Title: Through the Eyes of a Child

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

Main paring; Thranduil/Lindir.

Side pairings: Elrohir/Legolas, Dûrel/Elrond, Elladan/Glorfindel and Erestor/Ereinion.
Haldir/Melpomaen mentioned.

Overall rating: NC-17
Summary: Now that Dûrel has become the new High-King of the Firstborn, peace returns to
Imladris. But for some there is no peace yet. Thranduil, accompanied by Lindir, travels
home and deals with memories he never felt strong enough to face before.

Disclaimer: Not mine, Tolkien’s.
Warnings: mention/memories of severe child abuse. Thranduil witnesses murder and
violence. This story is completely AU, of course.

Author’s Note: this is the sequel to Inside the Dark Forest the Secret Lies.

Beta reading, translations and research by Patricia Pleasant, thanks! I couldn’t have
written this story without your help!

All remaining mistakes are mine.

 

Through the Eyes of a Child

Part 6

 

 

Erestor acted as if he didn’t notice the surprised gasps that announced his arrival at
the Hall of Fire. Only a handful of Elves knew that he had died and had been reborn, the
rest of Elrond’s household didn’t. Elrond had sent him a note earlier, informing him that
the half-Elf had summoned the members of his household to announce his presence. Elrond
had not mentioned the fact that he had been reborn – only that Erestor had miraculously
appeared at Imladris. As far as the majority of Elves went, Erestor had vanished for
millennia and had now surfaced again. That explanation would do.

 

Mithrandír appeared to his right and the Istar gave him a teasing smile. “Are you happy
to be back among the living, Erestor?”

 

“I am happy to be close to my son once more, Mithrandír,” replied Erestor, falling into
step with the Wizard. “I never intended to leave him.”

 

“I understand,” said Mithrandír, his twinkling eyes already searching out Dûrel, who rose
from his chair and immediately advanced on Erestor. The High-King glowed with happiness,
taking Erestor’s hand in his and leading the Chief Advisor toward the main table.

 

“Please sit next to me.” At Elrond’s request, another chair had been placed at the main
table. Dûrel smiled, happily, and maintained his hold on Erestor’s hand. Seated to his
right was Elrond and Dûrel gave his husband a contented look. /I am the happiest person
alive,/ he thought, having Erestor at one side and Elrond at the other.

 

Glorfindel nervously shifted on his chair. All evening long he had been waiting for the
right moment to ask Elrond for permission to court Elladan, but so far, the half-Elf had
been too focused on Dûrel to notice his anxiety. Elladan, seated next to him, suddenly
reached for him below the table and Glorfindel had no other choice than to bury his
beloved’s hand in his. He hoped no one else had noticed Elladan’s affectionate gesture.
He didn’t want to explain their liaison in front of Elrond’s entire household.

 

Erestor smoothed the folds of his green robes and sought out Elrond’s eyes. “Thank you
for these clothes.” Several servants had appeared at his doorstep, delivering robes,
leggings, tunic, underwear, socks and a pair of comfortable house shoes.

 

Elrond inclined his head. “It was the least I could do.” Studying Erestor, an odd feeling
washed over Elrond. Erestor’s presence reminded him of Ereinion and his next words
escaped him before he knew it. “I almost expect Ereinion to enter the Hall and join us.”
Erestor had been right before, when the Chief Advisor had explained to him where his
unease was coming from – Erestor had died and belonged in the Halls of Waiting. Seeing
Erestor here had upended Elrond’s world.

 

Elrond’s words shook Dûrel from his musings. “I still recall the way he looked the day we
left the encampment. I wished he had survived that battle.”

 

“So do I,” said Erestor, sighing. “But there is no use in mourning past events,
especially when they happened several millennia ago.” Dinner was being served and Erestor
hungrily inhaled the sweet and spicy aromas. It felt like it had been forever since he
had eaten last!

