Stories of Arda - Lord of the Rings Fan-Fiction Archive

King Thranduil was having a bad day. Since the wedding of his granddaughters to the grandsons of King Finwë, it had become clear that he was going to have trouble getting himself shed of the Noldorin Nobles who had tarried since that joyous event.

He was walking about the grounds that had become a semi-permanent housing settlement and with him were his kinsmen, the Celewanûn. The silver-twins, Eluréd and Elurín, who both looked chastened as Thranduil had been chewing them a new one for the last twenty minutes - and they were both dismayed with how good he was at it! They’d never met anyone so capable of instilling guilt as this one!

“Now, kinsmen! Surely you are not blaming us for this?!!” Elurín protested, his twin wisely keeping his mouth shut.

Thranduil impatiently swept his arm out, indicating the grounds, saying, “All this is your fault. Both of you! If you hadn’t thought it amusing to task those three brothers with making amends, instead of just accepting their apology, then none of this would be happening!”

“Here now! How were we to know they’d all meet ladies that suited their fancy?” Eluréd complained.

“If it was just the three of them I’d not be complaining. They’ve all made positive contributions to our people and land. It’s all these others who think they can find wives for their offspring that’s becoming a problem. And they’re spoiled brats - the entire lot of them. I can’t tell you how many complaints and demands I receive daily from them complaining of their accommodations which were never meant to be permanent!” the king snapped, adding grimly, “I’ve had to direct all my staff to tell them they’d find better chambers within their own homes and they should return to them sooner rather than later!”

“Well that’s one way to go about it, though I think they’re too thick to take a hint!” Eluréd observed.

“You could make them so uncomfortable they just leave in disgust!” Elurín suggested.

“Perhaps. I know simply asking them to look after themselves seems a grave insult to them.” the king sniffed, and then added, “Oh! By the way, your andaeradar wants you.”

“How should I know? He sent a messenger and wants you both to present yourselves to him.”

Thranduil pinched the bridge of his nose, saying, “You’re not going, are you?”

“No! No, I don’t.” he sighed, and then, “Think of some way to encourage these people to leave, will you?”

“Did he just give us free reign to…..cause mischief?” Elurín asked in awe of the implications.

“Nothing destructive, brother. We’ll need to use a gentler approach.” Eluréd warned.

“Well, that just defeats the whole endeavor, don’t you think?” Elurín complained.

“No! Don’t be silly! We have plenty of arrows in our quivers, brother!” Eluréd declared.

Elrond was pacing about the king's talan, trying to calm himself. He didn’t know why he was so agitated but he really wished Thranduil would hurry up and return. He’d said he’d only be a moment. His wife had become so disgusted with him she’d gone off with the queen to picnic near a spring that Mirilla fancied.

When he finally spotted the king, he made his way quickly over to him, exclaiming, “What took you so long?!”

“What is there to talk about? She hasn’t finished punishing him yet. Once she has her pound of flesh he’ll be able to declare himself once more and then we can look forward to the betrothal and wedding. Don’t expect this to happen any time soon, though. She’s been waiting a very long time for him to make amends.”

“But why is she punishing him, he….” and he broke off because he knew very well why she was punishing him. He’d let her down when he and his brother were off hunting down orcs after the wounding of Celebrian.

Thranduil looked wearily at him and said, “You know why. I’m not saying they didn’t have justification in their pain and rage, but when my son was injured and she asked for him to come and help he blew her off - callously.”

“I didn’t know about that. I assumed it was because he’d neglected her and I thought that was bad enough. I’m sorry.”

“Perhaps you noted that Legolas didn’t visit after they sailed?” and sighing, Thranduil added, “But why would you? I certainly understand that you’d been hit hard with the loss of your wife, even if not to death. Legolas and I understood very well the loss of our wives and children. We only had each other after that.”

“No. That was the fault of Sauron and his filthy spiders. Your son’s response to my daughter’s plea was indeed his fault.” Thranduil said not giving an inch on this matter. He’d been there when Elladan’s message had come. Elrond was evidently unaware of the whole matter.

Continuing, Thranduil said, “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I actually have a number of urgent matters on my plate at the moment and I can’t reassure you on a matter I feel is mostly healed and just needs time to play itself out. I wish for my daughter to be settled every bit as much as you’d like the same for your son.” and with that, the king left him to enter his talan and Elrond found himself with quite a bit to chew on.

Not knowing when to leave a matter alone, Elrond went to seek out his son and got pretty much the same story. Lastaraen had sent a message to Elladan to request his assistance as he was a talented healer and she’d hoped he could help her brother, Reuel, who was only in his thirties at the time of his wounding.

Sighing, Elrond said, “I’m so sorry this all happened and I’m even sorrier that you felt you couldn’t talk to me about it.”

“Adar, you were upset that naneth had to sail and Roh and I weren’t any happier about it. It didn’t even occur to us that we were acting like idiots and hurting the ones we loved. You, Arwen, Glorfindel, Erestor - just to name a few. And my real crime against Lastaraen was in taking her affections for granted. I was a complete cad and I’m sorry for it.” Elladan said ruefully.

