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Chapter Text

Dear Durin,

I must first digress my deep sorrow to hear of your Father's passing, and to establish first and foremost that I do not resent your personal absence from Eregion. Dear friend, I know you too well, so I ask only that you do not cling to guilt. Feel proud, my friend, for saving your people, and saving what is left of mine. 

I cannot share our location at present; I fear this communication falling into the wrong hands, despite the security our hidden refuge is providing. Please know that the High-King is willing to divulge the location in the future so that you can visit and make use of our spare tents, should you or your people need shelter (or if you simply wish to visit yours truly).

Life here has been simultaneously boring and busy. I spent the first few days after our arrival in bed. My body sustained several wounds and, it pains me to say, my spirit far worse. Do not fret, my friend, for Galadriel kept me company in the times my side ached or I panicked myself to breathlessness. You may have heard rumours that Galadriel took a mortal fall, but she is healing and has been making me smile. Galadriel does well but, my dear Durin, I know you would cheer all of us in an instant. 

Now that my body and spirit are healing, life here is busy. I cannot recall the last time I took a leisurely stroll or took some real sleep. My dear friend Camnir, a gentle mapmaker who led us here and possesses a soul so patient he must have been blessed by the Valar themselves, has been bullying me into eating and drinking regularly. I enjoy his company. You would like him. 

I miss you and your family so dearly. The children of Eregion are halved by what they have seen, their smiles do not come easily to them as I have seen in Gerda and Gamli. Perhaps if you all visit, your children can make them whole again. I for one know there is nothing as inescapable as the joy of the young.

Durin, I know your heart. I know you grieve deeply, regardless of what you said about your "old goat" of a father. I know the burden you feel under the weight of the Crown, but know this; you have proven to your people that you are steadfast like the very mountain you hold dear, and they will admire you for it. Do not let doubts of the mind inflict upon you, for doubt buries the heart so deep even a Dwarf as stubborn as yourself cannot dig out of them. I wish I could be with you, my friend, to stand by your side as I should have been the last twenty years, but now my duty is to my people, as yours is to the Dwarves of Khazad-Dûm.

I hope to see you here soon, where the sun shines so bright you'll be begging to get away from me! Keep well.

Your brother always,

Elrond

Dear Elrond,

Your sympathies mean so much to my people and I, troubled are the times Khazad-Dûm finds itself in. There was some brief concern of my brother challenging my claim to the throne, if you can you believe it. My own brother! It is resolved now (as best it can be) but this furthers my point that you have been more of a brother to me than he ever was. In this, I welcome your forgiveness, but I cannot so easily forgive myself. This is no fault of your own, simply a tremor in the rock of my heart that I will need to let settle with time. I am only glad I was able to send aid before I lost you too, dear Elrond. Narvi described the losses and it breaks me to hear of it. Elrond, I will say this once more: I am sorry. Don't get your hair in a knot, I won't say it again, you feathery Elf.

Your offer of shelter is a generous one, I fear we may need use of it. Khazad-Dûm is not what it once was. Our people are afraid; they hide themselves in their homes and even then they find no solace. I long for the days when you were here, admiring our home - with your nosy eyes - as I once admired it. In this spirit, I hope to make a visit to you soon. No, you silly Elf, not just for your shelter, but to see you.

To hear of your wounds saddens my heart, brother, and I wish I could be there to comfort you. I hear you fought valiantly but you needn't fight for now. Hear me when I say this you flagpole; rest. Rest and mourn and weep. None of that stiff-upper-lip I know you like to hide behind. It pleases me to hear of Galadriel in good health and that you are comfortable enough in her presence to mourn alongside her, for there is no understanding in grief like that of grief shared. I have found so, and I know you will find so too.

Your friend Camnir sounds a good lad and a clever one at that, I like him already! He'd better make sure you're sleeping enough, I know how grumpy you get when you are tired, he must be blessed with patience indeed to deal with you so exhausted!

My heart aches to hear of the children. Know that Gerda and Gamli miss you too, and I cannot wait for the moment you are reunited. I can promise that their smiles will lighten the souls of others, but I hope most of all they will benefit yours. Only the other day Gamli asked for a story of "Uncle Elrond" (a title deemed higher than Herald or Commander, I think) and Gerda even requested some false, pointed-ears (Disa is working on them as I write this). Know you are loved, Elrond, if not by so many others I know adore you, then at least by your neice and nephew.

Your advice regarding the new weight upon my head fills me with a feeling I can't determine. Know it is received gratefully but with a sick feeling of dread and responsibility. How I long to have you at my side, even just to pester and annoy me. 

If I could be there, I would be prodding you to get some rest as I know you are as stubborn as a Dwarf when it comes to basic needs. Speaking of which, Disa sends her love, she is no doubt planning to mother you when next we see you.

I keep you close to my heart and wish you well, Elrond.

Your brother always, 

Durin

Chapter Text

Dear Durin, 

I am glad to hear your family are well, I find I miss the comforts of your home and your company greatly.

The changing of the leaves has brought a great chill to our refuge and the rain with it. Much of my time is spent collecting what little dry kindling I can find. Do not let this deter you from visiting, my friend! We have warm fires and enough food at every meal which, in times such as these, is enough to bring joy.

Though the cold weather brings with it the aches from old wounds, which are now greater in numbers, I have not yet fallen into melancholy. I believe it is something to do with our refuge; how I wish you could see it Durin, for it is so beautiful!

The High-King has asked me to inform you that myself and Camnir shall meet you in a fortnight at midday, to lead you here if you agree. I know you recall where the bluebells grow. It is the only way we can guarantee we remain hidden. I do not think our people can take further heartbreak, not for a while.

It pleases me to hear of Gerda and Gamli and I smiled endlessly upon reading their new title for me, which Galadriel teased me for at first. I was not fooled, for I spotted her whittling two tiny horse figurines yesterday, all in preparation for my two favourite Dwarflings! 

I find great peace in my work with the healers. They have been kind to me and taught me more than I expected to learn in these troubled times.

Do send news of Khazad-Dûm when you can, I know the role of monarch is a difficult one to bear. I long to be beside you now and nagging you like a mother hen to care for yourself; I will have to make do from my tent, so take this as a written nudge to rest.

Durin, there are few who I have found comfort in and you are one of them. Myself and a group of our least weary are to salvage what supplies and remains of Eregion we can, but I fear stepping among the bodies of those I led into battle having failed them. I do not wish to look at them and it is selfish of me. I dread finding Celebrimbor, whose relation to me was distant and one of my last. I fear going there for I frequent Eregion in my dreams. Galadriel tried to stop me going; for she has held me close when I wake not knowing where I am, and knows the wound on my mind better than I understand the freezing, the memories and the trembling myself. As I am one of few Elves strong enough to cope with the journey, for even Galadriel is still weakened, I know I must go. A childish part of me wishes it were not so. Do not think ill of me for this Durin, I beg you. Our refuge may take away the melancholy for a time but it cannot pry the grip this fear has on me away from my neck.

