A/N: I know, I know.it's taken me far too long to update this. But this
last semester at uni has been a bugger of a one. I've been writing this
chapter for several months (slowly though it went) and my co-author BoL can
testify to that. I've made it as long as I dare, lest I take all the fun
out of it for my co-author.
So enjoy!
My apologies about the formatting! It's terrible, but I can't seem to fix it- it only makes it worse. **************************************************************************** **
I don't like orcs. They're ugly, they reek, they're disgusting, they're cruel and they have an alarming fetish for Elf-maidens in iron- spiked collars.
Those collars are far more painful than you could ever imagine. It's damned heavy to begin with, so as you are pulled and dragged along, it cuts into your neck and rubs away the skin till everything from your chin to your shoulders is red raw and bleeding. Then there's the fact that if you try to bend your neck to relieve the ache of holding your head high to avoid the sharpened points on the spikes, you end up giving yourself some new bleeding holes in yours cheeks or chin. And then you've got to deal with the cramps that set into your neck and back from the cold and wet.
I don't know how bad I must have looked, but if I was in any state like my Elvish sister, I was reduced to a bloodied and dirty mess. Damn, I wanted a bath. I would have given anything for a hot bath..or even just a rescue party. Is that so much to wish for?
I couldn't even tell how long it had been when they pushed into a small hollow in the ground and chained to stubbly tree that stood there, looking as if it were still deciding whether it wanted to grow there or just die.
There were orcs among our captors that spoke our tongue, though it sent shivers of fear down my spine to hear them speak any language. I didn't really care for their conversations however, until a topic came up that attracted my immediate attention.
"We should have them now!" a particularly ugly whined, sneering at Rhiannon and myself. Naturally, our instincts caused us to back away as much as we could, which wasn't much, given how tightly they'd chained us to that little tree.
"No!" another orc snarled. "Master said to bring any pretties to him!"
"He's not going to like this little one- she's already damaged!"
I failed to see how they could judge Rhiannon to be more 'damaged' than I was, since their treatment of us both had not been the least bit careful. Of course, Rhiannon did have a number of massive bruises that I didn't have, and whilst I hardly wanted to compete with her for the attention of the orcs, I hated the idea that they would find a means to separate and destroy our spirits. I was certainly not going to let these orcs to take me to Sauron.
"Let me have her," the first orc leered, his lust evident his evil yellow eyes as he reached out to grab her leg.
Pissed off beyond all sense, I kicked his hand as hard as I could, gritting my teeth in a combination of uncontrollable fury and fear.
"Thanks," Rhiannon murmured, her eyes portrayed her exhaustion and yet alertness to the situation.
"No probs," I replied quietly as the orcs began arguing amongst themselves.
I'll admit, inside I was on the verge of tears. It seemed so hopeless and help so far away. But I refused to let anything but my disgust and anger for the orcs show on my face. Rhiannon's steadfast determination that had often been my bane now became the strength I clutched onto as a last means to prevent myself from falling into the pit of despair.
It must have been several hours that we'd been sitting there when I felt the briefest touch upon my mind. Anórmír, a welcome voice called as though carried on the wind from a great distance.
Ereinion! I yelled back, desperately wanting him to be able to hear me. But no further replies were forthcoming.
It was sometime while later, after Rhiannon and I had beaten off several attempts of orcs to touch either one of us, as the wind blew softly, that I heard a voice that was distinctly Elvish in its speech.
"Rhiannon," I whispered, keeping an eye on the orcs who were once again arguing amongst themselves.
Her only response came in the form of something that was a cross between a snort and a grunt.
"Ereinion and Glorfindel are coming for us," I said encouragingly. I was worried that she hadn't used words to speak. She was definitely at the limits of exhaustion and I hoped that she would not fall into despair- both for her sake and Glorfindel's and my own. I did not want to be left alone to the attentions of the orcs. I didn't think I'd last without her strong spirit to support me.
She opened her eyes a bit and mumbled, "How do you know?"
"Listen," I urged. I watched as her eyes became distant, her total concentration on listening beyond the orcs. Her face lit up with vast hope and relief.
"Thank all things sacred and holy!" she breathed. "How close do you think they are?"
"I'm not sure. These new ears of mine take some getting used to."
"You're telling me," Rhiannon muttered. "I'm just glad we haven't been raped."
Amen to that, I thought to myself. I leaned back against the small tree once again and sent my thought out, hopefully to Ereinion. My Love? I waited a brief moment before trying again. Ereinion! Rhiannon and I are here! I projected a mental image of the place I saw around me. Again, no reply was forthcoming.
I was aware then of Rhiannon crawling back over, new bruises and cuts on her neck. An orc moved from where she had been before- no doubt she'd had another run in with these evil creatures.
"I am going to cut its head off and gut it with a herring," she growled quietly.
"Patience," I replied softly, trying to soothe her anger so that she wouldn't do anything else foolish. A habit which seemed to be a vital part of Rhiannon's character. "When Ereinion and Glorfindel come, you'll probably get a sword anyway."
"Swords are too quick."
Well, it depends on what you stick the sword into. I imagine that if you shoved it through the genitalia of the male of any species, they'd be willing to contest that time moves too slowly. However, I nodded in agreement with my Elvish sister.
It wasn't long before the rescue party of Elves descended in violent fury upon the orcs. I didn't notice it until I heard the enraged shouts of the Elves, having turned my face from the repulsive cannibalism of the orcs as they ate the loser of whatever the last argument had been. My stomach threatened to reject its meager contents, and I found myself curling up into a ball next to that precious little tree in misery, despite the hope of rescue that was upon us.
When I looked up, hearing the soft 'twang' of Elven bows, I saw Ereinion and several other Elves charging on their horses towards the unprepared orcs. Ereinion's face was mask of cold fury, a look more terrible than I had ever seen on him before. Even his jealous anger didn't match this expression of quiet icy ferocity.
Arrows flew past to lodge within orc targets and the swords of the Elves slaughtered the orcs effortlessly, but I only had eyes for my Ereinion. He came for us, the little voice in my head cried exultantly. But it was not just that he happened to be along at the right moment that excited me, but that he had come personally to lead the rescue. I was sure that Isildur would be having apoplexy right about now; there was no way he couldn't know by now that the High King of the Elves had left the camp of the Last Alliance to come after us.
I noticed that Rhiannon was quivering with excitement as she watched Glorfindel, no less cold and angry than Ereinion.
When the last of the orcs were slain, Ereinion looked up at me and his expression softened as he strolled proudly over.
"Anórmír," he whispered, gently taking my head in his hands. I smiled up at him through tears of relief. His hands slid down to removed the collar from me neck, releasing me from the captive tree. He pulled me close and I wrapped my arms around him, mindless of the mud and orc blood that covered his gleaming armour. I thought I had lost you for a while there. There was no trace of you or Minaimîr, and all the evidence pointed to that you had run away- a theory that Isildur and several others supported. But it didn't seem right, that you would leave without telling me. I know that you wouldn't do that. His thought flowed inside my head, and the emotions that ran with it also.
It was Isildur who took us from the camp, I answered solemnly, looking straight into Ereinion's deep eyes. He tightened his hold on me. Isildur believed that we were a distraction to you and Glorfindel. His Men took us from our tent and then we were bound and taken from the camp. They purposed to take us to Minas Ithil 'where we would be safe' but Rhiannon and I got free. Ereinion's face betrayed his anger with Isildur as I continued to tell him of our inadvertent adventure.
"Come," he said at last, taking the reins of his horse from Gildor. He mounted the reached down around my waist and hauled me up in front of him. He wrapped my arms around him, leaning against him as he gave the order to ride back to the camp of the Last Alliance.
I decided that armour isn't the nicest of garments to cuddle up to for a long ride home, even if the Elf wearing it is Ereinion Gil-galad. It's awkward and hurts to bump One's head against if the horse trots. At the same time, it was reassuring. Ereinion seemed to have this split personality, with me he is Ereinion, a gentle Elf in love; Ereinion wears soft garments that are perfect for snuggling up to. His other side is Gil- galad, High King of the Elves, strong, powerful, majestic; Gil-galad wears armour and other uncomfortable clothes which I'm sure he'd just love to throw aside. Gil-galad is much harder to cuddle. He wants to be Ereinion, but everyone else around him requires him to be Gil-galad, and thus I have to learn to find a way to match this side of him, despite just wanting the rest of the world to vanish and leave me completely alone with him.
I slept a good deal of the way back, awaking only when I bumped my head as mentioned before. When we got back, the first thing I noticed was how close and firm Ereinion was holding me to him. Second thing I noticed, was that we were no longer on a horse. Ereinion paused at the entrance of his personal tent, and one of the guards opened the flap for him, since Ereinion's arms were currently full with carrying me.
I confess - I enjoyed it immensely. But what girl wouldn't? The Elf of her dreams carrying her into his tent as though she were weightless.*dreamy sigh*
I wrapped my arms around his neck, and he smiled down at me as he strolled into the main section of his tent. I gasped in delight when I saw that a bath tub filled with hot water was waiting there.
Ereinion chuckled and let me to my feet. "I must inevitably be called away to catch up the news of these past few days that I have been absent, not to mention the army that I am meant to command. I had hoped you would forgive me, and stay here whilst I am gone, if I gave you incentive to do so."
I glanced back at him, grinning. "I can assure you, you will not find me anywhere else before nightfall.and even then, I will probably still be here."
Ereinion kissed me elatedly. "Then I shall leave you to your own devices until I am able to return to you." I watched him as he turned towards the 'door'; he glanced back at me for a moment before departing out of sight. After seeing him leave (just to make sure he didn't try to stay to watch me again), I ran over to the bath, stripping my travel-worn clothes off as I went, stepping into the hot tub and sank down in deep appreciation. Rhiannon had mentioned that there was indeed a bathtub within the camp which she had used earlier whilst she stayed with Glorfindel, though neither of us could figure out why/how it got here, but I could see why she didn't question it further. It was a real treasure in such dark times in this dark place to be able to have a proper hot bath and not just with a sponge and bowl.
