Title: Dinîf en qualen. (Beneath the Face of Indifference.)

Author: Morgana 
Email: morganalebeau@yahoo.com

Pairings: Erestor/Glorfindel and Elrond/Thranduil

Rating: NC-17 (I think...)

Summary; Erestor and Glorfindel are send to Lothlorien
to assist Celeborn now Galadriel is sailing for
Valinor. On their way back from 'Lorien they are
surprised by a violent storm in which Glorfindel is
injured. It is now up to Erestor to take them into
safety and Glorfindel sees beneath the face of
neutrality Erestor usually wears.

Dinîf en qualen

Part 1
 
The sky was growing dark and Erestor buried himself deeper in the warm 
comfort of his velvet cloak, pulling the hood over his head as first 
raindrops descended onto their heads. “I told you we should have stayed 
another day at Caras Galadhon, enjoying Celeborn’s hospitality, but you 
had to leave today.” His tone was calm as always, but a hint of irritation 
still showed. 

Glorfindel studied the threatening clouds, which seemed to devour the sun. 
Those clouds made him feel apprehensive; heavier rain would fall shortly. 
The wind was also gaining in strength and ruffled his golden hair. He 
hated to admit it, but Erestor was right; they should have stayed at 
Lothlorien another day. But he couldn’t openly admit to being wrong. 
Erestor would never let it go and harass him for the next few days, and 
over the years he had learned to be careful around the raven-haired 
advisor. 

Erestor’s sharp tongue was more dangerous than a Morgul blade. He had 
learned that the hard way, often being ridiculed or chided by the Noldorin 
Elf. Erestor was intelligent and cunning, but building a friendship with 
him had been impossible so he usually kept his distance. But now that they 
were traveling together he had no other choice than to converse with the 
other Elf. 

Glorfindel never considered replying, or even worse, admitting he had 
made a mistake. Who needed enemies with a ‘friend’ like Erestor? 
Glorfindel shivered as the rain came pouring down on them. The earth 
beneath their feet was turning into mud, making it hard for their horses to 
maintain their pace for it was forcing them to slow down.

“We should seek shelter before thunder and lightning come crashing down 
on us,” said Erestor, studying the grey and black clouds. He didn’t expect 
Glorfindel to reply, knowing the blond detested his company. He even 
suspected Glorfindel had tried to convince Elrond to send someone else in 
his place, but the Ruler of Imladris had not given in, sending the two of 
them. 

Erestor sighed softly. He could have done without Glorfindel’s company 
as well. Now he had to be alert the entire time, and could never let down 
his guard. “Maybe we will take shelter in a cave, should we encounter 
one?” Glorfindel still remained silent, and Erestor glanced at the blond. 
Glorfindel’s lips were a narrow line now and his blue eyes had darkened 
ominously. Maybe it was time to stop talking. 

Glorfindel continued to ignore Erestor, but he took the raven-haired Elf’s 
advice and searched for shelter. They couldn’t stay out in the open much 
longer. A thunderstorm echoed in the distance, but would probably reach 
them in just a few minutes. The rain whipped down onto them, soaking 
their cloaks, and the horses grew restless as well. 

Erestor glared at the blond, but Glorfindel was busy searching his 
surroundings. He was tempted to repeat his earlier comments, but bit his 
bottom lip instead. If the storm really broke loose then they might need 
each other, and he didn’t want to alienate Glorfindel any farther. 

“We will look for shelter,” said Glorfindel eventually, just waiting for 
Erestor to gloat and make a condescending remark, but the advisor 
remained silent. Surprised, almost expecting a trap, Glorfindel looked at 
his traveling companion. Erestor looked extremely uncomfortable; water 
dripped down the hood and slid down the black tresses, dripping onto his 
velvet cloak again. And although he was soaking wet as well, he realized 
it was worse for Erestor, who usually sat in a warm study. 

“Finally,” groaned Erestor, cringing when thunder erupted over their 
heads. “Now all we have to do is find a cave or cabin.” And what were the 
odds of them finding one of those? 

A strong gust of wind nearly knocked Erestor off his horse, and he held on 
tightly to the saddle. “We need to get out of this storm!” The wind roared 
and the thunder exploded, and Erestor was forced to raise his voice and 
scream. “It will sweep us away!”

Glorfindel nodded sharply. There was no use in denying the truth. “Just 
hold on tightly.” 

Darkness descended onto them, smothering the last ray of sunlight that 
tried to pierce the black blanket which had now settled between the Elves 
and the sun. Glorfindel held onto his cloak when the gale almost blew it 
from his shoulders. 

“Any shelter in sight?” enquired Erestor in an urgent tone. The pouring 
rain hit his face hard and he quickly lowered his head, hiding within his 
hood. He would never admit it to Glorfindel, but he was growing scared. 
In his long life he had witnessed a number of storms, but none had grown 
as quickly as this one and it was still gaining in strength!

“Nothing yet,” replied Glorfindel, annoyed that he couldn’t find any 
shelter. But what worried even more was the swaying of the branches 
above their heads. He prayed to Elbereth that the lightning wouldn’t strike 
into one of those trees. If it did, they might be crushed beneath the massive 
branches. 

Erestor now looked up as well. The trees, strongly rooted in the earth, 
swayed dangerously, and one branch after another was torn off the trunk. 
Holding his breath, he stared at the unfolding mayhem around them. They 
were in a life-threatening situation! If only Glorfindel would admit that 
and act accordingly! 

A strong wind pushed back his hood, revealing his stricken face at the 
exact moment when Glorfindel looked at him. Embarrassed, he averted his 
eyes. He didn’t want Glorfindel to know he was scared!

Glorfindel was tempted to make a remark about the fear in Erestor’s eyes, 
but didn’t get the chance. A loud and frightening roar swelled behind 
them, and looking behind Erestor, he froze. 

Erestor, seeing the shocked stare in Glorfindel’s eyes, looked over his 
shoulder. He had heard the ominous noise as well and his eyes widened, 
realizing a flood was heading toward them. Somewhere a dam must have 
broken, releasing large amounts of water. The wind only added to its 
power, whipping the flood on. 

“We are in its direct path!” realized Glorfindel, worried. The horses had 
seen the threat as well and reared, afraid. Glorfindel frantically looked up, 
searching for an escape route. “There is nowhere we can go!” They were 
trapped and the water was closing in on them.

A flash of lightning lit up the sky and hit an overhanging cliff. Large rocks 
were shaken loose and began to fall. Glorfindel, realizing the great danger 
they were in, grabbed Erestor’s reins and pushed his heels into Asfaloth’s 
sides, urging him on. 

Erestor held on to his saddle for dear life, letting Glorfindel take control of 
the situation. Behind them, huge rocks tumbled down the cliff, and 
dropped heavily into the water. They had just escaped one danger when 
another caught up with them. Cold snuck up on him from behind and he 
didn’t have to look over his shoulder to know that the flood had reached 
them. “Glor…” 

The water thrashed onto him, drowning his words and pulling him from 
his horse. For the briefest of moments he managed to make eye contact 
with Glorfindel, just before the water completely covered him. Struggling 
against the powerful mass of water, he reached the surface again and saw 
how Glorfindel was pulled from his horse as well. No matter what 
happened next, he had to make sure he stayed close to the blond. Only 
together could they survive. 

Glorfindel swallowed some of the bitter water and he spat out the rest. The 
powerful wave of water seemed to play with him, tossing him from one 
side to the other. His eyes searched for Erestor, recalling that the dark-
haired Elf had gone down first. Seeing a patch of dark in the water, he 
assumed it was Erestor and tried to move towards him. 

Erestor saw Glorfindel move toward him, but he also saw the rock that 
doomed out of the water behind the blond. Glorfindel, however, whose 
back was turned toward the rock, didn’t see it, and Erestor yelled a 
warning. 

Glorfindel never heard that warning as another wave rolled over him. It 
flung him against the rock and a stabbing pain swept through his legs, 
rendering him unconscious in seconds. Never realizing what had 
happened, Glorfindel was pulled beneath the surface, releasing his last 
breath.

Erestor’s heart missed several beats, seeing Glorfindel being pulled under, 
and quickly dived after him. The power of the water tried to throw him off 
course, but he persevered and managed to grab Glorfindel’s cloak. But the 
blond’s dead weight pulled him along and he was no match against the 
swirling water. The fabric of the Elda’s cloak slipped from his fingers and 
frustrated, he flung himself forward, trying to find the blond again. 

Suddenly something sharp pushed against his stomach, broke the skin 
and… Erestor, caught by surprise, raised his arms, trying to remain at the 
surface. A sharp object had pierced the skin of his abdomen and was now 
forcing itself a way inside. His eyes had widened, but his scream was 
silenced by the roaring flood. 

Instinctively he placed a hand over the injured area and his fingertips 
quickly identified the object piercing his stomach; it was a branch. Agony 
spread from his abdomen through the rest of his body, waves of pain that 
nearly robbed him of his consciousness. 

Glorfindel? Where was the blond? Was he injured as well? He needed to 
find Glorfindel as quickly as possible. The burgundy of Glorfindel’s cloak 
showed through the water, and, whilst biting down his anguish, he dived 
into the flood again, this time grabbing hold of Glorfindel’s tunic. Now 
that he had the blond, he wasn’t going to let go again, and he folded one 
arm around him. 

Using his last bit of strength, he struggled toward the rocks. He had no 
idea how he managed to push Glorfindel onto the slippery rocks, but he 
did. Panting hard, he wrestled himself free of the water and collapsed onto 
the rock as well, next to Glorfindel. 

Worried that the other wasn’t reacting, Erestor gently rolled Glorfindel 
onto his back. A load moan full of agony left the Elda’s lips, and when 
Erestor studied Glorfindel’s form, he felt shocked at seeing the way the 
blond’s legs were twisted. Were they broken? Both of them?

Erestor groaned and pushed his hand tighter against his abdomen, 
realizing he couldn't count on Glorfindel to take them into safety. The 
Elda was unconscious and couldn’t even walk. It was now up to him to 
keep them alive. He doubted that he was up to that challenge when he 
doubled over due to the stinging pain in his stomach. 

“Glorfindel?” Kneeling next to the blond, he shook Glorfindel’s shoulder. 
“Wake up!” He couldn’t possibly carry the Elda into safety! His stomach 
injury wouldn’t allow that! “Glorfindel!” 

Erestor’s urgent tone finally registered with the trained warrior and 
Glorfindel fought himself back to awareness, but then a terrible pain 
attacked him. Agony ripped through his legs, pooling in his knees. 

“Glorfindel!”

Realizing Erestor was kneeling next to him, he managed to make eye 
contact. The Noldorin Elf looked wretched, but coherent. “Eres… stor… 
I…” He never managed to finish his sentence as agony overwhelmed him, 
pushing him back into darkness. 

“No, you cannot faint! I need your guidance! I am no warrior!” He was a 
scholar; how could he possibly take care of them? Especially when he was 
wounded as well? Throwing back his head, he glared angrily at the dark 
skies, which continued to release impossible amounts of rain. “Why? Why 
me? Why now?” Despair enveloped him momentarily, but he shook it off, 
refusing to give in to the dark feeling. No, he was stronger than that. He 
could manage. He would take Glorfindel into safety and take care of him. 
Never before had he given up and he wasn’t going to start now! With grim 
determination he hooked his hands behind Glorfindel’s back and hauled 
the blond onto his knees, then draped him over his shoulder. Getting to his 
feet was one of the hardest tasks he had ever faced, but his inner strength 
pulled him through. 

Erestor searched his surroundings with his eyes, trying to find a cave or 
tree that would provide them with some shelter. His abdominal pain was 
increasing, making it nearly impossible for him to lift his feet. Glorfindel’s 
weight was also putting pressure on his stomach and he lost his footing in 
the mud. 

Tightening his hold on Glorfindel, he took the impact on himself and 
nearly fainted from the pain consuming him. “I refuse to give up now.” 
Erestor pushed himself to his feet and spotted something dark to his right. 
Was it a cave? Could he be that lucky?

He concentrated on placing one foot in front of the other and slowly 
covered the distance to the cave. Just when he had reached it, the rain 
stopped. Erestor glared at the clouds, which were now traveling west, and 
entered the cave, eager to lay down his charge. 

At the back of the cave, he slowly placed Glorfindel on the cold earth. 
Their clothes were still soaking wet and Erestor wished he had never left 
Imladris, staying warm instead. But wishful thinking wouldn’t get him 
anywhere. Probing Glorfindel’s leg, he froze when the blond released a 
keening wail whilst examining his knees. 

“Broken.”  He studied the blond. “What do I do now? I cannot carry you 
all the way back to Imladris.” But Glorfindel depended on him to get him 
back to the Last Homely House. 
 
His head bowed, and hand pressed against his injury, he considered his 
options. Carrying Glorfindel was out of the question. Maybe he should try 
to find the horses? Then he could build a litter and have the horse pull it 
whilst he rode it? That might work. Now that he had some sort of plan he 
felt better, stronger. He always needed a goal to work toward. It had saved 
his sanity in the past and it would now help him survive again. 

“Find the horses, build a litter and take Glorfindel back to Imladris.” 
Imladris, he registered bitterly, and never home. But it was not the time to 
dwell on this now and he sat back, leaning against the rocky wall. He 
carefully probed his wound. His features contorted, discovering a hooked 
branch had nestled in his abdomen. Was it safe to remove it? Or should he 
leave it there? 

“I cannot leave it in there.” There was dirt and grass clinging to it. If he 
left it there it would only cause more infections. Wrapping his fingers 
tightly around the branch, he swallowed hard, steadying himself. He had 
survived worse pain; he could do this! Gritting his teeth, he removed the 
branch, flinging the bloodied wood into the far corner of the cave. Blood 
gushed from the wound and he used some strips of his cloak to bind it, 
hoping the bleeding would stop in time. 

If not… He could only hope Glorfindel wouldn’t notice the red stain that 
was already forming on his shirt. The last thing he wanted was for the 
Elda to point out to him how stupid he had been to get injured. His father 
had been like that, always… No, he didn’t want to think about this now 
and should focus on Glorfindel instead. 

Frustrated that every inch of his cloak was still soaked, he wrung it, trying 
to remove as much water as possible before shredding it into strips. He 
used those to bandage Glorfindel’s legs and especially his knees, hoping 
the support would lessen the agony the blond would be in upon waking. 

Once he had finished, he rested his back against the wall again. He longed 
to lie down, but didn’t dare to actually do it, afraid he might not get to his 
feet again later. Distressed, he stared at Glorfindel, relieved the Elda 
wasn’t awake whilst he was experiencing a panic attack. His breathing 
quickened, his eyes widened and he clawed the fabric of his shirt whilst 
his other hand continued to press against his wound. 

“Find the horses, build a litter and take him back to Imladris,” he repeated, 
making it his mantra. After long moments he finally calmed down again. 
“I can do this. I have been in worse situations. I can do this.” 

Looking at the entrance of the cave, he found that the rain had started 
again, but it no longer resembled the storm they had been caught in. He 
would catch his breath and then venture out again, hoping at least one the 
horses had remained close. And he also had to build that litter! He needed 
to gather branches for that, and some strong grass to bind the branches 
together. 

Erestor pushed himself to his feet. He shouldn’t postpone building the 
litter, for he was afraid his wound might grow infected after all. When he 
had removed the branch, he had seen that dirt still clung to the wound. 

He placed his hand against the wall, using it to guide and support him 
whilst he walked toward the entrance. Relieved, he noticed that it was no 
longer raining and he stepped outside. 

The valley was a complete mess. Trees had been ripped up by their roots 
and had been spread throughout the valley. Rocks, which had tumbled 
from the cliff, lay haphazardly in the torrent’s path. He could hardly 
believe that a violent flood had turned this lovely rivulet into a murderous 
deluge. It had almost taken their lives. Nature would always be 
unpredictable.

He looked east, to where Imladris lay, and reckoned it would take them 
two or three days to reach Elrond’s realm where the healer could tend to 
their injuries. 

“You are wasting precious time, standing here,” Erestor chided himself. 
After fighting down another wave of nauseating pain, he whistled softly, 
hoping his mare would hear him and follow the sound which would lead 
her here. “Amdir, hear me, and come to me.” If the mare heard him, she 
would answer his call. Throughout his entire life he had placed more faith 
in animals than his fellow Elves. Animals never judged him, never 
withheld their love and affection, and he could return that friendship. 
Amdir was precious to him and he hoped she had survived as well.

Realizing that it would take Amdir time to get here – and that was if she 
had heard him — he set out to gather branches that were strong enough to 
support Glorfindel. As expected, most of the wood was wet, and he carried 
it back to the cave. 

He sat down awkwardly, ignoring his pain, and looked at Glorfindel. Over 
long years the Elda had gained his respect, though he would never admit it 
aloud. Glorfindel was loyal and seldom avoided his company, which was 
far from pleasant at times. He knew Glorfindel disliked his sharp tone and 
remarks that could be haughty at times, but he couldn’t change a habit that 
had helped him survive. 

“I never was a good friend -- not even a friend,” said Erestor softly, “But I 
vow to take you back to Imladris. I won’t let you die here. Glorfindel, the 
Balrog slayer, does not deserve like this.”  New determination was born, 
hearing his promise aloud. “I will look after you.”

Glorfindel moaned softly. Something was disturbing his peaceful sleep 
and pain was pulling him toward consciousness again. As he slowly 
became aware of his surroundings, the pain became very real as well. 
Whimpering, he tried to establish what had happened, and then he 
remembered the flood. 

“Easy, Glorfindel, easy. Your legs are broken, and you need to preserve 
your strength for later." 
 
Erestor’s voice took him off guard and his wide eyes focused on the 
raven-haired Elf, who looked like a drowned cat. “Bro… ken?” he 
stuttered in shock. Seeing Erestor nod, he tried to recall more. The flood 
must have dragged him along, throwing him against the rocks like a rag 
doll. How had he gotten into this cave then? “Erestor?” Frowning, he 
made eye contact with the other Elf, and was surprised when Erestor 
averted his eyes. “You went in after me?” 

Erestor felt distinctly uncomfortable, but managed to hide it when looking 
at Glorfindel. “I did not have a choice. I cannot possibly return to Imladris 
without you. Elrond would never forgive me.”

The words were like a cold shower to Glorfindel. He had been a fool to 
believe Erestor cared about his well-being! Erestor was as cold as ice and 
would never express any warm feelings of concern and compassion. He 
forced himself to concentrate on their situation, refusing to linger on his 
feelings. “Do we still have the horses?”

Erestor shook his head. “We lost them in the flood.” His stomach painfully 
contracted around the wound and he bit his lip, trying to not scream out 
his pain. Glorfindel was glaring at him and he hung onto his composure, 
unwilling to let his agony show. “But maybe Amdir will return. I called 
out to her.”

Now that was another thing that puzzled Glorfindel. When Elrond had 
given Erestor that white mare, the gloomy adviser had called her "Hope". 
He still wondered about that name. Pulling himself away from his 
musings, he tried to shift slightly, but pain shot up his leg, making him 
whimper in agony. 

“Move as little as possible. I bound it tightly, but the broken bones need 
time to heal.” Erestor, concerned at hearing Glorfindel’s strangled 
whimper, leaned in closer and searched the blue eyes. “I am gathering 
wood to build a litter.”

Glorfindel was stunned to see concern in Erestor’s dark eyes. It was the 
first hint of emotion he had ever seen in those brooding orbs. But he shook 
it off; it was probably just his imagination. “What use is a litter when we 
do not have a horse to pull it?” He realized he had said the wrong thing 
when Erestor’s gaze darkened. 

“I am doing the best I can!” said Erestor in a painfully clipped tone. His 
wound was throbbing, sending violent vibrations through his body, but he 
concealed them, unwilling to show any weakness right now. “Why do you 
not rest whilst I take care of matters?” He cringed privately. That sounded 
much harsher than he had intended. 

Glorfindel glared at Erestor. How many times had he hoped the raven-
haired Elf would let go of his harsh attitude? Why couldn’t Erestor reach 
out just once? They needed to support each other! “Fine, I will rest!” He 
immediately regretted playing along. This was probably just what Erestor 
wanted! Why did he always allow Erestor to provoke him like that? He 
frowned slightly, seeing the amount of time it took Erestor to get back to 
his feet. Deep lines showed on the Noldorin Elf’s face and he had never 
seen them there before. But then he dismissed his concern. Erestor’s 
clothes were still wet and probably making it hard to move around. 

Erestor walked over to the pile of wood he had gathered, sat down and 
used the dry branches to build a small fire. Then he began to separate the 
branches he could use and the ones that were worthless. He felt Glorfindel 
staring at him, but refused to acknowledge that. 

Glorfindel, now staring at Erestor’s back, frowned. Something seemed 
wrong with the other Elf, but he couldn’t label the feeling. The fact that 
pain spiraled up his legs wasn’t making coherent thought any easier either. 
But he didn’t want to let this dark feeling grow between them. “You were 
right.”

Hearing Glorfindel’s voice, Erestor looked over his shoulder. “About 
what?” He felt somewhat suspicious; Glorfindel had never admitted he 
had been right about anything. Why start now?

“We should have stayed another day at Caras Galadhon.” Glorfindel 
carefully watched Erestor, wondering what was eluding him.

Erestor cleared his throat. Glorfindel had actually managed to surprise 
him. He was tempted to say ‘I told you so’, but he didn’t. “You could not 
have known about that storm. This was not your fault.” It was a strange 
thing, but he was actually getting used to the pain. 

Glorfindel was baffled at hearing Erestor’s mellow answer; he had 
expected a sneer. Then the pain ripped through him again, making him 
groan in agony. As he was still looking Erestor in the eyes, he saw another 
wave of concern course through the dark orbs. /It is amazing, he is 
actually worried about me!/  

Erestor dragged himself to his feet, relieved to feel his wound go numb. 
Leaning against the wall, he said, “Rest now. Once our journey starts you 
will need your strength.” 

Knowing Erestor was right, Glorfindel nodded. He wasn’t looking forward 
to the painful experience of being dragged to Imladris on a litter. 
“Erestor?” Seeing the familiar, distant expression in the other’s eyes once 
more, he swallowed hard, wondering if he had just imagined the concern 
in them. “Thank you for coming after me.” Privately, he admitted, /I never 
thought you would./

Erestor was growing increasingly worried; the bleeding still hadn’t 
stopped and warm blood was seeping through his fingers. “We are safe 
here for the moment. Rest.”

Unable to stay awake much longer, Glorfindel gave into the pain and 
returned to the soothing darkness that had cradled him earlier. 

Erestor barely managed to stay on his feet and leaned heavily against the 
wall. “Elbereth, what am I supposed to do?” He had fought off despair for 
so long, but now that everything seemed utterly hopeless he hung his head 
in defeat. 

TBC

Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 2



Unexpectedly, the sound of hooves and a joyous whinny echoed through 
the air. Erestor’s head snapped up, and looking to his right appeared the 
most welcome scene he had ever seen; Amdir. The white mare was 
galloping toward him, and a moment later a warm noose was pressed 
against his shoulder, nudging him. “Be careful, my friend.” Although the 
pain had numbed, the blood continued to seep through his fingers. 

Amdir had her head up, ears forward, somehow sensing that the Elf was in 
pain. 

Erestor reached for the bag, which he had attached to his saddle when they 
had left Lothlorien, thankful that it was still there. Opening the bag, he 
checked its content. There were two wafers of lembas, water, a knife and a 
handful of dried herbs which he sometimes used when he couldn’t sleep. 
He kept the knife and placed the other items back in the bag. 

“Amdir… stay here. I will need you later.” The horse snorted, showing 
she had understood. 

Erestor returned to the cave, and, using his knife, he cut the branches to 
their desired length. He had selected long, narrow leaves to bind the 
branches with and during the next hour he was busy constructing the litter. 
When he was ready he tested its strength, and hoped it would hold 
Glorfindel throughout their long journey back to Imladris. 

Wanting to rise to his feet, he found that the pain had returned. For the last 
hour he had been unable to press tightly against the wound, and his tunic 
was now drenched with blood. Pulling his cloak tighter, he walked over to 
Glorfindel. “You have to wake up.” 

Glorfindel stirred at the sound of Erestor’s voice and locked eyes with the 
dark-haired Elf, who looked utterly exhausted. He felt slightly guilty for 
being unable to help, knowing Erestor had to feel lost, even if the other 
didn’t admit it. His eyes drifted through the cave and came to rest on the 
litter. It looked fragile and he was tempted to laugh at Erestor’s effort, but 
bit down his laughter. Erestor had constructed this litter for him and he 
should be thankful that the other Elf was trying to get them back to 
Imladris. 

Erestor correctly interpret Glorfindel’s look. “It does not look like much, 
but it is stronger than you think… It will hold.” He had expected taunting 
laughter, but the blond remained quiet. “And Amdir returned.”

Glorfindel smiled, bemused. Hope seemed an appropriate name for the 
mare after all. “We should… not waste… any time.” Glorfindel tried to 
push himself to his feet, but collapsed in pain. Erestor would have to carry 
him to the litter. Glorfindel hated being helpless. 

Erestor knew Glorfindel would never ask for help so he walked over to the 
blond, gritted his teeth, and hauled the Elda onto his shoulder. 

Glorfindel’s eyes widened in shock as a horrible pain sliced through his 
legs. It overwhelmed him and he fainted, and was now a limp weight 
draped over Erestor’s shoulder.

Erestor felt Glorfindel go limp and quickly carried him to the litter, gently 
laying him down. Once the weight was off his shoulder, he pressed his 
hand against his abdomen in a vague attempt to lessen the bleeding. How 
much blood had he already lost? How much more could he afford to lose?

“Amdir?” Calling the mare, he waited for her to step into the cave. Using 
his last strength, he raised the litter and attached it to the two long 
branches that made up the horse’s harness. After securing it with his belt 
across her chest, he led Amdir out of the cave. He had planned to ride the 
horse, but now realized there was no way he would make it onto her back. 
Even if he did, he would never get down again. He was doomed to walk 
back to Imladris.

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

When Glorfindel woke next, the sun blinded him and he had to shield his 
eyes. The motion of the litter sent waves of pain through his legs, but he 
refused to show the agony he was in. Cocking his head, he caught sight of 
Erestor walking next to the litter, eyes fixed on the ground. Occasionally 
the dark haired Elf stumbled and groaned pitifully. Annoyed, Glorfindel 
frowned. Erestor thought walking was tiresome? He should try having two 
broken legs instead! Then he would be entitled to groan! 

“Would you like some water?”

Erestor’s soft voice made him feel guilty for his previous thoughts; maybe 
he was being too hard on Erestor. “Do you… have some?”

 “Aye.” Erestor opened the bag again and removed the water flask. After 
handing it to Glorfindel, he returned to staring at the ground. Every step he 
took caused more agony in his abdomen, but he couldn’t stop walking 
now. If he did, he would never be able to start again. 

“Why don’t you… ride the horse?” suggested Glorfindel, sipping his 
water.

“I prefer to walk,” whispered Erestor darkly. 

Glorfindel raised an eyebrow, recognizing that tone; Erestor wasn’t 
interested in carrying on a conversation. It was growing dark; they would 
have to stop shortly and seek shelter. “Maybe they will realize… we are 
late… and send a search party.”

“We are not expected back for another two days.” Erestor secretly 
exchanged one corner of his tunic for the other, pressing dry cloth against 
the wound. He was growing increasingly light-headed and worried how 
much longer he would remain conscious.
 
“We should stop for the night,” said Glorfindel, puzzled by Erestor’s 
behavior. The Noldorin Elf was extremely quiet, ignored him and was 
constantly staring at the ground. Recalling his former worries, he tried to 
figure out what was wrong with Erestor, but failed. 

“We won’t stop... We cannot afford to rest.” Erestor rested one hand on 
Amdir’s back, slightly leaning against the warm body. “If we keep up this 
pace, we will reach Imladris the day after tomorrow.” 

“Do we have enough food… and water?” Erestor’s determination 
surprised him. He had expected Erestor to panic, not to assume control 
like this. 

“I will ration the little we have.” Erestor wished Glorfindel would stop ask 
questions. It was taking all of his concentration to continue walking. 

Glorfindel’s unease was still growing. Something about Erestor’s behavior 
set off his alarms and he wished he had the courage to bring it up. But 
Erestor would probably laugh at his worry. It was best to remain quiet. 

Arien set and Ithil rose, illuminating the dark sky. Glorfindel dozed off 
eventually, trusting Erestor to watch out for them. 

Once he was sure Glorfindel was asleep, Erestor told Amdir to stop and he 
heavily leaned against the mare. “I cannot… do… this any more.” The 
bleeding had finally stopped, but he felt like he didn’t have a single drop 
of blood left in his body. Fatigue nearly overwhelmed him and 
recognizing the danger, he started walking again. If he lay down to rest 
now he might never wake up again. 

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

During the night he swayed several times and Amdir stopped each time, 
letting the Elf catch up with him. Endless hours passed by until the sun 
finally rose again. Erestor stared bleary eyed at Arien’s rays, no longer 
able of coherent thought. He depended on Amdir to guide him; the horse 
knew their destination. He paid no attention to Glorfindel, who was 
waking up again. 

Glorfindel felt disorientated. At first he wondered why he was lying on a 
litter, but then his memories quickly returned. Looking to his right, he saw 
that Erestor was still at his side. Amdir was walking faster than Erestor, 
who was falling back and Glorfindel got his first chance to extensively 
study the raven-haired Elf. 

Long, black tresses framed a deathly pale face, and his large eyes seemed 
dull and lifeless. Erestor’s expression was distant, and he was panting 
softly, as if in pain. Glorfindel, suddenly alarmed, propped himself up on 
his elbows. “Erestor…?” When the Elf didn’t react, Glorfindel grew truly 
worried. “Erestor?”  

Erestor finally heard his name and raised his head. Glorfindel looked 
upset, but he had no idea what troubled the blond. “We are… making 
good time. Hopefully we will reach… Imladris… in the morning.”

“Erestor, you look dreadful.” Glorfindel studied Erestor, vexed that he 
couldn’t figure out what was wrong. 

“Well, thank you… You surely are back to your charming self,” sneered 
Erestor absentmindedly. Reacting like that had become second nature.
 
For the first time since knowing Erestor, Glorfindel refused to be 
emotionally pushed away. “I am serious... You look exhausted.” 

Erestor sighed dejectedly. “I am fine… Do not… worry about me.” No 
one ever worried about him; why should Glorfindel be any different? “I 
will manage.”

Glorfindel shook his head at Erestor’s stubbornness. “Why do you always 
have to fight me? Why not give in to reason and rest?”

Erestor ignored Glorfindel’s questions. “Would you like to eat… and 
drink something? We should manage… with the water and lembas that we 
have left.”

Frustrated, Glorfindel glared at Erestor, but he couldn’t deny being hungry 
and thirsty. “Only if you do the same.” Come to think of it, he hadn’t seen 
Erestor eat or drink since the flood. 

Erestor nodded slowly and opened the bag again, taking out a wafer of 
lembas and their drinking water. He handed the lembas to Glorfindel. 

Glorfindel’s eyes grew big; Erestor’s hand was covered in blood! “What?” 
Alarmed, he grabbed Erestor’s wrist and examined the limb, searching for 
an injury that would explain the blood, but he didn’t find a thing. “Where 
does the blood come from?” 

Erestor realized his mistake and stared numbly at Glorfindel. “The wound 
has… already healed. As I said earlier… do not trouble yourself.” He 
wasn’t sure what to make of the expression in Glorfindel’s eyes, but he 
refused to reveal his weakness. “I suggest you eat.” He pulled back his 
wrist, but flinched, as the motion vibrated through his body, causing 
another wave of pain in his stomach. 

“Erestor, tell me what happened!” Glorfindel tried to push himself to his 
feet, but had to abandon the effort. He lacked the strength and his legs 
wouldn’t support him anyway. 

“I cut my arm… when I dived in after you. It bled,” he lied in an 
emotionless tone. “Then the wound… closed.”

Glorfindel shook his head. “I do not believe you.” Erestor’s pallor 
indicated the Elf had lost a considerable amount of blood. But Erestor 
pretended to have not heard him and led Amdir down the path. “Erestor… 
I am trying to help you!”

“I do not need your help,” said Erestor calmly. “I can take care of myself. 
I always did.”

Glorfindel wondered why Erestor added that last part, but let it go, 
knowing he wouldn’t elaborate. “Erestor, I am worried.” Studying 
Erestor’s slow and stiff movements, he realized the Elf was hiding a 
serious injury. “I can help.”

Erestor remained silent, marching determinedly. Glorfindel’s tone was 
pleading, but he refused to listen. 

Glorfindel didn’t know how to reach Erestor. He tried to grab Erestor’s 
robes, but the Elf was out of reach. /Why did he remain silent? Why did he 
not tell me he was wounded as well? I know I am practically useless with 
two broken legs, but I… What? Could have comforted him? Would I have 
offered him any sympathy? Does he even want it?/ 

Erestor sagged against Amdir, folding one arm around the mare’s neck. 
He hated admitting it, but he needed to rest. 

“You know I am right, Erestor. Tell Amdir to stop and let me examine 
your wound.” Erestor had taken care of him, had bandaged his legs, and he 
wanted to do the same for the dark-haired Elf, if Erestor let him. Erestor 
halted, and he was finally able to take hold of the other’s wrist. He was 
holding the in blood covered hand in his and waited for Erestor to look at 
him. 

Erestor resignedly met Glorfindel’s eyes. Why was the blond pretending 
to care? He knew only too well that Glorfindel disliked him. 

Glorfindel pointed out an overhanging cliff to Erestor. “We can spend the 
night there… We should not be traveling at night when we cannot defend 
ourselves.”

“You are… the experienced… warrior, so I will… follow your advice.” 

Erestor’s tone made Glorfindel cringe. “I did not mean it like that. I am 
just concerned about our safety.”

Listlessly, Erestor guided Amdir to the location Glorfindel had pointed out 
to him and slowly went down on his knees, realizing he couldn’t hide his 
weakness any longer. Hanging his head, he tried to not inhale too deeply 
for it would only wake the pain that lay dormant in his body. 

Glorfindel shifted on the litter, but the agony coursing through his legs 
told him to stay put. “Erestor, come over here. I need to check your 
wound.” He wasn’t prepared for the expression in those dark eyes when 
the Noldorin Elf looked at him. How had Erestor managed to hide his pain 
for so long? It stared back at him from the depths of the other’s dark eyes. 
“Please?”

Erestor considered dismissing Glorfindel, but knew the blond well enough 
to know that the Elda would continue to nag. Slowly, on all fours, he 
crawled over to Glorfindel, and came to a stop next to the litter.

“Show me your injury.” Glorfindel raised his hands to probe whatever 
wound Erestor was hiding, but they dropped back, seeing the bloodstained 
tunic when the injured Elf finally lifted his cloak. “By Elbereth… you 
have lost so much blood! How did you manage thus far?” And all this time 
Erestor had walked next to him, never letting him see his pain! 

Reaching for the tunic, he unbuttoned it and pushed it aside. Blood still 
dripped from the gaping wound, which had turned black. Infections were 
raging inside the damaged flesh, which had weakened Erestor even 
farther. “Why did you not tell me?”

“There was… nothing you could do.” Erestor involuntarily pulled away 
from Glorfindel’s touch when the blond’ fingers tried to probe the wound. 
“Do not touch me.” He quickly covered himself up and pulled the cloak 
closer to his frame. 

“Erestor…” Glorfindel’s voice trailed off. Erestor’s expression was 
indifferent, but he thought he saw a lot of hurt hiding beneath it. /Who hurt 
you so badly that you keep everyone at a distance?/ For the first time in 
centuries he wondered if Erestor wasn’t constantly pretending to be 
someone he was not. But why would the Elf do such a thing?

“We will leave… at the first rays of dawn,” decided Erestor, slowly sitting 
down on the ground. 

Glorfindel nodded in understanding. “Amdir is very loyal to you.” He was 
determined to engage Erestor in some sort of conversation, worried that 
the Elf had lost so much blood that he could lose consciousness during the 
night. He wanted to make sure Erestor remained awake and coherent. 

“Aye, she is,” sighed Erestor, fatigued. Now that he was sitting down he 
was beginning to feel sleepy. 

“Why did you name her hope? I always wondered about that.” Glorfindel 
saw the changing expression in Erestor’s eyes and knew he had asked 
something too personal. Erestor wouldn’t answer him. “Fine, remain quiet 
then.”

Erestor closed his eyes momentarily. “I named her hope because…” His 
voice faded, searching for the right words and still uncertain if he wanted 
to confide in Glorfindel, which would be a first. “I need to hope… there is 
still some good left in Arda.”

Glorfindel’s expression saddened, hearing the lost faith in Erestor’s tone. 
Treading carefully, he said, “Did you encounter much evil then in your 
life?” He carefully observed Erestor, seeing shivers course through his 
body. /You did./

“Evil?” Erestor shrugged carefully. “I suppose… I did.” 

“Will you tell me?” Glorfindel involuntarily held his breath, waiting for 
Erestor to make up his mind. 

“I do not think… it will interest you.” He felt like he had already given 
away too much. Maybe he shouldn’t have named the horse Amdir, but no 
one had ever asked why he had chosen that name, until now. “Do you 
really want to stay here… until morning? If we get moving now… we will 
reach Imladris earlier.”

After studying Erestor, Glorfindel nodded once. “You cannot walk much 
farther. Maybe you will feel stronger after you slept.”

“I cannot… sleep,” said Erestor in a neutral tone. “Someone must stand 
guard… and you cannot defend yourself.”

“And you can?” Glorfindel raised an eyebrow at seeing Erestor uncover a 
knife. His hand went to his side to hand Erestor his sword, but was startled 
to find it gone. The flood must have taken it. “That knife is our only 
weapon?”

/I still have my sharp tongue,/ thought Erestor, embittered, but he didn’t 
speak the words aloud. “I know how to use a knife.”

Glorfindel recalled he had never seen Erestor wield a sword and was 
surprised to hear he could defend himself using a knife. Usually the 
Noldorin Elf stayed clear of all weapons. “You won’t rest then?” Erestor 
finally met his stare and the dark expression made him shiver. Erestor 
possessed a look that could kill and he had been its target more than once. 
Only now was he beginning to understand it was a defense mechanism. 
/Why are you hiding? Why keep me at a distance during all these 
centuries?/ 

“I would prefer for us to move on. We should travel as quickly as 
possible.” Glorfindel’s questions tired him. He opened the bag, took out 
the water and lembas and handed Glorfindel the Elf’s share. Looking at 
Glorfindel he wondered if the blond was in much pain. Hopefully the 
bandages had steadied the broken bones and took away some of his pain. 

Pain… Burying himself in his robes, he tried to forget about the pain that 
was once more sliding through his stomach. “Why are you… looking at 
me like that?”

“I just realized that I do not know you at all.”

Glorfindel’s remark froze the blood in his veins and he quickly averted his 
eyes, pretending he hadn’t heard. 

The shock on Erestor’s face was easily read and Glorfindel wondered why 
the other Elf was letting him see his distress in the first place. Normally 
Erestor would never show any of his feelings. /But he is wounded, 
physically and mentally drained./ 

An uncomfortable silence settled on them, both trying to figure out the 
other. Most of the night passed like that, with stolen glances, and muttered 
questions which were seldom answered. When the morning finally broke, 
Glorfindel realized it was time to leave their shelter and move on. 

“Erestor?” He hated having to wake the raven-haired Elf, who had 
struggled to stay awake during the night and had only fallen asleep an 
hour ago. “It is time to leave.” 

Erestor slowly left his dreams to return to bitter reality where pain 
assaulted him. Glorfindel seemed to speak to him through a tunnel from a 
great distance. His head lolled, uncontrolled. “Time… to… leave,” 
stuttered Erestor, trying to push himself to his feet. 

Glorfindel’s heart went out to the other Elf, who was struggling to get 
back to his feet. “Let me see your wound first.” He had to know if the 
bleeding had stopped or not. 

“That won’t… be necessary.” Erestor clumsily rose to his feet, and smiled 
when Amdir nudged him softly. “To Imladris… my friend.”

Glorfindel watched the scene unfold with growing disbelief. Erestor had 
actually smiled. Well, at a horse, but he had smiled! He couldn’t 
remember ever seeing Erestor smile! A lot of emotions were hiding 
beneath the cool exterior and Glorfindel was determined to find out more 
about the real Erestor.

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

Their water was almost gone. There was just enough left for one person 
and Erestor handed it to Glorfindel, without saying a word about it. He 
looked away and licked his dry lips, hearing Glorfindel drink. 

Glorfindel frowned, realizing he had emptied the flask. Why hadn’t 
Erestor told him that they were running out of water? “You did drink 
earlier, did you not?” Erestor nodded, but refused to meet his stare, telling 
Glorfindel all he needed to know. “You did not. Erestor, why did you let 
me drink our remaining water?”

Erestor didn’t have the energy to reply. For the last hour he had moved 
instinctively, no longer able to stop walking. His sight had diminished and 
the sounds around him had dampened. 

Glorfindel, afraid that Erestor had gone into some sort of shock, grabbed 
the Elf’s hand and saw the fresh blood on it. The wound must have 
reopened. “Erestor, stop walking!”

Erestor shook his head. “No… must take you…back to Imladris.”

Glorfindel growled in frustration, wondering how to stop Erestor. “Listen 
to me. You are exhausting yourself.” Erestor’s empty stare alarmed him. 
“Erestor? Talk to me!”

Glorfindel’s upset tone finally got through to Erestor and he blinked once, 
slowly returning to reality from whatever state he had been in. The blood 
loss had finally gotten to him. 

“Erestor, you have to stop. You cannot go on like this!”

Erestor no longer had the energy to talk to Glorfindel and moved 
mechanically. His eyes stared at the distance, no longer taking in the sky, 
clouds or trees. In the end, he collapsed onto his knees, his head slumped 
and he tumbled forward into a limp heap. 

Glorfindel released a shocked yelp and automatically reached for the 
unconscious Elf, but found Erestor was out of his reach. “No, Erestor!” 
Cursing his inability to help the Noldorin Elf, he frantically looked about 
and then screamed for help.

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

Elrohir and Elladan stared at each other, hearing a howl echo through the 
valley. 

“Someone needs help,” said Elrohir, looking about. “It came from over 
there, behind those hills.”

Driving their heels into the flanks of their horses, the twins made speed 
and quickly reached the hills. A growl, full of frustration, showed them the 
way and they froze, happening upon Glorfindel and Erestor. 

“By Elbereth,” whispered Elrohir, shocked at finding them in this state. 

“Quickly, help Erestor!” Glorfindel silently thanked the Valar for sending 
the twins their way. “He has lost too much blood!”

“Blood?” Elladan jumped from his horse and advanced on the fallen 
counselor. 

“We got caught up in a storm. He has a stomach wound.” Glorfindel 
sighed, relieved that Elladan had reached Erestor and was now turning him 
onto his back. 

The oldest twin gasped, horrified at the amount of blood that had drenched 
Erestor’s shirt. But the thing that worried him most was the fact that 
Erestor’s eyes had closed. “We need to take him to Ada!” Elladan made 
eye contact with his twin, who had reached Glorfindel. “Now!”

“Why do you not take Erestor with you? You can reach Elrond faster 
without me. The litter will slow you down.” Glorfindel didn’t want to part 
from Erestor, but knew it was the sensible thing to do. “Elrohir and I will 
follow.” 

The twins exchanged another look and Elrohir nodded. “Do it. I will look 
after Glorfindel.” He had caught a glimpse of Erestor’s wound as well and 
realized they had little time left.

Elladan pushed his hands beneath Erestor’s back and knees, and gently 
lifted his former mentor in his arms. “How did he manage to injure 
himself like that?” 

“It must have happened when the flood surprised us. Something pierced 
his stomach.” Glorfindel watched anxiously as Elladan placed Erestor in 
front of him. “Hurry, for I fear we might lose him otherwise.” Elrohir’s 
hand settled on his arm, making sure he didn’t move about too much. 
“Now go!”

Elladan nodded determinedly, and while holding tightly onto Erestor, he 
urged his horse into motion. It would take him one hour to reach the Last 
Homely House. “Hold out a little longer, Erestor. Ada will take care of 
you. Do not give up now.”

Glorfindel’s hands became fists, watching Elladan speed away. /You have 
better not give up now, Erestor, for I am determined to find out why you 
have been hiding behind a mask for so many centuries./

TBC

Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 3
 
“Ada! Ada, come quickly!” 
 
Elrond looked up from the papers he was working on and rose from 
behind his desk at hearing Elladan’s distraught voice. His heart contracted 
in anguish, hoping nothing had happened to Elrohir. Why else would 
Elladan be this upset? 
 
He marched over to the window and mentally prepared himself for 
whatever dreadful scene would await him. Looking down into the 
courtyard, he gasped, seeing Erestor sitting in front of Elladan. The long, 
dirty cloak was open and he immediately noticed the combination of dry 
and fresh blood on the Elf’s shirt. “Take him to the healing house. I will 
join you there!” Elrond gathered his robes around him and hurriedly left 
his study. His brief glance at Erestor, especially at the Elf’s closed eyes, 
had told Elrond he had to act quickly if he wanted to keep the advisor 
alive. 
 
Elrond reached the healing house first and walked over to Elladan who 
was still sitting on his horse. “Hand him to me.” He carefully caught 
Erestor in his arms when his son lowered the injured Elf. “Elladan, follow 
me. I will need your help.”
 
“But Elrohir…!” Seeing his father’s expression, he climbed out of the 
saddle and followed Elrond into the healing house. “Elrohir stayed with 
Glorfindel.”
 
“Why are they not with you?” Elrond was already busy cataloguing 
Erestor’s injuries, realizing the blood loss was slowly sending him to the 
Halls of Mandos. 
 
“Amdir, Erestor’s horse, wore a harness to drag the litter Glorfindel was 
lying on,” started Elladan, opening doors so his father could pass.
 
“A litter?” Elrond frowned. He finally reached a bed and slowly laid 
Erestor down, immediately removing the dirty cloak and bloodied clothes. 
 
“His legs lay at an odd angle. I think they are broken.”
 
Elrond sighed, worried. That meant he would have two patients instead of 
one! “Send a patrol to fetch them, but you are staying!” He had been 
teaching his sons how to attend to the wounded and needed Elladan to 
assist him.
 
Elladan left momentarily to instruct the guards and then returned to his 
father’s side. “How badly injured is he?”
 
“Did Glorfindel tell you what happened?” 
 
“He mentioned something about a flood and Erestor getting injured in the 
process. We only talked for one moment. I wanted Erestor here as quickly 
as possible.”
 
“You made the right decision.” Elrond had gathered herbs, bandages and 
water. Using a washcloth, he removed dirt, grass and mud from Erestor’s 
stomach wound and then probed the injury. Erestor groaned softly, in 
obvious pain. Elrond’s brow knitted. “He lost a tremendous amount of 
blood. There is little I can do for him.”
 
Elladan tensed, hearing those words. “Are you saying he will die?” Elves 
didn’t die! They were supposed to live forever!
 
Elrond’s shoulders sagged. “It is possible. I know of some herbs that will 
stimulate his blood flow and production, but he is very weak.” 
 
Elladan stared at his father in disbelief. “Ada, we cannot lose him!”
 
Elrond, who had taken the selected herbs and now dropped them into the 
hot water, looked curiously at his son. 
 
Thinking about his former mentor, Elladan said, “He was a harsh teacher, 
but always just. He never mistreated Elrohir and I; was always friendly 
and respectful, but… He never gave us the same affection we got from 
Glorfindel and you.” Elladan watched as his father slightly lifted Erestor’s 
head to help the injured Elf drink the healing tea. “What can I do to help?”
 
“We have to clean him up,” said Elrond, “You can fetch more water and 
wash him. I will then bandage the wound.” He lowered Erestor back onto 
the bed and smoothed back the tangled mess of black hair. “We must stay 
close at all times.” 
 
Elladan fetched the water, poured it into a bowl and sat down on the edge 
of the bed, whilst Elrond removed Erestor’s underwear. “The dirt and 
grime need to go.”
 
Elladan nodded once. After soaking the washcloth in the tepid water, he 
began to wash Erestor, starting with the Elf’s feet. It was the strangest 
thing; he had never seen Erestor wounded, let alone this vulnerable. 
 
Elrond placed small pouches, filled with healing herbs, on Erestor’s 
stomach, hoping they would draw the infection from the Elf’s body. “It 
worries me that his eyes have closed.”
 
Elladan understood his father’s worry, sharing it. After wringing the dirt 
from the cloth, he soaked it again in the water, to which Elrond had added 
herbs that would hopefully sooth the damaged skin. 
 
Elrond took up another washcloth and helped Elladan. The silence that 
settled down on them was comfortable, but still pregnant with worry. 
“Hopefully Elrohir and Glorfindel will arrive shortly. I will have to leave 
you alone with Erestor to tend to Glorfindel. Just sit with him, and should 
he regain consciousness, alert me at once.”
 
“I will.” Elladan pushed back the long, dark tresses to wash Erestor’s 
neck, when he saw something that made him frown. “Ada? What do you 
make of this?”
 
Elrond, growing curious at his son’s tone, looked at Erestor’s neck. There 
were thin, fading scars at the back of the Elf’s neck, and some more close 
to Erestor’s ears. “It almost looked like…” His voice faded away, placing 
his hand around the back of Erestor’s neck. “Fingernails.” The tips of his 
fingers now rested near the scars. “Someone’s fingernails broke the skin 
there.” 
 
Both half-Elves stared at each other in puzzlement. “Why?” asked Elladan 
eventually. 
 
“I do not know,” replied Elrond, whose worry was increasing. “It would 
explain why he never braids his hair. The plaits would reveal the scars 
beneath his ears.” 
 
Elladan shivered as an ominous feeling swept through him. “I always 
wondered what made him this distant, so apparently indifferent. Do you 
think there is something in his past that—“ 
 
A terrified whimper fled Erestor’s lips, drawing their attention. Elladan 
finished cleaning up Erestor and then stepped back, awaiting his father’s 
instructions, who was about to bandage Erestor’s abdomen. 
 
“Support him,” said Elrond, reaching for the bandages. 
 
Elladan sat down behind the injured Elf and gently pulled Erestor’s back 
to his chest to steady him whilst Elrond bandaged the damaged area, 
putting fresh herbs between the skin and bandages. 
 
“It will be several weeks before this injury has healed, if he survives.” 
Elrond gently lowered Erestor onto his back and then pulled up several 
blankets to keep the injured Elf warm. “I wish there was a way to replace 
the blood he has lost.” But a blood transfusion was something he had 
never done before and he wasn’t sure it would even work. “Make sure he 
drinks at least one cup of the herbal tea each hour. It is the only thing I can 
do to strengthen him.”
 
“I will make sure he drinks,” said Elladan, equally worried. The scars still 
puzzled him, and he wondered how Erestor had acquired them. When he 
had grown up he had felt curious, realizing Erestor was the only Elf in 
Imladris who didn’t wear his hair braided, but he had never asked why. 
Erestor had intimidated him when he had been an Elfling and later it had 
never come up.
 
Elrond rose to his feet and headed toward the doorway, as Elrohir would 
arrive with the wounded Glorfindel shortly. “Keep a close eye on him, 
make sure he drinks, and alert me if he gets worse or wakes up.”
 
Elladan nodded, showing he had understood. “I will watch over him.” 
After Elrond had left, he instinctively took hold of Erestor’s hand, hoping 
his father was right and that the counselor wouldn’t wake shortly. Erestor 
would immediately pull back when realizing the twin was cradling his 
hand. His former mentor had never instigated any physical contact in the 
past; when he had needed a hug he went to his father or Glorfindel, but 
never Erestor. “I do not want to lose you, Erestor,” admitted Elladan in a 
soft tone. Although Erestor had maintained his distance during all these 
centuries,, the twin had always cared about the dark-haired counselor. 
“Please fight.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond raised an eyebrow, seeing the pitiful state Glorfindel was in. The 
blond was obviously incapable of walking, but seemed extremely eager to 
get back to his feet. “Glorfindel, what in Elbereth’s name happened on 
your way back from Lothlorien?”
 
Elrohir dismounted and joined his father and Glorfindel. During their way 
back Glorfindel had constantly expressed his worry about Erestor, greatly 
surprising the twin with his concern. 
 
“Where is Erestor? Will he recover?” Glorfindel locked eyes with Elrond 
when they lifted him from the litter. The two of them carried him inside 
and he repeated his question. “Tell me, Elrond.”
 
“I am not sure,” said Elrond calmly. “He lost too much blood. Much 
depends on Erestor’s will to survive and recover.”  
 
Glorfindel bit his bottom lip when pain coursed through his legs, and he 
was relieved when the two half-Elves finally placed him on a bed. Elrond 
probed the broken bones, removed his leggings and tightly bandaged and 
splinted his leg after setting the bones. Some time during the treatment the 
pain overwhelmed him and he fainted. 
“Only his right leg is broken,” said Elrond, thoughtfully. “His left knee is 
badly bruised, but fortunately intact. We should put him into dry clothes 
and then let him rest.”
 
“How does Erestor fare?” enquired Elrohir. “Glorfindel was rather 
concerned about him, which surprises me. I was under the impression they 
never got along.” He assisted his father in removing Glorfindel’s dirty 
clothes, and then they wrapped the blond in warm blankets. What the Elda 
needed most was rest so his healing ability could take care of his injuries.
 
“Erestor is seriously injured.” Elrond sighed worriedly. “You can visit him 
in the adjoining room. Elladan is sitting with him.” 
 
“And you will stay with Glorfindel, Ada?” 
 
Elrond nodded. “Go talk to your brother.” Elrond watched Elrohir leave 
and pulled a chair closer up to the bed, where he sat down, watching his 
friend. Unexpectedly Glorfindel groaned softly and awareness returned to 
the blond’s eyes. Elrond immediately leaned in closer and searched the 
sapphire eyes. “How do you fare, Glorfindel? How much pain are you in?”
 
Glorfindel blinked and managed to focus on Elrond. “The pain… is 
bearable… but tell me this… where is Erestor?” 
 
Elrond studied him from beneath a raised eyebrow. “You do not even 
want to know that you suffered only one broken leg and not two?”
 
Glorfindel nodded once. “That is good news indeed… but I really want… 
to know about Erestor. Is he…” Glorfindel wavered to actually say the 
words. “He is still alive… Is he not?”
 
Elrond marveled at the emotion displayed in Glorfindel’s eyes. “He is still 
alive. Elladan is watching over him.”
 
“Can Erestor and I… share a room? I think the company… would help 
him… recover.”
 
“You are volunteering to be his roommate?” Elrond’s eyes revealed 
surprise. “A few weeks ago you asked me to send someone else in your 
place because you did not want to spend this much time with him.”
 
“I might have been… wrong,” whispered Glorfindel, feeling miserable. “I 
think I… misjudged him.” Elrond’s inquisitive eyes asked for more 
information and he complied. “A storm surprised us… and we got caught 
up in a flood... I was dragged along and Erestor came after me… probably 
saving my life. He bandaged my legs, built that litter… and gave me our 
last drops of water. He took care of me, Elrond... I never expected that.”
 
“That cannot have been easy on Erestor, injured as he is.”
 
“He did not tell me, Elrond. He hid his injury… I found out by accident, 
and when I asked him to stop walking and rest, he refused, insisting he had 
to take me back to Imladris.” 
 
Elrond read shock in Glorfindel’s blue eyes and nodded. “Erestor 
surprised you.”
 
“Surprised me?” Glorfindel shook his head. “Elrond… he was determined 
to take me back, even if it cost him his life!” 
 
“Why does that surprise you?” asked Elrond, ignoring Glorfindel’s 
distraught expression. “Erestor is fiercely loyal to all of us.” 
 
“But he never showed it before!”
 
“You have to look beneath the face of indifference he usually wears,” said 
Elrond softly. “Erestor has become more distant and isolated these last few 
years. He was more spontaneous, friendlier when the children were still 
little. He might not show it openly, but he needs this family as much as we 
need him.”
 
Glorfindel considered Elrond’s words, knowing them true. “I do not want 
to stay in this room... Let me join Erestor.”
 
Elrond nodded, giving in. “We will move you shortly then. Give the twins 
a moment to fully understand what has happened. Erestor’s soul can still 
pass on to the Halls of Mandos.”
 
“I pray to Elbereth that Erestor will stay with us,” whispered Glorfindel, 
holding on to his faith in Elrond’s healing skills.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elrohir soundlessly entered the room, immediately locking eyes with his 
twin. Surprised, he noticed that Elladan was holding Erestor’s hand, 
muttering softly. He walked into the room and pulled up a chair, sitting 
down next to his brother. Erestor looked too pale, too fragile, and he 
feared his father was right and that the counselor’s soul would travel to 
Mandos. “I hope he survives,” whispered Elrohir softly, catching 
Elladan’s gaze. “Ada thinks Erestor might not recover.”
 
“He lost so much blood,” replied Elladan in a saddened tone. “I do not 
want him to leave us.”
 
Elrohir placed his hand on Elladan’s. “This reminds me of when I was a 
child.”
 
“In what way?” asked Elladan. 
 
“Glorfindel had allowed you to ride out with him for the very first time 
and I had agreed to study with Erestor. We had never been apart for that 
long, and missing you, I started to cry. Erestor obviously did not know 
what to do. He simply stared at me. Later, when I was put to bed, I was 
still crying because you had not returned yet and suddenly Erestor entered 
the room. He sat with me, stroked my hair and hugged me. Can you 
imagine how shocked I was? He had never showed any affection before. 
He stayed with me until you returned.”
 
Elladan recalled the incident. They had been children and he had been 
thrilled that Glorfindel would take him for a ride. He had been so excited 
that he had forgotten about his twin, for the very first time in his life. 
When they had finally returned home, he had found his twin sitting 
upright in bed and their father had been manipulating the shadows, using 
his hands to project animals onto the wall. Elrohir had been smiling and 
Elladan had instantly felt less guilty for forgetting about his brother. 
“But,” stuttered Elladan, growing upset, “Ada was sitting with you that 
night. Not Erestor.” He distinctly remembered seeing their father’s dark 
hair and brown robes when he had entered. “You mixed something up.”
 
“I did not,” said Elrohir determinedly. “It was Erestor. Did you see Ada’s 
butterfly hairclip, then?”
 
Elladan’s eyes suddenly widened, realizing he hadn’t seen that clip. 
“Maybe he forgot to wear it.”
 
“Elladan, we gave it to him as a begetting day present only a few days 
earlier. He wore it constantly to please us.”
 
Elladan swallowed hard. “Erestor actually hugged you?”
 
“Aye, and when you went to Ada or Glorfindel when you were hurting, I 
went to Erestor. It was awkward at first. I quickly realized he was not used 
to hugging someone, but his hugs became warmer through the years.”
 
“I never knew,” whispered Elladan, surprised. “I always thought it was 
Ada consoling you that night. The mere thought that Erestor hugged you 
stuns me. He is so distant!”
 
Elrohir inclined his head in thought. “I often wondered about that. He 
stopped hugging me when I reached majority, and became distant. It was 
different when I was little.”
 
“He never hugged me,” said Elladan, finding it hard to believe Erestor 
could show his emotions like that.
 
“When I grew older, I wondered about Erestor -- and I still do. Remember 
when we played at the Bruinen without Ada knowing about it? You got 
caught in the current and Erestor dived after you. We were toddlers back 
then, but I still remember the incident vividly. I was afraid you would 
drown.”
 
“Are you saying it was Erestor who pulled me out?” He had been under 
the impression that Ada had saved him. Dark hair had fanned around him 
when he had been pulled to the surface so he could finally breathe again. 
Dark hair, which he had automatically had assumed to be his father’s. “I 
did not know it was Erestor.”
 
Elrohir shrugged. “Erestor might hide his feelings, but I do believe he 
loves us.”
 
Elladan, still shocked, stared at Erestor’s pale face. “I never knew he 
reached out to you like that and saved me. What else don’t we know?” 
Considering his own words, he signaled for his brother to lean in closer. 
 
Elrohir frowned when Elladan brushed back some dark locks from 
Erestor’s face. “What are you doing?”
 
“Look at these scars. Ada thinks it was fingernails that left them behind.” 
He mimicked Elrond’s gesture, letting his hand hover above Erestor’s 
neck, never touching any skin. 
 
Elrohir swallowed hard; fingernails breaking the skin like that must have 
hurt. “When did that happen? And why?”
 
“We do not know. But maybe it is time we asked and found out?”
 
“Not yet,” said Elrond, carrying Glorfindel into the room. “Let him 
recover first.”
 
“Provided he survives,” whispered Elrohir in a depressed tone. 
 
Elrond placed Glorfindel on the bed next to Erestor and stepped back after 
making sure the bandages were still in place. The room was getting 
crowded, and he signaled for his sons to follow him into the corridor, thus 
giving Glorfindel a chance to settle down. 
 
Elladan and Elrohir anxiously looked at their father. “Why is Glorfindel 
sharing a room with Erestor?” asked Elladan eventually, still mulling over 
the information that Elrohir had provided him with. 
 
Elrond inclined his head. “Glorfindel is worried about Erestor.”
 
“We all are,” pointed Elrohir out to Elrond, “But sharing a room? I always 
thought Glorfindel disliked Erestor.”
 
“Things are changing,” said Elrond. “Come, we need to take turns 
watching them. I suggest one of us remains close at all times, and call me 
at once should Erestor get worse. I will take the first shift.”
 
“I will take second,” said Elladan, beating Elrohir to volunteering. “Ada? 
Can I ask you a question?” 
 
Curious, Elrond nodded his head. “What do you want to know?”
 
“Who saved me when I nearly drowned in the Bruinen?” Seeing Elrond’s 
puzzled look, he added, “When I was a child?”
 
Elrond recalled the incident Elladan was talking about. “Erestor dived in 
after you. Why are you asking?”
 
Elladan swallowed hard. Why had he been convinced it had been Elrond? 
“And when Glorfindel took me out riding that very first time, did you 
console Elrohir?”
 
Elrond’s frown deepened. “Erestor did.” Elrohir had only told him later 
that Erestor had soothed him. Elladan’s questions were beginning to worry 
him. “Why bring this up now?” 
 
Elladan was too ashamed to admit he had thought it had been his father in 
both cases and lowered his eyes, staring at the floor. “It is nothing.”
 
Elrond didn’t really believe that, but lacked the energy to pull everything 
out of Elladan. He had two patients to worry about. “Make sure Amdir is 
taken care of.”
 
The twins nodded and left. Elladan exchanged a look with his twin and 
whispered, “I really thought it was Ada on both accounts.”
 
“We were young,” said Elrohir, trying to reassure his brother. “Do not 
worry about it.”
 
“I always thought Erestor did not care and now I find out he saved my life 
and he was there for you when I was not.”
 
“Elladan, let it go,” advised Elrohir. “He will need us during his recovery 
and the last thing you should do is feel guilty about something that 
happened when we were children.”
 
Elladan nodded, but still wasn’t convinced. He felt like he had truly 
misjudged Erestor.
 
TBC 
 
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 4
 
 
Glorfindel managed to cock his head so he could look at Erestor. The Elf’s 
pallor worried him and cold radiated from the counselor’s body; a cold 
which he knew only too well. Erestor was battling Mandos. Reaching out 
with his right hand, he clasped Erestor’s in his, rubbing the skin. “Erestor, 
do not give up now. You must fight and emerge victorious. The Halls of 
Waiting are cold and lonely. You should stay here instead.”
 
Erestor didn’t react to Glorfindel’s voice, remaining deeply asleep, and 
Glorfindel desperately tried to think of a way to reach the dark-haired Elf. 
All he could come up with was holding onto Erestor’s hand and rubbing 
the knuckles, hoping the injured Elf somehow felt his presence. “Erestor, 
do not die!”
 
Elrond, having heard Glorfindel’s distressed tone, entered the room and 
hurried to the blond’s side. “There is so little I can do for him.” He filled 
the teacup again, lifted Erestor’s head slightly and slowly poured the 
healing tea into his patient’s mouth. Erestor swallowed instinctively and 
Elrond allowed a hopeful smile to break through on his face. “He has not 
left us yet. A part of him is still fighting.”
 
“What can I do to help? How can I make him stay?”
 
Elrond gave Glorfindel a look full of understanding. “I doubt you can 
make him stay. If he no longer wants to live, his soul will leave us.”
 
“How can I prevent that?” 
 
Elrond smiled; Glorfindel appeared extremely determined to keep Erestor 
alive. “Talk to him. Tell him stories. Read to him. Just hearing your voice 
might help. And the other thing you can do, you are doing right now; hold 
his hand, touch him. Somehow you need to make contact with him and get 
through to him. Show him that you want him to stay.” It was the only 
advice he could give Glorfindel. 
 
“Then get me some books to read from and push my bed closer to his. The 
Halls of Waiting are no place for Erestor and I will keep him from giving 
up.”
 
Elrond nodded once and then proceeded to push Glorfindel’s bed closer to 
Erestor’s, just as the blond had wanted. Elrond smiled as Glorfindel 
tightened the hold he had on the dark-haired Elf’s hand. During their trip 
something had brought them closer together. “You never expected him to 
dive in after you, did you?”
 
“And I never expected him to take care of me.” 
 
Glorfindel’s determined expression filled Elrond with hope. “Let us hope 
that you are right and that you will succeed in keeping him here. I will 
bring you a book to read from, and my sons and I will sit with Erestor as 
well.”
 
“Thank you,” whispered Glorfindel. “I knew you would not give up on 
him without a fight.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel, feeling exhausted, put down his book and looked at Erestor. 
The sun and moon had risen and set once and still the dark-haired Elf 
remained unconscious. He had been reading nonstop for hours now, and 
Elrohir had brought him some tea, hearing his hoarse voice. The youngest 
twin had stayed, and was now sitting in a chair next to Erestor’s bed. 
 
“Do you want me to continue reading?” offered Elrohir. After seeing 
Glorfindel nod, he reached for the book and began reading where the 
blond had left off, his soft, melodic voice pleasantly echoing through the 
room. 
 
Even Glorfindel grew calm, and dozed off, listening to Elrohir’s voice. 
 
Elrohir smiled, seeing Glorfindel’s eyes grow vacant. The Elda had fought 
sleep for a day now, but exhaustion had finally gotten the better of him. 
He continued to read, occasionally looking at his charges. When his father 
entered, he smiled warmly. “Glorfindel finally went to sleep. I probably 
bored him.”
 
“You did well, Elrohir. Glorfindel needs to rest.” Elrond came to a halt 
next to Erestor’s bed and cautiously pushed down the covers. Probing the 
bandages, he found no fresh blood on them and he sighed, relieved. “The 
bleeding has stopped.”
 
“Maybe there wasn’t any more blood left?” Elrohir’s voice sounded 
utterly miserable. “Erestor is so pale, Ada.”
 
“It is time for him to drink more of the herbal tea.” Elrond repeated the 
procedure, slowly pouring the tea down Erestor’s throat. After lowering 
his patient back onto the bed, he studied his counselor. “I was afraid his 
soul would leave us, but he is still with us.”
 
“Do you think he will survive?” asked Elrohir in a hopeful tone. 
 
 
Elrond sat down on the edge of the bed and curled his fingers around 
Erestor’s right hand. Glorfindel was still clinging to the left. “His chances 
at survival are increasing.” 
 
“Ada?” Elrohir put away the book and looked at his father. “Elladan and I 
were talking about Erestor. When we were little Erestor never seemed as 
distant as he is now.”
 
”True,” agreed Elrond, “He grew more distant after you reached majority. 
You might not remember, for Elladan and you were babies at the time, but 
he would hold you for hours, then switch to holding Elladan and usually 
ended up holding both of you before Celebrian would put you to bed. It 
was the same when Arwen was born. He adored the three of you when you 
were babies.”
 
“I do not understand him,” sighed Elrohir, worriedly. “When I was still an 
Elfling, and upset because Elladan had done something stupid, I would go 
to Erestor and he would hold me. Awkwardly, but it was obvious he cared. 
The affection he showed me when I was an Elfling has faded and when I 
look at him now, it is gone completely.”
 
“You might not be looking behind his mask,” said Elrond thoughtfully. “I 
do not think he ever stopped caring about the three of you, but he became 
better at hiding it.”
 
“Why would he feel like he needs to hide his feelings?” 
 
“I was wondering about the same thing.” Elrond exchanged a look with 
Elrohir. “We should try to find out, provided he survives.” Elrond rose to 
his feet and headed for the doorway. “Call me, should Erestor’s condition 
worsen.”
 
“I will.” Elrohir sighed and picked up the book again, reading softly to the 
two sleeping forms.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Four days and nights passed and still Erestor showed no sign of waking 
up. Elrond sighed disappointedly; he had hoped the attention they were 
constantly giving Erestor would pay off. Now he sat on the bed again, 
feeding Erestor the healing tea. Glorfindel anxiously watched his every 
move, making Elrond nervous. “I told you before that you cannot make 
him stay.”
 
“But he is still alive! That must mean he chose to stay!” Even the cold had 
somewhat retreated from the counselor’s body. “We must continue to talk 
to him, touch him.”
 
Elrond gave the blond a worried look. “What has gotten into you, 
Glorfindel? I hardly recognize you. I also greatly worry about Erestor, 
but—“
 
Glorfindel cut the half-Elf short. “He saved my life, Elrond.”
 
“And?” Elrond directed an inquisitive look at the blond. 
 
“And I want to know who hurt him so badly that he feels he can no longer 
show his feelings.”
 
“I agree that Erestor was hurt in the past, deeply, but I doubt he will 
confide in you, should he regain consciousness.”
 
“But I am determined to try. I won’t allow him to push me away again. 
Just before Elladan and Elrohir found us, he said he hoped some good was 
still left in Arda.” Glorfindel slightly shifted in the bed. His bruised knee 
was healing and no longer caused him any discomfort. His broken leg was 
bandaged tightly, but still throbbed painfully. He hoped to be walking on 
crutches in a few days. Being confined to bed was driving him insane. 
Realizing his thoughts had drifted away, he returned to their topic. “I 
always wondered why he called his horse Amdir.”
 
“Because there is still a sparkle of hope left in Erestor. Do you wish to 
make it blaze brightly?”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes widened, but he nodded firmly. “Why do you think I 
wanted to share this room with him? I need to know him close.”
 
“And when he wakes up? Will you leave or stay close? You do realize 
Erestor will try to push you away again?”
 
“He won’t succeed,” said Glorfindel grimly. “I won’t leave him alone 
until he has told me why he is acting in this way.”
 
“I wish you luck,” said Elrond skeptically. “I tried centuries ago when 
Erestor arrived in Imladris. I never succeeded.” 
 
“Erestor was already part of your household when I returned from 
Mandos.” Erestor hadn’t been Elrond’s chief counselor yet, but he had 
already advised the Lord of Imladris in urgent matters. “Was he already 
that distant when you first met him?”
 
Elrond frowned, trying to recall his first encounter with Erestor. “I was not 
sure he had reached majority when he arrived and I was inclined to send 
him back to his family, but he begged me to let him stay. I wondered 
about that.” 
 
“Why would he not want to go back to his family?” 
 
“I do not know, but I allowed him to stay. He began working in the library 
as a scribe, and then became my personal assistant. I recall working on 
some road maintenance plans and becoming increasingly frustrated until 
Erestor timidly suggested a different approach. He was really quiet, hardly 
ever said a word. It took me years of coaxing him into expressing his 
opinions.” Elrond continued, “He hardly had any self confidence and 
always remained at the back, never drawing any attention to himself.”
 
“And when the twins were born?”
 
“Celebrian took a liking to Erestor, which surprised me, but I happily 
encouraged their friendship.” Elrond suddenly grinned. “One night, I 
found Celebrian sound asleep; the twins had kept her awake for several 
days. And Erestor was sitting in her rocking chair, one twin in each arm, 
rocking them and muttering softly.”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes grew big. “He was rocking the twins?”
 
“And they were finally asleep. They had been screaming and crying for 
days.” Elrond smiled brilliantly. “The babies adored him.”
 
Glorfindel laughed warmly. “Why do I have trouble picturing that scene?”
 
“I know it is hard to believe, but it is true; they went quiet whenever 
Erestor rocked them.” Elrond rested his right hand on Erestor’s brow and 
gently rubbed the skin. “I do not know why he forces himself to wear this 
mask; maybe you can find out.”
 
Glorfindel nodded his head once. “I will.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Erestor’s soft groan startled Elladan, who had relieved his brother. It was 
six days ago that they had happened upon Erestor and Glorfindel, and 
although the blond’s legs were healing, the counselor remained 
unconscious. 
 
Elladan reached for the cup. “It is time for another round of tea.” How 
many times had he made Erestor drink the concoction? And still it didn’t 
seem to help. 
 
Glorfindel watched closely as Elladan placed the cup at Erestor’s lips, still 
hoping the raven-haired Elf would miraculously wake up. 
 
The truth was they were losing hope. 
 
Shifting in the bed, he pushed himself into an upright position. Earlier this 
morning Elrond had allowed him to walk; he had needed crutches, but had 
managed to walk from the bed to the bathroom and back again. He had 
wanted to share his happiness with Erestor, but the vacant eyes had 
quickly made him feel depressed again. 
 
Elladan’s breath caught as another pain-filled groan escaped Erestor’s lips. 
“Erestor?” Studying the dark eyes, Elladan thought he saw a spark of 
recognition. “Glorfindel? I think he is waking up.”
 
Glorfindel leaned in closer, trying to lock eyes with Erestor, who was 
lying limply in Elladan’s arms. “Erestor? Can you hear me?” 
 
Erestor blinked once and then released a keening wail, filled with agony. 
 
Elladan acted instinctively, soothing the distressed Elf. “You are back in 
Imladris. You are safe. Please stay calm.”
 
Glorfindel quickly placed a hand on Erestor’s arm. “Erestor? Listen to 
Elladan. You are safe. You are at the healing house and Elrond has tended 
to your injury.” He held his breath when Erestor’s gaze suddenly fixed on 
him. “Aye, Erestor, it is I, Glorfindel. We are home again.”
 
“H-home?” stuttered Erestor brokenly. His eyes were still glazed and he 
seemed unable to focus his gaze. 
 
A lump had formed in Elladan’s throat and he swallowed hard at Erestor’s 
helplessness. Realizing that Glorfindel was already holding one of 
Erestor’s hands, he took hold of the other, gently squeezing it. “Aye, you 
are home, and Glorfindel is here as well.” 
 
Glorfindel smiled and rubbed Erestor’s knuckles. “I knew you were a 
survivor, Erestor. You battled Mandos, did you not?”
 
“It… was…cold,” whispered Erestor, fatigued. What was Glorfindel 
talking about? He hadn’t been to Mandos. He had just been cold. 
 
“Glorfindel? Look after him whilst I fetch Ada?” Elladan rose to his feet 
and headed for the doorway, eager to alert Elrond that Erestor had finally 
woken.
 
Glorfindel warmly squeezed Erestor’s hand, wishing he was mobile 
enough to move even closer to Erestor. The dark-haired Elf lay on his 
back and stared blankly at the ceiling, but was nonetheless awake. Seeing 
that blank expression worried Glorfindel, and he gently tugged on 
Erestor’s hand, trying to gain his attention. “Erestor, please look at me?” 
He was determined to keep Erestor awake until Elrond had had a chance 
to speak with his patient. 
 
Erestor struggled, but managed to cock his head to look at the blond. 
“Why are you… still here?” Talking drained him and he was tempted to 
fall asleep again, but something in Glorfindel’s expression urged him to 
stay awake and talk to him. Then he remembered Glorfindel’s broken legs. 
That explained why he was lying in bed, but it did not explain why 
Glorfindel was sharing a room with him. The healing house had many 
rooms; why would Elrond put them in the same room?
 
“Why I am still here?” repeated Glorfindel in disbelief. “I am here because 
you were unconscious these last six days; you greatly worried me. I was 
afraid you would not return to us. I could not leave you!” Glorfindel 
registered the bafflement in Erestor’s eyes and was moved by it. Erestor 
had never expected him to be there when he woke. “You saved my life, 
Erestor. You dived in after me and took care of me. How can I do 
anything less for you in return? I will watch over you until you have 
recovered. You won’t push me away that easily.”
 
Erestor, stunned, had silently listened to Glorfindel’s declaration, and felt 
now lost for words. What was he supposed to say to that? Breathing in too 
deeply caused pain to erupt from his abdomen and he was instantly 
reminded of his injury. He wanted to probe the wound, but found that 
Glorfindel had a tight hold on his hand, refusing to let him pull away. 
/Why is he holding my hand?/ Using his other hand, he probed the 
bandages. 
 
“Your wound has finally stopped bleeding,” announced Elrond in a warm 
tone. “You had me worried, Erestor. I was afraid you had lost too much 
blood to survive.” Elrond walked over to Erestor and removed the probing 
hand from the bandages. “Don’t move too much; there is still the danger 
than the wound might reopen again.”
 
Erestor, who was still staring at Glorfindel and trying to figure out what 
the blond was talking about, now had to shift his gaze to Elrond. The 
worried expression in the half-Elf’s blue eyes took him somewhat by 
surprise. Elrond had always tried to be his friend, but he had pushed 
Elrond away just as hard as the half-Elf had tried to get to know him. He 
had hoped Elrond had finally given up on befriending him, but he had 
been wrong. 
 
Elladan entered the room and joined his father, tentatively making eye 
contact with his former mentor. He’d had time to work through his 
confusion at finding out Erestor had saved him in the past. He felt like he 
needed to say something, but was at a loss for words. 
 
“You should drink some water now that you are awake,” said Elrond, 
sitting down on the edge of the bed. He reached for the carafe on the 
nightstand and poured some water. 
 
“Let me help,” said Elladan quickly, sitting down on Erestor’s other side 
and helping the injured Elf to lift his head. 
 
Erestor was shocked at finding the two half-Elves tending to him. And 
then there was Glorfindel, staring worriedly at him. 
 
“Erestor, drink,” said Elrond when the injured Elf’s lips remained tightly 
closed. 
 
Erestor gave in and swallowed. The water was refreshing and he sighed 
contently. He hated to admit it, but lying in a warm and comfortable bed 
and being pampered felt good. He had never been fussed over before and 
wasn’t sure how to react when Elrond slowly lowered him back onto the 
bed, tucking the covers around his form. So he remained quiet, watching 
them instead.
 
“Erestor?” 
 
Glorfindel’s voice reminded him that the blond was also present and he 
cocked his head to look at him. What did Glorfindel want from him? All 
Erestor wanted was to go back to sleep so he could forget about his pain. 
 
“I am glad you came back.” Glorfindel smiled radiantly, still rubbing 
Erestor’s knuckles. 
 
Glorfindel’s behavior puzzled Erestor, but then again, so did Elrond and 
Elladan’s. The twin was staring at him, a confused expression in his eyes. 
He was honestly surprised that Elladan was here; he knew the older twin 
usually avoided his company. Elrond suddenly stroked back a lock that 
had strayed into his face and Erestor nearly flinched at the touch, stopping 
himself just in time. 
 
Elrond frowned, sensing Erestor’s distress, but had no idea what had 
caused it. “Are you still thirsty? Hungry?” He could tell by looking at 
Erestor’s glazed eyes that his charge was about to doze off again. 
 
“Can I go back… to sleep now?” Erestor was very much aware of 
Glorfindel’s fingers rubbing his skin and wondered why the blond was 
keeping up the reassurance. Even more amazing was that he didn’t flinch 
away from the touch. That had never happened before. 
 
“Aye, you can go back to sleep,” said Elrond soothingly, stroking 
Erestor’s hair. Tremors shook Erestor’s body and he pulled back, giving 
his patient more personal space. The counselor calmed down and his eyes 
grew vacant again. Elrond exchanged a worried look with Glorfindel, but 
smiled, realizing the Elda was still holding Erestor’s hand. He had 
expected the injured Elf to pull back, but Erestor surprisingly enough 
seemed to allow the caress. “You managed the impossible, Glorfindel. It 
certainly looks like you stopped him from entering the Halls of Waiting,” 
said Elrond, pleased.
 
Glorfindel smiled happily at Elrond. “-We- kept him here, Elrond.” 
 
“Elrohir will be relieved to hear Erestor regained consciousness,” 
whispered Elladan.
 
