Twelve Songs In Rivendel.
An Elrond Romance
by The Fox.
Chapter Eight
From Dol Guldur
Who Wants To Live Forever
Early Spring
The winter was gone, and the spring of defeat came bittersweet and slow.
Elrond was convalescent, a heavy blanket covering his legs as he rested at the warming day in Rivendel's terrace, lulled to
rest for the soft whispers of the waterfall. Arwen has been desperate when Glorfindel came back with the Lord of Rivendel
pale and broken, shivering from the incredible waste of life he had given. But gone was the cold: as Rivendel itself, Elrond was
slowly but securely recuperating, life coming back to his fingertips and eyes as the spring was making the trees blossom and
the frozen Bruinen ran faster with the security of summer coming.
Mithrandir had rested in the house, spent too, tired and hurt: but he was in the road again, after promising to be back for the
Spring Equinox. Elladan and Elrohir, back from the wild battle in Dol Guldur miraculously without a scratch had went again
with Estel into his North travelling.
Arien hadn't came back.
Saruman had failed: the Dark lord now was safely back into Mordor.
We only bought time. For him or for us, that's still to be seen.
Elrond slept, and he let his mind indulge in Elven dreams. He thought, and dreamt: and as his spirit was soothed, he exiled any
worry, to heal.
Just one.
The Scarlet Heart.
"And it was like that, that Fingon's heart was stolen and carried to Mordor to be Melkor's toy. But the High king of
the elves's son, Turgon, Lord of Gondolin, rode to reclaim's his father's heart, and after burying it, it became his
symbol: the Scarlet Heart, crown of Gondolin, the Secret valley. Turgon had the most powerful artifices working for a
year, and they finally emerged with a red stone hanging from a magic chain that can pulse and beat next to Turgon's
own heart. And Turgon made it his token, and only Idril Celebrindal, the wise and fair King's daugther, wore it after..."
Elrond closed the book, and leaned back in his chair.
Fuck.
It this what you have searching for, my dear Arien?
How the hell the Scarlet Heart fell into your family's hands? Are you a descendant of Human Tuor, as I am?
How?
I am not fond of unfinished puzzles, my dear Arien. So come back here.
Now. You called me your Lord: therefore, there's my order.
COME.
The steps of Elfaroth came lightly in the wind, and Elrond, who was with Arwen in his study, heard them even far away. He
slowly stood, whispers of silk and velvet around him, and stood in his balcony, looking a rider enveloped in black, over a sable
stallion, a flag of burning hair pursuing her as she splashed crossing and jumping the tame currents of the Bruinen in her way.
He smiled, and sighed.
- Arwen.- he said with a sudden smirk, that he tried his best to keep out of his voice.
- Yes, father?- Arwen didn't bother in doing the same. She knows I'm smitten, and Elbereth how is she enjoying this.
Wonder when she would held it as argument in the impending I'm-in-love-with-Estel discussion.
- Tell the kitchens we have a guest to dinner.-
- * smiles knowingly * Yes, Father.-
- And make the guest to come to see me immediately, as soon is arrived.-
- Yes, Father, I'll lead her to you.-
- Arwen…-
- (fading away)… yes?-
-…do I look good…?-
- WHAT?-
- Nothing.-
It was like old times: Arien standing there, letter in hand, a serious expression, black from head to toe, her hair in a bun, and
the Lord of Rivendel sitting in his semi-circular desk, circlet and mantle exuding authority.
Wind from the open balcony, making tendrils of black and fire tremble in the hesitating wind, sea of memories.
Memories of darkness enveloping a passionate embrace, lips upon lips lost in a second: severed flower forgotten in the path
and ignored. Their eyes met, and she lowered hers.
- Good afternoon, Lord Elrond. I'm coming with letters from Minas Tirith and Isengard for your Highness.-
It could have been a slap in the face for the way she recoiled when Elrond's hand caught the hand putting the letters in the
smooth wooden desk, softly, and stood.
She looked up, and met his eyes. he was still silent, and suddenly, was pulling her hand to him, so strong and irresistible as
wind, to trap her in his embrace. The red mantle enveloped her again, and her head rested in Elrond's shoulder, as he
whispered soothing words that the girl that trembled like a leaf.
A tear.
And she flowed from his embrace to fall in a heap at his feet, hair pooling in his shoes, vulnerable nape bared, as her spine
bent made an arch, and she sobbed uncontrollably.
