodded curtly and replied hopefully, "Maybe it might not be the last time, Galadriel."

She gave her a soft gaze and said through her mind. 'You know what is to come, Elemmírë. I give you luck in what you plan to change in this world.'

Illyria implied back, 'Only for the good, Artanis.' She placed her hand over her chest and thought back: 'Namárië, meldenya.' [3]

'Namárië, Elemmírë.'

She hopped onto her horse, learning its name to be Lastedir from one of the guards. She wanted to hug Arwen goodbye as well but knowing their plan it'll be a bit obvious if she hugged her publicly. Instead, she silently assured her daughter that would be safe, remembering the long embrace they had this morning.

Illyria knew in her heart what Arwen was planning, and even if her shocking motherly instincts were to keep her here – she just accepted it.

The half-elven lord strode up to her and said to her, "I wish you luck, Illyria."

She felt that part in her chest thump again. "Thank you, El Elrond." Illyria quirked her lips and piped in, "I promised I won't get burnt, tortured or killed."

Elrond's face morphed into amusement before relaxing into a soft smile.

She looked forward and took a deep breath. It was time for the final part of the story.

"Don't worry, Illyria. Father and Arwen will be fine." Elladan assured her as they trotted through the gates.

She wanted to look back, to catch his face – wondering if he was upset or still smiling. Instead, Illyria kept her eyes forward. There was no time now to think about him. Countless lives were depending on them and only she knew what came for them from the South.

She blew out a breath, "I know. But he's a worrier. I can't imagine how he was worried about his wife."

Glorfindel who trotted Asfaloth next to her, blandly commented. "I think that's an understatement, nésa." [4]

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Elrond wondered aloud, "You know what is to come - don't you, my lady."

Galadriel, who stood by his side at the gates of Caras Galadhon, answered him.

"Her path is uncertain, as it always had been from my sight." She turned her eyes to him, casting a calculating gaze. "But for you, your sight has always shown The Eternal's possible future. And only you can choose how to bend that knowledge, Elrond Peredhel."

"How can it be?" He questioned, "I had thought it was just because of my bond with Elemmírë."

The Lady of Light explained, "There are things much more ancient than us. Such that even its origins are clouded from our knowledge." Galadriel stared out, spotting the five figures head off into the horizon. "I believe it may be due to the very ancient power she possesses. And only Elemmírë and Illyria Strange will be able to know its roots...and its purpose."

As the five-headed off North, they traversed towards the Lonely Mountain. The very place he had not wished for them to go. Not after what happened to them with Sauron.

Elrond ground his teeth against each other in a muted frustration over her. Illyria Strange: perhaps the most forward and fiery human he had met, with the powers that could rival an Ainu and the hardiness and stubbornness of the very earth on the ground.

And yet he could sense Elemmírë laughing at him in his head, telling him that this was who he began to like: the young adventurous sorceress who surprisingly never hid her own feelings to him despite her not know who she was to him.

As the sun set down in the forests of Lothlórien, Elrond bid his daughter goodnight and allowed his mind to rest. Neither nightmares of his foresight nor memories of his past prevented him to feel the fluttery sense in his heart.

Or the fact that he was beginning to give away his heart away once more.

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Elladan and Elrohir loved her portals.

So did she, but unfortunately, she couldn't use it when the path they were taking went through Mirkwood itself from South of Dol Guldur towards Esgaroth itself. Hopefully, with the horses the Lady and Lord of Lothlórien provided them as well as Asfaloth, they would venture through quicker than the Company would.

Their journey through Mirkwood took two weeks, following Gandalf's advice by staying on the roads only to realise the very reason for it. Illyria sensed the enchantment which the elves put over it, preventing predators from wandering over it whilst it stopped the curse affecting them directly.

Being inside Mirkwood was unlike the Lothlórien despite its size. She wondered how beautiful it once was with its green trees and lively environment. Now there were spider webs littered about and all she could assure her spider-fear was to think about Darcy's tactics in overcoming her irrational fear.

