Betrothal To An Elf
Part 2
Posted: August 3, 2007
Title: Betrothal To An Elf
Author: Inwë Sáralondë
Summary: Elrohir asks some questions.
*****
Elrohir found himself walking in a circle continuously around the fountain, his mind in turmoil. He kept on reliving his conversation with Lothvaen, and wondered anew where things had gone wrong.
His gaze caught by a passing bird, he watched it twist and turn as it attempted to catch a moth for its evening meal. He wanted desperately to speak to Elladan, but his twin was in the stables, watching as one of his mares gave birth. It would be a while before his brother would emerge; in the meantime, Elrohir would have to be patient.
He sighed. When had things become so complicated? Elrohir had not given any thought to love, so when Lothvaen had spoken those fateful words, asked that fateful question, it had taken him completely unawares.
Erestor and Glorfindel came out into the garden. The seneschal was smiling broadly, even though the advisor appeared to be chastising him for some thing or another. Elrond had already told him the news that the two were now betrothed, and that the announcement would be made that night. Elrohir was genuinely pleased that things seemed to be finally working out for his two former tutors; he had always felt that they belonged together.
He decided to make his way back into the house; the two elves were heading in his direction, and he did not feel up to answering any questions, for it would not take them long to realise that something was bothering him. However, his luck ran out just as he turned.
“Elrohir!” It was Glorfindel who called his name, and the younger Peredhel turned once more to face them with some reluctance.
Erestor looked at his former pupil. “What is it that bothers you, pen-neth?” he asked bluntly.
Elrohir took a look at both their concerned faces. “How does one know when one is in love?” he blurted out.
If there was one thing Erestor and Glorfindel had not been expecting, it had been the question Elrohir had just asked.
“Why do you ask?” Glorfindel asked cautiously.
“Lothvaen asked me if I loved him.”
“Did he say he loved you?” Erestor asked gently.
Elrohir nodded.
“So…what did you tell him?” Glorfindel wanted to know.
The younger elf sighed. “I told him I cared for him. In his eyes, it was the wrong answer. He said that caring was not the same, that it only implied affection. What do I do?” he appealed to the older elves.
Erestor and Glorfindel exchanged glances. “Follow your heart,” Erestor said simply. “As trite as that answer may be, it is the only answer we can give you. If you do not feel you love Lothvaen, then best to know this now than to find yourself in a situation that you would rue for all eternity.”
“But I hurt him,” Elrohir whispered.
“Mayhap it is better you hurt him now, rather than letting him believe that there could be a future between the two of you.”
“That is so harsh, Erestor,” the younger elf said.
“Sometimes life – and love – can be,” Erestor responded simply.
*****
Elvish translations:
pen-neth – young one
Peredhel – half elf
*****
| Home | OEAM News | Recent Story Updates | Stories by Author | Stories by Pairing and Character | Stories by Title | Works In Progress |
| Author Profiles | Story Submission Guidelines | Beta Listing | Awards/Achievements | Links |