5. Welcomes, Introductions, & Regina George

"Lady Clara?"

A lean and straight elf of an indiscernible age - with stern navy eyes and straight light brown hair - stares at me with confusion. I guess I was not what he was expecting.

"Hi, you must be Raffyn?" I chirp and step forward offering my hand, which he looks at it and pulls a face...does no one shake hands around here?

"Yes, well shall we?" He barely looks at me as he swivels on his polished boots and strides to the door, pausing only to glance back at me with an impatient expression.

I nod once and lift my basket of meager belongings, which are not even my belongings but things I have been given...basically charity. A few plain dresses, undergarments, and a thick bundle of plain paper and some charcoal pencils. A gift from my healer friend Calanon, who wishes me to continue drawing. Calanon is with me now and I look at him warily for direction. He smiles encouragingly and helps fasten a dull grey coloured cloak around my shoulders.

"Tis alright dear Clara you will be fine, just do as you are told, stay out of mischief and the King will reward you well."

"Thank you Calanon for everything, I will miss not seeing you every day," I reply and attempt another hand shake but instead he hugs me and I practically choke him in return.

I am so nervous, I have no idea what to expect and not the foggiest notion how someone is supposed to behave as a member of the royal court, but I guess I am about to get a very intense tutorial. Raffyn clears his throat and Calanon gives me an amused look as I scurry to the elf's side and allow him to lead me out and away from the only place I have known in this strange new world. It is like parting with a safety blanket, from this point on I will be expected to cope without the aid of elvish medicine and mundane routine...I am terrified!

We walk for an age or at least it feels like it, through twists and turns, deeper and deeper into this incredible cavern structure. The King's halls could not be called a cave because that would give you the wrong impression. They are like something that magically appeared from the rock, like an entire city built into the protection of the natural cave formations of the woods. They are beautiful and more than once I just stop and stare open mouthed and completely captivated by the craftsmanship. The ceilings are glittering with ethereal lights that could have been mistaken as actual stars, flowers, trees, and plants grow all around this place - flourishing even in the darkest of spaces. Natural waterfalls and streams wind and snake through the city bringing life to the secret world beneath the forest. I can hear birds singing an evening chorus overhead, and the fading daylight bathing certain parts of the city in its calming glow. It is light and airy but I cannot tell where the breaks in the rock are, everything is just so natural and so perfectly placed to look like it always existed.

There is a mixture of grand stairwells and marble bridges that connect the levels of this fortress together, but in some parts there are scarier, steeper stairs or narrow long footpaths with sheer drops on either side. Elves seem to pass them oblivious to the dangers but I, at every singly obstacle, have a minor stroke and it usually takes several moments of coaxing on Raffyn's part to encourage me to keep going. I know I now have the ability to overcome these difficult obstacles with ease but there is still a part of my brain that thinks it is clumsy Josie who trips over her own shadow. I must try and overcome this if I am going to survive this place. But that tiny annoying voice in the back of my mind reminds me there is a lot more than a fear of falling that I have to try and get over - I ignore it, as I have done so for the past several weeks.

Eventually we reach a well-lit pavilion with the most beautiful fountain I have seen, it spouts crystal clear water from waterfalls cascading from the prominent statue. An elven couple or maybe a godlike couple engaged in an enchanting dance, so beautiful and mesmerizing I just stand and gawp. I immediately want to rip out my paper and start sketching this, but Raffyn clears his throat and I return to reality with a bump.

"Welcome to the private chambers of our Royal family Clara," He speaks with deep reverence and lets me take a moment to gain my bearings.

The King's dwelling appears to be a set of interconnected rooms and levels, gardens and pools, that are all teeming with wild flowers, shrubbery and the most exquisite of sculptures and tapestries I have ever laid eyes on. In short my idea of heaven!

"I am going to live here?" I ask my voice barely a whisper

"In a way yes, the members of the royal court have their own quarters within this great living space. Now come follow me I will show you around and introduce you to Oliel, she sees to the affairs of the family's home and keeps the place in order. She will look after you and keep you right I am sure."

With that Raffyn takes off again and I practically run to keep up with him. He enters through another set of passageways and not the front door which I thought would have been the most sensible thing to do. We reach a main corridor with smaller hallways that branch off from it, it is brimming with soft candles and intoxicating scents of blossoms that I don't have a name for. We reach the end of the hallway and step into a large living space, with a roaring fire in a grand fireplace in the center. It has lounge chairs and over-stuffed sofa's scattered about the place and what looks like a dining table off to the side. This room opens out onto a small and quiet expertly designed garden. Again I am speechless as to how all this exists underground, but it does and I just want to sit and attempt to capture it all in sketches.

