Title: The Dawning, 1/? Author: Larien Elengasse Type: FPS Characters: Glorfindel/Erestor, Legolas/Elladan/Elrohir (eventually) Beta: Alex Rating: NC-17 Archive: Rhovanion, OEAM, Mirrormere, Melethryn, Library of Moria. All others please ask. WARNING: Graphic depictions of sexual acts between males, PWP, a wee bit of angst and romance. Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I am sure he would be horrified if he read this… Feedback: Yes please, larienelengasse@yahoo.com Author's Notes: This is a continuation of what has become a string of fics starting with "The Wager"; the Glorfindel/Erestor bug bit me again after a long respite. Since the string has been written out of sequence, this one follows "The Wager" chronologically. Summary: Glorfindel returns home from patrol to find a party and a prince. Erestor stood on the periphery of the dance floor. The Hall of Fire was performing the role it was meant to play; it was hosting a party. The Prince of Mirkwood had arrived on his first official trip and a lavish celebration was being thrown in his honor. Elves, male and female alike, swirled and twirled on the dance floor as music danced upon the air. Elrond sat upon the small, informal dais, smiling at his guests as he enjoyed the music. His sons sat beside him, Elladan and Elrohir were smiling at the prince as Arwen talked quietly with him. Erestor was dressed in his customary black robes, his raven hair pulled behind his head and held with a jeweled clip. His hands were clasped in front of him, long fingers interlocked as he watched the guests with bored detachment. He hated these formal gatherings; it was like working during his off-hours. If he could not throw decorum to the wind, he would rather be reading a good book. He gazed upon the prince with mild curiosity. The heir to the throne of Mirkwood, such as it was, had certainly inherited his father's beauty and charm. Arwen was ever the gracious hostess, and polite as Prince Legolas was, he could see his attention was focused elsewhere. It took quite a bit to draw attention away from Arwen. The Evenstar was resplendent as ever in her pale blue gown and silver beaded headdress. However, Legolas' gaze was drawn away time and again by Elladan and Elrohir. Erestor did not know what Thranduil's preference was for evening entertainment, but he could see that Legolas preferred the male variety. "Tread carefully, young prince," Erestor murmured. "You know not what you are playing with." "Do you?" Glorfindel's deep voice caused Erestor to jump. The warrior was the only one who could sneak up on him. He began to turn around, but Glorfindel grasped his shoulders and kept him facing forward. "Glorfindel," he breathed. "You startled me..." "Caught you daydreaming, did I? Perhaps fantasizing about a certain young prince?" "Daydreaming? About Prince Legolas? Do not be foolish," Erestor grumbled. "What are you doing here? I thought your patrol was not returning for another two days." "We came home early. All was quiet and the new troops were anxious to go on duty." Glorfindel murmured next to Erestor's ear, "I just arrived. I took the time to bathe and change clothes before coming to meet the prince." "Thank the Valar, you always smell so delightful after spending a fortnight in the woods." Erestor's eyes widened as he felt Glorfindel press against his back. The warrior's hands came to rest upon his hips and his chin upon his shoulder. "I am surprised that you came, I know how you loathe these formal affairs," he continued quietly. Glorfindel chuckled and answered, "No more than you do, my friend." Glorfindel breathed in Erestor's scent and smiled. " Mmm... Orange and vanilla, you smell good enough to eat, counselor." Erestor drew a soft shuddering breath as Glorfindel's hands stroked his hips, hoping the sound was covered by the soft rustling of velvet. "Glorfindel, what are you doing?" "What does it feel like I am doing? I am attempting to seduce you, though apparently I am failing miserably." "We are at a formal affair, the guests can see us!" Erestor gasped under his breath. "Or perhaps I have fallen out of favor with you; perhaps my charms have worn thin so soon." "I..." Erestor stammered. It was just like Glorfindel to be so blunt and forward. "Excuse me, my friend. I must go introduce myself to the prince." Glorfindel left Erestor standing on the edge of the dance floor feeling flushed and over-heated as he watched Glorfindel cross the floor toward the dais. Erestor watched as Glorfindel knelt before the prince, covering his heart with his hand. Legolas was understandably impressed; there were few that were not upon meeting Glorfindel. The way the prince smiled at Glorfindel, the subtle way he tilted his head caused Erestor to flush even more from envy. "Really, Glorfindel," he murmured to himself. "Must you be such a rogue?" An official that had arrived from Lórien approached, and Erestor tried to escape but saw that it was too late. He would now be cornered and trapped into a conversation about political alliances and trade negotiations for the rest of the evening. * * * * The music had stopped and the guests retired by the time Erestor finally escaped the Lórien diplomat. He walked down the long, dark corridors toward his room, rubbing his temples. He had lost sight of Glorfindel not long after the tiresome Silvan had cornered him and he found himself imaging the Elda luxuriating in the prince's bed. He was both confused and surprised at his own reactions. Ever since the fateful night of the wager, he had often found his thoughts drifting toward Glorfindel in ways they had not before. The Elda was a wonderful lover, but Erestor had wonderful lovers before. What was so different this time? What was so different about this one, fleeting encounter? He found himself in front of the Elda's door, gazing at the warm glow of firelight that spilled from underneath the door. He leaned forward, pressing his ear to the door to see if Glorfindel had company, so he was in a somewhat awkward position when that door opened. "Oh!" He tried to catch himself but pitched forward, missing the doorjamb with fingers. He fell squarely into Glorfindel's arms, his face getting mashed against the warrior's strong, bare chest. "Erestor, what a pleasant surprise." Glorfindel fought not to laugh as he held the counselor by the arms and looked down upon the top of his head. Erestor quickly regained his feet, smoothing his robe and straightening his hair. "I was just passing by and thought I heard the sound of an elf in distress." A broad grin curved Glorfindel's lips as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Is that so? Strange, I heard nothing besides your footsteps halting outside my door." "My footsteps," Erestor huffed. "You knew it was me, did you?" "Of course," Glorfindel answered. "I have been listening to those footsteps for over two ages, I would recognize them anywhere." "And how is that?" Erestor now crossed his arms over his chest and raised a single raven brow. "You walk from heel to toe, with more of your weight on the outside of your foot than on the inside, and there are longer pauses in between footfalls than with your average elf." Erestor looked down at his feet, the eyebrow still arched. "Really? I do?" Glorfindel chuckled. "Yes, Erestor, you do. What happened to you? After chatting with the prince, I saw you were not where I left you." "I was supposed to wait for you, was I? Like a good, trained elf?" "No, Erestor. You were not supposed to wait for me. You seemed comfortable in that spot, if you can be comfortable anywhere. I expected you to be there, that is all I meant." Erestor grumbled and shifted his weight onto one leg. "I was cornered by Lord Celeborn's foreign trade ambassador. He pulled me aside and questioned me for the better part of two hours about grain shipments and wine harvests." He peered around the warrior's shoulder. "Have I interrupted something? You are in a state of undress." "No, I was just preparing to retire for the evening. Come inside and have a brandy with me." "No, no... You must be tired after patrol. I will be going." "Come inside." "No, really, it is late, I should be..." "Erestor!" "What!" "For Eru's sake, come in and have a drink with me." "Fine." Erestor crossed the threshold into Glorfindel's chamber. His eyes drifted to the turned down bed, remembering the last time he was in this particular room. He could not stop the smile that curved his lips when he saw the wreath that Glorfindel wore that night hanging from one of the bedposts. "Something amusing?" Erestor turned and took the proffered glass of brandy. "I was just noticing the change in decor." He motioned toward the wreath. Glorfindel smiled. "Ah yes, that. I have fond memories of that evening." Erestor took a sip of the brandy and muttered, "Indeed." He moved to the doorway that led onto the balcony and gazed out over the gardens. "Am I the only one?" Erestor shivered