The Tale of Gull-galad by Kaylee Arafinwiel

The Tale of Gull-galad

"Elrond, what is that?"

The King's Herald gave his cousin and elder foster-brother a measured look, doing his best to be very much on his dignity.

"It is a seagull, Ereinion," he said.

"I can see that." The High King arched an eyebrow. "What is it doing in my council chamber?"

Elrond was trying not to be lost for words. "It...followed me here." His expression suddenly reminded Ereinion very much of his elder twin brother's when Elros had wanted something. "May...it stay, if it promises to be quiet?"

Ereinion blinked. "You can understand it?"

Colour stained Elrond's cheeks briefly. "Ah...perhaps it is a..family trait?" he guessed.

Oh. "I see," Ereinion said neutrally, as the bird settled on the arm of Elrond's chair. "It might be best if you hid it under your cloak, hanno," he advised, and Elrond did so. "Does your...friend have a name?"

"Ah..." Elrond's blush was back, deeper this time. "I thought perhaps "Gull-galad?" he ventured.

Luckily Ereinion saw the humour in the outrageous statement, and took it in the spirit it was intended. He snorted with laughter, shaking his head. "You are incorrigible, vorondonya."

Elrond smiled ruefully. "Thank you."