"To Arwen and Aragorn. May they be bless with many children." Legolas led the toast. Many bawdy comments and further toasts followed as Aragorn swept his bride into his arms and whisked her from the hall. A love professed on the hill of Cerin Amroth on a summer solstice so many years before, finally was blessed and fulfilled. The party continued well after the couple's departure, although the numbers slowly diminished as some were tired from the week's festivities.
Glorfindel lent Elrond a steadying hand. The Lord of Imladris had been hard pressed to rest these last weeks. Since their long journey, he worked long hours at the House of Healing, helping to train young healers as well as sharing methods for rehabilitating the injured. With the sheer number of injured, Gondor's able healers were pressed into battlefield tactics and often amputation was chosen as most expedient to save lives. Yet, now months later, there was still much elves could do to aid those disabled by the war. Elrond and Silsilalda's services were well used. Elrond's voice broke into his thoughts.
"Do not worry, Mellon-nin. I am just tired." Elrond's smile did much to ease Glorfindel's mind, although the dark circles under the silver eyes told their own story. Elrond and his sons had been inducted into Dol Amroth's royal family, a move that Prince Imrahil had orchestrated to aid their new Queen's introduction into Gondorian society. The swan ring sat heavy and obvious on Elrond's long finger.
"I think I can manage the extra weight." The elegant arched brow accented the unexpected humor. Glorfindel laughed lightly, happy that his thoughts were so easily read.
"It would be best to wander slowly to our rooms." Glorfindel observed. Silsilalda appeared at Elrond's side as if to reinforce his statement.
"If you feel up to it, we should be able to observe Mithrandir's fireworks from the balcony, Ernil-nin." The name was intoned with a teasing lilt. Silsilalda had ever adopted the formal title for their Lord. They meandered slowly through the revelers, approaching the Prince of Dol Amroth, who was speaking with his younger son. Silsilalda slid aside to let the Prince approach.
"Elrond! Your children did Gondor proud. The ceremony and feasts surpassed all expectations. Generations will speak of this event." Imrahil clapped the Peredhil on the shoulder. The group around the prince consisted of his family, the sons of Elrond, Faramir and Eomer. Eomer's guard stood within eyesight, in awe of the illustrious gathering yet unwilling to entrust their King's safety to others.
"Thank you," Elrond graciously accepted the compliment on behalf of his children. "Though I believe much thanks should go to your daughter and to Faramir. Their advice was indispensible and helped to blend the customs of Gondor with Arwen and Aragorn's wishes."
"Ah, newcomers always want to change everything. Yet, it is often better to observe of the old traditions."
"Mithrandir insists fireworks are an old tradition." Amroth laughed. "There is will be scant opportunity to view such sites if Mithrandir can not be convinced to remain in Gondor."
"It will be important for your people's safety to learn the concepts behind Mithrandir's works." Elrond's voice shook oddly. Silsilalda slipped forward to separate her Lord from the Edain Prince while Glorfindel discretely supported him.
"I bid you Lords good night." Imrahil recognized the foresight for what it was as he watched in wonder as these storied characters departed. Lothiriel, ever perceptive, appeared quietly at his side. He waited until the legends departed then turned to her.
"They appear so youthful, yet are so ancient." His daughter observed. "They make you think of Grandfather. Why?"
"I sense our new Queen will be dealing with loss and partings soon." He turned as Elphir tapped his shoulder.
"Why are you surprised?" His oldest son smiled wryly and motioned to where the large group was readying to walk out to the gardens. "The little folk are most entertaining. They have the logistics all worked out as to how we are to transport food and ale to the best location to take in the fireworks. Ale, I understand, but food? After such a feast?"
"Come, let us join Faramir." Across the banquet hall, Faramir sat with some of the fellowship.
"To a new era and new beginnings." Legolas raised his glass to toast.
"I just wish there had been word from my father." The comment slipped out. Legolas' heart went out to his friend. How much had he also fretted before the message arrived from Eryn Lasgalen. The new name for his homeland spurred joy nearly unfathomable. He hoped to be able to share that joy with his kinsmen, Adar and friends soon.
"I saw the supplies my Lord sent to the Lonely Mountain and to the Dale with the couriers and healers who could be spared. If they need anything further, it will be given promptly." Lindar sipped at the wine. His coloring similar to the wood elf's, though in stature he would never be mistake him for anything other than a minstrel.
"One given to premonitions and foresight was worried enough to send aid. That does not ease my fears." Gimli stated gruffly.
