Not A Child

Not A Child

Posted: February 8, 2008
Title: Not A Child
Author: Weeping Naiad
Type: FCS
Characters: Erestor/Glorfindel
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: The characters and world belong to the Master himself, Tolkien. I am only borrowing them so they can come out and frolic a bit, not intending any copyright infringement of any sort. I do own my original characters, but they are available for parties!
Timeline: Third Age, pre War of the Ring
Warning: AU, FCS, fluff
Beta: Keiliss, the incomparable. Thanks so much, hon!
Author's Notes: This story is dedicated to Aglarien for all her wonderful encouragement and support of me. Without her, I would not be writing!

Sídhiel is forty-five, making her about seventeen in human years.

//indicates mindspeech//

Summary: Sídhiel plans a surprise for Erestor on his begetting day.

*****

Laer, Imladris, 2848 T.A.

Erestor awoke and stretched languidly, but when his arm reached for his mate, Glorfindel was not there. As he turned toward the balcony, he looked into sparkling blue eyes. “You slept late. The sun has been up for hours and I have already had breakfast ordered for us.” Stepping into their bedroom, Glorfindel waved to the table on the balcony. “And it is just awaiting your presence.” He leant on the bed and kissed Erestor soundly. “Happy begetting day, my love.”

Erestor pulled Glorfindel down for a longer, deeper kiss. “Thank you. Now how is it I was allowed to sleep? Sídhiel never lets us sleep past dawn on our begetting days.”

Glorfindel gently tugged Erestor to stand and wrapped a silken burgundy robe about him. “Come eat and then we can discuss our wayward child.” He wrapped his arm about Erestor’s waist and helped him to sit at the table, which was covered with a white tablecloth. A centerpiece of brightly colored flowers gave off delightful scents, and the best plates and silver were set up. A three tier cart was laden with covered platters and a bottle sat in a bucket of cool water.

“I have a surprise for you.” He pulled the bottle from the bucket and poured a bubbling pale yellow liquid into their wine glasses. “Try it. It is a new concoction of Celeborn’s. Sparkling wine is what he calls it.”

Erestor took a drink and almost giggled. He covered his mouth with his hand to keep himself from doing so. “The bubbles tickle, but it is delightful.”

Glorfindel smiled brightly. “But for breakfast you are supposed to try it with orange juice.”

“Orange juice and sparkling wine?” Erestor looked doubtful, but nodded. Glorfindel reached over and poured freshly squeezed orange juice into their glasses. When Erestor sipped it, he instantly loved the flavor. “Ah, that is wonderful! What delights you have provided.” He leaned over and kissed Glorfindel. “Now what were you going to tell me about Sídhiel?”

“Do not be upset, but she, Lindir, and Mel left this morning shortly after dawn.”

Erestor’s face fell. At first he had been uncomfortable at the fuss Sídhiel always made over his begetting day, but after so many years he had grown used to it, and now she was seemingly oblivious to this day’s import. “Oh. She must have forgotten…”

“Do not be hurt, my love. You remember what it was like when you were so close to your majority, do you not? I do believe there was no blood flowing to my brain from age forty on, so lapses are to be expected.” Glorfindel moved his chair to sit beside his mate, and wrapped an arm about him.

Erestor looked up, his eyes suspiciously bright. “No, Glorfindel, my life was not like that at all. Eregion fell and I lost my entire family at forty, soon after, I was here, working with the rest to build Imladris. There was no time for such foolishness.”

Glorfindel berated himself for saying anything. He and Sídhiel had grown up far differently than Erestor, and his mate’s begetting day was not the time for reminding him of that. Pulling Erestor close and hugging him tightly, the Elda tried to console him. “It may seem silly, but I remember that time well, and it felt anything but foolish at the time. Everything had such import and all dealings with other elves were fraught with peril.” Erestor looked up in confusion. “Well, that is how it felt anyway. I was so self-conscious, afraid of saying or doing anything the least bit wrong. Consequently, I spent too much time thinking on those things and not nearly enough concentrating on my studies or sparring.”

“Do you not worry for her, then? If things are like that, how are you fine with her being alone with Lindir and Mel who are both closer to their majorities?”

