Nancing Elf – I am tickled that you loved my Happy Dance scene! I was sooo
ready for that and am glad that everyone else was, too! But I am cruel! I
am not telling you about the Black Arrow yet! You do know that I LOVE you,
right? (evil laughter from the Wicked Goddess!)
JastaElf – Yes, I guess you know how we feel as we wait! And you are going to keep waiting, nin mellon! No explanation is forthcoming in this chapter. I can drag things out too, you know. I am glad that you liked Elu keeping his Essential Orcness. Had to do it!!
LOTR lover – I am sadistic! I guess that personality test was right! There is no Black Arrow in this one either! It's not quite ready to fly. Not just yet. I can't wait to read your Glorfindel story! Glorfindel RULES!!!
Ranger – I am sure that you are not as old or stuffy as you think. You are very cool in my book! I am glad that you liked the Glorfindel and Elu interaction and perhaps, just maybe, Glorfindel will lighten up a bit later. Anything is possible, even for an Immortal warrior Elf Lord!!
Shinigamio – I fear that I am disappointing you all by keeping that Black Arrow back. It will all be told. Don't worry. I do know why he kept it. And you will soon. Just not in this chapter!
Jan – Do I think that Legolas was intimidated by Glorfindel? I know I would be!! So of course. This is Lord Glorfindel. He commands a great deal of respect and Lord Elrond was the one who sent him to Legolas in the first place. I would not want them getting annoyed with me! No hem- halling here! Nuh uh! And because of what Glorfindel has experienced and accomplished in his life Legolas would find him someone easy to talk to. And because they do not know one another very well I think that Legolas may have felt him to be less judgemental than Aragorn who lived through part of what had happened. And Legolas still carried a lot of his own guilt at that point. The red silk hankies are so neat! I was so shocked when I read that and I have read the Hobbit many times, but it never really struck me until now. And poor Nirnaeth. It is not over for him yet!
Ayod – Greetings from Cliffhanger Central! Don't you love it!! No Black Arrow! No Black Arrow! No Black Arrow! (Author chants and does her sadist dance!!)
Karina – Again: No Black Arrow! Not yet!! I am glad that everyone is getting something from this fic. It wasn't my intention to write a moral story, but that's how it has played out. Stories not quite over yet. There are still a few ends dangling out there in the breeze. So stay tuned!
Horus – Be patient. I'm sure that Ardeth could give you some great quote about patience, but I can't think of any right now. Revelations and some action are on the way!
Author's Note – A small chunk is taken from FOTR. You'll know which part.
Elu and Legolas had spent the rainy night wandering through Rivendell, talking animatedly like two friends who hadn't seen one another in quite some time. When a deluge of rain would send them scurrying for shelter, they sought refuge beneath stands of evergreens, leaning against the rough trunks laughing at one another's bedraggled appearances.
"Do you hear them, Legolas Elvellon?" Elu asked as they headed back to their room.
The Elf lifted his head, rain glistening on his shimmering skin. He smiled.
"Yes. There is always music here. It is ever in the air."
"Jessolothrad and I are to sing tomorrow. That is I will sing and he will play the harp."
"Yes. I had heard that. That is truly wonderful, Elu. They will be amazed. I cannot wait to hear your song."
Elu's face saddened.
"I only wish that his father were not so opposed." He sighed, looking down at the ground and listening to the muffled sound of the raindrops.
"He is hurting, Elu. Just as we were. And he has lost his family. Except for young Jessolothrad. He is understandably upset."
"But he must know I would never harm Jess. He is such a sweet, happy child. He is a true delight to be with."
Legolas nodded, wiping rain from his face with a slender hand.
"I hope that Nirnaeth will some day realize that. Healing is not always easy, is it, nin mellon?"
Elu smiled wryly and shook his head.
"No. I can only hope that his will come about soon. Before we travel back to Mirkwood. Back home."
"Yes. That will indeed be soon. Lord Elrond's Council is set for the day after tomorrow. Don't look so glum, Elu. We have many things to see in the daylight, remember?"
The Orc looked up and smiled.
"Yes. I wish to see Gael Dor shining in the sun, though I do not know how it can be more beautiful than in the moonlight." He had seen Gael Dor in the sun but only after having drank his Sago o Glawar. And things seen when he had it running through his blood had never looked as he thought they should.
"Well, you shall have something to look forward to then. I wish to see Gael Dor as well."