Elrond looked at his oldest son, seeing an unreadable emotion in Elladan’s 
eyes. “I assume you are relieved as well?”
 
“Aye, but I also feel guilty,” admitted Elladan. 
 
“Guilty? Why?” Elrond’s brow grew knitted. “Why do you feel guilty?”
 
Elladan sighed deeply. “Ada, remember I asked you about me nearly 
drowning in the Bruinen?”
 
Elrond nodded. “I do.” 
 
“I always thought it was you who saved me, not Erestor.” Elladan lowered 
his eyes. “I also did not know it was Erestor who consoled Elrohir when 
he was upset because I had left with Glorfindel. I never knew Erestor 
cared.”
 
Elrond shook his head. “Do not feel guilty, Elladan. You were very young 
when this happened.” Elrond grinned. “Remind me to tell you about 
Erestor rocking you when you were a baby.” Elladan’s eyes widened and 
Elrond reassuringly placed his hand on his son’s shoulder. 
 
“Will you tell me?” 
 
Elrond nodded. “I will tell you, but we should leave now. Our talking 
might disturb Erestor’s sleep and he is in good hands with Glorfindel.” 
Addressing the blond, he said, “We will remain close. Call us when you 
need assistance.”
 
Glorfindel watched Elrond and Elladan go, eager to spend time alone with 
Erestor, even when the dark-haired Elf was soundly asleep, but he hoped 
the injured Elf would wake again shortly for then he could talk to him. 
Looking at Erestor, he wondered about the other Elf. He had also noticed 
the way Erestor had pulled away from Elrond’s touch; it strengthened him 
in his belief that someone had hurt the counselor in the past. /Who hurt 
you? And why?/ Glorfindel was determined to find out.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elladan was perplexed after listening to Elrond. His father had told him 
how Erestor had befriended Celebrian, and usually watched the twins, 
rocking them when they refused to stop crying. “He rocked us?” He 
remembered his mother’s rocking chair, but couldn’t picture Erestor 
sitting in it, holding them.
 
“I think he still cares deeply about you and Elrohir, but feels he needs to 
hide that affection.”
 
“Then we must find out why he is hiding from us.” Elladan walked toward 
the doorway. “I will inform Elrohir that Erestor woke up.”
 
Elrond let him go and pondered Elladan’s shocked reaction. He had never 
realized how much a part Erestor had been of their lives when his children 
had been born, and the twins had apparently forgotten Erestor had loved 
them. Well, they had only been babies. Once they had grown older, 
Erestor had become colder.
 
/I wonder why?/
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 5 
 
 
Glorfindel was definitely driving him insane. The blond had first played 
his flute and had then started reading to him, despite his request to be left 
alone. Erestor closed his eyes momentarily, trying to lock out Glorfindel’s 
warm and enchanting voice, but he failed. Instead he found himself 
clinging to every word, hoping Glorfindel would stay close a few more 
days. With difficulty, and biting down the pain, he managed to turn onto 
his right, turning away from Glorfindel. 
 
Glorfindel’s features distorted when Erestor turned his back on him. What 
was he doing wrong? He was trying hard to entertain Erestor, hoping to 
see the dark-haired Elf smile just once. He sat upright in bed, placed his 
crutches beneath his armpits and pushed himself up to his feet. Moving 
slowly, he made his way to Erestor’s bed and came to a halt in front of the 
injured Elf, forcing Erestor to look at him. The Noldorin Elf’s eyes closed, 
frustrating him even further. 
 
Erestor wasn’t sure what he wanted Glorfindel to do. He had expected the 
blond to tire of his behavior, but at the same time he hoped that the Elda 
wouldn’t give up on reaching out to him. He couldn’t help that he had lost 
the ability to trust! 
 
“Erestor? Would you just look at me? I feel locked out.” Glorfindel 
decided on the direct approach. “Why are you pushing me away? I am 
trying to be pleasant company and the least you can do is to talk and look 
at me. Am I invisible to you?”
 
Erestor sighed, dejectedly. “Why can't you leave me alone?”
 
“Is that what you really want? To be left alone?” Glorfindel studied the 
silent form. “A week ago I would have believed you, but I no longer do.” 
To his utter satisfaction Erestor’s eyes opened to stare at him in shock. 
“And I am right, am I not? You like my company.” Victoriously, he 
smiled at the Noldorin Elf. “You do not have to admit it aloud, Erestor. I 
read the answer in your eyes.“
 
For one brief moment Erestor considered protesting, but he was hurting 
and in dire need of a friend, so he allowed the blond to continue. 
 
“Why do we not call for a truce?” Glorfindel, growing tired as his pain 
increased, lowered himself onto the chair next to Erestor, which Elrond or 
one of his sons usually occupied. “We are both in the same situation and 
we can draw comfort from each other’s company.”
 
Erestor wasn’t sure that giving in was the right thing to do, afraid he might 
regret trusting Glorfindel later, but he nodded once. “A truce, then.”
 
“And you will stop pushing me away.” Glorfindel studied the dark eyes, 
which revealed hurt and loneliness, two emotions he had seen there before 
when Erestor had taken care of him during those cold and wet nights. 
 
“I will try,” said Erestor softly, “but I am not sure I can.” Locking others 
out had been his way of making sure no one could ever hurt him again -- 
and now Glorfindel was asking him to trust him. Could he do that?
 
Glorfindel’s smile was saddened, realizing a world of hurt hid in Erestor’s 
eyes. Throwing caution to the wind, he leaned in closer. “Who has hurt 
you so badly in the past?” He instantly regretted his words when Erestor’s 
eyes widened in shock. An expression of indifference then appeared, 
where just loneliness and pain had been. 
 
“I have no idea what you are talking about.” Erestor gritted his teeth 
against the pain, turning onto his other side as he was no longer able to 
look Glorfindel in the eyes. 
 
The fact that Erestor didn’t trust him after all these centuries hurt, but 
didn’t come as a surprise to Glorfindel. “Erestor? You promised to not 
shut me out.”
 
“Then do not ask such stupid questions!” Erestor’s voice hitched, 
revealing his shock. 
 
“I regret asking you that question, but I am worried about you.”
 
“Do not worry about me. I can take care of myself.”
 
Glorfindel suddenly realized something about Erestor. “You always had to 
take care of yourself because no one else did.”
 
Erestor’s discomfort increased; Glorfindel was discovering too much 
about him and it had to stop before he caved in and entrusted his pain to 
the blond. “Can we change the subject?”
 
But Glorfindel considered everything he had learned so far. Elrond had 
told him that when Erestor had arrived in Imladris he’d had no self 
confidence, never spoke up until the half-Elf convinced him it was 
expected of him as his advisor. 
 
By Elbereth, he was still missing too many pieces of this puzzle and it 
didn’t look like Erestor would help him. /The babies. Elrond said Erestor 
adored the twins when they were babies… Why can I not solve this 
riddle?/ Getting frustrated, he rested a hand on Erestor’s shoulder, feeling 
the Elf tremble at the touch. “What would you like to talk about then? The 
twins maybe?” Erestor froze beneath his touch.
 
“The twins? Why would I want to discuss them?” Erestor tightly closed 
his eyes, wishing Glorfindel would leave him alone. The blond was 
learning too much about him! 
 
“You scared Elrohir when you remained unconscious. He was afraid you 
would not return to us, and choose to stay at Mandos instead.” Glorfindel 
knew he was treading on dangerous grounds, but still continued. “He also 
told me that you comforted him when he was little.” Erestor was now 
shaking like a leaf and Glorfindel realized it was time to give the Noldorin 
Elf some personal space. “Would you like me to read to you?”
 
Erestor shook his head. “I can read to myself if I so desire. I do not need 
you to read to me.”
 
Glorfindel sighed, exasperated. Why was Erestor making this so hard on 
them? 
 
“Is my patient giving you any trouble, Glorfindel?” Elrond entered the 
room with a bemused expression on his face after hearing the last lines 
they had exchanged. Had Glorfindel really thought he would reach Erestor 
that easily? The Elda was in for a surprise.
 
“He is being difficult, yes,” scowled Glorfindel, frustrated. 
 
“Why don’t you return to your bed, Glorfindel? I need to check Erestor’s 
bandages.” Elrond waited for the blond to move back to his bed and 
answered his friend’s frown with a smile. /Do not give up yet./ It would 
take time to get through to Erestor. He came to a stop next to Erestor’s bed 
and pushed down the blankets. “How do you fare today? Are you still in 
any pain?”
 
Erestor was now forced to open his eyes and return Elrond’s gaze. “Only 
when I breathe in too deeply.”
 
Elrond sat down on the bed and slowly pulled Erestor into an upright 
position. “Lean against me, meldir-nîn.” He distinctly noticed the stiffness 
to Erestor’s movement when the injured Elf’s chest came to rest against 
his shoulder. Gently, he removed the bandages and then lowered Erestor 
back onto the bed again. 
 
Erestor quickly glanced at his stomach, finding that the wound had closed, 
though it would probably leave an ugly scar for some years. Well, it 
wasn’t like he didn’t have any other scars, what difference made one 
more? Elrond’s fingers cautiously probed the wound and Erestor’s lips 
became a thin line, stoically enduring the examination. 
 
Once Elrond was convinced that the wound was healing properly he 
placed fresh healing herbs on the mending area, and after pulling Erestor 
against him, applied the bandages once more. “I might allow you to leave 
your bed tomorrow, if you promise to not overdo it.”
 
Lying flat on his back again, Erestor hesitantly made eye contact with the 
healer. “Does that mean I can return to my rooms then?” 
 
Elrond had expected that question and had his answer ready. “No. You 
will stay here for a few more days.” Erestor’s eyes darkened at that, but 
Elrond gave his friend a stern look. “You almost died a week ago. I want 
to keep an eye on you a little longer and I cannot do that when you are 
back in your rooms. Like Glorfindel, you will stay here at the Healing 
House.” Elrond noticed the smug look on the blond’s face and realized 
Glorfindel didn’t want Erestor to leave either. “Who knows,” said Elrond, 
only half jokingly, “Maybe the two of you will even become friends.”
 
Glorfindel smiled warmly at that, whilst Erestor swallowed hard, trying to 
rid himself of the emotions choking him. Friends? Elrond had better not 
count on that.
 
“I would like that,” said Glorfindel, sincerely, and he managed to catch 
Erestor’s elusive gaze with his. 
 
Erestor sighed, fatigued, wondering why they were teaming up against 
him. “Can I sleep now? I am tired.”
 
Elrond and Glorfindel realized Erestor no longer wanted to talk to them 
and stopped pushing him. Elrond nodded his head. “You can go to sleep 
now. When you wake up again Elrohir will probably be keeping you 
company for my presence is required elsewhere.” Thranduil had sent a 
letter, asking his help in keeping their borders safe. The letter had 
surprised him, but Elrond had welcomed the offer to combine their forces. 
“I will visit later.”
 
Erestor forced himself to fall asleep again, unable to keep up this front 
much longer. He wanted so desperately to let them in, to tell them how 
much he was hurting, but didn’t dare; he was afraid to have his trust 
betrayed again.
 
Elrond and Glorfindel’s gazes met, and both were filled with worry. 
 
“He promised to not push me away, and what does he do?” Glorfindel 
sighed, dejectedly. “I do not know how to get through to him. He 
completely shut down when I asked him who had hurt him in the past.”
 
“You asked him that?” Wide-eyed, Elrond shook his head. “Glorfindel, 
you need to be subtle. You cannot be that direct!” Releasing a deep sigh, 
he studied his friend. “What else did you do?”
 
“I mentioned he adored the twins when they were little. He shut down at 
once. I just do not understand why we are not allowed to know he cares.”
 
Elrond made sure Erestor was sound asleep and then brushed the dark 
tresses aside, revealing the scars his son had discovered earlier. 
 
Glorfindel gasped at seeing them and reached the same conclusion as 
Elrond had. “Fingernails.”
 
“I have been thinking about that. Someone must have held him down. 
Standing behind him, pushing him down.” Elrond let one hand hover 
above the scars. “Someone did not want him to move.”
 
“But why? And who did this?” Glorfindel’s eyes narrowed. “Are they 
recent?”
 
Elrond shook his head. “He must have been an Elfling when this 
happened.”
 
“So that is why he wears his hair loose. I wondered about that.”
 
“Plaits would reveal the scars.” 
 
“This happened when he was a child then?” Glorfindel tried to make sense 
of this new information. “Who would be holding down a child like that? 
The skin broke and must have bled. He must have been in pain.” Elrond’s 
eyes had widened, alerting Glorfindel. “What is on your mind?”
 
But Elrond quickly shook his head. “It is impossible. No one would do 
that to a child.”
 
“Do what?” 
 
“Discipline him in such a way… That would be abusive.” Elrond’s 
thoughts raced. 
 
A painful moan leaving Erestor’s lips pulled them away from their 
conversation. 
 
“He is still in a great deal of pain,” said Elrond, concerned. “I will check 
on him in a few hours after I have answered Thranduil’s letter.” Seeing 
Glorfindel’s curious look, he added, “Do not worry about it. I can 
manage.” Elrond rose to his feet, but then froze again. “I could ask 
Erestor’s father.”
 
Glorfindel raised an eyebrow. “Erestor’s father?”
 
“Eridhren is one of Thranduil’s closest advisors. I can add a second letter 
and address it to him. Maybe he knows who hurt Erestor in the past.” 
Elrond had considered writing to Erestor’s father when the Elfling had 
first come to Imladris, but back then Erestor had begged him not to. 
Maybe it was time to get to the bottom of things. “Aye, I will write to him, 
but we will have to wait for an answer.”
 
“And in the meantime I will continue to try to get through to him,” said 
Glorfindel determinedly. “And I won’t give up.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
When Erestor woke next, he was awfully thirsty and his abdomen was 
aching again due to Elrond’s probing earlier. He spotted the healing tea on 
the nightstand next to Glorfindel’s bed, but it was way out of his reach. 
This past week he had been confined to bed and he had no idea if he could 
walk unaided; a fall might cause the wound to reopen, but the pain was 
growing worse. He needed that herbal tea for it would dampen the pain 
and help him sleep. Why had Elrond placed the teapot out of his reach?
 
Realizing he had to get the tea himself, he pushed back the covers, 
cringing when his stomach contracted. /You have been through worse. 
You can do this./ Erestor slowly pushed himself into a sitting position and 
then placed his feet on the floor. Vertigo overwhelmed him and he sat 
motionless, waiting for the sensation to pass. When it did, he pressed one 
hand against his healing wound and with the other he supported himself, 
using the wall to guide his steps. 
 
He was relieved when the terrible agony, which he had been in since right 
after the flood, didn’t return. Trying hard to bite down the ache, he 
carefully placed one foot in front of the other. /Don’t stumble; don’t fall!/ 
Glorfindel was asleep and he hoped the blond wouldn’t wake until he had 
returned to his bed.
 
Now that he had reached the nightstand came the tricky part. He had to let 
go of the wall to pour the tea. Swaying on his feet, he let go of the wall 
and curled his fingers around the handle of the teapot. Raising it caused a 
wave of pain to course through his abdomen. It ruined his concentration 
and his fingers slipped away; the teapot dropped onto the floor with a loud 
thud. 
 
Glorfindel awake at once, startled by the crashing sound and sat upright, 
searching the room for a possible intruder. His heart missed a beat at 
seeing Erestor sway on his feet and with a guilty look on his face. His gaze 
dropped, and at seeing the broken pot he realized Erestor had left his bed 
to drink some of the healing tea. But the Noldorin Elf had apparently 
overestimated his strength. Glorfindel grabbed a crutch and struggled to 
his feet. Only the leg that had been broken still troubled him, but Elrond 
had assured him the fracture would heal with one more week of rest. 
 
Stumbling toward Erestor, Glorfindel determinedly wrapped his other arm 
around the dark haired Elf’s waist. “What are you doing on your feet?” 
Realizing he didn’t have the strength to support Erestor, he called for help. 
 
A moment later Elrohir appeared. “Ada told you to stay in bed!” He 
hurried over to Erestor, carefully folding an arm around the Elf’s shoulder 
and guiding him back to bed. “And Glorfindel? Ada told you to rest as 
well.” 
 
Glorfindel, still worried about Erestor’s health, obeyed wordlessly and 
returned to his bed, keeping a close eye on the counselor. 
 
“Sit down slowly,” instructed Elrohir, helping Erestor sit down on his bed. 
Erestor was panting softly and he waited for the elder Elf to catch his 
breath. Pain shone from the dark eyes and Elrohir felt the overwhelming 
urge to hug the other Elf. 
 
Erestor froze completely when Elrohir’s arms came up behind his back, 
pulling him into an embrace. 
 
Glorfindel, who could see Erestor’s eyes, noticed the shock, almost fear in 
them. /Whatever happened to him caused him to be afraid of physical 
contact./ Hopefully Erestor’s father knew what troubled his son. 
 
When Elrohir pulled back, tears shimmered in his eyes. Erestor had not 
answered the embrace and now sat paralyzed, as if scared to breathe. 
“What is wrong, Erestor?” He released the other Elf reluctantly; he had 
hoped Erestor would welcome the embrace. “Why does my closeness 
make you feel uncomfortable? You held me in the past when I was hurting 
and now I want to soothe you as well. Was I wrong to hug you?”
 
A shudder traveled through Erestor’s body as he collapsed into himself. 
He had hurt the younger Elf’s feelings and he hated himself for that. 
Unable to answer Elrohir, he closed his eyes in misery. 
 
Elrohir realized he wouldn’t get an answer and helped Erestor to lie down. 
“I will clean up the floor and prepare new tea.” 
 
“I am sorry about the mess I made,” whispered Erestor, shakily. 
 
“You are wounded, still hurting. Why did you not call me? I would have 
loved to help,” said Elrohir in a friendly tone.
 
“I do not want to be a burden and I thought I could cover the distance 
myself.” Erestor’s eyes remained close, unable to meet Elrohir’s gaze. 
 
“You are –not- a burden!” said Elrohir firmly. He sighed deeply, 
disappointed that he hadn’t been able to offer Erestor any comfort. “I will 
return with the tea shortly. How much pain are you in?” His father had 
told him what to do in case Erestor’s condition worsened. 
 
“It is bearable,” said Erestor, unwilling to take more up of Elrohir’s time. 
 
But Elrohir heard the truth in Erestor’s forced tone and opened one of his 
father’s pouches, removed the dried herbs and placed them against 
Erestor’s lips. “Chew on them. They will lessen your pain and help you 
sleep.” Erestor’s eyes finally opened and Elrohir fought the urge to hug 
him again, seeing the misery in them. But he refrained from embracing 
Erestor, vividly remembering the dark haired Elf’s reaction a moment ago. 
“Chew.”
 
Erestor obeyed, and began to chew on the herbs, which released a bitter 
essence. He recognized the taste, swallowed and within moments his pain 
began to fade away. 
 
Elrohir nodded, pleased. “Now rest.” He brushed some stray strands out of 
Erestor’s face and expected to see him shiver, which Erestor promptly did. 
He waited for his former mentor to fall asleep, and once he was sure that 
Erestor could no longer hear them, he looked at Glorfindel. “It almost 
seems like he is afraid to be touched.” 
 
Glorfindel had reached the same conclusion. “We must be patient. If we 
try hard enough, we will find out in time.”
 
Elrohir picked up the broken teapot and cleaned the floor. “We need to be 
more careful in future. I do not want him to leave his bed to get to the tea.” 
Elrohir got to his feet and looked at the counselor. “When I was little and 
he hugged me, he always trembled. I never understood why. My closeness 
must have terrified him.”
 
“But still he rocked and held you. Your father clearly stated that Erestor 
adored the babies.”
 
“But things changed when we grew up.” Elrohir disposed of the teapot and 
then pulled up the covers, making sure Erestor remained warm. “Do you 
think he will ever allow us in and tell us why?”
 
“Maybe.” Glorfindel, sitting upright, cocked his head. “Elrond is writing 
to Eridhren to find out what is wrong with Erestor.” 
 
Unfamiliar with that name Elrohir looked at Glorfindel curiously. 
 
“Eridhren is Erestor’s father and advisor to Thranduil.” Glorfindel 
frowned deeply. “I do not recall ever meeting him.” He had often escorted 
Elrond when he and Thranduil had met to discuss urgent matters, and, 
come to think of it, Erestor had never accompanied them. Wouldn’t he 
have been thrilled to see his father again? /His father; what role does 
Eridhren play? Elrond said that Erestor was severely intimidated when he 
arrived in Imladris and did not want to return to his family. His father… 
Eridhren is the missing piece to this puzzle./
 
“Glorfindel?” Elrohir walked over to the blond’s bed and tried to read the 
expression in his friend’s eyes. “What are you brooding about?” 
 
“Erestor’s father. Why did he never visit his son? And I cannot remember 
Erestor ever leaving Imladris to visit his father. That does not make any 
sense.” Glorfindel frowned. “We just discovered one more piece of this 
puzzle, but I do not know what to make of it.” 
 
Elrohir sat quietly, trying to help Glorfindel solve this mystery. “Erestor 
cannot have been very happy when he sought refuge here. Ada told me 
Erestor begged him to not contact his father. He was rather worried about 
Erestor, who was still very young to be away from home.”
 
Glorfindel drew a conclusion that worried him. “Can it be that he was 
trying to get away from his father?”
 
“It surely sounds like it,” agreed Elrohir, worried. “But why?”
 
“We should ask Erestor, or confront Eridhren.” Elrond’s letter would take 
care of that. They just had to be patient.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond handed the messenger his reply to Thranduil and a letter for 
Eridhren. He had almost reconsidered writing to Erestor’s father, but his 
concern for his counselor urged him to take action. For centuries he had let 
Erestor lock them out, and Glorfindel was right; that had to stop now. He 
had ignored the matter for much too long. 
 
The messenger left and Elrond left his study to check on his charges. 
Glorfindel had recovered quickly, and he would have released the blond 
yesterday, had it not been for his request to be allowed to stay close to 
Erestor. 
 
Erestor, however, did worry him. Although the wound had closed and had 
begun to heal, he worried about the counselor’s emotional health. 
 
Elrond reached the Healing House and peeked into the room Glorfindel 
and Erestor shared. The blond was awake, reading, but regularly looked up 
to check on Erestor. Glorfindel’s recent interest in Erestor pleased Elrond. 
He had always hoped someone would look beneath the face of 
indifference Erestor usually wore. 
 
He did, however, wonder just how deep Glorfindel’s interest in Erestor 
ran. Lately, there was an unreadable emotion in the blond’s eyes that 
reminded him of the way Gil-galad had looked at him decades ago. Even 
now, Glorfindel was looking at Erestor in that certain way. 
 
For as long as he could remember Erestor had never mentioned a lover. 
Maybe that was what was missing from Erestor’s life? A mate? Maybe 
Glorfindel was about to render that?
 
Elrond smiled; Erestor didn’t realize it yet, but his life was about to 
change.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 6. 
 
 
Erestor managed to survive the next few days, which were filled with 
Glorfindel’s cheerful chatter, awkward hugs delivered by Elrohir, and 
concerned stares from Elladan. At times he felt intimidated and uneasy, 
uncertain how to react when Elrohir enveloped him in another hug. The 
first few times he had frozen, unable to even breathe whilst the hug lasted, 
but now he was beginning to accept Elrohir’s closeness. 
 
Elrond, who had supervised his recovery, now sat next to his bed, 
watching him. They were alone in the room, as Glorfindel had left to 
exercise whilst Elladan kept a close eye on the blond. Erestor shifted in 
bed, feeling nervous under Elrond’s probing stare. “When can I return to 
my chambers? The wound has long closed and there is no reason to keep 
me here.” He looked at Elrond, meeting the half-Elf’s curious gaze. 
Calling on his strength, he didn’t budge when Elrond’s gaze became 
piercing. It almost felt the half-Elf was capable of seeing into his very 
soul. 
 
“I will allow you to leave the Healing House, but why are you so eager to 
return to your cold and empty chambers when you have the pleasure of 
Glorfindel’s company here?” Elrond observed Erestor carefully until the 
counselor finally averted his eyes. 
 
“I cannot take much more of this… attention,” said Erestor, searching for 
the right words whilst staring at his hands, resting idly in his lap. “It feels 
like everyone has taken an interest in me and the attention makes me feel 
uncomfortable.”
 
Erestor’s honesty surprised Elrond, and he welcomed it. “You nearly died, 
Erestor. Maybe they now understand what a loss your death would have 
been and it made them eager to render past mistakes.” Erestor’s eyes 
flashed with an unidentifiable emotion, making Elrond frown. 
 
“Mistakes? What past mistakes?” Erestor was still trying to deal with the 
fact that Elrond thought his death would have been a loss. 
 
Elrond cleared his throat, preparing himself for a verbal battle. “Let us 
start with Glorfindel. He always thought you cold and distant, but since 
you dived in after him, he realized he never tried to get to know you. The 
real you, not the one you pretend to be.” Erestor had frozen and now 
stared at him with dread in his eyes. “Do not deny it, for it is the truth.”
 
“I have no idea what you are talking about,” said Erestor stubbornly. “If 
all you are capable of is speaking nonsense I will return to my rooms 
now.” Erestor, feeling trapped, pushed himself to his feet and rose from 
his chair. He ignored the ache that sliced through his abdomen and gritted 
his teeth. He was about to take his first step toward the doorway when 
Elrond reached for him and curled his fingers around his wrist, keeping 
him in place. “Let go of me.”
 
Erestor’s sharp tone didn’t throw Elrond off. “Sit down, Erestor.”
 
Realizing he couldn’t ignore a direct order from the Lord of Imladris, he 
reluctantly seated himself again. Erestor glared at Elrond, hating the way 
the half-Elf made him feel; afraid and trapped. “What do you want?”
 
“I want you to listen to me.” Elrond cocked his head, trying to read the 
expression in his counselor’s dark eyes. /Is he afraid of me?/ His gaze left 
Erestor’s face and settled on the Elf’s fingers; Erestor’s fingernails were 
clawing at the wooden armrest. He realized he had to back off or else 
Erestor would lose the little trust that he did have in him. “I want you to 
rest once you returned to your chambers. You do not have to join us for 
dinner if you feel tired and I will visit you to make sure you are not 
overdoing it.”
 
Erestor’s relieved sigh made Elrond realize he had made the right 
decision. The counselor needed more time to recover. “Elrohir will walk 
you to your rooms.” His youngest son had appeared in the doorway, 
hearing their voices, and Elrond nodded once, signaling for him to 
approach. 
 
Erestor was stunned to see a concerned expression on Elrohir’s face. 
 
“Ada, are you sure he is strong enough to leave? Maybe Erestor should 
stay a little longer?” 
 
Elrond smiled warmly at his son. “Unfortunately Erestor is quite eager to 
leave.”
 
Erestor ignored their conversation and rose to his feet. Slowly, step-by-
step, he made his way past Elrond and toward the doorway where Elrohir 
was waiting for him. 
 
Elrohir’s heart went out to his former mentor, seeing the elder Elf’s stiff 
and hesitant movements. Before he knew it, he had reached out and 
wrapped an arm around Erestor’s shoulder to keep him from falling. 
Erestor stiffened further at his touch, but allowed the contact. “I will escort 
you to your chambers.”
 
Erestor wanted to decline, but one look at Elrohir told him how 
determined the half-Elf was. He reluctantly gave in and leaned heavily on 
Elrohir, who tightened his hold. 
 
Elrond watched them leave, feeling content after all. Now he only had to 
wait for Glorfindel to return to the room.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Glorfindel, stop it. You are exhausting yourself!” Elladan sighed, 
troubled by Glorfindel’s determination to walk without the aid of a crutch. 
“At least let me help you.”
 
Glorfindel placed a hand against the wall to support him and he made his 
way down the corridor, occasionally stifling a pain-filled moan. The 
bruised knee no longer troubled him, but the broken leg continued to throb 
disturbingly. “I have had enough of being confined to bed. I want to walk 
again!”
 
Elladan knew reasoning with Glorfindel wouldn’t get him anywhere when 
the blond was in this sort of mood and he just let him be. “We should 
return to your room. Ada mentioned earlier that he wanted to talk to you.”
 
Glorfindel nodded slowly, needing his concentration to keep him from 
falling. “Let us head back then.” Elladan sighed again, dramatically this 
time, and Glorfindel grinned, knowing he was frustrating the twin. 
 
Walking back took several minutes, but in the end, Glorfindel reached his 
bed and slowly sat down. “Where is Erestor?” Finding the dark-haired Elf 
gone from the room worried him. 
 
“I allowed him to return to his rooms.”
 
“Isn’t it a bit early for that? You should have made him stay longer.”
 
“I could not do that, Glorfindel.” Elrond’s gaze met Elladan’s and he 
dismissed his son for the moment. Elladan left and Elrond focused on the 
blond again. “Erestor felt trapped. Forcing him to stay would have agitated 
him further. Now that he can return to his rooms he will feel safer.”
 
“But I feel hesitant to leave him alone. Erestor will never admit it, but he 
did enjoy the company whilst he stayed here.”
 
“We will visit regularly until he has recovered enough to return to his 
duties, which won’t be for another week.” 
 
Glorfindel nodded. “Is there anything else you would like to discuss?” 
Now that Erestor had left, he would do the same and return to his quarters, 
which were fortunately located close to Erestor’s. 
 
“Yes, there is something I want to discuss with you. I received two letters 
today. One was from Thranduil, and the other was from Eridhren.”
 
“Erestor’s father… What does he say?” Glorfindel, growing curious, 
leaned in closer. 
 
Deep lines, etched onto Elrond’s brow, appeared. “He has no idea why 
Erestor might be acting strangely. According to Eridhren no one hurt 
Erestor in the past. It was a very formal letter, devoid of any emotion or 
interest in his son. It worries me.”
 
“I do not believe him. Something bad happened to Erestor.” His 
conversation with Elrohir returned to him. “Can it be that Eridhren is the 
problem? You said that Erestor begged you to not contact his father when 
he arrived here. It almost seems to me that he was afraid of Eridhren.”
 
“That thought crossed my mind as well,” admitted Elrond, not liking its 
implications. “A father abusing his son in that way is unheard of.”
 
“But it could have happened,” Glorfindel pointed out to him. “What do 
you know about Eridhren? And where is Erestor’s mother? Does he have 
siblings?”
 
“Erestor never mentioned any.” Elrond really didn’t like the sound of this. 
The more he thought about it, the more convinced he became that 
Eridhren was the key to Erestor’s behavior. “In that case I might have bad 
news.”
 
An ominous feeling swept through Glorfindel at hearing Elrond’s tone. 
“What is it?”
 
“Thranduil announced a visit to discuss joined border patrols.”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes widened. “That is the first time Thranduil will be 
visiting Imladris and aye, the timing could not have been worse.” 
Although he was thrilled to hear Thranduil wanted to join forces against 
the Orcs and Uruk-Hai, he wasn’t looking forward to the visit. Seeing 
Elrond’s expression darken, he realized the worst was yet to come. 
 
“And Eridhren will be accompanying him. They will arrive in a few days.”
 
“That is most unfortunate. I had hoped we could gather more information 
first.” Glorfindel leaned back into the pillows and his eyes took on a 
brooding experience. “Elrond, can it be that Eridhren caused those scars 
on the back of Erestor’s neck?” 
 
Elrond sighed deeply. “I must admit that I thought the same thing. It does 
make sense when one thinks it over. Erestor fled from his father and came 
here, seeking refuge, which I granted him. He begged me to not reveal his 
whereabouts, and—“ Elrond paused, recalling how timid and insecure 
Erestor had been upon his arrival. “His confidence grew during his stay 
here. Probably because he was finally away from his father.” It was 
important that he learned more about Erestor’s family. “I suggest we do 
not tell Erestor just yet that we are expecting his father to accompany 
Thranduil. He needs more time to recover.”
 
Glorfindel nodded. “I won’t let him out of my sight.” He slowly rose to his 
feet, eager to return to his rooms and pay Erestor a visit. “You should 
make sure Eridhren’s guest rooms are located in the other wing, as far 
away from Erestor’s rooms as possible.”
 
“What if we are wrong? By Elbereth, I hope we are wrong. What kind of 
father can hurt his child in such a way?” Elrond shook his head in 
saddened disbelief. 
 
“We will find out,” said Glorfindel reassuringly. He walked, using a 
crutch to support him, toward the doorway and exchanged another look 
with Elrond. /But what if we are right and Eridhren abused his son? What 
do we do then?/
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrohir opened the door to Erestor’s room and stepped aside to let the 
elder Elf pass. The pallor had returned to the counselor’s face and his hand 
pressed against his stomach, as if afraid that the wound might reopen 
again. “Why do you not sit down?” Elrohir pushed a chair closer to the 
fireplace, where he began to build a fire. 
 
Erestor took Elrohir’s advice and slowly sat down on the chair, watching 
the youngest twin. It was beyond him why Elrohir had begun hugging him 
again after such a long time. He had stopped displaying his affection when 
Elrohir had reached his majority. 
 
The fire was blazing warmly and Elrohir pulled a chair closer to Erestor’s, 
whilst his eyes scanned the counselor’s rooms. They were Spartan, 
bereaved of any luxury, and the furniture consisted of a bed, three chairs, a 
desk and a cupboard. The walls had been painted brown and grey, only 
adding to the depressive atmosphere. Erestor’s rooms felt cold and empty. 
“Are you sure you will be comfortable here?” Suddenly he felt guilty for 
never visiting Erestor before; this was his first visit ever. 
 
“I will be fine,” whispered Erestor, dreamily staring into the flames. Now 
that he was back in his rooms he felt safer, and involuntarily he began to 
let down his guard. 
 
Elrohir rose to his feet again; seeing the distant expression in Erestor’s 
eyes told him the elder Elf needed to rest. He came to a halt in front of 
Erestor, went down on his heels and slowly wrapped his arms around the 
Elf’s form. Erestor shivered at his touch, but didn’t push him away. 
 
“Why do you fear my touch?” Holding Erestor’s gaze prisoner, Elrohir 
tried to get through to the other Elf. “You have known me since I was a 
baby. Do you really think I could ever hurt you?” 
 
Elrohir wasn’t prepared for the outburst that followed. Suddenly Erestor’s 
arms locked around him, holding him tightly and soft sobs left the elder 
Elf’s lips. He felt shocked and pleased at the same time; shocked that such 
a flood of emotion had been released and pleased because the counselor 
was no longer hiding from him. Instinctively he began to rock Erestor, 
making sure he wasn’t putting any pressure on the Elf’s healing injury. 
“What is wrong, mellon-nîn? You can trust me.” 
 
Erestor finally realized what had happened and reined in his emotions. His 
arms dropped onto the armrest, and he began to freeze again in Elrohir’s 
embrace. It had never been his intention to return that hug, but he had felt 
so lonely, so empty, and his emotions had gotten the better of him, urging 
him to accept the comfort Elrohir offered. 
 
Elrohir pulled back and looked at Erestor’s face. The tears had left streaks 
on the elder Elf’s face and Erestor quickly wiped them away. 
 
Lowering his gaze, Erestor stared at the floor. What had possessed him to 
return Elrohir’s embrace? Now the half-Elf would feel encouraged and 
never leave him alone! But did he really want to be alone?
 
Elrohir kept one arm folded around Erestor and used one hand to lift the 
other’s chin, making Erestor look at him. “Why did you pull back? I really 
enjoyed that hug. It reminded me of the times when you soothed me as a 
child.” 
 
“Returning that embrace was wrong,” whispered Erestor, upset. 
 
“Why? Why is it wrong? There is nothing wrong about accepting comfort. 
I give it freely.” Elrohir’s breath caught when Erestor’s eyes shone with 
need. The elder Elf devoured his words and hope formed in his dark orbs. 
“Why don’t we try again?” Elrohir pulled his chair closer, sat down and 
enfolded the shivering Elf in his arms. “You can hug me back. There is 
nothing wrong with showing your emotions.”
 
Erestor didn’t dare to breathe, afraid that this warm and magical feeling 
would disappear again. “But it is wrong.”
 
Elrohir gasped at hearing Erestor’s words. “Why is showing your 
emotions wrong?” One arm came up behind Erestor’s back and he gently 
stroked the raven-haired tresses. Erestor’s hair was an even darker color 
than his. 
 
Erestor shook violently, feeling Elrohir’s fingers tangle in his hair. “It is 
best to hide them.”
 
“Why?” Elrohir knew he was on to something when the sobs began again. 
“Explain it to me?”
 
“When you hide your feelings, they cannot see how much you are hurting. 
Knowing that would give them an advantage. No, it is best to hide them.” 
Feeling entranced by Elrohir’s closeness and warm, he involuntarily rested 
his head on the half-Elf’s shoulder. It felt good to be held like this and he 
buried his face in Elrohir’s hair, finally feeling some semblance of peace 
for the first time in centuries. The sobs faded away. 
 
Elrohir’s eyes were also swimming, feeling Erestor finally relax against 
him. He kept up the soothing strokes to the dark hair and simply held the 
other Elf close. In the end, Erestor’s breathing calmed, telling Elrohir his 
charge had fallen asleep. Releasing him reluctantly, he rested Erestor back 
in the chair and collected a blanket from the bed, tucking it around him.
 
He then sat back to study his former mentor, unwilling to leave. Erestor 
was in no condition to be left alone and he planned to stay for as long as 
the hurting Elf needed him.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel had made his way back to his quarters and now knocked on the 
door to Erestor’s chambers, hoping the Elf was resting as ordered. He was 
surprised when the door opened and revealed Elrohir. “How does he 
fare?” Elrohir signaled for him to enter and Glorfindel complied, slowly 
moving toward the fire. “He fell asleep on you?”
 
“He cried,” whispered Elrohir, still somewhat shaken. “He held onto me 
and cried.”
 
Glorfindel swallowed hard, seeing the bafflement in Elrohir’s eyes. “What 
happened?”
 
“I wanted to comfort him and I folded my arms around him. At first he 
froze, like he usually does, and he began to ramble about having to hide 
his feelings because showing them would put him at a disadvantage. I 
hugged him again and suddenly his arms came up to return the embrace. 
The loneliness that radiated from his eyes made me cry as well. He broke 
down and I held him close until he dozed off.”
 
“He will feel embarrassed when he wakes up and remembers that he caved 
in.” Glorfindel studied the counselor. “But it is a good thing that he did. 
Apparently he trusts you or he would not have allowed for his 
vulnerability to show.” He had been inclined to relieve Elrohir, but now he 
felt it would be best if the twin stayed. 
 
They sat down and Glorfindel quickly brought Elrohir up to speed with all 
newest developments. The young half-Elf paled visibly, hearing about 
their suspicions. “Do you really think his father is responsible for those 
scars?”
 
Glorfindel nodded, thoughtfully. “I think so. It certainly looks like Erestor 
tried to get away from Eridhren.”
 
“And now he is coming here, accompanying Thranduil?” Elrohir’s gaze 
shifted from the blond to Erestor. “He is very fragile, even if he does not 
want to admit it. The fact that he began to sob when I held him worries 
me. Who knows for how long he has bottled up his hurt.”
 
“That is exactly why I want you to stay.” Glorfindel met Elrohir’s gaze. 
“He trusts you. Erestor has known you since birth and he does not fear you 
as much as he does Elrond and me.”
 
“Fear Ada and you?” Elrohir’s eyes widened. 
 
 
“You did not see his reaction when Elrond examined him.” Glorfindel 
studied the sleeping counselor. “I won’t rest until this matter has been 
resolved.” His gaze settled on Elrohir and he asked, “Will you stay with 
him? Look after him? Elrond and I will continue to gather more 
information about Erestor’s family.”
 
“I will watch over him,” promised Elrohir. “But how can we keep him 
safe and sane when Eridhren visits?” He had a hard time believing 
Eridhren had mistreated Erestor, but he couldn’t rule it out. 
 
“Elrond and I will talk to Eridhren before he will be allowed close to 
Erestor. If our suspicions prove to be true, Eridhren will never see his son 
again. Our prime objective is to protect Erestor, and we won’t let him 
down again.”
 
“What else did Eridhren do to Erestor?” Elrohir’s eyes filled with sadness.
 
Glorfindel frowned; Elrohir’s question puzzled him. “What do you 
mean?”
 
Elrohir shivered momentarily. “Do you think it possible that Eridhren 
raised his hand against his son?”
 
Glorfindel drew in a deep breath, wishing Elrohir hadn’t asked him that 
question, for the thought worried him as well. “It is possible. If those scars 
really stem from Eridhren’s fingernails, he might have done other things to 
Erestor as well.”
 
“What do we do now?” At a loss, Elrohir stared at Erestor. Even in his 
sleep a single tear slid down the elder Elf’s face, and Elrohir instinctively 
reached out to stroke the long hair. He expected Erestor to flinch away 
from his touch, but the counselor allowed it. 
 
Glorfindel finally found the strength to smile. “See, he trusts you. That is 
why you have to stay. You might be the only one who can get through to 
him. Whenever I push him, he shuts down.”
 
Elrohir involuntarily held his breath when Erestor shifted to get closer to 
him. “You may be right. But I do not know what I am doing, Glorfindel.”
 
Suddenly Glorfindel remembered just how young Elrohir was. Assuming 
responsibility would place an enormous burned on the half-Elf’s 
shoulders. 
 
“I will watch over him,” said Elrohir determinedly. “But I am afraid I will 
make mistakes which will only hurt him further.”
 
“You are doing excellently thus far,” said Glorfindel reassuringly, “Just 
continue to follow your instincts.”
 
“Do you really think so?”
 
Glorfindel nodded. “Do you want me to tell Elladan that you will be 
staying here?”
 
“Please do. And tell Ada as well.”
 
“Elrond will drop by shortly to check on Erestor.” Glorfindel struggled to 
his feet. “And remember to call me if you need assistance.”
 
“Thank you,” said Elrohir, smiling. “And I will call for you should I need 
your help.”
 
Glorfindel slowly made his way back to the doorway. “Take good care of 
him.”
 
“I will.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
 “Elrohir is currently sitting with Erestor,” said Glorfindel when he joined 
Elrond and Elladan for dinner. Elrond raised an eyebrow and Glorfindel 
explained, “Apparently Erestor had some sort of emotional breakdown and 
allowed Elrohir to comfort him. I felt it best to not separate them at this 
point.”
 
“An emotional breakdown?” Elrond’s worry increased. “I do not like the 
sound of this. I will check on Erestor after dinner.”
 
“When will Thranduil and Eridhren arrive?” asked Elladan. His father had 
told him what they had discovered.
 
“In three days,” replied Elrond. “I did manage to find out one more 
interesting detail about Erestor’s family.”
 
“And that is?” Glorfindel wished Elrond would hurry up and just tell 
them.
 
“Erestor’s mother died giving birth to him.” Elrond’s dark voice echoed 
through the dining hall. “Erestor never knew his mother.”
 
Glorfindel’s thoughts raced. “And Erestor was left in Eridhren’s care. 
Growing up without his mother must have greatly affected him.”
 
Elladan stared at the food, which remained untouched on his plate. Their 
words brought back his own pain; he still longed for Celebrian. Suddenly 
his father’s hand settled on his, gently squeezing it. 
 
“She loves you, Elladan. Your mother never stopped loving you and 
leaving you behind broke her heart.” Celebrian had asked the three of 
them to sail with her to Valinor, and their hearts had been torn. In the end, 
none of them had been able to turn their back on Imladris, their home, and 
Celebrian had sailed for Valinor alone. 
 
“I know she does, Ada, but the pain remains.” Elladan blinked in sudden 
understanding. “Erestor’s pain must have been even worse. At least I 
know I have my mother’s love.”
 
Saddened, Elrond had to agree with his oldest son. “Erestor lacked a lot of 
love whilst growing up.” He hoped for Erestor’s sake that his suspicions 
were wrong and that Eridhren was a loving and caring father. “We will 
find out shortly.”
 
“And we had better watch Erestor’s reaction when he sees his father again. 
I do not want to see him hurt again.”
 
“Neither do I,” Elrond assured Glorfindel. “We will watch Eridhren 
closely and until I am convinced otherwise we assume that he is 
responsible for Erestor’s pain.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 7
 
 
After selecting a book from Erestor’s collection, Elrohir sat down, reading 
quietly whilst Erestor slept. 
 
Hearing a tormented groan, he looked up and found that Erestor was 
struggling with the blankets, trying to throw them off. Elrohir placed the 
book aside, leaned in closer, and gently pried the blankets from Erestor’s 
hands. Suddenly the counselor’s eyes opened, and fear stared back at him. 
Elrohir drew in a deep breath, sensing the other’s panic. “You are in your 
rooms, mellon-nîn. There is no reason to feel threatened.”
 
Erestor continued to stare at Elrohir, trying to figure out what the twin was 
doing in his rooms. Suddenly he realized that Elrohir had a hold on his 
hands, rubbing his skin. His first instinct was to pull back, but he was too 
tired to move. “Why are you still here?”
 
“I am keeping an eye on you. I am worried, you know.” Elrohir smiled 
reassuringly. “You would be more comfortable in bed, don’t you think?” 
He hoped Erestor would take the hint and agree to go back to sleep. 
 
Erestor’s gaze traveled from Elrohir to his bed. He couldn’t deny he 
longed to lie down and return to sleep. He nodded slowly, agreeing to 
Elrohir’s suggestion. 
 
“Let me help you.” Elrohir released Erestor’s hands, but remained close, 
just in case the elder Elf stumbled. He escorted Erestor to the bed, 
wrapping one arm around the Elf’s shoulder when the counselor swayed. 
“Sit down.” They had reached the bed and Erestor allowed Elrohir to help 
him lie down. “Aren’t those robes uncomfortable? Do you have a sleeping 
robe? I can help you change into it.”
 
“No, no sleeping robe!” Erestor’s voice shook. “I am fine.”
 
Elrohir sat down on the edge of the bed, covering Erestor with a warm 
blanket. “I know you do not want to discuss personal matters, but—“ he 
paused, and the frightened expression in Erestor’s eyes almost made him 
change his mind, but in the end he continued, “I want to know why you 
flinch every time I touch you. Are you afraid of me?”
 
Erestor averted his eyes, stared at the ceiling momentarily and then began 
to roll onto his side, away from Elrohir. But the twin wouldn’t let him and 
placed a hand on his shoulder, keeping him from moving away. “Please 
tell me, Erestor.” 
 
“I cannot talk about this,” said Erestor in a choked tone. “Do not make 
me.”
 
Elrohir took pity on the trembling Elf and let Erestor roll away from him. 
“I was right; there is something that upsets you.”
 
“Let it go.” Erestor’s voice was barely audible. What use was there in 
dragging up the past? “You do not have to stay. I am sure Elladan is 
already looking for you.”
 
“He knows I am here, and so do Ada and Glorfindel.”
 
Erestor closed his eyes. Why was everyone so interested in him? He hoped 
things would quickly settle down and return to normal. At least he could 
go back to carrying out his duties tomorrow; then the commotion about 
him would die. “You do not have to stay here,” he repeated, hoping 
Elrohir would leave him alone. 
 
“But I want to stay.” Elrohir, fed up with Erestor’s behavior, walked over 
to the other side of the bed and sat on his heels so he was level with the 
elder Elf. He was going to do what Glorfindel had suggested; follow his 
instincts, and they told him he couldn’t allow this kind of behavior, not if 
he wanted Erestor to take him seriously. “You cannot lock me out like 
that. I won’t put up with it.” 
 
Erestor’s eyes widened. He must have misheard! “What did you say?”
 
“I won’t allow you to push me away again. I got close to you when I was 
little, but then you put all this distance between us. I want that old, 
comfortable feeling back.” Elrohir slowly raised his hand, saw 
apprehension in Erestor’s eyes, and gently placed his palm on the raven 
hair, stroking soothingly. “You know you can trust me.”
 
Erestor closed his eyes, enjoying the touch, but he was unable to admit it 
to Elrohir. “I will go back to sleep now.”
 
“Good.” Elrohir smiled warmly, and waited for Erestor to open his eyes 
again. When they did, he searched those dark eyes and encountered a 
fearful apprehension in them. 
 
Erestor was doing his best to trust Elrohir, but some of his memories were 
stronger than his desire to trust and warned him to not take this step. He 
was setting himself up for more hurt and he should know better than that. 
“Why won’t you leave me alone, caun-nîn?”  
 
Hearing that term brought back memories and Elrohir swallowed past the 
lump that had formed in his throat. “You called me that when I was little 
and upset, crying, because Elladan had gone off without me. I missed 
hearing it.”
 
Erestor sighed, distressed, realizing he had accomplished the opposite of 
what he had intended. Now Elrohir was even more determined to stay. He 
shouldn’t have said a thing! 
 
“Why don’t you go to sleep? You had an exhausting day.” The trip from 
the Healing House to his rooms must have drained Erestor. He kept up the 
soothing caress to Erestor’s hair, always aware of the scars the long tresses 
were hiding. “I will stay close so when you wake up you won’t be alone.”
 
Erestor was at a loss for words. Elrohir’s determination was obvious and 
he gave in, knowing he wouldn’t be able to change the half-Elf’s mind. 
 
Elrohir smiled, saddened, seeing the apprehensive expression in Erestor’s 
eyes. “Go to sleep, and rest.” Erestor’s eyes became vacant and Elrohir 
sighed, relieved that the elder Elf was asleep again. His breath caught 
when a sleeping Erestor involuntarily leaned into the caress, rubbing his 
head against the palm of his hand. Tears formed in Elrohir’s eyes, but he 
forced them back. 
 
He was slowly beginning to understand how Erestor’s mind worked. /You 
really never knew any love, did you? What was your father like when you 
were growing up? Did he show you any affection at all?/ It fed his 
determination to prove to Erestor that he was different; that he wanted to 
share his feelings with the elder Elf. /Getting through to you will take 
time, but we have plenty of it./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
A soft knock on the door drew Elrohir’s attention and he was about to 
answer when the door opened, revealing Elrond. “Ada!” He was glad to 
see his father and hurried toward him. 
 
Elrond sensed his son’s emotional turmoil and opened his arms, hugging 
Elrohir close. “What is wrong?”
 
“Erestor is.” Elrohir pulled back, realizing he needed to explain. “He 
finally fell asleep, but he cried in my arms. He even called me "caun-nîn", 
which he has not done for years.” 
 
“You are doing very well, Elrohir. You found a way to reach him, but this 
must be emotionally taxing on you.” Elrond worriedly looked at his son. “I 
can sit with Erestor if you would like me to.” To his delight, Elrohir shook 
his head.
 
“No, I want to stay close. I would worry about him otherwise.” Elrohir 
guided his father to the chair near the fireplace, where they sat down. He 
told Elrond everything that had happened and waited for his father to 
address him. 
 
“Continue with what you are doing, for it is working. Erestor is finally 
realizing he cannot push you away that easily, and now he will try even 
harder, believe me. If we are right and Erestor never had a loving parent, 
your behavior will puzzle him. He does not know what if feels like to be 
fussed over.” Elrond’s gaze became soft, looking at his counselor. “I 
should not have let this continue for so long, but I never knew what to do.”
 
Elrohir leaned in closer and placed his hand on Elrond’s knee. “Ada, you 
did what you thought was right. And Erestor did not want you to contact 
his father; there was little you could do.”
 
“I worked on strengthening his self esteem. He was afraid to say a single 
word when he arrived in Imladris.” Elrond smiled in spite of their 
problems. “He has come a long way since.”
 
Elrohir returned his father’s smile. “He is your chief counselor now, no 
easy feat.”
 
“He has gained countless skills since he sought refuge here. Erestor is 
smart, cunning and devious when he needs to deal with an opponent, but 
he never allowed his feelings to show. I wish I could help him.” Elrond 
looked at Elrohir, hope blossoming in his heart. “He always had a soft spot 
for you.”
 
“Glorfindel is also trying hard to reach Erestor.”
 
“But I fear his mission is doomed to fail. Erestor does not trust him, but he 
does trust you.” Elrond paused momentarily. “I hope Erestor and 
Glorfindel can become friends, maybe become as close as brothers. 
Erestor desperately needs friends.” Elrond rose to his feet again. “Are you 
sure you do not want me to stay?”
 
“I can manage,” said Elrohir, “And you need to make arrangements for 
Thranduil and Eridhren’s stay. Unexpectedly, his eyes darkened. “If his 
father really did hurt Erestor…” He didn’t have to finish his sentence, 
knowing his father understood.
 
“We will be careful.” Elrond walked toward the doorway and looked over 
his shoulder at Erestor before stepping into the corridor. The counselor 
was sound asleep and had curled up on his left side, tightly hugging the 
blanket. /I really hope Glorfindel and you will get through to him./
 
Elrond closed the door behind him and Elrohir sat down on the edge of 
Erestor’s bed, caressing the elder Elf’s hair. “Sleep tight, Erestor. I hope 
Elbereth will grant you pleasant dreams. She knows you deserve them.”
 
He moved back to the chairs, sat down, and rested his feet on the seat of 
the other chair, stretching comfortably. From his position he had a perfect 
view of Erestor’s face and he could reach the dark-haired Elf within a 
heartbeat, if necessary. Dealing with Erestor’s hurt had drained him and he 
dozed off into sleep.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor tiptoed through his chambers, determined to not wake Elrohir, who 
was still fast asleep. His sleep had been undisturbed, something that didn’t 
happen very often. Usually he needed to drink some herbal tea before 
being able to fall asleep. Waking up, he had quickly located Elrohir, and 
wondered if the twin’s presence had ensured his peaceful sleep. 
 
Moving soundlessly, he had changed into clean robes, had combed his 
hair, making sure the tresses covered up the scars, and now headed for the 
doorway. He felt guilty for taking up so much of Elrohir’s time. The half-
Elf should be asleep in his bed, not in an uncomfortable chair! 
 
His head slumped in defeat, recalling his emotional outburst last night. He 
had desperately clung to Elrohir, sobbing when his pain had gotten the 
better of him. /I never wanted him to see me like that!/ Elrohir probably 
thought he was weak, vulnerable. He could never cave in like that again. 
 
Closing the door behind him, he left Elrohir to his dreams and started 
down the corridor. Involuntarily he pressed his hand against his abdomen, 
still worried that the wound might reopen, although Elrond had assured 
him that it had closed and wouldn’t open again; it was a subconscious 
reflex.
 
He was panting hard when he finally reached Elrond’s study. Pausing 
momentarily, he leaned against the wall to gather his strength before 
venturing inside. There was probably a pile of paperwork waiting for him. 
After regulating his breathing, he opened the door and stepped inside. 
 
Elrond and Glorfindel looked up, when the door unexpectedly opened. 
They expected to see Elladan, but certainly not Erestor. Glorfindel was the 
first to react, seeing the cold sweat that had formed on Erestor’s brow. 
 
“What are you doing here, Erestor?” Glorfindel got to his feet and walked 
toward the counselor. 
 
Erestor absentmindedly noticed that although Glorfindel limped, he no 
longer needed a crutch to support him. 
 
“Erestor, you should be resting!” Elrond now joined them as well, 
reaching out and placing one hand on Erestor’s shoulder. He grew 
saddened at feeling tremors course through Erestor’s body, but didn’t 
remove his hand. “I told you to stay in bed and rest!”
 
“I am doing much better. I can return to my work.” Erestor met 
Glorfindel’s gaze. It was impossible not to; the blond was standing right in 
front of him with a concerned look in his eyes.
 
Glorfindel was about to announce that he was going to escort Erestor back 
to his rooms when the door suddenly opened again. 
 
Elrohir stormed inside, wide-eyed and panicking. “Erestor, is he…” His 
voice faded, seeing Erestor standing in front of Elrond’s desk. “You 
sneaked out on me!”
 
Erestor cringed, seeing the disappointment in Elrohir’s eyes. “I did not 
want to wake you. You were finally asleep and—“
 
“You are coming with me, now,” said Elrohir, cutting Erestor short. 
”Ada?” He looked to his father for help. 
 
“Elrohir is right; you still need to rest. Remember, it was the one condition 
on which I allowed you to leave the Healing House. You won’t return to 
work for at least four more days. Now go.”
 
Erestor stared at Elrond in disbelief. “I am no longer wounded! Glorfindel 
has returned to his duties as well!”
 
“Glorfindel broke a leg; you almost bled to death. There is a distinct 
difference between the two of them.” Elrond’s voice grew louder, 
revealing his frustration and the half-Elf was shocked to see the effect it 
had on Erestor, who seemed to shrink into himself and was backing away 
from him, stumbling toward the doorway. 
 
Erestor accidentally bumped into Glorfindel, who had moved behind him 
and released a strangled whimper. What was wrong with him? He had 
never been this emotional before. Somehow he had to reestablish control 
over his raging emotions! 
 
Elrond regretted raising his voice and sighed dejectedly. “Erestor, I 
apologize. I had no reason to address you in that manner.” Searching 
Erestor’s eyes, he found that the fear was still there. “But I find it 
frustrating that you are not cooperating. I am confining you to bed for your 
own good.”
 
Erestor fought the panic that was building in him; Elrond had never before 
raised his voice at him! “I will return to my rooms then,” said he in a 
shaky tone. Unexpectedly, an arm folded itself around his waist, and he 
instantly moved away. 
 
“Erestor?” Elrohir cringed, seeing Erestor move away. “It is me. You can 
trust me, remember?”
 
Erestor hated himself for showing his emotions like that. Why couldn’t he 
put them back into those dark corners of his mind and go back to wearing 
his mask of indifference?
 
“Come with me, Erestor.” Elrohir kept his arm around Erestor’s waist, 
refusing to give in to the elder Elf’s fear. 
 
Erestor allowed himself to be led into the corridor, and, feeling 
bewildered, he realized that Elrond and Glorfindel were right behind him, 
following him back to his rooms. His hands began to shake and his teeth 
chattered, wondering why they were tagging along. 
 
Elrohir guided Erestor to the bed and told him to sit down. Erestor’s eyes 
were distant and Elrohir took hold of his former mentor’s feet, lifting 
them. 
 
Erestor lay down and stared at the ceiling, trying hard to pretend he was 
alone. Listening to their concerned voices, he wondered why they were 
this concerned about him. If only they left him alone! Then he would be 
able to rebuild his old walls and hide behind them. 
 
“I will stay with him,” said Elrohir firmly, “He won’t succeed in getting 
past me unnoticed again!” 
 
Elrond and Glorfindel exchanged a look. They had to be more careful in 
future; when Erestor had entered, they had been discussing Thranduil and 
Eridhren’s upcoming visit.
 
Erestor tiredly closed his eyes. Why couldn’t they just leave him alone? 
They had never bothered to find out more about him before! Why start 
now? Listening to their footsteps, he realized that Elrond and Glorfindel 
had finally left. 
 
“Erestor? Why did you leave? Ada told you to rest. Are you so determined 
to wreck your health?” Erestor knelt next to Erestor’s bed and resumed 
stroking the long, loose hair. “Don’t you want to make a complete 
recovery?”
 
“I am no longer injured. I have healed.” 
 
Elrohir’s features contorted, hearing Erestor’s soft, pleading tone. He only 
recognized it too well; he himself had used that tone when trying to wind 
his father around his little finger. “Believe my father when he says that 
you need rest. He is a very accomplished healer. Trust in his judgment.” 
Erestor’s eyes swam with unshed tears and Elrohir involuntarily held his 
breath when the elder Elf spoke again. 
 
“But I do not want to be alone with my thoughts, or my memories.” 
Erestor wished he could take those words back. What had possessed him 
to speak them aloud? But he wanted to trust in Elrohir so badly. All those 
centuries of loneliness and hurt were taking their toll on him. He didn’t 
want to be alone any longer. 
 
“What thoughts? What memories?” probed Elrohir in a soft tone. “You 
can entrust them to me. Maybe if you talk about them they will lose their 
hold on you.”
 
“No, I cannot speak them aloud.” Erestor frantically shook his head. “I 
cannot share them with anyone.”
 
“Why?”
 
Erestor’s mouth went dry, seeing the pleading expression Elrohir’s eyes. 
What was it about the half-Elf that made him want to trust him so badly? 
Maybe it was because of the way Elrohir had looked at him, when the twin 
had been a baby. Utter trust had shone from those large eyes and they had 
instantly won him over. “Do not ask me to tell you.”
 
Elrohir moistened his lips, realizing he could scare Erestor away with his 
next question. So before asking it, he made sure he still had eye contact 
with the elder Elf and continued to caress the dark strands of hair. “Does it 
have to do with something that happened in your youth? The time before 
you came to Imladris? Where did you live? With whom?” Erestor tensed 
under his touch and he stopped, giving the other Elf time to react. 
 
“Why are you asking me those questions? What do you know?” Erestor 
panicked, struggled into an upright position and shook off Elrohir’s hand. 
 
“Please calm down,” whispered Elrohir, who now claimed Erestor’s hand, 
rubbing the skin. “I am worried about you, and Ada told me how timid and 
insecure you were when you arrived here. It made me wonder.”
 
“Elrond should not have told you any of that!” Erestor stared at Elrohir’s 
hand holding onto his. “I do not want to discuss my past.”
 
Elrohir nodded once. “I will not question you any further if you answer me 
one more question.” He knew he was playing dirty, but all means were 
allowed whilst getting Erestor to confide in him. Erestor’s big eyes sought 
out his and he could feel the elder Elf’s hand tremble, cradled in his. 
 
“What question?” Erestor’s voice shook violently. He couldn’t believe this 
was actually happening! How had Elrohir gotten him to answer his 
questions?
 
Elrohir tenderly rubbed the skin of Erestor’s hand. “Who hurt you so 
badly that you are unable to trust?”
 
Erestor released a choked whimper. He stared at Elrohir in disbelief. 
“Why ask me that?”
 
Realizing he had crossed a line, Elrohir said, “Let me rephrase my 
question. Did someone hurt you in the past? Taking away your ability to 
trust? All you have to say is yes or no. I do not need any names…” /Yet./” 
Holding Erestor’s gaze prisoner with his own, he looked pleadingly at the 
Noldorin Elf. “Just tell me.” 
 
Erestor wasn’t sure if he could lie to Elrohir. The younger Elf seemed 
truly concerned and was still holding his hand. Elrohir’s eyes never 
strayed from his, giving him the strength he needed to face the horrible 
truth. “Yes,” he admitted in a pained tone. “But please do not ask me any 
more questions.”
 
Elrohir nodded in understanding. “Thank you for telling me. You 
confirmed something we already suspected.”
 
“We?” Erestor started, alarmed. 
 
“Ada, Glorfindel and I. Even Elladan realizes something is wrong.” 
Elrohir frowned. “I am surprised he has not shown up here yet.” But he 
was grateful for that; he wasn’t sure if Erestor would welcome another 
guardian. 
 
“Why are all of you so… worried?” Erestor actually had to search for the 
right word. 
 
“Because we care about you.” Elrohir realized that concept might be alien 
to Erestor, if Eridhren had mistreated his son in the past and Erestor had 
grown up without a mother to support and love him. It was time to take 
away the pressure and change their subject. “Are you tired?”
 
Erestor nodded reluctantly. The trip to Elrond’s study had tired him. 
 
“Then try to rest.” Elrohir wanted to get to his feet, but realized that 
Erestor had a tight hold on his hand, refusing to let go. “Everything will be 
fine in the end,” promised he softly, “Just put your trust in us.”
 
“In Elrond, Glorfindel, Elladan and you?” Erestor’s eyes radiated hope. 
 
Elrohir smiled warmly. “Sounds like an interesting family to be part of, 
does it not?” Elrohir was unprepared for Erestor’s emotional reaction. 
 
Tears flowed down Erestor’s face and he pushed himself into a sitting 
position, staring hopefully at Elrohir. “Did you mean that?”
 
 
 
“Aiya, Erestor, you never were part of a real family before?” Elrohir, 
realizing this was Erestor’s way of reaching out, buried the elder Elf in a 
hug. “Then it starts now.”
 
Erestor clung to Elrohir whilst weeping softly, allowing the younger Elf to 
soothe him. It was what he had always wanted; a caring family. Had he 
really achieved the impossible? 
 
Elrohir mumbled softly, reassuring Erestor that they cared about him. His 
worry increased; it almost seemed like Erestor was becoming increasingly 
emotional. /But of course. I broke down his defenses and he feels helpless 
now. The mask of indifference is gone and out of his reach./
 
“Rest now, and sleep.” He lowered Erestor onto the bed, allowing the 
elder Elf to continue to hold his hand. After pulling up a chair, he settled 
down and whispered, “I will remain close.”
 
Erestor’s eyes spoke of eternal gratitude before turning vacant and once 
the counselor was asleep, Elrohir released his own tears, which he had 
been holding back. 
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 8
 
 
Glorfindel opened the door and peeked inside. Elrohir was sitting next to 
the bed, holding Erestor’s hand, who was still asleep. He wished he didn’t 
have to disturb the peaceful scene, but Erestor needed to know that 
Eridhren would arrive tomorrow, accompanying Thranduil. Elrond and he 
had discussed how to break the news to Erestor, and they had decided 
Glorfindel would handle matters. Should the blond fail, or need Elrond’s 
assistance after all, he would take Erestor to the half-Elf’s study where the 
three of them would talk.
 
“Elrohir?” Glorfindel entered, closed the door behind him, and tiptoed 
over to the young half-Elf who was rising to his feet to meet him. Elrohir 
looked drained, which worried him. “How does Erestor fare?” His gaze 
shifted to the sleeping Elf, relieved to find the handsome features relaxed.
 
“He admitted that someone has hurt him in the past, but he refused to give 
me a name,” said Elrohir, tiredly rubbing his temples. He needed some 
time to take a bath, sleep and recharge. 
 
Glorfindel’s expression darkened at hearing one of his worst fears 
confirmed. Forcing himself to focus on Elrohir, he said, "You look tired.”
 
“I feel tired,” confirmed Elrohir. “I am glad I stayed with him, but making 
him talk is draining me.”
 
“Why don’t you return to your rooms and rest? I am sure Elladan misses 
your company.”
 
“I cannot do that.” Elrohir looked worriedly at Erestor. “I cannot leave 
him alone right now.”
 
“I will stay with him,” said Glorfindel reassuringly. “I will watch him 
closely and make sure no harm comes to him. I need to talk to him 
anyway. Erestor still does not know his father will arrive tomorrow.”
 
Elrohir moistened his lips, feeling nervous. “That news might upset 
Erestor. I have the feeling that his father did not treat him kindly.” Elrohir 
yawned, and he quickly covered his mouth with his hand. 
 
“You need rest. Go now and know that Erestor is in the best hands.” 
Glorfindel wrapped an arm around Elrohir’s shoulder and guided him 
toward the doorway. “Take your time to rest. I will stay with Erestor, so 
do not worry about him.”
 
Elrohir nodded, giving Glorfindel a thankful look. “I will check on him 
later.”
 
Glorfindel opened the door and stepped aside to let Elrohir pass. “Elladan 
is probably already eagerly awaiting your return to your rooms.”
 
Elrohir, fatigued, nodded again and headed for his rooms. After Glorfindel 
closed the door behind the twin, he headed back to the bed and sat down 
on the chair that Elrohir had just vacated. He took a moment to study the 
dark-haired Elf. Traces of tears still lingered on Erestor’s face, and a 
fiercely protective feeling blossomed in his heart. /I will keep you safe, 
mellon-nîn./  
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrohir opened the door to the rooms, which he shared with his brother, 
and immediately headed for his bed. Collapsing tiredly, he dropped face 
forward onto it. 
 
“It looks like Erestor gave you a hard time.”
 
Elrohir lifted his head and looked at Elladan, who lay comfortably on his 
bed. “Brother, you have no idea…” His voice faded as he buried his face 
in the mattress. 
 
Elladan left his bed and sat down next to his brother. “You are tired. You 
should sleep.”
 
“Believe me, I am planning to sleep.” Elrohir suddenly felt his brother’s 
hands on him, removing his outer robes. He allowed Elladan to manhandle 
him until the robes were gone, and then sighed contently as his twin 
covered him with warm blankets. At times like these he was glad he had a 
brother who cared this greatly about him. “Thank you, Elladan,” he 
whispered, voice slightly slurred due to impending sleep.
 
Elladan smiled, tucked him in, and placed a brotherly kiss on Elrohir’s 
hair. “Sleep, then.” Elrohir’s contented moan made him smile and Elladan 
returned to his own bed. He settled down with a book, occasionally 
looking at Elrohir to make sure his twin was peacefully asleep. His 
thoughts drifted away from Elrohir and to Erestor. He hoped he would get 
the chance to befriend the elder Elf as well.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Glorfindel felt content watching Erestor, studying all lines that were 
etched onto the Elf’s brow, which now showed in sleep. He felt worried; 
how was he going to tell Erestor that Eridhren was about to arrive? 
 
Erestor’s eyes regained their sparkle and slowly focused on him. 
Glorfindel smiled, leaned in closer, and said, “I hope you slept well.”
 
Erestor blinked a few times and then pushed himself onto his elbows, 
staring at Glorfindel. “Where is Elrohir? Why are you here?” His eyes 
searched his rooms, but failed to locate the younger twin. In the end, his 
gaze settled questioningly on Glorfindel. 
 
“I sent Elrohir to his rooms to sleep.” A stunning smile flashed across his 
features, directed at Erestor. “You must be going mad, being confined to 
your rooms.”
 
Erestor frowned. He had expected more questions, but Glorfindel’s mood 
seemed chipper and pleasant, which suited him. He was getting weary of 
all questions being thrown at him. “That is why I wanted to return to my 
duties.”
 
Glorfindel grinned, bemused. “We could disobey Elrond’s orders and just 
leave.”
 
Erestor, totally baffled at hearing Glorfindel’s suggestion, stared wide-
eyed at the blond. “You want to defy him?” He vividly remembered 
Elrond raising his voice earlier. “I was under the distinct impression that 
you wanted me to stay in my rooms as well.”
 
“Maybe I changed my mind?” Before coming to Erestor’s rooms he had 
decided on a more relaxed approach, wanting to reassure Erestor he was 
safe with him. If Erestor felt cornered, the Noldorin Elf would never 
confide in him. 
 
Glorfindel raised his hand and hoped Erestor would take it. “We could go 
for a walk in the gardens. The night is dark, and without a moon to light its 
surface. Elrond won’t notice our presence in the gardens.”
 
Erestor stared at the offered limb. Glorfindel had offered him a truce 
before— maybe it was Elrohir’s influence on him, but he found himself 
reaching out and curling his fingers around the blond’s. Glorfindel’s smile 
was dazzling, and Erestor smiled weakly, surprised that he had the power 
to put that smile on Glorfindel’s face. 
 
He truly appreciated the fact that Glorfindel wasn’t firing more questions 
at him and letting him set the pace. As the blond rose from his chair, 
Erestor got to his feet as well, blushing slightly because Glorfindel was 
still holding his hand. A strange feeling coursed through him, making him 
light-headed. Elrohir’s company and reassurance had taken away some of 
his fears and he felt like trusting the blond. Glorfindel was an honorable 
warrior and was now making a serious effort to be a friend. He could 
almost hear Elrohir’s voice in the back of his head; /Why would you not 
trust him? Give yourself a chance to build this friendship./ 
 
Glorfindel, seeing the distant expression in Erestor’s dark eyes, waited 
patiently for the dark-haired counselor to move. What was Erestor 
thinking? 
 
Erestor shook himself from his musings and hesitantly made eye contact 
with Glorfindel. He had no idea why the blond wanted to be his friend, but 
for the first time since his arrival at Imladris as an Elfling, he felt like 
trusting someone. “Do you really want to go to the gardens?” The thought 
of sneaking out of his rooms appealed to him.
 
“Let us go.” Glorfindel curled his fingers tightly around Erestor’s and 
pulled him with him when he headed for the doorway. “But we should 
move silently.”
 
Erestor shook his head. Glorfindel was acting like an Elfling, sneaking out 
on his parents -- and the blond’s playful mood was catching! 
 
Glorfindel’s breath caught, seeing one of Erestor’s rare smiles surface on 
the other Elf’s face. /He looks younger when he smiles. It chases away the 
lines of worry etched on his brow./ “Come with me, mellon-nîn. It is a 
beautiful night and it would be a waste to stay inside.”
 
Erestor gathered his robes around him and allowed Glorfindel to pull him 
along. The blond mystified him. Only a few weeks ago Glorfindel had 
avoided his company! /And I did my best to keep him at a distance. When 
did my walls tumble down?/ Elrohir had a lot to do with that; the younger 
half-Elf had shown him he was still capable of showing his emotions. 
 
They finally stepped outside, under a dark, but star-speckled sky. Erestor 
drew in a deep breath, feeling free now that he was in the open. Glorfindel 
continued to pull him along, and the blond guided him to one of 
Celebrian’s gardens. The she-Elf had planted a sea of flowers here during 
her stay in Imladris, and they still blossomed each year, filling the air with 
heavy, sweet fragrances. Did Glorfindel know he came here in the past? 
Was that why the blond had taken him here?
 
Glorfindel suddenly stopped walking, sat down, and then lay flat on his 
back, watching the stars. Erestor nervously looked about, wondering what 
he was supposed to do now. 
 
“Mellon-nîn, join me and watch the stars tonight.” Glorfindel looked at the 
dark-haired Elf with obvious hope in his eyes. He patted the earth next to 
him and hoped Erestor would lie down as well. 
 
Erestor wavered momentarily, but then slowly lay down, joining 
Glorfindel in the reverie of the stars. He had to admit it was a stunning 
sight. The stars sparkled brightly and made him smile in appreciation. 
 
“It is a beautiful night,” whispered Glorfindel, now cocking his head to 
look at Erestor. He saw an admiring expression in the other Elf’s eyes and 
smiled. “When was the last time you took the time to look at the stars?”
 
Erestor suddenly felt nervous. “I never did.”
 
Glorfindel gave him a look filled with disbelief. “Never?”
 
“Never.” Erestor grew aware of the earth and grass beneath him. Trees 
whispered an ancient melody and even the stars seemed to sing their own 
song. Tears gathered in his eyes; had he ever felt this peaceful before?
 
“Erestor? Are you crying?” Glorfindel rolled onto his side and propped 
himself up on one elbow to look at Erestor. 
 
“You are correct,” said Erestor in an emotional tone, “the night is 
beautiful.”
 
/And you are beautiful, in your sorrow and pain— but I want them gone 
from your soul. You should be happy and at peace instead./ Glorfindel’s 
mood darkened, recalling why he had brought Erestor here. /I cannot tell 
him Eridhren will arrive tomorrow. This is not the right time./ He would 
take Elrond up on his offer and they would inform Erestor together. “It is 
amazing,” started Glorfindel tentatively, “we lived here for centuries and I 
cannot remember us having a serious and polite conversation before.”
 
“I apologize for my sharp tongue,” said Erestor ruefully. “It was directed 
at you too often for no apparent reason.”
 
Glorfindel decided against asking more questions. It would be best if 
Erestor turned to him willingly instead of being forced to answer questions 
which he dreaded. “Elrohir is rather worried about you.”
 
“I never thought he would be that concerned.” Erestor’s fingers moved 
through the grass, enjoying the sensation. “I never expected it.”
 
Glorfindel chose his next words carefully. “All four of us care for you, 
Erestor.”
 
“I did not make things easy on you.” Erestor was surprised at the mellow 
tone of their conversation. He actually liked talking to Glorfindel! “I will 
try to be more… approachable.”
 
Glorfindel realized how much courage it had taken for Erestor to make 
that particular step, and looked into the dark eyes, which seemed a little 
less haunted. “Maybe Elrond will get his wish anyway, and we will 
become good friends. I would really like that.”
 
Erestor blushed slightly. He couldn’t believe that he was about to make 
this admission. “I never had a friend.”
 
Glorfindel’s heart contracted with sorrow; he had almost expected Erestor 
to say something like that, but actually hearing it hurt him even deeper. 
/He has been in Imladris for so long and I never realized how lonely he 
was./ He was determined to make up for his past mistakes. “Elrond asked 
me to pay him a visit tonight. Would you like to come as well?”
 
Erestor averted his eyes and stared at the stars. Why would Glorfindel 
invite him to come along? He knew that the two Elves like to spend the 
evening in each other’s company, and he had never been invited before. 
“Are you sure you want me there? That Elrond wants me there?”
 
The tone of Erestor’s voice almost moved Glorfindel to tears, hearing the 
loneliness and disbelief in it. He wished that there were no ulterior reason 
to ask Erestor to join them. It was a shame that Erestor’s sharp tongue had 
kept them from becoming friends. If only he had seen beneath Erestor’s 
mask! 
 
Glorfindel got to his feet, stretched, and extended his hand to Erestor, 
encouraging him to rise as well. “I am sure Elrond has saved a good wine 
for tonight. It would be a shame to let him drink it alone.”
 
Tentatively, Erestor began to push himself to his feet, careful to not put 
any pressure on his abdomen, which still felt tender. He recalled the last 
time Glorfindel had reached out to him, offering his hand for support. 
Back then, he had flinched away from it, but now he felt confident enough 
to lightly put his hand in Glorfindel’s.
 
Stunned, but extremely pleased that Erestor was reaching out as well, 
Glorfindel slowly pulled Erestor to his feet. He reluctantly let go of the 
offered limb, smiling warmly.
 
Erestor, feeling uncertain, returned the smile. Glorfindel’s smile confused 
him. 
 
Slowly, still enjoying the peace and quiet of the gardens at midnight, they 
made their way back into the house and headed for Elrond’s study, where 
a number of scented candles created a warm and comfortable atmosphere. 
Glorfindel greeted Elrond and entered, but Erestor remained standing in 
the doorway, not certain Elrond really wanted his company -- not after the 
half-Elf had raised his voice at him earlier.
 
Elrond looked up from the book he was reading and placed his glass, filled 
with sweet wine, on his desk. Although Glorfindel had offered to tell 
Erestor about the upcoming visit, he had suspected that the blond wouldn’t 
be able to follow through and would seek him out instead. “Glorfindel, 
Erestor.” Elrond raised a hand and signaled for them to sit down in the 
chairs opposite his desk. After getting to his feet, he gathered two more 
glasses and poured his guests wine as well. “Drink; it is one of the best 
wines Arda has to offer.”
 
Erestor wasn’t sure why he was growing alarmed. Elrond and Glorfindel’s 
gazes met and he thought he saw some silent communication take place. 
Glorfindel had brought him here for a reason. He refrained from taking 
another sip of the potent wine, preferring to stay clear-headed. 
 
Elrond saw the insecure expression in Erestor’s eyes and sighed, feeling 
the need to apologize again. “I never meant to raise my voice earlier, 
Erestor. I was merely worried.”
 
Erestor swallowed hard, not expecting another apology. “Do not worry 
about it.” Elrond’s gaze seemed concerned and Erestor averted his eyes, 
staring at his wine instead. Why had Glorfindel brought him here? 
Elrond’s gaze told him that the half-Elf had some unwelcome news for 
him. What was it?
 
“Are you feeling better now? Is your wound still troubling you?” Elrond 
wanted to reassure Erestor before delivering the bad news. 
 
“I hardly notice it any longer.”
 
Erestor’s clipped tone alarmed Glorfindel and Elrond. Apparently Erestor 
had figured out why he was here. 
 
“I have news for you,” said Elrond, tentatively, uncertain how Erestor 
would react. “Thranduil is visiting Imladris and will arrive tomorrow.”
 
Gooseflesh formed on Erestor’s skin. “Thranduil?” He hoped Thranduil 
was traveling without his advisors, but the odds seemed small. “You could 
have told me earlier. Now I have to hurry to make all of the 
arrangements.”
 
“Everything has been taken care of,” said Elrond in a concerned tone. 
 
/Have I truly become useless and redundant then?/ The thought saddened 
Erestor. He had worked hard to become Elrond’s right hand man, and now 
someone else was carrying out his duties! 
 
Elrond sipped his wine, waited for Erestor to look at him, and then said, 
“Thranduil won’t be traveling alone. Your father, Eridhren, is 
accompanying him.” Elrond’s eyes widened slightly at the pallor that 
spread across Erestor’s face in mere seconds. The Noldorin Elf’s fingers 
tightly clasped the armrest, and it almost seemed like Erestor’s breathing 
had stopped momentarily. Exchanging a look with Glorfindel, he saw 
concern reflected in the sapphire eyes. 
 
