Title: By the Grace of the Valar

Author: Morgana
Author's Email: morganalebeau@yahoo.com
Web page: http://www.paranoid.nl/avalon

Pairing for this part; Lindir/Ereinion

Rating: NC-17
Summary: Destiny takes its course and Ereinion dies during the Battle of the Last Alliance. Glorfindel returns to Arda and meets with Elrond for the first time. Lindir, Elrond and Glorfindel make their home in Imladris.

Disclaimer: Not mine, Tolkien’s.
Warning: AU of course! This story has the timeline from Hell, so consider yourself warned!

Author’s Note: Completely AU. Plus, I am taking huge liberties with Erestor, Námo and his wife, Vairë.

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 4

Elrond felt nervous, now that he had been invited to have dinner with the High-king. Ereinion was nothing like he had thought the High-King would be like – he liked Ereinion even better than he had hoped he would. Ereinion seemed firmly rooted in the present and down to earth. Two qualities he definitely approved of.

“Lost in thought, Elrond?” Ereinion had come upon his new Herald in the main Hall, where Elrond stood looking out of the window.

Elrond straightened his shoulders, annoyed that Ereinion had caught him off-guard. He turned around and bowed to show his respect.

“Ah, stop bowing to me, Elrond.” Ereinion placed a hand on Elrond’s shoulder and smiled. “I might have to insist on decorum when we are not alone, but in private I prefer to be just Ereinion and not the King.”

That was a most odd thing for the High-King of the Noldor to say, decided Elrond. Behind Ereinion stood Lindir, dressed in warm robes of dark-green velvet, lined with earth-tones. Although he had only met Ereinion and Lindir once before, Elrond realized that these two were seldom apart. What was it that bound the High-King and the minstrel? How long had they been friends? And would they allow him to become their friend as well? Or would they shut him out?

“Join us,” said Lindir, as he walked toward the dining table. He seated himself to Ereinion’s right and gestured Elrond to take his seat at the High-King’s left side. “I trust your rooms are satisfactory?”

Elrond nodded once. “They will serve me well. Thank you.” It struck him as odd that Lindir would inquire about his accommodations – why not Ereinion? His official host?

Ereinion sat down and dismissed the servants. He poured the wine himself and handed first Lindir and then Elrond a goblet filled with the sweet liquid. “May you help us defeat the Evil One,” he said, sipping his wine.

Elrond nodded in agreement. “We will defeat him, sire.”

“My name is Ereinion, not sire.” Ereinion rested the back of his head against the comfort of the chair and then looked at Lindir. It was time they stopped hiding their feelings from each other. Maybe they should start being honest with each other tonight. “No titles are necessary here.”

Lindir smiled, warmly. Ereinion had never wanted to be King. But now that Ereinion *was* the High-King of the Noldor, he performed his duties admirably. Only *he* knew how much toll leadership took on Ereinion. Only in the confines of their rooms could Ereinion show doubt and vulnerability and confide in him.

Lindir had become the High-King’s best friend – the only person, Elf or man that Ereinion could ever completely confide in. A solid connection had formed between them, which they thought of as friendship – but in truth, they had built a very loving relationship.

“Please, eat!” Ereinion, not bothering with utensils, used his fingers to tear the leg off the crab and then began eating the delicious meat.

Elrond raised an eyebrow. “Is that hygienic?”

Ereinion burst out laughing and wiggled an eyebrow. “Does it matter?” He gave Lindir a wink. “I think you are right, meldir¹. Elrond is amusing… and likeable.” To his delight, Elrond grew flustered.

“You should behave yourself, pen-neth²,” said Lindir, addressing Ereinion in that fashion on purpose. “After all, you are supposed to be his King.”

“Pen-neth? Are you that old?” Elrond picked up his fork and used it to transfer the potatoes and fish onto his plate, giving Ereinion an apologetic look.

“I am old enough to call him that. Maybe even too old.” Lindir selected a few pieces of fruit and placed them on his plate, but did not eat them yet. His gaze drifted longingly to the large, ebony harp that stood next to the blazing fire-place.

“Will you play for us?” Ereinion saw the expression in Lindir’s eyes and smiled, encouragingly.

Lindir nodded, rose from his chair, and walked over to the fire-place, where he seated himself behind the harp. He rested the instrument against his shoulder and placed his fingertips on the strings. Lindir drew in a deep breath, closed his eyes, and let the first notes float through the hall. It was a sad melody, and when Lindir raised his voice in song, there was nothing Elrond could do but listen – entranced. Never before had he heard such enthralling beauty in a song!

Ereinion’s eyes slowly filled with tears, listening to the song, which described the terror the inhabitants of Gondolin had felt in those last hours before the city finally fell. Those memories were still hard for Lindir, as the Great Feast was upon them again, and it didn’t surprise him that those emotions came out in the form of such a poignant melody. The nightmares had been strong these last few nights but they would gradually fade until they would surface again next year.

Next year… Would he live to see another year? Sauron’s army was vast and powerful and he had to march shortly. Círdan would be at his side once more, guarding his back. And now he had Elrond to fight at his side as well. From all Elven realms warriors would arrive to support him in this battle. Even the race of Man had offered assistance. But was it enough? Enough to stop Sauron?

His main worry was leaving Lindir to deal with his death. If he fell in battle, Lindir would be cast adrift. Lindir had survived the Fall of Gondolin because the minstrel had found companionship and comfort in his arms, but who would comfort Lindir when he was dead? And would Lindir allow anyone to support him through the ordeal? /I have to survive. I cannot die./

Tears flowed freely from Elrond’s face by the time Lindir had finished his song. He lacked the words to describe the feelings that song had unleashed in him. He had heard many stories about the Fall of Gondolin, but never out of the mouth of someone who had actually been there to witness Morgoth’s attack.

Lindir opened his eyes and his first glance was for Ereinion, reading understanding in the dark eyes – which could shift from gray to brown and back again within seconds. Then, his gaze shifted to Elrond, and he was amazed to find that the half-Elf was openly shedding tears. Had the song moved him so much?

Ereinion rose from his chair and walked over to Elrond. Using the tips of his fingers, he wiped away the half-Elf’s tears. “Maybe something less dramatic next, Lindir?”

Elrond was shocked out of his stupor, feeling the High-King brush away his tears. “Sire, I—“

Ereinion stopped him. “You could not have given Lindir a more heartfelt compliment.”

Elrond blinked – suddenly understanding what Ereinion was saying. “Your song moved me, Master Lindir.”

“My name is Lindir… I am master to no one.” Lindir forced away his dark thoughts concerning the Orcs who had attacked him. This was not the right time to remember the pain and terror they had caused. He managed a smile and let his fingers fly along the strings again, this time singing a song, which spoke of love and dedication. Only he knew it spoke of his love for Ereinion.

At least, that was what Lindir thought. Elrond, who had only known them for a day, already realized the true nature of their relationship. There was love there. Deep and affectionate – supporting and nourishing. Maybe that was the reason why Ereinion had become such a good – such a kind and wise – King? He had heard of such a love – two males being in love with each other – but it was the first time that he actually encountered two Elves in love in that way. Looking at them, he smiled and realized this sort of love was special – really special.

Ereinion, moved by Lindir’s words of love, placed a hand on the minstrel’s shoulder. He wanted to envelop the other Elf in his arms, but then the song would come to an end, and he didn’t want that. He wanted to hear Lindir express his love – for him. /You do not think I know, but I do. I finally figured it out. It took me long enough as it is./ And he was determined not to waste more time than necessary. He would confront Lindir tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Thank you,” said Elrond from the bottom of his heart, although he wasn’t exactly sure what he was thanking them for. Maybe it was because they had allowed him in, had made him feel welcome and had let him bask in their love for each other. He had felt nervous coming here to serve the High-King, but Ereinion had easily befriended him, taking away his anxiety.

“Tomorrow, I will send a servant to take you to my study. Until then, take a bath and rest.”

Elrond bowed and smiled in relief at the High-King. “I am eager to start my work here and help in whatever way I can.” He turned and headed for his rooms, for his long journey had made him weary. Elrond *was* looking forward to spending the night in a decent bed for a change.

Ereinion turned toward Lindir and this time he *did* wrap an arm around the white-haired Elf’s waist. As he had done this several times before, it didn’t draw a surprised reaction from Lindir, who leaned into the embrace. Ereinion inhaled the sweet fragrance of lilies that emanated from Lindir’s hair. He would always associate that scent with his white-haired minstrel.

“I like Elrond,” whispered Lindir, feeling warm and cherished, pressed close against Ereinion.

“I like him too.” Ereinion guided them out of the main hall and back to their rooms. “Are you tired, meldir?” Suddenly, he realized that he wanted to address Lindir in a different way – he wanted to call him his love, which Lindir was. Why had it taken him so long to realize that? The denial and pretense would stop tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“May I?” Ereinion, clad in an evening robe, came to a halt behind Lindir and reached for the brush. Lindir had just taken a bath and washed his hair, and Ereinion wanted to bury his fingers in the white mane.

