Arrival in Imladris
The surge in the song of Ea took all the elves by surprise. Its strength washed over the land coming from the West and spreading across all of Middle Earth. One would have to be completely insensitive in a way no elf was to miss the strengthening of the land. The way the trees sang a joyous song. While it was the most obvious to the first born, even the other races noticed how life around them flourished and corruption faded back.
While most elves could feel the effect, a precious few could hear the song of Ea outside of Valinor. At least only a few could typically. Most were reacting to the singing of the trees which could be heard clearly. Elves were in tune with nature in a way few other beings came close to. The hobbits would be the next most likely to listen to nature, or at the very least be aware of the effects upon it.
While that was the most obvious, it was not the only. The call of the sea had lessened its grip upon the elves. All felt it to some extent. Most quiet in those whose ancestors never sailed to the West only to return. The call could be intensified by many things, and could cause fading if not heeded. Yet now the siren’s call muted to an easily disregarded background whisper. It was a joy and peace in the land that only the eldest among them had felt in such strength before.
A joyous thing to be certain, however the possible cause of it, unknown to most. It sent the elf havens buzzing with activity and messages flew with literal wings between them. Messenger birds made many a flight even as the elves made best use of the opportunity as caretakers of the land. There were, of course, a few that had an inkling of what might be behind it.
The seneschal, captain and lord of Imladris gathered in the latter’s office. “You believe that this is caused by your brother’s entry to Ea?” Erestor asked in a faintly surprised tone.
“The timing is right. From what we can tell of his story, he was bringing a large number of elven souls long lost to our world. The return of their light, I can think of no other probable cause for the song strengthening in such a way.” Elrond pointed out. “Many are the firstborn of us.”
“There is also the matter of the Valar being involved with the young one.” Glorfindel added with a thoughtful tone. “At a minimum he has maia heritage, and was going to go through some sort of transformation. One has to wonder if Eru’s hand will be upon him as well.”
“Regardless, he is but an elfling.” On this the Lord of Imladris was firm. “He will be treated as such and protected.” Not that either of the other elves had a problem with this. There were no known elves currently as young as Gilriant looked to be when he visited them. Children were cherished and cared for, above all else.
“Their rooms are ready, Imladris is as ready as it can be for both your brother and Atar to be here.” Erestor contributed, a faint line between his eyebrows as he thought. “The heart of the matter for the moment is what, if anything, do we tell the other elf havens? Even King Thranduil has reached out.” Which was a rarity for Greenwood's ruler.
At least this Elrond had a ready answer for. “The truth. That all we have at the moment is speculation. That is all we will have until we have more information.” He paused for a moment, thoughtful. “If that is not enough, we can suggest a meeting here, in six months time. Which is long enough for us all to have gathered what information we have to discuss.”
Glorfindel inclined his head in agreement. “That will also give the young prince time to adjust, and if he is the cause, they cannot accuse us of hiding him. Unless we intend to lock him away, which none of us desire, word will get out there is an elfling here.” What went unsaid was that word may also spread of Maglor being there. While that fact may have remained quiet on its own, while he was the father of the elfling that many would want to see, it could not be.
“And as the meeting was already planned, we have a valid reason not to send envoys out with news that could be considered sensitive.” Erestor sounded pleased. “Nor would any want an elfling traveling if it can be helped.” It neatly resolved the current dilemma and paved the way for future needed interactions.
“Speaking of travel,” Glorfindel interjected. “Do we know how they planned on getting here? Should we be sending riders out towards the Grey Havens? It would thin our defenses with the patrols we already have out. Considering the current state of things it is hardly something that would cause us harm.” Elrond opened his mouth to respond and then shut it with a frown sitting back in his seat.
“My Lord?” Erester gave him a look of concern. It was well known that Elrond was gifted with the sight.
“No. Somehow I feel they will not be arriving from that direction.” His frown grew more pronounced. “And they may be needed elsewhere soon.”
Now that alarmed the captain of the guard. “I will make sure fighters can move out at a moment’s notice if need be.” Not that Glorfindel ever allowed the guard to completely relax. Dangers still lurked and even if for the moment peace and calm reigned, there was no guarantee it would last.
“We have time yet, and they may not be needed at all. The light that has spread has chased the shadow from many corners of our world.”