There is a rush of light footsteps and I whirl to the sound, just in time to see the loveliest creature approach me. She wears a dress of the palest lemon and her hair is the richest mahogany - loose and long it hangs down her back like molten chocolate. She is slender and petite for an elf but in saying that she has an energetic presence that makes me happy instantly. Her skin is pale and glowing, her features pretty and feline, textbook beautiful and I feel like an utter tramp standing beside her. Her bright almost turquoise eyes glimmer with anticipation and look so wide and wonder filled in her perfect heart shaped face. She smiles the warmest and most genuine smile that I cannot help the silly grin I give in return.

"You must be Clara!" She trills in a feather light and sing song voice, she scurries to my side and throws her arms around me and I freeze at the unexpected display of affection. "I have heard so much about you, oh I am so pleased you decided to come and join us. It will be wonderful to have another female presence around here; what with all this passive aggressive male energy bouncing around it will be lovely to have another elleth bringing serenity to this place."

"Oliel," Raffyn speaks almost like a warning and she skips back and giggles.

"Oh forgive me I am just so happy to see you, I am sometimes a little excitable," she apologizes and gives Raffyn a playful frown.

"Uh hello," I manage and continue to stand a bit awkwardly, "Well I would introduce myself but it seems everyone knows who I am!"

"Of course we do, young master Legolas can barely stop taking about his new friend that he rescued in the forest," Oliel quips and giggles again, I almost chuckle back, her laughter is so infectious.

"Oliel will you please assist Clara to settle in and become accustomed to her new station. I must leave, I am afraid his Majesty is holding another meeting which I must assist with." Raffyn turns and bows his head graciously to me, "Farewell my lady, and on behalf of the members of this house I bid you a very warm welcome."

"Thanks Raffyn and it has been a pleasure," I reply as Oliel takes my arm and squeezes it encouragingly.

"I shall return in the morning and see how you are faring, until then any questions or concerns Oliel will be more than qualified to answer." Raffyn gives one last nod and leaves the same way we entered, his velveteen robes swishing in the soft breeze. What a very proper character, like one of those Victorian butlers who are just so so and always professional, I doubt he ever cracks a smile.

"Well now mellon nin let us get you some finer clothes and something nice to eat," Oliel speaks cheerily and with linked arms leads me away. I instantly like her and I usually don't like anyone, but she is so bright and warm that I just seem to gravitate towards her. I had put the idea of having friends out of my head for so long and just believed I was better off without them, but now I was sort of playing with idea again. Maybe just maybe Oliel and I could be friends, and if we were to then I was going to have to learn her name because right now all I want to do is call her 'Ollie.'

xXx

"You know it is very unlike his majesty to allow complete strangers into his private circle, you must have really impressed him Clara," Oliel chatters on, as she has done these past three solid hours. I don't stop her though because she is a hive of information and I just like her, I really do.

"Oh it wasn't the King that invited me here it was the Prince," I answer with a shrug and sup shyly at the clay cup of warm milk that Oliel dutifully made me.

"Really?" She gasps as she picks up her hems and flounces down on the sofa beside me her eyebrows drawn together in thought; "Well that is something indeed."

"Why?" I mumble over the lip of the cup.

Her eyebrows rise up and she sighs; "Thranduil has had some...difficulties...this past decade. He is unfortunately not the young prince we all remember from days gone by - and that injury!" Oliel clutches her heart and a genuine look of anguish crosses her features, "Oh Clara I thought for sure we had lost him for good."

"So the temper and the angry outbursts are a new thing?" I ask politely, truthfully it was on the tip of my tongue to say 'so this grumpy old toad thing is just an act,' but I thought that was a bit tactless.

"Well as long as I can remember he has always been, how would you say, wild and opinionated?" she grins to herself, old memories I assume. "He was very passionate about life and his home, a talented warrior and was always laughing and charming young ellith, quite the scoundrel actually!"

I snigger into my cup and Oliel giggles too; "So what I happened, what brought about the sudden change? Parenthood or something?"

"No not exactly," She sighs and turns her head away, "I am sorry Clara it is really none of my business and besides it is unimportant. But I will say having that little elfling around here has been Thranduil's saving grace, he adores that little one. You should know he must think highly of you to trust you with him Clara, for you would be the first since his birth."

I drop my gaze and nod solemnly, feeling rather guilty that I categorised him as a bad father but that is my flaw, I judge people too quickly, and that is probably why I am alone. Oliel smiles warmly at me again and clasps her hand over mine;

"I am sorry I didn't mean to lecture you I am just quite protective of my King and his family, most of us are, but you will hear rumors Clara and you must not listen for it is just idle gossip. Thranduil is a good elf, a good prince and if given half the chance he can be a wonderful friend."

