The Life of a Ranger
Chapter 9
It was with a heavy heart that Elrond made his way to Gilraen's room. He knew what she wanted to say and he knew, that as much as he would try, he wouldn't be able to change her mind.
He knocked on the door and went in. A very pale looking Gilraen was lying in the bed, looking at him.
"Thank you for coming," she said to the elf.
"How could I not come when I know what you want to tell me," he replied, sitting down next to the bed. "Will you not hold on till Estel gets home? He should return tomorrow evening."
"I can not put Estel through that, I can not make him say good bye. You must think I am a terrible mother not wanting to see my son for the last time but I can't," Gilraen said sadly.
"I understand and I don't think you are a terrible mother," Elrond replied, kindly.
All night long they sat talking. Retelling all their memories of Estel.
When the first hints of dawn touched the sky Gilraen said, quietly, "Thank you."
"What for?"
"For letting us live here and for raising Estel like he was your own son," Gilraen replied, smiling at him.
"As I have told you many, many times you do not need to thank me. I remember when you first arrived I was willing to let you live here but I never thought I would grow this close to him. He is as much my child as the twins and Arwen," Elrond said, finding her hand and holding it comfortingly.
"Look after him," Gilraen said.
"I will."
"Thank you. And tell him I love him." Even as these words left her mouth Gilraen fell back against the pillow and Elrond watched her chest rise and fall for the last time.
Elrond sat with her for over an hour thinking about all the people he had lost when a voice at the doorway brought him back to the present.
"Are you alright El-" he stopped when his eyes fell on the bed. "Oh no."
"She died earlier this morning," Elrond said quietly.
"Are you ok?" Glorfindel asked, moving closer to his friend.
"I'm fine thanks. I've been expecting this for some time now. She hasn't been happy for many years. In fact if it wasn't for Aragorn I think she would have faded away all those years ago when Arathorn died."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Elrond was working in his study when three voices, he recognised as his sons, floated in through the open window.
He went down to greet them.
"Hiya Ada," three tired, but cheery voices called to him.
"Welcome home me sons," he replied. "Which one of you is injured this time?"
"Well actually none of us," Elladan replied.
"Really, I'm impressed. Estel I need to talk to you in my study," he said looking at his youngest son.
"Ok. I'll just go and have a wash and get changed then I'll be up," Estel said making his way towards the house.
"Actually I'd prefer it if we went straight to my study now," Elrond said, not wanting to leave it any longer.
"Oh ok," Estel replied, looking at the twins and seeing they were as puzzled as he was.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Once they reached Elrond's study Estel could tell Elrond needed to tell him something that he didn't want to, so it was probably bad news.
"Sit down."
"Ada what's going on?" Estel asked, sitting down.
"I've got some bad news," Elrond said, walking over to the window. "This morning your mother, she. she died." Elrond did not approach the young man because he didn't know if Estel wanted him near or not.
He watched as many different emotions flashed across his face, finally landing on such an intense sadness that it broke Elrond's heart.
"Why?" Estel whispered. "Why has she left me already?"
Elrond sat down next to the man, who now had tears rolling down his face, that fell into his arms.
"She hasn't been happy for a long time," Elrond said, stroking his hair gently. "She misses your father. She's happy now."
Estel sat crying silently in Elrond's embrace while he sang soothingly in elvish. When Estel hadn't moved at all after 15 minutes and was still crying Elrond started to pour some healing sleep into the young mans form. He laid the young man down on the sofa and covered him with a blanket.
He went and sat at his desk and watched the sleeping form. Suddenly there was a knock on the door.
"I thought I said I didn't want to be interrupted this evening," he called angrily, careful of waking Estel.
"Oh sorry Ada we didn't know," Elrohir called through the door.
"Come in boys," Elrond called, when he recognised the voice.
Elladan and Elrohir entered and their eyes fell on Estel.
"Ada, what's going on?" Elladan asked, noticing the tear marks on his cheeks.
"Sit down, I've got some bad news. I've already told Estel. This morning Gilraen died," Elrond said, wiping Estel's cheeks dry.
"Oh no," the twins said, sitting down.
"I've already sent out riders to Lothlorien and Mirkwood. I didn't tell Legolas what has happened, I just said Estel would need him here if it were possible. The message should get there by tomorrow morning."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
"Who approaches the halls of Thranduil, King of Mirkwood at this hour?" the elf at the gates called when he heard a horse approaching.
"I have a message from Elrond, Lord of Rivendell. It is for Prince Legolas," the rider replied.
One elf went to get Legolas so he could open the gates. When he appeared from the house he whispered the magic words and the gates opened. He led the messenger inside.
"I'm sorry for the time of my arrival Prince Legolas," the elf said, bowing to the young prince. "But Lord Elrond asked me to get here as soon as possible because the message I carry is important."
"Please sit down," Legolas said pointing at the chair next to his. "What is this message?"