Days later a lighter pulse came, not directly from the west, but more the south. Compared to the first it was but a slight summer breeze. Yet it still brought with it a wave of warmth and light. As if Arda itself was welcoming someone. A small if bright light, traveling rapidly.
“Is it possible?” Of all of Imladris, it was Elrond and Glorfindel that would be the most sensitive to such things. “Let it never be said that a Noldo does not know how to arrive in style.” Glorfindel replied with a grin.
Elrond shot him a reproving look. “Have watchers keep an eye on the skies.”
“Yes My Lord, it will be done.”
Maglor had been right to have him wear his shoes and his cloak. Even being held tightly between the elf and the eagle the brisk wind leached warmth away. Still the flight was exhilarating being so very high in the sky. Higher than he had ever been before truly. They must look like tiny specks from the ground. This was likely done in part to try and make their passage less noticeable. As much as it could be anyways with a boat in tow.
Without much to focus on than the ride itself, Giriant could feel parts of himself ready to unfurl and touch the world around him. An itch to connect with the world spread out under their flight. The shoes were definitely coming off as soon as they landed. It was the best way to keep that power from surging in its attempt to reach out. Even with the aid of the circlet that he could feel helping mute things.
Back in Valinor the power was everywhere. Here there seemed to be fewer sources of it. Perhaps why his was trying to react out and connect? Harry loved flying. That would never change. There just seemed to be a deeper connection to the ground now. Like his power was a tree trying to take root. Love of both the sky and the ground. Something to think about, later.
Right now they were coming closer to, something. It was like he had two sets of senses that were not quite in agreement. One said nothing was there other than the typical environment. The other, well it sang to him. A little confusing and on the verge of inducing a headache. He must have shown some sign of it for he heard Maglor’s voice rumble behind him. “Are you alright hinya?”
“M’fine. Are we close?”
It was the eagle that answered. “Yes fledgling, we are very close. Look there, among the cliffs and waterfalls and you will see it.”
Far different to see from the sky what he had explored on the ground. “Wow.” Gilriant peered at the second eagle which had dropped down towards the water. Likely to drop off his boat. Looking ahead once more he could tell Gwaihir was gliding down to an open area. Another difference, he could see what could only be elves headed towards the spot. Many elves. Before it had only ever been two at a time with him when he explored.
He could feel it, when they dropped past a certain point. It was like a magical shield coming up and cocooning them from prying eyes. It resolved the dissonance in his senses chasing away the threatening headache. That alone was a bit of relief. It didn’t do away with the edge of anxiety that was creeping up at the sight of so many.
Harry didn’t do well with crowds. This was an entire city of elves. While he doubted they all would be coming out at once there did seem to be a good many of them. Both phoenixes gave croons of reassurance to him as the Eagle’s wings spread wide for their landing. There was not much time for anything else and they were on the ground. The other eagle lofted up from where they dropped off the boat in the waterway below and landed by them. The carrying sling would easily serve as an anchor for the boat, attaching it to the land next to it. Enchantments laid on the rope would prevent it from being lost.
Fawkes eased free and launched himself in the sky around them. Gilriant could pick up the various soft murmurs in reaction to the sight of him and the musical trill he made. Well the phoenix were additions that no one would have been prepared for. As they were what one would call a last minute addition to their travel party.
The Maglor was dismounting as the eagle crouched low to help. His arm secure around the elfling made sure he went safely with him. Pausing the bard inclined his head to the great eagle. “My thanks for the safe and swift journey.”
“Yes!” Gilriant pipped up.” Thank you very much.” He twisted in Maglor’s grip to look at the second eagle. “Thank you for bringing the boat too.”
“You are most welcome, it was our pleasure.” He could hear the warmth and light amusement in Gwaihir’s voice.
Squirming a bit to kick off his shoes Gilriant could hear Maglor’s sigh even as he got the hint to set the elfling down. “Not even a minute in?” The bard murmured softly, and then blinked.
As soon as the young one’s feet hit the ground, he could feel some sort of sense slip into it. Connecting Gilriant to the area. With it went another bit of tension he hadn’t quite realized was there until it was no longer an issue. Based on Maglor’s response and the pause he spotted several other elves made, it wasn’t entirely unnoticed by others.