“Oh, she’s already forgiven me. She wouldn’t be punishing me if she hadn’t. She wouldn’t even speak to me if she’d decided to be done with me. I’m lucky she’s letting me off the hook so lightly. Andaeradar Fingolfin said his wife greeted him very sweetly when he’d escaped from the Halls - and then she punished him for close to a century afterwards. He said he got off lucky, considering.” Elladan said.

“In a roundabout way. He saw how despondent I was and I blurted out that I didn’t think she’d ever forgive me enough to allow me to declare myself. He told me about he and his wife to make me feel better, I think.”

“Well, I don’t like you talking to him about such personal matters.” Elrond said and knew he was being unreasonable, yet couldn’t seem to help himself.

“It’s really none of your concern either, adar.” Elladan said firmly, and then, “Why don’t you try and get to know andaeradar. He’s still here and you seem to have no problem with either your parents or your adopted adars. But you seem to hold a grudge against one who has never done you an injury in his entire life.” Elladan said and stalked off.

Elrond was left standing and staring after his son’s retreating back and felt he had some soul-searching to do. He knew his son was right. He didn’t know why Fingolfin bothered him so much. He’d died before Elrond and his brother were even born and there had never been a single word of condemnation from the lips of his atars. Rather they’d admired him and what he’d done. Plus he’d been willing to go and get his daughter out of the Halls. And he had gone in and gotten Maglor out - and had been irreversibly changed because of it.

He began to wonder if he was somehow jealous. He’d been one of the most esteemed leaders in Ennorath and he’d kept his Valley safe for over an Age. So had his mother-in-honor and both had the Rings of Power to assist them in doing so while they’d ignored Thranduil and his battle of attrition that he’d fought alone in Mirkwood. And Elrond had sent Thranduil’s last link to the land off on a Quest that held the real possibility of death for all involved. A quest that had severed Legolas’ own link to the land when he’d been struck with the Sea Longing.

Why did he fear Fingolfin? Because he was coming to the conclusion that that’s what his problem was. He feared him. And Fingolfin never boasted about his act. In fact, he deemed it foolhardy and was full of self-derision for it. Others would whisper behind his back, though. Whispers of awe over his bravery. Was it his self awareness that rankled him? He didn’t seem to take anything seriously - certainly not himself. And then on their last little adventure he’d been chosen by one of the most powerful of the Valar. Both Aratar and Fëanturi, Mandos was perhaps the most feared of all the Valar and he’d seen something of value within Fingolfin.

Angry with himself, he decided he would track his andaeradar down and hash it out. He’d never been a coward in his life and he’d face this fear if it killed him. Though he knew he had no such expectations.

Fingolfin had stayed after his nephews’ wedding because he'd formed a connection with both Aiwendil and Olórin and he decided to continue with that connection as he hoped a friendship would develop. As a prince in the House of Finwë, Fingolfin’s childhood had been fairly lonely. Isolated.

He had no contemporaries outside his kin for he’d discovered any friendships he thought he was forming was based solely on the fact that he was the son of the king. In other words, he had followers - not friends. And he knew his siblings all experienced the same thing, which is why their best friends were each other.

Right now the three were relaxing in the forest by a pond they’d found and enjoying the last days of Fall before the Fading occurred and the leaves fell but before the chill set in. Aiwendil was having a conversation with a squirrel who had evidently forgotten where he’d hidden his winter stores and he was trying to convince it to just continue with his foraging and set aside the last of the bounty and he was sure to recall where he’d hidden that which he’d spent so much time hiding.

All three had partaken of Aiwendil’s tincture and were having a hard time not laughing at the maia having an argument with a rodent who wasn’t at all impressed with the maia’s advice and who eventually scampered off in a huff to the amusement of all present with all three sharing a very nice belly laugh over the absurdity of the whole situation. And it was upon this scene that Elrond found his great grandfather! Laughing so hard tears were leaching from his eyes!

Elrond had heard about the tincture and while he didn’t understand the reason for it, he also didn’t think Mithrandir would acquiesce to it unless there was some extraordinary reason for it. That being said, he knew what he’d probably be dealing with and decided to sit and wait until the storm of laughter ran its course.

It was Olórin who recovered first and smiled at Elrond before saying, “Hello Elrond. What brings you out this fine day?”

Smiling in return, Elrond said, “I actually came to find Lord Fingolfin, though I can see that you are all enjoying yourselves and I feel loath to interrupt your fellowship.”

The reaction of the two maiar was interesting, to say the least. They both sobered up and looked pensive with his words and both stood and placed themselves between him and his grandfather, with Aiwendil saying, “Oh no! I don’t think that’s a good idea. Not a good idea at all.”

“No, indeed. Perhaps you and I can take a walk in the woods, Elrond. And we can talk! We can talk about anything you’d like.” Olórin added.

But Fingolfin said, “It’s alright. If he wishes to speak with me I’m not opposed to it.” and got to his feet and offered a hand to his descendant to help him to his feet.

“Very well. But if he annoys you, you’re to call us right away. Promise us!” Olórin insisted, much to Elrond’s chagrin. And Aiwendil, he noted, was kneading his tunic nervously and looking quite concerned.

