Title: By the Grace of the Valar
Author: Morgana
Author's Email:
Web page: http://www.paranoid.nl/avalon
Pairings; Elrond/Celebrían, Erestor/Glorfindel, Lómion/Ereinion, Melpomaen/Legolas, Elladan/Lindir, Elrohir/Ecthelion and Celach/Landiant (two OMC’s)
Overall rating: NC-17
Summary: Glorfindel makes his own choice and realizes how deep his love for
Erestor really goes. They find peace and happiness. Elrohir, Elladan, Elrond,
Lindir and Ecthelion return to Imladris.
Disclaimer: Not mine, Tolkien’s.
Warning: AU of course!
Author’s Note: Completely AU. Plus, I am taking huge liberties with Erestor, Námo and his wife, Vairë. This story has the timeline from Hell, so you are warned!
Beta reading, translations and research by Patricia Pleasant, thanks! I couldn’t have written this story without your help! All remaining mistakes are mine.
By the Grace of the Valar
Part 15
A surge of energy swept through Erestor, revealing that one of the living had entered the Halls and not just someone, but Glorfindel.
Vairë, who was still weaving, looked at her son. “Your beloved Glorfindel has returned to the Halls.”
Erestor nodded, still dumbfounded that Glorfindel would do something like that. “But why?”
“Knowing your father, he will summon you within the next few moments and then you will learn why. You had better mentally prepare yourself for a confrontation.” Vairë smiled at Erestor and concentrated on her weaving once more. She had always known that her husband would find a way to make things in Erestor’s life right again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Glorfindel swallowed, nervously, finding himself in the main hall again. Next to him stood Ecthelion, looking equally nervous. They had every reason to be nervous, as they had broken several rules and didn’t know how Námo would react to that. But it was too late now to reconsider, and he didn’t want to change his plans. He was here to fight for Erestor’s love and to return Ecthelion to the living. With Erestor’s help he would achieve both goals.
Ecthelion was extremely nervous, finding himself standing in front of Námo’s throne. The comfortable chair stood on a pedestal and often held the Doomsman’s form. “We did not think this through.”
Glorfindel nodded. “I will improvise.”
Glorfindel’s words didn’t reassure Ecthelion, who was about to propose a certain strategy in order to deal with Námo, but then the Vala appeared behind the chair, giving them a stern look. Námo didn’t look pleased and Ecthelion prepared for a lecture, but at the same time he knew the Vala well enough to realize that they weren’t in any real danger. Námo had a good heart and only punished the ones who really deserved it. “My lord,” said Ecthelion, bowing deeply.
“I always knew you were trouble, Ecthelion,” replied Námo, stepping away from the chair and approaching the Lord of the Fountain. “What were you thinking, sneaking out of my Halls and entering the land of the living?”
Ecthelion straightened his shoulders and faced the Vala. “I love him, my Lord. That is the only justification I can give you. I love Elrohir and I cannot bear being separated from him.”
“You are still separated from him,” said Námo, whose expression and tone was neutral. “For you cannot touch.”
“Maybe I can change that?” Glorfindel was determined to risk it all. After all, what did he have to lose? Nothing! He had already lost Erestor!
“You?” Námo’s gaze shifted from Ecthelion to Glorfindel. “Do you have any idea how much pain you caused my son in the past? And now you appear here in my Halls without being invited?” Námo sensed how his wife and son entered the hall, but they remained hidden in the shadow. Vairë knew it was best not to meddle in his affairs, and Erestor felt too hesitant to engage in this conversation just yet.
Erestor stared at Glorfindel in disbelief. He simply couldn’t believe that the blond Elf had returned to the Halls out of his own accord! Why?
Glorfindel’s eyes shadowed over with regret. “I understand that I hurt him and I apologize for rejecting him. Now that I remember everything, I have been able to work through the feelings of betrayal, which I felt back then. I do not hate him any more. I understand that making such a decision was hard on him and that it was hard on him yesterday.”
Impressed, Námo nodded once. “Continue.”
Glorfindel straightened and seemed to grow by several inches. “I am here to propose a pact.”
Erestor was growing nervous, as he didn’t know what his beloved’s plans were. He was about to step away from the shadows when his mother placed a hand on his shoulder, keeping him in place.
“You see, my Lord, Erestor offered his life in return for Elrohir. But Elrohir has fallen in love and lost his heart to Ecthelion – who is dead. Which leaves us with a dilemma.”
“Us?” said Námo, amused, and raising an eyebrow.
“Aye, us. I have given this matter ample thought and have found a solution. Ecthelion desires to be with Elrohir and for that to happen, he would have to be reborn. He would have to live again. I – on the other hand – desire to dwell in these Halls, because that it where Erestor is. I know he is not pleased with me at the moment, but I would like a chance to prove my love to him. The deal I propose is simple, my Lord. Take my life and give it to Ecthelion.”
Erestor could no longer remain quiet and shook off his mother’s hand. “Nay, Ada1, do not accept his offer!” He left the safety of the shadows and joined them.
Námo raised an eyebrow – this was the moment he had been waiting for. “Why shouldn’t I accept, Erestor?”
“Because I do not want Glorfindel to die! His zest for life, his energy – they attracted me to him. I remember the way he was when he walked these Halls. When he was dead he was nothing but a shell!” Erestor regretted speaking those words, seeing Ecthelion’s crestfallen expression, and he realized that by advising his father in that way, he had taken away the soul’s last hope.
“Do not listen to him,” said Glorfindel, smiling fondly at Erestor, as he realized he still had his beloved’s love. “It is a small sacrifice to make, for I want Ecthelion and Elrohir to have a chance at love.”
“
“This is a most serious problem,” said Vairë, who came to stand at her husband’s side. “One of the living cannot dwell here for a long time. For Glorfindel to stay, he must be dead.”
Three pairs of eyes fastened on Námo. “And now you are looking toward me for a solution?”
“You must make a choice,” said Erestor. “This time it is *your* decision that will shape our existence.”
Námo already knew what his decision would be, as he knew Eru’s will. “You will accept whatever decision I make?”
Glorfindel swallowed hard. “I beg of you, do not separate Elrohir and Ecthelion.” His first thought had been to ask the mighty Vala to have mercy on Erestor and him, but he had learned the act of self-sacrifice from Erestor and he had learned it well.
Námo shared a look with his wife and then, his thoughts. Vairë’s eyes lit up with pleasure and approval and her reaction gave Erestor hope. Just what had his parents decided?
“Eru’s will shall be done.”
With those words, spoken by the Doomsman of the Valar, their fate took shape.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Vexed, Elrond paced Círdan’s library. What was he to do? Lindir and Elladan were eager to return to Imladris, but his other son sat on the balcony and was lost to him. No matter what he said, what he did, Elrohir wouldn’t talk to him. And now Glorfindel had disappeared as well!
“You have every reason to be worried,” said Círdan, upon entering the library. “But have you considered that your hands are tied and that all you can do now is to wait?”
“Wait? What for?” Elrond threw his arms toward the heavens. “I do not understand what went wrong! I thought everything had turned out rather well after leaving the Halls of Waiting, but Elrohir…” His eyes sought out his youngest son, who was intently scanning the horizon. “What is he looking for? Waiting for?”
“I overheard some of the things he said earlier when we thought he was talking to the air.” Círdan seated himself and watched the nervous half-Elf take up pacing once more. “He was talking to Ecthelion.”
“Ecthelion?” Elrond came to a halt and stared at Círdan. “But Ecthelion is dead!” Then he frowned, remembering something. “Ecthelion was there with Elrohir. They were holding hands…” Could it be that…?
“Can it be that he found love in the Halls of Waiting?” asked the Shipwright.
“Everything happened very fast and I did not really listen to what he was saying. I was too thrilled to have him in my arms again.” Elrond shivered. “No good can come from this for Elrohir belongs to the living…” His eyes widened dramatically. “Oh, no, he cannot be contemplating ending his life in order to be with Ecthelion again!”
Círdan shrugged. “From what you told me I gather that Elrohir did not want to return to the land of the living.”
“Oh, Erestor… Was your sacrifice in vain?” Elrond’s heart urged him to seek out his youngest son and to talk to him. “Would you excuse me?”
