All he ever wanted

Back to our figure on horseback. It has just arrived in Imladris. It is the next night after Glorfindel and Erestor's conversation.

Cimorene removed her hood. She headed to the infirmary, stopping to talk to Lord Elrond on the way. She was informed that a human child no older than two and a half had been put in Elrond's care. Aragorn, son of Arathorn, had taken residency in Imladris. His father died while hunting with Elladan and Elrohir, and his mother was killed when the orcs raided their village. The child would talk to no one, and she was their last hope.

She entered the infirmary to find Glorfindel arguing with the child, now called Estel, his true identity hidden.

"I can take it from here Lord Glorfindel." Cimorene said briskly.

"My lady, do you think you can handle him?" Glorfindel asked. "He will not talk to anyone."

"I am quite sure I can take care of a child. I have helped raise many children, including Ëarendil, Elrond, the twins and Arwen. I know what I am doing."

"Try." Glorfindel said, and he let her take control.

Estel just sat there with a pout on his face.

"I want nana." He whined

"Nana is gone." Cimorene said.

"Daddy?"

"Daddy is gone too."

"They no love me?"

"They love you very much, aroon, they love you a lot, but they cannot be with you."

Estel sniffled. Then he yawned.

"Seems like someone is tired. It's time for bed."

"NOOOOOOOO!" Estel shrieked.

"If you do not go to bed, then I will have to get Elrond, and he will put you to bed."

"I go bed! I go bed!" The child said as he ran to a bed.

"Not in here. How does your own room sound?"

Estel jumped up and down excitedly. Cimorene picked him up and put him in the room next to Elladan and Elrohir. She left the room, and had only taken a few steps when she heard a whimper from inside the room. She went back in. "What's wrong Estel?"

"Scared. Can't sleep." Estel said

"Would you like a story? How about a story of Gondolin?" Cimorene asked. Just then, Glorfindel came into the room. He just stood by the door, and didn't say a word as Cimorene told Estel a story. Estel was asleep halfway thru the tale. She left the room quietly, and shot Glorfindel an "I-told-you-so" look as she left.