The tired elf handed Legolas an envelope with his name on. Legolas took it, opened it and read.
Prince Legolas.
If it is not too much bother could you please come to Rivendell as soon as
possible? I shall not say the reason yet because it is better said in person rather than on paper. But what I will say is this. Estel will need a
good friend with him for the next few months, preferably you.
Yours sincerely,
Elrond, Lord of Rivendell.
"Do you know why Estel will need a good friend with him for a while?" Legolas asked.
"I'm sorry but no. I was just called into Lord Elrond's study early yesterday morning and told to deliver this as quickly as possible."
"Yesterday? You set of from Rivendell about 24 hours ago?" Legolas asked, amazed at the riders speed.
"Yes sire. I could tell from Lord Elrond's tone that it was important so I got here as soon as I could."
"Follow me. I will take you to one of our guest rooms where you can rest and have some food in the morning," Legolas said, standing up.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
As soon as he knew his father would be awake Legolas went up to his bedroom and knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" Thranduil called.
"Just me Ada."
"Come in. Is anything wrong, you're up early," Thranduil said, pointing at a chair.
"A messenger from Rivendell arrived in the night. He gave me this from Lord Elrond," Legolas said, handing him the message.
Thranduil read the message and handed it back to Legolas.
"So may I go?" Legolas asked.
"Of course you may. If Estel needs you there you must go."
"Thank you Ada," Legolas said, standing up.
"Your welcome. I expect you have already packed so go and get your horse ready," he said. "I'll be down in a minute I've just got to get some riders ready to go with you."
"Ok."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Estel had stayed with Elrond in his study all night, but when he woke up he knew he should go back to his room, but for some reason he didn't want to.
When he entered his room he saw an envelope with his name on. He sat down on his bed and opened it. Inside was a letter written in his mother's firm handwriting.
To My Dearest Aragorn.
I'm sorry that I won't be able to tell you these things in person but I
fear we shall never see each other again in this world.
Although I am not gifted with foresight like my forbearers I still know
that you will achieve many great things.
I know you are still getting used to the fact that you are Aragorn, son of Arathorn, heir of Isildur. Enclosed is another item to help you with it.
{Estel looked at the other item in his hand.}
I am so proud of the young man you have grown up to be and if your father
was still alive I know he would be just as proud. And Elrond is too.
I will never forget you and I know you will never forget me.
I love you my son.
Your mother
Gilraen.
X
As Estel finished reading tears fell from his eyes. He put the letter down and looked at the other object that had been in the envelope. It was a ring.
Suddenly there was a knock on the door. He quickly hid the letter and the ring, wiped the tears away and said, "Come in."
Elrond walked in and sat next to him. He noticed the tear tracks and said, gently, "I hope you didn't leave my study because you didn't want to cry in front of me."
"That wasn't why I left. I found this on my bed," he said, handing the letter to the elf.
"Oh. Do you mind if I read it?" Elrond asked, seeing whom it was from.
"No."
Elrond got half way through and then asked, "What item?"
Estel handed him the ring.
"I wondered what had happened to this. When I told your mother I was going to tell you about who you are she asked if she could give this to you in her own time," Elrond said, handing it back. "I take it you remember what it is from all your history lessons."
"Yes."
"I know you probably don't want to think about it yet but some when I need to start planning your mother's funeral and I'd like you to help me. I don't mean we have to start now but it might be an idea if you start thinking if there's anything special you would like to happen," Elrond said, gently. "Oh yes I forgot to tell you. Yesterday morning I sent riders out to Lothlorien and Mirkwood. Hopefully Legolas should arrive any when after tomorrow."
"Does he know about-" Estel couldn't carry on.
"No. I thought it would be better to tell him face to face. But don't worry I'll tell him."
"Thank you Ada. But I'd like to be with you when you tell him."
"If that's what you want then that's fine. Are you going to come and have some lunch? You haven't eaten since you got home," Elrond said, getting to his feet.
"I'm not hungry," Estel replied quietly.
"Are you sure?"
Estel nodded.
"Just remember you need to keep your strength up."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
That evening Elladan and Elrohir went up to Estel's room, knocked on the door, and went in.
"Hi," Estel said, glumly.
"Hi," they both said.
"Why weren't you at lunch or dinner?" Elladan asked.
"I wasn't hungry."
"Estel I know it's upsetting losing a parent. And I know you've lost both of yours, but you still need to carry on with your life," Elladan said.
"Elladan's right," Elrohir said, moving closer to the man on the bed. "We know how you feel, you can talk to us."
All the different emotions Estel had been feeling over the last 24 hours suddenly turned to anger.
"You tell me to get on with my life," he shouted, standing up. "And you say you know how I feel but you don't. Elves don't know what it's like to lose someone as close to you as a parent." But even as these words left his mouth he regretted them.
"What about our mother?" Elladan shouted. "Have you forgotten that we have lost our mother too?"
