Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they belong to J.R.

Author's Note: Thank you for your reviews and constructive aid.

Grammar/Vocabulary Alert: I believe "guilted" should be a word, as so I will use it as such. Forgive me my offense, O Honorable Grammar Police. I respect all you do, but I'm willing to fight for that one (as well as "vampiric"-though it doesn't pertain to this tale-I believe it would be a very helpful adjective). But enough of me rambling and on with the story.


Chapter 2


"Nana doesn't help ready us anymore," Elrohir remarked sadly as he finished his braid. He glanced over to his twin, who obviously needed the help far more than he. Elladan, with his tunic hanging, hair disheveled, and unpolished boots, looked decidedly worse and to think this was him before they went to training. Suddenly, Elrohir's slightly sloppy braid looked quite tidy.

Elladan shrugged a shoulder, feigning indifference. "Are you nearly finished?"

"Yes, but…are you certain you don't want me to tie your hair for you? Master Cyan gets cross about that."

His twin didn't respond, but he continued, "I-I know that I…I know that I do not braid as perfectly as Nana but I-"

"Yes Ro, I would like you to aid me," he mumbled softly.

Elrohir quickly grabbed his comb and a tie before setting to work.

"You are lucky," Elrohir announced whilst plaiting his brother's hair. "Your braid will be far better than mine."

"It's hard to braid one's own hair," Elladan agreed. "I will help you with yours tomorrow."

There was silence before a soft, "Thank you, Dan."

"Now, come and let's depart. After all, 'Promptness is an essential quality for those in our position.'" He mimicked while tying his scabbard.

"Erestor?" The younger questioned.

"Yes."

"You're getting eerily good at that impression."

"Yes, a talent I bear with a great pain."

"It is only fencing today?" Elrohir confirmed tentatively.

"Indeed. Tomorrow will require both."

"Then I am set, Let us make haste."

Then they were off, tearing down the halls as children were wont to do; skidding through corners, jumping stairs and dodging people with practiced ease; simultaneously amusing and irritating a fair share of servants passing by.

With a carefree nature, they ambled through the courtyard, running…running to the outside where the air was fresh and sunshine guaranteed on this fine spring day. Outside where rules didn't hover quite so near and the sun smiled down on them from its spot high in the azure sky.

Elrohir took a deep breath—winded by their sprint. He glanced to his brother (who was gulping air as well) and was pleased to see Elladan's eyes brighten at last. He had begun to worry about his twin. Elladan's eyes were of a bright silver, flickering and flashing like gems in the sky. It was suiting, for Elladan's head was often in the clouds fantasizing glorious adventures. Hence, when those eyes grew dull they were as fallen stars, and Elrohir would try his best to return them to their former height and happiness.

"We seem to be quite early," Elladan noted rather breathlessly.

It was true. The field was devoid of anyone. Not even the practice dummies and training armor had been set. Still, if they were very early than this was not unusual.

They strode to their normal meeting spot, an area with extremely soft tufts of grass—no doubt to cushion tumbling elflings.

Each sat catching his breath and waiting anxiously, though for different reasons. Elladan loved swordplay and was eager to learn more moves. The more he knew, the better a warrior he could become. Elrohir lacked love for blades, preferring his bow, and was nervous on how he should perform. Being twins, they were constantly compared and he did not wish to measure up poorly.

Now, Elladan wasn't terribly patient. He was an elf of action with a boundless store of energy. It made him a worthy opponent, an inexhaustible playmate, and a notorious nuisance at dinner parties. These facts were well-known by many, especially his brother, whose unofficial job was to placate him.

For unlike his brother, Elrohir had been blessed with a great amount of patience and reason. It was Elrohir's personal belief that it was a means to reign in his wayward brother. Elladan believed it was a colossal mix-up. He remarked that since they had developed together the Valar were confused when assigning qualities. Each had gotten double of what they needed. Elladan said it was terribly unfair that Elrohir had twice as much sense when he direly needed some.

