34 – Blacksmiths
Thranduil and Elluin walked the rest of the way back to the palace arm in arm quietly, until they spotted Galion slowly pacing before the doors of the main hall. They exchanged a concerned glance and hurried their pace.
The steward's face lit up with relief when he spotted their approach through the trees.
"My king, welcome home," he said with a bow.
"Is something amiss?" Thranduil wasted no time in asking. He did not stop walking and entered the palace with continued steady strides. Elluin had planned to take her leave, but the king drew his arm, still linked around hers, subtly closer to himself. She was not sure if it was purely reflexive or if it was a conscious move to keep her beside him. Either way, she had no wish to protest.
"No danger, sire," Galion reassured quickly. "But our Dwarven blacksmiths have presented some objections contrary to our agreements. They await you in the throne room."
"Sire, I would recommend more formal attire," Elluin ventured quietly.
As they turned a corner toward the throne room, Maethon stood there, unfolding a bundle in his hands.
"Just so, lady," Maethon muttered at her briefly as he bowed to the king.
Thranduil felt suddenly colder when he released Elluin's arm to slide into the robe Maethon held up for him.
"Sire," Galion broke in, "we tried to find Soronume, but he is not in the city."
"No, my father was commissioned in one of the southern villages," Elluin confirmed.
"Elluin, you shall accompany me," Thranduil commanded.
Galion pointed her to another door, leading to a hallway to the kitchens. "Mileth awaits you within, Lady Elluin, with a change of clothes."
Elluin was in too much of a hurry to be surprised, and scurried in after a quick curtsy to the king's back.
Mileth had an astonished look on her face as she saw her former fellow servant enter.
"Lady Elluin, where have you been? Lord Galion was frantic for you and the king to return," Mileth blurted as she helped Elluin release the toggles fastening the bodice of her dress.
"We went for a walk," Elluin decided to say. Soon she had shed the gown with a quick glance to ensure there was nobody else in sight. "Mileth, tell me, how long have the Dwarves been waiting?"
"They arrived shortly after sunset." She unfurled the court gown Elluin had traded earlier for her Silvan dress and held it up for her.
Elluin felt some relief. It had been less than an hour — hopefully the Dwarves would not be too unforgiving. She quickly put her arms through and the two of them set to the laces.
"Lord Galion guessed that you would be needed," Mileth explained in a murmur. Then she smirked. "He was rather upset to be called back from his first afternoon without duties in so long. You may have to mollify him after your meeting."
"First, we must survive the meeting," Elluin said with a quick smile. Mileth ran a hand over her hair to smooth it while Elluin shook the skirts of the now fastened dress so they hung correctly. Elluin at last turned back toward the door, thankful that the long gown would hide her dirty boots. "Thank you, Mileth. If Galion has not already asked for ale to be brought to the throne room, please fetch some."
"I shall, my lady," came the quick response and Mileth ran off down the hall toward the kitchens.
Elluin took a fortifying breath and opened the door. She was somewhat shocked to see that Thranduil had waited for her, now looking once more immaculate and regal in his royal robes, sash, and circlet. He cast her a quick glance of approval and held his arm for her to take once more.
"You have my leave to say whatever you wish," he told her quietly as they took the final steps to the door of the throne room. "The alliance must hold."
"Yes, sire," she answered dutifully, willing her nerves to subside. She fervently hoped she had the wisdom required for the task.
Her eyes widened as they stepped through the doors that were opened for them. Even before she could say anything, Thranduil's commanding voice broke through. "Guards, release these people at once!"
The two Dwarves had been held on their knees, their shoulders firmly gripped by Elven soldiers, who now immediately stepped back.
"Rise," Thranduil said as he and Elluin came to stand before them. "You must forgive my guards, who acted without my consent." The Elvenking cast a dark look on said soldiers. Their training did not allow them to flinch, though the tightening of their features indicated they knew to expect punishment later. Thranduil made a mental note to visit the barracks in the morning.
"I have never been so insulted!" the oldest Dwarf grumbled loudly, struggling to his feet.
"Master Gobur, Master Laif," Elluin began, stepping away from the king toward the two Dwarves and bowing deeply, "please accept our deepest apologies."
The blacksmiths looked at her suspiciously. "What amends will you make, then, Elvenking?" Gobur turned his dark eyes, hooded by bushy gray eyebrows, toward Thranduil.
The king studied the Dwarf coolly for a brief moment, then turned toward Galion, who had followed them in. "What complaint has been presented against our allies?"
"My king, the apprentices reported that they have been dismissed while the blacksmiths leave to acquire more metal ore," Galion said neutrally.
Thranduil considered a moment. "Master Dwarves, I believe the contract indicated that your apprentices be instructed in all matters of the craft," he said.
"In truth, it is below a true blacksmith to find his own ore," Gobur, the older Dwarf, nearly shouted in his anger, "but the sorry state of this tree-infested city has obliged us to pick up the slack!"
Elluin sensed Thranduil seething at the insult from behind her.
