A/N: Okay so here is the next chapter, finished just as school started which is something I thought would not happen, and I have had a revelation. We have definitely gotten past the twins arriving in Mithlond, so I think it's time to change the title of the story. I am open to any ideas my readers might have. Nothing inappropriate, and I might not change it until the story is completely finished, but if it is something really good I'll change it when I post the next chapter. Which reminds me, I will finish the story after the War of Wrath, just to let my ideas involving Finarfin and Eönwë come to fruition.
Oh...I am putting in a spoiler right here and now, since I don't think that you will believe me if I say that cats can and will swallow sewing needles. But if you look it up, there are actual documented cases of this happening. I had to change it a little, since x-rays didn't exist in Tolkien's world, but I think it is still interesting.
Please read, review, and enjoy! Cliffhanger ends here! Woo-hoo!
For a few minutes all were frozen in shock, but there was cry that shook them back to their senses.
"Mani saveg carima!?" Elrond cried in anger and horror, and that seemed to be the bell to start the race away from there.
All bolted, but the leader was unfortunate enough to pass too close to Glorfindel. Recognizing a bully and leader when he saw one, the Vanya quickly grabbed him and stopped him in his tracks as the twins raced to Thranduil's side. A glare was all that was needed to keep him from trying to twist away.
The twins were quick to drop to their knees next to Thranduil. Feeling his pulse revealed it to be too fast and his pupils were unevenly matched.
Elros was quick to bind the head wound with some strips torn from his robe, finishing just as Elrond hissed.
Looked at what Elrond was tending, Elros winced. Thranduil's arm was bent at an unnatural angle, the swelling making it clear that it was badly broken.
Looking around, Elros tried to find some sticks to bind Thranduil's arm, but to no avail. The gardeners did their work too well sometimes.
The weeping willow, throughout it all, had been watching with growing concern and anxiety. The two half-elves were friends of hers, so she knew they were both healers, but that did not make it easier to stand and do nothing.
When the younger half-elf began to search the ground for sticks, and become increasingly frustrated that they were none nearby, the willow willingly dropped two young, strong sticks, anxious to help in whatever way she could.
The half-elf looked to her in surprise before laying a hand on her trunk and sending all the gratitude and thanks that he could.
The willow only tried to nudge him over to Thranduil. He seemed to understand, for he walked to where Thranduil lay, a slight smile on his lips.
Elros shook his head, smile still on his lips as he knelt next to his brother.
The weeping willow was the gentlest and kindest soul in the entire city, asking for nothing other than companionship in return for her kindness.
Elrond looked in surprise at the sticks, confusion over where they came from clear to see, but Elros only said, "The willow," as Thranduil started to stir. That answered all of Elrond's questions, it seemed, because he returned to the task at hand.
Cutting more strips from his robe, Elros was quick to prepare himself for what had to be done, knowing how painful setting bones were, even when one was unconscious.
Elrond took Thranduil's wrist and elbow in his hands, and at a nod from his brother began to twist and manipulate the arm, trying to get the bones to realign correctly.
Thankfully the break was not too difficult to set, even though Thranduil began to wake even more quickly as the pain reached his concussed mind.
The twins were quick to bind the arm. Just as they finished Thranduil opened his eyes, but instantly closed them as the light felt as though it were burning them.
Quiet murmuring happened above him, and the light was blocked as someone said, "Open your eyes, Thranduil, it should not hurt as much."
Thranduil, seeming to believe him, opened his eyes again, but only to slits. This time it truly did not hurt as much, so he opened his eyes fully, but his head was starting to hurt and he was beginning to feel nauseous.
As he registered these things, fatigue and grogginess came upon him, and he closed his eyes, already nodding off to sleep.
The voice came again, followed by someone shaking his shoulder, "No, Thranduil, stay awake. If you sleep you might not wake again."
Those words easily registered in Thranduil's mind, and he opened his eyes wide, forcing himself back to wakefulness.
The twins were relieved to see Thranduil open his eyes, and keep them open, but both knew it would not last.
Hearing a gasp behind them, they both turned to see Erestor, who was standing near Glorfindel. Beldir stood there as well, wincing slightly at Glorfindel's too tight grip on his arm.
Just then, a bell sounded, letting all know that it was time for the midday meal and that the council was finished for the time being. As the tolls of the bell faded away into the wind, Elrond turned to Erestor, "Erestor, quickly, run and get Mistaro. Tell him he needs to bring everything he would use to treat a serious concussion. Then find the king. Tell him what has happened, and let him tell Oropher. He will know how to soften the news about his son," glancing at Beldir as he said this.
Erestor nodded and raced off while Beldir paled slightly and gulped at the mention of Oropher's name. Seeing this Glorfindel quietly asked, "You did not know Thranduil was Oropher's youngest son, did you?"
Beldir only shook his head, paling even more, undoubtedly aware of Oropher's exaggerated reputation when it came to the welfare of his children and his people.
The sound of three elves walking through the gardens alerted Glorfindel that others were coming, and he looked up just as Brethilion, Glingaerdir, and Breigion came into the clearing, talking and laughing amongst themselves.
The laughter faded when they saw their brother lying on the ground, and for a moment all three were shocked into stillness, then they were running across the clearing to drop to their knees next to Thranduil.