Gael Dor, Elu's Glimmering Place, was a very special spot in Mirkwood. It was there that Elu had made his home and it was there that Nestadren, Mirkwood's Healer and Elu had carried Legolas in June after the rescue. The clearing ringed with tall trees was even more special to them for that very reason. Elu remembered kneeling in the grass cradling Legolas in his arms, the poison surging through the Elf's blood, killing him. It was there that he had first truly assisted in a Healing. Nestadren had told him that it was his songs that had called Legolas back as much as anything. The Orc smiled and glanced over at his friend. Legolas turned to him and smiled back. Elu's grin widened and he grabbed the Elf in another tight hug and roared with laughter. In that moment he liked who he was.
Frodo had awakened at ten o'clock on the morning of the twenty-fourth of Narbeleth [October] in the Third Age 3018.
"Where am I and what is the time?" he had asked the carved ceiling beams above his head. But the voice that answered was not the ceiling's. It was Gandalf's.
And oh the things that the Wizard told him – regardless of Elrond's orders that Frodo was not to talk or worry about anything that day. Most amazing was perhaps about Strider.
"Do you really mean that Strider is one of the people of the old Kings? I thought they had all vanished long ago. I thought he was only a Ranger."
"Only a Ranger! My dear Frodo, that is just what the Rangers are: the last remnant in the North of the great people, the Men of the West."
It had alarmed the Hobbit to hear that he had been in Rivendell for four nights and three days already. Surely it was only the twenty-first. He had shuddered with horror to hear of the splinter of the wraith's blade that had nearly done him in. But Gandalf assured him that the splinter had been melted and he was out of danger. They spoke of the Wraiths and whether Rivendell was safe. In Frodo's mind the image of a white shining figure rose, strength and power emanated from it.
"Was that Glorfindel?" He asked in wonder.
"Yes, you saw him for a moment as he is upon the other side: one of the mighty of the Firstborn. He is an Elf-lord of a house of princes. Indeed there is a power in Rivendell to withstand the might of Mordor, for a while: and elsewhere other powers still dwell."
Gandalf spoke of the Dark Lord and told Frodo to keep up his courage though the Hobbit felt that he didn't have any courage to keep up. He asked after his friends and was relieved to hear that they were well and the Istari told him the entire story of the Ford of Bruinen. It made a thrilling story, though Frodo couldn't help thinking it would be much more enjoyable to hear if he hadn't lived through it.
"Soon there will be feasting and merrymaking to celebrate the victory at the Ford of Bruinen, and you will all be there in places of honor."
"Splendid! It is wonderful that Elrond, and Glorfindel, and such great lords, not to mention Strider, should take so much trouble and show me so much kindness." He had smiled, hardly daring to believe that so much had happened to him since leaving the Shire.
"Well, there are many reasons why they should." Gandalf had replied with a smile. "I am one good reason." His blue eyes twinkled merrily. "The Ring is another: you are a RingBearer. And you are the heir of Bilbo, the Ring-finder."
"Dear Bilbo." Frodo said wistfully, trying to stifle a yawn. "I wonder where he is. I wish he was here and could hear all about it. It would have made him laugh." His eyes closed and he slept.
Gandalf smiled down at him, such relief flooding him. He reached over and gently touched the warm hand on the coverlet. Ah, Hobbits were marvelous indeed.
Elu was pacing in their room, snatches of his song issued from his lips. He had dressed in his best tunic and shirt and brushed and rebraided his freshly washed hair. Legolas watched with some amusement, knowing how nervous his friend was about the upcoming performance. They had spent the afternoon with Aragorn and Arwen. The two had been very relieved to hear that they had worked out the problems between them and Arwen assured Elu that her father was also very glad and was eagerly looking forward to hearing the song that evening. This only made the Orc even more nervous. Legolas was very relieved when at last it was time to leave for the Hall of Fire. Elu had not wanted to attend the feast, being much too nervous to eat.
As they neared the Hall, Elu pulled his hood up, one embroidered by Meneliell with tiny stars and vines.
"Why are you doing that Elu?" Legolas asked, pausing on the walkway.
"Jess and I thought that perhaps it was best. His father, you know."
Legolas drew a breath, but nodded. Perhaps it was best.
They entered the Hall and Elu's eyes widened. There were so many people, the firelight glimmering off the Elves long hair and in their bright eyes. There were others there as well. Those visiting for the Council on the morrow and others visiting Rivendell for their own reasons.