It is the littlest things I have to rely on to keep me afloat; the children have started laughing again and it makes my heart sing as if you were here to listen to it with me.

Your note regarding your Queen made me laugh. I have no doubt that Disa will mother me and, as long as I am not the only target, I will welcome it. Send my love to her and the children, and my hopes to see them soon.

Hug your family from me, may you always be in my heart and keep well.

Your brother always,

Elrond

Dear Elrond,

I am sorry for the late response. 

The rocks of Khazad-Dûm are still unsteady and a few days ago a great rock came loose and trapped Gamli. The poor lad could hardly breathe and his leg was mangled after the hours of effort it took to get him out safely. There was a night when the infection spread too deep and we feared the worst, but he is as stubborn as I am. He asked for you, his Uncle Elrond, throughout his fever, and it seemed to strengthen him to know we are coming to visit you soon. He is well now, hobbling along on his little crutch. It has taken a toll on all of us and I know a little rest away from the mountain will do us all some good.

I look forward to meeting Galadriel, partially to congratulate her on dealing with you so grumpy and exhausted!

Gerda and Gamli will love new toys. They've been glum since Gamli's injury, Gerda has even stopped hitting him. She's started hugging him, if you can believe it! Gamli takes it well, though if Gerda squeezes him too hard he's not afraid to jab her with his crutch! She refuses to leave our home so coaxing her through the mountain to visit you will be difficult, but a bribe of a new toy will bear us well!

I will meet you where the bluebells grow. If I remember rightly, it was during our second adventure together when your spindly legs tripped you over into those bluebells, you daft Elf.

The cold does seem to be settling faster this year and Disa is considering growing her beard out to warm her face.

About Khazad-Dûm, our Dwarf-Lords still demand payment and we find ourselves burdened by the financial loss. I have managed to keep the people fed so far by encouraging trade on the surface. Some grumble about it but I can not give an Elf's ears about what they say. If my people are fed, then I don't give a damn for the sake of a "tradition" that would see my people starve. I wish you could have been there to see their faces when I told them as much - old gits.

You may have already visited the remains of Eregion by the time this letter reaches you but, dear Elrond, it was not your fault. I know what it is to look into empty eyes, and I know you are familiar with it too. You did not fail them. Know that I do not think ill of you in any way for any matter, and you should feel no shame. When you tremble like the rock of the mountain, know you will settle and the times when you feel frozen will thaw. Tell me when you have returned and tell me all of it. As you once babbled to me: a burden shared is a burden halved.

It uplifts me to hear the spirits of the children are improving, what delights your refuge must bring!

Elrond, you know even in the brightest sun I will journey to see you, cease your flowery tongue-flapping.

I will see you in eight days accompanied by fifteen of our most vulnerable. Some of them are recovering from wounds so prepare to house more injured.

I can't wait to reunite with you as family once more, you tidal-haired pillock.

May your heart stay steady.

Your brother always,

Durin

Chapter Text

Durin,

I am terribly sorry to hear of Gamli's injury. I am filled with relief that he is better, though my heart longs to support you in this time. I am certain he will make a hasty recovery and come from it stronger, he is indeed as stubborn as his father. When you arrive we can speak of it, or drink, or both, or neither and I will coddle Gamli and Gerda until they grow sick of me! Know that Gamli will be treated well, now that we have enough supplies to go around, thanks to our excursion to Eregion.

It was as expected. The Dwarven tunnels were simple enough to traverse, provided we ducked - and I know you would have laughed when I cracked my head on a stalactite.

The city was unrecognisable. Towers once white are now stained with black and red. We laid out what bodies we found in the city in the courtyard. Most on the wall and beyond have been buried by the mud. I looked into their eyes and asked forgiveness from each, it sounds foolish but it put some of my soul at ease.

We reached the remains of Celebrimbor's forge and I am ashamed to say that I froze once more. Gil-Galad had to drag me out, body and mind, when they took Celebrimbor down. The thought of what they did to him still makes me sick with anger. We laid him in the courtyard with his people, as he would have wanted.

Such bloodshed I have never seen and never have I felt such responsibility for it. Galadriel tries to tell me it is not my fault and I know you will too, but it has grasped my heart as truth and fractured it. I know that it will get easier to bear. As you say: it will settle like the rocks of your mountain after a tremor.

The positive is that the healing supplies were largely untouched. We took a great deal back with us and even managed to pilfer grain before scavengers could. A few scrolls were salvageable and that lightened the grasp on my heart. If you were there, you would have jabbed me and called me something like, "a great, brainy, pointy-eared twig" and the thought made me smile.

We didn't find any wounded.

I am tired and I look forward to your arrival, I always seem to sleep better after a day with you and your dear family. Galadriel sings to me sometimes but she needs her rest. I can see that she doesn't sleep enough and I worry for her. Perhaps Disa would agree to talk with her? Unfortunately I lack the woman's touch, though I know you would disagree, and I fear Galadriel keeps to herself for the sake of my state of mind. 

I imagine by the time you read this it will be too late to send a response, so we shall wait to discuss in person. Your letters bring me joy, my friend, and I anticipate your arrival with happiness in my heart. Keep well, and travel safely.

Your brother always, 

Elrond

Chapter Text

Elrond was positively buzzing with nerves, continually bouncing on his heels as he stood next to Camnir among the purple flowers, the brink of midday approaching.

After Elrond heaved his seventh heavy sigh in five minutes, Camnir turned to face him, slowly and deliberately.

"Elrond, they will be here. It is not yet midday and we are early." He spoke kindly but there was an edge of anticipation to his voice.

"And what if they are injured on the road? What if they've become lost? Durin may pretend to have a good sense of direction but one time we were-"

"Elrond." Camnir said loudly, to cut Elrond out of his ramble. "They will be here."

Elrond reiterated the thought. 

'He will be here. He will come. This time, he will. '

As though thinking the same, Camnir took Elrond's hand to squeeze it briefly.

A moment of silence passed.

"And the tents are prepared?" Elrond blurted. "I really should have been there to help, perhaps when we get back I can-"

"Elrond!" Camnir cut him off again, desperately trying to save his friend from spiralling. "You were doing far more important tasks than pitching tents. They are up, they are steady. The right beds have been made and provisions stored. We are prepared."

Camnir squeezed Elrond's hand again.