 

~~~

 

“Lindir?” Thranduil embraced his naked lover from behind. They had shed their clothes as
they were readying themselves for the night and seeing the minstrel’s lithe body had
awakened Thranduil’s desire. Ever since Lindir had made his decision to leave Imladris,
Thranduil’s trust in the minstrel had grown and now he felt finally comfortable enough to
approach Lindir in a romantic way. Until now, it had mostly been Lindir taking the
initiative. “May I kiss you?”

 

Lindir smiled and rested his back against Thranduil’s chest. “Always,” replied the
minstrel, touched that Thranduil would ask permission first. “Please do.” But instead of
a kiss on his lips, which he expected, Thranduil’s lips pressed against the nape of his
neck. A wicked grin surfaced on Lindir’s face, clearly noticing his lover’s erect state.

 

Thranduil licked down Lindir’s neck and suckled on the skin where his collarbone met his
neck. He couldn’t quite explain where this sudden sexual hunger was coming from, but it
was making him bolder and he slid his hands around Lindir’s waist.

 

Lindir purred in a feline manner and pressed his backside against Thranduil’s groin. He
had wanted this for weeks and it seemed Thranduil was finally ready to take this step. He
fought the urge to turn around and rubbed his buttocks against his lover’s arousal.

 

Lindir’s sensual movements caused Thranduil to moan and grow even harder. “What sweet
madness has taken me?” Thranduil’s right hand stole to his lover’s groin, finding Lindir
erect and needy.

 

“I am not surprised,” quipped Lindir, amused. “We have been working toward this moment
for weeks now.” His thoughts raced, wondering how he could make their first time as
pleasurable as possible for Thranduil. After all, it was the Woodland Elf’s first time
with a male and Thranduil *had* told him that there had been little passion between the
King and his wife.

 

“Lindir, I want to make love to you, but I feel lost.” His erection however seemed to
know what to do, as it snuggled deeper between his lover’s buttocks, already seeking a
way into Lindir’s body.

 

“Do not think,” advised Lindir. “Act.” Lindir reached for the vial of oil, which he had
just used to remove the tangles from his hair.

 

“I need your guidance,” whispered Thranduil, his fingers wrapping around Lindir’s weeping
member.

 

“Then let me guide you.” Lindir made up his mind and turned in the embrace. The sudden
movement made both Elves quiver, as their erections finally made contact, sliding along
each other, already slick with pre-ejaculate. “What do you want, Thranduil?” Lindir
hooked his fingers behind Thranduil’s neck, pulling the golden-haired Elf closer. “And
tell me the truth.”

 

“I want you, Lindir.” Thranduil’s breathing became fast and shallow, wondering if Lindir
would comply.

 

“You want to take me…” Wickedly, Lindir tweaked one of Thranduil’s nipples, making the
Woodland Elf thrust against him.

 

“I…” Thranduil felt lost and continued to thrust against Lindir, savoring the feel of the
other Elf’s hard flesh rubbing against his erection. It was one of the most erotic
sensations he had ever experienced.

 

Lindir sensed how close his lover was to orgasm and realized he had to act quickly if he
wanted to make Thranduil’s fantasy come true. Letting the oil drip onto his fingers, he
considered Thranduil. Making up his mind, his hand traveled to his lover’s groin and
carefully coated Thranduil’s impressive length with the oil. Thranduil’s hands traveled
to his buttocks, cupping and massaging them. Thumbs parted the firm globes and Lindir
gasped, seeing the needy passion in the emerald eyes. “Let me.”

 

Thranduil didn’t know what Lindir had planned, but nodded. “Just tell me what to do.”

 

Lindir gripped Thranduil’s shoulders and drew in a deep breath, realizing that they were
finally going to do the deed. “Support me,” he whispered, folding his long legs around
Thranduil’s waist.

 

Thranduil secured his footing and supported Lindir by keeping his hands under his lover’s
buttocks. “Lindir…” His panting sped up. He still didn’t know exactly what Lindir had
planned and wished his lover would hurry up. “I cannot take much more. Please make me
come.”

 

Lindir seductively licked his lips and kissed Thranduil. One hand traveled downward and
his fingers wrapped around the oiled erection. Climbing a bit higher, he positioned
himself above his lover’s length and then lowered himself, slowly, almost teasingly.

 

Thranduil threw back his head and bit his bottom lip as his length slid home into the
tight passage. He easily supported Lindir, who seemed to weigh nothing in his arms. The
minstrel’s arms and legs tightened around him and he helped Lindir take in more by
sliding him down his length.

 

Lindir rested his head against Thranduil’s shoulder and concentrated on feeling the
growing bulk inside him. Thranduil’s shaft was thick and impaling himself on the member
was uncomfortable, but he persisted and took all of Thranduil’s length inside him. He
savored feeling helpless and clung to Thranduil for support.

 

“Oh…” Thranduil sought out Lindir’s lips and kissed his lover, gently and slowly. “Do not
move – not yet. I want to relish this feeling.”

 

Lindir complied, although he wanted nothing more than for Thranduil to thrust upward.
Their forms stilled and only their lips still moved, locked in an intimate kiss. “Please,
Thranduil…” whispered Lindir eventually. “I need you to move!” In his current position he
could do little to increase the friction, which would massage his prostate. “You are in
control… You *must* move!”

 

Still cupping Lindir’s buttocks, Thranduil lifted the minstrel. Lindir’s white hair
spilled down his shoulders and teased against Thranduil’s chest. “Now?”

 

Lindir nodded, fervently. “Now!” Thranduil lowered him onto his shaft, impaling him once
more. “Again!” Lindir’s lips found Thranduil’s shoulder and they attached themselves to
the skin there. First, he only suckled the skin, but then Thranduil increased pace and
strength and Lindir resorted to biting his lover’s shoulder.

 

Frantically, Thranduil drove Lindir onto his throbbing erection. Lindir’s teeth suddenly
breached his skin and the bite made him thrust possessively.

 

Lindir released Thranduil’s skin, threw back his head and screamed his lover’s name.
“Thranduil!” Thranduil had involuntarily hit his prostate with all his might and had
brutally catapulted him toward orgasm. Cream splashed against Thranduil’s abdomen and
Lindir rocked helplessly, as Thranduil’s thrusts continued to batter against the
sensitive gland.

 

The spasms that exploded around his throbbing length took Thranduil by surprise and he
reacted by pushing Lindir further down onto his member. Orgasm started in the pit of his
abdomen, traveled through his groin and resulted in releasing his seed inside Lindir’s
contracting passage.

 

Panting hard, Lindir clung to Thranduil. His lover’s hands, supporting him, were the only
thing that kept him in place. A throbbing ache started in his lower body, telling him
that he would be sore for the next few days, but it had been worth it. He had dreamt of
making love to Thranduil in this way. “Thranduil… I…”

 

Realizing Lindir was drained, Thranduil carried his lover over to the bed. Slowly, he
lowered Lindir onto his back, regretting that he had to leave this warm, welcoming glove.
His sated sex left his lover’s body and Thranduil collapsed next to his lover. Left
speechless by the act, he kissed Lindir’s brow and then pulled him close.

 

Lindir mewed, showing contentment and satiation and nestled safely in Thranduil’s strong
arms. “I love the way you feel inside of me. I love the way you drove me – hard – onto
your shaft.”

 

Thranduil chuckled. He didn’t feel like talking, enjoying caressing Lindir’s heaving
chest instead, but was content to listen to his lover’s sensual raving.

 

“The next time you take me…” Lindir stopped talking, seeing the amused sparkle in
Thranduil’s eyes. “What?”

 

“Lindir, tell me, did you like the way I impaled you on my member?”

 

Those words caused Lindir to groan and his exhausted member twitched. “Oh, please,
continue.”

 

Thranduil raised an eyebrow, quite surprised to discover something rather unexpected
about his lover. “Do you like it when I say those things?” Lindir’s pupils dilated,
giving him his answer. “You do!”

 

“Aye, I do… Does that displease you?”

 

“I do not think so, though, I might need to get used to the idea of talking in such a way
to you.”

 

“You have the perfect voice, you know… Deep, sultry… sexy.” He wanted to make love again,
but his member just wouldn’t cooperate. “Darn…”

 

This time it was Thranduil’s turn to grin wickedly. Oh, he was going to enjoy this! “You
were quite helpless just now… You know, when I pulled you down onto my length… I was so
deep inside of you and all you could do was moan and move along.”

 

“Aiya!” Lindir bit his bottom lip. “You are not fair!”

 

Thranduil took pity on his lover. “Maybe we can use this to our advantage the next time
we make love?”

 

“Oh, I hope so!”

 