Erestor stared at the wall, trying to deal with this new information. His 
father was coming to Imladris. His worst nightmare had finally come true. 
He had been fortunate that Eridhren had stayed away for so long. “I will 
be there to welcome my father, then.”
 
Glorfindel cringed. The sparkle that had shone in Erestor’s eyes when they 
had lain beneath the starlit sky was gone now. The eyes were dead and 
their expression dark. If he’d had any doubts about Eridhren being the one 
who had hurt Erestor in the past, they ceased to exist right now. He raised 
his hand, and went to rest it on Erestor’s arm in an attempt to reassure 
him, but Erestor pulled back. 
 
Elrond, growing increasingly worried at Erestor’s panic, leaned in closer 
and tried to catch the Elf’s gaze. “Erestor? Is something wrong?” He 
wanted to reach out like Glorfindel had, but Erestor quickly rose to his feet 
and headed for the doorway. 
 
“I feel tired and will retire now. I am sure you will spend your evening 
more pleasantly without me.” Erestor inclined his head in goodbye and 
then dashed into the corridor, not giving them a chance to react. 
 
“That went well,” stated Elrond sarcastically. “Maybe I could have 
handled it better.”
 
“You tried,” said Glorfindel, sighing. He was still staring at the door, 
trying to make up his mind. “Should I go after him?”
 
Elrond shook his head. “Give Erestor time to realize that his father will 
arrive tomorrow. Finding out was a shock to him and he would only push 
you away right now. He needs to calm down first.” Elrond made eye 
contact with the blond. “I feel certain that Eridhren is the one who hurt 
Erestor in the past. It makes perfect sense. He came here to escape his 
father and that is why I was never allowed to contact him. By Elbereth, 
why did I send Eridhren that letter? I should have stayed quiet instead!”
 
“Do not blame yourself, mellon-nîn,” said Glorfindel reassuringly. “You 
did what you thought was best. We should concentrate on the upcoming 
visit instead.”
 
“I will deal with Thranduil,” said Elrond in a thoughtful tone. “I am 
counting on you and the twins to constantly keep an eye on Erestor. Never 
leave him alone with Eridhren. I want someone present at all times.” 
 
Glorfindel nodded. “I feel the same way.” He briefly closed his eyes. “The 
mask slipped into place again once he learned his father was about to 
arrive. Only a few moments earlier he was smiling and trying to trust me 
for the first time in his life. He actually let me touch him.”
 
“Do not give up now.” Elrond sipped his wine again and gazed at the Elda. 
“Elrohir and you are finally getting through to him, and Eridhren’s visit is 
most unsettling. Erestor will never admit it, but he needs you most now.”
 
Glorfindel’s expression became very determined. “I will check on him 
before going to bed. I need to know he is coping with this situation.”
 
Elrond nodded once. “Try your best. Maybe he will allow you to comfort 
him. I will talk to Elrohir and Elladan in the meantime. They should know 
what we are facing.” 
 
Glorfindel placed his still-full glass on Elrond’s desk and rose to his feet. 
“I will give Erestor a few more minutes and then I will check on him.”
 
“You are worried for a good reason, and so am I,” said Elrond. “Do not 
hesitate to call me should Erestor experience another emotional 
breakdown.” Elrond was determined to keep Eridhren as far away as 
possible from Erestor, but he also planned to question the Elf in detail.
 
“Thank you, Elrond.” Glorfindel drew in a deep breath and left Elrond’s 
study. He headed for Erestor’s rooms, hoping the hurt Elf would allow 
him to comfort him.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 9
 
 
Erestor, who was panting hard, rested his hands and forehead against the 
cool brick wall. He was back in the safety of his rooms and could finally 
let go of his raging emotions. Tears dripped down his face and he slowly 
sank down onto his knees, hugging his waist in an effort to feel someone’s 
comforting arms around him. But the illusion never worked and again he 
was alone: he always was.
 
Angrily he wiped away his tears. He would not cave in now. Millennia 
ago he had managed to escape his father’s reign of terror, and he could do 
it again. He needed to stay calm and controlled, and then he could find a 
way to deal with Eridhren. 
 
A knock on the door made his head snap back up and he stared, wary-
eyed, at the doorway. Eridhren wasn’t here already, was he? Elrond had 
said Thranduil and Eridhren would arrive tomorrow! Then who was 
knocking on his door? 
 
“Erestor? Can I come inside? I really want to talk to you.”
 
Glorfindel? Erestor frowned. Why had the blond followed him back to his 
rooms? He composed himself, wiped away all remaining tears, and slowly 
rose to his feet, straightening out his robes. Would he get away with 
sending Glorfindel back to Elrond’s study? Surely the Elda wouldn’t insist 
that they talked? “I am very tired and was about to go to sleep. Can we 
talk in the morning?”
 
“I would rather do this now. Erestor? Would you open the door?” 
Glorfindel was growing increasingly nervous now that Erestor wasn’t 
complying. “You seemed very upset when you left and maybe you need a 
listening ear? You can always talk to me.”
 
A lump of emotions formed in Erestor’s throat; no one had ever offered to 
listen before and he didn’t know how to react. He swallowed hard and 
wrung his hands. “I am not sure—“  Words eluded him. He didn’t want 
Glorfindel to see him this vulnerable. “Tomorrow?”
 
“Now.” 
 
Glorfindel’s determined tone compelled Erestor to walk toward the 
doorway. He pushed down the door handle and slowly opened the door. 
 
Glorfindel’s breath caught, seeing Erestor’s pallor and swimming dark 
eyes. “Thank you.” 
 
Erestor averted his eyes and stepped aside to let the blond enter. After 
closing the door again, he remained standing near the doorway; why had 
he opened the door in the first place? Now he had to deal with Glorfindel 
as well as his out-of-control feelings. Fear and panic clawed at him 
whenever he thought about Eridhren’s upcoming visit. 
 
Glorfindel came to a halt in front of the window and turned around to 
make eye contact with the dark-haired Elf. “You are still upset.”
 
Erestor determinedly shook his head. “You have a very vivid imagination. 
I have no idea what you are talking about.” Feeling defensive, he crossed 
his arms in front of his chest and glared at the blond.
 
Glorfindel considered his next move. He didn’t want Erestor to feel 
trapped or pressured; questioning the Elf was the wrong thing to do. He 
seated himself next to the fireplace and addressed Erestor again. “I am not 
here to question you, when you are already obviously upset. I am here to 
offer my support. Maybe having some company will help you to calm 
down. Loneliness can do awful things to someone.”
 
Gooseflesh formed all over Erestor’s body. He had been lonely his entire 
life and now Glorfindel had showed up, wanting to keep him company? 
His heart suddenly missed a beat; had he been so transparent that 
Glorfindel had figured out something was wrong? And maybe even –
what- was wrong? Getting wobbly on his feet, he quickly sat down as 
well, closing his eyes and drawing in a deep breath. 
 
Glorfindel respected Erestor’s silence and did not pressure the Noldorin 
Elf. Occasionally, when the fire threatened to die, he threw on new wood. 
They sat in silence and Glorfindel intercepted most of Erestor’s probing 
looks. /He is probably wondering why I am still here when he is not 
talking./ 
 
As the night progressed, Erestor’s eyes occasionally grew vacant when 
sleep overwhelmed him, but he always startled awake again and his first 
glance was for Glorfindel, making sure the blond was still there. 
Glorfindel interpreted that as Erestor’s mute plea to stay with him during 
the night. 
 
Erestor was fast asleep when the first rays of the sun bathed the two of 
them in warm light. Glorfindel was still awake, watching Erestor closely. 
Thranduil and Eridhren would arrive in a few hours and he feared 
Erestor’s reaction to seeing his father. /I won’t leave him alone. I will be 
his personal guard and make sure that he is safe at all time./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
When Erestor woke, it was because Glorfindel was moving about in his 
rooms. The blond had just left the bathroom and was now heading back to 
his chair. Realizing Glorfindel had stayed the entire night, Erestor 
wondered why. He had expected the Elda to leave when he had fallen 
asleep. 
 
Glorfindel smiled warmly seeing Erestor awake. “Good morning. 
Thranduil will arrive within the hour and I assume you want to change 
your robes first?”
 
Erestor’s stomach contracted nervously, recalling Eridhren was 
accompanying Thranduil. Within the hour he would face his worst 
nightmare. “You are right. I should change my clothing.”
 
Erestor’s voice shook and Glorfindel immediately grew alarmed. “I need 
to change into my formal robes as well, but I could join you again later. 
We could greet Thranduil and Eridhren together.” He hoped Erestor 
accepted his offer, for then the Noldorin Elf wouldn’t have to face his 
father alone. 
 
Erestor nodded slowly. He didn’t know how Glorfindel had figured out 
that Eridhren was the problem, but he was relieved the blond had. “I will 
come to your rooms then?”
 
Glorfindel smiled again. “I will wait for you.” Reluctantly he headed for 
the doorway, wishing he could stay with Erestor. 
 
Erestor waited until Glorfindel had closed the door behind him and then 
released a strangled gasp. How was he going to survive the next hour? 
Could he face his nemesis without caving in? How would he react when 
being confronted with Eridhren? He hoped he wouldn’t embarrass Elrond, 
who would certainly want to introduce his chief counselor to Thranduil.
 
His hands shook whilst changing into velvet brown robes and brushing his 
hair. His fingertips involuntarily probed the back of his neck, still able to 
feel the scars his father’s fingernails had left behind so long ago. They 
were an ever-present reminder of his horrid past. He had hoped he would 
never see his father again, but now the dreaded moment had arrived after 
all. 
 
After looking once more in the mirror, he draped a black cloak across his 
shoulders, pulling it tightly around his form. The shivers that shook his 
body weren’t due to the cold, but fear. Was there really no way out? No, 
Elrond expected him to be present. Slowly, he made his way to 
Glorfindel’s rooms, where he knocked softly. 
 
“Enter!”
 
Erestor opened the door and hovered near the doorway, hesitant to enter 
Glorfindel’s rooms. He had never been here before and didn’t want to 
intrude on the Elda’s privacy. 
 
Glorfindel’s rooms greatly differed from his. They were spacious and 
luxurious, and breathed a warm and comforting atmosphere. The blond 
had just finished braiding his hair and was now heading toward him. A 
golden light engulfed the blond Elda, and the sight took Erestor’s breath 
away. 
 
“Are you ready?” Glorfindel wondered about the stunned, almost admiring 
expression in Erestor’s eyes and smiled reassuringly. Reaching out, he 
slowly rested his hand in the small of Erestor’s back. He expected the 
dark-haired Elf to flinch and move away from his touch, but Erestor 
accepted it, whilst sending a puzzled look in his direction. Glorfindel 
answered the mute inquiry with a silent smile.
 
“We should go now,” said Glorfindel after a long moment in which they 
exchanged probing looks. His hand remained in the small of Erestor’s 
back, and he was pleased when the counselor didn’t move away. Maybe 
Erestor was finally beginning to trust him? He hoped so!
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Keep in mind that at least one of us stays close to Erestor whilst Eridhren 
is staying in Imladris.” Elrond waited for his sons to nod and then 
continued. “I will escort Thranduil to his rooms and, Elrohir, you will take 
Eridhren to his. I do not want Erestor anywhere near his father until we 
know what is really going on.”
 
“And Glorfindel?” Elrohir was surprised that his father wanted him to 
escort Eridhren.
 
“I want Glorfindel close to Erestor.” Elrond moistened his lips, seeing his 
sons’ puzzled expressions. “Erestor is beginning to trust him and I want to 
encourage their growing friendship.” Elrond straightened out his robes and 
his eyes became worried, seeing the tension on Erestor’s face when his 
chief advisor approached. Glorfindel’s expression was determined and 
Elrond knew he could count on the Elda to keep Erestor safe. That was 
one thing less to worry about.
 
Erestor forced himself to make eye contact with Elrond. After the half-Elf 
had nodded, he looked at Elrohir, who smiled at him. He weakly returned 
that smile. Hiding his hands in the sleeves of his robes, he tried to keep 
them from moving about. He shivered at the prospect of having to guide 
Eridhren to his guest rooms. The last thing he wanted was to be alone with 
him. 
 
Elrond, sensing Erestor’s apparent discomfort, said, “I will escort 
Thranduil to his rooms and Elrohir will see to Eridhren. I want you and 
Glorfindel to make sure everything is prepared for lunch.” 
 
Feeling nervous, Erestor wondered just how much Elrond had figured out 
now that the half-Elf wasn’t letting him attend to his father as a son 
normally would. He wasn’t sure how he felt about them knowing 
something was wrong. They were definitely trying to keep him away from 
Eridhren, for which he felt thankful. Noise coming from the courtyard 
attracted his attention, and, looking over his shoulder, he froze, seeing 
Eridhren riding next to Thranduil. 
 
Glorfindel followed the direction of Erestor’s shocked stare and for the 
first time in his life he laid eyes on Eridhren. Eridhren had long, braided, 
dark hair, much like Erestor, a pale complexion, and the coldest eyes he 
had ever seen. The icy grey orbs made him shiver. /And this is Erestor’s 
father?/ His gaze shifted to Erestor and he found that the counselor had 
seemingly stopped breathing. Cold sweat formed on Erestor’s brow and 
his eyes had widened. His hand still rested in the small of Erestor’s back 
and he reassuringly rubbed his friend’s back, receiving a startled look 
from Erestor in return. “You are not alone,” he whispered softly, trying to 
reassure the upset Elf. 
 
Elrond had also noticed Erestor’s reaction and moved until he stood in 
front of his counselor, obscuring him from Eridhren’s view. Forcing 
himself to concentrate on Thranduil, he addressed the Elf. “Welcome to 
Imladris.  I hope your stay will be pleasant and that our conversations will 
lead to better organized border patrols.”
 
Thranduil inclined his head in approval and dismounted. “Elrond, I came 
here because Orcs and Uruk-Hai are threatening our borders and I too 
hope we will reach some agreement.” His eyes traveled from Elrond to the 
twins. The resemblance was incredible; they had really taken after their 
father instead of Celebrian. “Elrohir, Elladan…” he said in greeting.
 
Elrohir raised an eyebrow in surprise at the fact that Thranduil knew their 
names, let alone that he would acknowledge them. Elbowing Elladan in 
the stomach, he made sure his brother followed his example to bow 
slightly. “My lord Thranduil,” said Elrohir, trying to figure out how to 
read the other.
 
Elrond managed to hide his surprise at Thranduil’s mellow mood and 
risked a weak smile, aimed at the other Elf, who had been one of his best 
friends in the past, until… Elrond forced himself to stop thinking along 
those lines. It was not the time to discuss Oropher and Gil-galad’s deaths. 
He quickly changed his plans, embracing this opportunity to learn more 
about Eridhren, who hadn’t said a single word and was blatantly ignoring 
Erestor. “My sons will show you to your quarters, Thranduil.”
 
Elladan and Elrohir looked at each other in surprise. Weren’t they 
supposed to escort Eridhren? But they quickly adjusted to the situation and 
Elrohir signaled for Thranduil to follow them. “The journey must have 
tired you.”
 
Thranduil nodded once. “It was a long journey.” Following the twins, he 
looked over his shoulder at Elrond. After releasing a deep sigh, filled with 
regret, he concentrated on the twins again, trying hard to not look at 
Erestor. He didn’t want to draw any attention to the shaking Elf. 
 
Eridhren had dismounted as well and stood now waiting silently to be 
shown to his quarters. “Let me show you to your rooms,” said Elrond, 
beckoning Eridhren to follow him. 
 
Glorfindel intercepted one cold glare that Eridhren directed at Erestor and 
pulled his friend closer, trying to protect him from the menacing stare. 
“Stay with me,” he whispered into Erestor’s ear. The counselor nodded 
shakily. 
 
Elrond waited for Eridhren to follow and then guided his guest to his 
rooms. Eridhren remained quiet and the half-Elf’s curiosity was piqued. 
What kind of father did not react to seeing his son for the first time in such 
a long time? He would be overjoyed to be reunited with Elladan and 
Elrohir! “I trust the rooms will be to your liking. If not, please let me 
know.”
 
Eridhren didn’t reply and shivers ran down Elrond’s spine, feeling the 
other’s eyes pierce his back. His instincts warned him to remain very 
cautious around Eridhren. “Lunch will be served in one hour. A servant 
will escort you to the dining hall. Our talks will start tomorrow morning, 
after Thranduil and you rested.”
 
Eridhren nodded and Elrond quickly excused himself. Just being near the 
Elf felt suffocating and he wondered how Thranduil managed to endure 
Eridhren’s presence. But then again, maybe the Elf wasn’t aware of 
Eridhren’s true nature. He drew in a deep breath and composed himself. 
Eridhren’s presence was unsettling. /And Erestor was exposed to this 
for… for how many years?/ 
 
Elrond started down the corridor, eager to check on Erestor. From this 
moment on, he wanted someone close to Erestor at all times.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor slowly became aware of Glorfindel rubbing his back. Now that 
Eridhren was gone, he released the breath he had involuntarily been 
holding and looked at the blond. How was it possible that he hadn’t 
avoided the touch and instead leaned into it? How had Glorfindel managed 
to get through his defenses?
 
Glorfindel began to guide Erestor to Elrond’s study, wanting to get him 
away from the rest of Thranduil’s party. After steering Erestor to one of 
the chairs, he said, “Sit down, mellon-nîn.” He walked over to cabinet 
where Elrond kept his wine and poured Erestor a small amount. “Drink 
this.” Hopefully the wine would calm Erestor’s nerves.
 
Erestor’s shaky fingers curled around the glass and he downed it in one 
go, surprising Glorfindel. The Elda finally realized just how shaken up 
Erestor really was; usually the Noldorin Elf only sipped cautiously. He 
seated himself next to Erestor and cleared his throat. “Will you tell me 
why you are this upset?” 
 
Erestor’s hand shook whilst holding the glass and Glorfindel reacted 
quickly, catching it when Erestor’s fingers lost their grip on it. “I have got 
it.” He placed the glass on the floor and slowly gathered Erestor’s hands in 
his, surprised when the Elf let him. Erestor’s eyes were swimming and he 
hoped the Noldorin Elf would finally confide in him. “It is your father, is 
it not?”
 
Erestor stared at Glorfindel in disbelief. Was the blond trying to get him to 
talk? He wasn’t sure he could open up after so many centuries of silence. 
Instead of answering Glorfindel verbally, he nodded. 
 
“He is the one who hurt you in the past.” 
 
Glorfindel’s determined tone surprised Erestor. Did he also hear anger in 
Glorfindel’s tone? Why would there be anger?
 
“How did he hurt you?” Fury was building inside Glorfindel. 
 
“I cannot discuss this…” Erestor’s voice collapsed as he buried his face in 
his hands. 
 
Glorfindel accepted that. “I will wait until you are ready to tell me. In the 
meantime I will stay close to you.”
 
“Why?” Erestor pleadingly stared at Glorfindel. Had the impossible really 
happened? Did someone really care enough to look beneath his mask and 
see the pain hiding there? He had feared this day would never come and 
now that it had, he was afraid to entrust his past to Glorfindel. “Why 
stay?”
 
“Because I can tell you are hurting. Last night, when Elrond told you that 
your father was about to visit, you were shocked.” Glorfindel gave Erestor 
a thoughtful look. “I do not know in which ways Eridhren hurt you, but I 
will prevent it from happening again.” Tears now flowed freely down 
Erestor’s face and the Noldorin Elf’s fingers tightened around his, holding 
on for support. Glorfindel squeezed them in return. “You can put your 
trust in me. I will not let you down.”
 
“I want to believe you,” whispered Erestor hoarsely. “But it is hard to 
believe that you really want to—“ Erestor’s voice faltered, seeing the 
disappointment in Glorfindel’s eyes; the blond was sincere. 
 
Glorfindel, realizing Erestor needed time to accept his interest, remained 
silent and waited for the dark-haired Elf to reach a decision. /Please trust 
me--/  
 
Erestor was afraid to make a mistake that would cost him dearly, but now 
that Eridhren had arrived he needed someone to stand by him. “He is not 
what he seems.”
 
“Your father is not what he seems? In what way?” Glorfindel felt relieved 
now that Erestor was talking to him. Now he needed to be patient and 
diplomatic.
 
Erestor moistened his lips and looked at their joined hands, wondering 
about the blond’s interest in him. “He is…” Erestor desperately searched 
for the right words. “Be careful around him.”
 
Glorfindel’s breath caught involuntarily when Erestor’s eyes widened 
impossibly. “What is it?” What had startled the raven-haired Elf?
 
“Elladan and Elrohir…” Erestor suddenly panicked, but then the feelings 
seemed to deflate again. “They are with Thranduil and they are together.” 
He squeezed Glorfindel’s hand hard. “Please make sure Eridhren is not 
left alone with them!”
 
“Why?” Glorfindel hated pushing Erestor, but he had to know why the 
twins were in danger!
 
“They are still so young and they won’t recognize the danger he presents.” 
Erestor was shaking like a leaf.
 
“In what way is Eridhren dangerous? How can he hurt them?”
 
But Erestor wasn’t ready yet to confide the horrible truth to Glorfindel. 
“Just make sure Eridhren does not catch either of them alone and off 
guard.” 
 
Glorfindel realized that Erestor wouldn’t tell him more. It would take the 
counselor some time to work up to that. “I will tell Elrond.”
 
Erestor lowered his eyes. “Do you really believe me?” Only Thranduil and 
his wife had believed him when it came down to Eridhren. 
 
“Why should I not believe you? I know you are serious.” Glorfindel 
smiled reassuringly. /I know you are scared and that you worry about the 
twins’ safety./ 
 
Erestor hesitantly made eye contact again. The look in Glorfindel’s eyes 
took his breath away. “You are really worried about me and you do 
believe me.” That realization warmed his scarred soul. 
 
Glorfindel nodded once. “I am worried about you, and I do believe you.” 
/No one believed you when you told them Eridhren was dangerous? Is that 
the reason why you were incapable of trusting us for all these centuries?/ 
“Elrond believes you, and so do the twins. You are no longer alone.” 
Glorfindel wiped away Erestor’s tears before they dripped from the raven-
haired Elf’s chin. “You have been alone for a long time, have you not?”
 
Erestor was only capable of nodding. He felt the insane urge to fling 
himself into Glorfindel’s arms to hug the Elda, but stopped himself just in 
time. He didn’t want to impose himself on Glorfindel like that. 
 
Feeling Erestor’s hands twitch in his and seeing the Noldorin Elf sway on 
the chair, Glorfindel gave in to his instincts, and let go of Erestor’s hands 
so he could wrap his arms around him. “I am here. You are safe, mellon-
nîn. Eridhren won’t ever hurt you again!” Erestor tensed, but then the 
other’s body sagged against him and he tightened his hold. “You can let 
go, Erestor.”
 
Like before in Elrohir’s arms, Erestor sobbed and clung to Glorfindel in 
the midst of this emotional storm. Feelings which had been denied for 
centuries now fought a way to the surface. Erestor blinked his swimming 
eyes and then buried his face in Glorfindel’s robes. 
 
Glorfindel slid onto his knees and pulled Erestor along onto the floor, 
where he tightly embraced the raven-haired Elf. He didn’t say a word, 
offering Erestor silent support. Words became redundant whilst he rocked 
the Noldorin Elf in his arms. 
 
After a few minutes, Erestor calmed down and felt embarrassed for losing 
control. Glorfindel must think he had lost his sanity! “I am sorry,” he 
whispered in a strangled tone. 
 
“Do not be sorry,” replied Glorfindel, who refused to release Erestor just 
yet, even though the raven-haired Elf tried to move away from him. “You 
kept this buried inside for so long and now it finally found a way out. You 
might actually feel better now that you cried.” 
 
Glorfindel’s words surprised Erestor, but he had to admit the Elda was 
right. “I do feel better.” The darkness had faded momentarily. “Thank you 
for…” For what?
 
“You can always count on me to be there when you need me.” Glorfindel 
smiled, soothingly stroked Erestor’s back and felt like he had really made 
progress. “You can trust me. Do you know that?”
 
Erestor smiled weakly. “I do… now.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 10
 
 
Elrond decided to drop by his study before joining his guests for lunch. He 
hadn’t seen or heard from either Glorfindel or Erestor and was beginning 
to grow worried. Opening the door to his study, he halted in his tracks, 
seeing Erestor enveloped in a tight hug. Glorfindel looked up, met his gaze 
and nodded once. Elrond released a relieved sigh; somehow Glorfindel 
had found a way to break down Erestor’s defenses. He closed the door 
behind him, but gave them a moment to compose themselves, remaining 
standing near the doorway, not approaching yet. 
 
“Erestor? Elrond just arrived. Maybe you should tell him what you just 
told me.” Glorfindel pulled back slightly, but maintained his hold on the 
raven-haired counselor, whose dark eyes now hesitantly sought out 
Elrond’s. 
 
Elrond advanced on them and sat down behind his desk, still maintaining 
his distance. The last thing he wanted was for Erestor to feel pressured. 
 
Erestor wiped away the remnants of his tears and tried to break free of 
Glorfindel’s embrace. The blond gave in and released him, and Erestor 
struggled to his feet. Swaying slightly, he quickly sat down on a chair. 
 
“What is Glorfindel talking about?” asked Elrond, concerned. Erestor’s 
eyes were red from crying. 
 
“You have to make sure my father is never alone with one of the twins. He 
is dangerous,” Erestor paused briefly to search for the right words, “He is 
a predator.”
 
Elrond knew Elladan and Elrohir could easily hold their own against 
Eridhren, but Erestor still thought of the twins as Elflings, having helped 
raise them. In Erestor’s opinion they would always need protection. 
Elrond cleared his throat, hoping his next assessment would make Erestor 
open up farther. “And he preys on children? Very young children?”
 
Erestor shivered violently, lowered his eyes and wished the floor would 
open and swallow him. 
 
Elrond sighed deeply. “I will tell Elladan and Elrohir to be careful when 
dealing with Eridhren. And you do not have to join us for lunch, Erestor. I 
would understand if you preferred to stay clear of Eridhren.”
 
“No,” said Erestor in an urgent tone. “I will be there. I do not want him to 
think I am afraid of him.”
 
“But you –are- afraid of him,” pointed out Glorfindel, who had regained 
possession of Erestor’s right hand. He was soothingly rubbing the dark-
haired Elf’s knuckles. 
 
“I have always been afraid of him,” said Erestor, whilst looking into 
Glorfindel’s eyes. “But I refuse to give in to that fear.”
 
Glorfindel nodded approvingly. “Facing your fears will make you 
stronger, and you have our support.”
 
Elrond wondered just how afraid Erestor was and if it was wise to let his 
friend attend lunch. “Stay close to Glorfindel.”
 
Erestor nodded thankfully. “I will.”
 
Elrond and Glorfindel exchanged a look filled with understanding. 
Together, they would deal with Eridhren.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Thranduil looked over his shoulder and saw Elrond, his advisors, and the 
twins approaching. The party had now reached their table and they seated 
themselves. To his relief, he found that Erestor wasn’t seated next to 
Eridhren, but at the other side of the table, safely wedged between 
Glorfindel and Elrohir. 
 
Elrond signaled for everyone to begin eating and Thranduil caught himself 
occasionally looking at the half-Elf. It was hard to imagine they had been 
best friends once, even lovers, but then Gil-galad had taken Elrond away 
from him. Elrond had possessed a passion and beauty which he had 
admired, and after some very clumsy seduction attempts the Peredhel had 
given into his advances. For a very brief time they had been lovers, but 
then Gil-galad had taken an interest in Elrond and had stolen the half-Elf 
away from him. 
 
His bitterness stemmed from losing a lover to someone he had always 
instinctively disliked. Oropher’s death had only deepened the chasm 
between them. There was a lot of old pain between them and his heart still 
ached because of this lost love. 
 
Ah, but why was he giving in to these gloomy thoughts? He was here to 
negotiate a truce between Mirkwood and Imladris, not to dwell on the 
past. He’d had his chance with Elrond and it hadn’t worked. He had to let 
go. It had happened so many centuries ago!
 
“Thranduil, I trust your quarters are satisfactory?” Elrond, having noticed 
Thranduil’s absent-minded expression, raised an eyebrow inquisitively. 
The blond Elf started momentarily, but then replied in a formal, somewhat 
distant tone. 
 
“Aye, they are. Imladris is truly beautiful.” Eridhren snorted beside him 
and Thranduil glared at him. 
 
Eridhren had averted his eyes and was now staring at Erestor, who seemed 
to shrink within himself beneath the look, which greatly worried 
Glorfindel. Holding Erestor’s hand beneath the table, Glorfindel squeezed 
in an effort to offer his support.
 
Erestor managed to answer Eridhren’s stare momentarily, but then averted 
his eyes. The cold expression in his father’s eyes was making him feel 
physically ill and he wished he had accepted Elrond’s earlier offer to not 
attend lunch. Knowing Eridhren was this close caused all sorts of horrid 
memories to return and he struggled to maintain control of them. Feeling 
Glorfindel’s fingers curled around his helped.
 
Elrond, sensing the tension, wondered how to do away with it. He didn’t 
want Erestor to leave; that would resemble a flight and then Eridhren 
would feel like he had chased Erestor away. But he had to do something! 
An idea suddenly came to mind. “Eridhren, why don’t we already discuss 
Mirkwood’s plans so that when we get together tomorrow Thranduil and I 
can quickly reach a decision?” Looking at Thranduil, Elrond added, “I am 
sure you are most eager to return home.”
 
Thranduil barely refrained from staring at Elrond in surprise. “You are 
right, of course.” Realizing Elrond wanted to talk to Eridhren in private, 
he wondered why. “We will talk in the morning then.”
 
Eridhren rose from his chair and followed Elrond onto the balcony. Stairs 
spiraled down and took them into the gardens. 
 
A strangled sigh left Erestor’s lips once Eridhren was gone. “I cannot stay 
here any longer,” he whispered into Glorfindel’s ear. 
 
Glorfindel reacted at once, got to his feet and pulled Erestor along. He cast 
an apologetic look at the twins, who also wanted to join them, but he 
quickly shook his head. It would be rude to leave Thranduil all by himself. 
Now it was up to the twins to play host. 
 
“Erestor? Come with me.” Glorfindel steered the dark-haired Elf toward 
the doorway, eager to take Erestor away from the crowd. Once they were 
safely in the corridor, he forced Erestor to stop walking and waited for the 
dark eyes to meet his. “I do not want him near you. Please stay away from 
him.”
 
But Erestor objected weakly. “Tomorrow start the negotiations. As 
Elrond’s counselor I should be there.”
 
“Erestor, do you trust me?”
 
Erestor, feeling confused at hearing Glorfindel’s question, nodded. 
 
“Then let me take your place at the council tomorrow.” Glorfindel looked 
pleadingly at Erestor. “Do not expose yourself to his presence.” 
 
“But then he will think he intimidated me and…” Erestor’s voice faltered. 
“I cannot let the past repeat itself.”
 
Glorfindel drew in a deep breath and started walking again, guiding 
Erestor to his rooms where they had some privacy. He was determined to 
make the dark-haired Elf open up to him; he had to know what terrible 
secret lay hidden in the past. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elrohir wondered if he was supposed to say something now that his father, 
Erestor and Glorfindel had left. “My lord Thranduil, have you ever been in 
Imladris before?” It seemed a dumb question to him, but it was the only 
thing he was able to come up with. 
 
Thranduil actually managed a genuine smile. “Never. As you probably 
know your father and I had differences in the past.”
 
Elrohir looked to Elladan to save him from the awkward situation, which 
was becoming increasingly embarrassing. What could they possibly ask 
Thranduil?
 
“Do you have any children?” Elladan felt proud of having been able to 
think up that question and grinned broadly. 
 
Thranduil sensed some of their unease and continued to smile to reassure 
them. The twins had inherited more than just Elrond’s good looks; they 
were charming as well. Elrohir especially reminded him of a much 
younger Elrond. “I have two sons. Valthoron is the oldest, and my heir. 
Legolas is about your age, maybe a tad younger, and more of a free spirit 
who roams Arda most of the time.”
 
Elladan knew he shouldn’t ask this next question, but couldn’t stop 
himself. “And their mother?”
 
A sad expression appeared in Thranduil’s sea green eyes. “Like your 
mother, she sailed to Valinor many centuries ago.”
 
Elladan cursed himself privately. He knew he shouldn’t have asked that 
question. “I am sorry…” Lost for words, he looked apologetically at 
Thranduil.
 
“You could not know. Do not worry about it.” Thranduil’s gaze continued 
to shift between the two of them. They were identical twins, but he felt 
confident he could tell them apart. Now it was time for a question of his 
own. “I noticed that Erestor is not feeling well?” 
 
Elrohir frowned. “He has not been feeling well for some time now. He 
was wounded recently and I suppose he has not yet recovered 
completely,” said Elrohir quickly, when Elladan was lost for words. 
“Glorfindel and my father have been looking after him.”
 
Thranduil’s eyes narrowed. “So it has nothing to do with Eridhren’s 
presence?”
 
Elrohir and Elladan exchanged a worried look. Thranduil’s question had 
taken them aback. In the end, Elrohir said, “I did notice that Eridhren is 
remarkably reserved towards Erestor, considering they have not seen each 
other for so long.”
 
“Reserved…” said Thranduil thoughtfully. “Reserved is not the word I 
would use to describe him.”
 
“What words –would- you use?” asked Elladan curiously. 
 
“Cold. Distant. Dangerous even.” Thranduil swore he heard a sigh of 
relief, coming from Elrohir’s lips. “You agree with me then?”
 
Elrohir nodded, suddenly wondering why he was discussing this with 
Thranduil. Somehow he had imagined Thranduil to be different, not this… 
mellow and friendly. “Maybe you should discuss this matter with my 
father.”
 
“I think I will,” said Thranduil in a slow, thoughtful tone. “If you will 
excuse me now, I think I will go for a short walk.”
 
Elladan and Elrohir reacted too slowly and by they time they wanted to 
address Thranduil, the Ruler of Mirkwood had already stepped onto the 
balcony, leaving them behind in wonder.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Eridhren had fallen into step beside him and Elrond constantly fought the 
urge to put more distance between them. The hair at the back of his neck 
stood rigid, warning him to be extremely cautious. He had never 
experienced such a fierce reaction before when meeting an Elf for the first 
time. “I trust you already have certain ideas how to set up these border 
patrols?” Eridhren’s clipped laughter caused gooseflesh to form on his 
skin and Elrond involuntarily pulled his cloak closer around his form. 
 
“I have, but I doubt that is the reason why you want to talk to me.” 
Eridhren halted in his tracks and leaned against the trunk of an ash, 
studying Elrond. 
 
Elrond took a step away from Eridhren, trying hard to keep his breathing 
steady. For some reason he felt unable to draw in his next breath. “What 
do you mean?”
 
“Erestor lied. I never hurt him. He was a rather confused child and mixed 
up certain things that happened in the past. I am his father. How could I 
possibly hurt my own flesh and blood? Could you hurt your sons?” 
 
How did Eridhren know that they had suspected this? Elrond probed the 
icy grey eyes. “If you did not hurt him, who did?”
 
“A stranger.” 
 
/Lies! He is lying!/ Elrond was on his guard, seeing the predatory look in 
Eridhren’s eyes. He didn’t believe a single word Eridhren had said. 
 
Eridhren reacted quickly, stepped up to Elrond, grabbed the half-Elf’s 
wrist and pulled him close. “Maybe I was wrong. Maybe this is not about 
Erestor. Maybe it is about… lust?”
 
The sudden change in Eridhren’s eyes startled Elrond. They became 
narrow and evil, almost undressing and devouring him. A sense of 
entrapment swept through him and he tried to free himself of Eridhren’s 
hold. “Lust?” he echoed in disbelief. 
 
“What is your pleasure, mighty Lord of Imladris?” said Eridhren in a 
mocking tone. “Do you want me to tie you down? Spank you? Bend you 
over and take you? Is that why you brought me here? You really need to 
be more diplomatic in future. I am sure the others saw through your 
guise.”
 
Elrond stared at Eridhren in shock, almost questioning his sanity. “What 
did you say? Do you really think I would want you in that way? How dare 
you assume such a thing?” Growing furious, he doubled his effort to rid 
himself of Eridhren’s hold. “Let go of me! How dare you touch me?”
 
Eridhren’s grin grew malicious, licking his lips, whilst leaning in closer to 
touch them to Elrond’s. “Ah, you like it rough.”
 
Elrond’s eyes narrowed dangerously and he prepared to fight off Eridhren 
in earnest when an angry voice cut through the air. 
 
“You heard him, Eridhren. Remove your hands from his person.” 
Thranduil appeared from behind them and glared at his counselor. “Return 
to your quarters and stay there until I send word.”
 
Eridhren hissed at Elrond, but then let go of the half-Elf and after shooting 
a venomous look at Thranduil, he turned and marched away. 
 
Elrond, still furious, now aimed his anger at Thranduil. “Are you insane to 
bring him here? He is obviously a very troubled soul!”
 
Thranduil forced himself to remain calm. He knew from personal 
experience that Elrond had to vent his anger first before he would really 
listen to him. 
 
“His presence upsets Erestor and –“ Elrond paused momentarily, still 
trying to comprehend what had just happened, “He assaulted me!”
 
Thranduil briefly considered pointing out to Elrond that it was the half-
Elf’s letter that had brought Eridhren here, but refrained from doing so, 
not wanting to aggravate the dark-haired Elf any farther. “Are you done?”
 
Elrond glared at him; his eyes shot deadly daggers and they were aimed at 
the blond. 
 
Thranduil drew in a deep breath, met Elrond’s defying glare, and said, “I 
know Eridhren is a danger and that allowing him to come here is 
dangerous, but if I had refused he would have sneaked after me. At least 
now I know where he is and what he is up to. I do not have to worry about 
him operating in the dark.”
 
Elrond finally managed to calm down. Rubbing his wrist to sooth the 
chafed skin, he nodded once. “Continue.”
 
“Your letter made him determined to come here. I kept Erestor’s 
whereabouts carefully hidden from Eridhren, but you addressed that letter 
to him personally and I was unable to intercept it.”  Thranduil pointed at a 
bench near a lovely stream. “Why don’t we sit down?” 
 
 
Elrond followed Thranduil, still remaining on his guard. After sitting 
down, he waited for the blond to continue.
 
“Eridhren is dangerous. You do not want him as your enemy.” 
 
Elrond cocked his head in question. “You followed us here.”
 
Thranduil nodded once. “I know Eridhren. You are a challenge he cannot 
exist.” A challenge he hadn’t been able to resist either centuries ago. “You 
might want to keep an eye on your sons. Eridhren will try to prey on them 
as well. I take it Glorfindel is guarding Erestor?”
 
Stunned, Elrond stared at Thranduil. “What do you know about Eridhren 
that you are not telling me?”
 
Thranduil nodded his head. “Eridhren is a predator. He preys on the 
young, the innocent. The children, young Elflings. He hurts them in so 
many ways. When Valthoron and Legolas were born I had to station 
Eridhren on the outskirts of my realm, for I did not want him near my 
children.”
 
Elrond suddenly realized that he was holding his breath. “Why are you 
still keeping him around?”
 
Thranduil shrugged. “As I said before, as long as I know where he is and 
what he is up to I can prevent the worst. If I had banished him, he would 
have been free to make more victims.”
 
“Do you know what he did to Erestor?” Elrond had a hard time believing 
Thranduil was on his side. He had mentally prepared himself for a very 
ugly confrontation, but then again, Thranduil had never been predictable. 
It was one of the things that had first attracted him to the blond. 
 
Thranduil leaned back, stared at the clouds that were obscuring the sun, 
and then nodded once. “Eridhren was already one of my counselors when 
he got one of the maidens pregnant. I forced him to marry her, but it was 
one of the biggest mistakes I ever made. The maiden died in childbirth and 
Eridhren tried to abandon the child. I stopped him and forced him to care 
for the baby. Eridhren hated Erestor and mistreated the poor child badly. 
Throughout the years he abused Erestor, not only emotionally, but 
physically as well.”
 
Elrond listened breathlessly. Thranduil was finally providing him with the 
missing pieces of this puzzle.
 
“Years before Erestor reached majority I found him in one of the halls. He 
had been beaten bloody and was incapable of speech. He was in shock and 
I took him to my rooms. My wife took care of him, and when he had 
regained some of his composure he confirmed my suspicions that Eridhren 
was responsible for his state. Erestor begged me to help him get away 
from his father, and I could not decline. I provided him with a horse, and 
water, and I escorted him to our borders.” Thranduil averted his eyes 
before making his next admission. “I told him to make for Imladris, where 
you would surely allow him sanctuary.”
 
Elrond nodded. “I took him in. I realized something was wrong with him, 
but he was so… distant. I could not reach him.”
 
“I think that Erestor was very determined to never get hurt again. He 
would not let you in for he feared you would emotionally hurt him.” 
Thranduil’s heart still missed a beat, thinking back to finding that huddled 
form, full of misery, hidden behind his throne. It had been the one place 
Erestor had felt safe. 
 
Elrond’s eyes narrowed. “I never realized you knew Erestor that well. I 
never noticed anything during our meetings.”
 
“Erestor always feared that Eridhren would accompany me and he 
remained alert the entire time. He also did not want you to grow 
suspicious. You would wonder why we knew each other. He was 
protecting himself.”
 
“I never suspected a thing,” whispered Elrond, shocked. Forcing himself 
to focus on the problem at hand, he said, “What do we do with Eridhren? I 
do not want him loose in the Last Homely House, trying to hurt my sons 
as well.”
 
“I suggest you station guards near his rooms and check on him regularly. 
He will try to get close to Erestor and we must prevent that from 
happening.”
 
“I will make sure Eridhren is guarded at all times.” A strange sensation 
coursed through Elrond’s heart, hearing Thranduil’s worried and 
compassionate tone. “Thranduil?”
 
Thranduil’s gaze became guarded, hearing the unexpected change in 
Elrond’s tone. “Aye?”
 
“We were friends once, were we not?” 
 
“Friends?” Thranduil’s tone changed, and became more distant as if lost in 
memories. “We were more than friends. We were lovers... until…”
 
Elrond flinched involuntarily. “Until Gil-galad appeared in our lives.” 
 
“He wanted you and it did not matter to him that we were together. He 
seduced you, and you—“ Anger surfaced in his voice. “It is not wise to 
discuss this now. Even after these millennia I get angry when…”
 
Elrond slowly placed a hand on Thranduil’s arm, and when the blond 
looked at him, he said, “It was infatuation, Thranduil. We were young. 
What we felt was not love.”
 
Thranduil laughed, embittered. “Elrond, I do not know what you felt, but I 
loved you. Did you really love Gil-galad? Or was it lust that made you 
forget my declarations of eternal love?”
 
Elrond watched, surprised, as Thranduil jumped to his feet and began to 
pace. 
 
“My father was against our love and yet I snuck into your tent every night 
because I wanted to be with you! Oropher constantly told me that I was 
stupid to trust you to return my love and I told him how wrong he was! I 
was convinced you loved me!”
 
Elrond’s eyes had widened during Thranduil’s speech, and he moistened 
his lips to speak as well, but then Thranduil beat him to it.
 
“And yes, I did hate you for contributing to my father’s death! Aye, he 
acted rashly and moved out without direct orders, but when we sent for 
help we did not get an answer because Gil-galad was busy taking his dirty 
pleasure from your body!” 
 
Elrond, speechless, just stared at Thranduil, whose rage had now reached 
its maximum.
 
Thranduil realized just what he had revealed and felt angry with himself 
for letting go. He had never wanted Elrond to find out that he was still 
hurting after all these centuries. “I—“ He shook his head, spun around and 
marched away, leaving Elrond behind in complete shock. 
 
Elrond stared at Thranduil’s form until the blond had vanished from sight. 
By Elbereth, he hadn’t seen that outburst coming! Slightly shaky from 
having these intense emotions aimed at him, he reached out for support 
and placed his hand against the trunk of a tree. It was true then; Thranduil 
had really loved him. Gil-galad had convinced him that the blond just 
lusted after him, and when the High King had made his move, he had 
given in willingly, happy to have found someone who did love him. 
 
/I was so wrong. I should have trusted my instincts and feelings back then 
instead of taking Gil-galad’s words for granted./ Thranduil had really 
loved him. Immensely saddened, he hung his head in shame and regret. 
/Why did I listen to Gil-galad? Because of his splendor? His power? He 
was so different from Thranduil./ 
 
Thranduil had always made slow, passionate love with him, whilst Gil-
galad had just taken what he had wanted. /I was a fool./
 
Elrond raised his head, and stared at the green leaves, sheltering him from 
the powerful rays of the sun. “I loved you too,” he whispered sincerely, 
“but I was afraid to admit it.” And that fear was the reason why he had lost 
the one person who had truly loved him. 
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 11
 
 
Glorfindel quickly closed the door behind him and led Erestor to the bed, 
where he sat the shaken Elf down. Seeing him shiver, Glorfindel left 
Erestor on the bed to pour his friend a glass of wine. He also retrieved a 
blanket and draped it across Erestor’s shoulders. Hopefully Erestor would 
find some comfort in being in his private rooms again, far away from 
Eridhren. “Drink this, maybe it will help settle your nerves.” Glorfindel sat 
down next to Erestor and handed him the glass, watching him carefully.
 
Erestor sipped mechanically, not realizing he was actually drinking wine. 
His father’s glare haunted him and his hands began to shake, making the 
wine slosh over the rim. 
 
Glorfindel quickly curled his fingers around Erestor’s and steadied them. 
He assisted the Elf in drinking the sweet liquid and then disposed of the 
empty glass. Once more retrieving Erestor’s hand, he clasped it in his. 
With his other hand, he cupped the dark-haired Elf’s chin in his palm, 
lifted his face and made eye contact with Erestor. “Will you tell me what 
haunts you? You are hurting because you are trying to deal with this on 
your own when you do not have to. Please confide in me.”
 
Erestor closed his eyes momentarily. Shaking violently, he tried to fight 
down his shame and rising nausea, which the returning memories were 
causing. “I am afraid… Afraid you will leave me… when you learn the 
truth.” His eyes opened and he stared pleadingly at the blond. “I never had 
a friend before! I do not want to lose you!” He was certain that opening up 
to Glorfindel would make the Elda look at him in disgust and desert him. 
 
Glorfindel sighed deeply, realizing how fragile Erestor’s trust in him was. 
The dark-haired Elf expected to be abandoned the moment his friend 
found out the truth. “I won’t desert you,” said Glorfindel firmly. “I will 
stand by you.” Sensing the inner struggle that was taking place in 
Erestor’s mind, he reassuringly squeezed the Noldorin Elf’s hand, hoping 
to convince him to continue. 
 
“I –will- lose your friendship,” sighed Erestor, distressed. “I know I 
will...” He shook his head when Glorfindel wanted to object and said, 
“So… you want to know the truth?”
 
Holding his breath, Glorfindel nodded once. Had Erestor really decided to 
trust him? “Please, tell me everything.”
 
Erestor released a shaky breath and averted his eyes. He couldn’t possibly 
tell his story whilst looking at Glorfindel. “It s-started…” he stuttered 
nervously, “be-before I was even born.”
 
Glorfindel released the breath he had been holding. It hurt that Erestor 
refused to make eye contact with him, but he allowed it. He still had a 
tight hold on the Elf’s hand and showed his support by rubbing Erestor’s 
knuckles. 
 
“Eridhren got my… m-mother pregnant and he was ordered to marry 
her… w-which he did. He never loved her though… He felt t-trapped, and 
neglected her… during her pregnancy.” Erestor’s features contorted with 
emotional pain as he continued, "S-she began to fade… and after I was 
born… her s-soul traveled to the Halls of Waiting.”
 
Glorfindel’s heart contracted painfully, seeing the anguish in Erestor’s 
eyes. He had never heard Erestor stutter before; it showed in how much 
emotional pain the Elf was. “She died in childbirth?”
 
“I… n-never knew her. She must have been beautiful… I wish I had 
known her... Maybe things would have been… different if she had s-
survived.” Erestor’s large, dark eyes filled with unshed tears. “She had 
long, golden hair and sky blue eyes… At least… that is what Thranduil 
told me.”
 
“Thranduil?” Glorfindel frowned. What had Thranduil to do with this?
 
“I grew up in M-mirkwood… and Thranduil often tried to p-protect me 
from my father’s rages... In the end, he helped me escape… I traveled to 
Imladris, h-hoping to find a home, a r-real home, here.” The tears finally 
left Erestor’s eyes and flowed down the Elf’s cheek, and the stutter 
worsened. “I was s-so afraid Eridhren would t-track me down and follow 
me here... B-but Thranduil made sure my father did not f-find out… I am 
eternally 
g-grateful for that… it enabled me to build a life here.”
 
Glorfindel grew sad; what a cold and lonely life Erestor’s had been! He 
hadn’t noticed, hadn’t probed beneath the surface! No one had! “I never 
knew you grew up in Mirkwood.”
 
“I k-kept it a secret. I did not want you or Elrond to become s-
suspicious… The one thing I was most afraid of… was Eridhren f-finding 
out and coming here… M-my worst nightmare has now come true… How 
did he find me after all this t-time?”
 
Glorfindel, feeling guilty and ashamed, cleared his throat. “That might be 
Elrond’s fault.”
 
“Elrond?” Erestor blinked through his tears, pleadingly looking at 
Glorfindel.
 
“We were so worried about you that Elrond contacted Eridhren. We did 
not know—“
 
“So that is how he f-found out,” whispered Erestor brokenly. “M-maybe I 
should have confided in Elrond when I f-first came here… but I was 
afraid… afraid he would send me back…. I had not reached my majority 
yet, and –“ Sobs made it impossible for Erestor to continue. 
 
“Calm down, mellon-nîn. You are safe here; you know that.”  
 
“But I… I no longer feel safe! Not now that I know –he- is here! His 
presence is b-bringing b-back all kind of memories!” 
 
Erestor’s upset tone was getting to Glorfindel, who was becoming 
severely worried, seeing the dark-haired Elf’s eyes grow big. “What kind 
of memories?” Did he even want to hear this? But he had to follow 
through now, for Erestor’s sake. 
 
Erestor closed his eyes and his tone dropped, until it became emotionless 
and hardly understandable. “It began when I was lit-little... He would get 
c-cross with me for everything. At one p-point I was afraid to just br-
breathe in his presence. He constantly ordered me around... I was his 
personal sla…ve… and…” 
 
Glorfindel folded an arm around the trembling Elf and pulled Erestor 
close. “Then what?”
 
“I dropped a… c-cup accidentally and he… he hi-hit me. There was blood 
coming out of my nose… and I did not understand w-why I was hurting, 
or why he had hi-hit me.” Erestor raised his head and stared helplessly at 
the blond. “I s-said I was s-sorry for dr-dropping that cup. I did no-not do 
it on purpose. I was only a child!”
 
“I know you did not do it on purpose, but even if you did, it did not 
warrant his reaction. He had no right to hit you!” Anger was beginning to 
build in Glorfindel. 
 
“It be-became worse from that p-point on. He would hit me… for no 
reason at all, just because I was t-there. He yelled at me… blamed me for 
my… my mother’s death and said he –hated- me... He wished she had 
never con…conceived and that I should never have been b-born!”
 
Glorfindel hugged Erestor tightly. “What an awful thing to say to a child.” 
 
“If only it had st-stopped there…” Erestor hesitantly returned the hug, 
which felt awkward and unfamiliar to him. “The beatings got worse... The 
br-bruises showed on my face.”
 
“And no one tried to help you?” Glorfindel barely managed to keep his 
anger under control and he wasn’t sure how he would react when being 
confronted with Eridhren. He wanted to make the Elf pay for hurting 
Erestor like that! 
 
“Thran… Thranduil tried to help and so did his wife, Aewithôn… They 
often v-visited, trying to r-reason with my father. They offered to raise me 
instead, but my father r-refused... I do not know why, what kind of p-
perverse p-pleasure he—“ Erestor’s breathing stopped momentarily, and 
his body froze against Glorfindel’s.
 
Glorfindel realized the worst was yet to come and mentally prepared 
himself for Erestor’s next admission. He tightened his hold on the dark-
haired Elf and made eye contact. “What happened next?”
 
“The m-maidens did not w-want anything to do with him... They knew 
Gildin had d-died because of grief and they avoided him. But, he… he…” 
Unable to continue, Erestor sobbed softly. 
 
Glorfindel told himself to be patient and give Erestor the time he needed. 
He rubbed his friend’s back with strong, soothing strokes and held him 
tight. “You can tell me.”
 
Erestor felt terrified and desperately wanted to flee the room, but he 
couldn’t stop now. Glorfindel wouldn’t let him. “Sex-sexually, he…”
 
Glorfindel sucked in his breath. He had feared Erestor would reveal 
something like this, but had hoped his fears were ungrounded. “He 
touched you? Intimately?”
 
Erestor lowered his eyes in shame and nodded once. His faltering voice 
was barely audible. “And I… I was ordered to… to t-touch him.”
 
“How far did it go?” 
 
“I had to ma-make him c-come… Pl-please… please do not make me tell 
you the de-details! I s-still feel so ashamed because of it.” Erestor buried 
his face against Glorfindel’s shoulder, unable to bear the blond’s gaze any 
longer. “It continued for… years.”
 
“You are not to blame for this; you know that, don’t you?” Glorfindel 
pulled back slightly and lifted Erestor’s chin. “His mind is twisted and he 
should never have gotten his hands on an innocent.”
 
“Thranduil and Aewithôn… t-tried… to get me away from him, but he… 
he is my father! They could n-not overrule his parental rights... but they 
did make my life more bearable… I knew –someone- cared about me.” 
Erestor’s voice faltered each time his emotions overwhelmed him.
 
“You said earlier that Thranduil helped you flee from Mirkwood?” 
Inwardly, Glorfindel was raging. His anger, aimed at Eridhren, was 
making it hard to concentrate on Erestor’s needs. He wanted to hurt 
Eridhren like the bastard had hurt Erestor! 
 
“That… night… was the w-worst of my life. A maiden, who he had 
pursued, had re-rejected him… and, frustrated, he came to my r-room… I 
was so scared… I had n-never seen him that f-furious before… and I was 
at a loss at what to do… so I tried to r-run away, but he caught me and…I 
got the 
w-worst b-beating of my life… When… his rage faded…he… left! He 
simply left me there, b-bleeding and b-bruised. I left a bloody trail on the 
floor; that is how ba-badly he had hurt me!”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes were now filling with tears as well. Erestor had suffered 
so much!
 
“Thranduil m-must have heard me… or maybe one of his guards told him, 
but he found me, hi-hiding behind his throne... I hid there often… It was 
the last p-place where my father would look for me. Thranduil took me to 
his r-rooms where Aewithôn tended to my wounds.” Erestor drew in a 
deep breath. “I begged Thranduil to help me.”
 
“Which he did.” Glorfindel moistened his lips. His mouth felt awfully dry 
and a lump had formed in his throat. “I am so glad he helped you. I never 
liked Thranduil, but I do feel thankful that he reached out to you.” 
 
Erestor searched Glorfindel’s eyes, looking for rejection and loathing, but 
instead he found understanding and compassion in them. The blond was 
also still holding him, rubbing his back, another sign that Glorfindel didn’t 
blame him for what had happened in the past. 
 
“It was not your fault,” said Glorfindel firmly, sensing Erestor’s fears. “It 
was not your fault,” he repeated, emphasizing every word. “Eridhren was 
wrong; he is to blame, not you.” Erestor collapsed against him and the 
raven-haired Elf rested his head on his shoulder. Glorfindel rocked him 
slowly, whispering, “It was not your fault, please believe me. There is no 
reason to feel ashamed.” 
 
“But I –do- feel ashamed, and I…I…” Erestor paused, reminded himself 
that he could trust Glorfindel, and added, “I am so… afraid that –it- will 
happen again now that he has f-found me. I feel like the fr-frightened child 
which I once was... I feel helpless and defenseless.”
 
Glorfindel understood. “He won’t touch you ever again. You are no longer 
a child, but an adult. You can defend yourself and I will make sure that he 
will never get you alone. Never!” 
 
Erestor took comfort in Glorfindel’s promise, hoping the blond would 
keep his word. It was still hard to trust, but it had just become a little bit 
easier.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 Glorfindel waited until Erestor’s sobs had died and the dark-haired Elf 
simply rested against him, soaking up warmth and comfort. When Erestor 
finally raised his head from his shoulder, Glorfindel read a question in 
those dark eyes. “What is it?”
 
“I do not feel safe here,” said Erestor in a tone hoarse from crying. “He 
will come for me, and he can easily locate my rooms.” Involuntarily his 
gaze drifted off to the door, almost expecting his father to appear there. 
 
“I will stay with you. You should know that the twins, Elrond, or I will 
always be here for you. We won’t leave you alone, not even for a minute.” 
Glorfindel smiled, saddened, when he tried to let go of Erestor, who 
continued to cling to him. “You are safe, mellon-nîn. Trust in me.”
 
Erestor tentatively nodded. “I hope he will leave shortly.” The mere 
thought of his father being in Imladris was enough to distress him. 
 
Glorfindel looked through the window. How many hours had passed since 
lunch? The sun was quite low and it wouldn’t be long before the moon 
would start to rise again. His gaze shifted to Erestor and he sighed, upset, 
seeing the eyes were still red from crying. The raven-haired Elf looked 
absolutely miserable. “Why don’t you try to sleep, mellon-nîn? You must 
be tired.”
 
“I am afraid to close my eyes,” admitted Erestor, caught off guard. 
 
“What if I promise to stay close?” Glorfindel gathered Erestor’s hands in 
his, and met the other’s gaze. “I promise you won’t be alone tonight. Even 
if I should be called away I will make sure either Elladan or Elrohir will 
stay with you.” Involuntarily, he held his breath as Erestor raised his right 
hand to brush a blond lock from his face. The touch was gentle, almost 
intimate, and he smiled encouragingly. It was the first time that Erestor 
reached out like that. 
 
Suddenly growing aware of what he had done, Erestor jerked back his 
hand and gave the Elda an apologetic look. Even the slightest touch had 
spooked him for years and now he wanted to touch Glorfindel? What if 
the blond didn’t want to be touched? Sighing, he wondered if he would 
ever be able to make sense of his messed up thoughts. What his father had 
done to him had changed him forever. 
 
“Let us get you out those formal robes; they cannot be comfortable to 
sleep in.” Seeing Erestor’s eyes go big, Glorfindel smiled reassuringly. 
 
“I do not want to impose on you,” whispered Erestor, shakily, but the 
blond was gone already, opening his closet and withdrawing a white 
sleeping robe. Erestor lowered his gaze; the thought of Glorfindel helping 
him undress was causing strange, unknown emotions to wash through him. 
 
Glorfindel noticed Erestor’s unease, but pretended to not see it. He began 
to unbutton Erestor’s robes because his friend’s hands were shaking. “I 
need you to stand up.” 
 
Erestor did, shaking like a leaf, and the robes dropped to the floor. 
Glorfindel quickly told hold of the sleeping robe, and helped Erestor into 
it, buttoning it up again at the end. “Comfortable?” The way Erestor shied 
away from his touch and gaze caused his heart to ache in sympathy. 
 
Erestor nodded weakly, uncomfortable with the fact that Glorfindel had 
seen him naked. Why it unnerved him, he couldn’t explain, but it caused 
gooseflesh on his skin and he shakily sat down on the bed again. 
 
Lowering himself onto his heels, Glorfindel removed Erestor’s boots. “Lie 
down,” he said in a soft tone, whilst pushing down the covers. 
 
Erestor gave him a questioning look. It was strange; first Elrohir had 
gained his trust and now Glorfindel as well.
 
Glorfindel wondered about the different emotions in Erestor’s eyes when 
he helped his friend to lie down. 
 
“Where will you… sleep… then?” Erestor stifled a yawn, and his eyes 
were already growing vacant. The bed was warm, comfortable and feeling 
relaxed and safe, he let go of his struggle to remain awake. But he still 
caught Glorfindel’s words as the blond spoke softly.
 
“The bed is big enough for me to lie down as well, but for now I will sit 
here and watch over you. Let go of your fears and tension. You are in 
good hands.”
 
Erestor even managed to smile although he was quickly falling asleep. 
/Thank you for being a friend… A true friend./
 
Glorfindel found himself stroking the long, dark tresses, whilst watching 
Erestor’s eyes turn vacant. Now that the Noldorin Elf was asleep, he 
sighed deeply. The anger, aimed at Eridhren, was still there; in fact it was 
growing and would demand a way out eventually. 
 
A soft knock on his door caught his attention. “Who is it?” He spoke 
softly to not wake Erestor. 
 
“Elrohir.”
 
“One moment… I locked the door.” Glorfindel regretted letting go of the 
dark mane and rose to his feet. After unlocking the door, he stepped aside 
and Elrohir entered. 
 
Elrohir smiled saddened, seeing Erestor asleep in the bed. “What 
happened?”
 
Glorfindel signaled for Elrohir to follow him and they sat down in front of 
the fire, exchanging worried looks. “Erestor told me how his father hurt 
him. It is even worse than we thought. Eridhren is extremely dangerous. I 
urge you, and Elladan, to remain on your guard at all times.”
 
Elrohir’s gaze came to rest on Erestor. “Will you tell me what he said?”
 
Glorfindel told Elrohir what Eridhren had done to Erestor. 
 
The young half-Elf gasped in shock and sympathy when he learned how 
badly Erestor had been abused. “That explains so much. It explains why 
he is afraid of being touched, why he never visited his father, and why he 
is so concerned about Elladan and I. But we will be careful. Eridhren 
won’t get a chance to hurt anyone again.” Elrohir concentrated on 
Glorfindel and saw the fury in the azure eyes. He felt equally as angry. 
 
“Would you stay with Erestor for a short while? I need to—“ Glorfindel 
paused, searching for the right words. “I need to talk to Elrond about this.” 
Maybe talking to Elrond would subdue this anger that was consuming 
him. The healer always managed to calm him down. “And I will inform 
Elladan as well.”
 
Elrohir nodded. “I will gladly sit with Erestor. Take as much time as you 
need.”
 
Glorfindel looked over his shoulder at Erestor to make sure the Elf was 
still sound asleep and then headed for the doorway. Suddenly, he halted. 
“Aren’t Elladan and you supposed to take care of Thranduil? I hope you 
did not desert him?”
 
“Actually, he excused himself. He wanted to go for a walk in the gardens 
and I have not seen him since.” Elrohir frowned. "Glorfindel, he is nothing 
like I thought he would be.”
 
“Thranduil is a mystery,” confirmed Glorfindel. “I never understood him. 
But I will also check on him before returning here. He is a guest after all 
and should be treated accordingly.” He would also put up guards close to 
Eridhren’s rooms. “Take good care of Erestor.” After seeing Elrohir nod, 
he left in search of Elrond.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
When Erestor’s sleep became restless, Elrohir exchanged his chair for the 
bed, sitting down on its edge. Erestor was moving in bed, occasionally 
releasing a soft whimper. Acting instinctively, Elrohir reached out and 
stroked the dark hair. “You can sleep safely, Erestor.” 
 
Suddenly the dark eyes flashed with a moment of awareness. “El… 
rohir?”
 
”Aye, I am here.” Elrohir smiled reassuringly. “As I said earlier, you are 
safe.”
 
“Elrohir…” Erestor’s eyes still had a glint of awareness, but sleep was 
heavy in them again. 
 
Elrohir was caught by surprise when Erestor suddenly reached for him, 
wrapping one arm around his shoulder and blindly pulling him down. He 
didn’t struggle and gave in willingly, letting the troubled Elf pull him 
close. Lying facing each other, Elrohir returned Erestor’s embrace and 
enfolded the elder Elf in a hug of his own. 
 
His heart contracted in sympathy when Erestor curled up against him, 
resting his head against his shoulder. “Aye, you are safe now. You can 
sleep,” murmured Elrohir, realizing how desperately Erestor needed to 
know he was safe. Holding his former mentor close, Elrohir was content to 
watch the elder Elf’s sleep turn quiet and peaceful again. /I am here for 
you, Erestor. And I won’t let your father get to you./
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 12
 
 
Thranduil marched straight to the quarters where his personal guards were 
staying and ordered two of them to secure Eridhren’s chambers, making 
sure the Elf couldn’t leave unnoticed. 
 
Still angry, he continued to his own guest rooms where he exchanged his 
formal robes for his leather uniform. He girded on his sword, fastened his 
cloak and left again, this time heading for the wood instead of the gardens, 
for he wanted to avoid running into Elrond again at all cost. He felt 
incredibly hurt and furious, and although part of him realized he was 
acting like a spoiled brat, he didn’t care. Elrond had broken his heart 
millennia ago and not even Aewithôn had been able to heal that wound. 
Although he had loved her dearly, part of his heart had remained scarred. 
 
He marched into the woods, drew in a deep breath and explored his 
surroundings. Living in Mirkwood required his constant alertness. 
Countless dangers lurked there, but here, in Imladris, he had conceived no 
threat, and so he let his guard down a little. Encountering a stretch of 
waving grass, he drew his sword, focused inward and began his routine 
exercises. 
 
The only noise that betrayed his presence was the soft swoosh of air, as his 
sword continued to move. Repeating exercises that had become second 
nature to him, he managed to calm down and get his feelings back under 
control. 
 
He succeeded in labeling the two things that worried him most. His first 
and most important problem was Eridhren. He had to find a way to deal 
with the Elf once and for all. He didn’t want Erestor to live in constant 
fear now that Eridhren knew his whereabouts. 
 
And then there was Elrond. His motions began to slow down, ending his 
exercises. Elrond Half-Elven… Thranduil sighed. He had lost his heart 
millennia ago and had regretted being so naïve ever since. His father had 
warned him not to trust the Peredhel, but he had assured Oropher that 
Elrond was different, that Elrond loved him. He had been such a fool! 
 
Ending his routine, he sheathed his sword and sat down on the grass, 
cross-legged. Closing his eyes, he tried to clear his head, but failed. 
Involuntarily, his hand dipped beneath the leather armor to uncover the 
silver necklace that hung around his neck. He opened the medallion that 
was attached to it and reverently took out the single lock of dark hair. 
 
Elrond had cut off a lock of his hair when they had made love for the first 
time, as a sign of their eternal love, and he had cherished it ever since, 
even though it now mocked the half-Elf’s former promises. Elrond had 
never loved him. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elladan knew he shouldn’t be watching Thranduil, but his curiosity had 
been piqued, seeing the Elf leave the Last Homely House in such a hurry. 
He had also wondered about the angry expression in those green eyes and 
had followed him here. His heart had pounded, seeing Thranduil going 
through his training exercises and he wished he could handle a sword like 
that. There was an incredible fluency and elegance to Thranduil’s moves, 
which he had never managed to master. But then again, Thranduil had 
millennia of fighting experience to draw from. 
 
His curiosity increased when Thranduil opened a silver medallion, 
revealing a dark lock of hair. Was it his wife’s? Elladan felt like an 
intruder and began to back away, but then a branch snapped beneath his 
feet, betraying his presence. 
 
Thranduil’s head snapped up as he realized he wasn’t alone. “Show 
yourself!” He was back on his feet in a second and his hand rested on the 
hilt of his sword. His sharp eyes searched the thicket where the noise had 
come from. 
 
Elladan stepped away from the coppice and stared guiltily at the earth. “I 
did not mean to spy on you.” 
 
Thranduil relaxed; he had been worried that Eridhren had followed him. 
“Why are you here, Elladan? I was under the impression that you rarely 
left your brother’s side.”
 
“How would -you- know?” Elladan had made eye contact at hearing his 
name, surprised that Thranduil could tell him apart from his brother. The 
moment he had spoken the words, he realized how insolent they sounded. 
He was about to apologize when Thranduil raised a hand, signaling for 
him to remain silent. 
 
“It may be hard to believe, but your father and I were friends once and I 
regularly make inquiries about his family. There are always Elves 
traveling through Mirkwood and they told me about you, your brother and 
Arwen.”
 
Thranduil’s interest in his family surprised Elladan. But Thranduil had 
said something else that had also caught his attention. “Ada and you were 
friends once?” Elrond had never mentioned such a thing.
 
Thranduil's smiled saddened and he sat down on the grass again. After a 
moment Elladan joined him, sitting down as well, and Thranduil was 
struck by the resemblance Elladan bore to his father. There was not a 
single trace of Celebrian in the half-Elf’s features. Oh, how Elladan 
reminded him of a young Elrond Peredhel!
 
“My lord?” Elladan frowned, seeing the distant expression in Thranduil’s 
eyes. Glorfindel was right; Thranduil was definitely a mystery!
 
“I was lost in thought,” offered Thranduil apologetically. “Aye, we were 
friends once, but that was before the Battle of the Last Alliance.”
 
Elladan suddenly remembered something and blurted it out. “Your father 
died at—“ Shocked that he had actually said that aloud, he quickly 
covered his mouth with his hand. What had possessed him to bring up 
such a painful memory?
 
Thranduil’s heart ached, recalling his father’s death, but he maintained eye 
contact with Elladan, knowing that the young half-Elf hadn’t meant any 
disrespect. 
 
“I am sorry,” offered Elladan in a guilty tone. 
 
Thranduil forced himself to smile weakly. “I accept your apology.”
 
Relieved, Elladan drew in a deep breath. There was now a tension between 
them that hadn’t been there before, and that was his fault. How could he 
make up for his stupidity? Maybe there was a way. “I watched you earlier 
and… You have great control over your sword. Would you teach me?” 
 
Thranduil watched Elladan from under a raised eyebrow. “Teach you?”
 
“I am sorry - I am being forward, but—“ He stopped talking, realizing the 
ancient Elf was probably not interested in teaching him. Thranduil’s 
sparkling laugh took him aback and he stared at the blond. “What?”
 
“You remind me of Legolas,” said Thranduil, bemused. “Fetch your 
sword, then, and we will spar. Maybe I will even teach you one of my 
moves.” It was true; Elladan did remind him of his youngest. Legolas also 
had a way of winding him around his little finger, and Elladan possessed 
the same charming quality. 
 
“I will be back in a few minutes!” Elladan jumped to his feet, a bundle of 
sudden energy. “Don’t go away! Stay here!” Enthusiastically he sprinted 
back to the Last Homely House, hoping Thranduil wouldn’t change his 
mind.
 
Thranduil shook his head in amusement, watching Elladan run. He had 
postponed visiting Imladris for millennia, afraid he might take a liking to 
the twins - and it was as he had feared. He liked them. They were full of 
life and energy, much like his own sons, but they also possessed Elrond’s 
charm. Grinning madly, he wondered what he had gotten himself in to by 
offering to teach Elladan. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Surprised, Glorfindel noticed that the door to Elrond’s study was ajar. 
Pushing it open, he scanned the room and immediately met Elrond’s gaze. 
The half-Elf seemed upset, maybe even nervous as he continued to pace 
frantically. “Is something wrong?”
 
Elrond came to halt, drew in a deep breath and then nodded his head. “So 
much is wrong. But what brings you here, mellon-nîn, when you should be 
watching over Erestor?” He had already instructed his guards to watch 
Eridhren’s quarters closely. Eridhren’s attempted assault still unnerved 
him. He had been able to get away from Eridhren, but he was afraid that 
Erestor hadn’t. 
 
“We talked.” Glorfindel closed the door behind him to make sure no one 
could eavesdrop and then sat down in front of Elrond’s desk. He waited 
for the half-Elf to seat himself and then updated Elrond, telling him 
everything he had learned about Erestor. 
 
Deep lines appeared on Elrond’s forehead whilst listening to the horrid 
tale. “I always suspected something very traumatic had happened to him in 
his youth. You have gained Erestor’s trust; he would not have confided in 
you otherwise. I am glad you managed to befriend him.”
 
“So am I.” Glorfindel had studied Elrond and had reached the conclusion 
that something else was upsetting the half-Elf. “What is troubling you? I 
can see it in your eyes. What is it?”
 
“Eridhren tried to assault me.”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes widened. “What?”
 
“He made suggestions that left little to the imagination.”
 
Finally Glorfindel understood. “He tried to sexually assault you? How 
insane is he? You are the Lord of Imladris!” He had seen Elrond fight. 
Eridhren was fortunate to be still alive.
 
Elrond raised a hand in an attempt to calm Glorfindel. “Nothing happened. 
Thranduil suddenly appeared and ordered Eridhren to return to his rooms. 
What happened after that incident was also interesting, however.”
 
Glorfindel felt lost. “Elrond, please, make sense!”
 
“Thranduil told me he is keeping Eridhren close to make sure he does not 
commit more horrible deeds. He is very much aware of Eridhren’s vile 
nature… And learning that Thranduil helped Erestor escape surprised me.”
 
“I understand your surprise. I felt the same way when Erestor told me his 
side of the story. If it had not been for Thranduil, Erestor might not have 
survived his father’s abuse.”
 
“I ordered for Eridhren’s rooms to be guarded,” said Elrond in a 
thoughtful tone.  
 
“Thranduil has already stationed some of his guards there as well.” 
Glorfindel exchanged a worried look with the half-Elf. “How do you want 
to proceed?”
 
Elrond rose to his feet, paced momentarily, and then came to a halt in front 
of the window to carefully consider the question. Staring out of the 
window, he said, “I want you to return to Erestor. He needs someone who 
he trusts close, and I hope you can deepen this beginning friendship 
between the two of you.”
 
Glorfindel nodded his head once. “I still blame myself for never looking 
behind the mask he used to wear. If only we had realized earlier how 
much he was hurting!”
 
“I tried to get through to him, but I failed.” Elrond looked over his 
shoulder at Glorfindel. “He decided to trust you. Use that to your 
advantage. He needs someone to confide in, to share his pain with. He 
might reconsider when the emotional pain he is in fully registers, but you 
cannot let him turn away again.”
 
“I will stay close to him at all times,” said Glorfindel, reassuringly. “And 
what about Eridhren?”
 
“I won’t allow him to leave his quarters until I have conferred with 
Thranduil. I want Eridhren to leave Imladris as quickly as possible, and I 
will forbid him to ever enter again.”
 
“A wise decision,” said Glorfindel, pleased. “And how will you proceed 
with Thranduil?” He knew he had to be tactful, having suspicions about 
Elrond’s past where it concerned Thranduil. Elrond had never confirmed 
his suspicions, but he felt strongly that their fallout could be the result of a 
lovers’ quarrel. It would also explain the tension he had sensed during 
Elrond and Thranduil’s sparse meetings. 
 
“I will deal with Thranduil. Do not concern yourself with that.” Looking 
out of the window again, he frowned deeply, seeing Elladan leave in a 
hurry, carrying a sword. /Where is he going?/ Feeling the strong urge to 
find out, he dismissed Glorfindel. “Return to Erestor and guard him well. 
There is a matter I want to investigate.”
 
Glorfindel got to his feet. “I will keep you informed about Erestor.” After 
seeing Elrond nod, he stepped into the corridor and headed back to 
Erestor’s quarters. 
 
Elrond gathered his robes around him and left as well, intent on tracking 
down Elladan and finding out his son’s intensions.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elladan ran back to the clearing, hoping Thranduil was still there, waiting 
for him. Searching his surroundings, he sighed, relieved, seeing the blond 
seated on the grass. Suddenly he recalled the medallion he had seen 
Thranduil open earlier; he still wondered whom that lock belonged to. But 
he put that thought aside as he came to a halt in front of Thranduil, panting 
softly. “You stayed.”
 
Thranduil smiled and rose to his feet. “You asked me to.”
 
“I was not sure you would.”
 
“I always keep my promises,” said Thranduil, bemused. Elladan was 
staring at him, wide-eyed, and now presented his sword. Thranduil rose to 
his feet, took it, and wielded it to test its balance. “It is a good sword,” he 
said, returning it to the half-Elf.
 
“Ada gave it to me when I reached my majority,” said Elladan in a proud 
tone, taking firmly hold of the sword and waiting for Thranduil to tell him 
what to do.
 
“Did he also teach you how to use it?” Thranduil drew his sword, studying 
the young half-Elf and seeing much of a younger, passionate Elrond in 
Elladan. 
 
“Glorfindel did. Ada was too busy with formal matters.” Elladan assumed 
his position and blocked Thranduil’s attack, launching one of his own. 
 
Thranduil easily warded off the blow and used one of his own patented 
moves to drive Elladan back.
 
Elladan started slightly when he was backed up against a tree. Thranduil 
moved too quickly for him and suddenly his sword flew through the air. 
Not even Glorfindel had ever managed to disarm him this quickly! Awed, 
his eyes sparkled and he greedily stared at the blond, hoping Thranduil 
would teach him that particular move! 
 
Thranduil recognized Elladan’s eagerness to learn, and was inclined to 
indulge the young half-Elf and teach him; but then everything changed. 
Suddenly his trusted sword was knocked out of his hand, and he was flung 
hard onto the ground. Rendered speechless, he tried to catch his breath and 
stared at Elrond, who had grabbed Elladan’s sword and had now placed it 
against his throat. 
 
Elrond glared at Thranduil. When he had arrived he had seen Thranduil 
threaten Elladan, and his instincts had taken over. “That is low, even for 
you.”
 
Elladan stared at his father in shock. Why was Elrond threatening 
Thranduil? He wanted to explain everything, but Elrond silenced him by 
raising his hand. 
 
Elrond kept his attention focused on the blond and his features contorted 
in loathing from looking at Thranduil. “Your quarrel is with me, not my 
son. Don’t ever try to hurt Elladan again.”
 
“But Ada!” Elladan moved toward Elrond, but his father’s glare froze him 
in his tracks. 
 
Thranduil’s anger rose. Ignoring the fact that the tip of Elladan’s sword 
was cutting into his throat and drawing blood, he returned Elrond’s glare. 
“I suggest you remove that sword now.” His tone was bitter and his eyes 
had turned cold.. 
 
“Ada, listen to me!” But Elladan didn’t get the chance to explain. 
Suddenly Thranduil was on his feet and Elrond had been disarmed. His 
sword was in Thranduil’s hand now. How had the blond done that? His 
father looked shocked as well. 
 
Thranduil handed the sword back to Elladan and then faced Elrond. He 
could tell by the look in his former lover’s eyes that the half-Elf was 
raging inwardly, and only kept back because Elladan was present. “That 
fact that you think me capable of intentionally hurting your son is…” Lost 
for words, he shook his head. “I would never hurt him! Why would I?”
 
Elrond lost his patience. “When you cannot get to me you hurt them 
instead! I know you!”
 
“You do not know me at all,” said Thranduil in an oddly soft, almost 
gentle tone. 
 
Elladan’s confusion was growing, watching the two of them. They looked 
like they were ready to tear each other apart and yet… There was 
something else hiding beneath the anger. He had never felt such a 
particular tension! 
 
Thranduil’s tender tone caught Elrond off guard and he actually calmed 
down. Whilst still glaring at Thranduil, Elladan’s words finally registered.
 
“Ada, we were sparring. He agreed to teach me some of his maneuvers. It 
was not for real!” Elladan grabbed his father’s arm, finally getting Elrond 
to look at him. “I wanted to learn from him and he agreed to teach me!”
 
Elrond stared at Elladan in disbelief. “He was not--?” Now that Elladan’s 
words proved him wrong, he didn’t know how to react. Had he falsely 
accused Thranduil? “But I saw him—“
 
“I disarmed him to demonstrate one of my maneuvers. Elladan never was 
in any danger.” Thranduil’s eyes were frozen ice and all emotions were 
gone from them. “I think it is best when I discuss our plans for joined 
border patrols with Glorfindel tomorrow morning, instead of you. That 
way we do not have to meet again. I will leave tomorrow evening, and I 
will take Eridhren with me.” 
 
Elrond only now fully realized his mistake, but he refused to apologize. 
He didn’t want Thranduil to gloat. “That would be best, yes.”
 
Thranduil nodded, and then smiled reassuringly at Elladan. “You will be a 
great swordsman one day. Just keep practicing.”
 
Elladan, lost for words, nodded as well, regretting the fact that this 
sparring match had caused such an argument between Thranduil and his 
father. He just couldn’t understand why Elrond had overreacted like that! 
Surely his father didn’t really believe that Thranduil was capable of 
hurting him? He knew his father well enough to realize that Elrond would 
never have allowed Thranduil to visit if he’d had doubts. What was this 
argument really about? 
 