"Your people survived. Did not Lady Galadriel relay the news? It will take time for letters to travel such a distance, unless you think it possible that your father will come himself?" Lindar was amused by the idea of a contingent of dwarves entering Minas Tirith.
"To know that the battle also came to the Lonely Mountain, the Iron Hills, Lothlorien, the Greenwood, the Dale, and even Rivendell," Gimli paused unwilling to give voice to his deepest fears.
"I know something of the skill and stubbornness of Dwarves." Legolas raised his glass both of them harbored the same guilt of not being able to defend their homelands. "My heart says your people fought bravely and Adar says they were victorious. First and foremost after a battle is to care for the one who remain. Rejoice! Dol Guldor has been thoroughly vanquished and will never trouble our people again."
"You made the greatest impact here for all our people." Faramir reassured them. "I dare not imagine what might have been had you not supported Aragorn and the fellowship. This demonstration of solidarity between our people gives me great hope for our continued work to restore and rebuild."
"Faramir, your proposal on Ithilien is most intriguing. But first I must speak to my Adar." Legolas was surprised at the tenacity of the Steward.
"And tour the Glittering Caves." Gimli lifted his cup again.
"And tour the Glittering Caves." Legolas agreed. "But it may be unwise for an elf to visit the Lonely Mountain."
"Especially given what we now know of your Sire." One of the hobbits said while some of the others laughed. "Come, we must continue this conversation outside.
"We have engaged the Queen's brothers to carry the ale." Pippin happily announced. He and Merry were for some reason barred from helping Mithrandir with the Fireworks.
"The sons of Elrond, at your service." Elladan and Elrohir bowed cheekily to them. The play on dwarven manners had the desired effect on Gimli. Only his natural elven reserve that allowed Legolas to hold in his mirth, but he found himself smiling as he met Elladan's mischievous eyes. It was a merry gathering that processed out into the cool evening air. Groups were gathered in the gardens and along the streets. All awaited Mithrandir's fireworks, which soon boldly lit up the night sky in vibrant colors. The echoing booms followed by delightful colors would hopefully begin to replace frightening memories of the siege. The dark sky lit up with green flares, golden flowers, and burst of trailing red pellets like roses. Bawdy shouts about the happy couple rang out, not suitable for repeating in gentle company. Fountains and candles lit the sky over Minas Tirith gave way to a shape that suddenly resembled a flowering white tree. A great cheer rose from the crowd. Elrohir gasped in pain and looked over to his brother, who was also clutching at his chest. Both fought to clear the signs of pain from their faces. Arwen's choice was fulfilled at long last. Their strong sibling bonds stretched under the strain as their sister's spirit evolved.
"We will choose together." The thought echoes simultaneous in their heads. Elladan was thankful that everyone around them was focused on sights above.
"At least we knew and were prepared for it, unlike those first dark days after the Solstice festival of 2980, when we thought Arwen had met her end." Elrohir shivered. Arwen would meet her end far too soon.
"Do not think of that now, 'rohir. Look around us. People are filled with joy and hope for the future. It will be a future without Sauron and hopefully, without orcs. Did we not promise to rid Middle Earth of those creatures? Whenever our time comes, we will leave this world in good hands." Elladan slipped passed Gimli to stand next to his brother.
"Look around. Although there is hope and great expectations, there will be much hard work needed to rebuild the lands of the west. Aragorn and Arwen will need many allies. Eomer will as well. We will offer what expertise we can just as Adar and Silsi have been doing at the Houses.
"Yes, we will." Of this, Elrohir now felt certain. They would yet remain in Middle Earth for a while. Both reached for another ale to assuage the pain in their souls. Their family would be parted forever. Of their own choice, they had no wish to contemplate. Adar was not leaving yet. There was still time.
Xxxxxxxxxx Dawn xxxxxxxxX
The first glimpse of the dawn was just starting to brighten the horizon. Most of Minas Tirith was deeply asleep. With celebrations carrying on until the wee hours, some had likely only just entered their beds. Ironically, considering the number of ages he had witnessed, he needed little sleep. His lady, though, slept deeply these days for her stamina and power was greatly drained. She had granted some shield through Nenya to their beloved Lothlorien for much of the past age, but every last ounce of her strength was called upon to break the enchantments that concealed Dol Guldor from the combined forces of the elves.
