Chapter 5 - The Comfort of Friends
~thoughts in ~
The quiet song of the crickets and the soft calls of the night birds accompanied Laerlend as she ran swiftly through the trees, her bare feet soundless on the mossy ground. She berated herself as she hurried away from the clearing where "he" was.
"Foolish child," she breathed. "To become enchanted by a voice, like a babe with a sparkling bauble. Could you be any more foolish?"
The night air was cooling and scented with the fragrance of dew- kissed grass and the more elusive sweetness of night blooming flowers. Stars blazed overhead as the moon rode across the velvet sky. The smooth trunks of the beech-trees glowed silver, the spaces between dappled with light nearly as bright as day.
The Elf maiden ignored the spell woven by the night and hurried toward her home. Too many enchantments had filled the air. As she neared her father's palace she could hear the melodious sounds of harps and voices raised over the rush of the black river; voices she could easily identify. Lameren and Onethlind were singing, their voices lifted in a perfect blending and weaving. The two young Elves were gifted singers, and a subtle competition underscored every performance they gave.
Laerlend slowed to a more leisurely pace as she neared the bridge spanning the river that ran swift and dark before the palace. She hesitated, hoping that her turmoil and frustration didn't show in her eyes. Raising her hands to her cheeks, which burned beneath the touch, she frowned, wishing she hadn't run with such exertion. She waved her hands before her face to help cool them. As she caught her breath, willing her coloring to return to normal, she listened to the song being sung. The air was still, the clear voices reaching her ears. It was a song of the battle on Cristhorn. Lameren's fair tenor sang Glorfindel's words; Onethlind's stirring bass the Balrog's.
She was surprised that she found fault with Lameren's voice for the first time. She had always enjoyed his singing in the past, so sweet and fine it was. But now it fell short of what it should be.
~'Tis not deep enough, ~ she thought critically. ~ The tone is not as clear. Truly, he doesn't sound like him at all! ~
Suddenly her cheeks flamed once again and she gasped angrily.
"How dare he do this to me!" She clenched her fists and marched across the great stone bridge, leaving the sound of the taunts flung at Glorfindel by the Balrog. As she neared the palace she heard laughing, light female voices. Turning she groaned as she caught sight of three of her friends approaching rapidly.
"Laerlend, where have you been? We have been looking for you everywhere."
The three Elf maidens joined their friend and immediately pulled her away from the palace where she could think in peace.
"Where is Legolas?" Duilinn asked, a blush heating her cheeks. She was slender girl with long honey blonde hair falling to her knees, intricately braided and tied with ribbons of pale lavender that matched her gown.
Laerlend rolled her eyes. ~ Always Legolas! ~ She thought with a snort. ~ Always! ~
"Is he with." Milui breathed. "With Gimli?"
The other girls laughed at her, even Laerlend could not help herself. The picture of the tall, slender Elf maiden with the short, robust Dwarf was an unusual image to be dwelt on for long.
"How can you have fallen for a Dwarf?" Gwirith asked, enjoying the look on her friend's embarrassed face. "A Dwarf, Milui!"
"Don't you think he is rather cute?" The maiden persisted, her leaf green eyes bright. "His beard is so soft!"
"Better a Dwarf like Gimli than an Elf-lord named Glorfindel." Laerlend huffed.
The three turned to look at her. They did not understand her reluctance entirely. They all had admitted to one another that they would be more than happy to join with such a magnificent one as Glorfindel.
"Well, tomorrow you will get to see him and you will change your mind," Gwirith said firmly. "You will see. You won't be able to resist him. He will look into your eyes and you will be his," She sighed happily, imagining herself staring into the Elf-lord's eyes. She could feel him running his slim hands through the dark gold spill of her hair, his eyes drinking her in. "Oh, he is wonderful."
"I do not think that I will give in as you would," Laerlend said with a toss of her head. "I will not be won so easily."
Gwirith exchanged knowing glances with the others.
"Perhaps he had best keep silent then. For if you hear him sing you will fall before him on your knees! You do have a weakness for beautiful voices. His voice will be glorious I am sure."
Heat flooded Laerlend's face and she frowned.
"What is in a voice? A voice does not make a person wonderful."
Milui turned to rest her clear green gaze on the princess, a suspicion being born in the back of her mind.
"Laerlend? Where HAVE you been this night?"
Gwirith and Duilinn turned to look at her as well. Each girl noted the pink cheeks, fiercely bright eyes, and the fine brows knit in consternation, the way her long slender fingers wrapped about an abused lock of hair and yanked.
~ Am I read so easily? ~ She thought with annoyance. ~ Will I never learn to hide my feelings? If I were to face "him" on the morrow with my unwanted feelings shining in my eyes -~
"I have been nowhere!" She answered somewhat more sharply than was necessary. "I was merely walking in the woods with Legolas," she said, turning to stab Milui with her gaze. "And Gimli."
Milui colored again and smiled. She knew that she was silly to like the Dwarf so much, but he was so sweet and spoke so kindly to her, not at all like she imagined Dwarves would be. His beard was very soft! He had let her braid it for him once. She giggled happily at the memory.
"We saw nothing and no one! No one at all. I heard no one and I saw no one!"
Gwirith shook her head, her merry laughter filling the air as they walked a flower- lined path. They were all hopeless and romantic and stubborn.
"One would almost think you have seen him," she murmured slyly. "'I heard no one and I saw no one'. Was his voice very pleasing? It must have been very pleasant indeed to put you in such a mood."
Laerlend turned to her and glared.
"What does it matter if I did?" She yanked her arm from Milui's and strode ahead of them.
"She saw him?" Duilinn asked in amazement. "She SAW him?"
The three ran lightly to catch up with her.