And that was imagining them being squished with six-inch heels. (Which resulted in a lot of worried and rather fearful looks from both the twins and a chuckle from Gandalf.) (Ha, he thought he could forget that he lied to her about being related to the twins. Perhaps spiders aren't the only thing she'll be stomping with Louboutin's.) [5]

Once Illyria saw the outlines of the forest and the glimpse of a large lake, she cantered with her horse and breathed in the fresh cold air.

She sighed happily.

How she missed the sun. She could probably fall into the ground and make a pretend snow angel.

But her own joy didn't reciprocate the large corpse hovering above the water.

Illyria plainly said, "Well, now we know the dragon's dead."

Just several kilometres further were what was the remnants of Laketown. Even after several days, it looked like it had burnt last night. Illyria inhaled sharply, her heart clenching as she could imagine the flames. The people screaming.

Gandalf did not look entirely pleased, almost hoping to get an answer from her about what occurred. She didn't answer his questionable gaze though, staying silent as she unravelled her pack to grab something.

"How did you know of this?" Glorfindel asked her, bringing Asfaloth beside her.

She tied her pack back into her back and waved the wrapped object at him. "...Now that's spoilers." Illyria winked before adding, "I'll tell you after this all goes down. Right now, we need to get up to Dale."

Illyria began moving Lastedir forward.

"Dale is that way, sister."

She rotated and ignored her pink cheeks. "Right. I know my way." Illyria bit into her food and groaned, "Also, I can't believe Lembas can be this fucking good!" [6]

Glorfindel smirked and nudged at her, "Such language, sister."

Swallowing the bit of Lembas (after one bite she was quickly full. What the fuck was this witchcraft? They needed these back on Earth), Illyria snorted loudly. "You should thank my dad, Darcy and Uncle Tony for that...god I miss them. I also miss having cheeseburgers."

Elrohir echoed, "Tony...?"

"Tony Stark. The person who I told you about." She responded.

In truth, the past week had been her speaking about her time post the snap. Since she now confirmed that they were her family, Illyria began to open up with more sensitive topics she hadn't spoken about. And by the fourth day of talking about Internet speech, the twins tried to use the words 'cool, awesome and yeet' as the weirdest times. [7]

One time, Elrohir said 'I yeeted off the rock to kill that orc' almost sent her going to ER.

Her boys were growing so fast.

And then out of nowhere, Gandalf asked inquisitively: "What is this cheeseburger do you speak of?"

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First, Illyria shouldn't blame Peter Jackson for the poor timelines of the movies. Can't exactly fit nine months' worth of content in three movies let alone several years in the original trilogy but seriously – they could have added the time skips in the subtitles.

All she can recall was that the battle occurred around the beginning of November, that was when Azog's army should arrive until Bolg's would arrive from the North.

Though before all of that shit to go down, she needed to know when a certain elf army was to arrive at Dale.

A certain blonde elf with the most sex appeal to any person back on Earth.

Eh, she couldn't really see it. She was blonde herself and to be honest, Illyria was not into it.

So when the five of them halted several miles from the city and the mountain, she saw the groups and legions of an elven army already stationed in Dale. She muttered, "Oh fudge...we're too late."

"Too late for what?" Elladan flicked his head to her.

Illyria did eye any of them, already sensing Gandalf's growing concern as she spoke, "Remember I mentioned about a battle?"

"No." Elladan frowned.

Elrohir raised his eyebrows and said, "You tell us now?"

What was she supposed to say? She gave her mutual promise to the grey wizard not to tell everything to him nor to anyone she met! When was she supposed to say that an army was after the mountain?

Gandalf guided them towards Dale until they arrive at the gates and began winding through the narrow roads. If they weren't hastily trying to trot through, Illyria would have the time to inspect everyone and everything. She might not feel the cold due to her own robes and cloak, but she can tell from people around her.

Humans. She finally saw humans for the first time in almost eight months now...or was it nine months? It's been too long and surprisingly, it felt off watching them stare at her and the rest as they passed through.

They were the worse for wear, with many dirty, rugged, and exhausted. She can sense their minds questioning who they were, some ignoring them whilst the rest felt a flicker of hope in them. They thought they were here with the elves as well and hope they would help them after what Smaug did them.