Elros was quick to rise and get out of the way, while Elrond stayed where he was, concentrating on feeling for damage to Thranduil's neck, something Thranduil did not seem notice, making them very concerned.
Thranduil hated having his neck touched for any reason.
After a few more minutes, Elrond opened his eyes and removed his hands, looking relieved. Taking this to mean that his brother's neck was fine, Brethilion gently gathered him into his arms, moving carefully when his brother's complexion seemed to turn green as his head was moved and his arm was jostled.
Once settled in his brother's arms the nausea seemed to recede, and he was able to relax while Brethilion held him. His eyes drifted shut for a moment, but he opened them almost immediately when he heard Glingaerdir say, "If you sleep, Thranduil, you will not hear the end of it for even a thousand years. Try three or four thousand years."
While Brethilion and Glingaerdir kept Thranduil awake, Breigion turned to Elrond, who said, "The healers are on their way."
Breigion nodded, looking relieved, then frowned as he asked, "What happened here?"
Elrond could only shake his head, "I do not know. We were running very late because of unforeseen circumstances, but I think we should focus on your brother right now, and keep him from getting upset," as he saw Breigion's attention move to Beldir, and Breigion clearly putting one and one together, especially when Beldir would not make eye contact.
But Elrond's words registered in his mind and he refocused his attention where it needed to be: on his brother just as the Mistaro arrived, who tried to make light of the situation for Thranduil's sake, who had gotten a nervous look when the healer had entered the area, clearly showing that he did not truly like healers, like many young ones.
"Hello, my name is Mistaro, how do you feel?" he asked jovially as he kneeled down.
Thranduil only squeezed his eyes shut before answering, "Dizzy and tired. The world is spinning," voice drifting as he started to doze off once more.
Mistaro frowned as Thranduil's attention shifted to sleep instead of staying awake, then reached over to try and see Thranduil's eyes, wanting to check his pupils. That turned out to be a mistake, because Thranduil nearly lashed out in surprise, only stopped by Glingaerdir's lightning fast reflexes.
Mistaro had been slightly surprised, but was quick to realize his mistake, "I am sorry, young one, I should have let you know before I tried anything. You would think looking after two near-Sinda elves would have taught me something. The twins were just as nervous whenever they had concussions. Be sure to ask them about it. They will tell stories that will make your hair stand up on end. But I do need to look at your eyes to see how serious your concussion is. Will you open your eyes for me?"
To his surprise, Thranduil did. Now that his eyes were open it was easy to see that Elrond was right: it was a very serious concussion. His pupils were so mismatched you did not need to be a healer to see that his brain was dangerously concussed.
'He should not even be awake right now!' Mistaro thought, 'This proves the stubbornness of his family and people once more.'
Mistaro let none of his worries show, though, as he said, "It looks like you will be spending some time in the healing wing," seeing the look of panic cross Thranduil's face he became worried that he was not completely coherent of the situation, and so leaned forward to ask, "Do you know where you are?"
Thranduil nodded carefully before saying, "Mithlond. I arrived here yesterday with my father and brothers."
Seeing that his memory appeared to be fine caused Mistaro to realize why Thranduil did not want to go to the healing wing: he did not want to spend time there, like the majority of elves his age. But all he said was, "It will likely only be for a few days," inwardly wondering how they were going get Thranduil to swallow the herbs. They would keep him awake for days, and he had yet to meet someone who actually wanted to take them.
Just then Brethilion shifted, and Thranduil's face went gray; causing his brother to freeze. After Thranduil seemed to win the fight with his stomach Mistaro asked, "Do you feel nauseous?"
Thranduil did not seem to want to respond, but Mistaro was patient, knowing that almost all young elves did not like to admit weakness. In the end, Thranduil nodded, and Mistaro was quick to add an anti-nausea herb to the other herbs before saying, "Drink this, young one, it will help settle your stomach," after it was swallowed he added, "It will also keep you awake so your mind can recover from the concussion."
Thranduil stared at him for a few minutes, but seemed to accept that as the herbs began to take affect, and Mistaro turned his attention to Thranduil's arm.
Feeling the arm over the break, Mistaro was pleased to see that it was correctly set and should heal well. He said nothing, but the glances he gave both twins said much.
At that moment there was a small commotion, and Mistaro looked up just as Oropher and Gil-galad arrived, followed by a panting Erestor, who looked as though he had run all the way to the farthest dock on the farthest pier of the harbor and back.
Gil-galad was quick to send Glorfindel, Beldir, and Erestor to his study while Oropher went to his youngest.
Mistaro was finishing binding the arm more securely as Oropher sat down and took Thranduil into his arms, who looked relieved to see him. Once he was settled Mistaro turned his attention to the head wound.
Removing the makeshift bandage revealed a deep cut at his hairline that was still oozing some blood, as head injuries were prone to do. Feeling around the cut revealed no fracture; so all Mistaro said was, "This will need stitches. We need to go to the healing wing to be able to tend this properly. I can arrange a stretcher –,"
"No need," Oropher cut in brusquely before easily picking up his son, moving slowly so the world would not spin with such a motion.
It must have spun anyways, since Thranduil shut his eyes and buried his head in his father's shoulder. He did not move for the entire walk to the healing wing.
