Work Text:
Title: The King’s Cabin
Author: phyncke
Character(s): Erestor/Glorfindel, Gil-galad, Elrond
Rating: G
Beta(s): Aglarien
For: Slashy Valentine 2024
Gift for: Melusine6619
Note: The Silmarillion, Lord of the Rings
Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I have borrowed them for my own amusement and for yours I hope.
Summary: Erestor and Glorfindel have had enough of Lindon court life and Ereinion has promised them both his hunting cabin in the woods. See what unfolds!
The King’s Cabin
“Sire, you are too kind. I could not, really. I fear it is an imposition.” Glorfindel was quite astounded at the King’s offer of time away from court at his hunting cabin.
“Nonsense, Glorfindel! I hardly ever go there and it is fully provisioned, even in the winter. It will be lovely this time of year with all the snow. Just what you need. Get away from all this courtly drama. I insist. I will not let you tell me no. I insist on it quite strongly.”
Elrond was just within earshot and did not want to interrupt and reminded his lordship that he had made a similar offer not too long ago to one Erestor, raven-haired, head scribe, for similar reasons. The King must know what he is about and would avoid any calamities. Wouldn’t he? Surely he would. It would be a disaster if they both ended up fighting over the cabin at the same time.
Ereinion’s hunting cabin was tucked into the woods a few days' ride out of Lindon. It was surprisingly rustic for a king’s abode and meant for him when he needed solitude and to get back to nature. He barely ever made use of the place now. He could never get the time away from his duties to hunt or have solitude. A King’s life was very demanding but he did lend the cabin to his friends when he felt they needed some time away, and was happy it got some use. He made sure his soldiers checked the food stores there each month and kept the wood pile well stocked. It was more the hope of the cabin that the King loved, and he wanted it maintained and kept up.
Glorfindel after a lot more wrangling and argument back and forth, finally gratefully accepted the King’s generous offer and would leave for the cabin the very next day. As someone newly returned to Middle Earth, he found the intrigues, dramas and machinations of court life draining on his mind and he needed to go rest somewhere away. This cabin sounded ideal to him. A good ride away and time alone would be perfect.
“I cannot thank you enough, Sire. I really cannot.”
“Stop thanking me, Glorfindel or I will ride out with you and ruin your trip.” Ereinion laughed and clapped him on the shoulder. “I am happy to do it and if you like the place, you can go there any time. Any time at all.”
Elrond sighed as the other two elves left the library. He was not sure if the King knew what he was doing but surely this spelled disaster for the two elves who would end up in close quarters at the King’s cabin. If he had learned anything, it was when to stay out of things.
/---/
Aside from the dead animal heads on the walls of the cabin, stuffed and mounted and on display, the cabin was very welcoming and comforting. Erestor supposed they had been hunted by Ereinion himself, an impressive buck or two with glassy eyes. He supposed the royal taxidermist had been kept busy once upon a time when the King had spent time at this cabin and actually rode out hunting. Now this place was mainly maintained (and very well stocked indeed) by the King’s Guard. They came out here a few times a month with provisions, freshened the hay in the barn and ensured that it was all in order should the King ever wish to make use of his cabin again.
It was much more than a cabin really, more like a house with three large bedrooms on the second floor and a balcony that overlooked a very large living room on the first floor. There was a large hearth on the east side of that room made of stone from floor to ceiling and when lit.,it heated the entire room.. There were couches and chairs throughout the living room, along with a full dining room on this floor. The kitchen was fully equipped with a wood burning stove and all manner of pots and pans for cooking and a fully stocked pantry with whatever one might need to prepare a meal. If one was a hunter, one might scare up some game and then prepare a sumptuous meal from the King’s cabin. Erestor was sure that when the King came here, he brought a chef with him as he could not imagine Ereinion knew how to prepare his own food. There was a barracks on the grounds for staff that he imagined was also fully equipped. Erestor had not ventured there yet, but it just stood to reason.
Last week, Erestor had been completely at the end of his rope. The demands of his position as head scribe were well, demanding, and he had felt like he was drowning. He met weekly with Ereinion to report on projects of import and the King had sensed something was amiss. It took one simple question from the King and Erestor simply burst out in tears. Now looking back, he was slightly embarrassed at his outburst, but Ereinion took it in stride and offered him the use of this cabin (more like house) and Erestor had gladly accepted. He needed some time off to relax and rest in the quiet of the woods. It did not matter that it was winter. He needed to go. And go he did, the very next day after letting Elrond and his assistant know. That was a week ago and this place had worked wonders on his spirit. He was a new Elf.