“Of course.” Ereinion had brushed and braided his hair before and Lindir liked feeling Ereinion’s fingers moving through the long tresses. He relaxed, as Ereinion began to brush his hair and he smiled at the younger Elf, whose reflection he could watch in the mirror. There was something odd about the dark-haired Elf today, but Lindir failed to label the change. “You seem different today.”

Ereinion nodded, fixated on the long hair, which began to glow silver beneath the strokes of the brush. “In all the years that I have known you, you have never taken a lover. Why is that, Lindir?”

That question took Lindir by surprise, but didn’t startle him. Throughout the centuries he had come to unconditionally trust Ereinion and answering such a question – no matter how intimate – didn’t make him feel uncomfortable. “Partly because of the attack I suffered at the hands of those Orcs. Although the memories have dimmed, I still remember the way my friends screamed when they were raped.”

“And?” Ereinion loosely braided Lindir’s hair into one plait. In the past, he had encouraged Lindir to share his feelings, pain and fears, which had lingered after that attack and he had never shied away from addressing the matter. That was also why he knew that Lindir had dealt with that attack. Emotionally, Lindir had recovered.

“And I have never had the opportunity to take a lover.” Now that Ereinion had finished braiding his hair, Lindir rose from the chair and headed for their bed.

Ereinion blinked, suddenly realizing something important for the very first time. “You never had a lover?”

Lindir sat down on the bed, raised his feet, and slipped beneath the covers. He patted the space beside him and waited for Ereinion to join him.

Ereinion complied and stretched beside Lindir, who immediately moved into his arms. Lying facing each other, their gazes met. “Lindir, did I reach the right conclusion? Did you never have a lover?”

Lindir managed a smile. “I once told Erestor that music was the only lover I would ever desire, but I was wrong back then. Music cannot hold me during the night and keep my nightmares away. It cannot inquire how my day was or comfort me when I am sad.” He knew he was giving much away, but he trusted Ereinion – and he loved him, even through Ereinion would never love him back. He would take whatever morsels of love and attention the dark-haired Elf gave him.

“Your words sadden me,” admitted Ereinion. “You are so much older than I am, and to have never known love in that way seems… unfair.”

Lindir raised his right hand and caressed Ereinion’s face. “I could ask you the same thing, meldir. You are the High-King of the Noldor. Your people are waiting for you to take a wife and to sire children. And yet, you are not courting any females. Why is that?” Lindir wished he could lean in closer and taste Ereinion’s lips, but that was only wishful thinking and would never come to pass.

Ereinion had expected that question and was prepared for it. “I am not interested in females, Lindir. I am interested in a particular male Elf.” He wondered how long it would take Lindir to figure out the truth. The way Lindir’s expression darkened told him that his future lover had no idea whom he desired – yet.

“Then why are you here? Still holding me? Shouldn’t you be courting the one you love?” Lindir hadn’t been prepared to find out Ereinion loved someone else. For some reason he had simply assumed that it would always be like this – them living together and sharing a bed. Now he realized he would have to say goodbye to his love shortly.

“I am *trying* to court my beloved. You *do* want me to hold you, don’t you, meleth³?” Ereinion involuntarily sucked in his breath, seeing Lindir’s sky-blue eyes widen. “This cannot really come as a surprise, Lindir. We have been gradually moving in this direction for years.”

“You… Me? You want… to…court… me? Me?” Lindir gasped for breath, as he had never expected to hear this. “But I do not understand!”

Ereinion touched his forehead to Lindir’s and looked deeply into the stunned eyes. “You have loved me for centuries, haven’t you?”

Lindir was helpless, looking into those large eyes and the truth slipped out. “Aye, I fell in love with you during those first weeks. You took such good care of me and you were always there for me. You held me through the night and you sang to me when the nightmares became overwhelming. You supported me – unconditionally – and by doing so, you won my heart.”

Ereinion buried his fingers in Lindir’s long tresses and studied the soft-blue eyes. “I do not know when I fell in love with you, too, meleth. I only know that I did. It happened slowly and unnoticed, but it wasn’t until a few weeks ago that I realized just how much I love you.” Ereinion’s fingertips traced Lindir’s bottom lip in a loving motion. “I have felt conflicted over this for some time. I was not certain I should tell you how I felt. I was fairly sure I knew you returned my feelings, but that dark deed, done by those Orcs, always hovers over our heads. I was not certain you were ready to take this step.”

“What changed your mind?” Lindir’s head still reeled from Ereinion’s admission, but he gladly accepted it. Just when he had thought he should resign himself to this unrequited love, Ereinion seemed to love him back after all.

“Sauron is building his evil forces and we will have to march to war. There will be a battle and many will perish. I will be fighting in the frontline and I might be one of them.” Lindir tensed in his arms and Ereinion tightened his embrace in response. “We cannot close our eyes to that possibility, meleth. It was that realization that made me confront my feelings for you. Do I really want to waste the little time we might have left?”

Lindir nodded in understanding. “Do you really think you might die?”

“It is a very real possibility, one which we should discuss.”

“Oh, why did I never learn how to wield a sword? I would have watched your back.”

A sad smile appeared on Ereinion’s face. “You would sacrifice yourself for me and I do not want that to happen.”

“Aye, I would lay down my life for you,” whispered Lindir, entranced. “I have loved you for so long. I never thought you would return my feelings.” Part of him couldn’t believe this was actually happening; he was afraid this might end up being just a dream. He held his breath, finding Ereinion was moving closer still.

Ereinion rested one hand against the small of the white-haired Elf’s back and he drew in a deep breath before touching his lips to Lindir’s. His fingers undid the loose plait, and then tangled themselves in the white tresses. He draped a leg across Lindir’s thigh, trying to get closer still to his new lover.

Lindir closed his eyes and his toes literally curled from the bliss he was experiencing. He wanted the moment to last forever! The kiss was everything he had hoped it to be – and more. He didn’t want for it to stop, but in the end, they had to pull apart in order to breathe. “I never thought you would ever kiss me,” he said, breathlessly. “I liked it.”

Ereinion found the blush that spread across Lindir’s face absolutely endearing. He hadn’t thought Lindir was still able to look so vulnerable – so incredibly innocent. And he was drawn toward it like a moth to a flame.

“Ereinion? I am not complaining in the least, but this *is* unexpected.” Lindir loved being able to express his feelings for his beloved, but at the same time he felt confused and even worse – incredibly shy and insecure.

Ereinion understood Lindir’s worries for he had anticipated them. Witnessing the foul deeds at the hands of those Orcs had made Lindir hesitant of making love. He had to take this step by step and by doing so, he would hopefully take away Lindir’s fear. “How about kissing and me holding you? How does that sounds?”

“Very inviting and very welcome.” Suddenly, he was very much aware of the fact that he hadn’t donned a night robe before going to bed, as Ereinion’s breath seemingly caressed his bare skin. It started a chain reaction in his groin, causing him to grow hard.

Lindir’s arousal pressed against him and its presence encouraged Ereinion, who instigated another kiss. Lindir wanted him, he was certain of that. Those Orcs hadn’t scarred him for life, for which he felt immensely grateful. “I love you, seron vell ⁴.” Until this very moment, Ereinion hadn’t realized just how much he had wanted to speak those words. He saw the same love he felt for Lindir reflected in the blue eyes – and, if possibly, even more love stared back at him from the depths of Lindir’s soul.

“I never thought I would ever hear you say those words,” admitted Lindir in an emotional voice. “I thank the Valar for granting me your love.”

Ereinion’s thumb brushed against Lindir’s bottom lip. The Noldo cocked his head and whispered against Lindir’s lips, “I would like to go back to kissing you now. Are you agreeable to that?”

“Most agreeable.” Lindir parted his lips and teeth, inviting Ereinion to taste more of him.

Ereinion accepted the invitation and claimed Lindir’s lips, gradually deepening the kiss. /We wasted so many years, meleth. I only hope the Valar will give us time to deepen our love. I do not want us to die untouched – unbound. I want to make you mine./

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next days were filled with council meetings, reading reports on Sauron’s movements, on mustering an army and training rounds. Ereinion and Elrond explored their beginning friendship and fell into an easy routine around each other. On most evenings Elrond would join Lindir and Ereinion for dinner, but sometimes, the two elder Elves desired to dine alone and Elrond would go back to the High-King’s office to look through the latest reports.

Elrond had noticed the deepening love between the minstrel and the King, and although he had felt odd about seeing them in love at first, the feeling had quickly faded and had been replaced by happiness. Lindir and Ereinion were both blossoming under the other Elf’s attention and Elrond felt happy for them.

“Elrond?” Ereinion arched an eyebrow. He had just addressed the half-Elf, but Elrond hadn’t answered him yet. “Elrond? Do you think we need to send out more patrols?”

Elrond shook himself from his musings and looked at the High-King. Ereinion’s dark eyes shone with love and the warrior’s braids the elder Elf usually wore had become lover’s braids instead. It was obvious that Ereinion had no intention of hiding his feelings for Lindir. “Aye, I agree; more patrols are needed.”

