Disclaimer: I own only that which I have created; thankfully, J.R.R. Tolkien created the rest. Bless you for that, professor.

Chapter Nine – Maedhros' End

Maglor was not alone. He had wandered further than he had originally planned and found the strange stone theatre on the edge of a massive crag overlooking the churning water of the sea beneath. He sat high above in one of the long granite rows watching the small group of men and women below as they went about their business. Various materials of cloth and wood were piled high before the three small stages facing the many tiered rows of seats. His curiosity peaked; he asked one of the passing workmen what was happening. He was hurriedly told they were trying to set up the different stages for a performance later that evening. Unfortunately, due to the late arrival of the set pieces, everything was behind schedule. Maglor's admiration increased as he watched them at their work. With time moving ever more quickly and the crew trying to focus on the tasks at hand, Maglor could not help wondering if some kind of magic was not at work as well. Doorways seemingly appeared from nothing, invisible walls were suddenly hanging with tapestries becoming a great hall of a lord or king. Another stage was outfitted with tied bundles of tall thin branches proclaiming the merest hint of trees. Tiny lights were attached to the scrawny limbs in the hope of becoming an illuminated forest later.

Maglor had seen theatricals before and knew how much the imagination played in the telling of their stories. His mouth curled into a smile as he felt the power of the fabric and the lights cast their spell over him. He marveled how each small suggestion transformed the very air above the "grand hall" into rafters and roof. How the "great forest" with all the tiny stars hanging from the tree branches would later be winking a greeting to their brothers and sisters in the dark sky over head. There was a familiarity in this conjuring. There were thoughts of Middle-earth.

Maglor closed his eyes and remembered Beleriand. Not only the kingdoms, but the forests and rivers, the magnificent mountains, all the things that had made up his world so long ago. Maglor also recalled the noble lords of the Eldar and the gallant men of the Edain; each race with those who shone with their greatness while others were ultimately proven flawed.

Flawed like the Oath, and all those who swore to uphold it. He grimaced as the thin sharp threads of regret wound themselves tightly around his heart. The sad knowledge of all that had been and was now gone forever filled him with a terrible ache. He could do nothing but mourn its passing. He felt tears gathering under his lids. This world did not hold the slightest glimpse of the magic that was once Middle-earth. Mankind's imagination could only guess with their tales of fairy folk and strange domains. His world and its people were gone and forgotten for all time. Only through the shadow visions played out in the Shimmer did it live again. That was not quite true. Maedhros had seen to it that their world lived on in the archives of Egla Tir. In the records protected by his children, Maedhros had made sure the Eldar would never be forgotten and the tales of Middle-earth would survive.

The protection of this legacy, however, was far less important to Maedhros than the protection of his heirs. Maglor opened his eyes as his jaw tensed and he considered the recent scene played out earlier in the forest shortly after Maedhros and he left the clearing.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Ailsa was there! The thought made Maedhros shudder as he quickened his pace through the trees. "You should have told me sooner," he called over his shoulder. He was upset; more at himself than at Maglor. Why did I not sense her in the woods? Deep inside, he knew why. My grief was too selfish to know anything else. If anything has happened…!

Following close behind, Maglor called out. "Maedhros stop! If I had known you would react like this, I would not have told you." He reached out and grabbed his brother's arm, turning his sibling toward him. Their eyes met and Maglor was unable to move as he tried to understand the fear he saw in Maedhros' eyes. "You must believe me, Maedhros. I found Ailsa before any harm was done to her." He prayed his words would somehow calm his brother. Through all they had shared together, battles lost or won, within all the pain and despair they had known, never had he ever seen anything like the panic he recognized consuming Maedhros now.

"I can only imagine what she has suffered because of me. I must see for myself." Maedhros pulled his arm out of Maglor's grasp, and hurried off. After watching him disappear into the forest, Maglor lowered his eyes and stared at the ground for a moment before finally walking off in another direction.

Coming upon the theatre had been a welcome surprise. For a short period he was able to sit alone with only the beautiful vista before him and the floating gulls crying high above. Then the wave of stagehands appeared to begin their work. Though he found it pleasant to watch them, he could not still his thoughts. His grey eyes traveled above the stages and out into the direction of the horizon. He let out a heavy sigh. Confusion was becoming the dominant emotion plaguing his mind of late. After many minutes, he stood up and started to climb the stairs to the top of the cliff. Oh my brother, I never imagined leaving was going to be this hard.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

With her chin tilted slightly toward the sun, Ailsa welcomed the warm sunlight on her face. She was finally feeling more like her old self. The cold air had gradually revived her as she walked through the woods. The closer she got to the manor house, the better she felt. She was still worried about Maedhros though, and knew she would persist on worrying until she saw him again. Whatever assistance Maglor might be able to give him, she needed to see for herself that Maedhros was okay. Ailsa slowly remembered how it felt to share the love Maedhros still felt for Elizabeth and the long years he grieved her loss. She allowed the last bit of her sadness to run its course. She let out a long breath; thank God Maglor found her when he did. Who knew what would have happened to her if he hadn't. Bringing her jacket collar up around her throat, she blinked away the tears beginning to fill her eyes. Maglor was right; she needed to rest so she could regain her full strength. Otherwise, the first sight of Maedhros would only reduce her into uncontrolled sobs again.

Ailsa climbed the garden steps, and sat on the chair she had occupied before. She could easily rest out in the open air and she closed her eyes as she listened to the surrounding sounds of her world. She couldn't help chuckling as she wondered what was happening in that "other" world outside of Egla Tir. Had it only been months since she had stood in awe of the incredible stranger on the steps of her Berkeley home? All of this was the real world to her now, the other was the fantasy. The truth was that California, her mother, even Kyle were farther away than just miles. She had found something special here, and it was all because of Maedhros.

She considered how much she cared for him…this ancient Elf from a far off time and place. His strength and courage was to be admired, but his gentle dignity and regard would be things she would treasure all her life. Maedhros was family, and she would always protect his secrets. Now that she had found just how fragile his Elvish soul actually was, it only made his well-being even more important to her. She opened her eyes and began to watch the empty entrance into the woods.

Maedhros suddenly came out of the trees at a run, but stopped when he saw her. Relief covered his face as Ailsa stood up. He took the garden steps two at a time and quickly positioned himself so he could see her more closely. His hand came up and held the side of her cheek. Ailsa eyes were scanning his face too. Although they both were still a little pale, they could see the other was no worse for wear. Happy relief filled Maedhros, but he tried to remain solemn. "Forgive me, Ailsa. I had no idea you heard my song."

Ailsa shook her head. "When I felt all that pain…I was so worried about you." A sob caught in her throat and she began to tremble. Maedhros could see she was close to crying and drew her into his arms. Ailsa willingly let him comfort her as her tears betrayed her once again. "I'm sorry you lost her so soon."

Maedhros began to blink away his own unwanted tears. He took a deep breath in an attempt to quell them. "Do not mourn, Ailsa. The memories of Elizabeth and our time together will sing in my heart forever. I would not give up one moment of them to ease the pain of her death." Maedhros stepped back. "I am so thankful you were not harmed, tithen min," he said as he lowered his lips and tenderly kissed her brow.

A tiny smile crept across Ailsa's mouth. There was so much affection in Maedhros' voice. "I love you too, Maedhros." She said and hugged him even harder. Maedhros felt his heart quake as he heard her words. He brought his arms up again and held her tightly.

It was some time before Ailsa finally let go. "Come on, let's go in," she suggested. "I could sure use a cup of coffee about now." Maedhros smiled his approval as he quickly wiped an errant tear from his cheek. He offered her his arm and Ailsa gratefully curled her arm around his. Without another word, they entered the manor house.

