Title: Acceptance 3

Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)

Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/

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Acceptance

By Morgana

 

Chapter Eight - Peace

Legolas woke when a low, hungry moan reached his ear. Stretching like a cat, he looked into Lurtz's dark eyes. Recalling his father's visit last night, he looked about and frowned at finding Thranduil gone. "Where did Ada go?"

"He needed to rest, bathe and change into clean clothes. I am certain we will meet him for dinner. How do you fare, Legolas? Did your father's words put your mind at ease?" Lurtz fingered a lock of blond hair, holding his love close.

"He did," replied Legolas. He moved onto his back and stared at Lurtz's face hovering above him. The dark mane was a complete mess and his fingers combed through the black mass. "He surprised me though," admitted Legolas softly. "I did not expect him to accept us that easily."

Lurtz raised an eyebrow. "He seemed reasonable enough." Lurtz paused briefly, gathering his thoughts on the matter. "I hoped he would accept this relationship, but I never thought that it would actually happen. Your father is a kind and compassionate man. No wonder you turned out so well." Lurtz smiled teasingly and placed a light kiss on Legolas' lips.

Legolas raised a hand and rested it on the back of Lurtz's broad neck. "My happiness is complete now that we have my father's blessing."

Lurtz nodded once, but then the expression in his eyes darkened. "Whilst you were asleep Elladan informed me that Elrond wants to talk to us after dinner."

"Did he tell you what about?" Seeing the seriousness in Lurtz's eyes, Legolas sat upright, momentarily dismissing his passionate feelings; this seemed important.

Lurtz inclined his head, trying to recall Elladan's exact words. "Elrond is concerned about the power and influence Saruman and Sauron are gaining, and he wants to aid Rohan, which now is at the heart of the attack. Elladan mentioned something about sending reinforcements to Rohan." Frowning, he tried to deduce why this included Legolas and he. "Maybe we are part of those reinforcements?"

Legolas sighed regretfully. "I wish I could spend more time with my father now that he is at Imladris, but we have been idle much too long. We are warriors; we live for those moments on the battlefield. If Elrond has need for us somewhere else, we shall go." He probed Lurtz's eyes. "Or would you rather stay here?"

Lurtz shook his head. "The healers have nearly finished with my teeth. We could leave the moment Elrond gives the order. I will always be at your side."

Legolas smiled blissfully. "Then we will fight side by side, covering each other's back."

Lurtz looked deeply into Legolas' eyes. "You are a fierce warrior, Legolas. I love to see the fire in your eyes when you go in for the kill."

Legolas laughed warmly. "You are quite a sight yourself, Lurtz." He found he was looking forward to leaving Imladris and to return to the road once more. Maybe he could find out Aragorn's whereabouts and aid the Fellowship on their way to Mount Doom.

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The sensation of being watched woke Glorfindel. He immediately reached for Elrond, but was startled to find the bed empty. Sitting upright, he scanned the room and his eyes widened, seeing Elrond behind his desk, working his way through a pile of papers. "What do you think you are doing? You should be resting!" Glorfindel left the bed and marched over to the desk, standing in front of it.

Elrond's soft giggle took him by surprise. Looking down, he realized he was completely naked whilst Elrond had somehow managed to dress in his ceremonial robes. Not bothered by his current state, he frowned at Elrond. "You cannot have dressed yourself."

"Elladan visited earlier and helped me into my robes and this chair. I am grateful that Erestor thought of it. Now I can get on with my work." Elrond's brow became knitted. "I have to increase the number of patrols and we must improve our warning system. When Elladan was attacked..." Elrond didn't get a chance to finish his sentence because Glorfindel had moved to his side and his lover's fingertips traced his lips, effectively stopping him from speaking.

"Let me worry about the patrols and the warning system. You should be in bed and resting, not exhausting yourself." Glorfindel placed a hand on either side of Elrond's head and held the half-Elf's gaze. "Will you let me take you back to our bed so you can rest? Moving about whilst your feet are still healing cannot be wise."

The pleading tone and expression made Elrond give in with a sigh. "A'maelamin," whispered Elrond in a warm tone. "If I would let you, you would fuss over my every step..."

Glorfindel leaned in closer and smiled tenderly. "Can you blame me for being protective of you? It is something you must learn to live with." His thumb lightly brushed Elrond's lips and he dotingly gazed into his lover's eyes. "Return to our bed, mela en' coiamin, and let me hold you until the sun has reached her highest point. Only then will I release you and allow you to see to your work."

Elrond raised a hand and rested its palm against the blond's cheek. "I can never deny you, melamin." Slowly, he pushed the chair away from his desk and allowed Glorfindel to lift him in his arms. He rested his head against the blond's shoulder, relishing Glorfindel's concern. His lover lowered him onto the bed and Elrond pushed several pillows behind his back so he could sit upright. "Join me in bed?" His gaze revealed warmth and approval as it traveled down his lover's body. "My, you are beautiful, lirimaer."

Pleased at hearing those words, Glorfindel crept closer on all fours, smiling cockily at his lover. The time for words had faded and he leaned in closer, kissing Elrond passionately.

Elrond surrendered to his lover's sweet kiss and allowed himself to forget about the dark forces that were marching for Helm's Deep, momentarily indulging himself and relishing Glorfindel's touch.

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Erestor woke slowly, and he wondered about this lazy, pleasant sensation coursing through him. It had been years since he had woken feeling this comfortable. The nightmares had left him alone, enabling a healing sleep.

As his eyes focused again he realized why he had slept undisturbed. During their nap, Elrohir had sneaked into his bed and had curled his arms around the elder Elf. Erestor marveled at the peaceful expression on the half-Elf's face and he smiled, saddened, almost certain that Elrohir had found out about his past. /What else would explain his behavior? He somehow found out and hurried here to soothe me, but how did he find out? Only Elrond and Glorfindel know; why would they tell Elrohir?/

As if aware of his troubled thoughts, Elrohir pulled him closer, resting his head on his shoulder. Surprisingly strong arms wrapped themselves around his waist and Erestor couldn't bring himself to wake the young half-Elf, so he patiently endured the embrace.

When Elladan and Elrohir had been children, they had occasionally slept with closed eyes. Glorfindel and Erestor had been startled when finding them like that for the very first time. However, over the years they had grown accustomed to seeing the twins sleep with their eyes closed.

Erestor tentatively touched a strand of Elrohir's hair, and the silk like texture flowed through his fingertips. Slowly, he returned the embrace. He had been afraid that Elrohir holding him like this would bring back dark memories, but the half-Elf's hug only brought warmth and contentment. /When was the last time I held someone in my arms? It has been so long.../ His tormented soul longed for a mate, a lover, but his body had been unable to accept that fact for so long, always remembering the pain and humiliation he had suffered at the Orcs' hands.

"I should take you to your room, pen-neth." Erestor boldly placed a chaste kiss on the top of Elrohir's head, inhaling the half-Elf's musky scent. A warmth was born in his groin and his eyes widened with surprise, finding himself growing erect for the first time in decades. /This is folly. I cannot give into my feelings, even though my body is waking up. I must take him back to his room before he realizes I desire him./

Erestor's gaze lingered on Elrohir's face, staring adoringly at the full, red lips. "One day you will make someone very happy, pen-neth..." Suddenly Elrohir's eyelids fluttered, and the large brown eyes opened to stare at him. He couldn't stop the blush from forming on his face and he immediately tried to squirm out of the embrace, but Elrohir didn't let him.

"What did you say? I will make someone very happy?" Elrohir frowned, wondering what had made Erestor say that.

"I was thinking aloud; please forgive me." Erestor forced himself to return Elrohir's gaze calmly. "Why did you stay when I was asleep? You should have gone to your room to seek out your bed." He tried to rise again, but Elrohir's arms tightened around his shoulders. Sighing dejectedly, he gave up.

"Erestor, Elladan and I sneaked into your rooms when we were children, do you not remember?"

"I remember retrieving you from Glorfindel's rooms," chuckled Erestor, thinking back to happier days.

"But Glorfindel and Ada were not close the entire time," said Elrohir softly. Erestor was still trying to pull away, but Elrohir pretended to not notice. "Rain made the earth shift and travelers got themselves into trouble. Ada and Glorfindel left to help the unfortunate ones. The rain continued and was joined by lightning and thunder. You must remember!"

Erestor smiled fondly, finally able to recall the incident. "Elladan was hiding beneath my bed and you had wrapped yourself up in my ceremonial robes. I recall finding you rocking on my bed, ordering a frightened Elladan to join you. I had forgotten about that night." It had taken him some time to coax Elladan from beneath his bed, but in the end the twins had snuggled up to him, their tiny hands clutching his. "It is true, then; you have sought out my bed before."

Elrohir smiled smugly. "Why should I bother to return to my bed when I am perfectly comfortable here?"

Erestor inclined his head in surrender. "You are comfortable here?"

Elrohir nodded once. "Erestor? Can I ask you something personal?" Erestor grew tense in his arms and the elder Elf's expression darkened. Eyes, which had sparkled with mirth seconds ago, now turned gloomy and brooding. He cringed, seeing the change in those dark orbs. Should he go ahead and ask his questions? But he didn't want to embarrass Erestor... Suddenly Erestor tried to move away from him, but Elrohir instinctively tightened his hold and gasped in surprise as Erestor's erection brushed against his leg.

Elrohir's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. /He is hard? But.../ Confused, he tried to make sense of everything he had learned. /Erestor seems uncomfortable when I am near. He blushes a lot, avoids being around me, and when we built Ada's wheel chair he nearly bolted from the room when I took hold of his wrist./ Elrohir sucked in a deep breath as the answer to his question presented itself. /He cannot be in love with me! But what if he is? Can it be he loves me? But when did it start and... Aiya, it is the only explanation that makes sense. Why else would he be aroused? It is because I am close! By Elbereth, what do I do?/

"Elrohir? Maybe you should let me go now. I have neglected my duties for far too long, and Elrond and Elladan are probably wondering where you have disappeared to." Erestor hoped he sounded calm and controlled, whilst he desperately willed his arousal to fade. /Tua'min Elbereth, I do not know what to do, and I do not want to scare him./

When Elrohir sought out Erestor's eyes, the elder Elf averted his. /When I look into his eyes now, I see the love he feels for me. That is why he tries so hard to avoid eye contact./ Elrohir kept Erestor in place, never letting go of his hold, but at the same time he closely studied Erestor's reaction to him. Erestor didn't seem to panic, as Elrohir had been afraid of. Many years had past since the Orcs had ravaged the elder Elf and Elrohir grew hopeful that Erestor would be able to love again.

/And how do I feel about Erestor? He helped Ada raise me. Erestor was my tutor and I trust him completely. I... I do love him. But in what way? Is there a future for us? Do I want to take this step?/

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Erestor's blush deepened.

Elrohir gently brushed a long stray lock away from the elder Elf's face and wished Erestor would look him in the eyes. "Erestor?" That did the trick and he was finally able to look into swimming, slightly unfocused orbs. "You are a trusted friend, Erestor." /And one day you may even be more./

Erestor swallowed hard at hearing those words. He knew what reply Elrohir expected; the one he had given since holding the twins in his arms for the very first time. "Amin mela lle, pen-neth." But those words sounded different now. He would always adore the dark haired twins; they had stolen his heart when Celebrian and Elrond had shown their offspring to him. Elrohir had grabbed his thumb back then, pulled at it, and the gesture had made Erestor smile fondly.

"You seem awfully distant, mellonamin." Erestor was a trusted friend, but could the elder Elf become more to him? Elrohir stared into Erestor's eyes, reading unconditional love in them. /I already love you,/ mused Elrohir, /Maybe I can learn to love you in a different way as well./

Erestor felt paralyzed as the half-Elf's eyes probed his gaze and he tried to hide the love he felt for Elrohir. /He can never find out. He is like a son to me, nothing more!/

Elrohir sensed some of Erestor's inner turmoil and finally took pity on the elder Elf, releasing Erestor from his embrace. "You will stay in this warm bed, Erestor. You still look exhausted. I will wake you in time for dinner."

