FicWad

Disclaimer: I do not own anything but my own characters, everything belongs to Tolkien the genius.

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Indohilde

At the first sign of the army on the edge of the horizon and the great numbers of those returning were noticed, the horns were blown with a proud breath. The resounding calls were heard all across the city and all were heartened to know that the troops of Vinyamar had returned. By the time the great host had come across most of the marshes the entire city had come out to welcome them home. Standing upon the walls and towers crowded shoulder to shoulder, the inhabitants called out and cheered as they waved to the soldiers coming toward them. Even greater numbers of the citizens lined the stone streets all the way to the palace where Turgon's family awaited him happily. A little dirty and battle-worn but nonetheless happy to be received so well, Turgon led his forces through the great gate of the city. Soldiers gladly embraced family members and spouses as they came across them in the crowds but those that made it to the courtyard in front of the palace was hardly diminished as all wished to see their king home as well.

Glorfindel could not stop himself from smiling as many radiant faces greeted him on his way up the avenues of Vinyamar. The warmth he felt from the people made him happier than he could imagine. It was when he laid eyes on the one who had helped him keep faith throughout the battle that Glorfindel knew what true bliss was. Elrilya's gaze alighted upon him almost immediately and a wide smile spread across her face, the familiar twinkle in her eyes shining brightly. Fighting the urge to sweep her into his embrace, Glorfindel noted it would be best to wait to finally let his feelings be known. He understood that much more would be happening that day before he would have that chance. The golden-haired warrior was content to wait until the time presented itself, especially since he wanted it to be perfect.

Keeping his eyes averted just enough that she would not notice his watching her, Glorfindel kept his attention on Elrilya and took in every detail of her as if it had been years since he had not seen her instead of the week and a half that the forces were gone. Even as Turgon addressed those present and gave a resounding speech of gratitude and praise to those who fought and the people who came to see them, Glorfindel barely changed his focus.

It was when his friend had finished that Glorfindel remembered the tasks he had to see to that day. The temporary peace and wonderful victory still came at a price and some lives were lost; though, not in large numbers. Turgon, with Ecthelion and Glorfindel joining him as his commanders, would see to it that he personally visited each and every family who lost someone. It would be the first thing to do upon their return but they would clean up themselves before the visits so that they would be presentable. It was the least they could do for the families and loved ones.

At long last Turgon finally drew away from the crowd as the afternoon was becoming evening. Glorfindel followed him as he led his family into the palace and up the stairs to their different chambers. He was happy to see Elrilya eventually drift back to him after the family embrace and greetings to Turgon.

"You kept your word," she said to him in a quiet voice so that they could have their own, private conversation.

"Did you doubt it?" he said in mock surprise.

"Never," she said with all certainty. "I do wish to hear your tale of the battle once you have the time."

"With pleasure," he said with a smile. "Though, I must say we will have to wait until tomorrow. This evening Turgon and I will be visiting the homes of those who fell so I believe it is best you find me when I am refreshed after a good night's rest."

"Of course," Elrilya said with a nod as they paused in front of his room as the others walked on ahead. "You must be exhausted from the battle and your travels."

"Not too much so but it will be good to sleep in one's own bed again," he said with a sigh.

"I will let you be for tonight then," she said as he unlocked his door. "It is a relief to see that you did return, even if I did not doubt that fact."

"That is understandable," he said as he took her into a small embrace, not wanting to dirty her with his stained clothing and mud-smeared armor. "Tomorrow then."

*
It was late in the night when Glorfindel finally returned to his room and found his way into bed. Though it took time for sleep to come upon him as he had expected would hit him immediately as he laid down in the plush pillows and soft sheets. Staring up at the ceiling at nothing in particular he contemplated how he would approach Elrilya concerning the two of them. Along the journey home from the battle Glorfindel had thought in his head over and over the possible reactions from her, including results of a negative nature. For once in a long time he felt nervous about a major decision in his life. Other times he had contemplated things without stress but this time he wondered what the risk would be to his feelings. Would he be able to handle the misery of rejection after having taken so long to come to the realization of his love for Elrilya? Perhaps not telling her right away would be the best avenue until he was certain her regard for him had not changed since her confession.

Closing his eyes a moment, Glorfindel could imagine in vivid detail the night before he departed. He opened his eyes to the yearning for the touch of her fingers to caress him once more. The warmth and presence she gave to him that night suddenly made Glorfindel become extremely aware of his loneliness. Grabbing a pillow from one side of the bed, Glorfindel held it between his arms as he tried to snuggle into his mattress and sheets to fall asleep. He would have to wait and see what tomorrow held for him.

*
The next day Glorfindel awoke to sunshine streaming in through his windows and balcony doors. The most perfect day awaited him and he had already slept past breakfast into late morning. Thankfully Turgon had been kind to give all the soldiers of the city, including those who had remained to protect Vinyamar, the day to relax and enjoy themselves due to the threat of Morgoth being diminished by their great feat.

