When Erestor awoke he felt warm and safe, and the first thing he noticed was Elrohir, whom he had cuddled up to during his sleep. Feeling embarrassed for invading the half-Elf's personal space like that, he began to move away from him.
Elrohir woke and his gaze settled questioningly on Erestor. "Is something wrong?" The Noldorin Elf looked uncomfortable, but why? Elrohir released Erestor and stretched lazily. "I must have fallen asleep as well." That had not been his intention; he had wanted to watch over Erestor, not join him in sleep.
"Why are you here?" Erestor slowly sat upright, pulled his knees to his chest, and wrapped his arms around them. After resting his head on his knees, he watched Elrohir curiously. He vaguely recalled pulling Elrohir into bed with him. Why had Elrohir let him do that? "Should you not be with Elladan?" He had warned Glorfindel to make sure the twins were safe, hadn't he?
"I do not know where Elladan is," said Elrohir, sitting upright as well. He swung his feet onto the floor and then rose from the bed. "You look rumpled," remarked Elrohir in an amused tone. "Maybe a hot bath would help?"
Erestor shrugged. "I do not want to impose on you."
Elrohir extended his hand, hoping Erestor would take it.
Erestor took hold of the offered limb and slowly rose from the bed, feeling slightly disorientated now that the emotional storm had passed. By Elbereth! He had actually told Glorfindel about the childhood abuse! Shaky, he looked at Elrohir. Did the young half-Elf know as well? He looked away; he didn't really want to know the answer to that question.
Elrohir steered Erestor into the bathroom, pulled out towels and scented bathing oil, and filled the bathtub. "Do you need my help to remove that sleeping robe or can you manage alone?"
Erestor quickly nodded his head. "I can manage." It was bad enough Glorfindel had seen him naked! The blond had already seen the scars at the back of his neck, and the last thing he wanted was for Elrohir to notice them as well.
Elrohir smiled understandingly and then closed the door behind him. Whilst Erestor was taking his bath, he instructed one of the servants to bring them dinner and hot tea. He knocked on the bathroom door to make sure Erestor was all right. "Is there anything you need?"
Erestor, who was just sitting down in the soothing, warm water, started slightly at the knock, but relaxed, hearing Elrohir's voice. "No, I am fine."
"Call if you need me." Elrohir smiled, pleased that Erestor was relaxing slightly. He sat down in a chair and waited for the servant to return with their food.
Smiling, Erestor poured some of the scented oil into the water and a sweet, flowery fragrance filled the bathroom. He leaned back in the bathtub, closed his eyes, and simply enjoyed the peace and quiet, feeling rather drained after confessing his past to Glorfindel.
They thought they had succeeded in confining him to his rooms, but Eridhren had sneaked out through the window and climbed back into the house, ending up in the same corridor as his son's quarters were. Alert, he listened to the voices that emanated from the rooms to his right and he immediately identified his son's voice. Listening closer, he heard a second voice, which belonged to Elrohir, Elrond's youngest son. When he had joined them for dinner he had admired the twins, developing a particular liking for Elrohir. This way I can get them both!
A servant, carrying a tray filled with delicious food items, suddenly appeared to his right. Realizing he was heading for the rooms his son and Elrohir were in, Eridhren moved quickly. He sneaked up from behind, slung an arm around the servant's neck and squeezed hard, cutting off the Elf's air supply. After catching the tray with one hand, he slowly laid down the now unconscious Elf behind a curtain. He headed for the door and knocked.
"Who is it?"
Ah, Elrohir's voice. Eridhren was already having visions of making the young half-Elf submit to him, and then he would have his way with his beautiful body. "I am bringing you dinner."
Elrohir, not suspecting any danger, walked over to the door and opened it. His eyes widened, coming face to face with Eridhren. He wanted to scream in order to alert Erestor, but Eridhren quickly placed his hand over his mouth, keeping him from calling out.
Eridhren grinned, seeing the shocked expression on the half-Elf's face. "I think I prefer you to your father. I like them young!"
Elrohir, furious with himself for getting caught this easily, tried to shake Eridhren off, but suddenly a knife appeared close to his throat, digging into his flesh.
Eridhren kicked the door shut behind him and steered a struggling Elrohir toward the fireplace. "Fight me and I will only hurt you more."
Elrohir refused to surrender and managed to kick Eridhren's shin. But the tip of the blade suddenly dipped beneath his skin, cutting into his flesh and he instinctively froze in his tracks. Erestor was in the next room and he had to make sure his former mentor stayed there! He had to prevent Eridhren from getting to him at all cost. "We are already on to you! We know what you really are. My father will deal with you!" He hoped his words would enrage Eridhren so the elder Elf would lose his calm and make a mistake.
"I will get to Elrond eventually," sneered Eridhren, "but first I am going to try you. And then I am going to teach my son to never run away again!"
Elrohir doubled his efforts to free himself, hearing Eridhren's threats. "I will make sure you never touch him again!"
"Ah, he told you then?" Eridhren was surprised. "I thought I had taught him only too well what punishment awaited him if he ever confided in someone."
Enraged, Elrohir struggled, but he managed to free himself when Eridhren lost his footing. His attacker then held onto him in an effort to break his fall.
Elrohir hit the floor hard and his head banged into a wooden chest. Panting, his vision darkened momentarily, and he realized he was losing this fight. I have to fight back; I have to protect Erestor... He depends on me! But the room was spinning and every attempt at rising to his feet failed. When his vision cleared, he saw that Eridhren was quickly advancing on him with a malicious grin on his face.
The noises coming from the bedroom startled Erestor, who froze and listened closely, trying to determine if something was wrong. He knew Elrohir was still in the next room, but... His eyes widened, hearing his father's slithery voice. Eridhren had finally made his move, as he knew his father would.
He rose from the water, ignoring the droplets that dripped from his body. He didn't bother to wrap a towel around himself; instead he removed one of the ceremonial daggers he had hung for decoration on the wall. Tightly curling his fingers around its hilt, he sneaked toward the doorway, slowing pushing the door ajar.
The scene, which now unfolded in front of him, nearly froze the blood in his veins. Elrohir was on his back, looking disorientated, and his father was straddling the twin's hips, dragging a knife down Elrohir's throat. Finally getting a look at the half-Elf's eyes, he realized they were glazed; Elrohir was injured. Now it was up to him to save the young half-Elf. Hiding the knife behind his back, he stepped into the room.
Eridhren's grin twisted, seeing Erestor emerge from the bathroom. "Naked already? That eager, child?"
Elrohir was slowly regaining his sight and now stared at Erestor. What is he doing? Why did he not stay in the bathroom? Eridhren's knife was still positioned near his throat and warm blood was dripping onto his robes from where the Elf had cut him. "Erestor, lock yourself up in the bathroom!"
But Erestor, feeling entranced, shook his head. "I won't let him do to you what he did to me. I will stop him."
Eridhren laughed coldly. "You? You want to stop me? Child, you never managed to stop me before."
"I am older now, stronger." Erestor tried to decide on a strategy. He wanted to disarm Eridhren without Elrohir being hurt in the process.
"We will see about that. Come here, child, obey me." Eridhren pushed the knife deeper into Elrohir's flesh as a warning.
"Erestor, do not listen to him! Leave this room, now!" Elrohir was growing frustrated. Why wasn't Erestor listening?
Erestor surprised himself, feeling calm and calculating. Coming to a stop in front of his father, he met Eridhren's gaze. "Your face has haunted me my entire life. I want it to stop."
Eridhren frowned; what was Erestor talking about? "You had better do as I say, or this young one will pay dearly for your disobedience."
Knowing he would only get one chance to disarm his father, Erestor carefully chose the right moment to act. As his father looked down to gloat at Elrohir, he moved forward.
But Eridhren realized something was wrong and raised his knife to ward off Erestor's blow. Glaring at his son in disbelief, he grew furious. "How do you dare to attack me? Your own father?"
Erestor used this opportunity to push his father away from Elrohir, making sure the half-Elf was safe now. "Don't you dare touch him! You will never hurt anyone again!"
Eridhren's eyes caught fire and he raised his hand to bury his knife in Erestor's chest.
Erestor felt paralyzed and his eyes seemed glued to the shiny blade that now descended slowly, aimed at his heart. Maybe it was best this way. What kind of life did he have left now that Glorfindel, and shortly the rest, knew what his father had done to him? Maybe it was better to join his mother in the Halls of Waiting instead of hanging on to his life. His father had never wanted him, and, except for the last few days, his life had been misery. Waiting for the knife to end his life, he was stunned when Elrohir pulled his legs away from underneath him, causing him to tumble onto the floor. At the same time an angry scream echoed through the room.
Glorfindel pounced on Eridhren, pushed him against the wall and tried to take possession of the knife. When he had heard their voices he had run down the corridor, only arriving just in time to keep Eridhren from plunging the blade into Erestor's chest. "You bastard!" How had Eridhren managed to fool the guards in the corridor? But he could worry about that later; Eridhren was now aiming the tip of the knife at his throat and he had to stop the disturbed Elf.
Erestor stared at Elrohir, who was dragging him away from the two fighting Elves. Still feeling paralyzed, he allowed Elrohir to take hold of his dagger, vaguely wondering what the young half-Elf was up to.
Eridhren's blade now touched Glorfindel's throat and was beginning to pierce his skin. The Elda knew this was serious; Eridhren was capable of ending his life. Suddenly Eridhren released an angry whimper and the Elf's eyes widened.
Elrohir staggered back, sank onto his knees next to Erestor, and both of them stared at the hilt of the knife sticking out of Eridhren's side. The half-Elf wrapped his arms around Erestor, dragging him with him as Eridhren approached.
Eridhren's eyes flashed madly in their sockets as blood began to drip from his lips. "You... You really..." He couldn't believe that Elrohir had stabbed him!
Hearing his father's voice awoke Erestor from his trance-like state and he realized that he was on his knees with Elrohir's arms tightly wrapped around him. His father was prowling closer. They had to get away from him before Eridhren could hurt Elrohir. All he could think about was protecting Elrohir from his father.
Glorfindel moved in quickly now that Eridhren's back was toward him. Had the Elf gone truly insane, presenting himself as such an easy target? When Eridhren raised his hand, and aimed his dagger at Elrohir, Glorfindel acted. Pulling a knife from his boot, he raised his hand and buried the blade to the hilt in Eridhren's back.
A keening wail left Eridhren's lips as he hit the floor. His body suffered several rounds of convulsions, but then Eridhren grew motionless, Glorfindel nudged Eridhren with his foot to make sure he was dead.
Erestor gasped, seeing the pool of blood that was quickly forming beneath his father's body. "Is he... dead?"
Glorfindel sat on his heels and searched for a pulse, which he didn't find. "Aye, he is dead."
Erestor blinked several times, trying to understand what had happened during these last few minutes. Everything had happened so quickly! Recalling that his father had attacked Elrohir, he quickly looked at the half-Elf and started to check him for injuries. "Did he hurt you? You are bleeding!" He encountered some drops of blood on Elrohir's throat and checked the small wound with shaky hands.
"It is just a scratch," said Elrohir reassuringly. Seeing the distant expression in Erestor's eyes, he reached out and managed to grab a blanket, which he wrapped around Erestor's naked body. "He did not hurt me." Seeing Erestor's big eyes brought tears to his. "It is true, mellon-nîn. I am unharmed." Erestor's fingertips still hovered above his throat and he repeated his words, hoping he would get through to the elder Elf this time. "I am fine, Erestor." Elrohir signaled for Glorfindel to approach.
The blond sat on his heels next to them, taking Erestor into his arms. "It is over now. He is dead. He can never hurt you again." Glorfindel buried Erestor in a warm hug, growing worried when the raven-haired Elf didn't react. "Erestor? Can you hear me?"
Erestor blinked again, and this time Glorfindel's voice registered with him. Staring at his father's corpse, he shivered beneath the blanket. "How did... he... get in here?"
Elrohir guiltily bowed his head. "I let him in. I thought he was a servant bringing dinner."
Glorfindel bit his bottom lip whilst tightening his hold on Erestor, who was now trembling violently. "The guards should have stopped him from leaving his quarters. You are not to blame, Elrohir."
"What do we do now?" Elrohir got to his feet again and drew in a deep, steadying breath.
"Instruct one of the guards to take the corpse to the healing house," said Glorfindel softly, "The healers will tend to the body."
"Stay with Erestor," replied Elrohir, who left Erestor's rooms to instruct the guards. He also needed a private moment to sort out his thoughts. Then he would inform his father whilst Glorfindel took care of Erestor.
"Your hair is wet," remarked Glorfindel, slightly puzzled.
"I was taking a bath when... when I heard him threatening Elrohir." Erestor felt strangely calm now that his father was dead.
Glorfindel saw the shock in Erestor's eyes and bestowed another warm hug on the shivering Elf. "We should leave this room."
Erestor nodded once and allowed Glorfindel to help him to his feet.
Glorfindel made sure the blanket stayed in place whilst steering the dark-haired Elf into the corridor. "We will go to my rooms."
Erestor hardly heard Glorfindel's voice. He was still trying to comprehend what had just happened. His father was dead. Eridhren no longer presented a danger to him, and, for the first time in his life, he felt free.
Glorfindel had a vague idea of what was going through Erestor's mind and chose to remain quiet during their walk to his quarters. He sat the dark-haired Elf down on the bed, searched the closet, and returned with a burgundy robe, made of soft, warm velvet. After pushing the blanket from Erestor's shoulders, he dressed the absentminded Elf in the warm robes. "Better?"
Erestor finally pulled himself from his memories and looked at the blond. "Thank you," he whispered, realizing very well that Glorfindel had probably saved his and Elrohir's lives.
Glorfindel pulled up a chair and sat down opposite Erestor, who extended his hands. Correctly interpreting that motion, Glorfindel clasped the dark-haired Elf's hands in his, rubbing the skin. "Why don't you tell me what happened? Maybe it will help you cope."
Erestor nodded absentmindedly. "I was taking a bath when I heard his voice. I took one of your daggers and challenged him. I had to get him away from Elrohir!"
"You challenged him?" Glorfindel smiled proudly. "You stood up to him?"
"I tried to," said Erestor, blushing slightly under Glorfindel's proud look. "But I was no match for him. If it had not been for you—"
Glorfindel interrupted him. "But that does not matter. Don't you understand, Erestor? You did not hide from him! You stood up to him and challenged him! You are much stronger than you think!" The look of surprise that Erestor gave him caused a sad smile to surface on his face. "You do not even know just how strong you are, do you?"
Erestor shook his head. "I have no idea what you are talking about."
And the sad thing was, Erestor really didn't, realized Glorfindel. "When I got injured in that storm you set aside your own pain and took me back to Imladris. Do you have any idea how much courage and strength that took? You allowed Elrohir and I in; you finally put your trust in us. Again, do you even realize how courageous you are to do that? And now you defended Elrohir from your father."
At a loss, Erestor simply stared at Glorfindel. What was the blond raving about?