Once at the healing wing Mistaro was quick to issue instructions. Hadlathon had the day off, and Mistaro had been promoted to a master healer position almost immediately, such was his skill. He shooed everyone who was not needed out of the healing wing, tripped over Lavaneth and Levenil, and could not make Oropher leave (but he did not truly try).
It turns out that one of the reasons the twins were late to meet Thranduil involved the cats, but that tale could wait for another time.
Oropher had settled himself next to his son's bed, and was doing a fairly good job of keeping Thranduil calm as healers moved about.
Once everything was ready, Mistaro sat down next to Thranduil's bed before saying, "Are you ready? I will put some lotion on the skin first to numb it."
Thranduil nodded carefully, since the room still spun with every minute movement, and Mistaro set to work. After letting the lotion have some time to work, he carefully started stitching the wound closed.
Thranduil stayed very still throughout it all, even when the thread was tugged rather hard to pull both sides of the skin closed, eyes never leaving his father's face as Oropher spoke softly about their homeland to distract him.
Once he was finished, Mistaro applied some lotion to ease the sting of the stitches before saying to Oropher as Thranduil dozed, then jerked away, dozed, then jerked awake, "He will need to stay a few days, and the arm needs a stronger splint, but I believe he will be fine."
Oropher nodded, relieved it was not worse, then helped Mistaro and the other healers get Thranduil settled in the bed with a stronger splint on his arm before everyone was invited back in. That included washing Thranduil's hair, but the stains from the blood would not come out for some time.
When everyone was invited back in, they all came, with Elrond and Elros collecting their cats before joining everyone at Thranduil's bedside. Mithien came in through the open window and watched Thranduil with open curiosity.
Once all were settled, Oropher said, "I would like to know what happened, starting with you, ion nín, if you feel you can tell us."
The sentiment was shared silently by everyone, and since Thranduil was starting to feel better he told his story. Gil-galad did ask him to repeat a few things, seeming to grow angry as he learned more of what had happened, but he kept his temper under iron control.
Thranduil's brothers were another matter. They tried to stay calm for Thranduil's sake, but they all had to leave for a few minutes to regain their composure.
'The one time he really needed us and we had not been there!' was a thought all three had in their minds when their anger rose, fierce and untamed, while they were outside the healing wing trying to calm themselves.
Oropher had listened quietly to everything, no emotion to be seen, but when Thranduil finished he looked at Gil-galad, eyes speaking for him.
"I want them," his eyes said before turning to the twins, "What I really wish to know is where you were. You said you would be in the gardens this morning," the barest hint of anger coloring his voice.
Thranduil glanced at him, and Oropher, fingers going back to run through Thranduil's hair, calmed as he waited for an answer. Thranduil waited as well, since it was something he had asked himself a few seconds before the fight had started.
The twins exchanged glances before Elrond said, "We were delayed several times, most notably by Lavaneth and Levenil here," as the cats purred and slept in their arms.
"I cannot wait to here this," Oropher murmured, voice dripping with sarcasm. His sons were of the same opinion, and leaned in to listen.
Elrond actually smiled, but it was tight, painful thing that was not pleasant to look at.
"Our first delay involved a councilor, insisting we read something over several times that we all knew could wait. That took almost an hour and a half. Then one of the maids, Aravaldë, insisted that there was a spider in the pantry off the kitchens, and would not let us leave until we searched every inch, including inside the boxes. We tolerated this for about half an hour before we had to finally ask one of the cooks to intervene," a glance at Gil-galad saying exactly which cook.
"And the cats?" Oropher asked tightly, patience nearly spent.
Elrond smiled painfully as Lavaneth lost interest in him and went to Thranduil. She sniffed his left hand before rubbing and purring against it. Thranduil was hesitant at first, but after a few seconds was confident enough to pet her. She, in turn, settled herself in the crook of his arm before falling asleep, head still within easy reach for petting.
All could not help smiling at the sight, especially since Lavaneth calmed Thranduil and helped him relax a bit more.
Elrond said, continuing with his story, "After we had gotten away from Aravaldë we were headed outside. Just as we were about to leave we heard this horrible gagging sound. Going to investigate revealed Levenil on the ground, unable to breath around something that she had swallowed and was choking on. It took a few tries, but eventually we got her to cough up a large wad of parchment and some hairballs," here Elrond broke off, not entirely sure how to say what he had to say next.
Oropher looked between both twins before saying, "What else did she swallow?" feeling as though it was about to get worse.
The twins glanced at each other before Elros said, "We found a sewing needle. The hairballs kept it from piercing her stomach and killing her. How and when she swallowed it is still a mystery to us."
All were shocked to hear that, since a cat swallowing a sewing needle and surviving it was something none of them had ever heard of, as Elros finished his part of the story, "After that we took both of them here, to make them cough up whatever else was in their stomachs. There was nothing of concern, but it did take another hour," here he looked to Thranduil, "We figured the willow could keep you entertained in case we were late, and she is wise enough to know much about this city and how we live. And that corner is where not many go, so we thought no one would bother you there if we were late. We just did not expect we would have to get our cats to cough up a sewing needle, some yarn and thread, and what might have been half a sock at some point."
"I have never had to force cats to regurgitate," Mistaro cut in, "We had to guess on the doses of the herbs required. But since they took such great joy in tripping me just now, I would say they are feeling better and can leave."
