She is surprised to see me. I don't blame her. I've avoided her since before Eldarion's birth. I kiss her hand, "Good evening, Lady Evenstar."
She smiles at me, inviting me to sit at her side and I know not how to oblige her without showing my pain. And my little one came to my rescue once again. "Legolas and I were in the middle of a discussion Mother, would you mind terribly if he sat with me?"
She smiles indulgently, "Not at all Eldarion."
I move to sit next to him and whisper "Thank you little one."
You look over at me, had you heard? Yes, you give me an inquisitive look.
I only smile at you as I sit beside the little one. He looks on me with a wisdom greater than his years again, "I fear we shall lose you to grief if you remain with us my friend."
"Nay little one, though I am sad I do not yet grieve." His eyes tell me he knows I'm lying but he holds his tongue. I have taught the little one a few important things, one of which is choosing his battles.
"Will you ride with us after dinner my friend?" I glance at you Estel, and then at Arawen hesitantly. The little one sees my hesitation, "Just Father and I, Mother won't ride at night."
"You're up to something little one, and you know I will find out what it is."
"You always do my friend." He turns to you with a smile, "Would you and Legolas teach me how to track tonight during our ride Father?"
"Tracking can take years to learn Eldarion," You warn him.
"I have to start sometime," That's my little one, so head strong, so like you.