Maglor stepped out from the cover of the trees as Maedhros and Ailsa disappeared into the house. He had hurried back from the outdoor theatre only to witness what had just past between them; how much Maedhros cherished Ailsa. His breath came quickly as he tried to calm the melancholy gathering within him. His eagerness to return to the Blessed Realm had made him blind to so much. How could he take his brother away from his family? It was getting harder to accept leaving as the only path for them. He glanced at the manor house once more and turned back into the woods. Maglor was suddenly no longer sure of anything.

Later on, just before the evening meal, Maedhros found him in the cave room standing in front of the Shimmer. A scene of a lonely grassy plain moved across the mist. "There you are brother." Maedhros smiled at him.

"I came here to think, but found I could not help watching the Shimmer." Maglor spoke without turning. Maedhros' brows drew together as he heard the flat tone in his brother's voice.

"Maglor?" Maedhros came around to look at Maglor's face. He could see Maglor's attention wasn't actually on the Shimmer; his eyes were staring at their reflections in the moving surface of the pool.

Maglor's head moved slightly. "I need to say something to you." He paused and took in a slow breath. "I…finding you has been the one true joy I have felt since coming to this world. There is nothing I would not do to keep you by my side." Maglor looked deep into his brother's eyes. "But I can not ask you to leave Ailsa and Ewan." The intensity of his gaze began to worry Maedhros.

"What do you mean?" Maedhros brows drew together as he tried to understand.

"Come Maedhros, I know how much they mean to you. The bond between Ailsa and you is very strong. I also realize your leaving will be painful for all of you." Maglor's eyes slid back to the pool; he could not look at his brother anymore. "I can not be the reason for that pain." Maglor glanced up at Maedhros. "Let me try the mists alone, you need not leave now. If I make it through, then you can come…later." He put his hand on his brother's shoulder. "I will wait for you."

Maedhros was taken aback by Maglor's words. He looked hard into Maglor's eyes and witnessed the conflicting emotions warring in them. His brother's gentle heart made him put aside what he wanted and reinforced his determination to do what he thought right. Maedhros sighed, there would be no more waiting for either of them.

He placed his hand on Maglor's arm. "Yes, I have great affection for Ewan and Ailsa. They have brought me such happiness. Happiness I had thought was lost to me forever. But hear me Maglor. I must let my children live their own lives. You and I, brother, we share the same destiny. As always, we will share the same journey. Nothing can change that now." Maedhros turned and began to walk toward the opening. "Are you sure," Maglor asked him earnestly. Maedhros stopped and looked over his shoulder. "Where you go, I must follow." With that, he walked into the passage.

0 0 0 0 0 0

Early dawn found the brothers on the cliff of Egla Tir. They had come in the darkness to the craggy rocks to sit in the reassuring night. Remembering a time when the only light that had ever shone in their world came from the twilight of the star-filled sky. Then The Two Trees filled their eyes with a new and brighter light, only to be plunged into darkness once more after the treachery of Morgoth. In time, the gift of the sun and the moon were given to Middle-earth, but this simpler light was what they remembered most fondly and drew comfort from it.

The hours of darkness slowly faded away and one by one the stars disappeared as the light of the rising sun glowed behind them. Maedhros faced the West without regret. Sitting on a large rock several feet above the path he watched the thin pink tinted clouds above them reach out to the Blessed Realm and he began to sing. Maglor sitting a few rough boulders away began to take up the thread of Maedhros' melody with his own beautiful voice. Both sets of shining Elvish eyes continued to gaze out to sea as they sang their song. Home was just beyond the horizon and their song answered its call.

Their dream of hope had become a reality. Ewan and Ailsa had given Maedhros this chance. Because of them, he had found Maglor again and their world now waited for them both. Instead of the remorse and longing they had felt all the long years, this new day found them singing to the far mists and beyond. The words of their song were simple and unadorned. The gift of forgiveness bestowed on them made it possible for the reconnection to their people. The happiness of their redemption wove itself within their lyrics. The joy of finding themselves worthy again rang sweet and clear in every note.

At the end of their song, Maedhros added something from deep inside his heart. With Maglor's supporting refrain catching the wind as it rode out to sea, Maedhros' voice rose with a solitary prayer to the Valar. "Protect those I love."

Their song ended, the brothers stood together and silently made their way down the rocks to the path leading to the woods. It was time to return to the manor house. It was time to tell Ewan and Ailsa their plans.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Ailsa rose early to begin preparations for the dinner that night. She had the marinade to mix for the chicken Fajitas and she needed to start making the tortillas. The dinner had turned into a small party welcoming Maglor to Egla Tir and back to the family. Ailsa hoped Mrs. Whitehall was in her normally good mood. The housekeeper had been disappointed at first when she found out the dinner wasn't going to be held in the dining hall. Once Ailsa explained that the large wooden table in the kitchen would be easier for her to serve and would give the whole dinner a warm family feeling, the housekeeper reluctantly agreed.

She rushed down the stairs, but stopped abruptly in the kitchen doorway. Mrs. Whitehall stood smiling by the wooden table watching Ailsa's surprised face. The crafty housekeeper had found a way to add a few touches of her own to the dinner. Ailsa's smile widened as she walked toward the table. A bright red tablecloth with matching napkins was neatly folded on one end of the table. There were also beautiful pale green glass stemware, and Mrs. Whitehall had somehow managed to find festive stoneware with a pattern in various colors of bright blue, green, and orange with red swirls running around the boarder.

"Mrs. Whitehall!" Ailsa exclaimed as she touched the glasses. "This is amazing. I can't believe it." The housekeeper's reaction was to blush slightly. "Well Miss, I figured I'd better stock up on some new crockery if there are going to be any more nights like tonight." Ailsa gave the older woman a hug which only deepened the housekeeper's color and actually seemed to fluster her a bit. "You're terrific," Ailsa smiled. Mrs. Whitehall quickly cleared her throat in attempt to regain her composure and patted Ailsa's arm. "Thank you. Now I think you need to go soak your chicken." The two women chuckled and went about their business.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

While Ailsa worked and joked with Mrs. Whitehall in the kitchen, down in the cave room Maedhros quietly stood beside Maglor as they watched Ewan's face. The three had gone down to the cave room earlier to have a private talk. Once there, they told Ewan their plans and now waited to hear his reaction.

Ewan had sat mutely at the small table while the brothers spoke. Their words whirled inside his head, and he could only look up at them in confused disbelief. "I can't believe it." Stunned, Ewan couldn't quite get his mind around it. "I mean we've just begun to…," his voice cracked. "It's too soon." Ewan shook his head; he was finding it difficult to control his thoughts. "There's so much yet to accomplish," he said more to himself. It wasn't just the work; one thought quickly became more dominant than all the rest. Ewan couldn't conceive of an Egla Tir without Maedhros. No, it was just too impossible to even consider. He quickly searched each pair of grey eyes for any possibility he had misunderstood.

Maedhros' heart ached to see how his announcement distressed Ewan. "I know it is very sudden, Ewan, but Maglor and I have to do this. We will never know for sure unless we make the attempt," his voice almost pleaded. "Delay will not make it any easier."

Ewan took a deep breath and released it slowly. A great sadness continued to grow in his heart. How was he supposed to look at this logically, when every emotion overshadowed his reason? Ewan smiled uneasily as he realized that he was trying to logically reason out his thoughts while two immortal Elves stood before him. His smile widened; logic didn't even enter into the equation. He knew he would have to forget any arguments he had and just be happy for Maedhros and Maglor. Their suffering over the years was more than enough punishment for them. Resigned to the inevitable, Ewan stood up with a smile on his lips. "Make the attempt? Of course you must," he announced sincerely. "You've both been through enough. Don't let my moment of selfishness stop you." He stepped around the table and took Maedhros' hand and shook it. "I'm pleased for both of you." Ewan honestly believed this, but he was still a little surprised when Maedhros put his arms around him and hugged him.