He often joked that his twin was easily the better half. (Many agreed with that.) He lamented that were he without his twin he'd have already perished to some reckless, foolish deed. (Many agreed and often voiced that.)

Normally, Elrohir would just chuckle and pull one of his brother's braids, admonishing him for his teasing. What he kept private was that he thought the exact same thing, and held a certain envy of Elladan's unyielding courage.

However, whenever he hinted this, Elladan swiftly assured it wasn't so much bravery than a lack of sense. From there, many eavesdropping on their conversation, would also assure Elrohir that reasoning was far superior to reckless bravery. They would praise him while scolding his brother, who would simply smile and nod, letting their barbed statements wash over him.

Elrohir was unsure what he hated worse: the cruelties purposely aimed at his brother, or the way that Elladan would just grin and bear it. Or maybe it was his jealousy again, that Elladan did not care what others thought and said. It was a quality he greatly desired, and maybe if he had it…he would defend his brother when people started in on him.

In other words, the brothers were a curious pair: one impulsive and one reserved. So when even Elrohir began fidgeting, they knew something was amiss: why had no one arrived?

"Well, no answer is coming to me. I fear we'll have to seek it," the elder twin announced, promptly climbing to his feet.

"Still. What if someone comes?" the younger questioned uncertainly.

"Ro. We were early, but not that early. The sun is setting now. Lessons would be ending even had they ever begun. Let us at least know the reason for this waste of time."

The younger nodded and stood hesitantly before following his brother.

"Dan, where are we going?"

"To the real training field."

"What? Dan, we're not allowed. Only warriors and adults can enter because-"

"-they are wise and practiced. Which is exactly why we have need of them. If the adults are always so informed, than doubtless they will have the answer we seek."

Head held high and shoulders squared, Elladan heaved open the door to the private courtyard. After his brother slipped in, he shut it and they openly admired the atmosphere.

This area was reserved for the warriors. They saw veterans as well as novices testing moves and sharing advice. Archers were practicing their marksmanships. And the swordsmen who weren't sparring, were carefully tending their blades. Full sized blades Elladan noticed with longing, not a childish blunt one like his own. How he longed to be counted as an equal among them.

Sadly, no sooner had they entered the grounds, they were stopped. A grating tone broke whatever fantasy that had been playing in Elladan's eyes.

"What purpose brings you here?" The elf asked harshly.

"Answers," he barked back just as gruffly. Just who was this elf to question him? Speaking of which, he'd never even seen this elf before. His countenance would have gained him remembrance, especially since Nana and Glorfindel were some of the only blonde elves in Rivendell.

"Oh really?" the elf sneered to his companions, other fair haired elves he didn't recognize. "And just what question does an elfling like you have to ask us? You seem far too young to share interests with us."

"Yes, my horizon is still wide," he bit back cheekily, "but I need help in locating Master Cyan."

"Poor little elfling lost and alone."

"Lost? In my own estate? I think not. Alone?" he glanced at his brother, "I am not. Disappointed? Most assuredly, I am. Several statements have you made, each increasingly more ridiculous. Perhaps, I was wrong in coming here. The adults are neither helpful nor knowledgeable. How sad for our lands, Gwador."

By this time, a good amount of attention had focused on them. Elrohir, noticing the glares coming their way, began tugging on his brother's sleeve.

As an ill-wishing crowd began to surround them, Elrohir redoubled his efforts, trying to drag his brother from his stare down with the rude elf.

Finally, an authoritative voice cut the air, "Just why in Arda's name are you congregating here for? We do not block entrance ways, you imbeciles."

The novices swiftly parted before the Senior Captain of the Guard, who was not known for his kindness towards disorder.

His eyes swept over the young elves, his irritation mounting. Trust the new upstarts to commence the trouble. His eyes eventually reached the two small figures.

He glanced upon them momentarily stunned, "What…What are you two doing here?"

"Precisely what I asked them, sir," The elf replied haughtily flicking a blond strand from his face.

