Oropher stood before his father and uncle with arms crossed on chest and he didn't even bother to hide his irritation. Before, when he had a bit of free time he tried to go through written laws of Doriath, but tremendous tomes would take weeks to study on his own, so he figured, it would for the best to ask his Elders about it. He told them about the situation that occured with Eregon. He didn't say all the details, but enough for them to understand the problem or so he hoped, but the only answer he got was an unsaid question if he was not exagerrating.

It was not said out loud, but Oropher sensed that this was what they meant. And if not this, then for sure they didn't know how to help him.

'You know, it's alright. I will figure it out myself.' he finally said and Erthor sighted.

'It's not that we don't want to help, but there are really no laws that would allow us to act.' he said and Edwethon nodded at his brother's words.

'Nothing like this has been specified. And never before it happened that someone was banned from entering the city.' he paused for a moment. 'And if we will bring up this matter before the Tribunal we need proof that will back up our right.'

'What proof do you need?' Oropher asked angered. 'That they are intimidated and don't feel safe in their own home? I was there and I know what's happening!'

'Yes, but have this elf did anything really threatening?'

Oropher fell silent in indignation, but truly nothing reasonable came to his mind. The truth was that he had nothing against Taranir's father execept what he saw and sensed from his words. That was enough for him, but apparently it was not enough for the Tribunal and the law they represented.

'No, he didn't!' he finally said, but then added immediately before Erthor or Edwethon said anything. 'But I know he will! Even Taranir said it and I think he knows his father better than any of us!'

Erthor and Edwethon looked at each other in thought, but Oropher could almost see how powerless they were. He was more irritated at the whole situation than on his Elders and at the same time Oropher knew that if his father and uncle won't be able to do anything than truly nothing can be done...according to the law.

'We will study the laws of Doriath. Maybe there is something we can use.' Erthor said and Oropher shook his head. Law was helpless in this matter. Without proof there was nothing to be done.

'It's not enough!' Oropher said not angered but powerless. 'Mark my words, something awful will come out of this!'

'With all my heart I hope there won't.'

'Next time I see this elf I won't hold myself. And you will have to get me out of prison! Or I will rot there for the next century!'

'Don't say that, my son.' Erthor said as he got up from the sofa and Edwethon followed. He approached Oropher and patted his arm in calming gesture. 'I believe your judgment, but we must act accordingly to the law. If we won't do so, why others should?' Erhor was looking at Oropher who watched his father in irritation that was not directed at him, but at the whole situation. 'You arrested him, didn't you?'

'Yes and I hope he will stay there till the marchwardens will leave.' Oropher muttered, but a thought that crossed his mind was treacherous. What if Saelon will let Eregon go?

'Saelon can't keep an elf in a custody without necessary charges.' Erthor said, getting Oropher back on the ground and without a notice his father confirmed what his thoughts. 'This elf will remain there till at least next sunrise. And then maybe Hinnor will give his marchwardens necessary duties or at least something to do.'

'Adar, you know as well as I that Eregon will do everything to achieve what he wants! Whatever it is!' Oropher said more desperately and Erthor sighted with defeat.

'Oropher, I understand how hard this situation is. For you, but mainly for Taranir and his family. Just by a lone thing that we can do nothing should say by itself how complicated it is.' he started and then his voice became even more serious. 'But we have to act as is expected. We are the ruling House in this kingdom. Beside the King and the Queen, we are the highest autority in Doriath and we have to obey our own laws.'

'Law is lmited, as we can see now.' Oropher said much more calmly and then added with confidence that spoke for itself. 'And I will do everything to protect my family and friends.'

'Don't do anything rash. Neither you or Taranir. Consequences will be dire and even I won't be able to help.' Erthor said as he shook his head a bit. 'Treason, violence and murder are crimes that are not forgiven in Doriath and the King will show no mercy in his judgment.' Erthor placed a hand on Oropher's arm and he added more softly. 'Don't be the first elf to be judged for any of those.'

Oropher turned away his eyes and swallowed hard. He couldn't promise such a thing. It took him a lot of time to realise this and he even tried to deny it, but deep in his heart Oropher knew that he would be able to take the life of another elf if he would threaten any member of his family. After so many centuries, Oropher knew himself enough to not deny it, as horrible as it was.