Just then Elrond burst through the door.
"What is all this shouting about?" he asked, angrily.
"I'm sorry Ada. It's my fault. 'Dan and 'Ro came in to see how I was and I started shouting at them," Estel admitted, looking at the floor.
"Why were you shouting at them?" Elrond asked, gentler then before.
"Because they said they know how I feel and things like that and I said how could they know how I feel? After all they're elves they don't know what it's like to lose a parent. I forgot about your mother," he added, looking at the twins. "I'm sorry."
Elladan moved first. Walking over to the man who was once more looking down at the floor, he said, "You don't need to apologise. You're upset. Like Elrohir said we know how you feel." And before Estel had a chance to say anything Elladan and Elrohir had both embraced the young man.
Elrond smiled at the sight before him and when the twins had moved back a bit Elrond moved closer to Estel and said, "I remember your mother shouting at me when the two of you first arrived. She said something about me being an elf so I would not know how it feels to lose someone I love."
Estel smiled at the thought of his mother. Somebody knocked on the door so Estel walked over and opened it.
"Hello Estel," Glorfindel said. "Is Elrond in here?"
Elrond moved over to the doorway and said, "Yes I'm here. Is anything wrong?"
"No. Prince Legolas has arrived."
"Ok. Estel would you like to go and wait in my study if you're sure you want to be there," Elrond said.
"I'm sure," Estel replied.
Elrond smiled at the young man before following Glorfindel out of the room.
"Are you going to tell Legolas?" Elladan asked.
"No. Ada said he will but I want to be there," Estel replied.
"Do you want us to come?" Elrohir asked.
"Yes please," Estel said, gratefully.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
"Lord Elrond," Legolas called, when he saw the elf approaching. "What's happened? What's wrong with Estel?"
"Please calm down Prince Legolas. Nothing is wrong with Estel. If you come up to my study I will explain. Estel is already there," he added when Legolas started to speak.
When they entered they saw that Estel was sitting on a sofa in front of the fire, with Elladan and Elrohir on either side.
When the twins noticed Legolas they got up to greet him. Estel however stayed where he was, staring into the fire.
"Please sit down," Elrond said to Legolas, pointing at a chair. "We weren't expecting you until tomorrow at the earliest."
"Well the messenger arrived during the night and as soon as Ada was awake I asked if I could come. I've been riding all day," Legolas said, tiredly.
"Well I'll just explain what has happened and then you can have something to eat and rest," Elrond said. "Yesterday morning Gilraen passed away."
Legolas looked at Elrond then at the twins. His gaze finally landed on Estel, whose eyes were sparkling with unshed tears.
Elrond broke the silence by saying, "I thought it would be good for Estel if he had a friend with him at the funeral."
"When will it be?" Legolas asked.
"We haven't decided yet. Probably next week but maybe not until the week after. Would you like me to show you to your room?" Elrond asked.
"Yes please," Legolas replied.
"Are you three coming?" Elrond asked.
"Yes," Elladan and Elrohir replied, standing up.
"Ada, once you've shown Legolas to his room I'd like to start planning Naneth's funeral," Estel said quietly.
"Now?" Elrond asked gently.
"Yes."
"Would you like us to stay?" Elrohir asked.
"No, I'll be alright thank you," Estel replied.
"Ok. I'll be back shortly," Elrond said, leading the three young elves out the room.
Elrond returned shortly and sat on the sofa next to Estel.
"Have you had any ideas?" Elrond asked.
"Just that I want her to be buried in the glade in the woods that she loved," Estel replied.
"I thought you might want that. Anything else?"
"Nothing that I can think of," Estel replied, looking back into the fire.
"I was thinking about having a special service inside with whoever wants to come and then just people that were close to her when she's actually buried," Elrond said.
"Yes. I'd like that," Estel said, looking at Elrond.
"Who do you want to talk at the service?" Elrond asked.
"I don't mind. I would definitely like you to say something if you don't mind," Estel said.
"Of course I don't mind," Elrond said, kindly. "Anyone else?"
"Yes. I'd like to say something," Estel said.
"Ok."
"When will it be?" Estel asked.
"Some when next week probably," Elrond replied. Then he noticed that Estel had tears running down his cheeks.
"Estel, what's wrong?" he asked.
"I've just remembered. Next Wednesday is. or would have been Naneth's birthday," he replied quietly, wiping his cheeks dry.
"Oh yes. It would have been," Elrond said.
"I'd like it next Wednesday please," Estel said, looking pleadingly at Elrond.
"That's a wonderful idea," Elrond said, wiping Estel's cheeks where more tears were spilling down.
"Who will come to the burial," Estel asked after he had stopped crying.
"Well it's up to you really," Elrond replied.
"I'd like Glorfindel and Erestor to come. And Legolas and the twins of course. Are Daernaneth and Daeradar going to come?"
"Yes. They should arrive tomorrow or the day after," Elrond replied.
