Against all odds

Chapter nineteen New music

Elrond rubbed his temples. He was slowly getting a head ache.

It was impossible for him to get anything done. The papers around him seemed to bite him if he so much as looked in their direction. They all were about some small issues in the valley. One elf claimed another had taken something without paying, which the second elf obviously denied, claiming he had carved a beautiful chair as payment. All papers were issues like that, little arguments amongst the villagers.

Elrond preferred to toss them into the waste basket, but he had to solve them. He had no idea how to deal with them though. Erestor normally handled these affairs and with each new one his fascination towards the raven-haired counsellor increased.

After re-reading the fifteenth document for the third time Elrond growled out loud and threw them in the air. And that precise moment Erestor had chosen to walk in, unsuspecting of a paper rain inside. “Silly elves! Don’t they know there are more important things to worry about than who gets which dress!” Unaware of the arrived company Elrond voiced his frustration to the air and scooped the remaining documents of his desk. He jumped when Erestor spoke.

“I always find it rather relaxing to read about those ‘silly’ problems.” He walked in and started collecting the papers. When Elrond looked as if he had gone mad and was about to check Erestor’s temperature, the counsellor added. “If a simple dress is the worst of their problems it shows that we are doing our jobs. They feel secure and are happy.”

“And yet all it does is to frustrate me. I don’t know how you do it. Here, take it all.” And with that the ruler of Imladris shoved the remaining pile of papers into Erestor’s hands. “Do your thing. I’m going to make something for my headache.”

He really wanted to look after Erestor, but knowing he was unwanted drove Elrond into overdrive. He left Erestor to the pile of pity problems and went to his room to brew a healing potion.

It took Erestor all day to work his way through the mess, though he did not realise it. He had not noticed Elrond silently coming back into the study and he had not even noticed how Elrond constantly glanced at him, making sure Erestor wouldn’t overdo things. And when one of the servants entered, asking both lords if they would be coming for dinner or if they’d be taking it in here, Erestor jumped and released a startled yelp. The servant hurried away and Elrond tried to calm Erestor down. “Relax, meldir. I think it best to go to dinner, since we have a guest. If we do not both show up, Legolas is bound to start asking questions.”

Elrond was already walking towards the door but when Erestor remained seated, Elrond stopped and turned, wondering if Erestor had even heard him. “Meldir? Do you need a hand?”

Erestor blinked as Elrond’s words entered his brain. He had been completely lost in thought. “No, no, I can manage.” He had no idea what he was supposed to manage, but manage it he would. He always did. Suddenly an annoyed tapping nose entered his hearing. He looked up to find a highly frustrated elflord directly in front of him.

Seeing Erestor go back to work had irritated Elrond. He knew Erestor well enough to know Erestor would not eat if he didn’t drag the advisor to dinner. “Well, Erestor. Do you plan on sitting there all evening? Dinner is getting cold.”

Now Erestor realised the time and he was startled to know he had almost forgotten. Suddenly his stomach made itself known to him, telling him it demanded nourishment. He stood and followed Elrond to the dining room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas carefully re-braided his hair. He had taken a long leisurely bath and had taken his time getting dressed. He knew he was a bit late, but Elrohir and Elladan had not yet ruffled on his door. Which either meant the twins were late too or he had gotten the time wrong.

Legolas looked at his reflection. Not the best way to go to a party, but he did not really care today. Somehow the whole atmosphere seemed wrong. Nobody was really there, it seemed and duriinneinner he had seen Erestor’s condition.

He had seen how the counsellor had leaned towards Elrond and Legolas had seen how Elrond seemed to pour his strength into Erestor. Thranduil had told Legolas enough for him to recognize a bond when he saw one. He frowned to himself, wondering how old this bond was. Maybe this bond was the reason for everyone’s weird behaviour? He just did not know. He wanted to ask someone but he also did not wish to be inconsiderate or uncaring. And there was no telling what his questions might provoke. Maybe he would learn more during the party tonight? He really hoped so.

Legolas was so absorbed into his thoughts he did not hear the twins knock on his door. It was not until Elladan peeked inside and called him two times that Legolas responded.