Stretching out his feet and legs, Glorfindel felt the silky sheets rub against his skin as he further immersed himself in the bundled mess of his comforter and pillows. It was one of those days where he felt like doing nothing and would not mind lounging around in his bed for several more hours. The reminder of his promise the night before to meet with Elrilya to tell her of the battle resurfaced and he realized he had to get up eventually.

After changing into clothes for the day, Glorfindel made his way down the corridors of the palace to the lower courtyards. However, along the way he would pass by Ecthelion's study and Glorfindel thought he'd see if his colleague was there for a quick talk. The door to the study was ajar slightly enough for Glorfindel to know his friend was there since he always left it open when present; however, the sight that greeted him made him stop in his tracks.

Peering through the wide crack between the door and the frame, Glorfindel could see an elleth sitting on the edge of Ecthelion's desk in the room whose back was to him. In front of her was Ecthelion with one of his hands on the desk that he was leaning against as he caressed the elleth's face with his other hand as he deeply kissed her lips. Neither of them had heard him approach outside the door and Glorfindel heard the silent voice urging him in his head that he should not invade their privacy but he stood transfixed at the couple.

The elleth seemed curiously familiar, particularly her golden-brown mane of hair that flowed down to where she was seated upon the desk. She let out a muffled giggle as Ecthelion accidentally tickled a part of her neck with his fingers. She threw her head back as his arms brought her form close to his.

Throwing his hands over his mouth and finally removing himself from the sight of the lovers, Glorfindel moved out of view with his back against the wall. Aredhel! It was Turgon's sister kissing Ecthelion and the surprise caught Glorfindel off guard, as he wondered how he had not noticed it before that the two were involved.

"Melindo..." Glorfindel could hear Aredhel whisper to Ecthelion in the room.

Glorfindel stopped a moment as he heard the soft words spoken with the depth of adoration the two of them seemed to share. The image of the two embracing each other on the wooden desk entered his mind again but Glorfindel was drawn by their caresses and soft-spoken words that had much more to them than mere lust. Every move was meant to worship the other and the undeniable devotion they held for each other was ever present. The need for such intimacy between himself and Elrilya prevailed in Glorfindel's mind and it was at that moment that Glorfindel decided to let his affections be known to Elrilya that day.

Footsteps further around the curve of the corridor became noticeable and Glorfindel snapped out of his reverie. He realized it was Turgon heading down the hallway as he heard a familiar tune the king would whistle to himself. The sounds of Ecthelion and Aredhel continuing their intimate moment could be heard drifting out through the door and Glorfindel thought they would be caught for certain. The reaction of Turgon could not be predicted but knowing how the king was one for old traditions, Glorfindel knew the discovery would not go well for all involved.

"How goes it this morn, Turgon?" Glorfindel bellowed down the passage, making sure that both the king as well as those inside the room could hear him even though he was not in sight.

"Well enough," Turgon said in response as he came around the bend, Glorfindel walking forward a little to meet him so he could give the others more time. "Did you get enough rest for the night?"

"I am satisfied though my muscles wish I would have rested longer!" the golden lord humored his friend.

"You are not the only one assuredly," Turgon said with a laugh. "I am glad to have found you here. I wish to tell both you and Ecthelion something, do you know if he is in his study?"

"I was about to see for myself," Glorfindel said as Turgon walked around him toward the door.

"Ah, his door is open so he must be here," the king said as he rapped his knuckles on the wood.

"My lord, what may I do for you?" Ecthelion said with a slight bow as both Turgon and Glorfindel came through the doorway.

The dark-haired elf was alone though appeared a little disheveled. Glorfindel had not heard Aredhel leave the study but the way Ecthelion stood precariously in front of his desk gave Glorfindel an idea of where she had gone to so quickly.

"I need a list of the most trusted and loyal soldiers you can think of in the ranks," Turgon explained to them. "Most of them who are most ideal in your minds, I know, but I need you to be incredibly selective in those you choose."

"What is this for?" Glorfindel asked curiously.

"In due time I shall tell you," Turgon said with a wave of his hand. "I may even call upon you both for this duty I am sending these warriors out to but not yet."

Both the captain and steward looked upon their king peculiarly since they had never seen him so cryptic before. For the meantime they would have to go along with whatever he gave them.

"Understood," Ecthelion said with a nod. "Glorfindel, perhaps we could meet over supper to discuss those we have in mind?"

"Yes, that is a good idea," the golden lord said with affirmation.

"Wonderful," Turgon said as he went out the door, other things obviously on his mind other than the strange way his head of the guard looked.

Glorfindel followed him out the door and shut it snuggly behind them to assure the last two elves in the room some privacy. The king had already gone about his way and completely forgot Glorfindel behind him. With a shrug the golden lord went about his earlier business of seeking out Elrilya. The newly planned meeting with Ecthelion left him not nearly as much time as he had hoped for that afternoon but it would have to do.