~~~

 

Thranduil was determined to try this. They had fallen asleep after making love the
evening before and now, he spotted Lindir’s morning erection. Lying spooned behind
Lindir, he whispered into the minstrel’s ear. “I am hard, Lindir, so very, very hard.” In
order to illustrate his words, he parted Lindir’s buttocks and allowed for his erection
to nestle between the firm globes. “Lindir, wake up… I am hard.”

 

Thranduil’s sultry voice finally reached Lindir in his sleep and he woke to feeling a
very hard rod of flesh poking his backside. “Thranduil?”

 

Thranduil caught an earlobe between his lips and suckled on it. Lindir squirmed and
pressed closer. Thranduil was forced to release the salty flesh, as he wanted to carry on
his original plan. “Do you remember what it felt like? Me sliding you down onto my
length? Do you remember me stretching you? Making you accept me?”

 

Lindir moaned pitifully, chastising himself for confiding in Thranduil earlier. “I
remember what it felt like.”

 

Thranduil briefly wavered. Until now, he had been fairly certain of his intentions, but
now… “Lindir, I want to please you, but…”

 

“Oh, damn it, I will be sore, aye, but I want this too!” Lindir had never imagined
Thranduil would react this eagerly, but he should have expected it. Their lovemaking
yesterday had taken away most of Thranduil’s insecurity and questions. “Slide inside me…
Do it in one thrust!”

 

“Do we need oil?”

 

“Nay, just do it!” Lindir pulled his knees close to his chest and wrapped his arms around
his knees. “And talk to me.”

 

Thranduil didn’t feel as brave as he acted, but did his best to please his lover. “I love
the way you look, so vulnerable! And you want me…” The head of his shaft already pressed
against the guardian ring and he stalled, for one long moment. “Do you want me to take
you?”

 

“Aye!” Lindir closed his eyes in order to fully focus on the invasion which would shortly
follow.

 

“I am going to take you, Lindir – now.” Honoring his lover’s request, he buried himself
in one deep stroke. “Oh, you are warm… warm and slick.”

 

“Tell me!” Lindir loved feeling the thick rod inside and did not move, letting Thranduil
set their pace.

 

“You feel tight, tight and hot. Like a glove which fits me perfectly. I want to stay like
this forever – inside you. I want you to feel me as long as possible.”

 

Lindir whimpered. “You feel so good…”

 

Thranduil licked Lindir’s throat and growled, predatorily. “You surprise me, Lindir.”

 

“Good…” Lindir used his inner muscle to manipulate Thranduil into thrusting.

 

Thranduil gasped, feeling the delightful manipulation. “Do that again!”

