Return to The Lonely Mountain

Title: Return to The Lonely Mountain
Chapter 6.
Author: Sarah
Pairing: Legolas/Gimli
Rating: G this chapter.
Beta, helpful suggestions and wonderful encouragement: Vinni. Thank
you! Any mistakes left are mine.
Disclaimer: Tolkien owns them. I make no money from this story.
Archive: Axe and Bow. Others please ask.
Feedback: Please.


Legolas leaned against Gimli's knees and opened the second box. Inside
were two bracelets, one nestled within the other. Puzzled, Legolas
gazed up at Gimli wondering if the dwarf had any clue as to why the
items had been given to them.

Shaking his head, Gimli said, "I do not understand. What do they mean
"a promise kept"? Why give this to us?"

"I was hoping it was a dwarven custom that you forgot to tell me
about. I suppose…" Legolas picked up the smaller bracelet. Frowning he
said, "I have no idea!"

"Perhaps it is something from the treasure of Smaug. And maybe the
dwarf had this jewellery and felt it belong to elves. So he or she
promised themselves that as soon as they could, they'd give it back."
Gimli sighed. "It sounded like a good theory when I thought of it but
spoken aloud it seems ridiculous. Let me see one of them, Legolas."

Legolas placed the bracelet he was holding in Gimli's palm. The dwarf
examined it carefully, stating, "Opals and sapphires. Nothing to
indicate that it is elven work except…" Gimli turned the item in his
hands.

"Yes?"

"Well, the gems are set in silver." Gimli stretched the bracelet
carefully so Legolas could see the intricate silver. "They are two
matching bracelets which makes me think they were exchanged by lovers.
A dwarf would be more inclined to use gold or mithril. Whereas an elf…"

"Whereas an elf would use silver especially during the time of
betrothal." Legolas answered.

"Aye, but it is possible that they do not relate to each other at all
or that one of the lovers had a fondness for silver. And if I cannot
tell, how would any other dwarf know that these belong to elves? So
that notion is not correct."

They sat for a moment musing over it. Then Gimli said, "We will take
them to Naur. In the unlikely event they are stolen, we will not be
accused of it as we reported having them immediately. And we haven't
had time to take anything! Naur will report it to the King."

Alarmed, Legolas asked, "You believe these were stolen?"

"No. It is very uncommon for a dwarf to steal. We do put our valuables
in safes, but most of us do not even lock our doors. These bracelets
while lovely and of great worth are not so high in value that they
would entice lust in a dwarf. No, I do not deem they were pilfered,
but I do not want to take any chances."

When Gimli had hidden the box inside a pocket in his shirt, they left
for Naur's. In the quiet lane, they passed a dwarf with black hair
and beard pulling a cart filled with bottles. Gimli stopped him to
discuss having deliveries at their house again. Introductions were
made, and the dwarf looked up at Legolas with mournful grey eyes.
*Either elves remind him of something sad, or he thinks it is a sad
day when one is in Erebor.* Yet Kaneren was polite, asking Legolas
what type of beverages he preferred.

Once he had departed Gimli glanced up at Legolas, "I am trying not to
be defensive, Legolas, but it was not necessary for him to act as if
he was at a funeral!"

"True. Perhaps I remind him of the war or maybe he lost a loved one in
our fight against the Enemy. His unhappiness may not relate to us at
all." Legolas reached for Gimli's beard and then quickly remembered
that he was no longer supposed to caress his dwarf's beard in public.

Gimli's grin showed that the warrior knew what Legolas had been about
to do. "It would be the same as if I touched your ears in front of
many elves."

"Nay, it would not be. My ears are sensitive in a way your beard is not."

Gimli laughed. "You are right, my elf."

Naur's gate had a statue of a child on each side; one with flowing
brown tresses and the other with curly blonde hair. Inside the
courtyard were four children including Naur's youngest son, Tweor,
playing with a ball. He looked up and called, "Go on in, please,
father is expecting you."

"Thank you, Tweor." Gimli replied.

Opening the round green door revealed a large cloak room. A dwarf with
snowy white hair and beard was retrieving a brown cloak from a golden
peg. He dropped the garment to the floor and stared at them.

Gimli said, "Bovun, this is Legolas Thranduilion, my one."

"At your service." Legolas said bowing.

"Bovun, son of Ahoyer, at yours and your family's." He bowed. He
stared up at Legolas and said, "I never thought I'd see an elf in the
city! You are more than welcome, but I must say it is a shock!" He
picked up his wrap and stated, "I hope you have a good stay here!"
Hastening out the door, Legolas heard him mutter, "I must find some
place to sit down!"

Gimli sighed, and Legolas grinned. "It's amusing." He whispered.

There were five oval doors leading off the entry chamber. The far left
one was open, and Gimli went through it. The room had beige carpet
and was illuminated with light from the window which looked out on the
playing children. Naur's wife Fain was sitting with another dwarf at
small round table in front of the window. Scattered across the table
were parchments, ink, and two quills. Fain smiled as they came into
the room. "Gimli! Legolas! Welcome! This is my friend, Beaun. Beaun,
this is Legolas, Gimli's one."

Standing up and bowing the woman said, "Beaun, daughter of Verfolir,
at your service. I am glad to see you back safe, Gimli, and with your
one no less! That is wonderful!"

Legolas bowed and answered, "Thank you for rejoicing with us. Legolas,
son of Thranduil, at yours and your family's."

Fain motioned to two dwarves seated playing chess at a small desk. She
said, "You have already met my oldest son, Naurbur. This is his
friend, Dessen."

Legolas noted that Dessen appeared to several years older than
Naurbur. He had blonde hair and a long ashen beard. "Dessen, son of,
Fifur, at your service," he said, standing and bowing, "I, too, am
happy, both to see Gimli safe and that he has found his one."

"Thank you. Legolas Thranduilion, at yours and your family's."

Fain said, "Naur is in his study. I will take you there."

Naur's study was through another oval door. It was luxuriously lined
with book shelves that reached above the dwarf's head. To the left of
the desk there was a fireplace with more books upon the mantle piece.
Naur sat reading behind a huge desk in the centre of the room. He
smiled as they entered. Getting up, he gestured to some chairs by the
hearth. "Come, let us sit and talk. I am happy to see you wearing
dwarven braids, Legolas! And the gems that are rightly yours! Is your
jewellery a gift from Legolas, cousin?"

When they were seated in the wooden chairs with soft white cushions,
Gimli said, "Aye; and family heirlooms. We thank you for the bed, my
friend."

"I hope you don't mind. I realise that you might have wanted to select
your own, but I felt Legolas would receive enough attention without
your having to haul a bed across Erebor."

"Aye, you are correct. I am glad to have it taken care of!" Gimli
declared.

"So am I. Thank you. I especially appreciate your concern for me."
Legolas stated.

Naur nodded. "I do not hold with all the nonsense! They do not know
you, or they would not talk of stealing spirits! As if anyone could
take one from an unwilling dwarf anyway!"

Gimli and Legolas laughed. Gimli stated, "I said the same to Legolas.
Is there anything worse being gossiped about us that we should be
aware of?"

Naur groused, "There are a few that assume that Legolas is here to spy
on us. And two or three have been very unkind to your father; telling
him that he must have done something wrong in raising you. And some
have added to his own worries by giving him these concerns. Mostly,
though, there has been shock expressed along with a willingness to try
and accept it. No one has voiced a major disagreement with your
relationship. Everyone is very curious about Legolas, but I think the
focus on him will ease quickly enough."

"I hope so!" Gimli replied. "How are things with you, my friend?"

Naur smiled. "I am one of the fortunate people that can say that all
is about the same with us as when you left."

"Is Nauan still having nightmares?" Gimli asked.