It was there Illyria felt her guilt slow Lastedir down.

She could have helped them. Warn the people of Laketown to evacuate and possibly give them a better end in their lives. There would have been fewer casualties.

Instead, she went off to fight Sauron.

Luckily, Glorfindel had brought her back to the moment, sliding down from his steed as Gandalf already began to stride over the group of elves positioned around a large dark tent. She tied Lastedir to a post, soothing the poor boy to calm before grabbing her sword and slipping it into her pocket dimension.

Glorfindel spoke to her and the twins as they headed up the street. "Come, I know the elves of the Woodland Realm. We should be able to gain a hearing with the King."

As they did, the change in people caused Illyria to think again. Most of them were elves down, with wide eyes and small murmurs between them. Illyria strode over until she was situated between the twins, keeping her head forward.

Illyria muttered in fake enthusiasm, "Oh joy. People are also staring at me again." She questioned quietly, "Am I that known?"

Thankfully, Elrohir answered her, "You and your brother are legends these ages, Lady Illyria. The last of the hidden city." He thought back to her, 'Most of the population of Esgaroth have hardly dealt with elves west of the Misty Mountains. And the Silvan elves who mostly live in Mirkwood.'

Illyria wryly replied, "Well, they're gonna be surprised that I can probably piss off their king in five minutes."

Glorfindel, who walked in front of her, glanced over his shoulder and smirked, "Is that a bet, sister?" He questioned, "Have the dwarves taught you their games?"

Illyria replied, grinning back. "Maybe they did." A thought immediately rose to the surface. "Okay, if I win: the twins get to braid your hair."

Never had she seen the blonde-haired elf's eyes bulge outwardly that his eyes could've popped out of his head. His hands suddenly went to his braids, "Ai! Not my hair! I am still not over the hair dye!" Glorfindel gasped, "Have you got no shame!"

Illyria had to use all her strength not to laugh as she said simply, "Nope."

She can already hear the thoughts and ideas the twins were planning to do as Elladan grinned widely, "I for one like this idea."

"What do you think, I believe a green colour might suit the lovely Lord of the House of the Golden Flower." Next to her, Elrohir folded his arms and quirked a brow.

Glorfindel inhaled, "You two-" He paused for a moment. "Then as a result, if you lose: you must take me up to the stars, sister."

"Deal." Illyria quickly replied, "I'll ask Darcy if I can go up to the station with Monica."

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She placed the last pieces of items in her pack before grabbing her cloak and sword. It was the very sword her mother had once given to her, only after her mother and father knew she was ready to wield it. The heirloom symbolised a connected history between her parents.

Whilst Arwen clipped it into her belt, she slipped the pack on her back before she froze as she sensed someone's presence behind her. Raising her head, she turned around to find her father eye her along with the sword resting on her hip.

"Arwen."

Arwen sternly put, "I promised her, Ada." She continued, "Either you stay here with Lady Galadriel and I will guide the guard to Dale. Or you are free to join."

"War is not beautiful." Her father stated darkly.

They both knew what was to come. Even if her father didn't know that she knew his own mind, having grown her proficiency in mind-reading from Lady Galadriel.

He was worried about something. Not something, but for someone. A battle was going to happen, and her mother will somehow be a part of it.

Swallowing, Arwen cleared her throat before answering, "No, but I would rather be out there protecting this world than hide in these woods."

For a moment, her father stared at her before sighing in defeat. "This is the very reason you are far too much like your mother." He nodded his head and began to exit her quarters, "Very well."

As her father left the room, Arwen let out the breath she held and silently prayed to the Valar for hope. He did not know the future she saw – and she promised that she would make sure her family was safe.

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Illyria wasn't really expecting anything grand when she entered through the tent flaps.

But she wasn't expected Thranduil Oropherion to be a massive dickhead.

They just got here for fucks sake! And a second he smelt them with his pompous nose; he somehow knew he wasn't going to listen to them.

Oh, this was going to be easy for her.

Blonde, tall, and flamboyant, Thranduil rose from his chair (or throne. Wait did he make them carry his spare throne all the way here?) and glided to them until they were all standing in front of him just a few metres away.