"Well they can come. And maybe a few elves that Naneth got on with very well," Estel said.
"I'll make sure they all know. Would you like something to eat? You haven't eaten since you got home," Elrond said.
"I'm not really hungry," Estel said.
"Are you sure? You need to keep your strength up," Elrond said.
"I'm sorry Ada but I can't eat anything yet," Estel said, looking back into the fire.
"Just promise me you will have something to eat tomorrow," Elrond said, gently but firmly.
"I will," Estel said, standing up. "Good night Ada."
"Good night," Elrond replied, standing up and giving him a small embrace.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
On the day of Gilraen's funeral Estel got dressed quickly and went and sat in Gilraen's room.
"Estel. Are you ready?" Elrond asked.
"Yes," Estel replied, standing up.
"The twins and Legolas are downstairs," Elrond said.
Soon everyone was seated in the main hall. Estel was in the middle of the front row with Elrond on one side and Elrohir on the other. Elladan sat by his twin and Galadriel and Celeborn sat next to Elrond while Legolas sat next to Elladan.
The hall was full because Gilraen was very well known. One by one every person in the hall walked up to the front of the room with a few flowers in their hands and said a few of their favourite memories of Gilraen. While saying each memory they laid a flower down on the floor around the coffin.
When it got to Glorfindel's turn, while saying each memory he laid his flowers in a special crate that had been made in the shape of the star of the Dunedain. Then it was Erestor's turn, he laid his flowers in the star shape. Legolas went next. Then Celeborn. Next was Galadriel. By this time the star was getting quite colourful.
Elladan went up, then Elrohir. Then Elrond went up.
"I remember when I first met Gilraen. It was when Arathorn was still alive. She was extremely nervous around me," here he laid a flower down. "I remember when she first arrived here with Estel, she was just as nervous then. But she soon got used to it here." He laid another flower down.
He carried on for another minute then walked back to his seat.
Slowly Estel stood up and walked over to where the coffin lay. In his hand five sprigs of lavender.
"I remember the way she used to put everyone else in front of herself, especially me." He laid a flower down in the almost complete star shape. "I remember the way she used to sit with me for the rest of the night if I woke up after having a bad dream. I remember how she used to stay with me all day when I was ill." He laid a flower down. Everyone could see the unshed tears glittering in his eyes. "I remember the way she used to sit in the gardens with me and help me read. I remember the way she used to greet me when I returned home from hunting."
After laying the last sprig of lavender down he walked back to his seat, determined not to let his tears fall.
Elrond said a few more words and then everyone started to leave. The elves that had been invited to the burial made their way to the clearing.
"Are you alright Estel?" Elladan asked.
"Yes thanks," he replied.
Once the coffin had been lowered gently into the hole the female elves that had come, Glorfindel, Erestor and Legolas made their way out of the clearing because it was a tradition with elvish funerals that only the family were present for the last part. As Legolas went past Estel he smiled slightly at him.
"Legolas," Estel said quietly. "I'd like you to stay please."
Legolas's smile grew slightly and walked back to where he had been standing.
As Estel watched his mother being buried he felt tears well up in his eyes but he was determined not to let them fall even though he was among what he called his family. He felt a comforting hand on his shoulder, he turned round and saw Elrond was looking at him. He gave Estel's shoulder a little squeeze and then looked back at the grave that was slowly filling up.
When the grave was completely filled in everyone knew they should give Estel some time alone so they all made their way silently back to the house except Elrond who moved out of the clearing but stayed where Estel could see him.
Seeing a patch of lavender growing nearby, Estel bent down and gently pulled it up, he walked back over to the grave and laid the flowers gently down on top of it.
"I'm glad that wherever you are you're happy. I will never forget you," Estel said. And then his voice dropping down to a whisper he added, "I love you."
Wiping a tear away he walked back to Elrond.
"How are you feeling?" Elrond asked, walking over to him.
"Ok thanks. When will the statue be put in place?" Estel asked.
"Either today or tomorrow. I think the inscription hadn't been done when Glorfindel went round earlier," Elrond replied.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
When they reached the living room they saw the twins, Legolas, Galadriel, Celeborn and Glorfindel all talking quietly. Estel sat on an empty sofa and said nothing. Elrond walked over to have a word with Galadriel, when he turned around he saw how upset Estel looked. He could tell Estel was trying his best not to cry so he went and sat next to him and said, Estel you don't need to hold your tears in here. You're with family."
Estel fell into Elrond's embrace, tears coursing down his cheeks. Elrohir walked over to the sofa and started rubbing Estel's back.
After about 10 minutes Estel pulled back from Elrond with very red, puffy eyes. He said, "I'm sorry Ada."
"Estel you have nothing to apologise for. You've just lost your mother you're bound to be upset," Elrond said gently but firmly, but he stopped when he heard a bell somewhere in the building. "Are you going to come and have something to eat?"
Estel nodded, getting to his feet.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Please please please review.