“Very well, I promise.” Fingolfin said good naturedly, and then turned to Elrond, adding, “Shall we?”

Always very tall, Fingolfin had apparently gained several hand-spans of height as he towered over his grandson as they walked through the forest until Fingolfin found a suitable place for them to sit comfortably so Elrond could get whatever was bothering him off his chest.

“What’s it like?” and at his grandsire’s look of inquiry, added, “The change they made to you. You’re different from Glorfindel, I think. I could see his grace, of course, but it was plain he was still an ellon. He just seemed to carry a blessing, if you will.” he paused before continuing, “But you! You seem to be just like them. Are you?”

“I’m not sure, not being them. I certainly don’t have their long memories, but we’ve shared minds and they don’t break me when we do. That isn’t to say I was able to transform seamlessly. I apparently now have other issues they were created with that I’ve been having problems with.” he said with a smirk.

“Yes.” he snorted, “It’s the emotions, you see. They feel things much deeper than we do and it’s been rather overwhelming for me. The tinctures separate me a bit from them so I’m better able to sort through them. File them away where they belong, if you will.”

“Oh, it’s not all bad.” he said and held out his hand which Elrond took without thinking, “For example, I’m now able to do this!” and with a flash Elrond found himself in a nearby tree with his grandfather holding tightly onto him!

“Don’t worry! I have you.” and with another flash they were back where they’d started and Elrond turned a elated grin upon Fingolfin, saying, “I say! That was great fun! What a marvelous gift.”

“It does have its perks. I’ll admit I only agreed to it out of curiosity for the most part. A new adventure, so to speak. - though it did sound like I’d be helping out. But I really had no idea what I was getting myself into.” he smiled.

“Well, he’s the only one who asked, you see. And he’s not what you think. Not what any of us thought, truthfully. He’s actually quite agreeable.”

“But his Dooms. He cursed you and everyone who left all those years ago.” Elrond protested.

Fingolfin shrugged before saying, “He has his part in the Music. He’s part of Ilúvatar’s thought. But think, Elrond. He is brother to Irmo and Nienna and while he sees all, there are only a few times he’s pronounced a Doom. You don’t think he comes up with those pronouncements on his own do you? No! Those few times that’s happened, it wasn’t him. But he was the vassal used to make them, poor fellow.”

“Yes. But you also have to understand that we had the freedom of choice. It was our decision to go and the Doom was foresight into what our future would be if we went. I don’t regret leaving, though I honestly had no idea what crossing the Grinding Ice would be like and the toll it would take on us. But I also don’t regret any of my actions there - including the last one, poorly thought out as it was. But some of the choices we made as a whole were crap - but they played out as they were meant to. And,” he paused to give Elrond a deeply penetrating look, “if we hadn’t rebelled, you, your brother and many others would never have existed and I’ll never regret that!”

“I’ve thought of that, as well.” Elrond smiled, “But all that fuss over some gems. That I’ll never understand!”

“Yeah, that was weird. I honestly think as soon as Varda Hallowed them trouble was bound to happen. Morgoth feared Varda more than any other Vala and I swear he went after those gems just to spite her.”

“I thought it was Fëanor he feared the most. At least that was how my atars told it.”

“No, he didn’t fear my brother. But we certainly provided the dynamic that bore the most fruit for his poisonous whispers. And he used it to drive a dangerous wedge between us and our people. He was very good at causing strife, I’ll give him that. But I don’t know what his deal was. He had been given the most and only used it to destroy. He never created a single thing that was of beauty or in any way useful. Every one of his siblings had but a single talent and they all used theirs to create wonders in this world.”

“His realm is the only place that is actually in a separate reality than the rest of Eä. This physical realm they created with the Great Music and Ilúvatar spoke into Being. The Halls has its reality based on the Timeless Halls and is connected directly to it. It’s a place where fëar can rest in safety until we’re ready to either move on, like the fëar of mankind, or to leave the Halls and take up our lives once more. But Lord Námo must obey when certain conditions are demanded by his superiors.”

“I have the ability to make people wish to leave my presence.” Fingolfin said smugly, causing Elrond to laugh in surprised delight.

“Truthfully, he really doesn’t like people lingering. So if he has someone who can nag at them, causing them to remove themselves, then it’s all to his purpose.” and then he leaned over and said conspiratorially, “Know what else? The Halls look nothing like what the dead see. When I was changed I saw what they really look like and he’s got his own version of Irmo’s gardens in there. Aaannd, he looks just like his brother.”

“Yep! And yes, I was surprised too. All we did was argue when I was there. And played strategy games.”

Chuckling, Elrond said, “You like him, don’t you?” and then sobering, said, “I’m so sorry, my lord. For everything. The way I’ve disrespected you all these years. I can’t explain why I behaved so churlishly towards you.”

“Can’t you?” Fingolfin asked with a lifted brow, but his expression was kind.

“Your atars were the sons of my brother and that means they were raised with all his prejudices towards me. There’s no way that didn’t color how they viewed me and no doubt, spoke of me.”