"Please, Laerlend. Please! You have to tell us! If you don't I shall die! Just die! What does he look like? Is he more beautiful than Legolas? But he couldn't be. No one is. I am sure he is very lovely though. One of the first Elves! My goodness! What does he sound like? Did you hear him sing by any chance or just speak?"
If either Gwirith or Milui had said this she would have been even more angered. But since it had come from quiet Duilinn's mouth she paused and turned to them. Well, perhaps she should make light of her momentary fascination and thus rid herself of it. It was fun to chatter away with these three, perhaps it was what she needed to work out her fears and frustrations.
She smiled at them, a secret playful light in her eyes.
"Very well. I will tell you. I DID see him!"
Glorfindel walked slowly beneath Eryn Lasgalen's towering trees. Such a feeling of peace pervaded that it was hard for him to believe this wondrous forest had been haunted Mirkwood. When Sauron's power had grown in Dol Guldur in the southern reaches during the Third Age, evil creatures had spread through the forest and the Old Forest Road had fallen into disuse. But now the wood was once again filled with great beauty and tranquility. Where once giant spiders infested the groves and hollows, there were secluded gardens with flowering trees and bushes; beauty created out of ruin, peace out of conflict. It was to one of these places that Glorfindel's feet carried him.
Hidden in the midst of a glade surrounded by screening bushes with delicate pink and purple blossoms was a large clear pool of water. Legolas had told the Elf-lord about it, knowing that he wished to bathe before the morrow. Glorfindel studied it with pleasure. It would feel good to wash the dust of the road off. He moved to kneel by the water and passed his hand through its coolness. He smiled and stood. He shed his travel- stained clothing, piling it neatly nearby. Then he stepped into the water.
He sighed happily and swam the pool's length, ducking his head under to refresh his hair before moving to sit on a long, smooth rock submerged like a bench into one side. He leaned his head against the edge, arms outstretched on the grassy bank. He sighed contentedly and closed his eyes.
The scents and sounds of summer surrounded him with their soft quietness. Far in the distance he could make out the sound of fair voices raised to the night. He allowed himself a smile. He could not make out the words or the melodies, just the sense of music lifted on the air. He smiled, wrapped in the season's soft embrace.
He recalled the great feast of Tarnin Austa - the Gates of Summer - that was celebrated in Gondolin. The custom was that from midnight of the chosen day until the dawn a solemn silence reigned in the city. Silver lamps glowed in the streets and lights of emerald, sapphire, ruby and amethyst twinkled in the new green of the trees. The only sound was that of the low music of instruments and the splashing of the fountains. The white stone of Gondolin's walls glowed like moonlight, shadows of trees and dancing water were thrown into gentle relief against them. Before the first light of day touched the sky, the people would gather on the eastern wall, their fair faces glowing with anticipation. Then as the first light glimmered in the sky, their voices would raise with ancient songs to greet the new day, ushering it in with the sound of glorious wonder and delight.
The last spring in Gondolin had been a joyous one. The winter had been exceeding hard and cold even for that region. Frost had lain thick on the plain of Tumladin, the pools shrouded in ice. So it was with great joy that the Gondothlim greeted the spring and the return of life as flowers flooded the plain with color and the waters ran freely under the blue skies, released from their frozen prison. All boded well for the year ahead.
So it was on the night of the vigil that the people of Gondolin were dressed in their finery, the children wearing garlands of bright flowers in their hair. They had watched the setting of the sun in the west and Glorfindel had picked up his small cousin Emlin, holding her on his broad shoulders as they watched the first stars appear in their brilliance. The child pointed in delight from one shining dot to the next, ever silent and smiling. One tiny hand gripped his long golden hair, her bare feet thumping in excitement against his chest. He smiled, enjoying the young one's enthusiasm. It was then that he heard the voices, shatteringly loud in the silence of the occasion. He turned to see people gathering near the northern wall and battlements, their faces filled with wonder and bewilderment. He frowned and joined the growing throng of people. He made his way up the steps and joined those that stood on the wall; tiny Emlin still perched on his shoulders.
Far in the northward heights a glow was seen, golden and distant.
"What is that, Cousin Glory?" Emlin whispered, fearful to speak on this night, but hearing the anxiety in the voices about her made her feel that for once the silence of Tarnin Austa could be broken.
He reached up and brought her down to let her straddle his hip, one of her hands immediately tangling again in his long gold locks. He stared at the distant mountains, watching as the light deepened and grew red, making the snow on the peaks turn to blood. A deep foreboding had gripped the Elf-lord. He turned to where Tuor and Idril stood flanking Earendil not far away. He felt the man's gaze turn to him. They locked eyes and Glorfindel felt his heart tighten ever more with fear. Tears streamed down the Lady Idril's fair face.
"Alas," he murmured, gripping the child to him.
The sound of hooves was heard, and ill tidings were brought to the king by the plain's riders who bore the message from those who guarded the peaks:
"Melko is upon us!"
A great silence fell over the fair city of Gondolin as the news of the grave danger spread. Great fire-serpents were advancing toward them, with hordes of Orcs. And Balrogs.
"What is a Balrog?" Emlin had asked, fear growing in the small child as she saw the people begin to cry out in anguish and desolation. Women were sobbing and clinging to their husbands who knew they must prepare for the defense of their beloved city. Children were screaming as the glow of the enemies' fire advanced ever closer down the mountains and across the plain.
"You needn't fear the Balrogs, child. No harm will come to you. Come, I will take you to your mother." Glorfindel moved through the milling crowd of panicked citizens, one hand shielding the child as he carried her swiftly down the steps, his eyes searching for her family. Eirien came running to meet them, her magnificent grey eyes filled with such horror that Glorfindel drew her into his embrace before returning her child to her. "All will be well," he murmured, fearing that he was telling her something untrue. Deep within he knew the city was going to fall, the life they had lived here in such joy was over.