Círdan nodded once. “Of course.” The Shipwright watched Elrond march out of the room. He could only hope that there would be a happy ending to this story.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Elrohir? May I sit with you?” asked Elrond in a soft voice. His son seemed mesmerized and unresponsive and therefore he didn’t really expect an answer. But then Elrohir nodded; the fact that his son was reacting to him gave him new hope. He sat down, cross-legged, and joined Elrohir in searching the horizon. “What are we looking for?”
“White sails.” Elrohir didn’t know why this thought obsessed him, but he somehow knew that a ship with white sails would bring Ecthelion home – if the Valar allowed Ecthelion to return to Arda, that was. If they didn’t, he would take his life and join Ecthelion in the Halls.
“Who will be on board?” Elrond carefully folded an arm around his son and pulled him close. To his relief, Elrohir allowed it, leaned in, and rested his body against him.
“Ecthelion.”
Hearing that name confirmed Elrond’s suspicions. “Did you fall in love with him?”
“Whilst you were away, I found several objects in my rooms which belonged to Ecthelion. I did not know it at the time, but Námo was already acquainting me with Ecthelion.” He lifted his head and locked gazes with his father. “My death was quick and painless. Ecthelion caught my soul when I began to fall and the moment our souls touched, we knew. We knew we belonged together.”
It was as if an iron fist squeezed the life out of Elrond’s heart, hearing that. “You long for him?”
“I won’t lie to you,
Elrond knew exactly what Elrohir was saying, but then something else registered with him. “If Glorfindel fails?”
“Glorfindel returned to the Halls to offer his life in exchange for Ecthelion’s.”
“But…” That meant Glorfindel was lost to them as well! Elrond’s head reeled.
“Sails!” Elrohir jumped to his feet and scanned the horizon. “White sails!” A ship with white sails had appeared in the distance, urging Elrohir into action, who promptly left the balcony and ran toward the harbor.
Elrond wondered what this meant, but then he followed Elrohir down to the harbor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The ship was unmanned, no one was needed to steer it to the Gray Havens and it only carried one passenger, who was to be returned to Arda.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elrohir’s heart thundered in his chest and he was panting hard by the time he reached the harbor. The ship had found its resting place in the harbor and Elrohir’s sharp eyes made out the form of one dark-haired Elf. Unable to wait for Ecthelion to come to him, he jumped onto the deck and ran toward his beloved.
From a distance, Elrond watched on. He felt rather confused, seeing Elrohir shower the stranger’s face with butterfly kisses and parts of their conversation reached him.
“You are alive!” Elrohir watched Ecthelion draw in oxygen and saw veins moving beneath the skin’s surface. “You are alive!”
Ecthelion was still trying to accept his unexpected return to life and hugged Elrohir close. Elrohir felt warm against him and whilst holding him, Ecthelion lost the battle to keep back his tears.
“Why are you crying?”
“Those are tears of happiness. I never thought… never believed Glorfindel’s plan would work.” Ecthelion nuzzled Elrohir’s neck, savoring the half-Elf’s musky scent. “We are alive, meleth2. We both are.” A part of him still couldn’t believe that this was really happening!
Elrond, who had kept his distance until now, also stepped onto the deck. Was this really Ecthelion, Lord of the Fountain? He coughed, diplomatically announcing his arrival.
Elrohir smiled into Ecthelion’s dark hair and then pulled away so he could introduce his father. “Meleth, this is my father, Elrond Half-Elven.”
Ecthelion felt nervous, meeting his beloved’s father under such odd circumstances. “Lord Elrond… My name is Ecthelion and I love your son.”
Elrond blinked. “You are Ecthelion? Lord of the Fountain?”
“Aye, I am.” Ecthelion’s gaze was drawn to Elrohir’s hand, when the half-Elf curled his fingers around his. “Your son and I met in the Halls of Waiting and we fell in love. In time, I will ask for your blessing so that we may bind.”
“I…” Elrond shook his head. It was too much. Everything was happening so fast! And then, he remembered the deal Elrohir had mentioned. “Where is Glorfindel? I do not see him on board.”
Ecthelion’s eyes grew shadowed. “I do not know what happened to him, my Lord. The last time I saw Glorfindel, we were in the Halls of Waiting and Námo was about to decide what to do with Glorfindel’s proposal. The next moment, I found myself on this ship, taking me to the Gray Havens – and to Elrohir, my love.”
Elrond felt worried – deeply worried. “You are alive again, Ecthelion, which can only mean that Námo accepted the terms of this arrangement. If you are alive, then Glorfindel must be dead.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Glorfindel and Erestor were tightly holding hands, finding themselves not only facing Námo, but Manwë as well. The Valar were locked in conversation and, unfortunately enough, they couldn’t hear a single word they were saying. “What do you think will happen?” asked Glorfindel, feeling anxious.
Erestor reassuringly squeezed Glorfindel’s hand. “I have faith in my father.”
Those words reminded Glorfindel of something very important. “You belong to the Valar.” Awed, he stared at his lover. “And I never noticed a thing.”
“I was careful.” Erestor smiled, sweetly. He leaned in closer and stole a kiss from Glorfindel’s lips, who sighed into the kiss. “I love you,” whispered Erestor in a moment of complete surrender. “I will always love you.”
Glorfindel’s heart seemed to have gained wings and fluttered madly in his chest. “I love you, Erestor, and I will never desert you again. I've learned from my mistakes.”
The Valar had seemingly reached an understanding and turned to face Erestor and Glorfindel.
“We will accept your ruling,” said Erestor, showing his trust in the Valar. At his side, he felt Glorfindel shift, nervously. Apparently his lover didn’t put as much trust in them as he did. “All will be well,” he whispered into Glorfindel’s ear.
Realizing he had no choice in this matter, Glorfindel nodded once and tightened his hold on Erestor’s hand.
Námo gave his son a fond smile. “We have reached a decision.”
Manwë continued. “You will spend one half of an Elven year in Imladris and the other half here.”
“Here, meaning the Halls and Lórien’s gardens,” added Námo. “As Glorfindel remains alive he cannot dwell in the Halls for long. You will visit the gardens regularly, where you can take in new life energy.”
Glorfindel couldn’t believe they were this lucky. “You won’t separate us? Punish us?”
“Punish my own son?” Námo pretended being insulted and raised an eyebrow. “I only want what is best for Erestor.”
Erestor smiled at his father. “You reached a very wise decision. Thank you.” He had already realized that they would have the best of both worlds. Turning toward Glorfindel, he said, “Do you understand what they are giving us? We will see Arwen grow up. We will bear witness to Elrohir and Ecthelion’s love. We will be there when Elladan and Lindir bind, officially. We will have all that.”
“And the gardens are a lovely place. You will even have company there,” said Námo. “Ereinion and Lómion need to grow accustomed to having company or else the change will be too traumatic, when they join the Elves living on the shores of Valinor.”
Erestor loved the way Glorfindel’s azure eyes came to life at hearing such good news.
“And I will remain alive?” asked the blond Elf.
“Aye,” replied Námo. “I see no reason why I should take your life.”
“Only one question remains,” said Manwë. “Do you prefer to spend the first half of the year in Imladris or here?”
”Imladris,” said Erestor and Glorfindel in one voice. They chuckled and then
Erestor explained. “We should reassure them that all is well. They will be
worried, as Glorfindel and I simply disappeared.”
Námo and Manwë looked at each other and then nodded once. “We will transport you to the Gray Havens, as Elrond’s party still dwells there. You can join them on their journey to Imladris.”
“Thank you,
Námo laughed, warmly, and returned his son’s hug. “I always told you to have faith in me, didn’t I?”
Erestor nodded and after pressing a chaste kiss onto his father’s brow, he let
go.
Glorfindel, feeling rather giddy due to his relief, grabbed
Námo tight and hugged him. “You do not mind if I call you
Erestor smiled, seeing his father’s rather confused expression. Aye, it had been worth it. Making all those sacrifices had been worth it, for he had found true love. Glorfindel now knew who he was and accepted him just the way he was – with his bad decisions and his flaws. They could truly be called lovers now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Elrohir?” Elladan blinked, wondering if his mind was playing tricks on him. Was Elrohir really kissing a stranger? He grabbed hold of Lindir’s hand, needing his beloved at his side.
Elrohir looked into his twin’s direction, hearing Elladan’s surprise in his voice. He smiled at Lindir and inclined his head in respect. “I think you already know the love of my heart?”