Ereinion rose from behind his desk and walked over to the window to take in the evening sky. Lindir was already awaiting him in their chambers and tonight, they would take the next step in exploring their romantic relationship. So far, they had limited themselves to kissing and snuggling. He was content to hold Lindir at night because he knew how much the elder Elf had suffered in the past and refused to pressure Lindir. His main battle tonight would be with Lindir’s memories.

“I am worried, Elrond. The reports concerning Sauron’s army tell of an increasing number of Orcs.”

“Your army is ready to deal with them,” said Elrond in an attempt to reassure his King. “They are well-trained and well-equipped. The blades of their swords will cleave the enemy in two and bring death to Sauron’s army. We are strong, sire.” Elrond smiled, seeing Ereinion arch his eyebrow in disapproval. “I meant Ereinion, of course,” he said, correcting his mistake. The King didn’t like being addressed in a formal manner when it was just the two of them. “But we should begin formulating a plan of attack.”

“You expect the battle to start shortly?” Ereinion knew he had little time left. He had already given the order to be ready to march with little notice.

“A few weeks at the maximum,” replied Elrond. “We might have to march even sooner than that.” An expression of regret appeared on Ereinion’s face and Elrond felt sympathy, understanding what was going on in the elder Elf’s head. “I advise against allowing Lindir to accompany us. He is not trained as a warrior and would make an easy target.”

“I know that.” Ereinion turned, looked Elrond in the eye, and said, “But he insists on accompanying me.”

“Then you should order him to stay behind.”

Ereinion actually chuckled. “You do not know Lindir very well if you think he will obey such an order.”

“But you are his King!”

Ereinion decided to put his trust in Elrond and admitted the truth. “I am also his lover, Elrond. And as my lover, he is determined to be at my side when the battle comes.”

Elrond blushed, delicately. “Sire, I…”

Ereinion brushed his words off. “It is hardly a secret that Lindir and I are lovers, Elrond. You must have reached that conclusion shortly after your arrival.”

“I did,” admitted Elrond. “And I am rejoicing because my King is happy.”

“Happy,” mumbled Ereinion. How much time to be *happy* had he left? Resolutely, he walked toward the doorway. “Lindir and I won’t be joining you for dinner tonight,” he said, whilst opening the door.

“I understand,” replied Elrond. Ereinion cast him a probing look and Elrond nodded once. He *really* understood – the lovers needed to spend some quality time together, as they didn’t have much time left to begin with.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ereinion found Lindir in the bathroom, rubbing scented oil onto his skin. The minstrel had just taken a bath and the entire room was filled with the fragrance of lilies. “I missed having you close today. There were too many meetings, too many reports to read…” Ereinion walked toward Lindir, who gave him a radiant smile.

Lindir had expected Ereinion to join him, but not this early. Not that he minded, but he had hoped to get a little more time to deal with his nervousness. For tonight, they would take the next step in their relationship. “The water is still warm… Do you want to take a bath too?”

“Will you wash my hair?” Ereinion was already in the process of removing his robes. He slipped out of his boots and stepped into the pool, sitting down on the stool carved into the stone.

Lindir knelt close to Ereinion’s head and gathered the long, dark mane in his hands. “Tell me about today. Are their any new developments?”

Ereinion sighed, enjoying the feel of Lindir’s nimble fingers massaging his scalp. Whilst updating his lover in an absent-minded tone, he focused on the sensations raging through his body at Lindir’s touch. He had grown hard and would have pulled Lindir into the water with him, but he told himself to be patient instead.

A few minutes later, he rose and left the pool, sporting an erection.

Ereinion’s aroused state furthered Lindir’s nervousness. He bent down to collect a towel and then dried his lover’s skin. “I am nervous,” he admitted, breathlessly.

“But you are also aroused.” Ereinion’s hands caressed his lover’s chest, very much aware of the hard flesh that now pressed against his thigh. “We have discussed this before… Do you still want to continue?”

Lindir moistened his dry lips and then nodded once. “Aye.” Ereinion pulled him close and Lindir brought his arms up behind his lover’s back. Their erections touched and rubbed together, sending waves of pleasure through their bodies.

Ereinion smiled, pressed a kiss on Lindir’s throat, and guided his lover into the bedroom. “Sit down.”

Lindir complied and sat down on the bed. Ereinion stood before him in his naked glory and his lover’s erection twitched eagerly. In the back of his mind the memories of that faithful attack tried to surface, but he fought them back.

Ereinion slowly went down on his knees in front of Lindir and then nudged his lover’s knees apart. He moved closer and was now safely settled between his lover’s thighs. “Lie back.” He had thought this over very carefully, intent as he was on making Lindir’s first romantic experience most pleasurable.

Trusting Ereinion to take good care of him, Lindir did. He lay down on his back and yelped softly, feeling Ereinion’s hands pull him even closer to the High-King.

Ereinion felt honored that Lindir trusted him and bent down to perform this task for his beloved. One hand stayed in place beneath his lover’s buttocks and he shifted Lindir until he had the best access to his lover’s throbbing arousal. He wrapped the fingers of his other hand around the base of Lindir’s erection and stroked the hard flesh for the very first time, eliciting a moan from Lindir’s parted lips.

Lindir managed to lift his head a little to find out Ereinion’s intentions, and his eyes widened, seeing his lover’s tongue swirl across the head of his erection. “Oh…” He fell back onto the mattress and his fingers buried themselves in the fabric of the silk sheet.

Ereinion grinned, smugly, tasting his lover for the first time. Lindir bucked in response and more of his lover’s length slipped inside his mouth. New at this, Ereinion gulped, but managed to continue the oral caress without gagging. He wrapped his tongue around the tip of Lindir’s member and sucked ever so slightly.

Lindir had closed his eyes in bliss and writhed on the bed. Not even in his wildest dreams had he thought it would feel like this!

“Let go,” whispered Ereinion, briefly letting the wet flesh slip from his mouth. “Let go, Lindir. You trust me and I will take care of your needs.” For one moment, Lindir’s eyes opened, their gazes met, and he read his lover’s permission to do as he pleased in the dilated pupils.

Lindir arched his back upon the return of that liquid heat, which now engulfed his arousal. Ereinion surprised him by swallowing him whole and increasing the pace of his strokes. His thoughts raced around finding release and when he felt a probing finger at the entrance to his body, he didn’t shy back from the intimate touch. “Please… allow me to come…”

“Not yet, meleth.” Ereinion had planned this seduction carefully and would not stray from his path. After lavishing the tip of Lindir’s shaft, he softly blew against it. Lindir bucked, hard, and Ereinion took that as the sign that his lover was close. He took in Lindir’s length again and when that first thrust came, he went with it. At the same time, he inserted more of his oiled digit. Soon, he had found the right rhythm and with every thrust Lindir performed, he penetrated his lover deeper until he finally brushed the spot he had been searching for.

Lindir’s eyes opened in rapture, his groin tightened, and he spent himself in Ereinion’s mouth. He pressed down on Ereinion’s finger and the sensation intensified tenfold.

Ereinion groaned, swallowed his lover’s seed and quivered over his entire body. Feeling and seeing Lindir find release had made him come in turn. Riding out the waves of pleasure, he was forced to keep his digit inside Lindir’s convulsing passage, as there was no way he could pull out now that these contractions were keeping his finger firmly in place.

Eventually, Lindir came down from the orgasmic high and grew aware of the fact that Ereinion’s finger was still locked inside his body. Lifting his head, their gazes met. Ereinion and he had discussed all possibilities of making love, and his beloved *had* told him that he desired to take him. Until now, Lindir had been reluctant to consider that, remembering the pain his friends had been in when those Orcs had entered them. “It is nothing like I thought it would be.”

Ereinion smiled. “I am glad I pleased you.” He was about to remove his digit when he saw Lindir frown and then shake his head. “What is it, meleth?”

Lindir licked his lips. He knew how males made love, but until now he had been afraid to be the one on the receiving end. “Can we explore this further?”

“Now?” Ereinion frowned. “Do you not wish to rest?”

“I am not tired.” Lindir wiggled slightly and gasped, as Ereinion’s fingertip brushed the gland in his passage yet again. “Add more oil and then return with two fingers?” He felt glad they had discussed this in detail – he knew what to expect, and what to do in order for them to make love.

“Are you certain?” Ereinion felt hesitant to comply. “I found release as well and there is no need for us to continue this now.” But he read the truth in Lindir’s eyes – his lover knew how very limited their time was.

“Please… Do not make me beg.”

A lump of emotions had formed in Ereinion’s throat and he swallowed in an effort to rid himself of them. Lindir’s taste remained in his mouth and made him realize he *did* want more.

Lindir groaned when Ereinion removed his finger. He watched with interest as his lover added more oil to the two digits. “Do it.”

Ereinion, growing uncomfortable with the position he was in, crawled onto the bed. “Lindir, meleth, I need to know… Do you want us to bind or… only to explore a bit further?”

“I want us to bind,” said Lindir, finally realizing the truth. “I have wanted you for so long.”