"Dinner?" Erestor felt disappointed and relieved at the same time. Now that Elrohir was getting to his feet, the embrace no longer held him prisoner, but he was startled, realizing he already missed Elrohir's body heat and closeness. "Do not trouble yourself. One of the servants will bring me some lembas and wine and he always leaves it at the doorstep for me to fetch it when I get hungry. There is no need to wake me." Suddenly Elrohir's hand rested atop of his, and he quickly grew quiet, surprised at how intimate that touch felt.

"You will have dinner with the rest of us. You spend too much time on your own. Some company will do you good." His eyes twinkled, adding the next bit, "My brother will be staring at Thranduil all evening and neglect me. Ada and Glorfindel will probably forget about me as well, and I do not even want to mention Lurtz's obsession with Legolas. They all are in love and just interested in speaking with their loved one. Please, join us for dinner? At least that way I will have someone to talk to." Would Erestor agree?

Erestor sighed compassionately, understanding very well how one felt left out when everyone else was in love. "I will join you."

Elrohir smiled smugly, happy with his scheming. "I will tell Ada that you are joining us. He will be delighted."

"Delighted?"

Elrohir said quickly, "Ada worries about you for some reason. I asked Ada what was wrong, but he refused to tell me." Hopefully his white lie would remain uncovered. "Seeing you at the dining table will probably ease his worries."

Erestor averted his eyes. /Elrond is worried... So he knows my dark moods have returned. Why else would he be delighted to hear I accepted Elrohir's invitation?/

It pained Elrohir to see Erestor trying to hide his distress. Instinctively he squeezed Erestor's hand gently. "I will see you at dinner then?"

Erestor nodded slowly. "I will be there." He stared at Elrohir's hand, holding his. Normally he panicked when someone touched him, but it was different with Elrohir. /My true love... The one that can touch me without causing the memories to torment me... Why must he be one of my Lord's sons? One I can never have?/ Saddened, he watched as Elrohir pulled back and walked over to the doorway. The warm smile on Elrohir's face made him even more desirable to Erestor, but he fought the attraction. /He will never be mine./

Elrohir noticed Erestor's darkening mood and almost returned to the bed to comfort the elder Elf, but he didn't want Erestor to become suspicious because of all the attention he was getting. He had to wait until dinner to reassure Erestor. /Take tiny steps. Go slow or you will scare him away./ Elrohir smiled warmly. "I will see you at dinner in two hours?"

Erestor nodded and watched listlessly as Elrohir closed the door behind him. /Alone again./

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Glorfindel entered the guest house, but passed by Legolas' and Lurtz's chambers and came to a halt in front of Thranduil's. The noise emanating from the room told him that the ruler of Mirkwood was in and he knocked once, waiting for a reply.

"Enter..." Thranduil quickly finished dressing and smoothed the fabric of his brown leggings and tunic. Dinner was in one hour and he had hoped to get some rest, but apparently someone wanted to talk to him. The door opened and he raised an eyebrow inquisitively, seeing Glorfindel enter. He had hoped to see his son standing there.

Glorfindel felt slightly nervous. After all, he was doing this behind Elrond's back; his lover would never agree if he knew about these plans. "Thranduil, I require your help."

The eyebrow remained raised as Thranduil took in Glorfindel's appearance, immediately noticing the seneschal's nervousness as Glorfindel continued to shuffle his feet. "In what way can I be of assistance?" He owed Imladris for helping Legolas when his son had been wounded.

"I..." Glorfindel turned around, made sure the door was closed and began pacing the room. Occasionally he looked at Thranduil, only to lower his gaze again.

"If I can somehow help, I will," said Thranduil reassuringly. He had seldom seen Glorfindel nervous; what was wrong? He walked up to the other Elf and came to a halt in front of Glorfindel, who was now forced to come to a standstill as well. "Does this have anything to do with Elrond?"

Glorfindel swallowed hard. "It does..." Could he really go through with this? But Elrond needed the rest, some peace and quiet. "He is not healing as quickly as he should. The Orcs present a constant danger, and he nearly lost Elladan to them. At times his burden is too heavy, and I want to help him carry it. He needs some time away from these problems, but he cannot leave Imladris. He is needed here."

Thranduil nodded. "Continue." He wasn't sure where Glorfindel was taking this, but he had certain suspicions

"Elladan, Elrohir and Erestor do their best to keep Imladris safe, but they lack proper direction now that Elrond is recovering. They need someone experienced, someone who is willing to accept responsibility."

"And then you thought of me," whispered Thranduil in a surprised tone. "Are you asking me to replace Elrond as the ruler of this realm until he has recovered?" He shook his head in disbelief. "Elrond will never agree to this. You probably did not even tell him about your plans. Your concern for Elrond is commendable, but you need to find another way to ease his burden."

"But... would you do it?" Glorfindel searched Thranduil's eyes. "It would be the perfect opportunity for the two of you to bury the past and begin anew... if that is what you want."

Thranduil turned away from Glorfindel and stared at the gardens. A smile surfaced on his face, seeing Elladan place his hands on an old oak, obviously trying to reach out and obtain some kind of contact with nature. "I would do it," said Thranduil eventually. "But Elrond will never agree to it."

Glorfindel smiled behind Thranduil's back. /Maybe I can convince Elrond to agree to my plan./ The smile faded, recalling just how exhausted Elrond was these days. "There is something else I would discuss with you." He really dreaded Thranduil's reaction to his next comment, but Elrond wanted this discussed and now that the half-Elf was recovering, Glorfindel had taken it upon himself to talk to Thranduil.

Thranduil turned to face Glorfindel and whispered, "Elladan."

Glorfindel nodded slowly. "Elladan is falling in love with you." Thranduil remained calm, which surprised Glorfindel. He had expected Thranduil to burst out laughing. After all, compared to Thranduil, Elladan was just an Elfling! The fact that Thranduil's expression was serious and concerned changed Glorfindel's opinion of Thranduil for the better; maybe the Woodland Elf had changed in more ways than one. Thranduil seemed to have let go of his former anger, directed at Elrond, and was remarkably mellow. "You do not seem surprised."

Thranduil inclined his head. "I suspected as much. The youngster has not yet learned to carefully cloak his emotions. I must admit Elladan surprised me. But maybe it is because I saved his life. His infatuation will grow less in time."

Glorfindel released a relieved sigh. "You will let him down gently? He has never been in love before, and if you hurt him..."

Thranduil interrupted Glorfindel. "I have no intention of hurting him." A smirk briefly appeared on his face. "I should be flattered that someone as young and handsome as Elladan is interested in me. I am so old... I hardly remember what it feels like to be in love."

Glorfindel frowned. "You cannot be serious, Thranduil. When was the last time you looked into a mirror?" Thranduil looked as young as an Elfling; he always had. The Woodland Elf possessed an unearthly beauty, enhanced by the bewitching eyes and long blond hair that reached his waist. How could Thranduil not think himself attractive?

"When was the last time I looked into a mirror?" Thranduil repeated Glorfindel's question in a puzzled tone. "I stopped paying attention to my appearance when Legolas and Valthoron's mother died. Why look attractive when there is none to notice?"

Glorfindel grinned. "You might want to find a mirror then. Maybe you will see what Elladan sees when he looks at you." What was he doing? He couldn't play matchmaker! Elladan and Thranduil were millennia and worlds apart! He shouldn't encourage Thranduil!

A smile ghosted on Thranduil's face as he studied Glorfindel. He almost addressed the other Elf, curious why Glorfindel was acting peculiarly, but in the end he decided against it. "I won't hurt Elladan's feelings."

Glorfindel nodded slowly. "I will reassure Elrond that his son's heart is safe with you." Glorfindel started to walk over to the doorway, but then halted. "And I will tell him you are willing to replace him for a short time so he may rest and recover."

Amused, Thranduil watched Glorfindel leave. The seneschal had surprised him, asking him to step in for Elrond. "We will see what happens," whispered Thranduil, picking up his cloak and stepping outside to seek out Elladan.

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

Elladan sighed longingly and leaned against the trunk of the tree that Thranduil had used to show him his link with nature. He wished Thranduil was here; maybe then his heart would stop aching painfully. With every step it contracted, reminding him of its existence. He had never before felt this empty, this hungry, and it scared him.

When he had woken this morning he had been erect and visions of Thranduil touching him had made him come almost instantly. Now he couldn't face anyone, afraid they knew about his dreams. Feeling ashamed for imagining Thranduil touching him that intimately, he turned around to rest his brow against the sturdy tree. After placing his hands on some branches, he tried to repeat the process Thranduil had shown him, but nothing happened. The warmth didn't engulf him.

"You need to let go completely."

Hearing Thranduil's voice shocked him, and he quickly took some steps away from the blond who had appeared next to the tree. "I cannot do it. I am not strong enough. Maybe it is because I am just half-Elven." Elladan cursed privately. /Reminding him of the fact that you are not even a full Elf is the stupidest thing you can do!/

Thranduil remained motionless, sensing Elladan's confusion. "I doubt it is because you are half-Elven. It is because you cannot fully concentrate; something distracts you." Would Elladan confide in him? Thranduil doubted it; it was still too early, but he was determined to try anyway. "What troubles you?"

Elladan quickly averted his eyes. /I cannot tell him! He will laugh at me and then our friendship will be strained; that is if he still wants to be friends./

"Elladan? Would you like to walk in the gardens for a while?" Thranduil caught Elladan's gaze and blinked dazedly at the emotions staring back at him. Elladan was falling for him hard.

Elladan shook his head. "Maybe we can go for that walk another time?" Thinking quickly he said, "Dinner is about to be served." He had hoped to spend time with Thranduil away from the others, but now he felt too shy to proceed. He would make a complete fool out of himself with Thranduil this close, and none present to save him when he said something stupid.

Thranduil nodded and smiled compassionately. "Maybe we can go for that walk after dinner?" He would talk in private with Elladan. The last thing he wanted was for Elladan to wrestle with his personal demons alone. Being young and in love for the first time could turn one's world upside down.

Elladan managed a weak smile. "Maybe later..." He trembled as Thranduil rested a hand at the small of his back. The touch electrified him and caused him to grow aroused. He had never felt more thankful for wearing robes that concealed his predicament.

Seeing the blush on Elladan's face, Thranduil guessed correctly what was wrong with the half-Elf. When his body had awakened, thousands of years ago, he had felt insecure and embarrassed as well. Maybe a father-son conversation was in order, but he doubted Elrond had the energy to talk Elladan through this. /I have two sons and had that conversation twice; I can do it again. I will talk to Elladan about his feelings and the way his body is reacting to it./

Elladan kept his gaze locked on the floor, hoping Thranduil hadn't noticed his arousal. /Why did this happen to me? Why did I fall in love with Thranduil? He will leave for Mirkwood in a few days and I will remain here. Elves can die of a broken heart, but what of half-Elves? Will the human part of my soul keep me alive and force me to endure this torment?/ He cast a look at Thranduil, whose magical eyes and ageless face made his heart ache with desire. /I must fight these feelings, but what if denying them will kill me?/

 

Chapter Nine - Marching Orders

Glorfindel pushed the wheel chair closer toward the dining table. Legolas was talking softly with Thranduil, and the younger Elf's eyes sparkled with happiness now that he no longer lived in uncertainty and had received his father's blessing. Lurtz stood behind him, one hand resting possessively on Legolas' hip. Thranduil smiled at something Legolas said, but Glorfindel noticed that the starlit gaze settled on Elladan, who sat silently at the table, pushing some fruits from one side of his plate to the other.