I spent a luxurious hour or two washing the blood and grim from my skin and hair, turning the water a very disgusting shade of muddy-black. I stood up in the bath tub, hugging my arms to my bare chest as I searched the room for a towel of some sort. I found Elrond standing just within. His back was facing me, so I shouldn't have been worried, but the notion that he'd been standing there for sometime embarrassed me for some reason.
"Elrond," I started. "How long have you been standing there?"
"A while," he admitted. "I was sent to bring you these." He held out a towel, still not turning to look at me. "Are you decent now?"
Not since the day I was born, I quipped to myself before I quickly wrapped it around my torso. "Yes."
Elrond turned around, keeping his eyes to my face now. In his arms he held a new set of clean clothes, which I took eagerly. He turned his back to me once more, to give me the opportunity to dress. I dried myself off quickly, looking around for my bag of goodies, since there was no way I was putting dirty underwear back on. I found my bag next to Ereinion's desk, and opened it, shifting through the skimpy, kinky lingerie.when an idea formed in my head.
There wasn't really any more 'decent' pieces of underwear in my bag, so I settled for just something white. As I pulled the dark blue tunic over my head, I glanced at Elrond, standing patiently still and quiet near the 'door'. I was reminded that Rhiannon had made her peace with him, and it occurred to me that Elrond could be very useful.not to mention I had several questions to ask about the nature of Elves.
"Elrond?" I said, breaking the silence.
"Yes?" Elrond enquired, not taking his eyes from the tent wall.
"Do you think that there might be some time, when Rhiannon and I would be able to talk to you later?" I asked, wondering how to go about it. I swallowed my pride (and good English too, by the sounds of what I ended up saying) and just let my brain stumble over my true meaning. "We've got a few questions we need answered.about Elves, I mean. We're rather unsure about.certain facts. Never having been Elves except for this last couple of weeks, I'm sure you can understand that we've got the impression that we're not very good at being Elves, if you know what I mean."
Elrond looked over his shoulder at me with a genuine smile. "Yes, Lady Anórmír, I think I do know what you mean. I would be happy to make myself available to talk later this evening with you and your sister."
I returned his smile, relieved that I didn't have to bumble with further words of explanation. "Do you have any ideas what I'm supposed to do now? I know Ereinion wanted me to stay in his tent, but.there's nothing to do now."
Elrond strolled over and picked up a comb from the desk, gesturing for me to sit down. "Isildur recently arrived back with his men. There have been some pressing matters that have kept High King Gil-galad and King Elendil from dealing with Isildur, but I do not think it will be much longer before their attentions are free to turn to him." He finished combing my hair, leaving it to dry in its long length along my back, where it already sprang into gentle waves and curls. Elrond pulled me to my feet and looked me straight in the eye. "Whatever wrong Isildur has done, he is needed within the Last Alliance." Elrond's voice seemed urgent in his persuasion and counsel. "If Isildur is disowned, his men will be disheartened, and they will be leaderless- Elendil and Anórien already have enough to deal with within their own commands. They cannot take Isildur's army into their own. Lady, I know Isildur has done nothing to endear himself to you or your sister, but for the sake of the Alliance, will you defend Isildur against Gil-galad's wrath?"
I saw the desperate fear within Elrond's eyes that if Isildur was cast out, the Alliance would be all for naught.but whichever path we took, it would not be the end of Sauron that has been planned. "I warned Isildur that this would happened." I sighed. "For the sake of the Alliance, Elrond, I will do it."
Elrond looked relieved. He took my hand and pulled me towards the tent flap. "Come, we must hurry." We strode purposefully to the outside.
"Lord Elrond!" One of the guards said, crossing his spear with that of the other guard to halt our progress. "I cannot allow you to take the Lady Anórmír without the express wishes of the High King of the Elves Gil- galad."
Elrond stopped, thinking quickly for some way around it. Damned Elves, they're too honourable.
"It is because my Lord King Gil-galad needs me that I must go with Lord Elrond. You needn't worry, I will be with Lord Elrond the whole time. The High King would not wish you to leave your posts, and so he sent Elrond to accompany me." I gave a shy smile, the sort that turn males' knees to jelly. "I'm late as it is."
The guards nodded briefly towards us and then resumed their places. Elrond and I hurried along towards the main pavilion.
"A clever cover," Elrond complimented mildly. "You were quick- thinking, and it was not wholly a lie. Gil-galad does need you- he's just not aware of it yet."
That was my thinking, Elrond. You see? I'm not really as silly as you think I am.
We arrived at the main pavilion of Elendil's part of the Last Alliance camp, and as Elrond and I approached, the men who stood guard gave a questioning look.
"She's with me," Elrond explained. "My King requires her presence within."
The guards gave a curt nod and drew back the tent flaps so we could enter.
To say we arrived just in time was no exaggeration. If Elrond and I had taken even a second longer to get there, it would have been a disaster for the Last Alliance.
"Isildur, Lord Gil-galad is correct- you had not right to-" The one I assumed was King Elendil began firmly.
"I was also right! If those Elf-maidens are out of their sight for more than an hour, Gil-galad and Glorfindel abandon the Alliance-" Isildur retorted hotly.
"Which we would not have done had you left our Ladies well alone-" Gil- galad growled.
The tent flaps fluttered closed and it was then that those standing within noticed Elrond and I standing seemingly calmly, watching them.
"There are emotions designed to override all logic and reason, Isildur. And whilst I would name Love as the first and foremost of emotions that fits this category, I have observed that even you have been affected by such a feeling." I began. I was clenching and unclenching my hands against the soft fabric of the breeches I wore, hoping they wouldn't notice how nervous and frightened I was to be speaking amongst people of such high rank. I'd often felt that way about Ereinion before, but his confidence was catching when I knew he'd always be there to defend me.and now I had to defend Isildur, the one person I felt really deserved whatever he got.
I noticed Captain Dúmassë, Sergeant Lichmé and the others from the group who had kidnapped myself and my Elven sister, standing slightly behind Isildur. "What are you doing here?"
It was Elendil who answered me. "As my son's accomplices in your kidnapping, my Lady, they are also called to trial. They shall be judged and justice shall be paid, have no fear of that."
"Though I bear no affection for them, I think it would be most unfair to punish them for following the orders of their Prince," I stated, looking from Isildur and his men to Elendil. I deliberately avoided Ereinion's gaze at this time. "For in these dark times, is it not necessary that those same soldiers follow their leader's orders to the latter? We cannot afford to lose men of such ardent dedication." I almost choked on those words.
Elendil looked at me with an emotion I couldn't determine gleaming in his eyes. He nodded. "Captain Dúmassë, you and your men are free to go." When Dumbass hesitated, Elendil added, "You have duties within this war that you need to address."
At last it was just Elendil, Isildur, Ereinion, Elrond and me left in the tent.
"What is this feeling I am guilty of?" Isildur enquired coldly, bringing my attention back to my earlier comments.
"Care," I replied simply. "You care for your subordinates, the men who will live, eat, fight and die beside you, for a cause that you and they care greatly for. There is no one within this camp who wishes to see the Dark Lord win this war, Isildur; don't make the mistake of thinking you are the only one who wants to destroy him. Care is what overrode your logic and reasoning when you made the decision to kidnap Minaimîr and I from our tent with the intention of sending us to Minas Ithil - which, to be fair, was intended to keep us safe from harm. I will admit that you never really wanted us to be harmed, except in the event that we should resist co- operation of your plans - something you counted on, though hoped we would not nonetheless. But why, Isildur? Ask yourself why? Because you believed that my Lord King Gil-galad and Lord Glorfindel were distracted by us, that their care was only for us the Elf-maidens, and that their concentration waned on the matters that you cared about."
I was feeling stronger and more certain of myself as I spoke, and I gestured with hands and expressions on my face less rigidly now. "Yet ultimately, you achieved that which you feared, and no other can be given the blame in this matter. Whilst you believe, my Lord King Gil-galad and Lord Glorfindel proved you right in your assumptions- you have also been proven wrong, for there are things about Minaimîr and I which you are unaware."
I resisted the urge to smirk when suddenly Isildur's stoic face betrayed the slightest looks of uncertainty. I kept my gaze trained on Isildur, Elendil and Gil-galad had to listen and I know they would for my words kept everyone quiet and gave voice to all views of the matter.
"Did you ever wonder why Minaimîr and I suddenly showed up at this time, in this place, Isildur?" Isildur did not answer, but his lowered his head. "Indeed, we are young and have little to no experiences in war and fighting.and yet the Valar sent us here, believing that somehow we could make a difference."
Isildur looked up startled, and a quick glance at Elendil revealed that he had already been aware of Ereinion's suspicions. Apparently Elendil had kept many thoughts to himself. I was surprised that he had chosen not to inform his own son of the Kings' joint beliefs. Obviously, none of the men except Elendil knew of mine and Rhiannon's true origins and nature either.
"'Tis true," Ereinion spoke up, glancing at Elendil. "We were not entirely certain of how Anórmír and Minaimîr came to be where they were the day Captain Dúmassë found them, and it was my belief that the Valar had sent them to aid us in our cause. As to how two Elf-maidens could help us to victory, I knew not then nor do I know now. Until we had evidence, I felt it best not to say anything."
Elendil's expression was one of silent agreement with the High King of the Elves. Isildur still looked stunned.
"I know not how I am meant to help either, but I do know that to whatever end or cause I must remain with the Last Alliance." I added.
I think on a subconscious level at least, Isildur knew that I had saved him from the fate that I had predicted just a two days ago and he knew would have come to pass had I not stepped in and swayed Ereinion and Elendil's anger. The Alliance was all important, which I had subtly reminded them.