 

Lindir moaned and complied. “Please move!”

 

Thranduil began to move, slowly and shallowly, his mind telling him that his lover
probably experienced some discomfort after their lovemaking the night before.

 

Thranduil’s compassionate lovemaking was more than Lindir could take and he let go.

 

Stopping all thrusting motion, Thranduil continued to lick Lindir’s neck and throat and
let his lover’s contractions guide him to orgasm. His climax was different this time – it
was full of love and affection and he had the impression that he felt Lindir’s thoughts
at the edge of his mind. “We have bonded, Lindir…” he gasped, breathlessly. “I feel you
in my mind.”

 

That statement made Lindir look at Thranduil from over his shoulder. “I feel it too.”
This had never happened before – none of his lovers had set off this particular reaction.
“It must be love,” he whispered, dreamy-eyed.

“Aye, it is,” said Thranduil firmly, staying inside his lover as long as possible. A bond
had been created, binding him to Lindir and Lindir to him. They were truly mated and
Thranduil vowed to make Lindir happy and to keep his lover safe, no matter what the cost!

 

~~~

 

“Glorfindel! You *must* tell my father! I cannot continue to act like nothing has
happened!” Elladan had cornered Glorfindel in the corridor and pushed him against the
wall. “This situation is driving me insane!”

 

“Elladan, you must be patient! Your father is still trying to accept that Erestor
returned! I cannot spring this upon him as well!” Glorfindel didn’t fight the kiss that
Elladan planted on his lips, but he was also very aware of the fact how exposed they
were. The moment Elladan released his lips, he said, “I understand your frustration. I
really do!” he added, seeing Elladan wanting to protest. “I want to hold your hand and
kiss you in public! I want everyone to know that I found love again, but I cannot
possibly tell your father right now!”

 

“Glorfindel…” Elladan growled the name. A part of him understood Glorfindel’s reluctance
to break the news to Elrond right now, but having to hide his love was killing him
inside. He was young and in love and he wanted to show Glorfindel off!

 

“You must be patient, Elladan, please!” Glorfindel tried to placate his impatient lover.
He brought his arms up behind Elladan’s back, holding him tight. “I will tell him, I
promise.”

 

“Glorfindel? Elladan?” Elrond, stunned, stood in the doorway. He had been on his way to
his study when he had come upon his Captain and son. “What is this?” Although the signs –
bruised lips, dilated pupils and heightened breathing – were all very clear, his mind
didn’t process them properly. “Why are you crushing Elladan against you, Glorfindel?”

 

Elladan swallowed hard, unexpectedly being confronted with his father. All of a sudden,
he understood Glorfindel’s reluctance to tell Elrond, for his father’s eyes had
dangerously darkened.

 

“You are not taking advantage of my son, are you, Glorfindel? Tell me you are not. I
cannot have made such a mistake in judgment!” Elrond’s hands formed fists and he advanced
on the blushing couple. /Both of them are blushing,/ registered his confused mind.

 

“Ada1! It is not like that!” Elladan pulled Glorfindel behind him, wanting to shield his
lover from Elrond’s probing glare. “We are in love!”

 

“In… love?” stuttered Elrond, shaking his head, trying to shake himself from a dream. “In
love? Glorfindel and… you?”

 

Glorfindel tried to speak, but Elladan silenced him with one look. He had been wrong to
leave informing Elrond to Glorfindel. Elrond was *his* father and he should have told
him! Now, things had become most awkward! “Ada, I have been in love with Glorfindel for
years – centuries – but I did not think I stood a chance at winning his love. We recently
admitted our feelings to each other. If you must be cross with someone, be cross with
me!”

 

“Elladan…” Elrond’s voice possessed a hint of danger.

 

“It is true, Elrond. I did not know Elladan was in love with me until recently. We have
done nothing but kiss,” said Glorfindel, finally getting his chance to speak his mind. “I
want permission from you to court Elladan before we take this any further.”

 

Elrond blankly stared at them, his mind trying hard to accept what he had just learned.
“Elladan and you… You and Glorfindel… I… I need time to digest this!” Elrond corrected
himself; he needed time to digest the way he had found out about them! “I want to see the
two of you in my office in one hour. Do not be late!” His robes swished behind him, as he
rounded the corner, marching toward his study.

 

“Well, that did not go well,” whispered Glorfindel, nervously.

 

“Oh, he will calm down. I know my father.”

 

“I hope he will calm down,” whispered Glorfindel. He would rather face another Balrog
than an angry Elrond!

 

~~~

 

Elrond was still thoroughly upset by the time he entered his study. Although Dûrel and
Erestor were already present, he didn’t notice them and marched toward the window.
“Elladan and Glorfindel! Glorfindel and Elladan?”

 

Dûrel and Erestor exchanged a worried look. “Elrond?” Dûrel approached his husband; he
couldn’t recall ever seeing Elrond in such a mood before.

 

Erestor kept his distance, knowing better than to interfere when he didn’t know what had
upset Elrond. In order to advise the half-Elf, he needed information first.