Seeing the puzzled expression in Erestor's dark eyes, Glorfindel settled for a warm, encouraging smile. "Do you want to go back to sleep?"
"I do not want to sleep. I cannot sleep, not after... He really wanted to hurt Elrohir."
Glorfindel wisely held his tongue and kept silent about Eridhren's attempt to assault Elrond. "But you stopped him. Elrohir is safe."
"What do I do now?" Erestor nearly panicked as his feelings overwhelmed him. He felt adrift on a sea of emotions, helpless and without a beacon to guide him. He clung to Glorfindel instead.
The blond sucked in his breath when Erestor suddenly flung himself at him, enveloping him in a tight hug. He quickly brought up his arms behind Erestor's back and returned the embrace. The fact that Erestor was no longer afraid to reach out encouraged him. Warm and fiercely protective feelings rose in his heart, as he hugged Erestor close. Suddenly, he recalled the dark-haired Elf's question. "I will tell you what to do." Erestor pleadingly looked at him, and he continued, "You will stay here, with me, and we will wait for your nerves to calm down."
Erestor nodded slowly. That sounded logical.
"And then we will discuss the future."
"What is there to discuss?" Erestor frowned, deeply.
"Things will change, are already changing," said Glorfindel passionately. "I won't allow you to hide any longer."
Erestor sighed, dejectedly. "Things will go back to normal only too soon."
"I do not think so." Glorfindel placed two fingers beneath Erestor's chin and lifted the dark-haired Elf's head so they made eye contact. These warm and protective feelings, which he had identified moments ago, were blossoming, becoming stronger and more passionate. There was no denying that he greatly cared about Erestor, but there was more to it. He hadn't felt like this for centuries. Was it really love that was blossoming inside his heart? And if it was, would Erestor ever feel the same way? Should he take the risk and reveal his attraction, which he suspected had been there for quite some time? This was hardly the right time. "You are afraid things will go back to normal then?"
Erestor, who had rested his head on Glorfindel's shoulder, nodded. "I know they will, but...I do not want to be alone any more. I do not think I could deal with losing your friendship - or Elrohir's for that matter. Having friends feels so... so warm. I never felt like that before. I do not want to lose that feeling."
"You won't," vowed Glorfindel, passionately. Erestor's face was only inches away from his, and he was overwhelmed by the urge to kiss the raven-haired Elf. He didn't know if it was a wise thing to do, but he gave in, softly touching his lips to Erestor's.
Erestor's eyes widened and his breathing stopped momentarily, seeing Glorfindel lean in closer and then... then he felt soft lips against his for the first time in his life. The kiss was warm and gentle, and when Glorfindel pulled back, Erestor found he was panting softly. "Why did you do that?" He couldn't think of a reason why the blond would possibly want to kiss him!
Glorfindel grew sad, seeing the confusion in Erestor's eyes. "I do not know when it happened, but it seems I have fallen in love with you."
"In love with me?" Erestor shook his head in disbelief. "Why do you say such a thing? Why hurt my feelings when I am already feeling miserable? I do not need you to lie to me."
"Lie?" Glorfindel couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Why do you think I am lying?"
Erestor pulled back, freed himself of Glorfindel's embrace, and folded his arms around his waist. "What is there to love? My sharp tongue? You cannot possibly love me. I do not believe it." But the truth was that he was afraid to believe it. He had always hoped that someone would break through his defenses, but he couldn't believe the Elda had developed feelings for him. "Look at you, Glorfindel. You are a mighty warrior, skilled diplomat and radiantly beautiful. Why would you love me?"
"You think I am beautiful?" Glorfindel's smile grew brilliant. "Aye, you do."
Erestor didn't know how to react to that. It was the last thing he had expected Glorfindel to say.
"Erestor, you -like- me, do you not?" Glorfindel realized this would be tricky, but Erestor had just called him a skilled diplomat, so he figured he would manage. "Do you?"
"Aye, I like you," whispered Erestor, averting his eyes. Why was Glorfindel doing this to him? "But I know you cannot love me and you do not need to pretend you do. I am more than happy to be your friend... if you will let me."
Glorfindel slowly raised his hand and placed it against Erestor's cheek, letting a fingertip trace the outline of the other Elf's lips. "You never had a lover before..." he realized, wondering why he felt shaken when it was only logical that Erestor had stayed clear of relationships. "And you cannot believe I love you."
Erestor nodded. "Glorfindel, I... I..." Lost for words, he bowed his head.
Glorfindel raised Erestor's chin again. This time tears lurked in the dark eyes and he leaned in closer, gently kissing first one, and then the other eyelid. "Do not cry anymore, nîn amdir. You once said you hoped that some good was left on Arda, and I finally understand what you were trying to say. Will you give me a chance to prove myself to you?"
"What are you saying?" Erestor was trembling, feeling uncertain.
"I have fallen in love with you, Erestor." Glorfindel stroked the long, still damp tresses. "I know this is new to you, but put your hope and trust in me, please."
Erestor was at a loss for words momentarily and simply stared at the blond. "You cannot love me. No one ever has."
Glorfindel's gaze became stern, determined. "I do love you, nîn amdir. These feelings are new to me as well, but I want to explore them... with you."
Erestor sighed, distressed. "I do not understand why you are doing this. No one has ever loved me. Why would you?"
Glorfindel realized that words wouldn't get through to Erestor, so he leaned in and claimed the dark-haired Elf's lips again, tender and patiently. When he pulled away, he saw a new, hopeful expression in Erestor's eyes and he smiled, pleased. "I do love you and I will make you understand."
Erestor quivered, hearing Glorfindel's determined and passionate tone. "I wish I could believe you."
His fingers now tangled in Erestor's long hair and Glorfindel smiled warmly. "I will make you believe. I promise."
BTW the drawings that accompany this part are uploaded to the files section of morgana_fanfic@yahoogroups.com [groups.yahoo.com/group/morgana_fanfic]
Elrond actually felt nervous, standing in front of the door to Thranduil's guest quarters. In his hand he still carried the blond's sword, and he couldn't help but wonder if coming here was the wrong thing to do. Maybe Elladan was wrong and he should be cutting all ties, instead of talking things through with Thranduil. In the end, he set aside his doubts and knocked.
"Enter!"
Thranduil sounded annoyed and Elrond pushed down the door handle, wondering just how cross the blond was with him. Maybe Thranduil would be more forgiving after he had apologized for attacking him earlier. After opening the door, he remained frozen in the doorway. Thranduil was in the process of removing his uniform, and was only wearing his leather breeches. The thing that instantly attracted his attention was the medallion around Thranduil's neck, which looked awfully familiar.
Thranduil's head snapped up, seeing Elrond enter, and he quickly slipped into a green shirt. Still frustrated from their earlier meeting, he sneered, "What do you want?" His eyes drifted lower and settled on his sword. He had planned to retrieve it after changing into a shirt and leggings. He icily stared at Elrond and barely refrained from snatching his sword from the half-Elf's hands.
Elrond forced himself to remain calm, reminding himself that Thranduil had every right to be cross with him after the way he had acted earlier. Calmly, he said, "Elladan wanted me to return this to you - and he also told me to apologize."
Thranduil raised an eyebrow. "Apologize?" He couldn't recall Elrond ever apologizing to him before.
Elrond raised his hands and presented the sword to his former friend and lover. "You used this sword at the Battle of the Last Alliance. You even named it after me." Meeting Thranduil's eyes, he easily read the pain in them.
"Another mistake I made," said Thranduil, embittered, taking hold of his sword. After sheathing it in his scabbard he placed it on the table.
"Mistake?" Elrond sighed, dejectedly. "I regret that you think about our time together in that way."
"I regret losing my heart to you," replied Thranduil softly. Pushing back a stray lock that had found a way into his face, he shrugged uncomfortably. "We were young and naïve. I should have listened to my father."
Elrond swallowed hard, raised his eyes and met the blond's stubborn gaze. "That locket... Is it the one I gave you after...?" His voice deserted him, recalling the first time they had made love.
"I assume you want it back?" Thranduil unclasped the necklace and offered it to Elrond with an unreadable expression in his eyes. "I was a fool to carry it with me all this time."
Elrond finally realized just how hurt Thranduil really felt and raised a hand, stopping the blond from continuing. "Can we talk without having a fight?"
Thranduil placed the locket onto the table, next to the sword, and waited for Elrond to continue. He wasn't taking the initiative, uncertain where the half-Elf wanted to take this. "I did not start it."
Elrond held Thranduil's gaze prisoner, seeing lost hope and hurt in the sea green eyes. "Can we sit down?" Their tempers had always been evenly matched and none of them wanted to admit they could have been wrong in the past.
Thranduil nodded and pointed at the chairs near the fireplace. After seating himself, he watched Elrond sit down as well, eyes still locked with his. "What do you want to discuss? The joined border patrols? Eridhren? Erestor?" He tried hard to maintain a dignified air, but inwardly he was still hurting.
"I want to talk about -us-," said Elrond, taking the plunge into the deep. He had no idea how Thranduil was going to react, but felt he had to address this for both their sakes. Slowly, he rose to his feet and walked over to the table to retrieve the locket, which Thranduil had left there. After returning to his chair, he stared at the golden medallion.
Thranduil involuntarily held his breath. He had thought Elrond wouldn't want to discuss this. He briefly considered snatching the locket from the half-Elf's hand, but instead he felt paralyzed as his former lover opened it.
Elrond took out the lock of hair and studied it. "You kept it with you for all these millennia? What does that mean?"
It means I loved you; I still do. But Thranduil couldn't say the words, couldn't make himself that vulnerable again.
Now that Thranduil remained quiet, Elrond searched the blond's eyes. During the brief time in which they had been lovers, those emerald eyes had never hidden things from him, but now their expression was guarded. He had to go first, or Thranduil would never meet him halfway. "I am sorry I turned my back on you when I became Gil-galad's lover." Looking into Thranduil's eyes, he searched for emotions in vain. Sighing, he added. "Let me explain."
Thranduil just inclined his head, not staying a single word yet. He was curious to learn what Elrond wanted to say.
"I really loved you."
Thranduil snorted. "Cut the lies, Elrond."
"It is not a lie!" Elrond rose to his feet and began to pace the room, unable to stay seated any longer. "I -did- love you, but Gil-galad—"
"Accursed be his name," spat Thranduil venomously whilst his nails clawed the wooden armrest.
Elrond flinched, hearing the venom in Thranduil's voice, but in his heart he knew he deserved it. "Gil-galad was my hero, you know that, and when the High-King himself expressed an interest in me I was flattered."
"You had caught his eye and he wanted you in his bed," said Thranduil slowly, "He knew we were together, but that did not matter to him. He was used to getting what he wanted, and he wanted you. You went to him willingly, deserting me."
"I was young," said Elrond in a pleading tone. "I was flattered that he would want me! I worshipped him!"
"And so you went to him when he ordered you into his bed." Thranduil's tone softened. "I am not really cross with you, I assume. It is Gil-galad whom I blame for our... separation."
Realizing that Thranduil was finally opening up to him, Elrond continued. "During many nights I asked myself if I really loved him. Being honest, I have to admit I was in love with the power he presented, his strength, maybe even his arrogance." Looking at Thranduil, his gaze softened. "He was the complete opposite of you. He took what he wanted. That raw power attracted me."
"Ah, so I made the mistake of being an attentive lover then? Would you have stayed true to me if I had treated you more harshly? Taken what -I- wanted? Is that it?" His anger, which had been subdued momentarily, rose again. "Maybe if I had told you to bend over and had taken my pleasure you would have stayed? Is that what you are telling me?"
Elrond cringed. "I am not proud of the way I acted when I was with Gil-galad. I gave in too easily, and allowed him to have his way with me because—" Realizing he didn't know the reason why he had let Gil-galad treat him like that, he sighed deeply. "Everything you said is true. He took his pleasure and never returned it."
"Then why did you stay with him to the end?" Thranduil's eyes flashed afire.
"I could no longer live without him. I needed him like I needed air to breathe." Gil-galad had been an addiction, a dangerous addiction, and he had been drunk on power. He stopped his pacing and searched Thranduil's eyes. "The sex was different, felt much more potent, and I craved it."
Thranduil's eyes narrowed. "You made your choice millennia ago. Why bring it up now?"
Elrond suddenly realized that he was here to admit the truth to Thranduil; a truth which had been hidden from him until a moment ago. "I was wrong. I made a terrible mistake by giving in to him."
Thranduil suddenly rose from his chair. "Elrond, maybe it is time you left." He didn't know what games Elrond was playing, but he wasn't going to play along.
"I mean it!" Elrond curled his fingers around the medallion. Walking up to Thranduil, he came to a halt in front of the blond. "I mistook lust for love. I threw it all away." Acting instinctively, trying to truly get through to Thranduil, he grabbed the blond's hand. "I did not see the love in your soul back then. I was blinded by Gil-galad's splendor and power."
Thranduil startled at the hold which Elrond now had on his wrist and tried to pull away, barely keeping himself from flinching. "Do not touch me, Elrond."
But Elrond shook his head. "I realized just how much I longed to touch you." His feelings were quickly drowning him. "Thranduil, I do believe I still have feelings for you."
Thranduil laughed bitterly. "You have feelings for me? Elrond, do you really think I would open my heart again to have it crushed a second time? I know better now. After you left my heart locked itself away! Not even my wife could unlock it!" He had been holding on to his anger for years, and was afraid to let go now.
Elrond bowed his head, still clutching the locket. "Can you forgive me?"
Thranduil's eyes widened. "Forgive you?"
"For being naïve and blinded by power. For throwing your love away for Gil-galad's lust?" Elrond shyly lifted his gaze and met Thranduil's. "I do not want us to continue like this, with this anger between us."
Thranduil shook his head. "I am not sure I can forgive you."
Elrond, wondering how to soften Thranduil's heart, looked down, realizing he still had a firm hold on the blond's wrist, actually holding him in place. With his fingers curled tightly around Thranduil's, he raised the blond's hand and rested it against his own chest, near to his heart and slipped the medallion into the hand of its rightful owner. "I can never undo the hurt I caused, but I can try to heal it. Will you let me try, or has your heart hardened so much that you will continue to lock me out? I am trying to make amends, nîn malthen glaur."
Thranduil hated being this emotional and his eyes filled with tears. 'My golden light.' Elrond had called him that when they had been lovers. Just hearing it worsened his emotional pain. "Please, do not call me that."
Elrond could tell Thranduil's resolve was faltering. He recognized the soft expression in the blond's eyes and raised his hand, placing its palm against Thranduil's cheek, tenderly stroking the silken skin. "There was a time when you smiled, hearing me call you that. When your eyes filled with a radiance that warmed my heart. Did I really smother that fire and take away the glow from your eyes?"
Thranduil could no longer maintain eye contact and averted his eyes. "Stop this, Elrond."