"We know that our duties to the Alliance come first, Isildur," I said softly. "Many feelings more than you have seen have we put aside to do what we know is important for the present."
Suitably chastised, Isildur nodded in agreement and silent apology, before apologizing aloud both to his father, and me and my Elvenking. He promised to apologise to Glorfindel and Minaimîr immediately, at which point Elrond intervened and suggested that when next Isildur saw them would be a better time than at present.
It left my mind boggling with the possibilities of why Elrond seemed to think my sister and her Elf-love should not be disturbed.
"Let me never find that you should take it upon yourself to kidnap or plan anything to do with those two Elf-maidens again, or you will find that your own fate is far worse than anything you imagine. Leave us now; you have your own duties to perform," Elendil dismissed.
Isildur bowed low and left. Elendil picked up some papers and commented mildly. "I hope you will forgive me, I have a few minor problems of my own that I need to sort out. Shall we meet again here tomorrow?"
Ereinion nodded, seemingly unable to speak.
Elendil headed towards the 'door', but stopped as I met his gaze. His eyes sparkled as he remarked mischievously, "She'll make a very good Queen, don't you think, my Lords?"
I blushed and lowered my gaze.
"Indeed, and a beautiful one at that," Elrond agreed. I told myself I'd remember to hit him later for that. I glanced up at Ereinion, who seemed to be trying to hide his smile and pride at their words without being obvious about it.
"She is very young, yet wise in her own way," Elendil continued. Obviously he was enjoying my embarrassment at such high praise. "I think Isildur is very wrong in his thoughts- the High King will let nothing distract him, for the sooner he can defeat the Dark Lord, the sooner he will be back in Lindon with his Lady." Elendil left at that point, but not before my cheeks were burning red. Males! Did they always have sex and other such topics on their minds?
I was brought back to reality when Ereinion, who had regained his composure, turned on Elrond, who still stood quietly just behind me. "Elrond," Ereinion began threateningly.
Sensing my Elf-love's darkening mood that he had been disobeyed, I stepped forward and opened my mouth to speak, but a sharp glance from Ereinion warned me to stay out it, regardless of my own disobedience in the matter.
"Lady Anórmír was to stay in my tent," Ereinion said quietly. "You knew that."
"When you sent me to bring her towels and clothes, I informed her of what was going on here. She agreed with me that she was needed her more than in your tent." Elrond explained carefully. "I would not disobey, my Lord, but it was necessary- for the Alliance and the good of all free peoples."
Ereinion seemed to be of two minds, knowing Elrond's judgment on this was right, but also angry that he had been disobeyed.
Think of the argument we interrupted, I said softly through our mind-link, looking up at my Elf-love. And think of what might have come of it, had Elrond not told me of what was happening. We can't afford to lose Isildur, nor can we afford for his men to be demoralised by his foolish mistakes. It is better this way.
Ereinion didn't say anything, but I knew he would relent on any punishment this time. "Elrond, if you would escort Lady Anórmír back to her tent?"
I didn't bother asking what I was supposed to do once I got back; I'd already pushed Ereinion's patience far enough. I knew when to stay quiet.
Elrond bowed his acquiescence, but I could see that he still felt terrible that he had disobeyed his King.
We left Ereinion in the tent without looking back, and were only a short way of the route back to the High King's tent when Rhiannon ran straight into us.
"Fiona? You alright? What the hell happened?"
"What's the matter?" I asked, confused. It was at this point I noticed that she only wore a tunic, but seemingly nothing else. "Why aren't you dressed?" And then I realised that the bruise on her face was completely healed and gone. "And what happened to your face?"
Elrond grabbed Rhiannon's chin and examined the now-healed formerly- bruised skin. His eyes widened. "Glorfindel," he stated. His voice held some unidentifiable emotion, almost as though he were both angry, irritated and just a little afraid.
Glorfindel did that? I was confused and stunned. It seemed my emotions couldn't quite get anything right that day.
"Yeah," Rhiannon replied, taking her chin back from Elrond's grasp. "He pulled some healing-speeder-upper-thingy on me." She turned to me. "Why were you so upset?"
"What?" I blinked. Everything was happening a bit too rapidly for me to keep up with, and I was exhausted.
"I had this feeling you were upset about something, so I ran out of the tent to find you. I'd just had a bath and I'd 'borrowed' one of Glorfy's shirts to wear, and when I sensed something was wrong with you, I came immediately."
"Oh." My mind suddenly caught up with the information overload. "I wasn't upset, really. Just kind of nervous. I had to stop Ereinion, Elendil and Isildur from screwing up the Alliance. As you well know, I don't like speaking in front of people I'm not familiar with, nor in formal situations. It required a lot more courage than I'm used to having."
Rhiannon's look of relief was palpable. "Don't do that again," she advised me.
"Do what?" Surely she didn't think I had any intentions of talking in front of those people again, did she?
"Scare me like that." Oh, so it wasn't what I thought it was. "Even if you don't really know how, just don't." Yes, dear sister, like that's going to work.
I just smiled. "I'll try, if you promise the same."
Elrond chose that moment to speak up. I could tell he was slightly anxious, having noticed him glancing back in the direction of where we had left Ereinion. "My Ladies, I believe it would be a good idea for you both to return to the tents from whence you came."
Notice, he didn't yet say 'the tents of your Lords'. But I was sure he was itching to put it like that. And why not? It was the most apt description. Granted, none of us were married and it implied something Elven customs don't agree with, but it would have been true soon enough.
Rhiannon nodded, but a thought occurred to me. "Wait!" I said. I glanced at Elrond. "Um, maybe now would be a good time for that." My face went red with embarrassment as I thought of a way to put it. "That.er...discussion?"
Rhiannon clearly had no idea what I was talking about, despite having agreed that we needed to know more about the, ah, nature.of Elves. But then, she wasn't aware that I'd asked Elrond to talk about things so soon.
Elrond looked at me curiously, obviously wondering why I was suddenly so embarrassed about talking about it. He considered my proposal dubiously. After all, he did have seemingly endless duties to attend. "My orders were to escort the Lady Anórmír to the High King Gil-galad's tent. Cannot this discussion wait?"
Bloody fires of hell! Males of all races are frustrating! Just do what I tell you to, damnit! "May we not sit in the antechamber of my Lord's tent?" I suggested. I was certain Elrond could have come up with this option, but he was mostly still distracted by the feelings of shame for disobeying his King.
"Glorfy's sleeping," Rhiannon offered in support.
"Surely there is nothing overly pressing that needs to be seen to at this very moment? Could we not sit and speak of things until my Lord returns?" I added. I knew I was sweet-talking Elrond into co-operating, but if here was the perfect opportunity to find out something I needed to know without Ereinion knowing that I was learning about it. I hated to be so ignorant of my new race and hated having to admit I didn't understand such simple things to Ereinion didn't thrill me either.
Elrond reluctantly agreed, and escorted us to the High King's tent. The guards didn't say anything, just opened the tent flaps so we could enter. Damn, I could get used to that. *grins* I mean, how many times do we get this kind of treatment back home? I can't recall any incident where someone opened the door for me (unless it was family that who obeyed only to shut my whinging up), even if I had my hands full.
We got comfortable on the floor, as best we could; Elrond in his armour clanked noisily as he did so. "What exactly did you want to talk about, Lady Anórmír?"
I glanced at Rhiannon, but her expression convinced me that she still had no idea what I was trying to do. I sighed and looked at the blue fabric of the tent, to embarrassed to meet Elrond's gaze. "We need to know things about Elves," I began, wondering exactly how to put it.
"Yes, you said that when you asked to have this discussion," Elrond reminded. "Was there anything in particular you wanted to know?"
Oh, bloody hell! There's no polite way to put this that I know of...
"Ooooh," Rhiannon finally caught onto what I was trying to ask. "I think I know now." So why don't you ask, sister dear? And spare me the embarrassment. For all Rhiannon's brazen actions and words, even she is lost for words about how to ask this.
Elrond raised an eyebrow questioningly.
"Um, er," I said, fidgeting nervously.
"What...I mean.well, obviously you.do Elves have...um..." Rhiannon squirmed in her spot.
I tried again. "Ah, well...let me put it this way.I believe the famous phrase children ask is something along the lines of 'do babies come from?'"
Elrond furrowed his brow, clearly not understanding exactly what we were asking.
Frustrated, I snapped. "Oh for crying out loud! How do Elves have sex and everything else about Elf-pregnancy and the like can you tell us?" My face burned with embarrassment which did nothing to improve my mood. I wanted to hit him for being so daft; if only there'd been another female Elf around, but I hadn't seen any and nobody had mentioned any, so Elrond was the best person around to ask about this, since we sort of knew him.
Elrond's expression became one of palpable realisation. If Rhiannon's and my cheeks were red, Elrond's cheeks turned a colour that could rival sunburn. "Ah. Right. Now I understand." He didn't laugh, but there was a definite twinkle of amusement in his eyes if you looked past the embarrassment. And did I see pink blushes on the tips of his ears? "Well, to begin with, there is bonding. This is a joining of two souls into one, so that basically the mind and hearts of two individuals are linked and can never be separated."
What...? I stared at Elrond, hoping the horrified feeling that was slowly keeping up on me didn't show. I was beginning to have an inkling about what Ereinion had really done.
Believing that Rhiannon and I were staring at him in confusion, Elrond clarified. "Bonded couples can heard one another's thoughts and speak to one another that way, also passing along mental images. It is through this bond that the Elf-maiden is, ah, 'readied' for, well.for begetting."
"This bond means a female is finally able to have kids?" Rhiannon blinked.
"Children, yes," Elrond corrected.
Oh my gosh... I was in internal panic mode. So that's what Ereinion did! He bonded with me that afternoon only a few days ago! I was bonded to him.never to be separated. I think what shocked me the most was the notion that I was now capable of child-bearing, despite only being a child by the terms of the Elves myself.