"That might be hard to accomplish," the king said quietly.
Indeed, both cats had settled next to Thranduil as well as Mithien, making herself comfortable on his right side as she preened for a few minutes before dozing off.
Mistaro shrugged and smiled at the sight, "As long as we are not tripping over them it is fine with me for them to stay."
Thranduil smiled a little before turning to the twins, "I do not blame you for what happened. I think that those elves were willing to fight anyone they came across, and I happened to be in their path. Besides, I know I broke one of their arms, so I think we are even on that front," looking at his tightly bound right arm that was strapped to his chest.
The tension seemed to dissolve from the room then, and then Thranduil's brothers and the twins began to tell tales of their own experiences with concussions, trying to outdo each other.
Once Oropher saw that his sons would be staying he leaned over and gave Thranduil a kiss on the forehead before murmuring, "I will return as soon as possible," before rising.
Thranduil nodded, not really paying attention as his brother's and the twin's stories continued to hold his interest.
Oropher then left with Gil-galad as the king made his way back to the study, stopping a few aides and councilors to tell them that the meeting would be finished the next day.
After the councilors and aides had been sent on their way Gil-galad turned to Oropher, "Are you angry at the twins for what happened? I know that they would have raced to the gardens if they thought it would be dangerous for your son to be alone for so long."
Oropher looked at him in confusion, "Why should I be? All those delays were things no one could predict happening. Even if they had made up the first two tales, for whatever reason, they could not have lied about the cats. Those cats likely mean more to them than I will ever know or understand," Gil-galad's eyes confirmed that statement and Oropher went on to say, "No, I do not blame nor am I angry at them. I am angry at those that injured my son for no reason."
"You are not the only one," Gil-galad said quietly as they approached the double doors of his study. Turning to Oropher he said, "When we go inside let me do the talking. He is an elf under my rule, and therefore mine to punish. You stand quietly, but let him know you are angry without him having to look at you."
Oropher smiled grimly, "That is not too difficult."
Gil-galad only nodded before opening the door. Going inside revealed Beldir sitting in a chair with Glorfindel standing over him with his arms crossed. Erestor had a glass of water in hand and was standing on the balcony as he attempted to cool down.
All glanced their way, but when Erestor and Glorfindel made to leave they were stopped by Gil-galad saying, "Please stay Erestor, Glorfindel. Your presence will be needed; and Erestor if you could document the minutes of this it would be appreciated," all this he said without taking his eyes off Beldir.
Just as Erestor had gotten settled there was a sharp rap before one of the guards opened the door, "Two elves claiming to be Beldir's parents are here. They bring another with a broken arm in a sling."
"Let them in," Gil-galad ordered, recognizing that this elf was likely the one Thranduil had injured.
Sure enough, in walked Beldir's parents, Alwedon and Faelien, nearly dragging in the elf with the broken arm, who turned out to be Brassendir.
Seeing Beldir caused them both to stop in surprise, and Alwedon asked, "What have you done now, child?" even though he looked as though he did not want to know.
Beldir looked as though he wanted to answer, but a glance at Brassendir had him re-thinking his decision and staying silent, refusing to look anyone in the eye.
"I could try and answer your question, Alwedon," Gil-galad said, having seen the glance, "but I think asking Brassendir would yield more fruit."
It did not take long for Beldir's parents to turn to Brassendir. "What did you do, nephew?" Faelien asked again. Even though the question was asked quietly, it was clear that she was angry.
Brassendir refused to answer, and just as Faelien made to take a step forward towards her nephew Gil-galad intervened, "Perhaps you should ask how he broke his arm instead."
Now Beldir's parents looked puzzled, "He said he fell from a horse he was training today. Is that not the truth?" Alwedon asked.
Gil-galad shook his head, "No, it is another lie. It was broken in a fight with one of the sons of Oropher, Thranduil."
"Then why is he not here as well? I would think he would be receiving some form of punishment," Faelien asked.
"I discipline my sons in private, my lady, as I do not see what public humiliation accomplishes," Oropher said, speaking for the first time, "And I would not punish him this time anyways. He is not at fault."
Now Faelien looked confused, having gotten over her surprise of the elf lord being in the room, as she had not seen him at all, "Why would you not discipline him, my lord? I would think that you do not approve of fighting if it is not done in training."
"Because this fight involved your son and nephew attacking Thranduil along with thirteen others. Thranduil is in the healing wing with a concussion and a broken arm," Gil-galad stated bluntly before Oropher could respond, unwilling to skirt around this issue anymore.
The horror was quickly replaced by anger as Beldir's parents rounded on their son and nephew. For a few minutes all that could be heard was their voices as they nearly yelled at their son and nephew, staying only just below shouting so that the guards would not think anything was amiss. Gil-galad signaled to Erestor not to try and record this part, as he had no chance of keeping track of who said what, such was the cacophony of the noise.
Beldir's parents finally seemed to run out of steam after about fifteen minutes, and both youngsters looked suitably chastised and terror-stricken.
When Alwedon had caught his breath he said, "I apologize, my lords, for losing my head in such a manner."
Gil-galad only nodded, still leaning against his desk, as he had done for the entire time.
Alwedon then said, "I give you my word, aran nín, that this will not happen again. Will it?" he asked with a glare.