"Legolas Elvellon, I do not think –"
"You can do this, Elu. Look. Jess is over there with his father. Do not worry. It will be wonderful." Legolas smiled at him and hugged him. They moved into a dark corner and sat down.
Elrond was seated across the room from them, dressed in soft velvet robes; the quiet music of lutes and flutes filled the air. Soon the Hall was filled with a voice singing with the instruments. There would be much music this night.
Jessolothrad had noticed Elu the moment he and Legolas had entered the room. He had waited until the last moment, sitting with his father listening to the beautiful melodies that filled the Hall. But then he motioned to Nirnaeth that he must go and prepare. It was nearly time. Nirnaeth nodded and hugged him.
"I am very proud of you, nin ion. [my son] I know that you will do well."
Jessolothrad smiled and kissed his father's cheek. He rose gracefully, adjusting his clothing, which was of emerald green to match his eyes. He picked up his harp and crossed the room silently. He dropped down beside Elu and smiled at the Orc and at Legolas. Elu smiled back, albeit nervously. Jess motioned at him.
"He says that all will be well." A deep voice said.
The Orc jumped and turned quickly. Eikenstan had somehow managed to slip up behind them. The deaf Dwarf smiled and motioned to Jess, who smiled happily.
"I am sorry that I will not be able to hear you sing, Elu." Eikenstan said, seating himself on a chair near them. "But I wanted to see your performance anyway."
Elu's face flushed and he wiped sweat from his brow.
"It is hot in here." He murmured, glancing about the room, which seemed much too full of people.
Legolas laughed quietly.
"It is not. Calm down."
The four sat quietly listening to the songs. Finally Lord Elrond glanced over at them and nodded slightly. Jess jumped up and grabbed his harp.
"Blessings on you." Eikenstan said, patting the child's arm.
Elu stood and Legolas could see that he was shaking with fear.
"You will do well, nin mellon. Go and enchant them all." He stood, embracing the Orc.
Elu hugged him back, drawing strength from the contact. He nodded and followed the child out into the center of the Hall.
: So many eyes upon us, : Elu thought nervously. : No. I will not think of that. I will sing just for Legolas. Yes. Just for him. : He drew a breath, keeping his eyes on the floor beneath his feet. Jessolothrad bowed to Elrond and sat on the pillow that had been placed there for him and tuned the harp quickly. Elu bowed, trying not to think of anything but the words of the song. : Only for Legolas. : He turned slightly so that he could see Legolas, seated in the shadows with the Dwarf. He swallowed and cleared his throat. Jessolothrad began to play and then Elu began to sing.
"Nosta ned mog, orthant ned fuin;
Cuil arestel di i elenath.
Conant na breged gurth a baul
Car im i hul ned nin gur?"
[Born in darkness, bred in hate;
A life without hope beneath the stars.
Ruled by violence, death and torment;
(How) do I (still) the cry of my heart?]
{Chorus} "An eria nedhan i menuial
An i laug ned i Anor
Cuil heria eden.
I anann ned echui to
Aphad i bellas imle."
[To rise into the dawn
To (feel) the warmth of the sun
Life begins anew.
The time of awakening has come
Follow the strength within you.]
"Moe lamath gliriel ned fuin
Aerlinn ned estel pannant ah naeg.
( ) du calad gwanniel.
Ath e pada di i galadhad ad?"
[ (A) soft voice singing in darkness
(A) song of hope yet filled with pain.
(Brightness) dimmed, a light dying.
Will he walk beneath the trees again?]
{Chorus}
"Peth ned estel lhossant ned fuin
Mave elenath calad silaiel godref.
Pan le achais ath on.
Estel ath cuinar na le."
[Words of hope whispered in darkness
(Like) a star's light shining through
All your fears will (soon be) over.
Hope will live in you.]
{Chorus}
"Na i Anor calad revia,
Brun near hae adel.
Cuil tolno bain ol
Pannant ah gell im nauth an."
[(Now)in the sun's light (we) wander
Old sorrows (are) far behind.
Life (has) become (a) beautiful dream
Filled with (a) joy I (never) thought to (find).]
{Chorus}
Silence filled the Hall as the last notes on Jessolothrad's harp died away. Then there was applause and many smiles of appreciation. Elu felt a flush of pleasure warm his face. He and Jessolothrad bowed together to Lord Elrond then returned to their seats, many soft voice calling to them with quiet compliments and requests to hear it again so they could learn it. Legolas stood and embraced the Orc.