Elrond nodded with an apologetic smile, fixing his eyes on the leaf-strewn path before them with an unblinking stare.

'Durin will come.' 

It was tense waiting, especially after Durin's latest letter which held the news of Gamli. Elrond's nerves had been very frayed the last week and Eregion had done him no good.

Celebrimbor had been mutilated horribly, raised on a spear driven through his chest, arrows protuding from every limb and blood pooling at his feet.

Elrond had taken one look at him and frozen on the spot.

It was not supposed to end like this. Elrond knew there would be sacrifices but he had not expected them to be so great.

He had remained rooted to the forge entrance while others who accompanied him began to take the body down.

Elrond felt Gil-Galad lay a hand on his shoulder. It had almost become a secret code, to ask if the other was well.

The touch felt ghostly and the room muted, the air seemed thick with smoke and Elrond felt himself choking, realising only as Gil-Galad half-carried him out of the forge, that he was crying and his breaths were heaving.

For a moment he gulped the air, but the courtyard was there, the bodies were there and soon he was choking on smoke again. The ground felt like the slick of mud and he fought away from Gil-Galad's touch, half-trapped in a memory. 

It took both the High-King and Vorohil to keep Elrond restrained, pinning him down as he looked around in terror, reaching for his sword to gut invisible enemies.

Elrond had put up a great fight; the adrenaline burning through him all over again. Each time he thought he had blinked the past away, he saw the bodies surrounding him and the present dissipated. He kicked and squirmed and flailed against an unseen evil. The only part of him he couldn't command was his voice; his mouth only whimpered and cried.

His sobs eventually turned to hiccups as Orcs blurred into his friends, his King. He felt the stone beneath him and the pressure of hands on his chest and arms. His terror quickly gave way to unrivaled humiliation when he realised what he had done. The feeling swiftly transformed to guilt when he saw the scratches on the High-King's face from his ragged fingernails in his attempts to flee.

They released him and Elrond sat up, bracing himself in knowing anticipation for the trembling to set in, as if he had woken from another of his dreams. The trembling was the worst for him, despite expecting it and knowing it was coming. Even though he was no longer trapped in a memory, he still felt it in his bones and he was helpless against the shaking, he was costing them time but he was helpless against it all. And so he allowed them, his friends, to hold his arm and press a hand to his back until the worst of the trembles subsided.

Gil-Galad and Vorohil hadn't said anything, and for that Elrond was thankful. Gil-Galad had simply squeezed his shoulder in an act of reassurance and directed Elrond to find healing supplies, steering him far away from Celebrimbor's forge.

Elrond had stumbled his way through the supplies in a haze, grabbing what he could until his foot knocked something cylindrical. A scroll had rolled across the floor and Elrond was filled with something peculiar and akin to giddiness, the world suddenly feeling basked in clarity. A small box of the papers and scrolls lay next to a pool of blood where Elrond knew a body had been taken from. An Elf had sacrificed their life for these documents.

Elrond insisted he look for the Elf among the dead and Gil-Galad, pleased he was speaking again, had no qualms at the request.

Elrond had found the elleth in the courtyard and thanked her, wishing her well on her journey to the Halls of Mandos.

Celebrimbor's body had been carried out and rested next to the shattered statue of Fëanor and the arrows had been removed from him. Elrond looked into Celebrimbor's eyes, he made sure to. They were half-lidded and dull but Elrond stared into them. He would not be so cowardly as to look away from the greatest of Elven-smiths. 

That would be how they remembered him, the Elf of many talents who sacrificed his life to stop Sauron. They would not speak ill of Celebrimbor.

Elrond was shaken from his thoughts by Camnir releasing his hand.

"What?" A million thoughts went through his head as his companion stepped forward.

"Dwarves!" Camnir announced, a bright smile on his face.

Elrond stepped forward and strained his ears; the sound of heavy footfalls and low grumbling in the distance filled them. 

'Durin.'

He resisted the urge to run childishly towards the sound and engulf his friend in a fierce hug, instead waiting politely, despite the itch to do away with formalities.

The Dwarves came into their sight, a group made up of families and wounded - though none too severe by Elrond's account.

A cry echoed among the bluebells.

"Uncle Elrond!" 

Elrond fell to his knees to accept the approaching Dwarfling girl. Gerda flung herself around Elrond's neck and he found himself laughing with joy in his heart.

A disgruntled voice came next.

"Gerda! You said you'd wait for me!" Gamli called after his sister, hobbling slowly behind.

Elrond looked over Gerda's shoulder and his heart fell; Gamli's leg was in dirtied bandages, a crude splint holding it in place, his face bore a few scabs and a pale complexion, purpled by a nasty bruise to his temple.

Somehow his face also bore the brightest smile, as though mithril lit him from inside.

"Sorry...here!" And within a second, Gerda had scooped him up and hauled him to Elrond, who accepted the bundle carefully.

Gamli was less delicate in the greeting, and half-strangled Elrond in a hug.

"It is so good to see you, little one!" Elrond said, releasing the boy and returning the fallen crutch to him.

"I'm not as little as last time!" Gamli chuckled, pouting in jest.

"Of course, you have both grown! You will be taller than I am if you keep growing!" Elrond tickled them at that and they squealed.

Through the peals of laughter, a gruff voice called out.

"Hey! I thought I told you two to stay where we could see you!" 

'Durin.'

Elrond stood abruptly, paced to where Durin stood with a smile on his face, fell to his knees again and hugged his friend tightly.

"Ach! Nearly bowled me over you mad Elf!" Durin said, slightly muffled by the bundle of Elrond smothering him, returning the hug equally.

Elrond felt his eyes burning and he chided himself. 

'Not now, not again. I cannot cry all the time it's getting tiresome'

He pulled back when the heat of tears didn't linger in his throat and pulled himself back to his feet.

"It is good to see you Durin-" Elrond was interrupted by Disa gripping him in a vice-like hug.

He bent to return it and she took his face in her hands.

"Bit peaky! What are they feeding you? Oh dearie, we've missed you so much!"

"And I you, Disa." Elrond said with a smile.

A yelp from Camnir alerted Elrond to the fact that Gerda and Gamli had grabbed his friends legs, giggling when he walked with them clinging on and roaring with laughter when Camnir nearly toppled into the bluebells.

"Oh! You two little termites, let the poor Elf go!" Disa said, hurrying over to free her children's victim.

"Ah, yes. This is Camnir, our cartographer. He discovered Imladris and will lead us there safely."

"Ahh! So this is the lad I have to thank for making sure this one doesn't collapse like a sack of flour?" Durin said as Elrond blushed a crimson red.

Camnir nodded, a playful smirk directed at Elrond.

"Yes, he is our prized sack of flour."

