Title: Entangled Gold
Author: Morgana
Author’s Email:
Web page: http://www.paranoid.nl/avalon
Pairing:
Erestor/Legolas and Glorfindel/Thranduil
Rating:
NC-17
Summary: Glorfindel arrives in Mirkwood and gets to know Thranduil better.
Disclaimer:
Not mine. These characters belong to Professor Tolkien. No copyright
infringement is intended. I'm not making any money out of these stories!
Warning: AU of course.
Beta read by Patricia and DA, thanks sweeties!
All
remaining mistakes are mine.
Entangled Gold
“Erestor?” Glorfindel gestured for Erestor to walk with
him so he could talk to him in private. They were about to enter the
Erestor
frowned deeply. How had Glorfindel reached that conclusion? “Why do you think that?”
“It
is Legolas. He seems to avoid me.” It wasn’t just his imagination. He was
certain of that!
Erestor
delicately moistened his lips and guided Glorfindel farther away from the camp
so Legolas couldn’t hear them talk. “He is insecure. That is what this is all
about.”
“Insecure?”
Glorfindel felt lost.
“He
knows that I left Imladris because I was in love with you and he is afraid my
feelings for you might resurface. I have tried to convince him that those
feelings no longer exist, but he remains worried.” Erestor drew in a deep
breath. “At first, he even refused to bind with me for that very reason.”
“Ah.”
That explained a lot to Glorfindel. “I had been wondering what I had done
wrong.” His gaze drifted over to where Legolas was sitting at the camp fire.
The younger Elf was talking to the archers who hailed from the Golden Wood and
seemed interested in examining their bows. “You made an excellent choice. The
two of you suit each other.” Legolas moved his head Glorfindel’s way and the
raven lock moved along with the shift. “I believe the two of you will be very
happy.”
“We
already are. I just wish he would stop being so insecure. He has nothing to
worry about!”
Glorfindel
cocked his head. “I understand Legolas, Erestor. It must be hard on him. He
must be afraid you will leave him for me.”
Erestor
firmly shook his head. “Never! I would never do that!
I hope he will understand that once we bind.” Erestor was determined to prove to
Legolas how deep his love ran.
Glorfindel
smiled at Legolas when he caught the younger Elf’s gaze. /You have nothing to
fear. I do not desire Erestor in that way. I never did. That is why he left in
the first place./ Glorfindel lowered his shields and poured
those thoughts into Legolas’ mind. Legolas looked up in surprise as he felt
Glorfindel touch his mind. He didn’t reply because he didn’t know what to say.
“Please
excuse me, but I want to join my lover.” Erestor gave Glorfindel another look
and saw that his foster-father’s eyes were filled with understanding, so he
walked over to where Legolas was sitting. He sat down next to his lover and
gathered one of Legolas’ hands in his. Since Legolas felt so insecure, Erestor
made it a point to show his affection for the fair-haired Elf in public.
Glorfindel
smiled and hoped the two younger Elves would successfully master all of the hurdles
life would throw at them.
~~~
Legolas
wasn’t sure what to think of Glorfindel’s smiles and reassuring looks that the
Captain gave him throughout the day. After receiving Glorfindel’s thoughts,
Legolas had started to brood. Was he driving himself mad by thinking that he
would lose Erestor to Glorfindel when it was obvious that the Captain didn’t
desire Erestor?
“You
do not need to worry,” Glorfindel whispered after telling Asfaloth to fall into
step with Legolas’ mare. “Erestor left because I did not desire him and now
Erestor loves you in that way.” He cocked his head. “Why are you afraid to
accept this?”
Legolas
lowered his gaze and wondered if he should open up to Glorfindel and tell him
the truth. He was completely unaware of the fact that Erestor was riding behind
him and could hear every word he said. “It stems from the fact that I lost my
mother at a young age. I barely remember her. A number of Elves which I deeply
cared about left the
“You
are afraid to lose me because you lost everyone you ever cared about, except
your father. Is that it?” Erestor had sucked in his breath when he had heard
Legolas’ admission and only now released it. His mare moved forward so he could
catch up with Legolas and ride alongside his lover. “I will not leave you!”
Legolas
sighed deeply and gave Erestor a pleading look. “You can not make such a
promise.”
“I
will not leave you *willingly*!” Erestor nodded his head repeatedly. “Do you
hear me?”
Legolas
had heard and nodded his head once. “I will try to be less insecure…”
“Oh,
love, just talk to me when you are worried and tell me the real reason why you
fret!” Erestor hadn’t known that Legolas’ fear of abandonment stemmed from his
childhood.
“I
will.” Legolas smiled at Erestor and was grateful that they could really talk
about everything.
~~~
“I do not like it here.”
Glorfindel felt alert and ill at ease as they rode deeper into the heart of
“You do not have to worry
about the spiders attacking,” Legolas said. “They will not attack a group as
large as ours.” The reinforcements Elrond and Celeborn had sent were thirty
archers and twenty Imladris’ guards. They had offered to send more, but Legolas
had told them that Thranduil wouldn’t be able to house them. Space was already
tight.
Glorfindel cocked his head
and studied Legolas’ eyes. “Do you have any tips on how I should approach your
father? I do not want to make any mistakes and I do not know what he is like.
All I have heard are rumors and those were proven false.” Elrond had also
confessed to him that he hadn’t been completely honest in the past.
Legolas smiled and liked
the fact that Glorfindel now felt insecure for a change. “My father is easy
enough to be with. Just be yourself.”
“I can vouch for that.
Thranduil does not bite,” Erestor added teasingly. Glorfindel couldn’t help but
feel a bit apprehensive about meeting the Mirkwood King.
~~~
Thranduil had been
informed that his son was about to arrive and that Legolas had brought
reinforcements, which was something Thranduil hadn’t expected. Hastily, he had
told his Captains to arrange for extra sleeping places. The Imladris and Lorien
Elves would have to share quarters with the Mirkwood Elves and Thranduil hoped
that it wouldn’t cause any problems. Not all Elves adapted as easily and
quickly as Erestor had.
He paced the large hall
which had been dug under the ground. This was the same hall where he had first
met Erestor and he planned on welcoming Glorfindel there as well.
Glorfindel… The Elf was a
legend in itself. Thranduil had been stunned to learn that the former Balrog
Slayer would lead the reinforcements. He hadn’t thought Elrond would want to
part from his second-in-command. The warrior’s reputation preceded him, but
even Glorfindel would have to share quarters.
~~~
“Home.” Legolas felt better once he was home again, even
if home was deep underground and a dangerous place to live in. He wanted to see
his father again, embrace him, and reassure himself
that all was well with Thranduil. “Follow me,” he ordered, addressing
Glorfindel in particular. “My father will want to welcome you.”
Glorfindel didn’t like
this place. He sensed evil reaching out for him and it lay across the lands
like a smothering blanket. This was no place for any Elf to live in! “We should
have acted sooner. I sense the evil. It is seeping into the earth, clawing at
the heart of this land, and it is gaining territory.”
“I know that. I have known
that for a long time.”
Glorfindel’s head snapped
up. He hadn’t realized that they had entered a hall and were no longer alone.
His eyes scanned his surroundings and his gaze came to rest on a solitary
figure standing in the center of the room. Long, golden hair had been forced
into a pony tail and was held in place by green leather bands. The eyes that
stared back at him looked right into his soul and they had the same color the
forest above their heads must have had many years ago. He saw the green of the
grass and the leaves in them. They were vibrant with life. The lips were curled
downward, almost as if in a sneer. Dressed in hunter’s garb, the other Elf
looked slim and trained.
“I do not believe I had
the pleasure yet…” Glorfindel said, approaching the stranger.
Legolas grinned and shook
his head when Erestor went to inform Glorfindel who he was dealing with. This
could be ‘fun’.
“Neither did I.” Thranduil was equally impressed, but unlike Glorfindel,
he hid it perfectly. He knew that Glorfindel hadn’t realized yet who he was
dealing with and wanted to use this opportunity to see what the warrior was
*really* like. Not when he was ‘behaving nicely’ because he was being
introduced to the King.
“I am Glorfindel,” he introduced
himself. “I am new to Mirkwood, but you probably know that.”