The bard dropped down to one knee to look him over. “Better?”
Nodding emphatically the elfling nodded. “Better. I don’t know why, but better.”
“I see footwear is a bit of an issue?” The smooth and amused voice had Gilriant brightening up and darting towards the speaker.
“Elrond!” Keeping Hedwig secure with one hand, he lifted his free arm up towards the elven lord in invitation. One that his brother swiftly took scooping him up in a hug. “I brought Atar, just like I said I would.”
“So I see, and few other friends as well.”
“Yes, is that okay?” He could feel Maglor slowly moving towards them and helped Hedwig settle on his shoulder. With one hand he held onto Elrond and the other reached back towards Maglor.
“Of course to have you here, to have both of you here, my heart sings with joy.” It was easy to hear in his voice how sincere Elrond was.
At those words Maglor had reached them and hesitantly pulled Elrond into a hug.“I am sorry. For being gone so long and for all that has happened.”
“You are here now, that is what matters.” They held a moment longer before pulling away from the hug so Elfond could incline his head to the Great Eagles. He did, however, keep his hold on Gilriant. “Thank you for bringing my family home. I invite you to enjoy the hospitality of Imladris.”
Gwaihir tilted his head and bowed back. “It was our pleasure. While I thank you for the invitation, our Lord has already seen to our needs. Based on what our Lord has to say, I believe you will be busy enough with these too.”
Gilriant was almost offended.
“With your permission we would visit some time to check on the fledgling.”
Okay maybe not offended.
“You are always welcome here.” Elrond smiled and started moving away to give them space. Gilriant kept one hand on Hedwig at the great gusts of wind produced by their wings as they took off. As soon as it was safe he waved to them. “Goodbye!” The cry of the eagles in return echoed through the valley.
“Well then I do believe there are some people that want to greet you.” While Gilriant knew Elrond ment the family members and a few others standing nearby, he couldn’t help but to look past them. At the very many faces turned in their direction. Most were friendly, welcoming and with a smile. A few more . . neutral seemed to be aimed at Maglor and that made him feel more than a little uncomfortable. “That is many people.”
Whether Elrond picked up the anxiety in his tone, or by the fact Gilriant’s hand was now gripping his tunic slightly, he seemed to immediately recognize the issue. Raising his voice only a little, he addressed the crowd. “I am sure you will all get your chance to greet my family that has joined us. They will be staying in Imladris now. Please go about your business.” There was some laughter and friendly voices and people began moving about once more.
Gilriant immediately recognized the blonde that stepped close. “Hi Shiny.” A quick smile flashed on the Captain's face.
“You are looking pretty shiny yourself there little one. Something new but not a bad look on you.” At that Gilriant grumbled.
“Not my fault! I blame Eru.” Someone made a half choked sound. While Girliant couldn’t tell who exactly he looked back to stare at Maglor.
The bard held up both hands palm out. “I said nothing!”
At the sight of the smooth blemish free palms Glorfindel’s eyes widened and he inhaled. Maglor noticed his gaze and dropped his hands, explaining quietly. “Gilriant was not the only one touched by Eru. My blessings have more to do with my past, while the young one’s had more to do with his potential.”
Everyone was quiet for a beat before Elrond spoke. “Perhaps we should finish introductions and then move this inside? We have a suite of rooms for you in the family wing.”
“A good thing you came when you did. Ada was most anxious about your arrival. He might have redecorated them five more times.” Chimed in one of the twins, helping to break the tension.
In a mock suffering tone Elrond continued. “And these are my children. The two who are fond of mischief are my eldest, Elladan and Elrohir.” Grinning, Gilriant twisted to look at Maglor and then back at the twins. “Trouble and Chaos Atar.” At their mock offended look he just laughed. “Made sure to have those words right just for you.”
“Only met us once before and already the judgment.” It was clear they were both amused. “You are the ones that talked about pranks.” The elfling replied promptly.
“And now on to the people you have not encountered yet. My daughter Arwen.” Elrond nodded in his last born child’s direction. “A star shines upon the hour of our meeting. I am most pleased to have you both here.” Arwen smiled at them both. “Ada is not introducing you to us, as we all already know your names as it was all he could talk about.”
