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; Erestor/Glorfindel 
Rating: NC-17 
Summary: Erestor sacrifices a part of himself in order to be with 
Glorfindel.
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. 
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 1
 
 
“Glorfindel of Gondolin is very fair of face; don’t you think so, my son?” 
Vairë watched her child closely, as Erestor blushed beneath her curious 
expression. “He is also a true hero among his kin.”
 
“Mother!” Erestor averted his eyes. Had he been so obvious in his 
admiration of the golden-haired warrior? 
 
“Do you really think I do not know what lies in my child’s heart, Erestor? 
I have watched you walking corridor after corridor in search of his face.” 
Vairë approached her son and lifted the bowed head. His dark eyes met 
hers and she smiled at him. “You lost your heart to him. That is most 
peculiar, my son.”
 
“I never wanted you to find out,” admitted Erestor, his eyes were 
magically drawn to the tapestry at the opposite wall. It depicted Glorfindel 
and Ecthelion of the Fountain, studying the flute in the company of their 
teacher, Lindir. Although all three Elves were fair, Ecthelion and Lindir 
didn’t compare to Glorfindel. His mother had perfectly captured the azure 
sea that sparkled in Glorfindel’s eyes and the golden hair almost seemed 
alive, and he wanted to reach out to touch it. 
 
“You should speak with your father.” Vairë was worried; she should have 
seen that Erestor had fallen in love with one of the Firstborn earlier. It 
might be too late now to stop this infatuation from becoming more – from 
becoming love. 
 
“My father...” Erestor finally sought out his mother’s eyes. “How will he 
react?”
 
Vairë smiled at her son. “Your father knows all that is going to happen, 
except for what lies in the will of Ilúvatar. He already knows your heart.”
 
“I am afraid to face him.”
 
“Why? Your father loves you and wants to see you happy, like I do.” She 
moved closer and rested the palm of her hand against her son’s cheek. “I 
do not know what will come of this love, Erestor. You belong to the Valar 
and Glorfindel is one of the Firstborn. I do not know if such a love stands 
a chance, but your father will hear you and answer your questions. Come 
with me, we should seek him out.”
 
“Will you stand by my side when I face him?” He loved his father dearly, 
but knew he had crossed a line when he had fallen in love with one of the 
Firstborn. 
 
“I will,” confirmed Vairë. She took in her son’s expression and found that 
determination lay hidden beneath the insecurity. Erestor had truly fallen in 
love with the fair Elda. Vairë couldn’t help but wonder what her husband 
would decide in this matter.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Vairë, my most beloved wife. And Erestor, my son.” Námo felt proud, 
seeing his only child. Erestor had formed his body image after theirs; long, 
raven hair cascaded down the shoulders and warm, brown eyes shone from 
the depths. Their images were mere representations of their true beings 
and unnecessary when it came to them communicating privately, but the 
fëar1 of the dead that resided within his Halls were more comfortable 
seeing him and his family in this form. So, they complied. “I have been 
expecting you.”
 
Erestor straightened his shoulders and his inner light shone brighter, 
realizing his father would address this matter now. “You know why I am 
here.”
 
“Aye, I know why you have sought me out.” Námo studied his son, 
sensing the conflicting emotions running rampant beneath the apparently 
calm surface. Erestor was torn between giving in to his love for 
Glorfindel, disappointing his mother, and defying his father. Erestor was a 
good son and would never willingly cause them any grief, but his 
attraction toward Glorfindel had grown year after year. His son had 
watched the Lord of the Golden Flower and had somehow, at some time, 
fallen for Glorfindel. And during all those years, Námo had watched 
Erestor in turn. “Erestor, he belongs to the Firstborn. You are one of the 
Valar, so much more than Glorfindel can ever aspire to be.”
 
“Glorfindel is brave! Valiant and fair!” Erestor immediately came to the 
Elf’s defense. “He has proven his worth countless times and is considered 
a hero among the Firstborn!” 
 
Námo grew proud, seeing Erestor accept his challenge and the eternal 
game started anew – the game of love and hardships. “I know what your 
future will bring,” he said, circling Erestor. “And his love will cause you 
pain.”
 
“His love?” Erestor took a step closer to his father and grabbed his wrist. 
“He loves me?”
 
“He does not even know you exist.” Námo shook his head. “Erestor, what 
you desire is impossible.”
 
“It is not!” Erestor stared into his father’s eyes. “You just told me that he 
will come to love me!”
 
“In time, aye, but there will be sacrifices, Erestor. Sacrifices *you* will 
have to make.” Námo allowed for Erestor’s hold on his wrist to continue. 
“Your mother spoke truthfully, Erestor. We love you and we want you to 
be happy. But Glorfindel will not only bring you happiness; there will be 
pain and grief as well.”
 
“Is that not the way of the Firstborn? Does that not give them their 
strength of character? Ever since I came into existence their fëar have 
surrounded me and they told me of the heroic deeds of their kind. They 
earned my admiration, father. We cannot know what their lives are like! 
We never tasted their passion, their love or their fear.”
 
“You defend them well, my son. The Firstborn have a true champion in 
you. Aye, it is true; many heroes reside here in death, but Erestor… Do 
you realize that death will come for Glorfindel as well? The Firstborn live 
long and some forever, but not all Elves are that fortunate. What will you 
do when Glorfindel dies and has to walk these Halls? When he is nothing 
more than a mere shadow of his former self? Could you bear his fate?”
 
Erestor flinched beneath his father’s harsh words. “I know that you are 
saying this because you love me and do not want to see me hurt, but 
father… Am I not allowed to make my own decisions? And if you will 
allow it, my own mistakes?” He let go of his father’s wrist and met 
Námo’s gaze. “You love your wife – my mother… Will you truly deny me 
my love, then?”
 
“Love…” Námo whispered the word and shook his head. “Erestor, you 
have never loved before – how do you know this is love? You have never 
met Glorfindel! You never spoke to him! How can you presume to know 
him?”
 
“Because I do,” replied Erestor, breathlessly. “I have watched him since 
his birth and I have seen him suffer hardship and revel in the friendships 
he has formed. I fell in love with Glorfindel throughout the years, never 
intending for it to happen – but it did.”
 
“What do you really want from me, my son?” The moment of truth had 
arrived and Námo probed his son’s emotions, needing to see for himself 
that this love was true.  
 
“I want Glorfindel. I want a chance to win his love. You have mother; do 
not deny me Glorfindel, father.” Erestor gave his father a pleading look. 
 
Vairë had listened closely and now addressed her husband. “We should 
give Erestor this chance, husband-mine. Having known love will make 
him a better Vala – a more compassionate one. Do not forget how young 
our son is, compared to us. Námo, he deserves this chance at love.”
 
Námo smiled at his wife. “I knew you would plead his case.” And he had 
also known that he would give in. He couldn’t stop the future from 
forming and leading Erestor to Gondolin. “Erestor, hear my decision.”
 
Erestor’s hand found its way into his mother’s and he squeezed tight. 
Vairë rubbed the back of her son’s hand, hoping the caress would comfort 
him. 
 
“I will grant you this chance at love,” said Námo, distinctly noting his 
son’s relief at hearing those words. “But, there will be two conditions.”
 
“What are they?” Erestor felt nervous, wondering what rules his father 
would set.
 
“You will enter Gondolin as one of the Firstborn. Your body will be that 
of an Elf. You will still possess your knowledge, memories and powers, 
but you are forbidden to use them. Should you use your powers, for 
whatever reason, your being will find its way back here and you will dwell 
in these Halls once more.”
 
Erestor stared at his father in shock. “An Elf? Enter Gondolin as an Elf?”
 
Námo pointed at himself and said, “These are mere representations of the 
life as the fëar knew it and we use these so we do not frighten them. We 
learned to manipulate these mirror images, but these fanar2 are not real. 
They are illusions. However, *you*, my son, will inhabit an adult Elven 
body. You will experience its flaws.”
 
“And its pleasures,” added Vairë, reassuringly squeezing her son’s hand. 
Erestor practically radiated unease and discomfort and his emotions were 
easily picked up by his parents. “Accept what your father is offering you, 
my son. Trust me in this matter.” Her mind touched her husband’s, 
radiating contentment. She approved of his decision in this matter. /Share 
our son’s future with me, my husband./
 
Námo complied, showing her the long and often difficult path that lay 
ahead of their son. /Do you really want him to suffer such hardships?/
 
She considered everything he had shown her. Erestor was dear to her – he 
was her only child – and seeing him hurt would make her ache in turn. /Is 
this necessary?/
 
/If we allow him to meet with Glorfindel and to win the Firstborn’s love, 
this will be his fate./ Námo then offered words of comfort, feeling her 
grow distressed. /But this experience will make our son grow – it will 
strengthen him. I have faith in Erestor. Do you?/
 
Vairë’s mind curled around her husband’s, realizing he knew the eventual 
outcome of Erestor’s quest for love.  /If you have faith in him, so will I./
 
Erestor’s mind joined them, trying to pick up pieces of their conversation, 
but his father locked him out. Apparently Námo didn’t want him to take 
part in this conversation. That fact made him nervous. Why was his father 
locking him out?
 
/Erestor, do you accept my terms? Will you enter Gondolin as one of the 
Firstborn and return to my Halls the moment you use your powers?/
 
His father’s presence was overwhelming and made Erestor hesitate. Námo 
knew his future, knew what would happen to him if he chose to try 
winning Glorfindel’s love. Reaching out, the tendrils of his mind curled 
around his father’s, searching for any indication that Námo didn’t want 
him to do this or was trying to keep him back. But all he sensed was his 
father’s acceptance. Námo *would* aid him in his quest. /I accept your 
conditions, father./
 
/Good./ Námo caressed his son’s mind a last time and then used his 
powers to transport Erestor to Gondolin. The next moment, his son’s 
presence was gone from the Halls and an adult Elf lay naked and 
shivering, but safe, in Gondolin’s arms.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel ran down the road, heading for Gondolin’s beautiful gardens. 
Ithil was about to rise and the evening was cool, yet filled with sweet 
promises and Glorfindel wanted to draw in the lovely fragrances of the 
roses and feel grass beneath his feet – not stone and brick. Behind him, 
Ecthelion laughed, loudly, accepting the challenge and taking up pursuit as 
the Lord of the House of the Fountain always did.
 
They were best friends, comrades in arms and soul mates. Practically 
inseparable, the inhabitants of Gondolin knew that when one Elf was near, 
the other warrior couldn’t be far. They were seldom seen apart – even in 
battle they covered each other’s back.
 
“Mercy, Glorfindel! I am tired!” Ecthelion slowed down and eventually 
came to a stop. Running had caused him to pant softly, and his eyes 
sparkled feverishly, taking in Glorfindel’s energetic form. 
 
Glorfindel chuckled, raised an arm, and gestured for Ecthelion to follow 
him into the gardens.
 
Ecthelion drew in a deep breath and followed suit, wishing Glorfindel 
would finally come to a stop. At times, his friend’s stamina amazed him 
and he had once joked that Glorfindel could even outrun a Balrog. The 
moment those words had left his lips, chills had run down his spine, like 
he had touched upon a forbidden vision of the future – one, he hoped, 
which would never come true.  
 
Ecthelion came to an abrupt halt when he collided with Glorfindel, who 
for some reason stood frozen beneath a weeping willow. The large tree 
offered shade to several rose bushes, and for one moment Ecthelion 
thought Glorfindel was lost in reverie, admiring the delicate flowers, but 
then he realized that his friend’s stare was directed lower – at the ground.
 
Glorfindel stood in awe at such beauty. His right hand reached behind 
him, searching for Ecthelion and pulling him close. “Look at what the 
Valar have graced Gondolin with.” Had he ever seen such beauty before? 
Glorfindel even momentarily closed his eyes, afraid such exquisiteness 
would blind him. 
 
Ecthelion’s eyes filled with wonder, finally discovering the hidden 
treasure that had been revealed to his friend. An Elf lay asleep beneath the 
weeping willow – magnificent in his naked glory. A long, elegant arm 
rested atop an alabaster thigh and soft-pink lips showed beneath elusive 
strands of ebony hair. The open eyes, blank with sleep, were black stars, 
glistering and beckoning them closer. 
 
“I thank the Valar for being allowed to lay eyes upon such perfection,” 
whispered Glorfindel, finally finding his voice again. He lowered himself 
onto his heels and stared at the stranger from a respectful distance. “I 
wonder who he is.” He was certain he had never met the other Elf before – 
surely he would have remembered meeting an Elf of such beauty! He 
extended his right hand, letting it hover about the other Elf’s midnight-
black mane. Curled up on his side, the stranger looked vulnerable and in 
need of their assistance. 
 
“You are right, meldir3. He is perfection personified, but I cannot help but 
wonder who he is and why he is here.” Ecthelion moved closer and now 
stood behind Glorfindel. “And why, in the name of the Valar, is he 
naked?” 

Glorfindel blushed, hearing Ecthelion’s words. The stranger’s alabaster 
skin felt like silk beneath his exploring fingertips and he quickly pulled 
them back, not wanting to tarnish flawlessness with his touch. He wanted 
for those eyes to fill with awareness and to look upon him, but the stranger 
remained lost in reverie. “What do we do?”
 
“We take him before Turgon. Our King will decide his fate.” Ecthelion 
felt the same wonder Glorfindel was experiencing – there was something 
ethereal about this Elf, which he had never encountered in their kin before. 
“He is asleep, Glorfindel, and thus in need of our protection.” 
 
Glorfindel nodded, absentmindedly. He unclasped his crimson cloak and 
gently placed it atop of the sleeping Elf. “We cannot take him before our 
King naked.”
 
“Glorfindel, we need to take this Elf to Turgon now. We cannot allow for 
a stranger to dwell within these walls. We need to know who he is and 
what his business is.” Like Glorfindel, Ecthelion was overcome with a 
strong sense of protectiveness, looking upon the sleeping Elf. Innocence, 
warmth and goodness rested in the strong features, and he almost bowed 
to pay the stranger his respect, but then he caught himself and got to his 
feet instead. “Come, I will accompany you.”
 
Glorfindel involuntarily held his breath, slowly pushing his arms beneath 
the stranger’s form. Had someone else trespassed into Gondolin and was 
found in this way, he would wake the Elf, but he didn’t want this Elf to 
wake just yet. As long as the raven-haired Elf remained asleep, he could 
look upon him and feel this inner peace. Carefully, Glorfindel lifted the 
sleeping Elf from the grass and cradled him against his chest. “He remains 
asleep.”
 
“We do not know what brought him here,” said Ecthelion, musing aloud. 
Even he had fallen under the stranger’s spell and he brushed a strand of 
silken hair away from the sleeping Elf’s face. Such beauty demanded that 
it be protected, cherished and loved. Turgon would doubtlessly feel the 
same way when laying eyes upon this Elf. Ecthelion tucked Glorfindel’s 
cloak around the stranger’s form, making certain their charge was 
sufficiently covered.
 