Thranduil laughed. “You
stand out like a peacock wearing colors like that!”
Glorfindel pretended to be
annoyed and straightened the fabric of his burgundy robes. “You do not
approve?” He gave the other Elf a coy smile. “I think the color suits me.”
Thranduil needed a moment
to understand that Glorfindel was teasing him. Glorfindel proved to be a
refreshing wind in dark Mirkwood. “Legolas will supply you with more suitable
attire. We do not want a spider to catch sight of you and eat you!”
Glorfindel looked
seriously offended. “That spider would spit me back out again. I do not taste
good. I would give it heartburn.”
At this, Thranduil burst
out into laughter. “Well met, Glorfindel.”
Glorfindel was beginning
to realize something about the other Elf. There was something about the
stranger that made him alert. Maybe it was his resemblance to Legolas, maybe it
was the way he spoke, or how he carried himself. “And what is your name?”
Thranduil still had a
merry smile on his face when he answered, “I am Thranduil.”
Glorfindel wasn’t *that*
surprised to find out he had been talking to the King. “I could have known.”
But Thranduil *was* a pleasant surprise for which he was grateful. Elrond *had*
lied to him when the half-Elf had said that Thranduil was an arrogant Elf and
hard to be around. Glorfindel had the feeling they would handle each other just
fine.
“I am being a bad host,”
Thranduil said, still smiling. “Welcome to the
“I know that, Sire, and…”
Glorfindel had wanted to continue, but grew quiet when Thranduil raised his
hand authoritatively.
“Do not call me that. I am
Thranduil.”
Glorfindel gave Thranduil
a cocky smile. “I think I understand.”
“Good. Then I hope you
will also understand that the caves are crowded since they have to house all
these extra Elves. You are welcome of course, more than welcome, but our space
is limited and many of your men will have to share quarters with mine. I hope
you do not mind that you too have to share as well.”
Legolas grinned at Erestor
and Erestor just knew what his lover was thinking. Sharing rooms had led them
to becoming lovers. Would fate have a similar destiny in mind for Glorfindel
and Thranduil? It would be interesting to find out.
“I do not mind sharing
quarters,” Glorfindel said. He did feel a little bit suspicious though. “Will
you introduce me to the Elf who I will be sharing with?”
“You will be sharing
quarters with me. I trust that is not a problem?” Thranduil loved seeing the
expression in Glorfindel’s eyes change.
“You? That is quite the honor.”
Thranduil noticed the
wicked gleam that appeared in Glorfindel’s eyes. It looked as if he had found
his equal.
~~~
“What do you think of
their first meeting?” Like Legolas, Erestor liked being back ‘at home’. At home
being their bed with the blankets of furs. Legolas was in his arms and they had
been kissing for a while. Erestor however had needed to ask that question. “I
thought it went rather well or am I wrong?”
“You are not wrong. The
meeting went well. I dare say that my father likes Glorfindel.” Legolas ran his
fingertips over Erestor’s facial skin and pressed tightly against his lover.
They lay face to face in each other’s arms.
“It is a good sign that
they were teasing each other, do you not agree?”
Legolas nodded. “I agree.”
He smiled seductively at Erestor and added, “I wonder what made my father
decide to share his room with Glorfindel. Normally he is rather fond of his
privacy.”
“Maybe there really was no
other place for Glorfindel to stay?” Erestor considered Legolas’ question
carefully. “Maybe it is because Glorfindel is an Elf of reputation and
Thranduil thinks it is only right that he should stay with the King of Mirkwood
as someone befitting Glorfindel’s station?”
“That might be it,”
Legolas said, but he still wasn’t convinced. He knew his father and suspected
Thranduil was up to something. He just didn’t know what yet.
~~~
“The
Glorfindel placed all of
his items onto his cot and then sat down on the heavy, comfortable furs that
lay on the cold stone floor. “Aye, this is a sinister place and evil is always
close.” Cocking his head, he studied Thranduil and smiled at seeing the other
Elf’s relaxed expression. Thranduil wasn’t nervous and didn’t feel
uncomfortable with having him close. “Elrond asked me to present you with a few
gifts. Nothing spectacular, but they are meant to underline his offer to make
peace between our realms.”
“Gifts?” Thranduil grew curious. “What did you bring me?”
It was rare for him to be presented with gifts.
Glorfindel raised a
beautiful glass bottle and handed it to Thranduil. “This is miruvor and it is
meant to strengthen body and mind.”
“Is it akin to wine?”
Thranduil asked hopefully.
Glorfindel laughed. “Nay,
I am afraid not. It has little alcohol in it. Had I known you would prefer wine
I would have plundered Celeborn’s private stock.” He
raised an eyebrow when he saw Thranduil reach beneath his bed and reveal a
bottle with an oddly familiar etching on it. “Celeborn’s
first ager? How did you get a bottle of that?”
Thranduil smiled
mysteriously. “I have my ways.” He placed the first ager
aside and accepted the miruvor. “So how does Elrond fare these days? We parted
on bad terms.”
Glorfindel realized he had
to be diplomatic and said, “Elrond regrets what happened all those years ago
and admits that the falling out between the two of you was his fault. He
apologized for that to Legolas, asking your son to carry his words to you.”
“I have not spoken to
Legolas in private yet,” Thranduil revealed. “But you did not answer my
question.” It surprised him to hear that Elrond had owned up to making mistakes
back then. He hadn’t expected that.
“Elrond and his family are
well. The twins long reached their majority and have become fine warriors. They
were rather disappointed when Elrond told them they could not travel to
Mirkwood. They are quite eager to slay a spider!”
Thranduil chuckled. “They
would have changed their minds after sighting one for the first time!”
“I agree.” Glorfindel made
himself comfortable on his cot and decided that presenting
Elrond’s gifts to Thranduil could wait. It was more important he answered
Thranduil’s questions since the other Elf was showing an interest in the
half-Elf and his family. “The Elfling, Arwen, is only a few months old and
keeps her parents busy. It is a good thing that Elrond adores children.”
“He adopted Erestor, did
he not?” Thranduil liked the fact that Glorfindel easily answered his questions.
The Captain didn’t seem on guard and that encouraged Thranduil to befriend the
other Elf.
Glorfindel’s expression
darkened. “Aye, we did.”
Thranduil drew in a deep
breath and then said, “When Erestor and I first met I caught an echo of his
earliest memories. I know what happened to him as a child when he lived with
that slave trader.”
That was unexpected. “And
Erestor knows this?”
“Nay, I never told him. I
do not want him to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Neither did I tell my son what
I had seen in Erestor’s mind that day.”
“Erestor’s first years
were rough. He went through a series of abusive situations. I am afraid to
think of what might have happened to him had we not found him that day.”
Glorfindel was surprised that Thranduil hadn’t shared this information with
Legolas and wondered why. “You did not tell Legolas… May I ask why?”
“It is not my place to confide
in Legolas about something that private to Erestor. I trust Erestor will reveal
his past to Legolas should circumstances call for it, but I hope he will never find
himself in a situation where that is necessary.” Thranduil eyed the first ager thoughtfully and then uncovered two goblets from
beneath his bed. “Now do not reach the wrong conclusion. I do not usually
drink. Wine is a much too rare a commodity in the
Glorfindel felt honored. “I
must admit to being surprised. I did not know what you were like and when I
asked Legolas for details, he avoided answering my questions. He simply told me
to be myself and not to worry about you.”
Thranduil opened the
bottle and poured the crimson liquid into the goblets. “I did not know what to
think of you either. I was rather stunned to learn that Elrond had parted from
his trusted Captain. I did not know what to make of that.” He handed Glorfindel
one of the goblets and capped the bottle again.
“Elrond wanted to make a
gesture,” Glorfindel said, explaining his presence there. “Celeborn wanted to
send Haldir originally, but Elrond did not agree. He wanted to show you that
Imladris is ready to reach out to you and so I was asked to lead the
reinforcements. I did not object. If anything, I was intrigued. There is little
known about your person, Thranduil.”
“And you did not feel
apprehensive about meeting me?” Thranduil raised his goblet, smiled, and then
sipped.