Lindir nodded, feeling totally baffled. “Ecthelion? But…”
“Ecthelion?” Elladan moistened his suddenly dry lips. “But…”
“The Valar allowed me to return to Arda.” Ecthelion let go of Elrohir and buried his old friend, Lindir, in a hug. “It is good to see you again – and this time in the land of the living.”
Lindir closed his eyes and rested his head against Ecthelion’s shoulder. The warrior’s scent hadn’t changed and the body still felt firm and muscular. “Welcome back to Arda, meldir3.”
“Elrohir?” Elladan had seldom felt this confused!
“Come with me, tôr4, and I will explain everything to you.” Elrohir took Elladan’s hand in his, and after exchanging a look with Ecthelion, he guided his twin to the harbor, where they would find a quiet place. There, he would tell his twin his story.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elladan stared at his twin in shock. “You did what?”
“Ecthelion and I are lovers, and in time, we will bind. It looks like having children will be left to Arwen,” said Elrohir, cheekily. “Are you happy for me, tôr?”
“I… Elrohir, I need some time to understand what you told me… It is not every day that the dead come alive again and… Oh, I did not mean it like that!” Elladan was angry with himself for putting the look of misery back into Elrohir’s eyes. “I know you died… and that I should have let you go, but I couldn’t. I do not know how to explain it, but the time to let you go had not come yet. And I am happy that you found a love of your own… It is just… It is Ecthelion and he died in Gondolin… I…”
Elrohir reached out and rested a hand on his brother’s trembling shoulder. “I understand, tôr. It is a lot to take in.” Elrohir moistened his lips, suddenly feeling nervous as he was about to address something equally important. “We share a connection, Elladan.”
Elladan nodded once. “When it was severed I thought I would die.”
“You do realize what this means? When we make our choice…”
“Elrohir, we already made our choice, didn’t we?” said Elladan in a comforting voice. “I chose to belong to the Firstborn because of Lindir. He belongs to the Firstborn and thus…” Elrohir interrupted him and he allowed it.
“Now that Ecthelion has joined the living again, my choice is clear as well. I choose to belong to the Firstborn.”
“We will make our parents very happy,” said Elladan, giving Elrohir a beaming smile. “They always hoped for us to choose immortality.”
“We should find our father and tell him,” decided Elrohir, who pulled Elladan along with him. A time of peace and happiness was upon them – a time to explore love and deepen their relationships.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elrond cried tears of happiness after learning about his sons’ choices. He hugged them for some time and then told them to seek out their respective lovers, as he needed a moment for himself. During these last few days he had experienced so many emotions, and they had ranged from the deepest, darkest despair to ecstatic happiness. It was simply too much – he needed Celebrían at his side. Tomorrow, they would leave for Imladris.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That night, two forms entered the Gray Havens and headed for Círdan’s house. They knocked, announced themselves to the servant, and were then lead into the Shipwright’s study. When Círdan joined them the bearded Elf wasn’t alone – Elrond was accompanying him. The two Elves had been talking deep into the night, and when the servant had given Círdan the name of the new arrivals, Elrond had insisted he joined them.
Looking at Glorfindel and Erestor, a great sense of joy overwhelmed Elrond, who hugged the blond Elf first. “I thought the Valar would demand your death and that I would never see you again, meldir.”
Glorfindel returned the embrace, touched that Elrond cared this much for him. In the many years during which he had served Elrond, he had always felt part of the half-Elf’s family and Elrond’s emotional welcome, now, only confirmed that. He had much to tell Elrond, but that had to wait until later. “I am well,” Glorfindel whispered, feeling Elrond tremble against him. “And so is Erestor.”
Elrond pulled away and drew in a deep breath to compose himself. Once he felt in control of his emotions, his eyes sought out Erestor. “You kept many things from me.” Elrond walked over to Erestor and offered him a careful hug, always keeping in mind that he wasn’t dealing with an ordinary Elf.
“My hands were tied, Elrond. I could not tell you who I was.”
“But I know who you are now…” Elrond searched Erestor’s eyes. “And the rest also knows about your real identity.”
Erestor nodded. “I must admit to being surprised. I thought my father would lock those memories from your minds, but I am glad he did not. It means I no longer have to pretend I am someone I am not.”
“I cannot believe everything turned out so well,” whispered Elrond, who quickly sat down, as his knees were giving out on him. He had been through an awful lot these last few days.
In his best ‘Chief Advisor’s’ voice, Erestor said, “You, my Lord, need rest.”
“I will get all the rest I need when we are back in Imladris.” Oh, he couldn’t wait to return home and reunite his family!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ecthelion had removed his cloak, boots and shirt and stood in front of the open window. The soft breeze, warm and slightly salty, smelled of the Sea and Ecthelion smiled, as he was at peace with himself. He had waited to find his true love for millennia and he had almost given up hope that he would ever find Elrohir. And then, in his very own way, Elrohir had found him.
It was strange, how his existence had changed. He vividly remembered being dead, being lonely and full of despair. All that had changed. He was alive once more, his heart beat with love and his body wondered what making love would be like. Back in Gondolin, he had always wondered about the sated smile that would appear on Glorfindel’s face after his friends had been together in that way. Would it be that way for him too?
Elrohir’s breath caught in admiration, seeing the wind move Ecthelion’s hair until it danced against the broad back. The breeze ran over the exposed chest and its gentle touch had already teased nipples into hardness. Elrohir licked his lips, realizing how much he wanted to make love to Ecthelion, to finally bind them. He had planned to humor his father, who would prefer for them to bind in words before they would become one in body, but he found he couldn’t carry on in chastity. Ecthelion and he had been through a lot and he needed to feel Ecthelion’s love for him. So, Elrohir walked up to his lover and embraced him from behind. “I love you,” whispered Elrohir into Ecthelion’s right ear and then kissed the nape of the warrior’s neck. “I have waited for you for so long.”
Ecthelion closed his eyes in bliss, feeling Elrohir rub his naked chest against his back. “I love you, Elrohir. And I have also waited long.”
“Much too long.” Elrohir buried a hand in Ecthelion’s dark tresses and pressed kisses down his lover’s throat. “Will you make love with me tonight?”
Ecthelion quavered and parts of him that had been dormant for millennia began to wake. “I am not experienced in the art of love, Elrohir.”
“Neither am I, but I trust you know the basics?”
“It would be hard not to know them when you lived around Erestor and Glorfindel for years,” said Ecthelion, jokingly. He turned into the embrace and looked Elrohir in the eye. The half-Elf’s pupils had dilated with lust and a fine film of sweat had appeared on Elrohir’s brow. Although Elrohir still wore his leggings, the half-Elf’s arousal pressed clearly against him and he was hard himself.
“Come to bed, meleth.” Elrohir pulled Ecthelion along until they stood in front of the bed. “Let me undress you.”
Ecthelion shivered with anticipation, feeling Elrohir’s fingers dip beneath the waistband and then easing his leggings down. His erection eagerly bobbed free.
Elrohir grinned and seductively ran his tongue along his top lip. “Oh, my, you are…” Ecthelion was definitely well-endowed, something he most definitely approved of. /It also answers the question who goes on top – you, meleth./ Elrohir quickly removed his leggings. Now that both Elves were naked, they took in each other’s form.
Ecthelion possessed the body of a well-trained, muscular warrior and Elrohir practically drooled, seeing Ecthelion involuntarily flex his muscles.
Being so closely watched, made Ecthelion feel somewhat nervous. Instead of looking Elrohir in the eye, he focused on the half-Elf’s body. Elrohir was built for speed, not for power. His long legs were muscular, but had contained their natural grace. Elrohir also was slightly smaller, and when Ecthelion leaned in for a kiss, he found the height difference worked in his advantage. Elrohir leaned back and Ecthelion established firm control of the kiss. His hands moved over his lover’s soft skin, exploring all sensitive areas. To his delight, he soon had Elrohir moaning and thrusting against him.
“Claim me,” whispered Elrohir, eyes heavy with lust and passion. He pulled Ecthelion along, when he sat down on the bed. Lying down, he pulled his lover atop of him and wrapped his long legs around the warrior’s frame. “I want you.”
Ecthelion was eager to please and would assume whatever role in bed Elrohir assigned him to. “Do we have anything to help me ease in?”
Elrohir nodded, and reached for a vial of oil he had found in the bathroom. “Will this do?”