Glorfindel carried the strange Elf with the utmost care, ready to defend 
him from whoever dared to attack him. Ecthelion saw the raw dedication 
in his friend’s eyes and wondered about its presence. He felt protective of 
the sleeping Elf as well, but not in the same way Glorfindel did and he 
wondered… What had *really* happened when Glorfindel had laid eyes 
upon this raven-haired beauty for that very first time?
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Turgon dismissed his advisors and gestured for his two Captains to follow 
him into his private chambers. “Place him upon the bed.” The King 
examined the sleeping Elf’s features in search of evil. He would never 
allow a threat inside Gondolin and had to determine who the stranger was 
and why he was here. “You found him like that?” Turgon pointed at the 
crimson cloak. Looking at it now, it did seem familiar to him.
 
“Nay, sire. I wrapped him up in my cloak after coming upon him naked,” 
explained Glorfindel in a soft tone. He remained standing next to the bed, 
within close vicinity of his charge. 
 
“Naked?” Turgon raised an eyebrow. “In Elbereth’s name, how did he 
pass the Seven Gates? Surely, the guards must have noticed him?” 
Especially a naked Elf! Seeing the admiration in Glorfindel’s eyes, Turgon 
felt his heart soften with sympathy. “He is fair, I will agree to that.”
 
“Fair beyond comparison,” whispered Glorfindel. He raised his gaze and 
met Turgon’s. “Sire, what is your ruling in this matter?” He hoped that 
Turgon would entrust the sleeping Elf to him!
 
“We will wait for him to wake and then I will question him. Glorfindel, 
Ecthelion, you will guard him. Call me the moment he wakes.” Turgon 
drew in a deep breath. “I find it hard to believe that someone as fair as this 
Elf can have an evil heart, but my duty to Gondolin comes before my 
admiration for beauty. I must be certain that he presents no threat,” he 
paused, thoughtfully, and then continued, “And I must know how he 
entered my city unnoticed.” Worried, Turgon sought out Ecthelion’s gaze. 
“The two of you are responsible for our guest.”
 
“We understand, sire.” Ecthelion inclined his head in respect. “We will 
guard him and alert you the moment he awakens.”
 
“And find him some clothes,” mumbled Turgon. “We cannot have him 
walk these halls naked.” The Elf *was* extraordinarily fair and he didn’t 
need any of his subjects falling in love with a stranger – not yet. Not 
whilst he didn’t know if this Elf was a potential threat. 
 
“It almost seems a sin to cover such perfection with fabric, even if the 
clothes are made from the finest silk.” Glorfindel quickly covered his 
mouth; he had only meant to think those words and not say them!
 
Turgon actually felt amused by his Captain’s honest statement and 
laughed. “I must concur. It is a shame… but clothes are a necessity, 
especially when one looks as beautiful as he does.” A soft expression 
spread in his eyes, seeing the warmth in Glorfindel’s azure ones, looking 
upon their sleeping guest. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Ecthelion’s gaze shifted from Glorfindel to their sleeping charge and then 
back again. Something in his friend’s eyes worried him and he decided to 
address it. “His presence enthralls you.” Was it envy he felt? Jealousy 
even? But no, that was ridiculous! Glorfindel and he were the best of 
friends and unconditionally trusted each other, but this Elf had changed 
their relationship. But in what way was their friendship changing? 
 
“It is more than just his beauty,” whispered Glorfindel, studying the 
sleeping Elf. “Don’t you feel it?”
 
“Feel what?” Ecthelion moved closer, came to a halt behind Glorfindel, 
and placed his hand on his friend’s shoulder. “What do you feel, 
Glorfindel?”
 
Glorfindel shook his head, wondering how to explain. “ I feel like I am 
looking at one of the Valar. Such beauty is unrivaled.” 
 
“Do you sense evil upon him? Turgon seemed worried when he visited 
earlier.” Ecthelion searched the stranger’s features and admitted he sensed 
no evil – no danger.
 
“I do not, meldir. I sense innocence instead.” Glorfindel smiled and freed 
himself of the magnetic pull their sleeping guest had on him.
 
A servant had brought clothes for their charge; a crimson shirt and black 
leggings. “We should dress him, then,” said Ecthelion, bending down to 
pick up the clothes. But Glorfindel surprised him by shaking his fair head. 
“Something tells me we should wait until he is awake.”
 
Ecthelion trusted Glorfindel’s instincts and let the matter rest, but… “Like 
our High-King, I wonder how he got past the Seven Gates and our guards, 
naked at that. Why didn’t the guards stop him and report his presence? 
The thought that our defenses show a weakness worries me.”
 
“We will find out,” whispered Glorfindel, sucking in his breath, as he 
detected movement beneath his fingertips, which rested on the sleeping 
Elf’s arm. He removed them, rose from the bed, and took a step away 
from it, so their guest wouldn’t feel crowded or cornered upon awakening. 
“We will find out *now*.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Awareness came suddenly and Erestor gasped for breath. He sat up with a 
start and vertigo almost overwhelmed him, but then he steadied himself, 
drawing in deep breaths of air. His fingertips clawed at the silken sheet 
beneath him, brutally crushing the soft texture. /I belong to the Firstborn 
now. I possess a body – a living, breathing body./ And breathing involved 
inhaling and exhaling air, as he soon discovered. The air, which entered 
his nostrils was sweet and heavy with the fragrance of flowers. Exhaling, 
Erestor wondered about this most wondrous mechanism that kept him 
alive. 
 
His eyes encountered a soft, silver shimmer and blinked. It was early in 
the evening, as Ithil had already begun his daily journey. The beauty of the 
star-lit sky enchanted him and he forgot his surroundings. 
 
“Meldir?” Addressing their guest, who didn’t seem to register their 
presence, Glorfindel exchanged a curious look with Ecthelion. It was like 
watching a new-born child focus his eyes for the very first time. 
“Meldir?” Glorfindel tried to capture their charge’s attention again, but 
the raven-haired Elf seemed mesmerized.
 
Hearing a melodic voice drew Erestor from his trance-like state. He took 
in his immediate surroundings, quickly realizing that the splendor of this 
room meant he was inside the King’s private chambers, but why? That 
question, however, lost its importance when he looked at his hands for the 
first time. The long fingers, delicately formed hands, and arms demanded 
his attention and he moved them, experimentally. 
 
Ecthelion opted for action and moved closer so that their guest was forced 
to look at him. “You are in the King’s Tower – in Gondolin.”
 
This time, the voice truly registered with Erestor and he looked up at the 
dark-haired Elf, whom he easily identified as Ecthelion, Lord of the House 
of the Fountain. He had seen the strong features many times before in his 
mother’s tapestries. /Breathe!/ he thought, reminding himself as he began 
to grow dizzy due to lack of air. A strand of raven hair tumbled in front of 
his face and startled Erestor, who stared at the lock in surprise. Raising his 
right hand, he touched the lock, and grew mesmerized by its silken 
softness. He ran a hand down his mane, finding that the dark hair reached 
below his buttocks. 
 
Curiously, Erestor pushed the sheet away that covered him and let his 
fingertips walk down his body, touching experimentally. When he had still 
resided in the Halls with his parents, he had taken on the form of the 
Firstborn to reassure the dead fëar, but now he realized how different it 
was to actually possess a real one! Looking closely, he could even see the 
veins beneath the skin. 
 
Ecthelion coughed to cover up his amusement and quickly pulled the sheet 
back in place again. He had seen the effect their charge had on Glorfindel, 
and he had thought himself rather immune to the raven beauty’s charms, 
until now. Glorfindel was right – there was something enchanting about 
this Elf. A rare innocence clung to him.  
 
Erestor frowned, surprised at the feeling it caused on his brow, and he 
raised a hand to touch his forehead. Growing used to being in the body of 
one of the Firstborn would take time. 
 
Glorfindel seated himself on the side of the bed, acting slowly to give the 
stranger time to grow used to his presence. “Who are you?” His fingers 
itched to touch the fair face, but he restrained himself, seeing the 
puzzlement in the dark eyes. Something wasn’t right. Something worried 
his charge.
 
Erestor looked to his right, and the sight that greeted him took his breath 
away. “Glorfindel, it really is you!” His voice trembled, and sounded 
strange to his ears. In the Halls of Waiting, he conversed by sharing his 
mind with his parents and projecting thoughts into their minds. Even the 
dead fëar communicated that way, but never realized so, as Námo 
provided them with the illusion of speech. Actually speaking aloud was 
new to him. 
 
“He knows you, meldir.” Amused, Ecthelion wiggled an eyebrow. 
 
Erestor looked at the dark-haired Captain and a smile formed on his face, 
seeing the amused expression in the alert eyes. “And you are Ecthelion of 
the Fountain.”
 
“He knows you too,” said Glorfindel, chuckling. “But it is *your* name 
we wish to hear, meldir.”  The large, deer-like eyes fastened on him and 
made his heart miss a beat. The expression in them called out to him, but 
Glorfindel controlled his need for contact, reminding himself that Turgon 
was right – first, they needed to know their guest’s identity.
 
“My parents called me Erestor.” Erestor found he couldn’t avert his eyes 
and lovingly took in Glorfindel’s features. The flaxen-haired Elf 
captivated him! 
 
Ecthelion raised an eyebrow. “I never heard that name before.” He moved 
toward the doorway and said, “I will inform the High-King that you can 
answer his questions now.” He closed the door behind him and left 
Glorfindel alone with their mysterious guest.
 
“Erestor…” Glorfindel repeated the name, enjoying the way it rolled from 
his tongue. “You are very fair, Erestor,” he said, granting his charge a 
blinding smile.
 
“My appearance pleases you, then?” Erestor smiled, looking hopefully at 
the blond Elf for whom he had left home and family. The look Glorfindel 
gave him, told him that Glorfindel was intrigued by him – maybe even 
was attracted to him – and his heart felt much lighter now. When he had 
made his decision to pursue Glorfindel, he’d had no way of knowing if the 
blond Elda would also be interested in him.  
 
The door opened and Erestor tore his gaze away from Glorfindel to look at 
Ecthelion and the High-King, Turgon. The King’s eyes had narrowed and 
were filled with curiosity. The way Turgon carried himself suggested he 
was a proud Elf, someone who had the utmost confidence in his abilities to 
lead his people. /That pride will be his downfall./ Erestor didn’t possess 
his parents’ all-encompassing knowledge, but visions of the future 
occasionally revealed bits and pieces to him. 
 
Turgon approached the bed and crossed his arms in front of his chest. 
Sternly, he studied his guest’s dark eyes. “You were found inside my city. 
How did you enter unnoticed?”
 
Erestor frowned. He had never expected to be questioned and hadn’t 
prepared an explanation to give to the King. “I do not know, sire.” 
 
Glorfindel read Turgon’s body language and realized the High-King felt ill 
at ease, suspicious even. “His name is Erestor, sire, he just told me.” 
 
Turgon seated himself in a chair close to the bed and continued to observe 
his guest. “Erestor? You are no subject of Gondolin, then?” 
 
“I do not know that either, sire. My mind is a blank.” He hoped Turgon 
would accept his explanation for he didn’t know how to explain his 
presence in the Hidden City. In search of support, his hand moved closer 
to Glorfindel and he curled his fingers around the warrior’s. The warm 
contact sent spirals of bliss through his body. Glorfindel was his anchor in 
this wild sea.
 
The gesture wasn’t lost on Ecthelion and Turgon. The two dark-haired 
Elves exchanged glances, and in the end, the Captain nodded once. “I 
sense no evil in him either, sire.”
 
Turgon nodded once, confirming that he had reached the same conclusion. 
There was no evil in Erestor’s heart. “Erestor, do you know why you are 
naked?” Maybe his questions would coax Erestor into remembering. 
 
“I do not know why, sire.” Erestor bit his bottom lip and his eyes widened, 
tasting the coppery tang of his blood for the first time. The bitter taste 
distracted him, but then he shook himself, forcing himself to concentrate 
on finding a way to convince Turgon to let him stay! “I remember waking 
up in this room, sire, and seeing Ithil in the sky. Glorfindel sat at my side 
and Ecthelion was watching me. That is all I remember.”
 
“You profess you lost your memory,” said Ecthelion, thoughtfully. “And 
yet, you knew our names.”
 
Erestor paled. “I did, didn’t I?” How to explain this one? Looking Turgon 
in the eye, he tried again, “Sire, please allow me to stay in the Hidden 
City. I won’t cause you harm or trouble and I will serve you in whatever 
capacity I am able. I am your humble servant.”
 
Turgon drew in a deep breath. “Like Ecthelion, I sense no evil on you, 
Erestor. But, I am a watchful King, who feels protective of his people. I 
cannot allow you to run loose in my city, not until I know who you are and 
why you came here. Therefore, I appoint Glorfindel and Ecthelion as your 
guardians. You will stay with them and you *will* obey them.” 
 
Ecthelion had expected Turgon to reach that decision and nodded once, 
showing he agreed. “We will keep a close eye on him, sire.” Having them 
guard and guide Erestor was the best solution. 
 
“I can stay?” Erestor’s eyes filled with hope and he released tears of 
happiness. “I can really, really stay? I can wander Gondolin’s street at 
your side, Glorfindel?” His hold on Glorfindel’s hand tightened and his 
gaze shifted from the High-King to the golden-haired Elf at his side. “I can 
stay with you, Glorfindel?”
 
The rapture that shone in Erestor’s large eyes captivated him and 
Glorfindel rubbed the back of the other Elf’s hand. Turgon’s ruling had 
pleased him. “Aye, you can stay in Gondolin – with Ecthelion and I. We 
will show you the beauty of the Hidden City, Erestor. We will be your 
keepers until you have recovered.” Recovered from what, though? 
Erestor’s mysterious arrival remained unsolved and they still didn’t know 
what had brought the raven-haired Elf here. /We need to learn how you 
passed the Seven Gates and remained unnoticed by the guards. If you can 
do it, so can one of Morgoth's servants. It is imperative that we learn the 
truth./ 
 
Turgon’s brow knitted, hearing a dedication in Glorfindel’s voice, which 
he hadn’t expected to hear – not directed at a mere stranger!
 
“Glorfindel feels drawn to him, sire,” whispered Ecthelion into his King’s 
ear after leaning in closer. “It happened the moment he first laid eyes on 
Erestor.”
 
“Should this worry me?” Glorfindel was an excellent judge of character 
and Turgon counted on the fact that the blond Captain had good reasons 
for trusting a mere stranger. But he, the King, wasn’t willing to trust so 
quickly and easily. 
 
“I do not think so,” replied Ecthelion, gaze fastened upon Glorfindel, who 
was held spellbound by Erestor. “I will keep a close eye on Glorfindel 
though, just in case.”
 
Turgon nodded once. “Keep me informed, Ecthelion. I need to learn more 
of Erestor so I can dismiss my worries.” He rose from his chair and 
advanced on the raven-haired Elf until he stood in front of Erestor. The 
High-King raised his right hand and fingered a strand of the raven hair. 
Erestor raised his head to return his searching gaze, and Turgon found the 
eyes open and inviting. Maybe Erestor had told them the truth and he 
didn’t know who he was, but Turgon remained suspicious. /There is more 
to you than meets the eye, Erestor. You are hiding something from me and 
I will find out what it is./
 
Erestor caught an echo of that thought and forced himself to return the 
King’s gaze, carefully hiding his true identity from Turgon’s probing 
thoughts. 
 
In the end, Turgon released the ebony lock and walked toward the 
doorway. “I expected a daily report, Glorfindel.”
 