as the cool air drifted in through the window. "What do you mean? The only one what?" Glorfindel sighed. "That has fond memories of that evening... Sweet Elbereth, Erestor, must you make this so difficult?" "Yes." "Why?" "Because if it were easy you would not appreciate me so much." "Who says I appreciate you now?" "I do. If you did not, I would not be here and we would not be having this conversation." "So, this is how it is to be, is it? Me forever chasing, you forever evading. Forgive me if I sound annoyed but I am the one doing all the work here. If you find my company to be such a chore then..." "Chore? Whatever do you mean? I have never said that." "Erestor." "What?" "Being coy only works the first time. I have had you, I know what it is I am pursuing." "Ah, I see. I am not worth any effort. I understand, I mean with all the lovers you have competing for your affections, I will not be missed." He sat his goblet down and walked toward the door. "Erestor. Erestor, wait. Eres..." Erestor wheeled around. "What!" He gasped as Glorfindel grabbed him and crushed him against his chest, hungrily claiming his mouth. A soft moan escaped him before he could stop it, and the Elda deepened the kiss. Glorfindel's hands tangled in his hair and he arched against him, his hands clutching at the warrior's bare back. He gasped as Glorfindel released his mouth and he whispered, "I hate you, you know this." "There is a reason I do not have company when I had a roomful of males and females to choose from." "I hate you for making me feel this way, for making me act this way." "The reason is that I want you. I came to the party for you. I left alone because of you." "You are a loathsome elf. A braggart, a swaggering rogue who makes me feel as if my head will burst." "Hate me if you must, but do not leave. Heap your abuse upon me, I can take it. Berate me, insult me, I can take it. But do not walk out and leave me alone this night, for that I cannot take." Erestor gazed into Glorfindel's eyes and he saw the confusion and the fear that lurked in their azure depths. "I do not want to lose my friend..." he said softly. "You will never lose my friendship, E "I am afraid," he whispered. "So am I," Glorfindel answered. "Stay with me, please," Glorfindel murmured against his lips. "I will do anything you ask, just do not walk out on me in anger." "I will not leave." Glorfindel lifted Erestor and carried him to the bed, sitting him down upon the edge. He pulled off the advisor's shoes and began unbuttoning his robe. Erestor watched him with a mixture of fear, sadness and excitement. He had never known Glorfindel to admit to vulnerability, nor had Glorfindel ever begged him to do anything. This unknown side of Glorfindel scared him, for the responsibility that came with witnessing that vulnerability was the most frightening thing he could imagine. "I do not wish to hurt you," he murmured. "You will not," Glorfindel answered. "I fear I will. I do not know how to do this, I do not know what to say..." "Nor do I. We will learn together, Erestor. I trust you in this as I trust you with my life." Erestor smiled sadly and caressed the Elda's face. "You are always so young, just like you were in Lindon, just like you were in Aman. No matter how old you get, you always stay young." Glorfindel smiled. "It is the only way I know how to be..." He slipped the robe off Erestor's shoulders, exposing the counselor's milky skin to his eyes. Erestor stood up, allowing the robe to fall to the floor as he reached for Glorfindel. His lover stepped forward into his arms and he caressed the warrior's alabaster skin. His hands roamed over his shoulders and arms, over the sculpted curves of his chest and the rippled muscles of his abdomen. He absently stepped out of his leggings and allowed Glorfindel to lift him back up onto the bed. He was driven to distraction by the Elda's body, by the curves and hardness of it, by its suppleness, its strength, and its beauty. After knowing the warrior for over two ages as a brother in arms, as an adversary at times and an annoyance at others, he found he did not really know him at all. This Glorfindel, this warm, soft, passionate creature he was with now was an enigma. Glorfindel brought his naked body to rest atop Erestor's. He caressed the counselor's face with his hands and his lips. "So beautiful," he murmured. "Visions of your raven hair and silver eyes haunted me all the nights of my patrol." Erestor wrapped his arms around his lover and whispered, "I missed you..." Glorfindel slipped from his arms, working his way down his body with his mouth and his hands. Erestor arched beneath him, smiling when he felt like crying, moaning when he felt like screaming. He melted in Glorfindel's hands, his resolve, his pride, all ebbing from him. The words danced at the tip of his tongue, words he had never said, words that frightened him beyond imagining. "Yes..." he whispered as Glorfindel pressed his mouth to his length, "please, yes..." Glorfindel gave him pleasure unlike any he had ever felt, he burned and ached for him, he was desperate for him, he loved him. As his lover entered his body, he smiled, feeling both frightened and whole at once. He had never been touched like this, kissed like this, held like this in his life. It was as if the ages of time that had passed, that the two lifetimes he had spent with Glorfindel were but a prelude to the true purpose of their being; that this moment, this was the purpose for them both. I love you, was what he said in his mind, though he would not allow himself to give the words voice. As he lay in his lover's arms, listening to his heartbeat beneath his ear, he thought of the thousands of years that had passed, of the death and violence, of the fear and pain. He remembered how his heart broke upon Crissaegrim when he witnessed his friend's destruction. He remembered the joy in his heart upon seeing him in Lindon. As he stroked Glorfindel's chest, he vowed not to let fear stun him into inaction again. And he knew with sobering clarity that he could not live with out him. To be continued... Title: The Dawning, 2/? Author: Larien Elengasse Type: FPS Characters: Glorfindel/Erestor, Legolas/Elladan/Elrohir Beta: Alex Rating: NC-17 Archive: Rhovanion, OEAM, Mirrormere, Melethryn, Library of Moria. All others please ask. WARNING: Graphic depictions of sexual acts between males, incest, PWP, a wee bit of angst and romance. Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I am sure he would be horrified if he read this… Feedback: Yes please, larienelengasse@yahoo.com Author's Notes: This is a continuation of what has become a string of fics starting with "The Wager"; the Glorfindel/Erestor bug bit me again after a long respite. Since the string has been written out of sequence, this one follows "The Wager" chronologically. Summary: The morning after the party, Glorfindel and Erestor wake in each other's arms and fumble ahead. The twins entertain Legolas. Erestor blinked as his eyes adjusted to the light. He took a deep breath and stretched, feeling Glorfindel's warm body curled against him. He looked over his shoulder and smiled. The Elda's azure eyes gazed back at him and his lips curved into a smile. "You have slept late this morning," Glorfindel murmured. "You normally beat me down to the dining hall." "I am normally asleep at a reasonable hour," Erestor answered. "Was that not reasonable?" "What? The hour or the act?" Glorfindel smiled. "Either. Both." "Neither was reasonable, but the act was delicious." Glorfindel wrapped his arms around Erestor's waist. "You are just saying that so I won't become petulant." "Yes, you are correct. It is far too early for petulance." He sighed and snuggled back against Glorfindel. "What was that thing you did with your tongue?" Glorfindel laughed aloud. "Oh, Erestor. Will I ever understand you?" "Most likely not. It is part of my allure." Erestor smiled. After a pause he said quietly, "I am glad you are home. It is far too quiet when you are gone." "I am glad I am home as well," Glorfindel answered. "Particularly since you are here in my bed." "Yes, well there is that as well." "Erestor?" "Yes?" "Are you sorry?" "For what?" "For... never mind." Erestor rolled over and swallowed the lump in his throat. "You mean about last night?" Glorfindel looked away. "Forget that I said anything. It was a foolish question." "Are you?" "No." Erestor reached up and turned Glorfindel's face back to his own. "Are you sure?" "Yes. It is strange though..." "What?" "I did not know I wanted you until that night. Now I find I want you more than anyone else, I find I want you every hour of every day." Erestor smiled. "I am quite fit for my age, but I am not sure I can do that." Glorfindel smiled sadly. "I am sorry, I am not good with words like you are. I cannot express myself so effortlessly." "Glorfindel." "What?" "You express yourself quite well, you always have. All I ask of you is