Ecthelion swallowed, nervously, finally realizing what they were about to do. He had waited his entire life for this moment. He placed the vial on the bed and ran his fingers through the long, dark hair. “You are beautiful, Elrohir. I have waited long for you, but I do not regret it. My reward is most satisfactory.”
Elrohir felt completely at ease around Ecthelion. During his first life, he had always expected to feel nervous and clumsy when making love for the first time, but with Ecthelion everything felt right. “I just wished the Valar had brought us together millennia ago.”
“I had to wait for you to be born,” whispered Ecthelion, who placed possessive kisses down Elrohir’s throat. His lips moved downward and encountered a hardened nipple. Licking it, he smiled, hearing Elrohir purr beneath him. “We will be bound after this night. Is that what you want?”
“Do you need to ask?” Elrohir was growing frustrated; didn’t Ecthelion know by now what he really wanted? “I was ready to take my life in order to be with you…Oh!” Ecthelion’s lips had found a new target area and closed around the slippery head of his erection.
Inexperienced at this act, Ecthelion was careful not to take in too much of the twitching flesh. Elrohir tasted of liquid fire and the half-Elf vocally welcomed each new caress. Moans, groans and soft yelps burned Ecthelion’s veins and he reached for the vial of oil. He had wanted to make this last, but the way Elrohir moved beneath him and moaned under his touch was pushing him toward the edge.
Elrohir’s eyes widened in surprise, as one slick finger touched the entrance to his body. Suddenly the act was becoming very real and his thoughts raced. “Wait.”
Ecthelion groaned, but did as he was told. He pulled away and looked to Elrohir for an explanation. Had the half-Elf changed his mind?
“Would you mind changing positions?”
Ecthelion felt relieved. He would stop whenever Elrohir wanted him to, but his body was screaming for release. “What position do you have in mind?” He shifted away from Elrohir and watched how the half-Elf rolled onto his stomach. A moment later, Elrohir raised himself on all fours and parted his legs. The mere sight almost made him come and he squeezed hard at the base of his erection.
Seeing the effect he was having on his lover, Elrohir grinned, wickedly. “Like this?”
“As you wish.” Ecthelion ran his hands over the firm mounds of flesh in front of him. He parted them and added more oil to his fingers.
Elrohir bowed his head and rested his brow on his forearms.
The slick sensation was incredible and he eagerly pushed back. “Oh, yes…”
Ecthelion suddenly realized something about his lover. Elrohir was a *very* vocal lover, moaning, groaning and whispering encouragement when necessary. That realization only served to arouse him even further.
“Two… I want two,” instructed Elrohir, who realized he was the one in control.
Ecthelion complied, added more oil, and inserted two fingers into the loosening passage. Moving them about, one fingertip rubbed across a nub inside the passage and Elrohir pushed back with a vengeance.
“Yes!” Elrohir looked over his shoulder at Ecthelion. “Do that again!”
Ecthelion rubbed the nub again and found Elrohir firmly pushing back onto his fingers. “Are you ready for me, then?”
“Oh, more than ready! I will come if you do not claim me now!” Elrohir grabbed hold of the bed posts. “Do it!”
Ecthelion took himself into hand and positioned himself at the slick entrance. Leaning in closer, he pressed a kiss onto Elrohir’s shoulder blade and whilst sheathing himself, he suckled the skin there.
Elrohir’s fingers clawed the bed posts. He threw back his head and howled in ecstasy. Ecthelion plunged the last bit in and Elrohir quivered with delight. Ecthelion was well-endowed and filled him completely. Never before had the sense of belonging been so strong. Not with Elladan – with no one. The connection Ecthelion and he now shared was of a sensual nature and even stronger than the emotional link he had with his twin. “Oh yes… yes…”
Ecthelion placed his hands on either side of Elrohir’s hips and remained motionless, savoring the tight glove surrounding him. He leaned in, and kissed his way down Elrohir’s spine, keeping still, not delivering even a single thrust yet.
“Oh, please… please… move… I need you… I need to feel you… Move!” Growing impatient, Elrohir tried to push back, but the large and powerful warrior’s hands kept him in place. Frustrated, he stared at Ecthelion from over his shoulder. “Take me!”
Ecthelion finally relented and delivered a first, deep stroke. The tip of his erection rubbed against the gland inside Elrohir’s passage, and hearing Elrohir mew softly heightened his lust.
Elrohir’s eyes filled with pleasure, feeling Ecthelion’s thrusts speed up. They became deep, possessive and in those moments, he belonged to Ecthelion. Ecthelion’s hands moved over his body; one hand came to rest against the nape of his neck and the strong fingers massaged the skin there. Ecthelion’s other hand found its way into his dark tresses and the fingers twined in the locks, using his long hair as reins to ride him. Elrohir pushed back, went with the rhythm, which catapulted him to completion. Warm cream erupted from the slit and splashed against his stomach. Panting hard, he continued to move with Ecthelion.
Ecthelion had never experienced anything so divine before.
The passion with which Elrohir reacted to his thrusts drove him over the edge,
and when his lover’s inner muscle contracted around him, he cried out. He
reached completion with his lover’s name on his lips. “Elrohir!”
The lovers collapsed and Ecthelion ended up atop of Elrohir. They were panting softly and Ecthelion nuzzled his lover’s neck, leaving passionate kisses on the skin. “You surprised me, meleth.” He had expected their lovemaking to be mellow and gentle, and instead, Elrohir had made him lose control by allowing him to ride him in that way.
“You are mine now,” said Elrohir, rolling away from underneath Ecthelion until they lay face to face. “And I plan on using you on a daily bases.”
Ecthelion laughed and buried Elrohir in his powerful arms. “I will gladly serve you in whatever capacity you see fit.”
The laughter, teasing and play slowly ended, as they looked into each other’s eyes. They were bound now. The two Elves were alone no more – they had each other for eternity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Glorfindel? Erestor?” Elrohir was the first to run toward them. Lindir, Elladan and Ecthelion halted, not expecting to see the Vala among them. Elrond rubbed his mare’s nose and watched Elrohir bury first Glorfindel, and then Erestor in a hug.
Elrohir’s eyes sought out Erestor’s, and the half-Elf reminded himself that he wasn’t dealing with his old tutor – this was the son of Námo and Vairë. Erestor belonged to the Valar. Awed, he moistened his lips in an attempt to find the right words.
“Mae govannen5, pen neth6,” whispered Erestor in an amused tone. “I take it you missed me?”
Elrohir glared at Erestor. “What did you think you were doing? I was happy being dead! You did not have to make such a sacrifice!”
Erestor’s gaze was soft and understanding. “I had to make that decision.”
Glorfindel nodded once and said, “That decision opened my eyes and then seeing Ecthelion’s dedication to you, Elrohir, made me see that I needed to prove my love to Erestor.”
Elrohir still looked unconvinced and Erestor added, “Look at it in this way. Glorfindel received a chance to prove his love. He was willing to sacrifice his life in order to be with me.”
“And because of that, the Valar decided to return me to life,” said Ecthelion, who had come to a standstill beside Elrohir.
Elrohir nodded, but his expression still remained unconvinced. “Ecthelion being returned to the living was the best thing that could happen.” He would have joined Ecthelion in death and dwelt in the Halls of Waiting forevermore, but he preferred being alive and dwelling in Imladris. “Are you coming home with us?” asked Elrohir.
Erestor cleared his throat, realizing he still needed to tell his friends something very important. “Aye, Glorfindel and I will stay with you for the next half year.”
“And then what?” asked Elrond, sensing that Erestor was keeping something from them.
“Manwë ruled that we have to spend part of the year in the Halls of Waiting and in Lórien’s gardens. And we accepted,” explained Glorfindel.
Elrond understood; a bargain had been struck and Glorfindel and Erestor had agreed. “We should make the best of that time then.” Elrond mounted and the others followed the half-Elf’s example.
Círdan appeared in the doorway and raised his hand in goodbye. This story had a happy ending after all!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Celebrían ran toward the arriving party, relieved to have her family back at home.
Elrond, unable to remain on horseback, jumped onto the courtyard and ran toward his wife. He caught her in his arms and whirled her around. Kissing her lips, he pressed her close and deeply inhaled her flowery scent. “We are back, Melethril 7. We are all back.”
Elrohir dismounted next and joined his parents, wrapping his arms around his mother.