"Erestor and Elrohir are not here yet," whispered Elrond, worried. He was tired, so unbelievably tired that Glorfindel had let him sleep all day long, only waking him for dinner. Even now he felt like falling asleep again. But he had to stay awake; he was the host and had to make sure everyone's needs were taken care of. Glorfindel sat beside him, instantly folding his fingers around Elrond's shaky hand. Elrond smiled gratefully at his lover. /Do you have any idea how badly I need you?/

"Lurtz? Legolas? Thranduil?" Elrond called them softly and signaled for them to take their seats. Turning to Glorfindel, he said, "Would you mind checking on Elrohir and Erestor?"

Glorfindel nodded, and rose to his feet. Before leaving the hall, he leaned in closer and whispered softly into Elladan's ear. "Look after your father for me. He is exhausted."

Elladan, glad that he could focus on someone else besides Thranduil, got to his feet and walked over to his father. He sat down on the seat Glorfindel had just vacated and watched Elrond closely. When had the dark circles under his father's eyes appeared? "Ada, are you sure you would not rather rest?"

Elrond smiled warmly at Elladan's concern. "I am fine, Elladan..."

But Elladan didn't believe his father and his eyes sought out Thranduil's; why, he didn't know.

Legolas noticed the look Elladan gave his father and wondered about the intensity of that expression. He decided to ignore it for now and concentrate on Elrond instead. "Lurtz told me that you wanted to talk to us?"

Elrond wanted to tell Legolas that this should wait until after dinner, but doubted he still had any energy left later this evening. "Sauron's army is heading for Rohan. Théoden stands alone and I plan to honor old allegiances, fighting alongside Man once more." Elrond raised his eyes and his fingers clawed the armrest, wondering why he did not feel rested after sleeping for so many hours. "Galadriel and I have agreed that an army of Elves should aid Rohan, and volunteers have stepped forward, eager to fight Saruman and Sauron."

Legolas nodded once and caught Lurtz's eyes. Lurtz would be fighting his own kind in this war. "What is it that you want us to do?"

Elrond struggled to keep awake; fatigue was pulling him under again. "Haldir of 'Lorien will lead this army of archers, but..." Elrond briefly searched for the right words. What was it he had wanted to say? "Aragorn, Gimli and Gandalf arrived at Rohan to aid the people there. I thought that maybe you would want to join them."

Legolas leaned in closer. "Aragorn has reached Rohan? What of the others?"

"The Hobbits will find their own way." Elrond's eyes nearly closed, but then they opened again. "But you must understand the danger you will face. Saruman has gathered an army of ten thousand strong. Many of our kin will die."

Lurtz growled softly. "They will need all the help they can get. I will go to Rohan and fight Saruman."

"And so will I," said Legolas determinedly. "When do we leave?"

Elrond met Thranduil's gaze and looked at the Woodland Elf pleadingly. "I regret that you have such little time left with your son."

Thranduil studied Elrond and realized the half-Elf was already half asleep. Glorfindel had every reason to worry about Elrond's well-being. "Legolas makes his own decisions, Elrond. I also wished there could have been more time, but my son is a warrior and he will defend the people of Rohan until his last breath."

Legolas beamed at hearing his father praise him. "I will not disappoint you."

Thranduil smiled. "Fight well, Legolas, and make me proud."

Lurtz watched the exchange and nodded once. /And I will keep him safe. No Orc or Uruk-Hai will end Legolas' life. I will be his shadow until we return here./

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Elrohir knocked on Erestor's door, ready to convince the elder Elf to join him for dinner if Erestor should object. Not receiving an answer, he knocked again. The door was ajar, allowing him to look into the room. Erestor stood in front of the window, watching the rain rivulet down the glass.

"Erestor?" Elrohir softly whispered the other's name, stepping inside. "Erestor?"

Suddenly the elder Elf stirred from his trance-like state and turned toward him. Elrohir cringed, seeing the tears flowing down Erestor's face. "Why are you crying?" Slowly, giving Erestor time to adjust to his presence, he advanced on the Elf. "Was it something I did or said?"

Erestor shivered violently and the expression in his eyes changed as he woke from his trance. Realizing tears were dripping from his chin, he quickly wiped them away. "I lost myself..." He had been staring at the never-ending rain and suddenly tears had formed in his eyes. The full moon cast a haunting light over the landscape, reminding him of that dreadful night when the Orcs had overwhelmed Celebrian's escort.

Finding Elrohir at his side startled him. When had the half-Elf approached? "Pen-neth, I am in no state to join you for dinner. Just leave me alone."

But Elrohir shook his head determinately. "Will you tell me what makes you this sad?"

Erestor sighed deeply and bowed his head. Lacking the strength to stay on his feet, he slid down the wall until he sat huddled on the floor.

Elrohir acted at once. Concerned, he sat down beside Erestor, claiming the elder Elf's shaky hands in the process. "What scares you, Erestor? What haunts you?"

"Sweet Elrohir," whispered Erestor as his head lolled from one side to the other. "I cannot tell you." He couldn't ruin their friendship by admitting he had never told the twins the truth about that fateful night.

Elrohir raised a hand and rested it on Erestor's chest. When Erestor didn't flinch away from his touch, he stroked the skin through the thick fabric of the robes. Seeing the anguish in Erestor's eyes, he made his decision. "Ada told me." Elrohir held his breath, unsure what to expect. To his surprise, Erestor remained calm and motionless. "Why did you not tell us? Elladan and I are old enough to know what happened. We could have supported you through the years. We lost mother..."

Hearing those words, panic crept up on him, and he began to pant, drawing in too much oxygen and he doubled over, trying to regain control over his raging emotions.

"Calm yourself, mellonamin." Elrohir followed his instincts and enfolded Erestor in his arms, rocking the Elf like Erestor had rocked him when he had been a child. "You are safe, Erestor. I won't leave your side. Please let me keep your nightmares away."

Erestor shook his head against Elrohir's chest. His instincts told him to get up and run, to put as much distance between them as possible. Elrohir was much too close and a pair of strong arms was holding him tightly. He should be panicking, fighting to get free, but instead he leaned against the half-Elf's body, sobbing softly.

Elrohir sighed, relieved, feeling Erestor melt into his embrace. "Tell me what to do. Tell me how to comfort you."

"There is nothing you can do, pen-neth." Erestor had managed to slow down his breathing and through the strands of his hair, he peeked at Elrohir's face. The pity he was afraid to find there was absent from the warm, brown eyes. Instead, affection and concern stared back at him. "You must think me weak for caving in like this."

"Nay, you are not weak. You are strong, Erestor. You endured so much and yet you stayed. You love us. Please do not think of yourself as weak. You are strong... Strong!"

Erestor couldn't help it; he chuckled against Elrohir's chest. "Strong? You must confuse me with someone else. Did you not wonder why I stayed at Imladris and never left? The mere thought of riding out with a patrol makes me feel sick to the stomach. It is the fear that it might happen again. There are still Orcs out there, and..."

Elrohir continued to rock him, stroking the long black hair in the process. "I understand, mellonamin. When Elladan was attacked I feared for his safety as well, but he was lucky Thranduil was on his way to Imladris. When Glorfindel found mother and you, it was already too late."

Erestor swallowed hard, tried to wipe away his tears, but found that Elrohir's hold didn't afford him much space to move. That realization should have triggered another anxiety attack, but it didn't. Instead he soaked up Elrohir's warmth. His thoughts raced; memories of the past mingled with the future and he felt adrift on a sea of maddening emotions. In the end he blurted out the one feeling that felt true to him. "Elrohir, amin mela lle..."

Elrohir's eyes now swam as well, hearing the hope in Erestor's shaky voice. "Aiya, aratoamin. You fought so hard and you carried this burden for so long. Rest now in my arms and let my voice soothe you. I will stay with you as long as you need me and then we will discuss this in depth."

"Amin mele lle, Elrohir... amin mele lle." Erestor suddenly raised his head to make eye contact with Elrohir.

Elrohir smoothed back the black mass of hair and stared into Erestor's pleading eyes. "You need rest, Erestor and I will guard your dreams. Come, let me lie you down so you may sleep." Erestor stared blindly at him and Elrohir gently pulled the other Elf to his feet, guiding him to his bed. "Lie down, mellonamin." Erestor had gone limp and Elrohir made sure the elder Elf was resting comfortably on his side, before joining Erestor in the bed. To his surprise, Erestor wrapped his arms around him, holding him close. Elrohir smiled, saddened, seeing Erestor's eyes turn vacant. "How much will you remember when you wake again? Will you finally let me in and share your pain, or will you pretend nothing happened? For your sake, I won't let you lock me out ever again."

Elrohir tucked Erestor's head beneath his chin, stroking the tangled mass of dark hair. "I will be there for you as long as you will need me."

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

"Elrohir?" Glorfindel slowly entered Erestor's chambers, uncertain what to find. "Elrohir? What happened here?" He walked over to the bed and pulled up a chair. Seeing Erestor's tear streaked face he moaned softly. "How I wish I could carry this burden for him."

Elrohir locked eyes with Glorfindel, and continued the soothing motion of stroking Erestor's hair. "Has it ever been this bad before?"

Glorfindel nodded. "I am afraid so, Elrohir. Most of the nights, when the memories overwhelm him, either Elrond or I stay with him." Glorfindel frowned. "He never lets us hold him though." The frown quickly changed into a smile. "I always hoped he would put his trust in someone. It seems like he chose you."

"He is in love with me," whispered Elrohir after making sure that his charge was still asleep. "I suspected it, but now he has told me."

Glorfindel leaned back and rested his feet on the side of the bed, watching them. "I cannot remember Erestor ever taking a lover. Having these feelings for you must have been a shock to him."

"He kept whispering he loved me... Glorfindel, what do I do?" Elrohir searched the blond's eyes. "I refuse to hurt him when he is already suffering."

Glorfindel carefully considered the question. "You do not return his feelings then?"

Elrohir's face briefly contorted. "I do not think so. I love him, but... I do not think I love him as a lover should."

Glorfindel nodded once. "Do you have any idea how long Erestor has been in love with you?"

"I do not know... I guess a few years and I never noticed, but thinking back I recall moments when he lingered a little longer than necessary. Or he appeared out of nothingness to help me. He was always close." Elrohir wondered about the Elf in his arms. "What do you think, Glorfindel? Can I learn to love him?"

Glorfindel raised an eyebrow in puzzlement. "Do you want to love him then?" Elrohir never ceased to amaze him. "Erestor is... was your teacher. He is much older than you and he suffered greatly. Would you not be better off loving someone closer to your own age, who does not carry such a burden?"

Elrohir knew there was wisdom in Glorfindel's words, but somehow it sounded wrong. "Erestor loves me. He probably did for years and he would have continued hiding his feelings if he had not broken down a few moments ago. Glorfindel, I do love Erestor... Is that not enough?"

"What you feel is compassion and sympathy for a soul in need. That is not passion. You still have to taste love, Elrohir. Support Erestor if you will, guard his dreams, but what you feel differs from what he feels for you."

Elrohir soothingly rubbed Erestor's back when the Elf groaned softly, twitching in his arms as another nightmare attacked. "Glorfindel, I know you mean well, but how can you know my feelings when I do not know them myself?"

Glorfindel waited for Elrohir to look at Erestor and then grinned wickedly. /Elrohir is willing to fight for you, Erestor. Mellonamin, you have fallen in love with a noble soul, very much like his father's. Elrohir is determined to learn to love you... I hope you can deal with his youthful enthusiasm and stamina./

"Please give Ada my regrets and tell him that I cannot join you for dinner. I am needed here." Elrohir placed a chaste kiss on Erestor's hair, like his former tutor used to do when he put the twins to bed during Elrond and Glorfindel's absence. "I want one chance to make this work, Glorfindel. Do you think Ada will object?"

