Title: Imladris' Newest Son

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

Pairings: (Elrond/Celebrían mentioned), (Glorfindel/Ecthelion mentioned) "real pairing" for this installment Lindir/Melpomaen.

Rating: NC-17 (thanks to Lindir and Melpomaen!)
Summary: Elrond adopts an Elfling which he buys from the slave market and now he needs to 'deprogram' Erestor and teach the Elfling how to be a proper Elf.

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, mention of child abuse.

Beta read by Patricia and DA, thanks sweeties!

All remaining mistakes are mine.

 

Imladris' Newest Son

 

Glorfindel stood in the stirrups and scanned the lands that lay ahead of them. The race of Man populated these parts and Glorfindel felt reluctant to enter their dwellings. He found them unpredictable and aggressive. Glorfindel didn't trust any of them and it was his duty to warn and advise Elrond on an alternate route. "Elrond, it is not too late yet. We can still go around the human settlement. I advise you to do so. We should detour." Glorfindel sat down again and sought out Elrond's eyes.

 

The Elf-Lord calmly shook his head. "Nay, Glorfindel. Detouring lengthens our journey by at least two days *and* we are in need of provisions. We need water, fruit, and maybe even meat if they are selling some." Elrond looked at his friend who was riding next to him. He understood Glorfindel's worries, but wouldn't give in to them. Taking in supplies was a risk, but a calculated one. Their escort consisted of thirty guards and Elrond was confident that his soldiers could fight off a possible attack.

 

Elrond was tired and longed to return to his peaceful Imladris. The valley would be back to her quiet self, since the twins had remained behind in the Golden Wood with their mother. That meant he would have his precious peace and silence back at least for a few months. Although he dearly loved his offspring, they were a handful and kept him busy.

 

Glorfindel disagreed with Elrond's decision to venture into the human settlement, but there was little he could do to change Elrond's mind. After all, the half-Elf *was* his Lord and he was bound to obey him, but Glorfindel couldn't help making one last remark to make his point. "They are rude, unpredictable, and aggressive – at least the males are. We should avoid contact altogether."

 

Elrond shifted in the saddle, arched an eyebrow, and gave Glorfindel an amused smile. "I know of a number of Elves who also fit that description, my friend."

 

Glorfindel snorted, amused. He could always count on Elrond to have the perfect answer ready. "Haldir, Rumil, and Orophin are the exception, Elrond. They are rather obnoxious too, aye." And he had realized just how obnoxious they were during their visit to the Golden Wood. The three brothers had challenged him to several contests, and although he had declined each time, they had continued to follow him around and challenge him. The three youngsters had hoped to prove their worth against a renowned and seasoned warrior like Glorfindel. Like Elrond, Glorfindel was also looking forward to immersing himself in Imladris' peace and quiet.

 

The human settlement came into full view and Glorfindel's hand involuntarily slipped toward his sword. His fingers curled around the hilt as a precaution. "I have a bad feeling about this, Elrond." He still felt strongly that they should have circled around the village.

 

"We will buy the water and food we need and then we will leave. We will not stay for long." Elrond understood why the humans made Glorfindel edgy. The golden-haired Elf wasn't used to dealing with them and didn't know how to react to their at times avid actions. Elrond however felt comfortable dealing with them. "I am certain everything will go well. They want to sell their products. That is how they earn their living."

 

Glorfindel remained unconvinced though – an apprehensive feeling had settled in the pit of his stomach and that was often a sign that something was amiss. He had learned to trust his instincts and they seldom failed him. Looking over his shoulder at the guards, he signaled for them to be ready in case of trouble. Should the humans provoke or attack them, they would protect Elrond and leave the dwelling as quickly as possible.

 

~~~

 

Elrond steered his stallion toward the town's main street. Since their Elven features easily gave them away, Elrond made no effort to hide the fact that they belonged to the Firstborn. To his surprise, he found the street empty and the market booths practically unmanned. What had caused the people to leave their goods unattended?

 

"The street is empty save for a handful of merchants." Glorfindel didn't like this one bit. Where were the people? His fingers tightened around the hilt and one look at his guards told him they were ready to act upon his signal.

 

Elrond bowed down, addressed one of the humans, and proceeded to buy the goods they needed. The girl who was selling the water and fruits gave Elrond a wide-eyed stare and smiled nervously at the Elf-Lord. A number of guards dismounted and packed the water skins and food into their saddle bags.

 

Glorfindel paid for the goods and noticed the greedy expression in a human's beady eyes when the man caught sight of the gold he carried. He quickly tucked it safely away under his tunic. He wouldn't put it past these people to try to steal the gold.

 

Moving on to the next booth, Elrond also bought some dried meat. Now that they had purchased the water and food they needed, Elrond announced that they were leaving. He didn't want to admit it, but Elrond didn't feel at ease any more. Something troubled him, but the Elf-Lord couldn't label the feeling and he didn't want to share this information with Glorfindel – not after assuring his friend that he was capable of dealing with the humans.

 

Hearing Elrond give the order to leave the village made Glorfindel feel relieved. The hair at the back of his neck was standing rigid, though he didn't know why he was reacting so fiercely to his surroundings. Something was amiss, and his instincts warned him that they were in danger. One look at Elrond's face told him that his friend was also growing nervous. The half-Elf was also eager to leave the village. The two of them couldn't be wrong. Danger lurked right around the corner and Glorfindel was ready to face the threat – whatever that threat entitled!

 

"He's part Elf this one! Come on, people! He's worth more than two pieces of silver!"

 

Elrond's gray eyes widened and then darkened in shock. His gaze sought out his Captain's. "Glorfindel, did you hear that? Did he really say part Elf? Did you hear that too?"

 

Glorfindel nodded his head. "I did. Where is the voice coming from?" Glorfindel's fingers clawed at the hilt of his sword and his eyes narrowed. He scanned their surroundings and discovered some commotion to their right. A group of people had gathered there.

 

"I trained him personally! He'll cause you no trouble and will fulfill your every desire!"

 

"It is coming from over there." Glorfindel shielded his eyes with his hand when the sun blinded him. "It is coming from that platform." Glorfindel exchanged a look with Elrond. "They are holding a slave market." Glorfindel growled, disgusted by this discovery. "Elrond, they are selling a slave who is part Elf. We cannot allow that. We must intervene." They couldn't allow for one of their own kind to suffer such humiliation and disgrace!

 

Elrond wasted no time and pressed his heels into Tirith's flanks. He needed to see for himself what was happening. The closer the half-Elf got to the platform, the more alarmed he became.

 

A merchant, a tall, bulky, and bald man dragged a boy over the stage by his hair – long, raven hair that reached the boy's waist. Focusing on the boy, Elrond's heart missed a beat. The boy's big, dark eyes revealed pain and fear, but the young slave did nothing to escape from the merchant's hold. /Not that he can do much to escape from him,/ Elrond realized as he took in the boy's malnourished and bruised body. The poor child was no match for the bulky merchant.

 

The boy was naked, and when the merchant spun him around for the crowd to see, Elrond grew pale. The boy's slim back was covered in cuts, bruises, and blood – fresh blood, which ran down his back in rivulets. Judging by the marks the boy had been whipped repeatedly. The sight enraged Elrond, but he managed to look composed. He couldn't let his anger rule him. He needed to keep his wits about him. 

 

"Look at the ears, Elrond! They are pointed!" The boy's ears weren't fully pointed like his, but only partly, like Elrond's. "He must be half-Elven, like you!" Glorfindel did his utmost best to control his rage. To see one of their kind mistreated like this woke his fury. His fingers, still wrapped around the hilt of his sword, trembled. He was ready to draw it and free the boy with force. He was only waiting for Elrond to give the order to charge toward the platform.

 

"Control yourself, Glorfindel." Elrond's teeth gnashed as he spoke the words. Like Glorfindel, he wanted nothing more than to attack, but the crowd that had gathered there would turn against them. In that one aspect, Glorfindel *was* right – humans tended to be unpredictable and aggressive. "We have to be diplomatic!"

 

Glorfindel was about to verbally lash out at Elrond: diplomacy was not acceptable in this situation! This called for retribution! But then the reprimand froze on his lips.

 

The merchant suddenly threw the small boy onto the wooden stage. He was being unnecessary harsh and cruel and the Man seemed to enjoy inflicting pain on the child. A pain-filled yelp left the boy's lips and the young slave instantly wrapped his arms around his waist. Then he pulled up his legs, curled up, and tried to hide his face in between his knees. The long hair shielded the boy's face from unwanted looks, but the tips of those slightly pointed ears still showed through the hair and clearly showed his Elven heritage. "We must do something, Elrond! That wretched Man is hurting him!"

 

"We will, Glorfindel! But I need you to remain calm!" Elrond caught the merchant's gaze and the half-Elf's eyes narrowed as he read the greed there. The merchant was eager to make a profit and Elrond used that knowledge to his advantage. Steering Tirith closer to the assembled crowd, he made eye contact with the slave trader.

 

"Ah, Milord, maybe you need a slave to wait on you?" The merchant had quickly assessed the Elf's wealth and now took a step toward Elrond. "I promise you that he won't disappoint you. He'll wait on you hand and foot and, if you desire so, between the sheets as well."

 

Elrond's control almost snapped, but feeling Glorfindel's eyes upon him, the half-Elf realized he had to set the example. If he lost control, so would Glorfindel, and then they would have a blood bath on their hands.

 

"Hey, I offered you two pieces of silver for the imp! He isn't worth much more! You didn't even feed him properly! I can count his ribs!" A man who had placed a bid a moment earlier now called out to the merchant. "Sell him to me! I need a slave to work on my land!"

 

"And to work in your bed!" someone else called in a mocking voice.

 

Glorfindel forced himself to keep drawing in deep, calming breaths, but acting in a composed way was hard when all he wanted to do was to make the merchant pay for mistreating one of their kind. He desperately tried to catch the boy's gaze, but the child remained curled up and hidden beneath a sea of raven hair. Shivers shook the tiny body and Glorfindel wanted nothing more than to pull the boy into his arms and protect him. But he couldn't do that – not yet.

 

"What do you say, Milord? He's certainly worth more than two pieces of silver!" The merchant grabbed hold of the dark hair and jerked at it to make the raven head snap up. In response, the boy cried out in pain. The merchant pulled his slave to his feet and grabbed hold of the boy's wrists, which he pulled behind the trembling back. "Look at him, Milord. If you prefer him fat, you can fatten him up!"

 

Scared, dark eyes met Elrond's and the Elf-Lord's heart went out to the young half-Elf on the platform. He had to save the boy – no matter what the cost. "I will give you four pieces of silver for him." The boy's eyes were watering due to the pain he was in since the slave trader was still pulling at his hair. But at the moment the pulling was the only thing that kept him on his feet.

 

Elrond, unable to suppress his concern, swallowed hard. Being a healer, he could tell that the boy was about to faint due to malnourishment and exhaustion. /How old is he? He looks younger than my sons./ Elrond surmised the boy couldn't be any older than eighteen, which would make him nine in the world of Man. /He is only a child – an Elven child who should have been cherished instead of hurt in this way./

 

"You can have him for five pieces of silver, milord," the merchant replied. He was becoming cocky as he realized the Elf-Lord was probably going to buy the boy. Looking at the slave boy, he found that the young half-Elf was staring at the potential buyer and his reaction was instant. "Lower your gaze, Erestor! Remember the rules I taught you! You never – ever -- look your master in the eye!" The slave trader jerked again at the long hair, and this time, the boy's wide eyes released fat tears.

 

Elrond fumed at the way the man was treating the boy. Seeing the tears roll down the young half-Elf's face infuriated him. The boy had been abused – was still being abused -- and he was going to put a stop to it. The swimming eyes broke eye contact and the boy obediently stared at the floor – just like his master had instructed. The slave trader had beaten obedience into the boy. Seeing the bowed head, slumped shoulders, and tears that now landed on the floor made Elrond's words come out as a sharp hiss.  "Glorfindel, pay him." He would have paid whatever price the slave trader had named!

 

Glorfindel had already uncovered the five pieces of silver and guided Asfaloth closer to the platform. Had it been up to him, he would have flung the money at the merchant's feet, but he couldn't do that – first, he needed to know the boy safe. He handed the merchant the money and made sure that his fingers didn't touch the Man's.

 

"You made an excellent purchase, Milord. Erestor won't disappoint you. I trained him and I can assure you that he learned his lessons."

 

Elrond's hands trembled with rage as he steered Tirith closer to the platform. He reached for the boy and then realized he faced a dilemma. By reaching out and moving Erestor onto Tirith's back he would inflict even more damage on the injured back. Acting as gently as he could, he placed his hands on either side of Erestor's waist and slowly lifted the boy. The young half-Elf weighed less than one of his sons did and they were probably younger!  

 

"Hold on, young one," Elrond ordered, keeping his voice calm and warm. Erestor trembled under his touch and the tiny body seemed to crumble against his as he placed Erestor in front of him.

 

Glorfindel kept a close eye on the merchant while Elrond tucked the boy into the folds of his cloak, hiding him away from view. One look at their escort told Glorfindel that they were ready to fight themselves a way into safety if necessary. They were alert and their weapons within reach.

 

Glorfindel's gaze shifted from their escort to the rescued boy. Glorfindel managed a peek at the bruised face and found that the boy was still staring at the ground. Seeing Erestor's scared and wounded expression made Glorfindel want to extract revenge on the slave trader, but Erestor's safety was more important than extracting his revenge and Glorfindel reigned in his anger. Erestor's safety came first.

 

Elrond succeeded in placing Erestor on Tirith's back facing him and encouraged the boy to rest his upper body and head against him. At first he had wanted to place Erestor in front of him while facing away from him, but then the injured back would have constantly rubbed against the fabric of his robes and would have only aggravated the pain the boy was in. Elrond drew his cloak even closer around the child's frame and the boy was safely tucked away. "Glorfindel, we are leaving – now."

 

Glorfindel nodded his head to show that he had heard and shouted a command at their escort, telling them to remain alert and to fight anyone off who might try to stop them.

 

However, the crowd moved out of their path and the merchant even bid them farewell. Glorfindel's gaze was hard and unyielding while leading Elrond and Erestor into safety. It vexed him that he couldn't make the slave trader pay for the pain he had inflicted on the boy, but the important thing was that they managed to take the young half-Elf away from the merchant. Erestor was safe now and Glorfindel vowed to keep the boy safe as long as he lived.

 

~~~

 

Erestor felt dazed. Although he understood what had just happened – that he had been sold to a new owner – he had a hard time actually believing it. As long as he could remember, he had belonged to the slave trader. The merchant hadn't exaggerated when he had told Elrond that the boy had learned obedience and that he had learned his lessons well. Erestor had been conditioned in such a way that he would obey his master in *anything*. But what kind of master was the Elf-Lord? Erestor was determined to please his new master in everything and to give Elrond no reason to be cross with him. For when his old master had been cross with him, the Man had punished him. That was one of the lessons he had learned.

 

"You do not have to be scared any longer, young one. You are safe with me."

 

Elrond's voice, deep and comforting, startled Erestor nonetheless. He wasn't used to his master addressing him in order to comfort him.

 

"Wrap your arms tightly around me, Erestor. I do not want you to fall off accidentally." Elrond was trying to get a response out of Erestor, but the boy's head remained down.

 

Erestor had learned to obey his master's every order and so he wrapped his short arms around Elrond's waist. He hoped he had done the right thing and had pleased his new master.

 

Elrond's eyes were swimming with tears and when he looked at Glorfindel, he found his friend's blue eyes watering too. Erestor's sorry state affected the both of them. "We need to put more distance between us and the settlement." Elrond would have preferred to camp right away so the boy could get some rest, but this time he heeded Glorfindel's advice. "Make certain that no one is following us, and if the slave trader has sent out agents, deal with them." He had wanted to say, 'kill them' but he couldn't do that with Erestor listening.

 

Glorfindel nodded his head briskly and fell back. He instructed his most trusted guards to sweep their trail free of any humans and, once he had done so, steered Asfaloth beside Tirith again. "How does the little one fare?"

 

"He is shaking like a leaf." Elrond felt frustrated with the need to steady and comfort the boy by placing a hand against his back, but he couldn't do that because of the injuries. At least Erestor was holding on to him tightly – just as he had been instructed. "Send scouts ahead and, should they find a suitable spot for camping, instruct them to build a fire and erect my tent." Normally, he wouldn't make use of the tent, preferring instead to sleep in the open like his guards, but Erestor needed the shelter and warmth the tent would provide.

 

"I will do that." But not right away. "Elrond, can I…?" Glorfindel's voice drifted off.

 

But Elrond understood his friend's request and lowered his cloak a bit. Glorfindel's eyes immediately sought out the boy's bruised face and Elrond cringed as well upon seeing the closed eyes. The boy didn't look relaxed at all. "He finally lost his battle against his fatigue. I am surprised he managed to stay awake this long."

 

"He needs to eat," Glorfindel stated, cringing when he recalled the malnourished state of the boy. "He is one of us, Elrond. We will take care of him, will we not?"

 

Elrond nodded once. "He is our responsibility now, Glorfindel. He is our charge now."

 

Glorfindel felt relieved at hearing Elrond speak those words. "It is an honor to take care of this young one."

 

"Erestor… His name is Erestor," Elrond said in a thoughtful tone. "That is what the slave trader called him."

 

"An Elf must have given him that name for it is not a name used by humans." Glorfindel raised a shaky hand and lightly caressed the raven hair. "He is so young, Elrond, and he has already suffered so much!"

 

"I doubt he is any older than my sons, Glorfindel, and I tremble at the thought of Elladan and Elrohir ever having to suffer in this way." Erestor had already claimed a spot in his heart. "We will be there for him, Glorfindel, in every sense, especially since my wife will not return to us for at least four months. We will have to be his parents during that time. I count on you to support me, Glorfindel." Aye, he had some parenting experience, but his sons were energetic, lively, happy children, while Erestor had been severely damaged in his short life – damaged in ways Elrond couldn't fathom yet.

 

"You have my support, Elrond, you know that." Glorfindel met Elrond's gaze and nodded his head firmly. "I will return shortly, but now I need to instruct the guards to scout ahead and make camp."

 

Elrond watched Glorfindel steer Asfaloth away before his gaze shifted from his friend to his charge. Erestor was blissfully asleep against him. The tiny fingers were hooked behind his belt so they wouldn't slip. The raven head rested against his waist and moved against him with each step Tirith took. His heart opened for the boy and Elrond vowed to be the parent Erestor had so sorely missed until that very day. From that moment on, he considered Erestor his son. He hoped his wife and sons would accept Erestor in time as well.