Glorfindel did the same
and sighed appreciatively when the sweet liquid poured down his throat. “As I
said, I was intrigued. Elrond was not always honest with me about you, a
mistake which he rendered before I left. Until that moment I was under the
impression that you were an arrogant, stubborn Elf whom I would not be able to
cooperate with. But then I met Legolas and I realized that if the son was that
kind-hearted the father could not be that much different.”
Thranduil’s eyes widened
slightly at receiving such a compliment. “You think Legolas is a kind-hearted
Elf?”
“An intelligent, cunning,
talented archer, and let us not forget the fact that he is very handsome. I am
not blind, you know. Erestor has excellent taste.” Glorfindel sipped his wine
again and grinned at Thranduil.
“Aye, they suit each other
well. I am happy they love each other. Legolas came of age a few years ago, but
he did not feel attracted to any of the Elves living here. I was worried that
he would lead a lonely life, one without a mate, but then Erestor appeared.”
“Erestor told me that they
are going to bind. He asked Legolas to bind with him and your son agreed. That
is one of the reasons I am here. I want to be present at their binding
ceremony.”
Thranduil smiled happily.
“I had hoped something like that had happened. I want them to bind. I want them
to be happy.”
The potent wine made
Glorfindel a bit light-headed and even bolder. “And how about
you, Thranduil? Where is your mate? Is your lover not bothered by the
fact that we share quarters?”
A sad look appeared in
Thranduil’s eyes and their color darkened. “My wife died when Legolas was still
very young. He hardly remembers her and I have accepted that I am without a
mate.” He had never accepted the loneliness that it brought with it though. “Legolas
would not begrudge me a new mate, but I never found anyone who was brave enough
to face the shadow with me. The
“I understand that this is
your home. This is where your heart lies, but…” Glorfindel continued carefully and
hoped he wouldn’t cause a temper tantrum where Thranduil was concerned. If
Thranduil was like him, and it certainly looked that way, the Mirkwood Elf
might also possess a temper similar to his. “But you have to consider your
people first. The shadow affects them as well. Would settling down in Imladris
or the Golden Wood be completely unacceptable?” Glorfindel held his breath. He
hadn’t wanted to discuss this for a few more days until Thranduil and he had
begun to trust each other.
Thranduil gazed at
Glorfindel from above the rim of his goblet. “How did you fit in after your
return from the Halls of Waiting? Did you not want to return to Gondolin?
“My situation was unique,
Thranduil, and you can not compare it to yours. I returned from the dead.
Gondolin was gone. Returning there was not an option.” Glorfindel sipped more
wine and his eyes attained a pensive expression. “At first, I was angry with
everyone: with Námo for forcing me to return to the living, with Elrond because
I was to obey and serve him. With life itself because I had lost everything and
everyone I had ever cared about. Making my peace with my situation took time,
but in the end, I managed. What helped was Elrond’s kind and warm nature,
Imladris’ peaceful presence and a little Elfling called Erestor who needed me
to be a father to him.”
Thranduil felt impressed.
Glorfindel had truly opened up to him. “And Imladris became your new home?”
Glorfindel nodded his head
once. “Imladris is my home now and I am grateful Námo entrusted me to Elrond’s
care. I gained a family when I returned to life. But at the time, I did not
realize that.”
Thranduil had grown
curious. “You speak of a family and a home. But you have not yet mentioned a
lover.”
Glorfindel should have
seen that one coming. After all, he had also inquired after Thranduil’s mate. “I
did not find a suitable mate in this life yet.”
Thranduil, who was also
grower bolder due to the wine consumed, asked, “And in your first life in
Gondolin?”
Glorfindel cocked his head
and wondered what he would gain by telling Thranduil what the other Elf wanted
to know. In the end, he decided to give Thranduil the information he wanted.
“Ecthelion and I were lovers. We wanted to bind, but the war prevented that. We
never had the time to exchange vows.”
“Ah, the old rumors are
true then!” Thranduil reached for the bottle and refilled his goblet. Then he
handed Glorfindel the bottle and let the other Elf chose if he wanted a refill
or not.
“Aye, they are true.”
Glorfindel shook his head, showing Thranduil he didn’t wish a refill. He had
realized that he was dealing with a very cunning Elf and needed his wits about
him. “Thranduil, I prefer a direct and honest approach. Where do we stand? Are
we enemies? Or can we become friends?”
Thranduil grinned. “I
would say we are on the best way to becoming friends, Glorfindel.”
Glorfindel felt relieved.
Elrond depended on him to render old mistakes and he hoped Thranduil would let
him. “In that case you may refill my glass after all.” He raised his arm and
watched Thranduil pour more of the wine into his goblet. “We should be careful
though. I drank Celeborn’s deadly brew before and suffered for it in the
morning.”
“You have no stomach for
it then!” To prove his bold words, Thranduil downed the rest of the content of
his goblet. Then he gave Glorfindel a challenging look and wiggled an eyebrow.
Glorfindel had never been
able to pass up a challenge and raised his goblet. “I can hold my own,
Thranduil!” But if he felt nauseated in the morning, he would blame it on
Thranduil and make him pay!
~~~
Glorfindel wrapped himself
up in his cloak and grinned at Thranduil. They had emptied the whole bottle and
were now feeling the effects. Thranduil was already dozing, though Glorfindel
could tell that the other Elf wasn’t completely asleep yet. Feeling warm and
knowing himself safe in these caves, Glorfindel buried himself deeper into the
fabric of his cloak and continued to watch Thranduil.
They had ended up staging
a short drinking contest. Short because they only had that one bottle to empty.
A part of Glorfindel regretted that he hadn’t brought some wine along. It would
have been entertaining to see which one of them would have been drunk first.
“I am still awake you
know...and rather lucid.” Thranduil blinked and met Glorfindel’s hidden gaze.
“Why do you keep looking at me?” He felt at ease, pleasantly warm on the inside,
and was up for some bantering.
“I am wondering about
you,” Glorfindel admitted. He lowered his cloak a bit so they could lock gazes.
“You are nothing like I thought you would be.”
“And is that a good or a
bad thing?” Thranduil rolled onto his side, pillowed his head on his arm, and
searched Glorfindel’s eyes.
“Definitely
a good thing.” Glorfindel
smiled warmly. “I believe we will become good friends.”
“I would like that,”
Thranduil confessed. “Even with Legolas’ and Erestor’s company life can be
rather lonely.”
“I imagine… You are
responsible for your people’s well-being and you must worry constantly about
their safety. Is that not a heavy burden to carry?” Thranduil was a lot like
him and Glorfindel wanted to find out more about the other Elf. He really
wanted to befriend Thranduil and maybe help him carry that load.
“It is. Legolas has
offered to help me carry it, but… Although he has come of age, he is still an
Elfling to me. How can I put part of my burden on his shoulders? He is young.
He is in love. He should not have to worry about me as well.”
“I am like that as well,”
Glorfindel whispered and smiled at the other Elf. “I do not want to burden
someone else with my worries either.” They had a lot in common indeed. And
because he knew how lonely such a life could be, Glorfindel made a very bold
move. “How long has it been since you fell asleep in someone’s arms?”
“Many,
many years.” Thranduil raised
an eyebrow and realized what Glorfindel was trying to say. “Are you offering?”
This was the strangest conversation he’d ever had! He hardly knew Glorfindel
and yet there was something that connected them. How could such a thing be?
Glorfindel pushed aside
his cloak, sat upright, and swung his feet onto the floor. “Would you accept
such an offer?”
Thranduil considered the
offer and then nodded his head once. “This is not like me, Glorfindel. I am not
in the habit of inviting strange Elves into my bed.” This wasn’t like him at
all, but he couldn’t decline Glorfindel’s offer. He *did* feel connected with
Glorfindel. He raised an arm and lifted the blanket by doing so. “Hurry, I want
to remain warm.” He didn’t really feel the cold that was housed in the caves,
but being wrapped up in a warm blanket felt nice nonetheless.
Glorfindel rose to his
feet, crossed the distance between their beds, and lay down on his side so he
was face to face with Thranduil. Once he was so close, he saw the golden specks
in the emerald eyes. He instinctively recognized a kindred soul and felt like
he had known Thranduil for a thousand years. “I know you…”
Thranduil nodded his head
and rested a hand atop Glorfindel’s hip. “I feel the same way and it baffles
me. I never felt this way before.”