Chapter 9
It was with a heavy heart that Elrond made his way to Gilraen's room. He knew what she wanted to say and he knew, that as much as he would try, he wouldn't be able to change her mind.
He knocked on the door and went in. A very pale looking Gilraen was lying in the bed, looking at him.
"Thank you for coming," she said to the elf.
"How could I not come when I know what you want to tell me," he replied, sitting down next to the bed. "Will you not hold on till Estel gets home? He should return tomorrow evening."
"I can not put Estel through that, I can not make him say good bye. You must think I am a terrible mother not wanting to see my son for the last time but I can't," Gilraen said sadly.
"I understand and I don't think you are a terrible mother," Elrond replied, kindly.
All night long they sat talking. Retelling all their memories of Estel.
When the first hints of dawn touched the sky Gilraen said, quietly, "Thank you."
"What for?"
"For letting us live here and for raising Estel like he was your own son," Gilraen replied, smiling at him.
"As I have told you many, many times you do not need to thank me. I remember when you first arrived I was willing to let you live here but I never thought I would grow this close to him. He is as much my child as the twins and Arwen," Elrond said, finding her hand and holding it comfortingly.
"Look after him," Gilraen said.
"I will."
"Thank you. And tell him I love him." Even as these words left her mouth Gilraen fell back against the pillow and Elrond watched her chest rise and fall for the last time.
Elrond sat with her for over an hour thinking about all the people he had lost when a voice at the doorway brought him back to the present.
"Are you alright El-" he stopped when his eyes fell on the bed. "Oh no."
"She died earlier this morning," Elrond said quietly.
"Are you ok?" Glorfindel asked, moving closer to his friend.
"I'm fine thanks. I've been expecting this for some time now. She hasn't been happy for many years. In fact if it wasn't for Aragorn I think she would have faded away all those years ago when Arathorn died."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Elrond was working in his study when three voices, he recognised as his sons, floated in through the open window.
He went down to greet them.
"Hiya Ada," three tired, but cheery voices called to him.
"Welcome home me sons," he replied. "Which one of you is injured this time?"
"Well actually none of us," Elladan replied.
"Really, I'm impressed. Estel I need to talk to you in my study," he said looking at his youngest son.
"Ok. I'll just go and have a wash and get changed then I'll be up," Estel said making his way towards the house.
"Actually I'd prefer it if we went straight to my study now," Elrond said, not wanting to leave it any longer.
"Oh ok," Estel replied, looking at the twins and seeing they were as puzzled as he was.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Once they reached Elrond's study Estel could tell Elrond needed to tell him something that he didn't want to, so it was probably bad news.
"Sit down."
"Ada what's going on?" Estel asked, sitting down.
"I've got some bad news," Elrond said, walking over to the window. "This morning your mother, she. she died." Elrond did not approach the young man because he didn't know if Estel wanted him near or not.
He watched as many different emotions flashed across his face, finally landing on such an intense sadness that it broke Elrond's heart.
"Why?" Estel whispered. "Why has she left me already?"
Elrond sat down next to the man, who now had tears rolling down his face, that fell into his arms.
"She hasn't been happy for a long time," Elrond said, stroking his hair gently. "She misses your father. She's happy now."
Estel sat crying silently in Elrond's embrace while he sang soothingly in elvish. When Estel hadn't moved at all after 15 minutes and was still crying Elrond started to pour some healing sleep into the young mans form. He laid the young man down on the sofa and covered him with a blanket.
He went and sat at his desk and watched the sleeping form. Suddenly there was a knock on the door.
"I thought I said I didn't want to be interrupted this evening," he called angrily, careful of waking Estel.
"Oh sorry Ada we didn't know," Elrohir called through the door.
"Come in boys," Elrond called, when he recognised the voice.
Elladan and Elrohir entered and their eyes fell on Estel.
"Ada, what's going on?" Elladan asked, noticing the tear marks on his cheeks.
"Sit down, I've got some bad news. I've already told Estel. This morning Gilraen died," Elrond said, wiping Estel's cheeks dry.
"Oh no," the twins said, sitting down.
"I've already sent out riders to Lothlorien and Mirkwood. I didn't tell Legolas what has happened, I just said Estel would need him here if it were possible. The message should get there by tomorrow morning."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
"Who approaches the halls of Thranduil, King of Mirkwood at this hour?" the elf at the gates called when he heard a horse approaching.
"I have a message from Elrond, Lord of Rivendell. It is for Prince Legolas," the rider replied.
One elf went to get Legolas so he could open the gates. When he appeared from the house he whispered the magic words and the gates opened. He led the messenger inside.
"I'm sorry for the time of my arrival Prince Legolas," the elf said, bowing to the young prince. "But Lord Elrond asked me to get here as soon as possible because the message I carry is important."
"Please sit down," Legolas said pointing at the chair next to his. "What is this message?"