Maglor watched Ewan's reaction. At first, he wondered how Ewan would take their news. As he shook Maedhros' hand announcing his support, Maglor felt great respect for his mortal kin. Here was a man who seemed deeply ensconced in his scholarly pursuits, and normally blind to everything outside his little world. But Ewan had a good heart and a strong sense of right. So strong in fact, that he was able to put aside his own feelings for the good of others. Maglor offered his own hand, and shook Ewan's with genuine regard. "I am pleased that you understand. I only hope Ailsa will see it the same way."

At the mention of Ailsa's name Maedhros and Ewan looked at each other with visible dread on both their faces. "Do you want me to tell her," Ewan finally asked. Maedhros stood remembering the future he had once planned. How much he anticipated the joy as he watched Ailsa's future unfold before him. Now he had to let her know he wasn't going to be there. That he knew as much about her as he was ever going to know. Maedhros gently shook his head, how could he possibly find the words? His shoulders fell as he realized this would ultimately have to be his burden. "No, I will do it," he said sadly. "Somehow…I will tell her."

Maglor saw the anguish his brother was suffering and he did not envy him the task. "Do not tell her now. She is working very hard on tonight's feast, and it would be a kindness to give her this night," Maglor offered. "Would it not be better to tell her in the morning?"

"He has a point." Ewan quickly agreed. "Why ruin the last time we'll all be together." Maedhros' eyes snapped to Ewan's face. Ewan suddenly felt foolish. "I mean… it just…" He fumbled his words. Maedhros looked away. After a few moments, Maedhros slowly nodded and left the cave room.

Maglor turned to Ewan. "Shall we," he asked. They quietly left the cave room and returned to the Archives. Maglor knew there were many questions Ewan had for him, and time would run out before they could all be answered. Maglor would willingly give this time to him. It was his way of leaving something of his own legacy in the care of his brother's children and ultimately the future. No, the Eldar would not be forgotten.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Mid-afternoon found Ailsa buttoning her jacket and wrapping her long scarf around her neck as she escaped through the backdoor of the house into the cold air. She left the kitchen smelling of the sharpness of limes, and the aroma of cilantro and garlic from the marinated chicken. Everything was ready for dinner, all the chopping, mixing, seasoning, and tortilla making was done. What she wanted now was a quick walk in the fresh cool air. She smiled as she walked remembering the unexpected helper who showed up.

Maedhros had come into the kitchen as she was deep into her preparations and immediately began to make a regular nuisance of himself. He asked all sorts of questions trying to satisfy his curiosity about every little detail of the process and watched every move she made. She finally had to give him little tasks just to keep him out of her way.

Maedhros had led great armies, governed great numbers of people, fought in many battles, but that morning, he proved himself a very capable mixer with a wooden spoon. She chuckled as she remembered how he had "allowed" her to put a white chef's apron on him to protect his clothes. It was so strange to see him doing such menial jobs. Ailsa could tell by the way Mrs. Whitehall looked at him that this was a new side he was showing both of them. There was something else though; he seemed to have an unspoken need to be busy like that. Ailsa wondered about it for a while, but decided she was probably reading too much into his simple willingness to help with the preparations for the dinner honoring Maglor's return.

He spent the rest of the morning and part of the afternoon "helping" her. As they worked, they fell into easy conversation. He even got her to tell him how she learned to make Fajitas at her grandfather's house. How Maria, her grandfather's housekeeper, took pity on a bored teenager one afternoon and taught her to cook some Mexican dishes so she'd, as Maria promised, "be able to get a good husband one day." "Papa" Errington was more practical, he had given his granddaughter lessons to assure she would always make the perfect Margarita. Maedhros smiled as she explained the precise recipe, always a captive audience whenever she told any story. His pointed interest made her feel he actually enjoyed them.

As Ailsa finished the last of the tortillas, she caught Maedhros watching her again. At first, she just smiled at what she thought was his unusual interest in tortillas, but she slowly came to realize as he sat at the table, he was watching her with an intense look in his eyes. The rest of his face was impassive, but his eyes were locked on her. A concerned frown brought her brows together. Finally she asked, "Maedhros are you all right?"

"Yes," he quickly answered lowering his eyes as he shifted slightly in his chair. "Daydreaming I guess." Ailsa couldn't tell if he was embarrassed or what, but the moment quickly passed and then he suddenly stood up. "I have almost forgotten. I promised Ewan I would help him down in the Archives this afternoon. I have to go." With that announcement, he removed his apron and placed it neatly on the chair. "Thank you for letting me…help. I think tonight will be very special." He said with a slight bow and left. Ailsa was a bit perplexed as she watched him leave the kitchen. Finally, she gave a little shrug and resumed her preparations.

Everything was ready now and she had some time to herself before putting all the various ingredients together later. Although the sun sparkled in the cloudless sky, and the slight breeze blowing through the garden felt good on her face, Ailsa shivered and began tucking her scarf into her jacket. Because of the heat in the kitchen, the gesture was more instinct than a true reaction to the cold. She looked around for a moment, taking in the bright colored leaves hanging delicately on the tree branches and carpeting the lawn. The crisp air had a moist, earthy tang to it. The leaves weren't very thick on the ground yet, but she knew they would make that wonderful rustling sound she liked as she stepped through them.

She stood at the top of the garden steps and tried to decide if she should walk to the cliffs or if it would be better to venture to the clearing. A sudden gust of colder air made her shiver again and she quickly decided to return to the house. In fact, Ailsa had to admit she felt an odd need to go back inside. She quickly turned and began to walk around the sunny side of the manor house to the front door. Once inside again, she removed her coat and walked straight to the library doors. She opened them and stopped as soon as she heard the singing.

Coming from the darkness of the open bookcase, a beautifully sung tune filled the library. Ailsa quietly closed the library doors behind her and stood listening to the words. It was Maglor she heard, his haunting voice singing of family and home. Ailsa, closing her eyes, let his song feed her contentment. His voice trailed away and she made her way down the steps to the Archives. She paused at the bottom and looked at Maglor sitting at the desk in profile as he focused his attention on the small tape recorder in his hand.

He looked so much like Maedhros just then. A very masculine face, but with skin like polished alabaster. She had seen ancient statues of male athletes that tried and failed to duplicate that same mixture of beauty and masculine power. The statues merely suggested these qualities. As she watched Maglor, she reckoned the ancient sculptors obviously used the wrong models. Ailsa marveled at this strange, unearthly being sitting just a few feet away from her trying to figure out the buttons on her father's recorder.

Ailsa decided not to disturb him. She turned and placed her foot on the first step. "Do not go Ailsa." Maglor called to her. "Please, join me."

Caught in the act of retreating, she smiled sheepishly at Maglor. "Okay," she quickly replied. She walked over to the desk and sat on the edge holding out her hand. Maglor sighed and gave her the tape recorder. "I seem to have forgotten which button your father told me to push to start at the beginning." Maglor gentle smile reminded Ailsa of a little boy who was having trouble with a new toy. She chuckled, "Don't feel bad Maglor. I even get the buttons wrong on occasion." She began rewinding the tape and offered the recorder back to Maglor.

"Maedhros has told me you have been working very hard on tonight's feast." He said good-naturedly as he took the device from her.

"It just seems like a lot of work." She smiled back. "It's actually just a lot of chopping and mixing. I've been cooped up in the kitchen for most of the day so I thought I'd take a break before I had to put everything together later." Maglor looked at her for a moment then gave her a slight nod returning to the recorder. He hit "play" and his song began again. After a while, he looked at Ailsa with a surprised look on his face. "Does my voice truly sound like that?"

Ailsa laughed, "Close enough. That recorder is meant for dictation and notes." Maglor stopped the payback. "Maybe we can get some better equipment and show you how much closer to your true voice we can get," she offered.

"This will have to do for now." Maglor placed the recorder on the desk and he picked up a page covered in Elvish script. "Your father wishes me to record some of our poetry as well" He began to silently read the writing. After a while, Ailsa felt a little awkward, as if she needed to say something. "I'm glad you're helping, but don't let Dad monopolize all your time."