Elrond released his wife and stepped back, watching mother and son being reunited. Tears appeared in his eyes – tears of happiness. For one moment, an ugly memory intruded on the happy scene, as he remembered how his wife and he had seen to his son’s corpse. He pushed that awful memory away and enjoyed having his family together again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Later on, during dinner, the whole household had assembled in the Hall of Fire to welcome Elrohir back home. At the head table sat Elrond and Celebrían, Elladan with Lindir at his side, and Elrohir, who was holding hands with Ecthelion beneath the table. Glorfindel and Erestor hadn’t joined them yet.
Prior to joining the rest of the household they had discussed the revelations concerning Erestor. They had informed Celebrían that Erestor belonged to the Valar, and the she-Elf had been stunned to hear this. She also planned to thank Erestor for bringing back her son.
Finding Ecthelion at Elrohir’s side had also stunned Celebrían. She had heard many tales of the fabled warrior and was baffled to see the Lord of the Fountain holding hands with her son. But, accepting his presence had been remarkably easy, seeing the love he held for Elrohir in his eyes.
Her family had two new members – Lindir and Ecthelion – and she hoped that the two Elves would make her sons very happy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Glorfindel threw back his head, buried himself to the hilt and growled, possessively. Erestor and he had only planned to take a quick bath to remove the dirt of the road, but desire had overwhelmed them, and he had placed Erestor against the wall, guiding his hands against the tiles. Standing behind him, he had claimed his lover, savoring the way he could make one of the Valar beg for release.
Erestor, spent and exhausted, leaned back. Glorfindel’s arms settled around his waist, supporting him, and he rested the back of his head against the blond Elf’s shoulder. “You were forceful, melethron8.”
“You did not seem to mind.” Glorfindel kissed Erestor and grinned.
“Why the grin?” asked Erestor, the moment Glorfindel had released his lips.
“I made love to one of the Valar… I made you tremble and beg… Your body belongs to me, meleth.”
Erestor laughed, seeing the teasing expression in the azure eyes. “Oh, you feel smug now! Just wait until I turn the tables tonight.”
“Is that a promise?”
“A threat…”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
During the next few days, life returned to normal in Imladris for as much as possible with Celebrían and Elrond busy making arrangements for Elladan’s binding ceremony to Lindir. They had suggested Elrohir and Ecthelion also take part in that ceremony, but whilst blushing, Elrohir had told his parents that he was already bound in body to Ecthelion and that they preferred not to draw much attention to their situation. That left Elladan and Lindir at the center of everyone’s attention.
The upcoming celebration allowed Erestor to fade back into the background and he took up his normal routine. The only obvious change was the fact that Glorfindel’s grin had become even more smug than normal.
Glorfindel’s smug grin was in place when he made his round over the training grounds. He was back in his element now – training the guards and overseeing their sparring matches. He found one pair in the middle of training, which he really didn’t expect to see. Celach was sparring with Landiant and the two Elves moved with elegance and confidence. Interested in their potential, Glorfindel sat down on the grass and watched them spar.
Observing them, Glorfindel realized there was tension between the two Elves and that tension was of a sexual nature. He had seen it often enough in Erestor to recognize it now. /Celach and Landiant? That spells trouble. They will have a hard time finding a way being together as Landiant will shortly return to Mirkwood./
The two sparring Elves ended their match, growing aware of Glorfindel watching them.
Celach smiled at Glorfindel. They had been friends for many years and he had long stopped calling Glorfindel by his title. “It is good to have you back. The guards were complaining that they didn’t like the rosters I had made.” During Glorfindel’s absence he had taken over some of the Captain’s tasks.
“Ah, that way they will appreciate my return even more,” said Glorfindel, giving Celach a wink. “I see you have been busy during my absence?”
Celach fought the urge to blush. “I have befriended Landiant, aye.”
Glorfindel’s eyebrow inched higher. “Did you befriend him? Or did you do more?”
“Glorfindel!” Feeling embarrassed, Celach lowered his eyes.
“You saved his life once, didn’t you?” asked Glorfindel.
“Aye, he did,” replied Landiant. “And I am grateful that I found him. I had almost given up hope that I would ever find my savior.”
“Does Thranduil know your savior belongs to the Noldor?” inquired Glorfindel, who got to his feet again.
“Aye, he does… When he first learned of this fact, he was rather annoyed, but that has changed. I believe he would be grateful as well, meeting my savior.”
“Ah, so you plan on abducting Celach to Mirkwood then? I must say that would not please me as I would lose one of my best warriors.” Glorfindel grinned at Landiant, taking the sting out of his words.
“What?” Celach looked at Landiant in surprise. They had built a solid friendship since Landiant’s arrival, and were still discussing their future. Neither had they been intimate yet. Glorfindel’s words therefore took him by surprise.
Landiant had the grace to blush. “I cannot deny that the thought crossed my mind.” Why did Glorfindel have to mention that? He had wanted to suggest this in a few years, once they were secure in their love!
“You plan on taking me to Mirkwood?” Celach shook his head in disbelief. He hadn’t realized how serious Landiant took this attraction! Hadn’t they agreed to take things slowly? Had not *Landiant* insisted that they take this slowly and not bind until they had found a solution to their dilemma?
“It was only an idea and I would not have suggested it just yet.” Landiant shuffled his feet. “Glorfindel, why did you have to mention that?”
Glorfindel quickly excused himself. “I apologize… I think it is best for me to leave now.” He had only wanted to help and had been certain that the two Elves had discussed this. Otherwise he would never have mentioned it. He quickly left, leaving Celach and Landiant to talk in private.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Celeborn has accepted the invitation to witness the binding ceremony…” said Erestor in a thoughtful tone. “There is no mention of the Lady Galadriel joining him.”
Celebrían, seated on a rug in front of Elrond’s desk, looked up and met her husband’s questioning gaze. “I am not surprised,” she said. “Mother has become reclusive and is unwilling to leave the Golden Wood.”
Erestor placed the letter aside and cocked his head. “I will arrange for guest quarters for Celeborn.”
Celebrían nodded once. She had hoped against all odds that her mother would join them, but she should have known better.
“How about Thranduil? Did he accept?” inquired Elrond.
Erestor searched through the papers until he encountered the letter he was looking for. “Aye, and Legolas and Melpomaen will accompany him.”
“It will be good to speak with Melpomaen again,” whispered Elrond. He knew the younger Elf was happy in Mirkwood with Legolas, but Melpomaen would always remain a part of his family here in Imladris.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Landiant? I thought…” They had waited to discuss this matter until they had reached Celach’s rooms. Now that they had their privacy, the Noldorin Elf studied the Mirkwood Captain. “I thought you wanted to take this slow.”
Landiant looked embarrassed. “I did not plan on asking you just yet.” He knelt behind Celach, who was seated on the bed. “But I have been thinking about our future. I can never turn my back on Thranduil and Mirkwood. I am Captain there and needed.”
Celach released a deep breath. “It would be the most logical solution,” he admitted. “And I would leave Imladris for you, but this comes unexpectedly. You *do* understand that, don’t you?”
Landiant nodded. “There is something else we need to discuss.” Trying to ease Celach’s worries, he placed a kiss on the temple of the dark-haired Elf’s head. “I received word from my King. Thranduil will come to Imladris to witness Elladan’s binding ceremony. When he returns home again, he will want me to accompany him.”
Celach swallowed hard. “When will he arrive?”
“Within the next two weeks.”
“Then our time here is limited.”
“Only if…” Landiant bowed his head, as he couldn’t say the words just yet.
“Only if I deny you and decide to stay here in Imladris.” Celach looked Landiant in the eye. “You really want me to stay with you?”
“I do…” Landiant moistened his lips. “Do not decide yet. Think everything over. We still have two, maybe three weeks left to reach a decision.”
“I will consider your proposal very carefully.” Celach ran a hand through Landiant’s golden hair. /I love you, Landiant. And I am not certain I can live without you. Maybe I will have to accept your proposal. If we do not find another solution I will have to follow you to Mirkwood./
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next two weeks passed by quickly. Imladris was covered
in a thick blanket of snow by the time the guests began arriving. They were
taken to the guest quarters and when Celeborn’s arrival was announced,
Celebrían rushed toward her father, carrying Arwen in her arms. “
Celeborn jumped onto the courtyard and caught his daughter and granddaughter in his arms. His eyes sparkled, seeing his daughter this happy. He had been devastated, hearing Elrohir had died on a patrol, and hadn’t known what to make of it when the news had come that both twins had safely returned to the Last Homely House. In the end, he had simply accepted the fact that his youngest grandson had been spared. “You look absolutely radiant, sell 9!” He giggled, hearing Arwen call his name. “And you look beautiful too, pen neth!” Arwen managed to climb into his arms and Celeborn rocked her.