Elrond smirked back at Camnir.

"That's no mean feat with our Elrond!" Durin announced, clapping Camnir on the back.

Camnir gave Elrond a little smile which he took to mean: 'Our Elrond. You see? He did come, and he came for you.'

Elrond smiled and cleared his throat before tears threatened to make an appearance again.

"We should get moving to aid your ill." Elrond said to Durin and the group of Dwarves gathered around, who had been smiling at the reunion, though looking very tired and wan.

Durin nodded in agreement.

"Aye. Come on then, little ones at the front and stay where I can see you this time!" Durin narrowed his eyes playfully at his giggling offspring.

Disa looked sorrowful, meeting Elrond's eye.

"He's hardly let them out of sight since..." She faltered, instead putting on a brave smile and picking up her travelling pack.

Elrond rested a hand on her shoulder and she seemed grateful for it.

He spent the journey encouraging the worn out Dwarflings from the other families, offering waterskins and calling breaks when he saw one or two struggling to keep up. Elrond found little caves to break in, to make them feel at home and he made shadow creatures on the walls with his hands to amuse the children.

By the time they reached the entry point, everyone was exhausted and Elrond found himself carrying triplet Dwarflings. Gerda and Gamli stayed ahead, determined and stubborn as usual alongside their parents who were talking with Camnir.

"How much longer?" A sleepy Dwarfling under Elrond's left arm mumbled, voice laden with exhaustion and muffled by his thumb.

"We have reached the entrance little one, we can tuck you in soon." Elrond whispered, careful not to wake the others.

His arms were starting to ache, so he was thankful when the entrance opened up into their spectacular place of refuge, a place he was beginning to feel at home in.

"Is this it, Uncle Elrond?!" Gerda hollered to him, face lighting up.

"Yes, Gerda it is! The tents aren't much further." He replied, accidentally waking the triplets. They were thankfully too enamoured by the valley to care, scrambling eagerly out of his arms to take it in.

The High-King greeted them hastily, too swamped with meetings and envoys to make pleasantries for long, so Elrond took them to their tents, allocating the larger ones for families and injured.

Galadriel waited in the Durin clan's tent, placing a wooden horse each on the beds of both Dwarflings.

She must have been bored, Elrond had seen that she had made six figurines - one for each Dwarfling arrival - in a single afternoon. He knew bedrest was tedious for her but he also knew she was gaining little sleep from it, hence the bags under her eyes. 

He really would have to ask Disa to speak with her.

The children squealed "thank you" in delight and instantly began clip-clopping the horses across their beds, whinnying and braying as they did so.

"Uncle Elrond, can we play now?" Gamli asked earnestly.

The sun was setting and meals were being passed around. It was late and, frankly, Elrond was exhausted.

"We must eat dinner and I can tell you a story if you like, but I'm afraid playing will have to wait until tomorrow, little one."

Durin, as though just noticing the dark circles under Elrond's eyes, agreed.

"That's right, and you two need an early night, don't try and fool your Father!" Durin tickled them and they ran giggling towards the campfire where food was being served.

Elrond, sat on the low bed, let his chin fall against his chest to close his eyes a moment.

"Elrond?" Durin asked, worry lacing his tone.

"I'm alright, dear friend."

"He's not."

Elrond looked up. He'd forgotten Galadriel was there.

"I am, just tired."

She scoffed and he shot her a look.

"Elrond you need to tell-"

Elrond stood abruptly and the room paused. Durin flicked his eyed between Elrond, who wore a stony and betrayed expression, and Galadriel, who looked stern yet pitying.

Elrond broke the silence.

"I promised I'd help the cooks serve." He said shortly, stepping out of the tent flaps.

"What in Aulë's beard was that about?" Durin asked Galadriel in bewilderment.

"I assume you received his account of the latest excursion to Eregion?" Durin nodded, though it wasn't a very detailed account. "He is far worse than he allows you to believe, King Durin."

Durin sighed, moving to sit on the bed.

"What's going on with him?"

The question seemed to strengthen Galadriel's resolve. She took a breath and set herself on a chair to meet Durin's eye.

"He is exhausted because he shakes throughout the night. Sometimes when I go to wake him, he recognises me as an enemy and it is all I can do to hold him down, to stop him hurting someone or himself, and beg forgiveness." Galadriel swallowed deeply. "He lashed out at the High-King in Eregion because he couldn't distinguish past from present, because he is scared." Galadriel recounted the events that Gil-Galad had shared with her, the events Elrond had skimmed over in his letter, and Durin felt smothered in guilt. 

"Funny. From what he said, it sounds like he's not the only one ignoring his problems." Durin said, a bite in his voice to mask his own guilt, glancing at Galadriel, who blushed fiercely.

"There is truth in what you speak. But I am open to resolving it, and Elrond is not. He will not be open with me, I have tried, but I think he will find you harder to rebuff, Durin. Could you speak with him?" There was a hint of plea in her voice, though her face remained stern.

"Aye. I will." He relented, leaving the tent to join Elrond, pausing a moment. "Elrond requested that Disa speak with you. Is it alright if I send her in?"

Galadriel seemed taken aback but, likely sensing it was not something she had much choice in given Disa's nature, nodded in agreement.

Durin left and inclined his head towards the tent flaps when he met Disa's eye. She smiled knowingly. Durin hoped she would be able to coax something from Galadriel, ease the weight on her shoulders. Disa could convince a mole rat to wear a mink coat, after all.

Durin thought that Disa had quite the easy job, considering he was the one having to coax their third problem-child.

By the fire, Elrond was eating and telling a story to the little ones, his face animated with exaggeration.

Durin took a seat beside him.

There was a great deal of giggling and squealing which died down as the tale ended and the children were carried to their beds, drowsy and warm from food and exhaustion.

A thick silence fell as the two sat together, watching the flames dance, until Durin plucked up the courage to break the quiet.

"You shouldn't be so harsh on that Galadriel. At least she was honest with me about what's going on in that leafy head of yours." Durin chided his friend, hoping to mend something, anything, in Elrond.

"I know." Elrond spoke softly, glancing towards the tent where Galadriel was no doubt about to receive a lecture as Elrond was.

"Then why? Why did you not tell me?"

Elrond looked at him oddly and Durin hoped he hadn't heard the hurt in his voice.

"I have already unburdened to you more than I should have."

Durin fought the urge to roll his eyes. 

"Why would you assume I wouldn't want to know?"

Elrond ducked his head.

"It is difficult. It is embarassing. And we do not have time, Durin." Elrond said, red colouring his cheeks, "There are others suffering far greater frailties than myself."

Durin spluttered in frustration.