that you are honest with me, like you always have been." "I will be, Erestor. I could never lie to you." Erestor wrapped his arms around Glorfindel's waist and snuggled against his chest. "Good." * * * * Legolas followed the twins down the narrow path toward the river, pausing now and again to marvel at the beauty that was Imladris. It was so different from his home. Everything was bright and the cliffsides were impossibly steep and high. The trees were smaller and sparser here; but everything else was larger, including the sky. The air was crisp that morning and he paused to adjust his pack. He breathed deep, smelling the snow and cedar that drifted down from the mountains, then he looked up the path in the direction the twins were taking him. Elladan was not too far ahead and Elrohir was right behind him. "Are you weary? Shall we take a respite?" Elrohir asked. "No," Legolas answered. "I was merely adjusting my pack and admiring my surroundings." Elrohir brushed the flaxen hair from Legolas' cheek. "Your face is flushed." Legolas smiled. "It is the crisp air. I find it invigorating." Elrohir smiled. "Indeed. Shall we?" He motioned up the path toward Elladan. Legolas nodded and they continued on their way. As Anor rose higher in the sky and the clouds began to thin, they reached their destination. A small meadow at the edge of a pond was where they were to break their morning fast; a waterfall fed the pond and the spray was quite cool. Elrohir spread their blankets in the sun, just out of range of the spray from the falls, as Elladan unpacked their supplies. Legolas stood in the center of the meadow, his head hanging back as he looked up at the wide blue sky. "He is passing fair," Elladan murmured low enough that he thought Legolas could not hear him. "Aye. Nevertheless, he is a prince, Elladan. We must tread carefully or risk problems later on," Elrohir answered. "Do you think he wants us to tread carefully?" "I think we better let him decide what he wants." "He is fairly young, perhaps he does not know what he wants." "Somehow, I think that one has always known exactly what he wants." Legolas heard the murmuring between the twins, but he could not decipher what was being said. He was no stranger to flirtation, or to pleasure really, but one would not call him fully acquainted with it either. The twins were the most beautiful elves he had ever laid eyes upon, and being soldiers themselves, he found they had much to talk about. They were intelligent, funny, friendly, and their reputation as orc slayers had spread far across Middle-earth. He was utterly fascinated by them, and he looked forward to getting to know them better during his stay. He was most fascinated by their faces, mirror images of one another with large gray eyes, finely sculpted cheekbones and noses, and the fullest, ripest lips he had ever seen on males. All that unusual beauty was framed by thick sable hair with fine streaks of auburn mixed in. They were indeed beautiful, and that beauty belied their deadly nature. He supposed that came from their father. Master Elrond was most often thought of as a scholar. Since it had been several hundred years since the Lord of Imladris had walked upon a battlefield, many seemed to have forgotten that he was once a fearsome warrior as well. Legolas stretched his arms over his head and breathed deep. This was a lovely way to spend the day after his long ride from Mirkwood and the long party last night. He looked forward to the peace and quiet of the woods, and to getting to know the twins better. "Legolas, our meal is ready," Elladan called. A smiled curved his lips and he turned. "Coming," he answered. * * * * Erestor entered the dining hall a few minutes behind Glorfindel. As he entered the room, he saw the Elda sitting in his customary place at the table, sipping a mug of hot tea and chatting with their lord. He moved to the sideboard and filled his plate with muffins, fruit, a poached egg, and a slice of cheese. A member of the kitchen staff poured tea for him as he took his seat. "Well then, we are an elf of leisure today are we, Erestor?" Elrond teased. "Half of our visitors have come and gone already. You are emerging quite late this morning, are you not?" "My apologies, my lord," Erestor answered. "I had difficulty sleeping last night and, as a consequence, have overslept this morning." Glorfindel grinned as he brought the mug of tea to his lips and Erestor felt the urge to kick him under the table. "Lord Celeborn's ambassador was looking for you earlier, as the prince was looking for Glorfindel. It seems they were quite taken with the two of you last night, and I thought perhaps that was why you were so late this morning." Elrond continued to tease his advisor. "I do not know what you mean, my lord. We said goodnight after the party," Erestor answered. "Really? You look different this morning, Erestor. You look rejuvenated... I thought perhaps you and Lord Celeborn's advisor might have..." "Master Elrond! I am not in the habit of discussing my private life at the breakfast table!" Elrond smiled and put his hands up in acquiescence. Glorfindel could no longer contain himself and laughed aloud, shaking his head. "My apologies, Erestor," Elrond answered. "I did not mean to pry. I asked Glorfindel the same questions this morning, with the expected answers. I was merely trying to strike up a conversation." Erestor's eyes widened as he looked at Glorfindel. Had the Elda revealed that they spent the night together? From the wolfish grin on the warrior's lips, he feared that might be the case, as it was not like Glorfindel to spin false tales of liaisons. He wondered if Glorfindel might have told their lord of their encounter in response to Elrond's teasing about Legolas. "And what was Lord Glorfindel's answer?" Erestor asked hesitantly. "That I was up rather late last night entertaining a guest, and that was the reason I was late for the morning meal," Glorfindel answered. "Who this mystery guest is, I would be curious to know. But as usual, Glorfindel will not share this information," Elrond added. "I see. Well discretion is an admirable quality, Glorfindel," Erestor replied. "Yes, I suppose you are correct in that, Erestor," Glorfindel answered. "If you will both pardon me, I have work to attend to this day." The Elda rose from his seat and abruptly left the room. Erestor frowned as Glorfindel left. Had his response been inappropriate? Surely, Glorfindel did not want to announce their liaison to the entire household at the breakfast table. As he looked down into his steaming mug of tea he sighed; things were already getting complicated. * * * * Legolas leaned against one elbow, sipping hot tea and enjoying the sunshine. He and the twins had discussed everything from elven history to battle tactics to diplomacy. The twins had asked him many questions about his homeland and he had done the same, inquiring about the many lands and peoples they had met in their travels. His gaze was focused upon the waterfall, but in the periphery, he saw the way Elladan looked at him. He was not unfamiliar with that look; it was one many had given him since he had come of age. The Peredhel was attracted to him, and he suspected Elrohir might be as well. He had been somewhat adventurous since coming of age, but lying with two males at once was something he had not previously attempted. While this little game of cats and mouse was interesting, he thought he would prefer to skip the pretense and just enjoy himself with the two handsome elves. He sat his mug down upon the ground and lay upon his back, stretching his long limbs like a cat. He closed his eyes and sighed as a smile curved his lips. "Elladan?" he said softly. "Yes, my prince?" "Would you kiss me?" He bit the inside of his smiling lip as he heard the Peredhel cough in surprise. Neither of the twins had expected him to be so forward. A shadow fell across his face and he opened his eyes. Was this Elladan? Was it Elrohir? He could not be sure, as they looked just alike and wore similar garments. He now wished he had spent more time studying their clothing to tell them apart. Of course, did it really matter who was who? Apart from calling out the wrong name in the heat of passion, he supposed it did not. As the ripe lips descended upon him, he closed his eyes and parted his lips slightly. A soft and barely audible moan escaped his soon to be lover, causing an answering moan to slip from his own lips. Such a delicious kiss; he was right about their lips, they were softer than anything he had previously tasted. A remnant of honey from the tea they drank sweetened the kiss even more. As Elladan began to draw away, he reached up and pulled him back down, kissing him with fervor. A surprised gasp escaped Elladan as Legolas wrapped his arms around him an assaulted his mouth. He resisted for only a moment, and that was only because he was caught off guard. Soon he was lying atop Legolas, his