Both Beldir and Brassendir shook their heads negatively, as Alwedon then said, "With your permission my lord, we will take them home and see that they are suitably punished."
Gil-galad shook his head, a slight smile on his lips, "I am afraid I cannot allow that. While I do not doubt that you will punish them, it is out of your hands now. They have, by accident or not, wounded the son of a Sinda lord who is a guest of this city and under my protection. And there is the matter of their so-called friends."
Here the two young elves looked up, likely to make an objection, but were stopped by Oropher's ice-cold voice, "If they were your friends they would stand here with you, accepting punishment for their actions as well."
Gil-galad nodded before saying, "That being the case, I want all their names," before rounding his desk to look through the papers stacked on it. Then he looked up, "I have never had to issue a punishment for this kind of atrocity before. But, the first thing you will do, as leaders of your little gang, is apologize to Lord Oropher and all of his sons for your actions."
Both Beldir and Brassendir looked relieved that the punishment was not harsher, but that relief vanished with Gil-galad's next words, "Normally, with fights involving two elves that have drawn blood, I would send them both on a patrol. They would learn to work together in order to survive, sometimes even becoming friends as they learned to accept and move past their differences. It is something I learned from Círdan in my youth. But considering how dangerous the Wilds are during these times I would not send you out on patrol. Thranduil, yes, if I had the authority, which I do not, because he is a skilled fighter and has been on many patrols in his homeland, which is significantly more dangerous. And he did not want to fight today, and so as Lord Oropher has said he will not be punished."
Here he looked up, spearing both elves with a glare that could have frozen water, "You will not be sent on patrol, but Lord Círdan needs assistance down at the harbor," taking a seat and beginning to write a note to be left for the Shipwright when he returned. He had left a few weeks before to secure food stores and healing herbs from down south before the lands became too treacherous, "and so you two will work under him directly, and your "friends" shall work in the harbor as well. How long will be up to Lord Círdan," as he looked up from his writing at the two elves.
Both elves looked visibly scared, as Círdan was known for being a hard task-maker who did not suffer fools or trouble in his harbor.
"That is a hard punishment, my lord," Faelien said.
Gil-galad looked to her, "Yes, it is. But I can think of no better alternative. Your son and nephew have started a little gang who clearly has nothing better to do other than harm others for no reason. We have tried more simple punishments, but those have not worked, nor have they gotten to the root of the problem. Working under Círdan would cause these two to face whatever it is they are trying to avoid. Your method of discipline has failed. Now it is time for mine. But hear me, Beldir and Brassendir," here his voice became even firmer as he rose from his chair with both hands on his desk, "If this gang reforms in any way, I shall send you to Eregion without your families to protect you. There you would be at Lord Celeborn's mercy, since Lord Oropher and his sons are close kin to him. And so my judgment shall be this: you will work under Lord Círdan until he says otherwise. Do you understand?"
Both elves nodded, not making eye contact once more, and Gil-galad motioned to Erestor, "Erestor will take the names of all who are in your group, then you may go. Lord Círdan will return in a month, which gives your arm plenty of time to heal, Brassendir."
"And we will make sure that they carry out their punishment, my lord," Faelien said emphatically, "and until Lord Círdan returns they are confined to our house and will help with anything that needs to be done."
Alwedon nodded as well, again spearing his son and nephew with a fierce glare.
After all the names had been recorded, Beldir and Brassendir were made to apologize to Oropher before Alwedon and Faelien took them to the healing wing to apologize to Thranduil and his brothers.
Faelien also wished Thranduil a quick recovery, to which Oropher said, "He is too stubborn not to, my lady."
After the four elves had left Gil-galad said, "If you could make that into a report, Erestor, and deliver it to me when it is finished I would be most appreciative. Afterwards the day is yours."
Erestor bowed and was gone. Gil-galad then turned to Glorfindel, "I apologize, Glorfindel, it seems you were not needed after all."
"It is no trouble, my lord. I am actually ashamed to admit I enjoyed it a little," he said as he left.
Gil-galad smiled and shook his head before turning to Oropher, "Does that punishment meet with your approval, my lord?" he asked.
Oropher returned the smile, "Yes, it does. I can remember my own father threatening me in much the same manner when I was younger. The fear of working under Lord Círdan was enough to make sure that I behaved."
Gil-galad laughed slightly as he poured some wine, "Would you care to share a glass of wine with me, my lord? I am certain you will know if something were to go wrong in the healing wing, and I could use some advice."
Oropher looked at him in puzzlement as they made themselves comfortable near the fire, "On what?"
Gil-galad winced slightly, "Well, I seem to be raising and teaching two half-elves that can be overly reckless now that they seem to be free of the stifling atmosphere of Himring and the Fëanorians. I was wondering how you managed to raise all your sons to be such fine elves?"
Oropher raised an arrogant eyebrow before saying, "A Noldor king asking me for help? The times have certainly changed."
Gil-galad only smiled as they toasted each other before beginning their conversation in earnest.
After a few minutes the sound of laughter drifted out from behind the doors, causing the guards to smile before their blank expressions were back in place once more.
Elsewhere, life-long friendships were being forged as six young elves, since Erestor as well as Glorfindel had joined them, talked and laughed for the rest of the day. Thranduil was quieter than usual, but seemed to be enjoying himself, so they acted as though there was nothing wrong and included him as much as possible.