 

Elrond blinked; growing aware of Dûrel’s hand, which now rested on his shoulder. “I
cannot believe this has happened. Why didn’t I see it?”

 

“What has happened?” asked Dûrel, raising an eyebrow. Something had severely upset Elrond
and apparently it had to do with Elladan and Glorfindel.

 

“I came upon them in the corridor,” said Elrond, at odds with his feelings. “They had
just kissed… Elladan had Glorfindel pressed against the wall. Apparently, they are in
love! Something both of them forgot to tell me!” Elrond threw his arms in the air and
turned around, shaking off his husband’s hand. “My son! My son and my Captain! Glorfindel
is ancient! What does he want with my child?”

 

Dûrel followed Elrond over to the desk and turned Elrond around so they were face to face
again. “Did I understand correctly? Elladan and Glorfindel are in love?” That was
fantastic, wasn’t it? Why then was Elrond this upset?

 

“Aye, that is what they say!” Elrond collapsed onto his chair, bowed his head and buried
his face in his hands. “And I did not see it coming!”

 

Erestor intercepted his son’s gaze and could tell that Dûrel was growing upset as well.
It was time to intervene. “And this is a problem, why?” said Erestor in a calm and
neutral voice.

 

Elrond looked up and his gaze locked with Erestor’s. “Glorfindel is… He hails from
Gondolin! He is a seasoned warrior and Elladan…” What was it again that he had wanted to
say?

 

“Again I ask you; why is that a problem?” Erestor left his seat near the fire and headed
for the desk. Placing his hands on the desk, he looked into Elrond’s eyes.

 

“I…” Elrond’s voice trailed off, his confusion still growing.

 

“Tell me this,” continued Erestor, relentlessly. “Do you think Glorfindel an honorable
Elf?”

 

“Aye, of course.” Elrond frowned.

 

“Is he worthy of courting Elladan? Of becoming his mate?” asked Erestor, still calmly.

 

“I think so… I never thought of Glorfindel as a potential son-in-law.” Elrond’s shoulders
sagged.

 

“Elrond, you were stunned, maybe even shocked, but do not overreact. Elladan might not
forgive you.” Erestor offered Elrond a reassuring smile. “We just established that you
think Glorfindel a worthy mate for Elladan. Now, do you also think Elladan a suitable
mate for Glorfindel?”

 

Elrond’s head jerked back. “I do not know…” Seeing Erestor’s disapproving glare, he tried
to explain, “Elladan is young, compared to Glorfindel. He has never seen battle like
Glorfindel has. There are worlds between the two of them.”

 

“You are afraid Glorfindel might hurt him,” realized Dûrel.

 

“Maybe,” admitted Elrond, closing his eyes. “Not really,” he said after a moment’s
thought. “I know Glorfindel; he would never willingly hurt my son.”

 

“Maybe it was just the way you found out.” Erestor sensed that Elrond had calmed down,
which was mostly because they had discussed this calmly and rationally.

 

“I told them to join me here in one hour,” said Elrond, thinking aloud. “I had planned on
talking to them privately, but maybe it would be best if the two of you were present as
well.” Elrond gave Erestor a nod, trying to show his gratitude. “You offer sound advice.”

 

“I *was* made Chief Advisor for a reason,” said Erestor, chuckling, as he returned to his
seat.

 

Elrond laughed and nodded his head repeatedly. “Aye, you are correct. Erestor, would you
be my Chief Advisor as well? The Valar know I need one!”

 

“Are you serious?” Erestor cocked his head, contemplating the offer.

 

“Aye, I am.” His behavior a moment ago had showed him that he could do with someone who
would confront him in a rational way whenever he got carried away.

 

“I accept,” said Erestor, seeing Dûrel’s brilliant smile at hearing his words. “I will
serve you in that capacity.”

 

Dûrel beamed with happiness. It appeared Erestor was finding his place in life again.