The King had not put a time limit on his stay so he thought he would stay a few weeks to really rest and recover. Court could be so taxing and stressful and he enjoyed being away from the gossip-mill. No one was here to comment on his wardrobe or hair or ink marks on his hands. Ereinion did his best to discourage such things but it happened nonetheless. He had brought his journal and his sketchbook, and a few books to read, and he was enjoying taking a daily walk in the woods. It was so quiet here. He loved listening to the wind blow gently through the forest. There were owls flying at night, hunting small prey, and any manner of animal in these woods. Erestor felt he was part of it and it was very rejuvenating. At court one was removed from nature while here it was all around.
Erestor made full use of the King’s stores in the pantry and cooked each day. The soldiers had been thoughtful and there were eggs, flour and fresh foods. They must come here quite frequently to restock as everything was unspoiled and in good order. He wondered how many people besides the King came here and it must be quite a few. This was truly a lovely place, so friends of Ereinion must be making use of it. It would be a shame for all of this to go to waste.
Today was his fifth day here and he was making a fresh loaf of bread in the stove and planned on having it for breakfast with the jam and butter. His mother would be proud he remembered her recipes. They were coming in handy. He planned on making a stew later with the dried meats and he could eat that for a few days. Bless his mam, she had been an excellent cook for sure.
He planned today for some writing in his journal taking a long walk later. He had brought good boots for walking and warm clothes. This forest here was very welcoming and the trees were strong and healthy, both young and old. It was a good place to find oneself and recover from the travails of court life. The sound of his footfalls in the snow were a comfort, and the crunch of the leaves on the ground underneath. Elves could walk silently when they wished -to but he did not worry about that here.
Erestor pulled his bread hot from the oven and left it on the counter in the kitchen to cool, but not for too long. He sliced a nice big piece of it while it was still warm and slathered it with butter and preserves from the pantry. He sat in the kitchen eating and thinking about what the day might bring. Without work to fill his time, the day was his to command. He did love his work for Ereinion, of course, but he was enjoying this time without responsibilities. He might even go back to bed and lounge for a spell. How delicious would that be?
/—/
Glorfindel set out from Lindon silently in the pre-dawn hours. The stars were still out and it was dark all around but his keen elvish eyes could see his path well. He had been given directions from the captain of the guard who raised an eyebrow but said little else but how to get to the King’s cabin. It was a two-day ride at a good pace to the cabin and the path in the forest was marked to Elvish eyes. Unfriendly eyes would not be able to read the markers but, an Elf could with ease. He had all confidence in his ability to find the place.
His horse was strong and sure of foot and did not mess about as they galloped on their way. The King let him borrow a mount when he needed as he had not had a chance to select one of his own yet. Glorfindel liked this horse quite a bit. It was solid black with a star on his forehead and very handsome. He had white markings on his feet as well.
Glorfindel had packed some treats for his horse, Ragar, placing apples, carrots and sugar cubes in his saddle bags. He would never neglect his horse. It was not in his nature. He felt there was an easy friendship between Elf and equine and he would take care of this horse to the best of his ability.
He planned to pause for a rest every few hours so Glorfindel could give Ragar some treats and allow him to graze in the snow. The horse would snuffle his nose under the soft white cold icy surface and find the grass. He also had brought skins of water in case they did not come upon a river, for he knew any lakes would be frozen. They would both need water along the journey, so Glorfindel provided for that. He brought a wooden bowl to use for Ragar, and he himself would drink direct from the water bag made of skin.
They made good time and were well outside of Lindon by noon. Glorfindel already felt the burden of court lift from his spirit, and he stopped for a rest. The worry of always watching how he acted or what he said was taxing, and there was no end of Elves trying to earn his affections. It was tiresome. Only one Elf had so far interested him. He had spied the lead scribe here and there, and was intrigued by this raven-haired beauty. He hoped to make his better acquaintance but had not yet had a chance to. He had been introduced, of course, but that was about it so far. He hoped to learn more about Erestor, should he so wish.
Ragar stomped his feet and seemed ready to move on from their break, so Glorfindel packed up the food and water and got ready to go. Further on, they would come to the edge of the forest where there was good cover so he would be more at ease. He never felt right riding out in the open and always preferred being among the trees.
Glorfindel leapt astride his mount and took off at a gallop down the well-worn soldiers’ path.
/—/
Ereinion sat at breakfast reading the daily briefing from his very capable advisors. His thoughts drifted to the events he has set in motion at the cabin and a small smile played around his lips. He knew full well that he had promised the cabin to both Erestor and Glorfindel, and hoped that by sending them there at the same time, he might put in motion such feelings between them as might lead to a love match.