"You talk like you know him well?" I say and decide not to ask anymore intruding questions; afterall it is absolutely none of my business.

She throws her head back and lets out a peal of infectious laughter; "I know the prince very well, we grew up together he is like an elder brother to me. This means I know all his dark and dirty secrets he knows never to cross me!"

The both of us have a good titter over this and I try vainly to get her to tell me some embarrassing stories but she won't. Oliel informs me that it is their vow to never utter to others what they know about each other, for if they do it will be the end of the world as we know it. The Thranduil that she talks about seems fun and spontaneous a far cry from the silent and moody creature I have become accustomed too. Yet I can't help but wonder over these secrets and gossip filled lies she spoke of, whatever they are I ascertain I shall never know the truth unless it comes from Thranduil himself, and I don't think we have that sort of relationship.

Oliel and I chatter into the wee hours of the morning until I am all but swaying on my feet from weariness. I don't like to sleep, especially not now as some kind of elf mutant, for if I sleep I dream and if I dream I remember too much. I was never one to dwell on memories, I am the sort of person who pushes everything to the back of mind and shuts it all away. If I don't have to deal with something I don't, I am a stick my head in the sand kind of person. If I have too much free time these thoughts and memories start popping up in my mind and causing all sorts of unnecessary chaos. So I know when Oliel leaves me to my pleasant private chamber that I will be faced with a night of swirling questions.

I sit on the simple oak bed; it is spacious and far too big for just me, one solitary candle burns in the corner atop a walnut chest. I rub my hands over the sets of new clothes Oliel provided me with, temporary until she can get my measurements to the dressmaker and have me kitted out in more bespoke gear. A simple burgundy dress with gold stitching on the sleeves and hem, fitted and shapely a vast improvement from the dull brown cast off given to me by the healers; but there is also another set of clothes, these clothes are my own the ones I wore when I...died...a grey vest and leggings. Oliel thought them quite strange garments; she had never seen such fabric before and couldn't quite place their origin, of course I feigned complete amnesia over this. Oliel told me she had tried to mend them and get any stubborn stains out, and by stains I assume she meant blood, my blood. She guessed that I might want them so as to try and jog my memory, but truthfully I don't - I want to burn them and forget.

I feel the tears streaming down my face and alarm myself when I ascertain the choking sobs are coming from me. With one swift movement I toss the outfit across the room and throw myself on the bed, clawing a woollen blanket to my chest I quietly sob into the sheets and for the first time in weeks I revisit the last memories I have of what was once my reality;

"What am I?" I hear my voice crack as I whisper into nothingness, "Please God what am I?"

......

The rain hammers down in torrents. I can't move, I can't do anything but watch as I make the fatal mistake of turning the wheel too sharply to the right. I can see where I drifted onto the opposite lane, the headlamps and the blaring horn of the oncoming lorry driver alerting me to my error. I notice how I rectified the situation only to misjudge the sharpness of the bend; I can teel that my reactions would never have been quick enough to break in time to save me from going through the barrier and over the ledge. I feel the gut wrenching panic and the violent fear of imminent death all over again. I am falling, I am going to die, like I should.

I absently wonder would the lorry driver have seen or heard me after he passed, I guess not because it was a tight bend but maybe he did, maybe he jumped out of his cab and called the ambulance. I wonder if by any luck my remains could be identified and my Aunt and Uncle informed. I doubt Izzy will come home from Oz to pay her respects but Frey will, and Mary will, Ted too. I wonder if they tell my Dad, I wonder if he cried or did he feel anything when Uncle Rob told him his daughter was gone. I almost hope he misses me I almost wish that as he stands at my simple and undistinguishable grave - does he regret not knowing me? I imagine he apologises for being a dead beat dad and for never being there, I imagine him feeling my forgiveness and knowing he doesn't have to grieve because life is too short to linger over past mistakes. I was okay, I took care of myself he doesn't need to beat himself up. I turned out alright, he did a good thing giving me away when he knew he couldn't love me. But I know reality is much different, I know my grave will lie deserted and grow over with moss and weeds. I know I will just be another unfortunate story about a forgotten soul. People will think it will be better for me to be dead than to face the harsh realities of the world alone. They will say it was a tragic accident, a twist in fate and some may even say it was fated, for my life was already a bad omen.

Yet there will be no body under the earth because it did not die. I fell but I never hit the rocks or my car combust with the impact. I went from death to life and I cannot think how or if any time would have passed between realities. I realise I have no memories of ever meeting that final end but only of light, nothingness, then a child's voice in the distance. What I once was does not exist it is dead, for in that reality I am long gone. What I am now is unknown, for I wasn't reborn or reincarnated. I was vivified in another reality and the confusion that this brings cripples me.

......

"Good morning Clara the lovely!"