Ereinion’s heart pounded madly in his chest. “Then trust me to make this good for you.”

Lindir nodded and smiled. The memories weren’t surfacing, weren’t causing him to fear making love to Ereinion. They had discussed positions and Ereinion had told him which one would be best the first time they made love. So, Lindir shifted onto his side and pulled his knees close to his chest. “Make me yours…”

Ereinion spooned behind Lindir. He was eager to please his beloved and to bind himself to the white-haired Elf. Soon, war would be upon them, and he wanted to have known Lindir in this way – wanted to be bound to his lover. “Are you certain you want to do it in this way? You could go on top, meleth.”

“I am too nervous to do that…” He wanted Ereinion to take care of him and to trust himself to his beloved. “Make me feel your love.”

Spooning closer, Ereinion hoped he wouldn’t disappoint his lover. Fortunately, Lindir was relaxed after having reached orgasm, and Ereinion’s fingers easily glided inside. Remembering he had to stretch his lover, he made scissoring movements inside the loosening passage. “I love you so much, Lindir. I can no longer live without you. I need you at my side.”

Lindir raised his head and looked at his lover from over his shoulder. Ereinion’s pupils had dilated with lust and the dark-haired Elf panted – the warm exhales of breath caressing the tip of his ear. “I love you too, Ereinion. I fell in love with you so long ago. You saved me back then. You kept me sane. You kept my heart open and warm.”

Ereinion added more oil and returned with three fingers. Hearing Lindir groan at the intrusion, he placed butterfly kisses on his lover’s neck and throat. He continued to whisper words of love and undying dedication. “Lindir, are you happy?”

“I am,” replied Lindir, wondering about that question. Pressing back, Ereinion’s fingertips returned to massaging that spot inside him and his member grew aroused again. “Now,” he panted, hard.

Ereinion felt the time was right as well. “Soon... We will be one soon, melethron⁵.”

Lindir groaned. Ereinion slowly pushed inside, and he was grateful for the slow pace, which allowed him to grow used to the bulk little by little. More kisses and endearments reached his ear and Lindir began to feel feverish on Ereinion’s love.

Buried to the hilt inside Lindir’s body, Ereinion limited himself to drawing in only shallow breaths. “Are you in any discomfort?”

“Nay…” Lindir experimentally wiggled, gasping when he realized just how well-endowed his lover felt now that he was sheathed inside his body. He was about to take himself into hand and bring himself to orgasm when Ereinion wrapped his fingers around his flesh instead.

“Let me do this.” Ereinion had dreamt of this moment and he wanted them to find release together.

Lindir complied and closed his eyes. His lover’s first thrust was shallow, but unexpected, and made him groan. Ereinion stroked his flesh in time with his thrusts and soon Lindir’s head was reeling. Abandoned to Ereinion’s thrusts, he surrendered to the ecstasy, which slowly pushed him toward orgasm.

Having found release only moments ago made Ereinion last longer. He suckled the skin of Lindir’s shoulder and began to set a more forceful rhythm. Lindir moaned, keenly, and the sound caused Ereinion’s blood to grow hotter. Afraid he might injure Lindir by setting this frantic pace, he grabbed hold of his lover and rolled onto his back.

Lindir’s eyes opened with a start, feeling Ereinion move unexpectedly and he found himself upright, straddling his lover’s waist with Ereinion on his back beneath him. Facing away from his lover, and unable to make eye contact, made Lindir feel confused. But then Ereinion’s voice came to him.

“Ride, Lindir… Ride!” Ereinion placed his hands on Lindir’s hips and practically lifted the white-haired Elf off of his shaft.

Finally realizing Ereinion’s intention, Lindir impaled himself – slowly, but determinedly.

Ereinion panted hard at this point and thrust forcefully. Seeing Lindir move of his own accord fueled his lust and he buried his hands in the white mane, which caressed his skin every time Lindir’s buttocks met his lap. Skin moved against skin, sweat formed on their bodies and it was hard to tell who possessed whom.

Suddenly Lindir’s inner muscle contracted around him, making Ereinion scream out his lover’s name.

Lindir’s eyes widened, finding release at the same time as his lover. Warm cream filled him from the inside and made him sway.

Ereinion quickly steadied his lover and thrust upward one last time.

Unable to remain upright any longer, Lindir collapsed. Falling backward, his back came to rest atop Ereinion’s chest and his lover quickly wrapped his arms around him.

Ereinion held Lindir close, relishing the fact that he was still hard and thus able to stay inside his beloved a little longer.

Lindir’s head spun and his body hummed with release. When Ereinion’s member finally softened and slipped from his body, he felt the loss sharply.

Ereinion assisted Lindir in turning around, and now that they were face to face, they smiled at each other.

Lindir wrapped arms and legs around his King and rested his chin on Ereinion’s chest so he could look at him. They were sticky all over, but that mattered little right now. “You made love to me.”

“And you made love to me.” Ereinion brushed a stray strand of white hair back behind Lindir’s pointed ear. “Will you allow me to make love to you again in the morning?”

Lindir chuckled – he actually felt liberated now that he had faced his fears and had allowed Ereinion to claim him. “Who says I will allow you to take me in the morning? Maybe I will want to take you instead? What do you say, sire?”

Ereinion’s eyes sparkled at hearing such a challenge. “You want to possess a King, master-minstrel?”

“Does my King want to be possessed?”

Oh, he would have grown hard again if he’d had the energy left, but he couldn’t. Lindir had worn him out. “Aye, your King wants to be possessed. Ravage me in the morning?”

“I will,” said Lindir, happily snuggling up to his beloved. “I will have my wicked way with you.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

One of the royal guards entered the King’s study, saluted, and addressed the half-Elf he found there. “My Lord Elrond?”

Elrond looked up from the report he was reading and gave the guard a curious look. He could tell by looking at the soldier’s expression that something unsettling had happened. Was it related to Sauron? “What has happened?”

“Three visitors have unexpectedly arrived and request an audience with you, my Lord.”

/With me? Not with Ereinion?/ Elrond placed the report onto the desk and rose from his chair. “Who are these visitors?”

“Their names are Mithrandir, Círdan the Shipwright, and the third one… He introduced himself as Glorfindel of Gondolin.”

Elrond’s eyes narrowed. “The Lord of the House of the Golden Flower died when Gondolin fell. It cannot be him.”

“I did not believe this information at first either, but Mithrandir and Círdan confirmed his identity, my Lord.”

Elrond was curious to meet all three of them. He had heard many tales concerning the legendary Shipwright and was curious to meet an Elf who had also known his parents. He had never met Mithrandir before and wondered what it would be like to stand before one of the Istari. And then there was Glorfindel of Gondolin. Could it really be true? Had Námo allowed the warrior to be reborn? Oh, they desperately needed experienced warriors to lead their army!

The door opened and three figures entered. Elrond’s eyes eagerly took in their forms. Elrond easily identified Círdan by his beard and inclined his head in respect. The Shipwright reached him first and bowed from the waist. “There is no need to bow, Master Círdan. I am not the High-King.”

Behind Círdan, Mithrandir chuckled, causing the gray mass of facial hair to move along. “But you are his Herald, are you not, Elrond Half-Elven?” Mithrandir was truly delighted to make Elrond’s acquaintance, knowing how important the half-Elf would prove to be for Middle-Earth’s survival. Probing Elrond’s mind, he felt the makings of a naturally gifted healer and cunning strategist. Aye, this was someone he would be able to count on in the future. Elrond would be there for him to lean on in his ongoing battle against the darkness.

“I am.” Elrond’s gaze shifted from Mithrandir and came to rest on the radiant Elf standing next to the Istar. Never before had he seen such beauty in one of the Firstborn. Never before had he seen an Elf’s inner light shine so golden – so passionately. If he’d had any doubts about this Elf truly being Glorfindel of Gondolin they fled now. This was a seasoned warrior, who carried himself like a true Lord. “Welcome to Lindon, my Lords.”

Mithrandir’s laugher boomed through the study. “Elrond, you must learn to be less formal when amongst friends. Now, would you kindly send one of the servants to inform Ereinion of our arrival?” Mithrandir sat down on one of the comfortable chairs and eyed the half-Elf closely. Elrond had no idea how much he would help shape the future Elven realms – how important Imladris’ founding would be. /We have so much work to do – and such little time to do it in./

Elrond nodded and quickly instructed one of the servants to inform the High-King. His curiosity got the better of him and he advanced on Círdan. “It is an honor to meet you, Master Círdan.”

Círdan gave Elrond a look filled with understanding. “I have much looked forward to meeting you as well, son of Eärendil.” He raised his right hand and touched Elrond’s face. “I knew your parents well, pen-neth. I held your father in my arms when he was just an Elfling and I see some family resemblance when I look at your face. You have your father’s features.”

That comment touched something deep inside Elrond – something he had kept locked away for centuries -- and it caused him to shed tears.