Thranduil no longer paid Elrond any attention and marched away from the 
two half-Elves, returning to his guest quarters. Any thoughts of possibly 
rebuilding some sort of friendship with Elrond were gone now. 
 
“Ada? Why did you do that? You did not really think he would hurt me, 
did you?” Elladan struggled to understand, but failed. 
 
“Aiya, Elladan…” Elrond sighed, dejectedly. “I made a mistake in 
judgment.”
 
“Then why do you not admit you were wrong? Why blame Thranduil?” 
 
Elrond shook his head. He couldn’t tell Elladan the real reason behind 
their animosities. He didn’t want his son to know he’d had a brief affair 
with the blond. 
 
Frustrated that his father wasn’t answering, Elladan shuffled his feet and 
saw that Thranduil’s sword still lay on the ground. He reverently picked it 
up. A thoughtful gleam appeared in his eyes. “Someone should return this 
to him. And I think it should be you. You owe him an apology, Ada.” The 
pleading expression in his father’s eyes took Elladan aback. “Why are you 
acting so strangely? I do not know you like this!” 
 
“Don’t ask me to explain this to you.”
 
Elladan frowned. “Thranduil told me you were friends once. Why can you 
not be friends again? I do not know what happened between the two of 
you, but I think he would like to rebuild that friendship. There was a sad 
note to his voice when he spoke of the past. And why did you think he 
would hurt me? I do not understand you.”
 
Elrond slowly curled his fingers around the hilt of Thranduil’s sword and 
sighed, distressed. “There is a lot of history between us, much more than 
you know.”
 
Elladan’s hands dropped, forcing his father to take hold of Thranduil’s 
sword. “You take it back to him.” Stubbornly, he locked gazes with his 
father. “You chased him away, you give it back to him.”
 
Elrond wondered about Elladan’s stubborn streak. Celebrian would say he 
had inherited it from his father. “I will talk to Thranduil.”
 
“You should do more than talk. You should apologize for your behavior. 
You completely overreacted.”
 
“I did,” admitted Elrond slowly. “But I had my reasons.”
 
Elladan rested his hand on his father’s shoulder. “Ada, I do not know what 
happened between Thranduil and you in the past, but it must have 
happened centuries ago. Maybe it is time to talk about it and to let it go?”
 
“How did you go from stubborn to wise in seconds?” Elrond laughed 
warmly.  Elladan never ceased to amaze him. “Would you like to spar 
with him again? He is a great warrior.”
 
“I would love to, but only if you can deal with it. I do not want you 
attacking Thranduil again.” Frustrated, Elladan wished his father would 
tell him what this was really about, but he knew Elrond well enough to 
know he wouldn’t confide in him. His father was good at keeping secrets. 
He nodded once and then left, figuring Elrond needed a moment to sort 
out his thoughts.
 
Elrond stared at Thranduil’s sword. The blond had named it before riding 
into battle at the Last Alliance. Nîn doll caun… My dark prince… 
Thranduil had named his sword after him. When he had found out he had 
laughed at Thranduil, and now that he recalled that moment, Thranduil 
had looked hurt. But that hadn’t registered with him at the time. 
 
/I really hurt you in the past and I hurt you again today. That was never 
my intention. I do not know why I thought you were about to hurt Elladan. 
I should know you better. You might have an arrogant air about you, but 
you would never hurt my son./ 
 
Elrond hated himself for thinking that badly of Thranduil. /Elladan is 
right. I need to apologize. And we need to do more. We need to talk about 
the past and let it go, just like Elladan said./  
 
Elrond turned around and walked toward the Last Homely House. Elladan 
was right; Thranduil and he needed to talk.
 
It was time he faced his past choices.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye! Thanks!


Part 13
 
 
When Erestor awoke he felt warm and safe, and the first thing he noticed 
was Elrohir, whom he had cuddled up to during his sleep. Feeling 
embarrassed for invading the half-Elf’s personal space like that, he began 
to move away from him. 
 
Elrohir woke and his gaze settled questioningly on Erestor. “Is something 
wrong?” The Noldorin Elf looked uncomfortable, but why? Elrohir 
released Erestor and stretched lazily. “I must have fallen asleep as well.” 
That had not been his intention; he had wanted to watch over Erestor, not 
join him in sleep. 
 
“Why are you here?” Erestor slowly sat upright, pulled his knees to his 
chest, and wrapped his arms around them. After resting his head on his 
knees, he watched Elrohir curiously. He vaguely recalled pulling Elrohir 
into bed with him. Why had Elrohir let him do that? “Should you not be 
with Elladan?” He had warned Glorfindel to make sure the twins were 
safe, hadn’t he?
 
“I do not know where Elladan is,” said Elrohir, sitting upright as well. He 
swung his feet onto the floor and then rose from the bed. “You look 
rumpled,” remarked Elrohir in an amused tone. “Maybe a hot bath would 
help?”
 
Erestor shrugged. “I do not want to impose on you.”
 
Elrohir extended his hand, hoping Erestor would take it. 
 
Erestor took hold of the offered limb and slowly rose from the bed, feeling 
slightly disorientated now that the emotional storm had passed. By 
Elbereth! He had actually told Glorfindel about the childhood abuse! 
Shaky, he looked at Elrohir. Did the young half-Elf know as well? He 
looked away; he didn’t really want to know the answer to that question. 
 
Elrohir steered Erestor into the bathroom, pulled out towels and scented 
bathing oil, and filled the bathtub. “Do you need my help to remove that 
sleeping robe or can you manage alone?”
 
Erestor quickly nodded his head. “I can manage.” It was bad enough 
Glorfindel had seen him naked! The blond had already seen the scars at 
the back of his neck, and the last thing he wanted was for Elrohir to notice 
them as well. 
 
Elrohir smiled understandingly and then closed the door behind him. 
Whilst Erestor was taking his bath, he instructed one of the servants to 
bring them dinner and hot tea. He knocked on the bathroom door to make 
sure Erestor was all right. “Is there anything you need?”
 
Erestor, who was just sitting down in the soothing, warm water, started 
slightly at the knock, but relaxed, hearing Elrohir’s voice. “No, I am fine.”
 
“Call if you need me.” Elrohir smiled, pleased that Erestor was relaxing 
slightly. He sat down in a chair and waited for the servant to return with 
their food.
 
Smiling, Erestor poured some of the scented oil into the water and a sweet, 
flowery fragrance filled the bathroom. He leaned back in the bathtub, 
closed his eyes, and simply enjoyed the peace and quiet, feeling rather 
drained after confessing his past to Glorfindel.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
They thought they had succeeded in confining him to his rooms, but 
Eridhren had sneaked out through the window and climbed back into the 
house, ending up in the same corridor as his son’s quarters were. Alert, he 
listened to the voices that emanated from the rooms to his right and he 
immediately identified his son’s voice. Listening closer, he heard a second 
voice, which belonged to Elrohir, Elrond’s youngest son. When he had 
joined them for dinner he had admired the twins, developing a particular 
liking for Elrohir. /This way I can get them both!/ 
 
A servant, carrying a tray filled with delicious food items, suddenly 
appeared to his right. Realizing he was heading for the rooms his son and 
Elrohir were in, Eridhren moved quickly. He sneaked up from behind, 
slung an arm around the servant’s neck and squeezed hard, cutting off the 
Elf’s air supply. After catching the tray with one hand, he slowly laid 
down the now unconscious Elf behind a curtain. He headed for the door 
and knocked. 
 
“Who is it?”
 
Ah, Elrohir’s voice. Eridhren was already having visions of making the 
young half-Elf submit to him, and then he would have his way with his 
beautiful body. “I am bringing you dinner.”
 
Elrohir, not suspecting any danger, walked over to the door and opened it. 
His eyes widened, coming face to face with Eridhren. He wanted to 
scream in order to alert Erestor, but Eridhren quickly placed his hand over 
his mouth, keeping him from calling out. 
 
Eridhren grinned, seeing the shocked expression on the half-Elf’s face. “I 
think I prefer you to your father. I like them young!”
 
Elrohir, furious with himself for getting caught this easily, tried to shake 
Eridhren off, but suddenly a knife appeared close to his throat, digging 
into his flesh. 
 
Eridhren kicked the door shut behind him and steered a struggling Elrohir 
toward the fireplace. “Fight me and I will only hurt you more.” 
 
Elrohir refused to surrender and managed to kick Eridhren’s shin. But the 
tip of the blade suddenly dipped beneath his skin, cutting into his flesh and 
he instinctively froze in his tracks. Erestor was in the next room and he 
had to make sure his former mentor stayed there! He had to prevent 
Eridhren from getting to him at all cost. “We are already on to you! We 
know what you really are. My father will deal with you!” He hoped his 
words would enrage Eridhren so the elder Elf would lose his calm and 
make a mistake. 
 
“I will get to Elrond eventually,” sneered Eridhren, “but first I am going to 
try you. And then I am going to teach my son to never run away again!”
 
Elrohir doubled his efforts to free himself, hearing Eridhren’s threats. “I 
will make sure you never touch him again!”
 
“Ah, he told you then?” Eridhren was surprised. “I thought I had taught 
him only too well what punishment awaited him if he ever confided in 
someone.”
 
Enraged, Elrohir struggled, but he managed to free himself when Eridhren 
lost his footing. His attacker then held onto him in an effort to break his 
fall. 
 
Elrohir hit the floor hard and his head banged into a wooden chest. 
Panting, his vision darkened momentarily, and he realized he was losing 
this fight. /I have to fight back; I have to protect Erestor… He depends on 
me!/ But the room was spinning and every attempt at rising to his feet 
failed. When his vision cleared, he saw that Eridhren was quickly 
advancing on him with a malicious grin on his face.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
The noises coming from the bedroom startled Erestor, who froze and 
listened closely, trying to determine if something was wrong. He knew 
Elrohir was still in the next room, but…  His eyes widened, hearing his 
father’s slithery voice. Eridhren had finally made his move, as he knew his 
father would. 
 
He rose from the water, ignoring the droplets that dripped from his body. 
He didn’t bother to wrap a towel around himself; instead he removed one 
of the ceremonial daggers he had hung for decoration on the wall. Tightly 
curling his fingers around its hilt, he sneaked toward the doorway, slowing 
pushing the door ajar. 
 
The scene, which now unfolded in front of him, nearly froze the blood in 
his veins. Elrohir was on his back, looking disorientated, and his father 
was straddling the twin’s hips, dragging a knife down Elrohir’s throat. 
Finally getting a look at the half-Elf’s eyes, he realized they were glazed; 
Elrohir was injured. Now it was up to him to save the young half-Elf. 
Hiding the knife behind his back, he stepped into the room. 
 
Eridhren’s grin twisted, seeing Erestor emerge from the bathroom. “Naked 
already? That eager, child?” 
 
Elrohir was slowly regaining his sight and now stared at Erestor. /What is 
he doing? Why did he not stay in the bathroom?/ Eridhren’s knife was still 
positioned near his throat and warm blood was dripping onto his robes 
from where the Elf had cut him. “Erestor, lock yourself up in the 
bathroom!” 
 
But Erestor, feeling entranced, shook his head. “I won’t let him do to you 
what he did to me. I will stop him.”
 
Eridhren laughed coldly. “You? You want to stop me? Child, you never 
managed to stop me before.”
 
“I am older now, stronger.” Erestor tried to decide on a strategy. He 
wanted to disarm Eridhren without Elrohir being hurt in the process. 
 
“We will see about that. Come here, child, obey me.” Eridhren pushed the 
knife deeper into Elrohir’s flesh as a warning.
 
“Erestor, do not listen to him! Leave this room, now!” Elrohir was 
growing frustrated. Why wasn’t Erestor listening? 
 
Erestor surprised himself, feeling calm and calculating. Coming to a stop 
in front of his father, he met Eridhren’s gaze. “Your face has haunted me 
my entire life. I want it to stop.”
 
Eridhren frowned; what was Erestor talking about? “You had better do as I 
say, or this young one will pay dearly for your disobedience.”
 
Knowing he would only get one chance to disarm his father, Erestor 
carefully chose the right moment to act. As his father looked down to gloat 
at Elrohir, he moved forward. 
 
But Eridhren realized something was wrong and raised his knife to ward 
off Erestor’s blow. Glaring at his son in disbelief, he grew furious. “How 
do you dare to attack me? Your own father?”
 
Erestor used this opportunity to push his father away from Elrohir, making 
sure the half-Elf was safe now. “Don’t you dare touch him! You will never 
hurt anyone again!”
 
Eridhren’s eyes caught fire and he raised his hand to bury his knife in 
Erestor’s chest.
 
Erestor felt paralyzed and his eyes seemed glued to the shiny blade that 
now descended slowly, aimed at his heart. Maybe it was best this way. 
What kind of life did he have left now that Glorfindel, and shortly the rest, 
knew what his father had done to him? Maybe it was better to join his 
mother in the Halls of Waiting instead of hanging on to his life. His father 
had never wanted him, and, except for the last few days, his life had been 
misery. Waiting for the knife to end his life, he was stunned when Elrohir 
pulled his legs away from underneath him, causing him to tumble onto the 
floor. At the same time an angry scream echoed through the room. 
 
Glorfindel pounced on Eridhren, pushed him against the wall and tried to 
take possession of the knife. When he had heard their voices he had run 
down the corridor, only arriving just in time to keep Eridhren from 
plunging the blade into Erestor’s chest. “You bastard!” How had Eridhren 
managed to fool the guards in the corridor? But he could worry about that 
later; Eridhren was now aiming the tip of the knife at his throat and he had 
to stop the disturbed Elf. 
 
Erestor stared at Elrohir, who was dragging him away from the two 
fighting Elves. Still feeling paralyzed, he allowed Elrohir to take hold of 
his dagger, vaguely wondering what the young half-Elf was up to. 
 
Eridhren’s blade now touched Glorfindel’s throat and was beginning to 
pierce his skin. The Elda knew this was serious; Eridhren was capable of 
ending his life. Suddenly Eridhren released an angry whimper and the 
Elf’s eyes widened. 
 
Elrohir staggered back, sank onto his knees next to Erestor, and both of 
them stared at the hilt of the knife sticking out of Eridhren’s side. The 
half-Elf wrapped his arms around Erestor, dragging him with him as 
Eridhren approached. 
 
Eridhren’s eyes flashed madly in their sockets as blood began to drip from 
his lips. “You… You really…” He couldn’t believe that Elrohir had 
stabbed him!
 
Hearing his father’s voice awoke Erestor from his trance-like state and he 
realized that he was on his knees with Elrohir’s arms tightly wrapped 
around him. His father was prowling closer. They had to get away from 
him before Eridhren could hurt Elrohir. All he could think about was 
protecting Elrohir from his father.  
 
Glorfindel moved in quickly now that Eridhren’s back was toward him. 
Had the Elf gone truly insane, presenting himself as such an easy target? 
When Eridhren raised his hand, and aimed his dagger at Elrohir, 
Glorfindel acted. Pulling a knife from his boot, he raised his hand and 
buried the blade to the hilt in Eridhren’s back. 
 
A keening wail left Eridhren’s lips as he hit the floor. His body suffered 
several rounds of convulsions, but then Eridhren grew motionless, 
Glorfindel nudged Eridhren with his foot to make sure he was dead. 
 
Erestor gasped, seeing the pool of blood that was quickly forming beneath 
his father’s body. “Is he… dead?”
 
Glorfindel sat on his heels and searched for a pulse, which he didn’t find. 
“Aye, he is dead.” 
 
Erestor blinked several times, trying to understand what had happened 
during these last few minutes. Everything had happened so quickly! 
Recalling that his father had attacked Elrohir, he quickly looked at the 
half-Elf and started to check him for injuries. “Did he hurt you? You are 
bleeding!” He encountered some drops of blood on Elrohir’s throat and 
checked the small wound with shaky hands. 
 
“It is just a scratch,” said Elrohir reassuringly. Seeing the distant 
expression in Erestor’s eyes, he reached out and managed to grab a 
blanket, which he wrapped around Erestor’s naked body. “He did not hurt 
me.” Seeing Erestor’s big eyes brought tears to his. “It is true, mellon-nîn. 
I am unharmed.” Erestor’s fingertips still hovered above his throat and he 
repeated his words, hoping he would get through to the elder Elf this time. 
“I am fine, Erestor.” Elrohir signaled for Glorfindel to approach. 
 
The blond sat on his heels next to them, taking Erestor into his arms. “It is 
over now. He is dead. He can never hurt you again.” Glorfindel buried 
Erestor in a warm hug, growing worried when the raven-haired Elf didn’t 
react. “Erestor? Can you hear me?” 
 
Erestor blinked again, and this time Glorfindel’s voice registered with 
him. Staring at his father’s corpse, he shivered beneath the blanket. “How 
did… he… get in here?”
 
Elrohir guiltily bowed his head. “I let him in. I thought he was a servant 
bringing dinner.”
 
Glorfindel bit his bottom lip whilst tightening his hold on Erestor, who 
was now trembling violently. “The guards should have stopped him from 
leaving his quarters. You are not to blame, Elrohir.”
 
“What do we do now?” Elrohir got to his feet again and drew in a deep, 
steadying breath. 
 
“Instruct one of the guards to take the corpse to the healing house,” said 
Glorfindel softly, “The healers will tend to the body.”
 
“Stay with Erestor,” replied Elrohir, who left Erestor’s rooms to instruct 
the guards. He also needed a private moment to sort out his thoughts. Then 
he would inform his father whilst Glorfindel took care of Erestor.
 
“Your hair is wet,” remarked Glorfindel, slightly puzzled. 
 
“I was taking a bath when… when I heard him threatening Elrohir.” 
Erestor felt strangely calm now that his father was dead. 
 
Glorfindel saw the shock in Erestor’s eyes and bestowed another warm 
hug on the shivering Elf. “We should leave this room.” 
 
Erestor nodded once and allowed Glorfindel to help him to his feet. 
 
Glorfindel made sure the blanket stayed in place whilst steering the dark-
haired Elf into the corridor. “We will go to my rooms.” 
 
Erestor hardly heard Glorfindel’s voice. He was still trying to comprehend 
what had just happened. His father was dead. Eridhren no longer presented 
a danger to him, and, for the first time in his life, he felt free. 
 
Glorfindel had a vague idea of what was going through Erestor’s mind and 
chose to remain quiet during their walk to his quarters. He sat the dark-
haired Elf down on the bed, searched the closet, and returned with a 
burgundy robe, made of soft, warm velvet. After pushing the blanket from 
Erestor’s shoulders, he dressed the absentminded Elf in the warm robes. 
“Better?” 
 
Erestor finally pulled himself from his memories and looked at the blond. 
“Thank you,” he whispered, realizing very well that Glorfindel had 
probably saved his and Elrohir's lives.
 
Glorfindel pulled up a chair and sat down opposite Erestor, who extended 
his hands. Correctly interpreting that motion, Glorfindel clasped the dark-
haired Elf’s hands in his, rubbing the skin. “Why don’t you tell me what 
happened? Maybe it will help you cope.”
 
Erestor nodded absentmindedly. “I was taking a bath when I heard his 
voice. I took one of your daggers and challenged him. I had to get him 
away from Elrohir!”
 
“You challenged him?” Glorfindel smiled proudly. “You stood up to 
him?”
 
“I tried to,” said Erestor, blushing slightly under Glorfindel’s proud look. 
“But I was no match for him. If it had not been for you—“
 
Glorfindel interrupted him. “But that does not matter. Don’t you 
understand, Erestor? You did not hide from him! You stood up to him and 
challenged him! You are much stronger than you think!” The look of 
surprise that Erestor gave him caused a sad smile to surface on his face. 
“You do not even know just how strong you are, do you?”
 
Erestor shook his head. “I have no idea what you are talking about.”
 
And the sad thing was, Erestor really didn’t, realized Glorfindel. “When I 
got injured in that storm you set aside your own pain and took me back to 
Imladris. Do you have any idea how much courage and strength that took? 
You allowed Elrohir and I in; you finally put your trust in us. Again, do 
you even realize how courageous you are to do that? And now you 
defended Elrohir from your father.”
 
At a loss, Erestor simply stared at Glorfindel. What was the blond raving 
about?
 
Seeing the puzzled expression in Erestor’s dark eyes, Glorfindel settled for 
a warm, encouraging smile. “Do you want to go back to sleep?”
 
“I do not want to sleep. I cannot sleep, not after… He really wanted to hurt 
Elrohir.”
 
Glorfindel wisely held his tongue and kept silent about Eridhren’s attempt 
to assault Elrond. “But you stopped him. Elrohir is safe.”
 
“What do I do now?” Erestor nearly panicked as his feelings overwhelmed 
him. He felt adrift on a sea of emotions, helpless and without a beacon to 
guide him. He clung to Glorfindel instead. 
 
The blond sucked in his breath when Erestor suddenly flung himself at 
him, enveloping him in a tight hug. He quickly brought up his arms behind 
Erestor’s back and returned the embrace. The fact that Erestor was no 
longer afraid to reach out encouraged him. Warm and fiercely protective 
feelings rose in his heart, as he hugged Erestor close. Suddenly, he 
recalled the dark-haired Elf’s question. “I will tell you what to do.” Erestor 
pleadingly looked at him, and he continued, “You will stay here, with me, 
and we will wait for your nerves to calm down.”
 
Erestor nodded slowly. That sounded logical. 
 
“And then we will discuss the future.”
 
“What is there to discuss?” Erestor frowned, deeply. 
 
“Things will change, are already changing,” said Glorfindel passionately. 
“I won’t allow you to hide any longer.” 
 
Erestor sighed, dejectedly. “Things will go back to normal only too soon.”
 
“I do not think so.” Glorfindel placed two fingers beneath Erestor’s chin 
and lifted the dark-haired Elf’s head so they made eye contact. These 
warm and protective feelings, which he had identified moments ago, were 
blossoming, becoming stronger and more passionate. There was no 
denying that he greatly cared about Erestor, but there was more to it. He 
hadn’t felt like this for centuries. Was it really love that was blossoming 
inside his heart? And if it was, would Erestor ever feel the same way?  
Should he take the risk and reveal his attraction, which he suspected had 
been there for quite some time? This was hardly the right time. “You are 
afraid things will go back to normal then?”
 
Erestor, who had rested his head on Glorfindel’s shoulder, nodded. “I 
know they will, but…I do not want to be alone any more. I do not think I 
could deal with losing your friendship - or Elrohir’s for that matter. 
Having friends feels so… so warm. I never felt like that before. I do not 
want to lose that feeling.”
 
“You won’t,” vowed Glorfindel, passionately. Erestor’s face was only 
inches away from his, and he was overwhelmed by the urge to kiss the 
raven-haired Elf. He didn’t know if it was a wise thing to do, but he gave 
in, softly touching his lips to Erestor’s. 
 
Erestor’s eyes widened and his breathing stopped momentarily, seeing 
Glorfindel lean in closer and then… then he felt soft lips against his for the 
first time in his life. The kiss was warm and gentle, and when Glorfindel 
pulled back, Erestor found he was panting softly. “Why did you do that?” 
He couldn’t think of a reason why the blond would possibly want to kiss 
him! 
 
Glorfindel grew sad, seeing the confusion in Erestor’s eyes. “I do not 
know when it happened, but it seems I have fallen in love with you.”
 
“In love with me?” Erestor shook his head in disbelief. “Why do you say 
such a thing? Why hurt my feelings when I am already feeling miserable? 
I do not need you to lie to me.”
 
“Lie?” Glorfindel couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Why do you 
think I am lying?”
 
Erestor pulled back, freed himself of Glorfindel’s embrace, and folded his 
arms around his waist. “What is there to love? My sharp tongue? You 
cannot possibly love me. I do not believe it.” But the truth was that he was 
afraid to believe it. He had always hoped that someone would break 
through his defenses, but he couldn’t believe the Elda had developed 
feelings for him. “Look at you, Glorfindel. You are a mighty warrior, 
skilled diplomat and radiantly beautiful. Why would you love me?” 
 
“You think I am beautiful?” Glorfindel’s smile grew brilliant. “Aye, you 
do.” 
 
Erestor didn’t know how to react to that. It was the last thing he had 
expected Glorfindel to say. 
 
“Erestor, you –like- me, do you not?” Glorfindel realized this would be 
tricky, but Erestor had just called him a skilled diplomat, so he figured he 
would manage. “Do you?”
 
“Aye, I like you,” whispered Erestor, averting his eyes. Why was 
Glorfindel doing this to him? “But I know you cannot love me and you do 
not need to pretend you do. I am more than happy to be your friend… if 
you will let me.” 
 
Glorfindel slowly raised his hand and placed it against Erestor’s cheek, 
letting a fingertip trace the outline of the other Elf’s lips. “You never had a 
lover before…” he realized, wondering why he felt shaken when it was 
only logical that Erestor had stayed clear of relationships. “And you 
cannot believe I love you.”
 
Erestor nodded. “Glorfindel, I… I…” Lost for words, he bowed his head. 
 
Glorfindel raised Erestor’s chin again. This time tears lurked in the dark 
eyes and he leaned in closer, gently kissing first one, and then the other 
eyelid. “Do not cry anymore, nîn amdir. You once said you hoped that 
some good was left on Arda, and I finally understand what you were 
trying to say. Will you give me a chance to prove myself to you?”
 
“What are you saying?” Erestor was trembling, feeling uncertain. 
 
“I have fallen in love with you, Erestor.” Glorfindel stroked the long, still 
damp tresses. “I know this is new to you, but put your hope and trust in 
me, please.”
 
Erestor was at a loss for words momentarily and simply stared at the 
blond. “You cannot love me. No one ever has.”
 
Glorfindel’s gaze became stern, determined. “I do love you, nîn amdir. 
These feelings are new to me as well, but I want to explore them… with 
you.” 
 
Erestor sighed, distressed. “I do not understand why you are doing this. 
No one has ever loved me. Why would you?”
 
Glorfindel realized that words wouldn’t get through to Erestor, so he 
leaned in and claimed the dark-haired Elf’s lips again, tender and 
patiently. When he pulled away, he saw a new, hopeful expression in 
Erestor’s eyes and he smiled, pleased. “I do love you and I will make you 
understand.”
 
Erestor quivered, hearing Glorfindel’s determined and passionate tone. “I 
wish I could believe you.”
 
His fingers now tangled in Erestor’s long hair and Glorfindel smiled 
warmly. “I will make you believe. I promise.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 14
 
 
Elrond actually felt nervous, standing in front of the door to Thranduil’s 
guest quarters. In his hand he still carried the blond’s sword, and he 
couldn’t help but wonder if coming here was the wrong thing to do. 
Maybe Elladan was wrong and he should be cutting all ties, instead of 
talking things through with Thranduil. In the end, he set aside his doubts 
and knocked. 
 
“Enter!”
 
Thranduil sounded annoyed and Elrond pushed down the door handle, 
wondering just how cross the blond was with him. Maybe Thranduil 
would be more forgiving after he had apologized for attacking him earlier. 
After opening the door, he remained frozen in the doorway. Thranduil was 
in the process of removing his uniform, and was only wearing his leather 
breeches. The thing that instantly attracted his attention was the medallion 
around Thranduil’s neck, which looked awfully familiar.
 
Thranduil’s head snapped up, seeing Elrond enter, and he quickly slipped 
into a green shirt. Still frustrated from their earlier meeting, he sneered, 
“What do you want?” His eyes drifted lower and settled on his sword. He 
had planned to retrieve it after changing into a shirt and leggings. He icily 
stared at Elrond and barely refrained from snatching his sword from the 
half-Elf’s hands. 
 
Elrond forced himself to remain calm, reminding himself that Thranduil 
had every right to be cross with him after the way he had acted earlier. 
Calmly, he said, “Elladan wanted me to return this to you - and he also 
told me to apologize.” 
 
Thranduil raised an eyebrow. “Apologize?” He couldn’t recall Elrond ever 
apologizing to him before. 
 
Elrond raised his hands and presented the sword to his former friend and 
lover. “You used this sword at the Battle of the Last Alliance. You even 
named it after me.” Meeting Thranduil’s eyes, he easily read the pain in 
them. 
 
“Another mistake I made,” said Thranduil, embittered, taking hold of his 
sword. After sheathing it in his scabbard he placed it on the table. 
 
“Mistake?” Elrond sighed, dejectedly. “I regret that you think about our 
time together in that way.”
 
“I regret losing my heart to you,” replied Thranduil softly. Pushing back a 
stray lock that had found a way into his face, he shrugged uncomfortably. 
“We were young and naïve. I should have listened to my father.”
 
Elrond swallowed hard, raised his eyes and met the blond’s stubborn gaze. 
“That locket… Is it the one I gave you after…?” His voice deserted him, 
recalling the first time they had made love. 
 
“I assume you want it back?” Thranduil unclasped the necklace and 
offered it to Elrond with an unreadable expression in his eyes. “I was a 
fool to carry it with me all this time.”
 
Elrond finally realized just how hurt Thranduil really felt and raised a 
hand, stopping the blond from continuing. “Can we talk without having a 
fight?”
 
Thranduil placed the locket onto the table, next to the sword, and waited 
for Elrond to continue. He wasn’t taking the initiative, uncertain where the 
half-Elf wanted to take this. “I did not start it.”
 
Elrond held Thranduil’s gaze prisoner, seeing lost hope and hurt in the sea 
green eyes. “Can we sit down?” Their tempers had always been evenly 
matched and none of them wanted to admit they could have been wrong in 
the past. 
 
Thranduil nodded and pointed at the chairs near the fireplace. After 
seating himself, he watched Elrond sit down as well, eyes still locked with 
his. “What do you want to discuss? The joined border patrols? Eridhren? 
Erestor?” He tried hard to maintain a dignified air, but inwardly he was 
still hurting. 
 
“I want to talk about -us-,” said Elrond, taking the plunge into the deep. 
He had no idea how Thranduil was going to react, but felt he had to 
address this for both their sakes. Slowly, he rose to his feet and walked 
over to the table to retrieve the locket, which Thranduil had left there. 
After returning to his chair, he stared at the golden medallion. 
 
Thranduil involuntarily held his breath. He had thought Elrond wouldn’t 
want to discuss this. He briefly considered snatching the locket from the 
half-Elf’s hand, but instead he felt paralyzed as his former lover opened it. 
 
Elrond took out the lock of hair and studied it. “You kept it with you for 
all these millennia? What does that mean?”
 
/It means I loved you; I still do./ But Thranduil couldn’t say the words, 
couldn’t make himself that vulnerable again. 
 
Now that Thranduil remained quiet, Elrond searched the blond’s eyes. 
During the brief time in which they had been lovers, those emerald eyes 
had never hidden things from him, but now their expression was guarded. 
He had to go first, or Thranduil would never meet him halfway. “I am 
sorry I turned my back on you when I became Gil-galad’s lover.” Looking 
into Thranduil’s eyes, he searched for emotions in vain. Sighing, he added. 
“Let me explain.”
 
Thranduil just inclined his head, not staying a single word yet. He was 
curious to learn what Elrond wanted to say. 
 
“I really loved you.”
 
Thranduil snorted. “Cut the lies, Elrond.”
 
“It is not a lie!” Elrond rose to his feet and began to pace the room, unable 
to stay seated any longer. “I -did- love you, but Gil-galad—“
 
“Accursed be his name,” spat Thranduil venomously whilst his nails 
clawed the wooden armrest.  
 
Elrond flinched, hearing the venom in Thranduil’s voice, but in his heart 
he knew he deserved it. “Gil-galad was my hero, you know that, and when 
the High-King himself expressed an interest in me I was flattered.” 
 
“You had caught his eye and he wanted you in his bed,” said Thranduil 
slowly, “He knew we were together, but that did not matter to him. He 
was used to getting what he wanted, and he wanted you. You went to him 
willingly, deserting me.”
 
“I was young,” said Elrond in a pleading tone. “I was flattered that he 
would want me! I worshipped him!”
 
“And so you went to him when he ordered you into his bed.” Thranduil’s 
tone softened. “I am not really cross with you, I assume. It is Gil-galad 
whom I blame for our… separation.” 
 
Realizing that Thranduil was finally opening up to him, Elrond continued. 
“During many nights I asked myself if I really loved him. Being honest, I 
have to admit I was in love with the power he presented, his strength, 
maybe even his arrogance.” Looking at Thranduil, his gaze softened. “He 
was the complete opposite of you. He took what he wanted. That raw 
power attracted me.”
 
“Ah, so I made the mistake of being an attentive lover then? Would you 
have stayed true to me if I had treated you more harshly? Taken what –I- 
wanted? Is that it?” His anger, which had been subdued momentarily, rose 
again. “Maybe if I had told you to bend over and had taken my pleasure 
you would have stayed? Is that what you are telling me?”
 
Elrond cringed. “I am not proud of the way I acted when I was with Gil-
galad. I gave in too easily, and allowed him to have his way with me 
because—“ Realizing he didn’t know the reason why he had let Gil-galad 
treat him like that, he sighed deeply. “Everything you said is true. He took 
his pleasure and never returned it.”
 
“Then why did you stay with him to the end?” Thranduil’s eyes flashed 
afire. 
 
“I could no longer live without him. I needed him like I needed air to 
breathe.” Gil-galad had been an addiction, a dangerous addiction, and he 
had been drunk on power. He stopped his pacing and searched Thranduil’s 
eyes. “The sex was different, felt much more potent, and I craved it.”
 
Thranduil’s eyes narrowed. “You made your choice millennia ago. Why 
bring it up now?”
 
Elrond suddenly realized that he was here to admit the truth to Thranduil; 
a truth which had been hidden from him until a moment ago. “I was 
wrong. I made a terrible mistake by giving in to him.”
 
Thranduil suddenly rose from his chair. “Elrond, maybe it is time you 
left.” He didn’t know what games Elrond was playing, but he wasn’t going 
to play along. 
 
“I mean it!” Elrond curled his fingers around the medallion. Walking up to 
Thranduil, he came to a halt in front of the blond. “I mistook lust for love. 
I threw it all away.” Acting instinctively, trying to truly get through to 
Thranduil, he grabbed the blond’s hand. “I did not see the love in your 
soul back then. I was blinded by Gil-galad’s splendor and power.” 
 
Thranduil startled at the hold which Elrond now had on his wrist and tried 
to pull away, barely keeping himself from flinching. “Do not touch me, 
Elrond.”
 
But Elrond shook his head. “I realized just how much I longed to touch 
you.” His feelings were quickly drowning him. “Thranduil, I do believe I 
still have feelings for you.”
 
Thranduil laughed bitterly. “You have feelings for me? Elrond, do you 
really think I would open my heart again to have it crushed a second time? 
I know better now. After you left my heart locked itself away! Not even 
my wife could unlock it!” He had been holding on to his anger for years, 
and was afraid to let go now. 
 
Elrond bowed his head, still clutching the locket. “Can you forgive me?”
 
Thranduil’s eyes widened. “Forgive you?”
 
“For being naïve and blinded by power. For throwing your love away for 
Gil-galad’s lust?” Elrond shyly lifted his gaze and met Thranduil’s. “I do 
not want us to continue like this, with this anger between us.”
 
Thranduil shook his head. “I am not sure I can forgive you.” 
 
Elrond, wondering how to soften Thranduil’s heart, looked down, 
realizing he still had a firm hold on the blond’s wrist, actually holding him 
in place. With his fingers curled tightly around Thranduil’s, he raised the 
blond’s hand and rested it against his own chest, near to his heart and 
slipped the medallion into the hand of its rightful owner. “I can never undo 
the hurt I caused, but I can try to heal it. Will you let me try, or has your 
heart hardened so much that you will continue to lock me out? I am trying 
to make amends, nîn malthen glaur.” 
 
Thranduil hated being this emotional and his eyes filled with tears. ‘My 
golden light.’ Elrond had called him that when they had been lovers. Just 
hearing it worsened his emotional pain. “Please, do not call me that.”
 
Elrond could tell Thranduil’s resolve was faltering. He recognized the soft 
expression in the blond’s eyes and raised his hand, placing its palm against 
Thranduil’s cheek, tenderly stroking the silken skin. “There was a time 
when you smiled, hearing me call you that. When your eyes filled with a 
radiance that warmed my heart. Did I really smother that fire and take 
away the glow from your eyes?”
 
Thranduil could no longer maintain eye contact and averted his eyes. 
“Stop this, Elrond.”
 
“No,” said the half-Elf firmly, realizing he might still have a chance at 
befriending Thranduil again, and maybe, just maybe, there was still a 
spark of love left in their hearts. Could it be rekindled after all these 
millennia? Did he have the courage to try? “You kept that medallion with 
you because you still care. Tell me, nîn malthen glaur, do you still love 
me? Does your heart still beat for me, even whilst it remains locked away 
in darkness?” 
 
Thranduil turned away from Elrond, but found that the half-Elf was still 
holding onto his arm. “Let go of me. I won’t be part of this charade any 
longer.”
 
Elrond’s heart contracted painfully, fully realizing for the very first time 
how much he had hurt Thranduil by being with Gil-galad. “You truly 
loved me.”
 
Thranduil sighed, resigned, and nodded once. “I want you to leave now.”
 
But Elrond shook his head. “I was stupid enough to let you go once before 
and I refuse to make the same mistake twice.” Using his hold on 
Thranduil, he forced the blond to face him again. He let go of Thranduil’s 
wrist, and placed his hands on either side of his former lover’s head, 
staring deeply into his sea green eyes. “I have to take this chance. I might 
never be in this position again.” Leaning in, his lips claimed Thranduil’s, 
engaging them in a slow and lazy kiss.
 
Staring at Elrond in disbelief, Thranduil's eyes widened, feeling the half-
Elf’s lips against his. His first instinct was to pull away from the kiss, but 
then Elrond’s hands slipped lower, wrapping themselves around his waist 
and pulling him closer in an unexpected burst of passion. Paralyzed, he let 
Elrond deepen the kiss and he sighed contently when the half-Elf’s tongue 
slid into his mouth. By Elbereth, what was Elrond doing to him? He was 
quickly losing himself in the kiss, the embrace, and surrendered to the 
warm lips pressed against his. 
 
Elrond released the blond’s lips, and whilst staring into Thranduil’s eyes, 
he saw their former love being reborn in them. The love and the passion 
had always been there, and now emerged again victoriously. “Will you 
give us a second chance at love?”
 
Rendered speechless, Thranduil simply stared Elrond, who did seem 
sincere. That kiss had taken him aback and was bringing back memories 
which had been buried for millennia. He couldn’t deny the truth to 
himself; he still loved Elrond. He had never stopped loving him, but did he 
want to risk another heartbreak? 
 
“Do not answer at once,” said Elrond, realizing Thranduil needed to 
carefully consider his proposal. He didn’t blame the blond for being 
cautious; he was probably afraid of being rejected again. “Take your time 
to reach a decision. I won’t pressure you.” He regretted letting go of the 
blond, but stepped away from him, giving him some personal space. 
“Would you reconsider leaving tomorrow? I would like you to stay longer. 
Even Elladan wants to spend some time with you. You greatly impressed 
him with your sword fighting skills.”
 
Thranduil was at a loss. Elrond had totally confused him and he wasn’t 
sure how to react. He could still feel Elrond’s lips against his, burning 
them. His heart urged him to stay, but his head advised him differently, 
warning him that he would be hurt again. 
 
“Nîn malthen glaur, do not take away your light from my life. Until now I 
did not know just how much I missed you.” Nervously, Elrond searched 
the green eyes. “Please stay.”
 
“I cannot decide now. I need time to—“ Thranduil was interrupted when 
the door to his rooms was flung open by one of his guards. 
 
“My lord, Eridhren has escaped! He is no longer in his room!” The guard 
guiltily lowered his gaze. “I do not know how he escaped.”
 
“Erestor!” Thranduil exchanged a look with Elrond, seeing his concern 
reflected in those blue eyes. “We must check on him!” Thranduil marched 
out of the room, quickly followed by Elrond. They headed for Erestor’s 
rooms, hoping they were still in time. 
 
Suddenly Elrohir appeared from around the corner, and Elrond gasped, 
seeing droplets of blood clinging to his son’s throat. “Elrohir, what 
happened? Where is Erestor?”
 
Elrohir sighed heavily. “Erestor is safe. Eridhren tried to get to him, but 
Glorfindel stopped him.”
 
“Where is Eridhren?” Thranduil didn’t know how to deal with Eridhren, 
but he was determined to make sure the disturbed Elf wouldn’t trouble 
anyone ever again.
 
“Dead,” said Elrohir in a neutral tone, trying to stay in control of his 
feelings. This was not the time or place to show his emotions. “He tried to 
attack me and Glorfindel stopped him.”
 
Thranduil failed to stop the relieved sigh that now left his lips. “Maybe his 
troubled soul will find peace in Mandos.” Shaking himself from his 
musings, he addressed Elrohir. “And Erestor? Where is he?”
 
“In Glorfindel’s rooms.” Elrohir’s gaze shifted from Thranduil to his 
father. “He is fairly shaken. He saw his father die. Maybe you should look 
in on him.”
 
“We will,” said Elrond, signaling for Thranduil to follow him. “Elrohir, go 
find Elladan and stay with him.” He wished he could stay with his 
youngest son, but he had to check on Erestor first. “I will join the two of 
you later!”
 
Elrohir nodded listlessly and headed for his rooms, hoping to find Elladan 
there. 
 
Thranduil followed Elrond, hoping Erestor hadn’t been injured. He would 
always feel guilty for not having helped Erestor escape earlier. 
 
Elrond came to a stop in front of Glorfindel’s door and knocked. “Erestor? 
Glorfindel?”
 
Inside the room, two pairs of eyes now stared at the door. Erestor, still 
shaken after hearing the Elda’s confession, didn’t feel like answering 
Elrond’s questions, but he also knew he couldn’t turn him away. 
Glorfindel’s questioning look made him sigh and nod his head. “Tell him 
to enter.”
 
Glorfindel softly called out, telling Elrond to enter the room. Only a few 
days ago he would have been surprised to see Thranduil step inside as 
well, but not any longer. He now knew what the Lord of Mirkwood had 
done for Erestor in the past. 
 
Thranduil suddenly passed Elrond by, and sat on his heels next to the bed, 
quickly claiming one of Erestor’s hands. “Did he manage to hurt you?”
 
Erestor’s soft gaze settled on Thranduil, smiling reassuringly. “He did not 
get the chance to hurt me. Elrohir and Glorfindel protected me.”
 
Glorfindel shook his head. “Erestor forgets to mention that he defended 
Elrohir when Eridhren went after him.” Glorfindel smiled proudly. “He 
stood up against his father. In the end he overcame his fears.”
 
Thranduil felt proud as well, hearing Glorfindel’s praise. “I cannot help 
remembering a scared Elfling, running away from his father and hiding 
behind my throne. I should have found a way to intervene before things 
got out of hand.”
 
“You did your best.” Erestor freed his hand from Glorfindel’s hold and 
slowly leaned in closer, tentatively folding his arms around Thranduil’s 
shoulders. 
 
Thranduil was pleasantly surprised when Erestor reached out to him for 
the first time in his life. When Erestor had still been an Elfling, he had 
only allowed Aewithôn to touch him. He gently returned the embrace and 
smiled warmly when Erestor’s gaze met his. “I was worried he had 
inflicted more pain on you, but you seem to have come out of this 
stronger.”
 
“I feel stronger,” admitted Erestor, still looking into Thranduil’s eyes. He 
prided himself on not flinching when he felt Glorfindel rub his back. “I 
finally made some friends here.” He smiled shyly when Thranduil’s eyes 
sparkled with happiness. Something had changed inside him when he had 
stood up against his father. “Thank you for looking out for me in the past. 
You helped me escape from his reign of terror. Without you, I might be 
dead now. I do not think I would have survived much longer.”
 
“I wish I could have done more for you,” admitted Thranduil. Erestor 
finally let go of him and he slowly rose to his feet. Seeing the way Erestor 
leaned into Glorfindel, he realized the Elda had gained his trust. “Do you 
want me to stay or…?” Was he reading Glorfindel’s body language 
correctly? The Elda did seem very protective of Erestor and there was a 
warm expression in the blond’s eyes. Thranduil cocked his head; could it 
be love? He certainly hoped so. Erestor deserved to be loved. 
 
“I will stay with him.” Glorfindel met Thranduil’s eyes and the two Elves 
reached a silent understanding. 
 
“Take good care of him,” said Thranduil, addressing the Elda. 
 
“I will.” Glorfindel realized Thranduil had just given him his approval - 
his blessing, even - to court Erestor, which felt strange, as Erestor wasn’t 
Thranduil’s son. But he did understand Thranduil; Erestor was special to 
the King of Mirkwood. 
 
Elrond, who had been quiet during the entire exchange, now walked 
toward Thranduil and came to a halt next to him. “I am sure that 
Glorfindel will manage, and I want to look in on Elrohir. He seemed rather 
shaken.”
 
“He is unhurt,” said Erestor, thoughtfully. “I stopped my father from 
getting to him.”
 
Elrond’s eyes widened, realizing what Erestor’s words truly meant. “He 
tried to assault my son?” He almost regretted Eridhren was dead, for he 
felt the overwhelming urge to avenge his son. 
 
Erestor shivered. Elrond’s questions were making him feel uneasy. 
 
And Glorfindel noticed that. “Elrond, I suggest you check on Elrohir.”
 
“Where is Eridhren’s corpse?” asked Thranduil unexpectedly.
 
“In the healing house. The healers there will prepare his body for his last 
journey into the flames.” Eridhren’s body would be burned when the 
moon rose next. 
 
Thranduil nodded; he would make all necessary preparations for that last 
ceremony, not wanting to bother Erestor with them. “You should rest,” 
said he, addressing Erestor. “You have been through a lot this last hour.”
 
“Thank you for your concern,” replied Erestor, still very much aware of 
the soothing circles which Glorfindel was rubbing on his back. 
 
“Thranduil, I need to look in on Elrohir, now.” Elrond left the room and 
stepped into the corridor, counting on him to follow.
 
Glorfindel cast a curious look at Thranduil, wondering if his suspicions 
had been right from the start. Had it been a lover’s quarrel which had now 
been resolved? 
 
Thranduil inclined his head in goodbye and quickly caught up with 
Elrond, falling into step beside the half-Elf. “Would you prefer me to 
leave you alone?”
 
“No, whilst I talk to Elrohir I want you to make sure Elladan does not get 
upset when he learns his brother was assaulted.” 
 
Thranduil’s eyes grew big in surprise. Elrond really wanted him present? 
Why?
 
Elrond noticed the confusion in Thranduil’s eyes, and wished he could 
explain his need to know him close, but they had reached the twins’ rooms 
and he entered without knocking. “Elrohir? Elladan?”
 
The twins were surprised to their father, but they were absolutely stunned 
to see Thranduil as well. “Ada?” said Elrohir, questioningly. What were 
Elrond and Thranduil doing here?
 
Elrond immediately headed for Elrohir, who was sitting on the bed, with 
Elladan behind him, combing and braiding his hair. “Erestor told me what 
happened.” Recalling that he had seen droplets of blood earlier, his 
fingertips probed his son’s throat, making sure the wound wasn’t serious.
 
Elrohir now understood what this was about and smiled reassuringly at his 
father. “I am well, Ada. Nothing bad happened to me. He just drew some 
blood.” 
 
Elrond looked from Elrohir to Elladan. “He told you?”
 
“He was in the process of telling me when you entered.” Elladan cast a sly 
look at his father and then at Thranduil. Most of the tension which he had 
sensed earlier seemed gone now. “We will be fine, Ada.”
 
To his surprise Elrond realized he was being dismissed. His sons had just 
told him they didn’t need him to comfort them, and he wasn’t sure how he 
felt about that. 
 
Elladan caught his father’s confusion and momentarily placed in his hand 
on Elrond’s.  
”Ada, you are the host. Should you not be taking care of your guest? 
Thranduil looks quite lost.” His instincts told him there was still some 
unfinished business between the two elder Elves. 
 
Thranduil felt confused as well, wondering why Elrond wanted him here 
in the first place. This was obviously a private, family moment. 
 
“Are you sure?” asked Elrond, searching Elrohir’s eyes. Finding no trace 
of fear or panic in them, he sighed, relieved. “You can always talk to me.”
 
“We know that, Ada.” Elladan squeezed his shoulder lightly and Elrohir 
followed his twin’s gaze, realizing he was staring at Thranduil. Why had 
their father brought him along? 
 
Elrond rose from the bed, still searching Elrohir’s eyes. He would never 
forgive himself if he left whilst his youngest son needed him. But 
Elladan’s presence seemed to soothe Elrohir sufficiently. “I will check on 
you later,” announced Elrond. 
 
Elrohir nodded his head once, knowing that his father couldn’t help being 
concerned. 
 
Thranduil stepped into the corridor and Elrond joined him after closing the 
door. Facing the half-Elf, he wondered what to do. 
 
Elrond, feeling tired, rested his hand on the blond’s shoulder. “Would you 
stay with me a little longer? I really want to talk to you some more.”
 
Thranduil couldn’t deny the half-Elf, realizing Elrond really wanted his 
company. “I will sit with you, and maybe we will talk.”
 
Taking heart, Elrond smiled. He even indulged himself and caressed a 
strand of blond hair, instantly catching the confusion and unease in the 
blond’s eyes. Regretfully he let go of the golden lock and started down the 
corridor, guiding Thranduil to his quarters. After everything that had 
happened tonight, he hoped that talking to his old friend might help him 
calm down.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 15
 
 
Glorfindel reluctantly released Erestor and slowly got to his feet. Seeing 
the dark-haired Elf’s distressed expression, he instantly soothed Erestor. “I 
just want to ask a maid to bring us hot tea and something to eat. Or would 
you prefer hot herbal wine?” He had seen Erestor drink it before; the 
counselor was one of the few Elves who liked it that way. 
 
Erestor let go of Glorfindel’s hand and watched the blond walk toward the 
doorway, his eyes never leaving the Elda’s form. “Warm wi--” His voice 
faltered, making it impossible for him to finish his sentence.
 
“I will take that as a yes,” said Glorfindel, teasingly. He opened the door, 
called out to a maid, and asked her to bring warm wine, hot tea and 
something to eat. She hurried away after assuring him that she would 
return shortly. 
 
Erestor’s puzzled gaze followed him around the room as he picked up 
blankets and spread them onto the floor in front of the fireplace. 
Glorfindel added a pile of pillows and then turned around, smiling warmly 
at Erestor. 
 
“What are you doing?” asked Erestor, puzzled. Glorfindel raised a hand 
and signaled for him to join him near the fireplace. He shakily got to his 
feet and swayed slightly when walking toward the blond. “What do you 
want me to do?”
 
“You said you did not want to go to sleep yet, but I do think you need to 
rest. The fire will keep us warm whilst we recover from today’s events.” 
Glorfindel felt saddened, seeing Erestor’s surprised expression. The raven-
haired Elf was still surprised that someone wanted to take care of him. 
“You are already wearing warm and comfortable robes, but I am not. I 
will change into some as well. Why don't you lie down now?”
 
Erestor nodded hesitantly, uncertain what was happening. After gathering 
his robes close to his body, he sat down, cross-legged. Wondering what 
Glorfindel was doing, he looked over his shoulder and immediately 
averted his eyes again. The blond had just stepped out of his leggings and 
was now slipping into blue robes. He had never seen Glorfindel naked 
before and wasn’t sure how to react, so he simply looked away. 
 
A knock on the door alerted Glorfindel, and after opening it, he took the 
tray from the maid, kicked the door shut and joined Erestor in front of the 
fireplace. He placed the tray on the floor next to him and handed the dark-
haired Elf a slice of bread, topped with cheese. 
 
Erestor wanted to decline, but seeing Glorfindel’s determined expression, 
he took a bite and began to munch. He was becoming increasingly nervous 
now that it was just the two of them in this rather intimate setting. 
 
Glorfindel poured the warm wine into a goblet and handed it to Erestor. 
“How do you fare? Do you still feel shaken?”
 
Erestor shrugged, and then sipped his wine slowly. “I am not sure. I still 
cannot believe he is dead.” 
 
Glorfindel sipped his tea and studied Erestor extensively, searching for 
clues as to how the raven-haired Elf was really feeling. “You were very 
courageous to stand up to him. You should be proud of yourself.”
 
“I did not have a choice.” Erestor gulped down the rest of the wine now 
that it had cooled, and placed the empty goblet onto the floor.
 
Glorfindel noticed how badly Erestor’s hands were shaking and carefully 
considered his next step. He wanted Erestor to feel truly safe and secure. 
Slowly, giving Erestor a chance to get used to his closeness, he enfolded 
the dark-haired Elf in his arms and pulled him into a lying position. After 
a moment of hesitation, Erestor rested his head against his chest and 
Glorfindel sighed in deep contentment. The fire blazed warmly and he 
indulged himself, watching the glow play over Erestor’s dark hair. 
 
Feeling confused, Erestor wondered what would happen next. He felt 
strangely at peace in Glorfindel’s arms and stared at the fire as well. 
Slowly, Glorfindel pulled him closer and acting without thinking, he 
curled his body around the blond’s, trying to get as close as possible. 
Glorfindel’s reaction was to hug him even closer, which he allowed. He 
couldn’t remember ever being held this close before. It was a strange and 
confusing feeling, and yet it was comforting as well. 
 
A comfortable silence descended over them and Glorfindel felt more than 
content to just hold Erestor in his arms. Unable to keep back, he placed a 
chaste kiss on the top of Erestor’s dark hair. “Be at peace, melamin. 
Everything is well now. You can let go and rest.”
 
Glorfindel’s words brought tears to Erestor’s eyes. Thranduil had tried to 
make him feel safe and cherished when he had been an Elfling, but 
knowing that Eridhren would continue to make his life miserable had 
sabotaged the elder Elf’s attempts. But now that his father was dead, he 
was able to let go. The warm, herbal wine helped him relax and slowly he 
slipped into a comfortable state between waking and sleep. 
 
Glorfindel felt Erestor relax against him and smiled, pleased. “You are 
safe now, nîn amdir.” Erestor sighed deeply and the blond tightened his 
hold. “And I will continue to watch over you.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Thranduil tentatively followed Elrond into the half-Elf’s private chambers. 
He still wondered why Elrond wanted him here, but decided to wait a little 
longer before asking questions. 
 
The dark-haired Elf looked tired, even upset, and he now walked over to 
the window, looking into the night that was descending over them. 
Elrond’s gaze drifted lower, onto the commode beneath the window, 
where Vilya lay on a bed of red velvet. Once more, Elrond was reminded 
of his time with Gil-galad. Hearing Thranduil’s sharp intake of breath, he 
looked over his shoulder. Following the blond’s gaze, he realized 
Thranduil was also staring at the ring of power. 
 
Fury crept back into Thranduil’s green eyes. He wanted Gil-galad’s 
presence eradicated from their lives, but by giving Vilya to Elrond the 
High King had gained a constant place in the half-Elf’s life. “Why do you 
want me here? I would prefer to return to my rooms.” Seeing that ring 
reminded him of what he had lost: Elrond’s love. 
 
Elrond quickly covered the distance between them and grabbed 
Thranduil’s wrist to keep him from leaving, using just enough force to 
make his point. “I want you to stay.”
 
“You want… You want…” mocked Thranduil, “It is always about what -
you- want! You wanted Gil-galad to want you and he did.” Thranduil’s 
eyes shot dangerous daggers at Elrond, making the half-Elf flinch. “I do 
not know what you hope to accomplish by making me stay, but it is not 
working. I should leave you alone with your memories. Gil-galad will 
always stand between us.”
 
Elrond saw the fierce fire in Thranduil’s eyes and finally realized what he 
had to do to get through to the blond. But was he prepared to take that 
step? Thranduil began to pull away from him, and that movement 
prompted him into action. With one strong jerk, he pulled the blond close 
and wrapped his arms around Thranduil, claiming those luscious lips to 
deliver a bruising kiss to them. 
 
Elrond’s sudden aggressiveness momentarily startled Thranduil. It was the 
last thing he had expected the half-Elf to do. His eyes widened, feeling 
Elrond’s hand cup his buttocks, pressing him close and rubbing himself 
against him. Sparks of passion and lust erupted inside him, making him 
moan into Elrond’s mouth.
 
Closely monitoring Thranduil’s reaction, Elrond wondered when the blond 
would either push him away or take control of the kiss. Claiming 
Thranduil in this manner was risky, but he felt that he didn’t have any 
options left. Nudging the other’s lips and teeth apart, he took possession of 
that warm, moist cavern and explored it at leisure, struck by how familiar 
and right this felt. 
 
Thranduil finally fully realized what was happening and reacted 
accordingly. Bringing his hands up behind Elrond’s back, he buried his 
fingers in the long, dark hair and applied just enough force to make the 
half-Elf gasp in surprise, whilst turning the tables and invading the raven-
haired Elf’s mouth as well, engaging his tongue in a duel for dominance. 
They had fought before and he already knew how this would end, 
providing they followed through. 
 
Elrond’s eyes burned with a dark glow as his passion was answered with 
another tug at his hair. Words wouldn’t get him anywhere; it was time to 
let his deeds speak for him. Clutching Thranduil’s head, he dived onto the 
now bruised lips, passionately licking the inside of the blond’s lips and 
taking back control of their kiss. 
 
Using his hold on Elrond, Thranduil forced the half-Elf to take several 
steps toward the wall until his back hit the bricks. His fingers tangled in 
the long, raven locks and when he broke the kiss, he hissed at Elrond. 
What was it that Elrond really wanted? 
 
Seeing the puzzlement in the blond’s eyes, Elrond quickly slipped one 
hand into Thranduil’s breeches. Squeezing a perfectly rounded buttock, he 
panted hard. “I want you.”
 
Thranduil thought he had misheard. “What game are you playing, 
Peredhel?” He curled his fingers around strands of dark hair and stared 
deeply into the half-Elf’s blue eyes. 
 
“No games.” Elrond pressed his body closer to Thranduil’s so the blond 
could feel his arousal. There was only one way to settle this matter 
between them. Providing Thranduil agreed to this, their lovemaking would 
be fast and furious. “You mocked me earlier about my wants, but I still 
want you. And I do not want it be just one night. I want restored what we 
once had.”
 
Thranduil was at a loss. Elrond’s arousal pressed against his hip and he 
had grown hard with need as well. He didn’t fool himself into believing 
that this was about love. This was about lust, the need to find release and 
to let go of the tension that had existed between them for millennia. “Who 
says I want you?” he sneered, unwilling to give in this easily. One of 
Elrond’s hands suddenly cupped his arousal, squeezing teasingly. 
 
“-This- tells me how much you want me,” whispered Elrond hoarsely. His 
other hand still fondled the blond’s buttocks and he could barely refrain 
from letting his fingertips dip into the cleft. “I want you. I want to be 
inside you.”
 
Thranduil trembled. For how long had he wanted to hear Elrond say those 
words? But could he continue? Did he want what Elrond offered? The 
half-Elf had said he wanted more than a single night of lust and passion, 
but he doubted it was the truth. In the morning they would go back to 
hating each other. Was he really willing to give in to Elrond and surrender 
like he had done when they were young? Was what Elrond offered 
enough? 
 
He gasped in surprise when Elrond’s fingers undid the laces to his 
breeches, causing his erection to bob free from his confines. Fast and agile 
fingers curled themselves around his weeping member and his eyes 
darkened with lust. Yes, he would take what Elrond offered, even if that 
meant suffering more heartache.
 
Elrond licked his lips, seeing a dark gleam appear in the blond’s eyes. 
Removing his hand from Thranduil’s buttocks, he wrapped one arm 
around him and slowly laid him down on the furs on the floor. “Let me 
pleasure you…” 
 
The sensual tone to Elrond’s voice traveled directly to Thranduil's groin, 
causing his erection to twitch in anticipation. Elrond removed his breeches 
with practiced moves and then straddled him. He trembled beneath the 
half-Elf’s touch. This was so unexpected, so unreal. 
 
Elrond bowed forward, licked his lips and closed them around the blond’s 
aching erection. Thranduil arched beneath him and he quickly slid one 
hand beneath the blond’s buttocks, teasing his cleft. His lover gasped 
beneath him and bucked hard. 
 
Relaxing his throat, Elrond allowed Thranduil to bury himself deeper, and 
he sucked greedily. He massaged the blond’s guardian ring, already 
preparing him for the penetration that would follow quickly. The need to 
release this tension was urging them on. 
 
Thranduil moaned deliciously, and the sound reverberated in his straining 
member, which was now slick with pre-ejaculate. Elrond lapped at the 
hard flesh, and then pulled back, realizing his lover was close to orgasm - 
too close. “Roll onto your stomach, nîn glaur.” 
 
Thranduil couldn’t help but waver momentarily. He craved Elrond’s 
touch, he had done so for so long, but could he make himself that 
vulnerable again? Suddenly, soothing fingers stroked the insides of his 
thigh and he was gently being rolled onto his stomach whilst a pillow was 
pushed beneath his hips. His erection now rubbed against the fabric and he 
bit his bottom lip, trying to hold back his release. 
 
Elrond’s hands kneaded the soft mounds of flesh in front of him. “You are 
as beautiful as I remember, nîn glaur.” He quickly removed his robes and 
threw them onto the floor. Naked now as well, he straddled Thranduil, 
massaging the blond’s buttocks and occasionally dipping into the cleft to 
deliver a teasing caress to the twitching ring of muscle. “Soon, 
melethron.” The little, needy moans that escaped Thranduil’s lips were 
slowly driving him mad with desire. 
 
Thranduil’s hands became fists, feeling Elrond flip his hair forward and 
then slowly drag the silken mass over his back. The sensation nearly made 
him come and he mutely pleaded for release. The fact that Elrond still 
remembered how much he loved to feel those silk locks caress his naked 
flesh shocked him. What else did Elrond remember?
 
Elrond smiled warmly and separated the soft globes with one hand, 
massaging the guardian ring with the other. Without warning, he flicked 
his tongue at the small opening. 
 
Thranduil released a tormented whimper, as a soft, wet sensation slid into 
him. He pushed himself up onto all fours; spreading his legs and 
presenting himself to the half-Elf. When they had been lovers, Elrond had 
always prepared him for their lovemaking in this way. And now the half-
Elf was doing it again. 
 
Deeply touched by Thranduil’s trust in him, Elrond licked and teased, 
making the blond squirm and beg his need. Pulling back, he slowly probed 
the now slick opening with one finger. He released a pleased groan when 
his lover eagerly accepted the intrusion, even pushing back to take in 
more. 
 
“Now… Take me now… End this torment!” Thranduil was panting, 
already pushing back, trying to get Elrond to act faster. His body ached to 
reach its climax! 
 
Elrond curled his fingers around his throbbing erection and positioned 
himself at the small opening. Grabbing the blond’s hips, he pushed inside, 
releasing a content sigh. A tight heat engulfed him, causing him to lose 
control, penetrating the blond deeper.
 
Thranduil released a sharp yelp when Elrond entered him and he threw 
back his head in wild abandon. With the intrusion came pain and he gritted 
his teeth, hoping the discomfort would quickly change into pleasure. 
Looking over his shoulder, he hoped the half-Elf understood his silent 
plea. 
 
Nodding, Elrond continued to sheathe himself and didn’t stop until he was 
buried to the hilt. “Do not move. Not yet.” He wanted to savor this 
moment. 
 
Now that Elrond filled him completely, Thranduil trembled with need, 
eager for the half-Elf to thrust and rub his sweet spot so the shallow pain 
that still coursed through him would finally disappear. Suddenly Elrond’s 
hands soothingly stroked his back and then the half-Elf thrust for the first 
time. Groaning, he pushed back, and in the process his lover rubbed that 
sweet spot, sending waves of impending ecstasy through his body. 
 
Elrond leaned in closer and rested his upper body on Thranduil’s. The 
weight pushed the blond down, who now collapsed onto his stomach, 
allowing Elrond to thrust deeper into that tight, hot channel. Biting 
Thranduil’s neck, his thrusts became harder, faster, and more erratic as he 
approached orgasm. 
 
Thranduil’s fingers clawed at the furs beneath him, and his erection just 
got enough friction to send him over the edge. His eyes closed, his body 
quavered and he released a strangled moan, finally reaching his climax. 
Elrond continued to thrust, driving himself even deeper into Thranduil's 
body, and Thranduil allowed it, basking in a sensual glow that quickly 
spread throughout his entire body.
 
Spasms contracted around his member, making Elrond bite deeper into his 
lover’s skin, drawing blood. Thrusting harshly, he finally reached orgasm 
as well. He now was a dead weight, keeping Thranduil from moving. 
 
Both of them were panting and Elrond licked the blond’s back, trying to 
make up for the bite mark that would show for days at the back of 
Thranduil’s neck. He knew he should pull out, but lacked the strength. 
Instead, he surrendered to the lazy sensation coursing through his body. 
 
Thranduil, however, felt exhausted and Elrond’s weight was making it 
harder for him to breathe and recover. He managed to cock his head and 
looked at the exhausted half-Elf, hoping that Elrond would roll off of him. 
 
Seeing the tired expression in the green eyes, Elrond slowly pulled out, 
soothing the blond when Thranduil released a distraught moan. He rolled 
onto his side, enfolded his lover in an embrace and pulled him along. Now 
they lay facing each other, holding the other close. The tension between 
them was gone and had been replaced with something else, something 
new.
 
Feeling at a loss, Thranduil wondered what would happen next. A 
nauseating feeling coursed through him. Had Elrond simply used him? He 
fought down an embittered laugh; he had –allowed- Elrond to use him in 
this way! He couldn’t blame Elrond for this when he had contributed to it 
as well. 
 
Seeing the confusion in the misty green eyes, Elrond raised a hand and 
rested it on Thranduil’s hips, gently stroking the skin there. “Do you feel 
better now? Lighter? I do.” The tension, anger and frustration that had 
coursed through him when dealing with Thranduil was gone, and had been 
replaced with affection, respect and love. 
 
Uncertain how to reply, Thranduil continued to stare at Elrond. His hand 
trembled violently when he caressed the half-Elf’s face. “I do not know 
what I feel.” 
 
In a moment of complete understanding, Elrond’s smile faded. “You are 
afraid. Why?” He had seen that particular expression in those emerald 
eyes before. He had seen it when he had left the tent they had shared to be 
with Gil-galad. 
 
Realizing that denying the truth was useless, Thranduil nodded. “I am 
afraid we will go back to hating each other when Arien rises again. That 
we will forget this night ever happened.”
 
“This night is imprinted on my very soul,” said Elrond, passionately. He 
pressed his fingertips against Thranduil’s lips, tracing their outline. “Did I 
hurt you? I did not properly prepare you, but—“
 
Thranduil shook his head. “I could not wait either. I wanted it as well.”
 
“I have some soothing salve if you feel sore. I apologize for letting my 
feelings overwhelm me. I never wanted to hurt you.”
 
“I heal fast,” said Thranduil, smiling shyly. “You were right, you know? I 
never stopped loving you.” Suddenly, a terrifying thought upset him. 
“How do you feel about me? Am I fooling myself by believing you still 
have feelings for me? Or—“
 
“Do not finish that sentence,” said Elrond, placing a finger against the 
blond’s lips. He didn’t want to hear words of doubt and pain. “You are not 
fooling yourself and I do have feelings for you. Stronger feelings than I 
thought. We can take our time to explore our feelings.”
 
Thranduil stared into Elrond’s blue, dilated eyes. “Do you want me to 
leave?” The intensity of their sensual encounter had shaken him and he 
didn’t know what to expect next. 
 
Elrond shook his head. “Do not leave, nîn glaur. My life has been cold and 
dark for so many years, and now that you have come back to me, I feel 
warm again.”
 
“You want me to stay?” Thranduil couldn’t remember ever feeling this 
insecure. It was easy to be cross with Elrond, but it was a lot harder to face 
his feelings and accept them. “I still love you. My heart still beats for 
you.” 
 
Elrond wrapped a golden strand around his finger, playing with it. “I never 
stopped loving you either, and I want you to stay. I want us to spend time 
together. I want—“ He stopped, laughed warmly and shook his head. 
 
Thranduil caught on and said, “You want.”
 
“Aye, I -want- you.” Smiling at Thranduil, he was relieved when the blond 
returned that smile. “Ithil has long risen and we should get some sleep. We 
will have to attend to many matters tomorrow and we need to rest now. 
Will you sleep in my bed tonight? In my arms?”
 
Thranduil hesitantly rubbed the half-Elf’s back, wondering what the future 
would bring. “Are you sure you want me in your bed… and in your 
arms?”
 
/Do not bring up Gil-galad,/ thought Elrond, pleadingly. /Do not bring him 
into our bed./
 
Closing his eyes momentarily, Thranduil made the decision to be 
completely honest with Elrond. “I cannot believe you still love me. I also 
know this was not about love. This was about releasing the tension that 
has been building for millennia. Maybe it is best if I return to Mirkwood 
as quickly as possible.”
 
“No.”
 
Hearing Elrond’s determined tone, his green eyes widened and he stared at 
the half-Elf in puzzlement. “No?”
 
“You are not leaving.” Elrond opted for action again, instead of words, 
knowing they wouldn’t reach the hurt blond. Slower, with much love and 
affection displayed in his kiss, he claimed Thranduil’s lips. His hands 
soothingly moved over his lover’s back, hips and then settled for stroking 
the silken hair. Effectively silencing Thranduil, he maintained eye contact, 
searching the green orbs. When he finally released the blond’s lips, he 
whispered, “I am not making the same mistake twice. I am not letting you 
get away again. I love you.”
 
/I love you…/ Elrond’s words echoed in Thranduil’s mind. “Do you? Do 
you really love me?”
 
Elrond nodded. “Stay with me. Stay and give our love a chance to flourish. 
I know you still love me… Give yourself time to heal.”
 
The ache in his hurt soul lessened, hearing Elrond’s soothing words. 
Thranduil sighed, wondering if he was setting himself up for more 
heartache. Valthoron was more than capable of ruling Mirkwood, and he 
could stay for longer, if he really wanted to. 
 
Elrond involuntarily held his breath whilst Thranduil reached a decision. 
Claiming the blond’s hand, he squeezed gently. “Please stay.”
 
“I will stay,” mumbled Thranduil, hoping he had made the right decision. 
Elrond’s brilliant smile took him aback and when the half-Elf rose from 
the floor, he allowed Elrond to pull him to his feet. 
 
Elrond guided him to his bed where he sat him down. He closely watched, 
trying to determine if Thranduil was sore or not. When the blond showed 
no sign of discomfort, he pushed down the covers and signaled for him to 
lie down. Thranduil complied and Elrond climbed into bed as well, lying 
down next to him and opening his arms. Thranduil moved into them and 
Elrond completed the hug, holding him close. “I will never leave you 
again,” he vowed. 
 
/Do not make promises you cannot keep,/ thought Thranduil privately. His 
heart still beat with fear at being abandoned again. He wouldn’t survive 
losing Elrond a second time.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 16
 
 
 
“Tell me if I am wrong, but it seems like you are falling asleep, nîn 
amdir.” Glorfindel still had a tight hold on Erestor, whose breathing had 
slowed down whilst resting against him. “Are you sure you are 
comfortable enough here on the floor? We could move to the bed.”
 
Erestor slowly shook his head against Glorfindel’s chest. “I want… to 
stay… here.” He felt warm and comfortable in the Elda’s arms and was 
right where he wanted to be. He didn’t want to move now that he had 
found some peace of mind. 
 
Glorfindel raised a hand, placed two fingers beneath Erestor’s chin and 
lifted the Elf’s face so they could make eye contact. He worried that the 
day’s horrid events would haunt the dark-haired Elf during the night, and 
he wanted to fill Erestor’s mind with something pleasurable instead. 
 
Erestor’s eyes filled with nervous expectation when Glorfindel leaned in 
closer, softly claiming his lips. Trembling, he surrendered to the sensual 
kiss. His inexperience showed when Glorfindel’s tongue nudged against 
his lips, and he didn’t realize what he was supposed to do. Slowly, the 
Elda’s tongue managed to get past his lips, tracing the insides, and 
eventually nudging against his teeth. Finally catching on, he shyly parted 
them, allowing Glorfindel to explore his mouth. 
 
The startled expression in Erestor’s eyes told Glorfindel just how nervous 
the Noldorin Elf felt. Running his fingers through the long dark hair, he 
finally released Erestor’s lips and smiled adoringly at his new lover. “I 
hope you will have pleasant dreams tonight. Dream of my lips, our kiss, 
and my love for you.” He didn’t want to bring up Eridhren, the fight or the 
Elf’s death. “Know that you are no longer alone. Know that you are 
loved.”
 
Erestor smiled, rested his head once more against Glorfindel’s shoulder 
and snuggled up to him. A warm, loving sensation made his heart beat 
faster and he wasn’t sure how to label it. Was it the same thing Glorfindel 
was feeling? 
 
“Erestor? Nîn amdir?”
 
Erestor raised his eyes, meeting Glorfindel’s soft gaze. What was the Elda 
trying to tell him?
 
“I love you…”
 
Erestor choked up. Glorfindel’s emotions were so close to the surface that 
they were reflected in his azure eyes. What was he supposed to say? He 
decided to be honest. “I feel… something for you as well, but I do not 
know what.”
 
Glorfindel smiled encouragingly. “What does it feel like?”
 
Erestor pleadingly looked into Glorfindel’s eyes. “I do not know. I never 
felt anything like it. It feels… warm, inviting. I like it when you hold me 
this close, but…” Growing shy, he shrugged apologetically. “I do not 
know what I feel.”
 
“Oh, but you do,” whispered Glorfindel reassuringly. “You just need time 
to name those feelings. Do not rush yourself. Give yourself a chance to 
grow accustomed to them.”
 
Erestor felt relieved and thankful that Glorfindel was giving him the time 
he needed to adjust to all these changes in his life. A yawn overwhelmed 
him and he wrapped his arms around the Elda, assuming his former, 
cuddled up position. 
 
Smiling contently, Glorfindel sighed, enjoying holding Erestor close. 
“Sleep and dream of our love.”
 
Erestor smiled dreamily. Dozing off, he still tasted Glorfindel’s sweet lips 
against his.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond looked dotingly at his bed partner. Thranduil was blissfully asleep 
and nestled against him. Why had he waited so long to take this step? He 
should have traveled to Mirkwood centuries ago to bury the hatchet 
between them. Now tension and passion had finally overwhelmed them, 
causing them to seek comfort in each other’s arms. 
 
That Thranduil had made himself this vulnerable surprised Elrond, but 
then again, it was something he should have expected. Oropher had been a 
harsh father and when he had first met the blond, Thranduil had been 
yearning for affection and attention. They had quickly admitted their 
feelings, had shared a tent against Oropher’s wishes and had been happy, 
until Gil-galad had appeared in their lives. 
 
Now, millennia later, he was ready to admit the mistake he had made as a 
youngster. Thranduil had loved him, but Gil-galad had only lusted after 
him. At his young age he hadn’t been able to distinguish between the two. 
Only now did he realize what he had thrown away, and he thanked 
Elbereth for giving him this second chance. 
 
Thranduil moaned in his sleep and moved slightly, causing the blond’s re-
awakening erection to rub against his thigh. His wicked streak awakened 
and Elrond's hand stole below the sheet, loosely wrapping his fingers 
around the blond’s member. A needy groan left his lover’s still-bruised 
lips, and his own passion began to build as well.
 
During their short time together, spent at the Battle of the Last Alliance, 
they had quickly fallen into a pattern of him making love to the blond. 
When Gil-galad had appeared, that had changed, and he had enjoyed being 
at the receiving end as well. Last night had been for him, and he wanted 
this morning to be about Thranduil. The golden-haired Elf had never taken 
him before and he wanted a new balance to their relationship. He no 
longer wanted to just take; to give was now just as important. 
 
Climbing onto his lover’s body, he straddled the blond’s hips, and leaned 
in closer to claim Thranduil’s lips. Suddenly, awareness returned to the 
cat-like eyes and Thranduil’s expression spoke of surprise and 
disorientation. Releasing his lover’s lips, Elrond smiled, feeling drunk on 
passion. “Good morning, nîn glaur.” 
 
Thranduil momentarily felt lost, wondering what Elrond was doing 
straddling his hips and kissing him, but then last night’s memories vividly 
returned to him. Their sexual encounter had been explosive, and now he 
wondered where they stood. Just seeing Elrond grin at him like that caused 
his heart to flutter with hope. It was too soon to talk about love, but maybe 
they could build a foundation for a new relationship, which might deepen 
in time. “Good morning,” he choked out, feeling uncertain. Lying flat on 
his back, with Elrond straddling his hips, he was fairly immobile. 
 
It pained Elrond to see the insecurity was still there in the feline eyes and 
he ached to take it away. He reacted instinctively. Letting his hair fall in 
front of his face, he bowed his head until the locks dragged over 
Thranduil’s chest, teasing the hardening nipples. Suddenly he knew what 
he had to do. 
 
Arching his back, Thranduil felt helpless, watching Elrond lean in closer. 
The half-Elf’s surprisingly talented tongue trailed down his breastbone 
and then turned left, lapping at an erect nipple. His eyes widened when 
Elrond suckled the nub of hard flesh, sending spirals of pleasure through 
his body. He was already hard and stared at the half-Elf in astonishment. 
Did Elrond want to make love -again-? But last night had been a one time 
affair… or not? Feeling lost, he raised a shaky hand and let it tangle in the 
dark tresses. 
 
The apparent need in those emerald eyes urged Elrond on. Sliding down 
his lover’s body, his tongue left a wet trail on the quivering skin. This 
time, he slowly wrapped his tongue around his lover’s erection, licking 
tenderly, which differed greatly from the way he had devoured the golden-
haired Elf’s essence a few hours ago. 
 
Last night had been about sex, lust and need. Now he wanted to make 
love. 
 
Elrond looked up, let his lover’s arousal slip from his mouth, and stared 
right into Thranduil’s dilated pupils. The blond wanted him as well, but 
expected to be taken again. But things were going to change. Bending 
down, he attended to his lover’s need again, licking up and down the 
length of the shaft, and lavishing the head, preparing his lover for what 
was to come. 
 
Hesitantly, still insecure about their new relationship, Thranduil reached 
for the half’s-Elf’s hair, twirling a strand around his finger. The silence 
between them was new, but felt extremely comfortable. It was almost like 
they didn’t need the words; their bodies and expressions spoke for them. 
Elrond suddenly released his throbbing erection and deeply gazed into his 
eyes. Thranduil sensed the change in Elrond’s mood, but was unable to 
label it correctly. He involuntarily held his breath when Elrond suddenly 
raised himself, positioning himself above his erection. Stunned, he stared 
at the half-Elf. “What…?” Never before had Elrond offered to let him 
experience this side of their lovemaking. Why now? 
 
“Hush… Do not speak…” Elrond bit his bottom lip, lowering himself and 
allowing himself to be impaled by his lover’s erection. Slowly, he took in 
more, quickly getting used to the invasive sensation. In the end, his 
buttocks settled in Thranduil’s lap, having taken his lover completely. 
 
All Thranduil was capable of was staring at his dark-haired lover, 
trembling a little and gasping. Several questions swept through his mind, 
but he didn’t voice them, realizing something extraordinary had happened. 
Elrond had taken a step which he had been incapable of before. A 
passionate and needy moan escaped his throat and he slowly placed his 
hands on the half-Elf’s hips, stroking the soft skin. 
 
Elrond shifted slightly and sucked in his breath when the hard flesh rubbed 
his sweet spot, making him dizzy with passion. He took hold of his lover’s 
hands, placed them on either side of the blond’s head and intertwined their 
fingers, supporting himself and using the hold as leverage when he finally 
raised himself. 
 
Thranduil’s body quavered beneath the sensual attack and he instinctively 
thrust into his lover’s body, seeking release. Rational thought had deserted 
him now that this tight glove engulfed him. Elrond impaled himself again, 
and this time, Thranduil released a whimper, pleadingly locking eyes with 
the half-Elf. “What are you… doing to me?” 
 
“I am making love to you,” whispered Elrond in a tender tone. “Something 
I should have done millennia ago.” Leaning in closer, he briefly brushed 
his lover’s lips and then concentrated on setting a slow and seductive 
rhythm that quickly drove them wild with passion. 
 