“You will have it, sire,” said Glorfindel. Turgon then closed the door and 
Glorfindel was free to lose himself in the brown eyes once more. 
 
/He is falling in love,/ realized Ecthelion. /I just wish I knew whether to be 
worried or amused./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“The first thing we need to do is to get you dressed.” Glorfindel felt in his 
element, aiding Erestor. He picked up the shirt and handed it to Erestor, 
but the other Elf’s movement was erratic and uncertain. Erestor fumbled 
with the shirt, letting it slip from his fingers and then reaching for it again. 
The strange behavior worried Glorfindel. 
 
Ecthelion, handing Glorfindel the leggings, leaned in closer and whispered 
into his friend’s ear. “He resembles a new-born, meldir. He acts like 
everything is new to him.”
 
Glorfindel nodded in agreement. “You are right.” 
 
Erestor gave them a pensive look, having heard every word they said. But 
it was true; he had never dressed himself before and the fabric continued 
to elude his fingertips. 
 
“Let me help you,” said Glorfindel, eventually. “Raise your arms.” 
 
Erestor did as he was told and quivered, feeling Glorfindel’s fingertips 
slide down his arms, chest and back as the golden-haired Elf pulled the 
shirt in place. “Thank you,” he mouthed the words softly, fascinated by 
the way the fabric moved against his skin. 
 
“The leggings are next.” Glorfindel cleared his throat, trying hard not to 
look at Erestor’s lower body. The raven-haired Elf was well-endowed, 
sported long legs and the firmest buttocks he had ever seen. Lust stirred 
deep inside him, but he ruthlessly crushed it. Such thoughts were highly 
inappropriate whilst assisting Erestor with getting dressed.
 
Ecthelion noted the delight in Erestor’s eyes upon having Glorfindel so 
close and touching him. Apparently, Erestor in turn felt attracted to 
Glorfindel, for which Ecthelion was grateful. If Glorfindel’s heart was 
broken, the fair Elf would turn to him for comfort and he wasn’t certain he 
could bear seeing Glorfindel broken and in tears. “We will take Erestor to 
your house, Glorfindel.” It was obvious that his friend wouldn’t let Erestor 
out of his sight and this seemed the best arrangement for now. Ecthelion 
quickly steadied Erestor, when the other Elf pushed himself onto his feet 
and promptly swayed. 
 
Erestor yelped, startled, and reached for Ecthelion, who happened to be 
closest to him. The world had changed once more, now that he had pushed 
himself to his full height. He felt unsteady, but Ecthelion supported him 
and he slowly grew used to standing upright. He carefully placed his right 
foot in front of his left and took his first step. 
 
Watching them, Glorfindel realized how right Ecthelion had been. Erestor 
was like a new-born, a baby, learning to walk for the first time. What had 
happened to affect Erestor in such a way that he had lost his memories and 
his motor skills?
 
“We need transportation, Glorfindel. Erestor cannot walk the distance to 
your home in his current condition.” 
 
“I will arrange for our horses. Erestor, once we have reached my home 
you can rest.” Glorfindel wanted to know Erestor safe in bed, resting and 
regaining his strength.
 
“Rest?” Erestor’s eyes widened. “I do not want to rest! I want to explore 
the Hidden City with you at my side!” Trustingly, he stared into 
Glorfindel’s sapphire eyes. “I do not want to waste a single minute of my 
time here!”
 
Erestor’s enthusiasm fueled Glorfindel’s and he opened the door so 
Ecthelion could guide Erestor down the corridor and toward the courtyard. 
 
Erestor’s eyes widened, taking in the King’s Palace and slender Tower. 
The white tower glittered beneath Ithil’s moonbeams and gave the 
impression it was made of liquid silver. 
 
“It is a good thing it is night,” whispered Ecthelion, clearly amused by 
Erestor’s awestruck expression. “During the day, the city is busy and 
crowded.” This way, Erestor could gradually take in Gondolin’s wonders. 
 
Glorfindel’s stallion and Ecthelion’s mare stood already waiting in the 
courtyard. Two heads went up and greeted their masters. Glorfindel 
rubbed behind the ears and the stallion snorted in approval. “Up with you, 
then,” said Glorfindel, pointing first at Erestor and then at his horse. 
 
“Up?” Erestor coughed, trying to cover up his embarrassment. “I never 
mounted a horse before!”
 
“You have not?” Ecthelion frowned. “You do not remember your past life, 
but you do remember you never rode on horseback before?” 
 
“I just know… Please do not ask me to explain.” Erestor felt lost, staring 
at Ithil and the star-lit sky. Although Elven sight seemed limited to the 
Vala in many ways, it also allowed him to see things in a different light. 
 
Glorfindel slipped onto the stallion’s back and extended his right hand. 
“Ecthelion,  assist Erestor, will you?” 
 
Erestor grabbed hold of Glorfindel’s hand and allowed the blond Captain 
to pull him behind him, whilst Ecthelion assisted him into climbing onto 
the horse’s back. It took Erestor two attempts, but then he was safely 
seated behind Glorfindel. The steed felt strong and solid beneath him and 
feeling the stallion take his first steps away from the courtyard caused a 
strange sensation in the pit of his stomach. For one moment it felt like he 
was losing his hold and he clung to Glorfindel for support. 
 
“Wrap your arms around me,” instructed Glorfindel, sensing Erestor’s 
insecurity. Reaching his house would only take minutes, but he wanted to 
know that Erestor  was secure behind him. The stallion was growing 
nervous, feeling a second, inexperienced rider on his back and anxiously 
moved forward. 
 
Erestor folded his arms around Glorfindel’s waist and pressed close. 
Having his secret love this close was pure bliss! He had a tight hold on the 
blond Captain and rested his chin on Glorfindel’s shoulder. Golden locks 
teased against his face and mixed with his raven ones, bringing a bright 
smile to his face.
 
Ecthelion watched them closely, whilst mounting his mare. He then 
steered her closer and the two Lords rode side by side, leaving the 
courtyard. /They are opposites – day and night, Anor and Ithil – and 
opposites attract./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
         
Erestor’s interest in the Hidden City grew and he softly whispered his 
request into Glorfindel’s ear. “Please tell me about Gondolin.” He wanted 
to learn more of the city, but even more important was that he wanted to 
hear Glorfindel’s voice. 
 
Glorfindel smiled and indulged his charge. “It was the Vala Ulmö, who 
guided Turgon, son of Fingolfin, here.”
 
“Ulmö...” Erestor had met his “uncle” on several occasions and shared 
Ulmö’s love for the sea. At times, his parents had let him accompany 
Ulmö and they had traveled beneath the sea’s surface, savoring the beauty 
surrounding them.
 
Glorfindel continued his tale, relishing the feel of Erestor pressed against 
him. “The Hidden City lies east of the river Sirion. A ring of mountains, 
tall and sheer, the Echoriath, protects our city. The eagles have their abode 
in the heights of Christhorn and watch over Gondolin.”
 
“Have you ever seen the Eagles?” Erestor closed his eyes, remembering 
the tapestries his mother had woven regarding the founding of Gondolin.
 
“I have. They are magnificent creatures.” Glorfindel looked at Erestor 
from over his shoulder and almost forgot to breathe, finding Erestor’s pink 
lips close to his. Lost in admiration, he felt unable to continue.
 
Ecthelion, who had listened in on their conversation, continued instead. 
“The only entrance to the green valley is a deep way under the mountains 
and then to get into the city you must pass through the Seven Gates. You, 
Erestor, must have entered Gondolin that way.” His frown deepened. 
“There simply *is* no other entrance.”
 
“I do not remember how I came to be here.” Erestor closed his eyes and 
deeply inhaled Glorfindel’s scent. His fingers buried themselves in the 
fabric of Glorfindel’s emerald-colored tunic and he sighed, wishing they 
could always stay this way – this close.
 
The stallion led the way, the sound of his hoofs resounding on the wide 
street, which was paved with stone and kerbed marble. Erestor’s eyes 
opened and took in the fair houses and courts amid gardens of bright 
flowers. Towers of white marble, slender and elegant, reached for the 
heavens. The squares they passed by were lit with fountains and 
nightingales sang amid the branches of their aged trees.
 
Looking over his shoulder, Erestor’s breathing paused, looking at the 
King’s Palace and Tower from a distance. He was now fully able to take 
in the magnificent structures and admired the sleek and slender Tower, 
which majestically reached for the evening sky. “I have never seen a place 
more beautiful.” The Halls of Waiting were dark, and although lit by 
thousands candles, carried no warmth. 
 
“Aye, it is glorious.” Glorfindel forced himself to avert his eyes from 
Erestor’s face and was finally able to think clearly again. They came to a 
halt and Glorfindel drew in a deep breath. “Welcome to my home, 
Erestor.”
 
Ecthelion dismounted first and caught Erestor when the Elf clumsily 
lowered himself onto the ground. That clumsiness puzzled Ecthelion; why 
was Erestor’s coordination so off?  
 
Glorfindel came to a halt beside Erestor and reached for the dark-haired 
Elf’s hand, which his guest eagerly placed in his. “Would you like me to 
take you to your rooms or to the kitchens? Are you hungry by any 
chance?”
 
“Hungry?” /What exactly was ‘hungry’?/ His stomach growled promptly, 
answering for him. 
 
“The kitchen it is,” decided Glorfindel, leading Erestor into his home.
 
Ecthelion followed suit, unwilling to let the two Elves out of his sight. It 
was best if he stayed close.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“What is this?” Erestor looked at Glorfindel for an explanation. 
 
“That is cheese.” Glorfindel chuckled, and cut himself a slice. Watching 
Erestor eat was quite the experience. The dark-haired Elf had already 
devoured fresh bread, meats, ripe fruit, and now tackled the cheese. “Do 
not eat too much. There is also dessert.”
 
“Dessert? What is that?” Erestor bit into the cheese, munching happily. 
When his father had demanded he join the Firstborn in order to be with 
Glorfindel, he had expected many hardships, but so far he had experienced 
one pleasant surprise after another. Although he was several millennia old, 
he had never felt more alive before! Alive, breathing, eating, drinking 
fresh water and something Glorfindel called wine – a drink, which was 
definitely making him dizzy. 
 
“Easy with the wine, Glorfindel. Something tells me he is not used to 
drinking it.” It was the dilated pupils, decided Ecthelion, which gave 
Erestor away. 
 
“This wine is most delicious,” exclaimed Erestor, already tipsy. “I feel 
strange, though, but then again, I have felt strange for a while now.” His 
head lolled from the right to the left, trying to focus on Glorfindel. “Why 
are there two of you?”
 
“Oh, you are right,” said Glorfindel, quite upset that he had made such a 
grave mistake in judgment and he quickly filled Erestor’s glass with water 
instead of wine. “Drink this, Erestor.”
 
Erestor indulged his secret love and emptied the glass. “Is it always like 
this?”
 
“Is what?” asked Ecthelion, shaking his head when Glorfindel reached for 
the apple pie. “Don’t, meldir. I doubt his stomach will hold more food.”
 
“Being alive!” Erestor drew in a deep breath and sighed in contentment. “I 
want to be like this forever.”
 
The two Captains exchanged a puzzled look. “It is probably the wine 
talking,” said Ecthelion, eventually. “We should put him to bed so he can 
sleep off the effects. And Glorfindel, remember this in the future! No wine 
for Erestor.”
 
Erestor gave Ecthelion a rueful look. “Why not? I like wine.”
 
“I know you do, but you are not used to it.” Ecthelion rose from his chair 
and gave Glorfindel a stern look. “We are putting him to bed *now*.”
 
Erestor pouted. “I do not want to go back to bed! I want to walk in the 
gardens, look at Ithil and the stars.” He gave Glorfindel a pleading look. 
“Can we go outside instead? Please?” 
 
Seeing his friend was about to give in, Ecthelion replied in Glorfindel’s 
place. “Nay, at night we rest and you will do the same.”
 
Glorfindel nodded, reluctantly. “Ecthelion, you are right, of course. He 
should rest.” He rose from his chair and came to a standstill beside 
Erestor, who struggled to his feet. Glorfindel quickly reached for him and 
folded an arm around him. “Let me walk you to your rooms.”
 
“Stay with me tonight, Glorfindel?” 
 
Erestor’s directness surprised even Glorfindel, who determinedly shook 
his head. “I cannot do that. Turgon entrusted you to me – to us – and we 
are your guardians for now.”
 
Ecthelion watched the scene unfold in amusement and decided it was time 
for him to take charge. If it were up to Erestor, Glorfindel and he would 
spend the night in the same bed and that just wasn’t acceptable – 
especially since Erestor was clearly intoxicated. “Where do you want to 
put him? The guest rooms in the right wing?”
 
Glorfindel nodded, clinging to Ecthelion’s voice, as it helped ground him. 
What was it about Erestor that made him lose control? Together, they 
steered a swaying and inebriated Erestor to his guest rooms. On their way 
there, Erestor grew silent and one look told the two Captains that he had 
dozed off. That was probably the best thing that could have happened to 
them. The two Elves lowered their charge onto the bed and then stepped 
back. Ecthelion opened one of the windows to let in the midnight breeze 
and then joined Glorfindel, who was staring admiringly at Erestor. 
 
“He is a mystery, Ecthelion,” said Glorfindel eventually. “A mystery I 
desperately want to unravel. The way he acts you would think that this is 
the first time he walked on Arda.”
 
“Maybe it feels that way to him, too. Because of the memory loss.” 
suggested Ecthelion, who wrapped an arm around Glorfindel’s waist. 
Pulling his friend toward the doorway, he said, “Glorfindel, we need to 
talk.”
 
Glorfindel nodded. “I feel the same way. I have no idea what has come 
over me.” 
 
Ecthelion pulled his friend along. “Come with me, meldir. You can always 
confide and trust in me.”
 
“You are a true friend, Ecthelion,” replied Glorfindel, sighing heavily. 
“And the Valar know I need one to make sense of my raging feelings.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel seated himself in a comfortable chair and accepted the goblet 
filled with sweet wine, which Ecthelion handed him. Oil lamps and 
candles illuminated his study, giving the room a warm feel. Ithil’s silver 
beams entered through the open window and mingled with the golden 
light from the candles. Glorfindel sipped his wine, drew in a deep breath, 
closed his eyes, and rested the back of his head against the comfort of the 
chair. “Ecthelion, what am I doing?”
 
Ecthelion ran a fingertip along the rim of his goblet and studied his friend. 
“Why don’t you tell me, meldir?” 
 
Glorfindel nodded once. “I only know that I lost my heart to him when I 
discovered him in the gardens.” His azure eyes opened and met 
Ecthelion’s. “Have you ever been in love, meldir? Utterly and madly in 
love?” He already knew the answer to that question, but waited for 
Ecthelion to shake his head. “And neither have I, until today. My every 
thought is filled with him. Every waking moment is spend thinking of him 
and I know that when I go to sleep, I will dream of him. Erestor is…” 
Lacking the words to express his feelings, Glorfindel hoped Ecthelion 
understood. “We always dreamt of a love like this, and for a while I 
thought I would never find it. But that has changed now. I hardly know 
him and yet, it feels like he is already a part of me.”
 