"You are an adult, Elrohir, your own master. You reached maturity many years ago and you are capable of making your own decisions. Elrond will respect your choice." Glorfindel smiled warmly. "Erestor deserves to be loved after everything he went through... Elrohir, this is your decision."

"Do not tell Ada yet. Let me talk to him," said Elrohir, feeling Erestor relax in his arms.

"I will not tell him," vowed Glorfindel. "But do not wait too long to tell your father."

Elrohir nodded. "I will tell him tomorrow. Will you excuse Erestor and I from dinner?"

Glorfindel walked over to the doorway. "I will make up an excuse."

"Diola lle." Elrohir watched Glorfindel close the door and then focused on Erestor again. "Sleep, I will guard your dreams." Pushing deeper into the mattress, he got comfortable as well, and settled in for a long night.

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

"Did Elrond really fall asleep on us?" Thranduil smiled warmly and looked to Elladan for an answer.

The twin slowly shook his head in disbelief. "I think he did. Glorfindel was right; Ada is exhausted." Elladan shifted on the chair. What was he supposed to do now? Wake Elrond? Let the half-Elf sleep through dinner?

"In Glorfindel's absence we will take your father back to his quarters," said Thranduil, taking charge. He smiled when Elladan's troubled gaze met his. "Do you want to carry him or shall I?"

Elladan cleared his throat. "We could use the wheelchair instead."

"But the motion will surely wake Elrond," mused Thranduil. "I will carry him, then." He turned to address Legolas. "I will visit you and Lurtz later tonight so we can say goodbye."

Legolas nodded. "Ada, take good care of Master Elrond." Legolas rose from his chair, quickly followed by Lurtz. Legolas leaned in closer and pressed a chaste kiss on his father's brow. "We will be in the gardens tonight."

"I will find you there," said Thranduil, getting to his feet as well. He smiled, seeing Lurtz follow Legolas out of the room; the protective gleam in the Uruk's eyes told him that his son would be safe during the upcoming battle.

Thranduil walked over to Elrond and found Elladan nervously shuffling his feet. It seemed like Elladan wanted to carry Elrond after all. "Go ahead, Elladan."

"What if I jostle his feet?" Elladan made eye contact with Thranduil. "Would you mind carrying him? I will open the doors and guide you to his rooms."

Thranduil slid his arms beneath Elrond's back and legs and slowly lifted the half-Elf. Now that he got a good look at Elrond, he noticed the exhausted expression in the vacant eyes. What Elrond needed was a break from his work. He had never understood why Elrond so willingly accepted to carry the burden of Middle Earth on his shoulders, but he respected Elrond for accepting this responsibility. "Show me the way, Elladan."

Carrying Elrond through the long corridors, Thranduil followed Elladan, who barely kept from fussing over his father with every step they took. In the end they reached Elrond's chambers, and Thranduil gently lowered Elrond onto the bed.

Elladan pulled up the blankets and tucked them around his father's form. Seeing Thranduil's slightly raised eyebrow, he explained. "We do feel the cold... Maybe it is because we are half-Elven. I want him to be warm."

Thranduil leaned against the wall, watching Elladan watch Elrond. The two dark haired half-Elves were obviously father and son; they shared the same features, the hair color, their stubbornness... The only difference was their eye color. Elrond's were greenish grey whilst Elladan's were chocolate brown.

"I wonder where Glorfindel is. He should have returned from checking on Erestor some time ago." Worried for his father's well being, Elladan eyed Elrond closely. "It looks like he is getting worse instead of better."

Thranduil nodded once. "Your father is a very busy man, and his body is not getting the time it needs to heal."

Elladan's eyes pleadingly looked at Thranduil. "Is there anything we can do to help?"

"Glorfindel visited me earlier, asking me to step in for Elrond for a short time so your father can recover."

Elladan frowned. "I do not think Ada will agree to that."

"That is what I told Glorfindel." Thranduil looked at the blond, as Glorfindel dashed into the room with a stricken expression on his face.

"I could not find him!" explained Glorfindel. Immediately he sat down on the bed and stroked Elrond's hair. "The dining hall was empty, but the wheel chair was still there and I..."

"You panicked," finished Thranduil for him. He didn't remember anyone telling him officially that Elrond and Glorfindel were lovers, but then he shrugged; it was too obvious to ignore. "Maybe you should tell him about your plans. Elrond won't heal, running himself ragged like this."

"He will never agree to it," whispered Glorfindel regretfully. "It would be best for him, though. I know of a lovely house near the Bruinen where he could recuperate, and it would still be close enough to return to the Homely House when needed."

Thranduil considered his options. "Maybe we need to convince Elrond?"

"And how do you plan on doing that?" Elladan's gaze shifted from Elrond to Thranduil. "Ada is stubborn - like I am." A ghost of a smile appeared on his face.

Thranduil inclined his head. "Very true, but I can convince Elrond easily."

"That is something I want to see," mumbled Glorfindel. "I never managed to convince Elrond to do anything against his will, even if it was in his best interests."

Thranduil smiled. "You really want me to do this? He might agree to your plans now, but he will fight you in the morning."

"But there will be witnesses who heard him agree," said Glorfindel slyly. "Elrond is a man of his word."

 Thranduil disliked manipulating Elrond, but it was in the half-Elf's best interest. "Let me sit on the bed."

Elladan vacated his place, but remained standing near the bed. Thranduil made eye contact with Glorfindel. "Wake him, say his name."

"Elrond? A'maelamin, please wake up for me." Glorfindel caressed his lover's face and Elrond's eyes regained some awareness, but the half-Elf was far from completely being awake. "Now what?" Glorfindel looked at Thranduil.

"Let me do this," said Thranduil, placing his hands on either side of Elrond's head.

Elladan sucked in his breath, hearing that extra quality to Thranduil's voice. It had also been there when Thranduil had stopped him from falling asleep after suffering that head injury. He exchanged a questioning look with Glorfindel, who also remained alert.

"You need to rest, Elrond. You need to find some peace and quiet away from your obligations," said Thranduil in an entrancing tone.

"Aye..." whispered Elrond sleepily.

"Glorfindel here knows the perfect place for you to recover from your injuries. Imagine living near the Bruinen. You could sleep all day long if that is what you desire, and Glorfindel will stay with you."

Glorfindel looked at Thranduil. /He knows about Elrond and I and he is using that knowledge to his advantage. By Elbereth, I would rather have Thranduil as a friend than an enemy./ He had never known Thranduil was capable of bewitching people with his voice, but now he filed that information away; maybe he would need it later.

"How does that sound, Elrond? Resting in the sun, sitting near the Bruinen with your love at your side?" Thranduil moved a little closer, looking into Elrond's blurry eyes. "Does it sound good? Would you like to be there? Near the Bruinen? With Glorfindel?"

"Aye..." A smile uncoiled on Elrond's face and he blindly grabbed Glorfindel's hand, squeezing gently.

Thranduil smiled smugly. "You will go there then? You will let Glorfindel take you there? And do not worry about Imladris. Erestor and your sons will take good care of it." Thranduil added in a mere whisper, "And I will help them."

Elrond's eyes mirrored his desires as he managed to look at Glorfindel in this trance-like state. "I would like to go there with you, nîn ind."

Thranduil smugly met Glorfindel's gaze. "The three of us heard Elrond agree to this. He will object when the morning comes, so I suggest you prepare for your departure, Glorfindel. Do not give him a chance to go back on his word."

Glorfindel stared at Thranduil in amazement. "You are truly devious, Thranduil."

"I will take that as a compliment," chuckled the Woodland Elf. He gently released his hold on Elrond and signaled for Glorfindel to comfort the exhausted half-Elf. "I will start with my new duties, then. Elladan, will you take me to your father's study? We should attend to the most urgent matters at once."

Elladan nodded eagerly. His father was in the best hands and he would like to spend some time alone with Thranduil. "I will show you the way."

Thranduil rose from the bed and looked one more time at the sleeping Elrond. "Glorfindel, you have witnesses who heard Elrond agree. I suggest strongly that you take him away from here for some time. The Bruinen will strengthen Elrond again; the water possesses a strong life force of his own and Elrond stopped using it some time ago. Why, I do not know. I use the trees to replenish my powers, and Elrond used to the same thing whilst using the Bruinen's powers. Make him remember the old days when we drew strength from the heart of our realms."

Glorfindel nodded. "I will take good care of him and we will be in close contact... of course."

"Ha!" Thranduil laughed. "You already regret asking me to look after Imladris during Elrond's absence? It was your idea after all!"

Glorfindel shook his head in disbelief, hearing the amusement in Thranduil's voice. "What terrible menace did I unleash on Imladris?"

Thranduil heard Glorfindel's remark and continued to laugh. He was allowed to manipulate them just a little, wasn't he? After all, he had done so at Glorfindel's request! Seeing Elladan's concerned expression, he quickly sobered. "Lead on, Elladan. I will teach you how to rule Imladris..."

Elladan heard the confidence in Thranduil's voice and he sighed deeply; Elbereth help them when Elrond realized what they had done!

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

Erestor woke in the middle of the night, wondering why he felt warm and cherished. This pleasant feeling vanished however, at realizing that Elrohir was once more keeping him company in bed. He was taking up too much of the twin's time; Elrohir should be looking after Elrond instead!

He began to free himself of the embrace, but frowned, realizing that it wasn't Elrohir holding him close, but the other way around. His arms were wrapped around Elrohir, preventing the half-Elf from leaving. "I am sorry," he mumbled regretfully. "I have been keeping you here when you should be at your father's side." Memories of his breakdown returned to him, making him feel ashamed and embarrassed. He recalled talking to Elrohir, but what had he said?

Elrohir's eyelids fluttered and the large brown eyes opened. It had taken him years to grow used to see those eyes close in sleep and open upon awakening. He instantly released Elrohir, removing his arms, but the half-Elf remained motionless. "Elrohir, you should not be here."

"But I could not leave you alone, Erestor; I worry too much about you. Mellonamin, how much do you remember of our conversation?" Elrohir hated pushing the issue, but he couldn't allow Erestor to hide behind his walls. Erestor shook fiercely, and Elrohir re-established the embrace, showing Erestor that the Elf didn't have to do this alone. "Erestor? What do you remember?"

"I said something, did I not...? I said...?" Erestor frowned, trying to remember what he had said exactly. His eyes widened in shock and his breathing quickened, as memories of clinging to Elrohir and confessing his love for the half-Elf in his darkest hour surfaced. "What did I do? Why are you still here?" He had always been afraid that Elrohir would hate him, should the half-Elf learn about his true feelings. But Elrohir was still there, holding him close. "I should never have told you."

"You really love me, do you not?"

Erestor nodded mutely, afraid to trust his voice. His body tensed, feeling Elrohir soothingly rub his back through the fabric of his robes. "I am afraid so," he mumbled eventually.

Elrohir frowned at that reply. "Erestor?" He waited for the elder Elf to meet his gaze and only then continued. "I am truly flattered that you love me. To hear you whisper those words... Why did you not tell me earlier?"

Erestor's eyes were still wide, revealing his shock. "You are not offended that I have these feelings for you? You were my student and I..." His voice faltered, recalling something Elrohir had said earlier. "Elrond told you... You know what happened that night when the Orcs attacked?" A panicked expression appeared in his big eyes. "I tried to lure them away from your mother. You must believe me, pen-neth, I tried to keep her safe, but..."

"Erestor, please calm down." Elrohir's hand rested above the elder Elf's heart and the fast, much too fast, heartbeat echoed in his fingertips. "I know you tried to protect mother. No one blames you."

"I blame myself," said Erestor, barely audible.

"Aiya, Erestor... You did the best you could. Orcs are foul creatures and they delighted in tormenting mother... and you." Elrohir grew frustrated when Erestor avoided his gaze. "Do not blame yourself for something you had no control over."