“You are looking very satisfied with yourself this morning, Sire.” Elrond entered the dining room and took up a plate. “To what do we owe that smirk on your face?”
He dished out eggs and other items from the buffet that was set each morning and then joined the King at his table. Gil-galad was surrounded by parchment papers that he was not paying attention to, but that was nothing new.
“I am sure you have noticed that I sent both Erestor and Glorfindel to the hunting cabin, no?”
“I did, Sire.”
“Did you not wonder if I had grown forgetful? Or made some mistake? Did you think me addled?”
“I did wonder why, my Lord.”
“And why did you not speak up, Elrond, if you saw me make such a mistake?”
“I thought you might have your reasons, Sire.”
“I most certainly do. It was my intent to put Glorfindel and Erestor together at the cabin. I think they will make a wonderful match together. Mark my words.”
Elrond raised one eyebrow and took a sip of warm, yet strong tea. He, himself, tried not to meddle in the love affairs of others but evidently Ereinion did not restrain himself in such matters.
“So noted, Sire.” Elrond did internally note that Ereinion was not blessed with the gift of foresight as he was, so he was shooting in the dark on his matchmaking. The King had not asked for his help in this matter, and probably did not want to know if he was right or not.
Elrond did get a tingling along his neck when he thought of Erestor and Glorfindel together, and realized that Ereinion might have accidentally hit upon something. He did not want to encourage the King to do more of this matchmaking. He would become incorrigible about it and that could be a disaster.
Elrond said nothing more and continued to eat his breakfast.
/—/
Erestor stirred his stew and loved smelling its delicious aroma. He had made much more than he could eat in one sitting but that was good. It would last a few days, if not a week. Another of his mam’s recipes full of vegetables, and he had made use of the dried venison stored in the pantry. One could live on the food stored here for some months and not have to hunt at all. He did not intend to go out and kill anything himself. He would simply eat from the food stores. The soldiers would not mind. He sure they were glad someone was eating the food they had stocked here.
He had the bread he had made in the morning to go with this stew, and he could eat that for dinner. He banked the fire in the stove and set the pot to simmer over some hours to allow the flavors to develop fully. He remembered his mam cooking a good stew over long hours, and he learned the flavors needed to blend. He would need to come in and stir it now and then.
He looked out the window and saw the clouds moving and joining and darkening. The winds were changing and the air felt portent with an impending storm. It was cold and he thought that it would likely snow. The thought of that got him excited. He always loved a good storm and would love to watch it from the safety of this well-built and finely insulated cabin. He would light a nice big fire and gaze out the window. He would set about now making sure he had enough split wood and kindling for the next few days.
Erestor ventured out to the woodshed which had a few sharp axes and a large stock of logs for chopping into firewood for the fireplace and stoves of Ereinion’s cabin. He tied back his long, black hair with a cloth tie and took up the medium sized hatchet that was leaning against the wall of the shed. There was a large beaten log in the center of the room, for pounding the logs and breaking them into smaller pieces. The scribe was strong as all Elves are and began working on cutting down the larger logs into smaller pieces that could be burned in the fire. He also was careful to break some down further into pieces that could be used to ignite a fire - the kindling. The smaller pieces were very important to getting a fire going. He would also need to go out into the forest to get dry pieces of brush to aid in igniting the fire.
He chopped wood for a good while before remembering to go in and check the stew. It was at a low summer. The heat under the pot was quite low so it would not burn. He stirred it and went back out to the shed. Erestor had a lot more work to do before the storm hit.
/—/
“Ragar, those clouds look ominous to me there. I think a storm is brewing.”
The horse snuffled in response as he hunted for grass under the snow after snacking on a bit oats and barley from Glorfindel’s pack.
“I think we want to get inside the forest for some shelter from the wind before it hits.
Ragar stomped his agreement with that plan, and Glorfindel began to bundle the food and water up. They needed to make haste if they were to make it before the storm hit. The clouds were amassing quickly and the sky looked angry and dark above. He had lived through much inclement weather, both in the Encircling Mountains around Gondolin, and during the perilous crossing of the Helcaraxë before the dawning of the First Age, but he still did not like being caught out in a blizzard. It was perilous to be sure. He often had dreams about the seemingly endless ice and snow of the northern crossing and the lives lost there. So many had fallen to the ice never to be found again.
He rode on at a faster pace and Ragar seemed to sense his urgency and ran effortlessly. The snow began as light swirls about two hours later and the forest was in sight. Glorfindel could see the tree line ahead and knew they would make it before the storm hit. If he really pressed it, they could make it to the cabin tonight. He thought the two-day estimate was for a King’s entourage, and as he was one Elf riding at a much faster pace, he was bound to make better time.