“Glorfindel, you only met Erestor hours ago. How can you be this 
convinced that it is love? He is fair, meldir, maybe his beauty has aroused 
your lust? Is it really love, Glorfindel?” Ecthelion sipped his wine, and 
gave Glorfindel a probing look. “A declaration of love should not be 
spoken lightly. It is the most intense emotion we will ever experience and 
one to be cherished for the rest of our lives.” He disliked doing this to 
Glorfindel, but considered it his duty as a friend to caution him. “You 
know *nothing* of Erestor, Glorfindel. For all you know, Erestor might 
not be what he seems. Morgoth is cunning and his power is growing. 
Erestor might be an agent, sent to spy for him.”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes erupted with blue fire. “How dare you imply such a 
thing?”
 
“Glorfindel, listen carefully. I am not saying that Erestor is in league with 
Morgoth. I am merely trying to point out how little you know about him.”
 
“There is no evil in Erestor, and you know it!” Glorfindel placed his 
goblet on the table with a loud thud. Glorfindel was more intent on 
defending Erestor, than actually hearing what Ecthelion was trying to tell 
him.
 
Ecthelion smiled, ruefully. “But you *do* realize how little you know of 
Erestor?”
 
“I see the point you are trying to make, and aye, it is a valid one.” 
Glorfindel hated the way Ecthelion had made him admit that. 
 
“Glorfindel, I sense an innocence in Erestor, and I am sure you felt too. 
What I am trying to say is that you should take your time to get to know 
him. Do not rush this. You have all the time you need. Pace yourself until 
you know Erestor – know him for who he really is.” 
 
“Why must you always be right, Ecthelion?” But in spite of his mixed 
feelings, Glorfindel managed a warm smile. “You do not really approve of 
Erestor, do you?”
 
Ecthelion chuckled. “I do not know Erestor, so how can I disapprove or 
approve of him? We have all the time we need, Glorfindel, and something 
tells me Erestor is in no hurry to leave, as he is attracted to you in turn. 
Why not use the next few months to build a friendship? And if it is love on 
your mind as well as his, it will show and manifest.”
 
“Your advice is wise and sound.” Glorfindel felt better now. “So, you do 
not think me mad for falling in love with him?”
 
“Glorfindel, Erestor is fair and from what I have witnessed, kind. If you 
wish to pursue him, you have my blessing, if that is what you are asking.”
 
“Thank you.” Glorfindel smiled, warmly, at his friend. “Will you spend 
the day with us tomorrow?”
 
“Us being Erestor and you, I assume?” Ecthelion filled their goblets again 
and found that a light blush had settled on his friend’s features. The wine 
loosened his tongue and he found himself talking rapidly. “Aye, it is true 
that we did not find love yet. Neither you nor I have had a lover and that is 
because we will only settle for true love. If you feel you have found that 
with Erestor, fight for it.”
 
“But what about you, meldir?”
 
“I believe that I will find true love as well – one day in the future.” 
Ecthelion raised his goblet. “Let us drink on Erestor’s health, then.”
 
Glorfindel nodded and toasted. “And let us drink on love – true love.” He 
was convinced he would find true love in Erestor’s arms and hoped 
Ecthelion would one day find the other half of his soul as well.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
  
/He is asleep, Námo. Our son is dreaming./ Vairë’s ghost-like touch 
caressed Erestor’s raven hair. 
 
Námo joined his wife in looking at their son. /He cannot hear or see us. I 
saw to that./
 
/He looks happy./ Even in his sleep a smile remained on Erestor’s smile. 
Vairë’s mind reached out and curled around her husband’s. /I believe we 
made the right decision in allowing him to become one of the Firstborn./
 
/He will be happy for a while, but once Gondolin falls he will lose his 
love./ 
 
/And Glorfindel’s fëa will come to dwell in the Halls./ Saddened, she 
reached out and touched her son’s thoughts. Erestor was dreaming of 
Glorfindel, of holding him close and kissing him. /I never realized love 
could be this strong./
 
/It is the most powerful emotion in Eru’s creation./   
 
/And now it is guiding Erestor’s life./
 
/Trust me, my love. It will guide him well./  
 
Her husband’s words brought her comfort now that she had to part from 
her son again. Her being lovingly enfolded Erestor for long moments, but 
then she let go and followed her husband. The souls of the dead demanded 
their constant attention and their first duty was to them. /I will visit with 
you shortly, my son. In the meantime, I hope Glorfindel will make you 
happy./
 
The next moment, their presence was gone from Erestor’s rooms.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor stretched, purred,  and extended his right hand to catch Arien’s 
first rays. The soft warmth wrapped itself around his digits, making him 
smile in wonder. Life as a Firstborn was nothing like he had thought it 
would be! It was a journey filled with discoveries and new experiences.
 
A tightness in his groin made him frown and he elbowed himself into an 
upright position to find out what was amiss this time. His leggings were 
impossibly tight and Erestor removed the offending clothes, finally 
enjoying the sensation of air meeting naked flesh. 
 
But, a little – well, not so little – problem remained. His member had 
grown engorged and was becoming painful. Following his instincts, he 
wrapped his fingers around the inflamed flesh and stroked. His eyes 
widened with pleasure and soon, he was crooning softly. He lay down 
once more and arched his back, thrusting into his hand. His eyes closed, 
his breathing paused, and his groin tightened further as ancient needs took 
over and eventually pushed him toward orgasm. Fire exploded behind his 
closed eyelids and a warm, creamy substance erupted from the head, 
dripping onto his fingers and abdomen. Feeling lazy, Erestor smiled. Oh, 
this had been his most intense experience so far! During his life as a Vala, 
he had never experienced anything like it! /And I want to experience it 
again, but this time *with* Glorfindel!/
 
“Erestor? Are you awake yet?” 
 
/Glorfindel./ Feeling sticky, Erestor used a corner of the sheet to clean 
himself up, before calling out for Glorfindel to enter.
 
Glorfindel opened the door and remained standing in the doorway. A 
blush crept onto his features, finding Erestor naked on the bed. The 
slightly bitter scent that floated in the bedroom told Glorfindel that the 
raven-haired Elf had pleasured himself and had found release just seconds 
prior to his arrival. The now flaccid member lay nestled against the 
alabaster skin and Glorfindel felt grateful that he had brought himself to 
orgasm before seeking out Erestor, for this current vision would have 
caused him to grow aroused. His erection would have been clearly visible, 
too, as he was wearing tight-fitting leggings. Now, he was spared this 
particular embarrassment. “How do you fare this morn?” He *did* wonder 
why Erestor didn’t cover himself up, flaunting his naked body instead. Did 
this Elf know no shame?
 
“Better, I think.” Erestor sat upright once more and swung his feet over 
the side of the bed, placing them firmly on the floor. “You did not stay 
with me last night,” he said in a disappointed and even slightly resentful 
tone. 
 
“It would not have been appropriate.” Glorfindel took a step into the room 
and draped a gray shirt and black leggings over a chair. He placed knee-
high black boots on the floor and then sought out Erestor’s gaze, trying 
hard not to stare at the naked Elf. Oh, he craved running his hands down 
Erestor’s flanks, cupping the firm buttocks and making love to him. But 
Ecthelion’s words returned to him and he restrained himself, knowing he 
had to get to know Erestor first. “Breakfast will be served in fifteen 
minutes. Do you think you can wash up and get dressed or do you require 
more time?”
 
“Wash up?” Erestor pushed himself to his feet, feeling proud now that he 
didn’t sway. He was growing more accustomed to this body and found it 
easier to move about. 
 
“Aye, you can wash up in the bathroom.” Glorfindel crossed the room and 
opened the door to the bathroom. “You can fill up the pool and take a 
bath, but that will require more time than you have. Maybe a shower will 
do instead?” 
 
“Wash up…” Erestor was still contemplating that particular concept.
 
“Aye, clean up.” Glorfindel frowned, wondering why he was explaining 
this to Erestor. 
 
“I have never washed up before.” Erestor walked into the bathroom and 
considered his options. “I think I will manage.” 
 
Although Erestor’s words puzzled the blond warrior, he decided not to 
question his guest. Glorfindel pulled several large towels from the closet 
and placed them beside the shower. Erestor’s uninhibited manner stirred 
lustful feelings deep inside him and he found he was growing hard after 
all. “I will return in fifteen minutes.” He practically fled Erestor’s rooms 
and closed the door behind him with a bang. He leaned against the wall 
and rested his back against it. “By the Valar…” No Elf had ever caused 
such a strong desire in him!
 
Ecthelion strolled down the corridor and grinned, coming upon his 
aroused friend. One look, directed at Glorfindel’s groin area, told him why 
the azure eyes had filled with desire. “I reckon you visited with Erestor?”
 
“He was naked again,” Glorfindel gasped.
 
Ecthelion’s chuckle echoed through the corridor. “And he left you hard. 
Oh, meldir,  you really want him, don’t you?” He had never seen 
Glorfindel in this way before. 
 
“Aye, I do, but I will honor your advice and go slow, though it might be 
the death of me!” All he could think of was making love to Erestor! 
 
Ecthelion smiled in understanding and searched Glorfindel’s eyes. “Go to 
the main hall and break your fast.”
 
“But what about Erestor?”
 
“I will escort him. Now go.” He winked at Glorfindel, saying, “Maybe you 
should take a cold shower first?”
 
“You are enjoying my misery too much!” But Glorfindel couldn’t grow 
angry with Ecthelion, knowing his friend was only teasing him. Leaning in 
closer, he touched his forehead to his friend’s and whispered, “I promise 
you that you *will* find the other half of your soul, meldir.” 
 
Deeply touched, Ecthelion stroked the long, flaxen hair. “I am happy for 
you, Glorfindel. Now go and take care of *that*.”
 
Glorfindel snorted, but felt thankful nonetheless. Hurrying down the 
corridor, he headed for his rooms – for a cold shower.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor appeared in the corridor fifteen minutes later, and Ecthelion noted 
the surprise in the dark eyes upon finding him and not Glorfindel waiting 
for him. He had already had his heart to heart with Glorfindel, now he 
wanted a moment with Erestor. “Walk with me,” he instructed. “I will take 
you to the hall where we will have breakfast.” Erestor’s gaze swept 
through the corridor, taking in the carvings, paintings – many by 
Glorfindel’s hand himself – and noted the way Erestor’s hands continued 
to try and grasp Arien’s beams. “This seems new to you,” commented 
Ecthelion, hoping Erestor might let down his guard and speak the truth, for 
the Captain was convinced that Erestor had been carefully dosing the little 
truth he had shared so far.
 
“This *is* new to me!” Erestor gave Ecthelion a brilliant smile. 
“Ecthelion, I wanted to thank you for speaking on my behalf before the 
King. I really bear you no ill will. I just want to live here with Glorfindel.”
 
“Glorfindel is very important to you, is he not?” Ecthelion slowed their 
pace, needing time to steer their conversation in the direction he desired. 
He realized that Erestor wouldn’t share anything with them on how he had 
arrived in the Hidden City, but maybe Erestor was willing to discuss 
Glorfindel. 
 
Erestor blushed and nodded his head once. He carefully made eye contact 
with Ecthelion and said, “I love him.”
 
“How can you be so sure of that? You only met yesterday!” Ecthelion was 
beginning to understand that Erestor’s feelings for Glorfindel were just as 
deep as they were on the blond Elf’s part. 
 
“I know it in my heart,” whispered Erestor, looking Ecthelion in the eye. 
“I am prepared to make whatever sacrifice necessary in order to be with 
him.” He had already sacrificed a large part of himself so he could dwell 
in Gondolin. 
 
“Your love for him is sincere?” Ecthelion stopped Erestor by placing a 
hand on his shoulder and turning him around so they were face to face. 
“You really love him?”
 
“I do.” Erestor placed his hand on Ecthelion’s, which already rested on his 
shoulder, and guided it down so he could cradle it between his two hands. 
“My love is sincere and my motives genuine. I love Glorfindel and I want 
to be with him for the rest of his life.”
 
Ecthelion frowned at hearing ‘the rest of *his* life’, which somehow 
struck him as odd. But the warmth in the brown eyes convinced him that 
Erestor was speaking the truth and, in the end, he relented. “Glorfindel 
returns those feelings.”
 
Erestor’s heart thundered madly at hearing his suspicions confirmed. “I 
understand that you have no reason to trust me, Ecthelion, but I will 
promise you this; I vow to never willingly hurt Glorfindel or to betray his 
love. I will be faithful and devoted to him until the end.”
 
Ecthelion’s eyes continued to study the dark ones and found them truthful. 
“You had better treat him respectful and love him well, or else you will 
answer to me.”
 
“I know that Glorfindel is your best friend, Ecthelion, and that the two of 
you are practically inseparable. Trust me, I have no intention of taking him 
away from you. You are an Elf of great honor and I respect you. I hope, 
that in time, we will become friends.”
 
Had that been his greatest fear, wondered Ecthelion. That Erestor would 
take his best friend away from him? 
 
Unbidden, a vision of the distant future came to Erestor, maybe aided by 
their close, physical contact. “I see a dark-haired Elf at your side, 
Ecthelion, with large, gray eyes in which the stars shine brightly. Still 
young, certainly compared to your age, but he is wise and courageous. 
You will have to wait long and endure much, but he will find you 
eventually. And he will love you.”
 
Ecthelion broke away from Erestor’s hypnotic gaze and freed his hand 
from the other Elf’s hold. “How can you say such a thing? Why would 
you play with my feelings?” The fact that he hadn’t found a love worthy 
of him yet caused him deep sorrow, one that constantly accompanied him, 
though he managed to hide it well.
 
“I apologize if my words have hurt you.” Erestor took a step closer to 
Ecthelion and made a point of establishing physical contact again by 
resting a hand on the Lord’s shoulder. “I did not say that to hurt your 
feelings.” He didn’t want to reveal this yet, but he had to if he wanted 
Ecthelion to stop looking at him in such a hurt way. “I might not 
remember my past, but I do know parts of the future, and when we 
touched, this vision came to me. Don’t despair, Ecthelion. You *will* find 
love eventually.”
 
Erestor felt afraid to believe Erestor, just in case the raven-haired Elf was 
playing him, but deep down in his heart he wanted to believe every word 
his charge had said. “Do you also know his name, then?”
 
“Do you really want to know?” Erestor smiled at Ecthelion, and squeezed 
the Captain’s shoulder.
 
“If you know his name, please share it with me.” It would be his lifeline in 
the years to come – years, which would be filled with watching Erestor 
and Glorfindel deepening their love – as these two Elves would 
doubtlessly bind themselves no matter what obstacles were placed in their 
path. 
 
“His name is Elrohir,” revealed Erestor in a tender tone. “And he will love 
you, Ecthelion.”
 
“Elrohir...” Ecthelion repeated the name, letting it roll from his tongue. 
“Elf-Knight?”
 
“Aye, a knight worthy of your love.” Erestor indulged himself and gave in 
to his curiosity, letting a strand of Ecthelion’s hair twirl around a fingertip. 
“We should join Glorfindel now. I do not want to keep him waiting.”
 