"If you are in need of ore, you could have your apprentices accompany you to acquire it," Thranduil said in a dangerously even tone.
"As we've said, that is not blacksmiths' work, and as such, not part of the agreement!" the Dwarf named Laif insisted.
"Where were you to obtain it?"
"We had a message from our kin in the Gray Mountains. We were to meet them where the Old Forest Road leaves the Wood."
"Where are the apprentices?" Thranduil demanded suddenly.
Galion waved to the guards by the door and within moments, the two bristling Elves marched in, avoiding even glancing at their instructors as they came to a halt before their king and bowed. Thranduil's face betrayed no emotion beyond his anger at the situation.
"You were forbidden from accompanying your instructors to acquire ore?" the Elvenking probed.
"Yes, sire. As was agreed, we are to learn all that we can from our...masters."
Elluin knew the circumstances were precarious. If these Elven apprentices were to become antagonized to the Dwarves, friendly relations between the two peoples would cease, at best, or else they would become enemies. And Greenwood would be left with no blacksmiths. The apprenticeship had only lasted about two moons, and while cunning Elven minds were able to learn much and quickly from the talented Dwarves, there was still much of the craft they had yet to master. And Thranduil was becoming much too agitated for effective diplomacy.
Elluin subtly cleared her throat, a signal to Thranduil that she would speak. She called to mind everything she had thus far heard about the progress made throughout the partnership. "Gelluiven and Brondor," she said to the apprentices, "it is commendable that you take your duties so seriously. You accepted this position willingly and your rapidly increasing abilities are proof of both your dedication and natural aptitude. Greenwood has already begun to benefit from your services, and I am certain our appreciation will only grow."
Slightly pacified, the two Elves bowed their heads in acknowledgment, with murmurs of, "Thank you, my lady."
"Good Masters," she said to the Dwarves, "Greenwood's forges are certainly nothing in comparison to those of Dwarven make. The work you have done here thus far is a testament to your superior skill despite our more basic facilities. It is indeed lamentable that you are so relatively sparsely supplied. Perhaps, under your guidance, Greenwood's forges may become more adequate."
Gobur grunted, sounding dissatisfied, but he and Laif appeared now to be willing to listen.
Elluin turned once more to the Elves. "I dare to speak for the Elvenking when I say that our own people come before all, in his heart. And while the will of an Elf is valued here, the peace of our kingdom takes precedent. This gray area in the contract has regrettably caused strife between masters and apprentices. For the sake of Greenwood, this cannot be tolerated."
Elluin dared a glance at Thranduil. His face was blank and he stood with hands clasped behind his back, stormy blue eyes turned toward the back wall. She took it as a sign that he did not disapprove of her words. She took a moment to study the Dwarves, now. Though they were of the Children of Aule, there was a look in their eyes that she recognized.
"It is difficult, I know very well, to be far from home and among strangers," she said to them in a gentle voice. "I venture to guess that the prospect of time among your own people, unencumbered by the burden of instruction for a while, was not the least of your considerations as you made plans for acquiring your supplies."
Laif's cheeks turned red beneath his brown beard. Gobur cleared his throat uncomfortably. "Without meaning to offend, as we were instructed to avoid it, I admit that the lady guesses rightly," he mumbled.
Elluin dared to set a comforting hand briefly on the old Dwarf's shoulder before stepping back.
"The friendship forged between our peoples is to be treasured," she said, looking between the Dwarves and the silent pair of Elves. "One friend will understand when the other misses his kin. Is that not so?"
Masters and apprentices shyly nodded to each other, their conflict beginning to dissipate into understanding.
Mileth had entered the throne room silently, bearing a tray of goblets brimming with ale. Elluin now took the tray from her with a grateful nod and a quick whisper to have bread, meats, and more ale set in the minor dining hall, guessing that the dispute began before any of them could have their supper. She distributed the ale herself, beginning with the Dwarves. Though they did not smile, their eyes twinkled in appreciation. "Let allies share a drink, now," she said. She raised her goblet, but Thranduil spoke before she could.
"To the metalcrafters of Greenwood," he declared.
The reply from the Elves and Dwarves echoed through the room, and masters and apprentices were obliged to toast each other.
"You shall have a horse and cart for your journey," Thranduil continued after everyone had taken a sip. "I shall inform my guards along the Old Forest Road to ensure your safety. In your absence, Brondor and Gelluiven will perform the simpler tasks in which you feel they are competent. I trust your journey will be swift and profitable."
"Yes, Elvenking," Laif said. "We shall be back in a week, with enough raw metal to supply the forge for many months."
"Very well," Thranduil said, noticing the easier manner in his audience. "The lady and I shall leave you now to discuss preparations and instructions for while you are gone."
"Perhaps you would prefer to speak over dinner, here in the halls," Elluin broke in. "A servant will direct you."
All four bowed, muttering their thanks and farewells as they were led out of the throne room. Silence fell after the echoing clunk of the Dwarves' heavy boots faded down the hallway. Galion approached from his post along the wall.