He saw the first marker as he entered under the canopy at the forest’s edge - a small leaf pattern that blended into the bark of the tree and would be invisible to the untrained or mortal eye. An Elf would easily know it for a path marker, and the very small mark confirmed that he was heading in the right direction. Glorfindel was relieved, and his eyes quickly adjusted to the lower light as he got deeper into the woods.
They had to slow down as they were now among the trees. Glorfindel went carefully through the forest, not wanting Ragar to hurt himself on a rock or other obstacle. There was now light snow falling, and they made steady progress along the well-marked elven road. He stopped now and again for water, and soon they met up with a stream in the wood so Ragar could drink his fill when he wanted. He knew the stream went right by the cabin as the Captain of the Guard had told him, so he knew he was going in the right direction. The day was getting on into evening and they would be there soon, well before night came.
/—/
Erestor had given up any semblance of working. He had enough wood chopped and moved into the house. The stew was cooked and cooling in the kitchen. The bread was ready and he deserved a nice long nap in front of the fire. He had certainly earned a rest today. He curled up with a warm blanket and a pillow on the large couch in front of the hearth, and fell quickly and deeply asleep. Fast into dreams of snow, Lindon and swirling clouds on the forest’s horizon.
The hours passed as Erestor lay there in comfort, breathing in and out elegantly, softly, eyes half open in reverie as Elves do. It was a delicious nap and he had banked the fire so it was nice and warm in the living room.
/—/
Glorfindel could see the cabin up ahead and it surprised him to see smoke coming out of the chimney. He wondered at that, and his first thought was that some of the King’s soldiers must be here working on things for the King, and he would just have to deal with that. He had been under the impression that no one would be here, but it would all be fine. The cabin would be warm, and after all, that was good.
Ragar snorted as if to answer Glorfindel’s thoughts and they moved up the path to the barn. The first order of business was to settle his mount for the night, so Glorfindel opened the door of the small barn. There were a few stalls within and he spied another horse there.
“Well, hello there, beauty. You look well-tended here.” Glorfindel spoke soothingly to the horse in the stall as he led Ragar to the one beside him. He noticed the other horse’s stall was stocked with oats, hay and fresh water and it was perfectly clean. Whoever was responsible for him was doing a fine job taking care of him.
Glorfindel pulled his bags from Ragar’s back, and stocked his stall in the same manner as the other stall, with oats and hay and water. He brushed his horse down and found a blanket to keep him warm for the night, and then turned to head into the cabin.
“Ragar, I will be back in the morning to check on you. Good job getting us here.”
His mount snorted as he lowered his head to munch on some oats, and Glorfindel turned to walk across the clearing to the cabin. He carried his pack and a bag, and ascended the steps to the back door. The door had the Noldor crest for Gil-galad carved into it so he knew he was in the right place. He entered quietly, as was his custom.
The first thing he noticed was that someone had been cooking there today, as the aroma of a delicious smelling stew permeated the air. That was not something Glorfindel imagined the soldiers would be doing, so he guessed someone else was in residence. He looked across the living room and there was a nice fire in the hearth. The back of the couch was high, so he could not tell if anyone was there. He ascended the stairs to the second level, and looked for an empty bedroom in which to leave his baggage.
He found a chamber with an opulent looking four posted bed and velvet coverlet that looked unslept in. Assuming the room was available, he plopped his bags down in the room, and went off to explore. Mostly, he wanted to see what there was for food in the kitchen as that smelled fantastic.
The kitchen was warm and inviting. The stove was heating the room and Glorfindel could tell that whoever was occupying the house had cooked up something delectable in that pot. It was still warm but not really cooking anymore. He opened the lid and gave it a good sniff and about died right there. Venison stew! He had not had that in an age. They did not serve such rustic fare in Lindon. It was all crumpets and fancy food. This was a good batch of stew. It would not harm anyone if he took a small bowl and that bread looked good too. He hesitated for about three seconds and then went looking for a bowl.
/—/
“If I am right by my estimates, Glorfindel should have arrived by now.” Ereinion played chess the way he lived, with daring and finesse, but that did not a good chess player make. Elrond usually beat him in a short amount of moves because the King would miss a key element on the board and leave himself open to checkmate. He played a distracted game and liked to talk throughout. Elrond was less talkative, and would focus on the game.
“I am sure you are wondering how it is going there?” Elrond knocked over Gil-galad’s king for the second time that night and then leaned back very satisfied. “Sire, you lack concentration tonight.”
“I am distracted indeed.”
“It is impossible to know how it is going and you will only know if your scheme has worked when they return.”
“I know, I know. Don’t go on about it. I know you are right.”