The sky blushed, slowly spreading joy and promised potential, his spirit both rejoiced and quailed. For his heart greatly feared for Galadriel. Would she find true healing on this side of the sea? There was some consolation at the knowledge that his beloved slept contently cocooned in love after their passionate endeavors of the past few hours. Prince, warrior, councilor, refugee, leader, builder, gardener, spirit healer, lover, husband, Adar, Daeradar and care-giver – many titles had he held in the past and some he sought to hold on to in the future. The song of the land was softer in the city than during their travels, but the plea was the same. It called for him to help shepherd a renewal. He would heed the call and work with Thranduil to rebuild the lands that spanned Lothlorien and the Green Wood. There was much discussion about new names. Eryn Lasgalen seemed a valiant attempt by Thranduil to coax his wayward son back. Celeborn smiled and focused afar in the direction of the Thranduil's land, the first blush of day granted additional power and enabled mind-speak between Thingol's royal circle, a skill taught to them by Queen Melian.
"Good morning." Thranduil's voice was bright and awake, still the worried father searching for his son's spirit.
"He is well and represented the House of Oropher admirably in yesterday's ceremonies."
"He does not answer me." Thranduil's voice held an underlying note of concern.
"His time in these lands is no longer infinite." Celeborn waited for the words to sink in.
"The sea will steal him from me." Resignation sounded harsh. "How long?"
"He loves these mortals. He will preserve longer than is wise to be able to touch their lives."
"I should be thankful for that?" Thranduil's veiled answer was enough to evoke pain.
"The house of Oropher are difficult to persuade once they have made up their minds." Celeborn paused.
"She changed. I, too, can reevaluate my positions. Your Lady's power cleansed the stains of Dol Goldur, though the cost to her and to you was great. I and my people will ever be in her debt."
"No one is in anyone's debt. The family and descendants of Thingol are for the first time in millennia free from the long fight against Morgoth, Sauron and their minions."
"Praise Eru!" Thranduil replied. Their connection was growing weaker as the sun rose. A final exchange passed between them. "Bring him home to me."
"We shall." Celeborn felt the connection break. He blinked as the brightness of the morning filtered into his being. Below, in the city below there was still no one outdoors. Yet, he did detect grumblings from the suite below.
"What are the halflings doing! Do they know what time it is?"
"Time for breakfast!" Came Pippin's enthusiastic call.
Xxxxxxxxxx Two days after the wedding xxxxxxxxX
"Have you checked on him?" Erestor sat down.
"Silsilalda was here earlier." Cirulian continued after an awkward pause. "Our Lord requires rest."
"That an understatement if I ever heard one." Glorfindel entered with a tray piled generously with breads, meats, cheeses and marmalade. Their dear friend had slept through most of the day yesterday.
"How much do they think one elf can eat!" Erestor marveled at the amount.
"It is their Queen's father. It did not pass their notice that the Lord of Imladris has not been seen in two days, not since the wedding reception. I was fortunately able to dissuade them from loading up a cart when he did not appear for brunch. Elladan said they will join us as soon as they have tended to the new King's requests." The palace servants as well as the Gondorian nobles found it endearing that Elrond was 'under the weather'. For men, it was not unusual after such a feast day. Indeed, many in Gondor had stumbled out late if at all. But Elrond was the only elf who did not appear and had sent an apology for his absence.
"You should have sent word for a hobbit or two." Cirulian statement delivered in monotone was followed by a moment of silence before Erestor and Glorfindel broke into uncharacteristic laughter.
"What meal is at one o'clock?" Erestor feigned ignorance, although his friends knew this discussion had taken place many times with Bilbo. There was a soft splashing of water from the other room. Cirulian moved immediately to the door and opened it a crack.
"May I help you, Ernil-nin?" His voice was warm and amused. When there was no response he repeated. "Allow me to help you, Ernil-nin."
"If you wish, Cirulian," Came the soft reply. The guard nodded to the others, then slipped into the room, closing the door behind him. Erestor and Glorfindel traded a long look before moving towards the door. Both were mindful of invading their Lord's privacy physically but listening was mutually agreeable.
"I have not heard this side of Cirulian." Erestor mouthed softly. Indeed the teasing was light and thoughtful. Elrond's voice was barely audible.
"Yes, I finished the draught." Another comment from the tenor was too soft to understand. By the noises, the ancient guard was aiding their Lord in dressing. Cirulian's jovial tone was a stark warning that their dear friend needed markedly different support than was their custom. Indeed, it took much restraint not to rush forward in concern upon Elrond's entrance. The Lord of Imladris was deathly pale, his lips ashen and in stark contrast to the rich blues of his tunic. Most alarming was the fact that he did not appear to notice their concern, so focused was he on simply walking to the table.