"Aye. She is with her brother, Favilur, which is an improvement. For a
while after I got back from battle, she clung to me constantly. We
thought she had recovered, but Fain told me Nauan cried a great deal
when I was in Gondor. I carried her everywhere with me for a time
after I returned to Erebor. I was honoured to be selected as one of
the dwarven representatives to go to Minas Tirith, but only by order
of the King would I leave my daughter again."

There was a knock on the door, and Naur called, "Enter."

A dwarf pushing a serving cart laden with beer, mead, wine and pot of
steaming tea entered the room. There were fresh date bread and
biscuits and a bowl containing grapes, apricots, apples, and pears.
Food and serving dishes were placed in front of them on a long
rectangular table. While the servant was setting the food out, Naur
went back to his desk, returning with a long white envelope.

When the servant had departed, Naur handed the envelope to Gimli.
"Your summons from the King. Nothing you were not expecting. He wishes
to speak with you about the Quest and the events of last year. I
imagine you will want to talk to him about your plans."

"Aye, I did know he would wish to see me. Do you know when, and if he
will have any objection to Legolas being with me?"

Naur laughed. "I did not read it, Gimli! But, aye, he wants to see you
two days from now in the afternoon, and he has no objection to Legolas
being with you."

Gimli opened the missive. Written in gold ink was a request for Gimli
to appear before the King, on the third day after his arrival home.
Gimli was to report on the occurrences of the past year and his part
in the events. The letter also stated that, should he desire it, he
could bring with him anyone who also had knowledge of the war and
Gimli's actions during it.

Gimli smiled, "Aye, you are permitted to come with me, my elf." He put
the message back into the envelope.

Naur asked, "How did it go with your father?"

"Not well." Gimli related how the visit with Gloin had gone.

The scent of the fresh baked bread was enticing, and Legolas nibbled
on a small slice. The archer wondered if Bombur had become fat because
everyone kept giving him delicious food. They were all willing to feed
Gimli.

When Gimli was finished relating the conversation with Gloin, Naur
stated, "That could have been a great deal worse!"

Gimli helped himself to a biscuit and replied, "Worse! Not by much!"

Naur grinned. "You are not disowned or even told you were in disgrace.
You proved you have a temper, but I am sure your father already knew
that. It seems clear that he will not gainsay Legolas being part of
the family."

Gimli finished with his biscuit and said quietly, "Gaian might oppose us."

Naur calmly replied, "She probably will, but hopefully we will be able
to counter any objections."

Legolas had been under the impression that Gimli had not told Naur of
his liaison with Gaian. Gimli's next words confirmed this assumption.

"I did not realise you knew." Gimli answered softly.

"I suspected, Gimli, because of the possessive way she looked at you
sometimes. But I was not certain until you stated that she might
complain about Legolas becoming a part of our family. Why else would
she care?"

They ate silently for a short time. Then Gimli said, "I see Dessen is
still paying attention to Naurbur. Are you more inclined to agree to
the union now?"

Naur sat his mug down with a small thump. "If he'd just once say, "I
love your son and he loves me." I'd give my blessing in a heartbeat.
But no…they talk of how well they work together and enjoy each other's
company and how lucky they are to find their one.

"Love! I want words of love but not once are they given!" Naur
grumbled. "Dessen stands by Naurbur in battle and glad I am for it.
Yet if he wants my son and my blessing too, he needs to mention love
to me. Naurbur is only two years past his coming of age. I told them
to wait another year, although they both protested that having fought
in the war Naurbur has more maturity than most dwarves his age. If
they had griped loud and long, I'd have been happier! Fain and I have
agreed. We will wait six months, and then ask Dessen outright."

"That might be best." Gimli answered. "You've always been able to
judge people very well."

Naur nodded. "I hope for Naurbur's sake that Dessen does love him,
since I am positive that my son loves him. Naurbur may not say so, but
sometimes I catch him studying Dessen the way I often see you gaze at
Legolas." He grinned.

Gimli said, "I suspect that Dessen loves Naurbur. He perseveres and
waits for your blessing instead of risking trouble among the family."

Legolas said, "I have a nephew who visited his wife's parents four
times before he could get up the courage to ask to court her. Her
mother and father are talan makers and instead of requesting
permission, he discussed talans. At length. On the fourth visit, he
asked and was refused. For a month, he called on them once a week. He
told them all the things he admired about their daughter, but still
they would not relent.

"One evening, at the family table, Orecalon complained for the entire
meal about how unreasonable they were and how wonderful she was. At
the end of the feast, my Lord said, "I am now very aware of her good
qualities, but do you love her?"

"When Orecalon vehemently proclaimed he did, my King said, "Then I
suggest you tell her parents that." He did and was granted the
privilege of courting her, and they were betrothed a year later."

Legolas said, "Perhaps Dessen thinks his love for Naurbur is so
obvious to everyone that there is no need to declare it. Orecalon was
under the illusion that his statements of admiration conveyed his love."

Naur listened to Legolas intently. "Ah, you encourage me, my friend.
Thank you!" He took a sip of his wine and asked, "Have the two of you
discussed whether Legolas is to accept the family tattoo or not?"

"We've talked about it. What are the disadvantages to it, and would it
be permitted?" Gimli asked.

Naur replied, "I have studied the matter. There's a lack of clearness
in our law, which maintains that any time a dwarf brings their one
from another realm into his or her home, that person is entitled to
all the rights and privileges that belong to the family the individual
is being brought into. The law often uses the term "the dwarf's one"
but it does not specify that the dwarf's one also has to be a dwarf.
Its intention is to protect a dwarf that comes from, for example, the
Blue Mountains, to live in Erebor.

"This means that as Gimli's one you are entitled to the tattoo, if you
so desire. According to that law, you have the same rights as any
dwarf. Because…" Naur shrugged. "Our family is an important one. If we
accept you, no one will argue that the law's meaning was never meant
to include an elf. That is good, but of course it also implies that if
someone has a dispute with you, they will expect you to handle it
without going to King Thranduil or another elf. I know you would not,
but that is a limit that would be imposed upon you. They will feel
you should deal with it quietly as all discord among us is managed.
You will be treated as another dwarf and expected to act like one."
Naur smiled at Legolas. "I do not think you will have trouble with
that restriction."

"Nay." Legolas answered. "It is reasonable."

Naur said, "When I was in Minas Tirith, I was worried about how you
would deal with Erebor, since Gimli did not seem inclined to teach you
our ways." He gave Gimli a baleful glare.

Gimli grinned, "I was slow, but Legolas and I were occupied."

Naur laughed. "I am glad that you became unoccupied long enough to
tend to essential business! The other disadvantage that weighed on my
mind in Gondor was the fact that once Legolas is part of the family,
our King has claim to his loyalty. Now I see this as an advantage. It
will halt talk of Legolas being a spy. I believe that we will have no
trouble having Legolas become a family member if that is what you two
decide to do. Roufur will object, but he is against everything.
Remember, Gimli, when he griped over the tapestry of the Blue
Mountains being hung in the meeting chamber?"

Gimli nodded. "He declared that the mountains were not placed correctly."

Naur answered, "Aye, he always has some grievance. As for Gaian, we
will counter whatever objections she raises. The meeting should be in
the afternoon four days from now."

"There is another matter I wish to discuss with you." Gimli poured out
the mystery of the jewellery, concluding by handing Naur the box.

Naur opened it and examined the bracelets. "I will send a notice to
the King, but if these had been stolen, the outcry would have already
been heard. Someone wanted you two to have them. Do not describe them
to anyone. Should someone decide to claim them, they will have to
depict what kind of jewellery it is and what gems are in it." He held
the case out to them.

An odd sensation came over Legolas. Naur's,"Someone wanted you two to
have them." echoed in his mind, and the elf felt the certainty of it
in his heart. He and Gimli were meant to have them. Legolas folded his
fingers around the case and said, "Thank you."