Feeling slightly more secure, Thranduil took the initiative, something he 
had rarely done during their short love affair. Elrond had always been the 
dominant one, dictating their actions, but now that he was growing more 
confident, he boldly freed his hands from Elrond’s death-grip and brought 
them up behind his lover’s back.
 
Elrond realized the blond’s intentions too late and before he knew it, he 
had been rolled onto his back. Thranduil settled between his legs, and the 
look of utter bliss in those green eyes made him wrap his legs tightly 
around his lover’s waist, allowing Thranduil to take him even deeper. 
 
Surprised that Elrond allowed this, Thranduil buried his face in the crook 
of the half-Elf’s neck, thrusting, and panting softly into his lover’s ear. 
 
Elrond’s eyes darkened to near-black, realizing that Thranduil had 
accepted the challenge. Maybe that was the thing that had been missing 
from their relationship; some aggressiveness on Thranduil’s part. Gil-
galad had possessed that quality, and in retrospect he realized it had drawn 
him close like a moth to the flame. “Harder,” he demanded, panting his 
need. His hands now clawed the sheet, and he stared into wild, emerald 
eyes. Had he ever seen them this passionate, this alive before? 
 
“Harder?” Thranduil wasn’t sure he had heard correctly. 
 
“Aye, harder!” Elrond raised his hips to meet Thranduil’s next thrust and 
pushed back. 
 
Obliging the half-Elf, he thrust harder, but still couldn’t let go completely. 
He had never been on top before and was scared to hurt his lover. He 
couldn’t help being concerned and cautious. His hands now moved 
through the dark hair, and when he claimed Elrond’s lips, the half-Elf 
quivered with release. 
 
His heart missed a beat when the half-Elf’s inner muscle contracted 
around his aching member, sending ripples of ecstasy through his body. 
Stopping all movement, he surrendered to the sensation, which quickly led 
him to a shattering orgasm. Arching his back, he threw back his head and 
trembled over his entire body. It was the most intense orgasm he had ever 
experienced. 
 
Enraptured, Elrond stared at the blond beauty trembling above him. He 
quickly wrapped his arms around him, and slowly rolled them onto their 
sides, relishing the fact that Thranduil was still inside him. Staring into 
dilated pupils, he managed a shaky smile. 
 
“What…do I do... now?” Thranduil was relieved to be lying down again. 
 
“Pull out slowly,” whispered Elrond tenderly. Although he tried to 
mentally prepare himself for losing this intimate connection, he still 
released a disappointed sigh when the blond’s sated sex left his body. 
 
Thranduil, still catching his breath, stared at the half-Elf in barely 
concealed puzzlement. “Why did you do that?”
 
Elrond caressed the blond’s face, tracing the jawline. “Because I love 
you.” But for some reason that seemed to mystify Thranduil even more; 
the confusion in those green eyes grew more intense. “I want our 
relationship to be balanced, to be equal. We should aim to make it better 
than what he had millennia ago. We are older now, and hopefully a little 
wiser.”
 
Thranduil’s heart thundered, hearing Elrond’s words. “That is what I 
always wanted, always dreamt of, but I never dared think it could come 
true.” 
 
Letting his fingers tangle in the soft, golden locks, Elrond smiled warmly. 
“I love you and you love me. What else do we need?” Unexpectedly his 
stomach growled, reminding them that it was time for breakfast.
 
“Nourishment, it seems,” teased Thranduil, still feeling insecure about 
their relationship. But Elrond’s words had given him courage. He would 
do his part to build a solid relationship. 
 
“Aye, we need to eat.” Elrond nearly lost himself in the sea of green that 
was Thranduil’s eyes. “We should bathe, get dressed and join the others 
for breakfast. I also want to check on Elrohir. He tried to hide it last night, 
but I know he was upset.” 
 
“And I want to look in on Erestor. I worry about him.” Thranduil didn’t 
know if he could act normally when facing the others. Would they realize 
something had changed? How would Elrond’s sons react? How would -
his- sons react? Growing worried, he wondered what had possessed him to 
give into his need. 
 
“What is wrong, nîn glaur? Why does your gaze darken?” Elrond elbowed 
himself into a sitting position and searched his lover’s eyes. 
 
“We did not think this over,” said Thranduil softly. “We never considered 
what impact this would have on Elladan and Elrohir…” His voice faded, 
concerned. “And how can I possibly face them, or my sons, after… 
after…”
 
“After making love to me?” Elrond understood. “I have not given this 
much thought either and I am inclined to not tell them yet.” Seeing sudden 
nervousness appear in Thranduil’s eyes, he quickly added, “And it is not 
because I am ashamed of you, or embarrassed! I just want more time for 
us to grow accustomed to this.”
 
Thranduil sighed, realizing Elrond had made a valid point. They should 
wait before announcing they were together again. Their love was still too 
fragile. 
 
“Breakfast, then?” Elrond planted a chaste kiss on Thranduil’s brow. “And 
after breakfast we will discuss those border patrols. Maybe later, we can 
go for a walk in the gardens?” He didn’t want to pressure Thranduil into 
anything, taking it slowly instead. /Taking it slowly!/ he laughed privately. 
/Making love twice is taking it slowly?/ 
 
Thranduil met Elrond’s gaze, and said, “But I would like to join the others 
for dinner tonight. We have a lot to discuss.”
 
Elrond nodded approvingly. “And after dinner we can retreat to my 
chambers?”
 
“And do what?” Thranduil’s voice trembled.
 
Elrond smiled wickedly whilst rising from the bed. He extended his hand 
and signaled for Thranduil to follow him, which the blond did. “Maybe 
you will sing for me? You have such an enchanting voice.” Thranduil 
actually blushed at his words and Elrond led the blond into bathroom for a 
quick bath. 
 
“Maybe I will,” said Thranduil thoughtfully. 
 
“I hope you will.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrohir felt rested when he woke in his brother’s arms. After Elladan had 
brushed his hair, they had cuddled up like they had done when they were 
little. Smiling warmly, Elrohir began to tickle his twin through his robes, 
which caused Elladan to wake up with a soft scream on his lips. 
 
”What in Elbereth’s name are you doing?” Elladan burst out laughing 
when Elrohir tickled him in earnest. He was relieved to find that his 
younger brother had recovered from Eridhren’s attack. The dark anxiety 
that had been in his eyes last night was gone. “Have mercy!”
 
Elrohir stopped tickling his twin and stretched luxuriously. “We should 
check on Erestor.” He yawned, ran a hand through his hair, and sat 
upright. 
 
Elladan nodded. “I am sure Glorfindel is taking good care of him.”
 
Elrohir blinked once. “Do you think there is something going on between 
them? There is a certain expression in Glorfindel’s eyes when he looks at 
Erestor, and it appeared after they returned from their hazardous journey.”
 
Raising an eyebrow, Elladan shrugged. “There might be some attraction 
on Glorfindel’s part, but I doubt Erestor is interested.”
 
“But then again, Erestor has changed a lot since we brought him back 
wounded.”
 
“You are right,” sighed Elladan, suddenly reminded of the dreadful state 
they had found Erestor in. “I am so glad he did not bleed to death.” 
 
“And I am glad his father did not get to him.” A shudder coursed through 
him. “Eridhren was insane. There is no other explanation for his 
behavior.” Elrohir rose from the bed, stretched again, and headed for the 
bathroom for a quick wash. 
 
Elladan got to his feet and walked over to the closet. After opening it, he 
selected a blue shirt and leggings for Elrohir and chose a brown tunic for 
himself. Draping the clothes over a chair, he walked over to the window, 
smiling at Arien’s warm rays.
 
His gaze drifted to his father’s balcony. Elrond usually opened his balcony 
doors in the morning and would sit in the sun until it was time to eat 
breakfast. Seeing that the doors were still closed made him frown. His 
father rarely slept in late, and he couldn’t help but worry if something was 
wrong. 
 
Elrohir had slung a towel around his hips and was drying his hair, joining 
his twin in front of the window. “Is Ada awake yet?” 
 
“His balcony doors are still closed,” whispered Elladan thoughtfully. 
“What does that mean?”
 
“Maybe he was tired and slept in late?”
 
Elladan shook his head. “As the host he should be looking after 
Thranduil.” 
 
“And tonight Eridhren’s corpse will burn on the pyre.” It promised to be a 
long, exhausting day. “Do you think Erestor will attend?”
 
“As long as Glorfindel is there to support him, aye.” Elladan turned 
around and headed for the bathroom to take his bath whilst Elrohir got 
dressed. 
 
Sitting down in front of the mirror, Elrohir combed his hair and braided it 
again. Suddenly Elladan’s voice reached him.
 
“Did you notice the tension between Ada and Thranduil? At first I did not 
know what to make of it, but I have the feeling that there is a lot of 
unfinished business between them.” Elladan wrapped himself up in a 
towel and stepped into the bedroom, picking up his clothes. After 
exchanging the towel for his tunic and leggings, he joined Elrohir in front 
of the mirror. His fingers ran along his brother’s braid, picked up a hair 
clip and fastened the dark mane. 
 
Elrohir nodded. “I sensed something as well, but I have no idea what 
stands between them.”
 
“Maybe it has something to do with Oropher’s death. I was always under 
the impression Thranduil blamed Ada for that.”
 
“That could be it,” said Elrohir, smiling. “Let us eat first and then we will 
talk to Erestor.” He had the feeling they might run into each other when 
having breakfast.
 
Elladan returned the smile and decided to let his hair hang loose. Hungry, 
he grabbed his brother’s hand and pulled him along. “Let us eat!”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor’s eyes slowly regained awareness and the first thing he noticed 
was a strand of golden hair dangling in front of his nose. /Glorfindel./ The 
blond mystified him, and after last night’s admission he wondered how the 
Elda could possibly be in love with him. But he couldn’t deny having 
some feelings for Glorfindel as well. He just didn’t know how to label 
them correctly. 
 
“We should eat something.” 
 
Hearing Glorfindel’s voice startled him. He hadn’t been aware of the fact 
that the Elda was awake already. Tentatively, he raised his head and stared 
at the blond. Warm sunbeams surrounded Glorfindel’s head, making him 
appear as radiant as Arien. “I cannot believe I slept peacefully last night.”
 
“Must be my charming company,” teased Glorfindel, running a light 
fingertip over Erestor’s lip. “Do you want to take a bath?”
 
Erestor shook his head. “I want to eat first.” Only now was he growing 
aware of just how hungry he was. 
 
“You do seem at ease,” said Glorfindel, smiling pleased. He reluctantly 
released Erestor, and after placing a chaste kiss on the dark-haired Elf’s 
brow, he rose to his feet. Extending his hand, he pulled Erestor to his feet 
and bestowed a warm hug on the Noldorin Elf. 
 
Erestor smiled shyly, actually looking forward to spending his day with 
the Elda.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elrohir smiled, encountering Erestor and Glorfindel in the corridor. The 
two elder Elves seemed to be heading for the dining room as well. “Good 
morning, Erestor. You look rested.” 
 
Erestor’s smile remained shy, locking gazes with the youngest twin. “I 
seem to have made a friend who is rather worried about me, pen-neth. 
Glorfindel watched over me last night.”
 
The Elda beamed with pride and contentment, now that his arm was 
tightly wrapped around Erestor’s waist, no longer hiding his affection. The 
gesture made Elladan smile. 
 
Glorfindel opened the door and pulled Erestor inside. He raised an 
eyebrow inquisitively, finding Elrond and Thranduil already eating 
breakfast.
 
Elrond looked up and smiled, seeing the four of them enter. His first 
glance was for Elrohir. Finding his youngest son smiling back at him 
reassured him. His next glance was for Erestor and seeing Glorfindel 
holding his hand made the half-Elf smile. It seemed like they had worked 
through last night successfully, which made him feel relieved. “Good 
morning.”
 
Elrohir sat down at Elrond’s left and Elladan in between his father and 
Thranduil. If the oldest twin was surprised to find Thranduil present, he 
didn’t show it. From the other side of the table, Elrohir glanced 
questioningly at him and he shrugged his shoulders. He didn’t know why 
Elrond was having breakfast with Thranduil either. The last time he had 
seen them they had been fighting, and he had sent his father to apologize 
to Thranduil. Maybe his little ploy had worked and they had buried the 
hatchet?
 
Glorfindel’s gaze searched Elrond’s, wondering what had happened 
during the night between the half-Elf and Thranduil. 
 
A maid placed a plate filled with fruits, bread and cheese in front of 
Erestor, who also accepted a warm mug of tea, which he sipped slowly. 
His gaze unexpectedly locked with Thranduil’s and he frowned at the 
peculiar expression in those emerald eyes. Something about Thranduil was 
different.
 
Elladan, whose gaze had shifted to Thranduil as well, suddenly noticed a 
wound on the blond’s neck. Cocking his head, his eyes narrowed, studying 
the wound. 
 
Thranduil, feeling Elladan’s eyes on him, looked up from eating breakfast 
and locked eyes with the younger half-Elf. Elladan’s expression unnerved 
him. 
 
Elladan grinned, attracted his brother’s attention and pointed his finger at 
Thranduil’s neck. 
 
Elrond, who happened to accidentally glance at his oldest son, dropped his 
fork onto his plate with a metallic thud at seeing Elladan’s wicked grin. He 
knew his son well enough to realize he was in trouble. 
 
Thranduil felt a similar panic. They had decided to keep their attraction a 
secret, and now that Elladan had noticed the bite mark he didn’t know 
what to say. 
 
“Someone left a passion mark on you, my Lord Thranduil,” said Elladan 
impishly. “I wonder who it was.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye.


Part 17
 
 
So many things happened in that one moment when Elladan asked his 
question. Thranduil’s gaze locked with Elrond’s, wondering what to say. 
Did Elrond want him to lie or…?
 
Elrond answered that gaze and hoped Thranduil wouldn’t blurt out the 
truth. He needed a moment to think this through!
 
At the same time, Glorfindel’s suspicions that Elrond and Thranduil had 
had a lover’s quarrel, and that the argument had been resolved, were 
confirmed. The Elda smiled wickedly at Elrond and then gave him a wink. 
 
Elrond’s eyes widened, seeing Glorfindel’s reaction. It seemed the Elda 
had figured everything out, and what was even more surprising, the blond 
didn’t seem to mind. 
 
Absentmindedly, Glorfindel gently squeezed Erestor’s hand and the dark-
haired counselor followed the Elda’s gaze, realizing Glorfindel thought 
Elrond had left that passion mark on Thranduil. But could that really be? 
Well, why not? Thranduil’s wife had long sailed to Valinor and so had 
Elrond’s. It shouldn’t be a surprise that they would seek comfort in each 
other’s arms. A smile settled on his face, approving as well. He wanted 
Thranduil and Elrond to be happy.
 
Elrond was beginning to panic now that Erestor and Glorfindel were 
smiling giddily at him. It was obvious they had been found out, and at 
hearing Thranduil’s sharp intake of breath, his gaze shifted back to his 
lover. 
 
Thranduil stared pleading at Elrond. What was he supposed to say?
 
“Elladan, you asked a rather indiscrete question,” said Erestor, coming to 
the rescue. “I do think you owe Thranduil an apology.” He immediately 
noticed Thranduil’s thankful smile and inclined his head, hoping the warm 
expression in his eyes told his former protector that he approved of his 
relationship with Elrond. 
 
Elladan raised an eyebrow at hearing Erestor’s words. He knew he was 
treading on thin ice, asking such a question, but Thranduil’s and his 
father’s reaction surprised him. The look that passed between spoke of 
concern, panic and… intimacy. /Nay, that cannot be it. I must have 
reached the wrong conclusion!/ Seeking out his brother’s gaze, he 
wondered what Elrohir thought of the situation. 
 
Elrohir had reached the same conclusion as Elladan. The tension that had 
hung heavy between the two Elves had changed into something else. 
Something intimate, he realized. He wasn’t sure what to think of this 
revelation and returned his twin’s gaze. Could it be that their father had 
chosen a new lover? Where did that leave Celebrian?
 
Elladan sensed an echo of his twin’s thoughts and realized that the same 
thing troubled him as well. Their mother had left, telling them she hoped 
they would be reunited one day, but neither he nor Elrohir had ever 
considered sailing to Valinor. It would be several more centuries, maybe 
even millennia before they would make that decision. Was it fair to expect 
their father to remain chaste for such a long time? 
 
Elrohir nodded once, telling Elladan they would discuss this in private 
later. 
 
“I apologize for being so forward, sire,” said Elladan, but his tone made it 
very clear that he didn’t feel sorry at all. His wicked streak, which he had 
doubtlessly inherited from his father, showed when he said, “And if I 
searched really hard, would I find a passion mark on you too, dearest 
Ada?”
 
Rendered speechless, Elrond stared at his oldest son in disbelief. He 
hadn’t expected Elladan to address this! “I do think you are out of line, 
Elladan!” He wasn’t ready to announce his new relationship to his sons! 
Thranduil and he were still testing the waters! Why couldn’t Elladan just 
keep quiet?
 
Glorfindel now intervened as well. “Elladan, you cannot address your 
father like that. What he does in the privacy of his bedroom is…” He 
stopped, realizing he was only making things worse, confirming Elladan’s 
suspicions, but he finished anyway, “is his business, not yours.” 
 
Elrond bowed his head, shook it and sighed, distressed. He couldn’t 
confirm Elladan’s suspicions. Thranduil would never agree to admit the 
truth… or would he? His gaze locked with his lover’s, realizing there 
really wasn’t a way out of this, except if he lied to his sons. He had always 
been honest with them and didn’t want to destroy the trust between the 
three of them, but would the twins accept this? Why should they? He 
expected them to be cross with him. 
 
Thranduil’s eyes widened with the realization that Elrond was inclined to 
tell the twins about their newly-found relationship. Mutely, he stared at the 
half-Elf, begging him to reconsider. 
 
“I cannot lie to them, nîn glaur.” Elrond drew in a deep breath and then 
faced his sons, who were staring at him with a mixture of shock and 
curiosity. 
 
Thranduil leaned back into the comfort of his chair and wished the floor 
would open and swallow him. He had never expected anyone to find out 
this quickly. Frustrated he glared at Elrond. This was the half-Elf’s fault; 
why had he bitten him in the heat of passion?
 
Elrond cleared his throat and cringed beneath Elladan’s gaze. He quickly 
looked at Elrohir, hoping both would understand. Maybe it was best to tell 
them everything. “Thranduil and I were lovers for a short time at the 
Battle of the Last Alliance, long before I ever met your mother.”
 
Elladan’s eyes widened, realizing Elrond had decided to tell them. He 
quickly exchanged a look with Elrohir and they silently agreed to hear 
their father out. 
 
Elrond decided to leave out his involvement with Gil-galad. There was no 
need to distress his sons further. His gaze briefly swept over to Erestor and 
Glorfindel and he took heart, seeing their encouraging looks. “During the 
Battle we broke up. We had an argument and took separate paths. When I 
met Celebrian, I fell in love with her and she gave me the greatest gift of 
all; three bright and beautiful children. When she sailed for Valinor it 
broke my heart and I never considered being with someone again, but 
then…” His voice faded, as he locked gazes with Thranduil. “Something 
unexpected happened.” 
 
Thranduil shifted on his chair, growing increasingly nervous. Elrohir was 
staring at him with big eyes, and Elladan… He failed to label Elladan’s 
expression, which worried him even more. Listening to Elrond, he 
couldn’t believe what he was hearing. 
 
“Thranduil and I…” Elrond paused, searching for the words, “We never 
talked things through, and stayed cross with each other for millennia. 
Things… progressed into something more when we finally did talk.”
 
Elrohir had long stared at his father, trying to decide how he felt about 
Elrond and Thranduil being lovers. He had expected to feel betrayed, 
because his father was no longer faithful to Celebrian, but instead he 
found he was happy that Elrond had found someone to love. Even 
Celebrian would be happy for him. She had loved him dearly and would 
never want him to suffer because of her. 
 
Elladan was having similar thoughts. He couldn’t blame his father for 
wanting a lover when his wife had left centuries ago. Elrond deserved to 
be happy as well. “But why Thranduil? You always told us how arrogant 
and self-centered he was!”
 
Thranduil now glared at Elrond.  “Arrogant? Self-centered?”
 
Elrond flinched. “Nîn glaur, I was upset with you for many centuries.” 
 
Thranduil shook his head. “You were upset with me? You were the one 
who left! If anyone…” Suddenly he grew aware of the four pairs of eyes 
that were staring at him. “We will discuss this later. In private.”
 
“In private,” snickered Elladan softly. It was actually quite amusing to see 
Thranduil bite his lip and blush. “I wonder what else they will do in 
private.”
 
“I do not want to think about it,” said Elrohir, pretending to shiver. “I 
really do not need to know.”
 
Elrond couldn’t believe his luck. Were his sons actually willing to accept 
this? He hadn’t expected them to be this accepting, and certainly not this 
quickly. They hardly knew Thranduil! And what he had told them in the 
past about the blond wasn’t flattering either. First he searched Elrohir’s 
eyes, and then Elladan’s. But both were non-judgmental, even amused. 
This was unexpected.
 
Thranduil wasn’t sure how to react either. Looking to Elrond for help, he 
saw the half-Elf smile, relieved, and took that as a sign that everything had 
been settled for now. He was relieved as well that the twins seemed to 
accept this unexpected development. He addressed Elladan in a hesitant 
tone, “My offer to spar with you still stands… if you still want to.” He 
would understand if Elladan was no longer interested. 
 
Elladan read insecurity in Thranduil’s eyes and suddenly wondered about 
the elder Elf. Thranduil had been friendly toward him from the start and 
was now obviously worried that their beginning friendship had been 
ruined. But he loved his father and if Thranduil meant this much to 
Elrond, there had to be something very special to the blond. “We will 
spar,” he said, smiling reassuringly. 
 
Elrond heard his lover’s relieved sigh and understood completely. The fact 
that his sons accepted this meant a lot to both of them. They would still 
have to talk about this in depth later, but for now they had reached a 
satisfying understanding. 
 
The smile that appeared on Thranduil’s face told Elladan that the elder Elf 
felt slightly more secure now. “Maybe tomorrow?”
 
Thranduil nodded once and then forced himself to address another matter 
that also worried him. Looking at Erestor, he was pleased to find a warm 
smile on the Elf’s face and he hated being the one to remind him of 
Eridhren. “It is my sad duty to remind you that your father’s pyre will be 
lit tonight. Do you wish to attend the ceremony?” 
 
Erestor’s smile instantly died and he noticed the disapproving glance that 
Glorfindel gave Thranduil. “He is only reminding me,” said he, addressing 
the Elda. He didn’t want Glorfindel to be cross with Thranduil. 
 
“You should not be bothered with something like that,” said Glorfindel 
protectively, but slowly the realization sank in that he couldn’t keep reality 
out of their lives. 
 
“He was my father,” said Erestor in a nervous tone. He locked eyes with 
Elrohir and moistened his lips. “I am sorry he attacked you. He had—“
 
Elrohir quickly interrupted his friend. “You are not responsible for his 
deeds. There is no reason to take the blame and apologize to me.” 
 
Erestor shrugged apologetically. “I wished he had never come here.”
 
But Thranduil’s opinion differed greatly. Leaning in closer, he whispered 
into Elrond’s ear, “Now that he is dead we no longer have to worry that he 
will hurt someone.” 
 
Elrond had to agree. “Erestor will recover more quickly now.” Suddenly 
realizing how close Thranduil was, Elrond fought down the urge to claim 
those luscious lips. Just being close to the blond was becoming pure 
torment!
 
Recognizing the needy expression in the half-Elf’s dilated pupils, 
Thranduil leaned back into the chair. Did he really have such an impact on 
Elrond? When had that happened? Or had he been determined to not 
notice the change? Focusing on Erestor, he asked, “I would accompany 
you if you want to attend the ceremony.”
 
“I will be at his side if he desires to attend,” said Glorfindel with a hint of 
overprotectiveness in his tone. In his heart he knew Thranduil meant well, 
but Erestor was –his- lover, and –he- would attend to his needs and no one 
else! 
 
Thranduil smiled. “Oh, I am sure you will be there, Glorfindel. I was 
merely offering Erestor my support as well.” Baiting the Elda was too 
easy. Maybe it was unfair that he was testing Glorfindel, but he had to be 
sure the Elda wouldn’t desert his former protégé.
 
Glorfindel realized the true intent behind Thranduil’s words and wasn’t 
sure if he should be cross with the other Elf, or pleased that Thranduil was 
trying to protect Erestor. 
 
Erestor decided it was time to take control of the situation. “I suppose I 
should attend. He was my father, and I…” He bit his lip, uncertain if he 
should admit this to them. “And I want to convince myself he is really 
dead and that he cannot return to hurt me again.” Glorfindel unexpectedly 
wrapped an arm around his waist and pulled his chair close. Erestor just 
stared at the Elda, wondering what would happen next. 
 
“I promise that no one will ever again hurt you. Do you understand, nîn 
amdir? You are safe now. You do not have to look over your shoulder any 
longer.”
 
“That has not fully registered yet,” admitted Erestor, lowering his eyes. “I 
have lived in fear for so long.”
 
“And we never noticed.” Elrohir felt guilty for never finding out what was 
wrong. “We always suspected something troubled you, but—“
 
“But I let the situation continue,” finished Elrond for his son. “This was 
my fault as well.” 
 
“We should look toward the future,” said Thranduil, disliking the tone of 
this conversation. If anyone was to blame, it was him. /But,/ he thought, 
sighing, /it is time to let go of the past./ 
 
“I have no idea what the future will bring.” Erestor glanced shyly at 
Glorfindel. “I have never…” he paused, uncertain if he should continue, “I 
never had friends before.”
 
“And in me you have found more than just a friend,” said Glorfindel 
passionately. He wanted all of Arda to know how much he loved Erestor. 
“I will be there for you every step of the way.” 
 
Erestor actually blushed, feeling extremely shy, being the center of their 
attention. “I know you will.” And he was really beginning to believe that. 
Looking back at these last few weeks, he could hardly understand the 
changes that had taken place in his life. 
 
Thranduil cleared his throat, realizing Erestor needed a moment to 
compose himself. “Elrond, we should look into the possibility of joining 
forces when it comes down to guarding our borders.”
 
Erestor immediately looked at the half-Elf, wondering if his presence was 
required. Did Elrond still want him to act as his chief counselor, or…? He 
didn’t dare finish that thought. 
 
Elrond easily read the expression in Erestor’s dark eyes. “I would 
appreciate it if Glorfindel and you joined us.”
 
Noticing Erestor’s relieved sigh, Glorfindel nodded reluctantly. He had 
hoped to persuade the dark-haired Elf to take things easy today and rest, 
but it looked like Erestor wanted to return to his duties as quickly as 
possible. “We will be there.”
 
Erestor shot the Elda a thankful glance. The blond was quickly becoming 
his world, his support and his hope. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond was pleased with the outcome of their meeting. Thranduil had 
agreed to intensify communication between their guards, making sure both 
rulers knew when Orcs approached their borders. They also agreed to 
exchange several of their guards so Mirkwood and Imladris would grow 
accustomed to each other’s presence. In the end, they would try sending 
out mixed patrols, hoping one party could benefit from the experience of 
the other. 
 
“It is agreed then,” said Erestor, writing down the terms of the agreement. 
Looking at Elrond, a frown appeared on his brow.
 
“What is it?” asked Elrond; he knew that frown. It appeared when Erestor 
had thought of something they had missed.
 
“This alliance would become even more powerful if Lothlorien joined in 
as well. Would Celeborn be interested in taking part of this?” Erestor 
shrugged his shoulders. “It was just something that came to mind.”
 
Thranduil nodded once, locked gazes with Elrond and said, “That seems 
like an excellent idea to me.”
 
Elrond had to agree. “Glorfindel, write Celeborn a letter, stating this 
request, and then dispatch a messenger.”
 
“I will take care of it,” said Glorfindel, pleased that Erestor had found a 
way to strengthen this alliance even further. 
 
The half-Elf looked out of the window to find that Arien had already 
started her descent and that Ithil was rising. Had they really spend all day 
locked up in his study? 
 
“We should end this now,” said Thranduil. “We still need to prepare for 
Eridhren’s funeral.”
 
Erestor nearly dropped the quill, but Glorfindel’s hand settled on his 
shoulder and squeezed gently. Taking heart, he sighed and finished the 
document, which he then handed to Elrond. “If you no longer require my 
services I would like to spend a moment in private.” Hearing Glorfindel 
sigh disappointed, he immediately locked eyes with the Elda. “Not 
alone… I want a moment with you,” he quickly clarified, hoping he hadn’t 
hurt the Elda’s feelings.
 
Glorfindel smiled warmly. “Then let us return to my rooms.” Erestor had 
told him earlier that he had no desire to return to his own rooms, where 
Eridhren had died, and they had agreed that Erestor would share his 
quarters. That arrangement made Glorfindel happy, for it meant he could 
spend even more time with his new lover.
 
Elrond nodded his permission and watched them leave. Then he turned 
around and faced Thranduil. This was their first moment alone since 
breakfast. Thranduil’s suspicious look urged him to quickly cover the 
distance between them and he wrapped one arm around the blond’s waist. 
“I never expected Elladan to mention the bite mark. I counted on him 
being discreet.”
 
“It was our fault,” admitted Thranduil. He’d had an ample amount of time 
to think everything through. “We were careless. You should not have 
bitten me above the collar and I should have made an attempt to conceal it, 
but I never realized it showed that clearly.”
 
Elrond cocked his head and studied the angry mark. “I should not have 
bitten you at all.”
 
“You always do,” said Thranduil whilst shrugging his shoulders. “And I 
do not mind.”
 
Elrond released Thranduil, noticed the blond’s frown, and explained, “I 
want to apply some salve to the bite. I am not satisfied with its healing 
rate.”
 
Thranduil watched Elrond move to his desk, open a drawer and take out a 
crystal vial. The half-elf opened it, allowed for some drops to settle on his 
fingertips and then returned to him. 
 
Elrond swept away Thranduil’s hair, probing the mark. “I bit too deeply.” 
Applying the balm, he studied the blond, who looked strangely shy. But 
when they had made love in the morning, Thranduil had taken the lead. 
What would it take for the blond to do that again? A soft whimper fled 
from Thranduil’s lips and Elrond smiled, knowing his touch was welcome 
and would speed the skin’s recovery. “The ceremony will start within the 
hour.” 
 
Thranduil nodded. They could finally close this chapter and start a new 
one. One without fear. 
 
“Can I meet you in your rooms in thirty minutes?” They needed to change 
into formal robes and had to return to their quarters, but he wanted 
Thranduil to know he needed him at his side. 
 
Thranduil nodded once more. “Do you think Erestor will need us tonight?”
 
“I doubt it. Glorfindel will want to take care of him. But maybe we can 
spend some time with Elladan and Elrohir?” Surprised, he felt Thranduil 
shiver. “What is wrong?”
 
“I do not feel comfortable facing your sons. Won’t they think I am trying 
to take the place of their mother?”
 
Elrond shook his head, determined. “Celebrian cannot be replaced and 
they know you won’t try to take her place. But they might be jealous at 
times.”
 
“Jealous?” Thranduil frowned.
 
“For the last few centuries they had my undivided attention. Now they will 
have to share me with you.”
 
“Is it not about time they took a mate themselves?” wondered Thranduil 
aloud.
 
“Aye, but they have not mentioned a love to me.” Elrond folded one arm 
around the blond and together they left the study and headed for their 
rooms. “Will you share my bed with me tonight? I do not wish to be 
alone.”
 
Thranduil swallowed hard. “I do not want to be alone either.”
 
Elrond leaned in closer and bestowed a gentle kiss onto his lover’s lips. “I 
love you, nîn glaur. How could I have been so blind to let you go?”
 
Thranduil remained quiet. He had asked himself that question countless 
times and hadn’t found an answer either.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Tears streamed down Erestor’s face, watching the pyre burn. The flames 
shot into the night, tried to reach the heavens, and then began to die after 
long and mentally exhausting moments. He was swaying on his feet and 
Glorfindel’s supportive arm wrapped around his waist was the only reason 
he was still standing. 
 
Looking to his right, he found Elrond and Thranduil, standing incredibly 
close. Now that he looked closer, he found that the half-Elf had wrapped 
an arm around the blond’s waist. To his left were Elladan and Elrohir. On 
their faces lay a determined expression and he could only guess at their 
thoughts. For some reason they seemed frustrated, and he realized they 
were busy blaming themselves for not realizing something was wrong at 
an earlier time. He would have to talk to them about that. They hadn’t 
known because he had been careful to not arouse their suspicions. 
 
“Are you still coping, nîn amdir? We can return to my rooms if you want 
to.” Glorfindel worried about his lover. The tears that dripped down the 
dark-haired Elf’s chin were growing fewer, but he easily sensed his lover’s 
sadness and pain. All he wanted was to hold him close and assure him 
everything would be well.
 
Erestor leaned into Glorfindel’s embrace and rested his head against the 
Elda’s shoulder. “I would not have been able to deal with this without 
you.”
 
“You do not have to deal with this alone, nîn amdir.” Glorfindel realized 
that it would take time for Erestor to full accept that he was no longer 
alone. But now that Eridhren was dead they had all the time they needed. 
 
“I still cannot believe he is dead.” Erestor shook his head against the 
Elda’s shoulder. “I cannot believe he can no longer hurt me. I still expect 
to see him around every corner. Seeing him again brought everything 
back.”
 
“We will work through this together,” promised Glorfindel. “Let us go 
now.” The fire was dying and he wanted Erestor back in the safety of his 
rooms where the dark-haired Elf could break down, should his strength 
desert him. 
 
Erestor allowed Glorfindel to lead him away from the pyre. After casting 
one more look at the dying flames, he sighed and put his trust in the Elda, 
who had promised to see him through this. 
 
Elrond and Thranduil watched them depart and the half-Elf’s gaze was 
drawn to his sons, who stood closely together, offering each other comfort. 
“Elladan, Elrohir…”
 
The twins turned around and looked at him. “The ceremony has come to 
an end. Why don’t you go to your rooms and try to rest? These last few 
days were eventful and exhausting.”
 
Elladan and Elrohir drew in a deep breath, walked away from the pyre and 
entered the Last Homely House. Elladan spoke first. “As far as I am 
concerned, Eridhren got what he deserved for hurting Erestor like that.” 
Grim determination echoed in his voice. 
 
Elrohir nodded firmly. “I agree. But Erestor is hurting and needs us to be 
supportive. Do not give in to this hate, brother.”
 
Elladan sighed, realizing his brother was right. “I am glad this nightmare 
is over.”
 
Suddenly a servant appeared. The Elf walked up to them, bowed and then 
addressed them. “Forgive me for disturbing you at such a delicate 
moment, but another guest has arrived.”
 
“A guest?” Puzzled, Elladan locked eyes with his brother. “We are not 
expecting anyone, are we? 
 
Elrohir shook his head. “No one that I am aware of. Who is it?”
 
“It is Legolas, the youngest son of Thranduil.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye.


Part 18
 
 
A worried expression appeared on Elladan’s face. During their short 
sparring match Thranduil had told him about his sons, but he had never 
expected to actually meet one. “Legolas…” He paused, looked at his 
brother and nodded. “Thranduil mentioned him to me.”
 
 “What should I do?” asked the servant. In the distance the last flames 
were dying, and in their reflection he could see Elrond and Thranduil, 
slowly heading for the half-Elf’s quarters. He didn’t want to disturb the 
two Elf Lords during such a painful moment. 
 
“We will take care of this,” said Elladan after exchanging another look 
with his twin. 
 
“And tomorrow morning we will tell Thranduil that Legolas has arrived.” 
Elrohir felt it was important that tonight Thranduil and his father could 
talk about everything that had happened lately. 
 
The servant bowed slightly. “I asked Legolas to wait in the Halls of Fire.”
 
“We will welcome him and then escort him to the guest rooms,” said 
Elladan, taking charge. 
 
The servant, relieved that the twins would see to their guest, returned to 
his duties.
 
“What do we say?” asked Elladan. 
 
Elrohir shrugged his shoulders. “The words will come to us.” Then he 
mused, “I wonder what Legolas is like. Do you think he will resemble his 
father?”
 
“Elrohir, he is bound to find out about his father and ours…” Unable to 
finish, his voice faded. “Do you think he will accept their love?”
 
“We can worry about that later,” said Elrohir, being the voice of reason. 
“We should welcome him first.”
 
The two dark-haired half-Elves headed for the Halls of Fire, wondering 
why Legolas had arrived so unexpectedly.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Legolas waited patiently, hoping Elrond Peredhel would allow him to 
meet up with his father shortly. He realized that his arrival was 
unexpected, but he carried a message from Celeborn, who had asked him 
to deliver it to his father when he had been passing through Lothlorien. He 
liked Celeborn and Galadriel, he always had, and had assured them that 
carrying this message to his father was no burden at all. 
 
Apparently Orcs had been sighted on Lothlorien’s borders, and Celeborn 
was becoming worried that the foul creatures would grow increasingly 
bolder. This was a danger they should face together, instead of fighting 
separately. 
 
Straightening out his tunic, his gaze traveled to the entrance, hearing 
voices. He was surprised to see two young, dark-haired Elves enter, 
instead of a much older Elrond Peredhel. He had never met any of the 
Peredhil and felt curious. He raised an eyebrow, realizing the two half-
Elves looked identical. 
 
/Twins. Ada once told me about Elrond’s sons./ So Elrond had sent his 
sons to welcome him. Was the older half-Elf too busy to welcome him 
personally? Had something happened? He knew his father had been 
worried because Eridhren wanted to accompany him. Had this something 
to do with Eridhren? He had always known the Elf presented a danger. 
 
The twins came to a halt in front of him and Legolas politely inclined his 
head in greeting. 
 
“Welcome, Legolas, son of Thranduil. I am Elladan, son of Elrond and 
this is my younger brother, Elrohir. You are most welcome in Imladris.” 
Elladan smiled at the Mirkwood prince. Legolas looked like a younger 
version of Thranduil, but the large, blue eyes definitely set father and son 
apart. 
 
“Thank you for your kind words, Elladan, son of Elrond.” Legolas studied 
them, and found himself wondering if there was a way to tell them apart. 
Both half-Elves were dressed in long, brown robes and their hair had been 
braided according to their station. They truly were a magnificent sight. 
 
Elrohir spoke next. “The night is already upon us and I assume you would 
like to rest before speaking with your father. Please allow us to guide you 
to your guest rooms.” He caught himself staring dreamily at the golden-
haired beauty. Something about Legolas had immediately caught his 
attention. He had never felt such an instant attraction before, and he 
quickly averted his eyes to make sure the blond couldn’t read the 
confusion in them. 
 
Legolas looked questioningly at Elrohir. He had hoped to speak with his 
father as quickly as possible, but he was willing to wait until the morning. 
“Thank you for your hospitality.”
 
Elrohir nodded his head once, feeling surprisingly nervous when he raised 
his hand to direct Legolas in the right direction. 
 
Legolas followed Elladan and looked at Elrohir when the twin fell into 
step beside him. His father had told him about Elrond and most of the time 
sadness and regret had sounded in Thranduil’s voice, when he had 
expected to hear anger and frustration. It was no secret to him that his 
father had once loved Elrond. 
 
Elrohir’s eyes danced nervously, stealing glances at their guest. Legolas 
was fluid elegance and his hair glimmered like Arien. But the eyes were 
what stunned him most. Looking at the blue orbs, he felt like staring into 
the sky, warmed by the sun. Suddenly Elladan looked at him over his 
shoulder and he quickly lowered his gaze. His twin knew him through and 
through and had probably figured out he felt attracted to the blond. 
 
They reached the guest rooms and Elladan opened the door to let Legolas 
enter. “Is there anything you need? A servant will bring you some 
refreshments and in the morning you will be escorted to the dining room 
so you can speak with your father.”
 
Legolas’ gaze swept through the room, finding it furnished luxuriously. 
He was hungry and thirsty and already looking forward to those 
refreshments Elladan had hinted at. “I will be fine.”
 
“If anything is amiss just contact one of the servants.” Elladan took a step 
back and bumped into his brother, who was still staring at Legolas. Intent 
on saving his twin from more embarrassment, he turned Elrohir around 
and quickly pulled him along. “What is wrong with you?” he asked, 
hearing Legolas close the door behind him. “What has gotten into you?”
 
Elrohir shook his head, trying to clear it of Legolas’ image, and then 
looked at his brother. “I do not dare say the words.”
 
“What words?” Elladan quickly steered his younger brother into the 
corridor their rooms were in. A moment later, he opened the door, closed 
it again and now that they were in the privacy of his rooms, he placed his 
hands on Elrohir’s shoulders. “What is wrong? Elrohir, you worry me! I 
have never seen you act like this before!”
 
Elrohir swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat. “You will think 
me insane.”
 
Elladan was now really growing worried. Why was his brother acting this 
peculiarly? “Why would I think that?”
 
“Do you believe in love at first sight?” There, he had said it. Now Elrohir 
closed his eyes; he didn’t want to see Elladan laugh at him for this folly. 
But he couldn’t deny the sweet, maddening desire that was rushing 
through his veins. “I never did. Until now.”
 
Elladan’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Love at first sight? Elrohir, what are 
you trying to tell me? Is it Legolas?” 
 
Elrohir nodded, but his eyes remained closed. “I never felt anything like it 
before. I cannot describe the feelings coursing through me.” In the end, his 
eyes opened to look at Elladan, now that no laughter was forthcoming. “I 
have never been in love before, but this feeling swept me off my feet.”
 
Elladan studied his younger brother. He could tell Elrohir was serious 
from the look in his twin’s eyes. A new passion had taken up residence in 
them, and yet, there was also confusion and fear. “I never experienced 
love at first sight, but I do think it exists.”
 
Elrohir sighed, relieved. “Brother, do not leave me alone tonight. And talk 
to me. Maybe your closeness and the sound of your voice will keep my 
thoughts from straying back to Legolas.”
 
Elladan steered his brother toward his bed and sat him down. After pulling 
up a chair, he sat down and clasped Elrohir’s hands in his. “You do not 
wish to feel this way?”
 
Elrohir looked at him pleadingly. “Elladan, think about it. He is 
Thranduil’s son. What would father and Thranduil say, should I tell them 
about this unexpected attraction? We should be like brothers, and now I 
find myself attracted to him.” 
 
Elladan understood Elrohir’s worries, but only to a certain degree. He 
sighed, wondering when things would go back to normal so they could get 
some rest. Seeing Elrohir’s distressed expression, he opted for humor. “It 
seems you have inherited Ada’s preference for beautiful, golden-haired 
Elves then.”
 
For one brief moment Elrohir stared at his brother in shock. Then Elladan 
smiled warmly at him and he couldn’t help returning that smile. But in the 
end, the smile faded again. “Will you help me fight this?”
 
Elladan frowned; his brother’s frantic tone worried him. “Fight this? 
Elrohir, in Elbereth’s name, why do you want to fight this?” 
 
“He is the son of Ada’s lover! How can I possibly...” His voice faltered. “I 
cannot feel this way about Legolas.”
 
Elladan gave Elrohir a thoughtful glance. “I do not think you should fight 
it.”
 
“But Ada and Thranduil will never allow it!”
 
Elladan’s frown deepened. “Why do you think that?”
 
“I just know.”
 
“I think you are making a mistake in judgment, but I will stay close in the 
mean time, if that is what you want.”
 
Elrohir nodded thankfully. “I felt so incredibly nervous when he stared at 
me. Elladan, what is happening to me? Even now, all I can think about are 
his eyes.” He felt utterly helpless, and that feeling scared him. 
 
“My brother, you are in love,” said Elladan, smiling. “Enjoy it.”
 
But Elrohir shook his head and then lowered his eyes. “I am scared.”
 
Elladan shifted over onto the bed and enfolded his brother in his arms. 
“You do not have to be scared.” Holding Elrohir, he thought back to the 
golden-haired prince that had arrived today. /You had better not hurt his 
feelings, Legolas./
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Thranduil sat down on the bed and stared at the remains of the pyre. Was 
it wrong to feel relieved now that Eridhren was dead?
 
“Here, have some miruvor.” Elrond pressed a glass filled with the potent 
liquid into the blond’s hand and then stood beside him, watching the 
swirling black ashes as well. “You have finally been released from his 
presence. Guarding him during all these centuries must have been tiring.”
 
“It was,” admitted Thranduil, sipping. He looked up and made eye contact 
with the half-Elf. “Erestor is finally free.” 
 
Elrond sat down next to the blond and held Thranduil’s gaze. “We need to 
talk, nîn glaur. Are you cross with me for telling them the truth?”
 
“It could not be helped. Lying to them felt wrong as well.” He took 
another sip, and it burned his throat. 
 
“I did not want to lie to them either,” said Elrond. He slowly raised one 
hand and wrapped a strand of golden hair around his fingertip. “We should 
discuss our future.”
 
Feeling uncomfortable, Thranduil sipped again. The miruvor was quickly 
traveling to his head, making him speak freely. “What future? I will return 
to Mirkwood and you will stay here. All we have is the moment.”
 
Elrond frowned. “It does not have to be that way.”
 
Thranduil quickly emptied his glass, got to his feet, and walked over to the 
cabinet where he refilled his glass. He seldom drank miruvor, but now 
craved the rush it would bring. Now that he had found out that Elrond 
returned his love, he didn’t want to lose it again -- but losing the half-Elf 
was inevitable. 
 
Worried, Elrond rose and joined Thranduil. “What is really troubling 
you?” He placed his glass on the table and then rested his hands on the 
blond’s hips, turning him around so they were facing each other. 
 
“I do not want to live without you,” admitted Thranduil, breathlessly. “I 
have been alone for so long. Now that I have tasted love again I do not 
want to go without it.”
 
Elrond’s eyes filled with love and understanding. “I never realized how 
much I hurt you.”
 
Thranduil’s gaze dropped. “First I lost you, then my father, and I only led 
one third of my people home. Death quickly became a constant in my life 
and I wished you were still there with me. But I had lost you as well.”
 
Elrond led Thranduil to the bed, where they sat down. “What happened 
next?”
 
“I grieved for everyone and everything I had lost. I was afraid I would 
follow my father to Mandos, but then Aewithôn entered my life. She was 
like a refreshing breeze, when I felt suffocated. I tried to push her away, 
but she stopped me. Her persistence warmed my heart and I began to 
greatly care about her. It was never passion; what Aewithôn and I shared 
was more of a spiritual nature. She gave me two sons. Valthoron, my 
oldest took after her, but Legolas… He reminds me of myself when I was 
much younger, but he is more confident, and wiser than I ever was.”  
 
“I am glad you found comfort in her arms,” offered Elrond. 
 
“When I began to court her I told her about you. My love for you. I still 
wonder if that was a mistake. She spent the rest of her life living in your 
shadow.”
 
Elrond’s gaze dropped. “I am sorry.”
 
“We found happiness in seeing our sons grow up,” continued Thranduil, 
“but after several millennia she realized she could not win over a ghost. 
My heart never fully belonged to her. Mentally tired and emotionally 
exhausted, she told me she needed to rest. She sailed for Valinor the day 
after Legolas reached his majority. We still mourn her departure.” 
 
Elrond grew saddened, hearing Thranduil’s tale. “I do not know what to 
say.”
 
“There is nothing to say,” said Thranduil, shrugging his shoulders. “I find 
comfort in the thought that she is happy now.” After this emotional 
bloodletting, Thranduil emptied his glass again, enjoying the dizzy 
sensation that now swept through his head. The warmth that spread 
through his body finally relaxed his tense and cramped muscles. “Must we 
speak of this?”
 
Seeing the unfocused expression in Thranduil’s eyes, Elrond took hold of 
the blond’s empty glass and placed it on the floor. “You have had 
enough.” He wanted to discuss something important and needed Thranduil 
clear-headed. 
 
Thranduil now stared at his empty hands, lying idly in his lap. Elrond’s 
heart contracted with sympathy. “I want to discuss our future because I 
have this idea…”
 
“What idea?” Sighing dejectedly, Thranduil reluctantly met the half-Elf’s 
eyes. 
 
“My sons are old enough to rule Imladris. It is time they accepted their 
responsibilities -- and your sons are capable of ruling Mirkwood. We 
could spend a year in Imladris and the next in Mirkwood. That way we 
could stay together. What do you think?” Elrond paused, seeing the 
stunned disbelief in Thranduil’s feline eyes. “I mean it, nîn glaur. This 
does not have to end when you return to Mirkwood.”
 
“You would come with me and live with me in Mirkwood? I cannot let 
you make such a sacrifice.” Suddenly realizing how close Elrond was, the 
urge to kiss the half-Elf’s lips overwhelmed him. “By Elbereth, I need 
you.” The wine made him bold and he leaned in, claiming Elrond’s lips 
and possessively wrapping his arms around the half-Elf. “I want you so 
badly,” he breathed into his lover’s mouth. 
 
A pang of arousal swept through Elrond’s body, pooling in his groin. 
Growing erect, he let himself fall back onto the bed and Thranduil 
straddled him within seconds, eagerly rubbing his erection against him. 
This was what he had dreamt of; a possessive and an eager Thranduil. 
“Take me, nîn glaur. Make love to me.”
 
The look Thranduil directed at him, made goose flesh appear all over his 
body. Never before had the blond looked this predatorily at him. Suddenly 
Thranduil bowed forward, brutally claiming his lips and forcing himself a 
way past his teeth to explore his mouth. It had been like this with Gil-
galad, and now that Thranduil was acting in the same way his entire body 
felt on fire. “Please take me…” He wasn’t beyond begging at this time. 
His erection throbbed painfully and he couldn’t wait to feel his lover move 
inside him. 
 
Elrond’s eagerness urged Thranduil on. Drunk on the miruvor, it was 
easier to let go and try new things. His hand stole inside Elrond’s robes, 
quickly unbuttoning them until he could push them aside. Staring at 
Elrond’s smooth, hairless chest and slender hips, he pinched a nipple and 
then rolled the hard flesh between his fingertips. The moan that left the 
half-Elf’s lips went straight to his groin. “Now, I want you now.”
 
“You have me,” moaned Elrond, blissfully. Thranduil continued to remove 
his robes and he sighed, relieved when his erection was freed from its 
confines. But he stopped the blond when Thranduil wanted to remove his 
clothes as well. “Now.”
 
Thranduil was too enraptured to question Elrond’s demand. He unlaced 
his breeches, pushed aside any cloth that was in the way and searched for 
anything he could use to ease his way inside. Elrond, moaning and 
reaching frantically for him, seemed frustrated with the delay, so he 
explained. “Do you have anything I can use?”
 
Elrond understood and pointed at the vial of oil on the nightstand, which 
he usually rubbed onto his skin after taking a bath. “That will do. And now 
hurry!” He raised his hips, urging Thranduil on.
 
Thranduil took hold of the vial and generously coated his erection with the 
slippery oil. Had he been thinking rationally he would have stopped to 
prepare his lover, but the need to be one with the half-Elf was 
overwhelming. He parted his lover’s legs, knelt between them and then 
draped the long legs over his shoulders. With one hand he gathered 
Elrond’s wrists and brought them together above the half-Elf’s head. 
 
Elrond’s member twitched with excitement. “Aiya, take me! I cannot wait 
any longer!” The fact that he was completely at Thranduil’s mercy thrilled 
him. Although he could easily free his hands, he didn’t, showing the blond 
how much he appreciated the fact that he was taking control of the 
situation. “Please…”
 
Thranduil surrendered to the overpowering urge to bury himself in 
Elrond’s body and positioned himself at the tight opening. Locking eyes 
with the dark-haired half-Elf, he waited for Elrond to nod and then pushed 
inside. 
 
Elrond released a choked yelp as the invasive feeling grew. Pain and 
pleasure mixed and danced through his body. “More… Deeper!”
 
Thranduil growled possessively and looked at their joined bodies now that 
his erection was disappearing into the tight channel. With one grunt, that 
erupted from deeply within his throat, his heavy balls slapped against 
Elrond’s buttocks, burying himself completely. Staring down at the 
trapped half-Elf, he maintained his hold on Elrond’s wrists. 
 
Throwing back his head, he pulled out, and then pushed inside again. Both 
groaned in pleased surprise and Thranduil slightly changed the angle of 
his thrusts. He aimed for his lover’s sweet spot, hoping to ease Elrond’s 
discomfort, which had finally registered in his lust filled brain. 
 
Pushing back, Elrond stared at the blond in rapture. His wildest dream was 
quickly becoming true and he screamed his pleasure when Thranduil’s 
thrusts became harder and deeper. Abandoned to the thrusts, he pushed 
back. His own erection dripped pre-ejaculate, but he couldn’t touch 
himself now that Thranduil had a tight hold on his wrists. “Please…” he 
whimpered again when the golden-haired Elf’s thrusts shoved him over 
the bed toward the head end. The force of Thranduil’s thrusts increased 
and Elrond moaned deliriously when his erection twitched again, this time 
releasing warm cream. His pupils dilated, realizing Thranduil had stopped 
thrusting. 
 
Thranduil bowed his head, succumbing to the intense ecstasy that now 
washed over him. Elrond’s inner muscle contracted around him, milking 
him dry. 
 
The long, golden locks touching his bare chest were torment and ecstasy at 
the same time, making Elrond groan. Finally their gazes met and 
Thranduil instantly released his wrists, staring at him in disbelief. Elrond 
quickly brought up his arms behind the blond’s back and pulled him close, 
wrapping his legs around his waist, all to make sure Thranduil didn’t pull 
out yet.  
 
Finally realizing he had allowed his urges to control him, Thranduil stared 
at Elrond in disbelief. “What did I do?”
 
“You made love to me,” said Elrond, teasingly. “And I loved it.”
 
“You did?” Thranduil frowned. “But…”
 
“I came, didn’t I?” Elrond soothingly stroked the golden locks. “I need to 
confess something… I like it when you take control.”
 
“You do?” Thranduil’s eyes had widened in surprise. “But I did not 
prepare you properly and—“
 
Elrond’s fingers now trailed down the long hair, slipped into Thranduil’s 
robes and effortlessly located one hard nipple, which he pinched teasingly, 
secretly hoping the blond would grow hard again whilst still inside him. 
“Will you make love to me again, nîn glaur?” Using his hold on 
Thranduil, he pulled the Elf close enough to kiss him. 
 
Thranduil groaned when Elrond kissed him hard. What was the half-Elf 
doing to him? Elrond, rolling one of his nipples between his fingertips, 
sucked on the tip of his tongue and… “What?” he panted the word, 
realizing he was growing hard again. “I am still inside you…”
 
“Then take me again.” 
 
“You will be sore.”
 
“I do not mind,” whispered Elrond, slowly rocking his hips. “Not as long 
as you make love to me.”
 
Unable to deny Elrond, Thranduil planted a passionate kiss on the half-
Elf’s lips. “Then I will make love to you until the day we die.”
 
 
TBC
Beta read by Ilye, thanks! 
All remaining mistakes are mine! (Yeah, I am greedy!)


Part 19
 
 
Glorfindel led Erestor back to his rooms. After closing the door behind 
him, he steered the trembling Elf to the fire place, where they slowly went 
down onto their knees. Erestor’s arms came up behind him, pressing him 
close. Glorfindel returned the embrace, waited for the shaking Elf to rest 
his head on his shoulder and then rocked him slowly until the emotional 
storm had passed.
 
“I… am-m s-so s-sor--ry…” stuttered Erestor, his face buried in 
Glorfindel’s silken hair. “I n-never…w-wwant-ted t-to f-fall… apart l-like 
this-s.” He felt ashamed for breaking down in front of the Elda. It was 
beyond him why Glorfindel continued to put up with him. 
 
Glorfindel drew in a deep, steadying breath. “You need to let go, nîn 
amdir. You have kept this locked up inside you for so long, and now that it 
is finally allowed a way out, your pain demands to be heard. Do not feel 
ashamed or embarrassed, melamin.”
 
Erestor continued to sob for a few more minutes and then lifted his head, 
making eye contact with the blond. “Why are you s-still here? Aren’t you 
f-fed up yet with m-my behavior?”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes shone with love and understanding. “I am not your 
father, Erestor. I won’t get cross with you for being upset.”
 
Feeling caught, Erestor lowered his gaze at once. He had wondered when 
Glorfindel would be angry with him for the first time, but so far the Elda 
had only shown patience and understanding. “I am s-sor—“
 
But Glorfindel interrupted him. “There is no reason to be sorry, melamin. 
Just allow me to comfort you.” Erestor’s tears stopped and using his 
sleeve, Glorfindel wiped away the tears still sitting on the dark-haired 
Elf’s face. “Do you feel better now?”
 
Erestor nodded reluctantly. It was true; he did feel better. “And n-now 
what?” He felt adrift on a sea of emotions and couldn’t think straight. 
 
“Now we will take a hot bath, dress you in a sleeping robe and then I will 
hold you tight for the rest of the night.” Glorfindel smiled proudly, 
realizing he had made Erestor smile. “I take it you would like that?”
 
Erestor smiled shyly. “Aye, I w-would.” The Elda got to his feet and 
pulled him along into the bathroom. Suddenly his nervousness returned. 
Did Glorfindel plan on them taking that bath together? Shuffling his feet, 
he watched in amazement as the blond began to take off his clothes. A 
moment later, a naked Glorfindel looked at him, raising an eyebrow at 
finding him still dressed. “I…” he stuttered, embarrassed, wondering what 
to say or how to act. 
 
Glorfindel walked over to Erestor and took the dark-haired Elf’s hands in 
his. “Do you trust me?” If Erestor said no, his world would shatter into 
tiny pieces.
 
“I do,” choked out Erestor, “But…” Biting his bottom lip, he stared at the 
blond’s magnificently shaped body. “I d-do not compare to you.” And he 
didn’t want Glorfindel to accidentally see the scars on his neck. 
 
Unexpectedly Glorfindel began to unbutton his tunic, and Erestor 
continued to bite his lip, shuffling nervously. 
 
To Glorfindel, Erestor looked like a trapped animal, deadly afraid of 
having to suffer more pain. “Trust yourself to me, melamin. I promise to 
take good care of you.”
 
Erestor had lowered his gaze and was now staring at Glorfindel’s hands, 
which removed his belt, letting his robes fall open. “I am a-afraid I will 
d-disappoint you,” he admitted in a strangled tone. He flinched when 
Glorfindel pushed down the robes. They now pooled at his feet, revealing 
his trembling, naked body to the blond. His breath caught when the 
golden-haired Elf knelt in front of him, but then he realized Glorfindel 
wanted him to step out of his boots, which he promptly did. 
 
Glorfindel got to his feet again and extended one hand to lead Erestor into 
the pool of warm, scented water. The pool was big enough for both of 
them and he slowly guided Erestor down the steps until the water reached 
their waist. “Sit down.” 
 
Probing the ledge, formed beneath the water surface, Erestor slowly sat 
down and stared at Glorfindel, who reached for the soap. Erestor felt 
paralyzed when the golden-haired Elf sat next to him, pulling him close. 
Glorfindel’s legs parted, and the Elda pulled him even closer. His breath 
caught, feeling the blond’s still lax sex pressed against his buttocks. 
Overwhelmed, he closed his eyes, but that didn’t stop the tears from 
rolling down his face. 
 
Glorfindel was unaware of the second emotional storm that was now 
raging inside Erestor and began to tend to his lover’s hair, washing it 
gently. His gaze was drawn to the scars and he wondered if he could bring 
them up. He really wanted to know what had caused them. Cupping his 
hands, he rinsed Erestor’s hair. Frowning, he realized that Erestor’s 
shoulders shook and the raven-haired Elf had wrapped his arms around his 
waist. “Melamin, are you crying again?”
 
Glorfindel rested his hands on Erestor’s shoulders and turned the other Elf 
around so he could look at his face. The tears had reappeared, but there 
was something else that shone from the dark eyes; fear. But no, that 
couldn’t be! Why would Erestor be afraid of him? “Nîn amdir? Please 
confide in me and tell me what has upset you!” 
 
Erestor’s lips became a thin line. He knew Glorfindel had no idea what 
had sparked his fear and he didn’t want the Elda to think this was his fault. 
“It is n-nothing.” He opened his eyes and hesitantly met Glorfindel’s gaze. 
 
Realizing he had to do something, Glorfindel asked, “Does it have 
something to do with these scars?” He let one fingertip trace the scars and 
caught Erestor’s startled gasp. 
 
“Please… do not t-touch me in that m-manner.” Erestor bowed his head 
and began to sob again. Just when he had thought things were finally 
looking up, Glorfindel had to ask that particular question. 
 
Glorfindel stopped caressing the damaged skin, but he refused to break off 
bodily contact and wrapped his arms around Erestor’s waist, forcing the 
dark-haired Elf to lean into the embrace. Erestor seemed reluctant at first, 
but then rested his head against the blond's shoulder. Glorfindel released a 
relieved sigh. “Remember, you can trust me. You can tell me what caused 
them.”
 
“But I do n-not want to t-tell you!” Erestor’s eyes filled with sadness and 
remembered fear. “I do not w-want you to look at me…  w-with loathing 
in your eyes.”
 
Glorfindel frowned. “Why would I look at you like that?”
 
Erestor trembled, but realized this had to come in the open. He hoped he 
wouldn’t lose Glorfindel’s love, but the Elda had a right to know the truth. 
“P-put your ha-hand on my n-neck.”
 
Glorfindel trembled when he followed Erestor’s instructions. His heart 
skipped a beat when the raven-haired Elf bowed his head. “What are you 
doing?”
 
His surroundings suddenly faded. The bathroom was gone and Erestor was 
back in his father’s house. Eridhren had a tight hold on him, bending him 
forward. “M-most of the time I br-brought my f-father to orgasm b-by 
using my hands... or my m-mouth... whatever he d-desired... but in the 
end… it w-was no longer enough.”
 
Glorfindel started at Erestor’s continued stutter and realized the Elf was 
lost in his memories. He quickly removed his hand, pulled Erestor against 
him and stroked the long hair. Giving his lover the time he needed, he 
waited for Erestor to continue, already dreading the terrible things to 
come.
 
“He was about to f-force himself on m-me and… and I… I ran. I could n-
not let that hap…pen.” Erestor needed to see the expression in 
Glorfindel’s eyes and looked at the blond. Seeing the sadness and 
understanding in the sapphire eyes slightly reassured him and made him 
continue. “I knew... I would d-die if I l-let him t-touch me in that w-way.”
 
“So you ran?” Glorfindel was holding his breath. “You must have been so 
scared, so confused.”
 
“But even b-back then… I was d-determined to s-survive... and get away 
from him... I w-wanted a better life for myself… b-but I did not know 
how… t-to accomplish that.” More tears escaped Erestor’s eyes. “I r-
ran…, but he caught me and gave me the worst b-beating I ever had to 
endure… I ran again... and this ti-time I headed for Thranduil’s throne r-
room… I hid b-behind his throne and w-when he f-found me I knew I was 
s-safe... I begged him to k-keep my fa-father away from me… and he d-
did… Only a f-few hours l-later… I was traveling… to Imladris.” 
 
Glorfindel tightened his hold on the trembling Elf. Erestor looked startled 
by this maneuver, but eventually returned the hug. Making sure Erestor 
was tightly enfolded in the embrace, Glorfindel used one hand to lift the 
trembling Elf’s face until Erestor finally made eye contact. Staring deeply 
into the dark pools of pain and sorrow, Glorfindel sighed deeply. “Why 
did you not tell me earlier? I knew your father abused you, but I never 
realized he actually tried to force himself on you in that way.” But it 
explained why Erestor had flinched when he had settled the dark-haired 
Elf between his legs. 
 
“I… c-could not-t  t-tell you,” whispered Erestor in an emotional tone. “I 
could n-not t-tell… anyone. The only one… who k-knew was Thranduil… 
and… he pr-promised to n-never tell a l-living soul… My secret-t was s-
safe… with him.”
 
“It must have been hard for you to build a life here in Imladris.” 
Glorfindel now caressed the long, wet strands of dark hair, occasionally 
pushing them behind a delicately curved ear. 
 
“It w-was... Elrond wanted to send me b-back… when he realized I had 
not r-reached m-majority… and I do not know what I w-would have d-
done… if he had insisted I l-left. I would n-never have returned home… I 
would probably have fa-faded.” Erestor studied the Elda’s eyes. Glorfindel 
seemed shaken, but was still holding him. Did that mean the blond still 
wanted him? 
 
“I will have to thank Elrond for letting you stay then.” Suddenly tired of 
discussing the past, Glorfindel leaned in closer and touched his lips to 
Erestor’s. The dark-haired Elf flinched away from the touch and stared at 
him. “I just want to kiss you, melamin.”
 
Erestor lowered his eyes. “No one e-ever has. I d-do not know how… 
What…” Confused, he looked pleadingly at the blond. “I do not k-know 
what to d-do. I have been alone… for so long.”
 
“That has changed, melamin.” Glorfindel determinedly tried again, and 
this time succeeded in bestowing a gentle kiss on trembling lips. 
 
“I will d-disap-p-point you,” repeated Erestor. “E-e-motionally I am a m-
mess, and I am not s-sure I will ever be able to r-return your kisses, your 
touches, and your… l-love.” 
 
Glorfindel immediately soothed him. “Melamin, so many things have 
happened in these last few days and it is understandable that you feel 
confused. Give yourself the time to recover.” 
 
“But you cannot… want a lover who fl-flinches at every t-touch! Who 
clamps up when k-kissed!”
 
But Glorfindel smiled warmly. “I am not worried about those things, for I 
am sure you will feel more confident in time, and you do trust me, do you 
not?” Erestor nodded once, biting his lip again, something which 
Glorfindel found utterly charming. “Would you wash my hair?” He had to 
do something to take away the tension that had build between them. 
 
Erestor took hold of the soap, and slowly washed Glorfindel’s long mane. 
Sitting on the Elda’s lap felt odd and he prayed to Elbereth that his lover 
wouldn’t grow aroused; he wouldn’t be able to deal with that. 
 
Glorfindel read that very thought in those dark, startled eyes and realized 
just how fragile Erestor still was. It would take time for the raven-haired 
Elf to adjust to his new life. “I love your touch,” he said, trying to reassure 
Erestor, who was now rinsing his hair. Seeing Erestor blush made him 
smile warmly. “Will you let me comb and braid your hair later?”
 
Erestor returned Glorfindel’s gaze shyly. “Then the s-scars will show.”
 
“Does it matter?”
 
“I do not want anyone to s-stare at them... They will wonder what caused 
them.”
 
Glorfindel drew in a deep breath. “Elrond and the twins have already seen 
them.” 
 
Erestor grew pale. “They have…?” 
 
“When they cared for you. Elrond told me that one of the twins discovered 
them. And I do not want to worry you, but I think they already figured out 
that your father was responsible for them. They might not know the details 
you just told me, but—“ Glorfindel stopped talking, seeing the 
embarrassed expression on Erestor’s face. “You should stop worrying 
about these things. Your father is gone and you should concentrate on 
your recovery.”
 
Erestor felt nervous. “Why do you want to b-braid my hair?”
 
“Because I love the way it feels when I run my fingers through it, and I 
have a particular design in mind for these long, beautiful tresses.” 
Erestor’s pallor changed into a blush, slightly reassuring Glorfindel. “Wait 
here for me. I will fetch some towels.”
 
Erestor was surprised when the blond lifted him effortlessly and placed 
him on the ridge beside him. Glorfindel then exited the pool and Erestor’s 
breathing slightly sped up, seeing droplets slide down the blond’s 
gorgeous body. He panted in surprise when his groin tightened. He was 
growing erect, but that couldn’t be happening! Ashamed, he wished his 
erection would go away, but then Glorfindel bend down to pick up the 
towels and the perfect round globes sent another wave of desire through 
his body. Quickly, he closed his eyes. /I cannot lust after him like that. It is 
wrong./
 
Glorfindel heard Erestor’s sharp intake of breath and looked over his 
shoulder at the dark-haired Elf. Erestor’s eyes had closed and a panicked 
expression lay on his face. He quickly hurried back to the pool and 
searched the Elf’s face. “Melamin?” The blush on Erestor’s face confused 
him. “Come out of the water. It is growing cold.”
 
“I cannot… do that,” stuttered Erestor in embarrassment. 
 
Glorfindel frowned. “Why is that?” He unfolded a towel and held it in 
front of him, hoping to lure Erestor from the cooling water.
 
“I can… not,” whispered Erestor, panicking now that his arousal refused 
to fade. Why had he looked at Glorfindel when the blond was bending 
over? 
 
Realization finally dawned on Glorfindel and he trod carefully, knowing 
that Erestor’s ideas on sexuality differed from his, which was 
understandable, considering what the Elf had been through with his father. 
“Melamin, I am honored that my body pleases you. There is nothing 
wrong with desiring me in that way.”
 
“But it is… wrong,” whispered Erestor, stricken now that the blond had 
figured out he was erect. “I do not want to… to be like my father.”
 
Glorfindel swallowed hard, dropped the towel and descended into the pool 
again. His hands now clutched either side of Erestor’s head and he made 
sure he had the Elf’s undivided attention when he addressed him again. 
“You are not your father, Erestor. You are a compassionate and caring 
soul, who deserves to be loved. Please do not be afraid to explore the 
physical side of our love.” He paused, uncertain if he should address this 
now, but in the end, he decided he should. “You have never had a lover 
before?”
 
“Never,” whispered Erestor, nervously. 
 
“But you did touch yourself when the tension in your body became too 
much?” Glorfindel knew this topic made Erestor uncomfortable, but it was 
better to discuss it now. 
 
His arousal was fading now that they were discussing this and Erestor 
sighed, distressed. “Only when I had to… I tried to do it at little as 
possible.”
 
Glorfindel cursed Eridhren for doing this to Erestor. “It is normal to find 
pleasure in touching yourself, melamin.” Taking the plunge into the deep, 
he added, “I would like to touch you and bring you pleasure.” 
 
“Right n-now?” Erestor’s throat tightened with tension. His voice sounded 
hoarse when he added, “Why?”
 
Glorfindel chose his words carefully. “What your father did was wrong. 
Forcing you to touch him like that was wrong. He should never have done 
that, and because of it you never found pleasure in touching your body. I 
want to bring you pleasure and show you that there is nothing wrong when 
lovers touch each other in that way. I want to see passion and rapture in 
your eyes. I want you to pant my name when reaching orgasm. Let me free 
the passion that you have kept locked away for so long?”
 
Erestor blushed, hearing Glorfindel’s words. “It is still beyond me… w-
why you want me.”
 
“I know you do not understand,” said the Elda in a saddened tone. His 
hands dived beneath the water and he entwined his fingers with Erestor’s. 
“The water has turned cold. Come with me and let me dry your skin and 
braid your hair.” The sensual moment had passed, and he could tell by 
looking into the dark eyes that Erestor’s arousal had faded. 
 
Erestor nodded slowly. Glorfindel was right; the water was cold and 
making him shiver. He followed the Elda out of the water and allowed 
Glorfindel to wrap several warm towels around his trembling frame. After 
the blond had rubbed him dry, Glorfindel reached for a sleeping robe and 
told him to put it on, which he gladly did. Being naked made him feel 
uncomfortable. 
 
Glorfindel quickly dried his skin and then slipped into a shirt, which 
barely covered his private parts and buttocks. He took hold of Erestor’s 
hand and led the Elf back into the bedroom, where he sat him down in 
front of the mirror, running first his fingers and then a comb through the 
black, tangled mass of hair. 
 
Erestor still felt nervous, occasionally catching a glance of the half-naked 
Elf behind him. The fact that certain body parts were still visible unnerved 
him. Part of him wanted to reach out and touch the smooth skin, but 
another recalled his father touching him like that, and the last thing he 
wanted was for Glorfindel to feel pressured. 
 
Glorfindel read the conflicting emotions in Erestor’s eyes and it was the 
very reason why he refused to cover up more of his body. He hoped 
Erestor would feel more comfortable in time, maybe even confident 
enough to actually touch him when seeing him naked. “Would you open 
the bottom drawer for me?”
 
Erestor reached forward and opened the drawer, revealing a wooden box. 
He arched an eyebrow questioningly. 
 
“Take it out of the drawer and place it on the dressing table.” Glorfindel 
noticed the apprehension in Erestor’s eyes and sighed. The raven-haired 
Elf said he trusted him, but was that the truth? And could he blame Erestor 
for being careful and suspicious after everything he had been through? 
“Now open it.” 
 
Erestor’s fingers trembled when he opened the box. Tiny golden beads in 
the shape of flowers, and a circlet, with a flower woven into the gold, 
glimmered in the velvet clad box. Then he remembered; he had seen 
Glorfindel wear this on formal occasions. The circlet represented the 
house he belonged to when he had been captain of the Golden Flower in 
Gondolin. 
 
“Hand me one of the beads?” Glorfindel had braided Erestor’s hair into 
small plaits and now added the first bead, weaving it into the dark tresses. 
 
“What are you d-doing?” Big-eyed, Erestor stared at the blond, who now 
told him to hand him more beads. He had never before worn his hair 
braided and now Glorfindel was also decorating it with golden, flower-
shaped beads. 
 
“I want to see you wear these. I think they will suit you very well.” 
Glorfindel ignored Erestor’s confused expression and reached for the front 
tresses, putting the same knots in them which Elrond liked to wear, once 
more adding the beads. 
 
“W-why are you doing-g this?” Erestor swallowed hard. “I have hidden 
these s-scars my entire l-life, and n-now… you… are…” His voice faded, 
seeing the disappointed expression on Glorfindel’s face in the mirror. Now 
he felt guilty for disappointing the blond! 
 
Glorfindel sighed. “Do you want me to remove them?” He had hoped that 
Erestor was ready to stop hiding the wounds which Eridhren had inflicted 
on him. 
 
Erestor almost nodded his head, but in the end, he whispered, “Leave them 
in-n.” Instantly the smile returned to Glorfindel’s face and he couldn’t 
help smiling back. “But I do think it looks r-ridiculous.”
 
“Why?” Glorfindel finished weaving the last bead into the dark hair and 
then checked his handiwork. Erestor looked breathtaking and he swore he 
saw golden specks in the dark eyes. Bending forward, he wrapped his 
arms around Erestor. “I think you look breathtaking, nîn amdir.” 
 
A fierce blush spread across Erestor’s features and he quickly averted his 
eyes. “I do n-not look breathtaking. The s-scars make me look ugly.” Then 
he sucked in his breath when Glorfindel’s soft lips touched the scars, 
kissing the damaged skin. He was about to ask the Elda to stop when 
Glorfindel’s fingers softly stroked the plaits, and that gesture took him 
aback, rendering him speechless. The amount of love displayed in the 
kisses and touches nearly brought tears to his eyes.
 
“I have not finished yet,” whispered Glorfindel into Erestor’s ear. He 
reached past the dark-haired Elf and took hold of the golden circlet. 
 
“No… Please… Don’t.” Erestor squirmed on the chair, lifting pleading 
eyes to meet Glorfindel’s determined ones. “Why… are you… doing 
this?”
 
“I want you to know how much I love you.”
 
“But others might see me w-wear it and…”
 
“Hush now, nîn amdir. I want others to see you wear it. I want everyone to 
know just how much I love you.” Skilled fingers quickly worked the 
circlet into the braids until the coronet sat tightly in the long hair. “I have 
no ring to give you… yet, that is… but I hope this will prove my love to 
you. I want you as my life partner, my mate, do you understand that? I 
want to be with you for the rest of my life.”
 
Erestor moved on the chair until he was facing Glorfindel, who now 
lowered himself onto his heels so they were level and could look into each 
other’s eyes. “But you can do *so* much better. I am scarred for life.”
 
Glorfindel determinedly shook his head. “I refuse to believe that. I 
understand that you feel like that right now, because your father 
reappeared, but you will feel more comfortable in time. And I will do my 
best to prove to you that I love you.” He smiled warmly, wrapped his arms 
around Erestor’s waist and rested his head in the dark-haired Elf’s lap. 
 
Erestor didn’t know what to make of Glorfindel’s affectionate gesture and 
slowly raised a hand to caress the golden hair. He nearly froze, hearing the 
blond purr his contentment at feeling his touch. “What do I do with 
you…? Why won’t you listen to reason…?”
 
Glorfindel raised his head and grinned at Erestor. “You want to know 
what you should do with me? Love me. It is as simple as that.”
 
“Not… that simple.” Erestor sighed deeply. The night’s events were 
catching up with him and he was growing tired. He doubted however, that 
he would be able to sleep. 
 
Catching the fatigue in the dark eyes, Glorfindel rose to his feet and pulled 
him along to the bed. “We should sleep now. Arien will rise in a few hours 
and I want you rested in the morning.”
 
Erestor went willingly, trying hard to avoid looking at the smooth round 
globes that showed beneath the blond’s shirt. Another pang of arousal 
swept through him, nearly making him sway. Lying down, he quickly 
pulled up the covers, hoping the Elda hadn’t noticed the return of his 
erection. 
 
But Glorfindel had, and when he lay down, he allowed the shirt to move 
up his stomach, revealing his lax member, nestled in a bed of blond hair. 
Erestor’s eyes seemed glued to his groin and he easily identified the 
curiosity and fear in the dark eyes. It would be a while before Erestor 
would dare touch him. “Would you snuggle up to me? I would love to 
hold you close tonight.”
 
Erestor closed his eyes and returned to biting his bruised lip. He slowly 
moved closer to Glorfindel, rested his head against the blond’s shoulder, 
and tentatively wrapped one arm around the Elda’s waist. When his 
fingertips encountered bare skin, he blushed. The sensation sent another 
wave of desire through him and confusion overwhelmed him. What, in 
Elbereth’s name, was happening to him? His hand rested on a slender hip 
and he gasped when Glorfindel draped one leg possessively over his, 
keeping him in place. 
 
“Please open your eyes and look at me,” requested Glorfindel in a soft 
tone. 
 
Unable to deny the blond, Erestor locked eyes with him. Did Glorfindel 
know what kind of confusing sensations were coursing through him? But 
no, the Elda couldn’t possibly know he was hard again and… Aiya, 
probing fingers brushed his erection and he wanted to jerk back, but 
Glorfindel held him in place. “What…?”
 
“Will you allow me to touch you? I want to pleasure you.” And maybe 
Erestor would manage to fall asleep after climaxing. Maybe releasing this 
tension would ease his troubled mind -- or at least Glorfindel hoped so.
 
Erestor, caught up in his feelings, couldn’t believe he was actually 
nodding his head, giving the blond permission to touch him. He didn’t 
know why he longed for Glorfindel’s touch, but he did. He wanted to get 
as close to the Elda as possible, and when skilled fingers curled 
themselves around his throbbing erection, his eyes widened impossibly. 
 
“Be at ease, melamin. I love you and want to give you pleasure.” 
Glorfindel moved a little closer and gently claimed Erestor’s lips. The 
dark-haired Elf wavered, but then the lips and teeth parted, allowing him 
to dive into the warm cavern. Moaning into Erestor’s mouth, he stroked 
his lover’s hard flesh, enjoying the feel of pre-ejaculate that now dripped 
from the head. Releasing Erestor’s lips, he smiled and teasingly licked the 
bruised lips. 
 
Erestor couldn’t believe this was really happening. Glorfindel was doing 
incredible things to him. One hand continued to stroke his arousal, whilst 
the other gently massaged the sac, bringing him to a shattering orgasm 
within seconds. His body shook and his mind was barely capable of 
accepting the pleasure that coursed through his body. Shaking like a leaf, 
he clung to Glorfindel, riding out maddening waves of ecstasy.
 
Looking into blue eyes, Erestor found them swimming with tears. “Are 
you… crying?” His body was still shaking with ecstasy when he gently 
wiped one tear from Glorfindel’s cheek. “Why?”
 
Glorfindel smiled through his tears. “Because I am so happy!”
 
“Happy?” Erestor still trembled, quickly gathering Glorfindel close to 
him. The hand that had brought him to orgasm now rested on his hip, 
beneath his sleeping robe, and caressed his bare skin. 
 
“Aye, happy, because you trusted me enough to allow me to touch you in 
that way. I could tell that you were scared.” Glorfindel wiped away his 
tears and then grinned impishly. “You made me come.”
 