Elrond hurried to welcome his father-in-law. He had been caught up with some last moment details concerning the binding ceremony and had noticed Celeborn’s arrival too late. “I am happy you managed to join us. Your presence here means much to us.”
Celeborn gave Arwen a wink, and she burst into giggles,
seeing him pull one strange face after another. She raised her arms and wrapped
them around Celeborn – her favorite grandfather. “You are funny!”
“I am glad I pleased you, pen neth!” Celeborn carried Arwen whilst they entered the Last Homely House. “It is crowded here.” Everywhere he looked he saw Elves, busy and stressing to get everything ready in time.
“The ceremony is tomorrow. We need to get everything right,” explained Elrond.
“My Lord! My Lord! King Thranduil!” Celach, who had been on guard duty, hurried over to Elrond’s side. “He will arrive within minutes!”
“Oh, let us welcome him then.” Celeborn’s eyes twinkled, tickling Arwen’s side. The Elfling giggled and banged her tiny hands against Celeborn’s chest. “Oh, you are too strong for me! Have mercy!” called out Celeborn. Arwen’s reaction was to stop pounding him and to go back to hugging him. The party of Elves headed outside again, and awaited Thranduil’s arrival.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“There is something you are not telling me,” mumbled Thranduil, staring at Landiant, who had welcomed him at Imladris’ borders. “There is something different about you.” His Captain practically radiated happiness. “What happened?”
Legolas felt equally puzzled, as he also saw the change in his old friend. Exchanging a look with Melpomaen, he asked, “What do you make of it?”
Melpomaen cocked his head and then said, “Love.”
“Love?” Legolas frowned, but then realized his beloved could have reached the right decision.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Oh, just look at Melpomaen,” said Glorfindel, amused, when he joined Elrond and his family. The Mirkwood party was now approaching and a bright smile appeared on Glorfindel’s face, seeing Melpomaen dressed in Mirkwood’s greens and browns. The former advisor and scribe now looked comfortable seated on his horse’s back. Gone was the unease and insecurity. “He has become a true Woodland Elf.”
Erestor elbowed his lover in the side. “Behave yourself… No remarks that would make Melpomaen feel embarrassed.”
“I will try,” whispered Glorfindel, rubbing his side and giving Erestor a displeased look.
“Thranduil, you are very welcome here in Imladris,” said Elrond, extending his hand in friendship.
Thranduil took it and shook it. “It is good to be back – better than I thought.”
A frown appeared on Celebrían’s face. “You did not bring Elluin with you?”
Thranduil managed to smile and blush simultaneously. “Elluin is with child and I thought it best not to take her with me. I feel better knowing her safe at home.”
“With child?” Elrond was pleased to hear this. “There will be a little brother or sister for Legolas, then?”
“A little brother, I hope,” said Legolas, dismounting as well. He locked eyes with Melpomaen and smiled, proudly, seeing his lover elegantly dismount. Melpomaen had become much of a warrior since they had bonded. Thranduil had trained him personally. At first, Melpomaen had been horrified, hearing the King himself planned on training him, but Thranduil had proven to be a very capable and surprisingly patient teacher.
Melpomaen’s smile was warm and radiant, as he leaned in closer to hug Erestor and then Elrond and his family. “You must one day pay us a visit,” he said. At first, living in Mirkwood had terrified him, especially after running into one of their deadly spiders, but he had learned to see the beauty beneath the wildness.
“Someone might take you up on that offer,” said Glorfindel, cryptically, casting a look into Celach’s direction. Judging from Celach’s reaction, Landiant and he still hadn’t reached an agreement.
Arwen, delighted to have more Elves around her, managed to curl her chubby fingers around one of Thranduil’s braids. “Play!”
Celeborn chuckled and tried to convince his granddaughter to let go of the golden hair. “Come on, pen neth, you are not being very polite!”
“What is it with you and Elrond’s children?” asked Legolas, teasingly. He vividly remembered the twins befriending Thranduil during that first visit.
Until that moment Thranduil had managed to ignore Celeborn.
There were still some bad feelings between the two rulers, which stemmed from
the
“Thranduil, the little one wants you.” Celeborn involuntarily held his breath, as he placed Arwen in Thranduil’s arms. How would Thranduil react?
Thranduil opened his arms and caught Arwen, who delighted in pulling at his braids. His green eyes found Celeborn’s hazel ones and he straightened his shoulders. He felt ill at ease, facing the Lord of the Golden Wood. Until now, he had managed to avoid dealing with Celeborn.
“Lord Celeborn, I am honored to finally meet you.” Legolas, sensing his father’s hostility toward Celeborn, acted.
“Prince Legolas, I have heard many tales of your valor and weapons’ skill,” said Celeborn, paying Legolas a compliment.
“May I introduce my husband to you? This is Melpomaen,” said Legolas, proudly presenting his beloved to the Lord of the Golden Wood.
“Melpomaen…” Celeborn recalled the name. “You are a refugee from Lindon and followed Elrond here… Did you not serve him in the capacity of advisor?”
“Aye, my Lord, I did. That was, until Legolas stole me away.”
“You did not mind being stolen,” said Legolas, teasingly putting a kiss on the tip of Melpomaen’s nose.
”We should go inside,” suggested Elrond – the darkening sky would shortly
release rain, or more snow. His wife pulled at his sleeve and he gave her a
surprised look. After a moment’s thought he realized that she worried about
Thranduil looking after Arwen, who was putting knots in the King’s hair.
Remembering the way Thranduil had played with the twins all that time ago, he
soothingly rubbed her hand. “She is in good hands.”
“The best,” whispered Legolas, having overheard Elrond’s words. “My father adores children.” At first, Legolas had been saddened, realizing Thranduil would never have grandchildren, but now that Elluin was with child, Thranduil would have a new child to dote upon. Aye, all was well in Mirkwood.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“I am nervous,” confided Elladan to his twin. “Why did I agree to this in the first place?”
“Because our father asked you to.” Elrohir studied his twin’s appearance and feeling content, he nodded his head once. The ceremony was about to take place and Elladan was dressed in Imladris’ brown and reds, which brought out the warm tones of his eyes and hair.
“Ai, but look at the crowd!” They were standing on the landing and looked out over the assembled crowd. Where had the hundreds of guests come from? “Oh, I wish this was already over with! You definitely did the intelligent thing, binding with Ecthelion in body before promising our father to wait!”
During these last two weeks, Elladan had made his peace with everything that had happened and had made an honest effort to get to know and befriend Ecthelion, in which he had succeeded. Ecthelion and he were on the way to become good friends. He was happy that his twin had found a love of his own, but he was even happier that he had this twin back!
“Elrohir?” Elladan took a step toward his twin and folded his arms around him. He smiled, seeing the blue and silver ribbons that adorned his brother’s hair. “I love you and I am sorry for all the times that I deserted you in order to be with Lindir.”
“You are forgiven,” said Elrohir, chuckling softly. And aye, it was easy to forgive now that he had Ecthelion’s love.
“It is time,” said Erestor, after carefully clearing his throat to announce his presence. “Lindir is waiting for you.”
Elladan drew in a deep breath. This was the moment he had been waiting for – he was going to bind with Lindir.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lindir looked breath-taking in Elladan’s eyes. The minstrel was dressed in soft-green robes, which were lined with white and adorned with blue. The long, white hair had been forced into lover’s braids and the eyes sparkled with life. Although Elladan still felt nervous, he approached his lover and stood beside him when Elrond welcomed them to the Hall of Fire.
Celebrían, standing at her husband’s side, smiled at the younger Elves. Seeing Elladan this happy, made her happy in turn. Dressed in a simple, yet stunning silver-colored gown, she looked radiant at Elrond’s side, who had dressed in his formal robes for this special occasion.