The two dwarves looked questioningly at him. "I believe they are meant
to be ours." Legolas said. Naur seemed satisfied with his
explanation, but a glance from Gimli told the archer that his dwarf
would require more information later.

Naur leaned back in his chair. "How did you fare in Eryn Lasgalen?"

"I see you are aware of the change in designation." Legolas said.

"Aye, and I'm glad for it. It has a lovely elven sound to it. Mirkwood
never seemed like a name elves would bestow upon something."

Gimli began to recount all that had happened in the elven kingdom.
When he was finished, Legolas gave Naur the contract.

Naur examined it and smiled. "All very legal. I wish I could have been
there. I would have loved to watch the official ceremony of your union!"

Gimli smiled. "I wish you and your family could have been there, my
cousin! It was something that will forever remain imprinted in my heart."

"Mine, too. I wish Gimli's family could have attended." Legolas added.

"As the union was already accomplished, it was good that the ceremony
was done so quickly. It can only be to your advantage here in Erebor."
Naur answered.

Gimli nodded. "Aye, and I have errands waiting on me or we could have
waited longer for a formal ceremony. Have you spoken to our King about
the gates of Minas Tirith?"

"Aye, all is in readiness, Gimli. We were just waiting for you. If
tomorrow morning around eight is not too early, you can see everything
that has been prepared. We've been meeting in the same cavern where we
worked on the gates for Erebor. And perhaps you will have the evening
meal with us tomorrow."

They chatted some more of their plans for a time. Naur and Fain had
concurred and intended to move to Aglarond with Gimli.

After Legolas and Gimli had departed from Naur's house, the dwarf
said, "We will put the bracelets in our safe and then go to Bombur's."

Once they had put the King's letter in the desk in the study, they
descended the steps to the chamber containing the safe. Legolas
relayed his experience at Naur's. "I clearly felt we were meant to
have the bracelets."

Gimli frowned. "Is this a feeling similar to your knowing we were
meant to be together or more akin to magic?"

"It is identical to what I experienced in Minas Tirith. I gazed upon
you as you slept after our loving, and I knew we were destined to be
together. Let me see them, Gimli." Legolas replied.

Gimli handed the case to Legolas.

Legolas opened the box and took both bracelets into his hand. He could
sense Gimli's anxiety as it flowed through their bond but nothing
else. "They do not feel evil, my dwarf. I do not sense any magic on
them. Nay, this is what I experienced in Minas Tirith. No magic, just
the heart's confidence."

Gimli gazed up at Legolas, "Last time, I foolishly did not trust your
conviction. This time there will be no doubt from me." He took the
bracelets back from Legolas, placing them within their case and
locking them in the safe. "I am very curious about why someone would
not just outright give them to us. Why the secrecy?"

"It mystifies me, too." Legolas replied. He puzzled over it as they
walked to Bombur's house. Bombur lived not far from Gimli. As they
went by the lake, Legolas stood and enjoyed the mist and pleasant
music of the falls. At the edge of the water, many tiny, brown, spotty
frogs rested and sang.

Noting what Legolas' attention was focused on, Gimli said, "They are
called oegur. They have a secretion on their skin that is poisonous to
predators. It's the males that make the chirping sound."

When Legolas' concentration had returned to Gimli, the dwarf said,
"Bombur likes fresh fish, so he resides not far from the lake."

Bombur's house was on the street just beyond their avenue. It had a
small courtyard with a statue of a brown bear on each side. Gimli went
up to the door and rang the bell. Legolas could hear footsteps coming
their way. A dwarf with fair hair and a dark blonde beard opened the
door. "Gimli!" she exclaimed. "It is good to see you! Bombur will be
so happy!"

She sounded very joyful herself and instinctively Legolas laid a hand
on Gimli's shoulder.

Gimli said, "Comsli, this is Legolas, son of Thranduil. He is my one."

She glanced up at the elf with wide, fearful eyes and hoping to
prevent any tension from Gimli, the archer said, "Legolas Thranduilion
at your service." Legolas kept his tone gentle, since she appeared
young and shy to him.

She bowed and said, "Comsli, daughter of Gretur, at yours and your
family's."

Comsli led them through an oval door into a passageway and past
another entry way. Legolas thought he glimpsed a clock similar to
their own in the chamber at the end. They went through a door to the
left.

It was all Legolas could do to hold back a gasp at the scene before
him. The largest being he had ever beheld sat in a chair before a
table groaning with food. The chair could easily seat five dwarves of
Gimli's size and the table was large enough for a company of dwarves.

Legolas tried to imagine how his Lord would feel if he saw Bombur and
knew that he was accused of being responsible for the dwarf's weight.
Legolas' mind shied away from the idea. He suspected his King's
reaction would not be pleasant.

Spying them, Bombur called, "Gimli! It is good to see you back! Bring
your friend and come have tea!"

When they were closer to the table, Gimli said, "Bombur, this is
Legolas, son of Thranduil, and my one."

Unease coursed through Legolas. What if Bombur resented him or blamed
him for what happened years ago? Gimli had once stated that Bombur was
very good-natured, but Legolas could not prevent the worry that surged
through his veins. He bowed and said, "Legolas Thranduilion at your
service."

Bombur studied him for a second as if trying to remember whether he
had seen Legolas those years ago. He stated, "I am afraid I won't be
getting up. Welcome to Erebor, Legolas! At your service. I don't
recall meeting you before."

"He was not home at the time!" Gimli exclaimed. And too late, Legolas
remembered their bond, and realised that he was sharing his emotions
with Gimli.

Bombur nodded. "Come have a seat, both of you, and help yourself to
some food. I'm delighted that you are home Gimli!"

They sat at the table, and Comsli placed before them dining ware from
an oak cabinet. There was roasted fowl, baked fish steaks, and bread
pudding. A dish of mushrooms sat on their left and on the right was
fresh bread. Bombur handed Legolas a bowl containing baked beans
saying, "Be careful, they're hot."

Inwardly Legolas sighed. He had probably eaten more today than he had
in all of last week. He wondered if he'd ever feel hungry again after
today. Legolas eyed Gimli who was busily digging in to a steaming bowl
of leek soup. The archer glanced back at Bombur. Comsli had a hand on
his shoulder and was practically feeding him stew.

"So where were you?" Bombur asked.

Legolas blinked and focused on Bombur. "Where was I? Oh, at the time
you were in Mirkwood. I was on patrol."

Bombur nodded and asked, "What do you like to drink? I have a bit of
everything including elven wine."

"I prefer the dwarven wine. Thank you," he said to Comsli who had
taken up the wine to pour for him.

Bombur seemed to find this funny, and he laughed merrily. "Like
dwarves, do you?"

"Of course he does! He's my one! And enjoying dwarven wine has nothing
to do with liking dwarves!" Gimli declared.

Legolas took a bite of the beans. Gimli had probably been as patient
as he could be.

Bombur chuckled. Comsli had gone back to his side and was staring at
him with adoration. "I think it is something that tends to go in
families."

"What are you talking about?" Gimli demanded.

Bombur shrugged. "Your father is fond of elves. Why do you reckon he
is always the dwarf that is sent to Rivendell each time the King needs
someone to go there?"

Gimli scowled and took a huge gulp of his mead. Then he retorted, "My
father goes to Rivendell to see Bilbo and as the King's representative."

"Also because he is considered an important dwarf and has no trouble
with Lord Elrond's people because he likes them. Ask him yourself."
Bombur answered cheerfully.

Concluding that he might as well be blunt as the conversation was
already unpleasant, Legolas asked, "Do you feel you still suffer from
the fall in the river in Mirkwood?"

Comsli's green eyes flashed with indignation, and Bombur patted her
hand. "Gloin put that theory into your head, no doubt! Your answer is:
nay! And I am very happy with my life and do not feel I am suffering
at all! I tried to tell that to Gloin, but does he believe me? No! He
rambles on about how I would not know and that I still dream of food!
Of course, I dream of food! There's only one thing that I love better
than a good meal." He patted Comsli's hand again.