He spoke in a bored tone, "I have heard that several Noldorin elves have arrived to which I wonder why..."

"It has been a while, King Thranduil." Glorfindel, ever being the polite and diplomatic one, bowed his head whilst she and the twins followed.

Thranduil nodded his head slightly as he greeted them, "Lord Glorfindel, we meet again." He drawled, "And..."

Then somehow it sounded as if a lemon was stuck in his throat.

His eyes gazed down at her, widening in shock. Thranduil mustered, "That cannot be...You are dead."

Inside, Illyria already sensed there was something between her and Elemmírë. And by that tone, he was not pleased that a human that looked like her came back from the grave.

"No, I am dead." Illyria confirmed, "I'm what was her, I guess? Reincarnation and such."

It took a second for Thranduil to process what she said before he narrowed his eyes and turned towards the Grey Wizard – changing his tone.

"Why have you come here, Mithrandir?" He demanded.

The Grey Wizard was also holding back all his will not to be annoyed at him and instructed, "You must put aside your differences. A battle will arrive, and it will not be against those of the mountain."

Scoffing back, Thranduil replied, "You defend those dwarves as they hide in their mountain. They did release the dragon and sought to destroy the whole of Esgaroth."

Her teeth ground against each other, hearing a plead from her son in her head.

But that didn't stop her from saying spitefully, "Yes, but the dragon's dead. If that dragon were alive, it would have lived through...and probably sided with him." Illyria froze and exclaimed, "Oh, that's why the dragon needed to die!"

All eyes went to her.

"Excuse me?" Thranduil asked.

However, Illyria's mind was clearly away from her body. She had watched this movie and read the Hobbit and never had she wondered about why Sauron was so attentive to go and kill Thorin. He needed the mountain, but not only the mountain...the dragon too.

The same dragon who could have easily sided with the dark maia if Sauron gave a good deal to him.

Illyria clicked her fingers and said to herself, "Ohhhhh Tolkien you smart bastard. Good old J.R.R. He wrote this place really good even without my own inclusion." She sarcastically added, "And now orcs are coming, and we'll be dead in a few days if we don't band up together."

"Lady Illyria..."

Elladan reached to her, but she was already a mere metre away from the Sindarin elf, who was glaring daggers at her and possibly imagining her to be dead again.

"So, does Glorfindel get a braiding session?" Illyria glanced over her shoulder and asked innocently.

If it wasn't so cold, Thranduil would have caught this tent ablaze with his anger. "I will not be fighting with a bunch of unruly dwarves." He glowered at them, "And with Noldorin elves."

Okay, that cut the last straw.

Illyria stared up at the prickly ass and wryly said, "If you don't believe me, I'm very much human, again." She pointed a finger at the sides of her head. "Honestly, I better just tie my hair up nicer."

Forget her bet with Glorfindel, Illyria would not stand back at watching this elf cloud his mind with prejudice.

The twins were beginning to beg in her head to stop.

However, Illyria inhaled and snapped, "And excuse you, I don't care about your petty xenophobic background and feud with them. Right now, a battle is coming and if we don't follow through: people will die! No matter elf or human or dwarf or even hobbit!" Her voice was getting louder, "I arrived in this world hoping it would be fine, but now I found out I'm pretty much embedded in this world too. Now, I would like for fewer casualties, please."

Illyria sensed her energy to grow again, almost feeling her ears ring once more as she snarled at him.

And finally, she finished: "So, get your pointy elven sword out of your flat elven ass, Lucius Malfoy, or I'll do it myself."

Spinning her heels, she strode past her brother and the twins and headed outside.

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Her anger hadn't depleted since midday when they arrived up in Dale. Most of the time, she had taken herself to seclusion, hiding in one of the abandoned houses to meditate before returning to the twins and Glorfindel. (She knew her brother was probably trying to mend the damage she caused and the twins as well. Good luck to them, that elf was too proud)

She had not been this angry ever since she had lashed out at a certain captain who thought it was simply just for Tony to walk away from the family, he created just to risk his life. And in the end, Tony did leave. He left his family, her and Harley and everyone who wanted him back. It was a protective and selfish hatred, though. Something she had grown to come by when she began to love the family she had.