He recalled the words Tuor had spoken so many long years hence, sent to Gondolin by Ulmo the Ainu to warn them of their need for preparation against Melko. But Turgon had refused to listen to the advice and now it seemed that their doom was upon them. He had to find the men of his House and prepare for battle. He saw many beloved faces, marred by fear and tears. He heard shouts of terror and orders being called to the soldiers. He looked up to the wall facing north and saw the Lady Idril staring at the advancing enemy, her hand on the shoulder of her young son. Her fair hair was unbound and danced about her in the fair spring breeze. Tuor was already mustering his men and his clear voice could be heard ringing in the square.
"Glorfindel? Glorfindel!" Voices were calling to him. He had to prepare. Soon the enemy would be upon them.
"Glorfindel?"
The Elf-lord started slightly and opened his eyes. Elrond was standing on the other side of the pool, his dark blue eyes on his friend.
"You seemed very far away. Am I disturbing you?"
Glorfindel blinked slowly, willing the vivid memory of that most horrible night to dissipate.
"Not at all. I shall be glad of the company."
Elrond smiled gently and undressed. He slipped into the water, enjoying the coolness that wrapped about his body. He slid under the water, resurfacing a few feet away from Glorfindel. He moved to join him on the sunken stone bench.
"Mirkwood is indeed much changed," he commented quietly. "Once I would have had to rescue you from the clutches of it's giant spiders if you came here unattended. The twins used to want one, as you recall."
Glorfindel smiled, his eyes still distant.
"Aye, children." Pain that should have all but vanished over so long a period of time ached in his heart. He drew a shaky breath, trying not to think of all the children that had died that night in Gondolin.
"You needn't fear the Balrogs, child. No harm will come to you." His words to sweet Emlin drifted across the pain of the memories, searing him.
Elrond turned his head slightly, seeing the noble brow furrowed, the eyes filled with anguish.
"What were you thinking of before I arrived?" He asked in a gentle voice.
Glorfindel stared across the water, forcing his mind to the present, willing a calmness to return. He had not called up these memories in a very long time. The pain they caused troubled him.
"I was remembering the last night in Gondolin. It was the time of Tarnin Austa. It was a fair night much as this one is. Hearing the songs in the distance reminded me of it." His lips twitched in what might have been a smile. Or not. "'Tis not fitting to be thinking of that night now," he said after a moment. "But - my life changed that night, just as it is about to change again."
Elrond lifted one dark brow.
"Rather a different kind of change, my friend," he said with a wry smile.
Glorfindel turned his head to gaze at his lord and raised an eyebrow as well.
"Unless of course you are likening the girl to a Balrog," he smiled in a teasing manner.
Glorfindel's mouth did twitch into a smile then. Hadn't he been thinking something like that earlier?
"Not exactly." He drew a breath. "Why must I be forced to endure a year after we are betrothed? That is a long wait for something that is inevitable."
Elrond's dark blue eyes widened in surprise at this sudden change in his friend's line of thinking.
"Well, it is the custom," he answered with a frown. Suddenly he grinned. "Are you so eager for your joining, my friend?"
Color tinged the Elf-lord's high cheekbones, but he said nothing.
Elrond continued to smile, though he turned, laying back against the bank to stare at the stars overhead.
"It would seem that you are not the only one to be eager for this," he said in an even tone, though he wished to laugh aloud in delight with the teasing.
"I know not what you mean." Glorfindel said, looking upward as well. His face reddened and he frowned. ~I am too old for this. I should not be blushing like a mere lad who has never kissed a girl. ~
"I mean that Laerlend seems to be anticipating this much as you are."
Glorfindel wanted to squirm uncomfortably at the mention of her name, but willed himself to stillness. Why was he so discomfited at the mere mention of her name?
"Has Legolas said something?" He managed at last, knowing that as always his voice sounded calm and natural.
Elrond's face ached as he controlled his urge to laugh aloud.
"It would seem that she could not wait for morrow to see you."
Glorfindel frowned and turned to look at his lord.
"What do you mean?" He asked. "I have not seen her."
"No, you have not seen her, but - she has seen you."
Glorfindel noted the bright twinkling of amusement in his friend's eyes, which remained on the sky.
"When has she seen me?" He looked away, refusing to be drawn into the game.
"Oh, this night."
"This night?" He barely managed to keep from starting up to stare down at Elrond.
Imladris lord bit at his lips to keep from laughing.
"Yes. Didn't you see her?"
A feeling of annoyance crept into Glorfindel. ~ I am too old to be teased in this manner. You would think he was one of his sons. ~ But he also felt a twinge of annoyance at himself. Was it possible that she had been present somewhere and he had NOT seen her? Surely he had been more alert than that. But then he remembered all the noise Gimli had made as he and Legolas had come into the clearing. He had known Gimli for a time now and he had never heard the Dwarf make such a racket in all that time, even when he was swathed in his beloved chain mail. He scowled.
"Where was she? Perched in the tree over my head?" He asked, feeling his annoyance pass to the girl.
Elrond could not help the gasp of laughter that escaped his lips.
"She was! So you did see her? I didn't think that you had."
Glorfindel scowled and Elrond burst into peals of delight.
"You did NOT see her!" He gasped. "Here I thought you were ever vigilant and nothing escaped your notice."
The ancient Elf-lord turned inscrutable eyes on his friend.
" 'Tis not funny."
"Actually it is!"
Glorfindel looked away as Elrond laughed. In his mind's eye he saw the leaf falling to the ground at his feet. He shook his head imperceptibly. She had her fun and now Elrond was having his. He sighed and stood.
"It is not funny, Elrond. It was rude of her not to make her presence known."
"She is Thranduil's daughter and you know how headstrong and willful he is."
"Not unlike you or your own children."