*So he cares for her too,* Legolas thought. Out loud, he said, "I ask
forgiveness for my question."

"It's forgotten." Bombur answered, waving a fork. "Gloin gave you the
notion, I am sure. Practically made himself ill from fretting over
Gimli. I told him there was no reason at all an elf and a dwarf could
not love each other if they wished, and you know what he says to me?"

Legolas shook his head, though he did not believe Bombur was waiting
for an answer.

"He says that never have an elf and a dwarf truly loved each other! He
feels that there has been too much distrust in the past for love to
ever grow." Bombur sat his fork down with a clatter and sighed. "It
seems to me that love is stronger than hatred, but my optimism is not
stronger than a father's anxiety."

Bombur picked up the fork and said, "Ah well, we should not judge
Gloin too harshly. Fathers love their sons, and so they will worry.
They can't help it. Besides, we have all been very concerned for
Gimli, and if I am to be honest…" Bombur took a big sip of his wine.
"We aided Gloin in fretting over you. Nori and I were very certain
that the elven King would throw both of you in a dungeon and wait for
you to repent of your relationship. Dori agrees with Gloin that elves
and dwarves do not love each other; at least not for long. Therefore
there must be something besides love to account for Gimli's behaviour."

Glancing up at Comsli, Bombur said, "Have a seat, young one, and share
the meal with us. I'll call for Misnur if I need anything. There's no
reason to have you stand all the time."

They ate in silence for a few minutes then Bombur said hesitantly, "I
was very sad when I heard about Moria. We've had so much mourning in
Erebor. Your arrival home brings happiness to my heart. I am glad you
have found your one despite the shock it was at first and the fear we
all had over it."

"Thank you." Gimli answered. "It is good to be home and to see
everyone." He began to tell Bombur of his plan to move to Aglarond.

The rest of visit went pleasantly. Bombur invited them to share an
evening meal with him five days hence. Gimli agreed, and Legolas
suddenly began to wonder if his dwarf expected him to remember where
they were to be at each meal.

When they were in the avenue again, Gimli asserted, "I am ready."

Legolas did not have to ask what Gimli was ready for, the sudden
nervousness bounding through their connection made it clear. Placing a
hand on his dwarf's shoulder, Legolas quietly said, "Remember, he is
just a disquieted father. Treat everything as alarm for you not as an
accusation."

"Aye, I shall try!"

They passed several dwarves on their way home. Someone with a long
grey beard trotted by with a jangling bag. A dwarf with white hair
strolled past them. He was carrying a shovel, and Legolas could not
help but wonder where he was headed and what his mission was. Two
dwarves were tossing a net into the lake. One of them called, "It's
good to see you home, Gimli!" The other one dropped the net and
exclaimed, "Welcome Legolas!"

Gimli glanced at Legolas and when the archer nodded, the warrior
diverted direction to visit the two. Arriving at their side, Gimli
introduced the brunettes as Paudon and Geali, daughters of Augol.

They bowed and said to Legolas, "We are honoured to meet you."

Bowing, Legolas said, "The honour is mine."

They smiled up at Legolas and Paudon said, "We have heard of the deeds
of the Fellowship, and we offer our thanks. Our brother, Oihur, was
encouraged during battle knowing that others fought elsewhere, and we
were not alone in our struggle against the Enemy."

Geali added, "We are relieved that you both survived the war. You are
welcome here in Erebor, Legolas."

"Thank you." Legolas replied. "Is Oihur well?"

"Aye, he is well." Paudon replied.

They spoke for a short time about the war. As they conversed with the
cheerful women, Legolas could feel some of the apprehension draining
from Gimli.

After Legolas and Gimli departed and were walking toward Gloin's,
Gimli said, "I wish the rest of our people would behave so sensibly!"

Legolas replied, "During our discussion time tonight, I'll impart my
impression of our first hours in Eryn Lasgalen; something I should
have done long ago. You might find it reassuring."

When they arrived at Gloin's, Gimli laid his hand on the door knob and
taking a deep breath, he swung the door open. "Father?" he called as
soon as they were inside the house. Once they were in the chamber
where the first meeting had taken place, Gimli again queried, "Father?"

"Come into the kitchen, son."

Unease rushed through their connection and reaching out, Legolas
halted Gimli and whispered. "I'm hearing care for you in his voice not
anger."

Gimli glanced up at his elf and nodded.

There was only a slight easing of the disquiet Legolas was
experiencing, but it was enough for the archer to feel he was in
control of his emotions.

Gimli led them into the kitchen chamber. When they were seated at a
table fashioned of brown marble, and they had drinks, Gimli said, "I
do not want to talk yet of my love for Legolas, because even if you
cannot come to acknowledge our relationship, there are two things it
is essential that you know. The first is that I love you, my father.
The other is that I am sorry about my uncle. My heart sorrows over the
loss."

"I love you, too, son. Nothing you do alters that, but your devotion
to an elf is incomprehensible to me. And it will be a long time before
I recover from losing my brother. I am aware that you miss him, also.
Moria must have been a nightmare. You are brave, and I am proud of
you!" Gloin replied.

Gimli answered, "Thank you. I am going to be frank with you about
Legolas and matters related to him, for he is a part of me. I cannot
separate who I am from him, nor would I want to. You are having
trouble accepting our bond, and I am having trouble accepting things
that I have learned about you.

"I was told that you watched Thorin mishandle Bilbo and hold the
hobbit over a great height. And I've met Legolas' father now, and I
cannot help but speculate on just how rude the company was to have
provoked the treatment they received from him."

Legolas took a deep breath. He had not expected this from Gimli, and
it was plain that Gloin was surprised too.

"We felt Bilbo had betrayed us." Gloin answered. "He knew Thorin
desired the Arkenstone above all else. We had been through much
together, and yet he chose to ally himself with the elves. I'm not
proud of Thorin's actions, but I empathised with his outrage." Gloin
frowned. He took a sip of his drink. "If you had been there, you would
have done nothing differently."

Gimli sat his own drink down hard. "No one, absolutely no one would
threaten the hobbits in our Fellowship while I stood by and said
nothing! And now I suppose you think that the halflings had some magic
too, and I'm under their influence!"

Irritation and frustration moved through their bond like a swift
current. Legolas tried to remain calm. He was resolved not to let his
dwarf's sentiments rule his own. The archer reflected, *They need to
get the issues out in the open.*

"Don't be ridiculous, Gimli! You seem so changed to me that if I were
not looking at you, I would question if I was truly talking to my own
son."

Gimli stared at Gloin. Then he sighed. "Aye, I've changed." He met his
father's eyes and said, "It is true that I had no fondness for elves
when I went with you to Rivendell. And I was aware when the Quest
started that you would not view it favourably, if Legolas and I became
good friends. Yet…"

Gimli glanced down at the table and then back to his father, "I am
honoured to be Legolas' friend! Honoured! His songs were comfort and
peace to the burdened hobbits, he is a warrior I could rely on in
battle, he was solace to me in Lothlorien, a friend when I had none of
my own kin, and at Helm's Deep, he was love to me and so shall he
always be!"

Now Legolas experienced only love from their connection. He found
Gimli's hand, and the dwarf's strong fingers curled over his'.

Gimli continued, "I love him, and my feelings have nothing to do with
elven magic! Legolas does not need trickery."

Gloin had been sipping his mead and listening to his son. Now his
focus turned to Legolas. "Do you love my son?"

"Yes." Legolas replied. "I love him more than anyone or anything! I
would never take from Gimli what he was not willing to give. I love
him far too much to purposefully do anything that would hurt him."

