Gandalf took off his hat and sat down on the chair. He smiled his thanks at the servant who brought him a cup of steaming
tea. "Famous is the hospitality of Lord Elrond," he said. He took a sip of the tea and savored it. "Nectar, as always." He
took another sip of his tea, then turned as a commotion was heard in the hallway. Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas were
walking into the room, accompanied by Elladan, who had finally left his brother's side to get something to eat.
"Gandalf!" exclaimed Gimli. "How good it is to see you again!" He clasped the wizard in a bearhug, then sat down beside
him.
"Master Dwarf, I am pleased to see you again as well," replied Gandalf. "And you, Aragorn, and Legolas." He embraced
them as they took their seats.
"Mithrandir," Elladan stood before the wizard. "I am happy to see you."
Gandalf looked at Elladan, seeing the dark circles under his eyes. "And I you," he said. He pulled the elf into a hug,
clapping him on the back. "Don't worry, Elladan. He will be back to himself before you know it."
Elladan sat down beside his friends and his father. "I hope so, Mithrandir. I do not like to see him like this."
Aragorn nodded. "I agree. But Elrohir is strong, and soon he will be among us again."
Servants started to bring food, and soon the conversation was punctuated with laughter as the meal continued.
******************************************************
Elrohir stirred. A cool cloth was on his forehead and a blanket had been pulled up over him. He moved slightly, and gave a small moan when he tried to move his leg. He blinked and tried to clear his head. A movement beside him made him turn his head slightly, and he saw his father move toward him. "Ada," he murmured.
"Shh, my son," his father said quietly. "Rest. You are home."
Elrohir closed his eyes, feeling the safety of his own bed in his own room. He could hear his father speaking softly to someone, and then the cloth on his forehead was replaced, and gentle hands bathed his face. His breathing slowed and soon became the regular, even breathing of sleep.
**
Elrond left Elrohir's door ajar as he joined the others on the balcony near his son's room.
"You are always welcome here, Mithrandir," replied Lord Elrond with a smile. "I am glad to see you again, my friend." He gazed at the wizard curiously. "I am wondering, though, what brings you here. It seems you have come with a purpose."
Gandalf nodded. "That I have, Elrond. Although I believe I am a little late." He looked at the group before him.
"What is this mystery, Legolas, you spoke earlier?" The elf lord looked at the prince of Mirkwood. "Why do you think your father knows this elf?"