 

~~~

 

"Elrond, we found a spot and they are erecting the tent." Glorfindel signaled for Elrond to follow him. The scouts had found a spot which could be easily defended and was clear of vegetation. They would see a possible attacker approach.

 

"Well done." Elrond was eager to attend to the boy's back and to put some food inside him. Some miruvor would also help Erestor recover. The boy had been asleep for most of the time and Elrond hoped his charge would feel a bit more rested once they called for a halt. Seeing Glorfindel's inquiring gaze, Elrond said, "He is still asleep, but his sleep is not easy."

 

Glorfindel's jaw tightened. "I want your permission to trail back and extract my revenge on that wretched Man."

 

Elrond resolutely shook his head. "Nay. If you do that, you will cause the humans to rise against us and Erestor's safety must come first. You will stay here and help me look after our charge." Glorfindel's gaze darkened and Elrond added, "I understand you, Glorfindel. I really do. I also want revenge, but Erestor *must* come first. Surely you understand?"

 

In the end, Glorfindel reluctantly agreed that Elrond was right: Erestor had to come first.

 

They reached the clearing and Elrond found that the guards had already erected the tent. They had even started a small fire inside. "It is time to wake our charge." But he had no idea how Erestor would react to finding him so close. Well, there was only one way to find out.

 

Glorfindel dismounted and handed Asfaloth to one of the guards, who would take care of the stallion. He then walked over to Elrond and waited patiently for his friend to wake the boy. Like Elrond, he felt apprehensive about Erestor's possible reaction.

 

"Erestor? It is time to wake up. Erestor? Erestor?" Elrond had lowered his cloak and tried to gain Erestor's attention. He slipped his hand beneath the boy's chin and raised it so he could study the bruised face. The eyes were still closed in a healing sleep, worrying Elrond further. Just how weak was Erestor? The boy's face showed spectacular bruises which had turned fiercely black and blue during the last few hours. "Erestor, wake up for me." Elrond took great care to make certain that he sounded calm and non-threatening. In the end, his efforts to wake Erestor were rewarded and the boy opened his eyes.

 

TBC

 

Part 2

 

Erestor blinked. He had dreamt that he was still with his former master and that the Man had been beating him, but then reality moved in on him and his more recent memories returned to him. Mentally, he reviewed everything that had happened to him during the last few hours.

 

One moment he had stood high upon that platform and had been about to be sold off to a farmer, and then this ethereal being had bought him instead. He had forgotten all the rules ever taught to him and had stared into those wise, gray eyes. Unable to look away, he had continued to gape. The expression that had lain in those eyes had puzzled him. He had thought he had seen affection there, but a moment later, rage had spread within them and he had trembled under the intensity of that look. His master had quickly reminded him to never look into a Lord's eyes and he had obediently lowered his gaze.

 

He had seen how the blond Elf had paid his master from the corner of his eye. Five pieces of silver had changed their owner. Erestor had never seen that much money before and wondered if his master would really let him go. The next moment, the Elf with the soulful gray eyes had reached for him and he had bitten down the moan that had threatened to leave his lips. The Elf's fingertips had pressed against the small of his back and it was near where his former master had aimed his whip. Erestor had born the pain and hadn't cried out – just like his master had taught him.

 

And then… then he had been seated on the horse's back. His new master had eased him against him and he had rested his head against the Elf-Lord's body. He was so tired and hurt so much that he would gladly pay the price for the insolent behavior later. His shaky hands had reached for the folds of the Elf's expensive garments and had clawed at the material when the horse had taken its first step away from the platform. He had never ridden a horse before and, as instructed, he had clung to his new master, having no desire to fall off. His new master had even told him to wrap his arms around him and had tried to soothe him. No one had ever done that before and Erestor didn't know what to think of it.

 

He must have dozed off after that because when he woke up, the sun was already setting. He could tell so because his master had lifted the cloak a little so he could check on him. His master suddenly spoke his name and Erestor's shivering increased. It wouldn't be long before his new master would speak that name again and order him to wait on him – or even worse, pleasure him. Erestor's eyes filled with tears once more. His old master had forced one of the older boys to show him how to please older men and he had thrown up a few times after doing so. Would his new master also demand he performed such acts?

 

One of the Elves, the golden-haired one, stood next to Elrond's big horse and was smiling at him…why?

 

"Please do not be afraid, little one. We mean you well." Elrond desperately wanted to soothe the boy, who was shaking himself to pieces. The fingers, hooked behind his belt, moved restlessly and shivers coursed through the boy's body. It vexed Elrond that he felt so helpless – he seldom felt that way when he was dealing with his patients. They all trusted him – that seemed to come natural. But with Erestor, he had to earn that trust.

 

Little one? Why was his new master addressing him in such a way? And why was his voice so kind and tender? Erestor suddenly realized with much dread that he was actually staring into his master's eyes and quickly closed his eyes, not wanting to arouse Elrond's anger. A dizzy spell took him unexpectedly and he was forced to press closer to the warm body that supported him. Without it, he would have crumbled.

 

"We are making camp, Erestor. You can rest now." Elrond had hoped that the boy would feel comfortable enough to look at him, but the slave trader had scared the child and had hurt him in ways Elrond was afraid to find out about. "You must be sleepy – and I bet you are hungry as well."

 

He was – he was sleepy – still – and hungry, but he didn't expect his new master to feed him any time soon. The merchant had rationed his food and had only fed him after he had performed in a satisfactory way. /My new master will eventually feed me – but only after…/ Erestor was afraid to finish thinking the thought.

 

"Erestor, can you tell me your age? How old are you, little one?" Elrond wanted to gather as much information as possible on his newest charge. "Do you know when you were born?"

 

Erestor almost panicked. His old master had taught him to be quiet and not to speak, and now his new master was telling him to answer his questions!

 

"Erestor, please answer me." Elrond felt the tiny body tense up further and gathered that his questions had upset Erestor.

 

"Sixteen," Erestor whispered in a barely audible voice.

 

Elrond felt relieved once his charge spoke to him. "Are you only sixteen years old?" Was the boy really that young? How could someone – even a slave trader – mistreat someone that young? /Compared to human children, Erestor is only eight years old. Still so very much a child./ What had they done to this poor boy?

 

"Yes, Milord." Erestor bit his bottom lip. He was doing his best to please his new master, but answering questions was something he wasn't used to…neither was being warm and being held, for one of Elrond's hands had come up behind his back and now cupped the back of his head. His new master's behavior struck him as odd and he realized he had to find out what kind of person he was dealing with – his survival depended on getting to know his new master's needs and desires.

 

"How long were you with that Man?" Elrond tried hard to keep the venomous tone out of his voice. The mere thought of the slave trader made his blood boil.

 

"Ten years, Milord." At least, that was as far as he could think back. He remembered nothing of the first six years of his life – he had been too young.

 

"By the Grace of the Valar, that long?" Elrond fought the nauseated feeling that tried to turn his stomach upside down. The boy in his arms remained quiet and Elrond stopped questioning Erestor for the moment. He felt a kinship with the boy – partly because of Erestor's suffering, but also because they shared something important: they were both half-Elves. Elrond had long ago made his choice to belong to the Firstborn and he vowed to help Erestor reach an informed decision when he had to make his.

 

"Take him, Glorfindel, and be gentle with him." Elrond swept his cloak aside and by doing so, fully uncovered his charge. Elrond was extremely gentle when he lifted Erestor from the horse's back and into Glorfindel's arms.

 

Glorfindel's heart missed a beat at seeing the big, brown eyes staring at the snow below them. Erestor was doing his utmost best to avoid meeting his gaze. Glorfindel gathered the injured boy in his arms and took great care to put as little pressure as possible on the young half-Elf's back. "You are safe with us, Erestor."

 

Erestor didn't believe him. He had never been safe before and didn't know what being safe felt like.

 

Glorfindel swallowed a sob that threatened to leave his lips as he observed the boy's submissive and intimidated body language. "I am going to take you in there," he explained as he pointed at the tent. "We created a fire inside and you will be warm and safe there."

 

Elrond had also dismounted and now joined his friend. He didn't try to take Erestor back into his arms again, realizing that the child needed to grow used to Glorfindel holding him as well. Elrond pushed the tent flap aside and let Glorfindel pass.

 

The guards had done their job well. Next to the fire, they had spread a blanket made from furs onto the ground and one guard had even left his cloak behind so it could serve as a cover for Erestor, should the boy want to hide beneath it or use it for additional comfort.

 

Glorfindel carried Erestor toward the fire and then sat down on the furs. "It is comfortable here, is it not?" He tried to engage Erestor in conversation and hoped his efforts would eventually pay off.

 

Erestor was too busy trying to control his fears. They were alone now, the three of them, and he was afraid of what would happen next. The blond Elf placed him on his feet and Erestor swayed. He managed to continue to stare at the ground, but at the same time, he tried to guess their intentions. What was he supposed to do? His old master had always barked instructions at him and he felt lost when they weren't telling him what to do.

 

Elrond and Glorfindel exchanged a look. The boy looked lost, as if he was waiting for something bad to happen.

 

Erestor swayed again. His back hurt, his head spun, and he felt like he was about to throw up. But there was nothing left inside his stomach to throw up. He couldn't remember the last time his old master had fed him.

 

"Erestor, why do you not sit down?" Glorfindel was worried that the boy would faint or crumble.

 

Erestor felt conflicted. He had realized by that time that Elrond *and* Glorfindel were his new masters, but he couldn't follow the blond Elf's orders without also having Elrond's permission.

 

Elrond frowned when Erestor didn’t comply. The Elf-Lord seated himself next to Glorfindel and reached for the boy. Erestor yelped, stumbled backwards, and seemed to collapse into himself the moment Elrond touched him. Appalled – horrified! – the two adult Elves stared at the small boy.

 

"Please don't hit me… Please… I will do whatever you want me to do." Erestor's back brushed against the fabric of the tent and he felt cornered. /What am I doing? They are my new masters! I can't run away from them!/

 

Elrond stopped reaching for Erestor and his hands settled in his lap. "I did not mean to scare you, little one. I will never hit you, and neither will Glorfindel. That is not our way."

 

Once Elrond had ceased his efforts to touch Erestor, Glorfindel launched his own attempt to calm the startled child. Very slowly and gently, Glorfindel wrapped an arm around Erestor's waist. Using only minimal force, he eased Erestor down until the boy was finally seated in front of them. "You are tired are you not, Erestor?"

 

Elrond didn't interfere when Glorfindel had found a way to handle Erestor. However, Elrond continued to watch closely, ready to act if necessary.

 

"Yes, Milord. I'm tired." Erestor's voice trembled and he stared at his hands, which  -- and he only now realized this -- were clasped in-between Glorfindel's. The warrior's hands were strong and big and he shivered at the thought of how hard they could hit him. Such hands could do a lot of damage.

 

"I need to attend to his back," Elrond whispered the words to Glorfindel. While his friend had been talking to the distressed child, he had scanned the boy's body for additional injuries, but as far as he could tell, the slashed back was the only severe injury the boy had sustained. Elrond didn't dare to think about the mental injuries Erestor must have sustained during the long years.

 

Glorfindel drew in a deep breath and then leaned in closer. One of his hands shifted and he raised the raven head so Erestor had no choice but to look at them. "Did you hear what Elrond said? We need to attend to your back, to smooth salve onto it, and bandage it. I will not lie to you: it will probably hurt a little, but we are only doing this to further the healing process." Erestor's big and haunted eyes looked past him. The boy was determined not to look at him. "I want you to understand that we are trying to help you."

 

Why was Glorfindel telling him all this? It almost sounded like the adult wanted his permission. "Do as you please, Milord." He hoped he had given the answer the adults wanted to hear. These two Elves confused him. His old master never had. The merchant had always told him what to do.

 

Elrond uncovered the balm and opened the saddle bags the guards had left behind in the tent. "Glorfindel, I need water."

 

Glorfindel didn’t want to leave the boy's side, but did as he was told. "I will be right back, Erestor."

 

Why did they constantly reassure him? He was only a slave! They could do as they pleased!

 

Glorfindel left the tent to gather some snow into a kettle, which he then hung over the fire. The flames melted the snow and he removed the kettle before the water heated up too much. Testing the temperature by sticking his finger in, Glorfindel found it had reached the perfect temperature – it wasn't cold, but neither was it too hot.

 

Erestor stared at Elrond's supplies of salves, herbs, and bandages. He still didn’t fully understand their plans for him.

 

"Erestor, why do you not snuggle up to me? That way you are warm and you can rest against me." Glorfindel sat down in front of Erestor and opened his arms. "Come here."

 

For long years, his old master had conditioned Erestor to obey whatever order he would receive and so the child automatically moved toward Glorfindel.

 

Glorfindel smiled and carefully pulled Erestor close. The boy was kneeling on the furs and Glorfindel guided the raven head against his chest. "If you can, try to rest."

 

Elrond cringed as he saw how severely the lashes had damaged the skin of Erestor's back. The slave trader hadn't held back when he had beaten the child. Pushing his anger into a corner of his mind, Elrond focused on his role as healer. Picking up one of the bandages, he dipped it into the water and set about cleaning the wounds.

 

Erestor gasped the moment the cloth touched his back and he whimpered into Glorfindel's shirt. A moment later, the blond Elf raised a hand and began to stroke his raven hair. The touch made Erestor go wide-eyed. No one had ever done that before!

 

"I am sorry that I am causing you discomfort," Elrond said as he finished cleaning the wounds and began smoothing out the balm. "But this way you will heal faster."

 

Glorfindel caught Elrond's gaze. "I do not think he can still hear you."

 

"Is he asleep?" Elrond hoped so, for then Erestor wouldn't feel the pain anymore.

 

"He fainted. He is exhausted."

 

"And famished, Glorfindel. We will have to wake him up shortly so he can eat."

 

Glorfindel continued to stroke the long, raven strands and held Erestor loosely while Elrond dressed the wounds. "Elrond, I feel something I never felt before."

 

Elrond looked Glorfindel in the eye. "And what might that be, my friend? For I feel something too."

 

"I feel fiercely protective of this little one. I never felt that way with the twins. You know that I would die to save their lives, but this one…this small boy…he touches a place in my heart I never knew existed."

 

Elrond gave Glorfindel a smile full of understanding. "I feel like that too, Glorfindel, but there is something else as well. I want to give this child a home. I want to adopt him and raise him as a part of my family."

 

Glorfindel beamed with happiness. "And I will be there for him as well. He will need a friend – a mentor."

 

"You are the best mentor he could ask for." Elrond had removed his cloak and tucked it around the sleeping boy's form. "We will let him sleep for a while, but I want him to eat before we leave."

 

Glorfindel nodded his head once. "Let me hold him. I will keep him warm. He will be more comfortable resting like that."

 

"Aye, I noticed that he feels the cold." Elrond had seen that reaction in injured Elves before – particularly in half-Elves.

 

Glorfindel pushed a hand beneath Erestor's bottom and lifted the Elfling against his chest. In a reflex, Erestor wrapped his arms and legs around him and cuddled up to him. Glorfindel cradled the young half-Elf against his chest and peace settled in his heart. "You are safe now, Erestor. I vow to always protect you."

 

~~~

 

Erestor didn't want to wake up right away. He was asleep – feeling comfortably warm – and couldn't remember the last time his sleep had been this undisturbed. But the voice was insistent and his eyes widened in shock when he realized that it was his new master trying to wake him. Startled, he pushed himself upright and stared into his master's gray eyes, feeling rather dazed. "I am sorry, so sorry…" Erestor tried to push himself to his feet, but his world was spinning and he felt weak. Light-headed, he had to abandon his effort to get to his feet.

 

"Stay down, little one. There is no need for you to stand just yet." Seeing Erestor sway and then collapse worried Elrond. Why was the child pushing himself so? "It is still early and the only reason I am waking you is that I want you to eat before we leave." He had let Erestor sleep throughout the night, although he had been tempted to wake him once or twice to make him eat, but Glorfindel had advised against it. His Captain had held Erestor close during the night and had soothed the boy whenever a bad dream had been upon him.

 

Erestor blinked: something was different. What had changed since he had gone to sleep?

 

"Glorfindel had to leave. He did not want to leave you behind, but duty called. He is my Captain and responsible for our safety. You will see him again later today." Elrond hoped he had guessed correctly and that Glorfindel's absence had puzzled his charge.

 

Erestor pulled the cloak made from warm furs close and only belatedly realized that it was his master's cloak he was clutching. Fear clawed at him for he knew he should return the cloak, but he felt so cold that his need to be warm won over his fears. He felt grateful that he wasn't naked and cold and clutched the cloak closer.

 

"Here, I want you to eat this and eat slowly. You have probably not eaten for quite some time and I do not want your stomach to grow upset." Elrond placed a bowl filled with nicely cut fruits, slices of cheese, and bread in front of the young half-Elf. He had bought all the food at the dwelling the other day. "And drink this." He had added drops of miruvor to the water, for it would hopefully strengthen the boy. They still had a three day trip ahead of them and he needed Erestor to grow strong again.

 

Erestor stared at the food. There had to be a catch – there always was. How did Elrond want him to earn his food? What was he supposed to do in order to gain the right to eat it? But finding out entailed asking a question and he wasn't allowed to speak without being spoken to. Feeling lost, Erestor continued to stare at the delicious-looking food. His mouth was watering and his stomach growled.

 

"Eat, Erestor. This is for you." Elrond pushed the bowl a bit closer to where Erestor was sitting. The child looked miserable huddled in his cloak. His long, jet-black hair obscured his features. Elrond's attention was drawn to Erestor's hands and the way they clawed at the furs. "I will have to feed you if you do not start eating now." He had meant the words to be teasing, never suspecting how Erestor might interpret them.

 

Erestor flinched: the last thing he wanted was to displease his new master, but being allowed to eat without having to perform some sort of service confused him. Maybe he was supposed to offer his services in a way that showed he was willing? Maybe after that, he could eat?

 

Elrond arched an eyebrow as he watched Erestor crawl toward him on all fours. The fabric of the cloak dragged behind him and the Elf-Lord was about to ask the boy what he was up to when the tiny hands suddenly reached for his belt. The thin fingers clawed at his waistband and Elrond realized the dreadful truth. "Nay," he stated in a sharp but non-judgmental tone. "I told you to eat." He gathered the shaky hands in his and guided them away from him. Once Erestor was once more sitting where he had sat a moment before, Elrond drew in a deep breath in order to compose himself. Erestor's offer had been clear: the former slave had offered to touch him intimately and that fact shook him to his very core. In that one moment, Elrond had fully realized what had been done to Erestor. "I do not want you to touch me in that way again, Erestor."

 

The big, doe-like eyes looked at him in utter confusion – and in fear. Elrond chided himself for not putting himself in Erestor's position before. Had he done so, he would have understood how lost the boy felt. "I did not buy you to perform those kinds of services for me. That life is in your past now, do you hear me?"