"No," said the half-Elf firmly, realizing he might still have a chance at befriending Thranduil again, and maybe, just maybe, there was still a spark of love left in their hearts. Could it be rekindled after all these millennia? Did he have the courage to try? "You kept that medallion with you because you still care. Tell me, nîn malthen glaur, do you still love me? Does your heart still beat for me, even whilst it remains locked away in darkness?"
Thranduil turned away from Elrond, but found that the half-Elf was still holding onto his arm. "Let go of me. I won't be part of this charade any longer."
Elrond's heart contracted painfully, fully realizing for the very first time how much he had hurt Thranduil by being with Gil-galad. "You truly loved me."
Thranduil sighed, resigned, and nodded once. "I want you to leave now."
But Elrond shook his head. "I was stupid enough to let you go once before and I refuse to make the same mistake twice." Using his hold on Thranduil, he forced the blond to face him again. He let go of Thranduil's wrist, and placed his hands on either side of his former lover's head, staring deeply into his sea green eyes. "I have to take this chance. I might never be in this position again." Leaning in, his lips claimed Thranduil's, engaging them in a slow and lazy kiss.
Staring at Elrond in disbelief, Thranduil's eyes widened, feeling the half-Elf's lips against his. His first instinct was to pull away from the kiss, but then Elrond's hands slipped lower, wrapping themselves around his waist and pulling him closer in an unexpected burst of passion. Paralyzed, he let Elrond deepen the kiss and he sighed contently when the half-Elf's tongue slid into his mouth. By Elbereth, what was Elrond doing to him? He was quickly losing himself in the kiss, the embrace, and surrendered to the warm lips pressed against his.
Elrond released the blond's lips, and whilst staring into Thranduil's eyes, he saw their former love being reborn in them. The love and the passion had always been there, and now emerged again victoriously. "Will you give us a second chance at love?"
Rendered speechless, Thranduil simply stared Elrond, who did seem sincere. That kiss had taken him aback and was bringing back memories which had been buried for millennia. He couldn't deny the truth to himself; he still loved Elrond. He had never stopped loving him, but did he want to risk another heartbreak?
"Do not answer at once," said Elrond, realizing Thranduil needed to carefully consider his proposal. He didn't blame the blond for being cautious; he was probably afraid of being rejected again. "Take your time to reach a decision. I won't pressure you." He regretted letting go of the blond, but stepped away from him, giving him some personal space. "Would you reconsider leaving tomorrow? I would like you to stay longer. Even Elladan wants to spend some time with you. You greatly impressed him with your sword fighting skills."
Thranduil was at a loss. Elrond had totally confused him and he wasn't sure how to react. He could still feel Elrond's lips against his, burning them. His heart urged him to stay, but his head advised him differently, warning him that he would be hurt again.
"Nîn malthen glaur, do not take away your light from my life. Until now I did not know just how much I missed you." Nervously, Elrond searched the green eyes. "Please stay."
"I cannot decide now. I need time to—" Thranduil was interrupted when the door to his rooms was flung open by one of his guards.
"My lord, Eridhren has escaped! He is no longer in his room!" The guard guiltily lowered his gaze. "I do not know how he escaped."
"Erestor!" Thranduil exchanged a look with Elrond, seeing his concern reflected in those blue eyes. "We must check on him!" Thranduil marched out of the room, quickly followed by Elrond. They headed for Erestor's rooms, hoping they were still in time.
Suddenly Elrohir appeared from around the corner, and Elrond gasped, seeing droplets of blood clinging to his son's throat. "Elrohir, what happened? Where is Erestor?"
Elrohir sighed heavily. "Erestor is safe. Eridhren tried to get to him, but Glorfindel stopped him."
"Where is Eridhren?" Thranduil didn't know how to deal with Eridhren, but he was determined to make sure the disturbed Elf wouldn't trouble anyone ever again.
"Dead," said Elrohir in a neutral tone, trying to stay in control of his feelings. This was not the time or place to show his emotions. "He tried to attack me and Glorfindel stopped him."
Thranduil failed to stop the relieved sigh that now left his lips. "Maybe his troubled soul will find peace in Mandos." Shaking himself from his musings, he addressed Elrohir. "And Erestor? Where is he?"
"In Glorfindel's rooms." Elrohir's gaze shifted from Thranduil to his father. "He is fairly shaken. He saw his father die. Maybe you should look in on him."
"We will," said Elrond, signaling for Thranduil to follow him. "Elrohir, go find Elladan and stay with him." He wished he could stay with his youngest son, but he had to check on Erestor first. "I will join the two of you later!"
Elrohir nodded listlessly and headed for his rooms, hoping to find Elladan there.
Thranduil followed Elrond, hoping Erestor hadn't been injured. He would always feel guilty for not having helped Erestor escape earlier.
Elrond came to a stop in front of Glorfindel's door and knocked. "Erestor? Glorfindel?"
Inside the room, two pairs of eyes now stared at the door. Erestor, still shaken after hearing the Elda's confession, didn't feel like answering Elrond's questions, but he also knew he couldn't turn him away. Glorfindel's questioning look made him sigh and nod his head. "Tell him to enter."
Glorfindel softly called out, telling Elrond to enter the room. Only a few days ago he would have been surprised to see Thranduil step inside as well, but not any longer. He now knew what the Lord of Mirkwood had done for Erestor in the past.
Thranduil suddenly passed Elrond by, and sat on his heels next to the bed, quickly claiming one of Erestor's hands. "Did he manage to hurt you?"
Erestor's soft gaze settled on Thranduil, smiling reassuringly. "He did not get the chance to hurt me. Elrohir and Glorfindel protected me."
Glorfindel shook his head. "Erestor forgets to mention that he defended Elrohir when Eridhren went after him." Glorfindel smiled proudly. "He stood up against his father. In the end he overcame his fears."
Thranduil felt proud as well, hearing Glorfindel's praise. "I cannot help remembering a scared Elfling, running away from his father and hiding behind my throne. I should have found a way to intervene before things got out of hand."
"You did your best." Erestor freed his hand from Glorfindel's hold and slowly leaned in closer, tentatively folding his arms around Thranduil's shoulders.
Thranduil was pleasantly surprised when Erestor reached out to him for the first time in his life. When Erestor had still been an Elfling, he had only allowed Aewithôn to touch him. He gently returned the embrace and smiled warmly when Erestor's gaze met his. "I was worried he had inflicted more pain on you, but you seem to have come out of this stronger."
"I feel stronger," admitted Erestor, still looking into Thranduil's eyes. He prided himself on not flinching when he felt Glorfindel rub his back. "I finally made some friends here." He smiled shyly when Thranduil's eyes sparkled with happiness. Something had changed inside him when he had stood up against his father. "Thank you for looking out for me in the past. You helped me escape from his reign of terror. Without you, I might be dead now. I do not think I would have survived much longer."
"I wish I could have done more for you," admitted Thranduil. Erestor finally let go of him and he slowly rose to his feet. Seeing the way Erestor leaned into Glorfindel, he realized the Elda had gained his trust. "Do you want me to stay or...?" Was he reading Glorfindel's body language correctly? The Elda did seem very protective of Erestor and there was a warm expression in the blond's eyes. Thranduil cocked his head; could it be love? He certainly hoped so. Erestor deserved to be loved.
"I will stay with him." Glorfindel met Thranduil's eyes and the two Elves reached a silent understanding.
"Take good care of him," said Thranduil, addressing the Elda.
"I will." Glorfindel realized Thranduil had just given him his approval - his blessing, even - to court Erestor, which felt strange, as Erestor wasn't Thranduil's son. But he did understand Thranduil; Erestor was special to the King of Mirkwood.
Elrond, who had been quiet during the entire exchange, now walked toward Thranduil and came to a halt next to him. "I am sure that Glorfindel will manage, and I want to look in on Elrohir. He seemed rather shaken."
"He is unhurt," said Erestor, thoughtfully. "I stopped my father from getting to him."
Elrond's eyes widened, realizing what Erestor's words truly meant. "He tried to assault my son?" He almost regretted Eridhren was dead, for he felt the overwhelming urge to avenge his son.
Erestor shivered. Elrond's questions were making him feel uneasy.
And Glorfindel noticed that. "Elrond, I suggest you check on Elrohir."
"Where is Eridhren's corpse?" asked Thranduil unexpectedly.
"In the healing house. The healers there will prepare his body for his last journey into the flames." Eridhren's body would be burned when the moon rose next.
Thranduil nodded; he would make all necessary preparations for that last ceremony, not wanting to bother Erestor with them. "You should rest," said he, addressing Erestor. "You have been through a lot this last hour."
"Thank you for your concern," replied Erestor, still very much aware of the soothing circles which Glorfindel was rubbing on his back.
"Thranduil, I need to look in on Elrohir, now." Elrond left the room and stepped into the corridor, counting on him to follow.
Glorfindel cast a curious look at Thranduil, wondering if his suspicions had been right from the start. Had it been a lover's quarrel which had now been resolved?
Thranduil inclined his head in goodbye and quickly caught up with Elrond, falling into step beside the half-Elf. "Would you prefer me to leave you alone?"
"No, whilst I talk to Elrohir I want you to make sure Elladan does not get upset when he learns his brother was assaulted."
Thranduil's eyes grew big in surprise. Elrond really wanted him present? Why?
Elrond noticed the confusion in Thranduil's eyes, and wished he could explain his need to know him close, but they had reached the twins' rooms and he entered without knocking. "Elrohir? Elladan?"
The twins were surprised to their father, but they were absolutely stunned to see Thranduil as well. "Ada?" said Elrohir, questioningly. What were Elrond and Thranduil doing here?
Elrond immediately headed for Elrohir, who was sitting on the bed, with Elladan behind him, combing and braiding his hair. "Erestor told me what happened." Recalling that he had seen droplets of blood earlier, his fingertips probed his son's throat, making sure the wound wasn't serious.
Elrohir now understood what this was about and smiled reassuringly at his father. "I am well, Ada. Nothing bad happened to me. He just drew some blood."
Elrond looked from Elrohir to Elladan. "He told you?"
"He was in the process of telling me when you entered." Elladan cast a sly look at his father and then at Thranduil. Most of the tension which he had sensed earlier seemed gone now. "We will be fine, Ada."
To his surprise Elrond realized he was being dismissed. His sons had just told him they didn't need him to comfort them, and he wasn't sure how he felt about that.
Elladan caught his father's confusion and momentarily placed in his hand on Elrond's. "Ada, you are the host. Should you not be taking care of your guest? Thranduil looks quite lost." His instincts told him there was still some unfinished business between the two elder Elves.
Thranduil felt confused as well, wondering why Elrond wanted him here in the first place. This was obviously a private, family moment.
"Are you sure?" asked Elrond, searching Elrohir's eyes. Finding no trace of fear or panic in them, he sighed, relieved. "You can always talk to me."
"We know that, Ada." Elladan squeezed his shoulder lightly and Elrohir followed his twin's gaze, realizing he was staring at Thranduil. Why had their father brought him along?
Elrond rose from the bed, still searching Elrohir's eyes. He would never forgive himself if he left whilst his youngest son needed him. But Elladan's presence seemed to soothe Elrohir sufficiently. "I will check on you later," announced Elrond.
Elrohir nodded his head once, knowing that his father couldn't help being concerned.
Thranduil stepped into the corridor and Elrond joined him after closing the door. Facing the half-Elf, he wondered what to do.
Elrond, feeling tired, rested his hand on the blond's shoulder. "Would you stay with me a little longer? I really want to talk to you some more."
Thranduil couldn't deny the half-Elf, realizing Elrond really wanted his company. "I will sit with you, and maybe we will talk."
Taking heart, Elrond smiled. He even indulged himself and caressed a strand of blond hair, instantly catching the confusion and unease in the blond's eyes. Regretfully he let go of the golden lock and started down the corridor, guiding Thranduil to his quarters. After everything that had happened tonight, he hoped that talking to his old friend might help him calm down.
Glorfindel reluctantly released Erestor and slowly got to his feet. Seeing the dark-haired Elf's distressed expression, he instantly soothed Erestor. "I just want to ask a maid to bring us hot tea and something to eat. Or would you prefer hot herbal wine?" He had seen Erestor drink it before; the counselor was one of the few Elves who liked it that way.
Erestor let go of Glorfindel's hand and watched the blond walk toward the doorway, his eyes never leaving the Elda's form. "Warm wi--" His voice faltered, making it impossible for him to finish his sentence.
"I will take that as a yes," said Glorfindel, teasingly. He opened the door, called out to a maid, and asked her to bring warm wine, hot tea and something to eat. She hurried away after assuring him that she would return shortly.
Erestor's puzzled gaze followed him around the room as he picked up blankets and spread them onto the floor in front of the fireplace. Glorfindel added a pile of pillows and then turned around, smiling warmly at Erestor.
"What are you doing?" asked Erestor, puzzled. Glorfindel raised a hand and signaled for him to join him near the fireplace. He shakily got to his feet and swayed slightly when walking toward the blond. "What do you want me to do?"
"You said you did not want to go to sleep yet, but I do think you need to rest. The fire will keep us warm whilst we recover from today's events." Glorfindel felt saddened, seeing Erestor's surprised expression. The raven-haired Elf was still surprised that someone wanted to take care of him. "You are already wearing warm and comfortable robes, but I am not. I will change into some as well. Why don't you lie down now?"
Erestor nodded hesitantly, uncertain what was happening. After gathering his robes close to his body, he sat down, cross-legged. Wondering what Glorfindel was doing, he looked over his shoulder and immediately averted his eyes again. The blond had just stepped out of his leggings and was now slipping into blue robes. He had never seen Glorfindel naked before and wasn't sure how to react, so he simply looked away.
A knock on the door alerted Glorfindel, and after opening it, he took the tray from the maid, kicked the door shut and joined Erestor in front of the fireplace. He placed the tray on the floor next to him and handed the dark-haired Elf a slice of bread, topped with cheese.
Erestor wanted to decline, but seeing Glorfindel's determined expression, he took a bite and began to munch. He was becoming increasingly nervous now that it was just the two of them in this rather intimate setting.
Glorfindel poured the warm wine into a goblet and handed it to Erestor. "How do you fare? Do you still feel shaken?"
Erestor shrugged, and then sipped his wine slowly. "I am not sure. I still cannot believe he is dead."
Glorfindel sipped his tea and studied Erestor extensively, searching for clues as to how the raven-haired Elf was really feeling. "You were very courageous to stand up to him. You should be proud of yourself."
"I did not have a choice." Erestor gulped down the rest of the wine now that it had cooled, and placed the empty goblet onto the floor.
Glorfindel noticed how badly Erestor's hands were shaking and carefully considered his next step. He wanted Erestor to feel truly safe and secure. Slowly, giving Erestor a chance to get used to his closeness, he enfolded the dark-haired Elf in his arms and pulled him into a lying position. After a moment of hesitation, Erestor rested his head against his chest and Glorfindel sighed in deep contentment. The fire blazed warmly and he indulged himself, watching the glow play over Erestor's dark hair.