When Legolas stood next to him Elladan hit the blond on the shoulders in a friendly fashion. “Finally. I thought you’d become a statue. And we have enough of those. Come, the party awaits us.” Legolas smiled and graciously fell into step between the twins.

Suddenly, with the Room of Fire in view, he stopped. The twins obediently followed suit. “I am sorry, But I just need to know. Where have we seen each other before, Elrohir? I just can’t seem to get it into my head.”

Elladan looked like he was about to hit Legolas but Elrohir smiled. “Ata’s council. When you offered your bow to the Hobbits. We bumped into each other afterwards.”

Legolas frowned. He could recall that day, but not Elrohir. Elrohir touched his shoulder. “Don’t fret about it. It was a long time ago and I must admit that I looked more like a vagabond than myself.”

Elladan beamed. “Oh yeah, I remember. We just came back from one of our trips.” Elladan never referred to it as orchunts any more. “Elrohir is right, Legolas, don’t fret. Come, let’s enjoy the party.” And together they entered the room.

Glorfindel already had drank his share and was loudly retelling several tales of hise. Le. Legolas smiled at the image of Erestor trying to dodge Glorfindel’s broad arm waves as the blond retold his tales. He also saw how worried Elrond observed the scene and that brought an even bigger smile to Legolas’ face.

Elladan shook his head as he saw Legolas smile again. He didn’t think there was an elf that smiled or laughed as much as Legolas did. Elrohir quickly kicked his brother in the sheens. This was not the right way to behave. Elladan had not seen it coming and therefore released a little yelp, drawing Legolas’ attention. “Elladan?”

“Elrohir kicked me, that’s all.” Those words got him another kick from Elrohir, who looked at his brother angry. “That’s it, Adan, no wine for you. You’re already drunk.” Legolas smiled broadly at those words.

Uncaring of any more kicks from his brother Elladan voiced his thoughts. “Really, Legolas, there’s not an elf alive that smiles or laughs as much as you do. Why, my friend? You saw the Rin up up close? You’ve seen so much for your little life and…”

“Who are you calling little? I’m not much younger than you are. And I am entitled to laugh and smile whenever I want to.”

“Yes, but, I’d rather think you wouldn’t after seeing all you’ve seen.” Elladan’s dry reply was serious.

“Indeed I’ve seen more darkness than I’d care to remember but it also puts more value to the nice things. Such as friendship, camaraderie, love, flowers, anything. And if you don’t understand than I’m wasting my breath.” Legolas turned around but at that moment there was a high yelp followed by a loud thud. Glorfindel had finally managed to hit Erestor with one of his arms and both counsellor and seneschal had collapsed on the floor.

Elrond was besides them immediately. He roughly pushed Glorfindel away, ignoring the small whimpers the blond released. He was more concerned about Erestor. For him Erestor came first. “Meldir, are you hurt? Are you alright?” Erestor brushed Elrond’s hand away just as roughly as Elrond had done Glorfindel. The pained look was obvious to Legolas, who quickly stored the information away.

Elrohir, who had knelt down besides Glorfindel to check the blond, chuckled. “He’s fine, just asleep. Someone help me put him on a couch.” Legolas instantly offered a hand and together they manhandled Glorfindel until the blond was resting peacefully on the couch.

Erestor had gotten back to his feet and he sat down on a chair. He felt a bit groggy. Everybody noticed the tension, but Lindir refused to let it stop him. He started singing an old song about rivers and flowers and running horses. His song brought back the good spirits and the party came back to live.

Elladan noticed Lindir had his own harp with him and a glitter appeared in his eyes. He whispered something into Elrohir’s ears and ran off. He had to hurry.

Elrohir had a hard time covering for Elladan, especially to Elrond who had become highly suspicious at Elladan’s sudden departure and Elrohir would have given everything away had Legolas not come to his rescue. “I believe Elladan finally figured out where I hid his bow.”

Elrond doubted Legolas’ words were true but he decided to give his eldest born the benefit of the doubt. If Legolas was willing to cover for him, Elladan mustn’t be in that much trouble.