Maglor smiled back at her. "I am honored to be able to help in your work. It is time well spent." With that, his attention returned to the poem.

A wry smile tugged at the corner of her mouth as Ailsa watched Maglor. She focused on his hands as they held the paper…his ageless beautiful hands. The same long slender fingers and smooth backs that resembled Maedhros' hand.

"Maglor? How did Maedhros lose his hand?" The words came out before she realized she'd said them and immediately wished she could take them back. Solemnly, Maglor lowered the paper to the desk and began to stare at his hands. "You have not questioned Maedhros about this?"

"No. I don't know why I haven't." Ailsa glanced away; she knew that was a lie. She had wanted to ask Maedhros many times since finding out his secret, but something always stopped her. Ultimately, she feared it might bring up too many painful memories to be added to the others Maedhros carried. Judging by Maglor's reaction, she was beginning to regret she'd even asked him the question.

Maglor heard the discomfort in her voice. Ailsa still sat on the edge of the desk, but she did not look at him. It may not be his story to tell, but perhaps she should know it none the less.

"Maedhros has told you of Morgoth and the evil he had done. A terrible battle was fought between our armies with many dead on each side. It was in this battle our father died. Then Morgoth sent Maedhros a message that he was willing to acknowledge defeat. He only awaited our terms and he even offered the surrender of a Silmaril. We knew Morgoth was the lord of all liars and we did not believe him, but Maedhros had a plan."

"He persuaded the rest of us to feign belief in Morgoth's lies and to meet his emissaries at the appointed place. Our plan was to bring a large enough force and put an end to Morgoth's evil forever while still retrieving all the Silmarilli. But each side had the same idea and brought bigger armies than agreed. During the fighting, Maedhros and his company were ambushed and all his men were slain. By Morgoth's command, Maedhros was taken alive and brought to his stronghold. We could not follow so we withdrew to fortify our own camp." Maglor stopped as he remembered that fateful decision. The remaining brothers thought Maedhros lost to them, and to continue fighting was their only recourse. Maglor had reluctantly agreed with the others, but he still felt they had all betrayed Maedhros in his time of greatest need. His silence brought Ailsa's attention to his face. She could see Maglor suffering as he sat trying to continue his tale, but she felt only anger rising as she tried to understand why they would leave Maedhros in the hands of such a monster.

"Morgoth held Maedhros hostage and sent us word that he would release him only if our people would forsake our war with him and leave. Whatever we chose to do, we knew Morgoth would never release Maedhros." Maglor's face darkened. "We were also held back by our Oath you see, and could not for any reason forsake our war against our enemy as long as he had the Silmarilli. Angered by our refusal, Morgoth took Maedhros, encased his right wrist in a thick band of steel and hung him from the face of a precipice on the mountain, Thangorodrim." Ailsa winced at the thought of Maedhros in pain.

"Morgoth then fouled the very air around Thangorodrim with poisonous gases and rank smoke that even hid the sun. So when we did search, no one could find Maedhros."

"I would have tried harder," Ailsa whispered. "Nothing would have kept me from trying." Suddenly, she no longer wanted to know the rest of the story, but she was powerless to stop Maglor now.

"Someone felt as you do. Our cousin, Fingon, who was also Maedhros' closest friend, did not let our failure stop him. He set out alone using the darkness that Morgoth made to help him search unseen among all our enemies waiting on the mountain. He searched for a very long time, but he could not find any sign of Maedhros anywhere. Finally, in spite of the danger of Orcs and other foul beasts discovering him, Fingon took out his harp and sang a song of Valinor known to all our people. Through that dark land where only despair was known, his voice rang like a clear bell."

"Suddenly, far above him, Fingon heard his song faintly taken up by a familiar voice. You see, even in his pain, Maedhros found the strength to sing back to him. Fingon quickly climbed up as far as he could only to find himself at the very foot of the precipice without a way to climb any further. He began to weep when he saw how Maedhros hung so cruelly so far out of his reach. Maedhros, now in great anguish and without any hope left, begged Fingon to kill him with one of his arrows. Reluctantly, Fingon drew his bow and prayed that his arrow would end Maedhros' torment. To his surprise, Thorondor, one of the Great Eagles, appeared and stopped him before he could loose his arrow."

"This Lord of Eagles flew Fingon to the face of the rock where Maedhros was bound. But try as he might, he could not release Maedhros' wrist. My brother again, begged Fingon to kill him…to release him from his suffering. Fingon then made a fateful decision and cut off Maedhros' hand at the wrist to free him. The eagle bore them both home. Maedhros did recover, but the shadow of what he suffered sits within his heart to this day." Maglor stopped and quietly watched Ailsa.

Ailsa listened to Maglor with her head bent, eyes staring at the floor. The idea of Maedhros' torture quickly filled her with thoughts of revenge. How I'd love to get my hands on that bastard Morgoth, she fumed. Just as quickly, she realized the foolishness of that thought. What could she have done to such dark evil? She became aware of Maglor watching her.

"Thank you for telling me, Maglor." She said softly. "When we first met him, Maedhros noticed how we looked at his covered wrist. He told us he lost his hand in a mountain climbing accident. Obviously, he understated the events." Pictures of Maedhros' agony still filled her mind.

"We did not speak of his ordeal for a long time, but I knew he would recover. And through much practice, he became an excellent swordsman with his other hand." Maglor added slowly. It was now Ailsa's turn to be silent. She closed her eyes, and tried to understand the solace Maglor's words were expected to give her. Maedhros suffered unimaginable pain and she was supposed to be happy he was able to re-educate his left hand so he could continue to fight in that foul place called Middle-earth. She decided there was nothing that could induce her to ever want to live there. Let alone pine away for it as Maedhros and Maglor did. She glanced over at Maglor and their eyes locked. His expression softened, he knew what was going through her mind. "Ailsa, Middle-earth was a world of harsh reality, but it was so much more. It was a place of great splendor and magic. A world where we gladly lived the life Iluvatar gave us. Yes, we battled evil and faced the despair from our oath, but we fought on, because ultimately, there is always hope." Ailsa watched his eyes shine with longing as he spoke. "More importantly…it was the world where Maedhros and I belonged." He fell silent, his face unreadable.

Ailsa sighed, it was a beautiful thought, but she couldn't agree with him. She stood up as Maglor continued to sit deep in thought. "Whatever, Maglor," she shrugged. "You can keep your Middle Earth. It still sounds like a horrible place to me." Walking over to the stairs, she wondered if Maglor's tale was what made her come back into the house. Well, she had heard it and she quickly climbed the stairs and retrieved her coat from the front hall. Now she really needed some fresh air.

Once outside again, she looked at the expanse of lawn and began to walk. It didn't matter where she went; she just had to get away from the manor house. Her footsteps quickened as she tried to push down the anger inside her. Anger for the pain Maedhros suffered and anger because Maglor and he still missed Middle-earth. Ailsa broke into a run and kept running until finally her lungs began to burn. She stopped and bent over slightly as she tried to catch her breath. "Dammit," she yelled between deep pulls of air. "They belong here!"

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

The smell of spices and cooking chicken filled the nostrils of the dinner guests as they entered the kitchen that evening. The three males stood just inside the door smiling as they looked at the transformed kitchen. Before Mrs. Whitehall left for the day, she had decorated the large kitchen table with the new linens and dishes. She put small candles on the table and arranged some curled ribbons around the Lazy Susan centerpiece. Ailsa was busy mixing the first batch of Margaritas in a blender as the men admired the results of Mrs. Whitehall's work. Looking over her shoulder, she smiled. "Please come in. Dinner will be ready in a few minutes. But first, let's have some of this." She poured the pale green slush into four salt-rimmed glasses.