Erestor shrugged noncommittally. "Your father told me the same thing, but I... I cannot believe it. There must have been something I could have done to stop them from..."

"Erestor!" Elrohir cut the elder Elf short. "There was nothing you could do. You have to forgive yourself for being outnumbered and helpless." Erestor flinched in his arms. "I know it is hard, but it is the only way for you to heal. Forgive yourself."

"I cannot. I still hear Celebrian's screams and..." Erestor bit his bottom lip until it bled. /Stop it! You do not want to remind Elrohir of what happened to his mother! It took him long enough to accept her departure; there is no need to reopen this wound!/

Elrohir ignored his own pain when Erestor referred to his mother, and focused on the Elf instead. "And what about -your- screams?"

"I did not scream hard enough... They still turned to your mother and..." His voice collapsed, abandoning him.

Elrohir held Erestor protectively, still rubbing the other's back. "It was not your fault. You suffered terribly as well."

"Will you forgive me then? But nay, I do not have the right to ask for your forgiveness." Erestor felt paralyzed now that remembered pain coursed through him. His screams had echoed through the lonely night and had mixed with Celebrian's. It seemed like it had taken Glorfindel days to find them, but only hours had passed.

Elrohir grew alert at hearing Erestor's question. If he said he forgave the elder Elf, Erestor's belief that he had failed would be strengthened. "There is nothing to forgive, Erestor. You did nothing wrong."

Tears flowed down Erestor's face, hearing those words. "But..."

"Erestor, you did nothing wrong. You are not to blame. You tried to save my mother. You did everything right." Erestor now sobbed in his arms and Elrohir held on tight. "You did nothing wrong. You are not to blame. You tried to save my mother. You did everything right." He repeated the words time and time again, hoping to finally get through to Erestor. "You did nothing wrong. You are not to blame. You tried to save my mother. You did everything right." Maybe if Erestor heard it enough times, he would allow himself to believe it.

Elrohir's words rang in his ears and Erestor desperately clung to them. /I did nothing wrong? I am not to blame? I tried to save Celebrian... I did everything right?/ He waited for the taunting voice to appear in the back of his head, but the mocking voice remained silent. /Can it be true? Did I do everything right? Elrond said many times that he does not blame me - and now Elrohir is saying the same thing./

Tentatively, he raised his eyes and met Elrohir's. Sheer determination shone from those brown orbs, almost willing him to believe. "I did nothing wrong?"

Elrohir flinched at the hesitant, fragile tone. "You did nothing wrong."

"I am not to blame? But how can that be?" But the mocking voice remained quiet, and Erestor began to believe Elrohir. "I did try to save your mother..."

"You did everything right," said Elrohir, "but you got terribly hurt in the process. Do you believe me when I say that you carry no guilt?"

Erestor nodded slowly. "If you say so I must believe it."

"Good," said Elrohir pleased. "Erestor, you carry no guilt, do you hear me?" Erestor nodded and Elrohir smiled. "Let go of the pain. You have been suffering for so long."

Erestor held his breath, feeling Elrohir's lips brush his brow. The kiss burned his skin and he released every tear he had ever kept back.

Elrohir held Erestor tightly as the Elf sobbed in his arms, and his lips traveled lower, kissing the tears away. /And so the healing of your soul begins./

 

Chapter Ten - Dancing In The Moonlight

Thranduil rested one hand on his son's shoulder and the other on Lurtz's. They had spent the last hour talking and he had gotten to know Lurtz a little better. What he had learned pleased him. "I truly believe the two of you are well suited for each other. Now your most important task is to make sure the other stays alive in the upcoming battle." For one moment his eyes locked with Lurtz's. "I do not want to lose my son..."

"I will keep him safe," promised Lurtz teasingly; knowing it would get a reaction out of Legolas.

"I am skilled enough to take care of myself," said Legolas in a mock hurt tone, but his sparkling eyes revealed he knew his lover was teasing him. "You had better hope -I- keep -you- safe!"

Lurtz laughed loudly and shook his head. "We will see about that!"

Thranduil nodded once, smiled and squeezed their shoulders. "I trust you will return to Mirkwood after this war is over."

"Now that I know we are welcome there, we will come home," said Legolas warmly. "Ada, I am glad you traveled to Imladris; it has been long since we last talked."

Thranduil's hands came up behind Legolas' back, bestowing a parental hug upon his son. "You will always be welcome in Mirkwood." Releasing Legolas, he took a step away from his son, smiled once more and then turned around to leave the room. This parting was merely temporary; he was confident they would meet again.

Lurtz pulled his lover close as the door closed behind Legolas. "I like him."

Legolas grinned. "I think the feeling is mutual." He sobered quickly, realizing they would leave in a few hours. They had spent the majority of the night in the gardens, but now it would be wise to rest before their departure.

Leading his lover to their bed, the Elf lay down, waiting for Lurtz to join him. Lurtz faced him and Legolas caught the smile in the dark eyes. "I will pretend to sleep," promised Legolas.

"Good," said Lurtz smugly, wrapping his long, strong arms around the lithe form. "Then I can catch some sleep as well. It might be our last chance to rest for days, maybe even weeks."

Legolas nodded against his lover's chest. He would miss their quiet nights at Imladris, but the upcoming fight possessed its own lure. /Ada is right. We must look out for each other and I have no idea how Lurtz will react when he faces thousands of Uruks./ Legolas listened to Lurtz's breathing, noticed how it slowed down, and realized his lover had fallen asleep. /I will keep a close eye on you.../

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

Thranduil slowly entered the gardens, thoughtfully staring at the full moon and cloudless, midnight sky. Strolling towards an ancient chestnut, he placed his hands on its trunk. The night was heavy with magic, and it had been months since he had last felt it. The trees called out to him; the earth beneath him tickled his feet and the air almost made him dizzy.

As long as he remembered he had always had a strong connection with nature, but it had dimmed in Mirkwood because of the shadow. Over the decades it had become harder to find the light and warm in the forests of Mirkwood, and dark forces nagged at its eternal roots.

But this night was different; tonight was magical, and he would use it to strengthen his powers.

Thranduil removed his shirt and threw it onto the ground, relishing the soft breeze that caressed his naked chest. His leggings followed, together with his boots and underwear. Naked, he grinned, gazed at the stars, and raised his arms, ready to receive whatever power the moon and stars wanted to bestow on him. Palms turned upward, they began to tingle and the sensation slid down his arms, into the rest of his body. It was a magical night indeed!

The enchanting atmosphere made him giggle and he began to run toward the forest, his feet barely touching the ground. Power rose from the earth, slipping into his toes and up his legs. The giggling grew louder and an ancient song left his lips, words which meaning were half hidden to him as well as Ents had delivered them to him as a child. But he didn't need to understand those words to draw power from them.

Suddenly the breeze grew stronger and the wind caressed every inch of his body, running along his skin with feather light touches. The sensation made him giddy and he danced rhythmically, touching trees, caressing leaves and chanting in an alien tongue, running even faster. A few minutes later he collapsed against a beech, rested his head against it and listened to its soft murmurs.

/You are not alone.../

Thranduil, still caught in the magic of the moment, quickly searched his surroundings. He located the squirrel on the lowest branch of an oak, the owl in the top of the ash that slowly turned his head and the fox that quickly hid in the bushes. But it weren't these animals the beech had referred to. A much stronger presence was hiding behind the oak to his right. Closing his eyes, he channeled the ancient power that coursed through him and reached out.

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

Elladan was startled, feeling something warm and seductive touch his mind. At first he had thought it was a physical touch, but then realized no one was touching him!

/I should not have followed him!/

It had been mere chance, seeing Thranduil step inside the gardens. He had considered revealing himself, but then Thranduil had removed his clothes and seeing the elder Elf naked had made him blush and feel shy. The moon had illuminated smooth, pale skin, leaving nothing to the imagination. His body had reacted at once, and he had grown aroused. That was when he had decided against revealing himself; he didn't want Thranduil to find out he was erect, but he couldn't deny his attraction to the blond. Thranduil seemed to be in his very blood, pulling him closer.

When Thranduil had moved toward the trees, Elladan had followed, careful to keep some distance between them. A sensual curiosity coursed through him, seeing Thranduil dance in the moonlight. Thranduil was an absolute enigma to him. Everything his father had ever told him about Thranduil seemed so untrue. This erotic creature was a temptation he couldn't resist, and he continued to follow.

He hid behind an oak, watching Thranduil come to stop near a beech, reaching out and embracing it. The giddy expression on Thranduil's face made him grin in return and he felt lost, staring into those sparkling, star lit eyes. He had never seen such a gorgeous sight before -- and he had never wanted Thranduil more.

Suddenly the sensual touch grew deeper and he fought the urge to reach inside his leggings and touch himself. /He knows I am here! He knows I am watching him!/ Thranduil's eyes suddenly locked with his, exposing him and Elladan stumbled backwards, desperate to put more distance between them. /Run!/ he told himself.

Sweat poured from his pores, and he moaned, as heat sizzled in his veins. He turned to run, but footfalls told him Thranduil was now in motion as well, following him. Desperate to hide his arousal and his embarrassment, he turned to run back to the house.

/Elladan, do not run away from me./

Elladan's eyes widened at hearing Thranduil's voice in his mind. Stunned, he halted in his movements and let Thranduil catch up with him. Unexpectedly, Thranduil tackled him, taking him down and they landed on a bed of leaves and moss. Thranduil straddled his hips, and the seductive smile on the elder Elf's lips made Elladan forget to breathe momentarily.

/I caught you./

Elladan licked his lips, entranced by the sight above him. Long, golden hair reached Thranduil's hips. Leaves, berries, healing herbs and birds' feathers had somehow found a way into the locks, creating the appearance of a crown. Twinkling stars looked down at him and Elladan nearly came when Thranduil licked his red, luscious lips. The pale, soft skin glimmered in the moonlight and a pleading moan escaped Elladan's lips. He wasn't sure what he was begging for, but he was willing to take whatever Thranduil would give.

Thranduil eyed his captured prey; the dark haired half-Elf trembled with desire beneath him. Rational thought had long deserted him as ancient magic coursed through his veins. All he could think of was pressing his lips on Elladan's and claiming the younger Elf as his. "A delightful prey you are..."

Elladan's big eyes stared at Thranduil in wonder. A golden glow emanated from within the Elf, warming him and his surroundings.

"Remove your clothes, Elfling, and join me in the worship of nature. Let me teach you what your father did not." Thranduil leaned in closer, tangled his hands in Elladan's dark hair and pressed a bruising kiss onto the half-Elf's lips. "Taste the magic tonight."

Elladan felt entranced as Thranduil pulled him to his feet. Together, they rid him of his clothes and Elladan suddenly found himself naked as well, his erection bobbing free. He tried to lower his hands to cover himself, but Thranduil quickly grabbed his wrists, kissed the palms of his hands, and dragged the confused half-Elf with him back into the forest.

Elladan didn't struggle or try to free himself of Thranduil's hold. Now that their hands were touching a sexual energy seeped into his fingertips. The sensation traveled up his arms and slowly took possession of him. He let go of his shyness, and within minutes he was giggling as well, chasing after Thranduil as the elder Elf led him deeper into the forest. He had never felt this care free and content before, and it felt liberating.

Abruptly, Thranduil came to a stop. Elladan ran into Thranduil and they stumbled forward, landing on soft grass. Elladan laughed loudly, immediately reaching for Thranduil, who was on his back, giggling. Elladan had ceased to think rationally, governed by the needs and desires of his body. Thranduil was all he wanted, all he desired, and slowly he crawled towards the other Elf.