"Are you insulting me?" Elrond asked, standing to his feet, eyes filled with mischief.
The Lord of the House of the Golden Flower turned, his blue eyes bright.
"Perhaps I am. I have known your family for a long time and know you all quite well."
Elrond gasped in mock hurt.
"You will pay for that insolence, Lord Glorfindel!" He suddenly felt water splash him in the face, for Glorfindel was faster.
Soon the two were laughing merrily and splashing water at one another beneath the stars of Elbereth.
There was a sound behind them and they turned to see Elladan, Elrohir, Legolas, and Gimli watching them.
"To think," Elladan commented dryly, folding his arms over his chest, one eyebrow cocked in perfect imitation of his sire. "They call us the children."
Elrond looked at Glorfindel, who allowed a low smile to spread over his face.
"Did they just insult us?" He asked, looking wounded and surprised.
" 'Twould seem so."
"Well, we must do something to redeem our honor and dignity."
They turned back to the four younglings. As one they splashed water up onto them where they stood standing on the grass. Soon five Elves and one Dwarf were laughing and splashing in one of Mirkwood's hidden glades.
Author's Note: The story of Gondolin's fall is in the Book of Lost Tales II
Response to Reviewers
JastaElf - First THANK YOU again! Now fix him or you will be so sorry! Saeros and Tuilinal will have your heart if you don't watch it! ( You know I love Glory! The adoration is growing more and more all the time!! Music can charm me, especially a sexy male voice. Hmm. So I am putting some of myself into Laerlend. Didn't mean to! Legolas and Gimli will be glad to help. Why else are they here in Glorfindel's story?? G I am wondering what her reaction to the bush will be. You know me. I know nothing before I sit down to write it. I have SO got to stop that!
Furius - You are so right! Some tension and conflict between Elrond, Glorfindel, and Laerlend could be great fun! big grin at the possibilities I am glad you like the background information. The history enriches the story and gives a better sense of the characters and who they are. I am glad you appreciate that!
No one - Seventeen handclaps! Cool!! Legolas and Gimli really love that! If Laerlend doesn't want Glory, you will have to get in line! G Artanis has first dibs, but she may have to fight me first! A beta reader is someone who reads over your story, checking for errors in spelling, grammar, inconsistencies or holes in your storyline. Like an editor really. So when this story sounds good a big thanks goes to Al my beta reader and other self. She keeps me straight!
Irena - Thank you so much! I am really enjoying this more descriptive, quiet tale so your review meant a lot to me. It is a break from my other frantic fics, which drive me to distraction at times. We all need a restful place to run to. This is mine.
Al - The twins will be fun I think. They have known Glory for a long time and are quite fond of him, but they do like to poke fun. I like Elrond (duh!) and his story is so bittersweet! I do like angst - *ahem* and I can write it, just not with the skill so many others possess! Laerlend is like her brother and father. That can be good! Gimli is a dear, no doubt. I think he is. Thank you for beta-ing this and keeping me sane - or not! As the situation calls for!
queenie - I am glad you enjoy reading this. I am really enjoying writing it. I love Glorfindel, if that word can be applied to fictional characters! I love to write about him. My guess is there will be more Glory stories down the road.
Leisha - Oh! Thank you so much! This is my first romance so your vote of confidence means a lot! I owe some of my spelling and grammar (especially commas and semicolons) to my beta reader Al. She is a great beta reader and keeps me in line when I get over enthusiastic - or on occasion under enthusiastic with punctuation. The history is an enjoyable part of Tolkien's works. I have just recently immersed myself in it! Glorfindel is my second favorite character after the other Elf. G He is a fascinating and unique person that I hope others will come to appreciate, too.
Artanis - You wanted Glory torture, you are going to get it. Laerlend is foolish no doubt, but understandably so. Thus you wanted you, thus she is! No one likes to be told what to do and we all rebel against it at times. Glory will have some great adjustments to make. Many, many adjustments! G
Lakergurl13 - Yes, Gimli is a good Dwarf. Try your hardest to like him! Elrond does have a sad history, which makes him very complex. Grief adds dimension to our character. He needs your comfort! The twins are plotting! Naughty boys! So is Laerlend! Should be fun.
Nancing Elf - You and me both! I soo want to hear him sing and listen to his stories. I just want to look at him, too! *ahem* Sorry. Laerlend is determined not to like him, but we all know she stands no chance at all. Who would! Elrond's story makes me sad, too. Maybe that is why so many of us feel drawn to him. We all experience grief in some form first hand. Yes, you have changed "Gladiator" for me forever! Those two would indeed make short work of anything that came at them! Gwibess Jr. sounds like such a nice spider! Hugs and kisses to her and you!
Karina - I thought it was somewhat romantic myself. The trees, the moonlight, his voice. G Yeah, it was! You are right about the many tragic stories in Elrond's family. All Elves actually. Perhaps that is part of their appeal. Good old Gwibess! She is a fun spider! Leoglas and Gimli to the rescue! Can't write without them! I suspect if Master Tolkien had lived we would have had a Glory story! That would have been too wonderful, wouldn't it!
Miss V-KC - I like Elrond a lot. He has such a glorious, sad history. Thank you so much for your comments!! This tale is very different from my other ones, so it means a lot to me!
Melodic Hypnotic - Thank you for showing some love to me! I haven't written love stories before, so I am very tentative in this venture. I will continue it to its conclusion, never fear! Glory is my favorite character after Legolas so I too was greatly disappointed that he seems to have vanished from the film before he could ride Asfaloth. I am glad you are enjoying this one!
AlexisRayette - I must say that I appreciate your review! I am afraid I wont' do him justice! It is easy to pick on Legolas, as I do it all the time in my other stories, but Glorfindel is different somehow. Gimli is much overlooked and he is a great character, so I am having fun writing him, too!