They put aside the chess board and continued drinking wine for the rest of the evening. Ereinion mused about his matchmaking but Elrond remained silent on that for now. It remained to be seen how well things would go out at the cabin.
/—/
Erestor yawned and stretched on the couch as his blanket fell to the rug. He had not meant to sleep so long. It was well past dinner time and he was famished. He really had slept too long. The whole afternoon was gone and it was dark outside. It was furiously snowing outside the windows of the cabin, and he felt rather disoriented from sleeping so deeply. He was not used to napping as he never had time to in Lindon, so that must be why he had fallen into such a deep sleep.
He heard someone in the kitchen and tensed. He had been alone here but perhaps some of Ereinion’s guard were stopping by with provisions. He could not imagine why as this place was incredibly well stocked. There was really no need. And why would they do so in the middle of a snowstorm. That made little sense.
“Hello? Is anyone there?” he called out tentatively.
“Hello! Is that you, Erestor? Whatever are you doing here? The King did not tell me you would be here. What a very pleasant surprise!” Glorfindel in all his goldenness came sauntering out of the kitchen and caused Erestor’s heart to leap into his throat.
Erestor imagined his normally neat hair must look a fright and so he hid behind the arm of the couch.
“I could very well say the same, Glorfindel. I was not expecting you to arrive. Do you bring word from Lindon? Am I needed there?”
“No, no. Nothing like that. Ereinion thought I could use a rest outside of court so he said I could make use of his cabin. He did not tell me you would be here. It must have slipped his mind.”
Erestor laughed as he sat up on the couch, trying his hair back into a ponytail, “Details do not escape the King’s mind. He put us here together on purpose for some reason only he is privy to.”
“I imagine you are right. We will have to figure it out. Did you make the stew in the kitchen, Erestor? I hope you don’t mind that I had a bowl of that. It was delicious.”
Erestor blushed slightly, “Yes, I made that this morning. It is my mam’s recipe and has always been good. I have not had it in a very long time. I am glad you liked it. I will have a bowl myself too.”
“Let me get you one. The stew is heated and ready, and your bread goes nicely with it. I will get you some right now. Stay right there.” Glorfindel turned and hurried back into the kitchen and Erestor could hear bustling about, as Glorfindel ladled out a big bowl of the stew out and cut him a nice thick piece of the bread.
“Here you go, my friend.” Glorfindfel brought in a the tray with his meal and a glass of water, and set it on the dining table. Erestor padded softly over.
“I am famished.”
“You should eat then.” Glorfindel smiled with encouragement and Erestor sat down at the table. “It will fill you up for sure.”
Erestor leaned over the bowl and smelled his stew, and it did smell delicious with the venison and vegetables in a hearty base. Glorfindel had gotten it to the perfect temperature. It was hot but not scalding, just right for eating. He broke off a piece of the bread and dunked it into the bowl.
“It does smell good, if I do say so myself.” Erestor winked at Glorfindel as he ate the sopping piece of bread and fairly groaned at the first bite.
“It’s very good indeed.” Glorfindel sat down across from Erestor and asked, “Is it true that Ereinion has a wine cellar here? He would not mind if we opened a bottle, do you think?”
“I’ve heard that too,” Erestor said between bites. “I have not ventured there yet. I don’t like drinking alone but now that you are here….”
“Wine loves company. There is a likely door right over there.” Glorfindel spied a door right by the entrance and made for that. He opened it and there was a wooden staircase. “There are stairs here, Erestor. I’ll need a lantern. It is dark down there.”
There was a lantern with oil and wick on the hall table along with a box of matches, so Glorfindel lit it and then proceeded down into the dark cellar. He called back to Erestor. “If I don’t come back you will want to send out a search party!”
Erestor was finishing his stew and heard Glorfindel but chose to ignore him. He knew all about his exploits in the Fall of Gondolin, and knew that he could take care of himself down in the basement of the King’s cabin. He had no fear for him at all.
Before too long, Glorfindel reappeared with cobwebs in his hair and a dusty wine bottle in hand. He closed the door and walked towards Erestor.
“I don’t know anything about wine but this looks old and that must be good, right?” Glorfindel grinned sheepishly as he set it on the table.
“Old can mean very good or it can mean vinegar. We shall see what this is soon enough.” Erestor picked up his tray and went to look for a wine opener in the kitchen. Ereinion had everything here so he was sure there was something to open that bottle with. “I’ll get some glasses and the opener. Why don’t you stoke the fire?”
Glorfindel did as he was told and threw a large log on the hearth. He grabbed the fire tongs and moved the logs around some and that got the fire going again. He could see out the window that the snow was still coming down outside and it looked like blizzard conditions out there. It was nice to be in here in front of the fire and he was glad he had arrived before the worst of the storm.