- I'm sorry… I didn't knew… I'm so sorry… My Lord, I never knew! You have to believe me! Please, my Lord... I'' so
sorry...-
My poor messenger.
My poor rider. You had risked it all to discover your lord betrayed all of us. We were who trusted in him. But worst of
it, you, the one that worked, suffered, and stood for him.
My poor love, I would never blame it on you. He managed to fool all of us: how could I curse you?
How could you think would do that?
I am not called wise?
What are you scared? That he sent you to hurt me, to seduce me, to unbalance me?
My poor girl, I already knew. Wise as may I be, he is wiser: he is, nonetheless, an Istari.
He knelt, and collected the sobbing mess of a girl in his arms. His hands soothed like no one else, and never before, since
Arwen's first knee-skinnings had wanted so much to soothe. Her sobs subsided, and she lifted ashamed, sad pale blue eyes,
with a hint of amethyst memories there.
- My Lord, I'm sorry…-
- How could have you known? – he whispered gently.- But I knew, my angel. Or at least, I suspected as much.-
Her eyes widened.- You… knew? But I've never…!-
- I knew as soon as I put my eyes on you why Saruman sent you, from all the messengers. Because he knew I would like you
so much, that no matter how much I distrusted him, I would continue on receiving you, and he would keep knowing whatever
I'll do.-
Her face went pale, and betrayed shame, pain, and horror.
- I've been… betraying you…-
- No, Arien, you didn't know!- he added quickly, knowing he had shocked her.- It's all right. Please, Arien, don't cry.- with a
pattern of soothing words he sat her in an chair, and caressed her now free hair.- Arien…-
- Yes, my Lord?-
- Would you answer a question for me please?-
She nodded, numbly, two red spots in her cheeks betraying her need to cry.
- Where did your family got the Scarlet Heart Of Turgon's Gondolin?-
The color left her as loudlessly as the sun leaves the earth. And she stared directly into his eyes, eyes of cloud filling quickly of
lead.
- It comes with your family: you told me as much. Why? Do you know? And, Arien, tell me…- his voice dropped, softly.- …
why you, not being an elf, doesn't leave footprints in the snow as normal men does?-
She didn't answer, but avoided his gaze. And Elrond took her chin in hand, to force her to look into his eyes, tearing spears into
hers, fixed and powerful and shocking as a immersion in cold water.
- Answer me, Arien! Why you long so desperately for Tol Eressea? Why you dare to want to live forever, Human
woman?-
She flew. In the way she moved in her mad dash for the exit, Elrond was suddenly remembered of a bird in hurry from the
hunter.
The last he saw were her curls, like a hunted fox's tail. And he leaned into his fists in the desk, and smiled, ruefully.
I almost got you there, cheerful ice barrier melted by your tears and shame. I touched with my fingertips your secret, I
had your heart in my hand for a second. I saw it in your eyes.
You don't came here only for letters: not only for my library.
You came for me, because I'm the Healer. And as much as you want it, in the tip of your fingers, you are afraid.
I'll heal that hurt in your eyes, my Arien. I am nothing if I am not a healer.
I am waiting.
- You really, really, really owe me a song.- Arwen pouted, and then smiled. Arien blushed under Elrond's gaze, but it had been
impossible to slip away or to stay in her room under Arwen's insistence, and now she was sitting between her and Glorfindel,
who was crossing knowing glances with Elladan, as Elrohir remained impassive.
Elrond ate calmly, sipping his wine with a half-smug, half relaxed expression their household could interpret very well. Arien
nodded reluctantly at Arwen's request, and busied herself with her food, some free locks of hair shielding her eyes.
- I look forward to hear you singing too, my lady. I have almost forgot the last time you sang for me, didn't I?-
Arien choked in her wine.
Glorfindel patted her back gently, and shot Elrond a stare of mild disgust.
Elrond grinned back, his eyes innocent. And Glorfindel couldn't grunt for too much: it has been too long years waiting to see
the Lord of Imladris smile again.
- I heard that were some orcs slaying in Fornost, Elladan.- Glorfindel said, eyeing the older twin that was digging his plate
happily.- It is true?-
- By yours truly. A large group hurried out of Dol Guldor as soon Dad, Grandma and Mithrandir finished their part. They were
disorganized, and has been easy to get them. Estel and us did a good hunting: I think I got at least fifty orcs ears for a necklace
for my pretty sis.-
- Eww…. Elladan…- grunted Arwen, eyeing her brother, who went along slurping mushrooms ear-sized with all intention.