“But….they admired you. Spoke in admiration for your deeds when you challenged Morgoth. And I honestly can’t recall them ever saying anything derogatory about you.”

“Did they need to? A tone of voice. A certain kind of look if I was mentioned. They didn’t need to say anything negative about me for you and your brother to pick up on it.” Fingolfin shrugged and Elrond closed his eyes and knew he was right. Fingolfin nudged him and smiled, “It’s ok, you know. I never took it personally. How could I? We didn’t know each other, so I knew it wasn’t personal, per se. I figured it might have just been passive aggression from your atars and they probably didn’t even realize it themselves.”

Sighing, Elrond said, “I wonder how many times I did that to my own children and didn’t realize I was coloring their outlook on things. I think you know that my son was betrothed to King Thranduil’s daughter many millennia ago. And after my wife was injured they lost their minds and went on a rampage killing every orc they came across in revenge and I did nothing to stop them. Then I heard she’d sailed with all their family and I...I just didn’t understand why.” taking a deep breath, he continued, “I just found out that back when Thranduil’s son was injured she’d begged him to come and help and my son just….dismissed her concerns. And now I have to wonder if it was my fault that he was so cavalier with her affections.”

“That I can’t answer. I don’t suppose anyone but they can answer that question. But it seems to me they’ve reconciled, so perhaps you should just leave it in their hands and let things play out as they will. They’ll tell you when they’re ready.”

“Thank you, haru.” Elrond said, using the familial term for the first time and he could see it pleased Fingolfin to hear it. Continuing he said, “I came to apologize to you and here you are comforting me instead.”

“I suppose it comes with the title. Something I hope you’ll find out sooner rather than later. Do I have hope that Elrohir has met someone?”

“Actually, I think he’s rather sweet on his friend’s daughter and it absolutely horrifies him.”

“Oh dear. That could get awkward!” Fingolfin chuckled, adding, “My only advice would be to let them deal with it themselves. Be there if they need to talk and listen to them. I seriously advise you not to advise them at all. Just listen.”

“Yes, but mostly because my wife is wiser than I am. So, I can honestly say I had no involvement in any of my children’s love lives, nor did they feel the need to consult with me. Just as my parents had nothing to do with mine or my siblings. Just as your parents had nothing to do with you or your brother’s. Some things are better left to the people involved and parental interference is neither welcomed or needed.”

“I said to be there if they wish to speak with you about it. Not that I expected they would. Recall you were completely in the dark about what occurred with your son and the king’s daughter. If he’d felt the need to speak with you I’m sure he would have. My guess is he kept it to himself. And by that I mean he probably didn’t even share it with his brother.”

“And I was probably too self absorbed to see it even if they were inclined to.”

“Not self absorbed. But perhaps there might have been a desire on his part to not be a further burden to you. Especially over something that was too late to repair at the time.” Fingolfin smiled and added, “But come! Walk with me. There is mischief afoot and I want to watch!”

Elrond felt ridiculous. Here he was….a grown ellon and distinguished lore master! Lord of Imladris and holder of one of the Three Rings! Laying on his belly in a clump of bushes and peering out through the leaves like an errant schoolboy at….Well he wasn’t exactly sure what he was looking at or why his grandfather wanted to observe.

And that was the only thing that didn’t make this utterly humiliating! The fact his grandfather, former High King of the Noldor in Beleriand, was laying right next to him peering out of the same clump of leaves as himself. Although, to be fair, he seemed to see exactly what he was looking for if the ecstatic grin splitting his face was anything to go by!

Taking a breath to demand to know what they were doing here, his grandfather cut him off, directing him to mind-speak. Rolling his eyes, Elrond tried not to shout when asking, What are we doing here?

King Thranduil gave leave to your uncles to encourage these Noldor to leave. I think he’s becoming weary of them. And I can’t say I blame him.

They have! Most are spoiled Nobles and lack the manners and appropriate comportment of visiting dignitaries let alone as guests to a separate kingdom. I can tell you they would never behave this way in Valimar. Or Alqualondë. But that’s not why we’re here, Elrond! Look!

And Elrond did look and wasn’t sure what he was seeing. A mist was rising and it seemed to move like a living thing - swirling and seeking and clinging to any and everything! What….?

It’s them! Your uncles! They have a very strong elemental power! They’ve called the forest creatures to their aid and can command the very elements to do their bidding. It’s been quite amusing to watch. I have to give it to the Noldor for not quitting the place...though I have to say it’s only the most intransigent who remain. There’s been a definite thinning of their ranks.

Of course! And see there - Aiwendil and Olórin have come to watch. And Elrond could hear the amusement in his thought.

And Elrond could perceive them with his grandfather’s assistance and they seemed to be enjoying this every bit as much as Fingolfin was and Elrond let the thought slip…, You’re all acting like a bunch of children!

Oh, you’re just being a stuffed shirt, Elrond! Let your braids loose and lighten up!

And Elrond looked at his grandfather askance, thinking he was the only grown up observing this and for the first time wondered at the nature of the ainu!

Elrohir was watching the Hobbits going busily about their business and was gratified they seemed well-fed and happy. He was waiting for his friend Legolas and was relieved he didn’t have long to wait before his friend plopped down beside him.