Feeling confused, Erestor wondered what would happen next. He felt strangely at peace in Glorfindel's arms and stared at the fire as well. Slowly, Glorfindel pulled him closer and acting without thinking, he curled his body around the blond's, trying to get as close as possible. Glorfindel's reaction was to hug him even closer, which he allowed. He couldn't remember ever being held this close before. It was a strange and confusing feeling, and yet it was comforting as well.
A comfortable silence descended over them and Glorfindel felt more than content to just hold Erestor in his arms. Unable to keep back, he placed a chaste kiss on the top of Erestor's dark hair. "Be at peace, melamin. Everything is well now. You can let go and rest."
Glorfindel's words brought tears to Erestor's eyes. Thranduil had tried to make him feel safe and cherished when he had been an Elfling, but knowing that Eridhren would continue to make his life miserable had sabotaged the elder Elf's attempts. But now that his father was dead, he was able to let go. The warm, herbal wine helped him relax and slowly he slipped into a comfortable state between waking and sleep.
Glorfindel felt Erestor relax against him and smiled, pleased. "You are safe now, nîn amdir." Erestor sighed deeply and the blond tightened his hold. "And I will continue to watch over you."
Thranduil tentatively followed Elrond into the half-Elf's private chambers. He still wondered why Elrond wanted him here, but decided to wait a little longer before asking questions.
The dark-haired Elf looked tired, even upset, and he now walked over to the window, looking into the night that was descending over them. Elrond's gaze drifted lower, onto the commode beneath the window, where Vilya lay on a bed of red velvet. Once more, Elrond was reminded of his time with Gil-galad. Hearing Thranduil's sharp intake of breath, he looked over his shoulder. Following the blond's gaze, he realized Thranduil was also staring at the ring of power.
Fury crept back into Thranduil's green eyes. He wanted Gil-galad's presence eradicated from their lives, but by giving Vilya to Elrond the High King had gained a constant place in the half-Elf's life. "Why do you want me here? I would prefer to return to my rooms." Seeing that ring reminded him of what he had lost: Elrond's love.
Elrond quickly covered the distance between them and grabbed Thranduil's wrist to keep him from leaving, using just enough force to make his point. "I want you to stay."
"You want... You want..." mocked Thranduil, "It is always about what -you- want! You wanted Gil-galad to want you and he did." Thranduil's eyes shot dangerous daggers at Elrond, making the half-Elf flinch. "I do not know what you hope to accomplish by making me stay, but it is not working. I should leave you alone with your memories. Gil-galad will always stand between us."
Elrond saw the fierce fire in Thranduil's eyes and finally realized what he had to do to get through to the blond. But was he prepared to take that step? Thranduil began to pull away from him, and that movement prompted him into action. With one strong jerk, he pulled the blond close and wrapped his arms around Thranduil, claiming those luscious lips to deliver a bruising kiss to them.
Elrond's sudden aggressiveness momentarily startled Thranduil. It was the last thing he had expected the half-Elf to do. His eyes widened, feeling Elrond's hand cup his buttocks, pressing him close and rubbing himself against him. Sparks of passion and lust erupted inside him, making him moan into Elrond's mouth.
Closely monitoring Thranduil's reaction, Elrond wondered when the blond would either push him away or take control of the kiss. Claiming Thranduil in this manner was risky, but he felt that he didn't have any options left. Nudging the other's lips and teeth apart, he took possession of that warm, moist cavern and explored it at leisure, struck by how familiar and right this felt.
Thranduil finally fully realized what was happening and reacted accordingly. Bringing his hands up behind Elrond's back, he buried his fingers in the long, dark hair and applied just enough force to make the half-Elf gasp in surprise, whilst turning the tables and invading the raven-haired Elf's mouth as well, engaging his tongue in a duel for dominance. They had fought before and he already knew how this would end, providing they followed through.
Elrond's eyes burned with a dark glow as his passion was answered with another tug at his hair. Words wouldn't get him anywhere; it was time to let his deeds speak for him. Clutching Thranduil's head, he dived onto the now bruised lips, passionately licking the inside of the blond's lips and taking back control of their kiss.
Using his hold on Elrond, Thranduil forced the half-Elf to take several steps toward the wall until his back hit the bricks. His fingers tangled in the long, raven locks and when he broke the kiss, he hissed at Elrond. What was it that Elrond really wanted?
Seeing the puzzlement in the blond's eyes, Elrond quickly slipped one hand into Thranduil's breeches. Squeezing a perfectly rounded buttock, he panted hard. "I want you."
Thranduil thought he had misheard. "What game are you playing, Peredhel?" He curled his fingers around strands of dark hair and stared deeply into the half-Elf's blue eyes.
"No games." Elrond pressed his body closer to Thranduil's so the blond could feel his arousal. There was only one way to settle this matter between them. Providing Thranduil agreed to this, their lovemaking would be fast and furious. "You mocked me earlier about my wants, but I still want you. And I do not want it be just one night. I want restored what we once had."
Thranduil was at a loss. Elrond's arousal pressed against his hip and he had grown hard with need as well. He didn't fool himself into believing that this was about love. This was about lust, the need to find release and to let go of the tension that had existed between them for millennia. "Who says I want you?" he sneered, unwilling to give in this easily. One of Elrond's hands suddenly cupped his arousal, squeezing teasingly.
"-This- tells me how much you want me," whispered Elrond hoarsely. His other hand still fondled the blond's buttocks and he could barely refrain from letting his fingertips dip into the cleft. "I want you. I want to be inside you."
Thranduil trembled. For how long had he wanted to hear Elrond say those words? But could he continue? Did he want what Elrond offered? The half-Elf had said he wanted more than a single night of lust and passion, but he doubted it was the truth. In the morning they would go back to hating each other. Was he really willing to give in to Elrond and surrender like he had done when they were young? Was what Elrond offered enough?
He gasped in surprise when Elrond's fingers undid the laces to his breeches, causing his erection to bob free from his confines. Fast and agile fingers curled themselves around his weeping member and his eyes darkened with lust. Yes, he would take what Elrond offered, even if that meant suffering more heartache.
Elrond licked his lips, seeing a dark gleam appear in the blond's eyes. Removing his hand from Thranduil's buttocks, he wrapped one arm around him and slowly laid him down on the furs on the floor. "Let me pleasure you..."
The sensual tone to Elrond's voice traveled directly to Thranduil's groin, causing his erection to twitch in anticipation. Elrond removed his breeches with practiced moves and then straddled him. He trembled beneath the half-Elf's touch. This was so unexpected, so unreal.
Elrond bowed forward, licked his lips and closed them around the blond's aching erection. Thranduil arched beneath him and he quickly slid one hand beneath the blond's buttocks, teasing his cleft. His lover gasped beneath him and bucked hard.
Relaxing his throat, Elrond allowed Thranduil to bury himself deeper, and he sucked greedily. He massaged the blond's guardian ring, already preparing him for the penetration that would follow quickly. The need to release this tension was urging them on.
Thranduil moaned deliciously, and the sound reverberated in his straining member, which was now slick with pre-ejaculate. Elrond lapped at the hard flesh, and then pulled back, realizing his lover was close to orgasm - too close. "Roll onto your stomach, nîn glaur."
Thranduil couldn't help but waver momentarily. He craved Elrond's touch, he had done so for so long, but could he make himself that vulnerable again? Suddenly, soothing fingers stroked the insides of his thigh and he was gently being rolled onto his stomach whilst a pillow was pushed beneath his hips. His erection now rubbed against the fabric and he bit his bottom lip, trying to hold back his release.
Elrond's hands kneaded the soft mounds of flesh in front of him. "You are as beautiful as I remember, nîn glaur." He quickly removed his robes and threw them onto the floor. Naked now as well, he straddled Thranduil, massaging the blond's buttocks and occasionally dipping into the cleft to deliver a teasing caress to the twitching ring of muscle. "Soon, melethron." The little, needy moans that escaped Thranduil's lips were slowly driving him mad with desire.
Thranduil's hands became fists, feeling Elrond flip his hair forward and then slowly drag the silken mass over his back. The sensation nearly made him come and he mutely pleaded for release. The fact that Elrond still remembered how much he loved to feel those silk locks caress his naked flesh shocked him. What else did Elrond remember?
Elrond smiled warmly and separated the soft globes with one hand, massaging the guardian ring with the other. Without warning, he flicked his tongue at the small opening.
Thranduil released a tormented whimper, as a soft, wet sensation slid into him. He pushed himself up onto all fours; spreading his legs and presenting himself to the half-Elf. When they had been lovers, Elrond had always prepared him for their lovemaking in this way. And now the half-Elf was doing it again.
Deeply touched by Thranduil's trust in him, Elrond licked and teased, making the blond squirm and beg his need. Pulling back, he slowly probed the now slick opening with one finger. He released a pleased groan when his lover eagerly accepted the intrusion, even pushing back to take in more.
"Now... Take me now... End this torment!" Thranduil was panting, already pushing back, trying to get Elrond to act faster. His body ached to reach its climax!
Elrond curled his fingers around his throbbing erection and positioned himself at the small opening. Grabbing the blond's hips, he pushed inside, releasing a content sigh. A tight heat engulfed him, causing him to lose control, penetrating the blond deeper.
Thranduil released a sharp yelp when Elrond entered him and he threw back his head in wild abandon. With the intrusion came pain and he gritted his teeth, hoping the discomfort would quickly change into pleasure. Looking over his shoulder, he hoped the half-Elf understood his silent plea.
Nodding, Elrond continued to sheathe himself and didn't stop until he was buried to the hilt. "Do not move. Not yet." He wanted to savor this moment.
Now that Elrond filled him completely, Thranduil trembled with need, eager for the half-Elf to thrust and rub his sweet spot so the shallow pain that still coursed through him would finally disappear. Suddenly Elrond's hands soothingly stroked his back and then the half-Elf thrust for the first time. Groaning, he pushed back, and in the process his lover rubbed that sweet spot, sending waves of impending ecstasy through his body.
Elrond leaned in closer and rested his upper body on Thranduil's. The weight pushed the blond down, who now collapsed onto his stomach, allowing Elrond to thrust deeper into that tight, hot channel. Biting Thranduil's neck, his thrusts became harder, faster, and more erratic as he approached orgasm.
Thranduil's fingers clawed at the furs beneath him, and his erection just got enough friction to send him over the edge. His eyes closed, his body quavered and he released a strangled moan, finally reaching his climax. Elrond continued to thrust, driving himself even deeper into Thranduil's body, and Thranduil allowed it, basking in a sensual glow that quickly spread throughout his entire body.
Spasms contracted around his member, making Elrond bite deeper into his lover's skin, drawing blood. Thrusting harshly, he finally reached orgasm as well. He now was a dead weight, keeping Thranduil from moving.
Both of them were panting and Elrond licked the blond's back, trying to make up for the bite mark that would show for days at the back of Thranduil's neck. He knew he should pull out, but lacked the strength. Instead, he surrendered to the lazy sensation coursing through his body.
Thranduil, however, felt exhausted and Elrond's weight was making it harder for him to breathe and recover. He managed to cock his head and looked at the exhausted half-Elf, hoping that Elrond would roll off of him.
Seeing the tired expression in the green eyes, Elrond slowly pulled out, soothing the blond when Thranduil released a distraught moan. He rolled onto his side, enfolded his lover in an embrace and pulled him along. Now they lay facing each other, holding the other close. The tension between them was gone and had been replaced with something else, something new.
Feeling at a loss, Thranduil wondered what would happen next. A nauseating feeling coursed through him. Had Elrond simply used him? He fought down an embittered laugh; he had -allowed- Elrond to use him in this way! He couldn't blame Elrond for this when he had contributed to it as well.
Seeing the confusion in the misty green eyes, Elrond raised a hand and rested it on Thranduil's hips, gently stroking the skin there. "Do you feel better now? Lighter? I do." The tension, anger and frustration that had coursed through him when dealing with Thranduil was gone, and had been replaced with affection, respect and love.
Uncertain how to reply, Thranduil continued to stare at Elrond. His hand trembled violently when he caressed the half-Elf's face. "I do not know what I feel."
In a moment of complete understanding, Elrond's smile faded. "You are afraid. Why?" He had seen that particular expression in those emerald eyes before. He had seen it when he had left the tent they had shared to be with Gil-galad.
Realizing that denying the truth was useless, Thranduil nodded. "I am afraid we will go back to hating each other when Arien rises again. That we will forget this night ever happened."
"This night is imprinted on my very soul," said Elrond, passionately. He pressed his fingertips against Thranduil's lips, tracing their outline. "Did I hurt you? I did not properly prepare you, but—"
Thranduil shook his head. "I could not wait either. I wanted it as well."
"I have some soothing salve if you feel sore. I apologize for letting my feelings overwhelm me. I never wanted to hurt you."
"I heal fast," said Thranduil, smiling shyly. "You were right, you know? I never stopped loving you." Suddenly, a terrifying thought upset him. "How do you feel about me? Am I fooling myself by believing you still have feelings for me? Or—"
"Do not finish that sentence," said Elrond, placing a finger against the blond's lips. He didn't want to hear words of doubt and pain. "You are not fooling yourself and I do have feelings for you. Stronger feelings than I thought. We can take our time to explore our feelings."
Thranduil stared into Elrond's blue, dilated eyes. "Do you want me to leave?" The intensity of their sensual encounter had shaken him and he didn't know what to expect next.
Elrond shook his head. "Do not leave, nîn glaur. My life has been cold and dark for so many years, and now that you have come back to me, I feel warm again."
"You want me to stay?" Thranduil couldn't remember ever feeling this insecure. It was easy to be cross with Elrond, but it was a lot harder to face his feelings and accept them. "I still love you. My heart still beats for you."
Elrond wrapped a golden strand around his finger, playing with it. "I never stopped loving you either, and I want you to stay. I want us to spend time together. I want—" He stopped, laughed warmly and shook his head.
Thranduil caught on and said, "You want."
"Aye, I -want- you." Smiling at Thranduil, he was relieved when the blond returned that smile. "Ithil has long risen and we should get some sleep. We will have to attend to many matters tomorrow and we need to rest now. Will you sleep in my bed tonight? In my arms?"
Thranduil hesitantly rubbed the half-Elf's back, wondering what the future would bring. "Are you sure you want me in your bed... and in your arms?"
Do not bring up Gil-galad, thought Elrond, pleadingly. Do not bring him into our bed.
Closing his eyes momentarily, Thranduil made the decision to be completely honest with Elrond. "I cannot believe you still love me. I also know this was not about love. This was about releasing the tension that has been building for millennia. Maybe it is best if I return to Mirkwood as quickly as possible."
"No."
Hearing Elrond's determined tone, his green eyes widened and he stared at the half-Elf in puzzlement. "No?"