Erestor frowned, puzzled. Stealing a look at Glorfindel’s groin he saw that 
the blond had found release as well. “But how? I never touched you.”
 
“Seeing you climax, and knowing I was the one doing this to you, made 
me come too.” The impish smile remained on his face, as he kissed 
Erestor’s lips one more time. “You have no idea what you do to me, do 
you?”
 
Erestor, still mystified, shook his head. “I am still trying to understand 
why you even want to be with me.”
 
Glorfindel knew it was the truth and nodded once.  “Let me clean us up 
and then we will try to sleep, agreed?”
 
Still puzzled, Erestor nodded. He sighed, distressed, when Glorfindel 
released him to fetch a wash cloth, and curled up where the blond’s body 
had been, soaking up the warmth that still radiated from the mattress. 
 
Glorfindel found him like that, dozing off already and he quickly cleaned 
them up. After disposing of the wash cloth, he slipped into bed again and 
Erestor immediately curled up against him, draping a leg across his thigh. 
The dark-haired Elf was clinging to him like his very life depended on it. 
“Sleep well, nîn amdir, and may you dream of our love.” He kissed 
Erestor’s brow and enfolded the Elf in a warm hug. “I will never let you 
go again.”
 
Erestor, who was balanced between sleep and a waking state, still caught 
Glorfindel’s words. Sleepy, and feeling sated after reaching orgasm, he 
whispered, “I love you, nîn meril, my golden flower…”
 
Glorfindel beamed with pride and love, hearing Erestor’s admission. The 
raven-haired Elf was finally beginning to open up to him and obviously 
trusted him. “I will never betray your trust or your love,” he vowed, his 
eyes growing heavy with sleep as well.
 
Within minutes both were sound asleep.
 
TBC
 
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 20
 
 
When Erestor opened his eyes the next morning, he found that he was still 
in Glorfindel’s arms. The golden-haired Elf was sound asleep with his face 
nestled in the crook of his shoulder. Tentatively he raised a hand and 
caressed the long, silk hair, marveling at its beauty. What, in Elbereth’s 
name, did Glorfindel see in him? 
 
The Elda purred against his shoulder, moving closer to him, and Erestor 
sucked in his breath, feeling Glorfindel’s erection brush his hip. What was 
he to do? He could pretend he was still asleep and ignore his lover’s 
arousal. The last thing he wanted was for Glorfindel to wake up. 
 
Stealthily, his hand drifted lower, down the fabric of the silk shirt and 
eventually encountered, hot, soft skin. Glorfindel smelled like a meadow, 
after a refreshing rain shower had released all kinds of sweet fragrances. 
The blond was seductive in his sleep and Erestor quickly pulled back his 
hand, berating himself for touching his lover when he was still asleep. 
 
Several long moments passed and still Glorfindel wouldn’t wake up. Now 
the golden-haired Elf even began to thrust against him, moaning 
pleadingly. Erestor swallowed hard, feeling at a loss. He wanted to return 
the pleasure Glorfindel had given him, but the blond was asleep! He 
couldn’t touch him like that! It reminded him too much of finding his 
father at his bedside, fondling him. And although it had happened many 
decades ago, it felt like it had happened only yesterday. 
 
“E…res…tor…” Glorfindel moaned and even in his sleep, his fingers 
curled in the black hair. 
 
Biting his lip, Erestor wondered what to do. Maybe waking Glorfindel was 
the best thing to do after all. “Glorfindel, wake up,” whispered Erestor, 
rubbing the blond’s hip. The skin seemed to grow hot beneath his touch 
and he flinched away, letting his fingers tangle in the golden locks instead. 
“Wake up…” He sighed, relieved, when Glorfindel’s eyes filled with 
awareness. “I do not know what to do.”
 
Glorfindel frowned, wondering what Erestor was referring to. “What is it, 
melamin?”
 
“You… are… hard,” stuttered Erestor, nervously. 
 
Glorfindel smiled, relieved that nothing was wrong. “That is fairly 
normal.” 
 
Erestor averted his eyes. “I… would like to return… the pleasure you gave 
me…. last night…” Squirming in Glorfindel’s embrace, he stared at his 
lover. “But not when you were… asleep.”
 
Glorfindel thought he understood what was going on. “Your father would 
approach you in your sleep?” The mere thought was enough to make his 
morning erection go away. 
 
Now Erestor felt guilty for worrying Glorfindel. The blond’s arousal had 
faded and he knew it was because of what he had just revealed to his new 
lover. “It happened a few times, yes.” Suddenly he was buried in a warm, 
all-enveloping hug. Glorfindel was squeezing the breath from his lungs 
and he gasped. “Please…”
 
Realizing Erestor was having difficulty breathing, Glorfindel loosened the 
hug. “I just want to hold you and keep you safe for the rest of your life.” 
Erestor blushed, which made him smile. “Are you hungry, melamin?”
 
“I think so,” admitted Erestor slowly. It had been a while since he had 
eaten a full meal, and breakfast was probably being served right now. “Do 
you want to head for the dining room to eat breakfast?”
 
“That,” said Glorfindel, leaning in to press a teasing kiss on the tip of 
Erestor’s nose, “is an excellent idea.” Erestor stared at him, cross-eyed, 
when Glorfindel treated the tip of his nose to one sensual lick. “And now, 
we need to leave this warm bed!”
 
Erestor regretted letting go of Glorfindel, but watched the Elda as he 
walked over to his closet, not bothering to hide his private parts. “I do not 
have any clothes,” realized Erestor. “I will need to go to my rooms.” His 
features briefly contorted. “Aiya, I do not think I can ever go in there 
again.” He would always see Eridhren lying on the floor, blood pooling 
beneath him. 
 
“I will ask one of the servants to gather your personal belongings and to 
bring them here,” decided Glorfindel, still checking the content of his 
closet. “You can wear my robes until then.”
 
“Yours?” Erestor swung his feet onto the floor and rose from the bed. 
Slowly, he walked over to the blond, who had now selected a robe, made 
of a silk like material in a lovely shade of mauve. On the sleeves golden 
flowers had been embroiled. 
 
“Would you were these? I do think they will suit you.” Glorfindel handed 
Erestor, who looked stunned, the robes and then reached to push back a 
wayward plait. 
 
“I do not wear colors like this…” Erestor stared at the valuable garment, 
knowing it was one of Glorfindel’s formal robes. 
 
Glorfindel unhappily shook his head. “You wear black, grey and brown, 
and that is it. Very depressing colors, melamin. Why not try something 
new? The robes would go well with the circlet.” The confused stare that 
Erestor aimed at him, made him smile. “The long winter of your life has 
passed. It is summer now.”
 
Erestor resigned himself to Glorfindel’s cheerfulness. “I will wear them.”
 
Glorfindel allowed Erestor some privacy, turning around and selecting a 
green shirt and grey leggings for himself. A dark green cloak completed 
his outfit. Casting a glance in the mirror, he found that Erestor had slipped 
into the robes and was now putting on his soft, leather boots. The dark 
mane was in disarray and Glorfindel walked over to him, wrapping an arm 
around Erestor’s shoulder and steering him to the dressing table. 
 
Erestor sat down in front of the mirror and let Glorfindel fuss over his hair 
like the Elda had done during the night. 
 
Satisfied, Glorfindel leaned in closer, rested his chin on Erestor’s 
shoulder, and smiled. “You are beautiful, melamin. Are you ready to have 
breakfast?”
 
Erestor rose from the chair and straightened out his robes. Looking at his 
reflection in the mirror, he blinked. Who was that Elf staring back at him? 
Was that really him? “I barely recognize myself.”
 
Noticing the puzzlement in Erestor’s eyes, Glorfindel simply smiled. “You 
will continue to amaze yourself, nîn amdir.” Grabbing Erestor’s hand, he 
pulled his lover along. It was time to eat breakfast.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond shifted uncomfortably on his chair and glared at Thranduil. “Don’t 
you dare apologize again!” Once Thranduil had realized he had left the 
half-Elf sore, Elrond had tried to stop him from apologizing over and over 
again. “I wanted it that way. It was not your fault.”
 
Thranduil sighed, resigned, and gave in. “At least eat, then.” He pointed at 
the delicious fruits, omelets and freshly baked bread the maid had just 
placed on the breakfast table. “Would you like me to pour you some tea?” 
That way Elrond wouldn’t have to get up and walk over to the buffet. 
 
Elrond nodded once. How could he convince Thranduil to not feel guilty? 
“I would love some,” he said in the end, seeing the Sinda’s hopeful 
expression. “And add some honey.”
 
Thranduil quickly got to his feet, poured the tea, added the honey, and 
then placed the cup in front of the half-Elf. Their eyes locked and unable 
to hold back, he leaned in closer, claiming Elrond’s lips and hungrily 
explored his lover’s mouth again. He felt like he couldn’t get enough of 
dark-haired half-Elf. 
 
Glorfindel cleared his throat, trying to discretely announce their arrival. 
Glancing at Erestor, he was pleased to see a grin on his lover’s face. 
“Elrond, Thranduil,” he started, walking toward the table, “I hope you do 
not mind our company?”
 
Elrond grinned, hearing Thranduil sigh, exasperated. “Sit down, nîn 
glaur.” After studying Glorfindel’s eyes, his gaze traveled to Erestor and 
he gasped, surprised at the Elf’s changed appearance. “Those robes look 
good on you,” he said, complimenting Erestor, “They never looked that 
good on Glorfindel.”
 
Glorfindel snickered, sitting down next to Thranduil. “Elrond, mellon-nîn, 
I would feel jealous if I did not know your heart belonged to Thranduil.”
 
Now it was Elrond’s turn to mutter softly. He briefly glared at his 
seneschal, but then his expression changed into a smile when he looked at 
Erestor. “You never wore your hair like that before. It suits you.”
 
Erestor, feeling nervous now that all attention was focused on him, cleared 
his throat and looked to Glorfindel for help. 
 
“It is the truth,” said Glorfindel, shrugging his shoulders. “You are 
beautiful, lirimaer.” 
 
Erestor lowered his eyes and stared at his hands, resting in his lap. 
Nervous, he wondered why they were saying these things. He wasn’t 
beautiful. 
 
Thranduil realized that the teasing, however well it was meant, was getting 
to Erestor and silenced Elrond and Glorfindel by raising a hand. “That is 
enough.” Everyone heard Erestor’s relieved sigh and Thranduil frowned. 
Addressing his former protégé, he said, “I always looked upon you as a 
son, Erestor, and now, in the absence of your parents, I need to ask you a 
question.”
 
Erestor trembled; he knew Thranduil well enough to know what that 
question was. 
 
Glorfindel, growing worried at finding Erestor averting his eyes, glared at 
Thranduil. Suddenly Erestor’s hand covered his, squeezing it tightly. The 
dark eyes beseeched him to remain quiet and to not interfere. He decided 
to wait and see what Thranduil wanted to know, but he wouldn’t stand by 
idly in case the question caused his lover emotional pain. 
 
“Glorfindel has clearly stated his claim, but what I want to know is if you 
love him as well. Do you really want him as your mate?” Thranduil 
searched very familiar eyes; he had learned a long time ago to recognize 
any deception in them. Eridhren had ordered Erestor to lie, but the young 
Elf had been a terrible liar and he suspected that that hadn’t changed. 
Erestor’s face would always be an open book to him. “Do you love him? 
Do you really want to be with him?”
 
Glorfindel held his breath, staring at the dark-haired counselor. What 
would Erestor say? But then his lover squeezed his hand, raised it, and 
pressed a kiss on his knuckles. 
 
“Aye, sire, I love Glorfindel. I love him with all my heart and I want to be 
with him for the rest of my life. He has shown me life is worth living.” 
Erestor saw the pride in Glorfindel’s eyes and hesitantly leaned in closer, 
claiming the Elda’s lips. Embarrassed at hearing Thranduil and Elrond 
sigh, he quickly pulled back, shooting Glorfindel an apologetic look. 
 
Glorfindel had never been happier in his entire life. Erestor had taken the 
initiative and had kissed him in front of their friends! “I love you!” he 
exclaimed loudly, bringing Erestor’s hand to his chest and resting it close 
to his heart. 
 
Thranduil and Elrond exchanged a pleased look. All Erestor needed was 
time, and Glorfindel was patient enough to take things slowly. 
 
Unable to deal with the attention aimed at him any longer, Erestor looked 
at Elrond and asked, “Where are the twins this morning?”
 
Elrond frowned; Erestor was right. The twins should be here. Where could 
they possibly be?
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Elladan, can you not do this alone? Why do you need me to be there as 
well?” Elrohir cringed when they reached the door to Legolas’ guest 
quarters. This was the last place that he wanted to be. Not even Elladan’s 
company had kept his thoughts chaste last night. When he had finally 
fallen asleep after tossing and turning for hours, he had dreamt of Legolas, 
feeling the blond’s lips pressed against his. 
 
His crush was making it hard for him to think logically and he turned, 
trying to sneak out of the corridor. But then Elladan grabbed him by the 
collar, pulling him back. 
  
”Where do you think you are going?” Elladan wasn’t sure if he should pity 
or envy his brother for having these feelings. He had never been in love 
before and wondered about his brother’s behavior. “We will merely escort 
him to the dining room and then we will leave, joining today’s patrols. By 
the time we get back he will have left Imladris again.” He had hoped his 
words would reassure Elrohir, but instead his younger brother’s features 
contorted. 
 
“Left?” Elrohir didn’t want Legolas to leave! 
 
Elladan sighed, and then knocked on the door. “Legolas? It is Elladan. We 
are here to escort you to your father.” Looking at Elrohir, he added, “And 
you are staying, brother.”
 
Elrohir nervously shuffled his feet, trying to regain his outer calm. He 
couldn’t let Legolas see how confused he felt! 
 
The door opened and Legolas stepped into the corridor. Did the Imladris 
Elves always get up this late? He had been awake for hours! “Please lead 
on. I do not want to keep my father waiting.”
 
Elrohir briefly swayed on his feet and was grateful when Elladan reached 
out to steady him. Pulling himself together, he drew in a deep breath, 
trying to appear calm. “Will you stay for a longer period of time or do you 
plan to leave shortly?”
 
“That depends on my father,” said Legolas, wondering about the blush 
that had settled on Elrohir’s face. The half-Elf was nervous and his eyes 
darted wildly in their sockets. Elladan however, was calm and controlled. 
He followed the twins down the endless corridors and halted when the 
half-Elves did. Elladan opened the door and signaled for him to follow.
 
Legolas stepped into the dining room and located his father at once. 
“Ada…”
 
Thranduil, surprised to see his youngest son, rose from the chair, left the 
table and walked toward Legolas. “What are you doing here, ion-nîn?” He 
wrapped his arms around his son and hugged him tightly, whilst 
whispering, “Are you well? Did something happen to Valthoron?” His 
first worry would always be for his sons.
 
Legolas returned the hug, whispering, “All is well at home. I am here 
because Celeborn asked me to deliver a message.” Pulling back, he smiled 
warmly at his father. “You look well, Ada.”
 
Thranduil felt relieved; this morning he had actually made an effort to 
conceal the still-healing bite mark. He would have hated for Legolas to 
find out about his new lover in that way. But he would have to tell Legolas 
about Elrond shortly; his son was intelligent enough to figure things out -- 
and then there was Elladan, who, he recalled, didn’t mind blurting out the 
truth. Locking eyes with Elladan, he mutely asked the half-Elf to remain 
quiet and was relieved when Elladan seemed to understand, nodding once. 
 
Elrond rose from his chair, and welcomed his guest. He had been stunned 
to see just how much Legolas resembled Thranduil. His lover had been 
right when he had said that his youngest had taken after him. “Welcome to 
Imladris, Legolas. I am honored to finally meet you. Your father speaks 
highly of you.”
 
Legolas’ eyes narrowed with suspicion. The last time he had talked to his 
father he hadn’t received the impression that his father and the half-Elf 
were friends and now Elrond was honored to meet him? Strange. But his 
father had taught him well, and he said, “Your sons have already 
welcomed me to Imladris last night, Master Elrond. And I am honored that 
you now welcome me personally.”
 
“You arrived last night?” Thranduil frowned and then sought out Elladan’s 
gaze. “Why was I not told?” 
 
“We thought you might like to rest after attending Eridhren’s funeral,” 
explained Elladan in a nervous tone. 
 
“His funeral?” Legolas locked gazes with his father. “Ada, it seems we 
need to talk.”
 
“Aye, Elrond, would you excuse me? I need to inform my son.” Thranduil 
waited for Elrond to nod and then folded an arm around his son’s 
shoulder, leading him into the corridor and then into the gardens. 
 
“Ada, what is going on here? Since when are you and Elrond on friendly 
terms?” He would never forgive the Peredhel for hurting his father’s 
feelings in the past. Elrond had seemed kind, but he wasn’t fooled by the 
mellow exterior. 
 
“There is a lot you do not know…” Thranduil sighed, wondering how to 
tell Legolas that Elrond and he were lovers once more. “Let us sit down.” 
He steered his son toward a bench. “First tell me why you are here.”
 
“Celeborn asks if you would consider joining forces with him. Orcs were 
sighted near his borders and he is growing worried.”
 
Thranduil nodded once. “There is already a messenger on his way to ask 
Celeborn the same thing. Mirkwood is now allied with Imladris and we 
would be even stronger if Lothlorien joined in as well.”
 
“Celeborn will be pleased to hear that.” Now that the formal matter had 
been discussed, he searched his father’s eyes and found Thranduil averting 
them when his look became too probing. “What are you hiding from me? I 
cannot remember you ever avoiding my gaze before. Ada? Is something 
wrong? Are you well?” Worried, he took hold of his father’s hand, 
squeezing it. 
 
“Legolas, there is something you should know, but I am afraid of your 
reaction.” Thranduil stole a glance at his son. Legolas was wise for his 
years and so strong. His youngest had always given him joy and 
unconditional support. He had to believe Legolas would accept this as 
well. “Elrond and I talked.” He sensed Legolas tense up next to him and 
cringed. 
 
“Ada, he hurt you so badly in the past. Do not let him hurt you again.” 
Legolas rubbed his father’s knuckles. “I cannot bear to see you suffer.”
 
“Aiya, Legolas…” His nervousness increased. “I took him back as my 
lover.” He flinched, waiting for his son’s reaction. When Legolas 
remained silent, he looked up, locking gazes with him. “Please say 
something.” 
 
Legolas probed his father’s eyes, finding hope, and fear of rejection. He 
couldn’t say he was completely surprised; he had always known that his 
father had continued to feel attracted to Elrond. “Are you sure, Ada? Are 
you sure he won’t desert and hurt you again? You spent so many millennia 
mourning that love. Do you really think Elrond is sincere?”
 
Thranduil nodded; he understood that Legolas was worried. “I think he is 
sincere. No, I –know- he is sincere!” Thranduil clasped his son’s hand in 
his. “Elrond finally realized what he lost when he chose Gil-galad over 
me. I know he won’t make the same mistake twice. Please give him a 
chance to prove himself. For my sake?”
 
Legolas sighed deeply, still maintaining eye contact. “You never stopped 
loving him.”
 
Thranduil felt relieved now that Legolas seemed to understand. “You are 
right. I still love him.”
 
Legolas straightened his shoulders and stared determinedly at his father. 
“If Elrond hurts you, he will answer to me!”
 
Thranduil smiled nervously at seeing the fierce expression in his son’s 
eyes. He knew Legolas well enough to know his son was serious. “Do not 
hurt him, Legolas, for he is dear to me.”
 
“I will try to get along with Elrond… and his sons… because you love 
him.” Legolas cleared his throat, feeling rather emotional. “But if he hurts 
you…”
 
Thranduil smiled, proudly. “Then you will avenge my honor, pen-neth?” 
 
“Of course I will!” Legolas meant every word he had said. Returning his 
father’s smile, he added, “Do you want me to stay or to return to 
Mirkwood?”
 
“Would you stay, Legolas? We rarely see each other these days.” 
Thranduil smiled at his son. “And I would like you to befriend Elladan and 
Elrohir.”
 
Legolas groaned; he should have seen that one coming. “I will try.” The 
twins seemed nice enough. “And what will you do?”
 
“I will stay for another month and then I will return to Mirkwood.” He 
paused, feeling nervous. “Elrond said he would stay with me in Mirkwood 
for one year and then we could return to Imladris and reside here for a 
year.”
 
“That sounds reasonable,” agreed Legolas, and then changed their topic. 
“And what happened to Eridhren?”
 
Thranduil nodded once and then took the time to update his son. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond sensed something was wrong with Elrohir, and continued to study 
his youngest son, who looked pale. When Thranduil and Legolas returned, 
Elrohir almost seemed to panic.  
 
Erestor, seated next to Elrohir, had also noticed that something was wrong 
and now slowly rested his hand on the younger half-Elf’s, hoping the 
touch would reassure him. 
 
Glorfindel was pleased to see Erestor reach out to Elrohir and hoped it was 
a new beginning. Erestor had locked his feelings away for so long. 
 
“Is something wrong, Elrohir?” Erestor followed the direction of Elrohir’s 
stare and found it was directed at Legolas. Elrohir quickly looked away, 
but that glance told the experienced counselor all he needed to know. So 
Elrohir felt attracted to Legolas? How would Elrond and Thranduil react 
when learning this? However, he didn’t plan on enlightening the two Elf-
Lords... Yet. 
 
“I do not feel well…” whispered Elrohir, hoping his twin would come to 
the rescue, but Elladan merely smiled at him. 
 
Thranduil and Legolas seated themselves at the table and the elder Elf 
looked at Elrond, wondering if something had happened during his short 
absence. 
 
Elrond couldn’t help being concerned, recalling that it was his sons’ turn 
to join the border patrols - and if Elrohir wasn’t feeling well, he was 
inclined to make him stay. Suddenly the perfect solution came to him. 
“Elladan, you can lead the patrols today. And Elrohir? Would you stay and 
show Imladris to Legolas?” Elrond completely missed the look of panic in 
Elrohir’s eyes as his gaze shifted to Legolas. “I assume you will stay for a 
short while?” 
 
Legolas nodded once. He had promised his father to stay and to befriend 
Elrond’s sons. 
 
Elrohir sought out his brother’s gaze and shot him a trapped look. They 
had to trade places! There was no other way! Just being close to Legolas 
caused him to stop thinking logically. /Elladan, you have to switch places 
with me! You must!/
 
TBC 
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 21
 
 
“Elrohir, I trust you to take good care of Legolas. Show him around and 
make sure he feels welcome,” said Elrond, who had completely missed his 
son’s bewilderment. “Now that Legolas has decided to stay he should feel 
at home here.”
 
Mortified, Elrohir averted his gaze and stared at the floor. Why wasn’t his 
father noticing his discomfort? Maybe because Elrond was already smiling 
at Thranduil and had mentally dismissed him? His gaze traveled to 
Elladan, pleading with his twin to have mercy on him, but when his 
brother shook his head, he knew he had to somehow survive the afternoon 
without utterly embarrassing himself. 
 
“You will be fine,” whispered Elladan, squeezing his brother’s shoulder 
for moral support. Then he turned and left to join the border patrol. 
 
Realizing that Legolas was expectantly looking at him, he cleared his 
throat. “Please follow me.” Finding that his voice was shaking with 
emotion made him tremble. Legolas was probably wondering if Elrond’s 
youngest son was a simpleton for acting in this way. 
 
But Legolas managed a weak smile. After pondering Elrohir’s reactions, 
he realized the younger twin probably felt nervous, like he did. “Lead on, 
Peredhel.”
 
Shivers traveled down Elrohir’s spine, hearing Legolas’ soft, melodic 
tone. He guided Legolas back inside and gave him a tour of the Last 
Homely House. Legolas’ alert expression told him the Elf was trying to 
memorize as much as possible. “These are my rooms, which I share with 
Elladan."
 
“You share a room with your brother?” At first Legolas wondered about 
that, but then realized that being twins probably provided the two half-
Elves with a very tight bond.
 
“It has always been that way,” said Elrohir, shrugging his shoulders. “We 
are twins.” 
 
Legolas smiled warmly. Hearing Elrohir put it like that made him realize it 
was that simple to them; they were twins. They shared each other’s lives. 
“Show me the rest of Imladris,” said Legolas, already falling in love with 
the light and warmth the place radiated. He could tell Elrond had taken 
great care when building this safe haven. “This truly is a beautiful and 
peaceful place. You must greatly enjoy living here.”
 
Elrohir was eager to keep the conversation going, as he was afraid a 
silence would be awkward between them. “What is life like in 
Mirkwood?”
 
“Dangerous,” said Legolas in a firm tone. “The wood is full of predators.”
 
“Ada told me that you live underground? In caves?” Elrohir shivered 
momentarily. “I cannot imagine what that is like.”
 
Legolas chose his words carefully. “You were misinformed. We live in 
talans, high up in the trees. The caves come in handy occasionally, but we 
do not live in them.” 
 
Elrohir stopped in his tracks and sought out those heavenly blue orbs, 
which radiated life and passion. He easily lost himself in their expression 
and he quickly averted his eyes, afraid to give himself away. This was 
folly. Why had Elladan refused to help him out by taking his place? When 
exactly had he lost his heart to Legolas? And how could he ever hope to 
reclaim it? 
 
Legolas located a bench beneath an old oak tree and sat down. Elrohir, 
unable to do anything else, followed suit and seated himself as well, but at 
an appropriate distance from the blond. He didn’t want Legolas to grow 
suspicious and realize he had feelings for him. 
 
Legolas studied the half-Elf. Elrond, Elladan and Elrohir were so different 
from the way he had imagined them. They were smart, compassionate, 
caring and not to forget extremely handsome. Aye, he understood why his 
father had fallen for Elrond. Looking at Elrohir, he saw a rare beauty, and 
a warm light shining from within. Clearing his throat, he asked, “And 
what do you think about my father and yours binding themselves in such a 
way?”
 
Elrohir swallowed nervously. “I like Thranduil. I never thought I would, 
but I do. Maybe it is because he feels so protective of Erestor… and I 
always loved Erestor. He has a good heart.”
 
Legolas nodded. “I know about Eridhren’s perversions. My father always 
made sure that my brother and I never stayed in the same place as he was.” 
But Elrohir hadn’t really answered his question yet. “Do you approve of 
their relationship?”
 
Elrohir answered honestly. “My mother left for Valinor many years ago 
and my father always seemed so sad after that. Thranduil has rendered 
that. When I now look at my father his eyes are alive again. So aye, I 
approve. I want him to be happy.”
 
“Your mother sailed for the Undying Lands as well?” 
 
Legolas’ soft tone, which nearly bordered on anguished, made him seek 
out those impossibly blue orbs again. “After a pack of Orcs attacked her 
she was suffering in mind and body. She had started to fade, and letting 
her sail for Valinor was the only way to keep her alive.” Elrohir wondered 
what it was about Legolas that made him want to open up to the blond. “I 
still miss her. I know she loves me, but I wish she were still here with 
me.” 
 
Legolas closed his eyes momentarily. They had more in common than he 
had thought. “My mother sailed for the Undying Lands one day after I 
reached my majority. I miss her too.” 
 
Their gazes met and they smiled, saddened, at each other. Legolas 
wondered about the Peredhel. When he had come here he had been 
determined not to like the half-Elves, but he couldn’t help liking Elrohir. 
“Will you show me the rest of Imladris as well?”
 
“Of course,” said Elrohir, smiling. “This way.”
 
Legolas followed, curious to find out more about Imladris and its 
inhabitants. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“What would you like to do today?” asked Glorfindel. They had in walked 
the beautiful gardens and had enjoyed the rich fragrances of the 
blossoming trees and flowers. The hesitant glance that Erestor directed at 
him made him raise an eyebrow inquisitively. Erestor seemed painfully 
shy, and yet passion showed in those dark orbs as well. 
 
“I…” Erestor’s voice first faltered, but then he tried again. “I want to go to 
your rooms and…” He nearly gave up on voicing his needs and desires, 
but Glorfindel’s warm and encouraging gaze made him continue. “I would 
like to… touch you.” 
 
The last two words were barely audible and Glorfindel had to strain to 
hear them. His heart thundered with joy. He raised Erestor’s hand, which 
he had been holding during their stroll and brought it to his lips, placing a 
tender kiss on the knuckles. “I greatly desire to be touched by you.”
 
Erestor nervously cleared his throat. “You do not think me… forward?” 
His eyes darted in their sockets uncertainly. Seeing Glorfindel shake his 
head, he added, “It is just I… I have never felt this comfortable with 
anyone before and… I want to deepen our relationship. I just do not know 
how.”
 
They had reached a bench and Glorfindel pulled Erestor into place beside 
him when he seated himself. It would be best to discuss this now before 
they took things further in the bedroom. “I think you do know how.”
 
Erestor nodded, letting some strands fall in front of his face. Most of the 
plaits however, kept his dark tresses in place and he sighed dejectedly, 
realizing he couldn’t hide behind this black curtain any longer. “I would 
like to… to touch you. To return the pleasure you gave me.” In the end, he 
shyly raised his gaze and looked at Glorfindel from behind long eyelashes. 
“But I do not want to pressure you.”
 
Glorfindel brushed silk strands behind Erestor’s ears and waited for the 
dark-haired Elf to meet his gaze. “I trust you, nîn amdir. I –know- you 
could never hurt me and you would –never- pressure me, because you –
are- this hesitant and shy.” He hoped he had emphasized the right words in 
order to calm Erestor’s nerves. “I really crave your touch, the caresses you 
can bestow on me. I hope that one day we will be able to make love.”
 
Erestor closed his eyes momentarily, trying to force back his tears. “To 
make love…” his voice faded into nothingness. “I would like that.”
 
“Open your eyes and look at me, melamin?” Glorfindel’s heart ached at 
seeing the swimming dark orbs. “Give yourself the time you need and take 
small steps.”
 
Erestor smiled warmly and tentatively touched a finger to the blond’s lips. 
“I love you so much for being patient with me.”
 
“Patient?” Glorfindel sighed, dejectedly. “After learning what your father 
did to you I am honored that you can still bear my touch. Whatever you 
can give me is more than enough.” 
 
 
Erestor was beginning to feel depressed now that their conversation had 
taken such a turn and he reached for Glorfindel’s hands, burying them in 
his. “Can we go to your rooms now? I think I am ready to take one of 
those small steps.” The way Glorfindel’s azure eyes lit up made his heart 
beat faster. “But… I want you to promise me something.”
 
“What?” Glorfindel would promise Erestor anything he wanted. Rubbing 
his lover’s fingers between his, his breath caught, seeing the passion 
hidden beneath Erestor’s shy surface. What kind of lover would the dark-
haired Elf be once he had shed his fears?
 
“I want you to tell me to stop when I do something that makes you 
uncomfortable. Please,” he added, seeing Glorfindel’s expression, “This is 
important to me. My father never gave me any choice, but I want you to 
know that…” Suddenly the tears welled up and flowed down his face. 
“That you -do- have a choice.” 
 
“I understand,” whispered Glorfindel compassionately. Enveloping 
Erestor in a warm hug, he encouraged the dark-haired Elf to rest his head 
on his shoulder. He simply held on tightly. “I love you, nîn amdir. I love 
you.” He repeated his admission countless times until Erestor relaxed 
against him, pressing closer toward him. 
 
Erestor drew in a deep breath, knowing what he had to do, what he –
wanted- to do. Slowly, he freed himself of his lover’s embrace and rose 
from the bench. Glorfindel’s hands were still in his and he pulled the Elda 
to his feet. “Will you come with me and trust yourself to me?” He didn’t 
know where he found the courage to take the lead, but Glorfindel’s warm 
expression assured him that the blond wanted to take this step as well.
 
Glorfindel cradled Erestor’s hands fondly in his and followed his dark-
haired lover to his rooms, smiling blissfully.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor nervously coughed, closing the door behind him. They were back 
in the blond’s rooms and he wavered momentarily, his gaze drawn toward 
the bed. 
 
“Lirimaer?” Glorfindel moved closer to Erestor, searching his gaze. “Are 
you having second thoughts? We do not have to do this right now.”
 
“I –want- to do this. I –need- to do this!” Erestor pleadingly locked gazes 
with the Elda. “I want to show you how much I love you.” 
 
“Melamin, I already know how much you love me.”
 
Erestor nervously shuffled his feet. Lowering his eyes, he asked, “Will 
you remember your promise?”
 
“Aye, I will.” But he doubted Erestor could do anything that would make 
him uncomfortable. /Except if he does something that makes *him* 
uncomfortable. Then I will stop him./ “What do you want to do?”
 
Erestor swallowed hard, trying to rid himself of the lump that had formed 
in his throat. Still holding Glorfindel’s hand, he stared at the floor whilst 
leading the blond to the bed. “I… I do not know how far I can take this.” 
He bit his bottom lip and finally found the courage to look at his lover. 
“Maybe this is not fair to you and we should stop.”
 
Glorfindel’s heart missed a beat. He placed a finger under Erestor’s chin 
and smiled encouragingly. “I am your willing subject, melamin. Do 
whatever you want with me.”
 
Erestor, taking heart at hearing his lover’s words, nodded. Raising a hand, 
he rested it at the nape of the blond’s neck, letting the golden strands tease 
his fingertips. “You are so beautiful, Glorfindel, like Arien herself.” 
Seeing the Elda smile, he leaned in closer, very slowly, and touched his 
lips to Glorfindel’s. The delighted moan that fled from the blond’s lips 
hummed through his body and traveled to his groin. “You have no idea 
how much you mean to me or how much I love you.” 
 
Glorfindel’s eyes darkened to midnight blue, hearing his lover’s words. He 
had expected many things, but not Erestor verbally making love to him. At 
least, that was what it felt like now that his lover was weaving this 
seductive web of words around him. 
 
“I love you too.” He whispered the words against Erestor’s lips. The dark-
haired Elf wrapped an arm around his waist and pulled him closer. 
Delighted at Erestor’s move, he eased into his lover’s embrace and happily 
parted first his lips and then his teeth when Erestor’s tongue demanded 
entry. 
 
Glorfindel’s knees buckled under the sensual caresses. His gaze was still 
locked with Erestor’s and he could tell the other needed the eye contact. 
Sighing blissfully, he allowed Erestor’s tongue to chase his and eagerly 
awarded victory to his lover when the Elf’s tongue intertwined with his. 
Slowly Erestor retreated, leaving him breathless. “You taste so sweet,” he 
panted softly, wondering about the raven-haired beauty in his arms. He 
had the feeling he was in for a few surprises.
 
Erestor closely monitored his lover’s reactions. Glorfindel seemed to 
enjoy the kiss and he felt encouraged now that the blond’s eyes had 
darkened with passion. Placing his hands on his lover’s chest, he gently 
pushed him down, until Glorfindel was sitting on the bed. Suddenly his 
nervousness returned; what was he supposed to do now?
 
Glorfindel saw the return of his lover’s uncertainty and lay back, staring 
dreamily at Erestor. Reaching out, he took hold of the raven-haired Elf’s 
hands and pulled him on top of him. And that was all he planned to do. 
Now it was up to Erestor to decide where he wanted to take this. 
 
Looking at his flaxen-haired lover, Erestor carefully straddled his hips. He 
hadn’t expected this to be easy, but they were both aroused, and panting 
with need. After placing his hands on either side of Glorfindel’s head, he 
dotingly looked down at his lover, whose pupils had dilated with need. 
Elbereth help him, but he felt the same way. What had he done? Suddenly 
he panicked. Could he finish what he had started? He nearly jumped off 
the bed, fleeing the room, but then the palms of Glorfindel’s hands rested 
against his cheeks, wiping away the tears that he hadn’t realized were 
flowing again. 
 
“You are doing so well, lirimaer. Please do not stop now.” Glorfindel 
hoped it was what Erestor needed to hear. He was incredibly pleased that 
his lover felt confident enough to take this step. “I want you to touch me in 
whatever way you desire.”
 
Erestor had devoured Glorfindel’s words and he nodded once. “I want this 
too.” Bending down, he claimed the blond’s lips again. He constantly 
maintained eye contact, knowing that when he closed his eyes, his father’s 
face might appear to taunt him. Glorfindel answered the kiss with an 
eagerness that made his passion blaze anew. Slowly, he lowered himself 
until he blanketed the blond, always looking for signs of discomfort in 
those heavenly blue eyes. “Am I not crushing you?”
 
“You hardly weigh a thing,” whispered Glorfindel, feeling hypnotized as 
he looked into those passion-clouded orbs. 
 
Feeling uncertain, Erestor carefully rubbed his erection against 
Glorfindel’s, and even through the fabric he moaned at the exquisite 
sensation it caused. Groaning, he tried to lose himself in the sparkling, 
sapphire eyes. 
 
Glorfindel involuntarily held his breath, wondering if Erestor knew how 
seductive he looked, rubbing himself like that. He was tempted to remove 
Erestor’s clothes so he could finally worship his lover’s body as he was 
supposed to, but he stopped himself, knowing Erestor needed to be in 
control.
 
Fortunately Erestor’s passion-driven mind had the same idea. “May I 
undress you?”
 
Glorfindel groaned, and nodded approvingly. “Please.” Looking up at 
Erestor, he threw back his head, exposing his throat to his lover, hoping 
the dark-haired Elf would indulge him. 
 
Erestor briefly felt confused, but then lowered his lips onto the smooth 
skin, lapping and then softly biting. Glorfindel released a series of needy 
groans and Erestor looked at the blond in sheer amazement. He had never 
expected Glorfindel to surrender this quickly, this willingly. “What do you 
want?”
 
“Whatever you can give, lirimaer ...” managed Glorfindel through his lust-
induced haze. “Just touch me…”
 
With shaky fingers Erestor unbuttoned Glorfindel’s shirt, slowly sliding it 
down the bronze skin. He marveled at the smooth skin and lovingly ran his 
fingertips over the willing flesh.
 
Glorfindel arched his hips, wantonly, begging his lover to increase their 
bodily contact. Panting with desire, he quavered at the delicate touch, 
feeling Erestor’s fingertips slide down his skin. “More, please…” 
 
Erestor, once more biting his bottom lip, removed Glorfindel’s shirt and 
stared at the hairless chest. Running his fingers down the blond’s chest, he 
encountered a hardened nipple. Just touching it seemed to catapult 
Glorfindel off the bed. His lover panted, pleadingly looking into his eyes. 
Experimentally, he rubbed the nub of hard flesh between his fingertips and 
then squeezed cautiously. 
 
Glorfindel wasn’t sure how much more of this torture he could take. His 
erection strained against his leggings and he was afraid he would come 
right there and then. It took every ounce of his self-discipline to not rub 
himself against Erestor in order to find release. 
 
Erestor stared at his lover in wonder. “Do you like this?”
 
“I crave it!”
 
Erestor briefly wondered if this would spin out of control, but this was 
Glorfindel and the blond would never, ever hurt him! Reassured, his hands 
reached for the Elda’s waistband. Leaning in closer, he bestowed a shower 
of feather light kisses on his lover’s smooth chest. 
 
Just when Glorfindel thought he couldn’t possible be more aroused, a slick 
tongue encircled one of his nipples and then eager lips suckled gently. 
“Aiya, Erestor!” 
 
At once, Erestor pulled back; scared he had done something wrong. 
“Forgive me, I thought…”
 
Realizing Erestor had taken his passionate cry the wrong way, Glorfindel 
buried his hands in the black hair, gently pulling his lover closer to him. 
“Don’t stop, Erestor, just don’t.” 
 
Reassured, Erestor let his tongue dash out and lap at the other, formerly 
neglected nipple. Glorfindel arched his back and seemed to thrust against 
him and only then did he realize that he was driving the Elda mad with 
desire. “Do you wish to come?”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes widened at that. Long past thinking rationally, he 
nodded. “Please…” 
 
Erestor hooked his fingers behind the waistband and slowly removed the 
Elda’s leggings. “Raise your hips,” he commanded softly. His heartbeat 
quickened when Glorfindel obeyed eagerly. He dropped the green 
leggings onto the floor and took in his lover’s naked body. “Beautiful,” he 
whispered, adoringly. 
 
A smile surfaced on Glorfindel’s face, hearing the compliment. He almost 
suggested that Erestor removed his robes as well, but in the end, he didn’t 
voice that thought. He wanted Erestor to act freely. 
 
“May I t-touch… you?” stuttered Erestor nervously. His hand hovered 
above the blond’s erection, but he didn’t touch the hard flesh yet. He 
wanted permission first. 
 
“Please…” Glorfindel suddenly realized just how many times he had said 
that word during these last few minutes. Erestor already had him begging 
for more! “Please, melamin, place your hands on me!”
 
Erestor rested one hand against Glorfindel’s abdomen. Making eye contact 
again, he cautiously wrapped the fingers of his other hand around the 
blond’s erection, feeling shy when he found the hard flesh slippery and 
eagerly responding to his touch. 
 
Glorfindel helplessly raised his hips, trying to create more friction so he 
could finally reach orgasm. Looking into Erestor’s eyes, the obvious 
wonder in them took him aback. “What are you thinking?”
 
Glorfindel’s question surprised Erestor, who licked his lips. 
 
Glorfindel groaned pitifully, seeing his lover’s tongue moisten his bruised 
lips. Never before had he found that sight so seductive. 
 
“I am thinking how much you must love me to entrust yourself to me in 
this manner.” Erestor tightly curled his fingers around the eager flesh and 
stroked slowly, almost teasingly. 
 
Bucking hard, Glorfindel stared at his lover. He needed more, needed to 
feel Erestor close. “Kiss me?” 
 
Erestor, trying hard to maintain the rhythm he was stroking his lover in, 
leaned in closer and kissed the blond hard. Suddenly his hand slipped 
away from the slick shaft and he cursed softly, almost apologizing for his 
nervousness. 
 
 “Don’t…” panted Glorfindel, seeing a pained expression slip into his 
lover’s eyes. “I love you…” He rested one hand at the nape of Erestor’s 
neck and kissed him passionately. 
 
Erestor folded his fingers once more around the hot flesh and resumed 
stroking, wanting his lover to reach orgasm. Glorfindel took him by 
surprise by folding his arms around him, crushing him close to him and 
rhythmically thrusting into his hand. Mesmerized, he stared into large, 
blue eyes and then he felt the blond tense against him. Warm cream 
spurted onto his hand, whilst Glorfindel clung to him. 
 
Glorfindel couldn’t remember ever coming this hard before. Looking into 
Erestor’s eyes, he smiled, still panting. “Oh, lirimaer…”
 
Releasing the now sated flesh, Erestor lay down next to the blond. He 
wasn’t sure how to react when Glorfindel snuggled up to him. Acting 
instinctively, he wrapped his arms around the Elda, holding him close. His 
heart thundered madly in his chest at the realization that he had brought 
his lover to orgasm. “D-did you l-like it?” 
 
Glorfindel raised eyes, filled with disbelief, at his lover. “Lirimaer,” he 
started, still panting, “I cannot remember ever coming like that before. 
Does that answer your question?” He couldn’t believe that Erestor still 
doubted himself. “I love you.” He would never tire of saying it, knowing 
Erestor needed to hear it over and over again. “I love you, Erestor.”
 
Erestor blushed. “I take it… you liked it then?”
 
“Oh, I did!” Now that the ecstasy had faded and no longer hindered his 
thinking, he adoringly looked into his lover’s dark eyes. “There is no 
reason to doubt yourself, melamin.” Calming down, he returned the 
embrace, ignoring the fact that he should be cleaning himself up. Holding 
Erestor and reassuring him was more important. “I must admit that you 
surprised me. I never expected you to take this step, at least not this soon.”
 
Erestor shrugged and averted his eyes. “What I really want is… is to m-
make love with you,” he stuttered, nervously. 
 
Glorfindel sighed, tiredly. He waited until Erestor looked at him and then 
said, “But we made love just now. There is more to making love than 
penetration.”
 
Flinching, Erestor tried to look away, but Glorfindel rested his palm 
against his face, making sure the eye contact remained. “You already 
came such a long way, nîn amdir. Don’t push yourself to take a step when 
you are not ready for it.”
 
Erestor managed a weak smile. /You are so good for me, so patient. I do 
not deserve you./
 
Glorfindel frowned, as if catching an echo of that thought. Realizing he 
needed to distract the brooding Elf, he said, “And why are you still clothed 
when I am naked?”
 
Now Erestor’s smile turned genuine. “I like it when you are naked.”
 
Glorfindel briefly entertained the thought of offering to bring his lover to 
orgasm as well, but he could tell Erestor’s arousal had faded; it no longer 
pressed against his stomach. “Will you join me for a bath then?” His 
fingers moved through the tangled strands of raven hair, slowly undoing 
the braids and removing the circlet. “That cannot have been comfortable 
when you were asleep,” he remarked, running his fingers through the now 
loose hair. 
 
“I did not mind,” whispered Erestor, his eyes shining with love. “I hardly 
felt any discomfort. It means a lot to me that you want me to wear it… 
even in public.” 
 
Hearing that nearly brought tears to Glorfindel’s eyes. “I will braid your 
hair if you do mine.” 
 
Erestor’s smile was filled with love and pride, looking at his lover. As 
words eluded him, he just leaned in closer and placed a passionate kiss on 
the blond’s luscious lips. 
 
“I take it that is a yes then?” teased Glorfindel, feeling delighted when the 
dark-haired Elf playfully poked him in his side. “Ah, definitely a yes!”
 
Erestor smiled at him with swimming eyes. “You are my life, Glorfindel. I 
want to be with you for the rest of my life.”
 
“Is that a proposal?” Glorfindel’s smile remained, but something else 
appeared in his eyes. “Would you bind yourself to me by taking the 
vows?”
 
Erestor suddenly realized that the time for teasing had passed. This was 
serious. “I would… gladly.”
 
Glorfindel brushed an elusive lock behind Erestor’s pointed ears. “You 
would be mine for the rest of our lives?”
 
“Is that a proposal?” asked Erestor, breathlessly staring at the blond.  
 
”Aye, it is… Will you give me an answer or make me wait?” Oh, Erestor’s 
eyes had already given him his answer, but he wanted to hear his lover say 
the words.
 
“Aye, I want to be yours for the rest of my life, Glorfindel.” Unable to stay 
in control of his raging emotions any longer, Erestor flung himself at the 
blond, holding on tight. 
 
Smiling, Glorfindel placed a kiss on Erestor’s hair. “Then I will be 
yours… forever.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 22
 
 
 
Thranduil watched Elrond closely when the half-Elf sighed. The Lord of 
Imladris sat slightly slumped forward behind his desk in the study. For one 
moment it looked like all of Arda rested on the half-Elf’s trembling 
shoulders. Aye, he reckoned it would feel like that to Elrond at times. 
 
Elrond rubbed his brow, and then set to massaging his temples. He felt 
tired and weary. These last few weeks had been more taxing that he had 
shown them to be, and he longed for some peace. If he had been able to, 
he would have sneaked into his bed to lose himself in sleep for the next 
few hours. But there were reports to read, letters to reply to; a never-
ending flow of correspondence continued to come his way. Why wasn’t he 
ever allowed to fully unwind and rest? Because, obviously, he was the 
Ruler of Imladris, and so much depended on him. 
 
Elrond tensed slightly, almost having forgotten about Thranduil’s 
presence. But then his lover placed his hands on his shoulders, massaging 
the tense muscles. He bowed forwards and sighed, contented. Thranduil 
had always had magical hands when it came down to massages. 
 
The groan that left Elrond’s lips made Thranduil aware of how exhausted 
the half-Elf really was. “You should rest.”
 
“I cannot do that. There are so many letters… Reports…” Elrond’s voice 
faltered when Thranduil’s talented fingers worked on a sore spot just 
above his shoulder blade.
 
Thranduil frowned, recalling something Elrond had admitted to him 
earlier; that the half-Elf liked him to take control. Now he was severely 
tempted to that just that… and he did. 
 
Elrond moaned disappointedly when Thranduil stopped the divine 
massage. Drawing in a deep breath, he said, “Thank you,” and reached for 
the next report. But then the blond’s fingers curled around his wrist and he 
looked up in surprise. The determined look in Thranduil’s feline’s eyes 
took him aback. 
 
“You are going to rest, Elrond,” decreed Thranduil. “I can see how tired 
you are and I do not like it!”
 
Elrond smiled faintly. “I wish I could…” He gasped when Thranduil 
pulled him to his feet, exercising just enough force on his wrist to pull him 
along and out of the study. “What do you think you are doing? Where are 
we going?”
 
“Your rooms,” said Thranduil between clenched teeth. “And do not give 
me any arguments. This is –not- up for discussion!”
 
Elrond stared at the blond in sheer amazement. Was this really Thranduil? 
He had never acted like this before! “But…”
 
“I said no discussion.” Thranduil opened the door to Elrond’s private 
chambers, pulled the half-Elf inside and then closed it behind them. “You 
are tired and need rest.”
 
Elrond smiled, and shook his head. “What has gotten into you?”
 
“I am concerned,” said Thranduil, suddenly wavering. “And you said 
that… that you liked me to take control. That is what I am doing right 
now.” Had he made a mistake in dragging Elrond here? “I apologize if I 
was out of line.”
 
Staring at the blond in pleased disbelief, Elrond smiled warmly. Thranduil 
had really listened to him and was now trying to take charge? That was an 
unexpected, but welcome development!  “Don’t apologize, nîn glaur. You 
just took me by surprise.”
 
“I understand if you want to return to your work,” offered Thranduil, 
shuffling his feet. He had obviously overdone it. 
 
Elrond gave the blond a long, thoughtful look and then pressed the length 
of his body against his lover’s. “You were right; I like it when you take 
care of me. And now tell me, what do you want me to do?”
 
Thranduil’s eyes widened in surprise. “You want me to--?” Uncertain, he 
searched Elrond’s eyes. 
 
“You wanted me to rest…” supplied Elrond, helpfully. “Don’t stop now.”
 
Thranduil cleared his throat, suddenly overcome by the trust he saw in the 
half-Elf’s blue eyes. “I want you to lie down and rest. Preferably, I want 
you to sleep.”
 
Elrond smiled, pleased, walking over to the bed and sitting down on it. His 
gaze never left Thranduil’s, wondering how far the blond was prepared to 
take this. He began to recline onto the bed, but caught the frown on his 
lover’s brow. “What is it?”
 
“Do you really want to sleep in all those clothes? That cannot be 
comfortable.”
 
“Do you want me to remove my robes?” Elrond was coaxing Thranduil 
further, hoping the blond understood that he wanted him to continue to 
take the lead. Thranduil’s eyes darkened with some unreadable emotion 
and Elrond involuntarily held his breath. 
 
“Aye, I want you to remove them. I want you to rest comfortably.” 
Thranduil sat down in a chair, no longer trusting his legs to carry him. The 
expression in Elrond’s eyes was strangely predatory. He couldn’t believe 
he was actually going to say this! “You will remove your robes -now-.” 
The moment those words had left his lips he wondered if he had made a 
fatal mistake, seeing the ecstatic expression in the half-Elf’s eyes. 
 
Elrond’s groin burst into fire and he grew erect, hearing those demanding 
words. Thranduil wanted him to strip? Grinning, he rose from the bed and 
slowly, teasingly, began to unbutton his outer robes. As they slid down his 
shoulders, a white linen shirt was revealed and he slowly undid the laces. 
 
Thranduil practically drooled, seeing the patches of naked flesh, which 
were now revealed. “Remove –all- your clothes.”
 
Elrond inclined his head, stepped out of his robes and let the white shirt 
slide down his shoulders. When the cloth finally hit the floor, he was 
completely naked and painfully hard. Waiting for Thranduil to give him 
new instructions, he licked his lips, wishing Thranduil would continue to 
take the lead. 
 
A throbbing heat was building between his legs and Thranduil shifted 
uneasily on his chair, seeing his lover’s arousal stand proud and begging 
for his touch. A predatory grin appeared on his face. He could grow used 
to being in control! Seeing the eager anticipation on Elrond’s face, he said, 
“Now lie down on your back.”
 
Trembling with expectation, Elrond did as he was told. His eyes never left 
Thranduil’s form. The golden-haired Elf now rose from his chair and 
advanced on him. His gaze drifted lower and he stared admiringly at the 
bulge in the blond’s leggings. He sighed, hoping this would lead to 
another round of lovemaking. His fatigue seemed to have disappeared 
beneath the onslaught of passion that was taking control of him. 
 
Eagerness, want and lust shone from Thranduil’s green eyes, taking in his 
lover’s naked form. His eyes quickly scanned the room and he located the 
vial filled with scented oil, which they had used earlier, on the nightstand. 
Next, his gaze was drawn to several brown ribbons that Elrond sometimes 
used to braid into his hair. 
 
Elrond stared at Thranduil, who now picked up those ribbons and his 
heartbeat quickened. What did the blond plan to do to him? His erection 
twitched, and he wriggled on the bed, hoping Thranduil would take pity on 
him. “Nîn glaur? I want you, need you. Come here…” 
 
Carrying the ribbons with him, Thranduil returned to the bed, studying his 
lover’s display of wanton need. Elrond arched his back in mute pleading 
and raised his arms, urging him closer. 
 
But Thranduil removed his clothes first, whilst constantly maintaining eye 
contact with the raven-haired Elf. His erection bobbed free from its 
confines and he stroked himself once, closely watching Elrond’s reaction. 
 
Elrond released a strangled yelp, seeing his lover pleasure himself. He 
tried to sit upright, but suddenly Thranduil was all over him, eventually 
straddling his hips. The blond had moved quickly and was now pinning 
him down to the bed. To his joy, he found that the ribbons were still in his 
lover’s hands. Panting hard, he tried to rub his erection against 
Thranduil’s, begging to be touched. 
 
Thranduil placed the ribbons onto the bed next to him and considered the 
squirming half-Elf beneath him. “Are you sure you want to do this?”
 
Elrond didn’t bother to ask Thranduil what –this- was supposed to be. 
“Take me… Make me yours… Ride me!” The need that burned his loins 
set him aflame. Raising his hands, he buried his fingers in the long, soft 
hair, needing the contact. 
 
Slowly, Thranduil took hold of one brown ribbon, once more studying the 
half-Elf. “Raise your head.” His lover’s body trembled violently beneath 
him; Elrond’s eagerness surprising Thranduil.  
 
The half-Elf did as he was bid and tried to control his hurried breathing 
when Thranduil tied the ribbon in front of his eyes, taking away his sight. 
The blindfold was tied loose enough for him to shake it off, but he felt no 
desire to do so. “Oh, by the Grace of the Valar, what are you doing to 
me?” His erection throbbed, but the blond was blatantly ignoring the 
hardened flesh. 
 
“Don’t speak,” whispered Thranduil, bending forward until he could claim 
his lover’s lips. He indulged himself and kissed the half-Elf breathless, but 
then his tongue drifted lower, sucking the skin beneath Elrond’s ear. 
Hearing his lover hiss, he grinned and moved upward to lap at a slightly 
pointed ear, sucking greedily at its tip. 
 
Elrond bucked involuntarily under the sensual caresses. His eyes were big, 
but the blindfold kept him from making eye contact with his lover. “Ah, 
nîn glaur … I need you so badly.”
 
“Soon,” soothed Thranduil. Continuing the lapping, he left a wet trail from 
Elrond’s neck to his chest, where he teased first one, and then the other 
nipple into complete hardness. Elrond bucked again and he placed a 
restraining hand on the half-Elf’s hips, keeping him in place. “I never 
thought I would enjoy seeing you at my mercy.” His reactions kept taking 
him aback. He had never been the dominant one during their prior 
relationship, but now he found that he loved to make Elrond squirm and 
beg. 
 
Elrond whimpered helplessly. “Ai, Thranduil… I… I… need… you…” 
Now that his eyesight had been taken away from him, his other senses 
seemed heightened and every touch, lick, caress bestowed onto his skin 
made him wiggle helplessly beneath the blond. It frustrated him to no end 
that Thranduil continued to ignore the burning need between his legs. “Nîn 
glaur… want… need… now… take me… oh…” 
 
Thranduil smiled wickedly, taking hold of another ribbon, and then moved 
into a kneeling position next to the squirming half-Elf’s body. 
 
No longer feeling his lover’s weight on top of him, Elrond started. 
“What…? Thranduil? Aiya… so hard…” Had Thranduil reconsidered and 
ended the game they were playing? He sighed relieved when the blond’s 
hands settled back onto his hips, slowly but deliberately rolling him onto 
his stomach. His heart fluttered with excitement and he let Thranduil 
manhandle him until he was flat on his stomach, rubbing his erection 
against the sheets. 
 
His breathing stopped momentarily, feeling soft silk slip around his left 
wrist. And then his world began to spin, realizing Thranduil was tying him 
to the bed. Rubbing himself shamelessly, he tried to create more friction, 
but a teasing slap to his buttocks stopped him. His eyes widened behind 
the blindfold at feeling the slight sting that the slap left behind. His right 
wrist was treated to the same procedure and now his hands were tied to the 
bed posts, leaving him squirming helplessly. “Aiya, nîn glaur, what… are 
you…doing to me?” 
 
Surveying his handiwork, Thranduil wondered if he wasn’t taking this too 
far. He knew Elrond wanted this - the half-Elf was practically begging for 
it - but he still worried about causing his lover unnecessary discomfort. 
“Are the bonds too tight?” he asked, straddling Elrond’s lower back and 
leaning in closer to whisper the words into the half-Elf’s right ear. 
 
A slight pull told Elrond that he could easily free himself. “Nay, they 
are… perfect,” he panted, reassuring his lover. A part of him couldn’t 
believe Thranduil was acting in this manner. “Aiya… nîn glaur, I love you 
so much, but would you… take me now?” He squirmed beneath the blond, 
hoping Thranduil would finally touch him in his most private places. 
 
But Thranduil was now really enjoying his dominion over the raven-haired 
half-Elf and used two more ribbons to tie his lover’s feet to the wooden 
bed posts. Looking down at the trembling form beneath him, his hands 
stroked the long, strong back. Amused, he realized Elrond was rubbing 
himself against the sheets, trying to find release. “Are you still 
comfortable with this?” He needed to be sure that he wasn’t acting against 
his lover’s will. 
 
“Take… me!” whimpered Elrond, pitifully. “Take me… -hard-!”
 
But Thranduil shook his head. “Nay, I left you sore the last time we made 
love.” He wasn’t going to make the same mistake twice. He loved Elrond 
too much to cause him pain, not even during their lovemaking. Running 
his hands over the two perfect mounds of flesh in front of him, he kneaded 
them until he felt Elrond relax. Lazily, he let some droplets of oil drip onto 
his skin, before sliding one probing finger down his lover’s cleft, gently 
teasing the tight opening that would shortly welcome him. 
 
Elrond was moaning deliriously, wondering when and how this sweet 
torment would end. He had closed his eyes behind the blindfold, relishing 
the sensations running through him. Thranduil’s weight shifted and a 
moment later, a slick finger circled the entrance to his body. Groaning 
blissfully, he surrendered to his lover. Not knowing what would happen 
next excited him even further.
 
Thranduil took his time to massage the guardian ring and ease the tense 
muscles trying to grip him. Elrond continued to whimper, to beg him to 
take him, but he was determined to take his time. 
 
Elrond tried to raise his hips, but the ribbons limited his movements and 
all he could do was beg. “Have mercy…. Oh, yes… now… want… 
you…” His fingers curled around the ribbons, and his nails clawed at the 
silk fabric when one probing finger slid into his passage. It was a perpetual 
motion that kept him on the brink for many long moments. Whimpering 
loudly, he tried to thrust back, but the ribbons stopped him. “Nîn glaur… 
have mercy… take me… make me come…”
 
“Soon,” repeated Thranduil, doing his best to ignore his own throbbing 
heat between his legs, which urged him to bury himself in the tight 
passage. But he controlled his desires tightly. Adding more oil, he pressed 
two fingers inside his lover’s body and began to stretch the half-Elf, still 
taking his time to properly prepare his helpless lover. 
 
Elrond was no longer capable of logical thought. Rubbing his erection 
against the sheet didn’t provide him with enough friction and he endured 
the sweet, sensual torment Thranduil bestowed on him. “Now, take me! 
Take me!”
 
Thranduil took pity on his lover, realizing Elrond couldn’t take much 
more. Coating his aching shaft with oil, he parted his lover’s buttocks and 
positioned himself at the twitching opening. 
 
“In one stroke… one… fast… hard…” panted Elrond, pleadingly, feeling 
the hot head of his lover’s arousal press against his opening. 
 
Thranduil nodded; he would try to indulge his lover, but only if he didn’t 
bring Elrond any discomfort. Pushing inside, the guardian ring admitted 
him and he continued to slide inside, grabbing Elrond’s hips to make sure 
the half-Elf didn’t move unexpectedly, pulling his lover close. 
 
Elrond bit into the sheet as his lover’s heat pierced him. Shallow pain, 
already mixing with pleasure, slid through his body. It was so intense that 
he was afraid to lose consciousness. But then Thranduil was fully sheathed 
inside him and instead of thrusting, the blond remained motionless. 
 
Whimpering, he tried to gain his lover’s attention, but then Thranduil 
rested his body on top of his, penetrating him even deeper and brushing 
his gland, hidden deep within the channel. “Hard… hard… Ai… hard and 
deep!” He panted the words and felt frustrated when Thranduil slowly 
pulled out and then tormenting slowly entered him again. He was about to 
protest to the slow thrusts, but then Thranduil brushed his sweet spot 
again, causing hot sweat to form all over his body. 
 
Thranduil wrapped his arms around the half-Elf’s trembling frame, 
rocking slowly. One thrust took several heartbeats, and he could hear 
Elrond yelp and feel him shake with sensation. Slowly, he continued to 
possess his lover, thrusting deliberately and deeply. 
 
Elrond suddenly tensed beneath him and he buried himself deeply within 
the tight, hot passage. The spasms that erupted around his shaft took his 
breath away and he buried his face in the long, now damp hair. Finding the 
nape of his lover’s neck, he bit into the smooth flesh, marking the half-Elf 
as Elrond had marked him. 
 
Squirming in ecstasy beneath the blond, Elrond realized that his lover was 
still hard, still inside him and hadn’t come yet, whilst he had just reached 
his orgasm. “Ah, I… do not… want to… leave you…behind.” 
 
Thranduil smiled wickedly, and was glad that Elrond couldn’t see his 
primal expression. “I am just waiting for you to stop riding those last 
waves of pleasure and then I will take you again.”
 
“Aiya, what?” Finally coming down from the sensual high, Elrond cocked 
his head, cursing the blindfold. He wanted to look into his lover’s eyes!
 
Thranduil, sensing Elrond’s need, slowly removed the blindfold. When 
their eyes met, both were taken aback by the expression in the other's eyes. 
The half-Elf’s long hair was a tangled mess and a precious droplet of 
blood flowed down his lover’s neck, where he had just broken the skin. 
 
Unexpectedly Thranduil’s tongue lapped at his neck and Elrond felt the 
familiar stirrings of arousal return. “Again…” He had only just come and 
now Thranduil was moving inside him again! The rhythmic thrusts began 
anew, but this time they were fast and shallow. Abandoned to the rocking, 
he allowed his lover to make love to him again. 
 
“Aye, again!” Thranduil executed a few shallow thrusts to bring himself to 
orgasm, careful not to leave the half-Elf sore. Throwing back his head, he 
released a triumphant growl. 
 
Elrond’s eyes widened, hearing that growl. Looking over his shoulder, his 
heart thundered madly, seeing the blond surrender to his ecstasy. /So 
beautiful… and he is mine!/
 
Thranduil collapsed atop of his lover and rested his head against the half-
Elf’s back. “Was that what you wanted?”
 
Elrond struggled against the ribbons and one by one, they gave in. Free 
now, he rolled onto his side, causing Thranduil’s sated sex to slip from his 
body. 
 
Thranduil spooned up behind the half-Elf, emitting a contented moan. 
Wrapping his arms around Elrond, he sighed blissfully. “You have 
exhausted me, Peredhel. Now we both need to rest.”
 
Elrond smiled and pushed back, relishing the feel of his lover’s body 
curled around his. “Thank you…”
 
Thranduil moved slowly, pulling Elrond even closer to him. “Why do you 
like it so much when I take control?”
 
“I get to let go for the briefest of moments. At times it feels like the faith 
of Arda rests on my shoulders, and when you take control I can let go, 
surrender.” Elrond sighed, and pulled Thranduil’s arm tightly around his 
body. “Thank you for relieving that burden.”
 
Thranduil smiled into the damp hair. “So you would like me to do this 
again?”
 
Elrond grinned. “Aye.” Had he really found everything he needed in 
Thranduil? Yes. With a sated grin on his face, he slowly fell asleep, finally 
letting go of his worries. 
 
Thranduil however, remained awake, watching over his lover. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor blinked sleepily, waking up in Glorfindel’s protective arms. When 
had they fallen asleep? Then his memories returned. They had bathed, 
braided one another’s hair, and then the blond had suggested lying down 
to rest. He had obediently curled around the flaxen-haired Elda and had 
almost instantly fallen asleep. 
 
“Awake again?” 
 
Erestor smiled, hearing Glorfindel’s amused tone. Looking up, he locked 
gazes with the blond. They lay facing each other and his lover had twirled 
a strand of dark hair around his finger. The look the Elda directed at him 
caused a lump to form in his throat. “Is something wrong?” he asked, 
timidly, wondering why there was such a thoughtful expression in his 
lover’s eyes. 
 
“Nay, everything is finally right,” whispered Glorfindel, dotingly. “I had 
this incredible dream,” he continued in a soft tone, “And in that dream you 
promised to be mine forever.”
 
“That was no dream,” said Erestor, shyly. “I did promise to bind myself to 
you.”
 
“And you meant it?” Glorfindel stared, entranced, into his lover’s dark 
eyes. 
 
“Did you?” asked Erestor teasingly, already knowing Glorfindel’s answer.
 
“Oh, yes.” Dreamily, Glorfindel tangled his fingers in the long, dark 
tresses. “I cannot imagine life without you.”
 
Pleased, Erestor smiled at him. He raised himself onto all fours and boldly 
crawled onto Glorfindel and straddled his hips. 
 
“What are you doing, melamin?” Glorfindel raised an eyebrow, puzzled. 
But then his expression changed into pure pleasure when Erestor curled up 
in his arms. 
 
“You feel so warm. I cannot get enough of you.”
 
Glorfindel pressed a kiss onto the dark hair. “I hope you will never get 
enough of me, melamin…” Amused, he listened to the soft snoring that 
now tumbled from Erestor’s lips. “By the Grace of the Valar, he is asleep 
again!” Smiling warmly, he buried his lover in a warm hug and then 
returned to sleep as well.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 23
 
 
Legolas had enjoyed Elrohir’s company during the afternoon, but then the 
half-Elf had excused himself to check on Elladan, who was about to return 
from the border patrol. On his way to the guest quarters, he was overcome 
by a sense of melancholy that had visited him frequently these last few 
weeks. Sitting down beneath an ash tree, he enjoyed the peace and quiet. 
 
Sniffing the air, he realized that the kitchens had to be close, as delightful 
fragrances drifted up his nostrils. His stomach growled softly, reminding 
him he hadn’t eaten since breakfast. Ah, but dinner would be served 
within the hour. 
 
Motion to his right attracted his attention and he raised an eyebrow, seeing 
a white bunny hop his way. It had long, fluffy ears, a shiny coat and came 
to a halt in front of him, sitting on his hind legs. It almost seemed like it 
was looking at him. 
 
Legolas smiled, extended his hand and let the animal take in his scent. 
When the bunny didn’t move away, he carefully gathered it in his hands 
and placed it in his arms, stroking the long ears.
 
It had been a while since he had felt this much at peace. The smile slowly 
faded and a frown returned in its place. Melancholy, regret and even 
depression crept into his heart, making him sigh, distressed. Losing 
himself in the simple motion of stroking the soft fur, he bowed his head. 
Loneliness crashed in on him and almost caused tears to appear in his 
eyes. 
 
Loneliness… He had been lonely for so long. He had hoped to find a mate, 
the other half of his soul, but he had either been disappointed or betrayed 
when his would-be lovers admitted that they were mostly attracted to him 
because of his appearance. Why couldn’t anyone look beneath his so-
called beauty? 
 
Many potential lovers had sung about his long, golden hair and eyes that 
sparkled like sapphire. But when he stood in front of the mirror and 
studied his reflection, he couldn’t see that fabled beauty. All he saw was a 
terribly lonely Elf. 
 
His father had assured him that the day would come when he would find 
true love, but he had given up on that hope. Once someone looked into his 
eyes, they seemed lost and hardly ever tried to get to know him. The real 
him. If only he could shed his beauty and search for love that would be 
true to -him-, not his looks. 
 
Suddenly, and interrupting his musings, one of the cooks appeared in the 
doorway, an angry frown on his face. Legolas didn’t know why, but he 
quickly covered the rabbit, which had comfortably settled in his arms, 
with his cloak, hiding it from view. 
 
The cook scowled, and his eyes narrowed, as if searching for something. 
Spying Legolas beneath the tree, he addressed the blond. “Excuse me, but 
have you seen a rabbit? It is supposed to be part of tonight’s dinner, but it 
somehow escaped. I am hoping to catch it again.”
 
Legolas didn’t plan on letting the rabbit being part of dinner and shook his 
head. “I am sorry, but I cannot help you.” 
 
The cook sighed, disappointedly, and returned to his chores, leaving 
Legolas behind. The Elf pushed back his cloak and stared at the large, 
brown eyes trustingly looking up at him. “You were very lucky, my little 
friend. If I had not saved you, I would have found you on my plate 
tonight.” 
 
It was hard to believe that such an accomplished warrior and hunter like 
him would take pity on a fluffy bunny. But he patted the animal’s head 
and then placed it on the ground. Feeling the grass beneath its feet, it 
immediately sprinted away. He envied the animal its freedom. Maybe it 
had a mate out there, and now they would be united again. 
 
Shaking his head at that thought, he tiredly pushed himself to his feet. He 
couldn’t help but wonder if he would be alone for the rest of his long, 
immortal life. But at least he still had his father and brother. And maybe 
he could befriend Elrohir as well. Another deep sigh fled from his lips and 
his slumped shoulders revealed his weariness as he headed for his father’s 
quarters, hoping Thranduil would spare him a moment and talk to him. He 
needed his father right now.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Thranduil regretted having to leave his lover for even a brief moment, but 
he had agreed to move into Elrond’s quarters and was now collecting his 
belongings from his quest rooms. The soft knock on the door made him 
smile, knowing exactly who was standing on the other side of it. “You do 
not have to knock, Legolas.” For as long as he could remember he had 
shared a bond with his youngest that had never been established between 
himself and Valthoron. 
 
“I did not want to… interrupt anything,” said Legolas shyly, but with a 
smile on his face. “You might have been busy… with Elrond.” Having 
searched his feelings where his father and Elrond were concerned, he had 
found that he felt happy for them. His father had suffered in silence for so 
many centuries that he was glad the half-Elf had finally come to his 
senses. How Elrond could ever have rejected his father was beyond him. 
Thranduil was one of the most passionate, intelligent and caring people he 
had ever met - and he had met a lot of people during his wanderings all 
over Arda. 
 
Thranduil cleared his throat, slightly nervous. He knew Legolas accepted 
this union, but he still felt a little hesitant to discuss this matter with his 
son. “I… uhm, Elrond asked me to collect my belongings and… and to 
move in with him.” Blushing slightly, he smiled apologetically at his 
youngest. “If you do not mind, that is.”
 
Legolas smiled ruefully. “Ada, I want you to be happy. You should know 
that.” 
 
But Thranduil tasted the pain and sorrow beneath those words. After 
catching his son’s gaze, he rested a hand on Legolas’ shoulder, squeezing 
reassuringly. “Your time will come.”
 
Legolas shrugged, unconvinced. “I doubt that.”
 
Hearing those words greatly pained Thranduil. “If only I could take away 
your sorrow. You were never meant to carry such a burden.”
 
“At times I wished I had not been graced with your looks,” admitted 
Legolas in a choked tone. 
 
“But it is more than just your looks that blinds everyone who looks at 
you.” Thranduil gathered his son’s hands in his. “There is this incredible 
radiance inside you and it shines from your eyes. People cannot help 
falling in love with your warmth, that radiance.”
 
“But they never love me for who I am, just for the way I look.” 
 
“Legolas, do not give up. Not all people are that shallow. One will come 
that looks further than your looks and will love you for being the warm 
and caring person that you are.”
 
“I wish I could shed this skin and… and…” Legolas stuttered, uncertain 
what he wanted to say. “Why was I not born… ugly?” He gladly gave in 
when his father’s arms came up around him, holding him close. “I want to 
have what… what you and Elrond have. Why can’t I have that?”
 
Thranduil sighed, deeply. Legolas’ pain was his pain. Soothing his 
youngest, he said, “Try to find comfort in the company of the twins. Spend 
time with Erestor and Glorfindel; maybe their presence will distract you 
from your troubles.”
 
Legolas’ eyes met his father’s. “I cannot do that. They are happy. My 
presence would only cause them distress, especially Erestor.”
 
“You could not cause –anyone- distress, Legolas, not even if you tried.” 
Thranduil probed his son’s eyes. “You cannot help attracting people, 
Legolas. It is this light… and it shines from within you.”
 
Legolas meekly accepted his father’s words, which he had heard countless 
times before. “But I am still alone.”
 
Thranduil worried about his son. It wasn’t good for someone of Legolas’ 
age to be alone, to be without a mate. The solitude could turn into grief 
and then he would lose his son to Mandos. Maybe it was about time he 
intervened and found his son someone worthy to love?
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elladan dismounted, happy to see that his twin was already awaiting him. 
Walking toward Elrohir, he noticed the sadness in the dark eyes, and 
instinctively, he clasped his brother’s shoulder, pulling him in for a hug. 
“What is wrong, Elrohir?” His brother would never be able to hide 
anything from him, and most certainly not pain or sorrow. They were an 
open book to each other. “What causes you such sorrow?”
 
“Legolas…” whispered Elrohir, crestfallen. He fell into step beside his 
brother when Elladan headed for their rooms. “I spent the entire afternoon 
in his presence and we have so much in common. His mother sailed for 
the Undying Lands as well. He seemed so sad when he mentioned losing 
his mother only one day after reaching his majority… And he has an older 
brother as well.”
 
Elladan sighed. “Your feelings for him are deepening.”
 
“Aye,” murmured Elrohir. “I can only think of him. His eyes, the light that 
shines from them. Oh, brother, I can tell he is a warm and caring person. 
But I cannot spend any more time in his company. You –must- trade 
places with me. Ada asked if I could take Legolas to the Bruinen 
tomorrow and show him the borders. I cannot do that. My heart is 
breaking, knowing he is this close and that I cannot tell him how I feel.”
 
Elladan closely studied his brother. “Aren’t you overreacting, brother? 
You only met him a few days ago. How can he have such an impact on 
you? Granted, he is beautiful, but…” 
 
“Aiya…” Elrohir sighed, distressed, and placed his right hand over his 
heart. “I can feel it here. I have never felt anything like it before. Elladan, 
brother, did Ada not tell us that an Elf can die of a broken heart? Mine 
feels broken. I wonder if that means I will die after Legolas has left.”
 
Suddenly Elladan grabbed his brother’s shoulders tightly and shook him. 
“Come to your senses, brother! You are not going to die!” What had 
gotten into Elrohir? “You are in love, but that feeling will pass once 
Legolas leaves for Mirkwood. The feeling will fade in time.”
 
Elrohir’s gaze darkened, saddened. “I do not want him to leave. I want 
him to stay. To hear his voice, to bask in his inner glow.” Growing angry, 
he shook off his brother’s hands. “You cannot possibly understand!”
 
“Brother, calm yourself. You are beginning to scare me!” Elladan 
persevered and regained a hold on his brother’s shoulders. “We are going 
to see Ada now. This cannot continue.” The truth was that Elrohir was 
scaring him. It almost seemed like his twin was losing his sanity. “Ada 
will know what to do.”
 
Elrohir bowed his head, realizing Elladan had made a valid point. He was 
not acting normally and a part of him understood that he was losing 
control. When he had been with Legolas, he had felt at peace, cherished, 
warm, but now that the blond was gone, he felt cold and lonely. “Help me, 
Elladan. I do not know what is happening to me.”
 
“We are going to talk to Ada,” decreed Elladan, determined. “Now.”
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond looked up in mild surprise at seeing his sons enter, but one good 
look at Elrohir told him that something was amiss with his youngest. 
Rising from behind his desk, he quickly advanced on them and turned 
Elrohir’s face toward the sunlight, closely probing the haunted eyes. “Ion-
nîn, what weighs this heavily on your mind?” Looking at Elladan, he 
caught the twin’s nod. “You may leave, Elladan. I will talk to your 
brother.”
 
Elladan left his father’s study and wandered aimlessly through the 
corridors, ending up near the guest rooms. Why was he here? Looking 
about, he saw that Thranduil’s door was ajar. Unable to help himself he 
remained quiet, listening to the King’s soft and caring voice. Whom was 
Thranduil talking to? 
 
 
“You could not cause –anyone- distress, Legolas, not even if you tried. 
You cannot help attracting people, Legolas. It is this light… and it shines 
from within you.”
 
That was Thranduil’s voice all right, soothing and calming. And 
apparently he was reassuring his son. A sudden, distressing thought 
entered his mind. Had Legolas realized how upset Elrohir was and now 
felt guilty? But no, he knew his brother better than that; Elrohir wouldn’t 
show his feelings that openly to Legolas.
 
Then Legolas’ voice could be heard, as light as butterfly dancing in the 
wind.  “But I am still alone.”
 
The blond’s tone made Elladan flinch. Alone? Why would Legolas be 
alone? He probably had a group of admirers at home, throwing themselves 
at his feet. Maybe some of them were more than admirers? Lovers even? 
But no, that didn’t make sense either, for then Legolas wouldn’t feel 
lonely. What a tangled web this was!
 
Feeling like the intruder he was, he backed away from the doorway and 
ventured outside in need of some fresh air. Bowing his head, he wondered 
when everything had become so complicated.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“Sit down,” said Elrond, gently guiding his youngest son to the chairs 
close to the fire that was sparkling in the fireplace. “And now tell me what 
is wrong.” Seating himself opposite Elrohir, he clasped his son’s hands 
tightly, letting the younger half-Elf know he would do whatever he could 
to relieve his pain.
 
Elrohir averted his eyes and wondered what to say. 
 
“You can tell me. You should know that.” Elrond now truly felt worried. 
Elrohir had never hesitated to trust in him. His heart faltered when a 
sudden thought startled him. “Is this about my relationship with 
Thranduil? Do you disapprove? Would you prefer…” He wasn’t sure if he 
could give up on his love for the golden-haired Elf, but it this love caused 
his youngest son to be in pain, he would have to sacrifice his personal 
happiness for the sake of his son. Elrohir was so very dear to him!
 
Elrohir’s eyes widened at hearing his father ramble uncontrollably and he 
quickly squeezed Elrond’s hands, cutting him short. “Nay, Ada, I am 
happy for you and Thranduil. I approve with my entire heart. Your love 
for him is… not the problem.” But his love for Thranduil’s son was.  “I 
cannot tell you,” he whispered, embarrassed.
 
By now Elrond was fairly sure this was about matters of the heart; a heart 
which Elrohir might have lost to someone...but who? Who could have 
conquered his son’s heart? Who had recently entered their lives and 
possessed the inner beauty to enrapture his son like this? 
 
“This is about Legolas,” said Elrond in a soft, understanding tone, having 
reached the only possible conclusion. Elrohir’s stricken expression 
confirmed his thoughts. “What did he do?”
 
“Nothing,” sighed Elrohir, distressed. “We spent the afternoon together 
and I… liked his company.” After drawing in a deep breath, he finally 
confided in his father. “I liked his company too much.”
 
“Too much?” Elrond studied his son from beneath an arched eyebrow.
 
Elrohir shifted on the chair. Did he really have to spell it out to his father? 
“I think I am in love with him,” he admitted in a tiny voice. His eyes 
downcast, he shivered, wondering what his father had to say about this. “I 
did not plan it. It just happened.”
 