Glorfindel smiled into Erestor’s hair. No matter how upset Sídhiel could make his mate, Erestor would never stop worrying about her. “She is fine. You well know Lindir and Mel, my love. In fact, if any one of the three was a cause for concern, it would be our daughter.” He chuckled, for it was true, even if hard to imagine. Sídhiel was always the instigator of their schemes. The other two would probably never be in trouble if it were not for her.

With the mood lighter, Glorfindel filled their plates and they both enjoyed their breakfast. Soon enough Erestor was pleasantly full and slightly tipsy, as neither had any idea the affect the sparkling wine would have on them. Although, knowing that it came from Celeborn should have given them some indication that the light flavor could well mask a potent beverage.

As Erestor stood with the wine glass in his hand, a giggle escaped his lips. Glorfindel turned and smiled broadly. “Did I hear a giggle from you?”

“Nay. You must be mistaken.” Erestor stood tall and straight, but as he took another sip of the sparkling wine, the bubbles tickled his nose and he giggled again. Quickly covering his mouth, his eyes wide, he shook his head.

Glorfindel laughed out loud. “Giggling! You are! No one would believe me, so your secret is safe.” Glorfindel topped off their glasses, thus finishing the bottle of wine. “I do believe Celeborn has something here.” Erestor nodded, but refused to remove the hand covering his mouth. “Ah, you are afraid of giggling again, are you not?” Erestor nodded. “How about if I give your mouth something to keep it occupied?” Glorfindel gently pried Erestor’s long fingers from his face, and replaced them with his own mouth, in a gentle, teasing kiss.

Erestor leaned into his mate, allowing himself to be cared for and gentled, the tender kiss causing sparks to radiate outward from his lips, until he opened his eyes and stared into Glorfindel’s azure blue eyes, darkened with desire. He tossed back his wine and turned from the balcony to their bedroom. “Since we seem to have an entire day to ourselves, I know what more I desire for my begetting day…” He walked into the bedroom, the robe dropping carelessly to the floor behind him. Glorfindel drank his wine in one gulp and hurried after his mate.

~~~*~~~

Sídhiel stood in the center of the Hall of Fire and looked around. Nothing was ready! Racing to the stage, she stood with her hands on her hips watching as Lindir and Gelirion argued over the key. “Please, Lindir. Tell me you do have the song ready? They will be arriving for dinner soon.” She was practically pleading with the minstrel before he looked her way.

“Sídhiel, we will be ready. We are just having creative differences.”

Gelirion smirked at that comment. “Aye, Lindir has no taste.”

“I always suspected that must be the case when he took up with you.” Sídhiel teased, but she was exasperated. Throwing her hands up at the two minstrels, she turned to the buffet tables. “Mistress Logoneth, where are those airy chocolate puddings that Ada likes so much? You did not forget them, did you?” Sídhiel was growing increasingly nervous since she had not confided her plans to Glorfindel. Now she was wondering if that had been such a good idea.

“Child, I know my job. Those need to stay cool. I will bring them out at the proper time. Quit fretting. Everything will turn out fine. You shall see.” The kindly head cook smiled at Sídhiel, quite amazed that the young one would attempt planning such a large party all on her own. It seemed she took after Erestor in more than her temper.

Seeing Melpomaen walking in with an armful of decorations, Sídhiel raced over to him. “Mel! What am I going to do? It is almost dinner time. They will be coming any minute and nothing is ready!”

Mel could see how frantic she was. He placed the decorations on a chair and placed an arm around her shoulders. “Calm yourself. Everyone in the valley is aware of this party except your fathers. Can you think of no one who could detain them for you?”

Sídhiel calmed slightly as Mel reassured her. Smiling up at him, she asked, “What would I do without you? Of course, Gildor or Lord Elrond could come up with something to keep them away from here. I guess my brain has stopped working.” She kissed his cheek and then raced away, leaving Mel staring after her with a bemused expression on his face.

~~~*~~~

As Sídhiel stepped back into the Hall of Fire, it was to a place transformed. Lindir and Gelirion were no longer arguing, instead beautiful music and singing was coming from the pair, their voices intertwined and joyous. Mel and the others had managed to festoon the hall with garlands, bows, and flowers. All the doors and windows had been thrown open, allowing the scents of the garden to waft into the room, and the curtains fluttered gracefully in the light wind, almost as though dancing to the minstrels’ song. Elegant candelabras graced the sparkling buffet tables, which groaned under the bounty prepared by Logoneth and her cooks.