 

~~~

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Ever since their encounter with Elrond, Glorfindel had
felt apprehensive. He hadn’t thought Elrond would react so strongly to finding out about
their love.

 

“He was stunned, Glorfindel,” said Elladan, feeling more confident than the Captain. “I
know my father. He tends to overreact, but he always calms down again.”

 

“I hope you are right.” Glorfindel drew in a deep breath and then nodded, giving Elladan
permission to knock on the door to Elrond’s study.

 

“Enter.”

 

Elladan opened the door and stepped inside. He practically had to drag Glorfindel in
after him. “You wished to speak with us?” Elladan closed the door again and pulled
Glorfindel with him over to his father’s desk.

 

One look around told Glorfindel that Dûrel and Erestor were also present. The two Elves
were leafing through reports and letters and their presence soothed Glorfindel. Elrond
wouldn’t slay him in front of witnesses, he hoped!

 

Elrond read the unease on Glorfindel’s face and regretted intimidating his friend earlier
on. Glorfindel didn’t deserve that! Thankfully, Erestor had made him see the truth. “I am
glad that you came to see me.”

 

“Ada, before you say anything… I love Glorfindel and he loves me! Nothing you say will
change that!” Elladan gave his father a defiant look.

 

/Oh, he is so much like me,/ thought Elrond, seeing his own temper show in Elladan. /And
Erestor was so right; Elladan would never forgive me if I forbade this relationship./

 

“Elrond, forgive him. Elladan is young and…” Glorfindel grew silent, seeing Elrond raise
his hand. He prepared himself for the lecture which would surely follow. From the corner
of his eye, he saw Erestor smile, which surprised him.

 

“I have had time to consider what I have learned,” said Elrond, searching Glorfindel’s
eyes. He saw discomfort in them, but he also knew its presence had nothing to do with
Glorfindel’s feelings for Elladan. /I put that unease there./

 

“And you calmed down,” said Elladan, giving his father a smug look. Aye, he knew Elrond
well. Hot tempers ran in their family and were especially strong in him and Elrond.

 

“Aye, I calmed down. I must admit I was shocked to witness that little scene in the
corridor. I thought I had raised you better, Elladan.” Elrond arched an eyebrow. “Or do
you want rumors to start spreading?”

 

Elladan placed a restraining hand on Glorfindel’s arm, seeing that his beloved wanted to
address Elrond. “I would not have to worry about that if you permitted me to court
Glorfindel, Ada.”

 

/Oh, well said,/ thought Elrond, privately complimenting his son. Elladan was as feisty
as he was cunning. “You wish to court Glorfindel, then? And Glorfindel returns your
feelings?”

 

Glorfindel, who had expected to be targeted by the angry Lord of Imladris, felt baffled.
This was an argument between father and son and he didn’t seem to have much of a say in
the matter!

 

“Aye, I wish to court Glorfindel and I ask your permission to do so – formally.” Elladan
stood proud and his eyes dared his father to deny him.

 

A smile broke through on Elrond’s face. “I give you my permission, Elladan, and I give it
gladly.” He had realized that he had been upset for no reason at all. When Elrohir had
accompanied Legolas to Mirkwood, he had been worried that Elladan would remain behind,
and alone -- without a mate. He needn’t have worried.

 

“You do?” Glorfindel’s baffled voice echoed through the room. This conversation was
nothing like he had thought it would be!

 

“You have Erestor to thank for that,” explained Elrond. “He made me see that I
overreacted and that Glorfindel will make a good mate for you, Elladan.” Elrond pushed
his chair away from the desk, rose and advanced on the two stunned Elves. “I give you my
blessing and I hope that the two of you will be very happy. But, please do me one favor,
limit the amount of kissing that you do in the corridor. You never know who will pass you
by.”

 

“I will try,” promised Elladan, smiling warmly. “Thank you, Ada.” He buried Elrond in a
warm hug and smiled against his father’s chest. “Thank you.”

 

Elrond patted Elladan’s back in a reassuring way. “You surprised me, that is all.”

 

Erestor chuckled, watching the little scene.

 

Glorfindel cast a grateful look in Erestor’s direction. Hopefully he would find a way to
show Erestor how much he appreciated the Chief Advisor acting on his behalf!

 

~~~

 

Lindir found Thranduil seated on the windowsill, staring at the rising sun and whispering
trees. “Why did you leave our bed that early?” Lindir came to a standstill behind his
lover and wrapped his arms around the Woodland Elf’s shoulders. Thranduil leaned back
against him and Lindir twirled a lock of golden hair around a fingertip.

 

“I need to get ready early, my advisors expect me to join them for today’s council
meeting.”

 

Lindir peeked at his lover’s face. “Are you blushing?”

 

Thranduil closed his eyes. “I cannot believe we did that last night.”

 

“*That*?” Amused, Lindir chuckled.

 

“That I did that to you. When I was together with Lhûnel, I never acted in such a way.”
He fully realized what he had done to Lindir and that he had enjoyed doing it. His body
still hummed with satiation and love for Lindir.

 

Lindir eased Thranduil’s head back against his abdomen and waited for Thranduil to open
his eyes and look at him. “Meleth2?” Thranduil’s eyes were hooded and still spoke of the
bliss they had shared not to long ago. “Was it the first time you felt lust?”

 

Thranduil’s blush deepened. “Aye.”

 

Lindir smiled, bowed down and placed a kiss on Thranduil’s brow. “And that worries you
because…?”

 

“Did I go too far? Too quickly?”

 

The insecurity that spoke from Thranduil’s words clawed at Lindir’s heart. “Thranduil, it
is perfectly normal to feel lust, especially when you are in love and have not made love
yet. Please do not feel guilty for feeling the way you do.”

 

Thranduil’s expression softened and the sea-green eyes filled with affection and
gratitude. “You want me to continue to act in this way? To take you in such ways?”

 

“Did you assume it would be a one-time affair?” Lindir began to chuckle, but then
realized he had hit upon the truth. “Oh, I love you! And I want to be with you in that
way! If you had not left our bed that early, we would probably be making love again!”

 

“We would?” Thranduil raised his right hand and entangled his fingers in Lindir’s hair,
pulling him closer. “I love you.”