~thoughts in ~
The quiet song of the crickets and the soft calls of the night birds accompanied Laerlend as she ran swiftly through the trees, her bare feet soundless on the mossy ground. She berated herself as she hurried away from the clearing where "he" was.
"Foolish child," she breathed. "To become enchanted by a voice, like a babe with a sparkling bauble. Could you be any more foolish?"
The night air was cooling and scented with the fragrance of dew- kissed grass and the more elusive sweetness of night blooming flowers. Stars blazed overhead as the moon rode across the velvet sky. The smooth trunks of the beech-trees glowed silver, the spaces between dappled with light nearly as bright as day.
The Elf maiden ignored the spell woven by the night and hurried toward her home. Too many enchantments had filled the air. As she neared her father's palace she could hear the melodious sounds of harps and voices raised over the rush of the black river; voices she could easily identify. Lameren and Onethlind were singing, their voices lifted in a perfect blending and weaving. The two young Elves were gifted singers, and a subtle competition underscored every performance they gave.
Laerlend slowed to a more leisurely pace as she neared the bridge spanning the river that ran swift and dark before the palace. She hesitated, hoping that her turmoil and frustration didn't show in her eyes. Raising her hands to her cheeks, which burned beneath the touch, she frowned, wishing she hadn't run with such exertion. She waved her hands before her face to help cool them. As she caught her breath, willing her coloring to return to normal, she listened to the song being sung. The air was still, the clear voices reaching her ears. It was a song of the battle on Cristhorn. Lameren's fair tenor sang Glorfindel's words; Onethlind's stirring bass the Balrog's.
She was surprised that she found fault with Lameren's voice for the first time. She had always enjoyed his singing in the past, so sweet and fine it was. But now it fell short of what it should be.
~'Tis not deep enough, ~ she thought critically. ~ The tone is not as clear. Truly, he doesn't sound like him at all! ~
Suddenly her cheeks flamed once again and she gasped angrily.
"How dare he do this to me!" She clenched her fists and marched across the great stone bridge, leaving the sound of the taunts flung at Glorfindel by the Balrog. As she neared the palace she heard laughing, light female voices. Turning she groaned as she caught sight of three of her friends approaching rapidly.
"Laerlend, where have you been? We have been looking for you everywhere."
The three Elf maidens joined their friend and immediately pulled her away from the palace where she could think in peace.
"Where is Legolas?" Duilinn asked, a blush heating her cheeks. She was slender girl with long honey blonde hair falling to her knees, intricately braided and tied with ribbons of pale lavender that matched her gown.
Laerlend rolled her eyes. ~ Always Legolas! ~ She thought with a snort. ~ Always! ~
"Is he with." Milui breathed. "With Gimli?"
The other girls laughed at her, even Laerlend could not help herself. The picture of the tall, slender Elf maiden with the short, robust Dwarf was an unusual image to be dwelt on for long.
"How can you have fallen for a Dwarf?" Gwirith asked, enjoying the look on her friend's embarrassed face. "A Dwarf, Milui!"
"Don't you think he is rather cute?" The maiden persisted, her leaf green eyes bright. "His beard is so soft!"
"Better a Dwarf like Gimli than an Elf-lord named Glorfindel." Laerlend huffed.
The three turned to look at her. They did not understand her reluctance entirely. They all had admitted to one another that they would be more than happy to join with such a magnificent one as Glorfindel.
"Well, tomorrow you will get to see him and you will change your mind," Gwirith said firmly. "You will see. You won't be able to resist him. He will look into your eyes and you will be his," She sighed happily, imagining herself staring into the Elf-lord's eyes. She could feel him running his slim hands through the dark gold spill of her hair, his eyes drinking her in. "Oh, he is wonderful."
"I do not think that I will give in as you would," Laerlend said with a toss of her head. "I will not be won so easily."
Gwirith exchanged knowing glances with the others.
"Perhaps he had best keep silent then. For if you hear him sing you will fall before him on your knees! You do have a weakness for beautiful voices. His voice will be glorious I am sure."
Heat flooded Laerlend's face and she frowned.
"What is in a voice? A voice does not make a person wonderful."
Milui turned to rest her clear green gaze on the princess, a suspicion being born in the back of her mind.
"Laerlend? Where HAVE you been this night?"
Gwirith and Duilinn turned to look at her as well. Each girl noted the pink cheeks, fiercely bright eyes, and the fine brows knit in consternation, the way her long slender fingers wrapped about an abused lock of hair and yanked.
~ Am I read so easily? ~ She thought with annoyance. ~ Will I never learn to hide my feelings? If I were to face "him" on the morrow with my unwanted feelings shining in my eyes -~
"I have been nowhere!" She answered somewhat more sharply than was necessary. "I was merely walking in the woods with Legolas," she said, turning to stab Milui with her gaze. "And Gimli."
Milui colored again and smiled. She knew that she was silly to like the Dwarf so much, but he was so sweet and spoke so kindly to her, not at all like she imagined Dwarves would be. His beard was very soft! He had let her braid it for him once. She giggled happily at the memory.
"We saw nothing and no one! No one at all. I heard no one and I saw no one!"
Gwirith shook her head, her merry laughter filling the air as they walked a flower- lined path. They were all hopeless and romantic and stubborn.
"One would almost think you have seen him," she murmured slyly. "'I heard no one and I saw no one'. Was his voice very pleasing? It must have been very pleasant indeed to put you in such a mood."
Laerlend turned to her and glared.
"What does it matter if I did?" She yanked her arm from Milui's and strode ahead of them.
"She saw him?" Duilinn asked in amazement. "She SAW him?"
The three ran lightly to catch up with her.
