xxxxxxx Edlothdor xxxxxxxxxX
"Elrond will not accompany you to the festival." Cirulian stepped forward. It was not a question. Celebrian held back a smile at the forthright declaration from this faithful friend who always had her husband's safety in mind.
"No, we spoke and agreed it was best if he remained here." Celebrian's eyes danced with mirth. The stoic elf understood immediately that the Lady had directed her husband to stay. "He sleeps still. You will watch over him." Cirulian bowed immediately in acknowledgment of his duty, then turned to ascend the stairs to his Lord's chamber.
"Not the most gregarious, is he?" Galathil chuckled as he and Mídloth stepped up to greet their niece. "You chose excellent pieces for the retrospective. Everything is set for today."
"Thank you, uncle." Celebrian embraced her beloved uncle and then greeted her Aunt.
"I know you do not need us for protection anymore, little one." Galathil began.
"I am honored that you will come with me. Your presence always comforts me." Her Adar's descriptions had made Galathil instantly recognizable. The comforting song of his fëa was also very close to her father's, who, Eru willing, would join them one day in the west.
"They always denied that they were considering having children and waited far too long to marry!" Galathil smiled. "I would have loved to tease him when he was a doting young father!"
"He would have treasured that." Celebrian and her Aunt linked arms. "He will rejoice in all the reunions here."
"He will be grieved to leave the forest. We would never have willingly left." Galathil's admission stoked her unspoken fear.
"Fear not. We will be there to support him when he arrives." Mídloth squeezes her husband's hand. The three of them headed towards the festival, passing through not one but two sets of guards. Elrond's mixed heritage drew an unhealthy interest. If it were in their power, his loved ones would never gamble with his safety again. The hum of the crowd was steadily increasing as they walked. Past the next grove, they would be able to see the gathering. Her heart sped up involuntarily at the jumble of voices in mixed languages, simultaneously conversations punctuated by excited squeals of children.
"There, there, Celebrian," Mídloth squeezed her hand sympathetically. "We will just skirt to the left and enter your section from behind. There is no need to worry."
"You only need to say a word, and we will head back." Galathil put his hand gently on her shoulder. Celebrian nodded and took a deep, cleansing breath. "Elmo ordered them to only admit a small number of visitors to your exhibition at any time." He inserted himself between his niece and the vibrant, lively crowd. They soon passed into the smaller section, with smaller tents for individual artists. Galathil stopped to talk with Elmo as Mídloth hustled Celebrian onward.
Here, she was known as Lady Celebrian Celeborniel, for among the Doriathriam and Sindar, her Adar was much revered. Instinctively, she smiled, her heart lighter at the knowledge that she could change names simply by moving among the different elven tribes. Such knowledge would be liberating for Elrond, too. He had shouldered far too many burdens in Imladris and Lindon. Here, simply by moving cities, he could also escape entrenched assumptions about his nature. He could spend yeni writing or cataloging Aman's medicinal plants. Would he remember what it is like to have control over his own time? She pictured his smile, reserved for her and their children.
"Good morning, my Lady," the guard bowed politely and opened the tent for her. The five waterfall scenes were on the left, with three additional works that, at first glance, looked to be far more abstract. She smiled, wondering how many people would be sensitive enough to experience these scenes fully.
"Celebrian, how long did you live in the valley?" Mídloth approached the most precise painting, with the view from the overhang at the second waterfall, the Great Falls to the left and above. If she closed her eyes, she could imagine the roar of the water and feel the spray on her cheeks.
"Over sixteen yeni," Celebrian smiled. That spot brought such lovely memories of evenings with Elrond and one frightening one of Arwen, who as a toddler, had cunningly escaped her minders. One day, perhaps she would paint it from Elrond's memory, with toddler Arwen and Ereinion at the landing.
The invitation to this first visitor caused much consternation and discussion among her extended family. However, Celebrian insisted it was necessary to greet everyone politely and diplomatically in hopes of a peaceful future. She knew it was difficult for Galathil and Mídloth, who had perished in Doriath.
"Lady Nerdanel Mahtaniel," the guard announced.
"Celebrian, thank you for inviting me early. I promised to be available at my exhibition in an hour."
"Welcome Nerdanel." They exchanged a cordial kiss as kin. Celebrian motioned towards the first one, where her Aunt stood.