"The kitchen sent a feast for their Queen's father." Cirulian helped Elrond settle into the chair and hand him a napkin. Elrond's eyes widened as he took in the food on the table. And a soft laugh left his bloodless lips even as one hand rose to his chest.
"May I pour you some tea?" Elrond visibly startled, momentarily speechless as if only just noticing Glorfindel's presence. The long fingered hand moved to grasp Glorfindel's own as if seeking a thread to the present. Glorfindel captured his friend's hand firmly in his own, waiting patently as the Peredhel regained his balance. Over the long span of ancient lives, none of then had been immune to the pull of memories. Yet, it had been long and long again since they had witnessed Elrond loose his link to the present. Indeed, as the silver eyes cleared, Elrond seemed to gain a little color. But the one who for ages been known as diplomatic and ever calm, now had eyes that concealed little.
"Is there word from the Houses? Am I needed this morning?" Unspoken was the worry that he could no longer help others.
"No, all is well, my Lord." Glorfindel swiftly assured him, setting a cup of tea in front of him. "Silsilalda and your sons have gone to check."
"It has only been an hour since Silsi was here, Ernin-nin." Cirulian gave a cheeky grin as Elrond's shot him a look of annoyance at the title. Then he picked up a slice of bread and liberally spread marmalade on it. "We can not let this food go to waste." Erestor took his queue from Cirulian and joined the light banter as he passed Elrond a piece of the dark farmers bread. The distracted elf Lord accepted it automatically as Glorfindel winced as he sliced the odiferous cheese.
"It is not that pungent." Elrond laughed. "Be thankful you are not visiting Elros' table. In his later years, even I had to strategically select a chair away from the cheese platter."
"I am thankful that the Dunedain in Imladris did not favor this cheese." Erestor huffed slightly. Elrond was in good humor and perhaps did not wish to address his obvious illness, for he certainly did not bring up the topic. Easy conversation followed and they were all heartened that Elrond ate normally, though after lunch, Glorfindel needed to help him to traverse the short distance to the balcony. The golden warrior was given to song and sang of long forgotten tunes from Valinor. Elrond settled into a restful sleep while awaiting the arrival of his sons.
"They are here." Erestor called out to Glorfindel, who had taken Cirulian's pace to guard their sleeping friend. A few minutes later the two sons of Elrond, powerful in their own right, entered.
"Adar?" Elrohir called insistently as he held his father's hand. Elladan stepped nearer to grasp his Adar by the shoulder. Elrond seemed to draw strength from their presence. Confusion was visible in the silver eyes that only slowly solidified into worry.
"Do you need me ion-nin? How can I help?" Elrond reached shakily to cover Elladan's hand with his own.
"I am fine." Elladan laughed though he felt like crying at the irony. The evidence was clear for all to see. Elrond's spirit, ever strong through millennia of adversity, slowly untethered from both them and from these lands he had so loved. "Although Elrohir might have imbibed more freely last night."
"I?" Elrohir raise his brow as his brothers teasing, knowing the light conversation would keep his father at ease. He felt Elladan sending strength to their Adar through their bond. "I am fine too. But you missed brunch again, Adar. Are you well?" Elrond stared momentarily as if surprised that his sons did not need any aid.
"Are you well?" Elrohir repeated as he lifted his hands in the traditional healer sign.
"I am fine … only tired." Elrond said as he locked eyes with Elrohir. It was an unusual and unsettling feeling to be able to see so directly into his father's spirit. Familiar, as this happened when he worked on injured warriors after any battle; however, seldom had his Adar been the one in need of aide. Elrond spoke no lie, truly believing this was just exhaustion from the long hours in the Houses of the Healers. Often, one who is ill cannot diagnose themselves. Elrohir focused on their bond, realizing that Arwen's changing nature echoed through all their family bonds. Yet, one of their family was less able to deal with the changes as his fëa was bruised, battered and scarred by the ages of battle against the enemy. Elrond's eyes clouded as he again walked in memories of earlier days.
"We will impress again upon Arwen and Aragorn that visiting Adar is a priority." Elladan communicated wordlessly to his brother.
"He will improve once we all get used to these new relationships." Elrohir kept telling himself, but left unspoken was the possibility that he would not recover completely in these lands.