"That was wonderful, Elu." He said, tears in his eyes.
"That is our song, Legolas Elvellon." The Orc whispered, staring into the Elf's blue eyes. "I wrote it for you."
Legolas felt his tears spill over his cheeks as he moved into the Orc's arms once more.
"Thank you, nin mellon. It was beautiful. And so are you."
Jessolothrad stared up at the two, smiling. He threw his arms about them. Eikenstan raised a red handkerchief to his face and blew his nose.
"Ridiculous sentimental Elves." He muttered.
Jessolothrad turned to him and smiled, motioning with his hands.
"Yes. The song was very nice and I enjoyed it thoroughly, you young scamp. He has told me the words so many times that I could sing the silly song." Eikenstan told Legolas and Elu with a smile.
The boy turned to look for his father, but Nirnaeth was nowhere to be seen. He looked back to Eikenstan. The Dwarf gazed down at him solemnly.
"I am sorry, lad. But your father left before the song was done." The Dwarf saw the look of great disappointment in the child's face and he sighed. Nirnaeth had watched with a smile of great pride and love until the Orc had begun to sing. Then he had turned white with shock. Eikenstan had seen him stand, his hands clenched. The Elf had stood shaking with anger before turning and leaving the room, causing Lord Elrond and several others to watch his departure. Lord Elrond had not been pleased.
Jessolothrad's shoulder's drooped and he wiped a tear from his eyes. He swallowed, his green eyes so sorrowful that even the elation from the song that Elu felt fled. Jess motioned to them then picked up his harp and left the room, his head bowed.
Eikenstan shook his head.
"I will bid you good-night now as well. I will walk him back to his room." He said heavily. He stumped away as quietly as he could.
Legolas glanced over at Elu. The Orc hung his head, all the happiness fled.
"I am sorry, Elu. I had hoped that – "
"That is alright, Legolas Elvellon. I do not think that Jessolothrad's father will ever accept me."
Legolas lay a slim hand on the Orc's shoulder.
"You must have hope as long as the stars shine, nin mellon. I believe someone once said that to me."
Elu looked up at his friend's face and nodded, though he sighed heavily.
"Yes. I know. Shall we go out now? It is very warm in here."
"Of course. We shall walk beneath the stars together."
The two left the Hall, unaware of the many eyes that watched them, filled with compassion and sorrow. Softly someone sang to their departing forms:
"Gar estel anann i elenath sila." [Have hope as long as the stars shine.]
Elrond sighed then glanced at the next performer who began to play a merry tune. The Elf Lord's eyes strayed to the doorway. He feared that at times hope seemed very dim.
Boromir sighed as he lay back on the bed. It felt wonderful to be clean, warm, and well fed. One hundred and ten days was a long time – a very long time. But now here he was in the fabled Imladris and tomorrow he would see Lord Elrond the greatest Lore Master of Middle Earth. He allowed a smile to touch his lips. He was feeling very satisfied with himself. Wait until he told Faramir about this. What a grand adventure it had been!
But as he thought of his brother, he also thought of his father. One hundred and ten days. What must Denethor be thinking. Did he perhaps wonder if Boromir had perished in his search? He truly had not been pleased letting him go as he had. But maybe the answers gained here would make up for his defiance and long absence.
Music drifted to him, lulling him into a state of near sleep. The sheets smelled of lavender and the sweet scent of the candles was most comforting.
He heard voices as people passed quietly by his door: soft melodious Elvish voices. He smiled. It was peaceful here.
But not in Gondor.
Suddenly he was wide awake. He sighed and reluctantly left the warm bed. He strode across the room and knelt to rummage in his travel stained pack. His fingers closed over something hard and smooth. He drew it out. It was a small rock, no larger than a field mouse. It was pure white, so cold and beautiful. He held it in his palm, fingers curling over it, feeling it absorb his warmth. It was a piece of rock from the White Mountains – the same rock that Minas Tirith, the White City, was made from.
Boromir carried this small token of his beloved home with him always. It was a reminder to him: a reminder of the beauty that was Gondor and a reminder of the strength of her people. It was a reminder of why he had come here.
He clasped the rock to his chest and bowed his head.
"Soon there will be answers. And soon there will be help, I pray. I must have hope that what we need lies here. I must have hope."