It was why she was annoyed, how he would do anything to just get something that was just an item to them. Maybe Illyria didn't know entirely how important they were to him and his wife, but Illyria had lost enough to know an item wasn't worth it.

So Glorfindel found her, standing by the edge of the cliff as she eyed Erebor. He stood on her left, speaking. "You should not have done that, sister." He said with a reprimanding tone, "King Thranduil will not treat Elrond kindly now."

Illyria took a second to think and answered meekly, "Okay maybe I went off the tangent at the last second..." But then stressed out, "BUT tell me I'm wrong." She gave her brother a look.

Glorfindel exhaled and said, "I would not have put those words lightly, but you are right. We must set aside differences."

Somehow, her hand thought of grabbing her staff. But realising that the past two months without them, it was here that Illyria had the weird feeling without them. That staff had always been not only her relic but kind of comfort object to hold...and sometimes to pretend as Gandalf when she was younger.

Changing the subject, Glorfindel began: "So, war is coming, and we'll be joining."

She nodded along, "It's coming in a few days, hearing what Gandalf predicted." Illyria then remembered something and told him, "I must speak to Gandalf."

Glorfindel nodded silently and told her that he would be off to discuss plans with Thranduil and Bard, hopeful to sway them to at least prepare for any possible enemies arriving.

As he did so, she discovered the Ainu on the battlements, with several elves stationed at the side. When he did spot her, Gandalf greeted, "Illyria, I thought you would be spending time with your brother?"

Illyria thinned her lips and said, "I wanted to speak with you." She added, "Alone."

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They walked along the battlements, the snow falling softly in the dim light of the moon.

Gandalf began, 'Of course. Please speak freely, Illyria. I feel a burden in you.'

Well, no kidding wizard.

Illyria revealed, 'It is. Bilbo will come back, but with something...precious.'

He halted and his face hardened, 'The Arkenstone.'

'Yes.'

'Thorin will not like that.'

Illyria shook her head. 'No, he won't.' Her eyes pleaded to him, 'And this timeline seems like they're more than just friends. He will really hurt him, Gandalf. And I can't allow him to...'

'To what?' He asked.

She wanted to tell him but immediately tied that thought away. 'I can't say. But I will do whatever it takes to make sure he's alright. Both of them.'

A sympathetic look formed on Gandalf's face. 'You bring such esteem to Bilbo Baggins, Illyria. Is there more to the hobbit in the future?'

Yes. That's what she wanted to say. And with the goofy smile she made and the hidden dread that underlined it, it said more about the hobbit than anything else. Bilbo's life would never be the same and his part of this story will be the driving force of the future.

How one hobbit who found a ring will change the fate of Middle Earth.

And how two other hobbits will be underestimated by everyone else and just simply walk into the enemy's eyes just to get rid of that ring.

Illyria chuckled to herself, hinting back. 'You make friends with a hobbit who finds you with a pony and you'll know. But...he is my friend. I just can't stand here and let it happen.' She truthfully spoke, 'And I can't say, sorry. Not yet I guess.'

At least Gandalf understood where she was coming from but was surprised at the comment afterwards. 'You have so far to know more of yourself, Illyria Ettelëa.' He patted her shoulder and assured her. 'Now rest, let your mind ease from worry.'

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Illyria was expecting Arwen to arrive today.

However, she wasn't expecting the figure next to her to come as well.

There she was, just finishing aiding the women of Esgaroth by casting some warming charms in one of the less dilapidated halls for them to stay in and found herself watching them arrive up to the town square.

Illyria hovered towards them and questioned, "Elrond? Why are you here?"

He seemed to be wearing his armour already, circlet still on his head, as he brought himself down his horse and walked over to her. Elrond twitched his lips and spoke, "It would seem I have been persuaded to follow."

Appearing behind him, Illyria grinned to spot the dark-haired elf. She wanted to go and hug her tightly, though it wouldn't be appropriate.

Again, their plan in keeping the four oblivious was working well.