Thranduil smiled, reached out a hand and watched lazily as Elladan crawled closer on all fours until the half-Elf straddled him. Passion, lust and desire shone from the dark chocolate eyes and Thranduil surrendered to it, like he had surrendered to the magic. Raising a hand, he placed its palm against Elladan's cheek, and he sighed blissfully when Elladan slowly sucked on his thumb. The half-Elf treated his other digits to the same teasing treatment and Thranduil pulled Elladan close, touched his lips to the half-Elf's and hungrily exploring Elladan's mouth.

A distant, more rational part of Thranduil, knew that he should stop now, but the magic burned his body and demanded he honored the old traditions. Normally he chose his lovers, but this time he had been chosen instead. Groaning hungrily, he surrendered to the kiss, letting his inexperienced lover take control. Elladan's erection now pressed against his stomach, signaling the half-Elf's need and passion. Their lovemaking would be swift and powerful, and the energy released would restore the natural balance of things.

Thranduil looked up at his lover, saw Elladan's impatience, and reached for the leaves and healing herbs that clung to his golden locks. He crushed them between his fingertips and rubbed the oily substance onto the half-Elf's erection.

Elladan suddenly froze, realizing what was about to happen. Excitement overwhelmed him, and he let his lover take control. Thranduil's arms suddenly came up behind him, held him close and laid him down on his back. Grass tickled his skin and the sensation made him laugh.

Thranduil looked down at the half-Elf and stroked his lover's erection, until Elladan's hardened flesh was properly covered in the oily substance. This time, Thranduil straddled Elladan's hips, positioning himself to be impaled by his young lover.

Elladan's eyes grew wide, seeing Thranduil slowly lower himself onto his erection, taking him slowly. "By Elbereth..."

"No words -- not tonight," said Thranduil breathlessly, concentrating on taking in more of his lover.

Elladan reached blindly for Thranduil, as the sensation of being inside that warm passage overwhelmed him.

Thranduil smiled warmly, and bowed forward to deliver one sweet kiss to Elladan's lips.

Elladan released a passionate yelp as his lover set a slow, tantalizing rhythm. Not even in his wildest dreams had he thought making love could feel like this. Hearing Thranduil moan, Elladan reached for his lover's erection and pumped it in the same rhythm, eager to return the pleasure. Suddenly, his instincts took over and the thrust hard -- and again.

Thranduil grabbed Elladan's hips tightly, allowing his lover to speed up their rhythm, but still keeping in control of their lovemaking. Elladan suddenly pumped him harder and he threw back his head. An ancient song left Thranduil's lips, and the bewitching melody traveled across the landscape. Unable to keep back any longer, he released his grip on his lover's hips and let Elladan thrust harder.

The spasms that contracted around him made Elladan gasp and he stared at Thranduil in wonder. Warm cream dripped onto his stomach, and, overcome by the unearthly beauty of the blond, he climaxed.

Thranduil smiled, seeing the sated expression in Elladan's eyes, and he leaned in closer, covering the half-elf's body like a blanket. Elladan was shaking like a leaf, and Thranduil soothed his young lover by caressing his skin, which felt hot to the touch.

Elladan rode the wave of ecstasy that washed through him, and several moments later was he able to focus on Thranduil. The elder Elf raised himself onto all fours and Elladan moaned loudly as his sated sex slipped from his lover's body. /Stay, please./ At that moment he was certain Thranduil could hear his thoughts, and the elder Elf lay down beside him, wrapping him up in his arms. /Stay with me./

Thranduil, growing more focused now that his pent up energy had been released, studied Elladan's eyes. /You were a virgin./ It was the only explanation why the energy release had been that strong. Birds sang sweetly in the middle of the night and several animals appeared out of curiosity. Thranduil smiled, as Elladan looked stunned, finding a peacock stare back at him.

Elladan focused on his lover and smiled lazily. /I am a virgin no more./ His fingers combed through the tangled, golden locks and he gazed into Thranduil's eyes adoringly. /I think I love you./

Thranduil returned the smile, and hid his worry. How was he going to explain this to Elrond? He had bedded Elladan, and according to tradition they were mated now.

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

Annoying sounds roused Elrond from his peaceful slumber. Searching for the source of the noise he marveled at the sight of Glorfindel packing. /Packing? Why is he packing? It will be a while before we leave for Valinor./ Feeling slightly rested, he managed to elbow himself into an upright position.

"Glorfindel? Why are you packing?" Glorfindel gave him a definitely wicked grin and his instincts kicked in. "Why are you looking at me like that? What happened during my sleep?"

"That is just like you, melme, to forget you promised to go away with me for a short time!" Glorfindel saw puzzlement in Elrond's eyes, and hoped Thranduil's spell was strong enough to confuse Elrond. That would give him time to convince his love.

Elrond's eyes widened in disbelief. "I never promised anything like that!" But a memory nagged at his mind; he recalled picturing himself at the Bruinen, sitting in the sun with his lover in his arms. "This cannot be!"

"I asked you last night and you agreed," said Glorfindel. "I even have two witnesses." Glorfindel continued to pack Elrond's clothes and toiletries, never giving the Lord of Imladris a chance to properly protest. "We are leaving this afternoon. Thranduil will help Elladan and Elrohir rule Imladris and..."

"Thranduil?" Elrond glared at the blond. "I knew he was involved in this! What did he do?"

"Nothing... He merely offered his assistance and the twins and I accepted." Glorfindel leaned against the wall after he had finished packing. "Why are you opposed to this? We will leave Imladris for Valinor in a few weeks and then you will have to -- oh, that is it, you do not want to leave Imladris at all!" The saddened expression in Elrond's eyes had given the half-Elf away. "You want to spent as much time here as possible."

"I will miss it so much," whispered Elrond softly. He lowered his eyes and stared at the blankets.

"But the Bruinen is part of Imladris as well. We will only be a mile away from the Homely House..." Glorfindel, watching Elrond thoughtfully, sat down on the edge of the bed. "We do not have to leave for Valinor, meleth-nîn. We can stay here."

"Do not tempt me," said Elrond distressed. "The time of the Elves is gone. Our only refuge is Valinor."

"Elladan and Elrohir will stay at Imladris and Celeborn refuses to leave 'Lorien." Glorfindel curled his fingers around his lover's. "You do not have to decide this right now."

Elrond sighed deeply; Glorfindel's words had made him doubt his earlier decision to leave for Valinor with Galadriel. "Would you like to stay here?"

Glorfindel nodded slowly. "I would love to stay here. Maybe we can convince Celeborn to visit regularly? It will be lonely in 'Lorien when Galadriel is gone. Many will follow her lead."

Elrond carefully considered everything Glorfindel had told him. "I will go with you. We will sit in the sun and stare at the stars at night, and I will make my decision upon our return."

Glorfindel beamed with pleasure, and he pressed a teasing kiss on the tip of Elrond's nose, making the half-Elf giggle. "You won't regret entrusting yourself to me."

Elrond's expression darkened. "We should keep in mind that hundreds of our kin might lose their lives in the upcoming battle."

Glorfindel tensed. "I will never forget the sacrifice our 'Lorien brethren are making."

Elrond's brow became furrowed. "I know that, nîn ind, but I feel guilty, knowing we will be spending time in each other's arms whilst others are dying."

Glorfindel leaned in closer and rested his forehead against Elrond's, staring deeply into his lover's eyes. "I offered to lead the 'Lorien army, but Galadriel and Celeborn chose Haldir instead. I would have been honored to march to Helm's Deep to share their fate."

"I know you would have fought well," said Elrond, "but I am also relieved that your life was spared."

Glorfindel smiled, leaned in closer and slowly kissed Elrond, hoping their time away would help his love replenish his strength.

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

When Elrohir woke he immediately sensed Erestor's absence; he was the only one left in the bed. Alarmed, he sat upright, scanning the room. Erestor stood in front of the window and Elrohir left the bed to advance on his former tutor. "Why are you not in bed where it is warm and comfortable?"

Erestor turned to face him, and Elrohir's worry increased. A tormented expression haunted the dark eyes. "What is wrong?"

"I have let my fears rule me for so long," muttered Erestor in a shaky tone. He had wrapped his arms around his waist, hugging himself close. His gaze shifted away from Elrohir and he stared outside again. "Maybe it is time I faced them."

Those words should have pleased Elrohir, but a sense of foreboding warned him that something was wrong. "How would you face them?" His hands itched to smooth back some locks, but Erestor moved away from him and he refrained from touching the elder Elf. "Erestor?" The ominous feeling became stronger and Elrohir followed Erestor to the fireplace, careful to remain at some distance. "Please talk to me."

Erestor collapsed in front of the fireplace and stared into the flames. "Legolas and Lurtz are leaving for Lothlorien to aid the people of Rohan. Maybe I should join them and..."

"Nay! Erestor, you --." Elrohir stared at the elder Elf in sheer disbelief. He knew about his father's plan to send archers to aid the people of Rohan, but he wouldn't let Erestor join them. He collapsed next to Erestor and tried to catch his friend's gaze. "You know that Ada called on volunteers because many of our kin will die! And Erestor, respectfully, you are a diplomat, not a warrior. You would be among the first to fall!"

"I am sorry, Elrohir," whispered Erestor, finally meeting the half-Elf's gaze. "But I have hidden here in Imladris for too long. And you might not believe it, but I was a warrior once, long before you and Elladan were born."

"Do not do this to me, to us! Ada won't let you go!" Elrohir frantically grabbed Erestor's shoulders, making sure the elder Elf listened to him. "-I- won't let you!"

"Elrohir," whispered Erestor saddened. "You should not worry about me."

"But I do worry about you!" Elrohir shook his head, wishing he knew how to get through to Erestor. "You cannot go to Helm's Deep. You will die!"

"Are you really that worried about me?" Erestor blushed weakly.

"Why do you think I sought you out in the first place, or that I stayed during the night? Why am I trying to change your mind right now? Of course I care!" Elrohir was growing desperate. "What would keep you here?"

Erestor averted his eyes, but Elrohir instinctively knew the answer. /My love would keep you here./ Elrohir raised a hand and cupped Erestor's chin in his palm. "Please look at me."

Erestor reluctantly complied. "Elrohir, I know you do not love me in that way and --"

Elrohir shut him short. "How come everyone pretends to know my feelings?"

"Who else --?"

But Elrohir shook his head. Erestor didn't need to know that Glorfindel knew about the attraction between them, and Erestor's breakdown. Maintaining eye contact, he leaned in closer, inclined his head and softly touched his lips to Erestor's.

Erestor's eyes widened in surprise and he tried to pull back, but Elrohir's hold on him tightened. Soft lips moved against his and the tip of Elrohir's tongue teased against his teeth. Unable to remain unresponsive any longer, he moaned and returned the gentle kiss.

Elrohir smiled warmly and teasingly slowly released Erestor's bottom lip, suckling it momentarily. The surprise in Erestor's eyes made his smile change into a grin. "You liked that; do not deny it."

Erestor nodded shyly. "But it should not happen again. You are Elrond's son and I was your teacher. I cannot betray your father's trust like that."

Elrohir raised Erestor's face once more, forcing the elder Elf to look at him. "I am an adult, Arato-nîn. I make my own decisions." And he seriously doubted Elrond would have any objections, not after his conversation with Glorfindel.

"Do not call me that, Elrohir. I am not your champion, I --"

Elrohir leaned in closer and kissed first one, and then the other eyelid.

Erestor forgot whatever objection he wanted to make when Elrohir's lips brushed his eyelids.

"I do not want you to go to Helm's Deep, Arato-nîn. And I will continue to call you that, because you -are- my champion. You defended my mother and helped Ada raise us, which could not have been easy."

"But I must face my fears, pen-neth."

"Then let us hunt down some Orcs together, but do not go to Rohan, I beseech you."

"Until a moment ago I did not care if I lived or died, but that kiss changed everything. Are you serious, pen-neth? Do not play with my feelings, for my heart would break if I ever learned you acted out of pity instead of love."

"I feel no pity, Erestor. I am angry that those Orcs hurt you as well as mother and I am saddened that you thought you had to carry this burden alone. But there is no pity."