He moved back across the room and got back into the bed. He placed the rock under his pillow.
Yes. He must have hope.
JastaElf – Yes, I guess you know how we feel as we wait! And you are going to keep waiting, nin mellon! No explanation is forthcoming in this chapter. I can drag things out too, you know. I am glad that you liked Elu keeping his Essential Orcness. Had to do it!!
LOTR lover – I am sadistic! I guess that personality test was right! There is no Black Arrow in this one either! It's not quite ready to fly. Not just yet. I can't wait to read your Glorfindel story! Glorfindel RULES!!!
Ranger – I am sure that you are not as old or stuffy as you think. You are very cool in my book! I am glad that you liked the Glorfindel and Elu interaction and perhaps, just maybe, Glorfindel will lighten up a bit later. Anything is possible, even for an Immortal warrior Elf Lord!!
Shinigamio – I fear that I am disappointing you all by keeping that Black Arrow back. It will all be told. Don't worry. I do know why he kept it. And you will soon. Just not in this chapter!
Jan – Do I think that Legolas was intimidated by Glorfindel? I know I would be!! So of course. This is Lord Glorfindel. He commands a great deal of respect and Lord Elrond was the one who sent him to Legolas in the first place. I would not want them getting annoyed with me! No hem- halling here! Nuh uh! And because of what Glorfindel has experienced and accomplished in his life Legolas would find him someone easy to talk to. And because they do not know one another very well I think that Legolas may have felt him to be less judgemental than Aragorn who lived through part of what had happened. And Legolas still carried a lot of his own guilt at that point. The red silk hankies are so neat! I was so shocked when I read that and I have read the Hobbit many times, but it never really struck me until now. And poor Nirnaeth. It is not over for him yet!
Ayod – Greetings from Cliffhanger Central! Don't you love it!! No Black Arrow! No Black Arrow! No Black Arrow! (Author chants and does her sadist dance!!)
Karina – Again: No Black Arrow! Not yet!! I am glad that everyone is getting something from this fic. It wasn't my intention to write a moral story, but that's how it has played out. Stories not quite over yet. There are still a few ends dangling out there in the breeze. So stay tuned!
Horus – Be patient. I'm sure that Ardeth could give you some great quote about patience, but I can't think of any right now. Revelations and some action are on the way!
Author's Note – A small chunk is taken from FOTR. You'll know which part.
Elu and Legolas had spent the rainy night wandering through Rivendell, talking animatedly like two friends who hadn't seen one another in quite some time. When a deluge of rain would send them scurrying for shelter, they sought refuge beneath stands of evergreens, leaning against the rough trunks laughing at one another's bedraggled appearances.
"Do you hear them, Legolas Elvellon?" Elu asked as they headed back to their room.
The Elf lifted his head, rain glistening on his shimmering skin. He smiled.
"Yes. There is always music here. It is ever in the air."
"Jessolothrad and I are to sing tomorrow. That is I will sing and he will play the harp."
"Yes. I had heard that. That is truly wonderful, Elu. They will be amazed. I cannot wait to hear your song."
Elu's face saddened.
"I only wish that his father were not so opposed." He sighed, looking down at the ground and listening to the muffled sound of the raindrops.
"He is hurting, Elu. Just as we were. And he has lost his family. Except for young Jessolothrad. He is understandably upset."
"But he must know I would never harm Jess. He is such a sweet, happy child. He is a true delight to be with."
Legolas nodded, wiping rain from his face with a slender hand.
"I hope that Nirnaeth will some day realize that. Healing is not always easy, is it, nin mellon?"
Elu smiled wryly and shook his head.
"No. I can only hope that his will come about soon. Before we travel back to Mirkwood. Back home."
"Yes. That will indeed be soon. Lord Elrond's Council is set for the day after tomorrow. Don't look so glum, Elu. We have many things to see in the daylight, remember?"
The Orc looked up and smiled.
"Yes. I wish to see Gael Dor shining in the sun, though I do not know how it can be more beautiful than in the moonlight." He had seen Gael Dor in the sun but only after having drank his Sago o Glawar. And things seen when he had it running through his blood had never looked as he thought they should.
"Well, you shall have something to look forward to then. I wish to see Gael Dor as well."