mouth being plundered with reckless abandon by the prince. As they broke for air, Legolas reached out toward where Elrohir had been sitting. "Come, join us, Elrohir..." he said softly. Elladan shifted to the side and began unbuttoning Legolas' tunic. The prince smiled as the Peredhel's hand slid inside to caress his chest. "You are warm," Elladan murmured against his ear. "You have made me so," Legolas answered. Soon, the twins flanked him. Two pairs of lips and hands were roaming his body, coaxing soft moans and gasps from him. "Oh, this is wonderful..." he whispered. "It is everything I imagined it would be." "It will be more than you imagined," Elrohir whispered huskily. He was being encouraged to sit up and he complied, his tunic slipping from his arms and his undershirt following it. He moaned aloud as those hands and lips now caressed his bare skin and he gave himself over to them to guide him through this new experience. "I want to make love in the sunshine," he said softly. "It is a luxury I do not have at home..." "Our father has tasked us with seeing that you feel welcome and entertained," Elladan murmured against the curve of his ear. "It is a duty we take most seriously," Elrohir added, his lips moving against the impossibly soft flesh of Legolas' neck. "Lucky am I to be so well cared for by such dutiful sons," Legolas replied breathlessly, a smile curving his mouth. The twins divested themselves of their own garments, all the clothing being tossed haphazardly to the side in the tall grass. Boots and leggings followed, as did undergarments, until finally all three of them were as naked and beautiful as the day they were born. Legolas was rolled to his side to face Elrohir. The Peredhel held his face in his hands and drank from his mouth as Elladan pulled his hair to one side and began caressing his neck and ear with his lips. Legolas moaned into the kiss as Elladan's awakening arousal began to glide silkily between his buttocks, and he arched against him, seeking more contact. His right hand drifted down Elrohir's stomach, tracing the ridges of taut muscles covered by soft skin. The soft dusting of hair that grew on the Peredhel's chest and abdomen was a source of fascination for Legolas. He had never made love with another that had hair upon their body. His fingers closed around Elrohir's rigid length and he gently caressed it, coaxing fluid from the tip. His left hand found Elladan's hip and he dug his fingers into it, pulling him closer. "I wish to take you, my prince," Elladan purred. "I wish the same," Legolas answered breathlessly. "I wish both of you to do so... As I wish to have both of you." He watched Elladan's and Elrohir's eyes lock, and he was taken by the sudden urge to see them together. He wondered what it would look like to see two identically beautiful creatures lost in passion to one another. "Kiss one another," he said softly. Elrohir looked at him in surprise. Could he know? How could he know? No one knew. "Have you never kissed each other?" Legolas asked softly. "Surely with the bond you share you have had some desire for one another. How could you not?" Elladan reached for his twin, cupping the back of Elrohir's head and drawing his lips to his own. Legolas continued his attentions, gently stroking Elrohir's length and undulating his backside against Elladan's groin. Gods it was delicious, watching them kiss. He thought to himself that he had never seen a more beautiful sight. They separated then returned their attentions to him. "Was that to your liking?" Elladan purred into his ear. "It was beautiful..." Legolas whispered breathlessly. To have so unexpectedly found a spirit who understood their love and encouraged it was more than Elrohir had dared hope possible. For hundreds of years, he and Elladan had hidden their love from their family and kindred. He had resigned himself that it was a secret they would share alone; he never dreamed they would encounter another that would understand and encourage their love. Arms and legs entwined, the three elves joined in the bright sunshine. Legolas gasped as he was gently penetrated by Elladan's silken, slick length. He was held and touched and kissed; mouths and hands roaming, his moans and sighs joined by those of the twins. A plaintive, soft cry escaped him as Elrohir's mouth swallowed his length, and he was pinned between them, rocking back against Elladan before thrusting forward into the willing heat of Elrohir's mouth. Words both beautiful and wicked whispered into his ear drove him closer to the edge, to that moment when the world became light and heat and swallowed him whole. He could not stop smiling, despite the sensations that roared through his young body. Elladan worked his ear between his lips with practiced skill. The Peredhel held him tight against his chest, the tempo quickening, the strokes deepening. Legolas fisted Elrohir's hair, fighting not to use his mouth too roughly. He felt it with each stroke of Elrohir's tongue and lips, with each brush of Elladan's turgid length inside him, touching that place that turned his blood into liquid fire. His release was building, consuming him and remaking him at once. He arched against Elladan, a strangled cry escaping his lips as he came, spilling himself down Elrohir's throat. Elladan groaned deeply into Legolas' ear, the prince's lithe body tightening around him, squeezing and milking his essence from his body. He crushed Legolas against his chest as his length twitched deep inside him. Listening to Elrohir's soft moans as his twin licked the prince clean caused a smile to curve his lips. Nothing was quite so musical as his twin's voice, though the prince's came close. Slowly, Elladan's length slipped from Legolas' body, and Legolas felt his grip loosen. Elrohir made his way up his chest with his delicious mouth, and he kissed the Peredhel deeply as their lips met. Legolas could feel the pent up desire in Elrohir's body and he considered relieving it himself, but then he thought it would be more pleasurable for both of them if Elladan were the one to do it. "Elladan," Legolas whispered, as Elrohir's hands roamed his body and his lips caressed his neck and shoulders. "Yes, Legolas?" Elladan answered. "I would like to see you pleasure your brother. I would like to see the bond between you, if I may." Elladan looked over Legolas' shoulder and into Elrohir's eyes. He could drown in those eyes, indeed he had many times over the long years of their lives. He carefully slid over Legolas, moving over the top of his twin and kissing him deeply. Elrohir's moan resonated in his heart, as it always did; it was the music of their love, of his life. He reluctantly left his twin's mouth, tracing the familiar path down Elrohir's chest and stomach until he reached his length. The cry that slipped from Elrohir's lips as he took him in his mouth set his heart to flight. Legolas watched from a close distance, enrapt in the scene before him. It was not tawdry, as one would imagine, him lying there watching the twins celebrate their passion for one another. It was as beautiful a scene as he had ever witnessed; it was a living, breathing personification of the mystery of love. He tucked his hand under his head, a smile curving his lips and an ache blooming in his heart. His thoughts wandered to one he loved and he closed his eyes as Elrohir's cry rent his heart in twain. As Anor rose to its apex, the three elves lay in a heap, arms and legs entwined, hands caressing, soft laughter rising into the meadow. It was a perfect day in Imladris, at least for some... To be continued... Title: The Dawning, 3/? Author: Larien Elengasse Type: FPS Characters: Glorfindel/Erestor, Legolas/Elladan/Elrohir Beta: Alex Rating: NC-17 Archive: Rhovanion, OEAM, Mirrormere, Melethryn, Library of Moria. All others please ask. WARNING: Graphic depictions of sexual acts between males, incest, PWP, a wee bit of angst and romance. Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I am sure he would be horrified if he read this… Feedback: Yes please, larienelengasse@yahoo.com Author's Notes: This is a continuation of what has become a string of fics starting with "The Wager"; the Glorfindel/Erestor bug bit me again after a long respite. Since the string has been written out of sequence, this one follows "The Wager" chronologically. Summary: With the rising of the sun, daylight illuminates a rocky road. The early afternoon sun illuminated Glorfindel's office as it filtered through the sheer draperies that covered the tall windows, spilling into a pool of soft light on the floor. A fire flickered in the hearth, warming the cozy room. A hand tied rug, died with an intricate pattern depicting days gone by lay upon the stone floor, and two large chairs, artfully carved out of beech with stuffed, velvet cushions on the seats and backs sat on each side of the hearth, a small table beside each of them. Over the mantle hung a shield and sword, replicas of his weaponry from Gondolin that had been recreated by the Eregion smiths as a gift for the valor Glorfindel showed in trying to defend their home. A large, hand carved desk made of mahogany stood near the door, a large chair in matching wood behind it. The walls where adorned with lanterns and shelves, rows of leather bound books and rolled up maps placed haphazardly upon them. The office was small, homey and brightly lit, a contrast to Erestor's cavernous space that he worked in, situated next to Lord Elrond's in the main house. Glorfindel's office was tucked away amongst the birch trees, a winding path leading from its door up the hill to the main house. It was adjacent to the barracks and the stables, not too far from the main courtyard. The smell of sweet winter hay and horses drifted in through the open door, causing a smile to shape the lips of most visitors. The space reflected the old warrior's demeanor, simple, welcoming and peaceful. Glorfindel stood over his desk, his hands planted on each side of a long scroll. His eyes scanned the roster as he mentally calculated troops and needed supplies and weaponry. He was getting ready to place an order with the smiths, those elves that came to Imladris after the fall of their home in Eregion. Imladris had at its disposal Middle-earth's most renowned craftsmen, elves whose skill in forging metals and jewels was unparalleled. Glorfindel did not notice Erestor standing in his doorway as he concentrated on the task at hand. The sound of his friend clearing his throat caused him to avert his eyes from the document and turn them in Erestor's direction. "Erestor," he said coolly, "Is it midday so soon?" "Yes," Erestor answered, "I was hoping you would like to share the midday meal with me." He produced a basket laden with breads, cheeses, fruits and a bottle of wine from behind his back. "Anor has chased the clouds to the west and her light warms the air and the ground." "I am in the middle of calculating an order for weaponry, now is not a good time," Glorfindel answered. "I see," Erestor replied. He began to turn and leave when he thought the better of it. "Well, we shall have our meal indoors then." He stepped into Glorfindel's office, closing the door behind him. He spread a soft blanket upon the rug, then began unpacking the picnic he had prepared. "Such taxing work requires sustenance to replenish your strength..." A smile curved Glorfindel's lips against his bidding and he shook his head. He was still smarting a bit from Erestor's near desperation to keep the changed nature of their relationship a secret. He was not sure why this bothered him, he had never been one to boast or brag about his sexual liaisons. But he had felt wounded, as if Erestor were embarrassed or ashamed of what they had done – at least embarrassed enough that he did not want anyone else to know of it. He sighed and picked up his quill, scribbling a note in the margin of the scroll, then rounded the desk and accepted the glass of fine red wine that Erestor offered. In all the long years of their lives together, this had been a daily ritual when Glorfindel was at home. He and Erestor always shared meals together. It had begun in Gondolin when they served the king together, and resumed upon his return to Middle-earth in Lindon. The ritual in Imladris was that the nobles in Elrond's household shared the morning and evening meals together – a tradition that had been started by the Lady Celebrían and continued in her absence by Lord Elrond. Needless to say, this meant that Erestor and Glorfindel spent many, many hours together, and sometimes this could be both a good and a bad thing. Glorfindel settled himself upon the blanket, sitting cross legged adjacent to Erestor. The warmth of the fire felt good and the wine warmed his blood as he swallowed it. Erestor was stretched out next to him, his ankles crossed as he leaned upon one hand. He had removed his heavy, outer robe and hung it upon the coat tree near Glorfindel's door; this left him dressed in black velvet leggings, his boots, and a white silk shirt, tied at the neck. Glorfindel sipped his wine as he looked at his friend. He had always thought Erestor to be a handsome elf, dark hair against pale skin, eyes that were like the winter sky and could both freeze one's blood as well as turn it to liquid heat – something he had discovered very recently. He wanted to say something, but he couldn't decide what it was or how to go about it. He always felt rather inferior to Erestor when it came to banter. Sure, when they were in public, he could sling jabs with the best of elves, but when they were alone, when it came to discussing feelings, he would always fall mute. He reached out and fingered one of Erestor's braids. It was like fine ebony rope, impeccably placed with a tastefully jeweled clip. He wanted to remove those braids, unlace his shirt, strip him of his cloak of control and leave him wanton and undone. That was how Erestor was most beautiful to him, undone; though he had not known it until that fateful night of the autumn solstice. Erestor turned his head, casting a coy, sideways glance in Glorfindel's direction. "Why do you look at me that way?" he asked softly. "Because I find I can look at you no other way," Erestor answered. "You frighten me and you make me angry," Glorfindel replied. "I know. You do the same to me." "I want to say something, but I cannot find the words to say it. I lose my ability to speak when you are near." "There are other ways to communicate, Glorfindel." Glorfindel placed his glass of wine upon one of the small tables and glanced back at the door. "It is locked, I made sure of that," Erestor said softly. Glorfindel took Erestor's glass from him and set it beside his own. Then with a fervor that surprised not only Erestor, but also himself, he pushed the counselor to the floor and covered Erestor's body with his own. Erestor gasped as Glorfindel pinned his body to the floor, holding him down with his weight and pinning his wrists beneath his hands. He flushed beneath Glorfindel's heated gaze, watching the warrior's eyes change from bright azure to deep midnight. He was trembling, writhing beneath Glorfindel, wanting both to escape and to be possessed. He could not understand the feelings that raged inside him, but one thing he knew; it was more than just lust. "I want to touch you," Erestor whispered. "Indeed," Glorfindel answered with a deep murmur. His lips ghosted over Erestor's face and neck, the heady scent of orange and almonds making him dizzy with desire. "Let me touch you, please." "I do not know what to do with you, Erestor. Part of me wants to bend you over my desk and take you hard, to ride out this maddening obsession and be done with it once and for all. The other part of me wants to hold you and caress you, to cherish you like the rare gift you are." "Perhaps you could do both?" Erestor answered with a teasing smile. Glorfindel stilled in his movements and Erestor instantly knew his words were a mistake. His friend was conflicted, confused, and he made a joke of it. "I am sor...." Glorfindel shook his head and sat up, releasing Erestor and moving to sit in a chair beside the hearth. "Glorfindel..." Glorfindel put up his hand, silencing Erestor. He couldn't look at him, he didn't want Erestor to see him this way, so hurt and weak, so confused and afraid. "I think it would be best if you returned to your office now," he said, his eyes fixed upon his lap. "Glorfindel, please. We cannot part this way, we have never parted in anger, not even for an afternoon." "There is a first time for everything, Erestor." "Glorfindel... please..." "Go, Erestor. Go now." "We need..." "I said go!" Glorfindel barked. Erestor rose from the floor, quickly gathering his cloak and hastily leaving Glorfindel's office. Glorfindel sighed heavily and placed his face in his hands, leaning upon his knees. * * * * Erestor dashed up the path as he wrapped his robe around him. As he rounded the corner leading to the courtyard, he stepped off the path, wandering deep into the trees until he felt he could not be seen. He leaned against the trunk of a tall birch, looking up through the branches at the sun that flickered high above. He felt horrible, sick. He absently rubbed his chest, wadding the heavy velvet of his cloak in his fist. "Idiot!" he chastised himself. "Must you make everything into a joke?" In all his years, he had never hurt someone he cared for like that. He had always prided himself upon being able to find the exact right words at the exact right time. Now, when it mattered most, when Glorfindel was feeling vulnerable, he made a joke of his friend's feelings. "What am I to do?" he whispered to the trees. "I cannot let things end like this. I cannot lose his friendship, I cannot lose this chance to..." he swallowed as the words died upon his lips. He could not even bring himself to say it. As so often happened