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Chapter Forty-Two: Attaráne
A few small search parties were dispatched to continue in the recovery of Aredhel, sister to the king of Gondolin. Weeks away turned into months and after nearly a year had passed, no word had come on a discovery. Even the Eagles, having spoken with Turgon, kept an eye out during their travels and flights to look for the only daughter of Fingolfin but they found no trace. Turgon fell into a stupor, avoiding contact with others unless it was necessary duties. Alone he dwelt in his tower with nay a word to others on his well-being.
Gondolin's citizens felt the grief at the loss of their White Lady but eventually moved on from the gloomy shroud that had attached itself to the king. The guilt felt by Súrion and his solders lasted for quite some time and well into their publicly known punishment of long patrols in the harshest and most remote areas of the mountain border but eventually subsided. Life went on but no one forgot the dangers of the outside world and that at least for the time being they had protection in their valley. No thoughts of traveling afar followed the inhabitants, as they were tired of moving to new lands or fleeing the oppression or threat of Morgoth's vile servants.
Idril, being severed from her anguished father and missing the once constant presence of her aunt-come surrogate mother, was often found at Glorfindel and Elrilya's residence passing time. Unlike Idril, Ecthelion sought solitude in personal matters but kept himself busied with his duties and soldiers at a different level of socialization. Still keeping company to some degree was what separated him from the isolation Turgon continued for the next three decades. Glorfindel had attempted to go to his friend but the king would not let the conversation stray into the reasons he hid himself away.
One day though, the darkness that had settled appeared to have lifted. It happened when Glorfindel was about to leave on patrol for a term but stopped by Turgon's study to give his planned routes of travel along the mountain border as he usually did. However, this day was different and Glorfindel was aware of the change when he arrived. Turgon's study, which had become cluttered without a care and dark due to the shut curtains, was suddenly orderly and the large window flung open wide. Laden with armor and gear, Glorfindel did not sit but stood in the doorway looking about in disbelief. Turgon had been immersed reading when the golden lord had arrived but looked up to find Glorfindel staring in awe.
"Come inside, Glorfindel," he said. "Stop gawking."
"I apologize," Glorfindel replied and listened to Turgon as he entered the room, closing the door behind him as he customarily did.
He handed the parchment he carried to Turgon who glanced over it for a few minutes.
"At the tunnel gate for a time then onward..." Turgon said out loud. "Not too difficult a travel this time?"
"That winter two years ago did make patrolling the peaks rather difficult and more so that the usual snowfall during the season," Glorfindel said with a little chuckle.
"I would not like any harm to come to you or the other soldiers while on patrol but there are things beyond our control some days," the king said as he folded the parchment again and handed it back to Glorfindel who remained silent, not certain how to respond. "Do not think me cynical. I have come to terms that despite the precautions I took out of love for my family and subjects will never be enough against fate."
"Speak not of dread and gloom," Glorfindel replied. "We must enjoy what we have and what is given."
"True words; though, I wonder what purpose or foresight Ulmo may have had in sending me to this place only to be dealt grievous times," Turgon sighed.
"We may never know and he nor the other Valar may not as well," Glorfindel said. "Only the One shall know its purpose and what is ahead."
"I only wish they could tell me of my sister's fate," Turgon answered. "For I have settled over my decision after so long that sent her away."
"One day," Glorfindel said with a smile and turned to go. "I shall see you in a month."
*
For a week's time Glorfindel was away on patrol at the gate. He had replaced Ecthelion for a time while the dark-haired lord went to do rounds to check on his other patrol parties. The watch at the gate was always the calmest and least problematic place of the border but the most important in protection. As usual, Glorfindel decided to do a thorough inspection of the cave just outside of the gate in case of any wandering, unwanted visitors.
A few young ellyn just beyond their majorities were on their first duty patrols and Glorfindel decided to have them join him on the small chore so that he could give advice and guidance to them. He always enjoyed educating the youngsters as the youth began joining his ranks. It felt as if he was giving something to the growing and learning additions of the city's populace so that they felt they made a difference and returning something to those who gave for them. No one had been in such a role for Glorfindel except his father and perhaps Fingolfin, Turgon's father, but it was different with those who were close like family.
"Milord," one of the ellyn called to him. "I do not understand the purpose of our search here. None shall come this way if they are not searching for our city in particular."
"Yet we must do so due to that possibility one may come this way at random," Glorfindel explained.