"Rather rudely," Elladan supplied. The elf and his companions narrowed their eyes.

"Enough. Luronin apologize," Captain Terran ordered.

"What?" was his flabbergasted response.

"Were you not transferred to Rivendell to complete your training?"

"Yes."

"Were you not instructed to accept all laws of Rivendell and to uphold them to the best of your abilities?"

"Yes."

"Are you aware of the proper conduct required when associating with figures of higher rank than yourself?"

"I am, sir."

"Than swiftly apologize to the young masters, Elladan and Elrohir, heirs of Lord Elrond of Imladris. For in disrespecting them, you insult milord, myself, the rest of the warriors here whom fight to defend them, and your own Lord and Lady, who are the grandparents of these children."

By now, the veterans had made their way over, to view the disarray. Catching the end of their Captain's tirade they sent the Lothlorien novices disapproving glances.

Through gritted teeth Luronin replied, "I sincerely apologize for my grievous words and hope you have taken no injury to heart."

Thankfully, Elladan managed to hold the snort that nearly escaped at 'sincerely'.

"Very well, you are excused, return to the archery area. I saw you practicing and you greatly need improvement," the Captain stated, hiding his satisfaction as the younger elf flushed. He swiftly left their presence, his friends lagging after him.

The Captain nodded and than eyeing the crowd which had yet to disperse inquired with a deceivingly light voice, "Have I missed something? Has something amusing occurred? Are we thy entertainment?"

Elrohir doubted he ever saw elves flee so fast in his life.

Assured that they could now hold a private conversation, Terran returned his gaze to the elflings.

"What are you children doing here? You know you are forbidden from entering here. And should your Adar discov-"

"Yes, yes we know," Elladan huffed. The Captain raised an eyebrow at the interruption but kept his silence. "I-it's just. Sir?" He looked up at the battle hardened elf, "Sir, where is Master Cyan? It has been hours and neither he nor the other elflings ever arrived."

Whatever excuse Terran had been expecting (and with Elladan he had received quite a few, for the elder twin longed to practice here) it wasn't that.

"Under normal circumstances, we wouldn't have come here but…it's late now…and you were the nearest aid at hand. So we…"

The captain raised a hand to stop him, "Do you mean to tell me that the two of you have spent the last several hours waiting for an instructor who wasn't coming?"

"Wasn't coming?" Elrohir piped up, "What do you mean?"

The captain rested his head in his hand and gave them a weary smile, "Cyan sprained his ankle on the last hunt. Lessons have been cancelled until we find someone to fill his place till he is healed."

"There was no practice," Elladan grumbled flatly.

"No, there was not. Surely, your father told you, I am certain Cyan sent him a message."

"He did not tell us," Elrohir murmured softly.

Feeling the mood darken as both twins crossed their arms in resentment, Terran desperately tried to change the topic.

"Considering you did not know of the change, you acted very maturely. It is not easy waiting for so long a time, even for old elves like me."

He received no response as each elflings' lips pursed in frustration and distress.

Still, he vainly continued hoping to ease their hurt feelings with a bit of praise. "You were right to come here. In fact, should anything like this occur again I want you to return here the moment the first hour ends. Seek out myself or any other guards' member, we will always aid you. Understood?"

They both gave a stiff nod.

He sighed and placed a hand on each twins shoulder, "I'll escort you in, shall I?"

"You do not need to," Elrohir said softly. "We know our way and we've already distracted you enough."

"Sometimes I need distraction, it keeps a warrior sharp. Does it not, Elladan?"

But Elladan did not respond. He was too caught up in his distraught. All he could think of was how it had happened again. Again, Ada had forgotten them. Again, they had been tossed aside.


As he feared, Elrond was too late to bid goodbye to the twins. Odd, because he was certain that it was still a good hour until the lesson started. Nonetheless, he supposed that he should feel proud that they had left early. It meant they were becoming more responsible…that was good…even if it meant he saw them less.