“Maybe we should not try
to solve this mystery and just accept it.” Glorfindel moved a little closer and
Thranduil covered them with his blanket. Staring into the green eyes,
Glorfindel pondered this development. “We should rest now. Tomorrow is going to
be a long and tiring day.” Thranduil and he would instruct all of the Elves and
then Glorfindel would join Mirkwood’s daily patrol. Contrary to the twins, he
hoped he wouldn’t encounter a spider on his first patrol.
Glorfindel wasn’t as
surprised as he should have been when Thranduil’s fingers slid into his hair.
Each touch, each movement felt natural. Since he was still staring into
Thranduil’s eyes, he caught the exact moment the Mirkwood King fell asleep. The
fingers moving through his hair stilled and Thranduil’s breathing deepened. It
was like he was looking into a mirror – at his reflection. Could it be that he
had found the other part of his immortal soul?
~~~
“There were no incidents
last night,” Legolas said as he updated his father and Glorfindel. They were
seated in the main hall and were holding a private meeting before joining the
reinforcements and Mirkwood Elves. “Both parties were too stunned that they
were sharing to create trouble. Everyone just went to sleep and rose early in
the morning.”
“They are now in the
middle of eating their breakfast and will assemble in this hall shortly,”
Erestor added. He didn’t know why, but he had caught himself staring at
Thranduil and Glorfindel repeatedly. The two Elves were sitting rather close together
and kept stealing glances at each other. What was going on?
“Glorfindel and I will
brief them,” Thranduil said. “And I have decided to lead today’s patrol
personally.”
Legolas grinned. “Does
that have anything to do with the fact that Glorfindel will join that patrol?”
This one time Thranduil
wished he had taught Legolas not so be so direct, but his son always spoke his
mind. “Glorfindel is a very important guest and I want to ensure his safety during
the upcoming patrol.”
“Guest?” Glorfindel knew that Thranduil didn’t intend that
the way it had sounded, but he couldn’t stop himself from reacting and teasing
the Mirkwood Elf a bit. “I am a capable warrior, Thranduil. Not just a mere
guest.”
To Legolas’ delight, his
father burst out laughing and didn’t appear offended at all. “I know that!”
Thranduil gave Glorfindel an apologetic look. “But I would feel better if I
lead that patrol. I know these woods best and have the most experience when it
comes down to fighting the spiders.”
“I understand. I was
merely teasing you.” Glorfindel flashed Thranduil a charming grin.
Legolas and Erestor
exchanged amused looks. Glorfindel and Thranduil were cooperating better than
they had dared to hope!
~~~
“It will take our troops
time to become used to each other.” Glorfindel had briefed his guards and had
seen the odd looks the Mirkwood, Imladris, and Lórien Elves had given each
other.
“But they will work together
and become used to each other. They know why they are doing this – to protect
the lands and keep it out of the shadow’s grasp.” Thranduil had put the holster
onto his back which would hold his quiver and twin knives. He had braided his
hair away from his face and had gathered all of the strands at the back of his
head in a thick pony tail.
“You are right of course.”
Following Thranduil’s example, Glorfindel had braided his hair away from his
face and had fastened the long braid with a leather band. “Do you think we will
encounter any spiders?” Realizing his sword was an awkward weapon to use in
combat with a giant spider, he had burrowed Legolas’ bow and had also strapped a
quiver onto his back.
“There is always a chance
of that,” Thranduil replied thoughtfully. “But they will be on their guard.
They saw the reinforcements arrive.”
“I am not too keen on
meeting a spider on my first patrol. I would like to obtain a feel for the
forest first.”
Thranduil agreed. “Your
experience shows when you say that. The young, like the twins you mentioned, do
not understand that they would be at a disadvantage.”
“How dangerous are those
spiders?” Glorfindel was ready to join the patrol and followed an even heavier
armed Thranduil into the corridor.
“Once they bite their
poison spreads through your body in minutes. It is lethal and death occurs
within the hour. So whatever happens, make certain they do not acquire a chance
to bite you. We already lost a large number of sentries in that way.”
“I hear your warning and
will heed it.” Glorfindel would be as cautious as he could.
~~~
“I am worried. Do you
think we should follow them?” Legolas didn’t like his father being out there in
the forest. Although Thranduil was more than capable in defending himself
against a spider, he remained worried about him. He couldn’t help it. When he
had been a child his father had been the only constant factor in his life and
he was still afraid to lose the one person who had always been there for him.
Erestor shook his head.
“Your father does not need us to look after him.” Legolas stood in the corner
of the room and glared at the wall. Erestor walked up behind him and wrapped
his arms around his lover. “You are worried something bad will happen to him.”
Legolas nodded. “I do not
think I could deal with losing him, Erestor. Before you entered my life, my
father was the whole world to me.”
“I understand your fear,
but you need to let it go. Your father can take care of himself and then there
is Glorfindel as well. Those two can take out any spiders they might
encounter.” Erestor pulled Legolas toward the bed with him. “Have you thought
of your vows yet?” Legolas sat down on
the bed and then let himself fall backward. Erestor
pulled Legolas toward him as he lay down and the fair-haired Elf straddled his
waist.
“I have not.” Legolas
leaned in closer and kissed Erestor’s lips. “I love you so much. I do not know
if mere words can ever express how much.”
“Then why do you not show
me?” Erestor unbuttoned Legolas’ shirt. “Raise your arms, love.” Legolas
complied and Erestor did away with the shirt. His fingertips trailed down
Legolas’ chest and flat abdomen.
“Now?” Legolas was of two minds about this. He was still
worried about his father, but Erestor was distracting him. Erestor made quick
work of the lacing of his leggings and then pushed the fabric apart. Legolas
groaned and threw back his head once his member had gained its freedom. Under
Erestor’s expert touches the flesh quickly hardened.
“Aye, now…” Erestor deposited
Legolas onto the bed and then knelt in front of his lover. Slowly and
seductively, Erestor removed his shirt and leggings and then returned to kneel
in front of Legolas. Legolas panted hard as he saw his lover naked in front of
him. No matter how many times they made love, each time was special. Each time
was like the first time. “Are you not going to remove those?” Erestor pointed
at Legolas’ undone leggings and wiggled an eyebrow.
“Aye, I will.” Legolas
swallowed hard and stood. He stepped out of the leggings and wanted to kneel on
the bed as well, but Erestor slowly shook his head, so Legolas remained
standing in front of it. “What?”
Erestor licked his lips
and purred like a cat. “Come here you.” He curled an arm around Legolas’ waist
and pulled him closer. “I am going to eat you.”
The words traveled
straight to Legolas’ groin. His member hardened fully and pre-ejaculate dripped
from the slit. “Are you?” Erestor purred again, pursed his lips, and squeezed
one of Legolas’ buttocks. Fondling the hardened flesh with his other, he leaned
in closer and opened his lips. Legolas threw back his head and buried his
fingers in Erestor’s raven mane. “Oh…” Warm lips closed around the head of his
shaft and a wet tongue curled around the thick column of flesh. Erestor licked,
sucked, teased, and then went down to business. Legolas’ knees almost gave out
on him when the pleasure became too much and he pushed Erestor’s head close in
the hope his lover would finally grant him his release.
Erestor placed his hands
on Legolas’ buttocks and pulled his lover even closer. He relaxed his throat
muscles and took him completely. The result was instantaneous, just as he had
known it would be. Legolas released a choked groan and reached his climax.
Erestor swallowed the drops of precious semen and then looked at his lover,
licking the last droplets from his lips.
Legolas finally collapsed
onto his knees and Erestor made sure his lover ended up on the bed instead of
the cold floor. Holding Legolas in his arms, he waited for his lover to compose
himself again. Legolas’ reaction to this act never failed to amaze him. “I love
it when you let go like that.”
Legolas raised his head
and smiled seductively at Erestor. “You are still hard.”
“Aye, I am. Are you going
to do something about that?” Erestor didn’t know when it had happened, but
lately, he was the one doing the taking and Legolas receiving him. The previous
year, they had repeatedly switched roles, but for some reason, they liked it
best this way.
“Will you take me?”