I bolt upright in the bed and drowsily squint at the form of Oliel in my doorway. How is someone that chirpy post elf sleep state?

"Clara the lovely?" I question groggily and yawn, "Is that my new nickname?"

"I like to start the day with positive affirmations," she responds brightly, "The key to happiness is to bring others happiness."

"Well thanks," I chuckle and stagger out of bed, "but I don't feel too lovely this morning."

"Look at you! Did you not sleep at all last night?" She looks genuinely worried and I feel bad for upsetting her.

"No it is just...nightmares I suppose," I mumble and allow her to help me into my new burgundy dress, for there are far too many laces and buttons for me to get my head around at this ungodly hour.

"Oh Clara maybe I should send word for one the healers to come check on you? You know the trauma of the attack might be what is causing the night terrors. I have seen warriors suffer such things but a good sleep tonic and time to let the spirit heal is the best medicine," She confirms with a nod, Oliel is incredibly optimistic another one of her many wonderful personality traits, she is just a good person and I am insanely jealous.

"Yes I know that is probably what is wrong, but don't bother the healers on my account it's just silly dreams I'll be fine!" I nod resolutely as I hastily throw water over my hands and face, from the wash bowl Oliel brought with her.

"Oh it will be no bother at all, Calanon has asked to be kept updated and the King himself wishes to ensure you are well cared for. Don't worry Clara no one is sending you back to the halls of healing we only wish to assist you as best we can," Oliel continues, regardless of my pleas to just ignore it. "Besides you need to be fighting fit to keep up with our little bandit, honestly I do pity you Clara, Legolas is a handful!"

"I know," I laugh and decide to ignore the comment about keeping Calanon informed and how the King must still view me as an invalid. I am not an invalid I am in full working order, almost! So for want of keeping the subject well and truly changed I decide on another course of conversation;

"You know Oliel is a lovely name but it is a little hard for me to say. If we are on the subject of nicknames do you think I could pick one for you?"

Oliel giggles and nods; "Alright then what would you call me if not Oliel?"

"Ollie!" I say with confidence.

"Ollie?" she shrieks with laughter and slaps me playfully on the arm, "You are bold Clara!"

"Sorry it's just I have nearly called you it several times, and I don't want you to think I am being rude," I admit, and its true I nearly always want to say Ollie instead of Oliel, but it feels to personal and I don't think we are at bff's stage yet.

"You did once actually," she says with a smirk and links arms with me, "but tis alright I don't mind, Ollie sounds quite fun, I am rather pleased with that nickname, just don't call me it all the time."

"Agreed," I grin, "And I'm sorry by the way I have a habit of just saying what is exactly in my head, sometimes I think I had that part of my brain damaged as a kid. You know the part that stops you form saying stupid stuff out loud and at all the wrong moments."

"You are a funny elleth Clara," Oliel almost snorts with laughter and clutches my arm tighter as we walk towards the communal living space; "I really hope we can become great friends, I do not think I have laughed so much since you arrived."

"Me too!" I say brightly, "but I can't promise I'll always be so light hearted."

"Well we all have bad days mellon nin, sometimes I can be as angry as a hornet!"

I laugh loudly at her as she pulls a grumpy face and I doubt she ever has a bad day, she is so bright and full of life, that I know I could not have a better person to distract me from any dark and threatening thoughts. I am suddenly feeling a little lighter and a little more confident. Last nights unwanted trip down memory lane feels like a distant dream, but I know I can't keep it that way but for the meantime I will do all in my power to distract myself.

xXx

I sit on the very edge of the elegant and ornate looking chair in what Raffyn informs me is the King's private study. Oropher should like to speak to me, and right now I feel like a little girl waiting on an appraisal from her scary headmaster. Yet I know that my first meeting with Oropher would suggest he is not a wicked or angry elf, but at that point I did not know he was a King, now that I do that kind of changes things. I sort of feel I am dealing with some kind of A lister and I should be on my very best behaviour.

The door opens and I nearly jump clean off my chair. Oliel told me to stand when a member of the Royal family enters a room and to curtsy. This was followed by short but very trying 101 of the perfect curtsy, as of yet I am failing miserably but Oliel promises we will work on it in our free time.

Oropher enters and drifts to his own seat behind a grand desk filled with books and parchments, all very official and important looking. I go to curtsy but he shakes his head and gestures for me to sit down. Dammit I was mentally preparing for this moment and now I don't even get to test my curtsy...typical! He settles himself down and leans across the table in a non-threatening but commanding way nonetheless, he smiles warmly and I feel suddenly at ease...whoa he is talented!

"Good morning my dear, how do you fare?" he asks in a pleasant voice.