Erestor and Glorfindel watched as Elrond's sons took on the role of healer. The elder Peredhel was fast asleep when Elrohir finally stepped back. The twins communicated silently then Cirulian stepped beside Elrond and folded his hands. It was clear the guard intended to stay vigilant as his Lord slept. Elladan nodded and motioned the others back inside to discuss what they observed.
Xxxxxxxxx Later that afternoon xxxxxxxxxX
The guards knocked and announced the entrance of their King and Queen. The couple was glowing in their happiness, heads bent close, joyful smiles on their lips. Erestor, Gwidian and Glorfindel welcomed them.
"Your family is out on the balcony." Glorfindel clapped his former student on the shoulder and kissed Arwen's head. "We will have a chance to talk later."
"I should hope so." The King of the Gondor laughed as he and Arwen made their way through the sitting room and out to the veranda. Her brothers stood rigid at the railing quietly talking. There expressions were strained but their eyes lit up with joy as the couple entered. Elladan motioned them to the settee, which was shaded by the ivy-covered trellis. Elrond sat sleeping, his eyes closed but otherwise looking every inch the elf-Lord who had raised them. If he had been mortal, it would not be an unusual sight.
"Adar is tired." Aragorn noted quietly. Indeed, Aragorn's instinct was to leave his foster-father to his much-deserved rest, although Elrohir's raised brow gave him pause.
"We need you both to help Adar." Elladan said quietly.
"Of course we are happy to help Adar." Arwen said resting contentedly against her husbands shoulder. "What is needed?" The twins turned towards each other obviously speaking mind-to-mind.
"I hate it when you do that." Aragorn words were tempered with a smile.
"Perhaps we have been remiss as brothers, for our younger sister is the first to marry." Elladan began as he took in the shared glow of his brother and sister. "Upon a happy marriage, the lucky form a bond of souls. I do not know how it is with the Edain but you Estel have some of elven heritage and Arwen has more."
"I fail to see what this has to do with Lord Elrond?" Aragorn shook his head.
"Those first few weeks as the new couple forge their partnership, they focus solely on their new wedded bliss." Elladan paused and it was Elrohir who took over.
"The bonds that each have with their family diminish at first out of necessity and then evolve." Elrohir pressed his hand over his heart, a gesture to convey the feelings neither could put into words.
"This is natural and as it should be." Elladan whispered. "But," Arwen stepped forward and wrapped her older brother in a hug. She could feel tension as well as pain ebbing from him but could not discern their sibling bond yet.
"I did not realize." Arwen said. "In my joy, my spirit bond with Aragorn is so strong and fulfilling."
"For that we rejoice." Elrohir said softly as he grasped his brother-in-laws hand. Curiosity and confusion was still in the King's gaze but as he looked at his wife, his expression softened. Arwen stepped to embrace Elrohir next. He flinched first then schooled his expression. Could it be though twins, that one was more sensitive to the evolution of their sibling bonds? Indeed, when she embraced him, she reached out with her senses.
"You also have a sibling bond with Estel." She said in surprise.
"Of course, though not by blood, Estel is our brother by heart." Elrohir watched the new King's face light further with joy. He could never begrudge them their happiness. "Families are meant to grow in these ways."
"But Adar has fought so long and lost too many. So, the bonds that yet remain are the foundation for his being."
"I do not understand what we have done, but I see our presence has dispelled much tension from you." Though the discussion was serious, Aragorn's mood was buoyed by the way his brothers naturally included him in the discussion.
"In a similar way, it will help Adar as well." Elladan assured them. "We will aid him together."
"Adar?" Arwen sat down next to her father on the settee and really focused on him. Not only deeply asleep, he also appeared deathly pale as if drained of vitality. She gasped as she realized the signs of fading.
"All of us are needed." Elrohir said as he grabbed Estel by the arm and walked closer to where Elrond reclined. The quieter twin moved to stand behind the chair, quietly sending strength and love to his Adar.
"See he visibly improves." Elladan moved close as well. Aragorn shook his head in disbelief. Yet it was undeniable. Color seeped noticeably back into Elrond's visage. His eyes fluttered open, though he still appeared to walk in elven dreams.
"Adar?" Arwen reached out and touched his cheek. Her heart clenched as she saw the pain reflected in his eyes.