- I'm afraid for a while Mirkwood, Rohan, and even the Shire and Fornost would be plagued with orcs and another dark
creatures. It's inevitable, but i worry for those calm places.- Elrohir said pensatively, warming his wine in hand.
- But as you said, it's inevitable, so the best we can do is help them dealing with them. – Elrond sais, matter of factly, again a
serious lord.- But it wouldn't be safe to travel for a while.-he added, looking at Arien intently.
- It would be hazardous, I think.- Arien said quietly.- But someone has to do it.-
- You can ride with us to the South. Estel plans to go, and we'll accompany him.- Elladan smiled pleasantly, ognoring his
father's glare.- And you're one helluva figther, so orcs beware, she'll not be giving away her baggies easily!-
- Elladan.- sighed Glorfindel, as Arwen and Arien laughed.
- Why you say my name as it means "shut up"?- he said innocently.
- Well, it means Men of Stars, but if Dad were really wise he would have named you " Big Bawling Mouth" instead.-
- Shut up, Lord " I-cry-when- I-lost-my-first-stuffed-bear"-
- I was seven, Elladan!-
- You were sevenTEEN, Elrohir!-
- I didn't!-
- Yes, you WERE!-
- No, I DIDN'T!-
- Elladan, you played with my dolls far more than I.- Arwen, chin in hand, was enjoying the exchange immensely.-
- I DIDN'T!-
- Yes you did.-
- I played with them at the " Last Alliance" game, that's all!-
- Suuure.-
Elrond felt a headache coming. Glorfindel was shaking with suppressed laughter, but Arien's eyes, even if she was smiling at
the trio antics, it was faraway.
Don't go away. Hear me and stay with me, angel. Don't dwell alone…
Elrond spoke suddenly, his deep voice for her ears alone.
- Do you have any sibling? I've told you about my brother.-
- No, my Lord. They'd died.- she said softly, detachedly.
After the dinner, they moved into the Music hall, the Hall Of Fire. There, Arwen repeated her request, even if Arien seemed
unsure. Elrond sat and heard them chorus old and new songs with other elves of the household, even a laughing duet Elrohir
complied to sing with the messenger about how's silly love was. He only listened, not even a time mixing, but he could feel
Arien's blush everytime she looked at him as he felt the heat of the fireplace in his skin.
- Arien?-
All them started: they had forgot totally their presence near the fire, as he had hoped they did. He smiled pleasantly, and then
said with a calm, relaxed voice:
- Arien?-
- Yes, my lord?- her tone was cautious.
- Have you ever knew a old song of Maglor, that he composed at the death of Celegorm? I would like to hear it.-
- But it's… kind of sad.- she managued, voice a bit strained.
- Sing it for me. It was an order. With her eyes in the dancing flames, almost turning those mirrors into the same fire of her
hair, she sung. Her voice was as sad as the song. And Elrond looked at her, and bit his lip, as he felt the heat of the fire
melting the ice in his veins.
There's no time for us
There's no place for us
What is this thing that builds our dreams and slips away from us?
Who wants to live forever?
There's no chance for us
It's all decided for us
This world has only one sweet moment set aside for us
Who wants to live forever?
Touch my tears with your lips
Touch my word with your fingertips
And we can have forever
And we can love forever
Forever is ours today
Who wants to live forever?
Who waits forever anyway?
Then, the songs were ended. They left the fire to walk into the dream's realm, all but one. And as Elrond rose, he saw she
going into the terrace.
He followed, silently.
- You intended to give a lesson, my Lord.- she said, bitterly. Elrond was surprised at her anger: Arien was the lady that always
defied him with mirth, never with fury. But her eyes were sad, and desperate, and avoided his.
The night was almost black in her brilliance, air a translucent alive veil. Elrond walked into the terrace where she stood, eyes
in the magnificent waterfalls, a long dress Arwen did lent falling around her in heavy velvety soft purple swirls. He stood near
her, not touching, but as she looked the waterfall, he arched his neck to watch the stars above.
- No my, dear little one. I only wanted you to know that pain, and how our Elven life had cruel things mortals do not know.-
- But I know, my Lord.- her voice was fierce, and hurt. Elrond, with surprise looked at her, to see her closing her eyes, tears
streaking from them into her pale cheeks.