Seeing the emotional upheaval reflected in the gray eyes, Círdan reacted by stroking the long, sable hair. He smiled, ruefully. “Your father was a noble soul and would have been proud of you.” He reached out because Elrond seemed to emotionally need him and he wrapped the half-Elf in a loose embrace. “You are much like him, Elrond.”

Mithrandir watched them with watering eyes. He sensed how important it was to Elrond to find someone who could tell him about his parents. The half-Elf had lost his parents too early in life.

Glorfindel, who stood near the doorway, felt confused. He had arrived back in Arda only a fortnight ago and was still growing used to his new life. He knew he was here to serve Elrond and he observed the Peredhel⁶ carefully. Círdan was right – there was much of Eärendil in the half-Elf. He didn’t want to disturb the emotional moment, though so kept his distance. He felt strangely out of place.

Suddenly, the door at the back of the study opened and two Elves entered. Glorfindel didn’t know the dark-haired one, but deduced it had to be Ereinion – their High-King. But he *did* know the white-haired Elf walking beside him. “Lindir?”

Lindir came to a sudden stop, hardly believing what he was seeing was real. “Glorfindel? It cannot be you! You died!” Shaken to the core of his being, Lindir reached for Ereinion and his lover promptly steadied him. “Glorfindel?”

Glorfindel ran toward Lindir, opened his arms, and caught his friend in them. Spinning Lindir around, he laughed, giggled, and eventually cried softly. “I thought I would never see you again!”

Lindir, realizing he had to be the strong one right now, pulled Glorfindel close. At the same time he sought out Ereinion’s eyes. “I will take Glorfindel to our rooms.” They needed privacy. There was so much to discuss!

Ereinion nodded once. He was confused as well, finding Elrond and Círdan hugging, Mithrandir chuckling, and Glorfindel sweeping his lover off his feet. “That might be for the best. I will join you later.” First, he needed to make sense of what was happening here!

“Come with me, meldir.” Lindir gave Círdan a thankful look now, as the Shipwright had brought Glorfindel here, and he then steered his old friend out of the study. “You must tell me what happened. Why did Námo let you go?”

Glorfindel felt dazed and allowed Lindir to guide him to the High-King’s private chambers. The white-haired Elf sat him down on the bed and then seated himself beside him. “Lindir… I…” Overwhelmed, he was at a loss for words and caressed Lindir’s face instead.

Lindir smiled, brilliantly. “I understand. We will take this slow. Let’s start with the beginning. Let’s start with Gondolin. What happened after you left the City?”

“Oh, Lindir, I am so sorry we forgot about you. We should have come for you and taken you into safety!” Glorfindel shivered, finally beginning to realize that Lindir was alive and whole. The Elf beside him was warm and *real*. Lindir wasn’t an illusion! “You survived. I thank the Valar that they kept you safe. I would never have forgiven myself had you died.”

Lindir decided to keep quiet about the Orcs’ attack. Something told him that Glorfindel’s burden was already heavy enough without him adding to it. “Let me look at you, will you?” Lindir placed his hands on either side of Glorfindel’s face. “It really is you, my dear friend.”

“Námo let me go so I could serve Elrond and fight Sauron in the upcoming battle.” Glorfindel drank in the sight Lindir presented.

“Now tell me, Glorfindel. What happened?” Lindir wondered about the nervous twitch that had appeared in the corner of Glorfindel’s mouth.

“Idril, Tuor and their son managed to flee and so did most of the refugees. I died, taking out a Balrog and entered the Halls of Waiting.” Glorfindel smiled, now that Lindir’s hands had found his, wrapping his fingers around them.

Lindir’s voice trembled, phrasing his next question. “Erestor must have been devastated, witnessing your death.”

“Erestor?” Glorfindel frowned. “Who is Erestor?” Who was Lindir talking about?

Lindir’s eyes widened in alarm. “What?” Glorfindel couldn’t have forgotten about Erestor! “He is your bonded mate!”

“I do not know anyone named Erestor.” Deep lines appeared on his brow. “I am certain I never heard of him.”

Alarmed, Lindir stared into Glorfindel’s eyes. There was no recognition there – only questions. “How can this be? Erestor is your beloved. You bonded shortly after you found him beneath that weeping willow! You must remember the one you love!”

But Glorfindel shook his head. “Lindir, did you suffer a head injury recently?”

“I…” Speechless, Lindir stared at Glorfindel in distress. “You cannot have forgotten about Erestor! He came for me and took me into safety. I survived because of him!”

“I am sorry, Lindir, but I do not know who you are talking about. I know of no Elf called Erestor.”

“I cannot believe this.” At a loss, Lindir wondered what to do. “Glorfindel, there must be something wrong with your memory!”

“Rest assured; there is nothing wrong with my memory. I remember you. I remember Ecthelion. I remember the Fall of Gondolin. I remember composing songs with you and Ecthelion. There is no one called Erestor in my past. You must be mistaken.”

Lindir’s hands trembled when they reached for Glorfindel’s face. “Glorfindel, you are bound in love. You love Erestor.”

“Let it go,” said Glorfindel, growing annoyed with his friend’s insistence that this Erestor existed. “You are mistaken.”

Realizing he wasn’t getting through to Glorfindel, Lindir did the only thing he could do. He let the matter rest – for now.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Does anyone care to tell me what is happening?” Ereinion gave Mithrandir a stern look. “Why don’t you try?”

Mithrandir’s amused and twinkling eyes met the High-King’s. “We are your reinforcements. You do know you must march shortly?”

Ereinion released a deep sigh. This morning had turned out all wrong. Only a few hours ago he had fallen asleep, holding Lindir in his arms and looking forward to making love in the morning. Then, a servant had banged on the door, announcing he had visitors. /I wanted to come full circle this morning. I wanted Lindir to be making love to me right at this moment./

“Ereinion?” Círdan released Elrond from the embrace, and after smiling at the half-Elf, headed for his foster-son. “Aren’t you glad to see me?” He opened his arms and wrapped them around Ereinion when the younger Elf leaned in to the embrace.

“I am always glad to see you. You know that.” Ereinion returned the embrace, happy to have Círdan at his side once more.

“Is it our timing, then?” Círdan cocked his head. Was that a passion mark on Ereinion’s throat? “Did we disturb something?” Oh, he hoped so!

Ereinion coughed, trying to hide his embarrassment. “Maybe.”

Círdan cast a curious look at Elrond and then sought out Ereinion’s eyes again. “Is this something you need to tell me in private?”

“Elrond knows.” Ereinion glanced nervously at Mithrandir, for he didn’t know how the Istar would react to this news. “Lindir and I admitted our love for each other. We bonded last night.”

“Congratulations are in order then!” Círdan hugged Ereinion even tighter. “I always hoped this would happen. Lindir has loved you for so long.”

“You knew?” Ereinion’s eyes widened in surprise.

“I have known about his feelings since the beginning, aye. I hoped you would one day return his feelings, but you seemed to look upon him as a brother and not as a lover.” Círdan pressed a fatherly kiss onto Ereinion’s brow. “You have my blessing, my son.”

Elrond wondered if he should depart now that such intimate details were discussed, but he didn’t want to leave just yet. The Shipwright could tell him many stories about his parents!

Mithrandir, sensing Elrond felt lost, rose from his chair and advanced on the half-Elf. Once he was close enough to touch, he rested a hand on Elrond’s shoulder. “Your King will need you at his side in the upcoming years, Elrond.”

“I will be there to support him in whatever way I can.” Elrond’s voice was steadfast, and his eyes sought out Mithrandir’s, which showed how ancient the Istar truly was. A sense of peace came over him, looking into those old eyes, and he found himself smiling at the Wizard. “I thought you would be intimidating.”

“And I am not?” Mithrandir chuckled. “Do not let my appearance fool you.”

“Nay, that is not it. It is something else – something deeper, more elemental.”

“We are kindred souls, Elrond Half-Elven. You will realize that in time.” Mithrandir then turned and looked Ereinion in the eye. “We must march tomorrow.”

“That quickly?” Ereinion hadn’t expected that, but his troops were ready.

“We will fight at your side, my son,” said Círdan. “You won’t face Sauron alone.”

For that, Ereinion felt grateful. But at the same time he wished he had realized his feelings for Lindir sooner. They had wasted so much precious time!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lindir avoided addressing Erestor for now and listened to Glorfindel, who told him about his escape from Gondolin, his death, and the time spent in the Halls of Waiting. Everything made sense to him, except for one thing – Glorfindel erasing Erestor from his life.

The question was why.

Was Erestor still alive? Or had he died? But no, that wouldn’t make any sense, for then Glorfindel would have come across Erestor in the Halls of Waiting. /What made you erase Erestor from your life? What happened after you died? And, how did Erestor transport me to the Isle of Balar?/ Even after so long, he still wondered about that.

Had Erestor possessed powers they hadn’t known about? Erestor had always been secretive and had never fully opened up to them. /Maybe I should ask Mithrandir. He might know if Erestor was a Wizard./ What other explanation could there be?