"Is there love?" Erestor looked pleadingly at Elrohir. "You do understand how much I love you? I do not know if I will ever be able to express that love physically and it would be unfair to bind yourself to me when --."

Elrohir shook his head. "Learning about your suffering and your feelings for me was quite the surprise and I want to Take it slowly as well, Arato-nîn. I am not ready yet to make love to you either." Amused, he raised an eyebrow at seeing Erestor blush. "I will settle for holding you close."

Erestor sighed, relieved, leaned in closer, and rested his head against Elrohir's shoulder. The half-Elf enfolded him in a hug, holding him close.

"Promise me you will not go to Helm's Deep? At least not without me? And I will follow you should you leave Imladris without telling me."

"I could never put you in danger like that." Erestor already regretted ever suggesting he joined 'Lorien's archers. /Elrohir is right; I am not a warrior any longer. I would not be a help; I would be a burden./

Elrohir held Erestor tight, stroking the long dark hair. /He is not leaving, and that is all that matters./

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

The sun rose after long hours of bewitching darkness and Thranduil looked at the Elfling still asleep in his arms. He had finally made a decision. It would be unfair to bind Elladan to him because they had shared one night of magically induced passion. Elladan was still so young compared to him, and should be with a more suitable mate.

Elladan stirred in his sleep, but did not wake up. Thranduil pushed himself up to an elbow and his fingertips trailed down Elladan's chest, savoring one last caress before he spoke. "Elladan, you went into the gardens last night and you fell asleep there. You had a most wondrous dream, very sensual, very pleasing and the night left you sated. Always remember it was just a dream... just a dream..."

In his sleep, Elladan groaned; he almost seemed to object, but Thranduil repeated the suggestion once more. "It was just a very sensual dream, nothing more."

His bewitching voice kept Elladan sound asleep whilst lifting the half-Elf in his arms. As he made his way back to the house, he found their clothes and slipped into his shirt and leggings. Using a few handfuls of clear spring water, he cleaned Elladan up, removing all traces of their lovemaking. Struggling with a dead weight, he managed to dress Elladan as well. He located a lovely shady spot and laid Elladan down beneath a beech.

"Sleep a little longer, Elfling." Thranduil caressed Elladan's face, regretting he had to make this decision. Elladan was passionate, handsome, intelligent and yes, stubborn; traits which he would have welcomed in a mate, but Elladan was also Elrond's son, which made such an union impossible. "It was just a dream, Lirimaer."

Saddened, but hoping he had made the right decision, Thranduil left Elladan slumbering beneath the trees.

Notes:

Arato-nîn = my champion

Pen-neth = young one

Melme = love

Nîn ind = my heart

Meleth-nîn = my love

 

Chapter Eleven - Caught

Thranduil was enjoying a long, hot bath, whilst images of making love to Elladan raced through his head. He forced them to slow down. /I should not have invited Elladan along. By Elbereth, what was I thinking? Elladan is Elrond's son, -- an Elfling!-- and Elrond will be livid when he finds out what happened./

And what if Elladan doubted it had been a dream? Could he lie to Elladan when questioned? Or would he admit the truth? Elbereth help him when Elladan found out what had really happened last night!

Apart from his young age, Elladan would be an excellent mate, but Thranduil realized very well that Elrond wouldn't agree to such a union. Elladan and Elrohir were to rule Imladris one day, and Elrond wouldn't want his oldest son to give up on his birthright to spend the rest of his life in the dark Mirkwood. /But there is another way; I could leave Mirkwood to Valthoron and stay here. Valthoron has all the skills to rule Mirkwood successfully./

Then, a thought startled him. /What if Elladan is not interested in a long-term relationship? I am assuming he is, but -- maybe one night of passion was all he wanted./

The thoughts slowly drove him insane. He got out of the bath, dressed and he left his room, heading for Elrond's study to look into today's urgent affairs. Passing by Legolas and Lurtz's former rooms, he knew them empty. They had left at sunrise and were now on their way to 'Lorien.

Maybe burying himself in paperwork would distract him.

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

"Thranduil!" Elrond, seated in the wheelchair, pointed a finger at the golden haired Elf who entered his study. "What have you been up to?" He knew he hadn't voluntarily given in to Glorfindel's request to take some time off. Thranduil had had something to do with it and he was determined to find out what. Seated behind his desk, he eyed Thranduil closely, immediately noticing the guilty expression on the other's face.

Thranduil tensed; Elrond couldn't know what had happened last night! Elladan probably hadn't even returned to the house yet! He forced himself to remain calm. This had to be about something else! "I have no idea what you are talking about... and should you not be in bed? Resting?"

Elrond drew in a deep, calming breath. "How did you make me agree to Glorfindel's plan?"

Thranduil relaxed; this was about manipulating Elrond into leaving with Glorfindel, and not about Elladan, as he had feared. "I asked you if you would like to sit at the Bruinen with Glorfindel next to you, enjoying the sun, and you said yes. That is all I did."

Elrond sensed that Thranduil wasn't telling the entire truth - but what could he do about it? Call Thranduil a liar? That would destroy the friendship that was beginning to form between them. "Do you have a secret desire to take over Imladris and rule it?" said Elrond teasingly, opting for humor instead of questioning Thranduil further.

Thranduil didn't notice Elrond's teasing tone at first and opened his mouth to defend his offer to help, but then he finally caught the twinkling in Elrond's eyes. "Aye, I always wanted to rule such a powerful realm."

Thranduil's teasing reply surprised Elrond, but also pleased him. "I did not know you had a sense of humor, Thranduil."

"There is a lot about me you do not know," said Thranduil thoughtfully.

"Ah, there you are! I should take that wheelchair away from you!" Glorfindel entered the study and shook his head in desperation. "How many times must I tell you that you are supposed to rest, Elrond? Not work!"

"Peace, Glorfindel," said Elrond, amused. Looking at Thranduil, he added, "Please make sure I still have a realm to rule when I get back."

Thranduil laughed warmly, and signaled Glorfindel to wheel Elrond out of the room. "We will see."

Glorfindel pushed the wheelchair into the corridor, walked in front of Elrond, and sat on his heels, looking at the half-Elf. "Imladris is in very capable hands. You can trust Thranduil to look after it."

"I know that." Elrond fingered one of his lover's golden locks. "I never thought I would trust him, but it seems he has changed. When he looked at me in the past, I always saw hate in his eyes; that is gone now."

"He blamed you for his father's death, did he not?"

Elrond nodded. "But he has mellowed."

Glorfindel caressed his lover's face. "Time heals many wounds, melme."

"But I still think he had something to do with me agreeing to go on this break with you." Seeing the sparks in Glorfindel's eyes, he knew he was right, but he decided against pursuing it. Being honest with himself, he admitted he looked forward to spending some time alone with Glorfindel. "When are we leaving?"

"Ah, eager to leave, are you? I thought you were opposed to the idea," teased Glorfindel. He returned to pushing the wheelchair, determined to leave the contraption at home. It wasn't that he didn't appreciate Erestor creating it for Elrond, but it took away his opportunity to carry Elrond, which always made him feel close to his lover.

Elrond remained uncharacteristically quiet during the trip back to his rooms. Glorfindel grew worried and glanced at his lover, finding him brooding. "What is on your mind?" Placing the palm of his hand against Elrond's cheek, he waited for the half-Elf to lean into the touch, which he did.

"I am so tired, nîn bellas. At times it feels like all of Arda rests on my shoulders, and I lack the strength to carry on."

Glorfindel cocked his head and made eye contact. "You are a very compassionate soul, meleth-nîn, but you cannot carry this burden the entire time."

"That is why I will go away with you," whispered Elrond. "Though I cannot stop worrying about --"

Glorfindel stopped him. "Imladris is in good hands. Thranduil, Erestor and the twins will make sure nothing goes wrong."

Elrond frowned realizing it had been some time since he saw his chief advisor and his youngest son.

Glorfindel read the question in Elrond's eyes and nodded once. "It was a full moon these past few nights. You know what that does to Erestor."

Elrond nodded, saddened. "And Elrohir stayed with him."

"Elrohir comforted him, and as far as I know is still with him." Glorfindel moistened his lips. "Erestor finally confided in Elrohir. He expressed his love for your son."

Elrond frowned. He knew Erestor was fond of his sons, and Elrohir in particular, but -- "Erestor is in love with Elrohir?"

"And Elrohir seems determined to make it work." Glorfindel shrugged once. "Elrohir is not in love with Erestor... yet." Glorfindel felt slightly guilty for betraying Elrohir's trust, but was confident Elrond would approve of their love.

"You think Elrohir will fall in love with Erestor?" Elrond wondered what else had happened during his sleep!

"I think so. Elrohir cares deeply about Erestor. All they need is time. It does not always have to be love at first sight."

"Very true," admitted Elrond. Sighing apprehensively, he asked, "And what about Elladan's infatuation with Thranduil? He assured me he would let Elladan down gently."

Glorfindel carefully considered his answer. "Elladan's feelings might be returned." He cringed, seeing Elrond's flabbergasted expression.

"You cannot be serious! Thranduil would never..." Elrond's voice trailed off. "Would he take Elladan away from me to get even with me? Maybe his mellowness is just a front?"

Glorfindel quickly calmed his lover down. "Nîn ind, Thranduil and I talked and I did not get the impression he is playing with Elladan's feelings. He said he is honored that Elladan is interested in him, but..." Glorfindel searched for the right words. "Thranduil does not know -why- Elladan is that interested in him."

Elrond raised an eyebrow.

"Honestly, meleth-nîn, Thranduil has no idea why Elladan likes him that much." Glorfindel placed their already packed bags near the doorway. Servants would take their luggage to the cottage which he had selected for their stay. "When Thranduil and you parted at the Last Alliance there was a lot of bad blood between you, but much has changed since then. Maybe his sons' love has something to do with it?"

Elrond nodded once. "You are right, Glorfindel. I should give him the benefit of the doubt, but if he hurts Elladan than --"

"Do not trouble yourself. Thranduil knows we will have his head should he hurt Elladan on purpose." Glorfindel returned to his love. "Are you ready to leave?"

"Not really, but that won't stop you from abducting me." Elrond gave Glorfindel a long, adoring look. "And I love you for it." He released a surprised moan as Glorfindel lifted him in his arms. "What about the wheelchair?"

"We do not need it. I love to carry you." Glorfindel touched his lips to Elrond's, delivering a kiss that promised more later.

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

Elladan's eyelids fluttered. He was slowly waking up and his eyes opened, staring at a cloudless blue sky. Sunbeams kept his body warm, and he stretched lazily.

Suddenly his eyes widened as his dreams returned to him. /Thranduil, I dreamt he made love to me.../ His body reacted at once; the mere thought of Thranduil was enough to make him erect.

Sitting upright, he closed his eyes, remembering the dream. He had ventured into the gardens last night, seeing Thranduil disappear between the trees. He had followed the blond, and Thranduil had him caught staring. Then Thranduil had urged him to remove his clothes, and after running through the forest they had made love. Elladan involuntarily licked his lips, and his erection twitched, recalling how Thranduil had impaled himself.

A strangled moan left his throat as he panted softly. That image alone was enough to make him come.

Confused, Elladan's head slumped forward. Did he no longer have any control over his body? /I should return to my room and clean myself up. But that dream -- was it a dream?/

He didn't remember lying down here to sleep. Why would he sleep out in the open when there was a comfortable bed in his room? Something just didn't make sense.

Elladan pushed himself onto his feet and slowly started his way back. /Was it a dream? How can it be a dream when I recall his every touch? But if it really happened, where is Thranduil now? Why leave me?/

His confusion had reached new heights when he finally arrived at the Homely House, entering it and heading for his room. Lost in thought, he didn't pay any attention to where he was going and bumped into --

"Elladan?"