"...Arwen! I'm glad to see you!" She beamed at her.

Wearing similar attire, Arwen's eye lit up and said, "I kept your promise, Lady Illyria."

Truly she did. A group of elves from the Imladris and Lothlórien guard were entering the city, shocking the people of Esgaroth whilst more whispers and murmurs about them spread.

Illyria spoke, "Thank you for coming." A small grin rested on her face. "The more the better."

He thinned his lips as Elrond sighed, "I feel that you have planned this."

"They both did," Glorfindel added, amused as well at the outcome.

Illyria chortled, "Of course, brother. Us elleths need to stick together." Her focused returned to Arwen as her tone changed to seriousness. "Did you see them?"

Arwen's own face turned passive as she nodded to her, "Yes. They are about a couple of days march behind us. We were able to pass through without their knowledge."

A couple of days, that wasn't enough time for her to mend the issue. Illyria would have to act quickly to try and make sure shit doesn't go down between Thorin and Thranduil and Bard.

Illyria shuddered a breath, "They'll be here soon and there are so many civilians-"

The four of them shared worried glanced until she sensed a Woodland guard walked towards them,

He nodded his head towards Elrond and Arwen and cleared his throat. "The King seeks your presence, Lord Elrond. Lady Arwen."

The guard eyed her warily before turning back.

She then felt the gaze at her from not only Elrond (which she suspected) but also her daughter. "Illyria, what did you do?" He asked.

Making a popping noise with her mouth, she began: "Well..." Another disapproval look came from Glorfindel. "...I might have angered Thranduil."

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

"More have arrived, especially in the presence of the Lord of Rivendell and the Lady Arwen." Thranduil drawled out as he stayed in his chair.

The tent was practically full; with Thranduil seated behind his table along with a bottle of his disgusting wine and a glass. Bard was standing stoically at the side by the door, reading to walk off if shit did go down. Gandalf was already near Thranduil, perhaps who was persuading him to stop the petty war he was going forward with. Glorfindel was beside Elrond whilst she and Arwen stood slightly to the right.

Illyria thanked herself for giving the twins the task to practice their magic whilst they scouted for any signs of the orc army. If they were here, it wouldn't end well for them.

It was Elrond who responded in a respectful tone. "King Thranduil, why do you wage war on the dwarves upon the mountain."

"They have something that belongs to me. The White Gems of Lasgalen." The King of the Woodland realm answered.

Illyria silently clamped her jaw tight.

Though Elrond to her surprise was not pleased and with a deadpanned tone spoke, "You would wage war on a handful of gems."

Thranduil rose from his chair and head towards him. "If it means so much to you, Elrond Peredhel: you must remember, the very same reason drove your people into kinslaying."

Her mind made a U-turn at that statement.

What did he just say?

Elrond was thrown off guard by the statement but kept his composure. He sternly continued, "Orcs are coming, Thranduil; we do not need this feud over jewels or dwarves. We must gain an alliance."

Peering his eyes at Elrond, and suddenly a moment to her, Thranduil lowered his voice and changed to Sindarin. "And where were your people when my father and my people stormed the Black Gates? You talk of such an alliance when many of my people bled for your king." He sneered at Elrond, "My father bled for your king and the likes of men. And you call yourself Gil-Galad's most trusted friend when you could not even save him."

She inhaled sharply. He didn't need to go that far to speak about that. And neither did Glorfindel and Gandalf, who were worried at both Elrond and Thranduil squared each other up with equal glares.

Illyria internally groaned before stomping forwards and stood between them. "We do not have time for this! Orcs are arriving in the bloody break of dawn and more will arrive from Gundabad!" [8]

Glorfindel was alarmed. "How do you know this, Illyria?" He asked her.

She waved her hand and said, "There's not enough time to explain as to why, but they are after the mountain."

"Why?" Thranduil interrogated.

Illyria lowered her tone, "For their master would want a key defence when he comes from the East."

"Sauron is gone, he was slain by Isildur." Thranduil rumbled.