"Uh...good I'm good, fit as a fiddle!" Oooh painful, I am embarrassed for myself. He laughs softly and shakes his head, his silvery locks shining perfectly, - again I am filled with the desire to reach out and touch his hair. He is beautiful he is almost painful to look at it. I feel like an ugly gremlin before him, I am not even worthy enough to breath the same air as this incredible creature.

"You are very different Clara, I still cannot place you and I am usually gifted with art of placing the heritage of elves," he muses and leans back on his chair observing me with a curious look. "You are not silvan or any of the other lesser elves; you are too beautiful and tall to be."

I blush the deepest shade of pink at his compliment and attempt to find my voice; "I...I...um....well I would not say I am those things."

"Oh come now child accept a compliment when it is given to you," he laughs but there is a hint of impatience in his voice that tells me that he does not suffer fools or dithering idiots - oh dear I am going to have a very hard job of impressing him; "Though you have not seen the light of Valinor so I cannot say that you are of the Noldor. I would say you are a Sinda but you do not act like one of my own. Tis very strange and a riddle I should like to know the answer too but it matters little. You are most welcome here Clara and this is your home for as long as you choose for it to be so."

"Thank you, I am really grateful you have no idea," I mutter but remind myself to stop the gushing and remember my manners. The King's face grows suddenly serious and I feel a little uneasy.

"I trust then that I have your loyalty? As a civilian of this realm and a member of my court I expect you to submit to my rule and acknowledge me as your King, can you do this?"

"Of course!" I squeak in a panic, "You have shown me nothing but acceptance and care since I arrived here, I have no way of repaying you but to be indebted to you."

"I do not hold to debts though your sincerity touches me," his voice returns to a softer tone and the tension suddenly leaves me. I realise he was testing me, ensuring I had nothing to hide - smart elf! He pauses for a long moment and continues to casually observe me and I start to squirm uncomfortably under his gaze.

"My son has insisted that you are the only one qualified enough to be trusted with Legolas, I am a little less sure but I see how the child responds to you and I will not deny he is much more happier with the presence of an elleth in his life. It seems you have impressed Thranduil in some way and I am in no position to question him, I am only concerned that you have been through a terrible trauma and it is no easy feat working so closely with my family. With that in mind I must insist you continue to receive care from the healers, if nothing else it will ensure you are healthy and able to care for my grandson. Can you do this?"

"Yes your majesty," I say and bow my head, I understand he is only monitoring my mental state because a cracked up she elf caring for your precious grandson and heir is not really what any Grandfather wants. So it is even more imperative that I keep control of these crazy thoughts that keep popping up in my head in the lonely hours, because I really do not want to mess up this chance.

"Then thank you Clara for accepting my son's proposition, know that we are very honored to have you and Legolas in particular is most pleased with your decision," a glint of amusement crosses the King's eyes that makes me smile. "Speaking of whom, I shan't keep you any longer for I know he is quite impatient to be reunited with his friend."

"As am I," I say shyly and Oropher gives me a knowing smile.

I know I am welcomed now and as long as I do good by his family I have nothing to fear. He gestures for me to leave and I stand, curtsy - yes haha got that one in - and make for the door. As I push through the door it takes all of about three seconds before I register the little person charging across the expanse of hallway towards me.

"Clara!" Legolas shrieks and in less than a minute he and I are engaged in a very overdue cuddle, with me crouched on the floor. I feel tears prick my eyes but I refuse to cry like the big sop that I am, I am just so happy to see this little monster again.

"Ugh I have missed you!" I mutter as he strangles me with his bone crushing hug, but I don't care he can choke me if he wants.

"Me too!" he wails and then pulls back to give me a very stern look, "What took you so long?"

"Me?" I gasp "What do you mean what took me so long? I thought you had run away and left me!"

"Never!" he cries and hangs around my neck in another hug, "Ada says you are going to be my caretaker now and that I must be very good for you and do as I am told! But I said that I am always good for you. Clara does that mean you are going to stay with me forever now?"

I chuckle at his ramblings, his mind is so quick it just jumps from one thought to the next, it is just a privilege to be trusted by this child; "Yes I am staying for as long as you need me."

This statement is welcomed with a loud cheer and another bear hug, this time I haul myself from my crouched position on the floor and hoist Legolas so he is resting on my hip. He helpfully clings to my torso and supports his own weight so he is not a complete dead weight in my arms, the two of us grin excitedly at each and I can see the cogs in his head turning as he imagines up some more fun filled adventures for us. I am relieved and very honoured to be allowed to play such a vital part in his early life, I don't know if in this reality this little boy grows into the hero written about in fictional books, but I do know this much he will grow up to be a wonderful being and he will always be my little hero.

"Do not carry him Clara he is perfectly capable of walking!"