/Elrohir, my love’s name is Elrohir./ For one brief moment Ecthelion was 
afraid that Erestor had cunningly played him, but when he looked into the 
large eyes, he saw no lies. Erestor had been honest with him. He smiled, 
and guided Erestor toward the main hall where breakfast was being 
served. /Elrohir, his name is Elrohir…/ He repeated it time and time again. 
/Elrohir, his name is Elrohir./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel felt refreshed – and considerably less aroused – after he had 
taken that cold shower. He had joined the members of his household in the 
main hall and had just begun eating breakfast, when he noticed the soft 
murmur, which started near the doorway and progressed deeper into the 
hall. Looking up from his plate, he quickly located its source. Ecthelion 
and Erestor walked toward him, and Glorfindel’s heart missed a beat, 
seeing the carefree and open expression in Erestor’s brown eyes. 
 
Erestor ignored the looks of open admiration being cast in his way and 
focused on Glorfindel instead. The blush that spread across the fair Elf’s 
face was becoming and added to his beauty. “My Lord Glorfindel,” said 
Erestor, addressing Glorfindel in a teasing tone. 
 
“Please, there is no need to address me in such a formal way.” Glorfindel 
rose from his chair and gestured for Ecthelion to take his regular seat to 
his right, whilst he directed Erestor to his left.
 
Ecthelion watched his best friend’s struggle to remain composed with 
amusement. Glorfindel’s interest in Erestor was rather obvious, and 
judging by the soft murmur around him, the members of the Glorfindel’s 
household had reached the same conclusion. 
 
The two dark-haired Elves seated themselves and Ecthelion busied himself 
with his tea, giving Glorfindel a moment to focus solely on Erestor.
 
“You look rested. I trust you slept well?” Glorfindel watched, rather 
entranced, how Erestor nibbled on a peace of bread. The soft-pink lips 
demanded to be kissed, not used for the simple intake of food.
 
“Aye, I did.” Erestor tried the chamomile tea and smiled, approving of its 
taste. 
 
“Ecthelion will have to leave us shortly, as his duties call him back to our 
King’s side, but I am at your disposal for the rest of the day, if you wish 
for it.” Glorfindel couldn’t tear his gaze away from Erestor’s mouth, 
which now opened to allow a sugar covered strawberry inside.
 
A taste explosion followed and Erestor smiled, happily. Next, he selected 
a cherry and ate it, displeased when he bit down on something hard. He 
disposed of the stone and sought out Glorfindel’s eyes. Hope lingered 
there – hope and the beginning of love. “I would prefer for you to stay at 
my side, Glorfindel.”
 
Ecthelion leaned back, sipping his tea. Turgon would demand a report on 
Erestor and he should carefully consider what to tell their King. If Erestor 
could really foretell the future, Erestor would become more valuable in 
Turgon’s eyes and the King’s meddling might grow. He wasn’t sure he 
wanted to further the King’s interest in Erestor, though. Not yet, anyways. 
He wanted Glorfindel and Erestor to have a chance to get to know each 
other. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Will you join us for dinner later?” asked Glorfindel, as he walked 
Ecthelion to his horse.
 
“That depends,” replied Ecthelion. “I do not know how busy Turgon will 
keep me.” He mounted his mare and steered her toward the road. “And I 
doubt you will miss my presence today.”
 
Glorfindel blushed a delicate red. “It is rather obvious, isn’t it?”
 
“If you are not careful the whole of Gondolin will know you are in love 
before nightfall.” Ecthelion grinned, naughtily. “I will help the rumor 
along by telling Idril.”
 
Glorfindel groaned. The King’s daughter would waste no time spreading 
it. “Do not tell her yet.”
 
“I might tell her at any rate – just to annoy you,” said Ecthelion, teasingly, 
but then his demeanor changed. “But I should concentrate on Turgon 
instead.”
 
“You are worried about the influence Maeglin has gained on him, and so 
am I.”
 
“There is more. Tuor carried Ulmö’s warning to our High-King and yet 
Turgon refuses to act upon it.” Ecthelion was worried. “It was foretold that 
Ulmö would warn us and yet Turgon chooses to ignore it.”
 
“It is Maeglin’s influence on him that is making him act in this way.” 
Glorfindel raised a hand and rested it on Ecthelion’s knee. “Talk to Tuor. 
Try to gain more information. Maybe that way we can convince Turgon to 
evacuate the Hidden City and move to safer grounds.”
 
“Turgon will never abandon Gondolin,” said Ecthelion, lost in though. “I 
am afraid we are fighting a losing battle.”
 
“In that case we should consider designing a plan to take the ones willing 
to leave the city into safety.”
 
“Idril might be willing to leave, especially since she is expecting her first 
child.” Ecthelion sighed, feeling troubled. “I pray we still have a few years 
left in this city before we must leave or die defending it.”
 
Glorfindel agreed and nodded once. “I want to stay here for a few more 
years… And maybe not all is lost yet, if only we can stop Maeglin from 
influencing our King.” He squeezed Ecthelion’s knee and then removed 
his hand. “If you cannot join us for dinner, send word of today’s meetings. 
And keep a close eye on Maeglin!”
 
“I will!” Ecthelion raised his hand in goodbye and pressed his heels into 
his mare’s flanks, heading for the King’s Palace.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Your home is a lovely place to dwell,” said Erestor after Glorfindel had 
shown him most of the halls, rooms and gardens. Fountains, golden and 
delicately decorated, produced a calming melody and Erestor pulled 
Glorfindel toward a more secluded part of the garden. 
 
Glorfindel felt extremely pleased; during the tour of his home Erestor’s 
hand had constantly rested in his and he had rubbed the long fingers, 
enjoying their contact. Now that Erestor pulled him with him, Glorfindel 
followed, his eyes sparking when he realized what direction they were 
headed in.
 
Erestor came to an abrupt halt and inclined his head. “Do I hear music?” 
Someone was playing the lyre and one moment later a hauntingly 
beautiful voice floated toward him. Entranced by the hypnotic quality of 
that voice, Erestor moved closer, honing in on the singer. 
 
In the end, he entered a rose garden, and in its center, sheltered by a large 
oak tree, sat the singer. Long, nimble fingers caressed the strings and soon 
the melody had him mesmerized. White hair, glowing soft silver, framed a 
handsome face and light-blue eyes added to the minstrel’s eternal beauty. 
Erestor remained at a respectful distance, listening closely. His eyes closed 
and he swayed gently, letting the music move him. 
 
Glorfindel released Erestor’s hand to wrap his arm around the other Elf’s 
waist. Erestor reacted by moving closer and the raven head came to rest 
upon a strong shoulder. 
 
The hands eventually stilled and stopped plucking the strings. The 
enchantment ended abruptly and Erestor blinked, his eyes revealing awe. 
“The song of Ilúvatar is strong in you.” Curiously, he advanced on the 
musician. 
 
“Thank you.” He placed the lyre aside and slowly rose from the ground to 
greet Glorfindel and their guest. 
 
Glorfindel cleared his throat and introduced the musician. “Erestor, this is 
Lindir. He is a friend, my former teacher and above all a minstrel. He 
taught Ecthelion to play the flute and I often join them by playing the harp 
or raising my voice in song.”
 
Erestor smiled at Lindir; the minstrel’s skills had left him captivated. 
“Your voice surely reached the Valar, making them smile in contentment.” 
Many minstrels roamed his father’s Halls, but they seldom sang and when 
they did, it was with great sadness. But Lindir’s voice was different and 
sparkled with joy and a zest for life. “I am honored to meet you, Lindir.” 
Introducing himself, he added, “My name is Erestor.”
 
“I heard of your arrival,” replied Lindir, inclining his head in respect. 
“And the servants spoke true when they told me of your beauty. It must 
please the Valar to look upon you.”
 
“Thank you for your kind words.” Erestor looked Lindir in the eye and 
asked, “Will you sing another song? I would like to sit at your feet and 
listen to you.”
 
“If that is your wish.” Amused and flattered by Erestor’s open adoration, 
Lindir seated himself once more and gestured for Glorfindel and Erestor to 
do the same. “Is there a particular song you would like to hear?”
 
“Nay, you pick the song – the melody.” Erestor pulled Glorfindel down 
with him and leaned against the blond Elf once they were comfortably 
seated close to each other. A lock of gold twirled around a strand of his 
raven hair and Erestor smiled, hoping this was symbolic for the rest of 
their relationship. They hadn’t spoken of love yet, but both realized they 
were already courting each other. 
 
Lindir noted the way their fingers intertwined and saw his feelings 
confirmed, finding Glorfindel guiding Erestor closer to him and stroking 
the raven hair. The servants had told him of Erestor’s beauty, but he had 
been hesitant to believe such perfection really existed. But Erestor had 
proven him wrong. Such beauty should be immortalized in song and 
Lindir picked up his lyre, playing and singing once more.
 
Erestor was lost in admiration of Lindir’s voice. “You are blessed in many 
ways, Lindir,” he whispered, forgetting that Glorfindel heard him. 
 
“Aye, he is indeed,” whispered Glorfindel. Whilst his right arm remained 
poised around Erestor’s waist, he brought up the other and rested his hand 
against the nape of Erestor’s neck. /How can it be that I feel so at peace? 
Why does it feel like I have known you my entire life? I never believed in 
love at first sight – but this love is so rich and complete that it warms me 
from the inside./
 
Erestor caught an echo of Glorfindel’s thoughts despite his determination 
not to use his powers in that way – it just happened and he knew his father 
would understand that he hadn’t violated the ground rules. Glorfindel’s 
thoughts had simply entered his mind. /Oh, I feel the same way about you, 
melethen4./ Enjoying the tranquility of the moment, he closed his eyes. He 
deeply breathed in Glorfindel’s scent and listened – utterly captivated -- to 
Lindir’s song, which wove a web of sounds, images and emotions around 
them. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Lindir gave Erestor an amused smile. “Did he really fall asleep during my 
song?”
 
“I am afraid so, meldir. He has had a very exciting day so far and 
yesterday must have exhausted him as well.” Glorfindel held Erestor 
close, caressing long strands of ebony hair. “He feels right in my arms.”
 
Lindir nodded once. “I noticed how comfortable you are around him. You 
have come to trust somebody so quickly only once before and that was 
when you met Ecthelion.” He had been a part of Glorfindel’s household 
for many centuries now and had taught the golden-haired Elf the finer arts 
– however, he felt only music was a true form of art. During the years they 
had spent together, a friendship had formed, though it didn’t compare to 
the friendship Glorfindel had built with Ecthelion. But Lindir didn’t mind. 
He lived for his music – for song, words, notes and melody. They were his 
world – his lovers.
 
“I am quite at a loss to explain this. He feels like the other half of my 
soul.” Glorfindel pressed a chaste kiss onto the black hair. “At first, I 
thought it was his beauty, which captivated me, but I now believe it is 
more. My soul reached out to his, and Erestor answered. It almost feels 
like I can sense his thoughts at times – maybe even his emotions. It 
delights me, but it is also very confusing. I never thought I would lose my 
heart in that way.”
 
“We do not get to choose the way love enters our lives,” said Lindir, 
musing. “You should rejoice instead and embrace his love for you.”
 
“Do you think he loves me in turn?” Glorfindel’s eyes glittered with 
emotion. 
 
“I can see it in his eyes, aye.” It would only be a matter of time before 
they became lovers. “But his eyes also hide many things.”
 
“I know that, but I cannot force him to open up to me. Turgon and 
Ecthelion want to know how Erestor entered our city, but Erestor says he 
does not remember.”
 
“Do you believe him?” Lindir saw a hint of indecision in his friend’s azure 
eyes. 
 
“I am not certain,” admitted Glorfindel in a heavy voice. “But even if his 
memory is still intact I will respect his decision not to confide in me.” 
 
“Because you love him.”
 
“Aye, because I love him.” Glorfindel felt lost, looking at the fair face, 
resting against his shoulder. “Am I wrong to love him, Lindir? I know 
nothing about him.”
 
“Not nothing,” said Lindir, correcting him. “You know he loves you.”
 
Glorfindel smiled, contently. “Aye, I do.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Did I fall asleep again?” Erestor yawned and stretched, giving Glorfindel 
and Lindir an apologetic smile. “That was never my intention.” Being 
alive was more tiring than he had thought and he hoped he would grow 
more accustomed to the demands this body placed upon him. 
 
“Do not worry about it,” said Glorfindel, good-heartedly. “But it is a good 
thing you have awoken for I need to leave you for a while.” 
 
Erestor grabbed hold of Glorfindel and folded his arms around the blond 
Elf’s shoulders in a possessive way. “Nay, you do not.”
 
“Oh, but I must! I do not want to leave you, but I am the Lord of my 
House and I have to attend to certain matters. I cannot neglect my duties to 
my people.” Glorfindel caressed Erestor’s face and his fingertips trailed 
lower, tracing the outline of Erestor’s pink bottom lip. “My guards train 
during the afternoon and I have to be there to supervise them. I also need 
to debrief them, find out if someone was injured, and hand out the new 
duty rosters. I am sorry, but I cannot neglect those duties in order to be 
with you.”
 
“I understand,” whispered Erestor. “I understand about honor and duty.”
 
Glorfindel felt relieved, now that Erestor was pushing himself to his feet 
and pulling him along. “Would you like to join us, Lindir? You can keep 
Erestor company during the training.”
 
Lindir gathered his lyre and rose from the grass. “I would like that. I find I 
enjoy your company, Erestor.” 
  
Lindir’s words made Erestor smile. “And I enjoy yours. Maybe you can 
teach me how to play the lyre?” He could practice whilst Glorfindel 
trained with the guards. 
 
“You won’t be able to learn to play the lyre in a few hours, Erestor, but we 
can make a start.” Lindir smoothed his green robes, made from silk and 
velvet, and brushed elusive strands of white hair back behind his ears. 
 
Glorfindel took possession of Erestor’s hand once more, eager to be in 
contact with the Elf he was so madly in love in. Together, the three of 
them headed for the training grounds.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“One is more beautiful than the other.”
 
“Ilúvatar’s song must have been particularly bright when creating these 
two.”
 
Lindir frowned, overhearing the guards closest to him. Erestor was 
plucking at the strings of his lyre, and Lindir was still amazed that the 
raven-haired Elf had so quickly picked up the skill to play the instrument. 
He had been so focused on Erestor’s play that he hadn’t heard the guards 
at first, but then their conversation had grown louder and bolder.
 
“I would love running my fingers down the white tresses. Oh, just look at 
those eyes! They resemble the blue-gray sky just before the clouds release 
rain!”
 
Lindir averted his eyes, realizing the guard had noticed his glance. Being 
the object of such interest made him uncomfortable. 
 
“He likes you, Lindir,” whispered Erestor, finishing a short melody Lindir 
had taught him. “Do you fancy him?” The guard was fair and sweat 
glittered on the broad, well-toned chest. “Or are you already bound?”
 
“I am bound to my music, Erestor. She is my true love.” Lindir felt the 
guard’s eyes upon him and this time he ignored him. 
 
“How do you think would he move beneath me? Would his blue eyes burn 
brighter? Or grow white, like his hair?” The guard sighed, dreaming of 
Lindir and barely managed ducking a blow when his partner attacked. He 
had been so focused on Lindir that he had let his guard down!
 