 

Erestor frowned. His master hadn't? Why then had Elrond bought him?

 

"Open up," Elrond ordered as he picked up a slice of apple. "And now eat." He pushed the wedge into Erestor's mouth and watched the boy munch on it. /I need to tell Glorfindel just how careful we must be./ The fact that the merchant had conditioned Erestor to offer himself in such a way shocked him. How could anyone abuse a child like that?

 

Erestor swallowed the food and waited for his master to give him more instructions. Elrond confused him and he felt at a loss.

 

"I want you to eat as much as you can," Elrond declared and pointed at the food. "And to drink that," he added. "Do you understand? I am not asking anything in return, but I expect you to empty your bowl." Erestor's clumsy attempt of trying to push down his waistband still haunted the Elf-Lord. The desire to extract revenge on the merchant overwhelmed him, but he knew he couldn't act on it. Not when Erestor needed him.

 

"Nothing?" That was a strange concept. His former master had always made him earn his food and Elrond was telling him that there was no price to be paid. How could that be? What kind of game was Elrond playing?

 

Elrond had to strain in order to catch the whispered word. "Nothing, Erestor." Looking into the dark eyes, he realized that it would take time to make Erestor fully understand that his life had changed. He only hoped he had enough patience and affection where this young half-Elf was concerned to see the boy through.

 

TBC

 

Part 3

 

"I am going to lift you, Erestor. Nothing bad is going to happen to you. I am merely going to take you outside so the soldiers can take down the tent." Elrond took great care to speak in a calm and comforting voice and moved slowly when he wrapped his arms around his charge.

 

Erestor clutched the furs wrapped around his form tightly and stared at his new master. The adult seemed friendly, but Erestor remained suspicious. He had never before met someone who didn't have a hidden agenda.

 

"Elrond! Wait one moment!" Glorfindel stepped into the tent and gave Erestor a sparkling smile. "I found something!" The guards had searched their saddle bags and had found some old clothes which belonged to the twins. They consisted of a light-blue shirt and gray leggings. Glorfindel decided they would fit Erestor, even though they might be a bit too big for the gaunt boy.

 

"Well done!" Elrond waited for Glorfindel to join him and then took hold of the clothes. "Glorfindel, please give me a hand." He had noticed that Erestor seemed less tense whenever Glorfindel was around. And yes, Erestor relaxed once Glorfindel was squatting in front of the child.

 

Glorfindel nodded and continued to smile at Erestor. "These clothes will keep you warm." The expression in Erestor's eyes tore at Glorfindel's heart. It told him that the boy hadn't known much kindness in his short life. "Erestor, can you let go of that cloak for a moment?" Glorfindel decided against prying the little fingers loose. It would be best if Erestor let go out of his own free will.

 

Trained to follow orders, Erestor let the cloak drop onto the ground. He now stood naked and shivering in front of the blond Elf.

 

Elrond used the opportunity to check on the wounds on the boy's back. "I am going to peek beneath the bandages, Erestor. This should not hurt."

 

Erestor still wondered about his new masters. Why did they always tell him what they were going to do? He endured Elrond's probing and had to admit that the ache had lessened. His back still burned a bit, but it no longer stung as badly as it had.

 

"Your skin is healing." Elrond put the bandages into place again. "I will renew them tonight."

 

Taking that as his cue, Glorfindel showed Erestor the shirt and the boy instinctively extended his arms so the blond Elf could dress him. Glorfindel wasted no time and helped Erestor into the shirt. He buttoned the shirt and then reached for the leggings. "Raise your left leg first, Erestor."

 

Erestor immediately obeyed and soon, Glorfindel had put the leggings on him as well. Wearing the clothes felt odd. They were made of soft fabric and not of the itchy wool his former master would make him wear.

 

"I wish we had shoes or, even better, boots." Erestor's feet had been cold when he had helped the boy into the leggings.

 

Elrond walked over to his saddle bag, searched it, and removed a pair of socks from it. "Maybe you can do something with these?"

 

Glorfindel gave his friend a thoughtful look. "I might." He told Erestor to sit down on the floor, and once their charge had done so, he slipped first one, and then the other sock on the cold and tiny feet. They continued to glide down though. Glorfindel resolutely removed the two leather bands he used to tame his golden mane and wrapped a band around each foot. At last the socks stayed in place. "That is much better, is it not?" Glorfindel looked at Erestor to find if his handiwork pleased the boy and wasn't prepared to see such an adoring expression in the brown eyes. "What is it, Erestor?"

 

Elrond had seen Erestor's expression change the moment Glorfindel's golden locks had descended onto his shoulders and down the warrior's back. Glorfindel's hair was a thing to behold and possessed a life of its own. Elrond had caught himself admiring it at times as well. "It is your hair. It fascinates him." Good, that meant they had something to distract Erestor with when necessary.

 

"Now does it?" Glorfindel's smile grew even more radiant. "Do you want to touch it?"

 

Erestor's eyes showed shock and Glorfindel wondered why. But it didn't stop him from taking Erestor's hand and guiding it toward some locks that cascaded down his chest.

 

Erestor tried to pull his hand back. He couldn't touch something that pure – that delicate! He felt much too unworthy to do so!

 

Glorfindel felt conflicted; Erestor was struggling to pull back, but he didn't know why. At the same time, Glorfindel saw hope in the dark eyes. What was he supposed to do? In the end, he went with his instincts, which told him not to give up.

 

Erestor felt horrified as Glorfindel wrapped his little fingers around the golden hair. "No," he breathed the word, startled that he had spoken without having been addressed before.

 

"Why are you scared?" With Erestor's focus still on his hair, Glorfindel realized that Erestor was distracted and he quickly lifted the young half-Elf from the floor. Erestor sat safely in his arms and Glorfindel cocked his head. "Why, Erestor? Tell me what is wrong."

 

"It is so beautiful… Not meant to be touched…by me."

 

Elrond blinked: that was the most they had heard out of Erestor's mouth yet.

 

"But of course it is! You can always touch it, Erestor." Glorfindel carried the child outside and made for Asfaloth and Tirith. The two horses stood awaiting their riders. "Do you like horses, Erestor?"

 

Once Glorfindel had asked him a question, Erestor had no other choice but to answer it. "I do not know, Milord."

 

Elrond came to a halt next to Tirith and placed a hand on the stallion's neck. Tirith was a war horse with highly trained senses. The horse would doubtlessly pick up on their charge's mood and react to it. "Why do you not pet him? He likes that." He was trying to distract Erestor, hoping the boy would forget about his fears.

 

"Milord, you forgot this." One of the guards handed Elrond his cloak, which the Elf-Lord had left behind.

 

"Thank you." Elrond intended to wrap Erestor up in it later. That way the boy would remain warm during their journey.

 

Glorfindel took the initiative once more and placed his hand upon Erestor's trembling fingers. "You have to let go of my hair though if you want to pet Tirith." Erestor had a vice-like hold on his locks and he had to make the child let go one way or the other. It was his duty as a Captain to guard Elrond and protect him and he had extended that protection to Erestor as well. But he could only properly look after them if he had his hands free. Therefore, Erestor had to ride with Elrond.

 

Erestor reluctantly let go of the golden hair. Touching it, and curling his fingers around it, had made him feel good. He felt amazed that Glorfindel had let him touch the golden strands. Glorfindel guided his charge's hand to Tirith's nose and assisted Erestor in rubbing the warm skin.

 

Elrond also rubbed Tirith's neck and was relieved that the stallion wasn't growing nervous. On the contrary, Tirith eagerly pressed his nose against the tiny hand and snorted.

 

It was the first time that Elrond saw a ghost of a smile on Erestor's face. It was the dark eyes – they were smiling just a little. "And now we are going to ride him." Elrond mounted the stallion and then gestured for Glorfindel to hand Erestor to him.

 

Erestor didn't want to let go of Glorfindel, but knew better than to protest. He would never forget the few times that he had defied his old master. He had quickly learned to obey.

 

Elrond caught Erestor in his arms and asked, "How do you prefer to sit, Erestor? Facing me or facing away from me?"

 

Erestor blinked. Elrond kept him suspended in the air and this was the first time that he fully realized just how strong the adult was. "I do not know." How was he supposed to make a decision when he had been conditioned to obey orders?

 

"Does your back still hurt?" Elrond asked.

 

Erestor shook his head. He didn't know what had been in that salve that Elrond had rubbed onto his back, but it had deadened the ache.

 

Erestor's answer helped Elrond make up his mind and he placed Erestor in front of him – facing away from him. This way Erestor could see where they were going. He placed his hands atop the boy's and guided Erestor's fingers into Tirith's mane. "Why do you not hold on to that?"

 

Erestor clutched the horse's mane and watched how the other members of their escort mounted. His eyes searched for Glorfindel and he found the golden-haired Elf seated high on his white stallion. Elrond's hand settled against his abdomen and, while normally such a gesture would have scared him, this time it felt comforting. Elrond was keeping him in place, keeping him safe.

 

Glorfindel kept an eye on Erestor and smiled when their charge seemed more comfortable. Only time would convince Erestor just how much his life had changed. They needed to be patient.

 

~~~

 

"Milord?" Erestor nibbled on his bottom lip. His old master would have cuffed him if he had dared to address him, but Erestor hoped his new master would be more understandable. "I am sorry, but…"

 

"What is it, Erestor?" Elrond tilted his head so he could study Erestor's expression. The boy looked troubled. "Is it your back?"

 

"No, Milord… I need to… You know…" Erestor flinched, not knowing how his new master would react. Elrond had made him drink lots of water during the day and it needed to leave his body.

 

Seeing Erestor squirm uncomfortably, realization dawned on Elrond and he chuckled. "I should have thought of that!" Elrond shifted in the saddle and called out to Glorfindel to gain his Captain's attention. "We will rest for a few minutes!"

 

Surprised that Elrond wanted them to halt, Glorfindel guided Asfaloth closer to Tirith. "But we are making excellent time, Elrond."

 

"Our little friend needs to visit the bushes," Elrond explained and gave Glorfindel a conspiring wink. "I made him drink lots of water with a touch of miruvor all day long."

 

Glorfindel dismounted and caught Erestor when Elrond lowered the young half-Elf from the horse. "There are some nice bushes over there, Erestor." The look Erestor gave him was puzzled, as if their charge didn't understand. "You need to go, do you not?"

 

Erestor nodded his head once. His old master had never let him out of his sight – and on the rare occasions that he had, he had either tied a rope around his neck or had shackled his feet. Erestor expected his new masters to do the same.

 

"It looks like we will have to go together then." Glorfindel didn't know what was wrong with Erestor, but realized the boy wasn't going to move out of his own accord. He walked slowly, giving Erestor with his much shorter legs a chance to keep up with him. "That looks like a nice bush to me."

 

Erestor walked obediently next to Glorfindel and when they reached the bush, the blond Elf let go of his hand. Erestor peed and then turned around to place his hand back into Glorfindel's.

 

"Nay, not yet." Glorfindel squatted next to Erestor, uncovered the water skin he had brought, and opened it. "Extend your hands, Erestor."

 

Erestor did as he was told and watched in surprise how Glorfindel poured the water over his hands. The blond Elf then used a corner of his shirt to dry his hands. His hands felt less sticky than they normally did and Erestor nodded approvingly.

 

Glorfindel, however, wasn't finished yet. He poured water in the palm of his hands and washed Erestor's face as well. Some sleep still lingered in the dark eyes and the water washed it away. "Better?" Erestor's expression told him everything he needed to know – Erestor looked pleased. "And now we will go back to Elrond. We need to travel for a few more hours and then we will put up the tent again. After that you can go to sleep."

 

"I slept until a moment ago," Erestor whispered. "But he did not notice."

 

Glorfindel felt proud that Erestor was beginning to speak out of his own accord, even if the words were nothing but whispers. "Elrond will be pleased to hear you slept. He wants you to heal and to grow strong again. He is a healer, you see."

 

/A healer?/ Erestor frowned. What was a healer?

 

Glorfindel tucked the water skin away and took hold of Erestor's hand. Walking slowly, he guided his charge back to the rest of their escort.

 

Elrond had seen them talk and wished he knew what Glorfindel had told the child. Erestor definitely looked happier, although his features remained serious.

 

"Here is your charge back, Elrond." Glorfindel easily lifted Erestor and placed him onto Tirith's back again. Elrond immediately steadied Erestor and pulled him close. This time, Erestor rested his back with more ease against Elrond. Glorfindel and Elrond smiled at each other. Both Elves were hopeful that Erestor would continue to recover from his horrible past.

 

~~~

 

That night they didn't bother with putting up the tent since Glorfindel had discovered a cave where they could spend the night. Elrond spread the blanket onto the ground at the back of the cave and then lowered Erestor onto it. The child had fallen asleep a few times during the day due to the miruvor. As a result, the boy was very awake at the moment – and still very much frightened.

 

"I have to check on your back again, Erestor." Elrond was seated cross-legged opposite the boy and had already boiled some snow. New bandages and more of the soothing balm lay next to the kettle with water. "It will not hurt that much this time, I promise." He extended his arms and hoped Erestor would move into them.

 

Erestor took the hint and did what Elrond wanted him to do. He took a step toward the Elf-lord and kept his eyes fastened on the floor. It was becoming harder to keep his gaze lowered since he was beginning to like the Elves and he felt safe with them. These two Elves didn't scare him like the merchant had.

 

Most of the guards had taken shelter in the cave and only a small number were still outside to secure the perimeter. Glorfindel hadn't arrived yet, but Erestor hoped he would shortly.

 

Elrond turned Erestor around until his charge faced away from him. "Sit down, Erestor." In a way it was fortunate that the boy obeyed explicitly. It made tending to his injures much easier. First, Elrond removed the shirt and placed it aside. Next, he peeled off the bandages and laid them aside as well. With a tender touch, he checked the injuries and was relieved to find that the skin was healing nicely. "These wounds will heal in a few days. Erestor, did he hit you just this once or…?" Did he really want to find out though?

 

Erestor was forced to answer once Elrond asked him a direct question. "Often."

 

Elrond closed his eyes in an effort to contain his anger. Erestor needed him to be calm and supportive and giving in to his rage would only make things worse. He focused on cleaning and dressing the boy's back and, once he was finished, he draped the shirt back over Erestor's shoulders. "Did that hurt?" He helped Erestor back to his feet and turned the child around so he could look into the big eyes.

 

"No, Milord."

 

The way Erestor addressed him was the next thing Elrond wanted to change. "Erestor, do you know my name?"

 

"Yes, Milord."

 

Elrond was tempted to sigh, but fought the urge back. He didn't want Erestor to think that he had displeased him. "You were taught to obey, were you not?" Erestor gave him a very serious nod. "Erestor, what is my name? Say it."

 

"It is Elrond, Milord." Erestor answered each question to his best ability, eager to please his new master. When Elrond gently pushed him down, he complied and sat down on the furs again. An Elf placed bowls filled with food and glasses with water in-between Elrond and him and then left them alone again. Erestor hungrily eyed the food. Although he had eaten only that morning, he was hungry again.

 

Elrond realized he had picked the wrong time to address the matter. He wanted for Erestor to stop addressing him as 'Milord' and call him Elrond instead, but the starved child was now completely focused on the food. Their talk had to wait. "Eat, Erestor."

 

Erestor's eyes almost bulged from their sockets at receiving the order. "Again?" He instantly covered his mouth with his hand, upset that he had said that aloud. His eyes sought out Elrond's to find out if he had overstepped any boundaries.

 

"Aye, I want you to eat again. Erestor, you are supposed to eat three meals a day." The stunned expression in Erestor's eyes told him that the young half-Elf had never had three meals a day. He picked up the bowl and placed it in Erestor's lap. "Eat, Erestor, and that is an order." At the same time, he added a few drops of miruvor to the water and then handed Erestor the glass.

 

Erestor wondered what Elrond had just put into his water, but knew better than to ask such a question. He would simply drink whatever his master gave him.

 

But Elrond had seen the puzzled expression on Erestor's face. "Miruvor is brewed in Imladris for medicinal purposes. It is meant to help you heal." But the explanation seemed to confuse Erestor even further. "Eat," Elrond repeated and once Erestor was nibbling on the bread, he continued, "Imladris will be your new home, Erestor. You will live there with me and my family." For one moment, panic shone from Erestor's eyes. "And aye, with Glorfindel. You seem to like him."