Seeing Sídhiel’s rapt expression, Mel hurriedly walked up to her. She hugged him tightly, before pulling back. “It is just perfect. Thank you so much. Ada will be so surprised.”

“He had better be.” A warm voice spoke in Sídhiel’s ear, causing her to jump.

“Elladan!” Leaping into his arms, she kissed his cheek. “You came! I was worried you would not be back in time.” Mel faded into the background. He always felt uncomfortable when Sídhiel was near Elladan, her obvious hero worship of the elf warrior stirring something inside him that he would rather not examine too closely.

Standing behind Elladan were Elrohir and Legolas. Elrohir spoke teasingly. “Ah, no hug for us? You were not worried we would return in time?”

Sídhiel stuck her tongue out at him. “I had wished that to be the case, but I see you made it nonetheless.”

Legolas smirked and aided Elrohir. “’Dan, I do believe your pet has the most awful manners. Can you not do something about her?”

“Pet? I am not a pet!” Sídhiel was spluttering, her mind desperately seeking a comeback. “At least I am not merely a kept princeling, lapping after my lover’s heels for scraps of affection.” As soon as the words left her mouth, she regretted them. Legolas’ blue eyes flickered momentarily, but now they were just a cold, icy blue as he turned away and quickly exited the hall. Elrohir glared at Sídhiel and hastily followed after the prince.

Elladan sighed. He knew their constant teasing of Sídhiel would one day go to far. That she was the first to ‘draw blood’ surprised him. Elrohir would just have to deal with his lover.

“Sídhiel!”

“Damn! I apologize.” Her head bowed. “My words were thoughtless but had not been intended to hurt.” She looked up at Elladan, her eyes suspiciously bright. “I will go after Legolas and offer my apologies.”

“Nay. Not right now.” He felt his twin’s anger through their bond, but both knew it was because Sídhiel’s words had struck too close to home. “You can apologize at a less tense time. ’Roh will deal with him for the moment.”

Mel watched the interchange with sadness for his friend. Sídhiel endured much teasing, usually with grace, and almost always with a swift retort, but tonight she was obviously overwhelmed and the teasing had turned hurtful. Of course, the fact that Sídhiel always knew one’s emotional weak spots made it far too easy for her to cause such hurt.

“Elladan?” Sídhiel was contrite. Somehow Elladan always made her feel like an elfling. “Do you forgive me as well? I do not know why I so often speak without forethought. I never intend the words to come out as they do.”

Placing his arm about her shoulder, Elladan began to gently usher Sídhiel away from the hall. “Of course I forgive you. I always have, since that first day when you would not be cowed, even by my father, and I always will, little one.” Elladan was sincere, Sídhiel had stolen his heart as a child and kept it, even to this day. “I suspect that you do not have much more time, though. Should you not dress for the occasion?”

Sídhiel stiffened as she looked down, realizing that her leggings were stained and rumpled and her tunic was hardly better. “I must look a fright. How will I change without alerting Ada and Adar?”

Elladan chuckled. “Have no fear, Gildor and my father have both of them cornered in father’s office. I am to go fetch them when all is ready. You have time to prepare, but do not linger.” They had arrived at Sídhiel’s door. Elladan kissed her head and gently pushed her forward before taking his leave.

~~~*~~~

Sídhiel raced around her room, grabbing a dark silk sheath and matching slippers. She had few dresses and hardly ever wore them, no matter that her fathers would have preferred her to. Since that was a common conversation between them, she decided she would do her best to be the epitome of feminine charm this night. It was only one night, after all. Not daring to spend time with a bath as her wet curls were impossible to deal with, she quickly washed her face and tried to make her untidy hair behave. Her auburn tresses would not be tamed. Finally, giving in, she thrust a mithril clip in each side to at least attempt to keep the curls from her face.

As she slid the dress over her head, it shimmered in the soft candlelight and she was amazed as the colors shifted and mutated from black to deep burgundy and back. She was amazed that she had not noticed how truly beautiful the gown was. Sliding on her slippers, Sídhiel stared in the full length mirror. She was merely five years from her majority; when would she begin to look more Eldar than Edain? Twirling in the dress, hoping to see her form become more lithe and less buxom, she was disappointed as the cut of the dress only seemed to accentuate her curves. With her hair pulled back at the sides, it was obvious there were no gentle tips to her ears, only dull rounds. Wistfully she looked again in the mirror, hoping to see something that would clearly shout to all who saw her that she was of Elvenkind and not simply a human orphan raised by two elf lords. It was no use, and she frowned at the reflection that betrayed her heart.

Before she lost her nerve and changed into her usual concealing tunic and leggings, she grabbed a necklace and earrings and raced from the room, determined to banish her melancholy thoughts for far happier ones. This was her father’s begetting day, after all.