Erestor came out of the kitchen carrying two wine goblets and a corkscrew opener. “This house literally has everything that one might need. If I think of it, it is here. It is quite something.So I assume Ereinion promised you the cabin too? Said you should get away from court for a while?”
“Yes, that is exactly what happened.”
“I wonder what he is up to? This cannot be an accident that he has sent us both here at the same time.” Erestor set the goblets down on the small low table in front of the fire. “Will you do the honors?” He nodded at the bottle.
Glorfindel picked it up and wiped off some of the dust and broke the seal of the wax with the corkscrew and it looked very good, no mold present. “It will be my pleasure.” He twisted the opener into the cork easily, gave it a few good twists, and then yanked it out with a satisfying pop.
“Hurrah!” laughed Erestor. He held up his glass for a small taste of the wine.
Glorfindel poured him a tiny amount of the red wine.”You take the first taste.”“
“All right. It looks very good. A nice rich color.”
“Looks can be deceiving.”
Erestor took a small taste and swirled it on his tongue, swallowing it slowly. “This is a fine bottle of wine. Definitely not spoiled. Very good wine. I wonder if we are not supposed to have this wine?”
“The door was open, of course we can!” Glorfindel poured the two goblets half full and set the bottle down. He sat back and took a sip of the ruby red wine and almost groaned. He was not an expert on the fermented grape but this was a very smooth vintage.
They drank a while in silence, each in their own thoughts. Finally Erestor broke the quiet. “Glorfindel, why did you need to come here? I know for me, I needed to get away from court. It was all too much and Ereinion offered me the cabin for respite. Why are you here?”
“I am in a similar situation. I tire of all the people in Lindon gawking at me since I returned and just needed some time to myself. It gets very tiresome at court to be the object of attention. Ereinion was kind enough to offer me a stay here to get away from court.”
“It is nice here. I don’t see why we cannot share the cabin. It is more like a house and there is plenty of room. If the snow does not stop soon we will be snowed in here though.” Erestor waved at the window which was fairly white with snow.
“I think that sounds lovely, Erestor. There is no one I would rather be snowbound with. The horses should be fine for the night and this cabin is well built to withstand a storm.”
“It is indeed.” Erestor held out his glass for more wine and Glorfindel poured another half glass for both of them. They were keeping pace nicely and the wine was creating warm and relaxed feelings in both of them.
/—/
Elrond stood at the window and watched the snow falling in Lindon. Light snow here meant heavier snow at Ereinion’s cabin. This would fit nicely with Ereinion’s plan if Erestor and Glorfindel were trapped together at the cabin. He could see that they would be trapped together there for some time, and this would lead to feelings developing between them of a lasting nature. It was plain to see. He did not want to encourage the King’s meddling so he kept silent on these developments.
Ereinion was slumbering for now on a velvet settee and looked peaceful. He would be pleased at the outcome of his plan.
/—/
Glorfindel and Erestor put their feet up on the table in front of the fire and spent most of that first night laughing and consuming their pilfered bottle of ruby red wine which fairly glowed from the light of the flames in the hearth. They talked of many things – their time in Lindon, life at court, Gondolin, Erestor’s mam — many things. It was a long and rambling conversation that went on long into the night and continued long after the wine was finished. They pondered why they did not spend time together at court but were very glad to be doing so now. Their shoulders and legs touched on the couch and they were very comfortable together, as though they had always known each other. All the while the snow continued to fall and accumulate on the ground outside and deepen. The King’s cabin was well constructed, kept out the elements, and kept in the heat of the fire. All was well that night, and finally in the early morning hours, they fell asleep there on the couch, under a blanket snuggled together as the fire had lowered to burning embers.
/—/
Night turned into day and Glorfindel woke up. He felt chilled air on his face and realized the room had grown cold around them. He tucked the blanket around Erestor, deciding he would clean out the hearth and start a new fire there to warm up the cabin. He needed to start a fire in the kitchen stove as well so that they could cook food for breakfast and lunch. He would do all that as soon as he used the privy. He desperately needed to relieve himself.
He glanced over at Erestor sleeping on the couch and smiled. He knew Ereinion had conspired to throw them together here, but Glorfindel was very grateful to the King for his meddling. Normally, he might be annoyed, but not this time. He would have to thank Gil-galad for his matchmaking when he returned to Lindon.