She butted in, "Only by his physical form. But his astral body is still here in this world, far in the East. I can sense it, and it's growing when you are all fighting for just a gem!" Illyria cried, pointing outside to the direction of the mountain with her eyes never leaving Thranduil. "Those gems don't define all the memories and the love you shared. You had your time, your kingdom your people. Not to mention the most valuable thing."

The Sindarin elf pried, "And what is that Elanor?" [9]

"Your son." Illyria answered simply and questioned, "Your son was a product of your love, is that not enough?"

They both stared at each other, wondering who would cut back. She knew Elrond was looking at her with silent surprise. But she was right, and Thranduil knew secretly that. Despite knowing Thranduil in such a short amount of time, Illyria could tell the typical protective father he was Legolas. He was the only son and the only remnant of what his wife had. And in a few decades, Legolas would venture out of the safety of his home to help save the world. So, the only way to get Thranduil to see the world with open eyes was to know he needed to accept Legolas has his own person and not some memory.

Thranduil was off-put by her comment that before he could speak, someone exclaimed.

"Bilbo Baggins!" Gandalf spoke in surprise.

Illyria glanced down towards the tent entrance and her eyes lit up. She exclaimed, "Bilbo! Thank god you're okay!"

The hobbit in question stood there, a little confused. "Illyria! Lord Elrond? Lord Glorfindel? I did not know you will be here."

"You know the halfling." Thranduil turned his focus on Bilbo.

Bilbo rose his shoulders and responded, "I am half of nothing, your majesty."

Now that's her hobbit.

Don't mind her; just being too emotional at her friend for not only being alive but gaining that big dick energy.

Thranduil wandered towards the centre where his table was and spoke coolly, "If I'm not mistaken this is the hobbit who stole the keys to my dungeons from under the nose of my guards."

There was a pause, "...Yes. Sorry about that." Bilbo continued, "I came to give you this."

He slipped his hand into his pocket as he approached the table and carefully took it.

Placed on the centre of the table, the hair on Illyria's skin prickled as she jerked her hand and felt her entire body grow cold.

Within her sight was the Arkenstone, shining with a radial area of light and energy in a hue of colours.

"The Heart of the Mountain." Bard breathed in as he got closer.

No. That was not it.

Not the Arkenstone.

It was just like the jewel she saw with the woman falling into the sea.

Her breathing shallowed, as she reached towards the table. She could sense it. The raw power and energy swirling around it. It was calling to her, as her ear crackled and her sight blurred.

No...no...they were back.

The screams. The energy surging up her chest that she wasn't sure if it was pain or comfort.

"No...that cannot be." She whispered before the noises began to envelop her. Hands began to grab her arms.

As her body convulsed, she could feel her eyes rolling back and the flash of white light enter her vision.

____

[1] - Space Mountain: A ride in Disneyland and perhaps one of the best things I got to go on since I did go to the Paris one.
[2] - Titanic: The big boat which sank due to the iceberg in 1912, they made a film about it with Leo DCap and Kate Winslet.
[3] - 'Namárië, meldenya': Quenya for 'Farewell, my friend.'
[4] - Nésa: Quenya for 'sister'
[5] - Louboutin's: A fashion brand, known for the red-painted bottoms of shoes.
[6] - Lembas: Translated as waybread in the common tongue which was first made by Yavanna from special corn that grew in Aman. It was the custom for elven women only to make it and were called the Yavannildi. People like Melian and Galadriel knew this recipe.
[7] - Yeet: An exclamation of excitement and all-around energy, often used when doing a dance or just throwing something. Eg. This bitch empty, yeet.
[8] - Gundabad: An orc mountain stronghold at the northern end of the Misty Mountains.
[9] - Elanor: The Sindarin name of Elemmire, used by Thranduil and Oropher and most Sindarin elves that didn't like her.

____

A/N: Last one of my chunky update sessions and I whip out a lovely cliffhanger for you all to hang onto. Sorry to all those Thranduil lovers but Elemmire and he didn't exactly have a good past together. There's a hint, especially when you know the feud between the elves and what happened in Beleriand in the First Age. 

Which is why next time, we get a little trip to the past and see a glimpse of what Elemmire was like. :)

Edited: 26/09/2021