Elluin turned with some reluctance to Thranduil. "Forgive me, sire. I feel that our tardiness in arriving is my fault and it may have strained the situation unnecessarily," she confessed with regret. "I know I am incapable of forcing the king to do anything, but it was my idea to leave the palace grounds."
Thranduil looked between her and Galion and leisurely took another sip of ale before handing the goblet to his steward. "What is your judgment, Galion?" he asked.
Galion blinked. "Well, sire…" he scrambled to prepare a response, much more comfortable enacting the thoughts of others than forming his own, especially in matters he did not believe directly concerned him. He decided to focus on what he knew. "The Dwarves and their apprentices left with half their ale already gone, and they started chatting amongst themselves once they gained the hallway. The arrangement as it stands will ensure happier Dwarves and a more productive and better supplied forge, along with the chance for our new apprentices to prove what they have learned. I believe the matter was resolved in Greenwood's favor."
"See, lady," Thranduil turned to Elluin nonchalantly, "as no ill effect came of our tardiness, I deem there is nothing to forgive."
Elluin hid her grateful smile with a deep curtsy.
"Galion, I assume nothing else of significance occurred in our absence?"
"Nothing, sire," the steward confirmed. "This was, perhaps, the right afternoon for a respite from our duties."
"Indeed," Thranduil said, his lips twitching into a small smile. "May I ask what my steward has been doing this afternoon?"
Elluin was amused to notice the usually confident Galion fight a blush.
"I took up the flute, again, sire," he admitted. "The last time I played, the king was still a prince. It is a joy I had all but forgotten."
Thranduil gave an approving nod. "Let us hope for many more such joyful afternoons for all of us." They bowed in response, and Thranduil nodded at Galion in dismissal.
When the door clicked shut, Thranduil stepped close to Elluin, who had her gaze politely on the ground. He surprised her by picking up her hand and placing a kiss on it. She met his eyes and Thranduil was once again struck by all the feeling he saw there.
"Thank you, Elluin, for your help with the Dwarves once more. I confess I was worried when your father was not available."
"To be honest, sire, so was I," she said with a smile. "I am honored by your confidence in me. I did not expect permission to speak as the kingdom's representative."
"It was well given, I think," Thranduil answered easily, an answering spark of happiness lightening his heart when he saw Elluin smile at him again.
"And I wish to thank you, again, my king," she said, "for helping my spirit heal from...the night of the attack."
He looked deep into her eyes, searching for any lingering darkness, satisfied that it had diminished. "It pained me to see such a young and innocent heart thus burdened," he murmured. He only realized once he felt the smooth warmth that his hand had followed his gaze to her face and he was touching her cheek.
Elluin's eyes fluttered closed as she savored the sensation, but dared not move to lean into it. Reluctantly, she opened her eyes again to see Thranduil's brow furrow slightly in what seemed like confusion or curiosity, though the set of his mouth betrayed no disapproval. He dropped his hand and she stopped herself from frowning at the loss of contact.
It was another moment before he quietly sighed and spoke again. "Good night, Elluin," he said tenderly.
"Good night, my king," she answered, her worries quickly abated by his tone. She curtsied and left, whisking away the remaining goblets and tray on her way.
Thranduil watched her until the door shut behind her, thoughts buzzing. He realized, however, that they were mostly pleasant thoughts, calm and ordered, pacified by the near imitation of the sound of the ocean that still lingered in his ears, and the warmth of Elluin's skin that had not faded from his fingers. It was not unlike what he felt when he first heard Elluin singing in Rivendell.
The young elleth had slid so neatly into his routines, he hardly noticed. Reflecting, he could recall seeing her around the palace. Just like his other servants, she had been quick and efficient, anticipating his needs, appropriately respectful and all but invisible. He felt his perception of the past shifting, her devotion taking the place of the anonymous additional details he had noticed starting over the past few years.
There were the flowers with breakfast, of course. He found that his clothes were slightly scented with plants — invigorating herbs for festival robes, calming ones for council robes, and soft florals for the rest. He doubted that his body servants, Sulros and Maethon, had suddenly taken an interest in using plants this way. If hints dropped by Galion during his reports were to be believed, Elluin also had a hand in more efficient foraging expeditions, with fresh foods from forest harvests more prevalent than anything farmed, imported, or preserved in the palace meals. And while Galion had always replaced items in the palace that became worn with use and age, he had noticed of late that tapestries, coverlets, and other cloth items were rotated every so often, making the place feel less stagnant. He had also often found just the right type of tea waiting for him in the afternoons, inevitably matching his mood.
The Elvenking was never more confident in the decision he had made to make Elluin the mistress of the household, nor to invite friendship with her.
But when he looked into her eyes before she took her leave, the thought that sprang into his mind was a wish to have her with him always. And once again he seemed to act on a force outside of his conscious will, touching her, where before he only had thoughts escape his lips unbidden. What was it about her that made him speak and act without his usual forethought? And why, even though he preferred to be in complete control of himself, did he wish for her to be close to him?
He began to suspect the reason. The possibility grew in his mind, like an ember gradually fanned into a flame. He would need time to think on this.