Legolas had caught his breath again and felt ready to continue their
lovemaking.
“In what
way, love?” Erestor kissed
Legolas’ eyelids and then rested his brow against his lover’s.
“Like this.” Legolas
crawled further away from Erestor and presented himself to his lover by pushing
himself up onto his hands and knees.
The mere sight of his
exposed and willing lover made Erestor harder and he moved in place behind
Legolas. “Oil?”
Legolas reached beneath
the pillow and uncovered the vial. “Do not take too long. I want you now.” He
gave Erestor a lust filled look and wiggled his behind temptingly. “Claim me!”
Erestor poured a royal
amount of oil over his hard flesh and then dipped a finger into the slippery
substance. “Give me a moment to prepare you.” And although Legolas gave him an
impatient look, Erestor wouldn’t be swayed. He lubricated his lover’s passage
and, once he was certain that entry wouldn’t cause Legolas pain, he sheathed
himself to the hilt.
Legolas’ fingers clawed at
the sheet and he threw back his head and howled. “Take me!” Erestor recognized
the mood his lover was in and was more than willing to oblige. He grabbed a
handful of the fair hair and rode his lover hard. Legolas moved backward,
answering each of his thrusts deep and fast. It didn’t take Erestor long to
come. His lover’s need, the surrender with which Legolas took everything
Erestor had to offer, pushed him over the rim and he soared high on wings of
passion when he released his seed deep inside his lover’s body. A layer of
sweat had formed on Legolas’ brow and he collapsed onto his stomach the moment
Erestor found his release. Their lovemaking had been intense – more intense
that it normally was – and had exhausted him.
Erestor followed his lover
down and, although he felt equally fatigued, he did not rest his weight atop of
Legolas’ form. He supported himself by placing his hands next to Legolas’ head
and remained upright. “I vow to make love to you in that way whenever you
desire so. I love it when you surrender and go all the way.”
Legolas turned his head
and grinned tiredly at Erestor. “And I love you because you give me what I
need.” Their lips found each other and locked in a long kiss, confirming their
love for each other.
~~~
“I still do not like it
here.” Glorfindel hadn’t mastered the hand signals yet and his alertness wasn’t
yet at the maximum. He needed a bit of time to adjust to his new surroundings.
Luckily Thranduil and his sentries kept a close eye on him and made sure they
were safe. “How can you live like this day after day?”
“This is home,” Thranduil
whispered. “Even when it is tainted by evil, I will defend it until my last
dying breath.”
~~~
“We need to talk to
Thranduil about our binding ceremony. I want it to happen shortly.” Erestor
held Legolas close in the afterglow of their lovemaking and licked his lover’s
throat. “I do not want to wait much longer. I want to know you are truly mine.”
Legolas opened one eye and
looked at Erestor. “Eager, are you?”
“Aye, I want to have you
for all eternity. I want to do this to you every day, every night. I want to
hold you, please you, and love you.”
“That would make a nice
vow,” Legolas commented in a sleepy voice. During their lovemaking he had
forgotten about his worries for his father. “I want to bind with you too.”
Erestor thought the time
was ripe to address one last issue that stood between them. “Do you still worry
about my supposed feelings for Glorfindel? They no longer exist, you know. Even
if they did, Glorfindel does not want me in that way. You should have realized
that by now.”
Legolas opened his other
eye and nodded. “I believe you.”
Erestor blinked. “What
brought on that change?”
“Three things… One,
Glorfindel assured me he does not desire you in that way. Two, I believe you
when you say you love only me and three…” Legolas paused for a dramatic effect.
“And
three?” Erestor urged his lover
on.
“I saw the way he looked
at my father.”
“Who? Glorfindel?” Erestor’s
jaw dropped. “Are you telling me that you think…?”
“That there is some
attraction at work between those two? Aye, I believe so.” Legolas rested his
head against Erestor’s shoulder and cuddled up to him. “Let us wait and see if
I am right.”
Erestor blinked again. He
had thought so that there was something going on between the two golden-haired
Elves as well, but had been hesitant to voice it. The mere thought of
Glorfindel falling for Thranduil was…
“What are you thinking
of?” Legolas closed his eyes again and inhaled his lover’s spicy, slightly
salty scent.
“I would be happy if
Glorfindel fell in love with your father… Do you think your father feels the
same way about Glorfindel?” No Elf should be alone, according to Erestor, and
he hoped both Glorfindel and Thranduil were indeed attracted to each other. In
their own way, both Elves were lonely.
“As I said, let us wait
and see…” With those words, Legolas dozed off. He smiled in his sleep and
rubbed his cheek against Erestor’s chest. Right now, he was exactly where he
wanted to be and not even worrying about his father could spoil his happy and
relaxed mood.
~~~
To Glorfindel’s relief,
they didn’t encounter any spiders. He preferred to be better prepared when he
finally met one of the monsters. Joining the patrol had been a good idea
though. He had gained a feel for the land and understood the dangers that
threatened Mirkwood. He also understood Thranduil a lot better. During the
patrol, he had caught glimpses of the real beauty the
“You are quiet.” Thranduil
had guided them back to his rooms and was in the process of removing his
weapons.
Glorfindel nodded once. “I
am thinking.”
Thranduil bit his lip in
order not to make a teasing remark. Something told him that Glorfindel was
being serious. “About what?”
“I understand that you
want to remain here and defend your lands.” Glorfindel removed his holster and
weapons as well and then sat down on Thranduil’s bed. “But is that wise?”
Thranduil seated himself
next to Glorfindel and caught the other Elf’s gaze. “What is wise? Who knows
these things, Glorfindel? This is my home.”
Glorfindel doubted words
would help him support the point he was trying to make. Instead of answering
verbally, he slid his fingers into Thranduil’s pony tail and removed the
leather band. He unleashed the golden waterfall and raised his other hand as
well, letting them slide through the golden mane which looked just like his.
The green eyes possessed a warm expression and looked trustingly into his. Leaning
in closer, he brushed Thranduil’s trembling lips with his and continued to
search the eyes. The irises grew lighter and a softer green appeared. “Your
lips are soft,” he whispered.
“So are
yours.” Thranduil felt equally
entranced. Something was pushing them together and he wondered if he stood a
chance fighting the attraction. “Glorfindel, I normally do not kiss Elves whom
I hardly know.”
“The same goes for me, so
do not worry. But this is different, is it not?” Glorfindel shifted on the bed
until he sat facing Thranduil. He parted his legs, wrapped his arms around the
golden-haired Elf and pulled him into an embrace.
Thranduil wavered for one
moment, but then he made his decision and moved closer. He knelt on the bed and
rested his upper body against Glorfindel’s. The Captain’s arms closed around
him and Thranduil rested his head on Glorfindel’s shoulder. “I do not
understand any of this.” Normally, he didn’t trust easily and most certainly
not an Imladris’ Elf!
“There is something in
your soul that calls out to mine. I feel like I have known you forever…”
Glorfindel buried his fingers in Thranduil’s hair once more and fingered the
golden mane.
Thranduil sighed and
relaxed. He savored the intimate moment and stopped questioning his reactions
where Glorfindel was concerned. “You even smell familiar.”
Glorfindel chuckled and
Thranduil rocked along with him. “I reek of sweat!”
Thranduil grinned wickedly
against Glorfindel’s shoulder. “I know the perfect place to freshen up.” The
hot pool would hopefully impress and delight Glorfindel!
“You do?” Glorfindel
couldn’t help himself as he pressed a kiss onto Thranduil’s hair. Thranduil’s
golden hair and his had become entangled and when the strands moved, it
mirrored a caress. He was in a most peculiar mood and tightened his hold on Thranduil.
He felt like he never wanted to let go again.
~~~
“This is the place you
were talking about? It is interesting.” Glorfindel was in the process of
removing his clothes and was continually stealing glances at a disrobing
Thranduil. The other Elf carried himself confidently even when he was
completely naked and Glorfindel liked that. And Thranduil didn’t have anything
to feel ashamed about.
