C.11

The next morning, Estel woke up early. His body was telling him that it was time to wake up. Then, he realized that it was really his mother trying to shoo him out of his bed. "Estel, come on honey. Time to get up. Aglarmir and the others are eager to get an early start. They say we should reach the city by late afternoon."

Estel quickly descended the ladder; he had been so overcome with weariness and grief that he had almost forgotten about Melian. He ran to where the horses were being kept to see if she was okay. Estel began to brush her coat while she ate her breakfast out of a side-bag.

"Soon all of this will be a distant memory, my love. We are to reach the Golden City later today. I have a feeling that after this trip everything will be a lot different, if it isn't already. I miss Elladan and Elrohir. And I know you miss Asfolath."

He said this last part with a wink and a smile. He knew that Melian loved to roam the Elven countryside with her friend. Melian could sense that something was not quite right with the young human, so she tried in every possible way to cheer him up.

Estel was kicked out of his thoughts when Melian began gently licking his face, causing him to giggle until he was rolling on the ground from her caresses. Estel was very ticklish and Melian always took full advantage of it whenever she could. She knew he needed the laugh right now. It warmed her heart to see her young friend and master smiling again.

Estel could see Aglarmir descending the ladder, so he tried to regain some composure and get Melian ready for the day's ride. Aglarmir came over to him as he was putting the saddle on. "Good morning, nenth min. We are all very happy to hear you laughing. I take it Melian had something to do with that?"

"Yes, she enjoys torturing me by tickling me with her tongue."

At this, Aglarmir and the other Elves laughed. "You have a way with the animals. Lord Elrond has taught you well. Always remember that as long as you are friendly to them, they will be the same to you. Never lose sight of that love for Eru's creatures, they may save you one day."

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As they reached the city, Estel looked up in wonder. He had never seen such huge trees. As they continued on through the heart of the city, Estel noticed it growing darker until all that could be seen were the tiny lights that the Galadhrim used to illuminate the paths. They looked like tiny stars to Estel.

Aglarmir led the Rangers to the small stables where the horses would be kept. While they were preparing their horses for the night, a messenger came and spoke with Aglarmir. When all was ready to continue, he announced that the Lord and Lady were ready to see them.

The party slowly climbed the circular stair that led to the Royal Flet. At the top, Estel had to shield his eyes. It was so bright up here. Then, he looked in wonder as he realized the light was coming from the two figures coming down the dais.