"You are not leaving." Elrond opted for action again, instead of words, knowing they wouldn't reach the hurt blond. Slower, with much love and affection displayed in his kiss, he claimed Thranduil's lips. His hands soothingly moved over his lover's back, hips and then settled for stroking the silken hair. Effectively silencing Thranduil, he maintained eye contact, searching the green orbs. When he finally released the blond's lips, he whispered, "I am not making the same mistake twice. I am not letting you get away again. I love you."
I love you... Elrond's words echoed in Thranduil's mind. "Do you? Do you really love me?"
Elrond nodded. "Stay with me. Stay and give our love a chance to flourish. I know you still love me... Give yourself time to heal."
The ache in his hurt soul lessened, hearing Elrond's soothing words. Thranduil sighed, wondering if he was setting himself up for more heartache. Valthoron was more than capable of ruling Mirkwood, and he could stay for longer, if he really wanted to.
Elrond involuntarily held his breath whilst Thranduil reached a decision. Claiming the blond's hand, he squeezed gently. "Please stay."
"I will stay," mumbled Thranduil, hoping he had made the right decision. Elrond's brilliant smile took him aback and when the half-Elf rose from the floor, he allowed Elrond to pull him to his feet.
Elrond guided him to his bed where he sat him down. He closely watched, trying to determine if Thranduil was sore or not. When the blond showed no sign of discomfort, he pushed down the covers and signaled for him to lie down. Thranduil complied and Elrond climbed into bed as well, lying down next to him and opening his arms. Thranduil moved into them and Elrond completed the hug, holding him close. "I will never leave you again," he vowed.
Do not make promises you cannot keep, thought Thranduil privately. His heart still beat with fear at being abandoned again. He wouldn't survive losing Elrond a second time.
"Tell me if I am wrong, but it seems like you are falling asleep, nîn amdir." Glorfindel still had a tight hold on Erestor, whose breathing had slowed down whilst resting against him. "Are you sure you are comfortable enough here on the floor? We could move to the bed."
Erestor slowly shook his head against Glorfindel's chest. "I want... to stay... here." He felt warm and comfortable in the Elda's arms and was right where he wanted to be. He didn't want to move now that he had found some peace of mind.
Glorfindel raised a hand, placed two fingers beneath Erestor's chin and lifted the Elf's face so they could make eye contact. He worried that the day's horrid events would haunt the dark-haired Elf during the night, and he wanted to fill Erestor's mind with something pleasurable instead.
Erestor's eyes filled with nervous expectation when Glorfindel leaned in closer, softly claiming his lips. Trembling, he surrendered to the sensual kiss. His inexperience showed when Glorfindel's tongue nudged against his lips, and he didn't realize what he was supposed to do. Slowly, the Elda's tongue managed to get past his lips, tracing the insides, and eventually nudging against his teeth. Finally catching on, he shyly parted them, allowing Glorfindel to explore his mouth.
The startled expression in Erestor's eyes told Glorfindel just how nervous the Noldorin Elf felt. Running his fingers through the long dark hair, he finally released Erestor's lips and smiled adoringly at his new lover. "I hope you will have pleasant dreams tonight. Dream of my lips, our kiss, and my love for you." He didn't want to bring up Eridhren, the fight or the Elf's death. "Know that you are no longer alone. Know that you are loved."
Erestor smiled, rested his head once more against Glorfindel's shoulder and snuggled up to him. A warm, loving sensation made his heart beat faster and he wasn't sure how to label it. Was it the same thing Glorfindel was feeling?
"Erestor? Nîn amdir?"
Erestor raised his eyes, meeting Glorfindel's soft gaze. What was the Elda trying to tell him?
"I love you..."
Erestor choked up. Glorfindel's emotions were so close to the surface that they were reflected in his azure eyes. What was he supposed to say? He decided to be honest. "I feel... something for you as well, but I do not know what."
Glorfindel smiled encouragingly. "What does it feel like?"
Erestor pleadingly looked into Glorfindel's eyes. "I do not know. I never felt anything like it. It feels... warm, inviting. I like it when you hold me this close, but..." Growing shy, he shrugged apologetically. "I do not know what I feel."
"Oh, but you do," whispered Glorfindel reassuringly. "You just need time to name those feelings. Do not rush yourself. Give yourself a chance to grow accustomed to them."
Erestor felt relieved and thankful that Glorfindel was giving him the time he needed to adjust to all these changes in his life. A yawn overwhelmed him and he wrapped his arms around the Elda, assuming his former, cuddled up position.
Smiling contently, Glorfindel sighed, enjoying holding Erestor close. "Sleep and dream of our love."
Erestor smiled dreamily. Dozing off, he still tasted Glorfindel's sweet lips against his.
Elrond looked dotingly at his bed partner. Thranduil was blissfully asleep and nestled against him. Why had he waited so long to take this step? He should have traveled to Mirkwood centuries ago to bury the hatchet between them. Now tension and passion had finally overwhelmed them, causing them to seek comfort in each other's arms.
That Thranduil had made himself this vulnerable surprised Elrond, but then again, it was something he should have expected. Oropher had been a harsh father and when he had first met the blond, Thranduil had been yearning for affection and attention. They had quickly admitted their feelings, had shared a tent against Oropher's wishes and had been happy, until Gil-galad had appeared in their lives.
Now, millennia later, he was ready to admit the mistake he had made as a youngster. Thranduil had loved him, but Gil-galad had only lusted after him. At his young age he hadn't been able to distinguish between the two. Only now did he realize what he had thrown away, and he thanked Elbereth for giving him this second chance.
Thranduil moaned in his sleep and moved slightly, causing the blond's re-awakening erection to rub against his thigh. His wicked streak awakened and Elrond's hand stole below the sheet, loosely wrapping his fingers around the blond's member. A needy groan left his lover's still-bruised lips, and his own passion began to build as well.
During their short time together, spent at the Battle of the Last Alliance, they had quickly fallen into a pattern of him making love to the blond. When Gil-galad had appeared, that had changed, and he had enjoyed being at the receiving end as well. Last night had been for him, and he wanted this morning to be about Thranduil. The golden-haired Elf had never taken him before and he wanted a new balance to their relationship. He no longer wanted to just take; to give was now just as important.
Climbing onto his lover's body, he straddled the blond's hips, and leaned in closer to claim Thranduil's lips. Suddenly, awareness returned to the cat-like eyes and Thranduil's expression spoke of surprise and disorientation. Releasing his lover's lips, Elrond smiled, feeling drunk on passion. "Good morning, nîn glaur."
Thranduil momentarily felt lost, wondering what Elrond was doing straddling his hips and kissing him, but then last night's memories vividly returned to him. Their sexual encounter had been explosive, and now he wondered where they stood. Just seeing Elrond grin at him like that caused his heart to flutter with hope. It was too soon to talk about love, but maybe they could build a foundation for a new relationship, which might deepen in time. "Good morning," he choked out, feeling uncertain. Lying flat on his back, with Elrond straddling his hips, he was fairly immobile.
It pained Elrond to see the insecurity was still there in the feline eyes and he ached to take it away. He reacted instinctively. Letting his hair fall in front of his face, he bowed his head until the locks dragged over Thranduil's chest, teasing the hardening nipples. Suddenly he knew what he had to do.
Arching his back, Thranduil felt helpless, watching Elrond lean in closer. The half-Elf's surprisingly talented tongue trailed down his breastbone and then turned left, lapping at an erect nipple. His eyes widened when Elrond suckled the nub of hard flesh, sending spirals of pleasure through his body. He was already hard and stared at the half-Elf in astonishment. Did Elrond want to make love -again-? But last night had been a one time affair... or not? Feeling lost, he raised a shaky hand and let it tangle in the dark tresses.
The apparent need in those emerald eyes urged Elrond on. Sliding down his lover's body, his tongue left a wet trail on the quivering skin. This time, he slowly wrapped his tongue around his lover's erection, licking tenderly, which differed greatly from the way he had devoured the golden-haired Elf's essence a few hours ago.
Last night had been about sex, lust and need. Now he wanted to make love.
Elrond looked up, let his lover's arousal slip from his mouth, and stared right into Thranduil's dilated pupils. The blond wanted him as well, but expected to be taken again. But things were going to change. Bending down, he attended to his lover's need again, licking up and down the length of the shaft, and lavishing the head, preparing his lover for what was to come.
Hesitantly, still insecure about their new relationship, Thranduil reached for the half's-Elf's hair, twirling a strand around his finger. The silence between them was new, but felt extremely comfortable. It was almost like they didn't need the words; their bodies and expressions spoke for them. Elrond suddenly released his throbbing erection and deeply gazed into his eyes. Thranduil sensed the change in Elrond's mood, but was unable to label it correctly. He involuntarily held his breath when Elrond suddenly raised himself, positioning himself above his erection. Stunned, he stared at the half-Elf. "What...?" Never before had Elrond offered to let him experience this side of their lovemaking. Why now?
"Hush... Do not speak..." Elrond bit his bottom lip, lowering himself and allowing himself to be impaled by his lover's erection. Slowly, he took in more, quickly getting used to the invasive sensation. In the end, his buttocks settled in Thranduil's lap, having taken his lover completely.
All Thranduil was capable of was staring at his dark-haired lover, trembling a little and gasping. Several questions swept through his mind, but he didn't voice them, realizing something extraordinary had happened. Elrond had taken a step which he had been incapable of before. A passionate and needy moan escaped his throat and he slowly placed his hands on the half-Elf's hips, stroking the soft skin.
Elrond shifted slightly and sucked in his breath when the hard flesh rubbed his sweet spot, making him dizzy with passion. He took hold of his lover's hands, placed them on either side of the blond's head and intertwined their fingers, supporting himself and using the hold as leverage when he finally raised himself.
Thranduil's body quavered beneath the sensual attack and he instinctively thrust into his lover's body, seeking release. Rational thought had deserted him now that this tight glove engulfed him. Elrond impaled himself again, and this time, Thranduil released a whimper, pleadingly locking eyes with the half-Elf. "What are you... doing to me?"
"I am making love to you," whispered Elrond in a tender tone. "Something I should have done millennia ago." Leaning in closer, he briefly brushed his lover's lips and then concentrated on setting a slow and seductive rhythm that quickly drove them wild with passion.
Feeling slightly more secure, Thranduil took the initiative, something he had rarely done during their short love affair. Elrond had always been the dominant one, dictating their actions, but now that he was growing more confident, he boldly freed his hands from Elrond's death-grip and brought them up behind his lover's back.
Elrond realized the blond's intentions too late and before he knew it, he had been rolled onto his back. Thranduil settled between his legs, and the look of utter bliss in those green eyes made him wrap his legs tightly around his lover's waist, allowing Thranduil to take him even deeper.
Surprised that Elrond allowed this, Thranduil buried his face in the crook of the half-Elf's neck, thrusting, and panting softly into his lover's ear.
Elrond's eyes darkened to near-black, realizing that Thranduil had accepted the challenge. Maybe that was the thing that had been missing from their relationship; some aggressiveness on Thranduil's part. Gil-galad had possessed that quality, and in retrospect he realized it had drawn him close like a moth to the flame. "Harder," he demanded, panting his need. His hands now clawed the sheet, and he stared into wild, emerald eyes. Had he ever seen them this passionate, this alive before?
"Harder?" Thranduil wasn't sure he had heard correctly.
"Aye, harder!" Elrond raised his hips to meet Thranduil's next thrust and pushed back.
Obliging the half-Elf, he thrust harder, but still couldn't let go completely. He had never been on top before and was scared to hurt his lover. He couldn't help being concerned and cautious. His hands now moved through the dark hair, and when he claimed Elrond's lips, the half-Elf quivered with release.
His heart missed a beat when the half-Elf's inner muscle contracted around his aching member, sending ripples of ecstasy through his body. Stopping all movement, he surrendered to the sensation, which quickly led him to a shattering orgasm. Arching his back, he threw back his head and trembled over his entire body. It was the most intense orgasm he had ever experienced.
Enraptured, Elrond stared at the blond beauty trembling above him. He quickly wrapped his arms around him, and slowly rolled them onto their sides, relishing the fact that Thranduil was still inside him. Staring into dilated pupils, he managed a shaky smile.
"What...do I do... now?" Thranduil was relieved to be lying down again.
"Pull out slowly," whispered Elrond tenderly. Although he tried to mentally prepare himself for losing this intimate connection, he still released a disappointed sigh when the blond's sated sex left his body.
Thranduil, still catching his breath, stared at the half-Elf in barely concealed puzzlement. "Why did you do that?"
Elrond caressed the blond's face, tracing the jawline. "Because I love you." But for some reason that seemed to mystify Thranduil even more; the confusion in those green eyes grew more intense. "I want our relationship to be balanced, to be equal. We should aim to make it better than what he had millennia ago. We are older now, and hopefully a little wiser."
Thranduil's heart thundered, hearing Elrond's words. "That is what I always wanted, always dreamt of, but I never dared think it could come true."
Letting his fingers tangle in the soft, golden locks, Elrond smiled warmly. "I love you and you love me. What else do we need?" Unexpectedly his stomach growled, reminding them that it was time for breakfast.
"Nourishment, it seems," teased Thranduil, still feeling insecure about their relationship. But Elrond's words had given him courage. He would do his part to build a solid relationship.
"Aye, we need to eat." Elrond nearly lost himself in the sea of green that was Thranduil's eyes. "We should bathe, get dressed and join the others for breakfast. I also want to check on Elrohir. He tried to hide it last night, but I know he was upset."
"And I want to look in on Erestor. I worry about him." Thranduil didn't know if he could act normally when facing the others. Would they realize something had changed? How would Elrond's sons react? How would -his- sons react? Growing worried, he wondered what had possessed him to give into his need.
"What is wrong, nîn glaur? Why does your gaze darken?" Elrond elbowed himself into a sitting position and searched his lover's eyes.
"We did not think this over," said Thranduil softly. "We never considered what impact this would have on Elladan and Elrohir..." His voice faded, concerned. "And how can I possibly face them, or my sons, after... after..."
"After making love to me?" Elrond understood. "I have not given this much thought either and I am inclined to not tell them yet." Seeing sudden nervousness appear in Thranduil's eyes, he quickly added, "And it is not because I am ashamed of you, or embarrassed! I just want more time for us to grow accustomed to this."
Thranduil sighed, realizing Elrond had made a valid point. They should wait before announcing they were together again. Their love was still too fragile.
"Breakfast, then?" Elrond planted a chaste kiss on Thranduil's brow. "And after breakfast we will discuss those border patrols. Maybe later, we can go for a walk in the gardens?" He didn't want to pressure Thranduil into anything, taking it slowly instead. Taking it slowly! he laughed privately. Making love twice is taking it slowly?
Thranduil met Elrond's gaze, and said, "But I would like to join the others for dinner tonight. We have a lot to discuss."
Elrond nodded approvingly. "And after dinner we can retreat to my chambers?"
"And do what?" Thranduil's voice trembled.
Elrond smiled wickedly whilst rising from the bed. He extended his hand and signaled for Thranduil to follow him, which the blond did. "Maybe you will sing for me? You have such an enchanting voice." Thranduil actually blushed at his words and Elrond led the blond into bathroom for a quick bath.