A horse's faraway whinny caught their attention as they looked out toward the end of the cave that opened up at the edge of the Crissaegrim. There were horses by the gate belonging to the soldiers but these noises had definitely been in the opposite direction.
"Where from did that neighing come, Lord Glorfindel?" one asked.
"Back toward the gate," Glorfindel ordered as they sprinted to the safety behind their fellow soldiers.
Once they were on the other side of the tunnel gate, Glorfindel set about instructions and plans. A few archers took up position in high ledges above the gate while one stood watch above on the other side. After what seemed a long time of wait did news come.
"Open! Part the gates for Lady Ar-Feiniel!" cried the scout to his comrades.
Glorfindel gave a nod to go on with the opening of the gates as soon as he heard the archer say the name. He thought for a moment that perhaps the soldier made a mistake in his identification but as the brunette, pale-skinned daughter of Fingolfin stepped through, Glorfindel could not believe his eyes.
Catching her in his embrace after she ran to him did Glorfindel know the white-clad elleth before him was truly Aredhel and actually real. Another figure caught his eyes as she stepped back, a dark-haired ellon barely past his thirtieth year stood behind her. His eyes were of midnight blue, dark as the night could be, but piercing and strong unlike one for his age. In him, Glorfindel saw a resemblance that was of his mother who stood before him.
Not just in his pale complexion could Glorfindel see Aredhel but also because of his dark, brown hair due to her Noldori lineage. Yet there seemed to also be a recognizable Sindar heritage within him. Where was the father, Aredhel's mate? Who was the father? The questions resounded in Glorfindel's mind as a million thoughts raced through his consciousness. However, one lone problem came to rest above all the others: What would Ecthelion's response and reaction be?
"Welcome," Glorfindel managed to say, shock still present in his eyes and thoughts.
"Glorfindel, I would like to introduce my son, Maeglin," she said, noticing Glorfindel's gaze behind her.
"It is good to meet you," Glorfindel said politely then turned to Aredhel again. "Come, we must go see Turgon."
"Yes, we must," she said joyously. "It is good to be home."
Gathering horses, Glorfindel led them out of the tunnel and out onto the green valley of Tumladen. He did not ask questions, knowing they would be answered soon enough when they finally met Turgon. Ahead of them Glorfindel had sent a messenger to call upon the king with the word of his sister's return. However, as they passed under the archways of Gondolin's walls a receiving of great proportions welcomed them as all who heard came to see Aredhel Ar-Feiniel. Turgon was at the steps of the palace when they arrived, a wide smile of happiness spread across his face.
Glorfindel could not help but smile himself as he saw the twinkle in Turgon's eye return after being absent for so long. Turgon's arms encircled his sister tightly as he whispered his elation to her at seeing her with him again. All the while Maeglin stared about in wonder at the new world surrounding him. His dark eyes marveled at the handiwork and craftsmanship of the Eldari, a joint work of his parents' people. Finally, his mother called him forward to come by her side. Glorfindel could not hear the words spoken but witnessed a glad acknowledgement and acceptance from Turgon of his sister-son.
To Turgon's throne room they walked so that Aredhel could tell all that had happened her long years away. Glorfindel followed along as he watched Turgon, not a shred of his guilt and remorse of the past decades present in his countenance. When they arrived at their destination, Idril was cheerfully awaiting them and bestowed an overwhelming welcome upon her aunt, embracing her as heartily as her sire. Glorfindel knew Elrilya would be along shortly to also greet Aredhel. He could already sense her mix of excitement, surprise, and relief but he wondered too if she would react to Maeglin as he had.
It was obvious Elrilya felt the same as once Glorfindel saw her lay her eyes upon the young ellon but she hid her uncertainty well as she came to meet them. For a few hours they listened as Aredhel spoke about her wandering and becoming lost, her stay in Curufin's realm, and her eventual stay in the forests of Nan Elmoth. Of the father of Maeglin Aredhel said nothing, nor did she mention why it took her so long to come forth or why it was time she returned. Either way, Turgon did not seem bothered at all by these thoughts and was entirely focused on having Aredhel back by his side. However, the subject of her spouse was broached when the messenger arrived.
"My lord," the soldier addressed Turgon. "There is an Elda at the gate demanding he be let in to the city. He claims to be bound to the Lady Aredhel."