Two months had passed since the fight in the garden.
In that time, Thranduil's arm and head had healed completely and he had become close friends with Elrond and Elros, more so Elrond than Elros.
It was not that Elros was unfriendly or distant, and neither was Thranduil. Thranduil just seemed to sense that there was something more different about him than his brother in his spirit, and seemed to know instinctively that his path would be very different than any other in the land, making him unwilling to get too close to the half-elf.
Beldir and Brassendir had learned the meaning of hard work. Círdan's return had meant them working long, hard hours under Arien's hot gaze, as Círdan had not been pleased to here about the part they played in injuring his kinsman; as Oropher was kin to Celeborn, who was nephew to Thingol who had been as close as a brother could be to Círdan.
But in that month he had been able to discern that Beldir took his cues from Brassendir as the older one was the decision maker, and so he stopped working under Círdan after only a couple weeks, even though he still worked there as he enjoyed working on the ships and sailing the Sea.
The sea-elves, in turn, enjoyed his company and found him a joy to work with and be around.
Brassendir was still working under Círdan at the end of the month. Since Círdan oftentimes worked until very late and would then take a walk along the beach, Brassendir accompanied him whenever he was invited by the Shipwright, as he often did not want to return home. One night, unexpectedly, Brassendir broke down completely and utterly. It took him a good twenty minutes to calm down.
When he calmed he found himself sitting in the sand, held up only by the Shipwright, keeping him safe and secure in a warm embrace. It was then that Círdan learned how Brassendir's entire family had been tortured and killed by orcs on a journey to visit Beldir and his parents. Only the arrival of a patrol from Mithlond had saved him, and he had escaped with a few lash marks and nightmares that he wanted to make himself forget. Beldir's family may have taken him in, but he still desperately missed his own family.
That outpouring of emotion was all that Círdan needed to understand what was happening in Brassendir's mind, and how to counter it.
And that was what was done. After a few more weeks he had completely changed from the short-tempered young elf into an elf that still felt his pain, but did not let it control his actions or words. And he continued to work under the Shipwright because it was one of the few things he found joy in.
Círdan enjoyed his company as well, finding the ellon to have a sharp and intelligent mind that loved to solve problems.
A month after Círdan's return found Oropher and his sons, as well as the twins, Glorfindel, and Erestor departing Mithlond for the tree city of the Sinda before going on to the Houses of the Edain.
The good-byes were said early one morning, while Ólerydeth and Merilinel distracted Lavaneth and Levenil to keep them from stowing away in someone's saddlebags, as they often tried to do whenever the twins left. Mithien had strained a wing the day before they left and was in no condition to fly. Dúlinnor was looking after her until the twins returned.
The first few days of the journey were uneventful; with the twins and the sons of Oropher enjoying themselves immensely after spending so much time indoors.
Eventually, the roads turned dangerous, and speaking became a triviality that was reserved for dire emergencies. It was in these parts that the elves of Mithlond saw the full devastation Morgoth had wrought: trees uprooted, mountains flattened into wide plateaus, and rivers where before there were none on the map.
The Sinda took charge then, advising them not to drink the water and not to let their horses do the same; as they were wary of the spells and enchantments the water might hold.
Other than those slight setbacks, the journey to the tree city was made with ease, although they were set upon by orcs a day before they arrived. It was then that the twins were treated to the sight of the Sinda fighting with two blades while still mounted, most likely one of the most impressive things they had ever seen.
The other most impressive thing they saw was the tree city of the Sinda. Over five hundred survivors of Doriath and other places destroyed by Morgoth had been convinced by Oropher to live here and not take up residence in Sirion, undoubtedly saving their lives. That number had grown to several thousand as the years went by and more survivors found their way to the city, as the trees whispered its location to any that could listen. Oropher had been asked to be their lord because of his experience as a lord of Doriath, and being one of the few royals of the Sinda left.
The elves were greeted like soldiers returning from a successful campaign, with feasts and dances in their honor for many days. Even the elves of Mithlond were well treated, as the sons of the White Lady of Sirion and the Star had the respect of all for surviving the Sack and a tumultuous childhood.
'They do not know the half of it,' Elrond thought to himself during one feast.
It was during the first celebration that the twins first met the lady of Oropher, Nemireth. She was tall and willowy, but firm and strong; and as kind and gentle as a spring fawn, of which she loved to run with through the tall grasses. Her eyes were a silvery-blue and her hair was ash brown, making it clear who had inherited what from both parents.
Thranduil and Brethilion looked like their sire, but Brethilion's hair was a darker blond and his eyes were as green as emeralds.
Glingaerdir's eyes were turquoise, while his hair was a lighter ash brown, closer to his mother's appearance and beauty than his father. Breigion's eyes were amethyst and his hair was a golden mahogany, and he looked like both his mother and father.
Unfortunately, the mission the elves of Mithlond were on took precedence and was always at the forefronts of their minds. So two weeks after their arrival, during the evening meal, they announced they would be leaving the next day for the settlements of the Edain.
"We can not convince you to stay longer?" Nemireth asked in her gentle manner.