"Maybe I will," said Thranduil thoughtfully.
"I hope you will."
Elrohir felt rested when he woke in his brother's arms. After Elladan had brushed his hair, they had cuddled up like they had done when they were little. Smiling warmly, Elrohir began to tickle his twin through his robes, which caused Elladan to wake up with a soft scream on his lips.
"What in Elbereth's name are you doing?" Elladan burst out laughing when Elrohir tickled him in earnest. He was relieved to find that his younger brother had recovered from Eridhren's attack. The dark anxiety that had been in his eyes last night was gone. "Have mercy!"
Elrohir stopped tickling his twin and stretched luxuriously. "We should check on Erestor." He yawned, ran a hand through his hair, and sat upright.
Elladan nodded. "I am sure Glorfindel is taking good care of him."
Elrohir blinked once. "Do you think there is something going on between them? There is a certain expression in Glorfindel's eyes when he looks at Erestor, and it appeared after they returned from their hazardous journey."
Raising an eyebrow, Elladan shrugged. "There might be some attraction on Glorfindel's part, but I doubt Erestor is interested."
"But then again, Erestor has changed a lot since we brought him back wounded."
"You are right," sighed Elladan, suddenly reminded of the dreadful state they had found Erestor in. "I am so glad he did not bleed to death."
"And I am glad his father did not get to him." A shudder coursed through him. "Eridhren was insane. There is no other explanation for his behavior." Elrohir rose from the bed, stretched again, and headed for the bathroom for a quick wash.
Elladan got to his feet and walked over to the closet. After opening it, he selected a blue shirt and leggings for Elrohir and chose a brown tunic for himself. Draping the clothes over a chair, he walked over to the window, smiling at Arien's warm rays.
His gaze drifted to his father's balcony. Elrond usually opened his balcony doors in the morning and would sit in the sun until it was time to eat breakfast. Seeing that the doors were still closed made him frown. His father rarely slept in late, and he couldn't help but worry if something was wrong.
Elrohir had slung a towel around his hips and was drying his hair, joining his twin in front of the window. "Is Ada awake yet?"
"His balcony doors are still closed," whispered Elladan thoughtfully. "What does that mean?"
"Maybe he was tired and slept in late?"
Elladan shook his head. "As the host he should be looking after Thranduil."
"And tonight Eridhren's corpse will burn on the pyre." It promised to be a long, exhausting day. "Do you think Erestor will attend?"
"As long as Glorfindel is there to support him, aye." Elladan turned around and headed for the bathroom to take his bath whilst Elrohir got dressed.
Sitting down in front of the mirror, Elrohir combed his hair and braided it again. Suddenly Elladan's voice reached him.
"Did you notice the tension between Ada and Thranduil? At first I did not know what to make of it, but I have the feeling that there is a lot of unfinished business between them." Elladan wrapped himself up in a towel and stepped into the bedroom, picking up his clothes. After exchanging the towel for his tunic and leggings, he joined Elrohir in front of the mirror. His fingers ran along his brother's braid, picked up a hair clip and fastened the dark mane.
Elrohir nodded. "I sensed something as well, but I have no idea what stands between them."
"Maybe it has something to do with Oropher's death. I was always under the impression Thranduil blamed Ada for that."
"That could be it," said Elrohir, smiling. "Let us eat first and then we will talk to Erestor." He had the feeling they might run into each other when having breakfast.
Elladan returned the smile and decided to let his hair hang loose. Hungry, he grabbed his brother's hand and pulled him along. "Let us eat!"
Erestor's eyes slowly regained awareness and the first thing he noticed was a strand of golden hair dangling in front of his nose. Glorfindel. The blond mystified him, and after last night's admission he wondered how the Elda could possibly be in love with him. But he couldn't deny having some feelings for Glorfindel as well. He just didn't know how to label them correctly.
"We should eat something."
Hearing Glorfindel's voice startled him. He hadn't been aware of the fact that the Elda was awake already. Tentatively, he raised his head and stared at the blond. Warm sunbeams surrounded Glorfindel's head, making him appear as radiant as Arien. "I cannot believe I slept peacefully last night."
"Must be my charming company," teased Glorfindel, running a light fingertip over Erestor's lip. "Do you want to take a bath?"
Erestor shook his head. "I want to eat first." Only now was he growing aware of just how hungry he was.
"You do seem at ease," said Glorfindel, smiling pleased. He reluctantly released Erestor, and after placing a chaste kiss on the dark-haired Elf's brow, he rose to his feet. Extending his hand, he pulled Erestor to his feet and bestowed a warm hug on the Noldorin Elf.
Erestor smiled shyly, actually looking forward to spending his day with the Elda.
Elrohir smiled, encountering Erestor and Glorfindel in the corridor. The two elder Elves seemed to be heading for the dining room as well. "Good morning, Erestor. You look rested."
Erestor's smile remained shy, locking gazes with the youngest twin. "I seem to have made a friend who is rather worried about me, pen-neth. Glorfindel watched over me last night."
The Elda beamed with pride and contentment, now that his arm was tightly wrapped around Erestor's waist, no longer hiding his affection. The gesture made Elladan smile.
Glorfindel opened the door and pulled Erestor inside. He raised an eyebrow inquisitively, finding Elrond and Thranduil already eating breakfast.
Elrond looked up and smiled, seeing the four of them enter. His first glance was for Elrohir. Finding his youngest son smiling back at him reassured him. His next glance was for Erestor and seeing Glorfindel holding his hand made the half-Elf smile. It seemed like they had worked through last night successfully, which made him feel relieved. "Good morning."
Elrohir sat down at Elrond's left and Elladan in between his father and Thranduil. If the oldest twin was surprised to find Thranduil present, he didn't show it. From the other side of the table, Elrohir glanced questioningly at him and he shrugged his shoulders. He didn't know why Elrond was having breakfast with Thranduil either. The last time he had seen them they had been fighting, and he had sent his father to apologize to Thranduil. Maybe his little ploy had worked and they had buried the hatchet?
Glorfindel's gaze searched Elrond's, wondering what had happened during the night between the half-Elf and Thranduil.
A maid placed a plate filled with fruits, bread and cheese in front of Erestor, who also accepted a warm mug of tea, which he sipped slowly. His gaze unexpectedly locked with Thranduil's and he frowned at the peculiar expression in those emerald eyes. Something about Thranduil was different.
Elladan, whose gaze had shifted to Thranduil as well, suddenly noticed a wound on the blond's neck. Cocking his head, his eyes narrowed, studying the wound.
Thranduil, feeling Elladan's eyes on him, looked up from eating breakfast and locked eyes with the younger half-Elf. Elladan's expression unnerved him.
Elladan grinned, attracted his brother's attention and pointed his finger at Thranduil's neck.
Elrond, who happened to accidentally glance at his oldest son, dropped his fork onto his plate with a metallic thud at seeing Elladan's wicked grin. He knew his son well enough to realize he was in trouble.
Thranduil felt a similar panic. They had decided to keep their attraction a secret, and now that Elladan had noticed the bite mark he didn't know what to say.
"Someone left a passion mark on you, my Lord Thranduil," said Elladan impishly. "I wonder who it was."
Beta read by Ilye.
Drawings by Nellas!
Thanks, sweeties!
So many things happened in that one moment when Elladan asked his question. Thranduil's gaze locked with Elrond's, wondering what to say. Did Elrond want him to lie or...?
Elrond answered that gaze and hoped Thranduil wouldn't blurt out the truth. He needed a moment to think this through!
At the same time, Glorfindel's suspicions that Elrond and Thranduil had had a lover's quarrel, and that the argument had been resolved, were confirmed. The Elda smiled wickedly at Elrond and then gave him a wink.
Elrond's eyes widened, seeing Glorfindel's reaction. It seemed the Elda had figured everything out, and what was even more surprising, the blond didn't seem to mind.
Absentmindedly, Glorfindel gently squeezed Erestor's hand and the dark-haired counselor followed the Elda's gaze, realizing Glorfindel thought Elrond had left that passion mark on Thranduil. But could that really be? Well, why not? Thranduil's wife had long sailed to Valinor and so had Elrond's. It shouldn't be a surprise that they would seek comfort in each other's arms. A smile settled on his face, approving as well. He wanted Thranduil and Elrond to be happy.
Elrond was beginning to panic now that Erestor and Glorfindel were smiling giddily at him. It was obvious they had been found out, and at hearing Thranduil's sharp intake of breath, his gaze shifted back to his lover.
Thranduil stared pleading at Elrond. What was he supposed to say?
"Elladan, you asked a rather indiscrete question," said Erestor, coming to the rescue. "I do think you owe Thranduil an apology." He immediately noticed Thranduil's thankful smile and inclined his head, hoping the warm expression in his eyes told his former protector that he approved of his relationship with Elrond.
Elladan raised an eyebrow at hearing Erestor's words. He knew he was treading on thin ice, asking such a question, but Thranduil's and his father's reaction surprised him. The look that passed between spoke of concern, panic and... intimacy. Nay, that cannot be it. I must have reached the wrong conclusion! Seeking out his brother's gaze, he wondered what Elrohir thought of the situation.
Elrohir had reached the same conclusion as Elladan. The tension that had hung heavy between the two Elves had changed into something else. Something intimate, he realized. He wasn't sure what to think of this revelation and returned his twin's gaze. Could it be that their father had chosen a new lover? Where did that leave Celebrian?
Elladan sensed an echo of his twin's thoughts and realized that the same thing troubled him as well. Their mother had left, telling them she hoped they would be reunited one day, but neither he nor Elrohir had ever considered sailing to Valinor. It would be several more centuries, maybe even millennia before they would make that decision. Was it fair to expect their father to remain chaste for such a long time?
Elrohir nodded once, telling Elladan they would discuss this in private later.
"I apologize for being so forward, sire," said Elladan, but his tone made it very clear that he didn't feel sorry at all. His wicked streak, which he had doubtlessly inherited from his father, showed when he said, "And if I searched really hard, would I find a passion mark on you too, dearest Ada?"
Rendered speechless, Elrond stared at his oldest son in disbelief. He hadn't expected Elladan to address this! "I do think you are out of line, Elladan!" He wasn't ready to announce his new relationship to his sons! Thranduil and he were still testing the waters! Why couldn't Elladan just keep quiet?
Glorfindel now intervened as well. "Elladan, you cannot address your father like that. What he does in the privacy of his bedroom is..." He stopped, realizing he was only making things worse, confirming Elladan's suspicions, but he finished anyway, "is his business, not yours."
Elrond bowed his head, shook it and sighed, distressed. He couldn't confirm Elladan's suspicions. Thranduil would never agree to admit the truth... or would he? His gaze locked with his lover's, realizing there really wasn't a way out of this, except if he lied to his sons. He had always been honest with them and didn't want to destroy the trust between the three of them, but would the twins accept this? Why should they? He expected them to be cross with him.
Thranduil's eyes widened with the realization that Elrond was inclined to tell the twins about their newly-found relationship. Mutely, he stared at the half-Elf, begging him to reconsider.
"I cannot lie to them, nîn glaur." Elrond drew in a deep breath and then faced his sons, who were staring at him with a mixture of shock and curiosity.
Thranduil leaned back into the comfort of his chair and wished the floor would open and swallow him. He had never expected anyone to find out this quickly. Frustrated he glared at Elrond. This was the half-Elf's fault; why had he bitten him in the heat of passion?
Elrond cleared his throat and cringed beneath Elladan's gaze. He quickly looked at Elrohir, hoping both would understand. Maybe it was best to tell them everything. "Thranduil and I were lovers for a short time at the Battle of the Last Alliance, long before I ever met your mother."
Elladan's eyes widened, realizing Elrond had decided to tell them. He quickly exchanged a look with Elrohir and they silently agreed to hear their father out.
Elrond decided to leave out his involvement with Gil-galad. There was no need to distress his sons further. His gaze briefly swept over to Erestor and Glorfindel and he took heart, seeing their encouraging looks. "During the Battle we broke up. We had an argument and took separate paths. When I met Celebrian, I fell in love with her and she gave me the greatest gift of all; three bright and beautiful children. When she sailed for Valinor it broke my heart and I never considered being with someone again, but then..." His voice faded, as he locked gazes with Thranduil. "Something unexpected happened."
Thranduil shifted on his chair, growing increasingly nervous. Elrohir was staring at him with big eyes, and Elladan... He failed to label Elladan's expression, which worried him even more. Listening to Elrond, he couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"Thranduil and I..." Elrond paused, searching for the words, "We never talked things through, and stayed cross with each other for millennia. Things... progressed into something more when we finally did talk."
Elrohir had long stared at his father, trying to decide how he felt about Elrond and Thranduil being lovers. He had expected to feel betrayed, because his father was no longer faithful to Celebrian, but instead he found he was happy that Elrond had found someone to love. Even Celebrian would be happy for him. She had loved him dearly and would never want him to suffer because of her.
Elladan was having similar thoughts. He couldn't blame his father for wanting a lover when his wife had left centuries ago. Elrond deserved to be happy as well. "But why Thranduil? You always told us how arrogant and self-centered he was!"
Thranduil now glared at Elrond. "Arrogant? Self-centered?"
Elrond flinched. "Nîn glaur, I was upset with you for many centuries."
Thranduil shook his head. "You were upset with me? You were the one who left! If anyone..." Suddenly he grew aware of the four pairs of eyes that were staring at him. "We will discuss this later. In private."
"In private," snickered Elladan softly. It was actually quite amusing to see Thranduil bite his lip and blush. "I wonder what else they will do in private."
"I do not want to think about it," said Elrohir, pretending to shiver. "I really do not need to know."
Elrond couldn't believe his luck. Were his sons actually willing to accept this? He hadn't expected them to be this accepting, and certainly not this quickly. They hardly knew Thranduil! And what he had told them in the past about the blond wasn't flattering either. First he searched Elrohir's eyes, and then Elladan's. But both were non-judgmental, even amused. This was unexpected.
Thranduil wasn't sure how to react either. Looking to Elrond for help, he saw the half-Elf smile, relieved, and took that as a sign that everything had been settled for now. He was relieved as well that the twins seemed to accept this unexpected development. He addressed Elladan in a hesitant tone, "My offer to spar with you still stands... if you still want to." He would understand if Elladan was no longer interested.
Elladan read insecurity in Thranduil's eyes and suddenly wondered about the elder Elf. Thranduil had been friendly toward him from the start and was now obviously worried that their beginning friendship had been ruined. But he loved his father and if Thranduil meant this much to Elrond, there had to be something very special to the blond. "We will spar," he said, smiling reassuringly.
Elrond heard his lover's relieved sigh and understood completely. The fact that his sons accepted this meant a lot to both of them. They would still have to talk about this in depth later, but for now they had reached a satisfying understanding.
The smile that appeared on Thranduil's face told Elladan that the elder Elf felt slightly more secure now. "Maybe tomorrow?"