"May I present my Aunt, Mídloth." If Mídloth was surprised at the former Queen of the Noldor's simple appearance and unruly red hair, she gave no sign. The two greeted each other politely.
"As a sculptress, you might prefer precision. These are the great waterfalls of Imladris." Mídloth stepped to the next landscape so Nerdanel could take her place. Like others, Nerdanel quickly scanned the room and stepped up to the least abstract picture.
"You have no portraits." She sounded surprised. Of course, faces and figures would be most interesting to the renowned artist.
"Yes, Celebrian does not usually paint figures precisely. Look and feel." Mídloth advised, "You'll soon experience Celebrian's brilliance." Nerdanel blinked at the forceful statement, then nodded and turned to inspect the work. Celebrian took it as a sign that she was open to new ideas. She resisted the impulse to wring her hands as the sculptor leisurely took in the painting. Being ever open to scrutiny was the most challenging part of being an artist. "Do not measure yourself by the thoughts of others," her mother's voice rang in her memory. "Otherwise, you will be constrained and always fly below your true potential."
"Imladris?" Nerdanel asked softly.
"Yes, we were fortunate to be nurtured and protected by the valley. I regret your son was never bold enough to visit. Elrond would have helped him." A sharp breath from her Aunt warned her that she had revealed too much. Nerdanel's nod was all the outward confirmation, but Celebrian felt gratitude emanating from the stoic mother, obviously too used to harsh words about her lost children. Nerdanel slowly moved to study the other views, her keen eyes widening as the depictions progressively grew more abstract yet conveyed more emotions. A small gasp escaped her as she neared the final one.
"Like being embraced by a spirit!" She exclaimed, shivering slightly. Not surprisingly, Nerdanel was perceptive, feeling the emotions of the work.
"A very wet one." Mídloth agreed, still contemplating what she thought of the polarizing sculptress. Celebrian could see, though, that her Aunt was reevaluating her opinion. Yesterday, Mídloth had concluded that the mother of the most notorious figures in the history of Aman, must have been oblivious to her husband and sons' actual motivations. Yet Celebrian pointed out that the first age was a very different time – where elves had been much more naïve. One could also not be sure how Morgoth had influenced elven norms and thoughts, however subtle. The discussion of early constraints of Aman and miscommunications between not only elves but also the Valar had gotten heated. Elmo and Galathil had fascinating perspectives on why the Sindar had not followed Ulmo to the so-called safety of Aman.
"Have you ever combined this technique with portraits?" Nerdanel was intrigued.
"My portraits are nothing special. I still have to develop my technique. Perhaps I could spend some time in your studio and learn your techniques."
"My studio would gladly receive you." Nerdanel paused. "I think some combining techniques might enable insight into motivations and perspectives. It might open minds to exchange experiences between the kindreds. There are still so many in Tirion and Valimar who hold tightly to their prejudices."
"Not to mention in Alqualondë" Celebrian added, having seen this recently.
"Potentially, art can move them to consider other views and move us forward to," Nerdanel paused.
"Reconciliation." Surprisingly, Mídloth cut in. Suddenly reiterating Elrond's words from their earlier discussion. "We must continue to evolve, growing to become the best versions of ourselves."
"Is this what your Imladris tried to cultivate?"
"Elrond's experiences taught him the importance of letting go of old hatreds and forgiving. We would not have survived the trials of Middle Earth without our allies, including those from the race of dwarves, men, and even hobbits."
"Not to mention old followers of my husband." Nerdanel shook her head.
"Yes, we had some former Feanorians who gained people's trust and became quite loved and important members of our community. Surprisingly, sometimes a skeptical Silvan or an unusual Avari visitor stirred up resentments and controversy." Celebrian sighed. "Forgiving is a challenge for people who never forget. To overcome such challenges, we can only foster connections and friendships."
"We sent condolences and supplies; however, I have not the heart to travel to Alqualondë." Nerdanel said truthfully.
"One day," Celebrian reached out to grasp a stunned Nerdanel's hand, "we will travel there together. Many artists in the Swan Haven would be delighted to meet you."
"Speaking of which, I believe it's time to get to my own exhibition. Thank you again, Celebrian. And thank your husband for the letters. They were a balm to our hearts. My home is always open to you both." Mídloth stood contemplative as Nerdanel took her leave.