"Arwen?" Came the weak response as her presence pulled him to consciousness. She gasped in dismay to see the damage of his spirit. What percentage was caused by her choice? Her palpable distress drew Aragorn to sit beside her and woke Elrond fully.
"Arwen?" His voice was more solid and as he regained his composure. "What is wrong, Sell-nin? How can I help?"
"I am sorry, Ada, that I have caused you pain." Her voice wavered in grief. Elrond was momentarily silent as he processed her words. Indeed he seemed to not understand her worry. Then he leaned forward and cupped her chin as his eyes softened.
"Do not concern yourself. You will find children are an endless source of joy and worry, hopefully not in equal measure." He paused, his voice full of emotion. "I thank Eru for keeping you all safe through these trials. I would gladly bear this pain for your happiness and wish you did not have to wait all those years for this day." He held out a hand for Aragorn to take.
"Now is your time to savor and enjoy the sweet." Elrond's voice was soft but strong. "There will be many challenges still to come as you forge a new world, a better world for your children and for your people. I know you will do well, my children. I am very proud of you."
"You see challenges in the future." Aragorn pointedly prompted. Foresight had been bitter before, as it had prevented their union for many long years. But what statesman would not want warning of the challenges that lie ahead?
"Some that you and Faramir already anticipate." Elrond eyes flashed suddenly. "Some Imrahil fears: Mercenaries and tribes of far Harad, pockets of orcs and other enemies that yet hide. Yet challenges in Gondor will stem from traditions that prevent progress, narrow-mindedness that pits education against ingrained cultural ideas and clamor of the privileged who no longer strive yet prevents those of lesser means from advancing." Elrond shivered involuntarily as his voice trailed off. The wind gusted, swirling stray blossoms and leaves in a small whirlwind beside the settee. Voiceless, yet persuasive it beckoned and demanded their attention. As if in answer, blue light flashed from an exquisite ring as its bearer grew ashen. Elrohir and Elrond both stared as if entranced as the whirlwind drew nearer.
Elladan and Arwen exchanged looks of alarm. Their Adar had nearly been lost to the winds' power before. They immediately reach out to him and were not surprised to see the Golden glow of Glorfindel appear as well as the reborn warrior seemed to also sense the danger.
"He is not going. He belongs here." Elrohir's deep voice commanded, though it was not clear whom he addressed.
"Adar, stay with us." Arwen voice blended with Elladan's. Glorfindel lent his own power to their call. The wind gave a low whistling moan than subsided. Elrond slumped in exhaustion. Yet, his children stood gaping at each other in shook. Only Glorfindel appeared unsurprised. He gave them each a calculating look and then, to their surprise, bent to help Elrond rise. The elder Peredhel face was creased with lines of exhaustion, yet his color was more natural. Cirulian appeared at his side, ready to lend a hand.
"I think the air out here is uncomfortably fresh." Glorfindel said as he led Elrond away. He turned back to address Elrohir. "We shall discuss this later, Elrondion."
"Elrohir?" Though they were standing close, Elladan could not bridge the gap between them. Whatever it was, it held Elrohir's complete attention. He knew better than to disturb him. Reluctantly, he turned to Arwen and Aragorn, who were still staring into the room though their father was now out of view.
"What just happened?" Aragorn addressed Elladan. Elladan shrugged and resisted the urge to turn towards his twin. Arwen tugged lightly on his arm and her husband automatically sat down next to her.
"Adar's ring had a strong connection with the wind. But perhaps it was also strengthened by ties from Adar's Naneth, though he knew her but briefly." Aragorn held back his shock that Arwen should be the one to address him. She raised her eyebrow eerily reminiscent of her father but Aragorn nearly sighed at her beauty.
"Nah, so unlike her father." He thought of kissing her again.
"This is serious Estel!" He jumped at her rebuke though it seemed like no one else noticed it. Indeed, Elladan would have doubled over laughing had he heard.
"Later, Estel," She promised mind-to-mind but then spoke aloud. "I witnessed Adar transform into wind. It was hundreds of years ago. We thought we had lost him. My Naneth worried that he would be lost as a houseless spirit."
"I had thought my teachers – Adar, Erestor and others would be here to offer their advice. There are many challenges that lie ahead. But, my instinct tells me that they will not stay in Gondor."
"Some of them will sail, sooner than any of us wish." Elladan jumped at his twin's sudden pronouncement. But somehow, he felt sure of what they would do.
"I can not speak for others, but I will remain for some time to offer support and advice." Elladan promised. Elrohir was quick to second it.