She handed each of them a glass and took one for herself. Maedhros and Maglor looked suspiciously at the frozen concoction in their glasses, but willingly breathed in the inviting smell of limes from the mixture. Ewan caught Ailsa's eye and smiled. Ailsa raised her glass, "Let me make the first toast of tonight's celebration." The others raised their glasses. "To Maglor, son of Feanor, once lost…now happily back with his family. Welcome to Egla Tir, Maglor" She smiled and took a drink from her glass.

"Here, here." Ewan replied and then did the same. Maedhros nodded, and drank. Maglor seemed embarrassed at the attention he received but slowly brought his glass to his lips and took a sip. Ewan seemed surprised as he tasted his drink. Cool and refreshing, but there was a definite underlying kick to it. The others had similar reactions. Both Maedhros and Maglor's eyes widened as they drank. Ewan cleared his throat and looked at Ailsa. "Papa Errington," he asked. Ailsa began to laugh. "Who else?" She smiled mischievously.

"This is very refreshing." Maedhros offered, "I do not think I have had anything quite like it before." He smiled and took another drink. Maglor seemed a little confused as he inspected the rim of his glass. "What is the significance of the salted rim?" Ailsa licked some salt from her glass and smiled. "It cuts the Tequila a little."

"Tequila is a potent liquor made from a cactus plant in Mexico." Ewan quickly explained. He shot Ailsa a wary look. "Maybe you should be less generous with it in the next batch, Ailsa." He took another drink.

Ailsa put her glass down and directed the men to the table. As the guest of honor, she had Maglor sit at the head and placed her father and Maedhros on either side. Her guests refused to sit until she joined them at the other end; a gesture she found rather sweet. She quickly took the warmed tortillas out of the oven and placed them on a flat basket she had lined with a large cloth towel. She then emptied the sizzling Fajita mixture into a chaffing dish and placed it into its stand on the table, making sure the sterno was lit to keep it warm. There were small bowls of sour cream, homemade salsa, black beans, onions, chopped jalapenos and guacamole positioned on the Lazy Susan. The waiting guests looked at the finished dinner with hungry anticipation. Everything was ready, and as she refilled their glasses, Ailsa found she enjoyed their eagerness.

There was a short instruction on how to assemble a proper Fajita. Ailsa sat back and watched her pupils' progress with great amusement. Maglor folded his tortilla with great determination. Ailsa had made it seem so easy, but he had a problem keeping the chicken mixture from falling out the other end. Maedhros' attempt was better, but it still ended with the same result. Ailsa tried not to laugh, but it was hard. Their Elvish dignity seemed to have forsaken them at that precise moment. All the maneuvering was forgotten once they took their first bite. Their eyes reflected complete approval of the wonderful tastes they were experiencing. Such flavor, all the various spices, and even the slight crunch of the vegetables was a symphony of tastes to appreciate and enjoy. With their mouths full, the brothers nodded their approval. Ewan only winked his satisfaction as he took another bite. Ailsa was satisfied.

Once everyone had been eating for a while, the stories began. Simply things…stories of past feasts and parties. Maedhros and Maglor began telling tales from their childhood; silly little things that made them all laugh. Ewan told more "Ailsa" stories…and she blushed accordingly. When Ailsa got up to clear the table, they refused to let her do it alone. She smiled knowing Mrs. Whitehall would find a clean kitchen when she arrived the next morning.

Another blender full of Margarita's was made, as were the promised instructions to Maedhros on how to do it. They sat at the table enjoying just being with each other. After Ewan told a particularly funny story of his college days, while the others were laughing, Ailsa looked at her father, then the brothers. She felt her heart swell with the happiness and affection she felt for them. Yes, even for Maglor. He was a sweet loving brother to Maedhros, and she saw the regard he had for her father. She also knew that it would take time, but he would come to call Egla Tir home.

Maglor raised his hand just then, quieting the laughter and turned to Ailsa as he raised his glass. "I think it is time that we toast our very capable hostess." They all stood. "To Ailsa…for her efforts in making this wonderful feast." Maedhros and Ewan raised their glasses, "To Ailsa!" They all took a deep drink.

Ailsa blushed. Ewan sat down and patted her hand. "You've done a wonderful job, sweetie." This deepened the color on her cheeks. She looked at Maedhros who smiled back. "You should be proud of the results from all your hard work." Now, she was completely embarrassed. "Thank you all for your wonderful words of praise. I wanted to welcome Maglor to Egla Tir and to let him know his family is here for him." Ailsa rose and lifted her glass. "To the House of Feanor."

The others immediately rose and raised their glasses. "To the House of Feanor," they said in unison. Maglor and Maedhros eyes shone as they spoke. Maglor then began to sing. His beautiful voice filled the kitchen with its splendor. The Elvish words he sang only added to the magic of his voice. Maedhros, recognizing the tune, joined him. For the first time, Ailsa was able to hear their two voices clearly without distance or interference to hinder her full appreciation. Their voices, though different in timber, sang in one glorious harmony. The words themselves were woven into a fabric of sounds that were felt rather than heard. Feelings of happiness and thoughts of joy echoed in her mind. Exquisite beyond imagining their song not only caressed her ears, but touched every part of her soul. She found her breathing becoming rapid and she had to sit down before her knees gave way. Ewan sat down as well with a look of wonder written all over his face as he listened. The brothers stood facing each other as a soft glow seemed to surround them as they sang.

Much too soon the song ended and there was silence in the kitchen. Ailsa wanted to clap her approval, but found she couldn't move. The singers raised their glasses once more and made a silent toast. A moment later, they remembered the others. "Forgive us, Ewan…Ailsa." Maedhros apologized. "Maglor and I were singing a song of ancient days in Aman."

Maglor wore a soft smile as he watched Ailsa and her father. If their faces were any indication, the song had touched them deeply. Ewan was the first to find his voice. "That was the most incredible thing I've ever heard." Ailsa swallowed breaking the spell she was under. "That was amazing," was all she could get out. The brothers smiled and sat down, pleased that the others liked their song.

"Can all Elves sing like that?" Ewan's face was filled with boyish wonder as he asked his question.

"Music is a large part of our being." Maglor explained.

"Well, we'll have to record as many of your songs as you can remember." Ailsa announced.

"They'll be a welcome addition to the histories." Ewan added quickly and then regretted saying it. He looked at the brothers imploringly hoping Ailsa hadn't noticed.

Maedhros cleared his throat. "We will talk about that later. Let us have some more of your marvelous Margaritas and maybe a song or two more." His eyes began sparkling with impish delight. Turning his attention directly at Ailsa, he pointed his finger. "And you tithen min, you will learn all the words." Ailsa laughed as she got up and walked over to the blender.

A couple of batches of Margaritas and a few Elvish songs later, Ewan and Maglor were finishing the clean-up in the kitchen. Maedhros walked Ailsa to the grand stairway. They stopped and he laid his hand on her shoulder. "It has been a wonderful night, Ailsa. Thank you again for making it so," he said a wisp of a smile on his lips. Ailsa sighed and smiled back warmly. "I just made the dinner; we all made it a wonderful night."

Maedhros gently squeezed her shoulder hesitant to let her go. Ailsa brought her hand up and touched his forearm. "Goodnight Maedhros." She turned and began to climb the stairs to her room. Maedhros watched her as she disappeared through the doorway bringing an end to the warm happiness he had felt all evening. For a short time, he was able to forget what was going to happen. Now, he suddenly felt cold as he stood in the empty hall. He started to walk back to the kitchen as dread of the coming morning began to fill his heart.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Surprisingly, Ailsa woke up the next morning without a headache despite the previous night's consumption of Margaritas. Too excited to sleep, she had snuggled under her covers listening to the wind and the night noises for a while. The evening had gone really well. The future looked bright for the House of Feanor now they were all together, and that promise lingered in the back of her mind as she finally drifting into a peaceful slumber. She still had the same feeling of light heartedness when she woke in the early dawn. No troubling dreams had plagued her sleep during the night, and she was looking forward to the new day.