Once the fire started warming the room again, Glorfindel went to light the stove in the kitchen. Erestor had been clever and brought plenty of wood into the house before the storm hit so they would not run out of fuel. It was still snowing out so he was going to have to fight through the storm to take care of the horses, and he had better do that before too long. They would need hay and fresh water for certain. He hoped to do all the chores before Erestor even woke up and have breakfast cooking on the stove.
The snow was up to his waist but he could muscle through it, and the horses knickered as he entered the barn. They seemed warm enough in their blankets. He mucked out their stalls, put down fresh hay, and topped up their food troughs full of with hay and oats. They had eaten well the previous night. He got them each fresh water from the well outside, and then hurried back to the cabin, hoping Erestor was still asleep. He wanted to put on water for tea and make some pancakes for their morning meal. He was sure he knew that recipe from years ago.
“Ragar, you rest for today and I will be back later.” The horse snorted in reply, raising his head from his morning meal.
With the horses well-tended, Glorfindel hurried back to the house. It felt nice and warm when he came in. He saw that Erestor was still laying on the couch, and he went upstairs to change into different clothes. He had brought his most comfortable clothes to wear here, and his most worn out but serviceable boots. These would never pass muster in Lindon where he had to wear fine tunics and matching garments, but he could be comfortable here in more worn clothing.
He found a nice large apron on a hook in the kitchen. He imagined that Gil-galad might have worn this as he was a big Elf. He started rifling through the pantry. He found flour and all the ingredients he needed for the hotcakes, and there was even a nice jug of maple syrup to go with them. He commended the soldiers for their thoughtfulness in stocking the cabin, and made a mental note to talk to the Captain of the Guard about it.
He started whisking and mixing according to his old Gondolin recipe, and things were going rather nicely.
“Glorfindel, why didn’t you wake me?” A bleary eyed Erestor came walking into the kitchen.
“I thought you needed your sleep and I could do the morning chores with no problem. There will be plenty to do later. I wanted you to rest, and I thought I would cook you breakfast as a nice surprise, but you have ruined that now.” Glorfindel laughed lightly as he set aside the batter and butter and went in search of a fry pan.
“What are you making there? It looks interesting.”
“Old fashioned, Gondolin styled pancakes. They are very easy but so delicious. All the ingredients are here to make them. They are a really a simple cake that you make in a pan and you eat them with butter and syrup.”
“Oh, that sounds good. I think I will put on some water for tea and wait for those. Just ignore me here.”
Erestor’s beauty was hard to ignore and Glorfindel blushed at that. He was trying to sort through his feelings from last night, and working this morning had pushed them to the side, but now that the scribe was in his proximity, he felt flustered. He renewed his concentration on cooking and tried to pull himself together.
They stayed in companionable silence as Erestor filled the kettle with water and put it on the stove, and Glorfindel continued to cook their breakfast. He was very efficient, and before too long there was a nice stack of pancakes on two plates with a generous amount of butter on them, melting nicely.
“We could eat in here at the table by the window. No need for the formal dining room and I would love a cup of tea.” Glorfindel nodded at the pot that Erestor had steeping on the counter.
“That all sounds lovely and those look great. I cannot wait to eat those.”
Glorfindel was pouring the warmed maple syrup into a gravy boat and he set that on the table.
“We are just about ready. Almost done.”
“Good because I am famished!”
“I hope you will like these. They were popular in my house in Gondolin and we made them all the time. You will want a liberal amount of syrup to sweeten them up.”
“Well, they look delicious so I am sure I will like them.”
Both elves sat across from each other at the roughhewn farm table in the kitchen and tucked into the pancakes. Erestor poured copious amounts of maple syrup on his, heeding Glorfindel’s advice, and enjoyed his meal very much. Glorfindel made quick work of his cakes, using the last few bites to mop up the syrup on his plate.
“You can serve these with meat - a rash of bacon or sausage. That is quite delightful, or they are good on their own as we just did.”
“Wonderful, Glorfindel. I could lick my plate.”
The golden-haired Elf laughed and gazed into Erestor’s eyes. “I am glad you liked them. It was a pleasure cooking for you.” He glanced out the window and noted. “It looks like the snow fall is slowing down some and will taper off soon. We will want to shovel out a bit later - at least make some pathways here.”
“You are certainly right about that. Are the horses doing all right this morning?”
Glorfindel nodded. “They are cozy in that barn and very well fed. Once the snow truly stops, we could do a ride out in the fresh snow. That might be fun.”
“I would like that. There is nothing like fresh fallen snow.” Erestor reached across and picked up Glorfindel’s plate and his own, standing up. “I want you to relax and have more tea. I will clean the kitchen since you cooked the meal. No arguments on that score.”