“Wow you are pretty.” Gilriant blurted out, and then groaned and ducked his head. Her musical laugh had him offering her a sheepish smile. “Well thank you. You are quite pretty yourself.” He considered that with a head tilt. “Thank you?” There were smiles at his slightly confused response.
“This is my Senechal Erestor.” The elfling’s eyes widened and his voice was enthusiastic. “Oh the one that, that . . . knows all the things?”
“A scholar perhaps?” The aforementioned elf inclined his head. “Yes! That, thank you. I have so many questions.” Erestor offered a small smile. “It would be my pleasure to have you as a student, my Prince.”
Tilting his head in confusion. “What was last word? Not know that one yet.” Before anyone could clarify Maglor cleared his throat. “I suggest we keep that discussion for later, or I fear we may be standing out here for at least half a day.” Gilriant turned to shoot him a suspicious look. “We will discuss it hinya, just later. For one you need something to eat.”
Elrond raised an eyebrow but continued on. “That would bring me to Lindir. Who makes sure we have everything we need. Our household would likely fall apart without him.”
The dark-haired elf smiled and bowed. “I am sure you would be fine, my Lord. It is a privilege to assist you, and an honor to meet you both my Lord, my Prince. Shall I arrange for some refreshments to be brought to the family rooms?”
“Please if you would.” Elrond confirmed and Lindir inclined his head and moved off to carry that out. “Now, you have two new friends with you, and I believe that was a boat that was dropped off below?”
“Yes, this is Hedwig.” Gilriant nodded at the white bird on his shoulder as she chirped a greeting. “She is a young ice phoenix. And Fawkes . . “ He frowned until the brightly colored bird swooped in to land on Maglor’s shoulder now that his name was mentioned. “This is Fawkes, he is a fire phoenix. Very special kind of bird.” The firebird added his own musical trill to the conversation.
“So I see, I look forward to learning about them.” Elrond started walking towards the family wing. “And the boat that came with you? I was surprised to see the Eagles carrying it.” Gilriant grinned. “Atar helped Aule make it. Very special boat.”
Elrond paused a step before continuing to walk. “Well, that will have at least half the craftspeople wanting to examine it.” Glorfindel commented with a blink. Gilriant had a mischievous look in his eyes. “Vaire made the sail.”
“I suppose that makes sense, being made of cloth and her being the weaver.” Elladan stated. “Though I’m pretty sure that means everyone is going to want to take a look at that boat now sooner or later.” Elrohir added.
Maglor’s amused voice sounds. “Perhaps now is the time to warn you that Gilriant tends to how shall I put it . . . Attract unusual circumstances?” “Not my fault.” Gilriant protested with a huff. “I didn’t say it was. Just that it tended to happen.”
The elfling twisted around realizing something. “No Celebrian?” It was Arwen that answered this time. “Nana is in Lothlorien, visiting with her parents. We are expecting her home soon. She’ll be sad she missed your arrival but very happy to have you here as well.”
At this point they had entered the family wing and they headed to a suite of rooms. Elrond gave Glorfindel and Erestor a quick look inclining his head towards the rooms with a nod and they both followed the family in. Lindir was already there setting up food and drink on a table. “Ah, excellent.” The elf said with a smile. “I hope this will be to your liking. Please let me know if you need anything for your rooms, clothing and any other needs.”
Maglor offered a smile. “This looks wonderful, thank you. We actually brought a great deal of things with us, so may need some help organizing later.” He set down the satchel that had been slung across his back. Opening it up he reached inside. “The bag comes from Gilriant’s world of birth, and has a bit of magic to it. Making it larger on the inside and very light. Much larger in fact.” Much to their surprise he pulled out the lap harp as it was near the top of their supplies and set it next to the satchel.
“That would be very handy indeed for travel. I would be happy to assist later.” Luckily it seemed Elrond’s staff had a certain amount of unflappability to them. The elf only paused and gave the bag a surprised look before inclining his head and leaving the room.
“It seems you have brought all kinds of wonders with you.” Elrond sat down at the table, still holding Gilriant, settling the elfling on his lap while others found places around the room. Maglor chose to take a seat by them.
“You are going to have to put me down eventually.” Gilriant gave Elrond a serious look. “Indulge me a bit longer if you would.” The elven lord replied with a small smile.