Had that ever happened, it was hard to imagine for Oropher how he would feel. He suspected he probably would have never been able to live with it further. Not to mention that he would not be forgiven, never again trusted and blood on his hands would burn his hands in guilt and shame.

'I can't promise this.' Oropher said quietly. He knew if he will say this promise he will lie. Oropher knew what he was capable of and he won't hold back to protect those he loved, even if it would mean his own demise.

'Well then. I will make you say it.'

Oropher's eyes shot up in surprise and he stumbled a bit. Erthor's silver eyes were sharper and adamant lilt in his voice was a testimony to his Oropher turned his eyes to Edwethon, his uncle watched him as well with stony eyes and face. He was always the first to tame bright fire and temper that Oropher, Celeborn and Amdir presented. He was so desperate in it, that he lost Amdir. But maybe Edwethon was right, maybe he was right all along to shorten their every leap and dim down flames that burned too high.

'I will give you one more chance and I will ask you to do it as a father.' Erthor said with this same stern voice. 'Don't make me order you as the Head of your House.'

'You want me to lie to you?' Oropher asked immediately, but not with disbelief. It was more of a snap. Pressure that was building up in the room was almost tangible and cloud of defense in Oropher turned into anger, as it always did.

But Erthor was unbended in his words and Edwethon stood by his side. Oropher knew he won't get away and the pledge he will say will have to be obeyed. Else he will distain himself, but also his House with disgrace and shame that won't ever be forgotten and forgiven by anyone. Even by his own father.

'I swear to follow the laws of Doriath and respect authority of my King, my Queen and my Elders. And among this, your authority, the Head of House Elmo.' he said graving those words in his mind, soul and heart to make them sink so he will believe in them and follow heartily. 'I swear to obey this pledge.'

Oropher watched his father for a moment. He didn't feel well at all to be forced to say something he didn't want to. Neither Erthor didn't seem content with what just happened and they watched each other in a bit of exasperation.

'Since we are now in agreement, let us go to the court.' Erthor said already passing by Oropher and Edwethon followed, catching up with Erthor. 'The debate will start in no time, we will be probably just on time.'

Oropher watched his Elders go and shortly after he followed, but kept himself behind. Erthor and Edwethon were talking quietly in front, but Oropher didn't even tried to guess what they were talking about.

It was so long since he made his father speak to him like this - not as a father he loved so much, but the Head of House Elmo. And Oropher couldn't truly blame Erthor for what he did. Without saying it straight, in different words Oropher admitted that he would be able to take the life of another elf. And Erthor couldn't leave it like this – he had power to make Oropher swear an oath and he used this authority. And he won't hesitate to do this once more.

Oropher sighted and he tried to push away all this irritation. He was not angry with his father, but it felt wrong to take commands from his own father. However, he had only himself to blame, Erthor did what was necessary. Anyone in his place would do the same. His Elders knew what was good for him and Oropher should listen to their words even against his will.

Corridors they passed were not that crowded. Many elves indulged themselves in their duties and only minority nobles enjoyed silence of the gardens and hum of the small streams. And Oropher also had his duties to take care of so he tried to focus on a debate that was supposedly of some importance to the army. It had to be since Mablung send him there or maybe it was a way his commander wanted to punish him for what happened with Amdir. But one thing was clear – Mablung never did something without a reason.

In no time they entered the Throne Room where tall benches were already set in place in levels. Celeborn was already waiting there sitted in the second row above the places of Erthor and Edwethon.

The only consolation was that Oropher will be seated next to Celeborn – since Galathil won't attent this debate, Oropher will take his place.

The rest of the Councillors were already in the romm and the debate will start in no time. Hum of conversation became quieter and quieter as councillors took their respective places. Celeborn greeted Erthor and Edwethon, sharing few words with them and Oropher without a word took a sit next to his cousin with grim face.

When the King entered the Throne Room all councillor sat down and last words of conversations dimmed down to let Elwe start the debate of the Council.