There was a bashful silence before Rhiannon found the courage to speak up again. "So how." She paused, her face flushing to a deeper red. "How does this 'readying for begetting' work exactly?"
"The normal cycle of an Elf-maiden in heat-" What are we dogs? I was offended that Elrond chose to use those words, especially since I could very well be facing my 'in heat' time. Elrond continued, unaware of my inner dialogue "-lasts for seven days each year, where in the chances of her begetting a child are extremely high. That is not to say that she cannot conceive at any other time, but that window of, er, opportunity is the time when she is most." he paused to think of the word. ".fertile."
I swallowed the fear that drove its way into my chest and asked the question that I needed to know most. "How long after an Elf-maiden is bonded does she go through this.'in heat' cycle?" I hated using that phrase, but my mind had closed down any properly working functions and thus I was left with a limited vocabulary for speaking.
"As I understand, it varies from Elf-maiden to Elf-maiden. But continuing on that subject...during this time, a maiden will lay with her bonded mate as many times as is required for her to conceive a child or until her desire for her mate is sated- but I read somewhere that the end of her desire is generally the end of the seven days of her cycle; rarely has it ended before except when the maiden in question begets a child."
It was at that point, that became aware of a familiar presence very close and heading right for the tent we were in. Sure enough, after the presence stopped to chat quietly with the guards keeping an eye on the 'door', and moments later, the tent flaps were lifted aside and Ereinion entered. He stopped with eyebrows raised as he saw the three of us sitting on the floor, all of our faces and ears shaded with a variety of red and pink. I wished at that moment that I could just be swallowed up by the ground. I hoped he hadn't heard anything we were saying, but it seemed unlikely since he had been too far away, even with Elven hearing. Of course, that could have meant he caught the end of the Elrond's explanation...to say nothing of what his personal guards had heard!
Ereinion seemed to be in much better spirits as he looked at us and grinned. I strongly suspected he had heard at least the end of what Elrond had been saying. "Please," the High King gestured that he had not meant to disturb us. "Continue with your discussion."
"Er, I think-" Rhiannon and I began in unison. Neither of us wanted to continue talking about 'Elf sex', as my Elvish sister so aptly calls it, especially not in front of the High King of the Elves. We simultaneously exchanged glances and giggled just a little bit too nervously to readily hide our discomfit.
"Later," Rhiannon said firmly. As she stood up, she missed seeing the amused look that Ereinion gave to a still blushing Elrond. Rhiannon gave me a hug- have you ever noticed how much better you feel when you get hugs from relatives and friends? I wish our society back home did not brand everyone who showed any sort of affection between same-sex friends as gay or lesbians.it's an unfair and ignorant assumption. But that argument's for another time; let's get back to the story, shall we?
"We'll talk later," I agreed. I glanced at Elrond who had also risen from his seat on the ground. "Thank you, Elrond." I still wasn't comfortable with the whole titles thing. "We may wish to, ah..." I blushed again as I gave a quick glance in Ereinion's direction. ".go over some details later."
"As you wish," Elrond said with a small bow. I imagine it's hard to bow in armour, but Elrond makes it look diginified. He turned to my sister. "My Lady Minaimîr, may I escort you to the Lord Glorfindel's tent?" Rhiannon nodded and waved cheerfully to the High King, giving me one last look that had 'behave!' written all over it and departed with Elrond not far behind.
So I was left with Ereinion in a rather embarrassed silence. Clearly still amused, Ereinion stepped past me and opened the flap to the inner part of the tent. "Will you not come, my Lady?"
I felt the blush creep up to the tips of my ears and I entered the inner 'room'. Ereinion came in behind me. He sat at his desk and looked at me, an amused smile still adorning his features. I met his gaze for a moment, but was unable to keep it for long and so I looked down at the floor again, the blush refusing to budge from my face.
"I was somewhat bewildered when I saw the guards outside my tent with red- cheeked faces. I could not think why they would possibly be in that state. Upon nearing them, I suddenly heard something that could be the only source of their discomfit." Chuckling, Ereinion stood up and wrapped arms around my waist. I always feel so small when he does that. My body seems to become slender when he holds me- and I know how untrue that really is. I doubt I'll ever stop marvelling at the great height and size of Ereinion. Not to mention those gorgeous muscles I knew lurked beneath all that armour and clothing.
Ereinion put his fingers beneath my chin and lifted my head to meet his solemn gaze. "I had meant to explain all this to you myself, Anórmír," he whispered, his tone betraying some regret. "After your reaction to our bonding, I knew that you were not yet ready to understand what had been wrought between us and I decided to wait a little while, so that when you were more acquainted with our bond, I could then explain it in a way that would not upset you."
I sighed and leaned against Ereinion, enjoying being cuddled so close to the Elf I loved. "Given that you had bonded us without telling me beforehand, and that you had failed to tell me the truth about it afterwards, and that I had to find it all from Elrond.I had fully intended to blow up at you, as it were.but aside from the fact that you've just gone and ruined what little of my dark mood I was saving up for you, I realise that we would've bonded sooner or later anyway, and the timing does not matter so- in fact, one could even claim justifiably that it was a help when Minaimîr and I were kidnapped." I realised that was something I hadn't clarified. I looked up at him. "You did hear me and see the images I tried to send you when we were under the captivity of the orcs, didn't you?"
Ereinion nodded with a smile. "Indeed. I had a hard time coming up with a reason to convince those with me that we should turn further to the south. I heard your voice in my mind as though you were yelling with wind trying to take your words away from me. I felt your bright hope and also your pain and misery. I was so enraged that my Anórmír had been taken away from me and had ended up in such a terrible situation as the one I found you in."
I cuddled Ereinion closer, suddenly feeling tired, but content.
"Do you wish to come and get some food with me?" Ereinion offered, not really wanting to break the moment, but knowing that it would be sooner or later.
I sighed tiredly. "I'd really rather just fall asleep in your arms, and cuddle you as I sleep.but we're never going to be allowed that, are we?"
Ereinion's voice was deep as he spoke softly in regret. "No, I doubt we will. Somebody is always needing something to be done...I've been through so many councils and meetings with commanders and leaders that my head is beginning to spin and all I want is to stay with you."
I looked up, smiling. "We'd be going to for that food then- they might even let us have enough time to eat it."
The dining-tent was full of rowdy Elves when we arrived. Ereinion bid me to sit down at an empty table while he went to get a meal for us both. Apparently he remembered the last time I tried to get the meals for us, and he wanted to avoid a repeated performance.
However, I think I would've felt somewhat more secure being by Ereinion's side than at that table. Where I sat at was near the table of the rowdiest Elves in the tent. They were making all sorts of comments. It was alright at first- just joking about the war and Sauron's cowardice et cetera, et cetera. But then the topic changed.
"Did you folks here about the High King and Glorfindel? Apparently they left camp to go chasing after those pretty little she-Elves that arrived here about two weeks ago." One of them began, after the noise had died down for a moment.
"Yeah, I did. They only got back today. Cold mad furious, they were when they heard them ladies had gone!" Another clarified for the rest.
Contrary to popular belief, even Elves are capable of speaking like drunken men when they're under the influence.
"Gil-galad is enamoured by the Vanyarin Elf-maiden," one of the slightly more sober Elves put in. I honestly don't know how they got so tipsy in the first place. Isn't it unprofessional to allow any alcoholic beverages into an army camp?
"Oh, aye!" The first one laughed. "At last our king has found himself a maiden to wife!"
"But he hasn't married her yet!"
"To be sure, it won't be long- you know that Gil-galad won't let her out of his sight now? The Vanyarin maiden stays in his own tent now. I doubt she'll continue to be a maiden for long!"
"And the same for Glorfindel! His saucy little maiden is getting under his skin- he takes his frustrations out on the practice field!"
"Gil-galad should get his lady on her back and rid her of all that excess energy- she wouldn't be running off anywhere, if she doesn't have the strength!"
By now, as you can imagine, my face was so red that I'm surprised I hadn't popped a couple of blood vessels. I was very embarrassed at what they were saying and somewhat angry as well.
"It's about time our king had an heir!"
"Who wants to bet that after our king has bedded his queen that a skip returns to his step?"
"I certainly would if I could have such a pretty maiden to play with during this war!"
"Aye!" came the collective cheer.
"Now come, the wagers! What say you to the reckoning that she's his queen and wife by the end of the week?"
"Nay, the end of the night!" There was another round of boisterous laughter.
"To the king, his beautiful queen-to-be, and the heir who is soon to follow!" One raised his tin cup in a toast.
"To the king!" the Elves toasted and threw their heads back to down the last of their drink.
I took the momentary quiet to speak. I was pissed off! "Why don't you say it a little louder- I don't think they heard you in Lindon." I said, keeping an even voice that was clear for all to hear. The boisterous Elves turned to look at me, the colour draining from their faces as they realised who had spoken.
"Isn't that-" one of them began.
"Shh!" several others around him urged.
"You might want to check the present company before discussing the 'bed' life of your king. And I would advise you to leave me out of your discussions completely. I don't appreciate the context in which you put me." I was tempted to stalk out of the tent, but by that time Ereinion arrived with plates for both of us.
"Lieutenant Airuial, you and your command are on privy duty for the next 10 days," Ereinion said evenly, but silenced the groans with a sharp glance that spoke volumes.
"Privy duty?" I repeated more softly, signalling to anyone else around us that it was a private conversation.
"They get to carry the barrels filled with the, ah, waste from the privies and take them a fair distance away before burying them." Ereinion explained.
I wrinkled my nose in distaste. "Let's change topics, or I'm liable to hurl dinner back up."
"Hurl dinner back up? Has he got her pregnant already?" the foolish Elf under Airuial's command asked, not realising how loud he spoke. However, it did reveal to me that even she-Elves get morning sickness. Damn.
"Lieutenant, make that 20 days of privy duty, and I advise you to remove your soldiers before it gets any worse," Ereinion announced. Airuial immediately started ordering crisply and a good number of Elves left the dining tent.