“How is Gimli faring?” he asked.

“He’s doing surprisingly well. I’ve noticed that both he and our Hobbit friends seem quite fit and hale, considering their age.” Legolas said.

“Yes, this land has increased their years astonishingly. I just fear we’ll get used to having them around and then they’ll leave us.” Elrohir said.

“I think we’ll know. And it won’t be the failing of their bodies that decides that.” Legolas observed.

“What else can it be?”

“Well, Bilbo was quite elderly when he sailed and so was Sam. Both are as they were in their youth. I don’t think their bodies will cease working, but I think their fëar will. I think they’ll just become weary one day and they’ll go to sleep and not awaken.”

“Like the men of old?” Elrohir asked.

“Yes, something like that. Right now they are building and organizing their people into a new way of life. They have purpose. But one day it’ll be done and then what will they have to tie them here?” Legolas said.

“I find I would wish it otherwise.” Elrohir sighed.

“I share your wish. And it’s not like either of their people would outgrow this land.”

Snorting, Elrohir said, “Not with the Valar adding bits of debris every couple of months.”

Neither expected to see the dwarves out and about for at least another century as they were busy carving out their new dwarrow. But one thing they had now they never had in their beginnings or any other time during their great delvings, was the willing hands of both the Noldor and the maiar of Aulë. In fact, the Great Mahal himself had made many visits to their delving and had even built them a bridge and then Hallowed it so it would never fail. The dwarves called it Mahal’s Blessed Pathway.

Legolas leaned back. Closing his eyes to enjoy the sunshine dappling in through the leaves. Elrohir was having a hard time reconciling his friend's visage without his warrior's braids. He supposed there was no need for them here and he’d noted that all the Woodelves had stopped wearing them.

Eyes still closed, Legolas said, “So...are you ever going to approach me for permission to court my daughter?” and then opened an eye to peer at his friend when all that had come out of him was a strangled noise, adding, “Well, you are certainly Elladan’s brother! You both suck at wooing the ladies, I hope you know.”

“You would approve of such?” Elrohir asked incredulously, and then proceeded to babble, “She’s glorious. But I thought it so disrespectful! You’re my gwador, after all. Are you saying she might be interested in my suit? Wait! What do you mean my brother sucks at wooing?” but in looking at Legolas for an answer he found his friend doubled over in laughter and realized he’d probably not get an answer to that last one.

“She likes you and if you feel the same then I will give my blessings to your courtship.” and then snorted as his friend got a besotted look upon his face as he breathed, “She likes me….?” and knew he’d be get no sensible answer from his friend. At least for the time being. But he wasn’t letting him leave until he got a promise of good faith from him. Friend or not, he wasn’t going to let him play with his daughter’s affections. It was creepy enough that Elladan was going to be his brother-in-honor while Elrohir would be his son-in-honor! eesh!

~0~

“So what is the deal with Eluréd and Elurín?” Elrond asked Thranduil after he’d bore witness to some of their mischief, mostly benign as far as he could see, though certainly a nuisance if what he saw was any indication of what they’d been up to.

“Your uncles, you mean? I will admit that I don’t know a great deal about them. They were already here when I arrived and according to Cirdan, or rather Lord Nowë, they were already here when he and his Falathrim arrived. They were perfectly happy to share the island and only seemed adverse to going back to the mainland. Nowë seems to think they were here to be close to their sister.” Thranduil said, referring to her imprisonment in the Tower of Pearl and indeed, Elwing and Eärendil had settled in Nowë’s port city.

Nimloth and Dior were frequent visitors to the city and had even made the trek to the forest to see their sons, as the eccentricities of the twins were already legendary! Conversely, Idril and Tuor had gone to Arcoa Maril, Fingolfin’s city, to be near Turgon and Elenwë.

“When we arrived they already had a well established village. They are both wed and each have at least a dozen children.” and then looking at Elrond with a grin, added, “Say! That means you have lots and lots of cousins. For someone who had next to no family growing up, you appear to have one of the largest now.”

“That rather knocks off Fëanor's crown for fathering the most children of the Eldar. But that really doesn’t answer my question, you know.”

“He can still claim it on behalf of the Noldor - he has nine children, after all.” he grinned, “But you refer to the mischief, do you not. Well, they are a bit on the fey side and wild, but I find that’s what I like best about them. That and their aversion to their grandsire who keeps sending messages to me to present them to him immediately - as though I’m hiding them from him!” he sniffed.

“Why….?

“No idea and it’s none of my affair.”

“But if they’re in your forest…?”

“Elrond, they were here before us. Technically, it’s their forest. Truly, I think the only reason they’re happy we’re here is now their descendants have a better courting pool.”

“I’m glad to know I’m not the only one interested in seeing children and grandchildren wed.”

“Think how long Fëanor had to wait. Of seven sons, only one managed to produce a child before they all left to wage war on the world.”

“Yes, but as it was pointed out to me recently, if they didn’t I wouldn’t even exist.”