- Arien…-
- Please, my lord, don't. I cannot offer the answers you want, my Lord. I do not want.-
- Arien, I love you dearly, I can't stand seeing you hurting. Tell me. I can help.- Elrond said, unsure of touching her, but pained
by her obvious distress.- Tell me about Turgon's…-
- I DON'T WANT!- she yelled suddenly, facing him, eyes large, to suddenly walk into him, making him to retreat into the
bench, and realizing with a start that he had healed this woman, he had nursed and laughed and talked and fought, kissed and
embraced, with this woman, and he still didn't know her the slightest yet. Suddenly, he knew why she had traveled the most dangerous trails of Mid Earth and remained unscathed. It was power in her anger. And too, a sense of calm, detached fire and steel.
- You'll tell me! I'm a descendant from Turgon, you OWE ME.- Elrond ordered, voice thundering. Never ever anyone
disobeyed him. Never anyone dared too. But Arien stared, and suddenly hissed:
- I've forgot. I'm a Gondor messenger, and you can't order me nothing, PEREDHIL.-
Elrond had fought Sauron itself, and the pride of his race, always near surface, emerged.
- Don't talk to me like that, MORTAL WOMAN.-
The both glared, eyes meeting others equally hard and unforgiving. But suddenly Elrond's gaze clouded, and he spoke in a
whisper, shaking his head.
- I'm sorry. I didn't mean… my anger got the best of me. Arien, I just want to help. I'm not stupid, I know you search
something, I know you want something, I know you suffers… let me help you and trust me. I know you want something for
me, and you are just scared to ask. And I need to know why you have one of my family's treasures.-
Arien's gaze dropped, and Elrond was pained seeing fresh tears.
- I'm sorry. I just… can't…- she whispered, so much pain in her voice that Elrond's hands twitched, aching to embrace her.
- Arien, please. If I have to beg… I thought you trusted me.-
- My Lord, I… her voice dropped.-… I have to go.-
- No! You can't! Are you going to go back to Saruman's service?-
- Yes.- her voice quivered.- I serve Gondor too, my Lord. No one leave the White Istari's service just like that. I'll have to carry
on. I'll have you informed.-
- Arien, you…- Elrond closed his eyes.- If he suspects of you like a double agent, I don't know what he is capable to do.-
- I'll go with the risk. I need…- her voice quivered again, and she took a step to the house. But Elrond caught her hand, and
fathomless steel eyes bored into hers.
- You need something from him, isn't it? What did he promise you? Tell, me Arien!-
- He will answer one of my questions, soon.- she answered straightly, voice devoid of emotion.- And then, I'll be free.-
Free? Why it sounds so ominous?
I can't let her go.
I don't want to.
- Stay here. He will not come here.-
- No.-
- Stay here, you obstinate woman! I'll answer your questions!-
- NO!-
- WHY!?-
- You'll hate me…- she whispered finally, before to free her hand roughly. But she couldn't flee this time: Elrond seized her in
his arms, and kissed her, the fury and pain of the discussion pouring into his kiss, his impotence a living barrier of self-hate and
exasperation tensing his muscles. And Arien tensed, and fought, but the Lord of Imladris was no more accustomed to be
yelled at that to be denied, and she trembled in his arms, answering with equal fire and need, and equal desperate insecurity. In
the obscure, dark terraces, they both embraced and kissed once and again, heart beating frantically, breath short and painful, a
murmur of a song there.
I love you. Is crazy, is stupid, is impossible, but I love you, and I'm kissing you, and I'll not let you go. I'll embrace
you, and I'll know all I've ignored all this years.
Now I know why I hadn't sail west with my kind before. So easy to be wise, being alone.
I needed to know love, at least once.
I needed to be loved and love.
I've had waited endless years for your kiss. Don't be wretched with them. Give them to me, all of them…
I've waited so much, frozen, to become a man. So don't take this from me. Don't ride away…
She ran away. Elrond stood, hand on the bench, Vilya in his hand mocking his desperate need. He knew, without seeing her,
how she was riding in the night, leaving Rivendel, and him.
Leaving.
To Isengard, to danger, maybe death.
Elrond closed his eyes, and sighed, lips still moist. And looked up to the stars again, into the sky called the clearest of
MidEarth.
Elbereth.
Now I know why Elros did become a Man.
And there, exhilarating and painful, the sound of the waterfalls falling enveloped him into a vibrant poem of emotion, like he
had never felt before
I'm alive, at last.
It hurts.
Now I understand Men. Who needs to live forever?
Who wants to live forever?