Oropher noticed Raeg on the other side of the room. He was sitting next to Saeros and behaved naturally as ever, if that could be even said about this elf. Raeg was always playing and acting up to gain what he wanted. Oropher have not approached this elf, no matter how much he wished to do so. Lone image of shaking off Raeg's fake confidence was like a balsam. Oropher won't play in any of his games and if Raeg will get him off with something once more, Oropher will face him head on.

'I see flaming cinders and fumes. Surprisingly, not yours.' Celebron whispered as the King gave first speech to mark the problems the Council will face during this meeting. 'What happened?'

Oropher prevented a sigh. Of course Celeborn will notice, only a fool would have not. Probably everyone present in the room saw that Lord Erthor was out of his usual calm composture and everyone would do well to mind their words.

'Long story.' Oropher whispered back. 'But I got my father much more angry than it was wise.'

'So I see. Your father is in foul mood and it was so long since I saw him like this.' Celeborn said and paused for a moment to focus on the debate, but then he added. 'Surely you had a reason for it.'

Oropher also focused for a moment on Elwe who still addressed his councillors. As he thought about it once more he felt bitterness. Right he was now almost helpless against Eregon, his father made sure of it by binding his hands tight. On the other hand he felt relief. Now he had yet another reason among countless others, that prevented him from doing such a horrible thing.

'I had.' Oropher muttered and he tilted head towards Erthor and Edwethon who sat in the first row below them. 'But even they can't do anything about it. I doubt you will be able to.'

'Try me.' Celeborn said and winked at Oropher who smiled delicately and shook his head.

Elwe finished his long speech and now councillors took their turns to speak of solutions and have their word heard. And in no time it was no one other but Lord Rainor who interrupted the speech to say what he wanted and Lord Iachon backfired at him immediately. Other councillors joined the heated discussion and Oropher heard Erthor sighted loudly.

'My Lords!' Erthor got up from his seat and rised his voice so it easily cut through the argument that was happening.

Oropher once more took time to take a good look at his father. Erthor was calmest and most understading of all his brothers. Between stern Galadhon and harsh Edwethon, Erthor was always kind, choosing to rather solve a conflict through compromise, without heated words and needless hostility. But beneath it, Erthor held strength and resolution that made others listen with no falter. He was able to rise respect with ease and the aura of authority was unmistakable. Something Oropher felt on himself not that long ago.

'Shall we come back to discussing the matters of importance?'

'Indeed. Thank you, Erthor.' Elwe nodded head towards Erthor as he got up from his Throne and approached his Councillors closer. 'I spoke with my most trusted advisors and as a King I decided to reach a hand to Galodhrim who appeared on the shores of Beleriand.' he stopped there for a bit, but no one dared to interrupt knowing that Elwe not yet finished. 'Many powerful rulers set foot to our lands, some of which are of my family. We won't leave them on their own anymore...and we won't let them gain lands that are already inhabited.'

'Your majesty!' there rised a first voice of protest. 'The problems of the Goldhrim are not our own! We can't afford to share with them all our reserves! Not having so many elves in the forests of Doriath!'

'No to mention that we have no such obligation!' it was Saeros this time who spoke. 'They arrived here on their own accord. They must face the consequences.'

'Do you hear yourself?' another elf said. 'They know nothing of those lands and what will happen to them during winter? They will be lost in the first blizzard! Have you thought of their elflings?'

'Let's not treat them as delicate snowflakes.' Saeros smirked. 'They are the Golodhrim. They will manage winter in Beleriand. And if not...well, it's already too late for them to fix mistake they made.'

'It's no obligation, my Lord Saeros, but simple goodness of heart.' another voice rose up. 'Some of us don't wish to see mounds of bodies either killed by the Enemy or frozen to the bone.'

'They need shelter and we can gift them whatever we can spare!' someone else said. 'We are kin after all!'

'They are not our kin!'

Oropher looked from one speaking elf to the other with a delicate frown. He was a bit surprise by this sudden anger in some statements, but indifference of other elves was even more striking.

As for Oropher, he was glad that some action was finally taken concerning the Golodhrim. It took the King long enough to think about this. And Oropher was sure that by his speech the King didn't mean to send a falcon but a party of elves with a herald. And words of his father from quite long time ago ringed in his head - that it will be mostl likely him send to the Golodhrim. He couldn't deny that he wished to see Artanis and Laurefindil once more, maybe he will be able to learn more about them, about their travel and a reason why there were in Beleriand. He wondered if Artanis took his words to heart.