"A small rock can kill a Dwarf, so can a boulder. Does the size of the stone mean one family is permitted to grieve longer?" Elrond merely scowled in response, so Durin continued. "You told me you found comfort in Galadriel the first few days of being here, you said in your letters that she understands. So why are you being a fool? Why avoid her?"

A long silence drew out until Elrond finally blurted out words heavy with humiliation. 

"Because she has seen me at my weakest, you both have! I cannot allow the enemy to use that against you. We are at war!" Elrond looked Durin directly in the eyes, fire behind the grey.

Durin took a deep breath to lower his voice and soothe the bubbling frustration at his friends attempts to rebuff his words.

"We are not yet at battle. Use this time well. You won't fight any better if you lock yourself away."

Elrond took no such breath to calm himself.

"And what of you, Durin?" His voice was calm but icy cold. "I know you refuse to speak with Disa about your father. I know you won't let the children from your sight. Was it truly your daughter who wouldn't leave the house or was it you?"

"Don't try to turn this on me!" Durin hurled back, matching the bite and venom in Elrond's tone.

"But it is both of us, Durin! Do you not see? It is everyone!" Elrond cast a wild hand in gesture to the tents that surrounded them at their abandoned campfire. "It is all of us and I alone cannot take more time for my own mind than I already have! We are all needed to plan this war. I am needed to plan this war." Elrond said, frustration mingling with fear.

"And I am needed to rule. You see? We are both of us under responsibilities and we are both of us suffering." Durin set finality into his tone and Elrond seemed to cool his temper, or perhaps simply quieted from guilt.

"I know. Which is why I cannot...I can't..." Elrond looked around desperately, as though physically searching for words, "I would not want to harm you, or Galadriel or anyone further." He bowed his head in shame once more as Durin shook his head in disbelief.

"Don't you understand what I'm trying to say, you daft Elf?" He said it almost playfully and Elrond nearly raised his head. "We share experiences. It'd be a fool's errand not to use those to heal each other, as Galadriel is trying with you." A glance at Elrond showed him this tact was going well. "She is reaching for you to help her, as much as she is to help you. Don't push her away!" 

Realisation dawned on Elrond.

'All this time I have been searching for a means to help her and all this time I have pushed her further from it?'

Guilt replaced shame.

Durin saw the realisation in Elrond's face and finally felt like he was taking two steps forward and one step back rather than the other way around.

"She is reaching for you even when you're too daft to see it." Durin said with a soft smile as Elrond raised his head.

"But it is so difficult." Elrond whispered in a soft and trembling voice.

Durin grasped Elrond's shoulder tightly.

"It wouldn't be difficult if it didn't need to be done." 

Elrond paused, looking into Durin as though he'd just seen him clearly for the first time. He seemed to be admitting defeat.

"You are right." There was sorrow in the words, but Elrond did not drop his head back down.

"Finally we see eye-to-eye." Durin said in exasperation.

Elrond chuckled, but guilt grew on his face again.

"Durin...my words have been cruel and I must ask-"

"Ach don't be daft. You told me what I needed to hear, as I did to you." Durin brushed off the apology, waving a hand dismissively.

Elrond, by some miracle, accepted Durin brushing him off and settled for smiling warmly.

That night, they would talk with only the flames of the fire to hear them and the excuse of the smoke to explain away their tears. A warmth would settle in the hollows of hearts and the present would seem vivid once more. Promises to be truthful with each other would be exchanged and apologies would be waved away but accepted. Eventually, when the flames of the fire died down with the discussion, they would sit in companionable silence under the stars of sanctuary.

And later, when Elrond had been bullied by Durin into going to bed, Elrond would bump into Galadriel in their shared tent (Elrond had given his up to make space for the Dwarves) and they would talk of things they hadn't dared to.

Some of the burden would fall away and some of it wouldn't. They would allow themselves to weep and exchange apologies.

Galadriel would see the bruises on Elrond's torso when he yawned and stretched and she would apologise all over again for things she never caused.

Elrond would see the way Galadriel flinched from the shadows and he would squeeze her hand tightly.

They would try to sleep, bidding each other a goodnight which was finally fulfilled; exhaustion taking over their ability to dream. Come the morning, they would feel rested.

A burden shared is a burden halved, and good hearts were receiving them.

After that first night, the Durin's visit seemed to fly by in a blur of chaos and joy.

Elrond found himself woken each day by two Dwarflings piling onto his bed. If he was lucky, he could coax them with cuddles into letting him sleep a little longer. Galadriel had woken to see them like that one morning, Elrond looking content and peaceful in his sleep, with his snoozing neice and nephew curled around him. On other days, he simply allowed himself to be pulled out of bed, a smile on his face nonetheless.

The mornings were a joy, spent among friends and family. Elrond helped Disa encourage the children to eat their food and he swapped insults with Durin. Galadriel joined them when she was strong enough and awake early, partaking in the festivities of domestic bliss, when they could ignore the rest of the world and the darkness that swarmed it.

When the early mornings passed, the stresses of the day returned with a brutal blow.

Elrond saw little of Durin throughout the day. Gil-Galad had need of Elrond's hastily written translations, the healers had need of his hands, Galadriel needed his advice for where to place their guard, stables needed to be built, tents secured when the wind picked up and, at the end of the day, everything needed doing all at once.

Durin had his own duties to perform; correspondences to the other Dwarves scattered throughout the mountains of Middle-earth and to Khazad-Dûm needed to be sent. Points of trade needed to be scouted and royal grain reserves stocked and paid for.

Money.

They had had so many riches borne of the ring and now they were falling into bankruptcy. Durin couldn't help but feel he was failing. And, once again, everything needed doing all at once.

Throughout the two weeks, Durin had discussions with the High-King. Already they discussed war and Durin swallowed the horror that came with it.

In those dark moments of conversation, he would look to Elrond and see the Elf's jaw set and hands clenched. Durin felt the darkness of those discussions as though Elrond's clenched fists were around his neck.

Durin returned in the evenings to Disa and the children with sighs of relief and exhaustion, slumping in his chair.

The children would talk at him then and he would slip from under the grasp of his Crown and do his most important duty; being a father.

It mattered not how much the children babbled or bickered, the sound was joyous and free of preparations and nauseating anxiety knawing at his throat.

"Father! There's an Elf I made a friend with! She hurt her leg and now she has a wooden one. She was sad but now she's not because I said it made her look brave!" Gamli had proclaimed one evening, jutting his chin out proudly and spearing a carrot on his fork.

Durin had never felt prouder. He made sure to tell his son as much and Gamli had swelled under the praise. He felt that at least he wasn't failing at being a father.

"Father, today I lifted a rock damming the stream! It was very heavy but I lifted how you said to!" Gerda had told him, bouncing in her seat ecstatically.