It didn’t take Elladan long to come back to the room, panting heavily. He leaned on his brother for support as he waited for his breath to become normal again. A second after Elladan had entered the room two birds landed on the windowsill. Elrond smiled as he recognized his feathered friend but immediately went into a guilt trip. He had forgotten about another friend. He quickly ordered a servant to fetch his deer for him and guide it here. Looking like his lord had lost his marbles the servant went to do as he was told.

When Elladan had his breath again he signalled his father closer. Frowning, Elrond obliged. “Ata”, Elladan whispered, “Lindir has a very special instrument. It’s absolutely lovely. I’ve heard him play it and it sounds superb. He should really play it here. He carries it with him. Can you make him play?”

Elrond cocked his head at the strange request. He had never noticed Lindir carrying anything around, but Elladan seemed sure and his own curiosity was roused. Elrond turned and raised his voice, so all could hear, as he addressed Lindir. “Lindir, I’ve been just informed you have a special musical instrument. Would you not play it for us?”

Lindir threw a look at Elladan, informing Elrond he indeed had such a device. “I’m afraid that’s impossible, my lord?”

“Why?” Elrohir chipped in. He so wanted to hear that magical sound Elladan had described to him earlier. “Don’t tell me you’ve broke it just now. I can see it in your pocket.”

Lindir shyly uncovered his instrument and gave it up when Elrond extended his hand to inspect it. Sounds of wonder and awe were heard as Elrond turned the item around. He carefully handed it back to Lindir. “I’ve never seen anything like it in my whole life and I understand why you are so careful with it. But even I can see it must produce the most wonderful sounds. Will you please share it with us?”

“I would, my lord, but I’m afraid it does not accompany voices as it is now.” Lindir had hung his head. Elrond lowered his eyes in regret, but Elladan spoke next, pointing to the birds. “That’s why I asked them to come. Their voices will not come out over your instrument, Lindir.”

Lindir subsided. He could not deny Elladan tlittlittle pleasure, especially not when Elladan started to beg. So he sat down and started to play.

The birds cocked their heads and it seemed they were listening closely. Suddenly they both started to sing. Their voices filled the roout iut indeed did not override the soft tunes Lindir produced. They filled in harmoniously and together the three created the most beautiful music anyone in the room had ever heard.

When they were done everyone applauded and Elrond smiled at Lindir. “What a marvellous sound it produces. I would love to hear some more, if you don’t mind.” This got a cheer from the others. It seemed they all agreed with Elrond. The birds bowed in approval. They did not mind singing at all. And they had loved the sound as well.

When Elladan had come to them they had first thought him insane and they had only come out of curiosity, but now they had learned Elladan had not exaggerated as he said the instrument was as beautiful as a bird’s voice.

During the second combined efforts of Lindir, Aiwë and his spouse Linyenwaer hesitantly entered the room. Elrond swiftly approached him and gently led his hoofed friend to the warm fire, making sure to soothe him when the see seemed a little dangerous. But Linyenwaer trusted Elrond and soon he laid down on the floor and enjoyed the music. He was extremely happy here and was glad Elrond had refused to kill him but had offered to take care of him instead.

Erestor looked at him funnily. He had not heard about the deer. He tried very hard to remember all that had happened after the binding, but he found most of it a big blur. Elrond saw his expression and signalled Erestor closer. “You two have not met yet. Erestor, this is Linyenwaer, he came to me during my stay in the cabin. And Linyenwaer, this is Erestor”

The deer cocked his head and fixed his eyes on Erestor. He did not know everything that had happened between Elrond and Erestor, but he could feel the tension. He could sense Elrs pas pain and he knew about the love his elven friend had for this strange elf. But Erestor looked right back, piercing his own eyes. A sort of staring contest arose and it was Erestor who was victorious. He addressed Elrond. “I did not know you had a deer.”

“I don’t owe him, Erestor. He’s a friend. And I am sorry for not telling you but things were so hectic lately and I just forgot.” Erestor would have made a sharp comment but just then a sharp piercing sound filled the room, stopping all other sounds.