Thranduil slid into the
warm water and relaxed. He turned his head so he could look at Glorfindel and
his gaze found the Captain’s magnificent physique. Physically they were
well-matched. It would be impossible to say who would win during a sparring
match. Glorfindel joined Thranduil in the hot pool and then sighed
appreciatively. “It is a pity we do not have this in Imladris. It is perfect
for relaxation!” He smiled at Thranduil, who was seated opposite him. The
golden hair was wet and clung to the King’s face. Glorfindel reached for one of
the damp strands and pushed it back behind a pointed ear. “Do we need to
understand this attraction in order to move forward?”
Thranduil understood
perfectly. “Something pulls me toward you and I know it is the same way for
you.”
“Something tells me we
will not sleep in your bed as innocently as we did last night.” This need, this
urge to touch and feel was becoming stronger. “However, this *does* complicate
matter.”
“We can ponder the
consequences later. We are both old, Glorfindel. We lived a fair share of
centuries and are wise and experienced enough to realize where this is leading
us.”
“Into each other’s arms,”
Glorfindel replied, nodding once. From the corner of his eye, he saw Legolas
and Erestor approach and he distanced himself from Thranduil by sliding further
away from him. “We are no longer alone,” he said in explanation for his
actions. Thranduil looked over his shoulder and also saw them approach. A
fierce passion mark on Legolas’ throat told him exactly what the two younger
Elves had been up to.
“Good evening, Adar. I
thought I would find you here.” Legolas came to a stop near the pool and
flashed his father a smug grin. “Enjoying some time off?”
“He is just being a good
host,” Glorfindel said and gave Legolas a wink. “An old warrior like me
occasionally needs to relax and recharge.”
At hearing that, Erestor
laughed loudly. “Oh, try to fool someone else! I know you do not tire easily!”
Legolas lowered himself on
his heels and ignored the bantering for now. “Erestor and I talked. We want to
bind tomorrow evening and we want you and Glorfindel to attend the ceremony.”
A soft smile graced
Thranduil’s features at receiving such good news. “Glorfindel and I will be
there, Legolas. You make me very happy by binding with Erestor. The two of you
were made for each other and will be happy.”
Glorfindel nodded his head
once. “I agree.” Erestor had found the perfect mate in Legolas and Glorfindel
wanted nothing more than for his favorite ‘Elfling’ to be happy.
~~~
They spent the evening
discussing Mirkwood’s future. Glorfindel, Erestor and even Legolas tried to
offer different perspectives to a very reluctant Thranduil. Thranduil was
determined to not leave the
Glorfindel decided to try
a different approach. “Would you then consider a short visit to either Imladris
or the Golden Wood to recharge? Fighting the shadow has drained you and it
would do you good to rest for a while. If you do not wish to come to Imladris,
you could visit the Golden Wood instead. Elrond as well as Celeborn will
welcome you with open arms.”
“You do not have to leave
straight away,” Legolas added, since he had decided that some time away from
the
“I will consider your
suggestions.” Thranduil sipped his tea and wished it was Celeborn’s first ager instead. He wanted to change their subject and asked
his son, “Did you already think about your vows?”
Legolas allowed his father
to change their topic and smiled. “Aye, I did. I think I managed to come up
with something.”
“I already look forward to
attending your ceremony, Legolas, Erestor.” Thranduil gave both Elves a warm
smile.
Erestor slipped his hand
into Legolas’ and held on tight. The next day would be a very special day for
them and that night they would sleep side by side without any intimate
touching.
~~~
Intimate touching was the prominent
thing on Thranduil’s mind. Glorfindel had undressed shamelessly and had then
stretched out on his bed. “You are being rather obvious, Glorfindel.”
Thranduil’s gaze appreciatively scanned Glorfindel’s trained body. The other
Elf wasn’t erect yet, but Thranduil had no doubt that condition would be
rendered shortly. He took a little bit more time removing his clothes.
Glorfindel licked his lips
at seeing the appetizing sight Thranduil presented. The golden hair reached
beneath Thranduil’s buttocks and danced against his back. The Mirkwood Elf was
a golden vision and Glorfindel opened his arms to receive him.
Thranduil felt a bit
nervous. It had been a while since he had been with a male lover. He had only
had one and that had been before he had married his beloved wife. That Elf had
educated him in the pleasures of the flesh, but that seemed a lifetime ago. He
lowered himself onto Glorfindel’s body and wrapped an arm around the Captain’s
neck, raising his head a little so they could kiss.
Their lovemaking would be
quiet – without words, since there weren’t any words that needed to be spoken.
Their souls knew each other and communication took place on a different plane. Strands
of hair became entangled and the golden locks danced together while they
kissed. Their kisses were tender, a bit exploratory, but at the same time their
lips tasted familiar, as if they had kissed before in a different lifetime.
Thranduil broke off the
kiss and gazed into Glorfindel’s blue eyes. He knew those eyes. His soul knew
them. Glorfindel wrapped his long legs around his waist and began to rock
beneath him. Their erections, already slippery, rubbed together and Thranduil
buried his face in Glorfindel’s neck.
Glorfindel smiled into
Thranduil’s hair and moved his right hand until his fingers were wrapped around
the other Elf’s shaft. He guided Thranduil lower to where the opening to his
body was located and then thrust downward. Thranduil sucked in his breath and
plunged inside. Glorfindel was relaxed and welcomed him into his body and he
slipped effortlessly inside before raising his head so he could look into
Glorfindel’s eyes. He had not expected that to happen.
Glorfindel completed the
embrace by enfolding Thranduil in a hug before placing his feet against his
lover’s buttocks. He pushed Thranduil further inside, deeper, until his lover
was completely sheathed inside him. There was no pain, no discomfort...they
were a perfect fit. Thranduil slowly rocked on top of Glorfindel and the tip of
his shaft rubbed against his lover’s sensitive gland. Moans, groans, purrs, and
even growls left their throats as they moved together as one moving toward
completion.
Glorfindel had never
experienced anything like this before, not even with Ecthelion. Their journey
to completion took them through all kinds of emotions and, in the end, they
could no longer hold back. They found release together in a tight embrace which
didn’t loosen after they had shared their orgasm. Thranduil took Glorfindel’s
lips in a reverent kiss that spoke of love, worship, and understanding and when
that kiss ended, there were tears in their eyes. “I
still do not understand any of this,” Thranduil whispered.
“Neither
do I, but…it feels right, Thranduil.”
Thranduil nodded. He was
still at a loss to explain anything that had happened that night.
~~~
A large number of Elves
had assembled in the main hall. Glorfindel and Thranduil stood side by side and
didn’t even give the illusion that nothing had happened between them. They knew
it showed and had had to endure Legolas’ teasing for most of the morning. But
Legolas teased them because he was nervous since his binding ceremony was about
to be performed.
Legolas didn’t know where
his father had found it, but Thranduil had presented him with a crown of dried
holly and evergreen. When asked about its origin, Thranduil had told his son
that he had worn it the day he had married Legolas’ mother. Legolas felt a bit
silly wearing it, but he did so because he wanted to please his father and
partly because it was something that linked him to his mother, who couldn’t be
there that day.
Erestor had placed his
hand in Legolas’ and held on tight. He felt equally nervous and kept exchanging
glances with Glorfindel, who smiled reassuringly at him. /I have no doubts
whatsoever,/ Erestor realized. /This is what I want. I
want to spend the rest of my life with Legolas./
Thranduil gestured for
them to approach. Glorfindel moved behind Thranduil and rested a hand on the
Mirkwood Elf’s shoulder. Again, it felt right and neither Legolas, nor Erestor
gave him any questioning looks when he did so. “Legolas, my
son…my heir. Have you decided to take this Elf as your mate?”
Legolas coughed softly in
an attempt to rid himself of his nerves. “Aye, Adar. I have chosen Erestor to
walk that path with me.” It was time to commit to Erestor and he gently
squeezed Erestor’s fingers resting inside his. “My vow is simple, because my
love for you is simple. I love you. I will always honor you, respect you, and
care for you. I will never deny you and will always support you. You will always
have a listening ear with me and I will never desert you. My love for you is
strong and it will remain like that for the rest of my life.”
Erestor felt emotional and
squeezed Legolas’ fingers in return. “That was beautiful.”
Legolas grew a bit
flustered. “Thank you.”