 

Erestor visibly relaxed at the mention of the Captain and Elrond filed the information away for later. He gestured for one of the guards to approach and asked him to fetch Glorfindel. Turning his attention back to Erestor, he found that the child was nibbling on some cheese and was giving him a long, thoughtful look. /If only I knew what was going on in your head, little one./

 

~~~

 

Glorfindel hurried to Elrond's side. The summons had surprised him. He had been instructing the guards who would be on duty for the night and hadn't counted on Elrond asking for his presence. His first thought had been for Erestor, hoping nothing was wrong with the boy.

 

Once he got closer to Elrond, Glorfindel found that Erestor was staring at him. The eyes were filling with sleep, but for some reason, Erestor seemed determined to stay awake.

 

"And how does my favorite Elfling fare?" Glorfindel sat down next to Erestor and gave him a blinding smile. "Did you eat enough?"

 

Erestor's expression changed once Glorfindel had joined them. Both adults noticed that Erestor looked happier and much more at peace now.

 

"Yes I did, Milord." Erestor felt more at ease with the golden-haired warrior returned.

 

Elrond was once more reminded of the conversation he'd wanted to have with the boy and moved a little closer so he was also in Erestor's line of sight. "Erestor, I want you to do something for me."

 

"I will do anything you want, Milord." Erestor forced himself to remain awake. He had been dozing off when Elrond had addressed him. He began to push himself to his feet to do his master's bidding, but Elrond's large hands settled on his shoulders and made him stay in place. "But…"

 

"I want you to stop calling me ‘Milord’. I am Elrond, and this Glorfindel. There is no reason for you to address us so formally, little one." Elrond gently rubbed Erestor's thin shoulders.

 

Erestor didn't understand – he truly didn't. "But you are my masters…"

 

Glorfindel intervened. "Erestor, we are not your masters. You are your own master. We bought you because we wanted to return your freedom to you."

 

That was the strangest thing Erestor had ever heard and since he didn't understand what they were trying to tell him, he remained quiet. That was the best way to stay out of trouble... He didn't want to beaten up again. "Yes, Milord."

 

Glorfindel sighed. It was obvious that the child had no idea what they were talking about. "We will take good care of you," he said, thinking it important to reassure Erestor. "We will protect you."

 

Protect… That was something Erestor understood. When he had been ten years old, he had rescued a kitten from the streets. He had kept it hidden from his master and had tried his best to protect it, but one day, the slave trader had found out and had wrung the kitten's neck in front of him. He had failed to protect the animal. "You want to protect me?" He was too tired to worry about the fact that he had actually addressed them.

 

Elrond placed a finger under Erestor's chin and raised the face. This time, Erestor gave him a shy look before quickly looking away again. It was a start. "Aye, we want to protect you, Erestor."

 

Timidly, Erestor sought out Glorfindel's eyes. They were amazing. Allowing himself to openly admire them, he felt like he could drown in them. "You too?"

 

"Aye, I will do my best to protect you."

 

Elrond quickly pulled Erestor onto his lap when their charge began to sway. Erestor had lost the fight to stay awake and the healing sleep had set in again. Erestor ended up sprawled all over the Elf-Lord's lap, snoring softly. "He will heal, Glorfindel. It has only been two days since we rescued him."

 

"I know that. It is just… The way he acts makes my heart ache. No one that young should be so submissive…so broken."

 

"He will be whole again," Elrond promised. "We will see to that."

 

Glorfindel determinedly nodded his head. He would do anything to see this little one healed and happy.

 

TBC

 

Part 4

 

"We made good time today. We might actually reach Imladris tonight instead of tomorrow." Glorfindel would feel a lot better once their charge rested in a warm, comfortable bed in peaceful Imladris. The snow had started to fall again and since the temperature was also going down, the thick white blanket made it harder for their horses to keep up their pace. The animals tired more easily.

 

Elrond had reached the same conclusion. "I want to reach home as quickly as possible, Glorfindel, for the little one's sake." He was tempted to call for a halt for the night, but since they were so close to home, he preferred to press on instead.

 

"Erestor, how do you fare?" Glorfindel peeked at the raven hair that showed beneath Elrond's cloak.

 

The Elf-Lord had settled Erestor close to him and kept one arm wrapped around the tiny, sleeping form. He had tucked his cloak around Erestor in order to keep his charge warm. "He cannot hear you… He has been sleeping a lot, Glorfindel, and that is a good sign. His body is healing."

 

"But mentally he still has a long way ahead of him." Glorfindel hid deeper in the hood of his cloak and cast a quick look over his shoulder to see if everyone could keep up. He would hate having to camp out there since they were so close to home.

 

"He needs us, Glorfindel." Elrond's fingers moved through his charge's raven hair. "I wonder who his parents were and how he ended up with that vile man."

 

"Did you ask him about that yet?"

 

"Nay, it is still too early for that." Elrond smiled as he felt Erestor lean into the touch – even while deeply asleep.

 

"He is already improving. Although fear still haunts his eyes, I also see hope there."

 

"He likes you, Glorfindel and he is extremely fond of your hair."

 

Glorfindel chuckled, pleased that he appeared to be Erestor's favorite.

 

~~~

 

Glorfindel had sent two soldiers ahead to inform Melpomaen that Elrond's party was about to arrive. Undoubtedly, Melpomaen had started organizing the moment the Advisor had learned that his Lord was about to arrive.

 

"Glorfindel, would you mind looking after Erestor for me? I need to stretch my legs." Elrond had been holding Erestor all day long and hadn't left his saddle yet. Glorfindel, who had been busy directing their escort, had been able to take more exercise than he had.

 

"I would love to." Glorfindel had been hoping that Elrond would make the offer. Asfaloth moved closer to Tirith and Elrond lifted his warm, protective cloak so he could entrust his sleeping charge to his Captain.

 

Glorfindel settled Erestor in front of him and smiled as he saw the tiny hands instinctively reach for Asfaloth's mane and bury the fingers in the white strands. "He looks at peace right now."

 

Elrond had dismounted and now walked next to Tirith. He was grateful to feel the earth beneath his feet again. "Glorfindel, there is something you should know."

 

Glorfindel sharply looked at Elrond. "And what is that?"

 

"The first time I offered him food he offered himself in turn."

 

Elrond's words slowly sank in, but once they fully registered, Glorfindel's lips became a tight, narrow line. "But he is still so very young!" He hoped he had misunderstood, but the upset expression in Elrond's eyes told him that the Elf-Lord was dead serious. "In what way did he offer himself?" He had to know exactly what had happened!

 

"He reached for my waistband. I am certain you can imagine what he was up to." Elrond kept a close eye on Erestor while he talked. He didn't want the child to accidentally overhear what they were saying. "His actions worry me."

 

Glorfindel understood Elrond's concern only too well. "We must address this! Explain to him that what he did was wrong!"

 

But Elrond shook his head. "Nay, for now, we will let this rest. We have to gain his trust first, and once we have it, he will hopefully open up to us and then we can explain matters to him. The only reason I am telling you now is that I want you to be careful around him. He believes that our kindness comes at a certain price and he has been conditioned to please and obey us."

 

Glorfindel reluctantly agreed that Elrond's approach might be the right one. "How will you proceed?"

 

"I will see to it that he settles down in Imladris and feels at home there. I will stay close to him, Glorfindel. And I suggest you do the same. He will need our support. He knows us, Glorfindel, and he has begun to trust us."

 

Glorfindel approved of Elrond's plans. "How do you think Celebrían will react when you introduce Erestor to her?"

 

"She has a good heart, Glorfindel. She will accept Erestor and love him. But her reaction is the least of my worries, since she will remain in the Golden Wood with her parents until spring." Elrond cast another probing look at Erestor and smiled as he watched the raven head loll from the right to left. Erestor was so sound asleep that he was oblivious to the world.

 

"And what about your sons? How will they react? They are still very young… Will they see Erestor as a threat?"

 

Elrond shrugged his shoulders. "I do not know how they will react, but I will talk to them and try to make them understand."

 

Glorfindel sincerely hoped that Elrond's plans would work out. He would certainly do his best to see Erestor become a part of the Imladris family. Elrond and Celebrían had also taken him in and proclaimed him a part of their family. Glorfindel knew the couple would do the same thing for Erestor. The only uncontrollable factor in this matter was the twins. How would the two Elflings react when they realized that Erestor was there to stay?

~~~

 

"Milord! You are early!" Melpomaen had fought a brief panic attack at hearing that his Lord was about to arrive. He hadn't counted on Elrond arriving before the next day and still hadn't finished with all necessary preparations. He did feel relieved though that he'd had already ordered Elrond's rooms cleaned and the bed linens changed. Welcoming Elrond back, Melpomaen added, "I trust you had a safe journey, Milord."

 

Elrond smiled kindly at Melpomaen. His Chief Advisor was still a bit young and lacked experience when it came down to managing his household, but the Elf-Lord was confident that Melpomaen would become a very competent Seneschal in time. "It is good to be back, my friend." Elrond walked toward Melpomaen and patted the nervous Elf on the back. "We will discuss any pressing matters tomorrow, Melpomaen. For now, I wish to rest."

 

"Of course, Milord." Melpomaen felt relieved. Snowflakes floated down from the skies and settled into his hair.

 

Elrond cast a look at Glorfindel and found that his friend was busy dismounting. The Captain looked a bit awkward doing that since he was holding Erestor at the same time.

 

Glorfindel’s moving about caused Erestor to wake up. He blinked and then realized he was being carried. The next thing he noticed was the golden hair and he pressed closer to Glorfindel, afraid that he might accidentally slip out of the strong arms.

 

With Erestor awake, Glorfindel gave the boy a probing look. Glorfindel found the dark eyes lucid and since Erestor was awake, he placed his charge on the ground. Erestor was capable of walking unaided and carrying him all the time might only make him feel even less competent. That was the last thing Glorfindel wanted. "This is your new home, Erestor. This is Imladris."

 

Erestor's gaze reluctantly moved away from Glorfindel. It swept toward Elrond and was just about to lower, which was only appropriate, when he caught sight of an Elf standing next to the Elf-Lord. Erestor was certain that he had never seen him before and he wondered if he was supposed to obey this new Elf as well.

 

Elrond gestured for Glorfindel to bring Erestor over to them and then lowered himself onto his heels. "I want you to meet Melpomaen, Erestor. He is a friend."

 

Melpomaen squatted and smiled at the child. He wondered who Erestor was and how Elrond had come to be the boy's caregiver, but was careful not to voice those questions yet. Elrond would tell him if he needed to know about Erestor. "Mae govannen, Erestor. Welcome to Imladris."

 

Erestor understood only bits and pieces of what the new Elf was saying. Some if it was in the tongue Elrond and Glorfindel spoke when they thought he was asleep and he didn’t know any Elvish. At least, he assumed they spoke Elvish. Forgetting some of the rules which his old master had taught him, Erestor stared wonderingly at this new Elf. Melpomaen had wonderful eyes. They were as green as his kitten's had been and calm and tender. He liked those eyes. The dark-blond hair that cascaded down Melpomaen's shoulders was much darker than Glorfindel's and didn't possess the golden glow he loved so much.

 

Surprised that the child wasn't answering him, Melpomaen looked questioningly at Elrond.

 

"Erestor is a bit shy and does not speak lightly." Elrond wrapped his arms around Erestor and lifted him as he rose from the ground. Melpomaen rose with them and kept his head cocked, which told Elrond that his explanation hadn't satisfied Melpomaen's curiosity. "You will become acquainted with Erestor better in time, Melpomaen, since he is going to live with us. Would you be so kind as to arrange a room for him in the family wing? Either closely located to mine or Glorfindel's." Glorfindel had moved into the family wing some time ago since Elrond and Celebrían considered him family.

 

"I will see to it," Melpomaen replied, nodding his head once. He was still looking at Erestor and could tell that the boy was growing anxious under the constant attention he was getting. "You will like it here, Erestor. Imladris is a wonderful place to live in."

 

Erestor didn't know what he was supposed to say and gave Elrond a puzzled look. Since he was safely seated in Elrond's arms again, he finally caught sight of the large structure they were approaching. He had never seen such a big house! It seemed to float in the air, situated as it was against a cliff. A waterfall cascaded down the rocks and Erestor's eyes widened as he realized there were more structures on the other side of it. The two buildings were connected by a bridge and he could see Elves moving about.

 

Elrond eased Erestor's head against his shoulder and carried his charge inside. "You will stay with me tonight." Having a suitable room readied for Erestor would take Melpomaen a day or two and Elrond suspected Erestor would only panic if he were left alone in a strange place. It was best to keep him close.

 

Glorfindel followed Elrond until they had reached the door to the Elf-Lord's rooms. "Elrond, should you like some privacy, let me know and I will look after Erestor. I would welcome his company."

 

Elrond chuckled. Glorfindel liked children. Elrond still recalled the look full of amazement and joy when he had placed his twins in his Captain's arms for the very first time. "We will take turns looking after him, aye?"

 

Glorfindel nodded once. "That sounds good to me." Shifting his attention to Erestor, Glorfindel smiled at their dozing charge. "I will see you tomorrow. If you want me to, I will show you around Imladris and we might even visit the stables." He wanted to say goodbye to Erestor, even though the boy was already dozing off again and couldn't hear him right then.

 

Elrond thought the suggestion was an excellent idea since he would be catching up on his correspondence for the next few days. "I will bring him to you in the morning."

 

"I am already looking forward to spending time with him." Glorfindel brushed a stray strand of raven hair away from Erestor's face and chuckled at seeing the boy sleep so deeply and comfortably in Elrond's arms. "You will like it here, Erestor." He would make certain of that! Reluctantly, he turned away and walked toward his own rooms.

 

~~~

 

Erestor woke up a little later and found Glorfindel gone. He wished Glorfindel had stayed though. He was alone with Elrond and his master still scared him a bit. Adults were unpredictable and Erestor never knew what to expect.

 

"Erestor, I want you to sit here while I visit the bathroom." Elrond placed Erestor on the rug in front of the fire place. "I will be right back."

 

Erestor peeked at Elrond and waited for the Elf-Lord to disappear into the bathroom before pushing himself to his wobbly feet. Looking about, he took in Elrond's rooms. They were spacious, cozy, and clean. That was at least one job he didn't have to do -- cleaning. Following his old master's teachings, he moved over to the windows and closed the curtains – which proved rather difficult since the curtains were made of heavy velvet. Next, he walked toward the bed and pulled down the covers so Elrond could easily slip under them.

 

Now where was he supposed to sleep? Maybe on the rug in front of the fireplace where Elrond had put him? Normally, he would sleep on a mat in front of the door, but there was no doormat and the floor looked cold. He would definitely prefer the rug.

 

Elrond exited the bathroom and blinked as he observed Erestor staring questioningly at the rug. Next, he noticed the drawn curtains. What had Erestor been up to? He discarded his outer robes, draped them over a chair, and, clad only in his under tunic, he walked up to the boy. Erestor was so very different from his sons. The child didn't think or react like a 'normal' Elfling would and Elrond felt at a loss. How was he going to reach Erestor and make him understand that his life had changed?

 

"Erestor? Why are you staring at the rug?" Elrond squatted and tried to catch Erestor's attention.

Erestor had been lost in thought and hadn't heard his master approach. He spun around and lost his balance. He stumbled and began to fall, but strong hands instantly steadied him.

 

Elrond caught Erestor and sat down on the rug, gently pulling the boy along until Erestor was also seated. "I asked you a question, little one."

 

Erestor instantly felt guilty for not answering right away – his old master had trained him to do just that! How quickly he was forgetting the rules! "I was wondering where I am supposed to sleep, Milord." He hoped he hadn't angered his master by answering him tardily.

 

"My name is Elrond, Erestor." He wondered just how many times he had to tell Erestor that. "And what do you mean when you say that you were wondering where you are going to sleep? In the bed, of course."

 

In the bed? In his master's bed? The tremors returned and coursed through Erestor's tiny body. The only times he had been allowed to sleep in a bed had been when his master had demanded his 'services'. He had been lucky that Elrond hadn't demanded his body until now – it was better to get it over with.

 

"What are you doing?" Elrond frowned. Why was Erestor unbuttoning his shirt?

 

Erestor's fingers froze in the middle of undoing the last button. "You don't want me naked?" He didn't understand any of this! Elrond had just told him that he would sleep in the bed! Didn't that mean…?

 

Realization finally dawned on Elrond and he fought to maintain his calm demeanor. "Erestor, do you remember what I told you that first night in the tent? When you reached for me?"

 

Erestor nodded his head, feeling relieved. He knew the answer to that question!

 

"Then tell me."

 

"You said that you wanted nothing in return, Milord." Erestor was still too young to fully understand what any of it meant. He had been conditioned to act and think in a certain way and found it hard to deal with any changes.

 

Fortunately, Elrond realized this. "We are going to rest, Erestor. We are going to sleep and nothing else will ever happen in that bed."

 

"Just sleep?" Erestor was trying hard to understand what Elrond was saying.

 

"Aye, just sleep." Elrond rose from the floor, opened the closet door, and removed one of his sons' nightshirts. He kept some spares in there since the twins sometimes spent the night in their parents' bed, especially when there was a thunderstorm raging above the valley. "Slip into this, Erestor. I am going to change as well." He had to be so very careful around the boy! Just telling Erestor that he was going to sleep in the bed had set off a distressing reaction in the child's behavior. He had to be even more careful in the future. But at least Erestor seemed to understand that he was safe – Elrond really hoped he had managed to convey that message.

 

Erestor stared at the garment Elrond had given him. It would fit, he was sure about that, and it would feel good to change out of his clothes, which reeked of horse and were covered by the dust of the road. He would have loved to wash up before slipping into the clean shirt, but washing up was something his master hadn't told him to do.

 

Elrond disappeared into the bathroom again for two reasons: first, he needed a moment to compose himself and secondly, he didn't want to change in Erestor's presence. The fact that Erestor had expected for something intimate to happen in that bed had unbalanced him. He had been so certain that Erestor wouldn't think him capable of such a vile act, but he had been wrong. Erestor's reaction also told him just much work awaited him.

 

Erestor undressed, neatly folded his old clothes, and put them into a pile on the rug. He then removed the leather bands Glorfindel had used to tie around the socks and placed them aside in case the golden-haired Elf wanted them back. He slipped into the nightshirt and smoothed the fabric down his body. The shirt reached down to his feet and he felt warm and safe wearing it. Now all he had to do was wait for Elrond to return and make his intentions known.

 

Elrond stepped into his bedroom a moment later and found Erestor still running his hands down the fabric of the shirt. The boy looked so young, so vulnerable and so easy to care for standing there like that. But Elrond knew the truth: this was a damaged soul.

 

Walking over to the bed, he patted the feather-filled mattress. "Hop on, Erestor."

 

Erestor involuntarily sucked in his breath at receiving that command. One look at Elrond told him that the Elf-Lord expected him to carry out the order and he shuffled toward the big, four-poster bed. Meekly, he climbed onto it and sat on the side, letting his feet dangle down.

 

Elrond sat down beside the boy and tilted his head. "Are you tired, Erestor?"

 

"Yes, Milord." He *was* tired and would never dare lie to his master.

 

"Then let us make sure you sleep comfortably." Elrond carefully raised the feet and told Erestor to lie down.

 

Erestor complied and stared at the adult, hovering above him. Elrond was close – so very, very close and he started to tremble as he recalled other times when adults had been so close.

 

Elrond saw the expression in the brown eyes change and immediately increased the distance between them. He reached for the blankets and tucked them around Erestor's trembling form. "Are you comfortable like this?"

 

Erestor managed a weak nod. "Yes, Milord." What was Elrond going to do next?

 

"I am not joining you yet, Erestor. There are some urgent letters which I must read this eve." Elrond pointed at his desk, filled with piles of paper. "I will be right there. If you need anything, tell me. That is an order, Erestor."

 

"I will, Milord." Though, he wanted for nothing at the moment. The mattress was soft, the blankets warm, and the bed comfortable. His eyes were already beginning to close.

 

"Sleep then, Erestor." Elrond wanted to place a fatherly kiss onto Erestor's brow, but stopped himself from doing so, realizing that the boy could easily misread such a gesture. "And when you wake up, Glorfindel will show you around Imladris."

 

"Glorfindel…" Erestor mumbled the name as he drifted off into sleep.

 

A ghost of a smile formed on Erestor's face while whispering the name and seeing it made Elrond happy in turn. /You like Glorfindel. That is good./ Erestor would be spending lots of time with the warrior.

 

Elrond rose, but didn't head for his desk yet. Instead, he pulled a chair closer to the bed and sat down, studying his newest son. Erestor didn't know it yet, but he had already become part of Elrond's family. He had gained a father who would protect, love, and cherish him. But for now, Elrond was content to watch him sleep.