Then Oropher backed down with his own curiosity and wishes. He won't jump out with anything. We will keep silence and gain no attention. Maybe it will be enough and the King will spare him from leaving Menegroth once more. It didn't matter how he wished to see Artanis and Laurefindil, he had to think of his father. Erthor said directly how severly he will take Oropher's leave.

'See what I have to deal with everyday?' Celeborn whispered and Oropher managed to smile delicately before his father's voice brought everyone to order once more.

'My Lords!' Erthor rised his voice again and the Room silenced within a moment. 'Your opinions are appreciated, but this matter was not brought for discussion. A herald is being send from Menegroth along with our best warriors.'

'How do you, my Lords, imagine finding the Golodhrim in the wide land of Beleriand?'

'We know they inhabited the land of Lammoth in the west.' Elwe said. 'Since then, they most likely moved to neighbouring lands. And we are in contact with Cirdan, the Lord of Falas, who is aware of their movements.'

'The Golodhrim are our kin, my Lords, if you like this or not.' Erthor said. 'Their reasons to arrive here are unknown to us, but their presence cannot be ignored. Doriath will start forming relations with the Golodhrim, give advices and, of course, set some rules.'

'Well said.' Elwe said glancing through the Room as if he looked for any other objections, but the councillors were silent.

The King fixed his eyes dangerously close to Oropher, but not straight at him. And Oropher knew what was coming.

'Lord Celeborn.' Elwe called and his cousin stood up. 'As one of my most trusted councillors and as a member of a Royal House, you will represent Doriath as a herald.'

Celeborn nodded graciously and Oropher was not at all surprised that his oldest cousin was being given such a task. And now he felt doubt. Since Celeborn was going, Oropher wished to see him going there and back home safely. And as it went to his family's safety Oropher trusted only himself and his own soldiers.

If Oropher will go, his father will fall in sadness, as he did before. He always took it hard when Oropher left the city, yet he always endure. This time Erthor will understand as well, after all, he cared about the members of his House like for nothing else, but Oropher wondered if having both his nephew and son out there in the wilderness would not be too much.

Oropher felt Elwe glancing at him briefly and he knew what was on King's mind - he wished to see Oropher leave with Celeborn. A thing that was not decided or even discussed, but since it was King's wish it will probably come to pass.

'Before you will leave to Golodhrim.' Elwe continued. 'First, the Council sends you to the Northern Tower. It was long since Menegroth send someone to Commander Delgaran and I am sure there is much to speak about.'

'As you wish, your Majesty.' Celeborn said sitting back and Oropher glanced at his cousin at the tip of his eye.

'Commander Delgaran has been quiet lately.' a first voice rised up.

'Truth be told, the sense of keeping two Towers should be discussed once more.'

'What is there to discuss?' Saeros snapped. 'Western Tower is a main commanding point for marchwardens and its position and presence is essential.' he continued. 'Our army is not able to travel to every single settlement in the forest and elves are able to inform Menegroth of what they need through the marchawrdens. And don't tell me you don't see a sensce to keep a Northern Tower. It's our eye on the northern lands, most active with Enemy's forces.'

'Lord Saeros is right. The Towers will remain as they are.' Erthor said and Oropher turned a bit to Celeborn.

'You don't seem surprised. You knew it will be you send to the Golodhrim.'

'Of course I knew.' Celeborn nodded. 'My father can't go, Galathil can't go as well. Your father and uncle Edwethon lead the Council and it has been so long since they did other duty. And between other Princes I was the only choice. However, I am almost sure it will be you who will accompany me.'

'As much as I want accompany you, I don't like leaving my father again.' Oropher whispered and his eyes dropped down a bit.

'I know.' Celeborn whispered back. 'My father won't take it well too. Just as he didn't take well my leave to Ossiriand.'