“Don’t you desire a living, breathing lover, then?” Erestor placed the lyre 
aside and searched Lindir’s eyes. They revealed desire and obsession. But 
those emotions weren’t directed at a living being, but at his music instead. 
“A melody cannot wrap its arms around you when you are alone at night. 
Music is a very inattentive lover.” 
 
“It has always been enough for me.”
 
Erestor’s gaze darkened and then grew sad. “There might come a time 
when music is not enough any more, Lindir.” 
 
At that point, Lindir decided to change their subject, as he had no desire to 
discuss this further. “His training partner finds you very fair as well, 
Erestor.”
 
“I love Glorfindel. Only Glorfindel, and no one else.” Erestor’s gaze 
shifted from the minstrel to Glorfindel, who was supervising the last part 
of the training. Like his men, Glorfindel had removed his shirt and tiny 
droplets of sweat hugged the well-toned chest. “He has a gorgeous body.”
 
Lindir laughed. “You, meldir, are experiencing a rush of lust!”
 
“Lust? Maybe,” said Erestor, giving Lindir a wink. “You are probably 
right, though. All I can think about is kissing him and running my hands 
down that chest.” The scene triggered certain responses in his body, 
making him grow hard. “Have you ever lain with a male, Lindir?”
 
Lindir couldn’t help but wonder about Erestor’s directness. “Nay, I have 
not.” Hadn’t he just told Erestor that no Elf compared to the beauty he saw 
and heard when composing his music?
 
“Never?” Erestor gave Lindir a look full of disbelief. “You never engaged 
in the act of making love? How old are you?” He had only possessed the 
body of an Elf for two days and desired nothing more than to become one 
with Glorfindel – to feel the warrior’s hands move over his body and 
claim him!
 
“Old enough.” Lindir shook his head at Erestor. “You must be very young 
to feel your body’s desire in such a strong way.”
 
/Oh, I would not call myself young, Lindir./ But Erestor couldn’t say that 
aloud. 
 
The training had finally come to an end and Glorfindel dismissed his men, 
joining Erestor and Lindir. Sitting down, he lifted his hair away from his 
neck and back, hoping the breeze would cool his overheated body. “Were 
you successful in mastering the lyre, Erestor?”
 
“He is a quick study,” replied Lindir, rising from the grass. “Please excuse 
me now.” He picked up his lyre, smiled at them, and left. He desired to be 
alone and to compose. 
 
Erestor crept closer and Glorfindel’s groin tightened, seeing the predatory 
look in the large eyes. “Erestor, we need to discuss what is happening.”
 
“Pray tell, Glorfindel. What *is* happening?” He ran his fingertips down 
the muscular chest, shivering with delight as they brushed one of the hard 
nipples. “I want you.”
 
“Erestor, *that* is exactly what we need to discuss.” Glorfindel caught 
Erestor’s hand in his and drew in a deep breath. The dark, dilated pupils 
spoke of lust and desire and he felt the same way, but they couldn’t do this 
– not now, not like this. “What is happening between us?” Erestor’s face 
was only inches away from his and Glorfindel restrained himself from 
reaching out and claiming those pink lips in a bruising kiss. 
 
“I thought you knew,” whispered Erestor, his breath caressing Glorfindel’s 
lips. “I love you.”
 
Hearing those three little words aloud for the first time caused Glorfindel’s 
heart to miss a beat. “And I love you. But how can this be? We met only 
yesterday!”
 
“What if there is no answer to your question? What if there is no 
explanation? What if it just happened? We are in love, aren’t we?” Erestor 
knelt in front of Glorfindel and raised his other arm, gently caressing the 
Elda’s face. “For I have no answers, melethron5. All I can tell you is that I 
am in love with you and desire to be with you for the rest of my life. If 
you want me, have me.” 
 
Glorfindel realized he should have expected such a declaration of love, but 
for some reason he had fooled himself into thinking that they could go 
slow. “Is that the way it will be then? We will be lovers?”
 
Erestor nodded his head once and bridged the distance between their lips, 
finally tasting Glorfindel for the very first time. The ruby lips tasted of 
strawberries and cherries, of wind and sun and he wanted to taste more of 
him, so much more. 

“Erestor, slow down. You must slow down.” Glorfindel placed his hands 
on either side of Erestor’s head and looked deeply into the brown eyes. “I 
want you too, Erestor, but I do not want to rush things.”
 
“Rush things?” Erestor arched a delicately formed eyebrow. “How can 
making love be rushing things? I desire to be with you in that way and you 
feel the same. Why not act upon it?”
 
“Because the moment we consummate our love we will be considered 
bound. Is that what you want? You could never take another lover again. 
You would be mine until the day we die.”
 
“Aye, I want that. I want to be yours forever.” Erestor slipped his hands 
behind Glorfindel’s neck and kept him in place. “Do you really want to 
fight this? Me? Do you think you can? And why would you?” 
 
“I do not think I can. You are in my blood.” Glorfindel ceased all 
resistance and gave in, wondering if he had gone mad by agreeing to bind 
himself to Erestor. The dark-haired Elf was a mystery and he knew 
nothing of Erestor, except that the other Elf loved him. Was that enough? 
Erestor’s tongue gently pushed past his lips and teeth, and the way it 
moved against his made him realize that it had to be enough. He no longer 
had the will to resist.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Erestor? Erestor! Listen to me!” Glorfindel forcefully pulled Erestor’s 
head away from his and stared into dilated pupils. “We should find a 
secluded spot, if we are going to follow through.”
 
“I have no desire to move,” replied Erestor, straddling Glorfindel’s waist. 
The Elda’s arousal pressed against him, straining against the fabric of the 
leggings. Erestor ran his hands down the chest and tugged at the 
waistband. “The guards have retired and no one is near.”
 
“But…?” But what if someone saw them? Glorfindel had always thought 
his first time would be in a soft bed, not on the training grounds! 
 
“Does it matter? Melethron, I doubt we would make it to your bedroom.” 
Erestor managed to undo the lacing of Glorfindel’s leggings and slowly 
revealed his lover to himself. Glorfindel’s erection bobbed free and 
already glistered with tiny beads of pre-ejaculate. Wrapping his fingers 
around the weeping shaft, Erestor stroked firmly. 
 
Glorfindel moaned from deep within his throat and arched his back. 
“Erestor, you need to know… Oh…” Pink lips had closer over a nipple 
and were now licking and suckling the hard nub. “Oh, Erestor…” 
 
Erestor loved the way Glorfindel squirmed beneath him. It was exactly as 
he had hoped it would be. He had imagined their first time would be like 
this, all those millennia when he had walked the Halls of Waiting, wanting 
to be close enough to Glorfindel to touch him. Letting his instincts guide 
him, his tongue trailed from one nipple to the other, bestowing kisses and 
licks onto it whilst Glorfindel’s erection hardened further in his grip. 
 
Glorfindel’s eyes turned a blazing blue, meeting Erestor’s dark ones. He 
raised an arm and rested his hand against the nape of Erestor’s neck. His 
dark-haired lover was still fully dressed and Glorfindel wanted that 
changed. “Remove your shirt.” He had already seen Erestor naked, had 
touched and carried him, but it was different now. They were about to 
make love and bind their souls!
 
Erestor quickly did away with the restricting garment and bowed forward, 
placing his naked upper body atop of Glorfindel’s chest, rubbing their skin 
together softly. 
 
The sensation was exquisite and Glorfindel’s strong hands moved down 
his lover’s spine. They slipped inside Erestor’s leggings and possessively 
squeezed the firm buttocks. “I want to see you naked.”
 
Eager to please, Erestor briefly struggled with the leggings, then flung 
them aside. He moved back into his straddling position and looked 
dotingly at Glorfindel. 
 
Glorfindel’s fingers explored his lover’s body, first caressing the chest and 
then trailing down to Erestor’s groin. Everything about his lover was 
perfectly proportioned and the velvet-like testes fitted nicely in the palm 
of his hand. “Before we go any further, there is something you should 
know.” Erestor leaned in closer and the long, ebony hair dragged 
delicately over his skin, making Glorfindel moan pitifully. He had never 
stood a chance fighting this to begin with!
 
“And what is that, melethron?” Erestor’s hands were busy kneading the 
firm flesh beneath his fingertips and he bowed to worship the sculpted 
body again. He planted firm kisses down the breastbone, ignoring the hard 
nipples for now. 
 
“I have never lain with a male before – or with a female.” Glorfindel 
buried his fingertips in Erestor’s hair and pulled his lover’s face closer to 
his so Erestor was forced to look at him. “I have never done this before.”
 
“Why?” Erestor’s hands cradled his lover’s face, caressing the skin there 
before sliding up the back to brush the tips of Glorfindel’s pointed ears. 
When he had instigated their love making he had been worried that he 
wouldn’t know what to do – how to please Glorfindel – but this body 
knew exactly what to do! 
 
“I always knew there was someone special waiting for me and I did not 
want to give myself to someone who was not my true love. You are my 
true love, are you not, Erestor?”
 
The emotion that shone from Glorfindel’s eyes told Erestor that the 
warrior trusted and loved him unconditionally and he nodded his head. 
“Aye, I am the one for you, just as you are the only one for me.” 
 
Glorfindel used his hold on Erestor’s head to pull him close enough to 
kiss. Lips and teeth parted and he hungrily accepted the invitation to taste 
his lover’s sweet mouth. Erestor rhythmically moved his lower body, 
bringing their erections into direct contact. The friction was maddening 
and Glorfindel stopped the kiss, afraid he would reach completion before 
they had performed the ultimate act. “What I am trying to say, Erestor, is 
that I have no experience in this matter.”
 
“Neither have I, but I do not think that will be an obstacle.” He had seen 
much during his long life and Erestor knew the mechanics of love making 
– probably knew as much as Glorfindel did. He was confident that 
together they would find a way to make their first time special. “Tell me, 
Glorfindel, what do you want?” Large, azure eyes looked at him 
questioningly. “Do you want to feel me inside or…?”
 
“Nay, I want to be inside of you,” whispered Glorfindel, trustingly looking 
into Erestor’s sparkling eyes. “I want to move inside of you.”
 
“You will have it.” Erestor would give anything to please Glorfindel. 
 
Glorfindel tried to muffle the yelp that left his lips, as Erestor’s pink lips 
closed over the head of his arousal, but he failed. 
 
Erestor needed a moment to get used to the slightly bitter taste that now 
slipped into his mouth, but he followed through, licking and suckling the 
head. He tried taking in more of his lover’s length, but gagged and pulled 
away. 
 
“Do not worry about it,” said Glorfindel, realizing Erestor was pushing 
himself in order to please him. “It takes practice to bring someone to 
orgasm in that way and I have no experience doing this either.”
 
“I will grow more adapt at it,” said Erestor in a determined voice.
 
Glorfindel chuckled. “I am certain you will.” But the fact remained that 
they were hard and in need of release. “Can you reach that plant over 
there?”
 
Erestor reached for it, and by doing so rubbed his lower body against 
Glorfindel’s erection, which promptly bobbed up and nestled inside his 
lover’s cleft. 
 
Erestor handed the plant to Glorfindel, curious as to his lover’s plans for 
it.
 
Glorfindel tore off the leaves and squeezed tight until the plant released its 
juices. “This will aid my way in.” Glorfindel’s eyes remained fixated on 
Erestor’s, as he took himself into hand and coated his shaft. “Do you 
really want to do this?” Oh, he hoped Erestor hadn’t changed his mind, for 
he was desperate to find release! 

“I want to feel you inside of me.” Erestor moved until the opening to his 
body was situated above his lover’s erect member. 
 
Seeing Erestor deftly bite his bottom lip, made Glorfindel’s erection 
twitch. “Go slow, melethen. I have heard that the first time can cause 
discomfort.” Glorfindel’s hands trembled, as he placed them on his lover’s 
hips. 
 
Erestor nodded once and then began to lower himself onto his lover’s hard 
flesh. He yelped, in beginning distress, as the head forced a way past the 
guardian muscle. But he continued, moving into a kneeling position whilst 
taken in more of Glorfindel’s impressive length. Aye, it hurt. It burned, 
but he was determined to do this and he continued to impale himself on his 
lover’s hard flesh. Tears leaked from his eyes – the pain suddenly 
doubling, as Glorfindel sheathed himself to the hilt.
 
“Erestor!” Glorfindel cried out in ecstasy. A hot, velvet-like glove settled 
around his member, already squeezing and gripping him. He closed his 
eyes and concentrated on not reaching orgasm yet, as he didn’t want to 
leave Erestor behind.
 
Erestor tried hard not to move. What had seemed pure bliss before starting 
this undertaking had changed into discomfort and pain. Glorfindel felt 
incredibly big inside him, filling him to the limit and he had no desire to 
add to the discomfort by moving.
 
Wondering why Erestor remained motionless, Glorfindel opened his eyes. 
“Oh, melethen!” The tears that dripped down Erestor’s face spoke of pain, 
not of pleasure! “It will become better, I promise!” At least, he hoped so! 
He had listened to many tales of his soldiers when they had sat near the 
campfire at night. His men had shared their sexual experiences freely, 
occasionally bringing a blush to his face. Once or twice, he had even come 
upon two guards, making love in the shadows of a tree, thinking it would 
hide them from view. He had never seen any of them cry due to pain. 
 
Erestor wiped the tears from his face and cautiously lowered his upper 
body atop of Glorfindel’s, wrapping his arms around the warrior. “I do not 
care about the pain. We are one now – bound to each other for eternity.”
 
“Aye, you are mine as I am yours.” Glorfindel brought up his arms behind 
Erestor’s back and hugged him close. His first time was nothing like he 
had imagined it would be. Maybe that was due to their position? 
Glorfindel frowned, trying to recall what his soldiers had told him. What 
position had those Elves made love in when he had come upon them? A 
position very different from theirs, he realized. 
 
Seeking to lessen Erestor’s discomfort, Glorfindel claimed the pink lips in 
an arduous kiss.  One hand drew soothing circles on Erestor’s back, whilst 
the other started a quest of its own. He quickly located his lover’s 
member, finding it had softened due to the penetration, and stroked the 
organ back to hardness. All the time, he kept perfectly still, which was an 
almost impossible task with this tightness gripping him. 
 
Erestor moaned; the dual sensation of having a sweet tongue duel with his, 
and Glorfindel’s fingers doing incredible things to his erection, soon had 
him eager for more and he began to rotate his hips. 
 
That little movement had Glorfindel groaning instantly. “Oh…” He broke 
their kiss to look at Erestor’s face and found a weak smile had surfaced 
there. The tears had dried and Erestor now moved more confidently, 
experimentally raising himself. Glorfindel quickly slipped his hands 
beneath his lover’s buttocks, aiding him.
 
Erestor threw back his head and his eyes widened, when the tip of 
Glorfindel’s member touched something inside his passage. Sparks sizzled 
in his body and a needy moan left his lips. “I need more,” he panted, 
looking questioningly into his lover’s eyes. He just didn’t know what to do 
at this point.
 
“You brought us this far, now let me do the rest.” Glorfindel waited for 
Erestor to nod his permission and then tightened his hold on his lover. He 
rolled Erestor onto his back and settled atop of his lover. “Wrap your legs 
around me.”
 