He sung her praises for more than one reason, he had needed a little joy that evening, having recieved the battle report and seen the finalised numbers of Elves lost in the siege.

Elrond had seen the guilt settle itself in Durin again and reiterated the comforting words from his letter and the advice Durin had shared on the first night.

The feeling didn't fully dissipate despite his friends attempts, yet pride in his children displaced the residual guilt with ease.

And Disa, wonderful Disa, who spent her days helping wherever she was needed. A true and honest Queen and the love of his life.

Durin cherished the evenings when Elrond joined them. His daft Elf would sit both Dwarflings on his lap and help them to win the board game of the night. He let them twirl his hair around their fingers and carried them to bed when they fell asleep. When the children were safe in bed and Elrond rejoined Durin and Disa at the fire, occasionally accompanied by Galadriel or Gil-Galad, they would salvage the moments of peace, savouring every morsel.

Imladris was a beautiful place at night; alight with stars and singing trees, waterfalls rushing into the silence of the dark. Even under the open sky Durin felt at peace, a peace he hadn't known in a long time. Yet nothing gave it more beauty than the smiles and laughter of those nights. The joy rang out across the valley and Durin understood why Elrond had begun to call their sanctuary a home. 

The days of mornings spent eating together, chaotic afternoons and blissful evenings of peace had to come to an end eventually, but it seemed to pass so cruelly swift.

Gil-Galad permitted Elrond the afternoon off to spend the last day with the Durins, a luxury that Elrond reacted to with stumbling words of thanks and a face flushed with excitement.

Breakfast passed as usual; Durin trying to keep Gamli from eating too quickly and giving himself hiccups, Elrond heaping what sugar he could onto his porridge, Disa helping Galadriel to the table and Gerda already down from her seat and talking with her Elfling friends.

Durin hoped that bonds between Elves and Dwarves would continue when he passed, and his children seemed to already be fulfilling that.

Elrond took them all to the base of a quiet waterfall, not far from the camp, surrounded by meadows that housed horses yet untamed.

They settled on the grass, Gamli already plucking at the bilberries growing on the stone, and admired the rushing water above them.

"No jumping off this time, Elrond." Galadriel said, poking fun at her friend who rolled his eyes playfully.

"I do not wish to relive the experience, you know what it feels like after all!" Elrond said, nudging her gently.

Galadriel chuckled.

"You what?!" Durin's voice echoed through the chasm of the valley.

Elrond, very startled, looked to him and Disa with a look of regret on his face.

"Ah. Yes. I never did tell you-"

"Jumping off waterfalls is it? Unbelievable! I cannot take you anywhere!" Durin rambled, red in the face.

"Durin-"

The conversation involved many stern words from Durin, not all of them appropriate, many half-meek looks from a blushing Elrond and several poorly-stifled laughs from Galadriel. 

When Durin had calmed, Elrond looked to Galadriel, a tease in his eyes.

"At least my fall was into water. I believe yours was from a cliff, Galadriel?"

Disa turned on her.

"You what?!"

And so it began all over again. 

Once explained, the Dwarven pair took the jokes well and steam no longer seemed to pour from their ears, but it did leave Galadriel and Elrond feeling like Elflings again.

They passed the afternoon in a haze of bliss. They shared food and admired the valley below. But soon, when the children began to tire and rain clouds leaked drizzle, they packed up their things and began the short trek back.

Elrond stayed at Durin's side, eager for his friends company before he left.

"I wish you did not have to leave."

Durin paused to glance at Elrond. He looked mournful but content. 

'Elves. So mixed in their emotions. No wonder they spend so much time writing them as poetry'

Durin brushed away the urge to express his tease.

"Aye, I wish so too."

"I could work alongside you. Though I might shock the High-King if I suggest becoming your Herald rather than his." The suggestion was joking in nature and Elrond smiled broadly.

For a moment, Durin wished he wouldn't.

Durin wouldn't even need Elrond to share the burden of the Crown but simply to be there, to be Elrond.

"Aye, it would. And you've got plenty on your plate already." Durin said, keeping his gaze forward.

"As have you, my friend." Elrond said in such an earnest manner to show he understood, and for a moment, Durin wished he wouldn't.

"I'll write to you, I'll write to you until you're swamped with letters." 

Elrond laughed, and for a moment, Durin wished he wouldn't.

"And I shall fill my replies with such detail you won't be able to bear sending me any further letters!" 

Durin chuckled wryly.

"I bet you would."

A silence fell as they neared the entrance to the main camp, the last time Durin would enter on this visit. 

They stopped, the rest of their little group already near the tents, and faced each other.

Elrond seemed shy, looking at his boots.

"I shall miss you." Elrond wanted to say so much more than a hurried confession; no one had felt like a brother to him after Elros passed as Durin had and it was as if he was losing Elros all over again.

"I'll see you again, you daft Elf." Durin said in a tone of false cheer. When Elrond didn't even respond with a half-hearted smile, he dropped his voice into softness, a voice he only used for closest family. "I shall miss you too."

Elrond bent at the awkward angle required to hug Durin fiercely and it was returned in equal ferocity.

They broke apart, both ignoring the tears in the others eyes.

"Ach, you Elves are turning me to sand! Come on, let's not waste the time we have standing here like idle dawdlers." Durin said, waving Elrond into the entrance.

Elrond smiled wryly.

"Of course."

The evening meal passed in a daze, the children a little sorrowful that they were leaving so soon. To cheer them, Galadriel presented them both with tiny Elf figurines they were ecstatic over.

Elrond mouthed his appreciation over the dinner table and Galadriel smiled back tenfold.

Drinks were shared (though not too many as "we have a long journey ahead") and laughter exchanged.

It was hard to define happiness in times of sorrow, and sometimes it feels disrespectful, but everyone in Imladris that last evening felt happiness radiating from the campfire of Dwarves and Elves alike, and their spirits were brightened because of it.

They bade goodnight in good cheer for the sake of keeping memories and dreams happy.

It was the first night in two weeks that Elrond slept poorly again. He was thankful when he saw the dawn approaching and two Dwarflings curled under the covers with him. He finally felt his eyes rest. 

Goodbyes were exchanged in the early morning and with haste. Both parties claimed it was so Durin and his family could return to Khazad-Dûm in good time, when in reality they knew it was to avoid tainting a joyous fortnight with a teary ending.

When it was only Durin left to leave, Elrond clasped his shoulder, warmth and tears in his eyes.

"Namárië."

Durin swallowed a lump in his throat.

"Namárië."

The Durins left Imladris.

Elrond didn't look back at them.

For a moment, Durin wished he would.