“That is true and I wouldn’t wish for a world without you. But I also have to wonder at all the people that never were because their potential parents were killed for no reason whatsoever.” pausing and added, “And they were killed for no reason whatsoever.”

“The Oath…”

“Bound only seven. It bound no one else. It makes you wonder...I know it’s made me wonder…” Thranduil said with a far-away glint in his eye.

And indeed, Elrond had wondered! For his uncles had died at the hands of those who followed the Fëanorions and were bound by no oath.

~0~

Fingolfin was currently riding towards his nephew's village, for he knew his brother and sister in honor were still there for the birth of Celegorm’s twins who had just recently arrived. He was riding upon his steed and old faithful friend, Rochallor - a gift from his Lord Námo - who was now somewhat like Huan was to Celegorm. The only difference being that instead of staying with him physically at all times as Huan did with Celegorm, Rochallor resided in the gardens and plains of Námo. That plane that only became visible to those of the ainu.

There Rochallar pranced and played in bliss until he heard the call of his friend. Then he would appear instantly beside his master and their reunion was always joyous. Fingolfin could have mind-travelled there, himself, but he enjoyed the sensation that one could only get from riding wildly across the land, the wind whipping through his hair. It was the only time he felt so free.

Eventually, he felt Rochallor beginning to flag, and though he’d been brought back as fey-spirit - a minor elemental, himself - and there was none faster or indefatigable, save Nahar, he still had a body of flesh which needed to rest and take nourishment. Finding a tree under which to rest and enjoy watching the flora and fauna at play, while Rochallor contentedly munched nearby.

He must have fallen into a light doze for he felt, rather than saw, his lord arrive and rousing himself he attempted to clamber to his feet, when he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder and he looked up to see Námo’s kind face smiling down upon him.

“Hello, Ñolo. Stay - no need to arise.”

“Greetings, my lord. Did I miss your call?” Fingolfin asked worriedly. He’d never not heard Námo’s call before. Perhaps he disapproved of his play time….

Chuckling, Námo shook his head, saying, “I don’t disapprove of what you call your playtime, hína. For all your perceived rebellion, you are an incredibly sweet and joyous Eruhíni.”

Hesitating, for it was a shockingly nice thing Mandos had just said, he asked, “Perceived…?”

But Námo answered the unasked question immediately and firmly, “Perceived, as in, what some of the Aratar consider rebellion. In my own view it demands obedience while overlooking how you children were hard-wired.”

“Hard...wired. I’m sorry lord, I don’t understand.” Fingolfin was feeling out of his depth, even with his new understanding of things. It dawned on him he didn't know half as much as he thought he did and even less than he thought he should.

“Hard-wired in this case means that aspect of your people that was ingrained within you at the very spark of your creation. It is indomitable and impossible to constrain. Nor should it be.”

“I understand, lord. Thank you for explaining it to me.”

“You know, híni, while I appreciate your respect and your attempts to be humble, that’s not the aspect of you I valued when I made my offer to you.” Námo smirked, adding, “The Being I valued and liked is the one you allow yourself be when you’re around Aiwendil and Olórin. If I wanted another submissive maiar there would have been no need to change you.”

Smiling, Fingolfin said, “So you want….”

“I want the same person who blew raspberries in my presence and told me to stuff it to my face. That’s who I want.” Námo quickly completed, causing Fingolfin to burst into merry laughter that took him several moments to subdue.

“I think I understand, lord. But you have to know that I was just being proper and I am truly appreciative of the gift you’ve bestowed upon me.”

“Proper...yes. A bit like how you were all taught to comport yourselves in your father’s court. But it hasn’t escaped my notice that none of you spend any time there even after the ban was lifted.” Námo said dryly.

Chuckling, Fingolfin nodded, “Aye. That’s true. Ara least of all. And I have to admit I pray for blessings on him everyday for his forethought when it came to us. He has the sea. I have my glass and plains. And Náro has a kingdom worthy of his talents and is surrounded by his family.”

“Speaking of family, there is one among you who is bereft and he’s still important to events that will play out in the distant future. It has come to my attention that a special boon will be granted to him. I just wanted you to know, for it will directly affect many in your family, including yourself.”

Eyes widening, Fingolfin said, “Do tell…..!”

~0~

Fëanor was sitting out on the veranda with Celegorm and each had an infant in their lap as Ealanna and Nerdanel settled the eldest boy, Caranor, down for a nap. Fëanor was holding the little ellon, Tinuher who reminded him nostalgically of Celegorm, himself, when he’d been a babe. His sister, Lossë, was being cuddled and spoiled by her besotted atar and Fëanor saw a lot of indulgence in the girl’s future. He couldn’t really blame him! She reminded him of the flower blossoms she’d been named for. And since hers was the only Quenya name, Celegorm must have insisted on naming this one child!

Caranor was Sindarin for red spark, no doubt for his flame colored hair that he’d gotten from his haruni and Tinuher was star spark as he was the image of his sire. The little blossom that was Lossë had enough red in her silver hair that it actually looked pink - thus the name!

He was currently patting Tinuher's back while he nestled on his shoulder, waiting for the burp that let him know he wouldn’t have an upset tummy after his meal, when he looked up suddenly and said, “Ñolo’s coming.” and sure enough the sound of hooves could be heard approaching in the distance.