I peer around Legolas' blonde head and give a little guilty smile as I clock the Prince leaning against a pillar a few feet away. I suppose he has been there the whole time and watched the whole exchange, for even though his face is mostly expressionless there is a hint of smile tugging on his lips. Legolas sighs in my arms and clings closer to me, jutting out his chin in defiance of his father.

"It's alright," I interject not wanting to be the sole purpose of an argument, "It's just this once and it is really more of a cuddle!"

Thranduil openly smiles now as he carefully makes his way towards us, he is without his crutch and I can tell he is pushing himself and maybe a little too prematurely, but it's not my place to say. He grips Legolas' chin between his thumb and finger, tilting the boy's head to look at him and they study each for a moment. It's like they are conversing in some strange way, I can't quite describe it but for a split second I almost sense the bond they share, and it's amazing - so loving and pure.

"Uuma ma' ten' rashwe Legolas, ta tuluva a' lle," Thranduil utters the phrase quietly, like a reminder or a warning, but it is playful and he taps his son on the nose.

Legolas pouts for a moment but it is short lived and he is suddenly squirming out of my arms and yelling for his Grandpa who has emerged from his study. The elder elf makes a show of surprise at seeing his grandson and kneels down to listen intently to whatever spiel the youngster has thought up now. I think this little man gets far too much attention, but I haven't seen any other elfling's since I got here so there must be no cousins or playmates around. I think that shall be my challenge, to find Legolas children his own age to play with, he needs that sort of companionship. Basically he needs to not be like his Father or for that matter me! I do not want him to be a social recluse!

With the absence of Legolas in my grasp I am acutely aware of how close Thranduil stands to me, I half expected him to leave but he doesn't he just stands there intent on making me feel uncomfortable and more than a little self-conscious. I nervously divert my gaze and play with the hem of my new dress, pretending to be very interested the gold stitching.

"Lle maa quell," He says to me with what I decipher as sarcasm, and when I glare at him accusingly he chuckles.

"What did you call me?" I inquire and try to remain composed about it, after all the King is about ten feet away.

"Hmm," he muses and looks me over, "I could really say anything I want and you will not have the slightest idea what I am talking about."

"In some civilized cultures that is considered rude!" I snipe, he really does irritate me.

"Like the culture you were brought up in?"

"Yes precisely!"

"This is not helping your memory loss plea Clara."

For a few moments I glare indignantly at him; how? How does he manage that every single time? And why do I keep giving him ammunition? Good grief Clara think before you speak! He shakes his head and continues to laugh softly at my expense;

"Think faster my friend, or the healers will catch you out!" He whispers with a wink.

"Huh?" Is my best response, I am now not so sure if he is friend or foe. I thought for sure he wanted to unearth my secrets but now he is giving me advice, really what is his game! I don't get it!

He rolls his eyes in the direction of his father and makes a quietening motion and I nod, for he is right Oropher will only want me to divulge what memories I have and I can't do that. I really can't, I can't even deal with them myself. Oropher glances towards his son and gives him a worried glance, the kind of look you get when someone is constantly questioning your mental state and I realize Thranduil may have similar issues as myself;

"It is alright Adar no need to panic, I am just having a very ordinary conversation nothing sinister!"

The sarcasm dripping in his voice makes Oropher sigh in exasperation and I can tell almost instantly that this father son relationship is not exactly all sugary. Thranduil grins sweetly at his father and Oropher tuts and returns his attention back to his Grandson.

"Nothing sinister?" I squeak, suddenly wanting to know exactly what was meant by that.

"Oh Adar seems to think I am always about a minute away from snapping something in two," he replies breezily and I gulp reflexively; "Do not worry I feel quite calm today."

"Good to know," I say in a rather shrill voice that makes him laugh loudly.

"You look good," he compliments slightly out of the blue and I narrow my eyes at him in confusion. "That is what I said to you, 'Lle maa quel.' It means you look good, freedom suits you."

"Oh sorry," I blush furiously at my social ineptitude but I really can't keep up with this Elvish/English conversation; "Thanks, yea it feels good to be out of the healing halls, so 'la ma kell.' to you too!"

"Not quite Clara but good attempt," Thranduil chuckles and smiles at me almost fondly, "But thank you all the same."

I realize I am smiling goofily at him and quickly I shake my head and clear my throat trying to diffuse my awkwardness, but he seems unperturbed or just plain uninterested. I think? Although I can't be sure, but I think that Thranduil and I have developed common ground. Interesting turn of events, maybe Ollie is right about him - dammit Oliel Oliel Oliel ugh too much elvish!

Thranduil is about to say something to me but stops and his head snaps sideways and he frowns at seemingly nothing down the hallway. I curiously follow his gaze and soon become aware of approaching footsteps;

"Adar, is that Ithril?" He asks with a hint of annoyance.