when he was feeling lonely, his mind wandered to that last day in Gondolin. He saw the fleeing citizens in his mind; he remembered the feeling of Idril's arm in his grip and Eärendil's weight upon his back. He remembered the small child's arms around his neck, clinging tightly to his 'Uncle Erestor' as he and Tuor practically carried Idril between them, running down the rocky path to escape the oncoming hoard. The sound of a Balrog's roar echoed in his ears, and he remembered turning to see his best friend confront the massive beast. Glorfindel had looked so alone on that rocky cliff, so small when faced by the towering mass of smoke and flame that was one of Morgoth's most feared creations. Yet, his beautiful friend had not hesitated to put himself between the fleeing elves and the beast. He had fought with valor and honor. Erestor wondered if Glorfindel heard his cry when he fell from the cliffs with the Balrog. He wondered if Glorfindel had heard the heartbreak in his voice as so many others had. Heartbreak. It was something they had all had enough of: Elrond, Arwen and the twins, Glorfindel, himself. They had all suffered enough. He took a deep breath and pulled himself together, then he turned and marched back down the path toward Glorfindel's office. * * * * Legolas smiled lazily as he wandered the path from the gates toward the stables. He was on his way to check on his mare, then to speak to Lord Glorfindel about observing training exercises. His hair was just dry from the quick dip he and the twins took in the pond after their morning of lovemaking in the sun, and a smile played upon his lips as he remembered it. It had been a privilege, witnessing the love they had for one another and having them bestow such trust and pleasure upon him. He stopped upon the path, looking around and suddenly realizing he took a wrong turn on his way to the stable. He chuckled to himself. "Pay attention to where you are going Legolas, all this distraction could prove problematic." He rounded the corner and saw the barracks and Glorfindel's office. The doors stood open and smoke rose from the chimney. Since he was already there, he decided to speak with Glorfindel first and check on his mare later. Upon approaching the doorway, he saw the Elda sitting in a chair beside the fire, his gaze turned up at the ceiling. A blanket was spread upon the floor and a basket containing various food items sat at Glorfindel's feet. Two glasses of wine sat upon the table next to him. He knocked softly and smiled as Glorfindel looked at him. "Is this a bad time, my lord?" he asked quietly. Glorfindel rose to his feet. "No, no. Come in." "It looks as if you were in the middle of something..." "My guest had to leave. Would you care to join me? There is no sense in this food going to waste." "Well, if you are sure..." "Absolutely. Please, come in." Glorfindel cleared the roster from his desk and began moving the picnic from the floor to the desktop. Legolas hung his cloak upon the rack and helped his host transfer the goods. Glorfindel pulled a chair up for him to sit in and handed him a glass of wine, which Legolas accepted with a smile. "Now, what can I do for you, my prince?" he asked congenially, as he took a seat behind the desk. Legolas swallowed his wine and selected a piece of cheese from the banquet. "I was hoping I could observe the training maneuvers of your troops. My father tasked me with gathering helpful information as well as serving in a diplomatic capacity while I am here." "I understand you captain a regiment at home," Glorfindel answered. "That is a great responsibility for one so young." "I may be young, but I am not inexperienced," Legolas answered with a smile. "I take great pride in my talents." Glorfindel raised his glass to his lips to hide the smile that threatened to curve them. "Indeed?" Erestor, having arrived at Glorfindel's door, witnessed this exchange, not knowing fully what the conversation was about. He turned and left before either Legolas or Glorfindel could see him. "Yes," Legolas continued. "I have been practicing with a bow since I was old enough to run. My father had one made especially for me when I was small." "I have heard tell of your talents as an archer, my prince," Glorfindel answered. "Perhaps you would care to demonstrate them while you are here? My soldiers would be honored to witness such a display." "It would be my pleasure," Legolas answered with a nod. He raised his glass in salute to the great elf lord, and Glorfindel returned the gesture. To be continued... Title: The Dawning, 4/? Author: Larien Elengasse Type: FPS Characters: Glorfindel/Erestor, Legolas/Elladan/Elrohir Beta: Alex Rating: NC-17 Archive: Rhovanion, OEAM, Mirrormere, Melethryn, Library of Moria. All others please ask. WARNING: Graphic depictions of sexual acts between males, incest, PWP, a wee bit of angst and romance. Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I am sure he would be horrified if he read this… Feedback: Yes please, larienelengasse@yahoo.com Author's Notes: This is a continuation of what has become a string of fics starting with "The Wager"; the Glorfindel/Erestor bug bit me again after a long respite. Since the string has been written out of sequence, this one follows "The Wager" chronologically. Summary: Misunderstandings, retaliation, and regret. Anor cast a deep golden glow as Glorfindel made his way up the long path toward the house. He was in a solemn mood; he was certainly in no mood to attend a party. However, it was his duty as one of the nobles of Elrond's house to attend these things, and since a member of the Royal Family of Mirkwood was visiting, that was what he would do. Had circumstances been different, he could imagine himself enjoying Legolas' company more. The young elf was most beautiful and very charming, much like his father. He had enjoyed chatting with the prince that afternoon, even in light of what had happened between him and Erestor. Erestor. What a maddening elf! What was happening between them? Why did his old friend suddenly put him so off balance? His intention had been to occasionally enjoy Erestor's company in a new and interesting way since the night of the wager. They were both old and seasoned warriors, both had had their share of lovers and liaisons... Why was it that things were suddenly so off track? Perhaps it was not an advisable thing to mix friendship with pleasure; perhaps it would be better if they both just forgot what had happened. He had never taken a close friend as a lover before, certainly not one that lived under the same roof. Usually his lovers were elves and the occasional man, individuals seeking the same thing he was, pleasure and comfort, no more. His lovers had come from the ranks of soldiers in Lindon, from the Grey Company, from the smiths of Eregion, from the marchwardens of Lórien. Even his friend Gildor, the closest friend he had lain with before Erestor, had not provided such a complication as this. He paused at the door to the Last Homely House, listening to Lindir leading the musicians as they practiced in preparation for the night's festivities. He found he felt sick, there was a dull ache in his chest and he felt disconnected and numb. A hand upon his shoulder caused him to turn and look into Arwen's eyes. "Glorfindel? Are you all right? You do not look well," Arwen said softly. "I am weary, that is all," he answered quietly. "You look as though you have lost your best friend." "I may have." "Never. After all you have been through, you and Erestor could never be parted." Arwen rose to the balls of her feet and placed her arms around Glorfindel's neck. She whispered into his ear, "I find that when I am taken by melancholy, a nice long embrace does me wonders..." Glorfindel smiled as he placed his arms around her waist and hid his face in her dark locks. "That is sage advice, my lady, and I thank you for it." * * * * "They have had a disagreement," Elladan whispered to his twin as they watched the exchange between Arwen and Glorfindel. "Yes, it looks that way," Elrohir answered. "He looks terrible." "He does try to hide it. He nearly hid it from me this afternoon, but I could see that something was amiss," Legolas added. "What do you think has happened?" "Glorfindel and Erestor have been friends over two ages. They have fought beside and fought with each other for longer than many have been alive. We suspect that the nature of their relationship may be changing, but we cannot be sure," Elladan answered. "I would not interfere in that," Legolas whispered. "Had such an action crossed your mind?" Elrohir asked with a raised eyebrow. "Well, he is most beautiful..." Legolas answered in a hushed murmur. "I had considered it before the two of you pursued me." "We pursued you, did we?" Elladan asked teasingly. Legolas laughed softly. "Come now, just because you are older than I does not mean that you are necessarily wiser. I saw the way you looked