It was then Erestor’s turn
to speak his vow and he was equally nervous. “Legolas, I love you with my
entire being. When we met, I found you cocky and smug and at times, you are
just that. I have come to love that character trait and I hope you will never
change. I love you just the way you are. You have a kind heart, a warm soul,
and you are the best mate I could wish for. I will always love you and care for
you. I will remain at your side, no matter where you choose to go. My soul
belongs to you and I lost my heart to you a long time ago. Please keep them
safe for me.”
“I will,” Legolas answered
passionately. “Always!”
Thranduil smiled at them
and nodded his head. “Legolas, I bind your soul to Erestor’s. Erestor, I bind
your soul to Legolas’. From this moment on, the two of you are one.”
Glorfindel approvingly
nodded his head. “This is right.”
Legolas couldn’t wait any
longer and pulled Erestor close. In front of everyone, he kissed his beloved on
the lips rather possessively. All of the gathered Elves cheered and it didn’t
matter where they hailed from. Everyone present sensed the love that bound these
two Elves together.
~~~
Later that evening,
Erestor and Legolas joined Thranduil in his rooms. Glorfindel was also present
and had actually stretched out on Thranduil’s comfortable bed. The younger
Elves were holding hands and couldn’t stop looking at each other. Legolas
especially was smitten with Erestor at the moment since he no longer had to
worry about Glorfindel presenting a threat. They sat down at the table and
watched Glorfindel toy idly with a strand of his hair.
“You look happy,”
Thranduil said as he presented cups filled with tea to the newlyweds.
“We are happy.” Legolas
had expected them to make love right after the ceremony, but instead, Erestor
and he had only kissed and cuddled. For some reason that had felt more intimate
than making love. “And what happened between the two of you?” Thranduil had
endured his teasing during the day, but his father hadn’t told him what had
occurred between Glorfindel and him. “Is there anything you need to tell us?”
Thranduil blushed weakly and shot Glorfindel a pleading look. Would
Glorfindel help him out? Glorfindel cocked an eyebrow and grinned at Legolas.
“Do you wish to share any intimate details about your lovemaking with us,
then?” Erestor burst out laughing. He had expected Glorfindel to say something
like that.
“I’d would rather not,
nay. Point taken,” Legolas said, giggling. “That answers the question I had at
any rate.”
“Does it?” Glorfindel
studied Legolas closely. “Does that please you?”
Legolas firmly nodded his
head. “Aye, it does – very much actually. I always hoped my father would find
someone like you. I do not want him to be alone.” Legolas considered his next
move and then exchanged his seat at the table for the side of the bed. He was
close to Glorfindel now and looked him in the eye. “But do not hurt him.” Thranduil
arched an eyebrow. Was his son actually threatening Glorfindel? His Legolas? His Elfling? No, not an
Elfling anymore...Legolas was an adult now.
Glorfindel knew how to
take Legolas’ warning. “Legolas, I have no intention of hurting your father.”
“Does that mean you will
stay in the
Glorfindel realized that
posed a problem, but not quite yet. “I will stay for now, aye. I do not know
what the future will bring.”
Thranduil considered
Glorfindel’s answer. The fact that Glorfindel’s home was Imladris and his home
was Mirkwood would prove a problem, but one he hoped they could solve.
~~~
“I have been thinking,”
Thranduil said that night while he rested in Glorfindel’s arms. Their limbs
were entangled and so was their golden hair. “Visiting Imladris would not kill
me.”
Glorfindel, who had rested
his cheek against Thranduil’s shoulder, raised his head to make eye contact.
“You would do that for me?”
“I am not planning on
moving there permanently, Glorfindel, but I realize we have a problem. Your
loyalty lies with Elrond in Imladris.” Thranduil licked his way down
Glorfindel’s chest and wiggled his tongue inside his lover’s belly button. “Maybe
we can work out some arrangement?”
“We need Elrond to consent
to anything we come up with. Aye, we need to journey to Imladris to discuss
this matter with Elrond.” Glorfindel purred when Thranduil’s lips moved lower
still and wrapped around his hardening member. Glorfindel loved the fact that
Thranduil wasn’t afraid to share himself so intimately. Everything they did
felt naturally. There was no shame, no insecurities. It felt so right… And what
Thranduil’s lips and tongue were doing felt right too. So right actually that
he was about to come. “Thran…” He wanted to warn his
lover, but Thranduil suckled even harder and made him come.
Thranduil looked at
Glorfindel and gave him a predatory grin. “I could become used to doing you.”
“Oh, you wicked Elf you!”
Glorfindel had calmed his breathing and raised a finger to wag at a
smug-looking Thranduil. “You did that on purpose!”
“Maybe…” Thranduil rolled
onto his back and stared at the ceiling. “You know, I would love to see the
stars again.”
Glorfindel rolled onto his
side and gave Thranduil a kiss on the lips. “In Imladris you can go to sleep in
the open and look at the sky all night long.”
“And Elrond will welcome
me?”
Glorfindel nodded. “He
will welcome you eagerly.” Glorfindel crawled on top of Thranduil and parted
the blond Elf’s long legs. “Will you welcome me as well?” The first time they
had made love Thranduil had taken him and he wanted to take the Mirkwood Elf in
turn.
Thranduil swallowed
nervously. “I want you in that way too, but it has been a while since…”
“I will prepare you. Trust
in me.” Glorfindel reached for the oil and coated his fingers with it. “I will
go slowly.” Glorfindel was true to his word. He made Thranduil take only one
finger at first and only when his lover was relaxed did he add another digit.
Glorfindel stretched out on his side next to Thranduil and watched his lover’s
face frown in concentration. “I do not want to part from you, Thranduil. I
promise you we will find a way to remain together.”
Thranduil reached for
Glorfindel and grabbed hold of a handful of golden hair. He pulled his lover
close and forced a deep and passionate kiss onto Glorfindel’s lips. At that
moment, Glorfindel added a third finger and Thranduil almost came that very
instant. Glorfindel realized that and removed his fingers. “Now,” he said in
conviction. There was no question in that word, just certainty. Glorfindel
poured more oil over his eager member and positioned himself between
Thranduil’s legs. He entered Thranduil with one smooth thrust and then stilled.
Thranduil stared questioningly at Glorfindel. Why had his lover stopped moving?
Glorfindel cocked his head
and then pulled out. He sat down on the bed cross-legged and then gestured for
Thranduil to straddle his lap. “I do not want you on your back.” That was not
the way it should be. Thranduil obliged and lowered himself onto his lover’s
shaft. He wrapped his arms and legs around Glorfindel and then touched his lips
to his lover’s. Glorfindel deepened the kiss, enfolded Thranduil in an embrace,
and lightly thrust upward. “I want you like this – in control.”
“What if I do not want to
be in control?” Thranduil gave his lover an impish smile.
“Let us move together
then.”
They established a slow
but satisfying rhythm. Glorfindel shallowly thrust upward, while Thranduil
lowered himself on his lover’s hard flesh again. They lasted surprisingly long
that way and it took them several pleasure-filled intense minutes to reach
completion. Thranduil collapsed against Glorfindel and the Captain kept him
upright by tightening his hold on him.
“It is a good thing we can
not die of heart failure like the mortals,” Glorfindel commented in bemusement.
“Else you would be the death of me!”
Thranduil rested his head
on Glorfindel’s shoulder and smiled. “You know what? I no longer care why we
are attracted to one another. Or why we became lovers so quickly.” He accepted
it had happened and that it was the way it was supposed to be. “I know you,
Glorfindel. My soul knows yours.”
“Aye, this is the way it
should be.” Glorfindel held Thranduil close and rocked him.
~~~
“Do not fret like that. I
am certain all will go well!” Melpomaen smiled at Elrond, who continued to
fidget with the fabric of his sleeve. Elrond had chosen to wear his formal
robes that day along with his circlet and a heavy cloak. Melpomaen felt it was
too much, but Elrond seemed a bit more confident dressed like that.
“That is easy for you to
say! You did not wrong Thranduil!” Elrond felt the urge to bite his
fingernails, something he rarely did. Only when he was under great stress would
he start nibbling on his nails. Things might have been easier if Celebrían had
been at his side, but his wife had left with Celeborn to visit her mother in
the Golden Wood. The twins were somewhere about, but Elrond didn’t know if they
would join him on time. Only the Valar knew what his mischievous sons were up
to!
