bookbashuk Chapter 378 Gathering in the Valley
Chapter 378 Gathering in the Valley
Chapter 378 Gathering in the Valley
After arranging the affairs of the castle and the school, Dui, Gandalf, Frodo and his three companions, Bilbo, Legolas and others gathered in Dui's private tower.
Bilbo, the previous owner of the One Ring, was required to attend the meeting as well.
Legolas, also representing the Woodland Kingdom, traveled to the Valley to attend the meeting held in Elrond.
Because the existence of the One Ring could cause unexpected problems with Floo Network, Apparition, and Portkey teleportation, even though the influence of the One Ring has been minimized under the suppression of the Light of Eyarndir and the basilisk venom.
But to avoid that one in ten thousand chance, Frodo was taken to the valley by Dui, who transformed into a phoenix.
As for the others, they simply went directly to the valley through the fireplace.
In the secluded valley, the scenery remains unchanged, with wildflowers in full bloom, as if time has never eroded it, forever preserving its original beauty.
Decades are but a fleeting moment in the eyes of immortal elves; they cannot perceive the passage of time at all.
A flame suddenly appeared out of nowhere on the white plaza leading to the last home.
The commotion alerted the elven guards, who looked warily at the flames and assumed a defensive stance.
But as a magnificent phoenix emerged from the flames, the elven guards instantly relaxed, their sharp gazes softening.
The phoenix gripped Frodo's shoulder and landed on the white square. It hovered in the air over the valley, emitting a melodious cry that carried a strange magic that inspired courage and hope in those who heard it.
The spirits in the valley who heard the phoenix's song couldn't help but raise their heads and look up at the magnificent and sacred figure in the sky.
In the palace of the last homeland, Elrond was writing something. Hearing the sound, he looked up, gazed out the window, and smiled.
A refined and elegant male elf, drawn by the phoenix's song, arrived at the white square.
He looked up at the circling phoenix, a smile on his face. He clapped his hands and said in a familiar tone, "The phoenix's song is so beautiful and melodious that even the most beautiful music cannot compare to it. Duir, my friend, you have brought us a wonderful surprise."
The phoenix quickly landed, transformed into human form, and stepped forward with a bright smile to embrace the male elf.
"Lindir, it's been a long time!"
As Elrond's trusted secretary, Dui had a good relationship with him.
After Lindir and Dui embraced, Lindir turned to the halfling Dui had brought and asked with elegant and gentle curiosity, "Duir, who is this guest?"
"This is Bilbo's nephew—Frodo Baggins. He has a very important mission, and the topic of this meeting is about him—" Dui lowered his voice slightly as he said the last part, his words carrying a hidden meaning.
As Elrond's secretary, Lindir naturally knew many secrets, and upon hearing Dui's hint, he immediately knew that the One Ring was with Frodo.
His pupils contracted, and his body instinctively tried to back away.
Lindir had heard many rumors about the One Ring and knew of its dangers, so he wished he could stay far away from it.
However, he managed to suppress the urge to back away and tried to put on a friendly smile: "Welcome, Mr. Frodo Baggins."
But he kept a certain distance from Frodo without making it obvious.
Dui then introduced Frodo: "Frodo, this is Lindir, Lord Elrond of the Valley, and also my father-in-law's secretary. He is highly trusted and valued by Lord Elrond."
"Hello, Secretary Lindil!" Frodo greeted somewhat awkwardly.
At that moment, green flames began to burn in the public fireplace beside the White Square, and Gandalf, Bilbo, Sam, Merry, Pippin, Legolas, Elses, and Elros emerged one after another.
"Uncle Lindir!" Elses and Ellos's eyes lit up as soon as they saw Lindir, and they ran over happily.
When Lindil saw the two siblings, a tender and loving look unconsciously appeared in his eyes.
"Elseth, Ellos, what brings you here too?"
"They knew I was coming to Rivendell, and they kept insisting on coming too, saying they missed you all," Dui explained with a smile.
Elseth and Ellos, the brother and sister pair, were not only the darlings of Hogwarts, beloved by students and professors, but also pampered in the Valley of the Elves, spoiled by their maternal grandfather Elrond, their two uncles, and a host of elves including Lindir. They could have whatever they wanted.
Moreover, because they are half-human, they are not aloof or indifferent like elves. Instead, they are full of energy and emotions, like two warm and fiery little suns.
These unique little elves are loved by other elves. Their abundant emotions can always infect those around them, making people smile unconsciously.
Ellos was more lively than her brother Elses. She hugged Lindir tightly and said sweetly, "Uncle Lindir, Ellos missed you! Did you miss Ellos?"
Lindir's smile was unusually gentle, and his entire demeanor softened. He knelt down to meet Ellos's gaze and said softly with a smile, "Who wouldn't miss our little princess? I have some 'Miruvo' made with the nectar of the first blooming flowers of spring. How about Ellos and Elses try it later?"
Ellos's eyes lit up immediately, and she nodded repeatedly, "Okay! Thank you, Uncle Lindir!"
Even Elseth, who was usually quite composed, showed a hint of joy in his eyes.
Miruvo is a type of nectar that the Noldor elves of the Valley are skilled at making. They collect the nectar from flowers in the Valley Gardens and use a unique brewing method to create a beverage with a warm and fragrant taste that leaves a sweet aftertaste. It can also quickly eliminate fatigue and restore vitality.
Elseth and Ellos both loved this nectar and would drink its sweet flavor every year during their holidays in the valley.
Even the elves of the Valley don't often get to drink Miruvo, but Elses and Elros, who are the group's darlings, never lack it.
Because she drank so much, she was completely soaked in perfume, smelling wonderful and exuding the fragrance of a hundred flowers, attracting butterflies to chase after her.
Besides being friendly with Elseth and Ellos, Lindir also greeted Gandalf, Legolas, and others.
He then took Elses and Ellos by the hand and led everyone to the Last Home, to meet Elrond.
Elrond was already waiting in the hall at his final home.
"Grandfather!" Elses and Ellos, who were being led in by Lindir, immediately let go of Elrond's hands and ran happily towards him.
When Elrond saw his grandson and granddaughter, a gentle and loving smile appeared on his face.
He gathered them around him, gently inquired about their recent situation, and then led them to his side, looking up at the guests who were arriving later.