Elrond continued to rub Elrohir’s hands, tightly cradled in his, and waited 
for his son to calm down. Once the shy, dark eyes met his, he said, 
“Legolas is very fair and younger than you are.” Thoughtfully, he studied 
his son. “Will you tell me how this started?”
 
“It happened when he arrived at the night of Eridhren’s last rites. 
Thranduil and you were about to retire and Elladan and I did not want to 
disturb you so we welcomed Legolas instead. That was when I felt it for 
the first time. It felt like liquid light traveling through my veins, warming 
my body from the inside out. And when he is near I feel lightheaded and 
warm. I cannot bear the thought of being away from him and even now, 
talking to you, an ache burns my heart.” Breathless after his long speech, 
he drew in a deep breath. “Ada, I do not want to feel this way. I know it is 
wrong.”
 
Elrond frowned, concerned. “Why do you think it is wrong to feel this 
way?” He slowly realized that Elrohir was truly troubled by his love for 
Legolas. The fact that he had mentioned an ache in his heart alerted 
Elrond, only too familiar with the concept of grief. He had seen his wife 
fade and he never wanted to see something that sad ever again. 
 
“Because…” Elrohir shrugged, growing timid. “Because of you and 
Thranduil. I should not love Legolas in that way. Now that Thranduil and 
you are lovers, I feel like I should love Legolas like a brother - but not in –
that- way. By Elbereth, did that make any sense?” Looking at his father, 
he found amusement in Elrond’s gaze. By the Grace of the Valar, how 
could his father find any of this amusing? He was in serious, emotional 
distress here!
 
Elrond allowed a small grin to break through. “Correct me if I am wrong, 
Elrohir, but are you tormenting yourself like this because I am in love with 
Legolas’ father?”
 
Elrohir nodded, curtly. “I cannot be attracted to him in that way, but my 
heart refuses to listen. Ada, tell me, what do I do? How can I stop these 
feelings, this desire to be near him?”
 
But Elrond didn’t answer just yet. First, he asked, “What does Elladan 
think of this attraction you developed for Legolas?”
 
Elrohir shrugged again, and leaned into the comfort of the chair, 
appreciating the fact that his father was still holding on, gently rubbing his 
knuckles. He had been worried about Elrond’s reaction when finding out 
about his crush. He wasn’t sure how he had expected his father to react, 
but he was glad Elrond was patient and understanding. “At first he said I 
should stop fighting these feelings and give in them. But now he realizes 
as well that I am losing control and he dragged me here to talk to you.”
 
“So Elladan approves of this attraction?” Elrohir’s eyes were weary when 
they met his, and Elrond realized he had to tread carefully.
 
“He does, but why I do not know.” Elrohir’s eyes were beginning to fill 
with tears. “Ada, tell me what to do, for my heart cannot take any more of 
this.”
 
Elrond nodded once. “What does your heart tell you?”
 
“My heart?” echoed Elrohir, “My heart tells me to conquer his and cherish 
him.”
 
“And your mind?”
 
“To stay away from him. To deny these feelings inside me. My heart and 
mind and are war with each other and I feel adrift on these emotions.” 
Suddenly Elrohir leaned in closer, pulling his father’s hands close to his 
heart. “Please send me away. Send me to ‘Lorien to visit my grand 
parents, send me anywhere, but please do not make me stay here.”
 
Elrond firmly shook his head. “I won’t do any of that, but I will ease your 
mind.” Elrond pushed his chair closer to his son’s and made sure he had 
Elrohir’s undivided attention. “First, I want you to know that your feelings 
for Legolas are normal. You are in love, Elrohir, and your body sings with 
love and affection for the subject of your desires. There is –nothing-, 
absolutely –nothing- wrong with feeling this way.”
 
“But he is Thranduil’s son!” Elrohir was close to bursting into tears.
 
Elrond smiled warmly. “Love comes in all forms, Elrohir. The fact that 
Thranduil and I are lovers does not mean you cannot pursue Legolas. If 
anything, I commend you on your choice. I do believe the young 
Princeling and you are well suited for each other. If it is reassurance you 
sought, know that you have it. If it was permission to pursue Legolas, you 
have that as well. But you do not have my permission to run away to 
‘Lorien and deny these feelings. Elladan is right, you know. You should 
rejoice at feeling this way.”
 
But Elrohir wasn’t convinced yet. “And what if he does not want me? 
What if he does not feel the same way about me?”
 
“This won’t be easy,” admitted Elrond. “I do not know Legolas’ feelings. 
Maybe you should try to befriend him first? Once he realizes what a kind 
and caring person you are, you might be able to take the next step. Do not 
rush this. Let friendship blossom between the two of you first, and should 
your feelings be mutual, then act on them.”
 
Elrohir was calming down, hearing his father’s reassuring words. “Then 
you do not think it is wrong for me to feel this way?”
 
“I don’t,” said Elrond, smiling dotingly at his son. “You reached your 
majority many decades ago. It is about time you fell in love and took a 
mate. But do not pressure Legolas. Let him come to you instead.” Elrond 
bit his bottom lip, uncertain if he should add the observation he had made 
earlier, but in the end he decided to tell Elrohir. “I watched Legolas and 
you earlier. When you were not looking, a very pained expression 
surfaced in his eyes. I might be wrong, but my instincts tell me he is very 
unhappy.”
 
“Unhappy? Why?” Elrohir straightened his shoulders at hearing this new 
information. 
 
“I do not know why, but he seems lonely to me.” Elrond frowned, 
wondering why someone as beautiful as Legolas would be burdened by 
loneliness, but that question led him to his answer. He had seen it many 
times before; Elflings who had grown to be exceedingly stunning had been 
lonely because hardly anyone dared to approach them, and the ones who 
did usually didn’t look further than the outward appearance. Maybe 
Legolas had experienced too many of those courtiers and had lost the hope 
that he would ever find that special one who would love him for who he 
was. “Give it time, Elrohir, and at your young age, you have plenty of 
that.”
 
Elrohir slowly wiped away his remaining tears. “I cannot believe you said 
that.”
 
“What did you expect me to say?”
 
“That I should stay strong and not pursue this.”
 
“You were wrong then,” said Elrond, teasingly. “Do you feel better now?”
 
“I do,” said Elrohir, smiling weakly. “I feel… relieved.”
 
“And tonight you will have the pleasure of joining Thranduil and I for 
dinner. And did I mention Legolas will be there as well?”  Elrond beamed 
at seeing the glow return to his son’s eyes. “Maybe you could take him for 
a walk in the gardens? And I will keep Elladan occupied. Do not worry 
about deserting him.”
 
“Thank you, Ada.” Leaning in closer, he freed his hands and folded his 
arms tightly around his father’s shoulders. “Thank you to talking to me.”
 
“You are always welcome, Elrohir. Always.” He hoped he had managed to 
soothe his son’s mind, and he might even talk to Thranduil about this 
development. He didn’t think anything wrong with trying to enlist his 
lover’s help.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks.


Part 24
 
 
Glorfindel couldn’t tear his eyes away from Erestor’s form. The raven-
haired Elf was sitting behind his desk, in a room adjoining Elrond’s study. 
The blond had nestled on the windowsill, trying hard to not disturb his 
lover as he was working his way through a pile of paperwork. Erestor had 
assured him it would be fine if he returned to his own chores, but he had 
refused, unable to part from the advisor. 
 
“You are still watching me,” whispered Erestor, trying hard to remain 
focused on the work at hand. 
 
“I cannot help it,” said Glorfindel cheerfully. “You are stunning.” He 
smiled, pleased at seeing a fierce blush spread all over his lover’s face. It 
was sad really, realizing that being complimented was something Erestor 
still had to get used to. “You really are, nîn amdir.”
 
Erestor sighed, giving up on finishing the report he was working on. 
Looking at his lover, he returned the warm smile, which he encountered 
on Glorfindel’s face. “I really do not deserve you.” Pushing back his chair, 
he got to his feet and walked over to the window.
 
Glorfindel lowered his feet onto the floor, opened his arms and wrapped 
them around Erestor’s frame. Resting his head against his lover’s 
shoulders, he sighed blissfully. “I am so happy that things have eventually 
calmed down. These have been some very troubling weeks.” Looking up 
at Erestor, his smile darkened. “Only a few weeks ago I barely managed to 
tolerate your presence and then… I often wonder if the Valar sent that 
storm, for it made me see beneath your mask, melamin.”
 
Erestor, whose heart missed a beat, wrapped Glorfindel in a tight embrace. 
“I have an admission to make…” His voice faded, as if uncertain if he 
should continue.
 
Glorfindel frowned. “What kind of admission? Nîn amdir, please do not 
tell me you are keeping more secrets.”
 
“Only one,” mumbled Erestor, burying his face against the silk of 
Glorfindel’s green tunic. He really didn’t want to make this admission, but 
felt his lover had a right to know. “Do you recall the day you arrived in 
Imladris?”
 
Still frowning, Glorfindel nodded once. “Aye, I remember. Elrond had an 
arm around Celebrian’s waist and she was cradling Arwen in her arm. 
Lindir was still here and Elladan was more than curious to meet me. But 
Elrohir reached for you, holding your hand tightly and I…” Glorfindel 
wavered, bit his bottom lip nervously, and then continued, “And I 
wondered why he liked you that much. You seemed so cold, so distant. 
Now I understand why you were hiding and how much you had perfected 
that mask, but back then you intrigued me.” Searching his memories, 
Glorfindel added, “I disliked you.” Giving Erestor an apologetic smile, he 
hoped his words wouldn’t cause his lover sorrow. “If only I had realized 
how much pain was hiding beneath that cool exterior.”
 
“I would not have let you see beneath it,” said Erestor thoughtfully. Still 
kneeling in front of his lover, he cradled Glorfindel’s hands against his 
chest. “But the dislike was not mutual.”
 
Glorfindel raised an eyebrow curiously. “Not mutual? I could have 
sworn…” His eyes grew big, finally fully realizing what Erestor was 
trying to tell him. “You liked me?”
 
Erestor cleared his throat and averted his eyes, unable to maintain eye 
contact with his lover. “I thought you were the most radiant being I had 
ever seen.”
 
Glorfindel unexpectedly laughed warmly. “And I was convinced you 
hated me.”
 
Erestor’s features contorted painfully. “That was what I wanted you to 
think.”
 
“Aiya, melamin, it saddens me to know that we could have been lovers 
much earlier.”
 
Erestor shook his head. “Nay, I would not have been ready to take that 
step back then. You would not have gotten through to me. I am surprised 
you did at all.” If he hadn’t been that seriously wounded they might never 
have realized their love. 
 
Glorfindel slowly rose from the windowsill, pulling Erestor to his feet 
with him. Smiling radiantly, he planted a passionate kiss on his lover’s 
lips, realizing just how fortunate he was to have gained the raven-haired 
Elf’s love. 
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond watched the interaction between Elrohir and Legolas and quickly 
realized that his son was perfectly hiding his attraction from the blond. No 
matter how badly Elrohir had panicked in his study earlier, not a trace of 
nervousness had been left on the younger half-Elf’s face. But he knew 
Elrohir well enough to know his youngest son was suffering in silence. 
 
Legolas seemed completely unaware of the situation. The blond was 
playing with the food on his plate, his appetite clearly gone. Elrond 
wondered why. 
 
His gaze shifted further to Thranduil and he noticed the worried look the 
blond shot Legolas. The expression in Thranduil’s eyes alerted him and he 
wondered why his lover felt this sad. Was something wrong with Legolas? 
He sighed softly, hoping no one had heard. Only hours ago he had relished 
the peace and quiet when his lover had taken charge of the situation, and 
now new problems had appeared. As usual, it was up to him to solve them. 
 
Thranduil had heard Elrond’s sigh and he searched his lover’s troubled 
eyes. It was most fortunate that the half-Elf was seated next to him, so it 
was easy to lean in and whisper into Elrond’s ear. “I do not like that look 
in your eyes. Should I sweep you off your feet and carry you to your 
rooms to make sure you stop brooding?”
 
Elrond actually grinned. “I would like that, but no, that is not necessary. 
You are right though. I am worried.”
 
“What about?” Thranduil, realizing Elrohir and Legolas were 
questioningly staring at him, straightened his shoulders. He still didn’t feel 
completely comfortable at expressing his feelings for Elrond, but he didn’t 
plan on hiding them either. 
 
“We will discuss this later… in private.” Elrond had intercepted Elrohir’s 
worried glance and graced his son with a warm, reassuring smile, telling 
him everything was all right.
 
But Elrohir realized something was wrong and probed his father’s gaze. 
/Do not tell Thranduil! What I told you was confidential! Please do not tell 
Thranduil!/ When he had confided in his father, he hadn’t been thinking 
straight, otherwise he might have remained quiet. His father and Thranduil 
were lovers. It was only logical they would discuss him and his feelings! 
 
Elrohir’s gaze darted nervously to Thranduil’s eyes, but the blond was 
now staring intently at Legolas. He was missing some pieces of this 
puzzle. His father was concerned about him and Thranduil about Legolas. 
The only one who was truly cheerful and unburdened was Elladan.
 
Elladan had watched the scene with slowly unfolding amazement and 
curiosity. It seemed like he was carrying out a conversation with himself 
as no one else was listening or reacting. He was beginning to feel sorry for 
his younger twin, although Elrohir did seem calmer than when he had 
delivered his brother to his father’s study. Talking to their father had 
helped, but had it soothed Elrohir’s troubled mind sufficiently?
 
Elrond leaned back in his chair, making his move. “Elrohir, why don’t you 
show Legolas your mother’s gardens? I am sure the cool, fresh air would 
revive your spirits, which seemed to be bored by Elladan’s chatter.” He 
ignored the fact that Elladan arched an eyebrow at his words and almost 
shooed them out of the room. “And take your time. There is no reason to 
hurry back!”
 
Elrohir, after rising from his chair, found himself unsteady on his feet, and 
reached for the wall, composing himself. Suddenly he grew aware of 
Legolas walking toward him. After drawing in a deep breath, he forced 
himself to smile warmly. “My father is right. I do think you will enjoy a 
walk in the gardens.”
 
Legolas nodded politely. He still wondered why Elrond was this 
determined to see them off to the gardens instead of spending the evening 
with them. But he quickly fell into step beside the half-Elf, and glanced at 
his companion. He just couldn’t determine if Elrohir was nervous or calm. 
Something just didn’t feel right. 
 
Elrohir guided Legolas into the gardens and he deeply inhaled the flowers’ 
sweet fragrances. They made him feel calm and he peeked at the blond, 
walking silently next to him. “The night is quiet and beautiful, don’t you 
think so?”
 
Legolas smiled weakly. “I like the night; its calm, the peace that settles 
over the land.” Returning Elrohir’s glance he asked, “Don’t you think your 
brother will feel left out? As twins you will be seldom parted.”
 
Elrohir laughed. “Oh, it is not like we are joined at the hip. We are 
perfectly capable of leading separate lives, although we greatly enjoy 
another’s company.” 
 
Legolas felt somewhat relieved. “I would have hated to be the reason for 
any separation, however brief, between the two of you.”
 
Elrohir rolled his eyes. “Believe me, there are times when I wished we did 
not share quarters. It is hard to get some privacy at times, but we have 
never considered asking father to assign us new rooms. They feel 
comfortable.” Elrohir scanned his surroundings and located a nice spot 
beneath an old oak tree. “We could sit down for a moment and enjoy the 
quiet.” He certainly hoped his nervousness didn’t show; he was doing his 
best to radiate calm. 
 
Legolas accepted Elrohir’s lead and seated himself next to the twin, when 
the half-Elf rested his back against the trunk. He tucked his legs beneath 
him, sitting cross-legged and enjoying Ithil’s silver beams. 
 
“Legolas?” Elrohir heard how much his voice trembled at speaking that 
name and wondered if he shouldn’t have remained quiet instead. But then 
those incredible azure eyes focused questioningly on him and he knew he 
had to continue. “What is life like in Mirkwood?”
 
Pleasantly surprised that Elrohir was inquiring about his home he gladly 
obliged the half-Elf. “We live high in the trees, in telain. I like it there. 
The caves, which you mentioned earlier, are guarded and hold most of 
father’s treasure. And not all of it is just jewelry. He also possesses a large 
of collection of ancient scrolls and books. When I was an Elfling I 
sometimes liked to dwell there. And yes,” he added, just knowing what 
Elrohir was about to say, “At times father also uses those caves as a 
prison, but it has not been used in that capacity for decades.” 
 
Elrohir briefly closed his eyes and let himself drift on the pleasant tone of 
Legolas’ voice. “And your older brother?”
 
“Valthoron?” Legolas studied Elrohir, who seemed utterly relaxed. “He is 
centuries older than I am and always thinks he has to keep an eye on me. I 
love him, but he is overprotective. When my mother sailed for the 
Undying Lands he tried to take her place. He tried so hard… too hard. I 
slowly felt suffocated and asked father permission to leave Mirkwood and 
explore the rest of Arda.”
 
Elrohir’s eyes opened and he blinked at finding Legolas staring at him. “I 
have patrolled the borders and I have visited Lothlorien, but I have never 
been into the lands of Man and Dwarves. Did you meet any?”
 
Legolas nodded. “They stared at me in disbelief and I quickly learned to 
hide my features. They are not used to Elves walking in their cities, and at 
first they followed me around, thinking I was one of their deities.”
 
Elrohir could actually picture Legolas running through the streets, being 
chased by a crowd of admirers. The thought made him grin giddily and he 
slapped his knees. 
 
“What is so funny?” Legolas frowned; this was one reaction he wasn’t 
used to. 
 
“I can just see you trying to hide from a mad crowd, which thinks that you 
are one of their gods incarnated.”
 
“And that is funny? Why?”
 
“I have no idea,” admitted Elrohir, slowly sobering. “I apologize for my 
outburst.” But he continued to grin, shaking his head to dispel the amusing 
mental image. “It is late. I am probably just tired.” Looking at Legolas, he 
caught the blond shooting him a most confused glance. 
 
Legolas felt thoroughly confused. Most Elves didn’t dare burst out 
laughing in his presence, but Elrohir was apparently different, which was 
utterly refreshing. “We should return to our rooms shortly.”
 
“The night is still young,” said Elrohir slowly. Ithil’s silver beams seemed 
to caress Legolas’ silk hair and alabaster skin. Elrohir quickly composed 
himself, keeping a sigh of admiration from fleeing his lips. He hoped 
Legolas felt comfortable being around him and he didn’t want to ruin the 
hopeful beginnings of their friendship by staring at him with a maddening, 
lusty gaze, which would only drive the blond away from him. 
 
Recalling his father’s observation, Elrohir carefully probed. “But you must 
have felt lonely, roaming Arda alone. Did your heart not call you back to 
Mirkwood?” Legolas tensed noticeably and Elrohir wished he hadn’t 
asked that particular question, but it did mean that his father’s observation 
was correct. Why else would Legolas become as tense as a bowstring and 
stare at him with such a lost expression in his eyes? 
 
Legolas felt cornered. How was it possible that the half-Elf had seen his 
loneliness, which he managed to hide most of the time? He decided to 
skillfully maneuver around answering the question. “Mirkwood is my 
home and will always call my name.”
 
Elrohir inclined his head, realizing Legolas had dodged answering his 
question. He would try again later, maybe once the blond felt more at 
home in Imladris. “Do you already have plans for tomorrow?” He felt 
bold, asking such a question! He barely refrained from lowering his eyes 
when Legolas looked quizzically at him. /Please do not let him see the 
love in my eyes./ Instead, he returned the inquiring gaze, trying to appear 
calm and controlled.
 
Legolas shook his head. “Why ask?”
 
Elrohir shrugged his shoulders, feigning only marginal interest in his 
companion. “Father thought you might enjoy a visit to the Bruinen and 
maybe we could test some of our fighting skills? An archery contest, 
perhaps?” The sudden glow that appeared in Legolas’ eyes took him 
aback. He had obviously said something that had pleased the blond. 
 
“Archery?” Legolas grinned. “Prepare to be defeated then. I have never 
been bested and I cannot imagine it happening now.”
 
Legolas’ smile was infectious and Elrohir grinned madly as well. “There is 
a first time for everything.” Looking at the golden-haired Elf, he felt 
pleased at the relaxed setting their conversation was taking place in. They 
both seemed comfortable and maybe they would become friends. /But I 
want it to be so much more./ Everything he had heard had made him fall 
more in love with the blond. /He loves his family and is loyal to them, but 
he is also adventurous./ Legolas’ appearance, which had attracted him at 
first, was becoming less important, now that he was learning what a kind 
and caring person the youngest son of Thranduil was. 
 
It also made him more determined to pursue Legolas. He would take his 
father’s advice and take things slowly and not pressure the blond. He 
wanted Legolas to come to him, because for some reason his companion 
seemed shy and insecure. /I am patient. I can wait./
 
“We should return to our rooms now,” said Elrohir, regretting the magical 
night had come to an end. “But I will meet you here again tomorrow?” He 
secretly thanked his father for suggesting visiting the Bruinen. Maybe they 
could go for a swim and… Oh, swooning, he quickly reached for the trunk 
of the tree to steady him; he might get to see Legolas naked then. But that 
lovely thought also presented him with a problem; what if he became 
aroused in the presence of the blond?  But then again, maybe Legolas 
would have the same problem? Smiling fondly, he fell into step beside 
Legolas, as they returned to the Last Homely House.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Thranduil had waited until they had reached Elrond’s rooms before 
addressing his lover. “I know I missed something at dinner tonight; tell me 
what it is. I caught you staring repeatedly at both Elrohir and Legolas.”
 
Elrond carelessly dropped his outer robes onto the floor and removed his 
leggings. Clad in only a white linen shirt, he headed for the bed, his 
shoulders tiredly slumping forward. Why couldn’t he shake what was 
quickly becoming perpetual fatigue that tormented him in body and mind? 
Sitting down on the bed, he rested his back against the headboard and 
stared at the flaxen-haired Elf standing in front of his bed. “Would you 
hold me?” Voicing his need wasn’t as hard as he had feared. 
 
Thranduil was beside him on the bed within a heartbeat and the obvious 
concern in the feline eyes made him smile weakly. Strong, soothing arms 
settled around him, pulling him close to a powerful chest and finally he 
began to unwind. “Can we discuss this later?” He was afraid Thranduil 
wouldn’t take the news that Elrohir was attracted to Legolas well. 
 
“You are troubled,” said Thranduil, stating the obvious. “I thought you 
trusted me. Why then do you feel you cannot confide in me now?”
 
“I am afraid this will cause a rift between us.” He wasn’t sure how 
Thranduil would react. “One more moment then? I feel so tired and resting 
in your arms feels so good.”
 
Thranduil frowned, wondering how tired Elrond really felt. “I will hold 
you as long as you want,” he vowed, hoping to get through to Elrond. He 
rested his chin on the silky, raven hair and soothingly rubbed his lover’s 
arms. “Do you really think I will let you get away after finally catching 
you after all these centuries?”
 
Thranduil’s words slightly reassured Elrond, who now regretfully pulled 
away from the blond. 
 
Thranduil reluctantly allowed it, but the distance that had now come 
between them felt uncomfortable. Acting instinctively, he covered that gap 
between them by stretching on the bed and resting his head in Elrond’s 
lap. 
 
Surprised at Thranduil’s move, Elrond began to stroke the long, golden 
mane. Staring trustingly into the emerald eyes, he drew in a deep breath. 
“This afternoon Elrohir sought me out.”
 
Thranduil nodded, relishing the feel of his lover’s fingers moving through 
his hair. So this was about Elrond’s youngest son then? He decided to hold 
back any questions he might have and let Elrond tell his tale in his own 
pace.
 
“He was quite upset - in tears actually.” Elrond lovingly stared into his 
lover’s cat-like eyes. “He is a very sensitive youth, unlike his brother.”
 
Thranduil nodded and by doing so, moved the golden mass of hair over 
Elrond’s hands in a hidden caress. His lover smiled at the gesture. 
“Something has upset him then?” He had learned during these last few 
weeks that Elrond was just as close to his sons as he was to Legolas. And 
when Elrohir was upset, he reckoned Elrond was as well. Reaching up 
with his left hand, he reassuringly caressed his lover’s face. “What was he 
upset about?”
 
Elrond was incredibly thankful that Thranduil was giving him the time to 
explain properly this. “He is in love.”
 
Thranduil smiled, warmly. “In love?” He had never seen that one coming. 
So what was the problem? The twin had long reached his majority and 
was free to bind himself to the Elf of his choice. 
 
Elrond moistened his lips, realizing he couldn’t continue to postpone this. 
“He was desperately trying to fight these feelings.”
 
“Why?” Thranduil frowned, realizing there was more to this than he had 
thought. “Why fight it?”
 
“Because he thought I would disapprove of his choice.”
 
“And did you?” Thranduil pushed himself into an upright position and sat 
cross-legged opposite his lover, looking deeply into stormy blue eyes. 
 
“I did not disapprove, and told him so.”
 
Thranduil’s frown remained. “Then when do I feel like something is still 
wrong?”
 
“Because he - and I must admit, myself as well - fears your reaction. Your 
disapproval.”
 
Deep lines appeared, etched onto his brow, as Thranduil tried to put all 
pieces of the puzzle together… and failed. “Elrond, tell me what this is 
about. I grow tired of trying to solve your riddles.” 
 
Elrond swallowed hard, mentally preparing himself for whatever reaction 
Thranduil might display. “Elrohir is in love with Legolas.” Holding his 
breath, he watched his lover closely. Thranduil’s lips parted, releasing an 
‘oh’, and then the blond seemed to focus inward as debating the matter 
privately. Nervous, Elrond waited, hoping Thranduil would give this 
young love a chance.
 
Thranduil needed a moment to digest the unexpected news. Elrond’s 
youngest son was in love with Legolas? During the time he had now spent 
at Elrond’s side he had come to know the twins somewhat and he had to 
confess he liked Elrohir. The young half-Elf would make a good mate for 
his son. 
 
“Nîn glaur?” Elrond grew worried now that the blond wasn’t responding. 
He would have preferred it if Thranduil had raged, anything except this 
deadly silence. “Thranduil?”
 
Thranduil shook himself from his musings. “And Elrohir is sincere about 
my son?”
 
Elrond’s eyes widened slightly. “Aye, I think he is. He has never come to 
me in tears over an Elf before. I am not sure, but I feel fairly certain 
Legolas is his first love.” Elrond tentatively gathered his lover’s hands in 
his, needing the contact. “I told him to follow his heart and to befriend 
Legolas.”
 
Absentmindedly, Thranduil nodded. “Do you think Elrohir would be a 
good match for Legolas?”
 
“I do not know Legolas very well,” said Elrond tentatively, “but I do know 
Elrohir. He is intelligent, cunning, tender and caring. He is fiercely loyal 
and would never do anything to bring Legolas or you dishonor or grief.”
 
Thranduil finally met his lover’s eyes and saw the apprehension in them. 
Elrond was afraid he would disapprove and break Elrohir’s heart. “Maybe 
I should welcome your son’s interest in Legolas,” he said at long last. 
 
Elrond was glad he was sitting down, for Thranduil’s mellow reaction 
even took him aback. “You welcome it?”
 
Now it was Thranduil’s turn to sigh, distressed. “Legolas has been 
suffering from loneliness for the last few decades.”
 
“Loneliness?” So he had been right after all! Elrond shook his head. “But I 
do not understand. He is fair, caring and a great catch.”
 
“And therein lies the problem,” sighed Thranduil, smiling sadly at his 
lover. “No one ever falls in love with –him-. They fall in love with his 
eyes, his hair, his body, and that saddens Legolas. He does not want to 
settle down in a marriage that is mostly based on his appearance. He wants 
someone at his side who loves him for who he is.”
 
Elrond nodded in understanding. “But Elrohir is not that shallow.”
 
“I hope not,” said Thranduil, suddenly feeling tired as well. “What do you 
suggest we do?”
 
“Let them find their way. If this love was meant to be they will find 
passion in another’s arms and if not… We will be there to pick up the 
pieces.”
 
“I will make sure it won’t get that far,” stated Thranduil determinedly. 
“Elrohir had better not break my son’s heart.”
 
“Nîn glaur, there is little we can do except to encourage their friendship.” 
He refused to play match maker.
 
“And what about Elladan?” Thranduil had seen how close the twins were.
 
“We could pay more attention to him, but in the end he must find his way 
as well. They are twins, yes, but that should not stop them from leading 
their own lives.”
 
“We should keep an eye on all three of them,” decided Thranduil. 
“Elrond?” He raised one of the half-Elf’s hands to his lips and kissed the 
palm. 
 
“Aye, melamin?” Elrond was relieved they had mastered this challenge. 
He could have easily lost his lover, had Thranduil not been this accepting.
 
“I feel tired as well.” Thranduil folded an arm around his raven-haired 
lover and pulled him down with him until they had attained a comfortable 
sleeping position. “Let me make love to you in the morning and sleep 
now?”
 
Elrond smiled when Thranduil spooned behind him. “I love you for 
accepting this.”
 
“Let us hope Elrohir and Legolas will later thank us for giving them our 
blessing. If not… I do not dare to think of the heartache that might 
follow.” He buried his face in his lover’s dark hair and managed to kiss 
the nape of Elrond’s neck, before settling in for the night. 
 
Elrond decided to let go of his worries as Thranduil curled around him. No 
one knew what the future might bring, but for the moment he was content 
to rest in his lover’s arms.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 25
 
 
Warning --although I do not think it is necessary!-- A bit of voyeurism and 
Erestor's first lesson in sex education. LOL! 
 
 
The next morning, after spending another blissful night in Glorfindel’s 
arms, Erestor shyly knocked on the door to Elrond’s quarters. He had 
hoped to find the half-Elf in his study, but apparently Elrond had decided 
to sleep in, which was rather unusual for the Lord of Imladris.
 
Knocking softly, he sincerely hoped he wasn’t disturbing any intimacy 
that was taken place inside the room. The last thing he wanted was to 
interrupt Elrond and Thranduil when making love. Suddenly his hand 
dropped; wasn’t he making a big mistake in coming here? Aye, he should 
reconsider and leave. He couldn’t possibly ask the Elf-Lords these kinds 
of questions! 
 
But Elrond’s voice already echoed through the room. “Enter.”
 
After drawing in a deep breath, Erestor pushed down the handle and 
opened the door. He quickly stepped into the room and immediately 
closed the door behind him, not wanting anyone to accidentally glance 
inside the room. Keeping his eyes lowered, he waited for Elrond to 
address him. 
 
Elrond, sitting up against the headboard, looked up from braiding his 
lover’s hair and was delighted to see Erestor. “Mellon-nîn, you look better 
every time I see you… And is that a blush on your face?”
 
Thranduil now fastened his gaze on Erestor’s as well, recognizing their 
friend’s unease when Erestor shuffled his feet. 
 
“I can leave if you want me to,” offered Erestor, carefully glancing at 
them and then lowering his eyes again. “I do not want interrupt…” His 
voice faded, leaving a nervous tremor in the air. 
 
Elrond continued to smile at the younger Elf. He finished one braid and 
then began another with his lover seated between his legs. It was a good 
thing they had covered themselves up with sheets at the sound of that 
knock. Erestor looked like he was ready to bolt and the younger Elf 
certainly would have done just that, had he found them naked. 
 
“Pull up a chair and sit down,” said Thranduil, wondering what had 
brought Erestor here. The younger Elf’s movements were slow and 
hesitant, but Thranduil’s warm smile seemed to encourage Erestor to take 
a seat. “How can we help?” Having known Erestor as an Elfling, he easily 
identified the pleading expression in the dark eyes.
 
Erestor nervously moistened his lips and still felt unable to look at the two 
Elves, who so easily displayed their love and affection to one another. “I 
have made a mistake in coming here…” he offered eventually in a shy 
tone. “I should have known better. I will leave now.” But contrary to his 
words, he didn’t move.
 
Thranduil looked over his shoulder at Elrond and signaled for his lover to 
stop braiding his hair, which the half-Elf did. Moving away from his lover, 
he shifted closer toward Erestor and slowly gathered one of the younger 
Elf’s hands in his. “Now tell me what is wrong. When you were younger I 
told you that you could always come to me. That offer still stands.”
 
Elrond smiled warmly at hearing his lover’s tone and was content to watch 
the scene unfold. Thranduil was at an advantage here, sharing a lot of 
history with Erestor. Hopefully Thranduil would manage to make Erestor 
open up about whatever troubled him.
 
Erestor swallowed hard, trying to rid himself of the growing lump in his 
throat. All kinds of emotions made it hard for him to meet Thranduil’s 
eyes, but when he did, he only encountered concern and genuine interest 
in the deep green orbs. For some reason he felt like the Elfling that had put 
the little trust he had in Thranduil and his wife. Maybe he could confide in 
the golden-haired Elf again. 
 
“I…I…” Erestor stuttered and suddenly became aware of Thranduil 
soothingly rubbing the back of his hand. “I need your advice.”
 
Elrond moved closer, resting his chest against his lover’s back, listening 
intently. Maybe he could help as well?
 
“You know you can have it,” said Thranduil reassuringly. “Would you 
look at me?” It unnerved him that even after all these centuries Erestor 
was still hesitant to meet his gaze. When the younger Elf looked at him, he 
gently squeezed Erestor’s hand. “Tell me what troubles you.”
 
Erestor couldn’t believe he was actually going to tell Thranduil, but 
suddenly the words tumbled from his lips. 
 
“IloveGlorfindelandIwanttomakelovetohimitisnotfairthatwecannotmakelo
vebutIdonotknowhowtomakelovetohimandIdonotwanttodisappointhimand
—“
 
Thranduil shushed him, hearing him ramble. “Calm down, Erestor, and try 
again.”
 
Elrond’s heart grew heavy, seeing the self-doubt in Erestor’s swimming 
eyes. By the Grace of the Valar, coming here to ask for their advice was 
hard on their friend. Still, he remained quiet, listening closely instead.
 
“I do not know what to do,” said Erestor eventually, doing his best to 
maintain eye contract with his former protector. 
 
Thranduil nodded in understanding. “You have never had a lover before,” 
he said, sighing. “I should have known.”
 
Elrond now felt even guiltier for never having pressed Erestor to tell him 
the truth about his past. Maybe then the younger Elf’s life wouldn’t have 
been so incredibly lonely. His heart twitched in his chest when Erestor 
finally found the courage to include him in his glance as well. The 
pleading expression in those dark eyes was so obvious that Elrond reached 
out and placed his hand on top of Thranduil’s, cradling both. 
 
Erestor smiled, weakly. “I do not know what to do. I want to please him 
and I am afraid to disappoint him. What do I do?” Now that he had asked 
his questions he felt slightly calmer. “Can you give me some advice?”
 
“Advice...” Thranduil grinned encouragingly at his former charge. “What 
would you prefer? Us telling you what to expect or ask us questions 
instead?”
 
Erestor quickly averted his eyes. “I had hoped to catch Elrond alone. I 
never really counted on you being here as well.” 
 
But Thranduil merely continued his grin. “There is a third option. We 
could –show- you.” However ridiculous it sounded, it did make sense. 
Seeing Elrond and him make love might take away Erestor’s fears. He still 
wondered how badly Eridhren had damaged Erestor. Was the younger Elf 
afraid to be intimate with Glorfindel, or was it just nervousness?
 
“-Show- him?” Elrond didn’t know if he should be amused or shocked. 
During these last few days his lover had undergone quite a transformation. 
Gone was the angry, insecure and doubt-driven Elf from his past, and 
instead a confident, playful mate had emerged 
 
Erestor, who looked stricken, was lost for words. He must have misheard!
 
“Aye, show him. Elrond, it makes sense if you think about it.” Thranduil’s 
gaze shifted from Erestor to the half-Elf. In a barely audible tone he 
added, “Who knows how scared Erestor is after what his father did to him. 
In case you have forgotten, he was submitted to sexual abuse. It would be 
good for him to realize that sex is also caring and beautiful. He has only 
known pain and fear. Do you understand?”
 
In a weird way, Elrond did. He understood the point Thranduil was 
making. Nodding his head, he agreed to the proposal. Once they were 
focused on each other, they would quickly forget Erestor’s presence. 
 
Thranduil placed a kiss on his lover’s brow and then looked at Erestor, 
whose big eyes told him how stunned the younger Elf was. “What do you 
say, mellon-nîn? Are you willing to learn by watching us? I will explain 
my actions as our lovemaking progresses and I promise you that you will 
learn how to please Glorfindel.”
 
Erestor couldn’t believe he was actually considering the King’s proposal. 
“But… but what about… This is personal, private. I cannot watch you… 
make love… I cannot.” He seriously doubted this was okay with Elrond. 
The half-Elf was probably only going along because Thranduil had asked 
him. 
 
Elrond sensed some of Erestor’s worries and decided to ease them. “We 
are serious, Erestor. We would not mind if you watched us this one time.”
 
Erestor’s eyes darted wildly from Elrond to Thranduil. “I cannot do that.”
 
Thranduil decided to take charge. “Move your chair back toward the 
wall.” Erestor wouldn’t be comfortable being this close, but maybe if there 
was some distance between them, things might be easier for the younger 
Elf. 
 
Erestor wavered, uncertain what to do. Two different needs were dueling 
inside him. He didn’t want to invade their privacy, but how else would he 
ever learn how to please his lover and keep his insecurities at bay? He was 
desperate not to disappoint Glorfindel. That last feeling won in the end, 
and he slowly did as Thranduil had said, pushing back his chair until there 
were several feet between him and the bed. 
 
Thranduil, realizing he had to make slow, passionate and maddening love 
to Elrond, already looked forward to the challenge. Turning around, he 
shifted Elrond on the bed until Erestor had a good view of both of them. 
The half-Elf’s eyes had already darkened with expectation and he smiled 
lazily. “Always take your time to explore your lover’s body. Tease him 
with soft caresses, let your tongue taste his skin, and find all those places 
that make him scream.”
 
Just hearing those words had caused Elrond to grow painfully erect. 
Moaning, he allowed Thranduil to lay him down on the bed, and when the 
blond moved between his legs, he eagerly parted them. 
 
Kneeling between his lover’s long legs, Thranduil bent forward, set on 
utterly possessing the half-Elf during their love making. 
 
Erestor stared in disbelief at Thranduil, who was now kissing Elrond 
slowly, and had lured the half-Elf into parting his teeth. Then Thranduil 
enthusiastically dipped his tongue inside the warm, welcoming mouth. 
 
Glorfindel and he had kissed before as well, but there had never been this 
intensity between them. His fears and self-doubt always kept him back. 
But looking at Thranduil now, he saw the passion and eagerness with 
which the golden-haired Elf devoured his lover’s mouth. 
 
“Pay particular attention to his throat, neck, ears and eyes.” Lovingly, 
Thranduil placed tiny kisses on Elrond’s closed eyelids and then moved on 
to subtly suckle the flushed skin beneath his lover’s collarbone. Moving 
up, he nipped at an earlobe and ran his tongue along a pointed ear, causing 
the half-Elf to buck hard in need.
 
Erestor couldn’t help being fascinated by the sensual, wanton display. The 
certainty with which Thranduil explored Elrond’s body was something he 
had never witnessed before. It almost seemed like the elder Elf wasn’t 
worried in the least. 
 
At first he had felt uncomfortable watching them, but now he saw the 
beauty in their movement, the kisses and caresses. Love radiated from 
their forms and all he could do was watch silently and listen to every word 
Thranduil panted between the caresses he now bestowed on his partner.
 
“Nipples are a delight to toy with,” continued Thranduil, moving lower. 
“You can do all kinds of delicious things to them.” Briefly he looked at 
Elrond, making sure his lover was enjoying himself during the lecture. 
 
Elrond’s stormy eyes were dark with passion and he wished Thranduil 
would hurry and take him, but for Erestor’s sake he knew the blond would 
draw this out and only take him after a long preparation. This was going to 
be torment!
 
Erestor gasped softly, seeing Thranduil’s tongue swirl around an erect 
nipple, drawing delirious groans from Elrond’s lips. 
 
“Treat them gently at first,” said Thranduil, truly enjoying himself whilst 
giving Erestor these pointers. One nipple twitched against his lips when he 
sucked gently and the other hardened even further, rolling the nub between 
his fingertips. “You might want to ask Glorfindel just how sensitive his 
nipples are.” Grinning at Elrond, he added, “Concentrating on them like 
this can make your lover come if you are not careful.”
 
Elrond trembled with need, and buried his fingers in the sheets, clawing at 
the material. Thranduil was driving him insane with lust!
 
“Once you have satisfied your curiosity, explore other areas as well.” 
Thranduil licked his lips, leaving a wet trail down Elrond’s abdomen. “But 
ignore his arousal for now.”
 
“Ai!” Elrond bucked, frustrated, when Thranduil licked the inside of his 
thighs, but blatantly ignored his throbbing erection. Closing his eyes, he 
resigned himself to this sweet and slow torment, realizing it would be 
some time before he found release. 
 
Erestor vaguely wondered if Thranduil expected him to take notes, and 
smiled warmly for the first time since entering these rooms. A faint twinge 
of arousal warmed his veins as well, and although he appreciated their 
beauty, his passion was kept at bay by the realization that he only wanted 
to be with Glorfindel.
 
“Sometimes licking skin can really spark the fire,” whispered Thranduil, 
wickedly, licking the back of Elrond’s knees and then lowering himself to 
massage the half-Elf’s feet. “Touch your lover in whatever way you 
desire. As long as love accompanies your touch it will be eagerly 
accepted, even craved.” Teasingly, he let go of Elrond’s foot and sat back, 
watching his lover squirm and groan softly. “At this point he should be 
purring.”
 
Erestor smiled privately, hearing Elrond’s distressed whimpers and 
groans. Looking at them, he wondered which role Glorfindel would want 
him to adopt. The passive or the active one? Clearing his throat, he 
hesitantly formulated his question. “How do I know… if… my lover 
wants to do these things to me? Or if he wants me to do them to him?”
 
Thranduil nodded thoughtfully. At seeing Elrond’s distress, he resumed 
stroking those long legs. “When you are not very sure of his preference, 
simply ask. Glorfindel will answer you truthfully. Communication does 
make things easier.”
 
Elrond, getting fed up by being Thranduil’s test subject, sat up slightly and 
reached for his lover. “Aiya, do not leave me like this…”
 
Thranduil smiled reassuringly. “Erestor? Always carefully prepare your 
lover, and should you find yourself in Elrond’s position insist Glorfindel 
does the same thing for you. During your first time there might be some 
discomfort.”
 
Erestor mentally made a note and then watched, open-mouthed, as 
Thranduil reached for a small vial of oil. The golden-haired Elf coated a 
finger in the scented oil and then circled his lover’s entrance.
 
“First of all, be gentle.” Thranduil, still kneeling between the half-Elf’s 
legs, tenderly massaged the guardian ring, relaxing Elrond even further. 
“Don’t push inside… Slide inside…” 
 
Elrond bit his bottom lip, feeling his lover’s probing finger easily slide 
inside. Now the torment had started to become agony. “Please touch 
me…”
 
“Always listen to your lover,” continued Thranduil, curling his fingers 
around the half-Elf’s erection and stroking the hard flesh slowly. 
 
Erestor was now growing hot and wondered if this was the moment when 
he should discretely disappear, but he found he was fascinated, watching 
the two Elves. 
 
“Make sure your lover does not climax yet. He will want you to be inside 
of him when he does…” Thranduil smiled at Elrond, who now pushed 
back onto his finger. “Don’t you, melamin?”
 
“Aye… You inside of me… Now…” Elrond continued to push down, but 
one finger was barely enough stimulation for him to find release. 
 
“Crook your finger,” said Thranduil, “and explore. A gland is hidden 
inside his passage and when you find it…” He paused wickedly and 
brushed his lover’s sweet spot. “You will know.” Elrond yelped pitifully 
and wriggled on the bed. 
 
Erestor now grinned, crooking his finger as well, realizing how much 
pleasure he could give Glorfindel by locating the gland Thranduil had 
mentioned. 
 
“Now…now…now…” raved Elrond, far beyond thinking. His entire body 
hummed with need. 
 
“Soon, nîn ind, soon.” Thranduil removed his finger and added more oil. 
Although Elrond was more than ready to be taken, he was going to do this 
by the book. “Add more oil and then return with two fingers.”
 
Elrond raised his hips in want, easily allowing his lover entry to his body. 
“Take me… Make me yours!”
 
Thranduil laughed warmly. “I am sorry, melamin. I know you are ready, 
but Erestor needs to learn how to do this without hurting Glorfindel or 
being hurt himself.”
 
Erestor blushed at hearing Thranduil’s words, and was once more 
reminded they were doing this for him. He should probably apologize to 
Elrond later, for making him suffer in this way. 
 
“Move them inside the tight passage. You do not want to hurt him later.” 
Scissoring his fingers inside his lover’s heat, Thranduil stretched and 
prepared the half-Elf. He had stopped stroking his lover’s erection and 
watched Elrond arch his back and thrust in return. “So eager, nîn ind?” 
 
“Aiya…” Elrond was panting hard. “Now… Now…”
 
“Not yet,” teased Thranduil. “Erestor? Add more oil and then slide three 
fingers inside.” Which he did. “If your lover can take those, he is ready.”
 
Elrond raised his hips, welcoming the solid pressure when three fingers 
slid inside his body. “Now? Nîn glaur, I am about come…”
 
“Ah, that presents us with two options.” Thranduil cast a quick look over 
his shoulder, watching Erestor briefly. The expression in the younger Elf’s 
eyes was admiring, even affectionate. The fact that they were willing to 
demonstrate this act must mean a lot to Erestor. After smiling 
reassuringly, he focused on his squirming lover once more. 
 
“What…two… options?” Big-eyed, Elrond stared at his lover. For some 
reason those words worried him. What was the blond up to? 
 
Thranduil lazily stroked his lover’s skin, letting his fingertips bestow 
feather light touches to Elrond’s abdomen. “You could let him come right 
now… That way he will be utterly relaxed when you take him, but… there 
is much pleasure in feeling him come when you are buried inside him. So, 
the question is; do we let him come now and then wait for him to grow 
hard so he can come again… or not?”
 
Elrond nearly cursed his lover. “Take me now! We are –not- waiting for 
me to grow hard again!” He wouldn’t endure more of this torment, not 
even for the sake of Erestor’s ‘education’. 
 
“Always listen to your lover,” whispered Erestor, wondering when he had 
become this involved in their lovemaking. 
 
Elrond sighed thankfully. “Erestor is right. That is what you said!”
 
Sighing dramatically, Thranduil’s green eyes twinkled with mischief, but 
in the end his own arousal made him humor his lover. Taking hold of the 
oil again, he applied a generous amount to his hard flesh. “You would be 
better to use too much than too little.”
 
Elrond grabbed some strands of Thranduil’s hair, forcing the blond to 
speed up. “Take me… now!” Thranduil’s blazing emerald eyes made him 
twitch in anticipation. 
 
“Your lover should be relaxed by now,” resumed Thranduil, as he curled 
his fingers around his hard flesh. “But continue slowly.” Positioning 
himself at his lover’s entrance, he antagonizing slowly slid inside. 
 
Elrond threw back his head, arched his back and relished the feel of 
Thranduil burying himself to the hilt effortlessly. Using his hold on the 
blond’s hair, he pulled Thranduil closer. 
 
Thranduil was finding it increasingly difficult to teach Erestor the finesse 
of lovemaking. His tone was raw when he whispered, ”Always look into 
his eyes, Erestor, for they are the mirror of your lover’s soul.” Setting a 
slow and lazy rhythm, he supported his lover’s legs, whilst making 
passionate love to Elrond. For a few moments he lost himself in the 
thrusts, and all he knew was this incredibly slick heat engulfing him. “I 
love you, nîn ind,” he declared, kissing Elrond breathless. 
 
Once more, Erestor wondered if he was supposed to leave now, but he 
couldn’t take his eyes of the two radiant being making such sweet and 
tender love. Instinctively, he knew that this was what making love should 
be like. 
 
Elrond, unable to keep back any longer, came hard, spilling warm cream 
between their joined bodies.
 
Thranduil stopped thrusting, craving the sensations clenching his hot flesh. 
The spasms, caused by Elrond’s inner muscle, led him to his orgasm. 
Belatedly, he realized he should tell Erestor what this felt like, but he 
couldn’t be bothered, riding out tidal waves of passion instead. 
 
Exhausted, Thranduil collapsed on top of his trembling lover. Hearing 
sounds behind him, he forced himself to say, “Stay, Erestor. We are not 
done yet.”
 
Erestor obediently settled down in his chair again. What else was there for 
him to learn?
 
Thranduil showered Elrond’s face with tender kisses and locked eyes with 
the half-Elf, smiling brightly. “I love you,” he repeated and devoured his 
lover’s words, when Elrond declared his love as well. 
 
Pushing himself away from the half-Elf, he flexed his muscles and slowly 
pulled out of his lover’s body. “Be careful when you pull out, Erestor. You 
can actually hurt your lover when you act too rashly.” After easing out, he 
kissed Elrond again and rolled the half-Elf onto his side, away from 
Erestor. Spooning up behind Elrond, he said, “There might not be any 
need to talk, but I am sure your lover will eagerly listen to any 
compliments you wish to bestow on him. Hold him close; tell him how 
much you love him.”
 
Erestor nodded. After clearing his throat, he whispered in a shaky tone, 
“Thank you for sharing this with me. I never knew how wonderful and 
tender this act could be. I do not feel afraid any more.” 
 
“Good,” Thranduil chuckled. “And that concludes your lesson. You 
should now practice on your own lover, Erestor.” 
 
“I will,” said Erestor, feeling incredibly lightheaded and warm. After 
closing the door behind him, he leaned against the wall for support. His 
heart was racing with passion for Glorfindel, and if it were up to him, he 
would seduce the Elda right now. But Thranduil had taught him way more 
than just the actual act. The golden-haired Elf had taught him to always 
put his lover first. If he really wanted to follow through and seduce his 
lover tonight he needed to make preparations. 
 
Hurrying down the corridor, he nearly broke out in song, for his heart was 
filled with more love than he had ever thought possible.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond laughed softly, feeling Thranduil’s lips pressed against the nape of 
his neck. “You enjoyed that.”
 
“Aye, I did,” admitted Thranduil, amused. “But I should apologize for 
drawing it out this much. I just wanted to make sure Erestor knew what to 
do.”
 
“Glorfindel will be a very happy Elf once Erestor finds enough courage to 
make love to him,” said Elrond, giddily. 
 
“Uhm…” mused Thranduil, “You think Glorfindel will be on the 
receiving end?” Had he inspired Erestor to be the dominant one? 
 
“I think so,” sighed Elrond, pleasantly tired. “Erestor now realizes just 
how much pleasure he can give Glorfindel and he will want to do just 
that.” 
 
“Well, you did squirm nicely beneath my touch.” Thranduil gently suckled 
his lover’s skin, and then moved to nip at his slightly pointed ear. 
 
“Aye, you made me squirm.” Elrond had seldom felt this sated before. “It 
was nice though; you making such slow love to me.”
 
Thranduil nodded, snuggling closer to his lover and pulling Elrond to his 
chest. They would clean up in a moment, but he wanted to savor this 
moment. “Maybe the next time we make love you can make me squirm?”
 
“Maybe. Do you think Erestor needs another lesson then?” teased Elrond. 
“You did forget to mention the variety of positions available to him.”
 
“Ah, but that was on purpose. Let him find out himself.” Thranduil grew 
serious. “I took you in this way, because Erestor will need eye contact 
with Glorfindel and therefore this was the only right position.” Stroking 
the long, dark hair, he deeply inhaled the half-Elf’s musky scent. “I love to 
see that expression in your eyes when you finally find release. This is 
quickly becoming my favorite position to make love in. What about you?”
 
“I like to feel you behind me… When I am on all fours and…” A huge 
yawn made it impossible for Elrond to finish. He blinked sleepily. No, this 
couldn’t be happening! He couldn’t go back to sleep! It was noon and 
work was piling in his study. 
 
“I will keep that in mind,” promised Thranduil. His lover’s breathing was 
slowing down and he could tell the half-Elf was drained. “You are about 
to fall asleep again. Did I wear you out?” 
 
“I think you did,” sighed Elrond, resigned. “But I cannot stay in bed all 
day long. There is so much work—“
 
Thranduil cut him short. “Why don’t you sleep for a few hours? I will ask 
Elrohir and Elladan to look at all pressing matters.”
 
“You cannot. Elrohir is at the Bruinen with Legolas, and Elladan…” 
Yawning again, he chuckled softly. “Elladan joined today’s patrol.”
 
“Then I will attend to these matters myself. But you should rest.” Running 
his fingers through the long, dark mane, he waited for Elrond to fall 
asleep. Once the half-Elf was sound asleep, he whispered, “Elrond, I love 
you so much that I can no longer live without you.” After pressing a kiss 
on the silk hair, he rose from the bed and tucked a warm blanket tightly 
around the half-Elf’s form.
 
After cleaning himself up and getting dressed again, he regretted leaving 
Elrond behind. He would have loved to hold the half-Elf in his sleep, but 
someone had to keep an eye on Imladris. 
 
Closing the door behind him, he wondered how Legolas was doing. 
Elrohir and Legolas were spending the day at the Bruinen and he hoped 
his son was enjoying himself. He hated to see his youngest son full of 
sadness and sorrow. Hopefully Elrohir would be as good for Legolas as 
Elrond was for him.
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 26



Amused, Legolas watched Elrohir’s mental struggle. They had arrived at 
the Bruinen and were now removing their clothes so they could hold a 
swimming contest. It bemused Legolas to no end that Elrohir was now 
wading into the water with his leggings still on. Did the half-Elf plan to 
swim like that? Chuckling, he dropped his shirt and then called out, “Is 
that the way Imladris Elves swim? It would make more sense to remove 
those leggings as well!”

Elrohir looked over his shoulder and couldn’t help blushing. Shrugging 
awkwardly, he whispered, “I was not sure if that would make you 
uncomfortable.” He was knee deep in the water, which surprisingly was 
icy cold. Maybe this was a stupid idea and he should reconsider. 

Legolas’ gaze darkened guiltily. Elrohir had kept his leggings on to make 
sure his guest was comfortable with the situation! Touched by the half-
Elf’s concern he shuffled his feet. “I apologize for my words. They were 
spoken rashly.”

“Don’t apologize,” said Elrohir, shivering now that the cold crept up his 
body. He left the water and returned to Legolas’ side. “We do not have to 
go for a swim.”

Legolas’ eyes cleared of the guilty expression and the sparkle returned to 
them. “I want to swim, but not with any clothes still on.” Smiling at 
Elrohir, he added, “Do not worry. You are not my first naked Elf…” He 
couldn’t quite explain his mirth, but he felt giddy and free. He heavily 
suspected that it had to do with Elrohir’s presence. The mere fact that the 
half-Elf wasn’t trying to seduce him, made him want to trust Elrohir. It 
was good to know that the half-Elf didn’t want him in that way. Maybe 
they could become really good friends; he did like Elrohir.

Elrohir averted his eyes when Legolas removed his leggings. The golden-
haired Elf was naked now and waded into the water, apparently unfazed 
by the cold. Then Elrohir shook his head. Legolas appeared unfazed 
because he was. Elves didn’t feel the cold. But being a half-Elf himself, he 
did feel uncomfortable in the icy water. 

Sighing, resigned, he stepped out of his leggings as well and tried hard to 
ignore Legolas’ probing look, aimed at him. He had never felt self-
conscious about his body and he refused to start now. He was handsome - 
enough maidens had assured him so - but this was different. His 
appearance paled in comparison to Legolas’ radiance. Shivering, he 
stepped into the water.

Legolas watched Elrohir and secretly admired the gorgeous, well-trained 
body the half-Elf possessed. The long, dark hair now hung in front of the 
handsome features, making it impossible for him to seek out the other’s 
eyes. “Why are you shivering?” 

“The water is cold,” replied Elrohir, slowly lowering his upper body into 
the water. His nipples became painfully hard when the cold water touched 
them, but at least he wouldn’t have to worry about growing hard. The cold 
actually made his private parts move closer toward his body. 

Legolas raised a delicately curved eyebrow. “Cold?”

Embarrassed, Elrohir shivered again. “I am half-Elven, in case you have 
forgotten. I do feel the cold.” And Elbereth help him if he caught a cold! 
That would not go down well with his father. Elrond had nursed Elladan 
back to health after his twin had nearly drowned in the river and they had 
been forced to listen to their father’s warning to stay away from cold water 
for years. 

Legolas bit his lower lip, feeling he owed Elrohir another apology. What 
was wrong with him? Why wasn’t he paying more attention? Maybe it 
was because he felt so comfortable around Elrohir that he was letting 
down his guard, which seldom happened; usually only when either his 
father or Valthoron were close. 

“Just don’t,” said Elrohir through gritted teeth, realizing Legolas was 
about to apologize –again-. He dived beneath the surface of the water, 
trying to bite down the cold. Rising again, he threw back his head, causing 
his long, black hair to cling to his back.

Something inside Legolas stirred, seeing the half-Elf soaking wet like that. 
Droplets of water clung to the long tresses and others slid down the agile 
young body. Confused, Legolas dived beneath the water as well, 
swimming several feet under water. He needed a moment to sort out his 
feelings and thoughts. 

Although a large number of Elves had tried to gain his interest, he had 
dismissed all of them after realizing that they were only interested in either 
his appearance or his position as the youngest Prince of Mirkwood. Some 
of his suitors had hoped to gain power and influence by courting him and 
that realization had saddened him and had made him feel utterly alone.

And now, suddenly, here was Elrohir Half-Elven, son of Elrond. Elrohir 
radiated calm, patience and understanding and did absolutely nothing to 
gain his favor, which was quite a relief. All he desired was to befriend the 
half-Elf. 

But was that really true?

/If I only want him as my friend, then why did I react like that just now? I 
admired his body; I like his disposition and he appears to genuinely want 
to be my friend. Am I now disappointed that he is not trying to gain my 
favor? Can it be that –I- want him to be interested in –me-? That would be 
a first!/ 

Others always lusted after him! He didn’t lust after others! But Elrohir… 

Legolas reached the surface and looked about in search of the half-Elf.

The sight Legolas presented took Elrohir’s breath away. Stunned into 
silent admiration, he followed the path the droplets were taking down the 
golden-haired Elf's body. He would gladly give everything he possessed to 
be one of those droplets. He had already been in love with Legolas, but 
now it actually felt like his heart would break. 

“Race you to that tree over there,” called out Legolas, obviously enjoying 
himself so much that he completely missed the look of utter admiration on 
the half-Elf’s face.

“I accept your challenge!” Elrohir was eager to prove himself to Legolas. 
He hoped he would win and therefore impress the flaxen-haired Elf. 
Throwing himself into the water, he swam quickly. 

Legolas laughed, amused, and followed. 

They reached the tree at exactly the same time. The contest was a draw, 
much to Elrohir’s disappointment. “Maybe we should try archery instead.”

“Ah, you will most certainly lose.” Legolas smiled warmly, hoping to 
lighten any sting his words might provoke. “Let us do away with the 
contests then, for it seems we are evenly matched.”

Now that Elrohir was standing still, the chill crept into his very bones. 
“Would you mind leaving the water? I am cold.”

Legolas instantly inclined his head. “How inconsiderate of me. Come, let 
us sit in the warm sun and let it dry our skin.” 

Elrohir felt intensely grateful that the icy water stopped him from growing 
aroused, seeing Legolas leave the water. The Elf had reached his clothes 
and now bent forward, picking them up. Even in spite of the cold 
engulfing him, Elrohir felt heat stir in his groin. Everything about Legolas 
was just perfect. Too perfect. A beautiful Elf like Legolas couldn’t 
possibly be interested in him! 

/Are you sure?/ whispered a tiny voice in the back of his head. /Thranduil 
chose your father for his lover and Elrond is half-Elven as well. Do you 
really think your heritage makes a difference?/

Elrohir sighed; he had to agree with this annoying voice. Thranduil had 
taken his father for a lover, so maybe Legolas would be inclined to give 
him a chance as well?

Looking over his shoulder, Legolas caught Elrohir’s gaze with his. The 
expression in the half-Elf’s eyes almost took his breath away. Something 
about the look in those dark eyes made him blush and he quickly turned 
away. /This cannot be happening. All these decades others have wanted 
me, and I now want Elrohir?/ He had never really been in love before, too 
cautious around everyone who seemed to adore him, and now he found 
himself in his suitors’ position. Now he knew how it felt to crave 
something he couldn’t have, and for once he wished that the half-Elf 
would make a move on him. But so far Elrohir hadn’t given any sign that 
the interest could be mutual.

It was ironic,-mused Legolas-, that he would fall in love with the one 
person who didn’t chase after him. Life was cruel.

Suddenly Elrohir sneezed. Legolas, surprised, looked at the half-Elf and 
found Elrohir shivering. His companion had already slipped into his 
leggings and tunic, but as his skin was still wet, the now-damp clothes did 
little to fight off the cold. 

Elrohir cursed privately, realizing he had contracted a cold after all. 
/Great./ Now his father would fuss over him. Unexpectedly, a hand settled 
on his back and a warm voice drifted into his ears. 

“Did you catch a cold? I know humans get colds, and you did sneeze…” 
Legolas’ voice faded away in concern. When Elrohir’s gaze met his, it felt 
as if the air between them sizzled with energy and he barely refrained 
from pulling back and thus breaking contact. 

“Don’t tell my father the water was too cold. He will lecture me and then 
confine me to bed.” Shivers spiraled down his spine and he wished he had 
taken a cloak with him to wrap around him. But he had left his warm cloak 
behind, thinking he wouldn’t need it. 

A shy smile surfaced on Legolas’ face. “My father is like that too.” 
Thranduil had become a mother hen after Aewithôn had left for the 
Undying Lands. “You can trust me to keep quiet. But I doubt that will 
make a difference if you…” He had to pause because Elrohir sneezed 
again, “If you continue to sneeze.”

Elrohir shot him a thankful look. “I will just excuse myself for dinner.” 
The cold would pass in a few days. All he had to do was to lie low - and 
maybe Legolas would be willing to help him avoid running into Elrond? 
He stifled a moan of regret, when Legolas removed his hand from his 
back. He had liked the blond’s touch, even when the fabric from his tunic 
had kept it from feeling intimate. 

He was surprised again when something heavy was draped across his 
shoulders. His eyes widened slightly, realizing Legolas had wrapped his 
cloak around him. “But…”

Legolas interrupted the half-Elf. “Elrohir, I do not feel the cold like you 
do. I do not need the cloak.” He hoped Elrohir accepted this gesture. It 
was a strange sensation, taking care of someone. Usually people tried to 
take care of him and he liked the reversed roles. “Let me escort you back 
to your rooms. You should be in a warm bed and resting.”

/In a warm bed with you keeping me in your arms,/ thought Elrohir, 
blissfully, surprised that Legolas cared enough to look after him. Pulling 
the heavy cloak closer around his body, he deeply inhaled the Elf’s scent. 
Legolas smelled of the forest, pine and cinnamon; a truly lovely 
combination. “Thank you,” he whispered softly, not trusting his voice. “I 
will return it to you shortly.”

Legolas’ smile broadened and experimentally he folded an arm around the 
half-Elf’s shoulder. It was a strange sensation, when Elrohir trembled 
against him, but he contributed it to the cold. Maybe his body heat would 
help warm his chilled companion.

But Elrohir’s trembling wasn’t only just because of the cold. He had a 
hard time believing Legolas had reached out to touch him, to fold an arm 
around him. Almost, he slipped, as he was about to lean into the touch, but 
he quickly caught himself. He couldn’t do that. His father was right; 
Legolas and he had to become friends first. 

“Hopefully we won’t run into my father or yours,” said Elrohir, 
thoughtfully. “I do not want to spend the rest of the day in bed.”

“It might be best though,” remarked Legolas, “At least make sure you stay 
warm.”

Elrohir nodded absentmindedly. /As long as you stay close I will stay 
warm./ The thought brought a blush to his face and he hoped Legolas 
attributed the flush to the cold. 

Seeing Elrohir’s face grow flustered, Legolas sped up. “I will take you to 
your rooms and please, rest?”

Elrohir stared at Legolas, hearing the blond say ‘please’. Aiya, he would 
do everything the other Elf wanted. He was about to reassure Legolas that 
he would be fine, when an unexpected round of coughing tormented his 
lungs. By the Grace of the Valar, this was quickly becoming worse!

“To bed with you, now!” Legolas shooed him into the Last Homely 
House, and recalling the route to the twins’ rooms, he pulled Elrohir into 
the next corridor. 

Not really looking where he was going, Elrohir bumped into a warm, soft 
body.

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

Glorfindel, who had just taken a bath and was now in the process of 
finishing getting dressed, looked up in surprise when Erestor entered. He 
blinked; was his lover really humming and hopping toward him? And was 
what that inane smile doing on his face? He couldn’t remember ever 
seeing Erestor that cheerful. Before he knew what was happening, he 
found himself with an armful of raven-haired Elf.

“Erestor?” he whispered, pleasantly surprised. He couldn’t help return 
Erestor’s giddy smile. What had caused this change in his normally so 
listless, timid lover?

But Erestor didn’t seem inclined to answer verbally. Instead, his lover 
claimed his lips in a hot, passionate kiss, which sent warm vibrations 
through his body, pooling in his groin. “Melamin?” He panted the 
endearment, wondering if he was really holding Erestor in his arms or a 
double. “Is it really you?”

Erestor nodded, quickly, and then touched his lips to Glorfindel’s. He 
wasn’t going to let his lover ruin this by talking! He wanted to make the 
best of this moment!

Erestor’s mirth and passion was quickly overwhelming Glorfindel and he 
regretted pulling away to address his lover. “It is almost time for dinner.”

Sighing regretfully, Erestor stared dotingly at his flaxen-haired lover. 
“Must we join them for dinner?”

“I am afraid so. I could think of more pleasant things to do, like continuing 
to kiss you, but our presence was requested by Elrond and Thranduil.” 

Erestor suddenly realized that this invitation ruined his plans for tonight. 
He couldn’t make all the necessary arrangements when stuck at the dinner 
table. His smile faded slightly, but then he took heart again, knowing 
tomorrow would be another day, another chance. This didn’t have to 
happen tonight. He would wait for the right opportunity to present itself. 

“We should not keep them waiting,” said Glorfindel, straightening his 
robes. “I do not want to let go of you. I have never seen you this alive 
before. I do not know what caused this change, but I welcome it 
wholeheartedly!”

Erestor looked down at his robes. “Do you think I need to change?” He 
thought he still looked rather respectable, considering the scene he had just 
witnessed. 

Glorfindel took Erestor’s hand in his and guided his lover to the dressing 
table. “You look breathtaking, but then you always do. Would you braid 
my hair? It is a tangled mess.”

Erestor lovingly combed the wet, golden tresses and then began to braid 
them. “I loved it when you braided my hair,” he admitted, feeling shy 
again, but the radiant smile remained on his face. “No one ever braided 
my hair before.”

Glorfindel smiled, warmly. “Then I will do it again the next time you 
wash your hair.”

Erestor blushed. Leaning in closer, he swept away a plait and pressed his 
lips against the nape of his lover’s neck. “I love you, nîn bellas.”

Glorfindel’s smile brightened, turning around to face his lover. “I love you 
too.” Brushing a stray behind Erestor’s pointed ear, he got to his feet again 
and led his lover to the doorway. “Maybe we can take another one of those 
steps we discussed earlier after dinner?”

Erestor immediately knew what Glorfindel was referring to. Recalling the 
passionate lovemaking he had just witnessed, he nodded fervently. “Aye, I 
think I am ready to take the next step.”

Glorfindel brought his lover’s hand to his lips and placed a kiss on it. The 
reason completely eluded Glorfindel, but in a way, his lover seemed 
changed. And it was for the better. 

As they walked down the corridor they were so lost in another’s eyes, that 
they didn’t notice the party heading towards them, until it was too late. 

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

The breath was knocked out of Elrohir’s lungs when he accidentally 
bumped into Erestor. The advisor instinctively caught and steadied him, at 
which Elrohir mumbled, “Thank you. Sorry, I was not looking where I 
was going.”

Erestor’s eyes knowingly swept from Elrohir to Legolas. The blush on his 
former student’s face had given Elrohir away. /So he really fancies 
Legolas?/ His former suspicions were now confirmed and he wondered if 
Elrond and Thranduil knew, but he still wasn’t inclined to inform the two 
Elf-Lords. “No harm was done, pen-neth.” 

Elrohir tried to stop himself from sneezing but failed miserably. 

Erestor raised an eyebrow questioningly and his gaze settled on Legolas. 
“What happened?”

“We went swimming in the Bruinen,” supplied Legolas. 

Glorfindel shook his head in disapproval. “We have talked to you about 
this before. You were an Elfling then and I thought you had learned your 
lessen. Your father will not be pleased to learn you have caught a cold.”

Elrohir hung his head in defeat. “Please do not tell him. I will go to bed 
and keep warm, but do not tell him. I do not want to worry him.”

Erestor’s thoughts raced. Maybe he still had a chance to make his plans for 
tonight work. Addressing Glorfindel he said, “Why don’t you head for the 
dining room ahead whilst I deal with Elrohir?”

Glorfindel felt suspicious at hearing those words, but he couldn’t quite 
explain why. Well, maybe Erestor just wanted a word in private with 
Elrohir. “I will meet you there. Hurry.” Ignoring Elrohir’s giggling and 
Legolas’ gasp, he kissed Erestor. “Don’t make me wait. I am hungry.”

Erestor watched his lover leave and then turned to Elrohir. “I should not 
do this, but I will refrain from telling your father -if-…”

“If what?” Elrohir asked, eagerly. He would do anything to keep his stupid 
mistake from his father.

Erestor cleared his throat, suddenly no longer certain of himself. After 
glancing apoplectically at Legolas, he addressed Elrohir once more. “If 
you go to Glorfindel’s room and take care of some matters for me.”

“What matters?” Elrohir’s eyes had narrowed. What was Erestor up to?

“I want you to put scented candles around the bed, but be careful you do 
not start a fire, pen-neth. Wait until after dinner to light them. I want 
tonight to be… romantic,” he added, hesitantly. 

Elrohir smirked. “Candles… I think we can do that. I take it Glorfindel 
does not know about your plans?”

“We?” asked Legolas, feigning surprise. Secretly he looked forward to 
being partners in crime with Elrohir. 

“Legolas, you -must- help me!” Elrohir’s eyes widened when another 
sneeze announced itself. “I hate having a cold,” he whispered, miserably. 
But as he looked at Erestor, his smug grin returned. “Anything else you 
want us to do?”

Erestor nervously shuffled his feet. “I do not know. What else is 
considered romantic?” 

Elrohir’s smugness faded, realizing Erestor had never done something like 
this before. “Why don’t you leave this in our –capable- hands?”

“Capable?” echoed Legolas, bemused. His stay in Imladris was getting 
more interesting with every passing moment!

“Aye, capable.” Elrohir teasingly poked Legolas in his stomach. “Play 
along. I do not want my father to find out about my cold and we can do 
this for Erestor. He deserves our help!”

Legolas nodded. “Aye, capable hands it is.”

Erestor shook his head, smiling at them. “Thank you for doing this for 
me.” Elrohir suddenly lunged for him and Erestor found himself buried in 
a warm hug. The ‘old’ Erestor would have frozen in Elrohir’s arms, but 
now he felt comfortable and hugged him back. “Thank you for everything, 
pen-neth.”

Elrohir pulled back, smiling brilliantly. “Put your trust in us. We won’t let 
you down. Good old Glorfindel won’t know what has hit him when he 
enters his rooms.” Signaling for Legolas to follow him, he guided the 
blond to Glorfindel’s rooms.

Erestor watched them go and hoped they wouldn’t overdo it. The last 
thing he wanted was to scare Glorfindel away.

Turning around, he straightened his robes and resumed his walk to the 
dining room.

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

Elrond and Thranduil had already seated themselves and watched 
curiously as Glorfindel entered alone. “Where is your shadow?” asked 
Elrond, teasingly. 

Glorfindel, still a bit dazed, sat down and stared at Elrond. “I do not know 
what happened, but he dashed into the room and… he was laughing. He 
was giddy! I have never seen him like that before.”

Elrond and Thranduil exchanged a knowing gaze. “I take it you approve of 
this change?” asked Thranduil. 

“Aye, I do, but… I do not understand.”

“Then stop trying to understand,” advised Elrond, “And simply accept that 
he is getting better. Thanks to your love and support his heart is filled with 
joy and affection. Welcome it.”

“I do,” whispered Glorfindel, chuckling softly. “I just wonder what to 
expect next.”

At that moment Erestor entered the room and seated himself next to 
Glorfindel. He noticed the curious looks all three Elves were giving him, 
but he ignored them. “What is for dinner? I am hungry.” For the first time 
in ages he really felt hungry. 

“Duck,” said Elrond, amused. Leaning in closer to Thranduil, he 
whispered words that were only intended for his lover’s ears. “You were 
right, nîn glaur. Glorfindel will be a very happy Elf.”

Glorfindel, who had only heard Elrond say his name, looked up, puzzled. 
Seeing the glance Elrond threw at him, he wondered in what kind of 
trouble he was. His instincts told him this was about Erestor, and looking 
at the advisor, he found that the dark eyes were twinkling with mischief. 
That heavenly sight made his heart miss a beat. /I love you so much, nîn 
amdir, but I wonder what you are up to - and why do I feel like it involves 
me?/

TBC

Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 27
 
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
 
Note; I know that due to canon Elrohir can't catch a cold, or rather I chill. 
So I wanted to stress (as Ilye advised me) to say that Elrohir's chill isn't 
according to canon. 
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
 
 
Elrohir cursed privately as another violent cough squeezed the air from his 
lungs. A warm hand settled against his back and he smiled apologetically 
at Legolas. “Sorry for ruining the day. It was not my intention to contract a 
cold.”
 
“Do not worry about it,” said Legolas reassuringly. They were on their 
way to Glorfindel’s rooms to keep up their part of the bargain. They had 
agreed to create a romantic atmosphere in the seneschal’s rooms in turn 
for Erestor’s silence. Feeling like an Elfling again, Legolas grinned. 
“What items do you reckon we need to ‘decorate’ the rooms with? How 
romantic does Erestor want them?”
 
A similarly wicked grin surfaced on Elrohir’s face, which was growing 
hotter due to his rising temperature. “Romantic? We should go for 
seductive instead.”
 
Elrohir laughed warmly, as the reached Glorfindel’s rooms. “After you, 
my fair Prince.”
 
Legolas quickly hurried inside, hoping Elrohir hadn’t seen his nervousness 
at hearing the half-Elf call him fair. He composed himself again and 
studied the luxurious rooms. “We will need candles. Lots of them,” he 
mused aloud.
 
“And flowers. Roses, preferably.” Elrohir nodded absentmindedly. “I do 
not want to head outside again and you do know where the gardens are. 
Would you supply the roses?”
 
“Of course.” Legolas didn’t want Elrohir to step out into the open either, 
afraid the half-Elf’s cold might worsen. “Is there anything else you want 
me to bring?”
 
“Wine… Glasses… Maybe some fruits or sweets?” A plan was forming in 
Elrohir’s mind. Oh, he would make sure Erestor was pleased with him. 
This would make perfect blackmail material someday. 
 
“I will bring those items as well,” said Legolas, moving toward the 
doorway. “And aye, I also know where the kitchen is,” he said before 
Elrohir could ask anything. He recalled the incident with the rabbit and 
hoped the animal was relishing its freedom. “I will be back in a few 
minutes.”
 
“Take your time,” whispered Elrohir in a thoughtful tone. 
 
Turning around, he scanned the room with his eyes. It definitely had 
potential, and with candles and roses added, things would look even more 
inviting. He looked over his shoulder, realized Legolas was gone already, 
and returned to stare at the bed. Oh, he would love to share a bed, 
whatever bed, with the blond! 
 
He was about to release a tormented sigh when a sneeze unexpectedly 
shook his frame. This chill would confine him to bed eventually -- but not 
yet. First, he wanted to spend as much time as possible with Legolas.
 
/The bed…/ Glorfindel’s sheets were soft, but not perfect for lovemaking. 
His father had a lovely collection of sheets made of the finest, purest silk. 
/I doubt he will miss a set./ 
 
Elrohir headed for his father’s rooms, where he collected two sheets and 
coverlets. Priding himself on not having been caught, he headed for 
Glorfindel’s rooms once more. Calling out to a servant, he asked her to 
deliver scented candles to the seneschal’s rooms and did his best to ignore 
her curious expression. 
 
Stepping into Glorfindel’s rooms again, he found that Legolas had 
returned as well. Dozens of roses lay on the table and next to the flowers 
stood a tray with wine, goblets and sweets. “Perfect,” commented Elrohir, 
beginning to change the sheets. 
 
“We could crush some rose petals so they will release their fragrances and 
then spread the rest across the floor and bed. That way Erestor and 
Glorfindel do not have to worry about thorns.”
 
“That is an excellent idea!” Elrohir finished changing the sheets and 
straightened the fabric. He grinned madly; Erestor and Glorfindel 
wouldn’t know what hit them! Pleased, he turned around and helped 
Legolas separate the petals. “Maybe we could create a private setting near 
the fireplace?”
 
Legolas nodded. “There is already a pile of blankets and pillows tucked 
away in that corner. All you have to do is spread them over the floor.”
 
“I will do just that.” Elrohir positioned the blankets and pillows to his 
liking and then scattered a few handfuls of rose petals over the area. 
Hearing someone knock on the door, he reckoned it was the servant 
bringing the candles. After opening the door, he selected a few sweetly 
scented candles and placed them around the bed. 
 
Legolas had finished removing the petals, but had saved three particularly 
beautiful roses and now placed them on the pillows. “They are too lovely 
to ruin,” mused Legolas aloud. Dreamily, he scattered the rose petals all 
over the bed and the floor. After collecting some scented candles, he 
placed them on the nightstand. “I will open the window and let the breeze 
in. Ithil shines exceptionally bright tonight.” He was starting to feel 
romantic himself, and wished he had someone to share his bed with. 
 
Looking at Elrohir, he sighed, feeling melancholy. His heart was growing 
heavier with each passing day. Elrohir had managed to unlock his heart 
and for the first time in his life he wasn’t afraid to share it with someone. 
But Elrohir didn’t want him in that way. Another miserable sigh wrestled 
free from his lips as the moon’s light illuminated the room. 
 
His attention was drawn to Elrohir when the half-Elf sneezed again. His 
companion was shivering all over his body and his brow was covered in 
sweat. “You should be in bed.” Growing concerned, he advanced on the 
half-Elf. “How much longer until they finish dinner?”
 
“Ten more minutes, I think.” Elrohir pulled Legolas’ cloak even closer 
and inhaled the blond’s scent. “We should light the candles.” He doubted 
something would go wrong in those few minutes after they had had left.
 
Together they lit the candles and after one last, pleased look at the rooms, 
they headed for the doorway.
 
“Let us get out of here before they return.” Elrohir had no desire to watch 
his former tutors seduce each other. Shivering, he began to long for his 
warm, comfortable bed. “I hope Erestor appreciates what we did for him.”
 
Legolas, concerned at seeing the tremors grow worse, wrapped an arm 
around Elrohir’s shoulders, hoping that the half-Elf would benefit from his 
body heat. 
 
Elrohir, nervous, wondered what Legolas thought of him; a half-Elf, 
contracting a cold! Being ill was an alien concept to the blond. 
 
Legolas walked Elrohir to his rooms and when they reached the door, he 
felt reluctant to part with his companion. He wanted to make sure Elrohir 
was safe and warmly tucked beneath the blankets. 
 
As he entered his rooms, Elrohir frowned, making sure his features were 
hidden from Legolas’ view by letting his hair fall in front of his face. The 
blond was still close -- why?
 
“Why don’t you slip into a sleeping robe?” suggested Legolas, who now 
headed toward the bed to push down the covers. 
 
“Uh?” Elrohir stuttered incoherently. Legolas had reached the closet, 
selected a warm, brown sleeping robe and handed it to him. 
 
“Go change.”
 
Elrohir simply accepted the sleeping robe and feeling strangely prudish, he 
disappeared into the bathroom where he changed his clothes.
 