“How do you do that?” Celegorm asked.

“He’s my brother. You know when yours are near.” Fëanor said, rolling his eyes and handing the baby off to Nerdanel who had just joined them. Celegorm did the same, reluctantly, to his wife, who pecked him on his cheek, giggling as he blushed and took the babe inside to feed her.

Ñolo and Rochallor rounded the bend and Ñolo leapt off his steed’s back and ran to pick up his brother gleefully and spun him around in joy.

A startled Fëanor exclaimed, “Let me down, Ñolo! Why are you so happy?"

“Something wonderful is going to happen! Are Nelyo and Laurë still here?”

“Yes, of course. They are still within the guest telain in the royal quarter so they can tease their brothers when they finally come out for air.”

“Oh good! You all need to pack a few things so I can take you to their village.”

“Surely you don’t mean us!” Celegorm exclaimed, “My wife just delivered our babes!”

“Oh, I’ll take care of that.” Fingolfin said and started reaching towards Celegorm.

Nerdanel was confused, but Fëanor wasn’t and exclaimed, “Ñolo, No!”

And Fingolfin grinned wickedly as he answered, “Ñolo, Yes!” and touching Celegorm’s arm the two vanished.

Nerdanel blinked and Fëanor looked at her and said, "He's so insufferable now!"

Nerdanel merely shrugged and said, "I would be too, if I could do that. And so would you!" and Fëanor couldn't argue with that!

~0~

Celegorm found himself inside the talan his parent’s had been assigned and found a remarkably unstartled Woodland couple who simply bowed and curtsied and asked what they needed. Fingolfin asked if there were guestrooms and the two nodded, yes.

“Very good. Could you show him where they are and then he’ll instruct you on what he’ll need brought since he has a very young little boy and a pair of newborns, yes?!!”

The two beamed and the ellith said, “Oh yes, my lord. Come along young ellon.” she said kindly and Celegorm after a brief and bemused look at his uncle, simply nodded and followed.

Fingolfin then vanished.

~0~

Reappearing back where he started, sans Celegorm, Fingolfin advised those remaining to grab those things they needed - especially the children’s things and to be ready before Anar was overhead.

“But I just got Caranor to sleep!” Ealanna exclaimed.

“Can you lift him without waking him? Because I can make sure he stays asleep if that is your wish.” Fingolfin said.

“Yes. But I need to let my parents know I’m leaving.” she said, already knowing she had no choice in the matter.

“You go pack and I’ll go and tell your parents.” Nerdanel said and off she went.

“And we already have our belongings at the talan. Those things we brought here can stay as we’ll wish to return after whatever happens, happens.” Fëanor said, wryly.

“Very good.” and Fingolfin walked over to where Rochallor was happily whinnying away to Huan, who had joined him, recognizing a kindred spirit. Fëanor watched as his brother and the steed touched foreheads with Fingolfin reached up to stroke the horse’s muzzle. Then the horse nuzzled his master, bowed to Huan and vanished, whereupon Fingolfin returned.

“You sent him away?” Fëanor asked, adding, “Where did you send him?”

“I didn’t send him anywhere - he sent himself. When he was returned he was something like Huan. It’s still him but he’s some sort of fey-spirit and can speak to me now.” smiling, Fingolfin said, “He wouldn’t go back to Námo’s plains unless I promised to ride with him later. I consented, of course. We both know how much I enjoy it.”

“Námo seems to be showing you great favor, brother.” Fëanor said.

“Yes, gifting me Rochallor was beyond generous. I’ve always felt guilty about his death. He was a valiant and loyal steed. But Lord Námo is also not adverse to telling me when I’ve screwed up.”

“Screwed up? You?” Fëanor asked incredulously.

Snorting with laughter, Fingolfin said, “Why do you say it like that? We both know I’ve made monumental screw ups in my life. Especially in my first life, anyway. But why would you think this life would be any different?”

“Ok - spill it!” Fëanor demanded with a lifted brow.

“Nothing so dramatic, brother. He just let me know that he didn’t change me just to gain another obsequious servant.”

Gaping at him, Fëanor shook himself and said, “What in the world did you do for him to say that?”

And when Fingolfin hesitated, Fëanor glared at him and Fingolfin relented by saying, “I addressed him as I would atar while in his court.”

Now confused, Fëanor asked, “I don’t understand.”

“He thinks atar’s court pretentious and stuffy.”

“Mandos! Mandos thinks atar’s court is stuffy? As in rigid? Lord Doomsman thinks atar’s court is….is”

Interrupting him, Fingolfin said, “Yes. He does. And he also noted that since the ban was lifted none of us spends any time there. He’s right, you know. Oh, I know you didn’t get a chance to experience Beleriand, but I’m here to tell you that at times it was exhilarating there. I have no more desire to go back to the life I had before than I do in challenging Morgoth again.”

“You hate atar’s court that much?” Fëanor asked, mystified.