Not looking forward to the prospect of returning to his office so soon, he decided to visit his wife. He found her in Arwen's nursery embroidering a new baby blanket. At his raised eyebrow she explained that the twins' old one had been far too worn.

Celebrian held up the soft cloth for his inspection. Though clearly unfinished, it was lovely nonetheless.

"Blossoms," she smiled, "for the newest bud of our family. May she bloom spectacularly."

"I have no doubts," Elrond smiled. "She has her mother's beauty."

His wife laughed merrily, setting her sewing aside and coming forth for a kiss; which he happily obliged.

"Adar and Naneth are on their way. How I have missed them," she murmured against his neck.

Elrond said nothing, merely enjoying this moment. She reclined her head to gaze into his eyes, "Are you troubled, my husband?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Why do you not answer?"

He sighed, "The coming week will be…trying."

"Thranduil is not an ogre, darling."

"Are you certain?"

She pulled back and gave him a playful swat. "He is my kinsman, dear. Try to be civil."

He scoffed, enfolding her back into his arms, "I am always civil."

She rested her weight against him, trusting him to support her.

"You are exhausted," he remarked, resting his chin on her head. She mumbled an incoherent agreement. "I am as well" he stated.

"Must be," she answered. "You did not notice your shadow."

"What?"

She chuckled and nudged him to look behind.

Sure enough, leaning casually against the door frame-

"Glorfindel! What are you doing here?"

He grinned and shrugged a shoulder, "I thought you were seeking the twins. Apparently not."

Elrond gave a half-hearted glare, "They were already off to training."

"So soon?" Celebrian asked in surprise.

"Yes, I suppose they lef-wait you...you did not know?" Elrond inquired. "But I thought you helped ready them?"

"I…well I have had my hands full as of late," she defended with a glance to the cradle. "I assumed you'd been aiding them. They haven't said anything to me."

He shook his head. "Nay, I did not know. They did not ask me."

There was an awkward silence until Glorfindel sniggered, "So Elladan's been left to dress himself. I wondered why he's been looking worse for wear. I originally thought it was training, but now I know the true reason. His naneth has neglected her duties."

Celebrian glared, "You are more than welcome to lend some aid."

"I do," he argued his voice flashing cold for a moment. "I have taken over their lessons for Quenya."

Celebrian glanced at her husband in surprise. He was normally the one to tutor them in that subject.

Elrond sighed, "I have been busy preparing notes for my presentation regarding Thranduil. I have to ensure peace between our lands, should darkness continue to infiltrate."

"Glorfindel, would you kindly share the twins' schedule for these past weeks?" she asked softly, a worried gleam in her eye.

"If I am correct in my observations, the twins awake, go down to breakfast normally with myself or Erestor. Have lessons with me, followed by Falro, than Erestor. Than a break for midday meal and some play time, before heading off to weapons training. They then return for the evening meal, finish whatever assignments they have left and then turn in for the night."

"I have spent many evening meals with Arwen," she realized, biting her lip, "meaning the only time I have been seeing them is at midday meal."

"Lately, my evening meals have been taken at my office. I, too, only see them at midday and passing by through the corridor."

They shared a serious glance. This did not bode well.

"Our lives have been so busy…no that is a poor excuse," Celebrian berated herself. "I have been careless. I've been so happy tending my daughter, I've neglected my sons. I cannot prune one rose and ignore the rest of my garden. How foolish I have been."

"You are not alone," Elrond groaned, trying and failing to block out the image of a pleading Elladan desperate for aid with his essay. The child could write, but he couldn't spell.

But Elrond had been in the middle of a difficult tax equation, and he shooed the boy away. An overwhelming sense of frustration permeated him; Elladan wasn't quick to ask for help, choosing to struggle long and hard before seeking aid. And to be sent away…Elrond would be lucky if the child asked anything of him for the next two weeks.

"Something must be done," Celebrian remarked at last.

"Indeed. I will try to finish an appropriate amount of work and we will spend the night together."