In this position, Glorfindel’s length massaged *that* spot more forcefully 
and Erestor obeyed at once, wrapping his long legs around his lover’s 
waist. The wicked grin that appeared on the warrior’s face made him 
swallow, hard, and then, Glorfindel delivered his first – well-aimed -- 
thrust. Erestor arched his back, eager for the sensation to linger and he 
yelped, sharply, when the second thrust penetrated him even deeper. “Oh, 
yes!”
 
Erestor’s enthusiasm fueled Glorfindel’s, who set a slow and shallow 
rhythm. He fought the urge to speed up. He wanted to make love to 
Erestor sweetly and slow, knowing his lover would be sore for at least a 
few days, and he didn’t want to add to that discomfort by taking him hard 
and fast. 
 
Erestor rose to meet each of his lover’s thrusts and soon they were moving 
together with confidence. Lips and tongues found their counterparts and 
locked in a passionate kiss. Erestor surrendered to his lover in every 
possible way, allowing Glorfindel to dictate their lovemaking. He reached 
orgasm much too quickly and screamed his lover’s name, finding release.
 
Glorfindel panted hard, feeling Erestor’s warm cream drip from his 
abdomen and then… then the contractions started. Erestor’s inner muscle 
gripped him – hard – and Glorfindel stilled all movement, surrendering to 
the divine sensation, which pushed him over the edge. 
 
Erestor’s eyes widened in surprise, feeling Glorfindel’s warm essence fill 
him from the inside. “Melethron…” For the first time in his long life he 
felt complete, and he hugged Glorfindel close to him, pressing his lips 
against a shoulder and suckling the skin there.
 
Glorfindel delivered a few more shallow thrusts and then collapsed atop of 
his lover. Their first time had left him exhausted, but at the same time also 
utterly satiated. “I do not want to pull out yet,” he said, in between heavy 
panting. 
 
“Then stay inside.” Erestor pressed close to Glorfindel and continued to 
hold him tight. The blond warrior trembled in his arms, and tried to thrust 
once more, but his member was already softening and the motion caused 
him to slip outside unwanted. 
 
Glorfindel moaned at the loss and crushed Erestor close to him.
 
Erestor allowed the devastating hold, and rubbed his cheek against 
Glorfindel’s broad chest. “We are mated now.” 
 
Glorfindel drew in a deep breath, realized his crushing hold on Erestor, 
and loosened it slightly. When had he closed his eyes? It must have 
happened the moment he had found release! He opened his eyes to look 
upon his love, but his breath caught in surprise. “Erestor?”
 
Erestor lifted his head and looked into Glorfindel’s eyes. “What is amiss?”
 
“Nothing, I think, but…” Glorfindel lifted an arm and reached out. 
“Where did these come from?” Roses had formed a circle around them, 
creating their own little island. Red roses, pink, white, yellow and even a 
black rose stood in full bloom, releasing their unique fragrance. 
 
Erestor blinked once, and then realized he must have lost his control over 
his powers during their love making. Or… Or was this his parents’ work? 
Entranced, he looked at the black rose and then picked the delicate flower. 
“I do not know how this happened.” But now that he thought about it, it 
was just like his father to let one black rose come to bloom amidst the 
others. Did this mean his parents approved and wished him happiness? 
 
“I have never seen anything like this before.” Awed, Glorfindel looked at 
the Elf in his arms, sensing this was somehow related to Erestor. And then, 
realization of a different kind struck. “I feel you.”
 
“I hope you do,” whispered Erestor, relishing the feel of Glorfindel’s 
muscular body atop of his. 
 
“Nay, I feel you in my mind!” Glorfindel’s big eyes revealed his surprise. 
 
Erestor concentrated and realized it was true. “I feel you too.”
 
“It must be the bond, creating a connection.” It wasn’t unheard of, though 
not all lovers shared such a connection. Realizing Erestor might be 
growing uncomfortable, carrying his bulk, Glorfindel rolled off of his 
lover and settled on his side beside Erestor. Erestor reacted by moving 
onto his side as well and possessively draping an arm atop his hip. 
Glorfindel mimicked that gesture, and pulled Erestor close. Staring into 
the depthless, dark eyes, he wondered about his lover. They were bound 
now, and would be together for the rest of their lives. Smelling the roses’ 
sweet fragrance, Glorfindel couldn’t help but wonder what Erestor was 
keeping from him. Because, as he looked into those fathomless eyes, he 
found the secrets were still there.
 
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; Erestor/Glorfindel 
Rating: NC-17 
Summary: Erestor and Glorfindel spent seven years of bliss together, but 
then, their world collapses.
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. 
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 2
 
 
“Watch your right side, Erestor! You are wide open! An enemy would use 
that to his advantage and take you out!” Ecthelion’s sword brushed 
Erestor’s flank in warning. 
 
Erestor tried to block Ecthelion’s attack, but the sword made contact with 
his tunic, leaving behind a tiny cut. 
 
Ecthelion took a step back, lowered his sword, and gave Erestor a stern 
look. “If this had been a real battle, you would be dead now.” 
 
Angry with himself for being caught off-guard, Erestor flung his sword 
onto the grass. He marched away from Ecthelion, trying to get his temper 
back under control. 
 
“Erestor, calm yourself.” Ecthelion sheathed his sword, picked up 
Erestor’s discarded weapon, and fell into step beside the frustrated Elf. 
“You have only been training for two weeks and you already made 
incredible progress. Do not be so hard on yourself. You cannot expect to 
learn such weapon’s skill in a fortnight, when it took me decades to hone 
my techniques. You are pushing yourself too hard.”
 
Ecthelion’s thoughts traveled back in time, recalling joining Erestor and 
Glorfindel for dinner after meeting with Turgon for most of the day. He 
had quickly realized what had happened between the two Elves, seeing 
them hold hands at the dinner table. The devoted look they gave each 
other told him all he needed to know. Later, he told Glorfindel that he felt 
his friend had moved too fast, and Glorfindel even agreed, but the blond 
Elf had seemed unable to stay away from Erestor for long. Only a few 
minutes later, Glorfindel sought out Erestor again and their fingers twined 
once more. Ecthelion realized, at that point, that he was fighting a losing 
battle and offered Erestor his friendship. Erestor then surprised him by 
asking him to train him. Ecthelion had wondered why Erestor hadn’t asked 
Glorfindel instead, and Erestor explained that it would be too much of a 
distraction. His lover training him just wouldn’t do. So Ecthelion 
accepted, seeing that Erestor was offering him a chance to build a 
relationship. 
 
The only drawback was that Erestor easily grew frustrated when he 
disappointed his instructor. “Erestor,” said Ecthelion, trying to further 
calm Erestor down. “You fought well, but once you attacked, you forgot 
your defenses.”
 
Erestor abruptly stopped walking and sat down on the grass. He rested his 
back against a tree trunk and glared at the earth. Rationally, he knew he 
was too hard on himself, but he wanted to make Glorfindel proud! His 
golden-haired lover was a formidable warrior and he wanted to show 
Glorfindel that he could wield a sword as well as his mate did!
 
Ecthelion settled down beside Erestor and placed the sword in front of 
Erestor on the grass. “You need to be realistic about your training, 
Erestor.” 
 
“I want to make him proud!”
 
“You already did,” whispered Ecthelion, resting a hand on Erestor’s sword 
arm. “And even more importantly, you are making him happy!” Erestor’s 
lips became a narrow line, causing Ecthelion to smile. “Why is it so 
important that you can wield a sword?”
 
“I overheard your conversation the other night. Glorfindel and you are 
worried because Turgon continues to ignore the warning Tuor brought 
him.”
 
Ecthelion released a deep sigh. “Turgon should heed Tuor’s warning, but 
he feels his warriors can defend the Hidden City.”
 
“Even against Morgoth? His Balrogs? The fire drakes? Turgon is mad.” 
Erestor shook his head. “Morgoth’s strength is growing and once he 
attacks he will make certain there are no survivors.”
 
Ecthelion rubbed Erestor’s skin through the fabric of the sleeve. “Tuor 
also said we had time. Morgoth won’t attack tomorrow. You still have 
time to learn to wield a sword.”
 
“Turgon is a fool and lets his pride cloud his vision!”
 
Ecthelion nodded once. “I agree, but not many would ever dare speak 
those words aloud.” 
 
“I speak my mind.” Erestor shrugged his shoulders once. Even though he 
had taken the shape of a Firstborn in order to be with Glorfindel, his soul 
remained that of one of the Valar. 
 
“Erestor?” Ecthelion waited for his newest friend to raise his head and 
then looked into the fathomless, dark eyes. “For someone with memory 
loss you know a lot about Morgoth.” Beneath his hand, Erestor flinched. 
“I do not mean to pry, but I know you are hiding things from me – us.”
 
Erestor felt conflicted. “I cannot tell you, Ecthelion.” His father would see 
that as a breach of their rules and call him back to the Halls of Waiting. 
“All I can say is that I mean you well.”
 
Ecthelion had heard that answer before and knew he wouldn’t get more 
information out of Erestor, so he changed the subject. “Do you wish to 
continue practice?”
 
“I do.” Erestor’s fingers curled around the hilt of his sword. He raised it, 
and the metal caught the rays of the sun, glittering fiercely. Glorfindel had 
given it to him after his lover had heard that Ecthelion had agreed to train 
him. The sword was a family heirloom and Erestor regretted flinging it 
away earlier. It deserved to be treated with respect. 
 
Ecthelion got to his feet and extended his arm, offering to pull Erestor to 
his feet. The other dark-haired Elf accepted and Ecthelion studied Erestor, 
whose eyes were still directed at the earth. /He is a proud soul, but not 
flawed in the way Turgon is. Erestor pushes himself hard – maybe too 
hard – and then grows disappointed./ But the truth was that Erestor was 
the best student he had ever had. Erestor moved light and quick on his feet 
and was eager to earn his teacher’s praise. But, Erestor lacked experience 
and that would only come with the passing of time. 
 
“Again, then!” Ecthelion waited for Erestor to assume the basic position 
and then charged again. This time, Erestor was on his guard and blocked 
him. “Well done. Again!” 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Ah, there you are, melethen1! I missed you during the day!” Glorfindel 
placed the quill onto the desk and gestured for Erestor to approach. “I tried 
postponing doing my correspondence, but it caught up with me in the 
end.” Doing the paperwork that came with his station was tedious. It had 
also prevented him from watching Erestor and Ecthelion train. “How did 
the session go?”
 
Erestor sat down on the desk, crushing several letters beneath him. He 
pretended not to see Glorfindel’s look of dismay when his lover realized 
he would have to write those anew. “I pay too little attention to my 
defenses,” he said, running his fingertips through Glorfindel’s hair. “I like 
it best when you wear it loose.”
 
“Thank you, melethron2.” Glorfindel caught Erestor’s hand in his and 
pressed a kiss onto the palm. “I talked to Ecthelion yesterday and he is 
quite pleased with your growing weapon’s skill.”
 
“I need to train more and harder if I am ever to equal his skill.”
 
Glorfindel smiled, lazily. “Ecthelion has a head start, Erestor. He has been 
training for many years.” His lips trailed upwards, bestowing light kisses 
on the inside of Erestor’s wrist. 
 
It still amazed Glorfindel how easily and quickly he had grown 
accustomed to Erestor’s presence – and even more importantly – his love. 
Their connection had deepened their love further and Glorfindel felt like 
he had known and loved Erestor for millennia, instead of just two weeks. 
“I did some studying this morn.”
 
One of Erestor’s elegantly carved eyebrows inched higher. “Studying?” 
Glorfindel had been spending time in his impressive library and the blond 
Elf had been quite mysterious as to why. 
 
“Aye, I found some scrolls, which provided me with more details on 
lovemaking.” Glorfindel grinned, seeing a wicked glint appear in Erestor’s 
eyes. “I do not wish to leave you sore the next time we make love.” 
Erestor had been in discomfort for several days, and although the dark-
haired Elf had tried to hide that from him, Glorfindel had seen it. “You 
definitely went too fast that first time.”
 
Erestor leaned in closer, allowing his lips to brush Glorfindel’s. “It was 
worth it, as we are bound now.”
 
“But I refuse to take you again in such a manner. The next time we make 
love I will prepare you properly.”
 
“Prepare me?” The eyebrow moved even higher.
 
“You will find out tonight,” promised Glorfindel. He had enjoyed the 
teasing sensation of Erestor’s lips brushing his, but he was hungry for 
more and kissed his lover. Erestor deepened the kiss, which Glorfindel 
allowed, and they only broke apart when they were both short of breath. 
 
“Tonight?” Erestor panted, already growing excited at the mere thought of 
being intimate with Glorfindel again. “It has been two weeks since…” 
Glorfindel had refused to take him whilst he felt sore and Erestor didn’t 
feel confident enough yet to reverse their roles and take Glorfindel. 
 
“Aye, we will make love tonight. But first, we must entertain our guests.”
 
Erestor nodded once. Idril, Tuor and their son would visit with them 
tonight and Glorfindel had ordered a feast to honor Eärendil’s birth. The 
members of Glorfindel’s household would make merry tonight. 
 
“You will like them,” said Glorfindel, lacing his fingers with Erestor’s. 
 
Erestor moved even closer and ended up on Glorfindel’s lap, straddling his 
lover’s muscular thighs. “Glorfindel, how serious is our situation? How 
quickly do you think Morgoth will attack?”
 
Surprised, Glorfindel sucked in his breath. “How did you learn of this 
threat?”
 
“I heard Ecthelion and you talk one night when you thought that I was 
asleep. He had just returned from visiting with Turgon and he sounded 
worried, as Turgon refused to make plans for an evacuation.”
 
Glorfindel chided himself for not confiding in Erestor. /It was only a 
matter of time before he found out./ His lover was highly intelligent and 
cunning and might even be a help in this matter. “Aye, Turgon’s behavior 
worries me. It was foretold that Ulmö would send a messenger, but our 
High-King is convinced Gondolin will withstand Morgoth’s attack and 
emerge victorious.”
 
“Then your High-King is a fool.”
 
Glorfindel tensed. “He is your High-King as well.” But Erestor shook his 
head, surprising him further.
 
“No Elven King rules me,” said Erestor, decisively. “Glorfindel, may I 
offer you my advice?”
 
Impressed by his lover’s directness, Glorfindel nodded. 
 
“Make plans for an evacuation. Create a way out of this valley, for once 
Morgoth attacks he will cut off your escape route. You need to have an 
alternative way to leave Gondolin. Think of all the innocent ones who will 
fall if Turgon’s pride remains.”
 
“Your advice is sound, Erestor.” Glorfindel caressed his lover’s face. He 
was tempted to question Erestor on his advice, thinking it was *very* 
sound for someone who professed to be amnesic. Erestor’s tone had been 
intimate, as if knowing what evil Morgoth was capable of first hand. 
“Ecthelion and I will take it to heart.”
 
“Do not waste time, Glorfindel. Morgoth is already assembling his army.” 
Erestor realized he had given away too much when Glorfindel’s eyes 
widened. 
 
“How do you know?”
 
He couldn’t tell Glorfindel that as one of the Valar, such knowledge was 
his, so he used the same way out as when he had told Ecthelion about 
Elrohir. “It came to me in my dreams.”
 
