A Man Who Flies From His Fear May Find He Has Only Taken A Shortcut To Meet It by LadySternchen  

Public Speaking- Celeborn

Celeborn stands, trying not to look too pleased with himself. He knows that he has done a fine job as a pantler, has managed the supplies well, so that they even now in late winter have plenty to eat, but the praise of his great-uncle still makes him glow with pride.

Until, of course, Elu suggests that Celeborn be officially announced in that position.

“Does… does that mean I have to make a speech about it?”

Celeborn knows the answer, knows that any new position will mean a speech, and the mere thought makes him break into a sweat.

Elu cocks his head, a knowing smile twisting his face.

“Does that make you reconsider my offer?”

The earnest answer is ‘yes’, but he cannot possibly give it. He can, and will, seeks his great-uncle’s advice later, knowing that Elu understands him better than probably anyone else, that it has taken him many hundred years to become halfway comfortable with always being the focus of attention. But he cannot admit to his weakness before his King. And Elu Thingol King of the Eglath and Elu his grandfather’s brother are two entirely different people in this respect.

So he shakes his head.

“No, lord.” he says instead, hoping that his voice does not betray his anxiety.