When Elrond returned to his tent, he found a surprise laid upon his bed: a letter. Durin had written him a letter. A laugh rang out as he took the paper.

When Durin reached into his pocket to retrieve his map, he found a surprise awaiting him: a letter, Elrond had written him a letter. A laugh spilled from him as he opened the parchment.

Imladris seemed to rejoice in the mingling union and joy between Elves, Dwarves and brothers, for the sun shimmered brightly upon the valley.

Chapter Text

Dear Elrond,

Thought you'd get away without saying goodbye properly, did you? I know you, you halfwit. Even as I write this I know we'll fumble through our goodbyes.

Thank you for having my family and our most weary to stay in your sanctuary, you watch over it well, my friend.

The children will miss you dearly, they are begging Disa and I into the stone to build them dark little dens when we get home as you did for them, and we've not even left yet! Every night they want to say goodnight to the stars as you do. Every time Gamli draws his family (and you know how he loves to sketch and does it very well) he draws a beanpole with pointy ears - you! Gerda talks for days to us about her Elfling friends and how you look after them with pride in her voice.

I know you lost your own family, and I see it burden you always, but we all love you as family. That is why I told you my secret name, because you are my brother. You are a gem and my heart is the rock, I keep you close and will not let you be pried from me. Even the darkest nights cannot hide your light, no matter what darkness overcomes you.

I wish I could stay so much longer, or kidnap you and have you safe in Khazad-Dûm by my side. But my people are in mourning and yours are too. Don't just survive, Elrond, live for the hope of seeing us again. I know that is what gives me strength and I hope it can do the same for you. It's typical that we didn't see each other for so long, only for us to reunite at the worst moment! Disa says it might have been the best moment, because we can reunite on the future battlefield as brothers, not just allies.

I've clearly stayed with Elves, I never waxed so much poetry in my life!

Thank you. Keep well.

Your brother, always,

Durin

Dear Durin,

I fear I have become cowardly of late and as such I write this letter to you in anticipation that my words will fail me when the time comes to say goodbye.

Your company has healed me more than you can know. You have been my rock, as steady as your mountain realm, Disa cares for all with such kindness and your children delight me in their joy. I hope I am not overstepping when I say you are family to me, Durin. As dear and as precious to me as if you were my blood, often more so than my own kin have been.

I regret the words I said to you on your first night here. They were spoken in grief and in anger but that is no excuse. As you have said, we are both grieving and we are both suffering. I hope you do not see my anger as cause to hide yourself from me, and that we can be open with one another.

I know our alliance will mean great things in the terrors to come, but it will mean the most to me simply knowing I have a brother to feel at home with. We are two people's united in friendship and brotherhood, and I cannot treasure our bond more than I already do.

I will miss you. I have enjoyed our blessed evenings together, even when you foolishly challenge me to a drinking competition. I will miss Gerda and Gamli cuddling me in the mornings and I know I shall sleep fitfully without them. I will miss Disa for her kindness that each of us here has so needed. I hope she knows how much she has been appreciated. But most of all I thank you Durin, for you have healed my heart when it felt impossible.

I will send news to you as often as I can and please know you can always ask for my counsel or write to me if you simply need a friend. I hope we meet again soon and perhaps one day we will send letters under better circumstances.

My heart has sung joyously with you near. I will miss you. Keep well and stay safe.

Your brother, always,

Elrond

Chapter Text

Dear Elrond,

I've just been at my coronation and Aulë I forgot how dull those ceremonies can be. I don't know why they bother with all those endless words, it's like talking with an Elf. I almost grabbed that bloody crown and stuck it on my head myself! I wish you could've been there, I know you would have laughed when they nearly put the crown on my head backwards and when Gamli asked when it was over only ten minutes in! Why do they make that blasted crown so heavy? No wonder my father was always nursing a migraine and such a grumpy git!

It was small, none of the fancy stuff or feasting you expect from a Dwarven coronation. That is fine by me because Disa made mole tail stew and the children tugged on my beard, I could ask for no better celebration. I don't feel festive or celebratory of the occasion but, as I know you are fond of calling it, melancholy. Seems a shame to celebrate something that breaks so many bonds with the weight of a crown.

I've had to start rationing out the royal grain reserves thanks to the cold. Thankfully the seeds you gifted us are sturdy and will be ripe to eat soon. At least the ground shakes are encouraging people to go out often to trade. It is a shame how we run from our home. Stealing will begin when the people grow too hungry and I dread having to stop them, they only want to feed their children.

How are things at the sanctuary? How are you sleeping? You haven't written to me since I left.

Write to me soon. Hope you are well.

Your brother always,

Durin

Dear Elrond,

You are worrying me, is all well? If you do not respond to this letter I will assume something has happened or you have been discovered. Please reply. Tell me you are alright. Please.

Khazad-Dûm had another ground shake and the markets have been badly damaged. Many of the seeds that had grown into fruit have suffered and wilted under the rubble. We are trying to trade for supplies on the surface but the frost has come quickly this year and Men have little to offer. The children miss you. I miss your letters.

Yours,

Durin

Chapter Text

Dear King Durin,

I apologise I was unable to respond sooner. It is Galadriel you are corresponding with at present, on the behalf of Elrond.

Elrond was attacked on a patrol to a nearby Wildman settlement and became infected with a Mannish sickness when he returned to us. He is in a healing sleep but he sustained injuries in the fight that are slowing his recovery. His fever is very high, and when he coughs it is mixed with blood. We are lucky it cannot be spread to Elves - the sanctuary remains safe. The healers keep hope for a cure as we recently discovered Mannish healing records in a scroll salvaged from Eregion.

We also uncovered a nearby field which is plentiful in food, and as such High-King Gil-Galad invites you or an ambassador of your people to Imladris to discuss us lending you aid. As I'm sure you are aware, Sauron's armies are spreading ever onwards across Middle-Earth. If you are to ally with us we will be grateful for any aid you can give us in return. 

Reply soon and we can arrange a time to meet.

Congratulations on your coronation. I know the responsibility of duty is tiresome and the ceremonies so very dull! Elrond usually keeps me entertained, mouthing along to the words of the King's speech. Elrond misses you, even in his healing sleep he calls for you. I read your first letter aloud to him so he knows you are thinking of him.

I will inform you of any change to his health.

Sincerely,

Galadriel

Dear Lady Galadriel,

Thank you for your letter.

It pains me deeply to hear of Elrond's illness and I worry about him. If you need an extra axe to hunt down those Wildmen, you have mine. Thank you for promising to keep me up to date with his health, as unfortunately I won't be able to visit, but I can send an ambassador in two weeks' time to Imladris, if that is agreeable with you. I will choose my most trusted men. They won't jeopradise the safety of your sanctuary.

