Title: Passing
Prompt #12: Time
Author: Maranwe
Rating: G
Disclaimer: All recognizable characters, locations, etc., belong to their original creator. I make no money from the creation of this fic. It is intended for entertainment only.
A/N: Bonus chapter, in celebration of my new car. Now, if only my muse wasn't catatonic, I'd be good. Enjoy.

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Estel followed Elladan and Elrohir into the courtyard of the Last Homely House. His Ada was standing at the top of the front stairs waiting for them.

Before the first step, the twins stopped and bowed; a step behind and a second later, Estel followed suit. "Greetings, Ada," Elladan said. "Whole and hale, as promised."

Elrond smiled. "Be welcome, my sons." He glanced past them and the twins stepped aside to surrender center stage to their younger brother. "How was your first hunt, Estel?"

Estel's eyes lit up. "It was great, Ada! We saw rabbits and deer, and a wild pig that Elrohir made us steer clear of. And we camped in a tree the second night, but on the ground the third night, and fought Orcs the next morning."

"Orcs?" Elrond questioned sharply.

"Stunted trees," Elladan whispered.

"They were fierce and strong," Estel continued, "but we defeated them, didn't we, Elladan? And now the valley is safe, and we even brought back food."

"A worthy venture," Elrond agreed. "Now, go wash. I will have food brought to the balcony. I would hear more of your stories."

"Aye, Ada!"

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Estel felt a sense of déjà vu when he entered the courtyard following his first patrol with the Rangers – until Elladan and Elrohir stepped aside to talk to Glorfindel and motioned him forward on his own.

Elrond stood at the top of the stairs. He briefly met Elladan's gaze, who nodded, then Elrohir, who smiled. When he looked again on Estel, what he saw pleased him, and he agreed with the twins. He smiled. "What news, my son?"

"The North is secure, Ada," Estel said. "I have much to tell you."

"And I will hear it," Elrond agreed. "Then I have much to tell you. I think it will be to your liking."

"What is it, Ada?"

"In due time." Elrond guided him toward the house with a hand on his shoulder. "But first, you must wash."

Estel rolled his eyes.

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The courtyard before the Last Homely House was empty when Aragorn entered. His steps faltered. Surely word had reached the house? But no one stood upon the front step. He pressed his hand tighter against his side.

"What news, Ranger?"

Aragorn followed the voice, spying the elf lord on the balcony. "News of the North. I am in need of your counsel, my lord."

The fair face settled into grim lines. "Come up to my office. We will talk."

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Elrond found Elessar on the promontory overlooking the city. The winged crown sat nobly upon his brow. His back was straight. His hands rested on the banister.

The elf lord joined him and found the man's face set and grim. In the morning, they would leave for Edoras. They had already spoken, but –

Elrond put his hand on the man's shoulder. "I am glad."

Elessar looked at him – for a moment a boy. Then his expression eased, and though he turned back to the city, he clasped Elrond's hand on his shoulder.