Oropher glanced once more to the other side of the Room and watched for a bit Saeros who spoke now. As much as Saeros was against helping the Golodhrim, it all compensated in his will to support Doriath and provide safety to the elves living in the forest. Just as Erthor once said - Saeros can't be denied his loyalty to Doriath.

But Oropher's eyes didn't linger for long on Saeros. He glanced at the elf seated beside him and cared to observed him a bit more.

'Raeg has been quiet for the whole Council.' Oropher said and Celeborn hummed a bit.

'He tries to not gain too much attention after his recent excess. He doesn't want anyone to track it down to him.' he said. 'But I know my own things. He is often seen with Lord Raevon and I suspect what they are speaking about.'

'One word and we will make them silent for next centuries.' Oropher growled and Celeborn nodded to those words.

'As much as I would love to, we can't. I stopped digging into this matter. Your father said not to. He believes that since House Elmo stands as one once more, Raeg won't manage to ruffle even more. Maybe he is right.' Celeborn said and glanced at Oropher. 'I'm glad you spoke and all is well between the two of you. I saw you together for the last days.'

'I am glad as well, but it was not easy conversation.' Oropher sighted. 'What of you? Have you and Galathil spoke with uncle?'

'We did.' Celeborn said or more sighted. 'He said he won't be so withdrawn about her. But I feel weird about it. Almost guilty. I know how hard it is for him. I see it.' he paused for a moment. 'He told us...what happened. Do you-?'

'I do.' Oropher said softly. 'And I don't think I wanted to know.'

'We wanted it, so now we have to live with it.' Celeborn said and for Oropher it sounded extremly bitter.

'I don't think we should blame ourselves.'

Celeborn and Galathil may have took it even harder than Oropher. Especially Celeborn since he was a bit older when Turel died. And sudden thought of Amdir made Oropher shook his head.

'I know.' Celeborn said, but with no belief. He was not at peace with what happened to his mother and naturally rised doubts and questions probably rised up in him. And among this first and foremost - if only they were not playing at the stream at that time.

Oropher had those thoughts as well. A quiet wish that they stayed in the campsite at that time and all would be different. He sighted and nudged Celeborn delicately.

'I think the Council will end soon. We can drink something afterwards.'

'I would love to, but I need to prepare for my leave to Northern Tower.' Celeborn said. 'I think I will have much to discuss with Delgaran. But before I leave I will make sure to drink with you.'

Oropher focused just in time when Elwe dismissed his councillors and the whole debate ended. So, Celeborn is leaving first to the Tower and later to the Golodhrim and Oropher will probably leave with him. Then he will need to speak with Taranir as he will take his whole division, including Halloth, Amrun and Tinnu. But concerning hard situation Taranir now faced, Oropher was not so fast to take him away from the city. However, a leave to Golodrim was still in quite distant future, maybe a matter with Eregon will calm till the time of their leave.

Edwethon and Erthor got up from their seats and turned to them at which Oropher and Celeborn immediately focused to listen.

'Before you will go to your own duties you should know that Amdir left the infirmary.' Erthor said glancing from Oropher to Celeborn and back.

'Thank you, but I don't intend to see him if he behaves like this.' Celeborn said not beating around and then he looked at Edwethon. 'If you have time, uncle, I would like to speak with you.'

'Let's go then.' Edwethon said and when they left with no hurry already talking, Oropher turned to his father a bit tentatively. But quick observation revealed that Erthor was more at peace and in his usual calm composture.

'Know that what happened earlier didn't give me satisfaction.' Erthor said much softer, stepping down from his stern tone.

'I don't blame you. Or hold a grudge.' Oropher said and then he smiled a bit. 'But you spoke to me more as an Elder and not as my father. I broke habit of experiencing it.'

'And I lost a lot of skill of showing you this side of me.' Erthor said with delicate smile and he turned his attention to papers folding them neatly.

'Adar.' Oropher said going down to the first row on benches and Erthor focused back on him. 'You were right. Celeborn is going to meet the Golodhrim and most likely it will be me leaving with him. I know how bad you got through my long travel to Lammoth. I want to go with Celeborn and get him there and back safely, but I can ask the King to send someone else.'

He barely finished when Erthor placed a hand near him elbow in calming gesture.