“I am so glad to be reunited with you, Lindir. You are a good friend and we share a past together.” Glorfindel smiled, but couldn’t help wonder why Lindir seemed this distressed. He was alive again and had returned to Arda! And yet, Lindir remained upset. “We can keep Ecthelion’s memory alive – honor and remember him.”

“I loved Ecthelion like he was my brother,” admitted Lindir, after so many centuries. “And I want to keep his memory alive as well. But there are others who died and we should remember those as well.” Lindir raised a hand and stroked Glorfindel’s golden hair. In doing so, the locket around Glorfindel’s neck caught his attention. He had seen it before. /Erestor gifted it to him and it carries a lock of his dark hair inside./ Maybe he could use it to spark Glorfindel’s memory.

“What is this, meldir?”

“I asked myself the same thing,” said Glorfindel, removing the locket and opening it. “It must be a strand of Ecthelion’s hair. I know of no other Elf who possesses such dark hair. I will always cherish this last reminder, which my best friend left me.”

Lindir shook his head. “Ecthelion’s hair was not raven, Glorfindel. Aye, it was dark, but not *that* black.”

Glorfindel frowned. “If it does not belong to Ecthelion, who *does* it belong to?”

Lindir placed his hand atop of Glorfindel’s. “This is the proof that Erestor existed.”

“Erestor again… Lindir, I do not know any Erestor!”

“I do not know what happened to your memory, Glorfindel, to cause you to forget the one you loved. But trust me. This strand of hair belonged to Erestor.”

“I do trust you,” whispered Glorfindel in a thoughtful voice. “But if what you say is true, then why don’t I remember him?”

“I do not know the answer to that question, Glorfindel.” Lindir waited for the azure eyes to meet his and he smiled, encouragingly. “Do not lose courage. Something tells me Erestor is still alive – and he might be waiting for you. Just remember his name, Glorfindel. And remember you love him.”

Glorfindel gave Lindir a look filled with doubt. “I will try.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“You will be comfortable here.” Lindir had arranged for guest quarters for his old friend and now studied Glorfindel, whose movements were awkward and uncertain. “You will like Ereinion, meldir. I promise you.”

“Lindir, I wanted to ask you something – about Ereinion and you. You share rooms, don’t you?”

Lindir smiled, knowing Glorfindel would eventually breech this subject. “Aye, we do.”

“May I inquire to why that is?” Glorfindel tried for diplomacy, not wanting to offend Lindir in any way. Lindir had never courted another Elf during their time in Gondolin and he wasn’t completely certain that he had reached the correct conclusion.

Lindir sighed, realizing he would have to confide in Glorfindel. He walked away from Glorfindel, who stood near the bed and came to a halt in front of the window. Looking outside, his mind traveled back in time – back to that fateful day of the attack. “I was in the gardens when the Orcs invaded the city and was left with no escape. My fellow minstrels were there with me – we had been composing, you see.”

Glorfindel frowned; that wasn’t what he had expected Lindir to say. Seeing the sudden tension in the shoulders, he sensed an unpleasant revelation would follow and he walked toward Lindir. He came to a standstill behind the white-haired Elf and placed his hand on his friend’s shoulder in an effort to show his support. He remained silent, waiting for what was to come.

“The Orcs easily captured us, and one by one, they first violated and then murdered my friends.” Lindir’s voice hitched. “They made me watch.”

Glorfindel’s eyes had widened in shock. “What?” In those dark hours, he hadn’t given Lindir’s safety much thought, assuming the minstrel was safe.

“They were about to rape me when Erestor appeared and saved me.”

Erestor… There was that name again. Glorfindel still didn’t remember an Elf called Erestor, but as Lindir insisted such an Elf insisted, he couldn’t really protest. Not when this Elf had apparently saved Lindir’s life.

“He brought me to the Isle of Balar, where Círdan lived… and Ereinion. They aided me during my recovery. It is safe to say that Ereinion was the reason I did not give up on myself.” Lindir forced a weak smile onto his face and turned around. Looking into Glorfindel’s distressed eyes, he said, “Ereinion was my best friend for many years before we became lovers. This has been a very recent development.”

“A High-King,” said Glorfindel in a light tone, as he realized that Lindir didn’t want to dwell on that horrid incident in the past. “You have excellent taste, meldir.”

Lindir smiled in return. “He is truly a remarkable person, Glorfindel. You will like him once you get to know him. He is nothing like Turgon. Ereinion cares about his people and…” His voice trailed off and misery radiated from his eyes. “And now he will leave to fight Sauron. He might die, Glorfindel.”

As a warrior, Glorfindel knew the risks of the battlefield well. “I will cover his back, Lindir. I will try to keep him alive – for you.”

“Thank you, Glorfindel. Thank you for being such a good friend.” Lindir pulled the blond Elf into a hug and held on tight. “I cannot lose him, you know. I would not survive losing the only love I have ever known.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lost in thought, Lindir undid the braids he had put in that morning. Ereinion’s meeting with Mithrandir had lasted longer than expected and he had used the opportunity to take a long, hot bath. Making love last night had been a revelation and had made him think. When they had awoken in each other’s arms, Ereinion had whispered his desire to be taken in turn and Lindir was trying to decide on the best way to come full circle with his lover – his High-King.

Ereinion’s life was a pressured one. Many looked to Ereinion for leadership and guidance and it was only in the confines of their rooms that the High-King could stop being the leader so many needed. He could become Ereinion and let go.

Maybe there lay the key to the way he should make love to his beloved. Wouldn’t Ereinion welcome the opportunity to *let go*? To trust himself to him instead of having to be the strong one? Wouldn’t Ereinion welcome the chance to step away from his duty and responsibilities?

/I would have to be the one in control. I would have to be the one directing our actions./ Could he do that? Had he sufficiently healed to be that person for Ereinion?

Still naked – as he hadn’t bothered to dress again after his bath – Lindir studied himself in the mirror. He tried seeing himself the way Ereinion saw him. His eyes were clear and free of haunting memories. Last night had put his worries and fears to rest and he had realized there would never be any pain between them, just love and pleasure.

“Meleth?” Ereinion, looking tired, entered their rooms and stood indecisive near the doorway. Lindir looked lovely like that – naked and with loose hair – but he still worried about unintentionally spooking his lover.

Lindir decided to take control of his life – and his love – in that instant. “Ereinion, melethron, come here.” He extended his arms, walked toward his lover, and pulled Ereinion into a tight embrace. Ereinion relaxed against him and the normally so strong shoulders sagged forward. Those things told him how weary Ereinion truly was. “Come to bed with me, melethen⁷. I desire to take your worries away for a while.”

Ereinion’s throat swelled with emotion. How long had he hoped to hear those words? He didn’t remember. He went willingly when Lindir guided him to their bed. Agile fingers quickly removed his leggings and shirt, and once he was naked, those surprisingly strong hands pushed him onto his back. The mattress dipped beneath his weight and Ereinion looked upon his lover in rapture, finding Lindir suddenly straddling his waist. “I love you so much and tomorrow, I must march for—”

Lindir placed a finger over his lips, thusly stopping him from speaking. “Do not mention tomorrow tonight, seron vell. For tonight, only we exist. Nothing else exists tonight. Do you understand?”

Ereinion nodded and the movement caused Lindir’s fingers to caress his lips. “I understand,” he breathed against his lover’s fingers. “Will you make me forget then?” Forget that so much responsibility rested upon his shoulders, which weren’t as strong as many thought. After all, he was only an Elf.

Lindir nodded, understanding what was going on in his lover’s mind. “I will.” His long, white hair tumbled forward and the ends teasingly caressed Ereinion’s chest. “Trust yourself to me tonight, Ereinion. I will take care of you. Let go of your worries, fears and doubts. I am here for you.”

“Take me,” whispered Ereinion, finally admitting his need. “I have waited so long to hear you say those words.”

“I will, meleth. I will take you.” But not yet. First, Lindir wanted to explore every inch of Ereinion’s body. He wanted to lock his beloved’s scent in his mind, so he would never forget how Ereinion smelled. He would never forget how his lover tasted when he claimed those soft lips. His hands roamed his beloved’s body, exploring intimately and already eliciting needy moans from Ereinion’s lips.

Squirming in need beneath Lindir’s caresses and kisses, Ereinion wanted nothing more than to welcome Lindir to his body. But his lover continued to tease him, and blatantly ignored the growing need between his legs. “Please, meleth…”

“Open your eyes,” demanded Lindir, who wanted to see the lust and need in them. The dark eyes opened – they had turned black and tiny stars seemed to sparkle in their depths. He read Ereinion’s need there – the true need Ereinion maybe didn’t dare to voice. “Roll onto your stomach, meleth.” A groan, coming from the back of Ereinion’s throat, told Lindir that he had said the right thing. He briefly moved off of his beloved to obtain a vial filled with rose-scented oil, and watched, entranced how Ereinion willingly rolled onto his stomach. The High-King pushed deeper into the mattress, trying to cause more friction to stimulate his own engorged member. “Don’t do that,” said Lindir in a firm tone and Ereinion complied instantly. “I want to be the one to bring you to orgasm.”

