Family

Chapter 20

Epilogue

The first anniversary of Thranduil's arrival in Valinor was quickly approaching and he had accepted an invitation to celebrate the occasion at Elrond's home, and he decided that he would have the first chapter of his book ready to show Elrond and Glorfindel at that time. Rather than work on his book in the confines of his study, Thranduil built himself a small talan in the woods and would spend hours in the tranquil surroundings simply gathering his thoughts and making notes. Elisiel often accompanied him, and would sometimes add her own thoughts and memories to the work. Neridwen's drawings were added and finally the first chapter was ready to be presented to his friends.

It was not often that Thranduil took the time to visit Elrond and Glorfindel, but when he did, the three friends spent the time in their usual fashion, sharing a bottle or two of wine as well as pleasant conversation.

"Welcome, Thranduil. I believe Elrond has opened a bottle of something suitable to celebrate your anniversary," said Glorfindel as he led his friend to the library

"I can scarcely believe a year has passed since I arrived in Valinor," said Thranduil as he removed his travelling cloak, placed a mysterious looking package on Elrond's desk and settled himself in one of the comfortable armchairs.

"Time has little meaning here. But tell us, how have you found the change from life in Middle Earth?" asked Elrond as he glanced curiously at the wrapped package Thranduil had placed on his desk

"Eventful, interesting and very rewarding. I am glad to be here," he answered, pointedly ignoring the eyebrow Elrond raised in query as to the object of his curiosity.

"I am sure we are both pleased that all is well with you. Now what is in the package?" asked Glorfindel with his usual directness, knowing full well that Elrond would not ask although he obviously wished to find out.

"Nothing that cannot wait. Elrond, Legolas tells me that Aradir should easily win the novice archery contest this New Year. He says the young one has much skill and talent for the sport,' he said changing the subject, much to Glorfindel's annoyance.

"That is good to hear, and high praise coming from an archery master such as your son," responded Elrond his voice filled with pride in his grandson.

"Let us hope he keeps out of mischief, or at least in Celeborn's good graces, so that he has the chance to prove his skill this time," said Glorfindel, eliciting a smile and a nod of agreement from both Elrond and Thranduil.

"Did Faerwen enjoy her visit with Estellan?" asked Elrond. Elrohir's daughter had spent several weeks with Legolas and Neridwen, and she was enthralled with their young son. Elrond was continuing to steer the conversation away from the subject of the package and Glorfindel's piqued curiosity, for he also found some enjoyment in teasing the Elf lord from time to time.

"Very much so, as we enjoyed having her stay with us as well. She is a delightful elfling, and even more curious about everything than Glorfindel," Thranduil said, earning himself a frown of disapproval from his friend at the jest. "I must have answered hundreds of her questions on our journey here." Elrond laughed at that and nodded knowingly, he had often spent many hours answering unceasing questions from his granddaughter.

"Ai, she certainly has taken a liking to you as well as your grandson, mellon nin," he said.

"For now that is so, but I think her affections will be transferred to her new cousin, once Elladan's daughter is born," said Thranduil.

"A likely outcome, I think," agreed Elrond.

"I wager even she knows what is in that package," they both heard Glorfindel muter to himself.

"Of course, she does, after all she helped me to wrap it. If you wish to know what it is, why not just ask Elrond to open it?" suggested Thranduil as he poured them all another glass of wine.

Glorfindel needed no further encouragement. He picked the package up and handed it to Elrond, who sighed loudly and carefully removed the soft linen wrapping to reveal a book, bound with in thick, deep green leather, with a border of leaves and flowers embossed in gold. The title was also in gold, and was written in Sindarin.

"A History of Greenwood the Great, Volume 1, The House of Oropher," read Elrond out loud, his initial look of amazement changing slowly to one of respect as he turned the pages to reveal both the elegant handwriting and the astonishingly beautiful artwork that accompanied the words. "I see Neridwen has been at work, and I do not mean to offend, but I did not think that writing a history book was something you would endeavour to do.'

"Neither did I," admitted Thranduil candidly. "It was actually Elisiel's idea. She suggested that you and Elrohir might like to have a more accurate account of the history of my realm to use in your classes."

"I think it is an excellent idea,' said Glorfindel as he took the book and studied it for himself. "This is truly a wonderful piece of work. You certainly remain unpredictable, Thranduil. I am truly impressed!"

"I agree, both with the idea, and the impressive work! This will make an excellent teaching aide," said Elrond. "In fact, I think I will ask Celeborn to do likewise with a history of Lothlórien. Valinor is our home now, and the only home our grandchildren know, but I believe they should know something of the once great elven realms that are also a part of their heritage."

"Now that is worth a toast. To Imladris, Eryn Lasgalen and Lothlórien," said Glorfindel, his words echoed by the others as they raised their glasses.

"And to Valinor!" said all three in unison.