Legolas watched him go with a grin on his face. He hadn’t thought Elrohir 
was that shy! But then again, the half-Elf had wanted to keep his leggings 
on when they had gone swimming.
 
Elrohir returned a moment later, clad in the sleeping robe. His hair was a 
tangled mess after undoing his braids, as he was too tired to brush it. All 
he wanted was to lie down and rest. 
 
Legolas watched Elrohir carefully. “Lie down.”
 
Elrohir obeyed; he didn’t want to fight Legolas anyway. Lying down, he 
allowed Legolas to tuck him in. 
 
“Is there anything you need?” Worried, Legolas placed his head on 
Elrohir’s brow. Hissing in surprise, he pulled back his hand. “You feel hot. 
Maybe it would be best if we told your father.” 
 
“I will be all right,” said Elrohir reassuringly. He pressed deeper into the 
comfort of the mattress, relishing the warmth that now surrounded him. “I 
just need to drink lots of water.”
 
Legolas’ eyes scanned the room, trying to locate a carafe filled with 
drinking water, but failed. “I will fetch you some from the kitchen.” 
Halfway to the doorway, he looked over his shoulder and said, “What 
about hot tea? Would that help?”
 
Shivering, Elrohir nodded. “It did the last time.” 
 
“I will be back with water and tea then.” And he would add some bread, 
which Elrohir could soak in the tea in case he grew hungry. 
 
Elrohir closed his eyes when Legolas left, thankful that the blond would 
return shortly. Having a chill wasn’t that bad when Legolas was near.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Erestor couldn’t help growing slightly nervous during dinner. He 
wondered if trusting Elrohir and Legolas had been an intelligent thing to 
do. Only Elbereth knew what those two younger Elves were up to. If they 
wanted to, they could hugely embarrass him. Sighing worriedly, he 
wondered in what state Glorfindel’s rooms would be in upon their return. 
 
Glorfindel… As he looked at his lover, a now familiar and sensual tingling 
spread through his groin. After watching Elrond and Thranduil make love 
he ached for the blond’s touch. Wasn’t it yet time to return to their rooms? 
Having to wait was driving him crazy.
 
Suddenly Glorfindel’s hand settled on his knee beneath the table, gently 
squeezing it. The worry and questions in Glorfindel’s eyes were obvious, 
but Erestor just shook his head. No, they couldn’t discuss this now! 
 
Glorfindel was becoming increasingly worried where his lover was 
concerned. Erestor’s face was flustered and the big, dark eyes seemed too 
large, too intense. He just knew something troubled Erestor. “Shall we 
return to my rooms?” he whispered, concerned. Hearing Elrond chuckle, 
he glanced at the half-Elf. It didn’t seem appropriate for Elrond to be 
chuckling when Erestor felt nervous. 
 
“Aye, let us do that,” whispered Erestor, his voice unsteady with 
anticipation. 
 
Glorfindel pushed back his chair and got to his feet. Extending his hand, 
he waited for his lover to place his in it, and then guided Erestor out of the 
dining room and into the corridor, heading for his quarters. “What is 
wrong, nîn amdir?” 
 
“Wrong?” Erestor grinned giddily at his lover. “Nothing is wrong. For the 
very first time in my life everything is right!”
 
Puzzled, Glorfindel pulled his lover close, wrapping an arm around 
Erestor’s waist. “Are you sure?” Seeing Erestor nod, he sighed. “It is 
just… I have never seen you this… happy before. Are you truly happy, 
then?”
 
“More than happy,” Erestor said reassuringly. 
 
Glorfindel involuntarily held his breath when Erestor leaned in closer. 
Expecting to be kissed on the lips, he grinned, when his lover gently 
kissed the tip of his nose. “I am not complaining, mind you. I could get 
used to this more playful side of yours.”
 
Erestor beamed with bliss, hearing his lover’s words. “And this is just the 
beginning,” he hinted mysteriously. 
 
Glorfindel arched an eyebrow. “The beginning? Do you have more plans 
for tonight then?” By the way Erestor was moving in his arms, it almost 
felt like his lover was rubbing himself against his body. The manipulation 
was successful; he was growing hard. 
 
“Aye, I have plans for tonight.” Erestor let his voice trail off and held his 
breath, opening the door to Glorfindel’s rooms. /Please, Elrohir, do not let 
me down. I trusted in you to.../ Unable to finish that thought, he trembled 
with delight, seeing the romantic atmosphere, which Elrohir and Legolas 
had created. /Thank you, pyn-neth./ He stepped aside to let Glorfindel 
enter and carefully watched the blond’s reaction.
 
Glorfindel needed a moment to take in the stunning sight. The candles had 
filled the room with warm, sweet fragrances and a moonbeam illuminated 
the three red, long-stemmed roses resting on the pillow. Turning around to 
face his lover, everything suddenly fell into place. “Elrohir and Legolas.”
 
Erestor shuffled his feet. “Aye, they did this when we were having 
dinner.” Taking in his surroundings more carefully, he walked toward the 
bed. His fingertips caressed the silk sheets, encountering soft rose petals. 
“Are these sheets yours?”
 
Glorfindel laughed warmly, recognizing them. “They are Elrond’s!” 
 
Erestor chuckled as well, wondering what had possessed Elrohir to 
plunder his father’s linen closet. “But they do feel nice.” Another fingertip 
slid along the soft, inviting fabric. 
 
Glorfindel cocked his head to study his lover extensively. He couldn’t 
remember ever seeing Erestor this relaxed, this much at peace with 
himself. “Lirimaer?” After walking over to the dark-haired beauty, he 
folded his arms around his lover’s waist. “Why did you arrange this?” He 
thought he already knew the answer, but wanted Erestor to say the words.
 
“Because I want to make love to you,” replied Erestor, blushing. “You 
mentioned taking small steps, but I feel so comfortable around you that I 
want to…” Pausing, he searched for the right words. “I want to completely 
bind myself to you.”
 
Glorfindel’s eyes were soft, warm and radiated love. Had his lover been 
nervous and afraid, he would never have consented to this, but now he was 
actually considering giving in. “You want to make love with me?” Not 
even in his wildest dreams had he expected Erestor to take the lead in this. 
 
Erestor recalled Thranduil’s advice to ask Glorfindel about his preferences 
concerning lovemaking. After clearing his throat, he whispered, “I do not 
really know how to say this, but… What would you prefer? Me taking you 
or…?” Peeking shyly at Glorfindel, he squirmed when the blond tightened 
his hold on him, pulling him close enough to kiss. 
 
Glorfindel searched Erestor’s eyes and thought he saw his lover’s real 
needs. “Tell me what –you- want.” It would be best if Erestor took him, as 
the dark-haired Elf had literally no experience when it came down to 
lovemaking. After all the abuse Erestor had suffered, he wanted to 
empower him. 
 
“What –I- want?” Erestor averted his eyes and then rested his head against 
Glorfindel’s shoulder. “I want to give you pleasure and…” He couldn’t 
possibly tell the blond he had watched Elrond and Thranduil make love! 
But then again, his lover might wonder about this sudden desire to take 
him. 
 
“You want to make love to me, to take me,” supplied Glorfindel. He felt 
the nod against his shoulder and smiled. Until now he had always been the 
dominant one in his relationships, but for Erestor, he would do anything. 
All he wanted was to make his lover happy. “Then take me, meleth-nîn.”
 
Suddenly Erestor’s head jerked back, staring at him in disbelief. “What?” 
questioned Glorfindel, “You did not think I would let you take me?”
 
“I thought you would prefer to take me.” Erestor nervously moistened his 
lips. “I have never done this before and you have.”
 
“Feel free to explore then. I am still your more than willing subject.” 
Glorfindel slid one hand up Erestor’s back and cradled the nape of his 
lover’s neck in his palm. “Do whatever you want to me.”
 
Erestor swallowed, nervously. “Are you sure? And please remember the 
promise you made; tell me when I make you uncomfortable.”
 
Glorfindel nodded, smiled, and claimed his lover’s lips, hoping Erestor 
would take the hint to assume control of the situation. 
 
Erestor cautiously brought his arms up behind Glorfindel’s back, always 
keeping in mind that he wanted to give his lover as much pleasure as 
possible. Taking the lead was something he had never done before, but 
with Glorfindel it seemed almost natural. The blond leaned into his touch 
and the kiss deepened. Growing bolder, he slowly parted his lover’s lips 
and rejoiced when the Elda eagerly parted his teeth. His tongue slid into a 
welcoming moist heat and the sensation was almost enough to make him 
faint. 
 
Erestor trembled in his arms and a smile surfaced on Glorfindel’s face. 
Never before had he felt such passion, need and want when being with a 
lover. When Erestor briefly broke the kiss, he whispered, “I love you.” He 
took hold of one of the long-stemmed roses and ran the soft petals along 
Erestor’s jaw line, relishing the tremors the caress brought forth. 
 
Erestor, carefully staying away from the candles, guided his lover to the 
bed and then laid him down, stroking wayward blond locks behind a 
pointed ear. “I love you more than life itself.” Gathering his courage, he 
straddled his lover’s hips, looking down at the blond in rapture. “You are 
my soul. The very spirit that keeps me alive.”
 
Glorfindel smiled warmly, raised a hand and let his fingers tangle in the 
dark locks. “And you are my heart.”
 
Erestor began to unbutton his lover’s robes. Delighted, he found that 
Glorfindel had the same idea and was now slowly undressing him. Always 
maintaining eye contact, Erestor leaned in closer to kiss his lover’s lips, 
whilst the blond slid his robes down his shoulders. Smiling, Erestor took 
hold of the Elda’s hand and placed it against his warm chest. 
 
Glorfindel had stopped trying to understand the change that had taken 
place in Erestor and simply accepted the warmth and pleasure given to 
him. Sliding his hand down the dark-haired Elf’s abdomen, he undid the 
laces to his lover’s leggings. 
 
Erestor briefly sat back, removed the annoying clothing and dropped the 
leggings and robes onto the floor. Although he was completely naked 
now, he still felt comfortable. Glorfindel’s loving and appreciative glance 
caressing his body actually made him feel cockier. “You are still wearing 
too many clothes.” 
 
Glorfindel sat upright and shrugged off his robes. He then allowed his 
lover to remove his leggings, freeing his erection from its confines. He 
closely eyed Erestor, still alert in case any unease or discomfort shone 
from his lover’s dilated pupils. Somehow, he had imagined their first time 
very differently; Erestor being timid and having to be coaxed into 
touching him. What he hadn’t expected was this eagerness.
 
Both were naked now and, recalling Thranduil’s words, Erestor took his 
time to slide his fingers over his lover’s skin. Straddling his lover’s hips, 
he smiled, feeling the blond’s arousal press against his buttocks. The 
absence of fear was liberating and he bowed forward, eagerly caressing 
Glorfindel’s skin with his lips. 
 
He started by licking down Glorfindel’s throat, chest and playfully 
swirling his tongue around a hardened nipple. Absentmindedly, he made a 
mental note to thank Elrond and Thranduil for their demonstration. 
Glorfindel arched beneath him, lifted a hand and played with his black 
locks. “You… are… so… beautiful.” Every word was accompanied by a 
passionate kiss delivered to the blond’s flat abdomen.
 
Glorfindel was glad he was lying down, for he was afraid his knees would 
have buckled beneath him, hearing those words and feeling butterfly 
kisses against his abdomen. Erestor’s tongue had continued down its path 
and was now licking the inside of his thigh. He hoped his lover would also 
treat other places of his body to the same procedure, but the raven-haired 
Elf stayed clear of his arousal.
 
Feeling some of his lover’s disappointment, Erestor pleadingly locked 
gazes with the blond. “I cannot pleasure you like that. I am sorry, but it 
brings back memories.” He had entertained the thought of taking 
Glorfindel into his mouth, but long forgotten memories had threatened to 
return when he imagined bestowing a lick on his lover’s hard flesh.
 
Glorfindel’s features contorted, feeling ashamed and guilty for not keeping 
in mind how his lover had suffered in the past. “You do not have to.”
 
“Thank you,” whispered Erestor, willing his father’s face to leave his 
mind. This was not the moment to remember the abuse. Seeing Glorfindel 
was about to sit upright, he decided to take the lead again; he didn’t want 
the blond to end their lovemaking because of this incident.
 
Glorfindel tried to stop Erestor, but suddenly his lover’s fingers curled 
around his throbbing erection and he fell back onto the bed, completely 
surrendering to his lover’s touch. Pushing his body into the comfort of the 
mattress, he squirmed beneath Erestor. 
 
Stroking the blond’s hard flesh slowly, Erestor realized he needed oil or 
another lubricant to properly prepare his lover. Thranduil’s warning rang 
clearly in his ears. “Do you have any oil?”
 
Glorfindel, wondering what Erestor was talking about, forced himself to 
concentrate, which would be easier if his lover stopped stroking him. 
Arching his hips in blatant want, he finally realized what Erestor had 
asked. “Top drawer… Nightstand…” he managed to whisper, whimpering 
when Erestor’s hands deserted him. 
 
Opening the drawer, Erestor took hold of the massage oil and stared at the 
vial. Fully realizing what he intended to do to his lover, he sought out 
Glorfindel’s eyes. The blond was wiggling beneath him, trying to 
somehow create enough friction to make himself come. Breathless, he 
watched his lover. Glorfindel was beautiful in his need. 
 
Glorfindel grabbed at strands of Erestor’s hair, making it clear that his 
lover should hurry.
 
Erestor opened the vial, let some droplets flow onto his fingertips and then 
eyed Glorfindel closely. “Do you really want me to take you? It is not too 
late to reverse roles.”
 
Glorfindel’s fingers touched his lover’s face. “I am sure. Please make love 
to me, Lirimaer.”
 
Bending forward, Erestor showered Glorfindel’s face with tiny, soft 
kisses. Now that the blond was moaning again, his hand trailed down 
Glorfindel’s stomach. Moving into a kneeling position, he watched 
Glorfindel part his legs and then settled between them. 
 
Glorfindel reached out, grabbed a pillow and raised his hips, shoving the 
pillow beneath him. 
 
Staring at the naked body beneath him, Erestor craved to reach out and 
touch. Whilst teasing one of Glorfindel’s nipples, he placed one oiled 
finger at the blond’s entrance, slowly massaging the guardian ring like 
Thranduil had shown him. 
 
Glorfindel, surprised, looked into Erestor’s dilated pupils. “You know 
what to do?” He hadn’t expected that! 
 
Erestor cleared his throat, concentrating on loosening and relaxing the ring 
of muscle. “I should probably have told you earlier, but… Elrond and 
Thranduil… They showed me.”
 
“Showed you?” Glorfindel, already relaxed beneath his lover’s touch, 
frowned and slightly arched his back. 
 
Erestor, not expecting the movement, suddenly found that his finger had 
easily slid inside. A tight heat enveloped his digit and he stared at 
Glorfindel in surprise. Recalling Thranduil’s advice, he probed the tight 
passage cautiously and then crooked his finger, trying to find the hidden 
gland that would bring the blond so much pleasure.
 
Glorfindel bit his bottom lip, feeling Erestor’s finger move inside him. His 
lover was actually trying to locate his sweet spot! “Showed you?” he 
repeated, slowly. 
 
“Aye, they made love for me,” said Erestor, blushing. “Thranduil showed 
me what to do.”
 
Lust flashed through Glorfindel at hearing Erestor’s words. “You watched 
them make love?” Oh, his hard flesh twitched in delight as he tried to 
picture that scene. 
 
“I did.” Erestor pulled back, growing frustrated now that he had been 
unsuccessful in locating his lover’s hidden gland. Adding more oil, he 
placed two fingers at Glorfindel’s entrance. Looking at the blond, he 
waited for permission. 
 
Glorfindel blinked, realizing that his lover wanted his permission first, and 
he nodded eagerly. “Don’t stop now…”
 
Nodding, Erestor gently slid two fingers inside and stretched his lover. 
Unexpectedly Glorfindel groaned and pushed back. 
 
“Ah, yes!” Glorfindel smiled adoringly at his lover when one of Erestor’s 
fingertips brushed against his sweet spot. “Again, please…”
 
Erestor happily obliged and gently rubbed the nub, relieved that he had 
managed to find the gland. 
 
Panting softly, Glorfindel tried to push down on his lover’s fingers, but 
then stopped. He didn’t want to come yet. “Take me,” he whispered, 
pleadingly. He stared at Erestor in disbelief when his lover shook his head, 
removing his fingers. “What?”
 
Erestor coated another finger and then returned with three. He was 
beginning to feel nervous now. Glorfindel felt incredibly tight and he 
wondered how he could ever bury himself in his lover’s body. 
 
Glorfindel writhed in impending ecstasy, wishing Erestor would have 
mercy on him. “I am more than ready, Lirimaer.”
 
Erestor instinctively knew Glorfindel was right and poured a generous 
amount of oil over his erection, stroking once to make sure every part of 
him was covered. Now that he had come so far, he was beginning to 
waver. Glorfindel was just too tight; there was no way the blond could 
take him! How had Elrond managed to accommodate Thranduil? The half-
Elf hadn’t been in any pain. 
 
After curling his fingers around his throbbing erection, he positioned 
himself against his lover’s slippery entrance. He helped the blond support 
his legs, when Glorfindel wrapped them around his waist.
 
“Take me!” Urgency now sounded in Glorfindel’s voice and he barely 
refrained from stroking himself to completion. Raising his head, he 
pleadingly looked at Erestor. “Now…”
 
Erestor’s hard flesh nudged against his lover’s entrance, but in the end, he 
pulled back, bowed his head in shameful defeat and almost burst into 
tears. “I cannot do it. I am afraid I will hurt you.”
 
Glorfindel sighed worriedly and sat upright. Erestor was kneeling in front 
of him and the dark eyes were swimming with tears. “You have stretched 
me, prepared me. I am more than ready. Erestor, you won’t hurt me.”
 
“Please forgive me, but I cannot do this. I cannot fit in there; it is 
impossible and I would end up hurting you.” Tears threatened to leave his 
eyes. “I am so sorry that I have disappointed you. I really thought I could 
do this, but… you are so tight and…”
 
Glorfindel decided it was time to take action or Erestor would end up in 
tears. “Lie down, Lirimaer, let me do this for you.”
 
Erestor’s eyes widened, but he complied at once. Lying down, he found 
himself flat on his back with Glorfindel straddling his hips. He couldn’t 
stop staring at the blond, who positioned himself over his erection. 
 
Glorfindel smiled warmly and eagerly entwined his fingers with Erestor’s 
when the dark-haired beauty reached for him. 
 
Erestor’s heart missed a beat when Glorfindel began to lower himself onto 
his shaft. “I cannot believe… you are… doing this!” Speech was 
becoming incredibly difficult now that this velvet-like glove surrounded 
him. His eyes filled with warmth and love for his lover, whose buttocks 
now settled in his lap. How was it possible that Glorfindel had taken him 
to the hilt?
 
“I told you I was ready,” remarked Glorfindel teasingly, as he slid his 
arms beneath Erestor’s back to pull him close. Remaining motionless, he 
relished the moment and imprinted the look on Erestor’s face in his mind. 
He had never seen such rapture on his lover’s face before. 
 
Erestor, afraid to move, waited for Glorfindel to take the initiative. “What 
do we do now?”
 
“Now you make love to me.” Using his tight hold on his lover, he rolled 
Erestor atop of him. He closed his eyes, enjoying the sensation of 
Erestor’s filling him. “Move, Lirimaer. Do not leave me like this.”
 
Erestor thrust cautiously, uncertain of how much power he should use. 
The sigh that left Glorfindel’s lips made him claim them and his tongue 
dived into the hot cavern, dueling wildly. 
 
“Har…der…” groaned Glorfindel when Erestor briefly released his lips. 
He needed more; more friction, more stimulation, and he needed it hard. 
Being on the receiving end was way more pleasurable than he had 
thought, and now that his lover brushed his sweet spot with each stroke, he 
was slowly losing control. Pushing back, he tried to speed up their rhythm. 
 
Erestor took his lover’s hint and thrust harder. Intertwining their fingers, 
he made slow love tot the blond.
 
Unable to keep back any longer, Glorfindel threw back his head, arched 
his hips and gave into ecstasy. “Ai… nîn amdir… harder… and again… 
again… oh, yes… harrrrrdeerrrrrr!” He released a strangled moan, 
reaching orgasm and after tensing, his body relaxed, sated. 
 
Erestor had grown motionless during Glorfindel’s climax and now his 
eyes widened, feeling the blond’s muscle contract around him. 
“Glorfindel… what… is… this? I… I…Oh…” Buried to the hilt, he 
tumbled over the edge, coming hard and releasing his seed deep inside his 
lover’s body. “Oh….” Collapsing atop of his lover, he clung to Glorfindel. 
 
Glorfindel quickly wrapped his arms around Erestor and whispered words 
of reassurance. “Just ride it out. Do not try to stop these feelings. Enjoy 
them.” Rubbing Erestor’s back, he planted an adoring kiss on his lover’s 
hair. 
 
Trembling with ecstasy, Erestor followed his lover’s advice and enjoyed 
the pleasant sensations that were coursing through his body. “I love you… 
nîn faer.” 
 
Wrapped in the other's arms, Glorfindel soothingly stroked Erestor’s hair. 
He could feel his lover soften inside him and he moaned at the loss when 
Erestor’s sex slipped from his body. 
 
Curling around Erestor, Glorfindel held him protectively. “I do not know 
what to say. Words cannot express the feelings I have for you.”
 
“Then let us be quiet instead.” Erestor rested his head on Glorfindel’s 
chest, enjoying its up-and-down movement. The silence was more than 
comfortable; it was reassuring. They didn’t need words to know how deep 
their love was. 
 
Glorfindel realized they should clean up or else they might end up stuck 
together, but he didn’t want to release his lover just yet. Listening to 
Erestor’s deep and steadying breathing, he realized the raven-haired Elf 
had fallen asleep. “Sleep tight, nîn bellas, and may Elbereth always watch 
over you.”
 
TBC
 
Beta read by Ilye, thanks!

Pyn-neth = young ones
Nîn faer = my soul/spirit.


Part 28

Elrond, who was selecting some sweets to take to his rooms with him, 
looked up when Legolas entered the kitchen, asking for water and hot tea. 
One of the maids complied and asked the blond to wait. As Legolas hadn’t 
noticed him yet, Elrond got a good chance to study the younger Elf.

For the most part Legolas’ features mirrored Thranduil’s, but there was 
one great difference; the thoughtful azure eyes. Where Thranduil’s eyes 
were feline and emerald, Legolas’ were as blue as the sea. 

He decided to reveal his presence and walked up to the younger Elf. 
“Greetings, Legolas. I hope you had a pleasant time at the Bruinen?” And 
now that he thought about it, where was Elrohir? Elladan had patrol duty, 
but he had expected Elrohir to join them for dinner. 

Legolas blinked at seeing the half-Elf. He had never been a good liar and 
Elrond would probably realize that he wasn’t telling the truth. Was there a 
way out? “Elrohir is resting. He was a tad tired,” Legolas replied 
eventually. “He asked for some hot tea and I will deliver it to his room 
before turning in for the night myself.” He complimented himself on not 
lying; he had merely omitted the fact that Elrohir had caught a chill that 
was quickly developing into a fever. 

Elrond frowned; it didn’t happen often that Elrohir admitted to being tired, 
but maybe it was his son’s way to gain Legolas’ attention. He judged it 
best to not meddle in his son’s affairs and smiled reassuringly. “I hope he 
will feel rested shortly. And do tell him that I expect to see him at the 
breakfast table.” That was just to make sure nothing was wrong with his 
youngest son. As a parent, he would always feel protective.

Legolas accepted the tray that a maid placed on the table and thanked her. 
“I should return to Elrohir’s rooms now,” he said apologetically. He was 
desperate to get away from Elrond, whose piercing gaze made him feel 
uncomfortable. Elrohir trusted him to keep silent about his chill, but 
Legolas found it increasingly difficult to hide the truth from the elder half-
Elf. Picking up the tray, he headed for the doorway. “I will tell him that 
you want to see him at breakfast.” 

Elrond’s frown vanished and a smug grin appeared instead. Picking up his 
own tray with wine and sweets, he headed for his rooms, where Thranduil 
was eagerly awaiting his return.

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

Elrohir was shivering beneath the covers. Why did he have to catch a chill 
now, when all he wanted was to spend time with Legolas? Growing sad, 
he wondered if he had missed his chance to impress the blond. He was 
afraid that he had made a complete fool out of himself.

Sighing, he pulled the blanket closer around his trembling form. His throat 
felt awfully dry and he longed for the hot tea, which Legolas would 
hopefully bring shortly. 

He did feel like a complete failure for contracting this chill. He had 
planned on entertaining Legolas and making his stay very enjoyable, but 
this cold had sneaked up on him! Angry with himself, he closed his eyes, 
trying to forget just how miserable he was. 

At the sound of the door opening, he peeked out from beneath half-closed 
eyelids. Legolas was carrying a tray and now placed it on the floor, next to 
the bed. The blond wavered momentarily, but then sat down on the edge 
of his bed. 

“I brought you lemon-flavored tea.” Legolas filled a cup.

Reluctantly Elrohir pushed himself into a sitting position. Reaching out, 
his shaky hands curled around the hot cup. After waiting for it to cool 
down, he sipped slowly. “Thank you.” 
 

“You are welcome,” said Legolas, smiling. Raising a hand, he was about 
to place it against Elrohir’s forehead, but not before asking, “May I?”

Elrohir nodded and grew nervous, feeling Legolas’ fingertips brush his 
brow. “It will be some days before the fever goes down.”

“How long did this chill last the last time you had it?”

“About a week.” Elrohir had finished his tea and now cuddled up beneath 
the covers. “And I am not looking forward to being confined to bed for a 
whole week!”

Legolas suddenly recalled Elrond’s words. “Staying in bed might prove 
difficult. When I was fetching your tea your father told me he expected to 
see you at breakfast.”

“I cannot do that!” Elrohir panicked slightly. “He will instantly notice that 
something is wrong!” Another coughing fit overwhelmed him and he rode 
it out under Legolas’ worried look. After regaining his breath, he tried to 
reassure the blond. “Do not look at me like that. It is not like I will die due 
to a cold.”

“Are you sure?” whispered Legolas thoughtfully. 

Elrohir gave the blond a startled look. “I may be half-Elven, but I won’t 
die due to a mere chill.” He wasn’t planning on dying at all! But Legolas’ 
concern deeply touched him. It meant a lot to him that the blond worried 
about him like that. He didn’t want Legolas to leave, but he didn’t have 
the right to take up this much of the other Elf’s time. “You do not have to 
stay here.” 

“I do not mind,” said Legolas shyly. His thoughts returned to Elrond’s 
request that Elrohir be present in the morning. “Maybe you could send 
Elladan in your place?”

Hidden beneath the blanket, Elrohir shook his head. “That won’t work. 
My father can easily tell us apart. Elladan would not be able to fool him, 
and my brother won’t return for at least one more day. It is his turn to lead 
the border patrols this week.”

Legolas didn’t want to say it aloud, but he figured Elrond finding about 
Elrohir’s chill would be a good thing. “Would you like me to stay for the 
night in case you grow worse? I would rather not leave you alone in this 
condition.”

Elrohir shot him hopeful but guilty look. “I am sure you would rest more 
comfortably in your own rooms.”

“I am not that tired,” said Legolas reassuringly. “I will make myself 
comfortable in a chair.”

Elrohir locked eyes with Legolas. “Why don’t you take Elladan’s bed? He 
won’t be home tonight.”

“Are you sure Elladan won’t mind?”

“I am sure.” Elladan would be grateful that Legolas had stayed to look 
after him. 

Legolas moved to the twin bed next to Elrohir’s and propped the pillow 
against the wall. Lying propped up on his side he studied the half-Elf. 
“What does it feel like? Having a cold?”

“I feel miserable,” admitted Elrohir, growing thirsty again. “I feel cold and 
then hot. I cannot stop shaking and my throat feels raw.” 

Legolas pushed himself into an upright position again, already reaching 
for the water. “Would you like another drink?”

“I would love some water.” Elrohir struggled free of the blankets and 
greedily drank the water Legolas offered him. He cherished Legolas’ 
touch when the Elf helped him to get comfortable again. “Thank you for 
staying.” He would have hated being alone tonight.

Legolas settled back onto Elladan’s bed and gave him a warm smile. 
Being able to help Elrohir made him feel warm inside. “I will stay, 
mellon-nîn, and now go to sleep. You need to recuperate.”

Hearing Legolas’ voice soothed him enough to close his eyes and relax. 
Slowly, he surrendered to his exhaustion. But just when he was drifting 
off, Legolas’ hands settled on either side of his face, almost shaking him. 

“Open your eyes! Elrohir!” 

Oops. Elrohir felt guilty as he realized what had happened. Smiling at the 
blond, he rested a shaky hand atop of Legolas’. “You should know that I 
sleep with my eyes closed. I am sorry. I did not mean to startle you.” 
Legolas’ wide eyes grew calm again and Elrohir soothingly rubbed the 
blond’s knuckles. “Sleeping with my eyes closed is normal for me,” he 
paused, and then added, “And for Elladan as well.”

Legolas felt slightly reassured, but wasn’t inclined to remove his hands 
from Elrohir’s face. The half-Elf was close and so were those seductive 
lips. /What am I thinking? He does not feel attracted to me./ The thought 
saddened him, and he resigned himself to just being friends. “I won’t 
overreact again.” 

“You did not know,” said Elrohir. “I should have told you, but…” He had 
to pause again, as another coughing bout tormented his lungs. “I hate 
colds.” Legolas’ fingers combed through his hair, and after steadying his 
breathing, he smiled lovingly at the blond. “I will keep you awake, 
coughing all night long.”

“As I said before, I am not that tired.” Legolas smiled warmly, and 
regretted having to let go of the silk strands. He lay down again and 
resumed watching Elrohir, whose eyes were slowly closing again. Seeing 
those dark eyes close still made him feel apprehensive, but at least now he 
understood what was happening. For one terrible moment he had been 
afraid that half-Elves could die from colds after all!

To his surprise, he found he needed some sort of physical contact to 
reassure himself that Elrohir was fine. Reaching out, he managed to curl 
his fingers around Elrohir’s right hand, which rested above the blanket. He 
rubbed the half-Elf’s fingers, wondering about the strong attraction he felt. 
But he resigned himself to just being Elrohir’s friend, because that was 
what the half-Elf wanted.

Staying awake during the night, he guarded Elrohir’s restless sleep.

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

Glorfindel had lovingly twirled a strand of dark hair around his index 
finger and now enjoyed the sensation it caused against his skin. Making 
love with Erestor had felt incredibly right and he was so happy that his 
lover had been able to take this step. He doubted exchanging vows could 
deepen their relationship further, but he would happily make Erestor his 
officially. Maybe Elrond could help him organize a ceremony. 

Erestor moved in his arms, sighed, and snuggled closer. During the night, 
his lover had rolled onto his other side, allowing the blond to spoon up 
behind him. Releasing the silk strand, he relished running his fingers 
through the raven mane, expecting his fingertips to encounter the scars at 
the nape of Erestor’s neck.

Frowning, he brushed aside the dark hair and probed the skin. Looking 
closely, he realized that the scars were completely gone. A smile surfaced 
on his face; their love had empowered the dark-haired Elf’s healing 
abilities and Erestor had healed eventually. “I love you, nîn ind.”  

Erestor’s eyes slowly regained their awareness and he sighed, hearing 
Glorfindel’s whispered words. Turning around in the blond’s embrace, he 
dotingly looked at the Elda. He brought up his arms behind Glorfindel’s 
back and held his lover close. “I love you too, nîn faer.” Waking up in the 
blond’s arms felt divine. 

“Thank you for trusting me the way you did.” Glorfindel returned to play 
with the raven strands, wondering if he should tell Erestor that the scars 
were gone. But their silence was comfortable and he decided to mention it 
later, once he braided Erestor’s hair. “We should take a bath.”

Erestor nodded, but didn’t want to let go of his lover. His gaze moved to 
the window, realizing it was still night. Ithil still rode the dark sky and it 
would be several hours before Arien rose. 

Glorfindel broke their embrace, slid out of bed and extended his hand. 
“Come with me. I will prepare a warm bath and afterwards we will 
snuggle up together.”

Hearing it phrased like that, Erestor couldn’t resist. He quickly rose to his 
feet and allowed his lover to lead him into the bathroom.


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

Some time during the night Legolas’ worry increased. Violent coughs and 
tremors wracked the half-Elf’s body and at times the eyes opened, only to 
close again. Sitting upright, he reached out and placed his hand on 
Elrohir’s brow. He hissed at the heat that seeped into his fingertips. It felt 
like his charge was burning up. 

“Elrohir? Elrohir!” He tried to awaken him, but Elrohir mumbled 
incoherently in his sleep. 

Legolas frowned; he no longer felt comfortable keeping this a secret. 
Elrond had a right to know that Elrohir wasn’t well. “I am sorry to betray 
your trust, but I cannot let this continue, meldir. A few hours ago you were 
alert and healthy, but now you are growing worse fast. I need to tell your 
father.”

Elrohir didn’t react to his words and Legolas rose from the bed. The last 
time he had seen his father, Thranduil had been moving his belongings to 
Elrond’s rooms, so he decided to head for the half-Elf’s quarters. He 
would have preferred to talk to his father first, but now he would go 
straight to Elrond.

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

“There is someone at the door,” remarked Thranduil, lying propped up in 
Elrond’s bed. He was enjoying a honey-covered sweet and was not 
inclined to leave his warm nest. Elrond on the other hand, still needed to 
undress as the half-Elf had been answering some letters. “Would you get 
it?”

Elrond, amused, glanced at the blond beauty in his bed. He still regretted 
wasting all these centuries by being angry with his lover. Indulging the 
blond, he walked to the doorway and opened the door. “Legolas?” He was 
rather surprised to see the younger Elf on his doorstep. The worried 
expression on Legolas’ face made him feel apprehensive. “Is anything 
wrong?” Why else would Legolas seek him out at this late hour?

Legolas nervously shuffled his feet and averted his eyes. With every 
passing moment he felt guiltier. “May I come inside?” He didn’t want to 
inform Elrond that his son was ill whilst standing in the corridor. 

Hearing his son’s voice, Thranduil’s brow furrowed. “Legolas, is that 
you?” He wrapped a sheet around his waist and got to his feet, whilst 
Legolas walked over to one of the chairs near the balcony. Oh, he knew 
the expression in his son’s eyes; it usually meant trouble.

Legolas cleared his throat, not looking forward to this. Glancing at his 
father, he was nearly overcome by amusement, seeing Thranduil clutch his 
sheet close. But he quickly sobered again. Meeting Elrond’s eyes shyly, he 
said, “It is about Elrohir.”

Elrond’s heart missed a beat. “Is something wrong with my son?” He 
didn’t like the way Legolas was dodging his gaze. He barely refrained 
from storming out of his rooms in search of his youngest son. 

“When we were at the Bruinen, he contracted a chill,” said Legolas. His 
features contorted briefly. “He asked me not to tell you, but I grew 
worried, sitting with him. He feels so hot and I cannot get used to seeing 
him sleep with his eyes closed.” After drawing in a deep breath, he made 
eye contact with Elrond. “I could not keep quiet, seeing him suffer like 
that. I do not want him to be in any pain.”

Elrond shook his head. “What was he thinking? He should have told me!” 
Locking gazes with Legolas, his tone softened. “You did the right thing in 
coming here. Thank Elbereth that you listened to your common sense 
instead of my thick-headed son!”

Legolas swallowed hard. “Is there anything you can do to help him?” 

“I will check on him –now-,” said Elrond determinedly. 

“I am coming with you!” said Legolas at once, but then shied back. “If I 
may.”

Elrond nodded once and then looked at his lover. “Are you coming along 
as well?” Seeing Thranduil nod, he added, “Get dressed first and then join 
us in the twins’ rooms. I cannot have you wander around only wearing that 
sheet!”

Thranduil had the grace to blush weakly. “Go on, I will catch up with you 
later.”  He briefly wanted to ask Legolas to stay, but the concern on his 
son’s face kept him back. When Elrond had told him about Elrohir’s 
crush, he had hoped Legolas would develop feelings for the young half-Elf 
and now he was fairly sure his son had fallen in love as well. 

Legolas tagged along after Elrond, who now rushed from the room. The 
ruler of Imladris was muttering to himself and Legolas tried to stay in the 
background. 

When they reached the twins’ rooms, Elrond rushed inside, not bothering 
to knock. He cursed privately, seeing his son’s sweat-covered brow. “By 
the Grace of the Valar, what were you thinking?” He headed for the bed 
and placed his hand on his son’s brow. “Oh, Elrohir, you are burning up!” 
Looking over his shoulder, he addressed Legolas. “Go to the healing 
house and ask one of the healers to gather the medical herbs that will bring 
down his fever and drive the cold from his body. Go!”

Legolas came to life and immediately ran down the corridor, grateful that 
Elrohir had shown him around earlier. At least now he knew the way 
around! 

Elrond peeled the blanket from his son’s damp body and checked his 
pulse. “Elrohir? Can you hear me?” He took hold of his son’s shoulders 
and shook him gently, trying to wake him. 

Elrohir’s eyes reluctantly opened. A big, dark form appeared in front of 
him, and it took him a moment to identify it, expecting to see Legolas 
instead. “Ada?” What was his father doing here? 

“Why must you always be this stubborn? You take care of everyone 
except yourself. Well, it looks like Legolas and I have to do it for you.”

“Lego…las… Where is he?” He tried to look past his father, but his vision 
was becoming increasingly blurry. 

“I sent him to gather healing herbs,” explained Elrond, who looked over 
his shoulder at the doorway when Thranduil entered. “Would you ask one 
of the servants to bring hot water for tea?”

Thranduil, grateful he could help, nodded once and instructed a maid to 
bring the hot water. Then he returned to Elrohir’s room, coming to a halt 
behind Elrond. Cocking his head, he took in Elrohir’s rumpled 
appearance, and the sight made him wonder. Until now he had never really 
considered the fact that Elrond was half-Elven. “Elrond, can you catch a 
chill as well?” 

Elrond looked up at the blond. “It is possible.”

“Then you should not be tending to him. If you catch a cold we will have 
to nurse you back to health as well. Why don’t you tell me what to do and 
Legolas and I will tend to Elrohir?”

“That won’t be necessary,” said Elrond dismissively. Rationally, 
Thranduil was right, but he wasn’t going to leave his son’s side. “It 
wouldn’t have been this bad if he had come directly to me.”

“But he didn’t. At least let me help then.”

“I think Legolas will want to do that and I do not want the room crowded.”

Thranduil sighed, giving in. “Suit yourself.”

The argument was ended when Legolas returned, carrying several leather 
pouches. He placed them on the floor next to Elrond and then stood back, 
watching eagerly as Elrond sorted out the herbs. 

Thranduil walked over to the door when the maid appeared, and carried 
the hot water over to the bed where he helped Elrond add the right herbs to 
the water. He stirred it, helping the herbs release their healing potential. 
“Legolas, sit down on the bed and help Elrohir sit upright.” He knew 
Elrond was dying to help Elrohir, but he wanted to limit the risk of his 
lover contracting a cold as well. 

Elrond briefly glared at Thranduil, but then realized why his lover was 
acting in this way; Thranduil was concerned for his health. That 
realization made him give in. 

Legolas sat down, pulled Elrohir into a sitting position and then supported 
the half-Elf. 

Elrond placed the cup, filled with the healing essence, against his son’s 
lips and encouraged Elrohir to sip. 

Elrohir, barely coherent due to the fever, swallowed instinctively. After 
emptying the cup, he rested his head against Legolas’ shoulder, relishing 
the other’s closeness. 

“If you tell me what to do I will stay with him and watch over him,” 
offered Legolas, friendly but determined. 

Elrond and Thranduil exchanged a knowing glance. Although he worried 
about his son, Elrond smiled warmly. “I will take you up on your offer.” 
Legolas’ relieved sigh told him how sincere the younger Elf was. “He 
must stay in bed, keep warm, and make sure he drinks a cup of this tea 
every hour. If he is thirsty give him water. I will check on him in the 
morning.”

Locking gazes with Elrohir, Elrond added, “And we will talk once you 
feel better. You should know better than to neglect a chill. I cannot 
understand why you did not come to me! But we will discuss that later. 
Elrohir, you must take better care of yourself. Take the time to recover.”

Elrohir nodded, although he wasn’t sure what his father had just said. 
Elrond’s words sounded distorted. His eyes began to close and he slipped 
back into sleep, resting comfortably against Legolas. The blond felt soft in 
the right places and he cuddled up to him. 

Legolas nervously peeked at Elrond, wondering what the ruler of Imladris 
was thinking, but he relaxed slightly, seeing the amused and approving 
expression on the elder half-Elf’s face. 

“He looks extremely comfortable,” commented Thranduil, enjoying seeing 
Legolas squirm at his words. He couldn’t remember seeing that particular 
expression on his son’s face before. Wasn’t it ironic that his youngest 
would fall for Elrond’s youngest son?

“Stay with him,” said Elrond, rising to his feet. “Use fresh herbs to make 
more tea and do not hesitate to call for me, should Elrohir grow worse. But 
I expect him to sleep peacefully for the rest of the night now that he has 
drunk this healing tea. It should bring down his fever rather quickly.”

Legolas wondered if Elrond expected him to move away from Elrohir. 
After all, Elrohir was Elrond’s son and he would probably like to sit in his 
place and hold his son. 

“No, stay,” said Elrond, raising his hand, reading Legolas’ expression. 
“No need to wake him now. You will have to wake him anyway when it is 
time for his herbal tea.”

Thranduil tucked the blanket back around Elrohir’s form and exchanged a 
smile with his son. “Take good care of him, Legolas.”

“I will, Ada.” Legolas smiled, realizing Elrohir fitted perfectly in his arms. 
Watching the two elder Elves leave, he sighed contented. Now that Elrohir 
was in his arms, he didn’t want to let go ever again.

TBC

Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 29


Legolas watched Elrohir closely and made sure the half-Elf drank the 
healing tea regularly. At some time during the night Elrond checked on 
them, peeking around the door, but seeing Elrohir fast asleep and Legolas 
alert, he closed the door again to let his son rest.

Looking out of the window, Legolas found that Arien was rising and he 
hoped that her warm beams would lure Elrohir from his sleep. He still had 
to admit to the half-Elf that he had betrayed his trust and told Elrond. But 
he hoped Elrohir would understand he had been worried about his health 
and forgive him. 

“Mornin',” said Elrohir in a hoarse tone. Legolas’ big eyes revealed the 
blond’s surprise at finding him awake and Elrohir smiled reassuringly. He 
cherished the touch when Legolas brushed some stray locks from his face. 
“Did you really stay all night long?” And why did he recall seeing his 
father at his bedside?

Legolas nodded once and smiled shyly. “I did.” He moistened his lips and 
then reluctantly continued, “During the night your fever grew worse and 
I… I told your father.”

“Ah, that is why I remember seeing him in my dreams.” Elrohir sighed, 
realizing that Legolas had acted out of concern; he couldn’t possibly be 
cross with the blond. “Was my father angry with me for not telling him?”

“He was not pleased, I can tell you that!” Legolas tried for an amused 
tone, and when Elrohir smiled, he felt relieved that the half-Elf was not 
angry with him. “I was so worried about you! You told me that you sleep 
with your eyes closed, but when the fever worsened, I was afraid you 
might die after all.” The realization that he wanted to wrap his arms 
around the half-Elf reminded him once more of the fact that he was falling 
for Elrohir and he regretted the distance between them. 

Elrohir, who had grown warm, pushed back the covers. Even his sleeping 
robe felt hot. “I am surprised my father is not here right now.”

“Well, that might be –my- father’s doing,” offered Legolas apologetically. 
“He was rather concerned that Elrond might catch a cold as well, so he 
was eager to get your father back to his rooms. I offered to watch over 
you, which he approved of.”

Elrohir, still feeling slightly light-headed and fuzzy due to his fever, 
mumbled, “He is not the only one who approved.” Even in his foggy state 
of mind, Legolas’ frown registered. Oops, had he said that aloud? Oh 
well... maybe he could blame it on his fever. 

“Elrohir, what did you mean by that?” Legolas, seated on the edge of the 
bed, leaned in closer to study Elrohir’s widening eyes. Suddenly he felt 
like he was missing something. 

Elrohir felt torn; should he confess up or continue to hide his attraction? In 
the end, exhaustion made his decision for him. He just didn’t have the 
energy to hide his feelings any longer. “I –like- you,” he whispered, barely 
audible. “A lot.” 

Legolas momentarily forgot to breathe, hearing those words. “I like you 
too, Elrohir.” His heart fluttered madly in his chest, but he was afraid to 
hope Elrohir’s words might mean more. “A lot.”

Elrohir and Legolas stared at another, searching the other’s eyes. In the 
end, it was Elrohir who could no longer bear the tension between them. “I 
have fallen in love with you,” he said, sucking in his breath, afraid of 
Legolas’ reaction. His heart would most certainly break if the blond 
rejected him! And the fever was making him even more emotional! “I 
tried to fight it, because your father and my father are lovers and I thought 
I should love you like a brother and not…” Raving, he averted his eyes. 
He really didn’t want to hear Legolas’ reaction; the rejection that would 
shortly follow. 

Legolas was doing his best to fully understand what Elrohir had just 
admitted to him. “You are in love with me?” His greatest wish was 
quickly becoming reality!

“Aye, it started the moment I met you. I never really believed in love at 
first sight, but my feelings proved me wrong.” Elrohir couldn’t believe he 
was telling Legolas how he felt. “But I know you do not feel the same way 
about me, so—“ He didn’t get a chance to end his sentence as Legolas 
interrupted him. 

“But… how do you know I do not feel the same way about you?” Legolas 
beamed with happiness and smiled giddily at the half-Elf.

“Because… look at you and then at me. I do not compare to you…”

Legolas’ heart contracted painfully in his chest. Was this just about his 
looks? If it was, his heart would break. 

Elrohir instinctively took hold of the blond’s hands and moistened his 
chapped lips. How he wished he could have a drink of water before 
delivering his admission. “There is a light inside you that I never 
witnessed before and it comes from caring about others. You accepted my 
father and me in your life when you did not have to. You escorted me 
home, put me to bed and even now you are still here, taking care of me.” 

Legolas remained quiet. So far Elrohir hadn’t managed to convince him 
that this was really love and not just lust or infatuation. 

“Legolas,” Elrohir started again, his mouth now dry and his throat hurting, 
“We have so much in common! Your mother sailed for Valinor and so did 
mine! You have an older brother, so do I! And let us not forget that our 
fathers are lovers, which is just another factor that binds us!” He actually 
managed to draw a chuckle from Legolas and he sighed, relieved. Maybe 
he still had a chance if he played his cards right! “Legolas, do you really 
have feelings for me?”

Legolas reluctantly nodded his head. “But I am afraid to act on them.”

“Why?”

Realizing how hoarse and raw Elrohir’s voice was, Legolas filled a cup 
with water and handed it to the half-Elf, who sipped slowly after shooting 
him a grateful look. “Because I… do not trust or believe easily.”

“Why?” Elrohir frowned, seeing Legolas shift nervously on the bed.

“I had… suitors before. Male and female, and they told me how much 
they loved me. But when I probed deeper they either were in love with my 
looks or wanted to gain more influence at my father’s court. I learned to 
be cautious.” The look of startled disbelief on Elrohir’s face surprised him. 
“Something like that has never happened to you?”

“Legolas, you are my first… love. I never had these kinds of feelings 
before and no one ever proclaimed to have them for me.” Elrohir shook 
his head in disbelief. “It never occurred to me that you might feel… 
cautious around me.”

“I must admit that I was relieved when you did not make a pass at me,” 
said Legolas, putting down the now empty cup. “But I must also confess 
that I soon regretted that you kept your distance and only wanted to be 
friends. I never felt drawn to someone in that way before and I am glad 
you feel the same way.” Blushing, he weakly squeezed Elrohir’s hand. 

“I would like to give this a chance… when I am feeling better,” Elrohir 
said with a tired smile.

Legolas, feeling shy, looked and slowly nodded his head. “I want to get to 
know you better as well.”

“No pressure,” said Elrohir reassuringly. “We will take things slowly.”

Legolas nodded, feeling thankful. “I would like that too.”

Feeling utterly drained, Elrohir closed his eyes. “I am afraid I am going to 
fall asleep again… I do not want to, but…”

Legolas lovingly brushed a strand of waywaird hair back behind Elrohir’s 
ear and smiled as he continued to watch over his new love, who was 
quickly dozing off.

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

Erestor followed Glorfindel into the dining room where Elrond and 
Thranduil were already eating breakfast. He frowned at seeing the dark 
circles beneath the half-Elf’s eyes and asked, “Did something happen last 
night that I am unaware of?” Sitting down next to Glorfindel, he studied 
Elrond.

Elrond placed his knife on the plate and nodded once. “Aye, but I did not 
deem it necessary to worry you about it.”

“What happened?” asked Glorfindel, placing freshly baked bread and a 
slice of cheese on his plate. 

“Elrohir caught a chill and tried to hide it from me,” said Elrond with a 
sigh. “But I already checked on him. I expect him to be back on his feet 
within the week.”

Erestor did worry, however. “Could I visit him later? Or would you prefer 
that he rests?”

“You may visit,” said Elrond, chuckling softly. “But I suggest you do not 
try to nurse him back to health. Legolas would not like that idea.”

“Legolas?” Glorfindel was beginning to feel lost.

“Elrohir is in love with Legolas,” said Elrond.

“And I know my son well enough to recognize the warmth in his eyes 
when he looks at Elrohir,” added Thranduil, amused. “We should disturb 
them as little as possible, to give them a chance to get to know another.” 

Erestor grinned smugly. “I just knew it.” Seeing Elrond and Thranduil’s 
questioning glances, he added, “I suspected as much, but I was not sure. I 
will keep my visits limited then.”

Elrond smiled, shaking his head. “You could have told me.”

But Erestor didn’t agree. “I did not want to interfere. Love usually finds a 
way when it is supposed to be.” 

Glorfindel’s face radiated love when Erestor squeezed his knee under the 
table. That reminded him he was supposed to ask Elrond a favor. After 
clearing his throat, he drew in a deep breath and looked at his old friend. 
“Erestor and I want to exchange vows. We want to marry officially. 
Would Thranduil and you be our witnesses?” 

Pleased, Elrond released an approving gasp. “Of course! But you should 
invite Elrohir and Elladan as well. The two of you always were very 
important to them and they greatly care about you.” Elrond was rather sure 
that his sons wouldn’t forgive them for not including them when 
exchanging vows.

Erestor nodded and then exchanged a look with Glorfindel. The blond 
nodded as well and Erestor said, “We will wait one week, and when 
Elrohir feels better we will exchange our vows. Elladan and Legolas are 
also invited.” 

“We will be there,” replied Elrond, placing his hand atop his lover’s. 
Maybe in future they would want to exchange vows as well. 

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

Elladan was glad to be returning home. Some uncanny feeling had haunted 
him since leaving his twin behind in Imladris and he was eager to be 
reunited with his brother. For some reason he felt worried and he needed 
to make sure Elrohir was fine. 

He dismounted, told the stable hand to attend to his horse, and headed for 
his rooms. He was desperate to take a bath and change into a fresh set of 
clothes. Opening the door to his rooms, he halted abruptly, seeing Legolas 
hold Elrohir whilst his brother was asleep. A wicked grin surfaced on his 
face. It looked like Elrohir had been successful in his quest to conquer the 
blond’s heart. 

Startled, Legolas looked at the doorway. Seeing Elladan grin at him, he 
wondered how to react to the twin’s presence. His growing nervousness 
made him explain quickly. “Your brother caught a chill and I offered to sit 
with him after Elrond left.”

“A chill?” Elladan walked over to his twin, and after pulling a chair close 
to the bed, he sat down. Studying his brother, he couldn’t repress a 
chuckle. “The last time this happened we were Elflings!”

“We went swimming and the water of the Bruinen was cold,” offered 
Legolas. “I never realized he could catch a chill.”

“It will pass within the week. I had a few chills myself and although they 
made me feel miserable, they will pass.”

Legolas arched an eyebrow. “Elladan? Should you be in here then? If you 
can catch it as well...”

“I could move into some guest rooms,” said Elladan, shrugging. He 
wondered if Legolas’ inquiry was made out of worry or the desire to be 
alone with Elrohir. Elladan’s grin broadened. “I will just collect some of 
my clothes then.” Oh, he didn’t plan to interfere in this matter! If Elrohir 
wanted to be with Legolas, he was happy to oblige!

Whilst collecting his belongings, he watched Legolas closely. The blond 
brushed hair from Elrohir’s face and at times whispered softly. In the end, 
curiosity got the better of him. “You look like you greatly care about 
him.” Legolas’ eyes darted wildly, as if hesitant to make eye contact with 
him. /Interesting./

Legolas nervously cleared his throat. There was no way out of this. Sooner 
or later he had to tell Elladan. “Elrohir told me he is in love with me and 
I… I feel the same way about him.” Averting his eyes, he tightened his 
hold on his charge, as if drawing strength from the trembling form resting 
in his arms. 

Elladan correctly interpret the look in Legolas’ eyes. “Don’t be afraid that 
I will meddle in this affair. I want Elrohir to be happy as well.”

Legolas sighed, relieved. He hadn’t been sure that Elladan would approve. 
“Elrohir and I want to take this slow.”

“Good.” Elladan headed for the bed, carrying a bag with clothes in his 
hand. Briefly, he reached out and rubbed his twin’s brow, which still felt 
clammy and hot. “You have taken good care of him so far. I trust you to 
continue to look after him.” 

“I will,” vowed Legolas, looking deeply into Elladan’s eyes. 

Satisfied, Elladan smiled, whispered words of love to his brother and then 
headed for the doorway. Closing the door behind him, he hoped Elrohir 
and Legolas would be happy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Elrond quietly opened the door to his sons’ rooms and entered 
soundlessly. He smiled, finding both Elves asleep. Legolas must have 
given in to exhaustion at one point, but he was still tightly holding Elrohir 
in his sleep. 

Reassured that his youngest son was recovering, he closed the door behind 
him. He addressed one of the servants and told him to bring more hot 
water to his sons’ rooms so Elrohir could continue to drink of the healing 
tea.

Walking down the corridor, he peeked into his study, finding Glorfindel 
and Erestor working their way through a pile of papers; the backlog of 
these last few weeks. He continued his walk, heading for his rooms, where 
Thranduil was waiting for him. 

Now that Elrohir couldn’t lead the border control, Thranduil had offered to 
take over and Elrond wanted to say goodbye to his lover. It was amazing; 
Thranduil wasn’t gone yet and he already missed him!

Entering his rooms, he found his lover girding on his sword. He was 
reminded of that one shameful moment when he had thought Thranduil 
had attacked Elladan. 

He really didn’t want his lover to leave, but duty called and it meant a lot 
to him that Thranduil was willing to help protect Imladris. 

Thranduil turned around and met his lover’s stormy eyes. He knew Elrond 
didn’t want him to leave, but he refused to let the half-Elf lead the patrols 
instead. Imladris needed Elrond safe and sound in the Last Homely House. 
“Do not worry about me. I will be back in a few days.”

Elrond nodded and forced himself to smile. “Promise me to be careful.”

“There have been no sightings of Orcs for quite some time now, and even 
if they dared attack, they would find me more than they can handle. I 
disarmed you, didn’t I?”

Thranduil’s words slightly reassured Elrond. “Just be careful.”

“I promise.” Thranduil planted a possessive kiss on his lover’s lips and 
then marched out of the room. 

/Hurry back to me,/ thought Elrond, his heart contracting in pain. /Always 
come back to me!/

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

Elrohir dotingly looked at Legolas, obediently eating the small pieces of 
fruit the blond was feeding him. He wasn’t sure if it was due to his father’s 
healing tea or Legolas’ excellent care – probably a combination of both - 
but he was beginning to feel better.

Legolas offered him a slice of an orange, and as he wrapped his tongue 
around it, he accidentally licked the blond’s index finger as well. To his 
surprise, Legolas blushed fiercely and muttered something unintelligible. 
“Sorry,” Elrohir whispered, realizing Legolas was feeling shy. “I did not 
do it on purpose.” 

Legolas offered him a weak smile. “This is going to be awkward.”

“In what way?”

“You are my first lover and, from what you told me, you are untouched as 
well. It makes me wonder if either of us knows what we are doing.”

“Oh, do not worry about that! I am sure we will figure everything out.” 
Elrohir felt lost staring into the azure eyes. “Aiya, the way you make me 
feel...”

Legolas chuckled softly. “You are doing the same thing to me.”

Elrohir raised a hand and buried his fingers in the flaxen hair. Legolas was 
right. Neither of them knew what to do. /But that does not matter. The 
only thing that matters is that we love one another./

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

Two days later, Elrond finally allowed Elrohir to leave his bed for the first 
time. Elrohir wasn’t sure how he felt about that; he had loved being fussed 
over by Legolas. 

Pushing back the covers, he swung his feet to the floor whilst being 
closely observed by three pairs of concerned eyes; his father, Elladan and 
Legolas. “Stop looking at me like that… Please!” He was growing uneasy 
beneath their stares. “The fever is down and I no longer feel groggy!”

Legolas lowered himself and sat on his heels, gathering Elrohir’s hands in 
his. “We are worried. We cannot help it.”

“I know you are worried,” said Elrohir, softly, “But I do feel better!” 
Momentarily forgetting his father and brother’s presence, he stroked back 
a strand of golden hair behind Legolas’ ear. “At least now you are no 
longer stuck with me in these rooms. Once I am back on my feet, we—“

Elladan cut his twin short. “Don’t even think about leaving our rooms yet! 
Ada told you to stay indoors for a few more days.”

Elrond fiercely nodded his head. “You are –not- leaving these rooms, 
Elrohir!”

Elrohir sighed. Still holding Legolas’ hands, he slowly pushed himself 
onto his feet.

Legolas immediately reached out to steady Elrohir if necessary, but the 
half-Elf seemed to have recovered nicely and was steady on his feet. 
Somewhat reassured, Legolas walked beside Elrohir when the half-Elf 
headed for the bathroom. After closing the door behind his charge, he 
turned and looked at Elrond. “He is getting better.”

“He is.” Elrond still felt slightly disappointed that Elrohir hadn’t confided 
in him about the chill, but realized his son had had his reasons for keeping 
quiet. But that didn’t mean he wouldn’t lecture Elrohir about it when his 
son had recovered. “Continue to keep an eye on him, Legolas. Elrohir 
always worries about others, but tends to neglect himself.”

“I will watch over him,” said Legolas, smiling. The bemused looks he was 
getting made him worry that their love was no longer a secret. Had 
Elladan and Elrond realized Elrohir and he were in love? Legolas blushed 
and wrung his hands behind his back. 

Elrond moistened his lips, sensing Legolas’ discomfort. Now that Elrohir 
wasn’t close, he decided to address this matter. “I assume Elrohir told you 
that he is in love with you?”

“I suspected you knew,” whispered Legolas, feeling ill at ease. 

Elrond raised a hand and rested it on Legolas’ shoulder. “Elrohir came to 
me a few days ago and admitted he had lost his heart to you. For one 
moment I feared his feelings were one-sided, but it seems you feel the 
same way about him -- or am I wrong?”

“You are right,” admitted Legolas. His gaze shifted from Elrond to 
Elladan. “But I do not feel very confident about courting him. I would like 
your blessing first. I want both of you to approve of this relationship 
before it deepens.”

Elrond squeezed Legolas’ shoulder gently. “You have my blessing, 
Legolas. And I very much approve of the choice of Elrohir’s heart. You 
will be good for him.” 
 

Legolas breathed a relieved sigh, hearing Elrond’s words, but he still had 
to face Elladan. Looking at the half-Elf, he said, “I know Elrohir and you 
are close and I do not want to come between you, but… I love him.” 

Elladan could tell by the expression in Legolas’ eyes that the blond wasn’t 
sure of his reaction. Elladan smiled warmly and nodded once. “It was love 
at first sight for Elrohir. I know, because I was there when he admitted his 
feelings for you. Make him happy, Legolas, for he deserves to be happy. 
And don’t ever hurt him, because if you do, you will answer to me.”

Legolas paled, but then saw the wicked grin on Elladan’s face. “Uhm, and 
I think Valthoron will be rather upset if Elrohir hurt me,” said Legolas, 
teasingly. “That is what older brothers are like, aren’t they?”

Elladan laughed warmly and exchanged a pleased look with his father. 
 
Elrond smiled as well and headed for the bathroom when Elrohir appeared 
in the doorway.

Elrohir, having heard Elladan laugh, narrowed his eyes and stared 
questioningly at his brother. Had something happened during his short 
stay in the bathroom? Then his gaze drifted to Legolas and he felt relieved, 
seeing the grin on the blond’s face; Elrohir instantly knew everything was 
well. 

After allowing his father to escort him to one of the chairs next to the 
window, he sat down. “It is rather crowded in here. Don’t you think so, 
Legolas?”

Elrond and Elladan chuckled softly. “That is our hint to leave,” said 
Elladan, pleased that the attraction between his brother and Legolas was 
mutual. 

“But do not get –too- comfortable,” said Elrond, wickedly, “I will check 
on you later. Both of you had better behave!” 

Elrohir grinned, seeing the blush on Legolas’ face. “I cannot guarantee we 
will!” 

Elrond and Elladan left the room, both shaking their head in mock 
annoyance. 

Elrohir signaled for Legolas to sit with him and after the blond had seated 
himself on the windowsill, he gathered his companion’s hands in his. “I 
thought they would never leave.”

“But they are right. You should rest.”

“Oh, I will, provided you will stay here with me.”

Legolas gave Elrohir a radiant smile. “Oh, I will…”

TBC

Beta read by Ilye, thanks!


Part 30



The week had passed quickly and now Elrohir was getting himself ready 
to attend the ceremony that would officially bind Erestor and Glorfindel. 
When he had heard about their plans he had been extremely pleased and 
happy for both of them. And when Erestor had asked him to help him get 
ready, he had eagerly accepted. But he still regretted having to leave 
Legolas’ side, even if it only was for a few hours. 

Elladan had offered to take the blond under his wing and his twin had 
taken Legolas for a ride, showing him more of Imladris. Elrohir sighed; 
Legolas and Elladan had only been gone for a few minutes and he already 
missed both of them. 

Knocking on the door to Glorfindel’s rooms, he grinned, hearing the 
nervous edge to Erestor’s tone when his former mentor told him to enter. 
Elrohir stepped inside and closed the door behind him. A bemused laugh 
escaped him, seeing the state Erestor was in. 

The elder Elf stood in front of the dressing table, wrapped in towels. His 
hair was a tangled mess and confusion shone from his eyes. Staying calm, 
Elrohir advanced on his friend. 

“I do not know where to start,” said Erestor, pointing at himself. 

“Let us attend to your hair first. Sit down.” Elrohir waited for Erestor to 
seat himself in front of the mirror and then reached for brush and comb. 
Glorfindel had asked him to make sure Erestor wore the golden circlet and 
the flower-shaped beads in his hair, and Elrohir had happily assured the 
Elda that he would take care of it. 

Untangling the raven mass of hair, he glanced at Erestor’s reflection in the 
mirror. “You seem nervous, meldir.”

“I am,” admitted Erestor in a hoarse tone. “I am afraid that Glorfindel will 
realize he is making a mistake and will reconsider. I know I am driving 
myself crazy that way, but a part of me still cannot believe he wants to 
spend the rest of his life with me.”

Elrohir smiled reassuringly. “Erestor, Glorfindel loves you. And in your 
heart you know that. You just need to hear Glorfindel say it a few more 
times.” Now that he had untangled the dark mane, he began to weave the 
flower-shaped beads into Erestor’s hair. “Speaking of Glorfindel, where is 
he?”

“Elrond offered to keep him company until the ceremony takes place. I am 
so nervous that I was making him nervous in turn!” Erestor fidgeted with a 
corner of a towel. “It is just… I still expect Glorfindel to cancel the 
ceremony.”

This time Elrohir remained quiet, concentrating on braiding Erestor’s hair. 
He hoped that his former tutor would feel more confident once their vows 
had been exchanged. “Have you already prepared your vows?”

Erestor nodded and Elrohir barely refrained from uttering a soft curse; 
wayward strands of hair escaped his fingers as the braid was undone, and 
he had to start anew. “Keep still.” The fact that Erestor managed a weak 
smile reassured Elrohir. 

“I haven't needed to prepare any vows. I already carry them with me in my 
heart.”

Elrohir’s smile broadened. “You are a romantic soul, Erestor.”

The comment made Erestor blush slightly. “No one has ever said that 
before.”

Elrohir laughed softly. “Oh, I am sure Glorfindel will in the future.” 
Having finished another braid, he continued to weave in the last few 
beads. The golden beads and circlet did suit Erestor’s dark hair and brown 
eyes. He even thought he saw golden specks in the dark orbs. 

Erestor remained motionless, and when Elrohir began to weave the circlet 
into his hair, his breath caught. A few weeks ago he had seen a stranger in 
the mirror and Glorfindel had merely smiled at hearing this. But now the 
happy and contented Elf that looked back even felt like him. Glorfindel 
truly completed him. Now that he felt happy, he was scared to lose 
Glorfindel. What if the Elda reconsidered and called off the ceremony? 
This question had tormented him for the last few hours and was the very 
reason why he had shooed Glorfindel from their rooms. He didn’t want the 
blond to say the words that would take away his happiness. 

Elrohir had a pretty good idea what was haunting Erestor and wished there 
were some magical words that would take away the Elf’s fears, but there 
weren’t any. Now that he had finished weaving the circlet into Erestor’s 
hair, he stepped away from the dressing table and opened Glorfindel’s 
closet. “What do you want to wear?”

Erestor slowly rose to his feet and joined the half-Elf. He pointed at the 
mauve robes Glorfindel loved to see him in. 

“A good choice,” said Elrohir, pleased. He straightened the fabric and 
placed the robes on the bed. Erestor had disappeared into the bathroom 
and emerged a few moments later, wearing a beige linen shirt that would 
go underneath the robes. He allowed Elrohir to help him into the robes and 
then let the half-Elf fuss over his hair again. 

“Perfect.” Elrohir nodded his head once. “Glorfindel will fall in love with 
you all over again." He collected a pair of soft leather boots, and whilst 
Erestor stepped into them, he watched the elder Elf closely. 

Erestor still felt skeptical, looking into the mirror once more. It was 
obvious that he had changed these last few months, and that was due to 
everyone’s apparent care. He seriously doubted he could have coped with 
his father’s visit without everyone’s help. Elrohir and Thranduil especially 
had made him see how much they cared about him. 

And Glorfindel? The blond was a completely different matter. What he 
felt for Glorfindel was so deep, so unique, that his heart wept when the 
Elda wasn’t close; like now. 

“Erestor?” 

Elrohir and Erestor looked at the doorway, seeing Thranduil standing 
there. The Elf carried a small wooden box in his right hand and when he 
advanced on Erestor, he presented the box to the nervous Elf. A few days 
ago, Erestor had come to him, asking for help, which he had happily 
supplied. “I hope this is was what you were looking for.”

Elrohir strained to see the contents of the box when Erestor opened it, but 
all he caught was a flash of gold in the sunlight. Following tradition, 
Erestor and Glorfindel had decided to exchange wedding bands and he 
figured that this one was meant to go on the Elda’s finger.

Erestor gasped. “Aye, it is beautiful.” Smiling weakly, he looked at 
Thranduil. “Thank you for taking care of his for me.” He had known he 
could count on his former protector. After slipping the small box into one 
of his pockets, he slowly wrapped his arms around Thranduil’s shoulders. 
He had begun to realize that his touches and embraces were welcomed by 
his friends, but he still felt hesitant reaching out in this way to any other 
than Glorfindel. 

Thranduil carefully returned the embrace, as Erestor trembled against him. 
“You have come such a long way, Erestor. You have made me proud.”

Pulling back just enough to look at Thranduil, Erestor raised an eyebrow. 
The blond was still holding him close, and the expression in Thranduil’s 
eyes was reassuring. Now that Erestor was letting his guard down, he 
found it easier to welcome a friend’s touch. “Proud?”

Thranduil smiled warmly before addressing his former protégé. “I already 
felt as protective as a father when it came down to you, Erestor, but now I 
feel as proud as a father would of his son.”

Erestor blushed fiercely. He should have known Thranduil would say 
something like that. “But I am not your son.”

Thranduil’s features contorted in displeasure. “Why do you say that?”

“It is the truth,” replied Erestor, averting his eyes. Suddenly the loose 
embrace was becoming awkward, but Thranduil refused to release him. 

Choosing his words carefully, Thranduil said, “I would be honored if you 
looked upon me as your father.” Eridhren had been a pitiful excuse for a 
parent and Thranduil wanted Erestor to know that he did have a family if 
he wanted one. “My wife greatly cared about you and we even tried to 
convince your father to let us raise you. If he had agreed, you would have 
grown up as my son.” 

Elrohir beamed at hearing Thranduil’s words and gently poked Erestor’s 
side. “Do it,” he whispered impatiently. Whenever Legolas mentioned 
Thranduil, it was with much love and admiration in his voice. Thranduil 
made an excellent father and Elrohir strongly suspected his former tutor 
did need someone in his life to fulfill that parental role. 

Erestor’s blush deepened. “I am not worthy of such an honor.”

“Ah, but you are!” Thranduil pulled Erestor close, hugged him tight and 
planted a chaste kiss on the younger Elf’s hair. “You are one of the kindest 
souls I have ever met… my son.”

Hearing those last two words brought tears to Erestor’s eyes. Eridhren had 
never called him his son and never had there been a kind and gently tone 
to his father’s voice. Feeling emotional, he briefly rested his head on 
Thranduil’s shoulder, relishing the feel of the powerful arms around him. 
A few weeks ago, being held like that would have truly upset him. “Diola 
lle, Adar.”

Thranduil’s eyes radiated pride, hearing Erestor thank him and call him 
father. Looking past Erestor, his gaze locked with Elrohir, who was 
smiling warmly. 

“Come, Erestor, it is time to go to the Halls of Fire. Glorfindel will be 
waiting impatiently,” said Elrohir, when Erestor finally stepped away from 
Thranduil, breaking the embrace. “It is time to speak the vows and to 
become one soul.”

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

Glorfindel nervously looked at Elrond. “Would you mind checking on 
them? What can possibly be keeping them?” Flanked by Elrond, Elladan 
and Legolas, he stood in the Hall of Fire, impatiently waiting for Erestor 
to arrive. 

“He is not late –yet-,” said Elrond amused. “Do not worry, meldir. Erestor 
will be on time.” This was a joyous day indeed. Finally two souls would 
become one and he was happy that Erestor and Glorfindel would live their 
lives united in love and understanding. 

Glorfindel looked over at Elladan and whispered, “Are you sure you have 
the ring? You did not lose it?” 

Elladan, grinning at the blond’s nervousness, showed him the box, which 
held the ring Glorfindel intended for Erestor. “It is safe and sound.”

Glorfindel shuffled his feet, wishing Erestor would hurry. His heart ached 
now that the other half of his soul wasn’t near. He hadn’t thought it 
possible, but being apart from Erestor hurt physically. The next time he 
was sent on a mission or patrol he either had to take Erestor with him –
which wasn’t really an option - or suffer heartbreak, being away from his 
dark-haired lover. Sighing deeply, his gaze shifted to the doorway, hoping 
Erestor would appear there any moment now.

Elrond placed his hand on the blond’s arm in an effort to reassure 
Glorfindel. “Thranduil and Elrohir are with him. They will make sure 
Erestor gets here.”

“What if he has had second thoughts?” Glorfindel frowned, feeling 
miserable. “What if he realizes…”

“Look,” whispered Legolas into Glorfindel’s ear. “They have arrived.”

The worry faded from Glorfindel’s mind, seeing his lover wearing the 
circlet and the mauve robes that he loved to see him in. “Erestor…” He 
nearly broke out into a run, wanting to wrap his arms around his lover, but 
Elrond’s hand, resting on his arm kept him in place. 

Erestor now began to blush. Elrohir and Thranduil had reassured him that 
Glorfindel hadn’t changed his mind and now that the blond was waiting 
for him, he felt incredibly relieved. Glorfindel still wanted him! Swaying 
momentarily, he felt Thranduil rest a hand against the small of his back for 
support. He gave the elder Elf a thankful look and then came to a halt next 
to Glorfindel, who immediately offered him his hand. Erestor curled his 
fingers possessively around Glorfindel’s and their gazes entwined.

Thranduil and Elrohir remained standing behind Erestor, just in case their 
charge needed their support. The Sinda Elf smiled at Elrond, exchanging a 
pleased look with his lover. 

Elrohir’s eyes were drawn to Legolas, who soundlessly moved toward him 
to stand at his side, slipping his hand into the half-Elf’s.

Elrond cleared his throat, trying to gain the couple’s attention. “Erestor? 
Glorfindel?” Required to remain serious, he chuckled privately, whilst 
keeping a straight face. The two Elves had a hard time tearing their gazes 
away from another to look at him. 

Erestor forced his eyes away from Glorfindel and stared at Elrond. He was 
constantly repeating his vows mentally, afraid he would forget the words 
when the moment came to speak them.

Glorfindel continued to stare at Erestor. He should be focusing on Elrond 
as well, but he was relieved that Erestor hadn’t changed his mind and still 
wanted to take the vows. Erestor had never looked more attractive to him; 
the circlet and golden beads already told everyone who wanted to know 
that Erestor was his, and he cherished the fact that his lover had been 
willing to wear them for him tonight. Ignoring Elrond, he whispered, “You 
look beautiful tonight, nîn amdir.”

Erestor radiated warmth and affection. He gently rubbed his lover’s 
knuckles and briefly brought Glorfindel’s hand to his lips, bestowing a 
kiss on the back. “You are a vision too, nîn faer.” Glorfindel had dressed 
in mint robes and wore a dark green cloak, which brought out the golden 
glow to his hair. “I love you…”

Elrond cleared his throat again, this time giving them a stern look. “I 
would like to start now.”

Glorfindel chuckled softly and gave Erestor an apologetic look. “Later,” 
he said, hinting at the upcoming night, which most certainly would be 
filled with passionate lovemaking. To his delight, Erestor squirmed next to 
him, already craving that intimacy.

Elrond raised an eyebrow, hoping they would finally let him proceed. 
Taking Glorfindel’s nod as his cue, he said, “The Hall of Fire is always 
warm, always bright, and when I look upon the two of you, I see warmth 
and fire in your gazes and touches. A fiery love binds the two of you, 
which started as a fragile spark - which could have easily been smothered 
by the past. But instead it grew stronger and blazed radiantly.”  

Erestor’s gaze met Glorfindel’s again and their fingers remained tightly 
entwined. 

Elrond continued, realizing he wouldn’t have their full attention during 
this ceremony. They were too focused on one another… and wasn’t that 
the way it should be? “Both of you prepared vows. Who wants to speak 
them first?”

Erestor nodded quickly, still scared he might forget the words. “May I go 
first?” 

Glorfindel smiled indulgently. “Of course.”

Erestor swallowed past the lump that had formed in his throat. 
“Glorfindel, I thought long and hard about what to say, and always the 
same words tumbled from my lips. I love you, I love you, I love you. I 
have loved you since you arrived in Imladris, but I hid my feelings. I was 
so certain that you would reject me and hurt me that I never dared to let 
my feelings show.”

“Aiya, nîn ind,” whispered Glorfindel, rubbing Erestor’s fingers. 

“Please let me continue.” Erestor drew in a deep breath. “But now that I 
do have you, I vow to love you, protect you and make you happy. When 
you are sad, I will cheer you up. When you are troubled, I will listen to 
you. When you are happy, I will laugh with you. I want to be there for you 
as long as you will live. I will never stop loving you.”

Glorfindel’s eyes were swimming and he longed to wrap his arms around 
Erestor, but he couldn’t, not yet. He had to wait until the ceremony had 
been completed. In the mean time, he settled for running his fingertips 
over the palm of Erestor’s hands. 

“The ring…” whispered Thranduil, when Erestor continued to stare at 
Glorfindel. 

Thranduil’s voice broke Erestor from his reverie. He regretted letting go of 
Glorfindel’s hands for the briefest of moments, but he had to, opening the 
box and removing the ring from it. 

Glorfindel’s heart missed a beat when Erestor slipped the ring around his 
finger. 

“I want you to have this ring because it symbolizes my love for you.” It 
was a stunning gold ring in the shape of a heart, and in its center sat a 
ruby, sparkling with a fiery glow. “You have captured my heart, and it 
now beats only for you,” finished Erestor shyly. 

“Oh, Erestor…” Glorfindel was unable to keep his distance any longer and 
folded his arms around his dark-haired lover, pulling him close and deeply 
inhaling his scent. “My heart beats in the same rhythm as yours, nîn ind. It 
always will… until it stops beating all together.”

Erestor breathed a relieved sigh, realizing Glorfindel liked his gift. “And 
so will mine…”

Elrond sighed dramatically, wondering why they had asked him to be 
master of the ceremony. He had the distinct impression that they didn’t 
need one. “Glorfindel, are you ready to say your vows?”

Glorfindel nodded eagerly. He reluctantly released Erestor from the hug, 
but gathered his lover’s hands close to his own chest, holding them there. 
“Erestor, a few months ago I found love where I least expected it. For 
centuries I allowed you to keep me at a distance when I should have been 
trying to look behind your mask of indifference. And when I finally did, I 
looked at the face of love instead. Erestor, you are my life. I will always 
love and cherish you -- protect you if necessary and my heart will always, 
-always- be yours to command. You are my llife, nîn ind.”

Elladan stepped forward and handed him the jewelry box, which 
Glorfindel quickly opened. 

Erestor’s eyes widened, when Glorfindel slipped the ring onto his finger. 
It was a beautiful golden ring, adorned with a golden flower and leaves, 
set with emeralds. 

Seeing the expression in Erestor’s eyes, Glorfindel explained, “Imladris’ 
finest goldsmith worked on it day and night. I want you to wear the golden 
flower of Gondolin, nîn ind.”

Struck speechless, Erestor flung himself at Glorfindel and kissed him, 
hard, on his lips. 
 

Elrond chuckled and met Thranduil’s pleased gaze. “May Elbereth bless 
your love and keep you safe.” Actually, he wondered if Erestor and 
Glorfindel had heard him at all, as they were kissing one another 
passionately. 

Elrohir sighed blissfully, and squeezed Legolas’ hand, which rested in his. 
Looking at his new lover, he wondered if Legolas also wanted to kiss him. 
They hadn’t kissed yet, preferring to let everything happen in its natural 
pace. Suddenly Elladan poked him in his side.

“What are you waiting for? Kiss him!” Elladan grinned, wickedly, seeing 
his twin shuffle his feet.

Moving closer, Elrohir rested his hand at the nape of the blond’s neck, and 
then placed a gentle kiss on Legolas’ lips.

Legolas eagerly accepted and answered the kiss, pulling Elrohir even 
closer. Once his lips were released he looked dotingly at Elrohir; there was 
no need for words. Both knew their love would prosper in time.

Thranduil, who had walked up behind Elrond, wrapped his arms around 
the half-Elf’s waist and pressed him close. 

Erestor and Glorfindel had to break the kiss, growing breathless, and they 
looked apologetically at Elrond. In the end, Erestor said, “Thank you for 
everything, Elrond. I do not know what would have happened if you had 
not given me sanctuary all these centuries ago…” His voice trailed off, 
unable to finish.

Glorfindel hugged him tight, disliking the saddened tone to his mate’s 
voice. “But all is well now. You had to travel a long and weary road, but it 
led you here, right into my arms. And you feel so right in them.”

Erestor gave Glorfindel a warm smile. “Aye, it feels right being in them.”

Glorfindel nuzzled the back of his mate’s neck. Yes, it was true; the mask 
of indifference was gone and what shone from Erestor’s face was love. 
Pure love. 

Burying Erestor in a tight embrace, he entwined their fingers and rested 
them against his chest, just above his heart. Elbereth had truly blessed 
them and he would love Erestor until the End of Days.

THE END!
April 2003

Beta read by Ilye. Thanks sweetie, it was an awesome job that you did!