Elrond shook his head, "Regrettably, my lady, we cannot stay, even though we wish to. This city is a wonder, and I would love to explore more of it. But the roads only become more dangerous from here as summer draws closer and the orcs grow bolder. We do not want to fail in our assignment because we saw to our own comfort before the safety of others."
"Wise words for one so young," Galion said, a friend and counselor to Oropher who had survived the Sack of Doriath and stayed with Oropher and his family ever since.
Elrond only bowed his head in respect to him as his brother said, "We will stop here on the return journey, however. With your permission, my lord," as he turned to Oropher.
Oropher smiled, "I think my sons would be severely disappointed if you did not return," to which the elves in question vigorously nodded, "Therefore, you have my permission to return. Perhaps then we can show and introduce you to the fine wine the Sinda are known to make. It will put what the Noldor have created and made to shame!" as laughter and cries of delight echoed throughout the room.
Dawn the next day revealed the twins, Erestor, and Glorfindel readying their horses. Gwaereneth had made many friends among the grooms because of her sweet nature, even allowing young children on her back for rides without a fuss about them kicking her sides, while Veryafion was seen in the company of Oropher's powerful stallion, Balroch, more often than not with their heads touching and bliss easy to see on their faces. Asfaloth and Erestor's mare, Calarocco, could not tolerate each other, and so were as far apart as possible the entire time.
The Sinda did not use stables or barns to house horses like the Noldor did, instead using natural vines and barriers to corral their horses and livestock, as the cattle and sheep were allowed to mingle with the horses. The only stables were for wounded or ill horses and livestock, and the feed and tack was kept there as well to protect it from the rain.
Just as they were getting ready to mount, Thranduil appeared. The farewells had been said the night before, and they had been hoping to leave quietly before the city awoke and there was a big to-do about their departure.
Thranduil, seeing the disappointment they were quick to hide, only grinned recklessly before saying, "I will not say anything or call out. I just wanted to introduce you to someone before you left."
"And who would that someone be?" Elros asked cautiously, "The last time you said something of that nature we were introduced to a skunk."
"And not allowed inside for several days," Thranduil finished, "I know, I was there. I do not think I have ever seen my mother that angry. Well...except when she learned of what happened with Beldir and Brassendir," which was true, she had been furious, since the stubborn blood stains in Thranduil's hair were still present to elven eyes when they arrived. Not even seeing and accepting that he was fine would temper or cool her anger, such was her protective nature regarding her children.
"But still," and here he gestured for them to follow as he started to walk away. After some hesitation they did, although Glorfindel and Erestor stayed with the horses (likely to avoid any skunks that Thranduil might try to introduce them to), "this is no skunk."
"Is it a certain lady we have not had the honor of meeting yet?" Elrond asked teasingly, to which Thranduil turned his head to mock-glare at him.
"No, it is no maiden," he said as he led them to a stream and began to follow it. Eventually, it came to a thicket, and they had to drop to their hands and knees in order to get through.
Once inside, the twins were surprised and shocked at what they saw. It was not the beauty of the area, with the sweeping trees and brambles or the laughing water, but who lived in the thicket.
There, standing tall and proud, was a stag the likes of which the twins had never seen before. His rack was massive, stretching nearly six feet in both directions and he was as tall as Thranduil.
Thranduil turned to them, and seeing their shock laughed quietly, "He is impressive, is he not?" he asked before whistling. Both twins nodded, shock having stolen their voices.
The stag's ears went forward at the whistle, and he trotted forward, bobbing his head much like a horse.
"His name is Suldal," Thranduil said as the stag gently took an apple from his hand, closing his eyes as he chewed and Thranduil scratched between the racks of antlers, "I found him after his mother was killed by orcs. My father said I could keep him if I released him when it was time. I agreed, and hand-reared him. After a few months, it was clear he was going to be massive when fully grown. It was also clear he was fully tame and would not leave."
"Why do you say that?" Elrond asked, having finally found his voice as the stag investigated his hands for treats. Even though he found none, he fully enjoyed the attention and petting he was receiving from Thranduil and the twins as they lost their wariness of his rack and started stroking his neck and face.
Thranduil smiled mysteriously before walking to a trunk that had been overlooked until now.
Opening it, Thranduil took out a bridle. It was larger than one that would be used for a horse. Going to Suldal, Thranduil placed the bridle on his head and the bit in his mouth before mounting bareback.
He then took the reins in hand and started to guide the elk around the clearing, riding him like he would a horse as the twins looked on in awe.
After a few minutes, Thranduil steered the elk back to them before dismounting and removing the bridle and giving Suldal another apple. Apparently knowing he was dismissed, the stage shook his head carefully, clearly mindful of his rack and the elves near him, before walking to the stream to drink.
Thranduil put the bridle back in the trunk before saying, "My father said he could stay if I could train him to accept a bit, saddle, and rider. He also wants me to train him to fight orcs. The rack is an impressive weapon if used correctly."
"You have accomplished most of that, it would seem," Elros commented as they left the thicket the way they had come.
Thranduil nodded, "He accepts a saddle as well. I have started to train him to fight orcs. It is made easier by the fact he is not afraid of them. His heart is stout and he does not let his fear control him."
"That is good to hear," Elrond said, "But why is he alone? I would think he would like company."