“Gya’sha. I nuema rancë.” Lindir stood and bowed, signalling his leave. Elrond nodded in understanding, but Elladan stopped him before he had made it to the door. “You’re going to replace the snare?” Lindir nodded, wondering what Elladan could want this time. Elladan smiled wickedly. “And that snare is in your room?” Now Lindir understood. He smiled too. “You want me to alter it so it can accompany elven voices as well? I’ll think about it.”

“What’s that about?” Legolas had asked Elrohir, whispering in his ear. Elrohir turned to face his friend and smiled. “They’re in love, but they don’t know it yet.”

“So theed hed help, do they?”

“Aye.” Elrohir grinned. He had heard about Legolas’ matchmaking between several Mirkwood elves and now his own twin was going to be Legolas’ victim.

Legolas, on the other hand, was contemplating whether or not he should ask Elrohir about Elrond and Erestor, but he didn’t want to cause trouble for anyone. He had always considered the Half-elves a part of his family and he didn’t want them to fight amongst themselves.

Elladan rejoined his brother and Legolas. Seeing the prince’s serious face he got a bit worried. “Legolas? Is something wrong?”

“Eh, no, nothing. Elladan.”

But Elladan didn’t believe him and eyed Legolas suspisly.sly. Elrohir giggled. Elladan always resembled Elrond when he did that.

Realising he had to tell the truth Legolas sighed. He cocked his head into the desired direction. The twins followed his gaze and saw their father petting Linyenwaer, who had effectively trapped Erestor at their side by resting his head atop the counsellor’s lap. Involuntarily the twins smiled. Maybe everything would turn out right?

Before any of them could explain it to Legolas Glorfindel woke up and started singing immediately. Unfortunately, a drunk Glorfindel could not hold tune and everyone’s fingers were directed to the ears instantly. The birds that had stayed on the windowsill, waiting for Lindir to come back, now flew away in fright.

“Now look what you’ve done, you blundering oaf.” Lindir had re-entered the room and had seen the birds fly off. “Now who am I going to accompany with Lindóma? Next time do us all a favour and don’t awaken until you’ve sobered.”

“Or don’t get drunk at all.” Erestor chipped in.

Glorfindel’s pride was hurt and he looked at Elrond. But the lord of Imladris agreed with the others. “I am sorry, Glorfindel, buur vur voice seems to have abandoned you. Until you are sober again, I forbid you to sing. You did scare Aiwë off and Lindir’s instrument can’t accompany a voice.” Elrond would have said more, but Elladan interrupted. “It can, ata, but not as it is. Lindir has to alter it before it can accompany a voice. The sounds will be louder then.” When Elladan looked at Lindir, silently asking him if he had explaining it correctly, Lindir nodded.

“Well, it’s a pity then, but we’ll manage.” Elrond sat back down. He could care less about who sang or recited poetry as long as Glorfindel wasn’t one of them. Not tonight. But after the performance Lindir and the birds gave, nobody was willing to go. Somehow it all would be a step down.

Lindir merely sat down on his seat and started working on Lindóma. Elladan signalled Legolas and Elrohir to come closer. He had a pretty good idea of what the other was doing. Lindir smiled at the eldest twin, telling him he was right. Lindir was altering his instrument to accompany voices. When he was done he spoke up. “I’ve made the required alterations and now Lindóma can accompany a voice. So, who will sing what?”

Everybody wanted to be accompanied by that beautiful instrument and a fight would have started had Erestor not spoken. “You are the minstrel here, Lindir, and it is your instrument. So to me it is only logical you are the one to sing.” It weren’t the words that had calmed every doy down, but the fact no one understood. Erestor had voiced everything in Valarin. When he received questioning looks he returned them just as surprised.

Elrond laid his hand on Erestor’s shoulder. “Now I have a room full of witnesses, Erestor. You spoke Valarin. Again. But don’t fret. We’ll soon figure out why. In the meantime I’m going to translate.” He had whispered the words so only Erestor would hear. He now addressed all others, translating Erestor’s words. A cheer arose. Everyone agreed with Eor’sor’s point of view and when Lindir nodded his approval all went silent, anxiously awaiting the melody.