“Yes! And apparently, so do you! Ara is easy to figure out. He walked out in a huff and never returned. I don’t blame him. But for me? Atar certainly didn’t seem to enjoy his stay in my city and the only conclusion I could come to was it was the company that displeased him.” he said, shrugging, for it no longer stung.

Fëanor looked as though he wished to argue the matter, but Nerdanel returned at that moment and went inside. Then she came out and handed a babe to him and then she disappeared inside for another moment and came out with the other babe and a large travel bag, followed by Ealanna, gingerly holding a sleeping Caranor and a similar bag.

“Are we ready then?” Fingolfin asked, impressed with just the two bags.

“Of course not! There’s a trunk that needs to come along, too.” Nerdanel said, rolling her eyes.

Chuckling, Fingolfin said, “Of course there is!” and went inside, but came back out without the trunk. “Don’t worry, I have it.” and then, “Now stand together, if you please.” and when they complied they found themselves in Fëanor and Nerdanel’s talan without Fingolfin appearing to have twitched a muscle.

Fëanor looked at his brother in approval, saying, “You’re getting good at that!” and the only response he got was a grin before Fingolfin reached into his pocket and pulled out something. He set it on the ground and gestured at it and the truck appeared full sized. Fëanor pursed his lips and said, "Alright - now I'm jealous!"

Fingolfin only grinned again and disappeared.

His next stop was tracking down Maedhros and Maglor and instructing them to stay put. He had two more stops after that and the one would take care of the other.

And he had to admit to himself that this was the most fun he’d had in decades!

~0~

Elrond awoke with a sense of urgency he couldn’t explain. He tried to fall back asleep but the persistent niggle wouldn’t leave him no matter how he tried to calm himself until he finally got carefully out of bed, so no to disturb his wife, and threw on some clothes to step outside into the fresh crisp air.

And there he stood! His brother Elros, looking very much like the last time Elrond had seen him before he’d made his choice to live among the second born. Elrond thought his eyes must be playing tricks on him, but his brother walked over to him and embraced him fiercely, saying, “I’ve missed you brother.”

“Elros? Is it really you?” Elrond whispered, brokenly. And then he felt the familiar brush of his brother’s mind and he returned his brother’s embrace with a desperation as if to reassure himself he was real and not a cruel wraith.

When he pulled back to look at his brother he saw his brother’s eyes and noted they were just like Fingolfin’s eyes and his brother nodded. “Yes. I’ve come from the Timeless Halls. I am as you will be one day. But for this time I am granted leave to reside here until the unmaking of the world.”

“We believed that you were lost to us. My daughter wed with one of your descendants and she was denied the option to join him Beyond the Circles of the World.”

“Yes. That was because the choice was only given to our parents and ourselves. We made the choice for our descendants. That was the Judgement. And I’m afraid anything else I know of that realm I cannot speak of.” he said apologetically, then smiled and said, “But I’m here with you now and I am so glad to see you, brother.” and taking his hand, added, “Come brother! There are others here who wish to say hello and we better get it over with.”

And Elros led his brother into a section where Fëanor and Nerdanel’s talan was next to the talan of Maedhros and his family and where Maglor was also staying. And sitting around a campfire and talking lowly were Fëanor and Fingolfin sitting with Eluréd and Elurín along with Eärendil and Elwing.

Spotting the brothers, Eärendil leapt up and went to embrace them both, with Elwing hot on his heels and soon the little family were reunited for the first time in Ages. Elros was serene, but happy and tears were streaming down Elrond's face as well as their parents’.

Elrond chanced to see Fingolfin glance at the talan and narrow his eyes while pursing his lips and in a matter of moments Maedhros and Maglor burst from the talan, looking agitated and Elrond realized what or rather whom, had awoken him. Catching his eye, Fingolfin winked and Elrond grinned back at him.

As their parents walked them over to the fire, Maedhros and Maglor just stood stunned, staring at Elros like they were seeing a vision, until Elros walked over and said, “Hello, atars. You both look marvelous. It’s good to see you thusly.” and his voice broke the spell holding them and they fell upon him joyously, hugging and kissing him with tears of joy running down their cheeks. Once he extricated himself, he went to greet his uncles, who actually seemed the most sanguine over the whole matter and Elrond realized that probably helped to tone down the jubilation of the others.

Elrond went over to his grandfather and said, “You did this, didn’t you?”

“I did not.” Fingolfin smiled, “But I will admit that I was tasked to assist those who did.”

“Assist? Pah!” Nerdanel exclaimed, and looking at Elrond, said, “He brought everybody here from the four corners of Aman!”

“Thaaat’s a bit of a stretch, sister.” Fingolfin said.

“Elrond’s daughter is here, is she not? As is Turgon, Elenwë, Idril and Tuor, no?” Fëanor challenged, adding smugly, “I do believe that qualifies as the four corners of Aman!” and Fingolfin felt he could quibble about that, but wisely decided to let it go.

“Thank you, grandfather!” Elrond said earnestly.

“Indeed yes, grandfather!” Elros echoed, adding, “And I can’t wait to get to know you better!”

“I will enjoy that, too!” Fingolfin smiled, "Welcome home, Elros!"

The Return of Elrond's Precious! by Calairiel Malromiel