[Ransom]

***Rivendell***
Elrohir paced on a balcony overlooking the main gardens of Rivendell. The preparation for their trip were in the hands of his older brother and the Erestor, leaving Elrohir with much time to ponder the events of the previous week.

The summons to attend the audience at Minas Anor had created quite a stir in Rivendell. Granted, Erestor had been quite rash in his conversation with Elrond. However, it sorely tried his self control when he heard his father’s decision. Erestor’s wife, Meneciriel, would be sent to Minas Anor with both Elrohir and Elladan.

He forced himself to step back and think. Indeed, his love for his father was stronger than ever. However, he considered Erestor a close friend. And his blood boiled whenever one of his friends were hurt. But he couldn’t afford to let this dissuade him from his current goals.

He fingered the pommel of his cavalry saber, contemplating his next move. The political situation at home would not change much in his absence. Elrohir had extracted promises from the elves on the Council that they would not enact any ground shaking measures in his absence, much less attempt to further damage Erestor. Years of political intrigue and alliances would ensure that the politicians would keep their word.

Now came the harder issues. It was easy for him to play the game of politics when it did not concern himself. However, personal bonds were much harder to understand. Chief among his concerns was Erestor and his wife. It was true that Erestor was his dearest friend, and that Elrohir respected Meneciriel. However, he had never taken time to develop any type of relationship with her for fear that he would offend Erestor. He would ask his brother what to do. Elladan always had a way with people.

Elrohir sighed deeply before brushing a stray strand of brown hair behind his ear. There was the light chink of elvish mail hidden under the brown and green cloak and the soft padding of feet. The balcony returned to its vigil, silent and alone.

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: Ransom ]