As soon as he had made himself comfortable, Lindir looked around. Everyone had gathered around and the twins had dragged Legolas along and were now just in front of him.

“Well, I don’t really know what I should sing. Does anyone mind if I sing a new song I composed?” That was like asking a rose to smell lovely. They agreed and made themselves morefortfortable.

Lindir first drank some water and then spoke once more. “Thank you. It’s titled Yárë fear.” And then he began to sing:

Vantëa ter hísië
Lastarë oreryanen
Rautëa quen’ ya calë fëaryan
Huini caseryava nurtëar aldarissen
Rë ná nessa nan lilloëa

Fëar lehtëar
I úhlonivë lóméssë
Ostimë ar parna ilyamassë
Eleni ani manné melindarin
Lirë ter i morna
Yárë nindarinen fëarya lencanë i mannén

Rë lencëa mallesserya, yára fëarya
Rë rautëa quen’ ya envinyata
I attëa permë fëorya
Sin harma ná yalië
Ránë ar ilya sin foina alassë

Orerya ná helca, ná váquetë, ná vanwa
Er ëa aqua, titta lencamë
Rë úseruva, rë rautëa ilyamberen
Rë méra lerya, yoperya melmë

Ilquen nar anaira
An i ránë fëariva
Me ‘rautier licuilinen amberessë
Írë tuvim vandelma me autuvar amberello
Írë i attëa att yár yárë fëar

Rë lencëa mallesserya, yára fëarya
Rë rautëa quen’ ya envinyata
I attëa permë fëorya
Sin harma ná yalië
Ránë ar ilya sin foina alassë

His voice carried across the room. Elladan now totally understood why Lindir had said the instrument had been made for him, it so fitted his voice.

For the duration of the party Lindir was asked to sing it again and again. And he always obliged.

End chapter nineteen
TBC

Note:
The song Lindir sings is called ‘Ancient souls’ and the original belongs to Gabrielle Angelique. And it’s one of my favourites so I just wanted to put it in one of my fics. And I choice this one.

Translations:

Gya’sha. I nuema rancë means Damn. The snare broke.
Note:
This swearword isn’t mine. I got it from a list of Sindarin and Quenya words a fd fod found for me on the internet. I have no names so I can’t even give credit to those who created it. I doubt they would say Damn, but just try and think of an Elven equivalent please.

Lindóma means singing voice. (see chapter 17)

Yárë fear means ancient souls

About the song:
During the translation I had to altered some sentences and words. (not the meaning of the text, that’s sacred.) I will not give you an interlinear translation here, just the lyrics, but if you doh toh to have it, let me know and I’ll give them.
Hese are the lyrics (I do not know if Gabrielle Angelique is the author as well, I only know she sings it) :

Walking through the mist
She listens with her heart
Searching for someone to touch her soul
Shadows of her head hiding in the trees
She’s young but she feels so very old

Souls are running less
The silence of the night
Blend and mixed together all around
Stars brought lovers past
That sing through the dark
To ancient throws her soul lost her past

She’s lost upon her road, her ancient soul
She’s searching for someone to make her whole
The other half of her soul
This treasure is her call
Wandering and all this hidden joy

Her heart is cold, it’s silent, it’s lost
Just to be complete, a little cost
She wont rest, she’s searching every world
She wants to lost, to share love

Everyone is very old
For the wandering of souls
We’ve searched through many lives on the earth
When we find our way we miss the world away
When the other two, the ancient souls

She’s lost upon her road, her ancient soul
She’s searching for someone to make her hole
The other half of her soul
This treasure is her call
Wandering and all this hidden joy


More notes:

Hi there everybody,

Just letting you know I am still alive (yes lucky me) and back from holidays. Pfffffff.

I am gettbackback into the tale, but i am afraid it will be a little longer before I update.

AND:
I have a beta!!!!!!!!!! So somewhere between now and someday I will update it to a betaed version.

Last change to make request for the tale (hihihi)

Love you

Peniel

PS thanks for reviewing, and sorry I do not respond but I constantly forget that. (my head is full of holes)