Elrond spoke in a deep, warm voice, addressing the younger couple. “May the place of this rite be consecrated by the Valar. For we gather here in a ritual of love with two who would be wedded. Lindir and Elladan, please come forward and stand here before us.” Elrond smiled, feeling his wife’s hand come to rest upon his shoulder. Standing here, this very moment, he thanked the Valar, and most specifically Námo and Erestor, for returning Elrohir and by doing that, saving Elladan’s life. Had Elrohir not been returned to them, they wouldn’t be celebrating this wedding this very day.
Sensing Elladan’s nervousness, Lindir protectively took hold of his lover’s left hand and rubbed the surprisingly cold fingers. He mouthed, “All will be well,” and earned a hesitant smile as reward. He hadn’t thought Elladan would be so shy.
Elladan took heart, hearing Lindir’s encouraging words. His gaze shifted from Lindir to his parents. His mother smiled beatifically at him and Elladan returned that smile. It was Celebrían who addressed them next.
“Be with us here, Varda.
With your clever fingers
Tie closely the bonds between these two.
Be with us here, Manwë.
Give their love and passion
your own all-consuming ardor
Be with us here, Yavanna.
Give them the deepest of love
and the richness of the body, of the soul and of the spirit.
Be with us here, Tulkas.
Let your strength and constancy
Be theirs for so long as they desire
to remain together
Ilúvatar,
Give to these before you, we do ask
your love and protection.”
A moment of silence rose from the assembled crowd and Erestor sensed the words had reached his kin. Looking to his right, he found his parents had joined them. Námo winked at him, and his mother gave him a content smile. Aye, this love would truly be blessed by the Valar!
Elrond and Celebrían joined hands and raised them, revealing the rings resting on their palms. Celebrían’s voice tingled with warmth, as she continued with the ceremony.
“Place your right hands
over your rings
Elladan’s hand over Lindir’s.
Above you are the stars
below you are the stones
as time does pass
Remember
Like a star should your love be constant
Like a stone should your love be firm
Be close, but not too close
Possess one another, but be understanding
Have patience each with the other
For storms will come, but they will go quickly
Be free in the giving of affection and warmth
Make love often, and be sensuous with one another
Have no fear and let not the ways or words
of the unenlightened give you unease
For the love that you share binds you,
Now and Always.”
Elladan and Lindir exchanged ecstatic looks, and a soft murmur of approval rose from the gathered crowd.
Sensing the couple’s need to make this final, Celebrían asked them the question they had been waiting for.
“Is it your wish, Lindir to become one with Elladan?”
Lindir only managed to answer after swallowing the lump of
emotions that had gathered in his throat. “Aye, it is.”
Celebrían now addressed her son. “Is it your wish, Elladan,
to become one with Lindir?”
“Aye, it is my greatest desire,” replied Elladan, enthusiastically.
Elrond now spoke the final blessing, ending the ceremony. “In the binding of yourselves have you created life anew. Step forth, therefore, into that new life, and rejoice in your love.”
Elladan pulled Lindir close and touched his lips to the minstrel’s, sealing the binding ceremony with a kiss. “I love you,” he whispered into Lindir’s ear. “Always.”
Námo exchanged a pleased look with his son. Whispering, he said, “I got them together, didn’t I?”
Glorfindel, who had been unaware of the Valar’s presence, looked up, hearing Námo’s voice. Stunned, he looked at Námo and Vairë, and he wanted to bow in respect, when he saw Erestor shake his head. Apparently, the Valar wanted to remain unnoticed and not draw attention.
“Aye, you did,” replied Erestor, whispering in turn. He was still amazed that his father’s manipulation had led to so much good!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thranduil watched Landiant for most of the evening, curious to find out what was different about his Captain. In the end, it appeared that Melpomaen was right after all. Landiant was seldom alone; a dark-haired Elf, dressed in a guard’s outfit always remained close. Once or twice, he even saw them holding hands. Thranduil leaned in closer so he could whisper into Melpomaen’s ear. “Pray tell me, who is that Elf at Landiant’s side?”
Melpomaen grinned, seeing his suspicions confirmed. “His name is Celach. He is one of Glorfindel’s confidants. And a fine warrior, if I may add.” And obviously very much in love with Landiant.
Thranduil frowned. “Celach?” He had heard that name before. Landiant had mentioned it to him. Ah, yes, it was the name of the Elf who had saved his Captain on the battlefield. /That might explain it./ It wouldn’t be the first time someone fell in love with his savior. Thranduil also realized the dilemma the two Elves would find themselves in, as he would shortly leave for Mirkwood. /I wonder if my escort will have grown by the time I leave./
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Accepting congratulations and acting friendly was getting hard. Elladan wanted nothing more than to abduct Lindir to their new rooms, which Elrond had kindly assigned them to. He wanted to lay Lindir down on their bed and make him his. Instead, he was stuck shaking hands and thanking his guests for their gifts.
Lindir felt the same way and he scanned the queue, wondering how many more Elves wanted to wish them well. Not so many… only two were left. His eyes narrowed, recognizing them. “Elladan!” he hissed the name, instantly drawing his mate’s attention.
Elladan turned and searched Lindir’s gaze. Next, he followed the direction of his beloved’s stare and he gulped, seeing who were heading toward them. Was it a bad omen to have the Doomsman of the Valar and his wife as wedding guests? “My Lord, my Lady,” he said, hoping his voice sounded calm.
Námo and Vairë made certain that only the Elves who had already seen them before saw them and so they remained invisible to the eyes of most. Vairë inclined her head in greeting and then addressed them. “May your union be blessed.”
“And may it be many millennia before we meet again… I am looking forward to some peace and quiet in my Halls!” added Námo, teasingly.
“We will stay out of harm’s way,” promised Lindir, bowing respectfully. The next moment, he gasped in surprise, as the Valar had faded from view.
Elrond’s voice suddenly echoed in Elladan’s right ear. “The formalities are over and done with. You are free to leave for your rooms, if you desire so.”
Elladan nodded once and grabbed hold of Lindir’s hand. “Finally!”
Lindir allowed his mate to drag him out of the Hall and pretended not to hear the cheering and chuckling that echoed through the Hall at seeing Elladan’s enthusiasm.
“Young love,” said Elrond, fondly.
Celebrían nodded. “Young love indeed.” Her gaze sought out Elrohir and Ecthelion and she smiled, finding them kissing.
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“You are mine now!” Elladan practically tore the clothes from Lindir’s body. “Oh, you have no idea how much I want you! How much I need you!”
Lindir chuckled, as Elladan’s eagerness amused him. He easily gave in when Elladan pushed him onto the bed. Looking up at his mate, he decided he loved the way the gray eyes sparkled. “You could be a bit more careful. I was planning on wearing these robes again.”
“Oh, no, they have to go! They are a most annoying barrier!” Elladan licked his lips, now that his fingers encountered bare skin. He had pushed the robes apart and had bared Lindir’s chest to him. His dark hair fell like a curtain in front of his face, leaning in closer to kiss that precious skin.
Lindir arched his back and watched Elladan do away with the rest of his robes. He laughed, hearing Elladan tear at the lacing of his leggings instead of simply untying it. “Let me, or else I won’t have any clothing left!” He shoved Elladan’s trembling hands out of the way and undid the lacing.
Elladan took charge again and pulled the leggings down Lindir’s legs. “Finally,” he mumbled. “I finally have you to myself.” The minstrel was a divine vision. Firm and muscular in certain places, he still had the makings of the warrior he had once been. Yet, delicate hands rested upon his abdomen, reminding him his mate possessed artistic talent as well.
“You do realize you are still dressed?” said Lindir, teasingly. He raised his hands and undid the buttons of Elladan’s robes. He pushed the robes down Elladan’s shoulders and smiled at his younger lover. “Tell me what you want, meleth.” He thought he saw Elladan’s desire in the gray eyes, but he had to make sure.
“I want you… I want to take you and make you mine,” admitted Elladan in a hoarse voice. He quivered, as Lindir continued to undress him and he shifted, allowing his mate to remove his leggings as well. His erection gained its freedom and eagerly pointed at the minstrel. “Oh, I want you so much!” His only fear was reaching completion before Lindir did and leaving the minstrel behind. “And I want to last long, but I am not certain I can.”
Lindir lay down on his back and pulled Elladan atop of him. The younger half-Elf’s chest was rippling muscle and the arms could easily hold him during their lovemaking. Elladan had been right when he had named himself a warrior at heart. For that was what Elladan was. “There will be other times, meleth. I do not know if I can long last myself… It has been so long since I made love.”