Ceremony is very dull and annoyingly the reason I cannot come to you. The other Dwarf Lords grow eager to discuss payment and I am only thankful Gerda is still young, or they would be marrying her to their heirs as payment. Instead, I am to pay them with Mithril, and failing that they wish to discuss the Rings. Frankly they can have the Mithril, but they will not have my children. It does pain me to know that I'll have to hold my tongue in these "negotiations" and use flattery. When Elrond wakes, get him to write me some flowery compliments, he's good at that! Daft Elf had me worried sick when he never wrote. Mind you, he's not exactly giving me peace of mind now. I think you and I should wrap him in cotton just so he stays safe! I know Disa suggested it many times! He is our third child, and our problem one at that.

Send news of him and the meeting arrangements soon.

Keep well, and give that Elf a jab in the ribs for scaring me when he wakes.

Sincerely,

Durin

Chapter Text

Dear Durin,

Thank you for your concern, I am much better now, the knowledge attained from the scrolls saved my health, but I am still weak and terribly bored.

We hear news of Sauron's armies every day, yet nothing has angered me as hearing of the Dwarf Lords greed towards you and your kingdom. It is a pity we cannot meet soon, I should like to see you, and knock some sense into those old fools. Forgive my temper, I find it shorter these days, a Dwarvish Elf I am indeed!

My friend, you flatter me! I imagine you never expected your praise of my wordsmithing to reach my ear, did you? Fear not, I shall enclose some advice for you.

I imagine by the time you recieve this, we shall be preparing to play host to a group of your men, provided noontide by the bluebells in a week's time is suitable. I shall miss your company, but I am glad our people have united, and especially given your circumstances at present. We can help you, Durin. As I'm sure Disa has told you many times, for you are more stubborn than the mountain itself, there is no shame in requesting aid.

I'm sorry for the poor handwriting, my arm is still weak from injury and the result is a very scrawled letter! Wildman blades are dulled and not properly kept, so the cut takes longer to heal, much to my displeasure.

I feel rather useless at the moment, though Galadriel insists I'm being useful by resting. She is at least keeping me company, and I enjoy it, but I long to oversee the building of Imladris, already it is much changed, and to help unburden the weight on Gil-Galad's shoulders.

I miss you and your family, let me know of any news and keep well. Galadriel is glaring at me as I write this, I think she's implying I should be asleep. In fear of being theoretically skewered on her very sharp blade, I will now say namárië.

Your brother, always, 

Elrond

P.s. You will be pleased to know that Galadriel did indeed give me a jab in the ribs when I awoke.

Flowery Compliments - Elrond Peredhel

- Truly the riches mined from (whichever Dwarven dwelling applies) are like no other!

(Be sure not to use this for more than one Dwarf, and inject enthusiasm into your tone or you may come across as insincere.)

- I've heard of your talents in (pick a talent, if you can't find one, say something about personality or beards, see footnote) have you been so accomplished in it for long?

Opens conversation, steers from awkward ones

Footnote: personality compliments, based on my observations of Dwarven flattery, which I've only seen between you and Disa, really, include bravery, stubbornness and strength.

Beard compliments include length and colour (try to compare the colour to a precious metal for added value.) 

Backhanded comments

- Truly, your wit is as sharp as a marble

- (name of their family member) spoke of you highly, how is their mind these days?

- The way you've styled your beard is very... courageous.

- If a family member of theirs holds higher status, use it to your advantage: was (name of said family member) unable to come? Pity.

Use at the end of visits, unless they have already insulted you, in which case go ahead. Never strike first.

Good luck, and let me know how it goes,

Elrond

Chapter Text

Dear Durin,  

The tides of time are moving, my friend. As we prepare for loss once more, I would not be so bold as to express confidence that this time we will win, but I believe we have hope.  

Although I cannot explain our recent good fortune regarding allies over this letter, know that there are good things happening across all Middle-earth. Good things from good people. 

Our people are woven together, on what path, for what future, I do not know. It is my belief that Dwarves and Elves can and do possess a great kinship with one another, despite our differences. 

I think the relations between Elves and Dwarves have never been so strong. I did miss your company when your ambassadors visited, but I assure you I am very much healed from my wounds and prepared to fight once more. 

My only hope is that your kingdom grows united, rather than falls apart. I think that with you as leader they will be strong, even in the coming days of anguish. There are few I cherish as close as you, and only one other I have called brother. Our blood may not relate us, but it is blood all the same, do not let it be spilt.  

Darkness grows but remember there is hope. There is your family, your kingdom, your home. 

Bear your crown with pride but carry your hope closer. You will need it in the days ahead.  

I do not know when I will next see you. I hope it will be on some spring afternoon, smoke and blood a distant memory. I hope I will see your family soon, I have missed out on so much of their lives already and I would like nothing more than to remedy that by being at all your sides. 

Bear your axe well, may it strike true. My love to you, Disa, and the children. 

Your brother, always, 

Elrond 

Dear Elrond, 

Your people's generosity has been a blessing, even if it meant spending too much time in the sun and listening to a lot of waffling! We are surviving. Ground-shakes are a pain in the beard and the odd tempers rise, but we're strong, and we'll need to be for the fight ahead.  

You're not so bad for an Elf. There's the poetry and the habit of having annoyingly good posture, but you're a fierce leader. You got that from me, you know! I'm only teasing, you've fought hard all this time, you can do it again, even though I know you hate to, we all do. 

Thank you for your advice, it worked well! Don't think I'll be expected to sharpen their axes the next time they visit. I think I might even have a little respect, imagine that! Disa is relieved they seem to be backing off more, I think the approaching fight is pushing them back into the warmth of their homes. Cowards. 

None of us want to fight, but if we don’t, then our children will. I'd rather die fighting for my wee ones than know I passed the burden to them without trying. Gerda says she’ll fight, but they’re both still my little ones. I’ve told her it’s her job to protect her big brother, they’ll need to look out for each other, as brother and sister should when their whole world is turning dark. I won’t have them stray as my brother and I did, look where we ended up! Gamli has been helping me pen requests for coal to keep the forges burning strong. He has such a way with words, if only you could see him! He takes after his Uncle Elrond, that much is definite! 

I will see you again, we’ll meet on the battlefield, or even when this is all over. Aulë’s beard, I want this all to be over, I want to be a father to my children, not a king, I want to be a brother to you, not just an ally. But either way, I’ll see you soon.  

May your sword bury deep into the darkness we’re trying to defeat. And, of course, may you always be tidal-haired! 

My strength, my heart, and my courage go out to you for the coming days.  

Your brother, always,  

Durin