at me; I heard the hushed murmurs when you thought I was not listening. I knew what the two of you wanted and I was most happy to comply." Elrohir elbowed Legolas in the ribs, causing him to chuckle. "Well, for all our stealth we were found out, brother. What do you think of that?" "Perhaps we are becoming slow in our elder days," Elladan teased. "Oh, I would not go so far as to say that," Legolas teased in return. "Glorfindel and our fair prince here, just think of that, Elladan," Elrohir purred. "What an enticing and beauteous picture that would make, brother," Elladan answered. "Are the two of you encouraging me to flirt with Lord Glorfindel?" Legolas smiled as he responded quietly. "Hmm... it is tempting," Elladan teased. "I would not interfere in a relationship he may have with anyone else. I may be wicked and flirtatious, but I do not go so far as to hurt others," Legolas answered. "Well, there is only one way for us to discover what is happening..." Elrohir answered. Legolas looked at Elrohir. "You want me to play the mole, to garner information about Lord Glorfindel and Lord Erestor?" Elladan smiled broadly as Elrohir nodded. Legolas furrowed his brow, then smiled. "It could prove to be a most entertaining way to spend an evening... so long as I do not risk causing harm, of course." "Of course..." the twins added in unison. "And who will talk to Lord Erestor? Who will garner his side of things?" Legolas asked. "Leave that to us, my fair prince," Elladan answered. "Yes, if we discern that there is more to Glorfindel and Erestor's relationship than meets the eye, we will stop you before you go too far," Elrohir answered. "Besides," Elladan continued. "They are both honorable elves, neither would betray the other if their bond goes beyond that of friends." "I find myself unable to resist such a temptation," Legolas answered. "I am game." "Excellent!" Elrohir exclaimed in a hushed whisper. "It is so wonderful to have a friend such as you, fair Legolas," Elladan murmured against his neck. "You had better stop that, Elladan... unless you wish to cause all three of us to be late for the banquet," Legolas answered breathlessly. "Indeed..." * * * * Erestor sat in a wide chair next to the fireplace in his quarters. His hands rested on the arms of the chair, fingers curled around the edges. A grim expression clouded his features as he gazed into the flickering light of the fire. 'How could Glorfindel toss him aside so quickly?' he wondered. There had to be more to what he saw than he suspected; his friend was neither flighty nor cruel. What he wanted more than anything was to hold Glorfindel in his arms, to press his lips to his lover's, to make love to him in ways that neither had experienced before. But instead, he sat brooding by the fire, dreading the night's festivities. He had been half tempted to go to Lindir after finding Glorfindel with Legolas. Lindir and he had shared a bed many times over the years; they had that sort of understanding. However, it would have been disingenuous, he knew this, so he had refrained. "By the Gods, how I want you," he whispered to the empty room. "I ache for you..." He looked down at the floor before sighing. He then rose to his feet and crossed to the dressing table, solemnly going about the task of readying himself for the evening. * * * * A soft knock upon his door caused Elrohir to look away from the full-length mirror and call for his visitor to enter. He smiled as Elladan entered the room, closing the door behind him. His twin was dressed in formal attire, a long, dark blue velvet robe over a silver tunic and dark leggings. A mithril circlet adorned with stars, identical to his own, crowned Elladan's dark head. "Are you ready, my brother?" Elladan asked softly. "Nearly," Elrohir answered. "But come here first." Elladan crossed the room to his twin and stepped into his arms, smiling as Elrohir embraced him. "You look beautiful," Elrohir answered. "As do you," Elladan smiled. He moaned softly as Elrohir's lips caressed his neck and his hands roamed down his back and over his buttocks. "I wish we could spend the evening in bed," he whispered. "As do I," Elrohir answered. "This is the only thing I dislike about coming home, the necessity for secrecy." "Aye, I feel the same as you," Elladan answered. "I can still taste you upon my lips, though I know it is but a memory of this morning." Elrohir took his twin's face in his hands. "Your mouth makes me weak, my brother," he whispered against Elladan's lips. "You make me weak," Elladan answered, a quiet gasp escaping him as Elrohir claimed his mouth. He leaned into Elrohir, allowing his younger twin to consume his mouth with abandon. It was risky; they both knew it. Though the door was closed, they knew suspicion would be raised if neither could be found and Elrohir's door was locked. Yet, he wanted Elrohir to make love to him, he wanted to feel his twin's body bow and slide against his own. It had been eight long months since their return. Eight long months of stolen moments, fleeting touches, fevered couplings in the woods near their home. He longed to make love to Elrohir properly, languorously, decadently in a soft, warm bed. The bell calling for the start of the banquet rang out through the halls and the twins parted reluctantly, lingering touches of fingertips upon faces before they left Elrohir's chamber for the celebration. * * * * Legolas made one last check of himself in the mirror before he answered the door; Arwen was graciously escorting him to the celebration that evening. The Evenstar was passing fair, a lovely maid to spend an evening with. Nevertheless, Legolas sensed her heart was elsewhere, as was his own, and she merely performed this act to appease her father. No doubt, his own father would be most pleased with a union between the two of them. He suspected that the young man he had seen arrive earlier in the day was the cause of the Arwen's distraction, and he had to admit, the Dúnadan was quite handsome, for a human. Besides, he was tasked with investigating Glorfindel that night, and that would provide more than enough distraction. He smiled and bowed his head to Arwen, who bowed low in return, then he took her hand in the crook of his arm and they walked together toward the Hall of Fire. * * * * Glorfindel convinced himself to swallow his pride and talk with Erestor about the disagreement they had had that afternoon, so he was on his way to the advisor's quarters. He paused upon hearing Erestor's footsteps coming toward him from around the corner of the long corridor. He heard another's footsteps as well and then heard Lindir's voice. "Lindir, of course," he murmured to himself, then turned upon his heel and headed back the way he came. He knew, as did most of Imladris, about Erestor's longstanding arrangement with Elrond's chief minstrel; they had made no secret of it. He stood in an alcove, listening to the two elves talking as they passed. The urge to reach out and grasp Erestor, to claim him as his own was nearly overwhelming; but then he reminded himself that Erestor was not a piece of property to be claimed or possessed. No, the wily counselor was as prideful as he himself was, and would never stand for such a ridiculous gesture. He waited for several moments after they passed, not wanting to follow too closely. He then stepped out into the hallway and followed Erestor and Lindir to the Hall of Fire. * * * * Arwen and Legolas were the first of those sitting at the head table to arrive. The young man Legolas had seen earlier, Estel, arrived shortly after, freshly bathed and dressed in appropriate attire. The young man smiled somewhat shyly at Arwen, who smiled warmly in return, which confirmed Legolas' suspicions. He took his seat next to Lord Elrond, with Arwen sitting across from him. Elladan and Elrohir arrived shortly after Estel and sat next to Legolas. The guests began filing in, and the remainder of those who would sit at Lord Elrond's table arrived. The minstrel, Lindir, arrived with Erestor, then Glorfindel arrived alone. There was an air of tension that settled over the table as the last guests arrived and took their places, and Legolas cast a quick glance at the twins. Dinner progressed without incident, if not somewhat uncomfortably for all who sat at the table. When Lindir excused himself to begin warming up for the evening's performance, the twins almost sighed in relief. Legolas was not sure what was going on, but he knew that Lindir played a role in the uncomfortable atmosphere at the table – however, he was unaware of his own part in that tension. The opening strings echoed in the air as the guests made their way from the grand dining room into the main hall. The game was now afoot... To be continued... Title: The Dawning, 5/? Author: Larien Elengasse Type: FPS Characters: Glorfindel/Erestor, Legolas/Elladan/Elrohir Rating: NC-17 Beta: Alex Archive: Rhovanion, OEAM, Mirrormere, Melethryn, Library of Moria. All others please ask. WARNING: Graphic depictions of sexual acts between males, incest, PWP, a wee bit of angst and romance. Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, they are the property of JRR Tolkien and his estate, and I am sure he would be horrified if he read this… Feedback: Yes please, larienelengasse@yahoo.com Author's Notes: This is a continuation of what has become a string of fics starting with "The Wager"; the Glorfindel/Erestor bug bit me again after a long respite. Since the string has been written out of sequence, this one follows "The Wager" chronologically. Summary: Misunderstandings, retaliation, and regret. A night of mistakes, mishaps, and dangerous pleasure in Imladris. Glorfindel settled himself into a wide chair next to the fire, forcing his eyes to focus on anything but Erestor or Lindir. He did not think he could bear one more smile or light touch of Lindir's hand upon Erestor's arm gracefully. Elrond's fair minstrel sat upon a stool, fingering his lyre with perfection, his lilting voice filling the halls as elves swirled around them. Glorfindel that imagined Lindir was singing to Erestor, and that forced a grumble of discontent to escape him. As his gaze drifted to the dais, he caught sight of Arwen bowing her head to Legolas as she took Estel's hand, allowing the Dúnadan to escort her to the dance floor. "Ever the independent young lady," he murmured to himself, knowing of Elrond's reservations regarding her affection for Isildur's heir. It was then that Legolas' sapphire gaze locked with his own, and he watched the prince's lips curve into a smile as he rose from his seat and crossed the floor toward him. Legolas moved with extraordinary grace, and Glorfindel hypothesized that he must prefer knives to the sword, judging by his movements and his build. Swordsmen were built heavier, their upper bodies larger from the rigors of training with so heavy a weapon, much like his own body was. Legolas was built like an archer, lean and graceful, with long limbs and feline grace. His movements were slow and deliberate, yet ethereal at the same time; the prince had indeed inherited his father's lethal charm. "Good evening, Lord Glorfindel," Legolas said smoothly as he took a chair across from the Elda. "Good evening, Prince Legolas," Glorfindel answered. "Just Legolas, please. I do not like formalities." "Nor do I, so I must insist you call me by my given name as well." "Agreed." Legolas reached up and took a goblet of wine from the tray held by a young elf serving the guests in the hall that night. He smiled and nodded politely at the young elf, who blushed slightly in return and bowed his head as he backed away. "Many are taken with you," Glorfindel remarked casually as he sipped his wine. "All but the one Master Elrond would like... or the one I would like for that matter," he answered softly. "The Lady Arwen has long had eyes for Estel, ever since he grew into manhood. Do not tell me you are interested in her?" Glorfindel replied. "No, no..." Legolas answered with a smile. "Do not take me wrong, Lady Arwen is most beautiful and gracious, but my tastes lie elsewhere." Glorfindel smiled and nodded. "I suspected that about you..." "Did you? I suppose it is not surprising given my father's proclivities." "Well, there is that as well." "Tell me, Glorfindel, have you had the pleasure of my father's company?" Glorfindel nearly spit his wine upon the rug in surprise. He had not expected so direct a question from the young prince. He swallowed and cleared his throat. "I have met your father once, though I cannot say I have had the pleasure of his company. We were together but a day, not long enough to get to know one another; then I left on an urgent errand to the north. He is an interesting elf, to be sure." Legolas chuckled. "Yes, he is that. One can always count on him to be forthright and honest, if not more than a bit single-minded. He has spoken of you in passing to me, about how impressed he was upon meeting the great Glorfindel. It takes much to impress my father." "I am honored then," Glorfindel answered and bowed his head, lifting his glass in a toast. Legolas lifted his in return and smiled sultrily. "Tell me, Glorfindel. Do you have a lover?" Glorfindel's eyes widened and he opened his mouth to answer, then shut it abruptly. Did he? Did he have a lover? He glanced quickly at Erestor, who was speaking to the twins. His old friend appeared nervous, fidgeting with his robe; he could only imagine what the twins were teasing him about. Legolas followed Glorfindel's gaze to Erestor, then turned and looked back at the Elda. When Glorfindel's gaze returned to him, he smiled as if he had never looked away. "Not at the moment," he answered. "Excellent," Legolas answered. Glorfindel noticed his wineglass was empty. "If you will excuse me, I am feeling a bit parched. Can I get you anything?" "No," Legolas answered smoothly. "I will wait here for you." "Very well." Glorfindel rose from his chair and made his way toward the buffet. * * * * Erestor sat on a divan at the edge of the dance floor. If he leaned over just far enough, he could see Glorfindel and Legolas talking. He was just working up the nerve to approach the Elda when the twins sat down, one on each side of him. "Good evening, Erestor," they greeted him in unison. "Good evening, Elladan, Elrohir," he answered with a sigh. "We could not help but notice that there was some tension between you and Glorfindel this evening. Tell us, is something amiss?" Elrohir asked softly. "No... nothing is amiss..." Erestor answered hesitantly. "What makes you say such a thing?" "The two of you are normally so congenial, tonight you barely spoke to one another," Elladan answered. "It is fairly obvious that you two have had some sort of argument." "Glorfindel and I are always arguing, you know this, Elladan." "Yes, but not like this," Elrohir retorted. "It will pass, as all things do." "Hmm... I guess we were under the wrong impression then," Elladan said quietly. "What impression is that?" Erestor queried. "That the nature of your relationship with Glorfindel had taken an unexpected turn," Elrohir answered. "Such as?" Erestor swallowed. "We were hoping you would tell us," Elladan answered. "There is nothing to tell." "Then we offer our apologies, Master Erestor," Elrohir said quietly. "Yes, we do," Elladan added. They rose from the divan and moved out of Erestor's sight. Erestor saw Glorfindel heading for the buffet and he took the opportunity to approach him before he could lose his nerve. "Glorfindel." "Erestor. Are you enjoying this evening's festivities?" "We must talk." "No, we mustn't." "Glorfindel, please. I do not like this... this... tension between us." "There is no tension that I am aware of, Erestor. You seem to be having a lovely time, you were chatting quite amiably with Lindir at dinner." "Glorfindel, Lindir and I are friends, you know this." "Of course I do. I know the nature of your relationship with him, as most of Imladris does. I am happy for you, Erestor. I am sure that Lindir is nowhere near as complicated as I am, you two are far better suited for one another." "For Elbereth's sake, Glorfindel, it is not what you think..." "What does it matter what I think, Erestor? You and I do not hold one another accountable. Now if you will excuse me..." "Oh, yes, run back to the prince. I noticed I had hardly been gone a moment before you replaced me with him. I saw you two, sharing the food I brought, drinking the wine I brought. Tell me, did you pin him to the floor as well?" Glorfindel recoiled as if Erestor had slapped him. As the regret began to cloud his friend's face, he furrowed his brow. "You have asked me to be honest with you, as I have always been. There is nothing between Legolas and me. He had an appointment to see me, which he was early for. I have to say it was quite awkward having him come upon me in such a state, sitting there with the food and wine you brought, alone. However, since it is clear that you and I have come to an impasse, I think it is best that we each look elsewhere for such diversions. Now that you mention it, the prince is passing fair, perhaps I will take advantage of his interest in me." Glorfindel turned on his heel and left Erestor standing alone next to the buffet. The twins observed the exchange from their place in the shadows. Elladan looked at his twin with concern. "We have to stop him, Elrohir. This is worse than we thought. We cannot let Legolas walk into this mess blind." Elrohir nodded. "Aye. Come, we must distract him, get him away from Glorfindel." Elladan followed Elrohir across the room, but they were too late. Glorfindel walked over to Legolas and reached down, grasping his hand. "Come, my prince, it is a lovely night for a stroll in the garden." Legolas' eyes widened in surprise as Glorfindel pulled him from his chair and they left the Hall of Fire together. To be continued...