Thranduil's soft voice made him look up, and he blushed fiercely, encountering the blond's probing glance. /Why did I have to run into -him-?/

Thranduil felt guilty, seeing Elladan's lost expression and the crimson blush. Maybe telling Elladan it had just been a dream had been the wrong thing to do. Now Elladan was facing his confused feelings alone, whilst he should be exploring them with his lover.

Elladan gathered his courage and asked boldly, "Where were you last night?" He -had- to know if it had been more than just a dream! The images felt too real; he could even recall Thranduil's scent, and the passionate moans the blond had released when he had reached orgasm. How could it be a dream?

Elladan's question took Thranduil aback momentarily. "Elladan..." Could he lie to the half-Elf?

Elladan's eyes sought out Thranduil's, pleading for understanding. "I had this incredible dream last night."

"A dream?" Thranduil's soft gaze met with Elladan's.

Elladan suddenly felt quite the fool for thinking Thranduil would -ever- make love to him! "It is nothing."

Thranduil's heart broke, watching the Elfling wrestle with his desire to address last night. "It was just a dream," he whispered, caught off guard.

Elladan's eyes widened. "What did you say?" Those words sounded very familiar!

Thranduil realized his mistake. "Nothing." Thranduil turned away from Elladan and headed back to Elrond's study. Looking over his shoulder, he studied Elladan's eyes, realizing he needed to distract the half-Elf who was too close to uncovering the truth. He should never have let that slip! "Your father and Glorfindel are leaving within the hour and they would like to speak with you."

Elladan shook his head, knowing he was on the verge of uncovering a truth Thranduil was trying to hide from him. He had heard those words during his sleep! Someone had told him it was just a dream! Had that someone been Thranduil? What was true and what was false?

"Elladan? Your father is leaving," repeated Thranduil, knowing Elladan was about to figure everything out and he couldn't allow that to happen.

Elladan frowned now that he was forced to turn his thoughts to his father. "Leaving?"

"For a lovely cottage near the Bruinen, remember? Your father needs to rest." Thranduil's guilt increased; maybe he should simply tell Elladan that last night had really happened. But Elladan was already walking down the corridor, heading for Elrond's private chambers. /I would ruin your life by binding you to me. You are so young and you will find a lover closer to your own age./

Thranduil sighed dejectedly. When exactly had he lost his heart to the Elfling?

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

"Ada?"

Elrond was dressed in warm robes, waiting for Glorfindel to retrieve his belongings so they could finally leave. "Elladan, ion-nîn, I missed you!" Elrond took in Elladan's flushed appearance, realizing something had upset his oldest son. "Come here and let me have a look at you."

Elladan felt uncomfortable, wishing he had been able to clean up before seeking out Elrond. He knelt in front of his father and lowered his eyes.

Elrond frowned deeply. "Elladan?" He raised his son's chin, forcing him to make eye contact. Elladan seldom was this quiet, this... evasive. "Elladan, what is wrong?" If this was about Thranduil...

Elladan finally made eye contact and shrugged. "I had a disturbing dream." Did he want to discuss this with his father?

Elrond stroked his son's hair, hoping to soothe him. "Why did it disturb you?"

Elladan almost backed away from the subject, but in the end he blurted out, "I am in love with Thranduil, Ada." A whirlwind of emotions tossed him from one feeling to the other. He had always been able to talk to his father, even when his body had awakened. Maybe Elrond could make some sense out of his confused feelings?

Elrond smiled warmly. "I am honored you trust me with your feelings, but we already suspected you were falling for Thranduil."

"We?"

"Glorfindel and I."

"Of course." Elladan searched his father's eyes. "What do I do? I am so confused. I want to be with him all the time, but -- It is folly. Thranduil could never be interested in someone as young as me!" He was rambling, but couldn't stop himself. "When I ran into him just now, I -- my body..."

Elrond smiled compassionately. He still cupped Elladan's chin in the palm of his hand, probing his son's eyes. "I do not know what you should do, Elladan. But maybe I can offer you some advice." After Elladan nodded, Elrond continued. "Legolas once told me something Thranduil had taught him; to love unconditionally, regardless of what others might say or think. Legolas went after Lurtz because he loved him and wanted him back. Thranduil accepted their relationship because their love was true. Maybe Thranduil will be impressed when you pursue him in a similar way?" Elrond shook his head. /I cannot encourage him to go after Thranduil! What am I thinking?/

"Ada? I thought you would disapprove." Elrond's words only worsened his confusion.

Elrond carefully chose his words. "Thranduil and I had -- differences in the past, but I hope we can overcome them." He had wanted to say 'I wish you had fallen in love with someone else,' but stopped himself. Elladan seemed extremely insecure, and he didn't want his son to think he had disappointed him. "If you really love him, you should tell him." Elrond eyed Elladan closely and saw the disbelief in his son's eyes. "Glorfindel thinks Thranduil might feel the same way about you." Aiya, what was he doing? Driving his son into Thranduil's arms... but he couldn't bear seeing Elladan suffer like this!

Elladan's eyes grew big and he grabbed his father's hand. "What? Glorfindel thinks Thranduil loves me back? But--?"

"Thranduil couldn't understand why someone as young and handsome as you would be interested in him," said Elrond thoughtfully. "I doubt Thranduil will address this matter, thinking I will disapprove. Maybe you need to find out where the two of you stand?" The mere thought of Thranduil becoming his son in law made him cringe, but he would welcome Thranduil into this family if Elladan really loved the Elf.

Elladan's flush intensified. "I cannot face him like that -- not since that dream."

Elrond recalled that Elladan had mentioned a dream that had disturbed him. "What happened in your dream?" Elladan's skin felt hot and sweaty and Elrond smiled in understanding, realizing what that dream had been about.

Elladan nervously cleared his throat, wondering how he could discuss that particular dream with his father. "Thranduil and I -- We made..."

"Love?" finished Elrond for his son. Elladan nodded quickly and averted his eyes. "Elladan, you are in love. These dreams are normal and you should know that." When the twins had come of age, he had taken them apart and told them what to expect in the years to come. He smiled fondly, recalling that his sons had already known a lot more than he had expected. The twins had let him talk until he had blushed under their probing looks, and then they had let him off the hook, telling him Erestor and Glorfindel had already talked to them about the birds and the bees.

"Ada, do you really think Thranduil is interested in me?" Elladan had thought everything over and felt a lot calmer now that he knew that his father would support him.

"You are asking the wrong person, Elladan. You should ask Thranduil, not me." Elrond let go of a strand of Elladan's hair, seeing Glorfindel approach the doorway. "What do you have to lose?"

"Nothing," whispered Elladan, suddenly smiling. "I have nothing to lose."

Glorfindel gave Elrond a curious look, but his lover's expression told him his questions would be answered once Elladan had left.

Elladan got to his feet, bowed forward and placed a kiss on his father's brow. "Thank you for your advice and understanding, Ada. I will talk to him." Elladan smiled calmly. "You are right; I have nothing to lose."

Elrond watched his son leave the room and then beckoned Glorfindel to come closer.

"Whom is Elladan going to talk to? Thranduil?" He handed his bag to one of the servants, as he wanted to carry Elrond himself. Bowing down, he pushed his hands beneath Elrond's back and knees and lifted the half-Elf.

Elrond nodded once. "I do not like the idea of Thranduil becoming part of this family, but if Elladan's love is true and returned I won't stand in their way. Elladan's happiness is too important to me."

"So you basically gave Elladan your blessing." Glorfindel cradled Elrond against his chest as he carried the half-Elf to Asfaloth. He reckoned Elrond's ankles had healed enough for the short ride to the cottage.

"I did." Elrond held his breath as Glorfindel placed him on Asfaloth's back, expecting pain to radiate from his ankles.

"Will this do? Or would you prefer a litter?" asked Glorfindel concerned.

Elrond released the breath he had been holding. The pain was bearable. "This will do."

Glorfindel mounted Asfaloth, slipping into place behind him. Elrond leaned against his lover and looked over his shoulder, finding Elladan standing next to Asfaloth. "Thranduil might be in charge, but I want to know the moment something goes wrong, Elladan. Do you understand?"

Elladan nodded fondly. "Aye, Ada, I understand." He had been on his way to seek out Thranduil when he looked down into the courtyard, expected Elrohir there to say goodbye to their father. But Elrohir wasn't in sight, so he had joined his father and Glorfindel. /I will check on Elrohir after I have talked to Thranduil./ Where was his brother, and what was more important than seeing off their father?

Asfaloth trod carefully, realizing one of his riders was injured, and Glorfindel softly praised the stallion for it. "We will reach the cottage shortly."

"I am not in any pain," said Elrond reassuringly.

"Just lean against me for support." Glorfindel secretly delighted in fussing over his lover. "You can rest when we arrive at the cottage."
Elrond rested his back against Glorfindel's chest. "I still feel this is a bad time to leave."

"Because the twins are finally growing up?" Glorfindel chuckled softly. "You raised them well; put your trust in them."

"I do not really have a choice, do I?" Elrond realized he no longer had any control over this situation and surrendered to exhaustion. His eyes partly closed as he dozed off.

Elrond's breathing told Glorfindel that his lover had fallen asleep and he tightened his hold on the half-Elf, hoping their time at the cottage would be a happy one.

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

Lurtz stared straight ahead, his eyes searching for possible enemies. He didn't want to recall his embarrassment earlier when the horse Legolas had selected for him had refused to carry him. The stallion had reared, trying to hit him with his hoofs, but Elrond's horse master had calmed the animal. It had taken an hour for Elen to allow Lurtz to sit on his back. Even now, several hours later, he felt like the horse could throw him off any moment now.

"We will reach 'Lorien in two days, provided we can maintain this speed. We will set up a camp for some hours during the night to give the horses a chance to rest." Legolas eyed Lurtz closely. "Are you still worried that Elen will reconsider carrying you?" At first, he had been amused, seeing the stallion back away from Lurtz, but then he had realized his lover was feeling hurt and his smile had died.

"I would rather walk or run than sit on this animal's back." Lurtz held his breath, hearing Elen snort at his words.

"You will grow used to it." Legolas steered his own horse, Vund, closer to Elen, and he managed to briefly rest a hand on his lover's shoulder. "I am worried," he confessed.

Lurtz looked at him questioningly. "Why?"

"If what Elrond says is true, the people of Rohan can never win this battle."

Lurtz nodded. "Saruman's army is ten thousand strong, an overwhelming force." He paused momentarily. "There is a chance we will not survive this."

"A lot of Elves and Men will die," whispered Legolas, distressed. They had been sent on a suicide mission!

"But you will not," said Lurtz determinedly. "I promised your father to keep you alive."

Legolas grinned. "Ada can be overprotective at times." As a child he had adored - almost worshipped - his father. Thranduil had shown him light where only was darkness in Mirkwood, had taught him everything he knew, and through the long years he had developed a deep, admiring love for his father.

Lurtz cleared his throat, seeing the distant look in Legolas' eyes. "What will happen once we reach 'Lorien?"

"We will join Haldir and his archers, and march for Helm's Deep."

"Haldir... I don't think I know that name," said Lurtz carefully.

Legolas laughed warmly. "You will like him. He is stubborn and cocky, just the way you like your Elves!" Legolas loved teasing Lurtz a bit.

"I only desire you," said Lurtz defensively, not realizing Legolas was teasing him.

"I know you love me." Legolas looked over his shoulder and whispered some words in Elvish.

Lurtz grabbed hold of a handful of Elen's manes as the horses suddenly sped up, their hoofs barely touching the earth. /This started when I found Legolas in a cave. His leg was bleeding and he was suffering from the Orc's poison. Then I knock down Glorfindel, causing him to become blind temporarily and now I'm going to meet another stubborn and cocky Elf? I can hardly wait./

 

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