She decided a fresh pot of coffee sounded just right so she quickly showered and dressed. Mrs. Whitehall and the staff wouldn't arrive for a while, so the house was quiet except for the echo of her footsteps on the stairs as she made her way down to the hall. The door to the library was ajar and she decided someone must have risen even earlier than she had and was down in the Archives. She stopped short as she opened the door. Maedhros stood facing her silhouetted in front of the windows, the early morning light barely lighting the sky outside. Even in this dim light, Ailsa could see as he was still wearing the clothes from the previous night. He couldn't have been up all night? She wondered.

Although he stood very still, his arms at his sides, his eyes eagerly searched her face. She couldn't help feeling he had been waiting for her. "Good morning, Maedhros." She tried to sound cheery.

"Good morning, Ailsa." He replied, his voice low and controlled. The cheerfulness drained from her as she heard the flat tone of his words. Something was wrong. "Haven't you been to bed yet," she asked.

"I could not rest, so I came here to think." He turned his eyes away from her intense gaze. The concern he saw in her face made him feel a coward and his resolve began to splinter. How could he tell her? He had tried to find the right words all night, but still he could not find any that he knew would not stick in his throat the moment he tried to say them to her.

"Maedhros…what's wrong?" Ailsa asked as she tried to control her growing apprehension. Maedhros' shoulders sagged, his eyes returned to her face. "I must talk to you." He couldn't keep the sadness from filling his voice as he spoke. "Come…sit down with me." He sat on the window seat and indicated with his hand she should sit next to him.

She was almost afraid to sit down. What could he possibly have to say to her that filled his eyes with such misery and now her heart with such dread? He took her hand, entwining their fingers. She watched as he placed their hands on his chest. They rose and fell with each breath he took. She could feel his heart beating against the back of her hand, slow and steady, but his eyes were dark and filled with foreboding. "Maedhros, what is it? You're beginning to scare me."

Ailsa's words implored him to tell her what he found so hard to say. Maedhros searched deep within himself for the courage to go on. He let out a ragged sigh and held her hand tighter. "Tithen min, this is very hard for me to say…to you."

Ailsa's eyes widened as she watched his lips form the words that sent waves of disbelief through her. She could only stare, unable to comprehend the words he was saying. Words she didn't want to hear. No! Her mind protested. No! No! No! She began to shake her head back and forth as if the mere act could dislodge the words from her ears. She heard her own voice echo in her head as it shouted. He's leaving! Maedhros and Maglor are leaving!

She felt her chest tighten, it became painful to breathe. She had to get as far away from this conversation as possible. As she began to stand, hot tears filled her eyes as she heard herself repeating "No." Maedhros still held her hand fast as he tried to make her understand. "Ailsa, we have to try. This is what we have longed for, what we have all hoped for so long."

"It's too soon. Why do you have to leave now?" She heard herself say the words, had she said them? She pulled her hand from his and raised her arm in front of her as she tried to protect herself from what Maedhros was saying. Her mouth began to move, but was unable to say the "No!" that now stuck in her throat.

Maedhros' face was a mask of anguish. As he heard the pain in Ailsa's voice, he prayed for the strength to make her understand. "We can not wait any longer…we have to go. You have convinced us that forgiveness can be ours. If we do not try, we will never know if we are truly welcome in the Blessed Realm."

Ailsa cleared her throat, hoping it would help her speak. "B…but why now? We've had such a short time with you," she tried to reason with him. "Try in a month…or a year even. Dad and I still don't know everything we need to run Egla Tir. And the histories are far from being complete." She desperately searched for the right words, the right phrase, anything to make him change his mind. She tried hard, but it was impossible. "Please," she begged finally. Maedhros stared back at her unable to answer as her simple plea tore through him. Ailsa turned away unable to look him in the face any longer. Maedhros quickly took her hand again and stood as if by shear will, he could make her understand. Ailsa watched him take her hand, but it did little to help her disbelief. How can this be happening? She kept asking herself. She paused and remembered the night before. Just last night… Suddenly she straightened and pulled her hand away hard; suspicion began replacing the tears in her eyes.

"Did you know you were leaving last night?" She asked coldly.

Maedhros saw the growing anger and hurt in her eyes, but knew he could not lie to her. "Yes, we did."

Ailsa felt each word as it struck her. "You mean to tell me…you sat there last night while my father and I made fools of ourselves." She slowly backed away as she spoke. "All the time knowing that it was our last…" She couldn't finish the sentence.

"Maglor and I told Ewan yesterday afternoon. He understands we have to do this." Ailsa's eyes opened wider as she realized she had been the only fool at the table last night. "Well, that's just fine then!" She shot back at him, and ran out of the library into the hall and up the staircase. She heard her father's voice call her name as she reached for the doorknob of her room. She froze for a moment then whirled around. Ewan stood at the top of the stairs on his side of the gallery, deep concern covering his face. "Ailsa, I…" He began.

"Don't you dare 'Ailsa' me. How could you know and not say a word to me?" Ailsa shot the accusation at him as she tried to blink back the angry tears spilling over onto her cheeks. She quickly turned and entered her bedroom slamming the door behind her. She didn't want an answer.

Ewan winced at the sound of the slamming door and its echo in the hall. He stared down at his hand as it gripped the railing unable to think of what to do to help his daughter. They had made a big mistake not letting her know sooner. He realized that now. He began his decent wondering how he could possibly fix this mess. Just then Maedhros slowly came up the main stairs. His body rigid, a stiff reflection of the pained look on his face. He didn't acknowledge Ewan's presence as he passed him, but continued up the side stairs and into his own room closing the door quietly behind him. Ewan sighed as he stood there, his legs suddenly feeling too heavy to move. He sat down on the step. This was not going to be an easy day for any of them.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

No one saw Ailsa for the rest of the morning. Ewan had gone to her room only to find it empty. As he stood there, he tried to think where she could have gone. He had to find her…she had to say her good-byes to the brothers. He knew his daughter. If she missed their departure because she was stubbornly nursing her hurt feelings somewhere, she'd regret it all her life. She had to let Maedhros go…and she had to understand why.

Maedhros stayed in his room, and Ewan didn't know where to even begin to look for Ailsa. It was Maglor who came to him in the library and offered to look for her. "She could be anywhere," Ewan told him.

"I will find her." He said confidently and left Ewan staring after him.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Ailsa walked for hours not caring where her steps lead her. Her bedroom had begun to feel like a prison after she had cried out most her feelings of anger and betrayal…and yes, grief. Rinsing her face in cold water helped, but she knew she couldn't stay in her room all day. Besides it wouldn't be long before someone would try to talk to her, and she didn't want to talk anymore. Let them talk to each other, they're good at that.

She finally stopped and looked around as the cold wind whipped around her body. She looked down and recognized the open-air theatre where she had first found out Maedhros' secret. The theatre was empty so she slowly went down to the far circular point where he had sat while the sun set. A sharp pain seized her as she remembered how their bonding had changed everything. He had let her see into his soul and experience a life beyond her own. He had touched her world and it was different because of him. Now, she had to face her world, but without Maedhros in it. How could she ever go back to life the way it was? She lowered her head and let out a low groan. So many conflicting feelings, all trying to make themselves heard.

Memories of their discussions about the Shimmer and the Silmarilli rose in her mind. Wasn't this what they had hoped would happen? What Maedhros deserved…to finally be able to go home? She gently kicked the wall with her foot, "I wish I'd never thrown that damn Silmaril at him," she whispered. She closed her eyes and shook her head. No, I'm not going to cry again. Her anger only rose as she tried to forbid any more tears. How could he decide to leave without telling me sooner? Gripping the top of the stone wall, she began to watch the rolling waves make their way to shore. Why are they leaving today?

Maglor recognized Ailsa's small figure as he topped the cliff overlooking the theatre. He could feel her ragged frustration as he watched the poor girl clutch at the stone wall before her. His first impulse was to rush down to her, but he waited. He would give her a moment. He wanted to make sure she would accept his help.