/—/
After the kitchen was cleaned, which Erestor handled efficiently, they retreated to their rooms upstairs to change into clothes appropriate for going outside. They both donned hick tunics, heavy cloaks, and knit stockings under their boot. They met again at the front doorway and looked outside where the snow had tapered off to a light drizzle for now. There was heavy snow on the ground, and they were fairly certain they were snowed in for the foreseeable future, as the roads and paths would not be safe to pass for now.
“It looks so beautiful, all that snow. Truly lovely.” Erestor murmured.
“It can be lovely and deadly in certain circumstances. I am glad to be here and protected.”
Erestor nodded as he went to open the door and it would not budge. The snow was blocking it. Glorfindel forced it open with his strength and took the snow shovel that they had found inside and began to forge a path out of the cabin. Erestor followed behind him and admired his friend’s strength and movements. He really was beautiful in motion.
They worked their way steadily to the barn and Glorfindel was making a wide path for them to walk so it would be easier to go back and forth. When they got to the horses, Erestor went inside to check his horse. He had brought apples for both mounts. He gave one to each, checked on their food and water, and gave them a good petting.
Glorfindel had continued onto the woodshed with his shoveling but did not bother to go all the way to the soldier’s barracks. He did not think they would need to go in there very much. He could do that later should they decide they needed to. He set the shovel against the barn and went inside.
“How are things in here? All is well?” Glorfindel asked.
“Yes, very well. Samir is well indeed and your horse seems fine too. What is his name?”
“That is Ragar - Ereinion lent him to me.”
“Yes, Samir is also from the King. Interesting that, too. They seem to know each other well and are comfortable. That is good for close quarters here.”
“Indeed.” Glorfindel checked the stalls, which were not dirty enough to need cleaning, and topped up the hay and oats. “They seem fine for now and look content.”
“Yes, they do. Is the path made?”
“It is. I made it to the woodshed.”
“Excellent. Thank you.” Erestor could see that Glorfindel was flushed from the exertion and his cheeks were red from the cold outside. His blue eyes sparkled and one could not mistake that he was a very handsome Elf. The scribe was having amorous thoughts and asked, “Glorfindel, do you have anyone at court with whom you are involved?”
The golden-haired Elf smiled at that question and answered, “No, Erestor. I am not involved. I have had offers of dalliances but that is not my way. I do not want people to trifle with my affections. People at court are not very serious.”
“No, they are not.” Erestor bit his lip as Glorfindel moved closer.
“What are you thinking?”
“I am thinking I would like you to kiss me.” Ragar snorted and both Elves laughed at the horse’s reaction. Glorfindel took Erestor in his arms and planted a soft kiss on his lips.
“Like this?”
“Yes and more…”
Glorfindel kissed Erestor again, deeper this time, and longer. They stood for a long time in their embrace, enjoying the tenderness of the moment. Their breath co-mingled in the cold as their lips dueled softly and their tongues touched lightly.
They went on like that for some time until they touched their foreheads and Glorfindel whispered, “We should go back to the house - we have too many clothes on.”
Erestor smiled and took his hand and led him out of the barn and down the newly shoveled path back to the cabin.
/—/
Later, as they lay in bed, fully satiated from an afternoon of lovemaking, Erestor laughed and said, “Do you think this is what Ereinion had in mind when he sent us both here at the same time?”
“I don’t know but it sure worked out.”
“It certainly did. I am already in love with you, Glorfindel.”
“And I love you too, Erestor.”
“Well, I am glad that is settled. Let’s never leave here!”
They knew they would have to leave but would prolong their stay as long as possible.
/—-/
Months later….
It was a King’s formal dinner, and Ereinion presided at the head of the table. He noted that Glorfindel and Erestor were seated next to each other, and could not stop gazing into each other’s eyes in a lovestruck manner. He had even heard that they had changed quarters,
moved in together in Lindon, and were fairly inseparable now. He was pretty sure his caper with the cabin had been the catalyst for their relationship. He let them know that they could go there whenever they would like to since he never got to use the cabin. He had when he was younger, but the duties of the kingship did not allow for time away to hunt. He was glad the cabin could be useful to someone.
Elrond sat nearby and noted the direction of the King’s gaze and cringed inwardly. He would be insufferable now and perhaps try more of this matchmaking. He really hoped not. One success did not a matchmaker make. It was a happy accident. Elrond knew that Erestor and Glorfindel were destined to be together, and it was a lucky guess on the King’s part. He sighed to himself as he drank his wine.
Meanwhile, Erestor and Glorfindel were ignorant of everyone around them, and only had eyes for each other. They held hands under the table and murmured to one another. Each night back at Lindon they spent together as they had at the King’s cabin, and would do so for the rest of their lives.
The end