Gael Dor, Elu's Glimmering Place, was a very special spot in Mirkwood. It was there that Elu had made his home and it was there that Nestadren, Mirkwood's Healer and Elu had carried Legolas in June after the rescue. The clearing ringed with tall trees was even more special to them for that very reason. Elu remembered kneeling in the grass cradling Legolas in his arms, the poison surging through the Elf's blood, killing him. It was there that he had first truly assisted in a Healing. Nestadren had told him that it was his songs that had called Legolas back as much as anything. The Orc smiled and glanced over at his friend. Legolas turned to him and smiled back. Elu's grin widened and he grabbed the Elf in another tight hug and roared with laughter. In that moment he liked who he was.
Frodo had awakened at ten o'clock on the morning of the twenty-fourth of Narbeleth [October] in the Third Age 3018.
"Where am I and what is the time?" he had asked the carved ceiling beams above his head. But the voice that answered was not the ceiling's. It was Gandalf's.
And oh the things that the Wizard told him – regardless of Elrond's orders that Frodo was not to talk or worry about anything that day. Most amazing was perhaps about Strider.
"Do you really mean that Strider is one of the people of the old Kings? I thought they had all vanished long ago. I thought he was only a Ranger."
"Only a Ranger! My dear Frodo, that is just what the Rangers are: the last remnant in the North of the great people, the Men of the West."
It had alarmed the Hobbit to hear that he had been in Rivendell for four nights and three days already. Surely it was only the twenty-first. He had shuddered with horror to hear of the splinter of the wraith's blade that had nearly done him in. But Gandalf assured him that the splinter had been melted and he was out of danger. They spoke of the Wraiths and whether Rivendell was safe. In Frodo's mind the image of a white shining figure rose, strength and power emanated from it.
"Was that Glorfindel?" He asked in wonder.
"Yes, you saw him for a moment as he is upon the other side: one of the mighty of the Firstborn. He is an Elf-lord of a house of princes. Indeed there is a power in Rivendell to withstand the might of Mordor, for a while: and elsewhere other powers still dwell."
Gandalf spoke of the Dark Lord and told Frodo to keep up his courage though the Hobbit felt that he didn't have any courage to keep up. He asked after his friends and was relieved to hear that they were well and the Istari told him the entire story of the Ford of Bruinen. It made a thrilling story, though Frodo couldn't help thinking it would be much more enjoyable to hear if he hadn't lived through it.
"Soon there will be feasting and merrymaking to celebrate the victory at the Ford of Bruinen, and you will all be there in places of honor."
"Splendid! It is wonderful that Elrond, and Glorfindel, and such great lords, not to mention Strider, should take so much trouble and show me so much kindness." He had smiled, hardly daring to believe that so much had happened to him since leaving the Shire.
"Well, there are many reasons why they should." Gandalf had replied with a smile. "I am one good reason." His blue eyes twinkled merrily. "The Ring is another: you are a RingBearer. And you are the heir of Bilbo, the Ring-finder."
"Dear Bilbo." Frodo said wistfully, trying to stifle a yawn. "I wonder where he is. I wish he was here and could hear all about it. It would have made him laugh." His eyes closed and he slept.
Gandalf smiled down at him, such relief flooding him. He reached over and gently touched the warm hand on the coverlet. Ah, Hobbits were marvelous indeed.
Elu was pacing in their room, snatches of his song issued from his lips. He had dressed in his best tunic and shirt and brushed and rebraided his freshly washed hair. Legolas watched with some amusement, knowing how nervous his friend was about the upcoming performance. They had spent the afternoon with Aragorn and Arwen. The two had been very relieved to hear that they had worked out the problems between them and Arwen assured Elu that her father was also very glad and was eagerly looking forward to hearing the song that evening. This only made the Orc even more nervous. Legolas was very relieved when at last it was time to leave for the Hall of Fire. Elu had not wanted to attend the feast, being much too nervous to eat.
As they neared the Hall, Elu pulled his hood up, one embroidered by Meneliell with tiny stars and vines.
"Why are you doing that Elu?" Legolas asked, pausing on the walkway.
"Jess and I thought that perhaps it was best. His father, you know."
Legolas drew a breath, but nodded. Perhaps it was best.
They entered the Hall and Elu's eyes widened. There were so many people, the firelight glimmering off the Elves long hair and in their bright eyes. There were others there as well. Those visiting for the Council on the morrow and others visiting Rivendell for their own reasons.