 

~~~

 

Some time during the night Elrond exchanged his chair near the bed for the one behind his desk. He picked up the latest reports and began reading, but he always kept glancing back at Erestor, who was moving about in his sleep. The boy had curled up on his right side and had wrapped his arms around his knees, which he had pulled close to his chest. The raven hair obscured part of his features, but still allowed Elrond a view of the eyes, which were closed in a restless sleep.

 

"No… I don't want…to do…that…"

 

Erestor's words, whispered in a frantic voice, immediately drew Elrond's attention and he pushed back the chair so he could rise from behind his desk. He placed the report aside and made his way over to the bed.

 

Erestor was now tossing and turning. His head lolled from the right to the left and his hands had become tiny fists, as if they were trying to fight off an attacker.

 

"No!" The scream echoed through the room and Erestor started, sitting upright and wildly shook his head. His eyes, however, remained closed in sleep.

 

Elrond seated himself on the bed and reached for the distressed boy. He fully realized that being embraced and rocked might set off a violent response, but Elrond felt he had to take the risk. Erestor struggled against him in the embrace, but only for a few seconds. Humming softly, Elrond mouthed the words of a lullaby which he often sang for the twins. At the same time, he continued to rock Erestor slowly. To his utter surprise, Erestor pushed forward and climbed onto his lap. The boy wrapped his arms around him and held on tight. Elrond had never expected this particular response and his throat felt tight with emotions, so tight that he found it hard to swallow. He must have gained a bit of Erestor's trust for the child to react so trustingly toward him in his sleep. "Aye, you are safe with me. No one will hurt you. I will protect you."

 

"Pro…tect," whispered Erestor, still asleep. "Protect…"

 

"Aye, I will protect you." Elrond continued the rocking motion and shifted further onto the bed until his back rested against the headboard. He noticed the way Erestor's fingers clawed at his nightshirt and Elrond resigned himself to being caught by his newest son. He would spend the rest of the night in bed, holding and soothing Erestor. "Go back to sleep, Erestor. Dream of the sun, moon, and stars. You have found a home here."

 

Elrond's soothing murmurs chased away Erestor's nightmares and the boy's sleep became deep and restful again. Elrond shifted until he had attained a more comfortable position and Erestor moved along with him until the raven head rested against his chest, using it as a pillow. The arms went around Elrond's neck and the boy even tried to wrap his legs around the Elf-Lord's waist. Erestor felt like an octopus against him, grabbing him and taking hold of him wherever he could. Elrond sighed deeply, realizing the boy was trying to make himself feel safe in such a way. "I will not let go. I promise." But Elrond also knew that coming to believe that would take Erestor a long time.

 

TBC

 

Part 5

 

Erestor blinked sleepily. He felt warm and comfortable and couldn't tell what had awoken him. Maybe it was the sun's rays, or the soothing stroking motion bestowed onto his hair, or maybe it was the fact that he wasn't alone in bed. His eyes, still heavy with sleep, tried to focus so he could find out where he was.

 

"Good morning, Erestor. I trust you slept well?" Elrond had stayed awake that night, having guarded Erestor's sleep. He had soothed the boy whenever the nightmares had tried to creep back on him, and thanks to his intervention, Erestor had slept peacefully for most of the night.

 

With the adult's voice coming from so close, Erestor froze as he finally remembered where he was and who was with him.

 

"We still have a little time left before breakfast. Would you like to take a quick bath, Erestor?" Elrond had felt the boy tense against him and hoped he could distract Erestor by mentioning a bath. Dirt and dried blood still clung to the raven hair and he surmised it had been a while since Erestor had been able to wash up. "If you let go of me, I will start your bath." Erestor was still clinging to him, but at the moment, it was because he had frozen with fear.

 

Erestor forced himself to let go of the adult and immediately slid onto the mattress when he had lost his support. Kneeling on the bed, he let his dark hair shield him from the Elf-Lord's probing look and bowed his head, ready to accept whatever Elrond had in mind for him.

 

Elrond pretended not to notice the boy's upset mood and stood. "Stay here until I call for you, Erestor."

 

"Yes, Milord." Erestor kept his gaze directed at the mattress and heard rather than saw Elrond make his way into the bathroom. He felt terrified of what was to come. At the moment, he was still wearing his nightshirt, but he would have to take it off once his bath was ready and then he would be naked.

 

"Erestor? Come into the bathroom please." The bathtub was filling and Elrond had added drops of oil to it, hoping it would sooth the still healing skin on the boy's back.

 

Erestor drew in a deep breath and crawled toward the side of the bed. He lowered himself onto the ground and then trotted into the bathroom, carefully keeping his head bowed so he wouldn't accidentally look Elrond in the eye.

 

Elrond's heart wept tears as it sensed the boy's fear. "Come over here, young one." He raised his arms and waited for Erestor to step between them.

 

Erestor's heart pounded madly in his chest, but he had no other choice than to allow his master to undress him. Standing naked in front of Elrond, he couldn't stop from covering himself up – at least his private parts.

 

Elrond swallowed hard as he saw the reaction. "You are safe with me, Erestor," he whispered, but at the same time he realized how little the boy believed him. "Step into the tub, Erestor."

 

Erestor quickly glanced sideways and saw the tub, which was filled to the brim. White foam drifted along on the water, making it look invitingly. He moved awkwardly, trying to step inside.

 

Seeing Erestor stumble, Elrond placed his hands around the boy's waist and carefully lifted him into the bathtub. Erestor's eyes grew big and finally glanced at Elrond in surprise.

 

The water was warm, smelled nice, and the foam tingled against his skin, almost making him giggle, but Erestor suppressed the response. His fingers locked around the edges of the tub, steadying him while he sat down. The water reached his armpits and the foam covered him up nicely.

 

Elrond pushed up his sleeves and poured more of the oil onto his palm. "Your hair is quite a mess. We should clean it up a bit." He moved until he could easily reach the tangled raven mass and started to finger comb it while spreading the oil through the mane. The oil aided him in disentangling the strands and once the worst snarls were gone, he used a cup to rinse the dark strands until all the dirt was gone.

 

At the same time, Erestor felt fascinated by the way the foam glided over the surface of the water and he tried to catch the bubbles with his fingers. A silly smile formed on his face, but he made certain Elrond didn't see it. In the past, his former master had taken away those things which had given him pleasure – like his kitten.

 

What Erestor didn't take into consideration was the mirror and the fact that Elrond had a perfect view of his face when he looked at said mirror. In this way Elrond caught sight of Erestor's smile and slowed down his movements, trying to extend the time Erestor would spend in the bathtub.

 

Carefully, Elrond removed the bandages and examined the injured back. The wounds had closed and the skin was healing. Erestor no longer required the bandages, but Elrond smeared more balm onto the sensitive skin.

 

In the end, the water started to cool down and Elrond had no choice but to end the bath. "I am going to collect some towels, Erestor. In the meantime, can you stand for me?" Erestor had cleaned up nicely and the raven hair clung to Erestor's back like a curtain.

 

Erestor blinked at hearing Elrond's voice. He had been lost in thought, blowing into the foam, and had only then realized how much he had let his pleasure show. But Elrond hadn't told him to stop and Erestor grew hopeful that he hadn't displeased the adult after all.

 

Pushing himself to his feet, Erestor stared in dismay at the muddy water that tried to cling to his form. Even the foam which had been white to begin with now looked brown.

 

Elrond unfolded a fluffy towel and wrapped it around Erestor's shoulders. Another towel was wrapped around the long, wet hair. Sliding one arm around Erestor's waist, he easily lifted the boy out of the water and put him back onto his feet again. Erestor felt warm beneath his touch and a blush had formed on Erestor’s cheeks. The boy was definitely fond of baths! "Dry your skin, Erestor. I will fetch some clothes in the meantime." Unwilling to scare Erestor unnecessary, Elrond decided against rubbing the boy's skin dry and let Erestor attend to that matter himself.

 

Erestor did as he had been told and started to dry himself off. His skin tingled and he felt pleasantly clean. Elrond had risen from the floor and was just exiting the bathroom, so Erestor felt confident enough to steal a look at the adult. Elrond's nightshirt had grown wet during the bath, but the Elf-Lord didn't seem to mind.

 

Once he had finished drying his skin, Erestor wrapped the towel around his frame again. It wasn't exactly cold in the bathroom, but he missed the warmth the water had provided. Oh, that bath was one of the nicest things he had experienced in his life so far. His former master had given him cold water to wash up with and he had never been allowed to use the bathtub.

 

Elrond entered the bathroom again dressed in a morning robe and carrying Erestor's clothes. He would take his own bath later after delivering Erestor to Glorfindel's rooms. "These should fit you." The twins had outgrown the clothes, but Erestor was smaller and they would fit him perfectly.

 

Erestor didn't want to drop the towel, but realized he had no choice. He grew flustered, once more standing naked in front of Elrond.

 

But the half-Elf didn't pay any attention to the boy's flustered state, knowing that doing so would only make things worse for Erestor. "Let us start with the underwear. Step into them, Erestor."

 

"Underwear?" That was something new. The slave trader had given him clothes to wear, mostly worn clothes with holes in them, but not once had he given him underwear!

 

Elrond guided Erestor through the process of getting dressed and smiled as Erestor stared down at himself in amazement. "Aye, they fit." Elladan's blue shirt looked good on Erestor and Elrohir's leggings would keep Erestor warm. Elrond had even brought socks and house shoes, which also fit. "You will be warm all right."

 

Unable to withstand temptation, Erestor cast a look at the mirror. He stared at his reflection in surprise. Was that really him?

 

Elrond saw the surprise in Erestor's large eyes and smiled reassuringly. "Are you ready to visit with Glorfindel? He will take you to the kitchens where you will break your fast and later on, you can play outside."

 

Glorfindel? Yes, he would love to visit with Glorfindel and he eagerly nodded his head. Erestor was afraid to believe that his life had changed for the better though. He still expected the Elves to turn evil and hurt him, like the slave trader had. They were too good to be true, Elrond and Glorfindel.

 

Elrond gathered Erestor's hand in his. "Let us go. Glorfindel is already waiting for you."

 

Erestor's gaze remained trained on Elrond's large hand cradling his smaller one. While living with the slave trader, he had learned to listen to his instincts. They had kept him out of trouble many times. He had learned to read the Man's mood and had stayed away when the slave trader's mood had been foul. In time, he had learned to identify how it felt when someone radiated rage, but now it seemed he was learning how it felt to be around someone who cared for him. He raised his head and looked at the taller Elf. The truth was that he sensed no evil when he reached out to Elrond.

 

Elrond blinked as he felt Erestor touch his mind. Surprised that the boy was able to probe his emotions, he stopped walking and looked at him. Erestor immediately averted his gaze and hid behind his raven hair. They had not left the Elf-Lord's rooms yet, so Elrond lowered himself onto his heels so he was level with the boy. "What did you do just now?"

 

Erestor squirmed as he realized he had done something to displease the adult. The slave trader had never felt him probe his mind, why had Elrond?

 

"Erestor, please answer my question." Elrond cupped Erestor's cheek in his hand and raised the boy's head. "Look at me when I talk to you."

 

Erestor's squirming increased and he started to shuffle his feet. Elrond was staring into his eyes and Erestor felt his mind touched in turn. He gasped in shock, not having expected Elrond to do that. The touch felt comforting and soothing and didn't frighten him.

 

"Just answer my question, Erestor. I am not cross with you, if that is what you are afraid of." Elrond had never heard of someone as young as Erestor being able to touch someone's mind – certainly not where half-Elves were concerned. He had only been able to probe minds *after* he had made his decision to belong to the Firstborn.

 

"What was your question again?" Erestor trembled as he realized he had forgotten Elrond's original question and, to make matters even worse, he had just addressed the Elf-Lord!

 

"What did you do?" Elrond repeated his question in a calm voice.

 

"I don't know…" Erestor's faces contorted with apprehension. "I tried to find out if you were being honest… I did that whenever I needed to know if my former master was angry with me…"

 

Elrond listened, pleased that Erestor was answering him. "It is rare for someone as young as you are to be able to do that. You are gifted, Erestor."

 

Erestor doubted that very much. It had been need which had driven him to probe his former master's mind. "I won't do it again," he promised in a small, timid voice. "I can tell it displeased you."

 

Elrond smiled reassuringly. This was the first time that he was actually capable of having a conversation with the boy. "I do not mind you touching my mind. I merely did not expect it. You did not displease me, Erestor." However, Elrond could tell that Erestor was determined not to reach out to him again – he saw the fear in the dark eyes. The boy feared so much – understandably so. "What did you sense when you touched my mind? Was I being honest with you?"

 

Erestor slowly nodded his head. "I sense no evil in you."

 

Elrond's smile brightened. "Then you know that I will not hurt you. You are safe with me – and Glorfindel," he added as he remembered that it was important that Erestor also trusted the Captain.

 

"I want to believe that," Erestor admitted, once more staring into Elrond's eyes. A few days ago he would never have dared to look directly at his master, but Elrond had changed that. "But I'm still afraid."

 

"I know that you are, but, in time, you will learn that there is nothing to fear here." Elrond straightened again and gently rubbed the boy's fingers. "We should not keep Glorfindel waiting, my friend."

 

Erestor's eyes darkened at hearing Elrond call him a friend. Too much – too much was happening and he needed more time to work through all the changes in his life.


~~~

 

Glorfindel had been waiting for the knock on his door to finally sound, so, when it did, he jumped to his feet and walked over to the doorway to let in his visitors. As expected, Elrond and Erestor stood in the corridor. "Good morning!" Glorfindel cheerfully greeted them before he squatted in front of one very clean boy. "My, I hardly recognize you!"

 

Glorfindel's smile was contagious and before Erestor knew it, he was smiling back at the golden-haired Elf.

 

Elrond felt content when he finally saw a smile free of fear on Erestor's young face. "He loves baths, Glorfindel. And he cleaned up nicely, do you not agree?"

 

"You smell of fruit, Erestor." Glorfindel continued to smile at the child. The raven hair was still damp, but it was already beginning to shine where the strands had dried. The dark eyes were less haunted and looked at him adoringly. Glorfindel vividly recalled the frightened boy who had instantly lowered his gaze when he had threatened to make eye contact.

 

"Speaking of fruit," Elrond commented thoughtfully. "Erestor still needs to break his fast. Maybe you can take him to the kitchens and make certain he is fed?" Elrond decided against asking Glorfindel to take the boy to the large Hall where they normally ate their meals. The kitchens would be less swamped and Erestor would feel more comfortable there.

 

"Aye, we should definitely eat. You need to put on some weight, Erestor." Glorfindel curled his fingers around Erestor's the moment Elrond let go of the boy's hand. Since he had been looking at Erestor, Glorfindel immediately noticed the puzzlement in the dark eyes. "Was it something I said?"

 

Erestor bit his bottom lip. A question burned on his lips, but he couldn't simply address Glorfindel. He had forgotten about the rules too many times already!

 

"Tell me. You can ask me anything!" Glorfindel scooted closer.

 

"Why do I need to put on weight?" His former master had always told him he that he already ate too much. He was just another mouth to feed and he had only gotten as little as he had needed in order to stay alive.

 

"Because you are too skinny. Do you not wish to become a mighty warrior like me?" Glorfindel gave the boy a wink.

 

Erestor frowned. "A warrior? But I'm a slave."

 

Elrond and Glorfindel exchanged a quick look and it told Glorfindel that Elrond counted on him to deal with the situation at hand. "Erestor?" Glorfindel pulled Erestor close and rested his other hand on the boy's shoulder while he rubbed Erestor's clammy fingers between his. "You are no longer a slave. We told you before that we are not your masters. You are your own master."

 

That was a concept Erestor was incapable of grasping. "I'm a slave," he restated in a helpless tone. "I have always been one."

 

"You will understand in time." Glorfindel rose from the floor and gave Elrond a reassuring smile. "I will escort him back to your rooms when it is time to eat dinner." He wanted to spend the day with the boy and show him Imladris' wonders.

 

Elrond nodded once. "Keep a close eye on him, Glorfindel. I hold you responsible for his safety."

 

Glorfindel understood Elrond's protective feelings and nodded. "I will keep him safe."

 

Erestor hadn't stopped frowning. The adults' words confused him. Why were they telling him that he was no longer a slave? And why were they so concerned about him?

 

Elrond turned and walked back to his rooms, eager to take his own bath and change into dry clean clothes. He trusted Glorfindel to befriend Erestor further and didn't worry about the boy's safety. Erestor would have a good time with the warrior, who knew how to entertain children.

 

"Let us head for the kitchens first, little one!" Glorfindel was tempted to lift Erestor in his arms, but in the end, he didn't. Some exercise, as long as it wasn't too taxing, would be good for the boy. "Are you coming with me, Erestor?"

 

Why was Glorfindel asking him that question? Didn't the adult know that he would follow each order his masters gave him? "Yes, Milord." Glorfindel sighed and Erestor wondered why. What had he done now?

 

Glorfindel patiently counted to ten and stopped himself from lowering down onto his heels in order to explain something again. In time he hoped Erestor would stop calling him that.