Gloin searched Legolas' eyes. "If there is no magic involved, then why
am I reminded of Gimli when I gaze into your eyes? It's very strange;
it's almost as if I was talking to Gimli instead of you. Explain that."

Legolas could feel the strain in Gimli, but this was an easy question.
"That is common in elves. Another elf can tell I am married to Gimli…"
The archer noted Gloin's brief start at his words. *It will take him a
while to adjust to the fact.* "…by looking into my eyes. There is no
magic in it. It is simply the way Eru made us. As Gimli is married to
an elf, it is very likely that you will be able to detect me in his
eyes one day, if you currently cannot." Yet even as he spoke the
words, he knew from Gloin's expression of acknowledgement that their
bond had been discerned in Gimli's eyes.

Gloin mused over this for a moment. Legolas was uncertain if his
answer was accepted or not. Gloin peered into Gimli's eyes for a
moment. "If it is normal then why I have I never noticed it in other
elves?"

"I believe the only reason you perceive it now is because you care so
much for Gimli. I am not denying that I have a union of the spirit
with Gimli. I think, though, you are not referring to that. You assume
that through some form of enchantment, I am causing Gimli to imagine
that he loves me when he does not and that I am controlling your son's
will. I do not have the ability to do that, and I would not want to
learn how to accomplish such a depraved wrong. I wish I had some way
to prove this to you, but I do not."

"I can give you evidence if that is what you require!" Gimli burst
out. "Do you really think that Gandalf would have accepted Legolas as
part of the Quest, allowing him daily access to the ring, if he was
that evil? There are many elves in Rivendell yet Legolas was selected!"

Legolas saw instantly that Gimli's argument was believed, because
relief played over Gloin's face. Then Gloin laughed and said, "So that
was what Gandalf was hinting about. Every time he spoke of you, son,
it seemed that Legolas was mentioned too. And when he was leaving, he
turned to me and said, "I did not agree to permit Legolas to go on the
Quest simply because our route and his were the same for a time. He
was chosen because I thought he was the best elf for the Fellowship."
I wondered why Gandalf would tell me that information and instantly
forgot it. It did not seem necessary to think about as we had
re-building and memorial ceremonies, and we were helping the people we
had given refuge to re-settle. Well, Gandalf should have just told me
that you love Legolas! But I guess he thought that announcing the news
was your right alone."

Gloin studied both of them for a moment and sighed. "There is just so
much that I find unfathomable." To Legolas he asked, "You said that
you do have a union of spirit with my son. Gimli, you gave your consent?"

"Aye, our union is based on love and desire that comes from both of
us. I am unsure if even an evil elf could steal a spirit and link with
it. To bind an unwilling spirit to one's own would be very risky,
since it could cause an elf committing such a crime to die."

Legolas added, "I could not do such a thing, for I would fade from
being bonded with someone that does not love me. Elven bonds require
love between both partners in order to be accomplished. I truly am
very unsure that stealing a spirit to bond with it is possible. There
would most likely have to be a rape involved and…"

"A rape!" Gloin interjected. "What do you mean?"

"A connexion of the spirit has to be consummated in a physical
joining." Legolas explained.

This information thoroughly silenced Gloin. A swift look at Gimli, and
Legolas suspected that his dwarf was beginning to understand how
difficult this must be for his father.

Legolas went on, "An elf dies when raped. I have no knowledge at all
on whether we can force another and continue to live having done such
a repugnant act. I would assume we could, but it is a misdeed that
would be abhorrent to my people."

Silence reigned in the chamber as Gloin considered Legolas' words.
Then Gloin exclaimed, "I've never tried to comprehend the ways of
elves before!"

After a long sip of his drink, Gloin queried, "Another elf can look at
you and tell you are Gimli's?"

"They would be able to see that I am married, and they might behold
Gimli."

Gloin replied, "You keep declaring that you are married. Have you two
exchanged vows?"

"Aye," Gimli answered, "We did so in private and then had a ceremony
in Eryn Lasgalen. Elves usually have a formal proceeding even if the
two are of the same gender. I am very glad for their custom. It is a
night I will treasure all my life."

While he spoke, Legolas took the contract out and handed it to Gloin.

Gloin studied it for many minutes. Once he glanced at Gimli. "They
called you Elvellon: elf friend. Not their usual name for a dwarf."

Legolas squeezed Gimli's hand tightly in an effort to prevent a
possible outburst.

Again Gloin perused the document. "Gimli, this manuscript declares
that your pledges to each other last forever. Are you really
comfortable with that?"

Legolas was taken aback when Gimli asserted firmly, "No. I'm not."
Before the archer could be upset, Gimli added, "It is not sufficient
time. I could never have enough hours to spend with Legolas!"

Gloin laughed. "A simple `aye' would have been adequate. Then he said,
"This was done on the dwarven New Year. Why?"

Gimli answered, "Legolas wanted something from dwarves to be a part of
it."

Gloin glanced at Legolas and then back to the copy. "The King
mentioned it that night. I cannot fathom why Lord Thranduil is so
accepting."

"He loves Legolas and wants him to be happy." Gimli replied.

Gloin smiled. "And you think you make him happy?"

"He does!" Legolas exclaimed.

Gloin shook his head in amusement. "Who ever heard of a dwarf bringing
happiness to an elf?" He gave the contract back to Legolas and said,
"I have great difficulty believing an elf could love a dwarf. Why
would one even want to? You may look like your father, but you do not
behave like him."

Gloin directed his gaze at Gimli. "As you want to discuss the past, I
shall do so. We were injured, tired, lost, and hungry. The Elven King
saw none of that. We sought help, but they wanted nothing to do with
us. Under the circumstances, I understand why Thorin reacted the way
he did. He was concerned for us, and it was clear we could expect no
aid from the elves. We were tied up and made to practically run to
Thranduil's hall despite our being sick and weary."

Legolas frowned. "No one notified me of this. You were tied up?"

"Aye, and almost raced to your King. We were ill from the venom of the
spiders, but I don't deem that they even noticed."

Legolas imagined Gimli injured and bound and dragged through the
passageways of his home. Fury rose within him, and hastily he tried to
squelch it before it travelled through their bond and infected Gimli.
"I am sorry! I knew my people were inclined to be suspicious, but I
did not realise it had gone that far!"

Gloin stared at Legolas in astonishment and then he smiled. "Ah well,
no one blames you for it. The King had us untied immediately, but he
made it clear that one reason he did so was because he was positive
that we could not escape due to his magic doors. By that time Balin
was infuriated and the rest of us were enraged, too. And you are
right, son, we were not polite. We were poisoned by spider bites and
exhausted and had been ill-treated. We were owed apologies and instead
were given demands. None of us felt the elves deserved anything but
our annoyance. Nevertheless, it was not a conscious decision on our
part to be rude. It was a reaction to being mistreated.

"I do not hold Legolas to account for it. Mother told me that he was
not in Mirkwood during the incident, but it would not matter if he
was. I doubt he could have changed anything if he had been there. One
of his brothers spoke with Thorin after we had been there a few days.
He thought it was all a misunderstanding and wanted us to try and
reason with the Lord. But Thorin had had enough with attempting to
reason with someone that was unreasonable, I guess! There was no way
to solve our discord. The Lord wanted to know why we were in the
forest, and we did not wish to tell him. Do you have any argument
with my words?"

The question was given to both of them, but fearing Gimli would get
incensed, Legolas quickly answered, "Nay. My Lord is very proud, and
it is obvious that my people perceived danger were it was not."

Afraid of the answer, Legolas asked, "Did they send a healer to tend
to wounds?"

"No."

Wrath surged through Legolas, and once again he struggled to keep it
from reaching Gimli through their link. "By the Valar! I swear to you
that if anyone treated Gimli so roughly, I would never claim them as
kin again!" Inside, he vowed that he would speak with his Lord about
what had happened.