 

Lindir smiled. “I love you too.” He was confident that his lover would grow more
accepting of all feelings concerning their relationship. Thranduil only needed time.

 

~~~

 

“Dûrel? Will you walk with me?” Mithrandír gestured for the new High-King to follow him
out of the study.

 

Dûrel exchanged a look with Elrond, who shrugged his shoulders once.

 

“Mind if we join you?” asked the half-Elf, having intercepted Erestor’s curious gaze.
Ever since Erestor had arrived Dûrel had insisted his parent spent all his time with
them.

 

“But of course! This does not involve any secrets!” said Mithrandír, good-natured.

 

The party left Elrond’s study and much to the half-Elf’s surprise Mithrandír led them to
the stables. Elrond sighted Shadowfax, who seemed to be enjoying Asfaloth and Mithlas’
company. But, then he realized that there was another horse inside the enclosure, one he
hadn’t seen before. It was a mare, her coat as white as Shadowfax’ and one black star
graced her forehead. She was a magnificent animal and Elrond swore he saw some
resemblance to Shadowfax as he studied her.

 

“This is Starlight,” said Mithrandír and the mare elegantly strode toward them.
“Shadowfax sired her and we think she would make a worthy horse for the new High-King.”
Mithrandír gave Dûrel a wink. “Shadowfax would be greatly offended if you were to decline
this gift.”

 

Impressed, Dûrel walked toward Starlight and raised a hand, allowing her to take in his
scent. “You are a magnificent horse,” said Dûrel, gently rubbing her nose. She pushed her
head against his hand and released a whiny, showing she accepted him as her new rider.
Next, Dûrel turned toward Shadowfax. The Mearas’ wise eyes met with his and Dûrel bowed
from the waist. “I will always treat Starlight with respect and I want to thank you for
your gift.” Shadowfax’ dark eyes shone with approval and he nodded his head repeatedly.

 

“Looks like Celeborn won’t have to part with another horse after all,” muttered Elrond
beneath his breath. A silly expression surfaced on his face; there was already a
messenger on the way to the Golden Wood, requesting another horse. /But Celeborn does not
know about Starlight. Oh, I will have to add to the current stables…/ Elrond *had*
noticed the steamy expression in Asfaloth’s eyes, gazing at the mare. /I will definitely
have to add a lot more boxes!/

 

~~~

 

After lunch, Erestor returned to his rooms. He longed to sit in front of the mirror and
speak with his husband, as it was his only way to communicate with Ereinion. His husband
would already be waiting for him to appear.

 

“I watched you today,” came Ereinion’s voice from the mirror.

 

Erestor smiled and was delighted to find Ereinion looking back at him. “You did? How?
When?” He had been under the impression that Ereinion could only see him when he was in
his rooms.

 

“There is a mirror in Elrond’s study,” whispered Ereinion in a sensual voice. “I watch
you all the time.”

 

Erestor cocked his head. “You always were a bit of a voyeur, melethron3.”

 

“Do you mind?” Ereinion wanted nothing more than to join Erestor in the room, throw him
onto the bed and have his way with him!

 

“You always liked to watch,” said Erestor, chuckling. But then he turned serious. “Did
you see our son as well?”

 

“Aye, I did. You were right – he has become a fine Elf and I am proud of him!” Ereinion
fondly recalled watching their son. “And he seems to be happy with Elrond… my former
Herald.”

 

“Elrond loved you once,” said Erestor, unbraiding his hair and running his fingers
through the locks. “He was rather jealous when he found out about us,” added Erestor,
tracing the outline of Ereinion’s face on the surface of the mirror. “They are happy,
Ereinion. That is the only thing that counts.”

 

Ereinion closed his eyes, imagining he could actually feel Erestor’s touch. “Do you
foresee children in their future?”

 

Erestor’s fingers caressed the glass. “I do. I see twins, a boy and a girl. But it will
be a while before they will come into existence. Our son is slowly accepting that he
wants to have children – it will take time.”

 

“We will become grandparents, then,” whispered Ereinion, pleased. But then his expression
darkened. If only he could be with them in Imladris!

 

~~~

 

“Elrond? I feel like I am living a dream,” whispered Dûrel into his husband’s ear. They
had gone for a walk in the rose gardens and had settled down on the grass. He plucked a
red rose and presented it to Elrond. “I have you – your love. I have Erestor back…”
Dûrel’s eyes took on a dreamy expression. “I am still trying to figure out if I think of
him as my father or my mother.” Elrond stroked his cheek and Dûrel leaned into the
caress. “Mithrandír brought me a grand gift and I am here with you – right now, right
here – I have never been happier before.”

 

Elrond smiled and caressed his lover’s face. “There is nothing missing from your life?”

 

For one brief moment a shadow appeared in Dûrel’s dark eyes. “One person, maybe. I wished
the Valar had also allowed Ereinion to return to Arda. I would have liked to meet with
him, to talk to him just once. All I have is a fading memory of him waving goodbye to
us.” A sigh escaped him. “But I cannot have it all. I am happy with the things I do
have.”

 

Elrond nodded his head once. “And maybe, in the future you will be too busy to worry much
about Ereinion?”

 

Dûrel frowned. “What are you hinting at? Oh… You are referring to any children we might
have. I must admit that I have been thinking about that. Ever since Erestor returned, I
feel less intimidated by the idea of becoming a parent.”

 

Elrond’s heart missed a beat. “Are you serious?”

 

Dûrel saw the growing happiness in Elrond’s eyes. “Give me time, meleth. Give me time and
I might give you what you desire most.”

 

“I already have what I desire most,” replied Elrond, kissing Dûrel. “And should you ever
give me children I will love and cherish them forever.”

 