"Yes," is the King's simple reply but I catch Legolas' reaction, his face falls and he looks like he is about to protest vehemently to the arrival of this Ithril person.

"I thought we decided that we were to cancel Legolas' tutoring for today, I had wanted to spend the morning with him," Was Thranduils hissed reply through gritted teeth. I feel like I should slink into a corner and not be privy to this family domestic.

"Thranduil you need to rest and we agreed normality is what is best right now, besides Legolas loves to see Ithril," Oropher replies in a devil may care tone, there is no arguing with him that is unless you are Legolas.

"No I don't!" he interjects and stamps his little foot in frustration, I fully understand I never really liked school or teachers much either as a child. "I want to stay with Clara! Ada you promised me!"

Oh crap this is going to end in tears and the footsteps are getting closer and Thranduil looks like he is going to snap something in two now and whoa...I am standing way to close to him. I shuffle a few steps back in case he decides to hulk out on us and I feign disinterest in the conversation.

"Dina Legolas," Thranduil speaks calmly to his son and gestures for him to come stand by him whilst Oropher and he share a frosty look, obviously this argument will be continued later. Legolas does as he is told but makes no secret of his sulking.

The disapproving looks in the room almost completely vanish as soon as Ithril enters, but I do notice subtle changes. Thranduil subconsciously twists the injured side of himself away from view, obscuring his face with the high collar of his long green robe. He clearly does not wish to be here and Legolas is no different as he attempts to make himself disappear in the folds of his Father's robe. Oropher is the only one who remains unperturbed and acts very much like nothing out of the ordinary has happened.

Ithril is stunning; she would make a Victoria secret model green with envy with her flawless everything. She was easily as tall as Thranduil with perfectly curled honey coloured locks that fell to way beyond her waist. I have no words to describe her other than if Aphrodite had a younger better looking sister, Ithril would be her. The only problem though is that this she elf knows how sublimely perfect she is, she walks like royalty and is the type that expects complete adoration. I expect that although she is physically the definition of beauty her spirit is not, a sort of Regina George of the elf world. Oh meow Clara aren't you jealous, jeez she hasn't even opened her mouth yet and I hate her, I need to stop this judgmental thing it is not at all becoming of an elf!

She stops and seamlessly flows into the perfect curtsy, I am of course taking mental notes, but there is no way in hell that I will ever be able to do that. She straightens up and blinks in surprise at Thranduil;

"Heru en amin"," she bows again, "Oio naa elealla alasse."

"Mae govannen Ithril," Is Thranduil's gracious reply but he makes no more attempt to hold conversation with the elleth.

There is a forced and formal elvish dialogue between Ithril and Legolas, and Legolas tries vainly to argue his way out of his lessons today. I watch sadly as Thranduil kneels down to his son and is forced to command him to go with Ithril, who I have assumed as his teacher. Though I cannot understand what is being said I know the prince is unhappy about this and Legolas is downright devastated, but he is a good kid and goes with his teacher without much more fuss. As he leaves he turns to wave at me with a defeated look, I wave cheerily back and mouth to him that I will see him later, this at least brings a small smile to his despairing countenance. I do however note that Ithril is yet to acknowledge me, nil points for the beauty queen, I am disliking her even more at this rate she could be my nemesis!

Without another word the room empties leaving only Thranduil and I, though I know he is in no mood for conversation now. All the happiness seems to be sucked out of him and he seems to be having some kind of internal argument with himself. I stand quietly off to the side, mostly because I am not sure how to get back to my quarters and keep all my fingers and toes crossed that Oliel or Raffyn will appear any moment and give me my excuse to leave, alas they do not. Eventually after the longest awkward silence known to man I speak, because, well I am really tired of standing;

"Um...your highness...could you um, point me back in the direction of my new chambers please?"

Thranduil startles and looks me up and down like he had completely forgotten I was even there. I watch as he tries to rearrange his features so that they are less threatening and more hospitable, he even attempts a half smile;

"Yes of course I can show you," he murmurs softly, "but you are going to have to let me lean on your arm, I am afraid I cannot get very far without my crutch."

"Oh I didn't mean for you to take me even if you just sho-" I start but he cuts in.

"No you will never remember! This place is a rabbit warren, I do not mind it seems I have nothing else better to do this morning anyway," he mutters and limps toward me.

I offer out my arm and he takes it gratefully, he leans into me but not too much he is trying very hard to make himself walk normally. I can still feel thick bandages through his sleeves and I try my best not to be too rough with my movements. He keeps his eyes fixed straight ahead and does not speak much, only to point out landmarks that will help me find my way around. I deliberately stop every now and again just to pretend that I am taking mental notes of my whereabouts, in truth I am giving him a rest from walking for it is draining him,I can see him visibly wilt. Once we reach the familiar hallway that leads to my shared living chambers, I stop and bite my lip considering the boldness of my next question, do ordinary elves get to invite royalty into their lounge, because technically it is his house...castle...cave...thing?