Glossary
Attaráne: two wandering
Chapter Forty-Two: Attaráne
A few small search parties were dispatched to continue in the recovery of Aredhel, sister to the king of Gondolin. Weeks away turned into months and after nearly a year had passed, no word had come on a discovery. Even the Eagles, having spoken with Turgon, kept an eye out during their travels and flights to look for the only daughter of Fingolfin but they found no trace. Turgon fell into a stupor, avoiding contact with others unless it was necessary duties. Alone he dwelt in his tower with nay a word to others on his well-being.
Gondolin's citizens felt the grief at the loss of their White Lady but eventually moved on from the gloomy shroud that had attached itself to the king. The guilt felt by Súrion and his solders lasted for quite some time and well into their publicly known punishment of long patrols in the harshest and most remote areas of the mountain border but eventually subsided. Life went on but no one forgot the dangers of the outside world and that at least for the time being they had protection in their valley. No thoughts of traveling afar followed the inhabitants, as they were tired of moving to new lands or fleeing the oppression or threat of Morgoth's vile servants.
Idril, being severed from her anguished father and missing the once constant presence of her aunt-come surrogate mother, was often found at Glorfindel and Elrilya's residence passing time. Unlike Idril, Ecthelion sought solitude in personal matters but kept himself busied with his duties and soldiers at a different level of socialization. Still keeping company to some degree was what separated him from the isolation Turgon continued for the next three decades. Glorfindel had attempted to go to his friend but the king would not let the conversation stray into the reasons he hid himself away.
One day though, the darkness that had settled appeared to have lifted. It happened when Glorfindel was about to leave on patrol for a term but stopped by Turgon's study to give his planned routes of travel along the mountain border as he usually did. However, this day was different and Glorfindel was aware of the change when he arrived. Turgon's study, which had become cluttered without a care and dark due to the shut curtains, was suddenly orderly and the large window flung open wide. Laden with armor and gear, Glorfindel did not sit but stood in the doorway looking about in disbelief. Turgon had been immersed reading when the golden lord had arrived but looked up to find Glorfindel staring in awe.
"Come inside, Glorfindel," he said. "Stop gawking."
"I apologize," Glorfindel replied and listened to Turgon as he entered the room, closing the door behind him as he customarily did.
He handed the parchment he carried to Turgon who glanced over it for a few minutes.
"At the tunnel gate for a time then onward..." Turgon said out loud. "Not too difficult a travel this time?"
"That winter two years ago did make patrolling the peaks rather difficult and more so that the usual snowfall during the season," Glorfindel said with a little chuckle.
"I would not like any harm to come to you or the other soldiers while on patrol but there are things beyond our control some days," the king said as he folded the parchment again and handed it back to Glorfindel who remained silent, not certain how to respond. "Do not think me cynical. I have come to terms that despite the precautions I took out of love for my family and subjects will never be enough against fate."
"Speak not of dread and gloom," Glorfindel replied. "We must enjoy what we have and what is given."
"True words; though, I wonder what purpose or foresight Ulmo may have had in sending me to this place only to be dealt grievous times," Turgon sighed.
"We may never know and he nor the other Valar may not as well," Glorfindel said. "Only the One shall know its purpose and what is ahead."
"I only wish they could tell me of my sister's fate," Turgon answered. "For I have settled over my decision after so long that sent her away."
"One day," Glorfindel said with a smile and turned to go. "I shall see you in a month."
*
For a week's time Glorfindel was away on patrol at the gate. He had replaced Ecthelion for a time while the dark-haired lord went to do rounds to check on his other patrol parties. The watch at the gate was always the calmest and least problematic place of the border but the most important in protection. As usual, Glorfindel decided to do a thorough inspection of the cave just outside of the gate in case of any wandering, unwanted visitors.
A few young ellyn just beyond their majorities were on their first duty patrols and Glorfindel decided to have them join him on the small chore so that he could give advice and guidance to them. He always enjoyed educating the youngsters as the youth began joining his ranks. It felt as if he was giving something to the growing and learning additions of the city's populace so that they felt they made a difference and returning something to those who gave for them. No one had been in such a role for Glorfindel except his father and perhaps Fingolfin, Turgon's father, but it was different with those who were close like family.
"Milord," one of the ellyn called to him. "I do not understand the purpose of our search here. None shall come this way if they are not searching for our city in particular."
"Yet we must do so due to that possibility one may come this way at random," Glorfindel explained.