Mealtime was definitely quieter and more cheerful after that.
So enjoy!
My apologies about the formatting! It's terrible, but I can't seem to fix it- it only makes it worse. **************************************************************************** **
I don't like orcs. They're ugly, they reek, they're disgusting, they're cruel and they have an alarming fetish for Elf-maidens in iron- spiked collars.
Those collars are far more painful than you could ever imagine. It's damned heavy to begin with, so as you are pulled and dragged along, it cuts into your neck and rubs away the skin till everything from your chin to your shoulders is red raw and bleeding. Then there's the fact that if you try to bend your neck to relieve the ache of holding your head high to avoid the sharpened points on the spikes, you end up giving yourself some new bleeding holes in yours cheeks or chin. And then you've got to deal with the cramps that set into your neck and back from the cold and wet.
I don't know how bad I must have looked, but if I was in any state like my Elvish sister, I was reduced to a bloodied and dirty mess. Damn, I wanted a bath. I would have given anything for a hot bath..or even just a rescue party. Is that so much to wish for?
I couldn't even tell how long it had been when they pushed into a small hollow in the ground and chained to stubbly tree that stood there, looking as if it were still deciding whether it wanted to grow there or just die.
There were orcs among our captors that spoke our tongue, though it sent shivers of fear down my spine to hear them speak any language. I didn't really care for their conversations however, until a topic came up that attracted my immediate attention.
"We should have them now!" a particularly ugly whined, sneering at Rhiannon and myself. Naturally, our instincts caused us to back away as much as we could, which wasn't much, given how tightly they'd chained us to that little tree.
"No!" another orc snarled. "Master said to bring any pretties to him!"
"He's not going to like this little one- she's already damaged!"
I failed to see how they could judge Rhiannon to be more 'damaged' than I was, since their treatment of us both had not been the least bit careful. Of course, Rhiannon did have a number of massive bruises that I didn't have, and whilst I hardly wanted to compete with her for the attention of the orcs, I hated the idea that they would find a means to separate and destroy our spirits. I was certainly not going to let these orcs to take me to Sauron.
"Let me have her," the first orc leered, his lust evident his evil yellow eyes as he reached out to grab her leg.
Pissed off beyond all sense, I kicked his hand as hard as I could, gritting my teeth in a combination of uncontrollable fury and fear.
"Thanks," Rhiannon murmured, her eyes portrayed her exhaustion and yet alertness to the situation.
"No probs," I replied quietly as the orcs began arguing amongst themselves.
I'll admit, inside I was on the verge of tears. It seemed so hopeless and help so far away. But I refused to let anything but my disgust and anger for the orcs show on my face. Rhiannon's steadfast determination that had often been my bane now became the strength I clutched onto as a last means to prevent myself from falling into the pit of despair.
It must have been several hours that we'd been sitting there when I felt the briefest touch upon my mind. Anórmír, a welcome voice called as though carried on the wind from a great distance.
Ereinion! I yelled back, desperately wanting him to be able to hear me. But no further replies were forthcoming.
It was sometime while later, after Rhiannon and I had beaten off several attempts of orcs to touch either one of us, as the wind blew softly, that I heard a voice that was distinctly Elvish in its speech.
"Rhiannon," I whispered, keeping an eye on the orcs who were once again arguing amongst themselves.
Her only response came in the form of something that was a cross between a snort and a grunt.
"Ereinion and Glorfindel are coming for us," I said encouragingly. I was worried that she hadn't used words to speak. She was definitely at the limits of exhaustion and I hoped that she would not fall into despair- both for her sake and Glorfindel's and my own. I did not want to be left alone to the attentions of the orcs. I didn't think I'd last without her strong spirit to support me.
She opened her eyes a bit and mumbled, "How do you know?"
"Listen," I urged. I watched as her eyes became distant, her total concentration on listening beyond the orcs. Her face lit up with vast hope and relief.
"Thank all things sacred and holy!" she breathed. "How close do you think they are?"
"I'm not sure. These new ears of mine take some getting used to."
"You're telling me," Rhiannon muttered. "I'm just glad we haven't been raped."
Amen to that, I thought to myself. I leaned back against the small tree once again and sent my thought out, hopefully to Ereinion. My Love? I waited a brief moment before trying again. Ereinion! Rhiannon and I are here! I projected a mental image of the place I saw around me. Again, no reply was forthcoming.
I was aware then of Rhiannon crawling back over, new bruises and cuts on her neck. An orc moved from where she had been before- no doubt she'd had another run in with these evil creatures.
"I am going to cut its head off and gut it with a herring," she growled quietly.
"Patience," I replied softly, trying to soothe her anger so that she wouldn't do anything else foolish. A habit which seemed to be a vital part of Rhiannon's character. "When Ereinion and Glorfindel come, you'll probably get a sword anyway."
"Swords are too quick."
Well, it depends on what you stick the sword into. I imagine that if you shoved it through the genitalia of the male of any species, they'd be willing to contest that time moves too slowly. However, I nodded in agreement with my Elvish sister.
It wasn't long before the rescue party of Elves descended in violent fury upon the orcs. I didn't notice it until I heard the enraged shouts of the Elves, having turned my face from the repulsive cannibalism of the orcs as they ate the loser of whatever the last argument had been. My stomach threatened to reject its meager contents, and I found myself curling up into a ball next to that precious little tree in misery, despite the hope of rescue that was upon us.
When I looked up, hearing the soft 'twang' of Elven bows, I saw Ereinion and several other Elves charging on their horses towards the unprepared orcs. Ereinion's face was mask of cold fury, a look more terrible than I had ever seen on him before. Even his jealous anger didn't match this expression of quiet icy ferocity.
Arrows flew past to lodge within orc targets and the swords of the Elves slaughtered the orcs effortlessly, but I only had eyes for my Ereinion. He came for us, the little voice in my head cried exultantly. But it was not just that he happened to be along at the right moment that excited me, but that he had come personally to lead the rescue. I was sure that Isildur would be having apoplexy right about now; there was no way he couldn't know by now that the High King of the Elves had left the camp of the Last Alliance to come after us.
I noticed that Rhiannon was quivering with excitement as she watched Glorfindel, no less cold and angry than Ereinion.
When the last of the orcs were slain, Ereinion looked up at me and his expression softened as he strolled proudly over.
"Anórmír," he whispered, gently taking my head in his hands. I smiled up at him through tears of relief. His hands slid down to removed the collar from me neck, releasing me from the captive tree. He pulled me close and I wrapped my arms around him, mindless of the mud and orc blood that covered his gleaming armour. I thought I had lost you for a while there. There was no trace of you or Minaimîr, and all the evidence pointed to that you had run away- a theory that Isildur and several others supported. But it didn't seem right, that you would leave without telling me. I know that you wouldn't do that. His thought flowed inside my head, and the emotions that ran with it also.
It was Isildur who took us from the camp, I answered solemnly, looking straight into Ereinion's deep eyes. He tightened his hold on me. Isildur believed that we were a distraction to you and Glorfindel. His Men took us from our tent and then we were bound and taken from the camp. They purposed to take us to Minas Ithil 'where we would be safe' but Rhiannon and I got free. Ereinion's face betrayed his anger with Isildur as I continued to tell him of our inadvertent adventure.
"Come," he said at last, taking the reins of his horse from Gildor. He mounted the reached down around my waist and hauled me up in front of him. He wrapped my arms around him, leaning against him as he gave the order to ride back to the camp of the Last Alliance.
I decided that armour isn't the nicest of garments to cuddle up to for a long ride home, even if the Elf wearing it is Ereinion Gil-galad. It's awkward and hurts to bump One's head against if the horse trots. At the same time, it was reassuring. Ereinion seemed to have this split personality, with me he is Ereinion, a gentle Elf in love; Ereinion wears soft garments that are perfect for snuggling up to. His other side is Gil- galad, High King of the Elves, strong, powerful, majestic; Gil-galad wears armour and other uncomfortable clothes which I'm sure he'd just love to throw aside. Gil-galad is much harder to cuddle. He wants to be Ereinion, but everyone else around him requires him to be Gil-galad, and thus I have to learn to find a way to match this side of him, despite just wanting the rest of the world to vanish and leave me completely alone with him.
I slept a good deal of the way back, awaking only when I bumped my head as mentioned before. When we got back, the first thing I noticed was how close and firm Ereinion was holding me to him. Second thing I noticed, was that we were no longer on a horse. Ereinion paused at the entrance of his personal tent, and one of the guards opened the flap for him, since Ereinion's arms were currently full with carrying me.
I confess - I enjoyed it immensely. But what girl wouldn't? The Elf of her dreams carrying her into his tent as though she were weightless.*dreamy sigh*
I wrapped my arms around his neck, and he smiled down at me as he strolled into the main section of his tent. I gasped in delight when I saw that a bath tub filled with hot water was waiting there.
Ereinion chuckled and let me to my feet. "I must inevitably be called away to catch up the news of these past few days that I have been absent, not to mention the army that I am meant to command. I had hoped you would forgive me, and stay here whilst I am gone, if I gave you incentive to do so."
I glanced back at him, grinning. "I can assure you, you will not find me anywhere else before nightfall.and even then, I will probably still be here."
Ereinion kissed me elatedly. "Then I shall leave you to your own devices until I am able to return to you." I watched him as he turned towards the 'door'; he glanced back at me for a moment before departing out of sight. After seeing him leave (just to make sure he didn't try to stay to watch me again), I ran over to the bath, stripping my travel-worn clothes off as I went, stepping into the hot tub and sank down in deep appreciation. Rhiannon had mentioned that there was indeed a bathtub within the camp which she had used earlier whilst she stayed with Glorfindel, though neither of us could figure out why/how it got here, but I could see why she didn't question it further. It was a real treasure in such dark times in this dark place to be able to have a proper hot bath and not just with a sponge and bowl.