His wife nodded, "I'll inform the cooks that all of us will be present."

It was strange how that simple sentence hurt; that eating together, as a family should, had become an abnormality for them. Elrond shook his head, dislodging the thought as he strode back to his office; soon everything would settle down and peace would return.

Several hours and a multitude of scrolls later, Elrond placed down his quill.

"I am finished for this night."

Glorfindel, who had been guilted into helping, happily slammed his book shut. "Oh and what about these letters? You said you were going to read them."

"Tomorrow," he announced stifling a yawn.

"Are you certain? I think this one is from Master Cyan," Glorfindel noted while fiddling with the parchment.

"He's probably inquiring about why I won't separate the twins again. I'll read it later."

"Why should he want to separate them?" Glorfindel asked in shock.

"He feels that Elrohir would do better without his twin."

Glorfindel chuckled, "Elladan could be rather intimidating."

Elrond appraised him, "Do you think they should be split?"

"I do not know. Elrohir might indeed do better, but I am not sure of Elladan."

Elrond frowned, "Enlighten me."

"Elladan does not make friends easily."

The Lord of Imladris mulled this around thoughtfully, "Perhaps a separation could improve his social skills."

"Perhaps. Perhaps not. It could just as easily backfire, and make Dan terribly intolerable."

"Elladan needs to learn that just because you do not like someone, it does not give you leave to make them an enemy. I swear that child is constantly drawing battle lines."

Glorfindel swallowed the words he was going to share, though it burned his throat. Elrond was stressed enough, without insubstantial doubt as well. Still, unease settled in his mind, for Glorfindel had long harbored a fear about Elladan's nature.

Elladan, for all his fantasies, was extremely practical with an eerie sense of foresight. It often seemed that he could merely look at an elf and decide at once whether he was a friend or foe.

Elrond said it was deliberate, but Glorfindel was not so sure. The child would gaze at someone long and hard before coming to a decision. And once it was reached, he could not be swayed. If he did not know better, he would say that the child was not merely looking at them but through them. It made him think of Galadriel, and he wondered whether her grandson had inherited her ability of gazing through flesh.

All this combined to make him a stubborn elfling with an exceeding disdain. And like many bitten with the flaw of pride, he distanced himself; for the easiest way to deal with the world was drawing lines or rather circles.

Many people had them, though preferred not to notice. The circle that held family, the ring that had friends, than acquaintances, and so on and so forth until the enemies had been marked.

But Elladan preferred an even simpler institution, he had but two rings: those he trusted and those he did not.

And what scared Glorfindel was that once someone had fallen from the former, they never returned.

"It is nearly time for our evening meal," Elrond announced stretching his limbs. "I have two rambunctious elflings to greet and humble myself before."

"I'm certain the damage isn't too deep. A few statements of praise and a promise of toys will sway them back to your side."

"Let us hope," Elrond smiled, holding the door for his friend.

"Goodness, that was draining. No wonder your life has been slipping away. I nearly went mad in there."

"I know," Elrond agreed massaging his temples. "I fear I will fall prey to sleep soon."

"Ah, do not say that. If you lack energy, you will have to find some. How else will you regain your sons' favor? You must have enough enthusiasm to feign interest in whatever topic they lob your way."

"Glorfindel," he scolded "I do care what they have to say."

"I do as well," the Balrog Slayer swiftly amended, "only I sometimes wish they would edit the unnecessary bits."

"I do not. Though it is tiring, I am glad they say things so completely. That way I know they are not hiding anything. When they are of the age to edit, they will be of the age to lie."

Glorfindel made a face at that. The twins were already mischievous, but capable of deceit? That would be a dark day indeed.

"But let us not talk of that. My sons are still young and I would gladly hold them a while longer," he suddenly grinned, "even if I must endure an endless description of the days' ventures."

With his heart lighter than it had been for some time, Elrond made his way to the dining chamber. This night would end well, he would spend time with his family, and all the careless errors he'd been making would soon be righted.


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