Elladan nodded in understanding and lowered his upper body onto Lindir’s. Now that their lips were close, he caught Lindir’s in a kiss. Rubbing his arousal against Lindir’s abdomen, he wondered if his beloved felt comfortable with being on the receiving end. “Lindir, I… I did not even ask what you desire… Do you wish to take me?”
“In time,” admitted Lindir. “I would like to know you in that way, but tonight, it will be you doing the taking.” It would be best that way, as Elladan was inexperienced in the art of love. It would be easier if Lindir was the one on the receiving end as he didn’t want to accidentally hurt the inexperienced half-Elf.
“I will be gentle with you,” promised Elladan. He knew his strength – his power -- and would be extremely careful. “But first, let me explore.”
Lindir closed his eyes in bliss, feeling Elladan’s lips move down his throat. Lips, which left passionate kisses all over his chest. Just when he thought Elladan would bestow a kiss onto his hard flesh, his lover moved downward and kissed his legs apart. Lindir writhed below Elladan and involuntarily thrust upward. Elladan had been right, he realized. “I want you to claim me… now, Elladan.” He was on the edge himself and as this was Elladan’s first time, his lover wouldn’t last long. They had better do this now!
Elladan licked his lips. “I put oil on the nightstand.”
Lindir reached for the vial and handed it to Elladan. “Would you…?”
“What?” Elladan had removed the stopper and watched Lindir closely.
Lindir drew in a deep breath; he knew what he wanted, but would Elladan indulge him? “Let me.” He took possession of the vial, sat upright and reached for his lover.
Elladan moaned, feeling Lindir’s warm and agile fingers coat his hard flesh with the oil. His eyes sought out Lindir’s and he gasped, seeing the need and desire in them. “What do you need from me? Ask, and I will give it to you.”
Lindir placed the vial aside, grabbed hold of a pillow and placed it beneath his buttocks. “Come here, meleth.” Whilst Elladan moved closer, Lindir raised his legs and rested his ankles on his lover’s shoulders. “Have me.” He was panting at this point. Until now, he hadn’t realized just how much he wanted this – how much he had missed making love. “In one thrust, make me yours.”
Elladan wavered. “Am I not supposed to prepare you?”
“Trust me when I say that I am ready for you.” Lindir reached for his lover’s arousal and guided Elladan’s hard flesh to the entrance of his body. “Please, I want this.”
This wasn’t the way Elladan had thought their first time would be like, but he was eager to please Lindir. He placed his hands on either side of his lover’s body and closed his eyes in bliss, feeling Lindir position himself for penetration.
“Now… I need you now.” Lindir trembled with anticipation. It had been so long since he had made love, that he wanted it to feel as intense as possible! “Claim me with one thrust… You won’t hurt me.”
Elladan’s gaze met Lindir’s, and seeing determination in the blue eyes, he nodded once. He would do whatever his lover wanted. Sliding inside, he encountered some resistance, but Lindir arched his back, and before Elladan knew it, he was buried to the hilt.
“Ah!” There was some pain, but Lindir had expected it and was prepared to undergo it. Aye, this was what he had wanted; he felt claimed, possessed. Finally, he belonged with someone again. “Now, thrust!” Lindir’s fingers clawed at the sheets and he met Elladan’s next thrust when the younger half-Elf delivered a deep stroke, which rubbed against his prostrate. Stars exploded behind his eyelids and he moaned, needing more.
Realizing what Lindir was asking of him, Elladan rose to the challenge and set a deep and slow rhythm. Growling, he drove himself deeper into the tight passage and his lips found Lindir’s lips once more, claiming them in a bruising kiss. He wanted to last long, but couldn’t. His body cried for release and he arched his back and threw back his head, letting go.
Lindir quickly took himself into hand and stroked firmly. The result was that he found completion with Elladan and whilst his lover filled him from the inside, warm cream dripped from his slit.
Elladan relished finding release inside Lindir. His seed had branded Lindir as his. “Oh, I love you so much!” He didn’t want to pull out yet, and as he was still rather hard, he remained inside of his lover.
Lindir smiled, sated, pleased to feel Elladan still inside of him. “You have permission to sneak into my bed whenever you want.”
“Your bed?” Elladan chuckled. “Our bed!”
The chuckling caused vibrations and Lindir moaned, feeling Elladan move inside him. And then he felt something else. Elladan had softened after finding release, but… “You are hard again!”
“I have a lot of years to catch up on,” commented Elladan, teasingly. “And this time, I promise you, that I will last.”
Lindir closed his eyes and quavered, as the pounding started all over again. Oh, he would be sore in the morning! But at the moment, he didn’t mind at all!
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“Celach?” Landiant and Celach had gone for a walk in the garden and Landiant felt somewhat apprehensive as Celach had grown quiet after talking to Thranduil. “What is on your mind?”
Thranduil had thanked him for saving Landiant’s life and the King had also issued an invitation to visit Mirkwood where Thranduil would be his personal host – another way for the King to thank him for saving Landiant. “Mirkwood, Thranduil… you,” replied Celach eventually.
Landiant sucked in his breath. “If you decide to stay here I will understand.”
“I am afraid that staying in Imladris is no longer an option.” Celach came to a halt and looked Landiant in the eye. “I cannot stay here whilst you return to Mirkwood. A separation is not acceptable.”
“But… but then…” Landiant didn’t dare hope he had reached the right conclusion!
“When I travel to Mirkwood it won’t be for a mere visit.”
Landiant moistened his lips. “You will come with me? And live with me in Mirkwood?”
“I do not really have a choice, do I?” said Celach, thoughtfully. “Not if I want to be with you.”
“Oh, I promise you won’t regret reaching that decision!” Landiant kissed him, passionately, and gazed into the hazel eyes. He would make certain that Celach was happy with him in Mirkwood!
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“I am sorry to see you leave again,” said Elrond, honestly. “But I understand why you are eager to return to Mirkwood – to your wife.”
Thranduil inclined his head. “I knew you would understand.” Thranduil’s gaze swept over the members of his escort. Legolas and Melpomaen had already mounted and the only one missing was Landiant. “You are welcome to visit Mirkwood whenever you can, Elrond.”
Elrond smiled; pleased by the way their relationship had improved. What he had never dared to hope was happening; they were becoming friends. “I will take you up on that invitation!”
“Excellent,” said Thranduil, smirking, as he had spotted Landiant. “I will keep an eye on Celach,” he said, wanting Elrond not to worry about the safety of one of his guards.
“Celach?” Frowning, Elrond sought out Glorfindel for answers.
Glorfindel shrugged. “What can I do? I stand helpless against the power of love.”
“Love?” Elrond finally caught sight of Landiant and Celach, who were holding hands. Reaching the right conclusion, he raised a finger and pointed it at Thranduil. “Stop stealing my subjects!”
Thranduil gave Elrond an innocent look. “Stealing? Me? I am not stealing them! Legolas did and now Landiant…” Suddenly, realization sat in. “Oh, I did… I stole Elluin.”
“That is three Imladris’ Elves!” Elrond enjoyed teasing Thranduil. “It is about time I stole an Elf from you.”
“You are welcome to some Mirkwood spiders,” replied Thranduil, maintaining their bantering although he was already steering his horse to the road that would take him home.
“Spiders? I do not want any spiders!” Elrond shook his head in mock annoyance. Fondly, he watched the Mirkwood party disappear from view. “Be safe…” Elrond turned and found Celebrían standing in the doorway, with Arwen safely seated in her arms. He smiled, fondly, and joined his family. The Valar had been kind toward him; his family was intact and love ruled Imladris – as it should.
The end
Thank you, Patricia, for beta reading!!!
1
2 meleth –- love (Sindarin, noun)
3 meldir (sing.) –-“male” friend (Sindarin, noun) mell + dir
4 tôr (sing.) –- brother (Sindarin, noun)
5 Mae govannen –- Well met –- spoken greeting (Sindarin, phrase)
6 pen-neth (sing.) –- young one (Sindarin, noun, pronoun)
7 Melethril –- (fem.) lover (Sindarin, noun)
8 melethron –- (male) lover (Sindarin, noun)
9 sell (sing.) –- daughter (Sindarin, noun)
From the Council of Elrond Quenyan and Sindarin dictionary
Definition of OC names:
Celach – Flowing Flame
Landiant – broad bridge