I spent a luxurious hour or two washing the blood and grim from my skin and hair, turning the water a very disgusting shade of muddy-black. I stood up in the bath tub, hugging my arms to my bare chest as I searched the room for a towel of some sort. I found Elrond standing just within. His back was facing me, so I shouldn't have been worried, but the notion that he'd been standing there for sometime embarrassed me for some reason.
"Elrond," I started. "How long have you been standing there?"
"A while," he admitted. "I was sent to bring you these." He held out a towel, still not turning to look at me. "Are you decent now?"
Not since the day I was born, I quipped to myself before I quickly wrapped it around my torso. "Yes."
Elrond turned around, keeping his eyes to my face now. In his arms he held a new set of clean clothes, which I took eagerly. He turned his back to me once more, to give me the opportunity to dress. I dried myself off quickly, looking around for my bag of goodies, since there was no way I was putting dirty underwear back on. I found my bag next to Ereinion's desk, and opened it, shifting through the skimpy, kinky lingerie.when an idea formed in my head.
There wasn't really any more 'decent' pieces of underwear in my bag, so I settled for just something white. As I pulled the dark blue tunic over my head, I glanced at Elrond, standing patiently still and quiet near the 'door'. I was reminded that Rhiannon had made her peace with him, and it occurred to me that Elrond could be very useful.not to mention I had several questions to ask about the nature of Elves.
"Elrond?" I said, breaking the silence.
"Yes?" Elrond enquired, not taking his eyes from the tent wall.
"Do you think that there might be some time, when Rhiannon and I would be able to talk to you later?" I asked, wondering how to go about it. I swallowed my pride (and good English too, by the sounds of what I ended up saying) and just let my brain stumble over my true meaning. "We've got a few questions we need answered.about Elves, I mean. We're rather unsure about.certain facts. Never having been Elves except for this last couple of weeks, I'm sure you can understand that we've got the impression that we're not very good at being Elves, if you know what I mean."
Elrond looked over his shoulder at me with a genuine smile. "Yes, Lady Anórmír, I think I do know what you mean. I would be happy to make myself available to talk later this evening with you and your sister."
I returned his smile, relieved that I didn't have to bumble with further words of explanation. "Do you have any ideas what I'm supposed to do now? I know Ereinion wanted me to stay in his tent, but.there's nothing to do now."
Elrond strolled over and picked up a comb from the desk, gesturing for me to sit down. "Isildur recently arrived back with his men. There have been some pressing matters that have kept High King Gil-galad and King Elendil from dealing with Isildur, but I do not think it will be much longer before their attentions are free to turn to him." He finished combing my hair, leaving it to dry in its long length along my back, where it already sprang into gentle waves and curls. Elrond pulled me to my feet and looked me straight in the eye. "Whatever wrong Isildur has done, he is needed within the Last Alliance." Elrond's voice seemed urgent in his persuasion and counsel. "If Isildur is disowned, his men will be disheartened, and they will be leaderless- Elendil and Anórien already have enough to deal with within their own commands. They cannot take Isildur's army into their own. Lady, I know Isildur has done nothing to endear himself to you or your sister, but for the sake of the Alliance, will you defend Isildur against Gil-galad's wrath?"
I saw the desperate fear within Elrond's eyes that if Isildur was cast out, the Alliance would be all for naught.but whichever path we took, it would not be the end of Sauron that has been planned. "I warned Isildur that this would happened." I sighed. "For the sake of the Alliance, Elrond, I will do it."
Elrond looked relieved. He took my hand and pulled me towards the tent flap. "Come, we must hurry." We strode purposefully to the outside.
"Lord Elrond!" One of the guards said, crossing his spear with that of the other guard to halt our progress. "I cannot allow you to take the Lady Anórmír without the express wishes of the High King of the Elves Gil- galad."
Elrond stopped, thinking quickly for some way around it. Damned Elves, they're too honourable.
"It is because my Lord King Gil-galad needs me that I must go with Lord Elrond. You needn't worry, I will be with Lord Elrond the whole time. The High King would not wish you to leave your posts, and so he sent Elrond to accompany me." I gave a shy smile, the sort that turn males' knees to jelly. "I'm late as it is."
The guards nodded briefly towards us and then resumed their places. Elrond and I hurried along towards the main pavilion.
"A clever cover," Elrond complimented mildly. "You were quick- thinking, and it was not wholly a lie. Gil-galad does need you- he's just not aware of it yet."
That was my thinking, Elrond. You see? I'm not really as silly as you think I am.
We arrived at the main pavilion of Elendil's part of the Last Alliance camp, and as Elrond and I approached, the men who stood guard gave a questioning look.
"She's with me," Elrond explained. "My King requires her presence within."
The guards gave a curt nod and drew back the tent flaps so we could enter.
To say we arrived just in time was no exaggeration. If Elrond and I had taken even a second longer to get there, it would have been a disaster for the Last Alliance.
"Isildur, Lord Gil-galad is correct- you had not right to-" The one I assumed was King Elendil began firmly.
"I was also right! If those Elf-maidens are out of their sight for more than an hour, Gil-galad and Glorfindel abandon the Alliance-" Isildur retorted hotly.
"Which we would not have done had you left our Ladies well alone-" Gil- galad growled.
The tent flaps fluttered closed and it was then that those standing within noticed Elrond and I standing seemingly calmly, watching them.
"There are emotions designed to override all logic and reason, Isildur. And whilst I would name Love as the first and foremost of emotions that fits this category, I have observed that even you have been affected by such a feeling." I began. I was clenching and unclenching my hands against the soft fabric of the breeches I wore, hoping they wouldn't notice how nervous and frightened I was to be speaking amongst people of such high rank. I'd often felt that way about Ereinion before, but his confidence was catching when I knew he'd always be there to defend me.and now I had to defend Isildur, the one person I felt really deserved whatever he got.
I noticed Captain Dúmassë, Sergeant Lichmé and the others from the group who had kidnapped myself and my Elven sister, standing slightly behind Isildur. "What are you doing here?"
It was Elendil who answered me. "As my son's accomplices in your kidnapping, my Lady, they are also called to trial. They shall be judged and justice shall be paid, have no fear of that."
"Though I bear no affection for them, I think it would be most unfair to punish them for following the orders of their Prince," I stated, looking from Isildur and his men to Elendil. I deliberately avoided Ereinion's gaze at this time. "For in these dark times, is it not necessary that those same soldiers follow their leader's orders to the latter? We cannot afford to lose men of such ardent dedication." I almost choked on those words.
Elendil looked at me with an emotion I couldn't determine gleaming in his eyes. He nodded. "Captain Dúmassë, you and your men are free to go." When Dumbass hesitated, Elendil added, "You have duties within this war that you need to address."
At last it was just Elendil, Isildur, Ereinion, Elrond and me left in the tent.
"What is this feeling I am guilty of?" Isildur enquired coldly, bringing my attention back to my earlier comments.
"Care," I replied simply. "You care for your subordinates, the men who will live, eat, fight and die beside you, for a cause that you and they care greatly for. There is no one within this camp who wishes to see the Dark Lord win this war, Isildur; don't make the mistake of thinking you are the only one who wants to destroy him. Care is what overrode your logic and reasoning when you made the decision to kidnap Minaimîr and I from our tent with the intention of sending us to Minas Ithil - which, to be fair, was intended to keep us safe from harm. I will admit that you never really wanted us to be harmed, except in the event that we should resist co- operation of your plans - something you counted on, though hoped we would not nonetheless. But why, Isildur? Ask yourself why? Because you believed that my Lord King Gil-galad and Lord Glorfindel were distracted by us, that their care was only for us the Elf-maidens, and that their concentration waned on the matters that you cared about."
I was feeling stronger and more certain of myself as I spoke, and I gestured with hands and expressions on my face less rigidly now. "Yet ultimately, you achieved that which you feared, and no other can be given the blame in this matter. Whilst you believe, my Lord King Gil-galad and Lord Glorfindel proved you right in your assumptions- you have also been proven wrong, for there are things about Minaimîr and I which you are unaware."
I resisted the urge to smirk when suddenly Isildur's stoic face betrayed the slightest looks of uncertainty. I kept my gaze trained on Isildur, Elendil and Gil-galad had to listen and I know they would for my words kept everyone quiet and gave voice to all views of the matter.
"Did you ever wonder why Minaimîr and I suddenly showed up at this time, in this place, Isildur?" Isildur did not answer, but his lowered his head. "Indeed, we are young and have little to no experiences in war and fighting.and yet the Valar sent us here, believing that somehow we could make a difference."
Isildur looked up startled, and a quick glance at Elendil revealed that he had already been aware of Ereinion's suspicions. Apparently Elendil had kept many thoughts to himself. I was surprised that he had chosen not to inform his own son of the Kings' joint beliefs. Obviously, none of the men except Elendil knew of mine and Rhiannon's true origins and nature either.
"'Tis true," Ereinion spoke up, glancing at Elendil. "We were not entirely certain of how Anórmír and Minaimîr came to be where they were the day Captain Dúmassë found them, and it was my belief that the Valar had sent them to aid us in our cause. As to how two Elf-maidens could help us to victory, I knew not then nor do I know now. Until we had evidence, I felt it best not to say anything."
Elendil's expression was one of silent agreement with the High King of the Elves. Isildur still looked stunned.
"I know not how I am meant to help either, but I do know that to whatever end or cause I must remain with the Last Alliance." I added.
I think on a subconscious level at least, Isildur knew that I had saved him from the fate that I had predicted just a two days ago and he knew would have come to pass had I not stepped in and swayed Ereinion and Elendil's anger. The Alliance was all important, which I had subtly reminded them.
"We know that our duties to the Alliance come first, Isildur," I said softly. "Many feelings more than you have seen have we put aside to do what we know is important for the present."