The tired elf handed Legolas an envelope with his name on. Legolas took it, opened it and read.
Prince Legolas.
If it is not too much bother could you please come to Rivendell as soon as
possible? I shall not say the reason yet because it is better said in person rather than on paper. But what I will say is this. Estel will need a
good friend with him for the next few months, preferably you.
Yours sincerely,
Elrond, Lord of Rivendell.
"Do you know why Estel will need a good friend with him for a while?" Legolas asked.
"I'm sorry but no. I was just called into Lord Elrond's study early yesterday morning and told to deliver this as quickly as possible."
"Yesterday? You set of from Rivendell about 24 hours ago?" Legolas asked, amazed at the riders speed.
"Yes sire. I could tell from Lord Elrond's tone that it was important so I got here as soon as I could."
"Follow me. I will take you to one of our guest rooms where you can rest and have some food in the morning," Legolas said, standing up.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
As soon as he knew his father would be awake Legolas went up to his bedroom and knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" Thranduil called.
"Just me Ada."
"Come in. Is anything wrong, you're up early," Thranduil said, pointing at a chair.
"A messenger from Rivendell arrived in the night. He gave me this from Lord Elrond," Legolas said, handing him the message.
Thranduil read the message and handed it back to Legolas.
"So may I go?" Legolas asked.
"Of course you may. If Estel needs you there you must go."
"Thank you Ada," Legolas said, standing up.
"Your welcome. I expect you have already packed so go and get your horse ready," he said. "I'll be down in a minute I've just got to get some riders ready to go with you."
"Ok."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Estel had stayed with Elrond in his study all night, but when he woke up he knew he should go back to his room, but for some reason he didn't want to.
When he entered his room he saw an envelope with his name on. He sat down on his bed and opened it. Inside was a letter written in his mother's firm handwriting.
To My Dearest Aragorn.
I'm sorry that I won't be able to tell you these things in person but I
fear we shall never see each other again in this world.
Although I am not gifted with foresight like my forbearers I still know
that you will achieve many great things.
I know you are still getting used to the fact that you are Aragorn, son of Arathorn, heir of Isildur. Enclosed is another item to help you with it.
{Estel looked at the other item in his hand.}
I am so proud of the young man you have grown up to be and if your father
was still alive I know he would be just as proud. And Elrond is too.
I will never forget you and I know you will never forget me.
I love you my son.
Your mother
Gilraen.
X
As Estel finished reading tears fell from his eyes. He put the letter down and looked at the other object that had been in the envelope. It was a ring.
Suddenly there was a knock on the door. He quickly hid the letter and the ring, wiped the tears away and said, "Come in."
Elrond walked in and sat next to him. He noticed the tear tracks and said, gently, "I hope you didn't leave my study because you didn't want to cry in front of me."
"That wasn't why I left. I found this on my bed," he said, handing the letter to the elf.
"Oh. Do you mind if I read it?" Elrond asked, seeing whom it was from.
"No."
Elrond got half way through and then asked, "What item?"
Estel handed him the ring.
"I wondered what had happened to this. When I told your mother I was going to tell you about who you are she asked if she could give this to you in her own time," Elrond said, handing it back. "I take it you remember what it is from all your history lessons."
"Yes."
"I know you probably don't want to think about it yet but some when I need to start planning your mother's funeral and I'd like you to help me. I don't mean we have to start now but it might be an idea if you start thinking if there's anything special you would like to happen," Elrond said, gently. "Oh yes I forgot to tell you. Yesterday morning I sent riders out to Lothlorien and Mirkwood. Hopefully Legolas should arrive any when after tomorrow."
"Does he know about-" Estel couldn't carry on.
"No. I thought it would be better to tell him face to face. But don't worry I'll tell him."
"Thank you Ada. But I'd like to be with you when you tell him."
"If that's what you want then that's fine. Are you going to come and have some lunch? You haven't eaten since you got home," Elrond said, getting to his feet.
"I'm not hungry," Estel replied quietly.
"Are you sure?"
Estel nodded.
"Just remember you need to keep your strength up."
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
That evening Elladan and Elrohir went up to Estel's room, knocked on the door, and went in.
"Hi," Estel said, glumly.
"Hi," they both said.
"Why weren't you at lunch or dinner?" Elladan asked.
"I wasn't hungry."
"Estel I know it's upsetting losing a parent. And I know you've lost both of yours, but you still need to carry on with your life," Elladan said.
"Elladan's right," Elrohir said, moving closer to the man on the bed. "We know how you feel, you can talk to us."
All the different emotions Estel had been feeling over the last 24 hours suddenly turned to anger.
"You tell me to get on with my life," he shouted, standing up. "And you say you know how I feel but you don't. Elves don't know what it's like to lose someone as close to you as a parent." But even as these words left his mouth he regretted them.
"What about our mother?" Elladan shouted. "Have you forgotten that we have lost our mother too?"
Just then Elrond burst through the door.