© Queen.
An Elrond Romance
by The Fox.
Chapter Eight
From Dol Guldur
Who Wants To Live Forever
Early Spring
The winter was gone, and the spring of defeat came bittersweet and slow.
Elrond was convalescent, a heavy blanket covering his legs as he rested at the warming day in Rivendel's terrace, lulled to
rest for the soft whispers of the waterfall. Arwen has been desperate when Glorfindel came back with the Lord of Rivendel
pale and broken, shivering from the incredible waste of life he had given. But gone was the cold: as Rivendel itself, Elrond was
slowly but securely recuperating, life coming back to his fingertips and eyes as the spring was making the trees blossom and
the frozen Bruinen ran faster with the security of summer coming.
Mithrandir had rested in the house, spent too, tired and hurt: but he was in the road again, after promising to be back for the
Spring Equinox. Elladan and Elrohir, back from the wild battle in Dol Guldur miraculously without a scratch had went again
with Estel into his North travelling.
Arien hadn't came back.
Saruman had failed: the Dark lord now was safely back into Mordor.
We only bought time. For him or for us, that's still to be seen.
Elrond slept, and he let his mind indulge in Elven dreams. He thought, and dreamt: and as his spirit was soothed, he exiled any
worry, to heal.
Just one.
The Scarlet Heart.
"And it was like that, that Fingon's heart was stolen and carried to Mordor to be Melkor's toy. But the High king of
the elves's son, Turgon, Lord of Gondolin, rode to reclaim's his father's heart, and after burying it, it became his
symbol: the Scarlet Heart, crown of Gondolin, the Secret valley. Turgon had the most powerful artifices working for a
year, and they finally emerged with a red stone hanging from a magic chain that can pulse and beat next to Turgon's
own heart. And Turgon made it his token, and only Idril Celebrindal, the wise and fair King's daugther, wore it after..."
Elrond closed the book, and leaned back in his chair.
Fuck.
It this what you have searching for, my dear Arien?
How the hell the Scarlet Heart fell into your family's hands? Are you a descendant of Human Tuor, as I am?
How?
I am not fond of unfinished puzzles, my dear Arien. So come back here.
Now. You called me your Lord: therefore, there's my order.
COME.
The steps of Elfaroth came lightly in the wind, and Elrond, who was with Arwen in his study, heard them even far away. He
slowly stood, whispers of silk and velvet around him, and stood in his balcony, looking a rider enveloped in black, over a sable
stallion, a flag of burning hair pursuing her as she splashed crossing and jumping the tame currents of the Bruinen in her way.
He smiled, and sighed.
- Arwen.- he said with a sudden smirk, that he tried his best to keep out of his voice.
- Yes, father?- Arwen didn't bother in doing the same. She knows I'm smitten, and Elbereth how is she enjoying this.
Wonder when she would held it as argument in the impending I'm-in-love-with-Estel discussion.
- Tell the kitchens we have a guest to dinner.-
- * smiles knowingly * Yes, Father.-
- And make the guest to come to see me immediately, as soon is arrived.-
- Yes, Father, I'll lead her to you.-
- Arwen…-
- (fading away)… yes?-
-…do I look good…?-
- WHAT?-
- Nothing.-
It was like old times: Arien standing there, letter in hand, a serious expression, black from head to toe, her hair in a bun, and
the Lord of Rivendel sitting in his semi-circular desk, circlet and mantle exuding authority.
Wind from the open balcony, making tendrils of black and fire tremble in the hesitating wind, sea of memories.
Memories of darkness enveloping a passionate embrace, lips upon lips lost in a second: severed flower forgotten in the path
and ignored. Their eyes met, and she lowered hers.
- Good afternoon, Lord Elrond. I'm coming with letters from Minas Tirith and Isengard for your Highness.-
It could have been a slap in the face for the way she recoiled when Elrond's hand caught the hand putting the letters in the
smooth wooden desk, softly, and stood.
She looked up, and met his eyes. he was still silent, and suddenly, was pulling her hand to him, so strong and irresistible as
wind, to trap her in his embrace. The red mantle enveloped her again, and her head rested in Elrond's shoulder, as he
whispered soothing words that the girl that trembled like a leaf.
A tear.
And she flowed from his embrace to fall in a heap at his feet, hair pooling in his shoes, vulnerable nape bared, as her spine
bent made an arch, and she sobbed uncontrollably.