Lindir appeared at
Melpomaen’s side and folded an arm around his lover’s waist. Ever since their
binding ceremony, Melpomaen had started to accept a public caress easier. But
there were still moments that Melpomaen grew bashful and retreated into his
shell. That day however was not one of those times.
“They should arrive any
moment now.” Elladan stepped up to his father and Elrohir appeared as well. The
twins hadn’t bothered to dress as formally as their father. “It will be great
to have Erestor with us again and hopefully for a longer period of time!”
Elrond drew in a deep
breath when he caught sight of the first riders of Thranduil’s escort. Up front
rode Erestor and Glorfindel. The two of them were talking and laughing. Elrond
took that as a good sign.
Then Thranduil appeared
and Erestor steeled his nerves when their gazes met. He had expected to see an
angry scowl on Thranduil’s face, but the eyes that met his were warm and
twinkled naughtily. Thranduil looked happy and at peace. That was not what Elrond
had expected and he was a bit thrown off guard.
“
Elrond coughed and then
took a step forward. “Welcome to Imladris.”
Glorfindel dismounted and
walked up to Elrond. He buried his friend in a hug and then released him.
“Elrond, may I present Thranduil to you?”
Taken aback by
Glorfindel’s rather bold greeting – bold since they were in public – Elrond
nodded his head slowly. “You may.” What had happened to Glorfindel? He had seldom
seen his friend look so happy!
Thranduil slid off of his
horse’s back and joined Glorfindel and Elrond. He sensed the half-Elf’s
apprehension and read nervousness in the gray eyes. “Elrond, thank you for your
invitation and for the reinforcements you sent.”
Elrond nodded again. He
didn’t quite trust his voice to cooperate. Erestor joined them as well and the
twins immediately started talking to their foster-brother. He couldn’t expect
any help from Erestor then. “It was the least we could do,” he said, addressing
Thranduil once more. “Legolas did not accompany you?”
Thranduil shook his head.
“He had to stay behind. Someone needs to guide our people.” It was the first
time he had put his son in charge and he trusted Legolas to manage during his
absence. “He would have preferred to visit you though.”
Elrond was relieved that
everything was going so well and gestured for Thranduil to follow him into the
Last Homely House. “Do you prefer to freshen up and rest or would you rather
talk?”
“I would like to talk
first. Certain matters stand between us and I would prefer to deal with those
now.” Thranduil exchanged a look with Glorfindel and the Captain nodded. They
had discussed which direction their meeting with Elrond should take and
Thranduil felt well-prepared to face the half-Elf now.
“As you
wish.” Elrond respected
Thranduil’s request, but wished his guest had given him more time to mentally
prepare himself. He guided Thranduil and Glorfindel into his study and noticed
that Melpomaen had snuck inside as well. “Please seat yourself.”
Thranduil took his seat
opposite Elrond’s oak desk and Glorfindel went to stand behind him. The Captain
rested one hand on the back of Thranduil’s chair and watched Elrond closely.
Elrond noticed the odd body language Glorfindel was demonstrating, but failed
to correctly interpret it. “Thranduil, I am glad that you decided to accept my
invitation. It is time we talked and did away with the painful
misunderstandings that kept us apart in the past.” Elrond drew in a deep breath
and forced himself to maintain eye contact. “It was my fault that we parted in
a bad way. I should have believed Ereinion. Instead, I remained stubborn. I owe
you an apology.”
“It is accepted,”
Thranduil said and offered Elrond an encouraging smile. “Instead of looking at
the past we should look toward the future.”
Elrond released a relieved
sigh. “You are right. Our realms need to support each other. The
“Thank you for sending the
reinforcements, Elrond. We need all the soldiers we can acquire to fight the
shadow.” Glorfindel encouragingly squeezed his shoulder and Thranduil drew in a
deep breath. “I should also thank you for sending Glorfindel along.” Elrond’s
eyes narrowed. Was Thranduil going to tell him what had happened? He had
noticed that Glorfindel’s hand was resting on top of Thranduil’s shoulder and
both Elves seemed comfortable with the gesture. Thranduil felt nervous, but he
still plunged ahead and said, “Glorfindel and I quickly became friends and…” He
felt at a loss to explain their attraction.
Glorfindel took pity on
his lover and explained their situation to Elrond. “Thranduil and I have been
lovers for the last few months. It started a few days after my arrival in the
Melpomaen’s eyes almost
bulged from their sockets. “What did you say?”
“We are lovers,” Thranduil
repeated Glorfindel’s statement.
Elrond blinked. He needed
a moment to deal with the new information. “Glorfindel and you?”
Glorfindel laughed warmly.
“Aye, Thranduil and I. I can imagine your surprise.
Trust me, Thranduil and I did not expect for this to
happen either, but it did.” To prove his words, Glorfindel bent down and placed
a kiss onto the crown of Thranduil’s head. “That is another matter we need to
discuss. Since Thranduil is my lover now and I intend to spend a fair amount of
time with him, we will need to find an arrangement that will work for all
parties involved.”
Elrond felt dizzy.
Everything had gone so smoothly and now this! Melpomaen however didn’t seem
bothered. After his initial surprise had worn off he smiled radiantly. “I am
happy for you, my friend.” Glorfindel had been lonely, especially when Erestor
had left Imladris. “The two of you seem well-matched.”
“We are.” Glorfindel cocked
his head and looked thoughtfully at Elrond. “Did I shock you?”
“Aye, you did.” Elrond
shook his head in the hope to rid himself of the shock that he still felt. “But
I am also happy for you.”
“Working out some
arrangement should not be difficult. You can spend part of the year in Imladris
and the other part in the
“I will stay in the
“It would be even better
if you came to Imladris with me when it is my time to dwell there. You could escape
from the suffocating shadow and recover so you will be strong again when we
return to the
“We can do that,”
Thranduil said, agreeing to Glorfindel’s plan. But there was one person who
still needed to give his consent, since Glorfindel served Elrond and not the
King of the
“Elrond, do you also agree
that this is a good plan?” Glorfindel gave his friend his most pleading look.
Elrond had had enough time
to compose himself again and smiled weakly. “It is a good plan and I will not
oppose it. It was just the initial shock that made me speechless.”
Thranduil grinned. “That
is the way I felt when I realized I had fallen for this scoundrel.”
Elrond laughed at hearing
Thranduil describe Glorfindel in such a way. “That fits.” Glorfindel pretended
to be annoyed, but couldn’t pull it off. He was much too happy that everything
had worked out.
~~~
Thranduil loved looking at
the stars. He couldn’t remember the last time he had been able to lay down on
the grass and stare at the midnight-sky without having to worry about spiders
attacking him. His head rested on Glorfindel’s lap and both Elves stared at the
stars twinkling above their heads.
“It is peaceful here,”
Thranduil whispered. “It would be so easy to stay and forget about Mirkwood.
Legolas could join Erestor and we would all be happy.”
“But?” Glorfindel sat with his back resting against the
trunk of a tree. He stroked Thranduil’s hair. His lover’s green eyes reflected
the silver rays of the stars. He had never before seen Thranduil this much at
peace and it pained him to know that it was only a temporary condition.
Thranduil would return to the
“But I can not stay
forever.” Thranduil’s gaze shifted from the skies to Glorfindel’s face. “The
“I understand.” Glorfindel
understood why Thranduil couldn’t stay. Maybe he had hoped his lover would
change his mind when he was in Imladris, but that had been a foolish thought. “I
do not ask of you to stay in Imladris indefinitely and I will accompany you
when you return home. But this way we can be together, do you understand that?
When I have to dwell in Imladris, you can accompany me and, when it is time for
you to return home, I can go with you.”
Thranduil nodded and the
back of his head rubbed against the fabric of Glorfindel’s shirt when he did
so. “I understand. It is more than I hoped we would achieve.” Thranduil raised
his right hand and cupped Glorfindel’s face in his palm. “I always wanted to
kiss you beneath the stars.”
“I am not stopping you.”
Glorfindel grinned and leaned in closer so their lips could touch. The golden
strands of their hair entangled and clung to each other as they lost each other
in the sweetest kiss the stars had ever seen
The end!!