Thranduil chuckled a little, "In case you have not noticed, my father's stallion considers himself leader and top stallion. He does not tolerate Suldal. And Suldal does go into rut, even though he does not drop his rack in winter for some reason. Being in rut makes him dangerous to the horses, livestock, and anyone else who has business in the pastures. And the grooms do not like him because he is temperamental the rest of the time. I am the only one who can control him, even when he is in rut. Also, he does not care for the company of horses, cattle, or sheep. He knows he is different, and so is always bellowing when with the horses and livestock," here he turned to the twins with his eyebrows raised, "We do need sleep occasionally," as they approached Glorfindel and Erestor.
Both twins laughed slightly, but Elros' laughter died as confusion came over him, "But why did you show him to us?" he asked.
Thranduil shrugged, "I thought seeing him would convince you to hurry back to learn more about him, and your Sinda heritage," here he looked at the twins, wisdom beyond his years in his eyes, "There is much to be learned that is not in any book, that only the trees can teach us."
Both twins understood what he meant as their Sinda heritage had come alive in this place, making them both realize they would rather return sooner than later.
But duty was something they understood all too well, and so they only nodded deeply before checking over their mounts while Thranduil waited.
Once all was checked once more farewells were exchanged again, only this time there were embraces all around, as the friendship between the elves had grown stronger over the last couple weeks.
As they left, Elrond could not help looking over his shoulder at the solitary figure standing there. Except, now there were two figures, one slightly shorter than the other, but both had the same blond hair and eyes, and they stood before a bridge and river that led to an underground palace carved from the living stone.
Elrond blinked, and the illusion was gone, and now only Thranduil stood there, hand raised in silent farewell.
Elrond returned the farewell wave, even though his mind was still seeing his friend, with a crown of leaves and berries on his head, and an elf that was definitely his son standing next to him.
When, or if, that would happen Elrond did not know, but he knew then that one or both of them would alter the fate of Middle-earth in some way that no one could dare to contemplate.
For better or worse was still to be seen.
Another week of traveling had gotten them even closer to the settlement of the House of Bëor. In that time the twins had told Erestor and Glorfindel of the stag.
Erestor looked as though he did not believe them, but Glorfindel said, "I still remember hearing rumors of creatures like that in Gondolin. It was told that they are descendants of the deer that ran with the fleet-footed Nessa when she came to this land in the Beginning. I am glad that the rumor has proven itself true. The few Green-elves I met said they are the most powerful and loyal deer to ever live and would rather die themselves than to see their friends die."
Those words convinced Erestor of the veracity of the twins words, and nothing more was said on the subject.
As they entered the human settlements borders the twins took point, stopping only after half a mile and refusing to go forward.
They knew where the picket line was.
Sure enough, after about twenty seconds men materialized out of the forest, wearing the muted greens and browns of the wood.
The apparent leader came forward and after looking them over he said, "Well, well, well, this is a surprise. What could possibly bring elves of Gil-galad's court here?"
"Plenty, Alagon," Elrond said as he slowly dismounted, as did his brother. Erestor and Glorfindel stayed mounted, their unease clear to see.
The man seemed to size him up for a minute, but his emotionless mask cracked in under twenty seconds. He started laughing as the twins grinned before they were pulled into bone-crushing embraces.
After a few seconds, Alagon regained control of himself long enough to say, "You are a sight for sore eyes. We thought you would stay amongst elves forever. But come..." turning serious in a matter of seconds, "Nowhere is safe now. We will take you to our settlement, and then put the hospitality of the elves to shame!"
Laughter was heard all around, and in a matter of moments they were underway once more.
Erestor and Glorfindel relaxed only slightly when the men's acceptance of them was revealed, as they were unsure what to make of the situation, having had not that many dealings with Men.
But Elrond and Elros were completely at ease, and so the trip to the settlement was quickly made, even though Veryafion tried to bite Alagon when he came too close.
He only moved away and shook his head. Some things would never change, Veryafion's temperament being one of them.
After only half an hour they made it to the settlement, and it was then that the elves knew the hard part had not even begun.
There was still an alliance to forge.
Far, far away Finarfin, Ingwë, and Eönwë met, as below them elves trained in bow, spear, and blade.
"Go, I shalt not," Ingwë said as he watched, "Needed I am, to guide those that shalt remain, and be ready for when thou return."
Here he looked to the others, who were not surprised to hear his declaration, "My son I shalt send in my stead, to lead the forces of the Vanyar."
Both Maiar and king nodded as they returned their gazes to those training below.
Their preparations would lead to either the salvation or destruction of Middle-earth, and strong leaders would be needed soon; at home and in lands of war.
Now was the time for action, and hopefully they would not be too late.
Lives depended on their arrival and success.
Translations:
Mani saveg carima?! – What have you done?!
Ion nín – my son
Alwedon – Prosperous One
Faelien – Fair-minded One
Aran nín – my king
Arien – the Maia who guides the Sun across the sky everyday
Ellon – elf
Edain – the plural of adan, "man" in Sindarin
Balroch – Mighty Horse
Calarocco – Light Horse
Suldal – Wind Foot
Nessa – spouse of Tulkas who ran so swiftly and that deer followed her into the wilds of Aman.
Alagon – Impetuous One
Maiar – spirits that descended into Arda to help the Valar shape the world.