Ereinion moaned, almost pitifully, into the pillow, feeling Lindir’s weight settling atop of him. His white-haired lover straddled his lower back and oiled fingers settled on his back and neck to massage the worst tension knots, which had been building for days. He relaxed beneath the freeing massage and just when he was beginning to think Lindir had reconsidered and didn’t want to go any further than this, his lover shifted his weight. Strong hands – stronger than he remembered – gathered his wrists and brought them together above his head. “What are you doing?” His words came out muffled, as he was face down, pressed into the pillow.

Lindir loosely tied a ribbon, which he normally used to tie back his hair, around his lover’s wrists. “Let me attend to your needs, meleth. Your *every* need. You can let go now. You do not have to take care of me. Let go of your responsibilities and simply enjoy this.”

Ereinion groaned. He hadn’t thought Lindir knew him *that* well, but apparently his lover did. He wanted to let go for the tiniest of moments. Ereinion had never wanted to be king in the first place, but he had never shunned away from his duties. But being the High-King of the Noldor was taxing and burdened him. The promise of being able to let go tonight sounded sweet and he eagerly accepted it.

Lindir had tied Ereinion’s wrists loosely; making certain his beloved could free his hands, should the dark-haired Elf desire so. “Accept what I am giving you, melethen.”

“I will – most eagerly.” Ereinion’s body already hummed with excitement and his erection throbbed heavily, almost making him break away from his bonds to stroke himself to completion.

Surprised at his own actions, Lindir realized he liked doing this for Ereinion. Taking on the responsibility for their love making tonight gave his lover a chance to truly let go. He separated the firm buttocks and let an oiled finger tease his lover’s opening. Ereinion rubbed his lower body against the mattress and this time, he allowed it.

Ereinion briefly wondered why Lindir wasn’t telling him to stop, but then his desire to find release took over and he rubbed himself harder against the mattress. His orgasm was building, starting deep in his groin and he yelped, helplessly, when Lindir expertly knew when to slide that first finger inside. That penetration caused him to reach orgasm.

Lindir smiled, sweetly. He reached for the vial of oil again, coated his erection with the liquid and then positioned himself for penetration. Resting his body atop of Ereinion’s, he slid inside inch by inch.

Ereinion’s eyes widened. He hadn’t expected Lindir to choose *that* moment to sheathe himself, but as he was still perfectly relaxed from climaxing only a moment earlier, he was loose and open, enabling his lover to bury himself to the hilt.

Lindir placed his hands on either side of Ereinion’s head to gain leverage so he could add the necessary force to his thrusts, which would start once Ereinion had caught his breath. “Did you hope it would be like this?”

Lindir’s whispered words made Ereinion’s blood boil. “I never knew… but I hoped…” Lindir’s weight was pressing him down and the fact that his wrists were still tied, gave him the impression of being completely helpless. Although a part of him knew he could reverse their position within seconds, he chose to remain like this and trust himself to his lover. For a few rare moments he didn’t have to be the High-King – he could be Ereinion.

Lindir swept the dark mane aside and licked the skin at the nape of his lover’s neck. Ereinion squirmed beneath him, and encouraged, he bit softly. “You are mine now, meleth.”

“Yours…” Ereinion had finally caught his breath again, but he didn’t get much time to regroup as Lindir’s first thrust pushed him even deeper into the mattress. He went with the motion, enjoying being possessed in such a way. “Harder…”

Lindir had half expected that request and obliged his lover, but he always kept himself in check, making certain he wasn’t hurting Ereinion accidentally.

Ereinion wailed beneath the continuing thrusts and surrendered to the hard rhythm Lindir was setting at his request. He’d had erotic dreams about Lindir possessing him, but he hadn’t though the minstrel would be capable of making love to him in such a way. He had always thought that the Orc attack would make Lindir unwilling to do this for him. But he had been wrong! So wrong!

Growing hard once more, Ereinion bucked, trying to encourage Lindir further. Sharp teeth shallowly dipped beneath the skin and a particular ferocious thrust sent him over the edge.

Lindir tried to uphold the fast pace, but then Ereinion’s inner muscle contracted around him and his movements stilled. He collapsed atop of his lover, burying himself deeply inside Ereinion’s body and surrendered to the divine experience. His orgasm was ripped from him and he trembled fiercely, spending himself inside his lover’s body. “Oh, melethron!”

Ereinion’s eyes had closed in bliss, and once his body had begun recovering, he freed his hands of the restraining ribbon. Turning his head to the side, he managed to look over this shoulder at Lindir. “I do not know how you knew I needed that, but…”

Lindir didn’t let him finish. “That *was* what you needed, wasn’t it?”

“I had hoped… wished, but…”

“Don’t speak,” said Lindir, whose hands now stroked his lover’s flanks. “Let us enjoy this moment.”

“And never forget,” whispered Ereinion, his voice and eyes alight with love for Lindir. “Let us always cherish this moment in time.” For it would pass and cruel reality would replace the sweet memories. War was upon them and moments of making love would become rare – maybe even impossible. But he would always remember these last two nights. No one could take those memories away from him and he would hold onto them when he faced their enemy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Even though war had been upon them for seven years, Elrond was capable of admiring real beauty. Imladris *was* beautiful to his eyes. When he had first seen the valley, he had fallen in love with it. And now that they were leaving the refuge to face Sauron one last time, he hoped in his heart that he would be allowed to return here one day.

Events had occurred in a maddening pace. Imladris had become their refuge and here, Elendil, Isildur, Círdan, Glorfindel, Lindir and Ereinion had gathered to formulate their final plan of attack.

Their army had surrounded Sauron’s fortress and the Evil One now had no other choice than to face the Alliance of Elves and Men. Elrond prayed that the war would come to an end shortly. Too many Elves and Men had already fallen in this battle.

King Oropher, leading his own host of badly equipped Elves, had ridden away, and the headstrong Elf was set on doing this his way. Elrond worried for him and his soldiers, knowing they stood only a small chance of surviving this battle. If Oropher had accepted Ereinion’s command their chance of survival would have increased, but the king hadn’t – thusly endangering his warriors.

Elrond’s eyes sought and found Lindir, who rode beside Ereinion. During these last seven years, the minstrel had become an accomplished warrior. When the minstrel had first approached him with the request to train him, Elrond had been inclined to reject Lindir. But seeing Lindir thrust himself into the battle when Ereinion’s back hadn’t been covered had made him accept. Glorfindel and he had trained Lindir, bringing out the warrior in the minstrel.

His eyes scanned the group further and came to rest upon the humans. Elendil and Isildur were determined to bring down Sauron, but he worried about the Men’s true intentions. Isildur especially worried him. There was something in the Man’s eyes that made him wary. But his influence on the Men in the army was limited and he knew fate would take its course.

“We are all worried,” said Círdan, who had steered his mare closer to Elrond’s stallion. During these last few years, Elrond and he had become close friends. As Ereinion spent every possible moment with Lindir, and Oropher kept to himself, Elrond had sought out Círdan’s company. Their friendship had deepened and they found comfort in each other’s presence. “I worry about the Men.”

“So do I.” Círdan gave Elrond a look filled with understanding. “But I worry the most for Ereinion.”

“And Lindir,” added Elrond.

“Aye, and Lindir. Years of fighting Sauron has left Ereinion exhausted and Lindir is trying too hard to be Ereinion’s protector. This war has taken a huge toll on both of them.”

“I will protect them until my dying breath,” vowed Elrond.

“We all feel that way,” said Círdan. “Elrond, tomorrow we will reach Barad-Dûr, where we will face Sauron himself. Much depends on the outcome of that battle. It will seal our fate.”

“I will be at Ereinion’s side to cover his back,” said Elrond in a determined voice.

“And so will I.” Glorfindel had overheard their conversation and his horse fell into step with Elrond’s. He was deeply troubled as well. At first, he had mostly been worried about Lindir. But Lindir had surprised him by cleaving the attacking Orcs in two. Maybe Lindir had finally found a way to channel the pain and terror, which he had carried with him for so long. No, Lindir was no longer his prime concern. That was Ereinion now. Their High-King had pushed himself ruthlessly and exhaustion had caught up with him –exhaustion, which could prove fatal in this last encounter.

“We will stay close to Ereinion and cover his back when he faces Sauron,” decided Elrond, feeling worried as well. Arda’s fate would be decided tomorrow when they made their final stance and he could only pray to the Valar that they would live to see another day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“My heart bleeds for Lindir,” said Erestor, standing at his father’s side and overlooking the building masses near Barad-Dûr. Sauron was still hiding in his fortress, but he would emerge tomorrow to lead what was left of his army.

“Ereinion’s death is part of Eru’s song. You know we cannot meddle, but we can comfort the hurting ones.” Námo felt burdened, knowing how many of these Elves – still alive now – would shortly enter his Halls.