"Please, Laerlend. Please! You have to tell us! If you don't I shall die! Just die! What does he look like? Is he more beautiful than Legolas? But he couldn't be. No one is. I am sure he is very lovely though. One of the first Elves! My goodness! What does he sound like? Did you hear him sing by any chance or just speak?"
If either Gwirith or Milui had said this she would have been even more angered. But since it had come from quiet Duilinn's mouth she paused and turned to them. Well, perhaps she should make light of her momentary fascination and thus rid herself of it. It was fun to chatter away with these three, perhaps it was what she needed to work out her fears and frustrations.
She smiled at them, a secret playful light in her eyes.
"Very well. I will tell you. I DID see him!"
Glorfindel walked slowly beneath Eryn Lasgalen's towering trees. Such a feeling of peace pervaded that it was hard for him to believe this wondrous forest had been haunted Mirkwood. When Sauron's power had grown in Dol Guldur in the southern reaches during the Third Age, evil creatures had spread through the forest and the Old Forest Road had fallen into disuse. But now the wood was once again filled with great beauty and tranquility. Where once giant spiders infested the groves and hollows, there were secluded gardens with flowering trees and bushes; beauty created out of ruin, peace out of conflict. It was to one of these places that Glorfindel's feet carried him.
Hidden in the midst of a glade surrounded by screening bushes with delicate pink and purple blossoms was a large clear pool of water. Legolas had told the Elf-lord about it, knowing that he wished to bathe before the morrow. Glorfindel studied it with pleasure. It would feel good to wash the dust of the road off. He moved to kneel by the water and passed his hand through its coolness. He smiled and stood. He shed his travel- stained clothing, piling it neatly nearby. Then he stepped into the water.
He sighed happily and swam the pool's length, ducking his head under to refresh his hair before moving to sit on a long, smooth rock submerged like a bench into one side. He leaned his head against the edge, arms outstretched on the grassy bank. He sighed contentedly and closed his eyes.
The scents and sounds of summer surrounded him with their soft quietness. Far in the distance he could make out the sound of fair voices raised to the night. He allowed himself a smile. He could not make out the words or the melodies, just the sense of music lifted on the air. He smiled, wrapped in the season's soft embrace.
He recalled the great feast of Tarnin Austa - the Gates of Summer - that was celebrated in Gondolin. The custom was that from midnight of the chosen day until the dawn a solemn silence reigned in the city. Silver lamps glowed in the streets and lights of emerald, sapphire, ruby and amethyst twinkled in the new green of the trees. The only sound was that of the low music of instruments and the splashing of the fountains. The white stone of Gondolin's walls glowed like moonlight, shadows of trees and dancing water were thrown into gentle relief against them. Before the first light of day touched the sky, the people would gather on the eastern wall, their fair faces glowing with anticipation. Then as the first light glimmered in the sky, their voices would raise with ancient songs to greet the new day, ushering it in with the sound of glorious wonder and delight.
The last spring in Gondolin had been a joyous one. The winter had been exceeding hard and cold even for that region. Frost had lain thick on the plain of Tumladin, the pools shrouded in ice. So it was with great joy that the Gondothlim greeted the spring and the return of life as flowers flooded the plain with color and the waters ran freely under the blue skies, released from their frozen prison. All boded well for the year ahead.
So it was on the night of the vigil that the people of Gondolin were dressed in their finery, the children wearing garlands of bright flowers in their hair. They had watched the setting of the sun in the west and Glorfindel had picked up his small cousin Emlin, holding her on his broad shoulders as they watched the first stars appear in their brilliance. The child pointed in delight from one shining dot to the next, ever silent and smiling. One tiny hand gripped his long golden hair, her bare feet thumping in excitement against his chest. He smiled, enjoying the young one's enthusiasm. It was then that he heard the voices, shatteringly loud in the silence of the occasion. He turned to see people gathering near the northern wall and battlements, their faces filled with wonder and bewilderment. He frowned and joined the growing throng of people. He made his way up the steps and joined those that stood on the wall; tiny Emlin still perched on his shoulders.
Far in the northward heights a glow was seen, golden and distant.
"What is that, Cousin Glory?" Emlin whispered, fearful to speak on this night, but hearing the anxiety in the voices about her made her feel that for once the silence of Tarnin Austa could be broken.
He reached up and brought her down to let her straddle his hip, one of her hands immediately tangling again in his long gold locks. He stared at the distant mountains, watching as the light deepened and grew red, making the snow on the peaks turn to blood. A deep foreboding had gripped the Elf-lord. He turned to where Tuor and Idril stood flanking Earendil not far away. He felt the man's gaze turn to him. They locked eyes and Glorfindel felt his heart tighten ever more with fear. Tears streamed down the Lady Idril's fair face.
"Alas," he murmured, gripping the child to him.
The sound of hooves was heard, and ill tidings were brought to the king by the plain's riders who bore the message from those who guarded the peaks:
"Melko is upon us!"
A great silence fell over the fair city of Gondolin as the news of the grave danger spread. Great fire-serpents were advancing toward them, with hordes of Orcs. And Balrogs.
"What is a Balrog?" Emlin had asked, fear growing in the small child as she saw the people begin to cry out in anguish and desolation. Women were sobbing and clinging to their husbands who knew they must prepare for the defense of their beloved city. Children were screaming as the glow of the enemies' fire advanced ever closer down the mountains and across the plain.
"You needn't fear the Balrogs, child. No harm will come to you. Come, I will take you to your mother." Glorfindel moved through the milling crowd of panicked citizens, one hand shielding the child as he carried her swiftly down the steps, his eyes searching for her family. Eirien came running to meet them, her magnificent grey eyes filled with such horror that Glorfindel drew her into his embrace before returning her child to her. "All will be well," he murmured, fearing that he was telling her something untrue. Deep within he knew the city was going to fall, the life they had lived here in such joy was over.