Remembering Elrilya's schedule of interning around different places in the palace, Glorfindel wandered down to the healing rooms where she was supposed to be on duty for the day. Entering one of the main rooms, he found the dark-haired maiden tending to one of the injured soldiers from the battle by giving him a fresh bandage on his arm. She looked up gladly as he came closer.

"Will I be able to steal you away for the afternoon?" he asked her with a smile.

"Yes, I am nearly done here," she said as she cut the bandage and tied it securely.

After washing her hands in a nearby water basin and hanging her apron on a nearby hook, Elrilya was ready to go with Glorfindel. He led her down the corridor to the bottom levels of the halls. Ideas of where to find a quiet place where they would not be disturbed were running through his mind as they made their way.

"I was thinking we could go to our favorite picnic spot for our midday meal. That is if you have not eaten yet," Glorfindel offered as they went down a few flights of stairs.

"Not yet," Elrilya said as they headed toward the kitchens. "Though a picnic sounds delicious right now."

The kitchen cooks took a little convincing to let go of the morsels they had already baked for other meals so that the two would not have to wait too long for more since they had not ordered food ahead of time for their trip. Finally getting their food together, Glorfindel and Elrilya made their way to the stables to get their horses since the site they once frequented almost daily was at least a half hour's ride.

"Perhaps we should take your horse together," Glorfindel offered, realizing his horse was still worn out from the battle and the ride back home though the thought of him riding together with Elrilya was quite appealing to him as well.

She raised a curious eyebrow but agreed; "However it will work for you, Glorfindel."

Soon enough they were riding out of the city with their meal bags strapped to the horse and Glorfindel guiding them out with one arm around Elrilya's torso as she sat in front of him. She leaned into his chest as they rode along at a fast trot at the cliff sides, her body tightly held in place by Glorfindel so that Elrilya would not slip from her place.

Finding the bottom of a small dune near the ocean's edge the two Eldar ate together while Glorfindel recounted his tale to Elrilya as she listened intently with wide eyes. It was merely an observational account he gave her, not delving into the details of who began the song that brought fear and doubt into the dark hearts of Morgoth's army. Nor did he speak of his own feelings that came to him throughout the fight. Either way, the account of the Dark Lord's forces fleeing before the great elvish warriors was exciting to Elrilya nonetheless and Glorfindel was fondly reminded of the day he first met her and how intrigued she was by his storytelling, listening to every syllable he spoke.

Once the meal had been eaten, the two took a walk along the waterside, shoes and boots left behind with their things and the horse as their bare feet sunk into the sand. Elrilya, standing a little distance away from Glorfindel, held up the hem of her dress as the rushing waters of the waves came onshore and ran past her ankles. With a laughing cry she backed away from the waters since the season of autumn was now upon them and the sea always became cooler before the beginning of winter. Glorfindel smiled and laughed along with her as she tried to retreat from the flowing water. He felt his whole body warm with delight at her wide smile and enjoyment in front of him as if they had no cares in the world and all that existed was each other. Realizing this was the moment he needed, Glorfindel knew he could not turn back now.

Glorfindel took Elrilya's hands as she came running up to him, her face still aglow with her playing at the water's edge. Her hair flew freely and unbound in the small breeze as did his own, she became the picture of perfection in his eyes as he looked upon her.

"Elrilya, I did not tell you the whole story of the battle," Glorfindel said.

"What could you have left out in your telling of it?" she said inquiringly.

"I neglected to say a few things," he said as he drew her closer, his hands still holding hers. "I was the one who began singing at the battle that helped lift the spirits of those who fought but it was because of someone else that such a thing was possible."

His hand cupped her face gently as he let out the buildup of emotions wanting to be seen through his expression and gaze. Tenderly his fingers touched her cheek as her breath caught in her throat at this sudden change.

"It was you, Elrilya," he said softly. "From you I drew my strength and your words you gave me the night before I departed stayed with me. You were with me."

She looked up at him with wonder in her eyes and smiled nervously, "I do not know what to say to that."

"Tye-mela'ne," he whispered, his voice not faltering as he spoke his long held thoughts and feelings. "I was wrong to not tell you the truth when you came to me before you went to Eglarest."

A tear ran down her face as she struggled to take a deep breath.

"What stopped you?" she asked, her voice choking back more tears that were on the verge of being shed.

"I was afraid," he said, not letting his gaze into her eyes fall away. "I do not know of what but I never should have listened to my doubts."

"And I made the mistake of not staying by your side despite everything in my mind and heart telling me otherwise," she said before putting her arms around his neck and pressing her lips to his.

Glorfindel's heart felt like it would burst as she threw herself into his arms and tenderly kissed his mouth. Losing themselves in each other's embrace they melted into the gentle meeting of what they had yearned to do for years.

"Tye-mela'ne," she whispered back into his ear as they held each other tightly, not wanting to let go of the moment they had and hoping time would stop just for them.

Glossary
Indohilde: heart follower
Melindo: male lover (Quenya)
Tye-mela'ne: I love you (Quenya)