I have decided this will probably be anywhere between 25-30 chapters...this chapter takes place the next day after chapter 16...

CHAPTER 17

Elrond could not look Erestor directly in the eye. After what Hadereth had told him, he was afraid that Erestor might be cross with him for telling him that he knew. Erestor noticed that Elrond would not look at him and even though he understood why, he could not even imagine what Elrond thought of the situation. Erestor heard a knock at the library door and heard Elrond say 'enter' to whomever had knocked. Erestor's eyes widened when he saw Hadereth enter. Erestor slowly stood from his chair and made to leave, but Hadereth held up his hand.

" Peace Erestor. I have just come to talk with Elrond. I will not intrude upon your space."

Erestor swallowed hard as he watched Elrond and Hadereth go into Elrond's study. Perhaps Hadereth had truly changed. Erestor sat in his chair. He had always hoped that Hadereth would find his mate of soul and not be a bad elf anymore, still he could not bring himself not to fear Hadereth. Erestor heard crying coming from Elrond's study and he squeezed his eyes shut. Erestor took a deep breath, then opened them. He slowly walked toward Elrond's study and knocked. The door opened to reveal Elrond with tears in his eyes. Elrond wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his robe.

" Yes Erestor?"

Erestor swallowed hard.

" I am sorry Elrond. I heard crying and..."

Erestor trailed off when he saw inside the study. Hadereth was sitting in Elrond's chair with tears streaming down his face. Erestor felt Elrond's hand on his shoulder.

" Speak with him Erestor."

Erestor swallowed hard and entered the study.

" Hadereth?"

Hadereth looked at Erestor, then lowered his eyes.

" You hate me Erestor, do you not?"

Erestor shook his head.

" I have never hated you. I hated what you did."

Hadereth slowly stood from the chair and slowly approached Erestor. Erestor looked at Elrond, who was smiling at him. Hadereth stood only inches from Erestor.

" Can you ever forgive me?" Hadereth whispered.

Erestor could not speak. Had Hadereth just asked for his forgiveness?

TBC...