Across the table Elladan laughed. “More like the next . . how old are you now Gilriant?” Elrond was fixing a plate and setting it near the elfling as well as a drink. “Eighteen, I will be nineteen in about four months.” It was Elrohir that answered. “So at least eleven years then. Probably as long as anyone can get away with it.”
“I knew this was going to be a thing.” There were some amused smiles around the table at the elflings reaction. “Gilriant,” Maglor’s voice was soft. “Perhaps it would be best to explain some, so everyone understands your reactions. And you understand theirs.”
Fiddling with a piece of food he shrugged. “Did explain some.” Arwen’s voice was gentle. “I have only heard a little yet. I know no one here would tire of your story.” A trace of humor was interjected in her tone. “And hearing more will likely help Ada from worrying too much. I’m afraid with him being a healer that can happen at times.”
With a sigh, Gilriant sent Maglor an imploring look. Then popped some of the food in his mouth. Taking the hint the bard inclined his head and looked around at the group. “There is a small list of challenges as he transitions from what he was, to what he is now.”
Seeing that he had their attention, Maglor continued. “First, it's important to understand that before our passage, the body he was in was that of a young but adult human wizard.” If there were any reactions to that, Gilriant missed them in favor of focusing on the food. “There is another reason he cannot be treated precisely as you would another elfling.”
“I don’t know how to be one.” Was the young one’s quiet addition.
Confused and concerned expressions flashed around the group. Maglor sighed. “A bit more than that hinya. Those that were supposed to care for you after your parents died were only slightly civilized orcs in guise of the edain.” Continuing on through the dismayed sounds and expressions the bard continued. “There is also the matter that you were essentially a child solider. I have no doubt you still have some battle reflexes to deal with from that and those that raised you.”
Harry very much wanted to protest. Perhaps especially because of the sounds of distress and shock he was hearing. The thing is that Maglor wasn’t exactly wrong in what he said. He could also feel Elrond’s steading hand had tightened on him. Before he looked up he said the only thing he could think of. “Eru helped me, helped you too.”
Every one of them had some sort of unhappy expression. Arwen looked like she wanted to cry. The twins were pale. Glorfindel and Erestor had an angry cast to their expression. He didn’t really want to look at Elrond or Maglor so he looked back at his food.
The bard continued in a calm voice. “I know, but only what could not be done by ourselves or others. Eru didn’t take everything, and some of the most grievous wounds are the ones most cannot be seen outwardly by many.” Which was something that had been said to Harry time and time again. That they were trying but not all things had an easy or quick fix.”
Objectively, Harry knew that everyone in the room likely needed to have that facts laid out to them. So that they would understand and take his potential actions and reactions into account. Yet it was difficult to hear, and a part of him could not help but to worry.
“So, now another race, younger than you truly have ever been before. While I do not know what the maia part of you may need, I know the elfling part will likely need more physical contact than you are used to.” The gentle tone had no pity, just quiet certainty. “That may be a struggle for you but it is okay. If nothing else you may have them competing to try to be your favorite pillow for a nap.”
Harry’s head whipped up. “No one is going to want to carry me around all day, especially if I’m just sleeping on them for part of it.”
Glorfindel's voice had a trace of amusement to it. “If anything your Atar undersold it. While we won’t be sharing your story without your permission, there are certainly going to be elves that will make it a point of pride to try to do just that.” Gilriant blinked at that. It just didn’t make any kind of sense to him. Finally he turned to look at Elrond. Worry was there, but so was care and concern.
“The good news is that we, being your family, have the rights and privilege to step in as needed. I promise, Elrohir was not joking about me not wanting to put you down for a long time. Atar was right about you needing some of it. We will do our best not to overwhelm you.” A look of determination formed on the elf lord’s face. “I am a capable enough healer and barring any emergencies whatever looking after can be done here in the family wing.”
Erestor’s voice was dry. “My Lord Elrond was being modest. He’s the finest healer around so he certainly can and will do it in a way you may not even notice. Though he does tend to fuss more than is needed at times.” While keeping his gaze on Gilriant’s face, Elrond replied in a dry tone. “Which I would need to do less of if you all were better at actually taking care of yourselves.”
All the adult elves were in silent agreement to do the best they could for Gilriant. Whatever issues came along the way. To do so was a privilege, and one they would treasure.