Again Gloin scrutinised Legolas. "I almost felt I understood your
father: pride and arrogance and very accustomed to having things his
way. You, however…I reckon you really do love my son."

"I do love him. And I regret the way you were harmed by my people."

"Thank you." Dark eyes almost identical to Gimli's met Legolas' and
the archer saw a cautious acceptance in Gloin's eyes. His union from
Gimli was bringing him misery, however, and the archer gripped his
lover's hand.

Distressed, Gimli cried, "What do you expect me to do? Legolas' father
was good to me, and I like him! You cannot suppose that I will hurt my
one by rejecting his family when they have shown me nothing but
kindness! I love Legolas' brothers and their families as if they were
my own!"

Gloin shook his head. "I do not understand any of this! I am glad the
King was kind to you, but I was there and remember the events clearly.
He does not like dwarves or at least he could not be bothered to
regard our plight. Yet it happened long ago, and any trouble I have
with Legolas is not due to that event. Except I cannot help but wonder
why the King accepted you so easily. And I look at Bombur, and the
first thing that comes to mind is the magic that controls the river."

Legolas spoke up, "You may not judge my word as good, but I promise
you that Bombur is not influenced by his fall in the river. It was too
long ago, but we went and saw him as I wanted to be very certain.
There is nothing about him that reminds me of elves and no sense of
the river at all. I am not capable of the kind of magic you assume
that I am, but I would be able to discern it if Bombur was still
affected by the river."

After pondering Legolas' words for a moment, Gloin nodded. "Son, as
Legolas is your one, and you have made a commitment to him, then I
expect you to endeavour to have peace with his family. And if you've
managed to even like the King and care for his sons then that is for
the best. You should not damage your relationship with Legolas by
hating his family.

"It is very plain that you two love each other, but I do not see how
that can be. And what troubles me even more is that I do not feel it
is possible for love between a dwarf and an elf to last. How can you
two hope to understand each other? What happens when you don't? Where
will you live and will you both be happy there? What happens when
Gimli gets old?" Gloin tugged at his beard.

Gloin tugging at his beard and pouring out his reservations reminded
the archer of his dwarf when Gimli was upset. Interrupting the flow of
worries, Legolas said, "We will deal with each problem when it
arrives. We will understand each other, because we will talk and
explain until we do. If we do reach an impasse then we will love each
other despite it and try again later."

Gimli chimed in, "Legolas is going to build a settlement in Ithilien,
and I wish to start a colony in Aglarond. We will be together often,
and when everything is established we will alternate living with each
other. I loved being with Legolas' people and will be happy in Ithilien."

"And I shall be joyful with Gimli in Aglarond. We've been to both
places together."

Answering the last concern, Legolas added, "When Gimli is old, I shall
still love him with all that I am, and I shall be at his side. I will
be as devoted to him then as I am now. I know you must have many
qualms about Gimli and me, but whatever happens in the future, our
love will not waver."

Taking a deep breath, Gloin said "Very well. I am still worried that
this a romance of the war. Often two will seek comfort during times of
hardship but once the war is ended, they separate. Some stay together
only long enough to realise that it was not love that united them. Yet
it seems plain that you two love each other, but for an elf and a
dwarf to attempt a lasting relationship…" Gloin shook his head. "You
two have yet to try living with each other on a daily basis. But no
matter what my reservations are, there is no point in withholding my
approval. I will give you two my blessing at the welcoming party three
nights from now. And I will support you at the family meeting. The
commitment has been made, if I can aid either of you in keeping it, I
will."

"Thank you!" Legolas said.

"Aye, thank you!" Gimli repeated. "I also want to talk to you about
the Lady Galadriel. I believed the same things about her as you do
until I met her. She is fair beyond all else."

Suddenly Legolas saw a major flaw in the solution he had given to
Gimli. The archer had told his dwarf to defend his views on the Lady,
and now Legolas would have to listen to why Gimli loved her.

Gimli was saying, "I love her, and she bestowed three of her hairs
upon me when I requested them for a gift."

Throwing his hands in the air, Gloin said, "I give up! My son loves
elves, and they love him!"

Gimli objected, "Not all of them do! I am tolerated for the most part,
liked by some, and there are a few that I love and that love me."

"Yet they call you Elvellon."

Gimli grinned. "Legolas does, and Lord Elrond and his people do, King
Thranduil and many of the elves in Eryn Lasgalen refer to me by that
title. Lady Galadriel often did, but most of her elves do not like
dwarves."

Legolas smiled as Gloin shook his head in amusement and said, "Perhaps
Mahal thinks it is amusing, but my son, my only son, has chosen
Thranduil's son to love better than anyone else!"

To Legolas, Gloin said, "It is good that you love him too, but who
would have envisioned it? I'm glad the King accepted you, Gimli, but
I'd give half my riches to have been able to see his face when he
first heard the news! I imagine he found it as humorous as I do."
Gloin laughed. "I would wager quite a bit that the past is not his
favourite topic of conversation these days! Let me guess: he did not
bring it up even once, did he?"

Frowning, Gimli said, "I do not find this that funny. He asked about
your welfare, he spoke of the shock it would be to you…" The dwarf
halted as Gloin began to laugh again.

"What is so entertaining?" Gimli demanded.

Gloin answered, "Just as I would have loved to see him the second he
fully comprehended that you two are lovers, I reckon the King would
give some of the jewels he cherishes so much to have been able to
behold my first reaction. I apologise for interrupting you. Go on."

"The Lord did not speak of the past and neither did I. We were trying
to keep peace as we both love Legolas. The King did request that I
send the letter to you as he feared you would be anxious."

"Ah, so fretting over his own son has made him a little more
sympathetic," Gloin replied. "Well, the letter was a comfort to me,
and you can thank him for that."

"Perhaps you can tell him yourself one day." Legolas suggested.

"I should think not!" Gloin said. "I spoke to him two or three times
when I was in his dungeon, and I judge that we've had enough of each
other!"

"You conversed with my Lord while you were being held a prisoner?"
Legolas queried.

"Aye, but Thorin's orders had been given. I told him nothing." Gloin said.

"Gimli did remember how you were treated. He never forgot, but he did
not wish me to lose my family due to dissension over our love. I do
not want him to forsake his family, either."

Gloin's tone was gentle as he said, "Legolas, there have been many
injustices between elves and dwarves. I don't care what you believe
really happened, and how I feel about it is unimportant. All that is
imperative to me is that my son loves you of his free will and that
you love him. I would like to speak more with both of you, but you
will be late for the meal with Aalin if you do not leave soon. Come
back tomorrow, and we will enjoy a long talk."

Gimli nodded, "Aye, we'd best leave. Thank you, father. I am sorry
this is so difficult for you. I would like one day to talk of my Uncle
Oin and share memories of him, when you feel ready."

"Aye, I'd like that too, son."

As they strode home, Legolas contemplated what he had been told and
rage slowly began to burn inside him. When their door closed behind
them, he told Gimli, "I am not irate at you," before he went to their
bed chamber. Digging through a pack, Legolas pulled out a case. He
took the parchment enclosed out of the case and unfolded it. He
glanced down the row of names and then with a curse, he slung the
paper across the room and threw himself on the bed, shoving aside the
items in the middle. Legolas laid there trembling with anger. Through
the roar of resentment and distress, he heard Gimli mutter something
about rocks. Then suddenly the wrath was quenched as if a blanket of
love had been thrown over the fires of fury. Legolas moaned as he
realised that he had been making no attempt to shield his lover from
his turbulent feelings. The ire had been dampened, allowing another
emotion to surface. Discerning that Gimli had somehow blocked their
connection, Legolas let the feeling reign. His tears wetted the quilt
gracing the bed.

Strong hands caressed Legolas' back before tugging him into the
comfort of his lover's arms. Fingers brushed his chin. Legolas was
not sure how long he cried against Gimli's chest. He heard Gimli
whisper, "Speak to me, mir nín."