 

~~~

 

Erestor gave the contents of his bowl a curious look. Something white, soggy, and hot sat inside, waiting for him to start eating it.

 

Glorfindel handed the boy a spoon and then dug into his own bowl filled with porridge. Normally he would opt for something else, but he was determined to set the right example and porridge was a good thing for Erestor to eat. "Try it."

 

Following Glorfindel's example, Erestor spooned some of the soggy substance onto the utensil and then let it slide into his mouth. It was tasteless and he didn’t particularly like it, but it was food and he had learned to never waste food, so he swallowed it.

 

"Do you not like it?" Glorfindel frowned at seeing Erestor reluctantly scoop up more onto his spoon.

 

Erestor felt trapped. What was he supposed to say? It was food and he knew how lucky he was that they were feeding him.

 

"Wait…" Glorfindel reached for the jar with honey and spooned a generous amount into Erestor's bowl and then stirred the porridge. "Try again."

 

Erestor ate another spoonful and this time he liked it better because it had a sweet taste to it. "Better," he said softly, smiling awkwardly at the golden-haired Elf. It was hard to feel scared and intimidated when Glorfindel kept smiling at him. He found himself smiling back more often and now he was even blushing.

 

"Empty that bowl and then I will give you a real treat." Glorfindel gave Erestor a conspiring look.

 

"A real treat?" Oh, why couldn't he stop asking Glorfindel's things? Had he still been with his former master, his face would be carrying the bruises that told of his insolence. But he continued to spoon more of the porridge into his mouth until he had eventually eaten it all. "I'm finished," he announced with a hint of pride in his voice.

 

Glorfindel's heart swelled with affection and pride. After all the boy had been through he was still willing to trust. "Well done!" Glorfindel ruffled the raven hair, and only belatedly realized he could have frightened the boy. But Erestor was still smiling at him and the eyes had gained some emotional warmth. Glorfindel gave the cook a signal and then waited for the Elf to deliver the cake he had asked for.

 

The cook placed the tray on the table and then left his two guests alone, having heard how easily the Elfling got scared.

 

Erestor stared at the delicacy.

 

"Go on, ask me." Glorfindel enjoyed baiting Erestor a little.

 

Erestor blushed. "What is it?" In Glorfindel's company it was easy to forget about the rules and the possible punishment for breaching said rules.

 

"Cake made of almonds, nuts, honey, milk, eggs, apples, lots of sugar, and cinnamon." Glorfindel cut off a generous piece and put it in Erestor's bowl. "Go ahead and try it. I want to know what you think of it." He hoped Erestor would like it since it was high in nutrients, which was just what the boy needed.

 

Erestor broke off a piece with his fingers and pushed it into his mouth. His toes curled and he closed his eyes in sweet rapture. He had never tasted anything like it before and wolfed down the rest of the cake.

 

Glorfindel laughed warmly. "I just received my answer. You like it." He continued to laugh as he saw Erestor eye the rest of the cake predatorily. "Aye, you can eat more." He cut off another piece and watched Erestor eat it, although more slowly this time. It was good to the see the boy eat. The most significant change however was in the eyes – they had gained a warm expression and were smiling at him.

 

TBC

 

Part 6

 

"Did you eat your fill?" Glorfindel had thoroughly enjoyed watching Erestor eat half of the cake. He just hoped that the young half-Elf wasn't going to develop a stomach ache due to his unusually large food intake.

 

"I'm full." Erestor felt shy around the golden-haired Elf now that he had stopped being so scared. Even more so than Elrond, Glorfindel struck him with a sense of wonder. It was the Elf's whole appearance that fascinated the boy – the golden hair that danced against Glorfindel's shoulder, the mischievous blue eyes, and the smile that constantly curled his lips. Glorfindel seemed to exude life, energy, and light and Erestor felt drawn toward him.

 

"What would you like to do? Visit Tirith and Asfaloth perhaps?" Visiting the horses meant Erestor had to go outside and Glorfindel decided the fresh air would do the child some good. Erestor nodded his head, seemingly liking the idea.

 

"Let us visit with them then!" Glorfindel rose from his chair and extended his hand to Erestor, hoping the boy was going to curl his fingers around it. Erestor didn't disappoint him and placed his hand in his – shyly, but trustingly.

 

Glorfindel guided Erestor through the corridors of the Last Homely House and as they walked, he pointed out rooms, Halls, and offices to the boy. "That is Melpomaen's office," he said, pointing at an open door. Erestor had seemed to like Melpomaen and Glorfindel was eager for Erestor to befriend more Elves. "We could peek inside."

 

Erestor wasn't convinced. "What if we are disturbing him?" Glorfindel smiled at him and Erestor once more grew flustered. What had he done to cause that smile?

 

Glorfindel squatted in front of the boy and said, "You are a very special child, always remember that."

 

"Why did you say that?" Genuinely confused, Erestor cocked his head.

 

"Only a few days ago, you were too scared to look at me, let alone talk to me. Now you are even worrying about an Elf who is practically still a stranger to you. After all the pain you suffered, you still care, Erestor." Glorfindel could tell that his words embarrassed Erestor, who lowered his gaze. The boy wasn't used to receiving any praise. "It is true, Erestor. You are special." Erestor had gone timid on him, but not scared – Glorfindel could tell the difference. "Erestor, will you give me a hug?"

 

Erestor blinked in surprise. "A hug?"

 

"Aye, a hug." Glorfindel opened his arms and gave Erestor a pleading look. "I am definitely in need of a hug."

 

Glorfindel's request caused Erestor to grow even more timid. Why did Glorfindel want a hug? What would the blond Elf get out of it?

 

"Erestor?" Glorfindel frowned when Erestor gave him a confused look. Then suddenly, he realized what might be wrong. Erestor had grown up as a slave with a harsh master. Who had he been supposed to hug? "Do you know what a hug is?"

 

"I have seen people hug." But he had never hugged anyone and no one had ever hugged him. Shuffling his feet, his nervousness deepened.

 

"Would you like to be hugged? You will like it. It is nice, being hugged." Glorfindel knew he had to tread carefully. One false move and he could scare Erestor away.

 

Erestor didn't know what to do. He didn't want to disappoint Glorfindel, but he really had no idea what to expect. Taking a leap of faith, he slowly nodded his head.

 

Glorfindel drew in a deep breath, reached for Erestor, and slowly pulled the boy into his arms. He kept the embrace loose so Erestor could move out of his arms whenever the young half-Elf wanted to. The last thing he wanted was for Erestor to feel confined or trapped.

 

Erestor froze when Glorfindel's arms locked around his form. Then the golden-haired Elf carefully guided his head against his shoulder and hummed softly into his ear.

 

Glorfindel gently rubbed the boy's back, hoping Erestor would eventually relax in the embrace. "I like giving hugs, and receiving them," Glorfindel commented as he smiled into the raven hair. "What do you think of hugs? Do you like them?"

 

Erestor wasn't sure what to make of the situation. Glorfindel holding him didn't feel unpleasant, but he still felt tense due to the warrior's close proximity. "This is it? This is a hug?"

 

"Aye, this is it. You can hug someone more tightly if you want to, but I do not think you would like that yet." Glorfindel raised his head and probed Erestor's dazed eyes. The fact that the boy hadn't fled his embrace warmed his heart. "It is something you need to become used to, is it not, Erestor?"

 

Erestor solemnly nodded his head. "I like it when you are close – but…you are really close right now and I…" Erestor tried to rid himself of the lump of emotions that had formed in his throat by swallowing rapidly. "Can I…can I…touch you?" Touching Elrond's mind had helped him understand that the Elf-Lord had his best interests in mind. Maybe it would help if he was allowed to touch Glorfindel's as well.

 

"Touch me?" Glorfindel loosened the embrace further. Elrond's warning returned to him. At one point, their charge had offered himself in return for the food Elrond had given him. "In what way do you wish to touch me?"

 

"I would like to touch your mind…" Erestor squirmed as he sensed the tension which had arisen in Glorfindel. "You don't want me to do that." Why else would Glorfindel have grown tense?

 

"My mind? You want to touch my mind?" That was not what he had expected to hear! Was Erestor really capable of doing that? Did Elrond know?

 

Erestor was at a loss and simply remained quiet, letting Glorfindel decide what should happen next. He stared at the locks of golden hair which had tumbled down Glorfindel's shoulders and his fingers itched to touch them, but he restrained himself.

 

"You can touch my mind if that will reassure you that I mean well." Glorfindel doubted that the young half-Elf was actually capable of probing his mind, but then, he felt something – thoughts whirling wildly and reaching for his. His eyes widened as he felt Erestor touch his mind. How could this be? Only the most gifted Elves were able to reach out in such a way!

 

Erestor sensed Glorfindel's surprise, but that wasn't the emotion he was interested in. Probing a little deeper, he felt the warrior's genuine concern and affection and those emotions were aimed at him. Glorfindel truly wanted to be his friend. "I trust you," Erestor said eventually before peeking at the blue eyes that showed Glorfindel's surprise.

 

"Does Elrond know you can do this?" Glorfindel blinked his eyes in an effort to rid himself of the echo of Erestor's mental touch.

 

"I touched his mind as well… It helps me trust him – and you." Erestor stared at the floor. He probably shouldn't have done that – reaching out to them – but it was the only way to make certain that they were truthful. "Are you cross with me now?"

 

Glorfindel shook his head. He still needed a moment to process what he had just learned. /Who are your parents, Erestor? What Elf had a part in your creation?/ Had Erestor inherited these powers from his Elven parent? It seemed the only logical conclusion. "I am not angry with you. If I had known you could reach out to me like that, I would have encouraged you to do so earlier. Then you would not have been so scared of us."

 

"You are the only one who knows…you and Lord Elrond." Erestor took a step away from Glorfindel and wrung his hands. "What will happen now?"

 

Glorfindel felt amazed as he realized how easily Erestor had taken to asking him questions. Although a lot of the traumatized slave remained, Erestor was feeling more confident – more trusting. "Now, we will peek inside to see if Melpomaen really is busy or looking to be distracted by us." The relieved look which Erestor gave him told him he had said the right thing. The boy raised a hand that trembled due to nervousness and Glorfindel curled his fingers around the limb. He didn't know exactly what had just happened, but trust had been born – deep trust, the kind of trust that would make certain they stayed friends forever.

 

~~~

 

Melpomaen had told his assistant not to disturb him for the next few hours. He wanted to work on Elrond's correspondence and have everything ready when the Elf-Lord summoned him that day. Noises were coming from over by the doorway and he looked up to glare at whoever dared to go against his orders, but his expression softened as he saw a shy boy looking at him. "Erestor," he mumbled the name. The first time they had met, Erestor had found a way into his heart and Melpomaen surmised that the boy would break a lot of hearts during his lifetime.

 

The expression on Glorfindel's face told Melpomaen that the Captain had already completely fallen under Erestor's spell. The golden-haired warrior's fingers were curled around Erestor's and there was a hopeful smile on Glorfindel's face. It was obvious that Glorfindel hoped Melpomaen would welcome their visit.

 

"Did you decide to visit with me, Erestor? Why do you not come closer then? I do not bite." A gentle smile accompanied Melpomaen's words and he raised a hand to beckon Erestor closer. "Do you have an interest in books then?"

 

Glorfindel smiled reassuringly when Erestor looked up at him with big, questioning eyes. Erestor clearly wasn't sure if approaching – and thus disturbing – Melpomaen was the right thing to do. Glorfindel released Erestor's hand from his grasp and gently pushed the boy toward the desk.

 

The desk was huge and Erestor felt rather intimidated when he stood in front of it. He was small and seemed to disappear in front of it. Melpomaen pushed his chair back and stood. He circled the desk and lowered himself onto his heels in front of Erestor. The gentle smile remained on his face when he reached for Erestor's hands. Erestor's eyes widened and he took a step away from Melpomaen. He wasn't sure about the older Elf's reasons to be this close to him and felt cornered. Melpomaen realized why Erestor reacted in that way and offered the child a sad smile. "I hope we will become friends, Erestor. I would like being your friend."

 

"Why?" Erestor hadn't wanted to voice the question, but the word had escaped him.

 

"Because you seem to be a bright and curious child and I would enjoy your company at times. You see, I constantly work and sometimes I feel lonely." Melpomaen felt a bit guilty for manipulating Erestor in this way, but he hoped it would help him achieve his goal, namely to take away some of Erestor's fear and to befriend the boy.

 

Erestor cocked his head questioningly. Adults had asked for his company before, but for different reasons. Looking at Melpomaen currently, Erestor didn't think the Advisor wanted him to carry out any vile acts. No, Melpomaen wanted his company for the same reason Glorfindel and Elrond did. He sensed that, even without having to touch Melpomaen's mind. Maybe it was because Melpomaen was a bit younger than Elrond and Glorfindel that his mind was less guarded.

 

"Will you visit with me in the future as well?" Melpomaen hoped Erestor liked him, but had no way to tell for sure since the boy remained quiet. The silence made him nervous.

 

"Well, what do you think?" Glorfindel tugged lightly at a strand of Erestor's raven hair in an attempt to make the boy answer.

 

"I would like that," Erestor whispered. "I would like to be your friend too."

 

Erestor's soft and uncertain voice touched Melpomaen's heart. "Little Erestor, please know that you are always welcome here and in my rooms too, if you are in need of company. That is what friends are for." The smile that Erestor gave him made Melpomaen nod his head. "We will become good friends, will we not?"

 

Erestor weakly nodded his head. "I want that too."

 

Glorfindel sighed and gave Melpomaen a grateful look. Both adults knew how badly Erestor needed friends.

 

Melpomaen stood again. He did this slowly, so as to not spook Erestor. "Wait here. I have something for you."

 

Erestor's eyes widened and he watched Melpomaen walk over to the book shelves. Erestor raised a hand and curled his fingers around Glorfindel's once more. He simply felt safer when he could touch the golden-haired warrior, who was quickly becoming his hero, like Elrond. They had saved him from a terrible life and he was beginning to see that life there in Imladris would be very different – and much better.

 

Glorfindel read that realization in the large, brown eyes and continued to smile at the boy. Just knowing the golden-haired Elf was close and being able to somehow touch him seemed to reassure Erestor.

 

Melpomaen reached for a book which he had intended as a gift for the twins. It was a history book, but one with marvelous, colored drawings. Turning around, he looked at Erestor's wide eyes and realized the boy would cherish such a present forever. "Here… I want you to have this. It is a gift." Melpomaen sat on his heels again. That way, he could better study the expression in Erestor's eyes. "I think you will like this."

 

Erestor's hands shook when he accepted the book. The book looked old and smelled ancient, but it felt good in his arms. "For me?"

 

"Aye, I want you to have this, Erestor." Melpomaen carefully opened the book and showed Erestor one of the drawings. "Look at this."

 

Erestor's eyes sparkled with wonder and he eagerly nodded his head. The drawing was exquisite and vivid with bright colors. It showed a lovely Elf-maiden, who appeared to be singing to the skies. Her long hair danced on the wind and the artist had managed to capture her loneliness on the paper.

 

Glorfindel bit his bottom lip. For some reason his eyes were watering and he didn't want to cry in front of Erestor. Seeing him weep would upset the boy. The fact that Melpomaen had given Erestor this valuable book made him realize how quickly and easily Erestor had touched Melpomaen's heart. Erestor had definitely made a new friend in Imladris.

 

"Take it with you," Melpomaen advised. "You can study the drawings and read the tales."

 

Erestor immediately lowered his gaze. "I don't know how to read. My master never taught me." Suddenly he didn't feel that worthy of Melpomaen's gift any more. "Maybe you should take it back and give it to someone who *can* read."

 

Melpomaen tread carefully and suggested, "I could teach you how to read. Would you like to learn, Erestor?"

 

Erestor stared in awe at Melpomaen. Would the older Elf really do such a thing?

 

"You like that idea," Melpomaen stated smugly. "Would you like to start your first lesson tomorrow? After you eat your noon meal? You could come here and keep me company for a while. I would love to teach you, Erestor."

 

"You would do that?" Erestor couldn't stop staring at Melpomaen. He knew his surprise must be showing on his face.

 

"I would love to do it." Melpomaen's gaze shifted away from Erestor to make eye contact with Glorfindel. Melpomaen was amazed to see Glorfindel wipe away a tear.

 

"Glorfindel, can we come back here tomorrow?" Erestor pleadingly looked into the warrior's blue eyes.

 

Glorfindel's heart thumped with joy. It was the first time that Erestor had called him by his name instead of addressing him as 'Milord'. "Of course we can. I will bring you here after the noon meal and you can stay with Melpomaen during the afternoon." He thought he would have disliked sharing Erestor with Melpomaen, but seeing the radiant expression in the dark eyes made him realize how much Erestor needed this. "We should say goodbye now, Erestor. Melpomaen still has much work to do."

 

Erestor quickly nodded his head. "We didn't want to disturb you." Maybe he liked Melpomaen because he had such green eyes – eyes that reminded him of his lost kitten. Maybe it was something else.

 

"I will see you tomorrow, Erestor. This is only a temporary goodbye." Melpomaen acted impulsively and embraced Erestor. It didn't cross his mind until later that his embrace might have made Erestor feel uncomfortable.

 

Erestor surprised Glorfindel by accepting Melpomaen's hug without flinching. Then the boy pulled away and clasped his fingers tightly. With his other hand, Erestor cradled the book against his chest.

 

Melpomaen returned to his desk, sat down, and reached for the quill, which he then readied to dip in the ink. "Farewell, Erestor, I will see you again tomorrow." He even threw in a wink to reassure Erestor that he wanted the boy to return the next day.

 

Erestor smiled widely and then followed Glorfindel out of the room. He liked Melpomaen a lot! But then his thoughts darkened and he recalled Melpomaen's gift. His former master had never let him keep anything. Erestor had never owned anything in his life. "Here," he said as he extended his hand so Glorfindel could take hold of the book.

 

Glorfindel frowned. "Do you want me to keep it safe for you?"

 

Erestor slowly shook his head. "No, it is yours." Was Glorfindel going to take it away from him or would the warrior let him keep it? It was a test – the first test he was going to subject Glorfindel to.

 

And luckily enough Glorfindel realized some of Erestor's motives. He sat on his heels in front of Erestor and cocked his head. "Melpomaen gave that book to you. It belongs to *you*, not me."

 

"But I'm not allowed to keep it. I know that." Erestor… Shy, little Erestor was putting Glorfindel to the test.

 

Glorfindel shook his head. "Nay, the book is yours. You keep it. Once you have your own room you can put it in there." Frowning, he added, "But you will need to keep it close whenever you visit with Melpomaen, since he will teach you how to read and write."

 

"Am I really allowed to keep it?" Erestor pulled the book close again and the leather felt warm beneath his fingers. The pages inside, old, but colorful, would give delight to him for many hours.