Thranduil nodded once and then forced himself to address another matter that also worried him. Looking at Erestor, he was pleased to find a warm smile on the Elf's face and he hated being the one to remind him of Eridhren. "It is my sad duty to remind you that your father's pyre will be lit tonight. Do you wish to attend the ceremony?"
Erestor's smile instantly died and he noticed the disapproving glance that Glorfindel gave Thranduil. "He is only reminding me," said he, addressing the Elda. He didn't want Glorfindel to be cross with Thranduil.
"You should not be bothered with something like that," said Glorfindel protectively, but slowly the realization sank in that he couldn't keep reality out of their lives.
"He was my father," said Erestor in a nervous tone. He locked eyes with Elrohir and moistened his lips. "I am sorry he attacked you. He had—"
Elrohir quickly interrupted his friend. "You are not responsible for his deeds. There is no reason to take the blame and apologize to me."
Erestor shrugged apologetically. "I wished he had never come here."
But Thranduil's opinion differed greatly. Leaning in closer, he whispered into Elrond's ear, "Now that he is dead we no longer have to worry that he will hurt someone."
Elrond had to agree. "Erestor will recover more quickly now." Suddenly realizing how close Thranduil was, Elrond fought down the urge to claim those luscious lips. Just being close to the blond was becoming pure torment!
Recognizing the needy expression in the half-Elf's dilated pupils, Thranduil leaned back into the chair. Did he really have such an impact on Elrond? When had that happened? Or had he been determined to not notice the change? Focusing on Erestor, he asked, "I would accompany you if you want to attend the ceremony."
"I will be at his side if he desires to attend," said Glorfindel with a hint of overprotectiveness in his tone. In his heart he knew Thranduil meant well, but Erestor was -his- lover, and -he- would attend to his needs and no one else!
Thranduil smiled. "Oh, I am sure you will be there, Glorfindel. I was merely offering Erestor my support as well." Baiting the Elda was too easy. Maybe it was unfair that he was testing Glorfindel, but he had to be sure the Elda wouldn't desert his former protégé.
Glorfindel realized the true intent behind Thranduil's words and wasn't sure if he should be cross with the other Elf, or pleased that Thranduil was trying to protect Erestor.
Erestor decided it was time to take control of the situation. "I suppose I should attend. He was my father, and I..." He bit his lip, uncertain if he should admit this to them. "And I want to convince myself he is really dead and that he cannot return to hurt me again." Glorfindel unexpectedly wrapped an arm around his waist and pulled his chair close. Erestor just stared at the Elda, wondering what would happen next.
"I promise that no one will ever again hurt you. Do you understand, nîn amdir? You are safe now. You do not have to look over your shoulder any longer."
"That has not fully registered yet," admitted Erestor, lowering his eyes. "I have lived in fear for so long."
"And we never noticed." Elrohir felt guilty for never finding out what was wrong. "We always suspected something troubled you, but—"
"But I let the situation continue," finished Elrond for his son. "This was my fault as well."
"We should look toward the future," said Thranduil, disliking the tone of this conversation. If anyone was to blame, it was him. But, he thought, sighing, it is time to let go of the past.
"I have no idea what the future will bring." Erestor glanced shyly at Glorfindel. "I have never..." he paused, uncertain if he should continue, "I never had friends before."
"And in me you have found more than just a friend," said Glorfindel passionately. He wanted all of Arda to know how much he loved Erestor. "I will be there for you every step of the way."
Erestor actually blushed, feeling extremely shy, being the center of their attention. "I know you will." And he was really beginning to believe that. Looking back at these last few weeks, he could hardly understand the changes that had taken place in his life.
Thranduil cleared his throat, realizing Erestor needed a moment to compose himself. "Elrond, we should look into the possibility of joining forces when it comes down to guarding our borders."
Erestor immediately looked at the half-Elf, wondering if his presence was required. Did Elrond still want him to act as his chief counselor, or...? He didn't dare finish that thought.
Elrond easily read the expression in Erestor's dark eyes. "I would appreciate it if Glorfindel and you joined us."
Noticing Erestor's relieved sigh, Glorfindel nodded reluctantly. He had hoped to persuade the dark-haired Elf to take things easy today and rest, but it looked like Erestor wanted to return to his duties as quickly as possible. "We will be there."
Erestor shot the Elda a thankful glance. The blond was quickly becoming his world, his support and his hope.
Elrond was pleased with the outcome of their meeting. Thranduil had agreed to intensify communication between their guards, making sure both rulers knew when Orcs approached their borders. They also agreed to exchange several of their guards so Mirkwood and Imladris would grow accustomed to each other's presence. In the end, they would try sending out mixed patrols, hoping one party could benefit from the experience of the other.
"It is agreed then," said Erestor, writing down the terms of the agreement. Looking at Elrond, a frown appeared on his brow.
"What is it?" asked Elrond; he knew that frown. It appeared when Erestor had thought of something they had missed.
"This alliance would become even more powerful if Lothlorien joined in as well. Would Celeborn be interested in taking part of this?" Erestor shrugged his shoulders. "It was just something that came to mind."
Thranduil nodded once, locked gazes with Elrond and said, "That seems like an excellent idea to me."
Elrond had to agree. "Glorfindel, write Celeborn a letter, stating this request, and then dispatch a messenger."
"I will take care of it," said Glorfindel, pleased that Erestor had found a way to strengthen this alliance even further.
The half-Elf looked out of the window to find that Arien had already started her descent and that Ithil was rising. Had they really spend all day locked up in his study?
"We should end this now," said Thranduil. "We still need to prepare for Eridhren's funeral."
Erestor nearly dropped the quill, but Glorfindel's hand settled on his shoulder and squeezed gently. Taking heart, he sighed and finished the document, which he then handed to Elrond. "If you no longer require my services I would like to spend a moment in private." Hearing Glorfindel sigh disappointed, he immediately locked eyes with the Elda. "Not alone... I want a moment with you," he quickly clarified, hoping he hadn't hurt the Elda's feelings.
Glorfindel smiled warmly. "Then let us return to my rooms." Erestor had told him earlier that he had no desire to return to his own rooms, where Eridhren had died, and they had agreed that Erestor would share his quarters. That arrangement made Glorfindel happy, for it meant he could spend even more time with his new lover.
Elrond nodded his permission and watched them leave. Then he turned around and faced Thranduil. This was their first moment alone since breakfast. Thranduil's suspicious look urged him to quickly cover the distance between them and he wrapped one arm around the blond's waist. "I never expected Elladan to mention the bite mark. I counted on him being discreet."
"It was our fault," admitted Thranduil. He'd had an ample amount of time to think everything through. "We were careless. You should not have bitten me above the collar and I should have made an attempt to conceal it, but I never realized it showed that clearly."
Elrond cocked his head and studied the angry mark. "I should not have bitten you at all."
"You always do," said Thranduil whilst shrugging his shoulders. "And I do not mind."
Elrond released Thranduil, noticed the blond's frown, and explained, "I want to apply some salve to the bite. I am not satisfied with its healing rate."
Thranduil watched Elrond move to his desk, open a drawer and take out a crystal vial. The half-elf opened it, allowed for some drops to settle on his fingertips and then returned to him.
Elrond swept away Thranduil's hair, probing the mark. "I bit too deeply." Applying the balm, he studied the blond, who looked strangely shy. But when they had made love in the morning, Thranduil had taken the lead. What would it take for the blond to do that again? A soft whimper fled from Thranduil's lips and Elrond smiled, knowing his touch was welcome and would speed the skin's recovery. "The ceremony will start within the hour."
Thranduil nodded. They could finally close this chapter and start a new one. One without fear.
"Can I meet you in your rooms in thirty minutes?" They needed to change into formal robes and had to return to their quarters, but he wanted Thranduil to know he needed him at his side.
Thranduil nodded once more. "Do you think Erestor will need us tonight?"
"I doubt it. Glorfindel will want to take care of him. But maybe we can spend some time with Elladan and Elrohir?" Surprised, he felt Thranduil shiver. "What is wrong?"
"I do not feel comfortable facing your sons. Won't they think I am trying to take the place of their mother?"
Elrond shook his head, determined. "Celebrian cannot be replaced and they know you won't try to take her place. But they might be jealous at times."
"Jealous?" Thranduil frowned.
"For the last few centuries they had my undivided attention. Now they will have to share me with you."
"Is it not about time they took a mate themselves?" wondered Thranduil aloud.
"Aye, but they have not mentioned a love to me." Elrond folded one arm around the blond and together they left the study and headed for their rooms. "Will you share my bed with me tonight? I do not wish to be alone."
Thranduil swallowed hard. "I do not want to be alone either."
Elrond leaned in closer and bestowed a gentle kiss onto his lover's lips. "I love you, nîn glaur. How could I have been so blind to let you go?"
Thranduil remained quiet. He had asked himself that question countless times and hadn't found an answer either.
Tears streamed down Erestor's face, watching the pyre burn. The flames shot into the night, tried to reach the heavens, and then began to die after long and mentally exhausting moments. He was swaying on his feet and Glorfindel's supportive arm wrapped around his waist was the only reason he was still standing.
Looking to his right, he found Elrond and Thranduil, standing incredibly close. Now that he looked closer, he found that the half-Elf had wrapped an arm around the blond's waist. To his left were Elladan and Elrohir. On their faces lay a determined expression and he could only guess at their thoughts. For some reason they seemed frustrated, and he realized they were busy blaming themselves for not realizing something was wrong at an earlier time. He would have to talk to them about that. They hadn't known because he had been careful to not arouse their suspicions.
"Are you still coping, nîn amdir? We can return to my rooms if you want to." Glorfindel worried about his lover. The tears that dripped down the dark-haired Elf's chin were growing fewer, but he easily sensed his lover's sadness and pain. All he wanted was to hold him close and assure him everything would be well.
Erestor leaned into Glorfindel's embrace and rested his head against the Elda's shoulder. "I would not have been able to deal with this without you."
"You do not have to deal with this alone, nîn amdir." Glorfindel realized that it would take time for Erestor to full accept that he was no longer alone. But now that Eridhren was dead they had all the time they needed.
"I still cannot believe he is dead." Erestor shook his head against the Elda's shoulder. "I cannot believe he can no longer hurt me. I still expect to see him around every corner. Seeing him again brought everything back."
"We will work through this together," promised Glorfindel. "Let us go now." The fire was dying and he wanted Erestor back in the safety of his rooms where the dark-haired Elf could break down, should his strength desert him.
Erestor allowed Glorfindel to lead him away from the pyre. After casting one more look at the dying flames, he sighed and put his trust in the Elda, who had promised to see him through this.
Elrond and Thranduil watched them depart and the half-Elf's gaze was drawn to his sons, who stood closely together, offering each other comfort. "Elladan, Elrohir..."
The twins turned around and looked at him. "The ceremony has come to an end. Why don't you go to your rooms and try to rest? These last few days were eventful and exhausting."
Elladan and Elrohir drew in a deep breath, walked away from the pyre and entered the Last Homely House. Elladan spoke first. "As far as I am concerned, Eridhren got what he deserved for hurting Erestor like that." Grim determination echoed in his voice.
Elrohir nodded firmly. "I agree. But Erestor is hurting and needs us to be supportive. Do not give in to this hate, brother."
Elladan sighed, realizing his brother was right. "I am glad this nightmare is over."
Suddenly a servant appeared. The Elf walked up to them, bowed and then addressed them. "Forgive me for disturbing you at such a delicate moment, but another guest has arrived."
"A guest?" Puzzled, Elladan locked eyes with his brother. "We are not expecting anyone, are we?
Elrohir shook his head. "No one that I am aware of. Who is it?"
"It is Legolas, the youngest son of Thranduil."
A worried expression appeared on Elladan's face. During their short sparring match Thranduil had told him about his sons, but he had never expected to actually meet one. "Legolas..." He paused, looked at his brother and nodded. "Thranduil mentioned him to me."
"What should I do?" asked the servant. In the distance the last flames were dying, and in their reflection he could see Elrond and Thranduil, slowly heading for the half-Elf's quarters. He didn't want to disturb the two Elf Lords during such a painful moment.
"We will take care of this," said Elladan after exchanging another look with his twin.
"And tomorrow morning we will tell Thranduil that Legolas has arrived." Elrohir felt it was important that tonight Thranduil and his father could talk about everything that had happened lately.
The servant bowed slightly. "I asked Legolas to wait in the Halls of Fire."
"We will welcome him and then escort him to the guest rooms," said Elladan, taking charge.
The servant, relieved that the twins would see to their guest, returned to his duties.
"What do we say?" asked Elladan.
Elrohir shrugged his shoulders. "The words will come to us." Then he mused, "I wonder what Legolas is like. Do you think he will resemble his father?"
"Elrohir, he is bound to find out about his father and ours..." Unable to finish, his voice faded. "Do you think he will accept their love?"
"We can worry about that later," said Elrohir, being the voice of reason. "We should welcome him first."
The two dark-haired half-Elves headed for the Halls of Fire, wondering why Legolas had arrived so unexpectedly.
Legolas waited patiently, hoping Elrond Peredhel would allow him to meet up with his father shortly. He realized that his arrival was unexpected, but he carried a message from Celeborn, who had asked him to deliver it to his father when he had been passing through Lothlorien. He liked Celeborn and Galadriel, he always had, and had assured them that carrying this message to his father was no burden at all.
Apparently Orcs had been sighted on Lothlorien's borders, and Celeborn was becoming worried that the foul creatures would grow increasingly bolder. This was a danger they should face together, instead of fighting separately.
Straightening out his tunic, his gaze traveled to the entrance, hearing voices. He was surprised to see two young, dark-haired Elves enter, instead of a much older Elrond Peredhel. He had never met any of the Peredhil and felt curious. He raised an eyebrow, realizing the two half-Elves looked identical.
Twins. Ada once told me about Elrond's sons. So Elrond had sent his sons to welcome him. Was the older half-Elf too busy to welcome him personally? Had something happened? He knew his father had been worried because Eridhren wanted to accompany him. Had this something to do with Eridhren? He had always known the Elf presented a danger.
The twins came to a halt in front of him and Legolas politely inclined his head in greeting.
"Welcome, Legolas, son of Thranduil. I am Elladan, son of Elrond and this is my younger brother, Elrohir. You are most welcome in Imladris." Elladan smiled at the Mirkwood prince. Legolas looked like a younger version of Thranduil, but the large, blue eyes definitely set father and son apart.
"Thank you for your kind words, Elladan, son of Elrond." Legolas studied them, and found himself wondering if there was a way to tell them apart. Both half-Elves were dressed in long, brown robes and their hair had been braided according to their station. They truly were a magnificent sight.
Elrohir spoke next. "The night is already upon us and I assume you would like to rest before speaking with your father. Please allow us to guide you to your guest rooms." He caught himself staring dreamily at the golden-haired beauty. Something about Legolas had immediately caught his attention. He had never felt such an instant attraction before, and he quickly averted his eyes to make sure the blond couldn't read the confusion in them.