"Legolas Elvellon, I do not think –"
"You can do this, Elu. Look. Jess is over there with his father. Do not worry. It will be wonderful." Legolas smiled at him and hugged him. They moved into a dark corner and sat down.
Elrond was seated across the room from them, dressed in soft velvet robes; the quiet music of lutes and flutes filled the air. Soon the Hall was filled with a voice singing with the instruments. There would be much music this night.
Jessolothrad had noticed Elu the moment he and Legolas had entered the room. He had waited until the last moment, sitting with his father listening to the beautiful melodies that filled the Hall. But then he motioned to Nirnaeth that he must go and prepare. It was nearly time. Nirnaeth nodded and hugged him.
"I am very proud of you, nin ion. [my son] I know that you will do well."
Jessolothrad smiled and kissed his father's cheek. He rose gracefully, adjusting his clothing, which was of emerald green to match his eyes. He picked up his harp and crossed the room silently. He dropped down beside Elu and smiled at the Orc and at Legolas. Elu smiled back, albeit nervously. Jess motioned at him.
"He says that all will be well." A deep voice said.
The Orc jumped and turned quickly. Eikenstan had somehow managed to slip up behind them. The deaf Dwarf smiled and motioned to Jess, who smiled happily.
"I am sorry that I will not be able to hear you sing, Elu." Eikenstan said, seating himself on a chair near them. "But I wanted to see your performance anyway."
Elu's face flushed and he wiped sweat from his brow.
"It is hot in here." He murmured, glancing about the room, which seemed much too full of people.
Legolas laughed quietly.
"It is not. Calm down."
The four sat quietly listening to the songs. Finally Lord Elrond glanced over at them and nodded slightly. Jess jumped up and grabbed his harp.
"Blessings on you." Eikenstan said, patting the child's arm.
Elu stood and Legolas could see that he was shaking with fear.
"You will do well, nin mellon. Go and enchant them all." He stood, embracing the Orc.
Elu hugged him back, drawing strength from the contact. He nodded and followed the child out into the center of the Hall.
: So many eyes upon us, : Elu thought nervously. : No. I will not think of that. I will sing just for Legolas. Yes. Just for him. : He drew a breath, keeping his eyes on the floor beneath his feet. Jessolothrad bowed to Elrond and sat on the pillow that had been placed there for him and tuned the harp quickly. Elu bowed, trying not to think of anything but the words of the song. : Only for Legolas. : He turned slightly so that he could see Legolas, seated in the shadows with the Dwarf. He swallowed and cleared his throat. Jessolothrad began to play and then Elu began to sing.
"Nosta ned mog, orthant ned fuin;
Cuil arestel di i elenath.
Conant na breged gurth a baul
Car im i hul ned nin gur?"
[Born in darkness, bred in hate;
A life without hope beneath the stars.
Ruled by violence, death and torment;
(How) do I (still) the cry of my heart?]
{Chorus} "An eria nedhan i menuial
An i laug ned i Anor
Cuil heria eden.
I anann ned echui to
Aphad i bellas imle."
[To rise into the dawn
To (feel) the warmth of the sun
Life begins anew.
The time of awakening has come
Follow the strength within you.]
"Moe lamath gliriel ned fuin
Aerlinn ned estel pannant ah naeg.
( ) du calad gwanniel.
Ath e pada di i galadhad ad?"
[ (A) soft voice singing in darkness
(A) song of hope yet filled with pain.
(Brightness) dimmed, a light dying.
Will he walk beneath the trees again?]
{Chorus}
"Peth ned estel lhossant ned fuin
Mave elenath calad silaiel godref.
Pan le achais ath on.
Estel ath cuinar na le."
[Words of hope whispered in darkness
(Like) a star's light shining through
All your fears will (soon be) over.
Hope will live in you.]
{Chorus}
"Na i Anor calad revia,
Brun near hae adel.
Cuil tolno bain ol
Pannant ah gell im nauth an."
[(Now)in the sun's light (we) wander
Old sorrows (are) far behind.
Life (has) become (a) beautiful dream
Filled with (a) joy I (never) thought to (find).]
{Chorus}
Silence filled the Hall as the last notes on Jessolothrad's harp died away. Then there was applause and many smiles of appreciation. Elu felt a flush of pleasure warm his face. He and Jessolothrad bowed together to Lord Elrond then returned to their seats, many soft voice calling to them with quiet compliments and requests to hear it again so they could learn it. Legolas stood and embraced the Orc.