 

"Your life has changed, Erestor. I told you that before. The book is yours." Glorfindel realized he had passed Erestor's test when the boy carefully pulled him into a hug. It was a loose embrace, and Erestor's arms were still too short to hold him properly, but the boy was making a valiant effort to hug him. /How quickly have you come to trust me… I pray that I will never betray your trust, Erestor./

 

~~~

 

Glorfindel kept Erestor busy and distracted for the rest of the afternoon. First, they visited with Tirith and Asfaloth. Glorfindel led Erestor around, who was seated high on Asfaloth's back with the book pressed tightly against his chest. Glorfindel had tried convincing Erestor to entrust the book to him for the duration of the ride, but Erestor had been unable to part from it, so Glorfindel had let the boy keep it.

 

"Erestor, it is time for dinner. We need to freshen up and then we will go to the Hall of Fire where we will eat dinner." Glorfindel lifted Erestor from Asfaloth's back and placed the boy back on his feet again. "You must be hungry, or are you not?"

 

Erestor nodded his head repeatedly. "I am hungry." He was quickly losing any fear he might have had of the adults and Glorfindel in particular. He didn't quite know how to properly behave around the adult Elves, but he would learn by trial and error. Eventually, he would figure out how to please them best.

 

"Off we go then!" Glorfindel had gestured for one of the stable hands to lead Asfaloth back into his box and took Erestor's tiny hand in his. Relieved, he noticed that the limb was no longer trembling. Erestor clearly felt more comfortable around him. "I will take you to Elrond's rooms for now. Hopefully he managed to collect more clothes for you."

 

"What's wrong with these?" Erestor looked down and studied his outfit. His clothes looked fine to him. There weren't any holes in them, they were clean, and kept him warm. Why would he need more clothes?

 

"You can not attend dinner dressed like that." Glorfindel chuckled in an effort to take away any nervousness Erestor might feel. "We spent a little too much time with Asfaloth and if you sniff closely, you will smell him on you. We need to clean up and change into clothes that do not reek like that."

 

Erestor frowned and sniffed. He didn't think his clothes smelled of horse, but then again, Glorfindel was the adult and therefore had to be right. "Will I see you later?"

 

Erestor batting his eyelashes at him made Glorfindel feel protective and parental. The boy had quickly learned how to wind him around his little finger! "Aye, I will be there to keep you company. And so will Melpomaen."

 

Once he had been reassured that he wouldn't be among complete strangers, Erestor agreed to Glorfindel's plan and allowed the golden-haired warrior to escort him back to Elrond's rooms.

 

TBC

 

Part 7

 

"Ah, there you are! I was beginning to wonder if I should start searching for you!" Elrond had already dressed himself in formal robes after taking a long, hot bath and had hoped Erestor would return to his rooms shortly. "Do you need another bath? Or will a quick washing up do?"

 

Glorfindel walked alongside Erestor until the boy stood in front of the regal-looking Elf-Lord. Erestor had tensed beside him and the fingers moved nervously against the palm of his hand. A frown appeared on his brow – could it be that Elrond intimidated the boy?

 

Erestor remained silent and waited for Elrond to answer his own question. It was up to his master to decide what he should do next – either bath or wash up.

 

"Go into the bathroom, Erestor. There is some warm water in a washing bowl and you can use that to clean up. There are also some clean clothes waiting for you to slip into. Do not take too long. Dinner will be served shortly." Elrond smiled at the boy, hoping his words would cause Erestor to move, but the boy remained motionless. "Is anything amiss?" Elrond asked the question in a soft, gentle voice and sat on his heels in front of Erestor so they could make eye contact.

 

"Melpomaen gave me this, Milord. Glorfindel said I could keep it, but you are my master… Do you want it?" Erestor didn't quite know how to behave in this situation. His former master had never let him keep anything, not even the kitten, and had seized hold of everything Erestor's customers had given to the boy, declaring Erestor had no right to own anything.

 

"What did Melpomaen give you?" Elrond experimentally rested a hand on Erestor's thin shoulder and rubbed the skin through the fabric of the shirt in what he hoped was a soothing manner.

 

"A book with colors, Milord. It has drawings." Erestor swallowed nervously and uncovered the book from within the fabric of his shirt. He had been clutching it close to his skin. "It is yours, of course."

 

"Did that Man not allow you to keep things you cared for?" Elrond asked knowingly.

 

"Slaves aren't allowed any personal possessions," Erestor answered, reciting from memory the teachings his former master had instilled in him.

 

"Well, things are different now. That book is yours, Erestor." Anger and sadness dueled in Elrond's heart at hearing Erestor's chilling answer. "Why do you not put it on the bed while you freshen up? If you would like for me to read to you before we go to sleep, I will." Elrond was intelligent enough to realize that Erestor had never learned to read or write, hence why Erestor had mentioned that the book was full of drawings.

 

Erestor made his way over the bed, placed the book reverently onto the covers, and then turned around to walk toward the bathroom. He quickly glanced at Glorfindel one more time and then disappeared into the room.

 

Elrond, still sitting on his heels, blinked. Glorfindel felt sympathy, knowing exactly what thoughts were running through the Elf-Lord's mind. "That wretched Man wronged Erestor in many ways, Elrond. I still feel the urge to go back there so I can teach him a lesson."

 

Elrond shook his head. "Nay, Erestor needs us. Remember, he must come first." Elrond rose from the floor and walked over to a pair of comfortable chairs standing near the fireplace. "Tell me, how did you spend the day?" Glorfindel seated himself next to Elrond and told him.

 

Elrond nodded his head at hearing how Erestor had managed to befriend Melpomaen. "That is a good thing, Glorfindel. I want Erestor to make as many friends as possible." He also approved of his Chief Advisor teaching Erestor how to read and write. He would simply ask for one more scribe from the library, or maybe two, to help Melpomaen with his correspondence. That way, Melpomaen could spend more time with the boy.

 

Glorfindel excused himself then, since he also needed to freshen up before dinner, and returned to his rooms. Elrond remained seated in his chair. From where he was seated, he had a perfect view of the doorway and smiled the moment Erestor emerged from the bathroom. The boy had washed up and slipped into the clean clothes which Elrond had arranged for him earlier that day. "Come over here, Erestor." There was one thing he had to attend to before they could head for the Hall of Fire.

 

Erestor walked over to Elrond and came to a halt in front of the Elf-Lord. He felt odd. He couldn't remember ever having to wash up twice during the same day, and now he was also wearing new clothes. He liked the warm velvet his brown shirt was made of and the woolen, grey leggings moved pleasantly against his skin. The clothes would keep him warm.

 

Elrond turned Erestor around until the boy was facing away from him and then finger combed the raven hair. The ends had gotten wet and Elrond busied himself for the next few moments by braiding the hair into a loose plait. "We do not want your hair to be in the way when you are eating dinner, do we?"

 

Erestor carefully nodded his head. Elrond had finished braiding and Erestor felt how the Elf-Lord pushed some sort of hair clip into the braid.

 

Elrond had removed one of the clips that kept his hair in control and used it to fasten Erestor's braid. "Now we are all set to go." He rose from his chair and saw Erestor's confused expression. Acting on instinct, he scooped the boy up and settled him safely in his arms. Hopefully Erestor would feel less intimidated when he was being carried in such a way upon their entry in the Hall of Fire. "Do not worry about tonight, Erestor. We will eat and maybe you will make another friend."

 

Erestor however couldn't help feeling nervous since he was about to meet some more new Elves. It was a good thing that Glorfindel and Melpomaen would also join them. They were Elves he actually knew!

 

~~~

 

Dinner was a nerve-racking affair for Erestor. He sat to Elrond's right and couldn't help feeling awkward about that. After all, he wasn't worthy of such an honor. Thankfully Glorfindel, who sat next to him, managed to distract him by asking him if he liked the food. The food was amazing – he had never eaten such a delicious meal before!

 

Erestor caught Melpomaen giving him a wink. At first, he didn't recognize the gesture for what it was and thought Melpomaen had gotten something into his eye, but eventually he realized that Melpomaen was trying to reassure him.

 

Thankfully most of the members of Elrond's staff kept their distance and didn't crowd him. He felt their curious eyes upon his form, but none of them approached to ask him questions.

 

It wasn't long before he began to feel sleepy and his eyes were growing blank. He tried to stay awake though, knowing it would be considered rude on his part to fall asleep in the middle of dinner.

 

"I believe it is time for our charge to retire for the night," Elrond addressed Glorfindel. "I will take him back and tuck him in. I will deliver him to your rooms again in the morning."

 

Glorfindel nodded. A part of him felt disappointed because it would be Elrond caring for Erestor during the night and not him. But he'd had the pleasure of Erestor's company during the day and he wouldn't begrudge Elrond the chance to look after the boy during his sleep. 

 

"I'm…still…awake," Erestor muttered, but his eyes were going blank again. He'd had an exciting, and thus tiring, day and he had eaten much more than he normally would. Those things were now making him feel tired.

 

"But not for long." Elrond chuckled and pulled Erestor close to his chest. "I am going to take you to bed." Turning his head toward Glorfindel, Elrond said, "I will speak with you again in the evening." And to Melpomaen, he added, "I will see you in the morning." Once he had taken his leave, Elrond hugged Erestor close to his chest and headed for his private rooms.

 

~~~

 

Erestor changed into his nightshirt and then watched Elrond slip between the covers. Unfortunately, the adult hadn't given him any time to draw the curtains and push down the covers and Erestor felt a little lost as a sense of intimacy was building between them because they would sleep in the same bed.

 

"Hop on, Erestor." Elrond had long seen the anxiety in Erestor's eyes and thought he knew what would help Erestor make up his mind to join him in the bed. He lifted the book Melpomaen had given Erestor and opened it. "Do you want me to read you a bedtime story?" He did so most evenings for his sons. Why would things be different with Erestor?

 

The promise of Elrond reading to him lured Erestor closer and he eventually climbed onto the bed. At first, he remained at a safe distance from Elrond, but when the adult patted the space next to him, Erestor lay down and curled up against Elrond's warm form. Lying on his side, he pushed an arm beneath his head so he could use it as a pillow and he pulled his knees close to his chest.

 

Elrond reached for the covers and tucked them around Erestor's form until only the dark head was still visible. The plait had come loose during the evening and Elrond ran his fingers through the stands to undo it completely. "Is there a story in particular you want me to read to you?"

 

"I saw a drawing of a woman with long hair… She was singing." Erestor vividly recalled having seen that drawing and he wanted to know the story that accompanied it.

 

Elrond leafed through the book until he encountered the tale of Lúthien and Beren. "Is this the drawing you saw?"

 

Erestor peeked at the page and nodded his head. "Yes, it is."

 

Elrond gave Erestor a thoughtful look, realizing that his charge was no longer constantly calling him 'Milord'. Hopefully that indicated that Erestor felt more comfortable around him. "Let me tell you their story then…"

 

Erestor closed his eyes and listened to Elrond's soothing voice, which was perfect for story telling and, while Elrond read the story of Lúthien to him, Erestor began to doze off. His body needed the sleep – the healing sleep – and was finally receiving it now that Erestor felt warm and safe.

 

Elrond continued to read for a few more minutes. Once he was certain that Erestor was asleep, he closed the book and placed it aside. Carefully, he moved Erestor a bit closer to him and the boy reacted by cuddling up to him. Erestor rested his head on Elrond's chest and an arm curled around his waist. Elrond ran his fingers through the dark hair and reflected on how things had changed between them. Erestor had gone from a very frightened slave boy to someone who was willing to trust him. Hopefully the boy would continue to make excellent progress. As far as Elrond was concerned, he was going to do *anything* to aid Erestor's healing.

 

~~~

 

Some time during the night, Elrond woke up because Erestor was making odd sounds. One look told him that the boy was still asleep and securely snuggled close to him. It took him another moment to discern why Erestor was making such odd sounds: Erestor was sucking his thumb. He had seen his sons do it occasionally, but this was the first time sounds were accompanying it.

 

Elrond stroked the dark hair and smiled as he watched Erestor push even closer. In sleep, Erestor was relaxed and the boy felt safe – safe enough to snuggle up to him like that. "I will not let you down," Elrond promised. "You are my son now and I am your father. I will be so for the rest of my life."

 

Elrond drew in a deep breath and drifted off into sleep again while listening to Erestor sucking his thumb.

 

~~~

 

The next morning, Elrond found himself alone in bed. One look to his right revealed to him that Erestor had left the warm confines of his embrace and had returned to staring at the drawings.

 

Erestor was completely focused on the drawings and didn't notice Elrond studying him. The other night, he had fallen asleep while Elrond had been reading to him and he wished he knew how the tale of Lúthien and Beren had ended. He had tried to keep awake, but had failed. He had been too tired.

 

"Good morning, Erestor." Erestor flinched at hearing his voice and the boy's reaction made Elrond flinch in turn. "I did not mean to startle you."

 

Erestor peeked at Elrond through the strands of his raven hair. He held his head slightly bowed and studied the Elf-Lord. Ever since he had touched Elrond's mind the other day, he felt a bit more confident around the adult. "I didn't know you were awake. I was looking at the pictures." His gaze shifted back from Elrond toward the book. "They are beautiful." Reverently, his fingertips moved over the colored paper.

 

Elrond pushed himself up onto an elbow and smiled at the boy. "Would you like for me to finish last night's tale?" Doing that meant he would be late for breakfast, but Middle-Earth wouldn't come to an end because of that. Erestor smiled shyly at him, lifted the book, and crawled toward him. Elrond was struck by the fact that Erestor's manner differed so greatly from his sons. Elladan and Elrohir would be jumping on his bed, trying to get him to join them in their play. Erestor was the opposite: calm and shy. "Come, move against me."

 

Erestor gave Elrond a shy smile. He felt he could trust the Elf-Lord and he carefully rested his back against Elrond's chest, allowing the adult to pull him close and to wrap an arm around him. Basking in Elrond's warmth and the attention the Elf-Lord was giving him, Erestor rested the back of his head against the Elf-Lord's chest and purred contentedly. This felt good.

 

Seeing Erestor put his trust in him made Elrond smile. "Open the book, Erestor. Find the drawing for me."

 

Erestor eagerly leafed through the book and Elrond located the section he still had to read to Erestor. Elrond started to read in a soft, but animated voice as he tried to make the story come alive for his charge.

 

~~~

 

Glorfindel was growing impatient, and even a bit anxious, when Elrond didn't deposit Erestor at his doorstep as agreed. What was keeping his friend? Glorfindel was ready to greet the day with Erestor at his side, but the young half-Elf hadn't joined him yet. He had made plans for that day. First, he wanted to eat breakfast with Erestor, and then he wanted to take the boy to the Bruinen. Asfaloth would take them there. Glorfindel had noticed the pleasure in Erestor's eyes whenever they were close to the horses.

 

After pacing his room for a few minutes, Glorfindel decided to check on Elrond and Erestor. Maybe he could find out what was keeping them. Glorfindel picked up his warm riding cloak. He intended to wrap it around Erestor when they went for their ride later. It was a cold day and the furs would keep the boy warm. Glorfindel exited his rooms and headed for Elrond's.

 

~~~

 

Erestor had lost himself in the bittersweet tale of Lúthien and Beren. Soundlessly, he drew in breath, unwilling to do anything that would disturb Elrond's concentration. The adult was doing a marvelous job at reading it. The words had come alive in Erestor's mind and he could picture everything happening. He lived the tale and felt for the two main characters that had to fight for their love.

 

Elrond finally finished the tale and closed the book. Although the ending was happy, since the lovers had been reunited, he saw tears drip from Erestor's face. "I did not want to upset you."

 

Erestor shook his head and the motion caused his raven hair to fall in front of his face, shielding his features. "I'm not upset."

 

"But…?" Elrond wrapped his other arm around Erestor's waist as well and pulled him close.

 

"They had each other – their love. They were never really alone." Erestor turned his head and peeked at the adult. "Did they eventually really die?"

 

Elrond moistened his lips. He had to tread carefully since Erestor was half-Elven. The boy would one day face his choice and Elrond didn't want to influence the boy. "Aye, they died, but the last days of their lives were happy."

 

Erestor shifted in Elrond's arms until he sat facing the adult – well, he was actually staring at the Elf-Lord's chest and not his face. He was still too small to manage that while sitting down and so he pushed himself to his feet.

 

Erestor's actions surprised Elrond, who released the boy from his hold. The fact that Erestor was now staring at him impressed the half-Elf. Only a few weeks ago, Erestor would not have dared to do so. He smiled, reassuring the boy that Erestor could ask him anything he wanted to know. "What is it?"

 

"I'm like them, am I not?" Erestor cocked his head. "I'm no Elf, but I don't belong to the race of Man either. My former master told me that I was a mix and don't have a home with either race."

 

"That is not true." Elrond placed a hand on Erestor's shoulder and continued to smile. "You have a home with the Elves. You have a home here, with me…and Glorfindel," he added quickly, knowing of Erestor's fondness of the golden-haired warrior. "I was born like that too, Erestor. And when my time came, I decided that I wanted to belong to the Firstborn – the Elves. When your time comes, you will have to make your own decision, and I pray you will choose to belong to the Elves, Erestor for there is a lot of the Firstborn in you."

 

Erestor's face grew flushed. "Do you mean that? Is this my home now?"

 

"Aye and I would be honored if you came to look upon me as your adoptive father, Erestor. We are not related by blood, but I want you to become a part of my family. You would make a good son." Elrond wasn't prepared for Erestor's reaction. The boy suddenly flung himself at him, wrapped his arms around him, and hugged him close.

 

"Erestor, are you weeping?" The sounds Erestor was making led Elrond to believe so.

 

"I don't want to, but…"

 

Elrond hugged Erestor close and guided the boy's head onto his shoulder. "You do not have to hide your feelings, Erestor, ever. You can always be you around me."

 

A soft, but persistent knock on the door disturbed their moment of intimacy. Elrond, realizing Glorfindel must have grown impatient, smiled into Erestor's raven hair. "You can come inside, Glorfindel."

 

Erestor raised his head at hearing Elrond speak the warrior's name. "Glorfindel?"

 

Glorfindel opened the door and stepped inside. He almost froze as he saw he was intruding on a private scene. "I can come back later," he offered.

 

"Nay, stay. Erestor and I finished our tale and we were just talking." Elrond smiled at the boy and gently eased Erestor away from him. "You can use the bathroom first, Erestor. That is, if you can wash up and dress yourself without my help."

 

"I can do that!" Erestor was eager to please and smiled warmly at the adult. He had never known a father's love, had never known how it felt to be cared for, to be cherished, but thanks to Elrond, he was finding out now.

 

Elrond lifted Erestor and placed the boy with his feet on the ground. "Off you go then!"

 

Erestor disappeared into the bathroom, knowing the sooner he finished, the quicker he could spend time with Glorfindel. He liked both adults and was happy to spend time with both of them.

 

"What happened?" Glorfindel remained standing in front of the bed and gave Elrond an inquisitive look. "His eyes were watered. Why was he crying?"

 

"Lúthien's tale moved him, Glorfindel. I told him that they had been happy toward the end, even though they had become mortal. Erestor is half-Elven, Glorfindel. One day, he will have to make a decision, like I did. I want him to make the right one."

 

Glorfindel grinned. "And the right decision is to belong with the Firstborn?"

"I think so. I see much of the Firstborn in him. He has suffered at the hand of Man. Let us hope he will choose life and immortality and not decay and death. Erestor deserves to be rewarded for the way he suffered." Elrond rose from the bed, lifted his hair which had been caught beneath his nightshirt, and smoothed it down his neck. "What are your plans for the day, Glorfindel?"

 

"I will take him for a ride. I want to show him the Bruinen. The river looks lovely now that the water has become ice. And after that, I will take him to Melpomaen so he can start his lessons."

 

"He is eager to learn to read," remarked Elrond as he draped his thick morning robes over his shoulders. "Which is a good thing; it will help him find his place here. Melpomaen makes a good friend and will be his ally in the future." Erestor would need friends and allies in the future. "Take him to the Hall of Fire for dinner."

 

Glorfindel nodded his head once. "I will look after him. Do not worry, he is safe with me."

 

"I know that, my friend." Elrond graced Glorfindel with a tender smile. "We are fortunate that he has decided to trust us. That will aid our attempts to help him lead a normal life."

 

"I believe he decided to *fully* trust me after he touched my mind. He touched yours as well, did he not? Erestor told me so."

 

Elrond nodded. "He did. I am surprised that someone as young as Erestor is capable of touching someone's mind. I never heard of a child being gifted with that talent at such a young age."

 

"Erestor *is* special," Glorfindel agreed. "Maybe more special than we know."

 

Elrond tended to concur. Only time would tell what other talents Erestor might be hiding.

 

TBC

 

Part 8

 

After eating breakfast, they went to the stables and guided Asfaloth out of his box. Glorfindel placed Erestor on the stallion's back and then slipped into place behind his charge. He curled one arm around Erestor to secure him and then let Asfaloth trot toward the Bruinen.

 

Erestor felt warm and comfortable, wrapped up as he was in Glorfindel's riding cloak. Glorfindel had lowered the cloak just enough for him to see where they were going and Erestor loved the way the white snow looked. It mirrored a blanket and covered the ground, taking away all traces of earth and remaining greens.

 

"We are going to the Bruinen," Glorfindel informed his charge of their destination. "It is a river and its water surface should have turned to ice. If the ice is solid enough we will be able to walk on it."

 

Erestor frowned a bit at hearing that. "Walk on the water?"

 

"Nay, we will be walking upon the ice." Glorfindel smiled fondly, recalling the way Erestor had devoured his breakfast. The boy had been hungry and had wolfed everything down: porridge, fruit, and more of the sweet care. Erestor had also drunk two glasses of milk and seeing the child's appetite return made Glorfindel happy. He had been afraid that it would take Erestor longer to get over his fears, but touching their minds had helped.

 

"I have never walked on ice before," Erestor stated in what was clearly a hesitant voice. "Do you really think that's safe for us to do so?"

 

"I know it is safe," Glorfindel answered. "I have done it many times before."

 

Since Glorfindel had reassured him, Erestor decided that the adult was probably right. He just had to trust him.

 