“Maybe Glorfindel can be there for Lindir and pull him through.” Erestor had already located his former lover and his soul grew heavy with love and longing. Glorfindel radiated strength and the hero would encourage many Elves to fight valiantly. /I still love him./

/My son, you know that he does not remember you. Even if you were to appear before him, he would not know you./ Námo curled his fatherly love around his son’s being. /You must concentrate on tomorrow, Erestor. I will need your help when the first souls begin to arrive. You know what I want you to do./

Erestor nodded once. /I will look after Ereinion’s soul and comfort him./ When his father had asked him this favor, he had instantly accepted, knowing how lost Ereinion would feel – how cold – without his lover close. It was the only thing he could do for Ereinion – comfort him – and indirectly for Lindir.

But his heart, soul and love would be with Glorfindel in the impending battle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“We will face him tomorrow, meleth. Please, do not put yourself in any danger.” Ereinion held Lindir close, thankful for the privacy their tent gave them. They had made love, fully realizing this might be their last time together, and had now curled around each other in the effort to soothe and comfort. “I want you safe.”

“Do not ask me to stay behind! I will fight at your side! Haven’t I proved my worth yet?”

“Oh, meleth!” Ereinion tightened his hold on his lover further, almost crushing Lindir against him. “You have proven your worth time and time again! But I do not want you to die tomorrow! I worked so hard to ensure peace and safety for our people – for you – that it would grieve me to learn you were among the fallen. You have to keep my dream alive, Lindir.”

Lindir’s light-blue eyes shed tears, although he had been determined not to cry. “But… what if you die and I live?”

Ereinion placed a kiss on Lindir’s hair and tucked his lover’s head beneath his chin. “In that case I want you to go to Imladris and to carry on our dream of a peaceful world. If Elrond and Glorfindel survive, they will go with you.”

Lindir frowned, finding Vilya missing from his beloved’s hand. He vividly remembered the day Círdan had given the Ring of Power to Ereinion.

Seeing Lindir’s questioning look, Ereinion explained. “I gave it to Elrond. I cannot be wearing it when I face Sauron. Imagine that he would win and take possession of Vilya as well. His power would continue to grow. I cannot take that chance.”

Lindir nodded in understanding. He wouldn’t have taken possession of the ring had Ereinion offered it to him. He didn’t want anything to do with the magical item. A chilling realization set in. “You expect to die tomorrow.”

Ereinion sighed, deeply troubled. “I have had these dreams for a long time.”

“Nightmares!” Lindir freed himself of Ereinion’s hold so he could raise his head and look his lover in the eye.

“Aye, nightmares. I have dreamt of my death.”

This wasn’t new to Lindir. “But you have to keep the faith! You have to believe you will survive!”

Ereinion gave his lover a rueful look. “I will fight, meleth. I will do anything I can to return to you.” But Ereinion knew it wouldn’t be enough. “Hold me? Hold me until the morning comes?”

Lindir acted by burying Ereinion in a tight hug. He held his lover close until daybreak, afraid this was the last time he would be holding him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Glorfindel joined Elendil, Isildur, Círdan and Elrond, who had gathered close to the High-King’s tent. He was saddened, having learned of Oropher’s tragic death. The King had moved too early and the majority of his soldiers had died with him.

In a moment, Ereinion would join them and give the signal to attack. All warriors were fully armed and Glorfindel’s heart missed a beat, seeing Lindir emerge from the tent first. The minstrel wore light armor, like they all did, and grim determination showed on his face. Lindir had aged in a way Glorfindel had seldom seen amongst the Firstborn. The pain and suffering Lindir had witnessed lay in the eyes – eyes, which appeared as ancient as Mithrandir’s. It wasn’t fair, decided Glorfindel, that someone like Lindir, who lived for song and poetry, had seen such horrid scenes.

“Lindir?” Glorfindel went to stand beside his old friend and placed an armored hand on Lindir’s shoulder. Their blue eyes met and they understood each other’s fears without having to speak them aloud. “I will stay close to him.”

Lindir nodded. “So will I.” He would rather die himself than see Ereinion dead.

The High-King was the last to join them. His helm, mail and shield were overlaid with silver and set with a device of white stars. As it shone like a star from afar, it served as a beacon for his army -- the warriors always knew where their High-King’s position was, which was in the front line, most of the time. In Ereinion’s hand was Aeglos, the spear with which he intended to end Sauron’s life. Seeing the King ready for battle and intent on destroying the enemy filled Elves and Men alike with courage and strength.

Realizing only too well what kind of effect he had on his warriors, Ereinion straightened his shoulders, lifted his spear, and raised his voice in an ancient battle song. Glorfindel was the first to recognize it, and soon a golden voice joined that of Ereinion.

Energized by hearing their High-King’s voice and that of Glorfindel joining in, the Elven army raised their voices as one, announcing their presence and intentions to Sauron. After seven years of waging war against Sauron they hoped their moment of victory had finally arrived.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He had seen this moment before – he had seen his own death in his dreams countless times – and Ereinion knew his final moment had arrived when he faced Sauron. The One Ring sat majestically on Sauron’s finger; its very presence mocking him.

Ereinion raised Aeglos and charged. Behind him, he heard Lindir cry out in shock and a dash of golden hair appeared to his right, but Glorfindel was too late. Ereinion died instantly, slew by Sauron’s might.

The body that fell to the earth was lifeless and his fëa⁸ had already departed. Looking about in shock, he realized he no longer possessed a body. /Am I dead?/ How could that have happened so quickly?

/You are in a state of shock, meldir./ Erestor had stayed close to the High-King, awaiting this very moment. When he had seen Glorfindel rush forward to defend Ereinion, he had been worried that the golden warrior might meet his death after all, but Glorfindel had fallen back to take care of Lindir, who had collapsed after witnessing Ereinion’s death.

Erestor’s heart went out to Lindir, knowing exactly how his friend felt, for he had felt the same way when that Balrog had taken Glorfindel down into the abyss with him. But there was nothing he could do for Lindir – however, he could help Ereinion. /Come with me, meldir./ Carefully, he rebuilt Ereinion’s body image and then he extended his hand to wrap his fingers around Ereinion’s.

Ereinion shed tears, seeing Glorfindel carry Lindir away from the battle field, whilst the fight continued. /I am no longer a part of this./ He had done his best to lead his men to victory, but he had failed.

/You did not fail, Ereinion. The Alliance of Elves and Men will be victorious. You did well, but now the time has come to follow me to the Halls of Waiting./

Ereinion wondered about this gentle warmth that was wrapping itself around him and he studied the dark-clad Elf in front of him. He then realized a part of the truth. /You are no Elf./

/I one of the Valar, Ereinion. I am here to comfort you and to escort you to my father’s Halls./

The screams and scenes of fighting dimmed around Ereinion as he took hold of Erestor’s hand. Accepting the Vala’s presence, he left his life on Arda behind him. /Who are you?/

/I am called Erestor and I serve my father in the Halls of Waiting./ Erestor sensed recognition in Ereinion’s mind. /Lindir has told you about me./

/He did, but he never mentioned you were Námo’s son./ Ereinion’s sharp mind had quickly supplied him with the missing answers. /You saved him by using your powers./

/I did. Lindir was a good friend./ Erestor had taken Ereinion’s soul to his father’s Halls and smiled ruefully at the dead High-King. /I will always look over Lindir and you will be able to see him by watching my mother’s weavings./

/He will survive?/

/Aye, he will survive. Lindir will be quite lost for a long time, but Elrond and Glorfindel will support him like you did. Lindir will recover. Let that knowledge comfort you./

More new souls appeared in the Halls and Námo hurried to see them to their family members, who would look after them.

/Glorfindel…/ Ereinion realized something else as well. /Lindir mentioned you were Glorfindel’s bonded mate. How can that be when you are one of the Valar?/

Erestor looked at Ereinion with pain in his eyes. /We will be here for a long time and I will share my story with you, but not now. Many more Elven souls will arrive before the battle is over and Sauron defeated./

Ereinion suddenly found himself amidst several souls, which radiated welcome and curiosity. He was about to lose himself in their presence, but then remembered Lindir.

/Take heart, meldir,/ said Erestor. /I will look after him. You have a friend in me./ His father’s request for help came and Erestor knew it was time to leave Ereinion. /Your father and your family have waited a long time to finally welcome you. Be with them, and find comfort in their presence./

Finally Ereinion realized why these souls looked and felt so familiar. One soul stepped toward him and the eyes welcomed him home without the need for words. /Fingon… Adar…/

Fingon embraced his son, and sensing Ereinion’s emotional turmoil, held him close.

Part 5

¹ meldir (sing.) -- “male” friend (Sindarin, noun) mell + dir

² pen-neth (sing.) -- young one (Sindarin, noun)

³ meleth (sing.) -- love (Sindarin, noun)

⁴ seron vell -- dear lover (Sindarin, noun, adjective)

⁵ melethron (sing.) -- (masc.) lover (Sindarin, noun)

⁶ Peredhel (sing.) -- half-Elf (Sindarin, noun)

⁷ melethen (sing.) -- my love (Sindarin, noun)

⁸ fëa (sing.), fëar (pl.) -- spirit (Quenyan, noun)

From the Council of Elrond Quenyan and Sindarin dictionary