Ailsa breathed in the cold sea air, and hoped it would some how fill the sudden emptiness she was feeling. She lowered her head, and leaned on the wall trying to steady herself. She missed Maedhros already and she didn't know how to stop the pain of it.

Maglor came down the stone steps and stopped a few feet behind Ailsa. He had to brace himself as he felt the waves of sadness radiating from her. She is so young. They feel everything so deeply, he told himself. Tenderness softened his face as he recognized so much of his brother in this young one. Memories of Maedhros' passionate nature filled his mind. Of all his brothers, Maedhros was the one whose emotions were the most intense. He understood now the deep affection that had developed so quickly between Maedhros and this girl. They were as two sides of the same coin in many ways. He had seen snatches of this during the short time he had been at Egla Tir. Now he also felt regret that there wouldn't be any more time to get to know her better. Right now, however, he needed to help her understand.

"Ailsa…" He said. Her head shot up; Ailsa recognized Maglor's voice, but refused to turn. "What the hell do you want?" She shot back at him over her shoulder.

"I have come to help you." He stated plainly.

Ailsa couldn't believe it. Maglor actually thought she wanted his help. She turned around quickly, glaring at him. "I think you've done quite enough." She spat the words at him. "Maedhros wouldn't be going if it weren't for you." Her eyes narrowed as she spoke. She needed to blame someone…anyone.

Maglor calmly looked at her; he made no move to leave. Her mouth twisted into a sarcastic sneer. "Why don't you just go to hell?" Ailsa turned and tried to focus on the sea again hoping he'd get the hint and leave. Instead he moved closer.

"Maedhros and I are in hell." Maglor replied. His voice echoed in Ailsa's ears as the meaning of his words came thundering home. She was drowning in a pool of conflicting emotions. Remembering all the regrets she felt from Maedhros, the guilt that overshadowed his life, the despair that weighed so heavily on his soul...and now finally, there was a sliver of hope. She knew Maglor was right. Damn him, he was right!

Childish anger gave way to a deep sadness trying to fight its way to the surface. How could she still feel so empty with all these feelings whirling around inside her? She just wanted it to stop. Her shoulders slowly fell as the rest of her body waited. She was startled as she felt Maglor strong hands take hold of her upper arms and guide her to one of stone seats. He positioned himself next to her, one arm wrapped around her shoulders for support. He said nothing, just waited and watched her. For what seemed like a long time, Ailsa stared vacantly at the ground below her feet unable to raise her eyes.

Taking his other hand, he placed it under Ailsa's chin and lifted it until their gaze met. His mouth softened into an unconscious smile as he saw how easily the regret shone in her eyes. "I am sorry that you are so distressed, Ailsa. Please do not feel anger towards Maedhros. It was at my suggestion that he did not tell you until this morning. I thought last night's feast would be a memory we could hold in our hearts always. And I was right." Ailsa felt hot tears welling up in her eyes again; she pressed her lips together as she struggled to keep some kind of control. "Maedhros and I would never purposely cause you pain. But we must go home," he continued. "It is time."

That was all Ailsa could take. Her face fell as tears cascaded down her cheeks. Maglor moved his arm around her shoulders bringing her closer. Her own arms came up and clung desperately to Maglor's slender middle as she buried her face into his chest. Even Maglor's Elvish ears could barely make out the muffled "I'm sorry" she sobbed into the material of his suit jacket. He knew she was sorry. She hadn't understood, letting her needs obscure the simple truth of the miracle that was going to come to pass. He gently drew her closer as she continued to cry. His heart also broke for her, because now…she did understand.

After a while, her sobs ceased, but still she held on to him. He had become her anchor, as she tried to build her resolve. Maglor wouldn't let go, not while she still needed his comfort. Eventually, Ailsa let out a deep sigh and gently pulled away. He held her hand in his as they sat side by side in the early afternoon sun. Ailsa didn't know how long they sat there. The feel of Maglor's hand in hers seemed to give her the strength she badly needed. His silent comfort helped to make her come to terms with what had to happen.

As if reading her thoughts, Maglor stood up and gently helped Ailsa to her feet. She still held on to his hand as they climbed the stones stairs to the cliff top. He continued this kindness as they walked wordlessly back to the manor house. Not until they stood in front of the opened doorway of her bedroom did he release her hand. Ailsa had relied on his strength during the walk home, and now as she stood facing his concerned eyes, she knew that she would have to stand on her own once more.

His grey eyes widen slightly as she reached up and hugged him. "Thank you," she whispered. Turning, she went into her room and closed the door quietly behind her. Maglor nodded absently as he went down the stairs. Ailsa had proven to be a true child of his brother.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Ewan and Maglor stood in the hallway waiting for Maedhros. Ewan prayed Ailsa would make an attempt to come down and say good-bye to the brothers before they left. Her last memory of Maedhros must not be the scene in the library. He worried that she could still be nursing her anger and feelings of betrayal. Maglor hadn't been any help when he returned. All Maglor would say was he'd found her and she was up in her room, never indicating her state of mind.

Maedhros had stayed in his room most of the day, not even coming down for luncheon. Mrs. Whitehall felt something was up. No one had come to lunch, and her face was a mixture of curiosity and concern as Ewan told her no one would be there for dinner. She didn't ask any questions, but she could feel something wasn't right.

Maglor worked with Ewan in the Archives until, as if sensing it, he abruptly stood and informed Ewan, "It is time." Ewan looked frantically around his desk to make sure he hadn't forgotten anything. He quickly rummaged through the piles of notes he had made. Finally, Maglor reached out and touched his arm. "Ewan, it is time." He said solemnly. Ewan felt stupid, as if answering one more of his questions would delay what was going to happen. It was time for him to face his own dread of the coming sunset. Dropping his pen in the middle of the papers, he got up and followed Maglor up the stairs to the library.

Maglor went up to Maedhros and was back a few minutes later. That was half an hour ago. The only words that passed between them were Maglor's announcement, "Maedhros will be ready soon." So they stood in the hallway waiting, Maglor standing with his arms at his sides wearing his Elvish composure like a cloak. As usual, Ewan watched the tops of shoes, but he couldn't help glancing up every now and then at Ailsa's bedroom door. Hoping against hope it would open. The only door that opened, however, was Maedhros'. He stopped at the top of the stairway and gave Ailsa's door a quick glance. He straightened his shoulders and proceeded down the stairs. As he stepped in front of the great window, he turned and looked at it one more time. He read the Elvish words carved so beautifully at the bottom, "May It Be as The Valar Wishes." He prayed that it was true.

Just then, Ailsa's door opened and she came out dressed in her jacket and scarf. Maedhros turned and his face broke into a smile as he saw her standing at the top of the stairs. Her eyes were a little red, and her mouth was trying hard to smile through pressed lips, but he was overjoyed to see her.

Ailsa almost lost her resolve when she saw him. He stood rod straight, his hair was unbound and he was wearing the same Midnight blue suit he'd worn when she first met him in Berkeley. She swallowed and tried to steel herself as she walked down to him. Maedhros felt great sadness as he watched her. His hand reached up and touched the side of her face. "Tithen min…" he said. Ailsa shook her head. "If you start talking to me like that, I won't be able to do this," she pleaded. Maedhros' eyes shone as he offered her his arm. They joined Maglor and Ewan. Her father gave her a quick smile; he understood what it took for her to do this. Maglor bowed slightly to her, his hand on his chest. Ailsa quickly acknowledged him as she walked with Maedhros. Silently the little band left the hall and made their way outside to the garden.