~~~

 

“You impressed me by standing up to your father,” said Glorfindel, his gaze following
Elladan as the half-Elf opened the closet to store some of his clothes in it. Elladan had
wasted no time and had announced that he was moving into Glorfindel’s rooms.

 

“I did? Good…” Elladan leaned against the wall, crossed his arms in front of his chest
and eyed Glorfindel predatorily. “Now that I have my father’s permission to court you I
do not plan on wasting much time.”

 

Glorfindel chuckled; the mere concept of Elladan courting him amused him. It made more
sense to the warrior if it was the other way around; him courting Elladan. “Elrond
surprised me as well. I did not think he would so easily accept this.”

 

“He actually managed to intimidate you, didn’t he?” asked Elladan in a thoughtful tone.
He stalked closer and slipped onto Glorfindel’s lap, straddling the warrior. “I saw you
tremble, Glorfindel.”

 

“I trembled because I saw the desire in your eyes,” said Glorfindel, congratulating
himself on talking himself out of that one.

 

Elladan allowed the white lie. “And what do you see when you look into my eyes now?”

 

Glorfindel quivered. “I see many things…” He had misjudged Elladan in the past. He had
never stopped seeing the younger half-Elf as his pupil – a child. But not anymore. This
was no child straddling his waist. “I see passion… lust… even the need to possess.”

 

“Aye, you are mine now, Glorfindel. I wanted you for a very long time and now,” he added,
very smugly, “I have you!”

 

~~~

 

“Milord?” Melpomaen quietly approached Elrond, who was reading through the latest
reports. “A messenger from the Golden Wood has arrived, carrying a message from Lord
Celeborn.”

 

Elrond looked up from the report, feeling quite surprised. “Then show him in, Melpomaen.”
A messenger? Why would Celeborn send him a message? As far as he knew nothing out of the
ordinary had happened.

 

Melpomaen inclined his head in respect and left Elrond’s study to fetch the messenger.

 

~~~

 

“Haldir…” said Elrond, his surprise still mounting. Whatever message Haldir was carrying
had to be important, considering Celeborn had sent his second in command to deliver it.
“What is amiss?”

 

Haldir graced Elrond with his patented, smug smile. “Not much. But the Lady Arwen desired
to write you and Lord Celeborn asked me to deliver her letter.”

 

“Has something happened to her?” Dread folded around Elrond’s heart and he snatched the
letter from Haldir’s hands. He didn’t even register that Haldir didn’t answer him and
just continued to smile his lazy grin. Elrond broke the seal and unfolded the paper. He
quickly scanned through its content, releasing a sigh of relief. Arwen merely wanted to
assure him that she was well and that she was enjoying staying with her grandparents.

 

“Thank you for delivering her letter,” said Elrond, still puzzled that Celeborn would
send Haldir. Arwen’s letter didn’t warrant sending Haldir, as all was well with his
daughter! “I assume you would appreciate a few days of rest before heading back to the
Golden Wood?”

 

“Aye, I would like that very much.” Haldir bowed, respectfully.

 

Elrond called for Melpomaen, who immediately appeared. “Please take Haldir to the guest
wing and ready quarters for him. He will stay with us for the next few days.”

 

“Please follow me,” said Melpomaen, stepping aside to let Haldir enter the corridor.

 

Elrond’s eyes narrowed when the door closed. “Celeborn, why did you send Haldir?”
Something didn’t make sense, if only he knew what his father-in-law was up to!

 

~~~

 

Haldir stepped upon the balcony and took in the wonderful sight that was Imladris.
Although his heart would always belong to Lothlórien, he also appreciated Imladris’
beauty.

 

He had been surprised when his Lord had summoned him, telling him that Chief Advisor
Erestor had arrived in Imladris. Celeborn hadn’t told him where Erestor had been hiding
and he hadn’t asked.

 

Haldir had been even more surprised to be given a very special assignment. Celeborn
wanted him to seduce Erestor and as it was his Lord asking him this, Haldir had accepted
the assignment. He didn’t know why Celeborn wanted him to romance Erestor, but for the
Galadhrim understanding wasn’t required, only obedience was.

 

 
 

1 Ada  –- dad, daddy, papa (Sindarin, noun)

2  meleth –- love (Sindarin, noun) 

3 melethron –- (male) lover (Sindarin, noun)

 

From the Council of Elrond Quenyan and Sindarin dictionary

 

OC Names:

Dûrel - Dark Star

Mithlas – grey leaf – Elladan’s horse