- I'm sorry… I didn't knew… I'm so sorry… My Lord, I never knew! You have to believe me! Please, my Lord... I'' so
sorry...-
My poor messenger.
My poor rider. You had risked it all to discover your lord betrayed all of us. We were who trusted in him. But worst of
it, you, the one that worked, suffered, and stood for him.
My poor love, I would never blame it on you. He managed to fool all of us: how could I curse you?
How could you think would do that?
I am not called wise?
What are you scared? That he sent you to hurt me, to seduce me, to unbalance me?
My poor girl, I already knew. Wise as may I be, he is wiser: he is, nonetheless, an Istari.
He knelt, and collected the sobbing mess of a girl in his arms. His hands soothed like no one else, and never before, since
Arwen's first knee-skinnings had wanted so much to soothe. Her sobs subsided, and she lifted ashamed, sad pale blue eyes,
with a hint of amethyst memories there.
- My Lord, I'm sorry…-
- How could have you known? – he whispered gently.- But I knew, my angel. Or at least, I suspected as much.-
Her eyes widened.- You… knew? But I've never…!-
- I knew as soon as I put my eyes on you why Saruman sent you, from all the messengers. Because he knew I would like you
so much, that no matter how much I distrusted him, I would continue on receiving you, and he would keep knowing whatever
I'll do.-
Her face went pale, and betrayed shame, pain, and horror.
- I've been… betraying you…-
- No, Arien, you didn't know!- he added quickly, knowing he had shocked her.- It's all right. Please, Arien, don't cry.- with a
pattern of soothing words he sat her in an chair, and caressed her now free hair.- Arien…-
- Yes, my Lord?-
- Would you answer a question for me please?-
She nodded, numbly, two red spots in her cheeks betraying her need to cry.
- Where did your family got the Scarlet Heart Of Turgon's Gondolin?-
The color left her as loudlessly as the sun leaves the earth. And she stared directly into his eyes, eyes of cloud filling quickly of
lead.
- It comes with your family: you told me as much. Why? Do you know? And, Arien, tell me…- his voice dropped, softly.- …
why you, not being an elf, doesn't leave footprints in the snow as normal men does?-
She didn't answer, but avoided his gaze. And Elrond took her chin in hand, to force her to look into his eyes, tearing spears into
hers, fixed and powerful and shocking as a immersion in cold water.
- Answer me, Arien! Why you long so desperately for Tol Eressea? Why you dare to want to live forever, Human
woman?-
She flew. In the way she moved in her mad dash for the exit, Elrond was suddenly remembered of a bird in hurry from the
hunter.
The last he saw were her curls, like a hunted fox's tail. And he leaned into his fists in the desk, and smiled, ruefully.
I almost got you there, cheerful ice barrier melted by your tears and shame. I touched with my fingertips your secret, I
had your heart in my hand for a second. I saw it in your eyes.
You don't came here only for letters: not only for my library.
You came for me, because I'm the Healer. And as much as you want it, in the tip of your fingers, you are afraid.
I'll heal that hurt in your eyes, my Arien. I am nothing if I am not a healer.
I am waiting.
- You really, really, really owe me a song.- Arwen pouted, and then smiled. Arien blushed under Elrond's gaze, but it had been
impossible to slip away or to stay in her room under Arwen's insistence, and now she was sitting between her and Glorfindel,
who was crossing knowing glances with Elladan, as Elrohir remained impassive.
Elrond ate calmly, sipping his wine with a half-smug, half relaxed expression their household could interpret very well. Arien
nodded reluctantly at Arwen's request, and busied herself with her food, some free locks of hair shielding her eyes.
- I look forward to hear you singing too, my lady. I have almost forgot the last time you sang for me, didn't I?-
Arien choked in her wine.
Glorfindel patted her back gently, and shot Elrond a stare of mild disgust.
Elrond grinned back, his eyes innocent. And Glorfindel couldn't grunt for too much: it has been too long years waiting to see
the Lord of Imladris smile again.
- I heard that were some orcs slaying in Fornost, Elladan.- Glorfindel said, eyeing the older twin that was digging his plate
happily.- It is true?-
- By yours truly. A large group hurried out of Dol Guldor as soon Dad, Grandma and Mithrandir finished their part. They were
disorganized, and has been easy to get them. Estel and us did a good hunting: I think I got at least fifty orcs ears for a necklace
for my pretty sis.-
- Eww…. Elladan…- grunted Arwen, eyeing her brother, who went along slurping mushrooms ear-sized with all intention.