'I also want to see him coming back safely and I know it will be so if you will acompany him. As hard as it will be for me, I will manage.' Erthor said. 'Galadhon will also be calmer knowing that you two are out there together. You make a strong team and you will be fine. Me and Galadhon will get through this.'

Oropher smiled to him encouragingly. Galadhon, as once soldier and commander, was aware of dangers lurking beyong the Doriath's territory probably more than Erthor and Edwethon. Oropher as a soldier was prepared for hardships of travel and carrying heavy equipment for a long time. But Celeborn was no soldier. Although he was accompished and skilled warrior there was a difference mainly in toughness and durability. And it won't make Galadhon any peaceful at mind. That being said, Oropher will probably get his cousin for a training or two...or fifty. Galathil will have a time of his life observing this.

The moment of solitude between Oropher and Erthor was disrupted and Oropher immediately sensed this unmistakable presence - it was no one other but the King who approached them.

'I'm glad to see father and son reunited.' he said softly, but Oropher couldn't help but glance at the King with inscrutable expression. He didn't allow himself to glare at the King sharply, but his sight was not kind as well. Few things were crossing his mind - Elwe knew about his sister and about his mother, but this thing he could forgive. It was not Elwe's call to tell him. But the other matter was not that simple - where was Elwe when Acharn was a danger to his family?

Elwe sensed immediately this mix of feeling and he fixed bright eyes on Oropher.

'It was a loud subject in the Council of what happened between you and Amdir. I'm just glad no one got hurt too much.'

'Let's say I don't appreciate gabbing and pursuing younger and less experienced soldiers by old spongers.' Oropher said minding to keep his tone neutral. 'Neither I do appreciate secrets.'

'That is understandable.' Elwe said and allowed himself to smile delicately understanding the meaning behind those words all too well. Probably all of it. 'If I was not a Ruler of this Kingdom I could not count on your reserved words.'

'I can't say no, your Majesty.' Oropher said and he immediately felt a hand of Erthor tightening on his arm. 'But I learned when it's worth to bite and when to let go.'

'Very well.' Elwe said still keeping delicate smile on his face. 'But be careful to not bite the wrong elf.'

Oropher observed the King in silence for a short moment. He should be gratedul that Elwe had such patience, otherwise he would be in trouble not once. But Elwe was not known for giving vicious punishments and he was not ruthless in his judgments. He probably didn't believe in taking revenge or punishing by violence, also he didn't have to prove his authority to anyone - people of Doriath loved him and his position as a King was unbended and unquestionable.

However, if the situation will demand his, Elu Thingol will take all necessary steps to give justice and he was able to pass a hard judgment on whoever broke the laws of Doriath. Oropher knew he would have received no mercy had he decided to take the life of Eregon - he would be probably exiled, since Elwe would not let anyone stain himself with blood and execute him. Or he would be thrown to cells in the deepest caves beneath Menegroth and he would have not seen the light and clear sky ever again.

There was no denying that Elwe was a strong ruler. No wonder he was at odds with Olwe and it was even said that Ingwe was glad when Elwe stayed behind in Beleriand. Only a fool would get on the Elu's bad side.

Oropher nodded head gracefully before his King. He may not be fond of his distant uncle, but Oropher won't allow himself to even slightly outrage Elwe – his loyalty to the Crown was unbended.

'With your permission, your Majesty, I will come back to my duties.' Oropher said and he waited until he got permission to leave and then he looked at his father. 'I will see you later, Adar.'

Erthor smiled to him in an answer and let him go. Only then Oropher allowed himself to turn and walk away. Indeed, he was in luck to belong to House Elmo, that Erthor had such good relation with the King and that Elwe had a great amount of patience - else it might have ended differently.

By chance, or probably not, he met no one other but Raeg just at the massive door of the Throne Romm. Raeg glanced at him with a smile that Oropher took more as a smirk, but he just looked at councillor briefly, preventing himself from snarling viciously. Raeg was like a weasel that thought it can do anything without consequences. And for now he was in luck - beside the obvious fact that Celeborn was at odds with him and a silent war between them went on, there were no real consewuences for what Raeg had done. But a patient predator gets a better prey and succesful hunt - something Oropher was willing to wait for.