~~~*~~~

As she hurried down the halls, she passed by the entrance to the gallery and two forms obviously deep in animated discussion caught her eye. Elladan and Elrohir were talking and none too sedately, either. Grimacing as her words came back to her, she decided upon a different destination in that instant. The festivities could wait a moment or two longer. She had to make amends to Legolas. Quietly she changed directions and went straight for the training area. Sídhiel did not realize that Elladan saw her pass and assumed that she was bound for the Hall of Fire.

As she expected, Legolas was standing in the dwindling sun, his form still and concentration perfect as he fired arrow after arrow. The soft snick as the arrow was released was followed soon after by a solid thunk as wooden shaft met target. The Mirkwood prince turned, his eyes hooded as he spoke. “Ah, it is you, Sídhiel. I thought I recognized your stride, but the swirl of a silken dress confused me.” He turned and quickly nocked another arrow, pointedly ignoring Sídhiel as he fired.

“Legolas…” Sídhiel was a tactile person and needed to touch, she always had. She stepped closer to the prince and gently touched his arm. “Please? May I have a moment of your time?”

Lowering his bow, Legolas turned to face Sídhiel, his face an emotionless mask.

“I am so sorry for speaking out of turn. The words were cruel and hurtful. Please forgive me.” Sídhiel’s dark blue eyes glittered as they met icy blue ones.

“Your words were merely the truth spoken plainly. You have nothing to apologize for.” His words were stiff, but not angry.

“Truth or no, some words should not be uttered and those were uncalled for.” She hesitated. “I… I consider you a friend, Legolas, and one does not purposefully wound those you care for. My mouth too often moves without my brain being engaged first. Or at least that is what Ada always says.” Sídhiel looked up at the prince, and smiled shyly, hoping he could find it in his heart to forgive her.

Instead, Legolas changed the subject. “You look lovely. The dress suits you.” He twirled his finger, indicating that he wanted to see her in her entirety. As she turned, he whistled softly. “Why are you not clad like this all the time? It fits you and your position.”

Unsure how serious Legolas was, she studied him intently before answering truthfully. “I am not comfortable with how I look… so obviously not Eldar. I prefer this…” she waved her hand down her torso, “to be well camouflaged.”

For the first time since Sídhiel arrived, Legolas smiled. “Do not hide who you are. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Is not one of the greatest of us Peredhel?” She truly does not realize the beauty the melding of Edain and Eldar create and why ‘Roh holds such sway over my heart.

“Well then. Does that mean you forgive me?” Her smile was blinding as she looked hopefully up at Legolas.

The prince returned her smile and nodded. “Indeed. How could I not?” He was about to turn and nock another arrow when Sídhiel stopped his arm. “Come with me to the party? Please? I will help you gather your arrows so we can be there soonest. Say you will.” Pleading, she tugged on his arm, unwilling to take no for an answer.

Legolas hesitated. He yet had much to think on, but so many had gone to such lengths that he really should attend the festivities. He was prince of the realm of Mirkwood and had perfected the mask appropriate to such parties. And, looking into Sídhiel’s eager face, he realized that he was not angry with her, or even with Elrohir. He was mostly mad at himself for the underlying truth to her earlier words. He followed Elrohir too eagerly, and knowing that he was meant only for Elladan did cause Legolas to accept less attention and care from his lover than was his wont. “Aye, I will go with you.” He held her back from running into the woods to retrieve arrows. “You forget your attire. Silk dresses and brush do not get along. I will be quick.”