"What is all this shouting about?" he asked, angrily.
"I'm sorry Ada. It's my fault. 'Dan and 'Ro came in to see how I was and I started shouting at them," Estel admitted, looking at the floor.
"Why were you shouting at them?" Elrond asked, gentler then before.
"Because they said they know how I feel and things like that and I said how could they know how I feel? After all they're elves they don't know what it's like to lose a parent. I forgot about your mother," he added, looking at the twins. "I'm sorry."
Elladan moved first. Walking over to the man who was once more looking down at the floor, he said, "You don't need to apologise. You're upset. Like Elrohir said we know how you feel." And before Estel had a chance to say anything Elladan and Elrohir had both embraced the young man.
Elrond smiled at the sight before him and when the twins had moved back a bit Elrond moved closer to Estel and said, "I remember your mother shouting at me when the two of you first arrived. She said something about me being an elf so I would not know how it feels to lose someone I love."
Estel smiled at the thought of his mother. Somebody knocked on the door so Estel walked over and opened it.
"Hello Estel," Glorfindel said. "Is Elrond in here?"
Elrond moved over to the doorway and said, "Yes I'm here. Is anything wrong?"
"No. Prince Legolas has arrived."
"Ok. Estel would you like to go and wait in my study if you're sure you want to be there," Elrond said.
"I'm sure," Estel replied.
Elrond smiled at the young man before following Glorfindel out of the room.
"Are you going to tell Legolas?" Elladan asked.
"No. Ada said he will but I want to be there," Estel replied.
"Do you want us to come?" Elrohir asked.
"Yes please," Estel said, gratefully.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
"Lord Elrond," Legolas called, when he saw the elf approaching. "What's happened? What's wrong with Estel?"
"Please calm down Prince Legolas. Nothing is wrong with Estel. If you come up to my study I will explain. Estel is already there," he added when Legolas started to speak.
When they entered they saw that Estel was sitting on a sofa in front of the fire, with Elladan and Elrohir on either side.
When the twins noticed Legolas they got up to greet him. Estel however stayed where he was, staring into the fire.
"Please sit down," Elrond said to Legolas, pointing at a chair. "We weren't expecting you until tomorrow at the earliest."
"Well the messenger arrived during the night and as soon as Ada was awake I asked if I could come. I've been riding all day," Legolas said, tiredly.
"Well I'll just explain what has happened and then you can have something to eat and rest," Elrond said. "Yesterday morning Gilraen passed away."
Legolas looked at Elrond then at the twins. His gaze finally landed on Estel, whose eyes were sparkling with unshed tears.
Elrond broke the silence by saying, "I thought it would be good for Estel if he had a friend with him at the funeral."
"When will it be?" Legolas asked.
"We haven't decided yet. Probably next week but maybe not until the week after. Would you like me to show you to your room?" Elrond asked.
"Yes please," Legolas replied.
"Are you three coming?" Elrond asked.
"Yes," Elladan and Elrohir replied, standing up.
"Ada, once you've shown Legolas to his room I'd like to start planning Naneth's funeral," Estel said quietly.
"Now?" Elrond asked gently.
"Yes."
"Would you like us to stay?" Elrohir asked.
"No, I'll be alright thank you," Estel replied.
"Ok. I'll be back shortly," Elrond said, leading the three young elves out the room.
Elrond returned shortly and sat on the sofa next to Estel.
"Have you had any ideas?" Elrond asked.
"Just that I want her to be buried in the glade in the woods that she loved," Estel replied.
"I thought you might want that. Anything else?"
"Nothing that I can think of," Estel replied, looking back into the fire.
"I was thinking about having a special service inside with whoever wants to come and then just people that were close to her when she's actually buried," Elrond said.
"Yes. I'd like that," Estel said, looking at Elrond.
"Who do you want to talk at the service?" Elrond asked.
"I don't mind. I would definitely like you to say something if you don't mind," Estel said.
"Of course I don't mind," Elrond said, kindly. "Anyone else?"
"Yes. I'd like to say something," Estel said.
"Ok."
"When will it be?" Estel asked.
"Some when next week probably," Elrond replied. Then he noticed that Estel had tears running down his cheeks.
"Estel, what's wrong?" he asked.
"I've just remembered. Next Wednesday is. or would have been Naneth's birthday," he replied quietly, wiping his cheeks dry.
"Oh yes. It would have been," Elrond said.
"I'd like it next Wednesday please," Estel said, looking pleadingly at Elrond.
"That's a wonderful idea," Elrond said, wiping Estel's cheeks where more tears were spilling down.
"Who will come to the burial," Estel asked after he had stopped crying.
"Well it's up to you really," Elrond replied.
"I'd like Glorfindel and Erestor to come. And Legolas and the twins of course. Are Daernaneth and Daeradar going to come?"
"Yes. They should arrive tomorrow or the day after," Elrond replied.