Suitably chastised, Isildur nodded in agreement and silent apology, before apologizing aloud both to his father, and me and my Elvenking. He promised to apologise to Glorfindel and Minaimîr immediately, at which point Elrond intervened and suggested that when next Isildur saw them would be a better time than at present.
It left my mind boggling with the possibilities of why Elrond seemed to think my sister and her Elf-love should not be disturbed.
"Let me never find that you should take it upon yourself to kidnap or plan anything to do with those two Elf-maidens again, or you will find that your own fate is far worse than anything you imagine. Leave us now; you have your own duties to perform," Elendil dismissed.
Isildur bowed low and left. Elendil picked up some papers and commented mildly. "I hope you will forgive me, I have a few minor problems of my own that I need to sort out. Shall we meet again here tomorrow?"
Ereinion nodded, seemingly unable to speak.
Elendil headed towards the 'door', but stopped as I met his gaze. His eyes sparkled as he remarked mischievously, "She'll make a very good Queen, don't you think, my Lords?"
I blushed and lowered my gaze.
"Indeed, and a beautiful one at that," Elrond agreed. I told myself I'd remember to hit him later for that. I glanced up at Ereinion, who seemed to be trying to hide his smile and pride at their words without being obvious about it.
"She is very young, yet wise in her own way," Elendil continued. Obviously he was enjoying my embarrassment at such high praise. "I think Isildur is very wrong in his thoughts- the High King will let nothing distract him, for the sooner he can defeat the Dark Lord, the sooner he will be back in Lindon with his Lady." Elendil left at that point, but not before my cheeks were burning red. Males! Did they always have sex and other such topics on their minds?
I was brought back to reality when Ereinion, who had regained his composure, turned on Elrond, who still stood quietly just behind me. "Elrond," Ereinion began threateningly.
Sensing my Elf-love's darkening mood that he had been disobeyed, I stepped forward and opened my mouth to speak, but a sharp glance from Ereinion warned me to stay out it, regardless of my own disobedience in the matter.
"Lady Anórmír was to stay in my tent," Ereinion said quietly. "You knew that."
"When you sent me to bring her towels and clothes, I informed her of what was going on here. She agreed with me that she was needed her more than in your tent." Elrond explained carefully. "I would not disobey, my Lord, but it was necessary- for the Alliance and the good of all free peoples."
Ereinion seemed to be of two minds, knowing Elrond's judgment on this was right, but also angry that he had been disobeyed.
Think of the argument we interrupted, I said softly through our mind-link, looking up at my Elf-love. And think of what might have come of it, had Elrond not told me of what was happening. We can't afford to lose Isildur, nor can we afford for his men to be demoralised by his foolish mistakes. It is better this way.
Ereinion didn't say anything, but I knew he would relent on any punishment this time. "Elrond, if you would escort Lady Anórmír back to her tent?"
I didn't bother asking what I was supposed to do once I got back; I'd already pushed Ereinion's patience far enough. I knew when to stay quiet.
Elrond bowed his acquiescence, but I could see that he still felt terrible that he had disobeyed his King.
We left Ereinion in the tent without looking back, and were only a short way of the route back to the High King's tent when Rhiannon ran straight into us.
"Fiona? You alright? What the hell happened?"
"What's the matter?" I asked, confused. It was at this point I noticed that she only wore a tunic, but seemingly nothing else. "Why aren't you dressed?" And then I realised that the bruise on her face was completely healed and gone. "And what happened to your face?"
Elrond grabbed Rhiannon's chin and examined the now-healed formerly- bruised skin. His eyes widened. "Glorfindel," he stated. His voice held some unidentifiable emotion, almost as though he were both angry, irritated and just a little afraid.
Glorfindel did that? I was confused and stunned. It seemed my emotions couldn't quite get anything right that day.
"Yeah," Rhiannon replied, taking her chin back from Elrond's grasp. "He pulled some healing-speeder-upper-thingy on me." She turned to me. "Why were you so upset?"
"What?" I blinked. Everything was happening a bit too rapidly for me to keep up with, and I was exhausted.
"I had this feeling you were upset about something, so I ran out of the tent to find you. I'd just had a bath and I'd 'borrowed' one of Glorfy's shirts to wear, and when I sensed something was wrong with you, I came immediately."
"Oh." My mind suddenly caught up with the information overload. "I wasn't upset, really. Just kind of nervous. I had to stop Ereinion, Elendil and Isildur from screwing up the Alliance. As you well know, I don't like speaking in front of people I'm not familiar with, nor in formal situations. It required a lot more courage than I'm used to having."
Rhiannon's look of relief was palpable. "Don't do that again," she advised me.
"Do what?" Surely she didn't think I had any intentions of talking in front of those people again, did she?
"Scare me like that." Oh, so it wasn't what I thought it was. "Even if you don't really know how, just don't." Yes, dear sister, like that's going to work.
I just smiled. "I'll try, if you promise the same."
Elrond chose that moment to speak up. I could tell he was slightly anxious, having noticed him glancing back in the direction of where we had left Ereinion. "My Ladies, I believe it would be a good idea for you both to return to the tents from whence you came."
Notice, he didn't yet say 'the tents of your Lords'. But I was sure he was itching to put it like that. And why not? It was the most apt description. Granted, none of us were married and it implied something Elven customs don't agree with, but it would have been true soon enough.
Rhiannon nodded, but a thought occurred to me. "Wait!" I said. I glanced at Elrond. "Um, maybe now would be a good time for that." My face went red with embarrassment as I thought of a way to put it. "That.er...discussion?"
Rhiannon clearly had no idea what I was talking about, despite having agreed that we needed to know more about the, ah, nature.of Elves. But then, she wasn't aware that I'd asked Elrond to talk about things so soon.
Elrond looked at me curiously, obviously wondering why I was suddenly so embarrassed about talking about it. He considered my proposal dubiously. After all, he did have seemingly endless duties to attend. "My orders were to escort the Lady Anórmír to the High King Gil-galad's tent. Cannot this discussion wait?"
Bloody fires of hell! Males of all races are frustrating! Just do what I tell you to, damnit! "May we not sit in the antechamber of my Lord's tent?" I suggested. I was certain Elrond could have come up with this option, but he was mostly still distracted by the feelings of shame for disobeying his King.
"Glorfy's sleeping," Rhiannon offered in support.
"Surely there is nothing overly pressing that needs to be seen to at this very moment? Could we not sit and speak of things until my Lord returns?" I added. I knew I was sweet-talking Elrond into co-operating, but if here was the perfect opportunity to find out something I needed to know without Ereinion knowing that I was learning about it. I hated to be so ignorant of my new race and hated having to admit I didn't understand such simple things to Ereinion didn't thrill me either.
Elrond reluctantly agreed, and escorted us to the High King's tent. The guards didn't say anything, just opened the tent flaps so we could enter. Damn, I could get used to that. *grins* I mean, how many times do we get this kind of treatment back home? I can't recall any incident where someone opened the door for me (unless it was family that who obeyed only to shut my whinging up), even if I had my hands full.
We got comfortable on the floor, as best we could; Elrond in his armour clanked noisily as he did so. "What exactly did you want to talk about, Lady Anórmír?"
I glanced at Rhiannon, but her expression convinced me that she still had no idea what I was trying to do. I sighed and looked at the blue fabric of the tent, to embarrassed to meet Elrond's gaze. "We need to know things about Elves," I began, wondering exactly how to put it.
"Yes, you said that when you asked to have this discussion," Elrond reminded. "Was there anything in particular you wanted to know?"
Oh, bloody hell! There's no polite way to put this that I know of...
"Ooooh," Rhiannon finally caught onto what I was trying to ask. "I think I know now." So why don't you ask, sister dear? And spare me the embarrassment. For all Rhiannon's brazen actions and words, even she is lost for words about how to ask this.
Elrond raised an eyebrow questioningly.
"Um, er," I said, fidgeting nervously.
"What...I mean.well, obviously you.do Elves have...um..." Rhiannon squirmed in her spot.
I tried again. "Ah, well...let me put it this way.I believe the famous phrase children ask is something along the lines of 'do babies come from?'"
Elrond furrowed his brow, clearly not understanding exactly what we were asking.
Frustrated, I snapped. "Oh for crying out loud! How do Elves have sex and everything else about Elf-pregnancy and the like can you tell us?" My face burned with embarrassment which did nothing to improve my mood. I wanted to hit him for being so daft; if only there'd been another female Elf around, but I hadn't seen any and nobody had mentioned any, so Elrond was the best person around to ask about this, since we sort of knew him.
Elrond's expression became one of palpable realisation. If Rhiannon's and my cheeks were red, Elrond's cheeks turned a colour that could rival sunburn. "Ah. Right. Now I understand." He didn't laugh, but there was a definite twinkle of amusement in his eyes if you looked past the embarrassment. And did I see pink blushes on the tips of his ears? "Well, to begin with, there is bonding. This is a joining of two souls into one, so that basically the mind and hearts of two individuals are linked and can never be separated."
What...? I stared at Elrond, hoping the horrified feeling that was slowly keeping up on me didn't show. I was beginning to have an inkling about what Ereinion had really done.
Believing that Rhiannon and I were staring at him in confusion, Elrond clarified. "Bonded couples can heard one another's thoughts and speak to one another that way, also passing along mental images. It is through this bond that the Elf-maiden is, ah, 'readied' for, well.for begetting."
"This bond means a female is finally able to have kids?" Rhiannon blinked.
"Children, yes," Elrond corrected.
Oh my gosh... I was in internal panic mode. So that's what Ereinion did! He bonded with me that afternoon only a few days ago! I was bonded to him.never to be separated. I think what shocked me the most was the notion that I was now capable of child-bearing, despite only being a child by the terms of the Elves myself.
There was a bashful silence before Rhiannon found the courage to speak up again. "So how." She paused, her face flushing to a deeper red. "How does this 'readying for begetting' work exactly?"