Sídhiel watched his form disappear into the woods. She had always marveled at the prince’s changeling demeanor. He could be so formidable in the practice arena, or wildly silly when he and Elrohir were teasing her, and even coldly calculating in the council chamber, but underlying it all was a grace and gentleness. Legolas held himself regally but without airs, Sídhiel had always tried to learn from him. Unfortunately, she felt her interpretation fell woefully short of the real thing. She really hoped that Elrohir appreciated the treasure that was the prince of Mirkwood.

~~~*~~~

Elladan managed to interrupt the conversation in Elrond’s study without it appearing to be anything but coincidental. Conveniently enough, the conversation quickly and easily turned to food and, in short order, they were all walking down the hallways in companionable silence.

As they continued on past the dining hall and moved toward the Hall of Fire, Erestor’s eyes narrowed. “Are we not eating dinner?” Looking at Glorfindel, he realized his mate was as puzzled as he was.

Elrond hesitated a brief moment and then, having an idea, spoke up. “Logoneth mentioned that the floors in the dining hall need to be polished, so she wanted us out of there. Nothing to it, really.”

Erestor was suspicious, which Gildor readily detected. He had promised Sídhiel that her surprise would not be given away, so he began to tease the advisor. “Ah, since it is your begetting day, you doubt that this could be a mere coincidence? You think too highly of yourself, my friend. Surely some things occur around here without your knowledge?” Gildor laughed out loud and wrapped his arm around Erestor’s neck.

All were laughing easily as they teased Erestor when they arrived at the large double doors to the Hall of Fire. //Roh? Are you ready in there?//

//Gods, no! Sídhiel is not here! Where is she, tôr?//

Elladan stifled a groan. //What am I to do? We cannot just stand here.//

//There is nothing else you can do. You must come in. Sídhiel will have our heads, but you have no choice. At least we will face her wrath together.//

Elladan threw open the doors and stepped back. As Erestor and Glorfindel walked in, the entire hall erupted in loud cheers and bright cries of “Happy Begetting Day!”

~~~*~~~

“Should I not clean up before we go, little one?” Legolas was barely presentable in his own estimation.

Sídhiel shook her head. “Nay. You look marvelous.” She cocked her head and smiled brightly up at the prince. “I must admit that Adar is right. You could make a potato sack look glorious.”

Legolas laughed lightly at the compliment. Sídhiel was never one for mincing words. “Since it is your party, I will defer to your judgment, then.” Holding his arm out for her to take, he continued. “Shall we?”

As they neared the Hall of Fire, they both heard that the party had already started. Sídhiel’s eyes widened as they stood in the open double doors staring into the room. Congratulations and best wishes were still ringing out toward Erestor who was standing in the middle of the hall surrounded by well wishers. As her eyes quickly scanned the hall, they finally lit upon Elladan’s form. He felt eyes upon him and turned. When their gaze met, Sídhiel’s hurt was conveyed in the look she shot him.

Breaking the brief contact, Sídhiel turned to Legolas. “Well, it seems they could not wait. Shall we go in and greet Ada and Adar?” She plastered a smile on her face and entered the room upon Legolas’ arm.

As the pair strode in, the hall quieted slightly, making the folk in the center of the hall aware that something was occurring. As Sídhiel neared, Glorfindel turned. When he caught sight of his daughter, he nudged Erestor. The minute he turned, Sídhiel rushed forward and into his arms. “Happy Begetting Day, Ada! I love you.”

While still holding her, Erestor spoke quietly, for her only. “I was worried for a moment when you were not here. Is all well?”

She replied, whispering into his neck. “Aye. It is… now. I had some amends to make. My mouth went off, yet again.”

Pulling back from the tight embrace, Erestor looked into his daughter’s eyes. “Thank you for all of this. I was most surprised.”

Glorfindel interrupted at that moment, laughing. “That is an understatement. Do I not get a hug, too, iell nín?”

“But of course.” Sídhiel hugged him tightly and he lifted her off the ground. She began giggling, unable to stop herself. “Stop it, Adar! I am not a child any longer.”

“You will always be a child to me,” Erestor and Glorfindel chorused, causing Sídhiel to roll her eyes and groan at them.

The party was boisterous and continued long into the early summer night until, at last, the small family left the Hall of Fire arm in arm. When they arrived at their rooms, Sídhiel went in first and strode to her fathers’ bedroom. Pushing the door open, she stood back, sure this time that her planning had not gone astray. The room was awash with candle light, another bottle of Celeborn’s sparkling wine was chilling on the nightstand, the fresh silken linens on the turned down bed were strewn with rose petals, and the curtains danced in a slight breeze from the open windows.