"I love them, Gimli! They are my family. You've always said that you
admire my forgiving nature, but how can I forgive this? When I think
of them tying your father and dragging…"

"He said almost racing them through the halls, not dragging. That part
was just because they are elves. I often had to ask you to slow down
in Minas Tirith until you learned to match my stride."

"But they should have been considerate of the injuries. And tying them
up! How could my people…"

Gimli hated interrupting again, but he could not let this go by
unprotested. "No, you don't! Absolutely not. They are not "our elven
people" when you are proud of them, and yours alone when you are not.
They became mine the night of the ceremony. We are not of one people
but two. So your Lord said, and you did not object. You may not have
known about *our* people binding up my father, but I did. And I still
agreed with everything that was vowed that night. It's done!"

Legolas sighed into Gimli's shoulder. "I feel betrayed. It seems the
King I thought was kind and noble, is really only good to his own.
Maybe I do not truly know him."

Pulling his shirt up, Gimli began to wipe the wet sorrow off Legolas'
face. "You have a right to be angry and to cry, especially since this
is new to you. As for our elven Lord…I realise that I did not meet
every elf in Eryn Lasgalen. I reckon, though, that the King has fewer
than ten people that give him completely honest opinions. Simply
because they love him very much and tend to assume that he is right in
all his judgements. And there have been consequences due to their
attitude. The Lord is unaccustomed to disrespect and…"

Gimli kept his words gentle and one hand squeezed the archer's arm.
"He does have a great deal of pride, and I would not advise anyone,
elf or dwarf, to insult him."

His voice almost a whisper, Legolas answered, "I was aware that our
King is proud."

"The second result of our Lord being so loved by his people is that he
is fiercely protective of them. That is very, very obvious." Gimli
began rubbing Legolas' back. "Thorin and company were in a much
weakened state. The King could have killed them."

Shocked, Legolas stared up at Gimli. "What! Our Lord would never… he
wouldn't…"

"So you do know him, my elf! Aye, I believe you are right. He
wouldn't. He is not cruel. I deem you'd be correct to continue to view
him as kind and noble."

Legolas threw a leg over Gimli and neither said anything for a moment.
Then the archer said, "Thank you, my one." Legolas shifted so he could
hear the dwarf's heartbeat. "I am very conscious of what you did,
Gimli. I don't mean giving me solace now, though I am appreciative of
it. I am referring to when we were in Eryn Lasgalen. You came into a
place that was strange to you and did all you could to make sure that
I kept my family despite our love. You also tried to help those around
you heal. Celduil and Lastand are together again. I repaired a
friendship. You've earned the name Elvellon."

Gimli traced Legolas' chin. "Thank you, my elf. I love you so much.
What happened in the past is over as far as I am concerned." He
gripped Legolas tightly within his arms. "I love you more than any
past grievance. It's over and done, Legolas. It might help if... When
I was in Eryn Lasgalen, I was as confused as my father is now. Our
elven people do not seem to hate dwarves or even dislike them. They
were good to me and friendly. I could not fathom how the very same
people that tried to understand me for your sake could be so
insensitive to our dwarven kin. I started to view the issue as being
similar to a prism that casts many coloured lights across a floor when
the sun shines on it. There are too many ways to perceive what
happened. It is over and the best thing to do is to let it go."

Legolas' arms wrapped around the dwarf and he glanced at the document
he had slung. "There is something you should know, Gimli. Cateur asked
for permission to settle in Ithilien. He would have been one of the
Captains that night. It would have been his decision to tie the
dwarves. I understand that you consider the matter to be history, but
I cannot just let what he did go unaccounted for. He will not go with
me to Ithilien, and I will request that our Lord send him and his
family to Valinor."

Gimli shuddered. He could vividly imagine the argument that might
ensue if Thranduil refused Legolas' request. His elf had not stated it
as an option. "I respect your judgement in this issue, but don't close
your mind to changing your response, my elf. It happened many years
ago…to punish Cateur now…because of your love for me…I am not
comfortable with that, mir nín."

Legolas frowned. "He's an elf. It is not that many years past for him.
My heart is not happy with it, either. I think it is our work to
achieve peace between our peoples. And how can we do that, if we start
by reviewing wrongs done in an earlier time? Yet… he signed his name
and that of his family on that list of those journeying to Ithilien
with nary a regret expressed to you. I'm not at ease with that."

Gimli answered, "To me, the past is like an aged, unsafe, shaky
building. The old foundation is too unstable to use, and we need to
build anew. Let the ancient structure rot! We will create a new
dwelling and for many centuries afterwards they will say, "There was
harmony between elves and dwarves at that time." Possibly it is our
last chance for concord as many elves will leave Middle-earth, and I
fear dwarves will dwindle in number. Besides, we will probably have
plenty of difficulties attainting that accord without worrying about
the past."

"I agree you are right. We should fashion a new base, but my heart
still holds indignation for his lack of apology to you!" Legolas grumbled.

Sliding his hands under Legolas' shirt, Gimli resumed stroking his
elf's back. "Discuss it with Cateur. If he dislikes dwarves then it is
best that he not move to Ithilien where we will often be. Decide what
his heart is like, but remember our love is bigger than all of this."

Tenderly massaging the elf's back, Gimli asked, "Did he ever know the
names of the dwarves? If I told you a term today, and you did not hear
it again for many years would you remember it?"

"Yes, I would." Legolas declared.

Gimli laughed. "Set aside the elven pride and tell me honestly. Would
you recall a word spoken once or twice today if I asked you a hundred
years from now?"

Grinning, Legolas answered, "I might now that we've made an issue of
it. Refreshing my memory is similar to opening a door and walking into
another chamber. I would remember the events in that room clearly. Now
if you and I had not deliberated over whether I'd remember, it is
likely that a name might take effort on my part to recall and even
evade my attempts if I had not heard it for a long time. And I see
what you are implying. Perhaps Cateur attached no significance to your
designation son of Gloin."

Legolas drew his dwarf as snug as possible against his body. "I hope
if there is a matter that you have to decide for our elven people,
they will perceive how fair and compassionate you are to them. I will
converse with Cateur. And if I discover that he is unrepentant, I'll
tie him up, haul him to the havens, and dump him into the ocean!"
Legolas asserted it as seriously as he could and knew he was
successful in the jest when Gimli studied his face trying to judge how
much of it the archer meant.

After a second, Gimli laughed and said, "You are as stubborn as any
dwarf!" His fingers traced Legolas' face.

"I love you so much!" Legolas replied. He leaned in for a kiss. In the
distance, the faint sound of the clock came to the elf's ears bringing
an alarming realisation. Removing his leg, Legolas sat up and said,
"We are going to be late for the meal at Aalin's!"

"She won't be surprised that we are late. It would surprise her to
know that talking is what caused us to be tardy, though." Gimli smiled
and sat up. "I'll put the parchment back and get the things we are
taking over there. You can go wash up if you wish."

"That would be good. When we have our talk time, you must tell me what
you did to halt the fury I was experiencing from coming through our link."

"Rocks." Gimli answered, swinging his feet to the floor as he talked.

Legolas suspected that Gimli was happy to be home and have the bed
closer to the floor. Out loud, the archer teased, "Rocks! Somehow,
that is not astonishing to me! I love you. I am sorry that I forgot
our bond."

"I forget more than I remember! We will learn." Gimli answered.

After a quick hug, they parted and prepared to depart.


Legolas was quiet on the walk to Aalin's. He was musing over what
Gimli had said to him. When they arrived at Aalin's courtyard, Legolas
put a hand on Gimli's shoulder. "I hope you know that I am not cheated
because you are a dwarf not an elf. Your advice to me showed much wisdom."

Gimli smiled up at him. "Thank you, my elf."