"The normal cycle of an Elf-maiden in heat-" What are we dogs? I was offended that Elrond chose to use those words, especially since I could very well be facing my 'in heat' time. Elrond continued, unaware of my inner dialogue "-lasts for seven days each year, where in the chances of her begetting a child are extremely high. That is not to say that she cannot conceive at any other time, but that window of, er, opportunity is the time when she is most." he paused to think of the word. ".fertile."
I swallowed the fear that drove its way into my chest and asked the question that I needed to know most. "How long after an Elf-maiden is bonded does she go through this.'in heat' cycle?" I hated using that phrase, but my mind had closed down any properly working functions and thus I was left with a limited vocabulary for speaking.
"As I understand, it varies from Elf-maiden to Elf-maiden. But continuing on that subject...during this time, a maiden will lay with her bonded mate as many times as is required for her to conceive a child or until her desire for her mate is sated- but I read somewhere that the end of her desire is generally the end of the seven days of her cycle; rarely has it ended before except when the maiden in question begets a child."
It was at that point, that became aware of a familiar presence very close and heading right for the tent we were in. Sure enough, after the presence stopped to chat quietly with the guards keeping an eye on the 'door', and moments later, the tent flaps were lifted aside and Ereinion entered. He stopped with eyebrows raised as he saw the three of us sitting on the floor, all of our faces and ears shaded with a variety of red and pink. I wished at that moment that I could just be swallowed up by the ground. I hoped he hadn't heard anything we were saying, but it seemed unlikely since he had been too far away, even with Elven hearing. Of course, that could have meant he caught the end of the Elrond's explanation...to say nothing of what his personal guards had heard!
Ereinion seemed to be in much better spirits as he looked at us and grinned. I strongly suspected he had heard at least the end of what Elrond had been saying. "Please," the High King gestured that he had not meant to disturb us. "Continue with your discussion."
"Er, I think-" Rhiannon and I began in unison. Neither of us wanted to continue talking about 'Elf sex', as my Elvish sister so aptly calls it, especially not in front of the High King of the Elves. We simultaneously exchanged glances and giggled just a little bit too nervously to readily hide our discomfit.
"Later," Rhiannon said firmly. As she stood up, she missed seeing the amused look that Ereinion gave to a still blushing Elrond. Rhiannon gave me a hug- have you ever noticed how much better you feel when you get hugs from relatives and friends? I wish our society back home did not brand everyone who showed any sort of affection between same-sex friends as gay or lesbians.it's an unfair and ignorant assumption. But that argument's for another time; let's get back to the story, shall we?
"We'll talk later," I agreed. I glanced at Elrond who had also risen from his seat on the ground. "Thank you, Elrond." I still wasn't comfortable with the whole titles thing. "We may wish to, ah..." I blushed again as I gave a quick glance in Ereinion's direction. ".go over some details later."
"As you wish," Elrond said with a small bow. I imagine it's hard to bow in armour, but Elrond makes it look diginified. He turned to my sister. "My Lady Minaimîr, may I escort you to the Lord Glorfindel's tent?" Rhiannon nodded and waved cheerfully to the High King, giving me one last look that had 'behave!' written all over it and departed with Elrond not far behind.
So I was left with Ereinion in a rather embarrassed silence. Clearly still amused, Ereinion stepped past me and opened the flap to the inner part of the tent. "Will you not come, my Lady?"
I felt the blush creep up to the tips of my ears and I entered the inner 'room'. Ereinion came in behind me. He sat at his desk and looked at me, an amused smile still adorning his features. I met his gaze for a moment, but was unable to keep it for long and so I looked down at the floor again, the blush refusing to budge from my face.
"I was somewhat bewildered when I saw the guards outside my tent with red- cheeked faces. I could not think why they would possibly be in that state. Upon nearing them, I suddenly heard something that could be the only source of their discomfit." Chuckling, Ereinion stood up and wrapped arms around my waist. I always feel so small when he does that. My body seems to become slender when he holds me- and I know how untrue that really is. I doubt I'll ever stop marvelling at the great height and size of Ereinion. Not to mention those gorgeous muscles I knew lurked beneath all that armour and clothing.
Ereinion put his fingers beneath my chin and lifted my head to meet his solemn gaze. "I had meant to explain all this to you myself, Anórmír," he whispered, his tone betraying some regret. "After your reaction to our bonding, I knew that you were not yet ready to understand what had been wrought between us and I decided to wait a little while, so that when you were more acquainted with our bond, I could then explain it in a way that would not upset you."
I sighed and leaned against Ereinion, enjoying being cuddled so close to the Elf I loved. "Given that you had bonded us without telling me beforehand, and that you had failed to tell me the truth about it afterwards, and that I had to find it all from Elrond.I had fully intended to blow up at you, as it were.but aside from the fact that you've just gone and ruined what little of my dark mood I was saving up for you, I realise that we would've bonded sooner or later anyway, and the timing does not matter so- in fact, one could even claim justifiably that it was a help when Minaimîr and I were kidnapped." I realised that was something I hadn't clarified. I looked up at him. "You did hear me and see the images I tried to send you when we were under the captivity of the orcs, didn't you?"
Ereinion nodded with a smile. "Indeed. I had a hard time coming up with a reason to convince those with me that we should turn further to the south. I heard your voice in my mind as though you were yelling with wind trying to take your words away from me. I felt your bright hope and also your pain and misery. I was so enraged that my Anórmír had been taken away from me and had ended up in such a terrible situation as the one I found you in."
I cuddled Ereinion closer, suddenly feeling tired, but content.
"Do you wish to come and get some food with me?" Ereinion offered, not really wanting to break the moment, but knowing that it would be sooner or later.
I sighed tiredly. "I'd really rather just fall asleep in your arms, and cuddle you as I sleep.but we're never going to be allowed that, are we?"
Ereinion's voice was deep as he spoke softly in regret. "No, I doubt we will. Somebody is always needing something to be done...I've been through so many councils and meetings with commanders and leaders that my head is beginning to spin and all I want is to stay with you."
I looked up, smiling. "We'd be going to for that food then- they might even let us have enough time to eat it."
The dining-tent was full of rowdy Elves when we arrived. Ereinion bid me to sit down at an empty table while he went to get a meal for us both. Apparently he remembered the last time I tried to get the meals for us, and he wanted to avoid a repeated performance.
However, I think I would've felt somewhat more secure being by Ereinion's side than at that table. Where I sat at was near the table of the rowdiest Elves in the tent. They were making all sorts of comments. It was alright at first- just joking about the war and Sauron's cowardice et cetera, et cetera. But then the topic changed.
"Did you folks here about the High King and Glorfindel? Apparently they left camp to go chasing after those pretty little she-Elves that arrived here about two weeks ago." One of them began, after the noise had died down for a moment.
"Yeah, I did. They only got back today. Cold mad furious, they were when they heard them ladies had gone!" Another clarified for the rest.
Contrary to popular belief, even Elves are capable of speaking like drunken men when they're under the influence.
"Gil-galad is enamoured by the Vanyarin Elf-maiden," one of the slightly more sober Elves put in. I honestly don't know how they got so tipsy in the first place. Isn't it unprofessional to allow any alcoholic beverages into an army camp?
"Oh, aye!" The first one laughed. "At last our king has found himself a maiden to wife!"
"But he hasn't married her yet!"
"To be sure, it won't be long- you know that Gil-galad won't let her out of his sight now? The Vanyarin maiden stays in his own tent now. I doubt she'll continue to be a maiden for long!"
"And the same for Glorfindel! His saucy little maiden is getting under his skin- he takes his frustrations out on the practice field!"
"Gil-galad should get his lady on her back and rid her of all that excess energy- she wouldn't be running off anywhere, if she doesn't have the strength!"
By now, as you can imagine, my face was so red that I'm surprised I hadn't popped a couple of blood vessels. I was very embarrassed at what they were saying and somewhat angry as well.
"It's about time our king had an heir!"
"Who wants to bet that after our king has bedded his queen that a skip returns to his step?"
"I certainly would if I could have such a pretty maiden to play with during this war!"
"Aye!" came the collective cheer.
"Now come, the wagers! What say you to the reckoning that she's his queen and wife by the end of the week?"
"Nay, the end of the night!" There was another round of boisterous laughter.
"To the king, his beautiful queen-to-be, and the heir who is soon to follow!" One raised his tin cup in a toast.
"To the king!" the Elves toasted and threw their heads back to down the last of their drink.
I took the momentary quiet to speak. I was pissed off! "Why don't you say it a little louder- I don't think they heard you in Lindon." I said, keeping an even voice that was clear for all to hear. The boisterous Elves turned to look at me, the colour draining from their faces as they realised who had spoken.
"Isn't that-" one of them began.
"Shh!" several others around him urged.
"You might want to check the present company before discussing the 'bed' life of your king. And I would advise you to leave me out of your discussions completely. I don't appreciate the context in which you put me." I was tempted to stalk out of the tent, but by that time Ereinion arrived with plates for both of us.
"Lieutenant Airuial, you and your command are on privy duty for the next 10 days," Ereinion said evenly, but silenced the groans with a sharp glance that spoke volumes.
"Privy duty?" I repeated more softly, signalling to anyone else around us that it was a private conversation.
"They get to carry the barrels filled with the, ah, waste from the privies and take them a fair distance away before burying them." Ereinion explained.
I wrinkled my nose in distaste. "Let's change topics, or I'm liable to hurl dinner back up."
"Hurl dinner back up? Has he got her pregnant already?" the foolish Elf under Airuial's command asked, not realising how loud he spoke. However, it did reveal to me that even she-Elves get morning sickness. Damn.
"Lieutenant, make that 20 days of privy duty, and I advise you to remove your soldiers before it gets any worse," Ereinion announced. Airuial immediately started ordering crisply and a good number of Elves left the dining tent.
Mealtime was definitely quieter and more cheerful after that.