Legolas looked questioningly at Elrohir. He had hoped to speak with his father as quickly as possible, but he was willing to wait until the morning. "Thank you for your hospitality."
Elrohir nodded his head once, feeling surprisingly nervous when he raised his hand to direct Legolas in the right direction.
Legolas followed Elladan and looked at Elrohir when the twin fell into step beside him. His father had told him about Elrond and most of the time sadness and regret had sounded in Thranduil's voice, when he had expected to hear anger and frustration. It was no secret to him that his father had once loved Elrond.
Elrohir's eyes danced nervously, stealing glances at their guest. Legolas was fluid elegance and his hair glimmered like Arien. But the eyes were what stunned him most. Looking at the blue orbs, he felt like staring into the sky, warmed by the sun. Suddenly Elladan looked at him over his shoulder and he quickly lowered his gaze. His twin knew him through and through and had probably figured out he felt attracted to the blond.
They reached the guest rooms and Elladan opened the door to let Legolas enter. "Is there anything you need? A servant will bring you some refreshments and in the morning you will be escorted to the dining room so you can speak with your father."
Legolas' gaze swept through the room, finding it furnished luxuriously. He was hungry and thirsty and already looking forward to those refreshments Elladan had hinted at. "I will be fine."
"If anything is amiss just contact one of the servants." Elladan took a step back and bumped into his brother, who was still staring at Legolas. Intent on saving his twin from more embarrassment, he turned Elrohir around and quickly pulled him along. "What is wrong with you?" he asked, hearing Legolas close the door behind him. "What has gotten into you?"
Elrohir shook his head, trying to clear it of Legolas' image, and then looked at his brother. "I do not dare say the words."
"What words?" Elladan quickly steered his younger brother into the corridor their rooms were in. A moment later, he opened the door, closed it again and now that they were in the privacy of his rooms, he placed his hands on Elrohir's shoulders. "What is wrong? Elrohir, you worry me! I have never seen you act like this before!"
Elrohir swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat. "You will think me insane."
Elladan was now really growing worried. Why was his brother acting this peculiarly? "Why would I think that?"
"Do you believe in love at first sight?" There, he had said it. Now Elrohir closed his eyes; he didn't want to see Elladan laugh at him for this folly. But he couldn't deny the sweet, maddening desire that was rushing through his veins. "I never did. Until now."
Elladan's eyes widened in disbelief. "Love at first sight? Elrohir, what are you trying to tell me? Is it Legolas?"
Elrohir nodded, but his eyes remained closed. "I never felt anything like it before. I cannot describe the feelings coursing through me." In the end, his eyes opened to look at Elladan, now that no laughter was forthcoming. "I have never been in love before, but this feeling swept me off my feet."
Elladan studied his younger brother. He could tell Elrohir was serious from the look in his twin's eyes. A new passion had taken up residence in them, and yet, there was also confusion and fear. "I never experienced love at first sight, but I do think it exists."
Elrohir sighed, relieved. "Brother, do not leave me alone tonight. And talk to me. Maybe your closeness and the sound of your voice will keep my thoughts from straying back to Legolas."
Elladan steered his brother toward his bed and sat him down. After pulling up a chair, he sat down and clasped Elrohir's hands in his. "You do not wish to feel this way?"
Elrohir looked at him pleadingly. "Elladan, think about it. He is Thranduil's son. What would father and Thranduil say, should I tell them about this unexpected attraction? We should be like brothers, and now I find myself attracted to him."
Elladan understood Elrohir's worries, but only to a certain degree. He sighed, wondering when things would go back to normal so they could get some rest. Seeing Elrohir's distressed expression, he opted for humor. "It seems you have inherited Ada's preference for beautiful, golden-haired Elves then."
For one brief moment Elrohir stared at his brother in shock. Then Elladan smiled warmly at him and he couldn't help returning that smile. But in the end, the smile faded again. "Will you help me fight this?"
Elladan frowned; his brother's frantic tone worried him. "Fight this? Elrohir, in Elbereth's name, why do you want to fight this?"
"He is the son of Ada's lover! How can I possibly..." His voice faltered. "I cannot feel this way about Legolas."
Elladan gave Elrohir a thoughtful glance. "I do not think you should fight it."
"But Ada and Thranduil will never allow it!"
Elladan's frown deepened. "Why do you think that?"
"I just know."
"I think you are making a mistake in judgment, but I will stay close in the mean time, if that is what you want."
Elrohir nodded thankfully. "I felt so incredibly nervous when he stared at me. Elladan, what is happening to me? Even now, all I can think about are his eyes." He felt utterly helpless, and that feeling scared him.
"My brother, you are in love," said Elladan, smiling. "Enjoy it."
But Elrohir shook his head and then lowered his eyes. "I am scared."
Elladan shifted over onto the bed and enfolded his brother in his arms. "You do not have to be scared." Holding Elrohir, he thought back to the golden-haired prince that had arrived today. You had better not hurt his feelings, Legolas.
Thranduil sat down on the bed and stared at the remains of the pyre. Was it wrong to feel relieved now that Eridhren was dead?
"Here, have some miruvor." Elrond pressed a glass filled with the potent liquid into the blond's hand and then stood beside him, watching the swirling black ashes as well. "You have finally been released from his presence. Guarding him during all these centuries must have been tiring."
"It was," admitted Thranduil, sipping. He looked up and made eye contact with the half-Elf. "Erestor is finally free."
Elrond sat down next to the blond and held Thranduil's gaze. "We need to talk, nîn glaur. Are you cross with me for telling them the truth?"
"It could not be helped. Lying to them felt wrong as well." He took another sip, and it burned his throat.
"I did not want to lie to them either," said Elrond. He slowly raised one hand and wrapped a strand of golden hair around his fingertip. "We should discuss our future."
Feeling uncomfortable, Thranduil sipped again. The miruvor was quickly traveling to his head, making him speak freely. "What future? I will return to Mirkwood and you will stay here. All we have is the moment."
Elrond frowned. "It does not have to be that way."
Thranduil quickly emptied his glass, got to his feet, and walked over to the cabinet where he refilled his glass. He seldom drank miruvor, but now craved the rush it would bring. Now that he had found out that Elrond returned his love, he didn't want to lose it again -- but losing the half-Elf was inevitable.
Worried, Elrond rose and joined Thranduil. "What is really troubling you?" He placed his glass on the table and then rested his hands on the blond's hips, turning him around so they were facing each other.
"I do not want to live without you," admitted Thranduil, breathlessly. "I have been alone for so long. Now that I have tasted love again I do not want to go without it."
Elrond's eyes filled with love and understanding. "I never realized how much I hurt you."
Thranduil's gaze dropped. "First I lost you, then my father, and I only led one third of my people home. Death quickly became a constant in my life and I wished you were still there with me. But I had lost you as well."
Elrond led Thranduil to the bed, where they sat down. "What happened next?"
"I grieved for everyone and everything I had lost. I was afraid I would follow my father to Mandos, but then Aewithôn entered my life. She was like a refreshing breeze, when I felt suffocated. I tried to push her away, but she stopped me. Her persistence warmed my heart and I began to greatly care about her.
It was never passion; what Aewithôn and I shared was more of a spiritual nature. She gave me two sons. Valthoron, my oldest took after her, but Legolas... He reminds me of myself when I was much younger, but he is more confident, and wiser than I ever was."
"I am glad you found comfort in her arms," offered Elrond.
"When I began to court her I told her about you. My love for you. I still wonder if that was a mistake. She spent the rest of her life living in your shadow."
Elrond's gaze dropped. "I am sorry."
"We found happiness in seeing our sons grow up," continued Thranduil, "but after several millennia she realized she could not win over a ghost. My heart never fully belonged to her. Mentally tired and emotionally exhausted, she told me she needed to rest. She sailed for Valinor the day after Legolas reached his majority. We still mourn her departure."
Elrond grew saddened, hearing Thranduil's tale. "I do not know what to say."
"There is nothing to say," said Thranduil, shrugging his shoulders. "I find comfort in the thought that she is happy now." After this emotional bloodletting, Thranduil emptied his glass again, enjoying the dizzy sensation that now swept through his head. The warmth that spread through his body finally relaxed his tense and cramped muscles. "Must we speak of this?"
Seeing the unfocused expression in Thranduil's eyes, Elrond took hold of the blond's empty glass and placed it on the floor. "You have had enough." He wanted to discuss something important and needed Thranduil clear-headed.
Thranduil now stared at his empty hands, lying idly in his lap. Elrond's heart contracted with sympathy. "I want to discuss our future because I have this idea..."
"What idea?" Sighing dejectedly, Thranduil reluctantly met the half-Elf's eyes.
"My sons are old enough to rule Imladris. It is time they accepted their responsibilities -- and your sons are capable of ruling Mirkwood. We could spend a year in Imladris and the next in Mirkwood. That way we could stay together. What do you think?" Elrond paused, seeing the stunned disbelief in Thranduil's feline eyes. "I mean it, nîn glaur. This does not have to end when you return to Mirkwood."
"You would come with me and live with me in Mirkwood? I cannot let you make such a sacrifice." Suddenly realizing how close Elrond was, the urge to kiss the half-Elf's lips overwhelmed him. "By Elbereth, I need you." The wine made him bold and he leaned in, claiming Elrond's lips and possessively wrapping his arms around the half-Elf. "I want you so badly," he breathed into his lover's mouth.
A pang of arousal swept through Elrond's body, pooling in his groin. Growing erect, he let himself fall back onto the bed and Thranduil straddled him within seconds, eagerly rubbing his erection against him. This was what he had dreamt of; a possessive and an eager Thranduil. "Take me, nîn glaur. Make love to me."
The look Thranduil directed at him, made goose flesh appear all over his body. Never before had the blond looked this predatorily at him. Suddenly Thranduil bowed forward, brutally claiming his lips and forcing himself a way past his teeth to explore his mouth. It had been like this with Gil-galad, and now that Thranduil was acting in the same way his entire body felt on fire. "Please take me..." He wasn't beyond begging at this time. His erection throbbed painfully and he couldn't wait to feel his lover move inside him.
Elrond's eagerness urged Thranduil on. Drunk on the miruvor, it was easier to let go and try new things. His hand stole inside Elrond's robes, quickly unbuttoning them until he could push them aside. Staring at Elrond's smooth, hairless chest and slender hips, he pinched a nipple and then rolled the hard flesh between his fingertips. The moan that left the half-Elf's lips went straight to his groin. "Now, I want you now."
"You have me," moaned Elrond, blissfully. Thranduil continued to remove his robes and he sighed, relieved when his erection was freed from its confines. But he stopped the blond when Thranduil wanted to remove his clothes as well. "Now."
Thranduil was too enraptured to question Elrond's demand. He unlaced his breeches, pushed aside any cloth that was in the way and searched for anything he could use to ease his way inside. Elrond, moaning and reaching frantically for him, seemed frustrated with the delay, so he explained. "Do you have anything I can use?"
Elrond understood and pointed at the vial of oil on the nightstand, which he usually rubbed onto his skin after taking a bath. "That will do. And now hurry!" He raised his hips, urging Thranduil on.
Thranduil took hold of the vial and generously coated his erection with the slippery oil. Had he been thinking rationally he would have stopped to prepare his lover, but the need to be one with the half-Elf was overwhelming. He parted his lover's legs, knelt between them and then draped the long legs over his shoulders. With one hand he gathered Elrond's wrists and brought them together above the half-Elf's head.
Elrond's member twitched with excitement. "Aiya, take me! I cannot wait any longer!" The fact that he was completely at Thranduil's mercy thrilled him. Although he could easily free his hands, he didn't, showing the blond how much he appreciated the fact that he was taking control of the situation. "Please..."
Thranduil surrendered to the overpowering urge to bury himself in Elrond's body and positioned himself at the tight opening. Locking eyes with the dark-haired half-Elf, he waited for Elrond to nod and then pushed inside.
Elrond released a choked yelp as the invasive feeling grew. Pain and pleasure mixed and danced through his body. "More... Deeper!"
Thranduil growled possessively and looked at their joined bodies now that his erection was disappearing into the tight channel. With one grunt, that erupted from deeply within his throat, his heavy balls slapped against Elrond's buttocks, burying himself completely. Staring down at the trapped half-Elf, he maintained his hold on Elrond's wrists.
Throwing back his head, he pulled out, and then pushed inside again. Both groaned in pleased surprise and Thranduil slightly changed the angle of his thrusts. He aimed for his lover's sweet spot, hoping to ease Elrond's discomfort, which had finally registered in his lust filled brain.
Pushing back, Elrond stared at the blond in rapture. His wildest dream was quickly becoming true and he screamed his pleasure when Thranduil's thrusts became harder and deeper. Abandoned to the thrusts, he pushed back. His own erection dripped pre-ejaculate, but he couldn't touch himself now that Thranduil had a tight hold on his wrists. "Please..." he whimpered again when the golden-haired Elf's thrusts shoved him over the bed toward the head end. The force of Thranduil's thrusts increased and Elrond moaned deliriously when his erection twitched again, this time releasing warm cream. His pupils dilated, realizing Thranduil had stopped thrusting.
Thranduil bowed his head, succumbing to the intense ecstasy that now washed over him. Elrond's inner muscle contracted around him, milking him dry.
The long, golden locks touching his bare chest were torment and ecstasy at the same time, making Elrond groan. Finally their gazes met and Thranduil instantly released his wrists, staring at him in disbelief. Elrond quickly brought up his arms behind the blond's back and pulled him close, wrapping his legs around his waist, all to make sure Thranduil didn't pull out yet.
Finally realizing he had allowed his urges to control him, Thranduil stared at Elrond in disbelief. "What did I do?"
"You made love to me," said Elrond, teasingly. "And I loved it."
"You did?" Thranduil frowned. "But..."
"I came, didn't I?" Elrond soothingly stroked the golden locks. "I need to confess something... I like it when you take control."
"You do?" Thranduil's eyes had widened in surprise. "But I did not prepare you properly and—"
Elrond's fingers now trailed down the long hair, slipped into Thranduil's robes and effortlessly located one hard nipple, which he pinched teasingly, secretly hoping the blond would grow hard again whilst still inside him. "Will you make love to me again, nîn glaur?" Using his hold on Thranduil, he pulled the Elf close enough to kiss him.
Thranduil groaned when Elrond kissed him hard. What was the half-Elf doing to him? Elrond, rolling one of his nipples between his fingertips, sucked on the tip of his tongue and... "What?" he panted the word, realizing he was growing hard again. "I am still inside you..."
"Then take me again."
"You will be sore."
"I do not mind," whispered Elrond, slowly rocking his hips. "Not as long as you make love to me."
Unable to deny Elrond, Thranduil planted a passionate kiss on the half-Elf's lips. "Then I will make love to you until the day we die."
Beta read by Ilye, thanks! All remaining mistakes are mine! (Yeah, I am greedy!)
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