Glorfindel remained suspicious, but it was hard to be cross with the one he 
loved so much. Focusing on their mental connection, he sensed only 
sincerity; Erestor meant well. Glorfindel nodded once and let the matter 
rest. “We need to bathe and change our clothing. Tuor and his family will 
arrive before sunset.”
 
“Tuor is a mortal, is he not?” Erestor didn’t want to make any mistakes 
tonight, knowing how much Glorfindel liked the royal couple. “And Idril 
is Turgon’s daughter.”
 
Glorfindel buried his fingers in Erestor’s ebony hair. “And Eärendil, their 
son, is half-Elven. Idril told me that he is quite a handful already. That 
does not bear well for that family line. Thankfully it will be a while before 
Eärendil will start his own family of stubborn Peredhil3.” 
 
Erestor frowned at hearing that; something tugged at the edges of his 
mind, but the vision wouldn’t come to him. All he saw was an image of 
Ecthelion. Maybe this had something to do with Elrohir? The Elf meant to 
be Ecthelion’s lover? /Elrohir Peredhel4? A half-Elf?/ 
 
“Erestor? Does something trouble you?” 
 
“Nay.” Erestor reluctantly pulled away from Glorfindel and got to his feet. 
Hopefully the vision would come to him tonight when Eärendil was close 
enough to evoke it. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“You look lovely,” whispered Erestor into Glorfindel’s right ear. The fair 
Elda was dressed in greens and yellows and a golden circlet crowned 
Glorfindel’s head. Glorfindel’s hair had been braided in an intricate way 
and a green emerald rested on his brow, attached to the circlet by spun, 
golden strands. 
 
“You look stunning yourself.” Glorfindel had been surprised to see Erestor 
dressed in midnight blue robes with purple lining, but the dark colors 
suited his lover. Erestor wore his hair loose and unadorned and Glorfindel 
used the opportunity to finger-comb his lover’s mane. The large, deer-like 
eyes more resembled black than the usual brown.
 
On the nightstand stood a vase containing the roses which had come to 
bloom when they had made love. They should have withered by now, but 
they were still in full bloom. 
 
Glorfindel playfully tugged at a strand of his lover’s hair and then released 
the lock to seek out Erestor’s hand. He curled his fingers around Erestor’s 
hand and pulled his lover along. The feast would take place in the main 
hall, and in certain parts of the gardens, as the weather was dry and still 
warm. “Come with me, melethen. They are already waiting for us.” He 
had kept back during their shared bath, though his fingers had itched to 
touch his lover’s silken skin. /Tonight,/ Glorfindel told himself. /I will 
make him mine tonight./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Idril cradled her son close to her chest, as she strode into the main hall to 
take part in tonight’s celebrations. Tuor, her husband, was at her side, 
taking in the splendor of the House of the Golden Flower, which he had 
never visited before. Glorfindel and he had met on several occasions and a 
deep respect had formed – a friendship even, for which he felt most 
grateful. Glorfindel wasn’t like some of the Elves at Turgon’s court, who 
looked down on him because he was a mortal. No, Glorfindel, and also 
Ecthelion, had accepted him and treated him as an equal. 
 
“I welcome you to my home!” The Elves made way for Glorfindel, as 
their Lord advanced on the royal couple. Glorfindel embraced Tuor, 
briefly squeezing the Man’s shoulder. “You are most welcome! All three 
of you!” Next, he greeted Idril and congratulated her on the birth of her 
son. Curiously, he looked at the newborn, and found that dark hair already 
graced the tiny head. “Follow me!”
 
Erestor had watched the couple with interest and his first impression told 
him that he could grow to like them. He followed suit when Glorfindel 
guided the royal couple to the head table, where they seated themselves.
 
Now that Idril sat comfortably, Glorfindel reached for Erestor, eager to 
introduce his beloved to the couple. “Idril, Tuor, this is Erestor, my 
bonded mate.”
 
Erestor bowed for Idril, not because she was an Elven Princess, but 
because he was in awe of the life she had created. “My Lady, I am 
honored to meet you.”
 
Idril smiled and shifted the sleeping baby in her arms. “Glorfindel already 
told me about you, Erestor. I am glad to finally make your acquaintance. 
The light that shines in Glorfindel’s eyes has become radiant since you 
entered his life.”
 
Erestor gracefully accepted the compliment. His gaze then shifted to 
Eärendil, and once more a vision tugged at the edges of his mind. 
However, it still refused to surface fully. “I see the Valar have blessed you 
with new life.”
 
“Aye, Eärendil is a most precious gift.” Idril stroked her son’s face, 
smiling when he remained asleep. “He is a good baby and hardly cries.”
 
Tuor kept a close eye on Erestor, as the dark-haired Elf *was* a stranger 
to him and he felt very protective of his wife and newborn. The 
unwelcome attention which Maeglin often paid to Idril had made him 
wary.  
 
Erestor seated himself next to Idril, ignoring the suspicious look Tuor was 
giving him. He understood the Man’s protectiveness. “Would you permit 
me to hold him?”
 
Surprised at hearing Erestor’s request, Idril sought out Glorfindel’s eyes. 
She had known the golden-haired warrior her entire life and trusted him, 
but this involved her child – her son!
 
Glorfindel had been surprised as well, not thinking Erestor would want to 
hold the newborn, but he nodded encouragingly. 
 
Idril managed a smile and then lowered Eärendil into Erestor’s arms. Next 
to her, Tuor shifted closer. Like her, he felt protective of their son and she 
couldn’t blame him.  
 
To Tuor’s surprise his son’s eyes opened and the newborn seemed to focus 
on Erestor, who was cooing softly and rocking the baby. A moment later, 
Eärendil began to chuckle softly, his tiny hands reaching for Erestor’s 
raven hair. Tuor relaxed, now that his son seemed to have taken a liking to 
Erestor, which surprised him. Eärendil wasn’t a child who allowed just 
anybody to hold him. 
 
Erestor gave Glorfindel a pleased look. “He feels warm.” But he wasn’t 
referring to the tiny body in his arms. Eärendil’s fëa5 felt warm, eager and 
ambitious. /You are destined for great things./ Then, the vision 
approached, finally showing him what he had sensed for days now. 
 
Ecthelion and Elrohir were holding hands, and gazed lovingly in each 
other’s eyes. The love they shared was palpable and made Erestor smile. 
Aye, he had been right. Elrohir was Ecthelion’s future lover and somehow 
the Elf was related to Eärendil. /Half-Elf,/ he thought, correcting himself.
 
As if on cue, Ecthelion entered the main hall to take part in the festivities. 
At his side was Lindir. 
 
Erestor blinked once and the vision vanished. 
 
“May I have my son back, Erestor?” asked Idril. Tuor was growing more 
nervous with every passing second and Idril opted for action before her 
husband would intervene. 
 
“Thank you for letting me hold him.” Erestor carefully placed the newborn 
back into Idril’s arms. His attention shifted from the baby to Lindir and 
Ecthelion. Lindir looked remarkable, dressed in his dark-green robes, lined 
with threads of silver. He seated himself close to his harp, which he now 
lowered against his shoulder. Ecthelion uncovered a slim, mithril flute and 
seated himself at Lindir’s feet.
 
The music started and Erestor cradled Glorfindel’s hand in his, stroking 
the skin in time with the cadence of the song. Flute and harp intertwined, 
creating a hauntingly beautiful melody that floated through the hall. Elven 
lips remained sealed and none spoke during their performance. Eyes, filled 
with awe, locked on the two musicians. 
 
The music came to an end and silence filled the halls. One Elf after 
another rose from their chairs to compliment Lindir and Ecthelion on the 
outstanding performance and the two musicians gracefully accepted their 
kind words. Once the commotion had died down, Ecthelion joined the 
royal couple, sitting down beside Glorfindel, whilst Lindir started another 
song, quieter and less intense than the last one. 
 
Whilst Glorfindel and Ecthelion talked, Erestor’s gaze met Tuor’s once 
more. There was strength in the Man -- strength, valor and a great sense of 
honor. /I like Tuor,/ realized Erestor. /And I like his family./ That evening 
Erestor allowed Tuor, Idril and Eärendil into his heart, hoping the royal 
couple and he would become good friends.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Later that night, Glorfindel took hold of Erestor’s hand and pulled him 
toward their rooms. Idril and Tuor had long since left and most of the 
Elves who had gathered in the main hall were retiring. Only Lindir and 
Ecthelion remained to entertain the remaining Elves with their music. 
 
“I told you what would happen tonight, melethen,” whispered Glorfindel 
into Erestor’s ear after pulling his beloved into their chambers. He closed 
the door behind them and then locked it to ensure that no one would 
disturb them. “Are you ready to be thoroughly loved?”
 
“More than ready.” Erestor pulled Glorfindel close and claimed the soft, 
red lips. Glorfindel’s hands already tugged at the clasps holding his outer 
robes in place and they were quickly undone, allowing for the fabric to 
pool around his feet. Clad only in a light under tunic, Erestor playfully 
nipped at Glorfindel’s bottom lip. “Will you take me again? Make me feel 
you?”
 
Glorfindel nodded, taking in the breathtaking sight Erestor presented. 
“Raise your arms.” Erestor complied and Glorfindel removed the under 
tunic, revealing his lover’s naked body to him. “You are magnificent.” 
Erestor was even developing muscle tone now that he was working out 
with Ecthelion. “I want to eat you… taste you.”
 
Growing weak in the knees, Erestor allowed Glorfindel to guide him to 
their four-poster bed. He lay down, quivering with arousal, and feeling the 
silken material beneath his back only added to his eagerness. He loved the 
fact that Glorfindel preferred silken sheets over cotton. “What did you 
learn, studying those secretive scrolls in your library?” His eyes filled with 
lust, as they watched Glorfindel shrug out of his own robes. 
 
Naked, the warrior went down on his knees on the floor and then pulled 
his lover’s lower body close with a sharp tug. Erestor’s breath caught 
when Glorfindel guided his legs atop of his shoulder.
 
“Lean back, melethron, and then I will show you.” Glorfindel felt nervous 
now that he was about to orally pleasure his beloved for the first time. He 
had read how to bring Erestor to orgasm and he had practiced relaxing his 
throat muscles, but actually doing it was different. 
 
Erestor complied and lay down on his back. He recalled trying to do this 
for his lover when they had been together that first time, but he had 
gagged and had abandoned the effort to bring Glorfindel to orgasm in that 
way.
 
Glorfindel ran his hands down Erestor’s flanks and kissed his way up the 
thigh. Erestor’s scent was already strong and his lover’s member had 
hardened. Droplets of transparent pre-ejaculate clung to the inflamed head 
and Glorfindel drew in a last deep breath before licking the tip and tasting 
his lover for the first time.
 
Erestor forced himself to remain motionless, though his first instinct was 
to thrust upward. Warm fingers stroked his sac and a wet tongue twirled 
over the head. “Oh, melethen!” 
 
Glorfindel placed his hands on Erestor’s hips, making sure his lover 
wouldn’t thrust unexpectedly. Erestor tasted bitter, of salt and the sea, but 
he knew he would grow accustomed to the taste. Parting his lips and teeth, 
he slowly sank down onto his lover’s length whilst cupping Erestor’s 
testes in one hand. 
 
Erestor’s eyes widened in pleasure now that a wet heat surrounded his 
hard flesh. Oh, Glorfindel was definitely more talented at this than he was! 
And then, this wonderful manipulation started. One hand massaged his 
sac, fingers stroked his erection, a tongue licked at his shaft and then his 
lover began to suck him in earnest. Silken hair lay draped over his groin 
and Erestor caressed the strands, eventually resting a hand on Glorfindel’s 
head. He massaged the scalp, trying hard not to thrust into his lover’s 
willing mouth. “I am close… too close,” he whispered, sensing the first 
signs of impending release.
 
Good, that was exactly what Glorfindel wanted! He increased the pace of 
his strokes and sucked on his lover’s erection, eating him whole. 
 
“Argh!” Erestor thrust deeply and spilled himself in his lover’s talented 
mouth. 
 
The warm cream splashed against the back of Glorfindel’s throat and he 
fought to stay relaxed and not to gag. He swallowed, convulsively, and 
then released Erestor’s twitching member. 
 
Panting hard, Erestor pushed himself into an upright position and took in 
his lover’s debauched look. “You missed a droplet.” His fingers trembled, 
removing his semen from Glorfindel’s lips. 
 
Glorfindel smiled at his lover and lowered the long legs until Erestor’s feet 
made contact with the floor again. “Did I please you?”
 
Impressed, Erestor nodded once. “You did. You should give me those 
scrolls you studied. Then I might be able to return the pleasure.” 
Glorfindel was still hard, and Erestor reached for his lover, pulling the 
blond Elf onto the bed with him. “You still have to find release. Will you 
come inside of me?” He felt utterly relaxed and sated and looked 
expectedly at his lover, who was kneeling at his side. 
 
“Aye, I will, but this time we will do it properly.” Glorfindel reached for 
the nightstand, opened the drawer and retrieved a mithril vial. 
 
“What is that?” Sitting cross-legged, Erestor watched Glorfindel remove 
the stopper. 
 
“That first time I used the healing juices of a plant to ease my way in, but 
we should have used oil instead.” Glorfindel looked deeply into Erestor’s 
trusting eyes. “I promise you that there won’t be much pain this time.” 
 
“But still some.”
 
“I am afraid that cannot be helped, melethen. You are tight.” Glorfindel 
considered his lover and then reached a decision. “Would you move onto 
your hands and knees for me? I do think that position will be the least 
stressful on you.”
 
“Hands and knees? But then I cannot see your face.”
 
“Do you trust me?”
 
“I trust you, Glorfindel.” Erestor moved onto his hands and knees, 
growing nervous in spite of the trust he had in Glorfindel. 
 
Glorfindel coated one finger with the oil and then inched closer to Erestor, 
kneeling behind his lover. “I love you,” he whispered, placing butterfly 
kisses on his lover’s buttocks. 
 
Erestor relaxed under the kisses, but then tensed again, feeling something 
wet and slippery settle against the opening to his body. “Melethron? What 
are you doing?” 
 
“I should prepare you thoroughly. You see, you were in so much pain 
before because I did not stretch you.” Glorfindel continued to kiss, lick, 
and playfully bite Erestor’s backside and when his lover relaxed again, he 
inserted the tip of his finger. 
 
Startled, Erestor’s eyes widened. Somehow the slow pace Glorfindel was 
setting unnerved him. /I do not know what to expect,/ he realized. That 
first time everything had happened within a heartbeat. 
 
Glorfindel sensed Erestor’s need and began to explain. “One finger first. I 
am slowly opening you up. Just relax.” Bending forward, his lips left 
kisses on the small of Erestor’s back. He reached beneath his lover’s body 
and massaged Erestor’s lax member. 
 
Erestor closed his eyes and focused on Glorfindel’s voice and the finger 
that now probed deeper. It wasn’t unpleasant at all, and his lover’s finger 
fit nicely. Growing enthusiastic, Erestor pushed back. “Oh…!” His breath 
caught when the tip of Glorfindel’s finger rubbed a sensitive spot inside 
his passage. “Do that again!” Rubbing that spot had tr