Reaching Aalin's threshold, Gimli opened the door and called, "It's
Gimli and Legolas!"

His call produced the sound of rushing feet. A dwarf shorter than
Gimli with a very long black beard and happy ebony eyes greeted them.
"Come in!" As soon as the door was shut, he hugged Gimli. "It is so
good to see you again!" Releasing Gimli he glanced up at Legolas,
"Norin, son of Blour, at your service."

"Legolas, son of Thranduil, at yours and your family's."

Norin smiled and with pride in his voice said, "You've met half of my
family. Come, and I'll introduce you to my daughters."

They walked through an oval opening and into a long hallway that had
several more elliptical entries to the right and left. The smell of
roasted meat and vegetables and fresh bread wafted from the room at
the end of the passageway where Bimur and his sisters were busy
putting dishes on a beige granite table. They looked up as Legolas and
Gimli came into the room. The oldest shoved a serving plate holding
grilled fish onto the table and ran into Gimli's arms. She sobbed
against his chest, "Oh, uncle! I was so afraid for you!"

Gimli held her tightly and reached out for the other lass, who dashed
into his arms. Norin held out a chair and said to Legolas, "Be at ease."

Legolas settled into the chair, surprised when he discovered that he
was exactly the right height to eat easily at the table.

Norin grinned at his reaction, "Aalin thought we needed to make some
adjustments."

Gimli spent a few minutes quietly comforting the girls before bringing
them over to Legolas. "My one, here are Anorin and Nalin, my beloved
nieces."

Even if there had not been a difference of ten years in their ages,
Legolas would have been able to tell the two apart effortlessly. The
oldest, Anorin, looked identical to the image of Gimli's mother that
Legolas had seen in their bed chamber. The youngest of Aalin's
children bore her father's appearance with her glossy black hair.
Gimli had told Legolas that Nalin was very bashful, and the archer saw
it was true as she glanced to her sister, hoping Anorin would speak
for them.

Anorin did not fail her. She bowed to Legolas and said, "Nalin and I
welcome you to Erebor and our home! We discussed it with Bimur and
decided that if Uncle Gimli loves you then so do we."

Gimli, who had settled in next to Legolas stated, "I love him very much."

Legolas smiled at the girls. "I will consider you as my family, if you
allow it."

They nodded, and Bimur said, "Aye."

It was at this moment that Aalin entered the room carrying a big bowl
of baked potatoes. She set it down and smiled at Gimli. "I knew you
would be late!" she said smugly.

Gimli laughed and stated, "We were talking about something!"

Norin and Aalin both laughed. It was plain that Gimli was not
believed, and Legolas suspected that if he insisted that they had only
been talking he would produce more mirth so he kept quiet.

The conversation over the dinner table was lively. The events of the
war were discussed and Norin spoke of the elderly couple from Dale
that they had welcomed into their home during the war. They conversed
about the changes that could be expected in Middle-earth. Legolas and
Gimli spoke of their plans.

After the meal, they retired to a chamber that held stuffed tan chairs
arranged around a russet stone hearth. The room was lit by soft
candlelight from cylindrical lamps. The children gathered around a
small wooden table next to a short cabinet made from oak and painted
with little white chickweed flowers entwined with blue pansies. Bimur
opened one of the side doors of the cabinet and pulled out a game with
coloured tiles from a shelf.

As the children busied themselves, Gimli presented the book Tasar and
Lisse had given them. Aalin and Norin brought their chairs together
and bent over the book. They paused over the portrait of Legolas as a
child and the sketch of Legolas' mother. The drawing that was given
the most attention, though, was the one of Legolas and Gimli hugging
at a party. Aalin gasped as she turned the page and beheld the art,
"Oh, Gimli! This is splendid! Father needs to see this."

Norin nodded. "Aye, I would have never believed that an elf and dwarf
would gaze at each other so lovingly. How Tasar managed to capture the
love in your faces, I don't know. Very masterfully done!"

Aalin glanced toward her children. "May we?"

Gimli and Legolas both nodded.

Calling to her young ones, Aalin showed them some of the drawings.
After the children had returned to their game, the adults talked for a
while. Gimli recounted the occurrences in Eryn Lasgalen. Aalin and
Norin related how they had begun making harps again now the war was
over. The conversation drifted to discussion of mining. It was far
more complicated than Legolas had believed. There were evidently two
types of mining; surface and sub-surface. Legolas was uncertain, but
it appeared that those two had categories also, such as open-cut which
was a form of surface mining.

When the children's game was finished, Nalin approached Legolas. Eyes
the colour of the sea during a storm met Legolas'. "I wanted to be the
one to ask you. It was my idea. Mama gave permission. I…" she paused
and plucked nervously at her necklace of black augite gems.

Legolas said gently, "It is all right. You may ask me whatever you
want to."

Encouraged, the lass said, "Would you like to see our frogs? We have
three."

"I would enjoy that." Legolas stood up, wishing he were not so tall.
He feared he was intimidating to the small lass. "Are these oegur?"

The little girl shook her head. "Nay, they are just Khazad frogs," she
said, as she led the way into the hallway with Anorin and Bimur
trailing behind them.

"Dwarf frogs?" Legolas enquired.

"Aye." The lass smiled, happy at his comprehension.

Legolas heard the water before the door was opened to a large study.
Inside the study in the middle of a far wall was a marble basin. Water
flowed into the basin from an outlet in the wall.

Fascinated, Legolas followed Nalin. Anorin gave Legolas a cushion to
sit on, and he settled in on it. Peering down into the water, he
glimpsed three mottled grey frogs, just a little bigger than his
thumb. One of them rested on some blue pebbles, another sat on a grey
rock, and the last amphibian peered out from some yellowish-green plants.

"How beautiful!" Legolas exclaimed. "I'll have to ask for Gimli for one."

Nalin laughed. Her tiny hand came to rest on Legolas' shoulder, and
the elf rejoiced at the beginning of trust. Anorin and Bimur pulled
chairs over to each side of the basin. Bimur handed Legolas a small
bottle that he had fetched from a nearby wooden stand. "We always feed
them before we go to bed. You may if you'd like."

"Thank you." Opening the container, Legolas spilled several small
brown items into his palm. "Rocks?" he jested with the three.

Bimur smiled, and the girls laughed. Anorin answered, "No. It's ground
up fish rolled in wheat meal and made into pellets. You give each frog
one and wait for them to eat it. Then you feed them another until they
leave."

As Legolas fed the pets, they chattered about the animals telling him
the names and ages and other information.

Bimur stated, "You can touch one if you like as long as you don't stir
the water overly much. They don't see well but they sense vibrations
and scare if the water changes drastically."

Gently Legolas stroked the top of one frog's head. The amphibian must
have been accustomed to being touched as it did not react. "They are
delightful!" To Nalin, Legolas said, "Thank you for sharing this with
me! I am going to ask Gimli if it is possible to have something
similar in our home."

They smiled and Nalin stated, "It might be. They are very hardy and
can be moved if it is done carefully."

The rest of the evening was spent in quiet conversation with Aalin and
Norin. The children had gone to sleep, and the adults reminisced about
the people that had died in Moria and during the war.

Aalin enquired how their first day in Erebor had been and if their
father had accepted them. She sighed softly at the end of Gimli's
rather emotional narrative. "I don't think you've changed so much, but
you've seen more and are more knowledgeable about Middle-earth."

Gimli told of the bracelets and they all puzzled over it but could
arrive at no good theory as to why they had been given to Legolas and
Gimli.

As they left, Aalin handed them a covered pan to take home. Legolas
smiled as Gimli took the dish and the delectable and now familiar
smell of gingerbread floated from it.


Tbc

I will probably not update here again. I will update first at:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LOTRdwarves/?yguid=135659389

And later archived at: http://avia.silverbloom.net/mirror/viewuser.php?uid=158