- I'm afraid for a while Mirkwood, Rohan, and even the Shire and Fornost would be plagued with orcs and another dark
creatures. It's inevitable, but i worry for those calm places.- Elrohir said pensatively, warming his wine in hand.
- But as you said, it's inevitable, so the best we can do is help them dealing with them. – Elrond sais, matter of factly, again a
serious lord.- But it wouldn't be safe to travel for a while.-he added, looking at Arien intently.
- It would be hazardous, I think.- Arien said quietly.- But someone has to do it.-
- You can ride with us to the South. Estel plans to go, and we'll accompany him.- Elladan smiled pleasantly, ognoring his
father's glare.- And you're one helluva figther, so orcs beware, she'll not be giving away her baggies easily!-
- Elladan.- sighed Glorfindel, as Arwen and Arien laughed.
- Why you say my name as it means "shut up"?- he said innocently.
- Well, it means Men of Stars, but if Dad were really wise he would have named you " Big Bawling Mouth" instead.-
- Shut up, Lord " I-cry-when- I-lost-my-first-stuffed-bear"-
- I was seven, Elladan!-
- You were sevenTEEN, Elrohir!-
- I didn't!-
- Yes, you WERE!-
- No, I DIDN'T!-
- Elladan, you played with my dolls far more than I.- Arwen, chin in hand, was enjoying the exchange immensely.-
- I DIDN'T!-
- Yes you did.-
- I played with them at the " Last Alliance" game, that's all!-
- Suuure.-
Elrond felt a headache coming. Glorfindel was shaking with suppressed laughter, but Arien's eyes, even if she was smiling at
the trio antics, it was faraway.
Don't go away. Hear me and stay with me, angel. Don't dwell alone…
Elrond spoke suddenly, his deep voice for her ears alone.
- Do you have any sibling? I've told you about my brother.-
- No, my Lord. They'd died.- she said softly, detachedly.
After the dinner, they moved into the Music hall, the Hall Of Fire. There, Arwen repeated her request, even if Arien seemed
unsure. Elrond sat and heard them chorus old and new songs with other elves of the household, even a laughing duet Elrohir
complied to sing with the messenger about how's silly love was. He only listened, not even a time mixing, but he could feel
Arien's blush everytime she looked at him as he felt the heat of the fireplace in his skin.
- Arien?-
All them started: they had forgot totally their presence near the fire, as he had hoped they did. He smiled pleasantly, and then
said with a calm, relaxed voice:
- Arien?-
- Yes, my lord?- her tone was cautious.
- Have you ever knew a old song of Maglor, that he composed at the death of Celegorm? I would like to hear it.-
- But it's… kind of sad.- she managued, voice a bit strained.
- Sing it for me. It was an order. With her eyes in the dancing flames, almost turning those mirrors into the same fire of her
hair, she sung. Her voice was as sad as the song. And Elrond looked at her, and bit his lip, as he felt the heat of the fire
melting the ice in his veins.
There's no time for us
There's no place for us
What is this thing that builds our dreams and slips away from us?
Who wants to live forever?
There's no chance for us
It's all decided for us
This world has only one sweet moment set aside for us
Who wants to live forever?
Touch my tears with your lips
Touch my word with your fingertips
And we can have forever
And we can love forever
Forever is ours today
Who wants to live forever?
Who waits forever anyway?
Then, the songs were ended. They left the fire to walk into the dream's realm, all but one. And as Elrond rose, he saw she
going into the terrace.
He followed, silently.
- You intended to give a lesson, my Lord.- she said, bitterly. Elrond was surprised at her anger: Arien was the lady that always
defied him with mirth, never with fury. But her eyes were sad, and desperate, and avoided his.
The night was almost black in her brilliance, air a translucent alive veil. Elrond walked into the terrace where she stood, eyes
in the magnificent waterfalls, a long dress Arwen did lent falling around her in heavy velvety soft purple swirls. He stood near
her, not touching, but as she looked the waterfall, he arched his neck to watch the stars above.
- No my, dear little one. I only wanted you to know that pain, and how our Elven life had cruel things mortals do not know.-
- But I know, my Lord.- her voice was fierce, and hurt. Elrond, with surprise looked at her, to see her closing her eyes, tears
streaking from them into her pale cheeks.