Erestor’s and Glorfindel’s eyes were alight with joy, and they turned to Sídhiel who they gathered in their arms. “I love you both so much, I wanted to show you, and have you know that I am no longer a child.” She stood back and kissed each one on the cheek. “I am staying with Naeriel this night… for you both.” She smiled mischievously and shot back as she left. “The windows are open, so please keep it down so you do not embarrass me!” She laughed and left at a quick pace, hoping not to get caught by either of them for that remark.

~~~*~~~

As soon as the door closed behind their daughter’s swiftly retreating form, Glorfindel locked it. Once he returned to his mate, he wrapped his arms around Erestor’s waist and leaned in to rest his chin upon the dark-haired elf’s shoulder. “Sídhiel went to so much trouble, we should do her work justice do you not think?”

Erestor shivered at the intent behind the words softly brushing past his ear. “Aye, we should avail ourselves of all she provided, especially the sparkling wine. I do find that I enjoyed it greatly this morn.”

Glorfindel moved to the side table to open and pour two glasses of Celeborn’s wine. After an idea that Elrond had suggested when he mentioned the new wine, Glorfindel took two strawberries from the fruit and cheese plate and dropped them in the glass. The wine bubbled around the fruit and gave off a subtle, sweet aroma. When he turned back to his lover, his breath caught in his throat at the enticing sight before him. Erestor had removed his formal robes, which were pooled around his now bare feet on the floor. He had also divested himself of his under tunic and stood in naught but his leggings. He had somehow managed to loosen his hair from its bonds and it floated free, wavy tendrils teasing his cheeks and neck.

The blond was instantly at Erestor’s side, handing him a glass, his growing desire quite evident. Glorfindel raised his glass in a toast. “To you, my love. In all the days of this world, none was more monumental to my life than the day you were sired.”

Erestor’s crooked smile lit his face as he raised his glass. “And to you… there can be no better present than you beside me. I shall never forget the day you rode into the valley… my heart was only yours from that moment on.” They drank and the bubbles again tickled Erestor’s nose, causing him to struggle mightily to stifle more giggles.

Glorfindel laughed and kissed the tip of Erestor’s nose. “Do not hold it back. You are adorable when you giggle like a maiden.”

Erestor’s eyes flashed and he attempted to glare at his mate. “I do not giggle like a maiden. I giggle like an elf who has thoroughly enjoyed his begetting day.” He tipped back the glass and gently caught the strawberry between white teeth. Offering it to his lover, their lips met as they shared the fruit, causing a moan at the explosion of tastes on his tongue, sweet fruit, wine, and Glorfindel; to him, nothing was sweeter than the taste of his golden haired mate.

Glorfindel was intoxicated by the sight of Erestor, his dark eyes half lidded, ruby lips parted, fair skin lightly flushed. He was irresistible at this moment, and the Elda tugged his mate firmly against him, taking his lips in a searing, plundering kiss. “I want you, lover. I can never get enough of you.” When Erestor leaned against him, both elves’ hearts thudding, Glorfindel tipped Erestor’s chin back and leaned in to mark the slim column of flesh. Erestor arched his back at the sensation as Glorfindel growled, “Mine.”

“Always,” came the breathless reply. Turning lust-darkened eyes to his mate, Erestor took both glasses and set them upon the table. “You are wearing too many clothes, my love.”

Glorfindel was reaching to strip off his tunic when his hands were stopped. “My begetting day. I get to unwrap my last present.” Erestor’s eyes were dark with desire, and the promise in them wrenched a moan from Glorfindel. He dropped his arms to his sides and allowed himself to be slowly undressed although the teasing and anticipation was sorely testing his patience. After what seemed like hours on end, Glorfindel stood in all his glory before his mate. Erestor took his own leggings off and pressed their bare flesh together. “Come to bed and make love to me.”

Glorfindel scooped Erestor up in his arms and kissed him hungrily. “My pleasure, my only.”

~~~*~~~

Sídhiel leaned back on her favorite perch, high above the waterfall, staring into the depths of the sky. Things were so unsettled inside her head; she never felt that there was balance in her life any longer, her emotions and moods swirled too quickly for her to feel at ease, but today... Today had restored some measure of equilibrium. She smiled at the image of her fathers slow dancing to a haunting melody by Gelirion. She had pulled it off. They were happy. She was happy. For now.

*****

Translations:

Laer – Summer
Ada – daddy, what Sídhiel calls Erestor
Adar – father, what Sídhiel calls Glorfindel
iell nín – my daughter
tôr – brother

*****

THE END

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