"Would you like a drink?" I ask as we reach the archway, "and maybe a rest?"

He sighs and nods; "I really do not think I have a choice in the matter."

"Well good because I make a really good cup 'o water," I add with a smirk.

Thranduil gives a gentle laugh and I sigh with relief, thank heavens for that! I was very concerned for a moment that I had nearly killed the prince by making him walk this far. Thankfully he is still able to crack a smile so all is well. Though he has significantly paled and looks as though he is about to collapse at any minute. I dutifully help him to a seat and go fetch water, from the well in the garden, that I am quite proud I know how to operate. If I learnt anything from my time is the healing halls it was how to draw water, honestly I make this primitive living thing look easy! Just call me Clara the bear Grylls! Now for the hard part, awkwardly trying to hold conversation with an elf prince, yes I did not really think this through did I?

Though I need not worry for as I reach the beautiful archways that enter into the lounge I practically leap several feel in the air when I hear a delighted shriek. I clutch the pitcher of water to myself and attempt to bring my heart down a notch, once my mind kicks in I decipher the excited babbling as Oliel...that woman is going to kill me with sheer joy. I timidly amble into the room and watch in amusement as Oliel practically vibrates with happiness at the sight of her friend. Thranduil pulls her into a loose embrace and the two mutter elvish endearments to one another. Thranduil nods his head towards me and Oliel gives him a kindly look;

"Did I not tell you he is a good elf?" Oliel smiles as she hurries towards me and takes the pitcher from me, then guides me into the huddle, "Bringing you back to your quarters...and others call him thoughtless."

"Well I had reason to come," Thranduil replies with a tired voice, "Oliel I have not seen you since I returned! This is despicable, you are not acting like a friend at all!"

"Thranduil your Adar said no visitors, you know what he is like, I cannot overstep my mark I have a good thing here," Oliel scolds.

"Do not listen to him, I never do!" He scoffs and gratefully takes the cup that she has just poured.

"Yes I know that is what gets you into these messes," She frowns and waggles her finger at him, hinting at his injuries.

I quietly sit down on the edge of a low table and attempt to look engaging but I am a little bit gutted, I thought the prince had escorted me back here out of the goodness of his heart! His actual agenda was to see his friend, typical, yet I suppose I should not be annoyed I mean why on earth would he want to keep company with me? I let out a soft laugh and shake my head at my own silly self centered attitude and then realise I did so out loud, and both elves are looking curiously at me...oops!

"Sorry I got distracted, don't mind me carry on," I quickly say and then shake my head, "In fact I should probably leave and let you guys catch up."

I stand up and Oliel jumps in front of me with outstretched hands; "No do not be silly stay, I want you to stay."

"No it's fine I have to...go...do something productive, you know earn my keep," I say breezily and pretend like I am actually not annoyed in the slightest because truthfully I have no right to be. I turn to Thranduil and curtsy; "Thank you your highness for being so giving of your time."

"It was nothing," he replies but I can tell he is a little baffled by me.

I do not wait another minute I quickly stride across to the table, lift my papers and a charcoal pencil that I left there from the night before, and exit the room intent on finding that beautiful fountain from the day before. I have a few hours before Legolas will be requiring my presence and I so miss the sensation of getting lost in my art. I need the distraction besides I do not want to be a third wheel to the BFF reunion, though part of me wishes I had that. That I could join in and be part of their friendship but I can't because it's like wedging myself into a life that I was not meant to exist in, like I upset the balance of things. No it is a much better idea if I keep a distance at least for awhile. Thranduil is royalty and I need to learn what that means. I need to learn a lot of things, so much that my head is swimming at the prospect, and this is why I need to draw. I need to draw to keep myself from cracking up.

***AUTHOR NOTE***

Aw man, I wasn't expecting any comments or love so soon. But thanks Raider-k and Elf_and_an_Agent, for being real gems and welcoming me to the fray.

Elvish translation time :)

Mellon nin - My friend

Uuma ma' ten' rashwe Legolas, ta tuluva a' lle - Do not look for trouble Legolas, it will find you.

Lle maa quell - You look good

Dina Legolas - Quiet/be silent Legolas

Heru en amin ... Oio naa elealla alasse - My Lord! ... Ever is thy sight a joy!

Mae govannen Ithril - Well met Ithril (common elvish greeting)

Thank you so much for reading, voting etc...and please let me know how I am doing, it is great hearing from everyone! :)