"Well they can come. And maybe a few elves that Naneth got on with very well," Estel said.
"I'll make sure they all know. Would you like something to eat? You haven't eaten since you got home," Elrond said.
"I'm not really hungry," Estel said.
"Are you sure? You need to keep your strength up," Elrond said.
"I'm sorry Ada but I can't eat anything yet," Estel said, looking back into the fire.
"Just promise me you will have something to eat tomorrow," Elrond said, gently but firmly.
"I will," Estel said, standing up. "Good night Ada."
"Good night," Elrond replied, standing up and giving him a small embrace.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
On the day of Gilraen's funeral Estel got dressed quickly and went and sat in Gilraen's room.
"Estel. Are you ready?" Elrond asked.
"Yes," Estel replied, standing up.
"The twins and Legolas are downstairs," Elrond said.
Soon everyone was seated in the main hall. Estel was in the middle of the front row with Elrond on one side and Elrohir on the other. Elladan sat by his twin and Galadriel and Celeborn sat next to Elrond while Legolas sat next to Elladan.
The hall was full because Gilraen was very well known. One by one every person in the hall walked up to the front of the room with a few flowers in their hands and said a few of their favourite memories of Gilraen. While saying each memory they laid a flower down on the floor around the coffin.
When it got to Glorfindel's turn, while saying each memory he laid his flowers in a special crate that had been made in the shape of the star of the Dunedain. Then it was Erestor's turn, he laid his flowers in the star shape. Legolas went next. Then Celeborn. Next was Galadriel. By this time the star was getting quite colourful.
Elladan went up, then Elrohir. Then Elrond went up.
"I remember when I first met Gilraen. It was when Arathorn was still alive. She was extremely nervous around me," here he laid a flower down. "I remember when she first arrived here with Estel, she was just as nervous then. But she soon got used to it here." He laid another flower down.
He carried on for another minute then walked back to his seat.
Slowly Estel stood up and walked over to where the coffin lay. In his hand five sprigs of lavender.
"I remember the way she used to put everyone else in front of herself, especially me." He laid a flower down in the almost complete star shape. "I remember the way she used to sit with me for the rest of the night if I woke up after having a bad dream. I remember how she used to stay with me all day when I was ill." He laid a flower down. Everyone could see the unshed tears glittering in his eyes. "I remember the way she used to sit in the gardens with me and help me read. I remember the way she used to greet me when I returned home from hunting."
After laying the last sprig of lavender down he walked back to his seat, determined not to let his tears fall.
Elrond said a few more words and then everyone started to leave. The elves that had been invited to the burial made their way to the clearing.
"Are you alright Estel?" Elladan asked.
"Yes thanks," he replied.
Once the coffin had been lowered gently into the hole the female elves that had come, Glorfindel, Erestor and Legolas made their way out of the clearing because it was a tradition with elvish funerals that only the family were present for the last part. As Legolas went past Estel he smiled slightly at him.
"Legolas," Estel said quietly. "I'd like you to stay please."
Legolas's smile grew slightly and walked back to where he had been standing.
As Estel watched his mother being buried he felt tears well up in his eyes but he was determined not to let them fall even though he was among what he called his family. He felt a comforting hand on his shoulder, he turned round and saw Elrond was looking at him. He gave Estel's shoulder a little squeeze and then looked back at the grave that was slowly filling up.
When the grave was completely filled in everyone knew they should give Estel some time alone so they all made their way silently back to the house except Elrond who moved out of the clearing but stayed where Estel could see him.
Seeing a patch of lavender growing nearby, Estel bent down and gently pulled it up, he walked back over to the grave and laid the flowers gently down on top of it.
"I'm glad that wherever you are you're happy. I will never forget you," Estel said. And then his voice dropping down to a whisper he added, "I love you."
Wiping a tear away he walked back to Elrond.
"How are you feeling?" Elrond asked, walking over to him.
"Ok thanks. When will the statue be put in place?" Estel asked.
"Either today or tomorrow. I think the inscription hadn't been done when Glorfindel went round earlier," Elrond replied.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
When they reached the living room they saw the twins, Legolas, Galadriel, Celeborn and Glorfindel all talking quietly. Estel sat on an empty sofa and said nothing. Elrond walked over to have a word with Galadriel, when he turned around he saw how upset Estel looked. He could tell Estel was trying his best not to cry so he went and sat next to him and said, Estel you don't need to hold your tears in here. You're with family."
Estel fell into Elrond's embrace, tears coursing down his cheeks. Elrohir walked over to the sofa and started rubbing Estel's back.
After about 10 minutes Estel pulled back from Elrond with very red, puffy eyes. He said, "I'm sorry Ada."
"Estel you have nothing to apologise for. You've just lost your mother you're bound to be upset," Elrond said gently but firmly, but he stopped when he heard a bell somewhere in the building. "Are you going to come and have something to eat?"
Estel nodded, getting to his feet.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
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