"That was wonderful, Elu." He said, tears in his eyes.
"That is our song, Legolas Elvellon." The Orc whispered, staring into the Elf's blue eyes. "I wrote it for you."
Legolas felt his tears spill over his cheeks as he moved into the Orc's arms once more.
"Thank you, nin mellon. It was beautiful. And so are you."
Jessolothrad stared up at the two, smiling. He threw his arms about them. Eikenstan raised a red handkerchief to his face and blew his nose.
"Ridiculous sentimental Elves." He muttered.
Jessolothrad turned to him and smiled, motioning with his hands.
"Yes. The song was very nice and I enjoyed it thoroughly, you young scamp. He has told me the words so many times that I could sing the silly song." Eikenstan told Legolas and Elu with a smile.
The boy turned to look for his father, but Nirnaeth was nowhere to be seen. He looked back to Eikenstan. The Dwarf gazed down at him solemnly.
"I am sorry, lad. But your father left before the song was done." The Dwarf saw the look of great disappointment in the child's face and he sighed. Nirnaeth had watched with a smile of great pride and love until the Orc had begun to sing. Then he had turned white with shock. Eikenstan had seen him stand, his hands clenched. The Elf had stood shaking with anger before turning and leaving the room, causing Lord Elrond and several others to watch his departure. Lord Elrond had not been pleased.
Jessolothrad's shoulder's drooped and he wiped a tear from his eyes. He swallowed, his green eyes so sorrowful that even the elation from the song that Elu felt fled. Jess motioned to them then picked up his harp and left the room, his head bowed.
Eikenstan shook his head.
"I will bid you good-night now as well. I will walk him back to his room." He said heavily. He stumped away as quietly as he could.
Legolas glanced over at Elu. The Orc hung his head, all the happiness fled.
"I am sorry, Elu. I had hoped that – "
"That is alright, Legolas Elvellon. I do not think that Jessolothrad's father will ever accept me."
Legolas lay a slim hand on the Orc's shoulder.
"You must have hope as long as the stars shine, nin mellon. I believe someone once said that to me."
Elu looked up at his friend's face and nodded, though he sighed heavily.
"Yes. I know. Shall we go out now? It is very warm in here."
"Of course. We shall walk beneath the stars together."
The two left the Hall, unaware of the many eyes that watched them, filled with compassion and sorrow. Softly someone sang to their departing forms:
"Gar estel anann i elenath sila." [Have hope as long as the stars shine.]
Elrond sighed then glanced at the next performer who began to play a merry tune. The Elf Lord's eyes strayed to the doorway. He feared that at times hope seemed very dim.
Boromir sighed as he lay back on the bed. It felt wonderful to be clean, warm, and well fed. One hundred and ten days was a long time – a very long time. But now here he was in the fabled Imladris and tomorrow he would see Lord Elrond the greatest Lore Master of Middle Earth. He allowed a smile to touch his lips. He was feeling very satisfied with himself. Wait until he told Faramir about this. What a grand adventure it had been!
But as he thought of his brother, he also thought of his father. One hundred and ten days. What must Denethor be thinking. Did he perhaps wonder if Boromir had perished in his search? He truly had not been pleased letting him go as he had. But maybe the answers gained here would make up for his defiance and long absence.
Music drifted to him, lulling him into a state of near sleep. The sheets smelled of lavender and the sweet scent of the candles was most comforting.
He heard voices as people passed quietly by his door: soft melodious Elvish voices. He smiled. It was peaceful here.
But not in Gondor.
Suddenly he was wide awake. He sighed and reluctantly left the warm bed. He strode across the room and knelt to rummage in his travel stained pack. His fingers closed over something hard and smooth. He drew it out. It was a small rock, no larger than a field mouse. It was pure white, so cold and beautiful. He held it in his palm, fingers curling over it, feeling it absorb his warmth. It was a piece of rock from the White Mountains – the same rock that Minas Tirith, the White City, was made from.
Boromir carried this small token of his beloved home with him always. It was a reminder to him: a reminder of the beauty that was Gondor and a reminder of the strength of her people. It was a reminder of why he had come here.
He clasped the rock to his chest and bowed his head.
"Soon there will be answers. And soon there will be help, I pray. I must have hope that what we need lies here. I must have hope."
He moved back across the room and got back into the bed. He placed the rock under his pillow.
Yes. He must have hope.