- Arien…-
- Please, my lord, don't. I cannot offer the answers you want, my Lord. I do not want.-
- Arien, I love you dearly, I can't stand seeing you hurting. Tell me. I can help.- Elrond said, unsure of touching her, but pained
by her obvious distress.- Tell me about Turgon's…-
- I DON'T WANT!- she yelled suddenly, facing him, eyes large, to suddenly walk into him, making him to retreat into the
bench, and realizing with a start that he had healed this woman, he had nursed and laughed and talked and fought, kissed and
embraced, with this woman, and he still didn't know her the slightest yet. Suddenly, he knew why she had traveled the most dangerous trails of Mid Earth and remained unscathed. It was power in her anger. And too, a sense of calm, detached fire and steel.
- You'll tell me! I'm a descendant from Turgon, you OWE ME.- Elrond ordered, voice thundering. Never ever anyone
disobeyed him. Never anyone dared too. But Arien stared, and suddenly hissed:
- I've forgot. I'm a Gondor messenger, and you can't order me nothing, PEREDHIL.-
Elrond had fought Sauron itself, and the pride of his race, always near surface, emerged.
- Don't talk to me like that, MORTAL WOMAN.-
The both glared, eyes meeting others equally hard and unforgiving. But suddenly Elrond's gaze clouded, and he spoke in a
whisper, shaking his head.
- I'm sorry. I didn't mean… my anger got the best of me. Arien, I just want to help. I'm not stupid, I know you search
something, I know you want something, I know you suffers… let me help you and trust me. I know you want something for
me, and you are just scared to ask. And I need to know why you have one of my family's treasures.-
Arien's gaze dropped, and Elrond was pained seeing fresh tears.
- I'm sorry. I just… can't…- she whispered, so much pain in her voice that Elrond's hands twitched, aching to embrace her.
- Arien, please. If I have to beg… I thought you trusted me.-
- My Lord, I… her voice dropped.-… I have to go.-
- No! You can't! Are you going to go back to Saruman's service?-
- Yes.- her voice quivered.- I serve Gondor too, my Lord. No one leave the White Istari's service just like that. I'll have to carry
on. I'll have you informed.-
- Arien, you…- Elrond closed his eyes.- If he suspects of you like a double agent, I don't know what he is capable to do.-
- I'll go with the risk. I need…- her voice quivered again, and she took a step to the house. But Elrond caught her hand, and
fathomless steel eyes bored into hers.
- You need something from him, isn't it? What did he promise you? Tell, me Arien!-
- He will answer one of my questions, soon.- she answered straightly, voice devoid of emotion.- And then, I'll be free.-
Free? Why it sounds so ominous?
I can't let her go.
I don't want to.
- Stay here. He will not come here.-
- No.-
- Stay here, you obstinate woman! I'll answer your questions!-
- NO!-
- WHY!?-
- You'll hate me…- she whispered finally, before to free her hand roughly. But she couldn't flee this time: Elrond seized her in
his arms, and kissed her, the fury and pain of the discussion pouring into his kiss, his impotence a living barrier of self-hate and
exasperation tensing his muscles. And Arien tensed, and fought, but the Lord of Imladris was no more accustomed to be
yelled at that to be denied, and she trembled in his arms, answering with equal fire and need, and equal desperate insecurity. In
the obscure, dark terraces, they both embraced and kissed once and again, heart beating frantically, breath short and painful, a
murmur of a song there.
I love you. Is crazy, is stupid, is impossible, but I love you, and I'm kissing you, and I'll not let you go. I'll embrace
you, and I'll know all I've ignored all this years.
Now I know why I hadn't sail west with my kind before. So easy to be wise, being alone.
I needed to know love, at least once.
I needed to be loved and love.
I've had waited endless years for your kiss. Don't be wretched with them. Give them to me, all of them…
I've waited so much, frozen, to become a man. So don't take this from me. Don't ride away…
She ran away. Elrond stood, hand on the bench, Vilya in his hand mocking his desperate need. He knew, without seeing her,
how she was riding in the night, leaving Rivendel, and him.
Leaving.
To Isengard, to danger, maybe death.
Elrond closed his eyes, and sighed, lips still moist. And looked up to the stars again, into the sky called the clearest of
MidEarth.
Elbereth.
Now I know why Elros did become a Man.
And there, exhilarating and painful, the sound of the waterfalls falling enveloped him into a vibrant poem of emotion, like he
had never felt before
I'm alive, at last.
It hurts.
Now I understand Men. Who needs to live forever?
Who wants to live forever?
© Queen.