A horse's faraway whinny caught their attention as they looked out toward the end of the cave that opened up at the edge of the Crissaegrim. There were horses by the gate belonging to the soldiers but these noises had definitely been in the opposite direction.
"Where from did that neighing come, Lord Glorfindel?" one asked.
"Back toward the gate," Glorfindel ordered as they sprinted to the safety behind their fellow soldiers.
Once they were on the other side of the tunnel gate, Glorfindel set about instructions and plans. A few archers took up position in high ledges above the gate while one stood watch above on the other side. After what seemed a long time of wait did news come.
"Open! Part the gates for Lady Ar-Feiniel!" cried the scout to his comrades.
Glorfindel gave a nod to go on with the opening of the gates as soon as he heard the archer say the name. He thought for a moment that perhaps the soldier made a mistake in his identification but as the brunette, pale-skinned daughter of Fingolfin stepped through, Glorfindel could not believe his eyes.
Catching her in his embrace after she ran to him did Glorfindel know the white-clad elleth before him was truly Aredhel and actually real. Another figure caught his eyes as she stepped back, a dark-haired ellon barely past his thirtieth year stood behind her. His eyes were of midnight blue, dark as the night could be, but piercing and strong unlike one for his age. In him, Glorfindel saw a resemblance that was of his mother who stood before him.
Not just in his pale complexion could Glorfindel see Aredhel but also because of his dark, brown hair due to her Noldori lineage. Yet there seemed to also be a recognizable Sindar heritage within him. Where was the father, Aredhel's mate? Who was the father? The questions resounded in Glorfindel's mind as a million thoughts raced through his consciousness. However, one lone problem came to rest above all the others: What would Ecthelion's response and reaction be?
"Welcome," Glorfindel managed to say, shock still present in his eyes and thoughts.
"Glorfindel, I would like to introduce my son, Maeglin," she said, noticing Glorfindel's gaze behind her.
"It is good to meet you," Glorfindel said politely then turned to Aredhel again. "Come, we must go see Turgon."
"Yes, we must," she said joyously. "It is good to be home."
Gathering horses, Glorfindel led them out of the tunnel and out onto the green valley of Tumladen. He did not ask questions, knowing they would be answered soon enough when they finally met Turgon. Ahead of them Glorfindel had sent a messenger to call upon the king with the word of his sister's return. However, as they passed under the archways of Gondolin's walls a receiving of great proportions welcomed them as all who heard came to see Aredhel Ar-Feiniel. Turgon was at the steps of the palace when they arrived, a wide smile of happiness spread across his face.
Glorfindel could not help but smile himself as he saw the twinkle in Turgon's eye return after being absent for so long. Turgon's arms encircled his sister tightly as he whispered his elation to her at seeing her with him again. All the while Maeglin stared about in wonder at the new world surrounding him. His dark eyes marveled at the handiwork and craftsmanship of the Eldari, a joint work of his parents' people. Finally, his mother called him forward to come by her side. Glorfindel could not hear the words spoken but witnessed a glad acknowledgement and acceptance from Turgon of his sister-son.
To Turgon's throne room they walked so that Aredhel could tell all that had happened her long years away. Glorfindel followed along as he watched Turgon, not a shred of his guilt and remorse of the past decades present in his countenance. When they arrived at their destination, Idril was cheerfully awaiting them and bestowed an overwhelming welcome upon her aunt, embracing her as heartily as her sire. Glorfindel knew Elrilya would be along shortly to also greet Aredhel. He could already sense her mix of excitement, surprise, and relief but he wondered too if she would react to Maeglin as he had.
It was obvious Elrilya felt the same as once Glorfindel saw her lay her eyes upon the young ellon but she hid her uncertainty well as she came to meet them. For a few hours they listened as Aredhel spoke about her wandering and becoming lost, her stay in Curufin's realm, and her eventual stay in the forests of Nan Elmoth. Of the father of Maeglin Aredhel said nothing, nor did she mention why it took her so long to come forth or why it was time she returned. Either way, Turgon did not seem bothered at all by these thoughts and was entirely focused on having Aredhel back by his side. However, the subject of her spouse was broached when the messenger arrived.
"My lord," the soldier addressed Turgon. "There is an Elda at the gate demanding he be let in to the city. He claims to be bound to the Lady Aredhel."
Glossary
Attaráne: two wandering
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