“Merry, don’t you think that Elrond is busy? Maybe we should come back later,” Pippin said nervously as they stood before the door to Elrond’s study.
“Don’t be ridiculous, Pip. Elrond is always busy, but he also told us to stop by anytime. You just don’t want to ask him about the music.”
“That’s not true,” Pippin argued ineffectually. “Fine, maybe it is,” he admitted, “but that doesn’t mean Elrond isn’t busy.”
“Just for that cheek, I’m going to make you go in alone.”
“Merry, No! I can’t go in alone,” Pippin worriedly replied.
“And why not Pip?” Merry asked smiling.
“Because. Merry, it’s Elrond! I can’t…”
“It seems Master hobbits, that you have forgotten how sensitive elven hearing is,” Elrond interrupted opening the door causing Pippin to blush.
“Come in. I gather you have some business with me,” Elrond said as he ushered them in.
They entered the chambers and settled near the fireplace.
“We came to let you know that we had decided what we wanted to take home to the Shire with us,” Merry began.
“Let me guess what you want Master Meriadoc. You would like one of the maps from the library.”
“How did you know,” Merry asked astonished.
“Of course I haven’t seen Frodo and you pouring over them night and day,” Elrond smiled.
“That might have been a hint,” Merry said muttered sheepishly.
“And how can I help you Master Peregrin?” Elrond asked turning towards Pippin.
Looking up Pippin said, “I was actually hoping to get the music to some of the elvish songs we’ve heard in the Hall of Fire. If it isn’t too much trouble of course,” he added hurriedly fearing he may have offended Elrond.
“Well, Master Peregrin, I will grant you this favor on one condition,” Elrond said seeming quite serious.
“What is the condition?” Pippin asked eyeing the elf lord warily.
“Come to my chamber before dinner on the morrow and we will discuss the condition privately,” Elrond said as he escorted them out.
Once outside the chamber, Pippin turning to Merry said, “I worried about this condition.”
Hearing this on the other side of the door, all Elrond did was smile before walking to his desk. He had quite a bit to plan before tomorrow.