Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters. They all belong to JRR Tolkien.

My first fanfic, so am not sure just what I'm doing. Please review.

Chapter 1 The Bet

Elrond stood on the balcony overlooking the garden. It was sunrise, his favorite time of the day. All was peaceful for now, although he knew it wouldn't last. He stood there musing on the three elves, and the man he was expecting. He was starting to get a slight headache just thinking about them. He sighed slightly, and turned back into the room.

He saw Glorfindel standing there, with a slightly amused look in his face. "What are you thinking about?" asked Elrond. He wasn't sure he really wanted to know. "I was wondering if you would care to place a slight wager," the other elf replied, with a straight face. "Like what kind.", Elrond asked. "Welll….you know, when those four get together, someone is always needing your healing assistance on their arrival. I would like to make a small wager on which one it is this time." Elrond tried to look stern, but knew it really didn't work. Besides, he was somewhat tempted to take the bet, but did not really did not want to bet against his sons, nor their friend. On the other hand, it was usually Estel or Legolas who needed him. Of course, Elrohir and Elladan were almost as bad. Of course with all four together, anything could, and usually did, happen.

He suddenly made up his mind. "Very well, let's make a wager." Glorfindel was mildly surprised, but was ready. "First of all-I believe that it will be Elladan and Elrohir, and that they was trying to protect Estel and Legolas.." Glorfindel spoke with certainty. "I believe that both Estel and Legolas will be the ones and that they ran into Orcs," replied Elrond.

"Just why DID they go out, Elrond?", asked Glorfindel. Elrond had a disgusted look on his face as he said, "Would you believe they wanted to go on a picnic…a very long picnic. It has been two weeks, and they should be returning tomorrow."

"Now, let's see….what will the terms be?", asked Elrond. "Since you wanted to make this wager, I'll make the terms. Let's see..Ah ha! I have it!" Glorfindel looked at Elrond rather uncertainly, especially when he saw the gleam in Elrond's eyes. "If I win, you will straighten up the library and put the books back on the shelf in order. If you win, I'll take over the archery training. Agreed?" Glorfindel thought for a moment, then said "Agreed."