Ailsa tried hard not to look at Maedhros as they walked through the woods. She bit her lip as she fought the urge to run away with him in tow. Silly thoughts of tying him to a tree until she could make him change his mind kept popping up. Finally, she had to come to terms with the inevitable; she just held his arm a little tighter. Too soon the sound of the sea was heard through the trees. Has this walk always been so short, she wondered. Before she was ready, they stood on the cliff top. All four gazed down at the beach below. Maglor's boat was safely moored high on the sand near the path. The tide was out and the sun had begun to slowly glide down to the edge of the sea. The wind was coming off the shore so the sky was clear, except for some sparse clouds forming just above the horizon.

Maedhros took Ailsa's hand and guided her down to the beach with Maglor and Ewan close behind. Ailsa looked back and saw her father make his way down the sandy path. His face was set in a kind of stony acceptance. Maglor's eyes smiled back at her, lending her some needed reassurance. Her nerves though threadbare still held fast. They reached the bottom of the path and Maedhros still held her hand as they walked onto the beach. With the tide out, the waves waited for them many yards from shore. Ailsa eyes were drawn to the horizon framed by the two giant arches of red rock standing in the deeper swells. Standing as a gateway to the brilliant golden disc moving closer to the waiting length of misty clouds that lay just above the sea.

As they stood next to Maglor's boat, Maedhros reluctantly let go of her hand. Maglor nimbly climbed into the boat and took a quick inventory to make sure everything was still in order. It was then that Ailsa realized the brothers didn't have any luggage. "Aren't you taking anything with you," she asked. Maedhros stood silently his back to her, but Maglor answered for them both. "We will have everything we need once we get to Aman" He tried to hide the joy in his words, but his heart had begun to sing with anticipation. "Oh." Was all Ailsa could reply.

Maglor jumped out of the boat and stood before Ailsa. He reached out and held her at arms length. His eyes filled with pride as he watched her trying so hard to be brave. "Ailsa, you have been a wonderful surprise," he smiled. "I take with me your easy acceptance of a stranger and your constant devotion to our cause. "No vaidech galen a malthen." He brought his forehead down and gently touched hers. Ailsa smiled weakly at him. "Navaer Maglor. Thank you for everything." Maglor nodded knowingly.

Maglor then turned to Ewan who extended his hand. Maglor quickly took it in his. "It has been a pleasure knowing you, Maglor." Ewan's voice was a little shaky. "Galu."

Maglor smiled as he shook Ewan's hand, "I too am pleased that I was able to know you, Ewan. I pray to the Valar to watch over your journey through this world. Navaer Ewan."

Maedhros stood facing the sea. Ailsa moved closer to him. "Maedhros?" She barely whispered. Her voice suddenly sounded so small to him. If she only knew how hard he was trying to summon the courage to face her for the last time. She was trying so hard to be strong; her sadness was too deep not to be felt by him. Maglor caught his eye and silently implored him to turn around. As he turned, the words of farewell stuck in his throat nearly choking him as he looked at her. All he wanted was for her to realize how important she was to him. Of all his children, she had been the one who had touched his heart the most. Now, he had to say good-bye to her. "Tithen min…" He began. Ailsa's pressed her lips together even tighter knowing she wouldn't be able to hold on much longer. He took her hand in his and placed it above his heart. "How can I say what knowing you has meant to me." Tears slid down his face.

Ailsa drew in a quick breath. "I don't want you to go!" She sobbed and threw her arms around his neck. Maedhros' arms quickly came up and held her. "I know," he whispered close to her ear. "I love you so much my bright shining girl." He stepped back and taking her hand, turned it palm up. He then slipped his hand into his pocket and brought out something and placed it in the middle of her hand. Ailsa blinked back tears as she tried to focus on Maedhros' hairclip. "I made this for Elizabeth long ago. I think she would want you to have it now." His voice shook as he closed her fingers around the gold and silver trees.

Ailsa looked up at Maedhros. "I will always treasure it."

"As I will always treasure you." He smiled and brushed the backs of his fingers along her tear-streaked cheek. "Navaer tithen min." Ailsa began to cry again and he held her in his arms one last time.

The wind changed direction, and the sound of the waves drew closer as the tide started to come in. Ewan came up to Maedhros and cleared his throat. It was time for the brothers to leave. Reluctantly, he and Ailsa parted. Ewan put his arm around the sobbing Ailsa, and his eyes gazed at the magnificent Elf standing before them. Maedhros looked at father and daughter and deftly wiped the tears from his face. "I do not know what to say to you Ewan." He voice was heavy with emotion. Ewan swallowed, "Then my dear Maedhros, you needn't say anything." Maedhros touched the side of Ewan's face. "I know I leave Egla Tir in good hands. Navaer Ewan." He turned to join Maglor at the boat.

Ailsa watched as they dragged the boat to the water. She wondered if they should lend a hand, but the brothers' combined Elvish strength was all that was needed. Once in the water they gracefully jumped into the boat and began to row out to sea. "Let's go to the cliff and watch. We'll have a better view up there." Ewan said. Ailsa broke away from her father and raced up the pathway. Once standing near the edge, she frantically searched the water for the small boat. The sun had settled into the misty cloudbank nestled on the horizon. Shafts of golden light shown through the clouds and onto the water below. The sky above was now a palette of various shades of pale pinks and golds. It was a soft welcoming sky. The golden reflection of the setting sun on the water made it difficult to make anything out.

Suddenly…there! There it was, but she saw no movement of oars. They had raised the sail, and the brothers sat near the bow. Ailsa couldn't believe it; no one was steering the boat. The vessel seemed to be drifting, but in a straight path directly toward the horizon. It grew smaller and smaller as it headed for the edge of her world. Maedhros and Maglor watched their hearts filling with unbelievable joy. The mist was opening; they could see in the distance the white shores of Aman. They still could not believe it. The boat was being sailed by unseen but sure hands taking them safely through the mists. Maedhros then pulled out of his pocket the only thing he had taken with him from Egla Tir. The little wooden bird still looked as if she was ready to take flight; time hadn't destroyed the soft carved feathers of her wings or the tilt of her head. His fingers closed gently around his tithen aiwe. Soon they would be home. Maedhros turned and looked back for a moment knowing Ailsa and Ewan would be watching from the cliff. Farewell my precious ones.

Ewan had joined her on the cliff and they stood together. Ailsa took hold of her father's arm hoping to steady herself. She stared with a mixture of hope and dread as the boat made its way toward the opening mists. It continued to sail true, but just before the boat disappeared completely, Ailsa felt Maedhros turn and knew he saw them standing on the cliff and knew he was thinking of them. The next moment, the boat was gone.

"They made it!" Ewan announced happily as he dabbed his eyes with his handkerchief. Ailsa turned her tear stained face to him, she didn't know what to say. Ewan looked at her and sighed. "We had to let him go, sweetie." He tried to comfort them both with the thought.

"I know," she said lowering her eyes. "What do we do now, Dad?" Ailsa lower lip began to tremble.

Ewan put his arm around Ailsa's shoulders and she looked at him. "I guess we do the only thing we can do." He swallowed hard. "Miss him." Ailsa buried her head in her father's shoulder. Solemnly, father and daughter with their arms wrapped around each other, tearfully made their way into the woods of Egla Tir…and home.

The End

Author Note: Well, here we are. My first fanfic is now completed. My heart-felt appreciation goes out to all the travelers who came with me on this journey. I hope you have enjoyed the trip. Many thanks to Master Beta Geek, you are da man. To the lovely Colleen, Canon Nazi First Class, thanks for keeping me on the path, mellon nin. A big thank you to my friends, old and new, for your tender encouragements and patience.

With the greatest reluctance I now return Maedhros and Maglor back to the professor. They belong to him, and were only loaned to me for a little while. To the brothers I can only say, "Guren ninnatha sui i lu tol cen a adchen."

Translations –

No vaidech galen a malthen./May your ways be green and golden.

Navaer tithen min/Farewell little one

Tithen min/Little one

Galu/Good luck

Navaer/Farewell

Guren ninnatha sui i lu tol cen a adchen./My heart shall weep until it sees you again.