He recalled the words Tuor had spoken so many long years hence, sent to Gondolin by Ulmo the Ainu to warn them of their need for preparation against Melko. But Turgon had refused to listen to the advice and now it seemed that their doom was upon them. He had to find the men of his House and prepare for battle. He saw many beloved faces, marred by fear and tears. He heard shouts of terror and orders being called to the soldiers. He looked up to the wall facing north and saw the Lady Idril staring at the advancing enemy, her hand on the shoulder of her young son. Her fair hair was unbound and danced about her in the fair spring breeze. Tuor was already mustering his men and his clear voice could be heard ringing in the square.
"Glorfindel? Glorfindel!" Voices were calling to him. He had to prepare. Soon the enemy would be upon them.
"Glorfindel?"
The Elf-lord started slightly and opened his eyes. Elrond was standing on the other side of the pool, his dark blue eyes on his friend.
"You seemed very far away. Am I disturbing you?"
Glorfindel blinked slowly, willing the vivid memory of that most horrible night to dissipate.
"Not at all. I shall be glad of the company."
Elrond smiled gently and undressed. He slipped into the water, enjoying the coolness that wrapped about his body. He slid under the water, resurfacing a few feet away from Glorfindel. He moved to join him on the sunken stone bench.
"Mirkwood is indeed much changed," he commented quietly. "Once I would have had to rescue you from the clutches of it's giant spiders if you came here unattended. The twins used to want one, as you recall."
Glorfindel smiled, his eyes still distant.
"Aye, children." Pain that should have all but vanished over so long a period of time ached in his heart. He drew a shaky breath, trying not to think of all the children that had died that night in Gondolin.
"You needn't fear the Balrogs, child. No harm will come to you." His words to sweet Emlin drifted across the pain of the memories, searing him.
Elrond turned his head slightly, seeing the noble brow furrowed, the eyes filled with anguish.
"What were you thinking of before I arrived?" He asked in a gentle voice.
Glorfindel stared across the water, forcing his mind to the present, willing a calmness to return. He had not called up these memories in a very long time. The pain they caused troubled him.
"I was remembering the last night in Gondolin. It was the time of Tarnin Austa. It was a fair night much as this one is. Hearing the songs in the distance reminded me of it." His lips twitched in what might have been a smile. Or not. "'Tis not fitting to be thinking of that night now," he said after a moment. "But - my life changed that night, just as it is about to change again."
Elrond lifted one dark brow.
"Rather a different kind of change, my friend," he said with a wry smile.
Glorfindel turned his head to gaze at his lord and raised an eyebrow as well.
"Unless of course you are likening the girl to a Balrog," he smiled in a teasing manner.
Glorfindel's mouth did twitch into a smile then. Hadn't he been thinking something like that earlier?
"Not exactly." He drew a breath. "Why must I be forced to endure a year after we are betrothed? That is a long wait for something that is inevitable."
Elrond's dark blue eyes widened in surprise at this sudden change in his friend's line of thinking.
"Well, it is the custom," he answered with a frown. Suddenly he grinned. "Are you so eager for your joining, my friend?"
Color tinged the Elf-lord's high cheekbones, but he said nothing.
Elrond continued to smile, though he turned, laying back against the bank to stare at the stars overhead.
"It would seem that you are not the only one to be eager for this," he said in an even tone, though he wished to laugh aloud in delight with the teasing.
"I know not what you mean." Glorfindel said, looking upward as well. His face reddened and he frowned. ~I am too old for this. I should not be blushing like a mere lad who has never kissed a girl. ~
"I mean that Laerlend seems to be anticipating this much as you are."
Glorfindel wanted to squirm uncomfortably at the mention of her name, but willed himself to stillness. Why was he so discomfited at the mere mention of her name?
"Has Legolas said something?" He managed at last, knowing that as always his voice sounded calm and natural.
Elrond's face ached as he controlled his urge to laugh aloud.
"It would seem that she could not wait for morrow to see you."
Glorfindel frowned and turned to look at his lord.
"What do you mean?" He asked. "I have not seen her."
"No, you have not seen her, but - she has seen you."
Glorfindel noted the bright twinkling of amusement in his friend's eyes, which remained on the sky.
"When has she seen me?" He looked away, refusing to be drawn into the game.
"Oh, this night."
"This night?" He barely managed to keep from starting up to stare down at Elrond.
Imladris lord bit at his lips to keep from laughing.
"Yes. Didn't you see her?"
A feeling of annoyance crept into Glorfindel. ~ I am too old to be teased in this manner. You would think he was one of his sons. ~ But he also felt a twinge of annoyance at himself. Was it possible that she had been present somewhere and he had NOT seen her? Surely he had been more alert than that. But then he remembered all the noise Gimli had made as he and Legolas had come into the clearing. He had known Gimli for a time now and he had never heard the Dwarf make such a racket in all that time, even when he was swathed in his beloved chain mail. He scowled.
"Where was she? Perched in the tree over my head?" He asked, feeling his annoyance pass to the girl.
Elrond could not help the gasp of laughter that escaped his lips.
"She was! So you did see her? I didn't think that you had."
Glorfindel scowled and Elrond burst into peals of delight.
"You did NOT see her!" He gasped. "Here I thought you were ever vigilant and nothing escaped your notice."
The ancient Elf-lord turned inscrutable eyes on his friend.
" 'Tis not funny."
"Actually it is!"
Glorfindel looked away as Elrond laughed. In his mind's eye he saw the leaf falling to the ground at his feet. He shook his head imperceptibly. She had her fun and now Elrond was having his. He sighed and stood.
"It is not funny, Elrond. It was rude of her not to make her presence known."
"She is Thranduil's daughter and you know how headstrong and willful he is."
"Not unlike you or your own children."