"You are like a breath of fresh air, Celebrian. I am happy that you push us to consider other perspectives."
"I will always be grateful for your and Uncle's support." Celebrian took a deep breath while smoothing down her dress.
"We will always be here for you." It was not long until another small group was announced and entered to view the exhibition.
Xxxxxxxxxx Cottage in Lorien xxxxxxxxxX
"Take things slowly," Dior counseled as he drew the brush methodically over his wife's silver tresses. He had acclimated much more quickly to his hroa. Her impatience bled through their bond. Dior supported her with waves of calm and comfort. "We have all the time we need. There is no rush. Our family will all come here. Nimloth could not yet respond in spoken words, but he perceived her thoughts easily enough.
"Our grandson also?"
"Oh, yes. He requires the healing airs of Lorien and our help to truly integrate the songs of his spirit. Together, we will make him feel beautiful and integral to a wondrous heritage. Peredhel!" Dior scoffed. "They used it to torment him! Then he turned and adopted it into his name."
"Can you blame him? No one was left to guide him."
"Soon, more of us will be returned."
"Our boys?" She had not dared to hope.
"Elrong thinks his sons may yet accomplish that feat. Perhaps, they will need the aid of that singer, Maglor."
"From our hearts to Eru's ears." Nimloth audibly sighed. Too long had she harbored anguish and hatred. She would not allow it to rule her heart. If her boys were returned to them, she would even forgive a kinslayer.
"See Meleth, your voice returns. It takes time for the fae to readjust to the hroa."
"Not for you!" She complained.
"Aye - I may have an advantage. Daernaneth thought I could also learn to shift my shape and adopt other forms. I was yet too young in Doriath."
"Did I steal you from the cradle?" Nimloth old worry surfaced. Dior bent down to take her into his arms and gently planted kiss after kiss on her lips. His spirit soared when she responded slightly. There was yet time. Now, even this closeness was sweet.
"Dear heart, my Maia song might not have been fully developed. However, the rest of my songs certainly were. How else did we have three tenacious children? One approaches now." He smiled.
"She is still a mystery to me. Now even older than I was then." Elwing's call followed tentative knocking.
"Naneth? Ada?" Elwing's voice wavered.
"Come in!" The door cracked open. The timid face was almost bird-like.
"Can I lure you outside to the table? I have Aurcram for you to taste with clotted cream. I have it on good authority that we have perfected the recipe." The hobbits were quite the blessing and surprise. No similar creatures had existed in their time. He felt Nimloth's gentle laughter and helped her rise.
"Yes, yes - we are on our way."
Xxxxxxxxx Edlothdor xxxxxxxxxX
A sumptuous feast marked the end of the exhibit with awards and merriment. Most of the artists and craftsmen remained for it. Notable absences were Nerdanel and Mahtan, whose individual installations had been met positively with much curiosity. The former Noldor Queen was reclusive and uncomfortable staying for the feast. Also absent were Celebrian and her husband, although many knew that the young prince was still recovering.
"More Noldor are coming to replace these visitors." Elmo complained sourly.
"Gil-Galad has many sensibilities of the Teleri, being educated by Cirdan in Balar." Galathil reminded his Daeradar and watched his father, Galadhon, closely.
"His wife and daughter are lovely. It is a pleasure to have them visit." Mídloth raised her glass, cheering as the musicians finished their set. Interestingly, Galadhon agreed, which was an excellent sign that the more reclusive members of Elu Thingol's original court were becoming more accepting of outsiders. It was not surprising that Celebrian had drawn out the older members, who had withdrawn entirely from governance, for one could readily recognize her as Celeborn's daughter. Many also viewed Elrond much more sympathetically as word spread of what a devoted husband, he was to Celebrian.
"I found it interesting that Lady Nerdanel and Lord Mahtan also voiced concern about them entering Tirion. They recommended postponing the visit there and going directly to Lorien."
"Finally, Noldor coming to their senses that Tirion is an ugly city!" Galadhon actually laughed.
"I think avoiding Tirion would be wise." Elmo agreed. "Although, I would plan to send a sizeable escort for them. Surely, we can add some of our people to the mix of Lindarim and Imladhrim guards." It took all Galathil's strength not to smile. His Daeradar voicing a wish for integration!