"Are you insulting me?" Elrond asked, standing to his feet, eyes filled with mischief.
The Lord of the House of the Golden Flower turned, his blue eyes bright.
"Perhaps I am. I have known your family for a long time and know you all quite well."
Elrond gasped in mock hurt.
"You will pay for that insolence, Lord Glorfindel!" He suddenly felt water splash him in the face, for Glorfindel was faster.
Soon the two were laughing merrily and splashing water at one another beneath the stars of Elbereth.
There was a sound behind them and they turned to see Elladan, Elrohir, Legolas, and Gimli watching them.
"To think," Elladan commented dryly, folding his arms over his chest, one eyebrow cocked in perfect imitation of his sire. "They call us the children."
Elrond looked at Glorfindel, who allowed a low smile to spread over his face.
"Did they just insult us?" He asked, looking wounded and surprised.
" 'Twould seem so."
"Well, we must do something to redeem our honor and dignity."
They turned back to the four younglings. As one they splashed water up onto them where they stood standing on the grass. Soon five Elves and one Dwarf were laughing and splashing in one of Mirkwood's hidden glades.
Author's Note: The story of Gondolin's fall is in the Book of Lost Tales II
Response to Reviewers
JastaElf - First THANK YOU again! Now fix him or you will be so sorry! Saeros and Tuilinal will have your heart if you don't watch it! ( You know I love Glory! The adoration is growing more and more all the time!! Music can charm me, especially a sexy male voice. Hmm. So I am putting some of myself into Laerlend. Didn't mean to! Legolas and Gimli will be glad to help. Why else are they here in Glorfindel's story?? G I am wondering what her reaction to the bush will be. You know me. I know nothing before I sit down to write it. I have SO got to stop that!
Furius - You are so right! Some tension and conflict between Elrond, Glorfindel, and Laerlend could be great fun! big grin at the possibilities I am glad you like the background information. The history enriches the story and gives a better sense of the characters and who they are. I am glad you appreciate that!
No one - Seventeen handclaps! Cool!! Legolas and Gimli really love that! If Laerlend doesn't want Glory, you will have to get in line! G Artanis has first dibs, but she may have to fight me first! A beta reader is someone who reads over your story, checking for errors in spelling, grammar, inconsistencies or holes in your storyline. Like an editor really. So when this story sounds good a big thanks goes to Al my beta reader and other self. She keeps me straight!
Irena - Thank you so much! I am really enjoying this more descriptive, quiet tale so your review meant a lot to me. It is a break from my other frantic fics, which drive me to distraction at times. We all need a restful place to run to. This is mine.
Al - The twins will be fun I think. They have known Glory for a long time and are quite fond of him, but they do like to poke fun. I like Elrond (duh!) and his story is so bittersweet! I do like angst - *ahem* and I can write it, just not with the skill so many others possess! Laerlend is like her brother and father. That can be good! Gimli is a dear, no doubt. I think he is. Thank you for beta-ing this and keeping me sane - or not! As the situation calls for!
queenie - I am glad you enjoy reading this. I am really enjoying writing it. I love Glorfindel, if that word can be applied to fictional characters! I love to write about him. My guess is there will be more Glory stories down the road.
Leisha - Oh! Thank you so much! This is my first romance so your vote of confidence means a lot! I owe some of my spelling and grammar (especially commas and semicolons) to my beta reader Al. She is a great beta reader and keeps me in line when I get over enthusiastic - or on occasion under enthusiastic with punctuation. The history is an enjoyable part of Tolkien's works. I have just recently immersed myself in it! Glorfindel is my second favorite character after the other Elf. G He is a fascinating and unique person that I hope others will come to appreciate, too.
Artanis - You wanted Glory torture, you are going to get it. Laerlend is foolish no doubt, but understandably so. Thus you wanted you, thus she is! No one likes to be told what to do and we all rebel against it at times. Glory will have some great adjustments to make. Many, many adjustments! G
Lakergurl13 - Yes, Gimli is a good Dwarf. Try your hardest to like him! Elrond does have a sad history, which makes him very complex. Grief adds dimension to our character. He needs your comfort! The twins are plotting! Naughty boys! So is Laerlend! Should be fun.
Nancing Elf - You and me both! I soo want to hear him sing and listen to his stories. I just want to look at him, too! *ahem* Sorry. Laerlend is determined not to like him, but we all know she stands no chance at all. Who would! Elrond's story makes me sad, too. Maybe that is why so many of us feel drawn to him. We all experience grief in some form first hand. Yes, you have changed "Gladiator" for me forever! Those two would indeed make short work of anything that came at them! Gwibess Jr. sounds like such a nice spider! Hugs and kisses to her and you!
Karina - I thought it was somewhat romantic myself. The trees, the moonlight, his voice. G Yeah, it was! You are right about the many tragic stories in Elrond's family. All Elves actually. Perhaps that is part of their appeal. Good old Gwibess! She is a fun spider! Leoglas and Gimli to the rescue! Can't write without them! I suspect if Master Tolkien had lived we would have had a Glory story! That would have been too wonderful, wouldn't it!
Miss V-KC - I like Elrond a lot. He has such a glorious, sad history. Thank you so much for your comments!! This tale is very different from my other ones, so it means a lot to me!
Melodic Hypnotic - Thank you for showing some love to me! I haven't written love stories before, so I am very tentative in this venture. I will continue it to its conclusion, never fear! Glory is my favorite character after Legolas so I too was greatly disappointed that he seems to have vanished from the film before he could ride Asfaloth. I am glad you are enjoying this one!
AlexisRayette - I must say that I appreciate your review! I am afraid I wont' do him justice! It is easy to pick on Legolas, as I do it all the time in my other stories, but Glorfindel is different somehow. Gimli is much overlooked and he is a great character, so I am having fun writing him, too!