~~~

 

Oh, the ice was slippery and walking on it was much harder than he had imagined. Erestor kept sliding and losing his footing and Glorfindel had to steady him regularly. The golden-haired Elf saved him from several falls and, in the end, Erestor hooked his fingers around Glorfindel's belt and encouraged the warrior to drag him along. Once Glorfindel was helping him stay on his feet, Erestor was beginning to enjoy this 'ice-walking'.

 

But, in the end, Erestor grew cold and he tugged at Glorfindel's sleeve. The air which left his mouth tried to freeze in the chilly air and his fingers and lips had begun to turn blue. "Cold," Erestor whispered, shivering.

 

"I keep forgetting that you are susceptible to the cold." Glorfindel wasn't sure if that was due to the fact that Erestor was still healing in spirit or because he was half-Elven. Elrond sometimes felt the cold, but never that pronounced. "Follow me," he ordered and moved back toward the river bank.

 

Erestor giggled; Glorfindel was dragging him along and he liked the way he was sliding across the surface of the ice. It made him all giddy in spite of being cold.

 

Once Glorfindel stepped off of the ice, he lifted Erestor in his arms and cradled him against his chest. He picked up the cloak which he had discarded earlier and wrapped it around his charge's shoulders. That way, it created a warm cocoon around Erestor. "Do you want to return to the house now?"

 

Erestor considered the question. He still found it hard to make decisions, no matter how small they were. He simply hadn't been raised that way! "I think so. I'm cold, Glorfindel."

 

Glorfindel mounted Asfaloth and placed Erestor in front of him. "The Hall of Fire will warm us up. The fire there never dies." He had enjoyed spending the morning with Erestor. "And once you feel warm again, I will take you to Melpomaen for your first lesson."

 

"We must pick up the book first." It had taken some cajoling on Elrond's part to convince Erestor to leave the book on the bed, but explaining it might get wet had done the trick. And when it got wet, the colors might turn liquid and he would end up with smears instead of drawings. "Can we pick up the book first?"

 

"We will pick up your book, Erestor. Do not worry about it." Glorfindel felt like he was walking with his head in the clouds. He had never had a real family to call his own. Aye, he'd had a lover, Ecthelion, but there had never been any children in his life and he had always wanted to be a father. Erestor touched his heart in so many ways that it almost scared him. Elrond had already announced that he viewed Erestor as his son and now Glorfindel wished he had thought of doing that first. "Erestor?" he whispered thoughtfully.

 

"Yes, Glorfindel?" Erestor turned his head and managed to look at Glorfindel's face. What he saw there surprised him. He saw joy, bliss, and happiness. Glorfindel actually felt happy, escorting him around and playing with him. A moment later, he didn't just see those emotions in Glorfindel's azure eyes, but felt them as well. They entered his mind like a warm sponge, and once he squeezed it, all those warms feelings descended onto him like a healing shower. "I like you," Erestor whispered, breathlessly.

 

"I like you too, Erestor." Glorfindel gave the boy a fond smile. "I will always be there for you, Erestor. I promise you that." He had once promised to protect Elrond and his family with his life and he had meant it. He would die for Elrond and his family members, but this boy, this Erestor, made him feel even more protective. And there was something else as well: a feeling he couldn't label.

 

And Erestor lacked experience and knowledge to label the feeling for Glorfindel. Only later, once he had long reached his majority, would they learn to identify that feeling as unconditional love.

 

~~~

 

"Do you mind if I sit here and read?" Glorfindel had delivered Erestor to Melpomaen's study and was hesitant to part from his charge. Erestor liked Melpomaen and Glorfindel was certain they would become friends in time, but he also recalled how easily Erestor could turn frightened. "I will not interfere with your lessons."

 

Melpomaen nodded once. "Of course you can stay, Glorfindel." Melpomaen gathered Erestor's hand in his and guided the Elfling toward his desk. "Would you mind sitting on my lap? It is easier for me to teach you that way."

 

Erestor cocked his head and considered the request. The expression in Melpomaen's eyes put him at ease and he nodded his head once. "I will sit on your lap."

 

Melpomaen sat down and Erestor took his time climbing onto the Advisor's lap. For one brief moment, he felt apprehensive with being so close to this Elf, but the green eyes assured him that Melpomaen meant well. Erestor lost any fears he might have still had when he caught sight of the beautifully illustrated book on the oak desk. "Oh, who are they?" he asked, pointing at the line of Elves dressed in armor.

 

"Warriors," Melpomaen replied. "The bravest warriors our kind had." The diversion tactic worked: Erestor no longer felt anxious about being close to him and was engrossed in staring at the drawing of Elven warriors. "Do you want to start your first lesson, Erestor? Do you want to learn to read and write?"

 

"I do." Erestor eagerly nodded his head. "Will you teach me?"

 

"I will, but you do realize that you can not learn everything in one day? It will take time, Erestor." Erestor's eyes gained a guilty look and Melpomaen could very well imagine what the child was thinking. "I will not grow tired of you. We will study here every afternoon and I promise you that you will know how to read and write within the year." But at hearing that, Erestor's eyes widened dramatically.

 

"It will take me that long?" Was he going to be there for a whole year? Wouldn't Elrond, Glorfindel, and Melpomaen grow fed up with him? He was a novelty now, like he had been a novelty with his former master's customers and he was afraid the Elves would quickly lose interest in him.

 

"A year is nothing in the lives of the Firstborn," Melpomaen replied. "It is nothing more than a blink of the eye."

 

Erestor shifted on Melpomaen's lap until he had a good look at the Advisor's face. "How old are you?" He didn't know exactly why he had voiced that question...he just wanted to know.

 

Melpomaen gave Erestor an understanding smile. "I am only four hundred years old. I am not that old yet."

 

Erestor's eyes almost bulged from their sockets. "You are old!"

 

Melpomaen burst out laughing and even Glorfindel couldn't help chuckling.

 

"I am only sixteen years old. At least, that is what I think… That's what my master told me."

 

"You are still young, aye," Melpomaen mused. "I must seem old to you."

 

Impressed by Melpomaen's age, Erestor grew quiet for the next few minutes.

 

"Do you want to start now?" Melpomaen repeated his question and produced a small quill and some ink. He also placed a blank sheet of paper in front of them.

 

Erestor gravely nodded once. "I want to be able to read and write."

 

"Then I will start teaching you now."

 

~~~

 

"Melpomaen? Where are those reports? I asked for them yesterday!" Elrond, feeling irritated that Melpomaen hadn't taken care of the matter yet, stormed into his Advisor's study. However, he froze on the doorstep and watched Erestor's head snap up. The boy had been trying to write his first letter and was now staring at him, wide-eyed and on the verge of panicking. Elrond cursed himself privately. He had completely forgotten to ask for the extra scribe since Melpomaen had taken on teaching Erestor.

 

Erestor's hand trembled and he was about to drop the quill when Melpomaen tightened his fingers around his hand. The green eyes gave him a trusting look and even Glorfindel looked up from the book he was reading to reassure him with a smile. But Erestor realized very well that he had done something to upset Elrond. Apparently, he was taking up so much of Melpomaen's time that the Elf was unable to attend to his normal duties. Feeling guilty for putting Melpomaen in this situation, he whispered, "I'm sorry, Milord."

 

Elrond blinked. "There is no reason for you to apologize. You did nothing wrong." But Elrond noticed the upset expression in the boy's eyes and the tremors that shook Erestor's hand. "And neither did Melpomaen. I was at fault. I should not have barged in here like that." Elrond walked over to the desk, exchanged a look with Melpomaen, and then sat on his heels next to Erestor, who was avoiding his gaze.

 

"So… Melpomaen is teaching you how to write?" The letter Erestor had written down on the paper looked awkward and lacked elegance, but it was the first thing Erestor had ever written. "We should frame that and hang it in Melpomaen's office. What do you think of that?"

 

Erestor didn't know how to react to Elrond, who was now smiling at him. Only a moment ago, the adult had been furious.


From where he was seated, Glorfindel watched and remained ready to interfere should the need arise.

 

"I can be loud at times," Elrond explained in a tender voice. "I tend to raise my voice when I am impatient or frustrated, but that does not mean I am cross with you – or with Melpomaen. I am just like that. Please, Erestor…do not be afraid of me." The scared expression on the boy's face was bothering him. "I will never hurt you."

 

Erestor had involuntarily moved closer to Melpomaen and the adult Elf wrapped an arm around him. Melpomaen doubtlessly sensed his discomfort and had reached out to soothe him. From the safe confines of Melpomaen's arms, Erestor raised his head and shyly made eye contact with the Elf-Lord. "He used to beat me when I was disobedient. Most of the time I didn't do it on purpose...things just happened."

 

Elrond's heart broke at hearing the tiny, hesitant voice and raised his hand so he could run his fingers through the raven hair. "Here no one will ever beat you, Erestor. We are not like that. We are not like that Man. Melpomaen, Glorfindel, and I will never raise our hand against you. We might become loud at times, but we will never lay a finger on you." Elrond remembered the condition Erestor's back had been in when they had just met. Erestor had gotten beaten regularly in the past and it would take the child time to accept that things had changed.

 

Glorfindel had quietly listened to their conversation, but at hearing Erestor's admission, his hatred for the wretched slave trader had flared. Elrond should have given him leave to extract some sort of revenge on the Man!

 

"You are safe with us," Elrond added and moved his hand to cup Erestor's face in his hand. "I will work on those reports later," he said, addressing Melpomaen, who gave him a relieved look. "Work with Erestor until dinner. Then meet us in the Hall of Fire for dinner." It was obvious that Erestor had extended his friendship to Melpomaen and Elrond wanted to encourage them. "And I will try not to shout at poor Melpomaen again."

 

Elrond involuntarily sucked in his breath when Erestor leaned in closer to bestow a hesitant hug on him. The fact that the boy was reaching out to him made him feel choked up and a lump of emotions formed in his throat. "You will have to be patient with me, Erestor."

 

Erestor felt emotional as well. This was the first time ever that someone – and an adult at that! – had actually apologized to him! It made him feel like he had grown taller and wiser as well. Awkwardly he patted Elrond's hair and whispered, "I still like you. Don't worry."

 

Glorfindel smiled at hearing Erestor's words. It amazed him just how big Erestor's heart was. The boy had suffered so much and yet reaching out to them was in the Elfling's blood.

 

Elrond looked up and met Glorfindel's gaze, recalling something the golden-haired warrior had said to him only the other day. Aye, Erestor was special and he had the feeling they would find out just how special during the next few years.

 

~~~

 

The next time around, Erestor was more aware of the Elves moving about in the Hall of Fire. The other day he had been trained by Elrond and Glorfindel on the food, but since he felt more relaxed, he was eager to take in more of his surroundings. While spooning the soup into his mouth, his gaze moved through the Hall. Encountering Melpomaen's smiling face made Erestor smile in turn and he even raised a hand to wave at the Advisor, who sat at the opposite end of the main table. To his delight, Melpomaen waved back and even gave him a wink.

 

The exchange didn't go unnoticed by Elrond and Glorfindel. Seated next to each other, the two Elves felt content to watch the interaction between Erestor and Melpomaen.

 

In that moment, Lindir made his appearance. Dressed in soft greens and blues, the minstrel carried his lyre with him and settled down amidst a pile of pillows. Placing his lyre against him, he struck the first chords of a new song he had just composed. A moment later, the rosy lips parted and he began to sing.

 

Erestor froze, but not due to fear. The sound that echoed through the Hall was enthralling and caused him to study Lindir in more depth. The minstrel's hair, which was the lightest shade of blond he had ever seen, was pulled into a long ponytail and descended down his back. The front bangs had been left unrestrained and moved sensually against his face. The longest strands of hair rested on the white fur that decorated the blue robes. The face itself was a delicate rose and carried a hint of paleness. The lips were narrow and rose-colored, but the sound that left those lips filled him with amazement. He had never heard someone sing in such an enchanting way before. Awed, Erestor couldn't stop staring at the bewitching sight.

 

"That is Lindir," Elrond said as he leaned in closer to whisper into Erestor's ear. He had decided against pulling Erestor onto his lap and had ordered a chair brought for the boy. They had put some pillows on the seat so Erestor sat high enough to reach his plate and look at the other Elves seated at the table. "Lindir is my most talented minstrel and storyteller. It might be a good thing if the two of you would meet. You might like his tales, considering you liked hearing Lúthien's history that much."

 

Erestor barely heard any of Elrond's words. He was completely focused on Lindir – the minstrel's voice, face, and the magical web the song was weaving around him. His stay there in Imladris was filled with stunning revelations. The Elves he had met so far had all been kind to him and he had let them into his heart. Erestor had taken down his guard and was beginning to trust them and now he wondered if this new Elf would like to be his friend too.

 

Lindir finished his song. During his singing he had been unaware of the attention the Elfling was giving him, but now that he was no longer focused on his music, he became aware of the scrutiny he was under. Lindir had heard rumors that Elrond had brought home a child that he intended to raise as his own and Lindir had grown curious about this boy. And now he was finally able to look at Erestor. The big, dark eyes showed remnants of pain and the boy's past still haunted them, but at the same time, Lindir saw the hope and curiosity in those huge eyes.

 

Elrond raised a hand and gestured for him to approach the main table. Lindir placed his lyre aside and rose from between the pillows. Slowly and as gracefully as a cat, he made his way over to the main table. He bowed to Elrond as was custom and then looked at the Elf-Lord who was a generous benefactor. Elrond cherished all arts and had always given him every freedom to explore new territory where music and poetry were concerned. Lindir had made Imladris his home two years ago. "Lord Elrond…" he addressed the Elf-Lord and then waited for Elrond to voice whatever request his Lord had.

 

"Lindir, I would like to introduce Erestor to you." Elrond smiled at Lindir. The minstrel had a caring disposition and would hopefully like the boy. "Erestor, this is Lindir, a good friend and a most talented musician."

 

Lindir was staring at him, which made Erestor nervous. His face grew flustered and the boy shifted nervously on the chair. He didn't know how to deal with being at the center of everyone's attention and what made it even harder was that he barely knew Lindir. "Hello," Erestor said eventually in a voice which was barely more than a whisper.

 

Lindir smiled at the Elfling. He didn't know any details and Erestor looked like he belonged to the Firstborn, even if his ears weren't *that* pointy. "Greetings, Erestor."

 

Erestor's mouth went dry and his anxiety increased when it seemed that it was up to him to keep the conversation going. He wasn't any good at that! "I like your voice," he offered eventually, hoping it was the right thing to say.

 

Lindir's smile grew even warmer. "Thank you. Hearing that is always a compliment, especially when it is given by an Elfling." Children and drunks were always honest and he appreciated Erestor telling him he had enjoyed hearing him sing. "Do you sing yourself? Or do you play an instrument, Erestor?"

 

Erestor blushed weakly. "No, I don't." Ever since joining the Elves there in Imladris he had grown aware of his shortcomings. He couldn't read or write, neither could he sing or play an instrument.

 

"Maybe I will be allowed to teach you once you are ready to explore the joys music has to offer." Lindir had caught Elrond's impatient look and surmised the Elf-Lord wanted this conversation to end. It was time to take his leave.

 

"I would like that." Erestor shyly locked eyes with Lindir. The Elf looked like a character who could have stepped out of the book Melpomaen had given him. Lindir was liquid music.

 

Amused, Elrond realized that Erestor was reluctant to say goodbye to Lindir. The Elfling was drawing out the conversation and hoped to keep it going. /If he likes Lindir that much, I will draw him into our circle./ A circle which was growing and now also included Melpomaen and apparently Lindir. "Lindir, would you do me the honor of coming to my rooms tomorrow and singing for Erestor? Maybe you even know a tale that will draw him in? Erestor seems to like you and I always enjoy listening to your songs. It will be a rather private dinner...just Glorfindel, Melpomaen, Erestor, and I."

 

Lindir blinked. He was unable to hide his surprise at receiving such an invitation, which was a first. He had been Elrond's minstrel for two years already and never before had Elrond invited him into his rooms. /It is because of Erestor,/ Lindir realized. /Elrond is doing this because Erestor likes me./  Lindir was a compassionate Elf and would do whatever he could to help the child recover from whatever dire circumstances he had been in. Erestor must have led a hard life so far. Lindir had heard that the boy's back had been injured and Erestor looked much too gaunt to have lived a healthy life style. "I am honored that you would invite me, Lord Elrond."

 

"I am going to retire for tonight," Elrond announced. "But I am in the mood for company and so is Erestor." He had easily caught the hopeful look in those huge, dark eyes. It was too soon to invite Lindir. The minstrel would visit with them the next day at any rate. But he *could* invite Glorfindel and Melpomaen. Elrond placed his large hand atop of Erestor's tiny one and gently rubbed the fingers. At the same time, he looked at Glorfindel. "Join us tonight?"

 

Glorfindel inclined his head to show he accepted. "I would love to." Erestor gave the warrior a warm smile.

 

"And I would like for you to join us as well, Melpomaen. It is about time we started to socialize away from our working hours." It would be a good thing if he and Melpomaen grew to know each other better. After all, Melpomaen was his right hand where organizational issues were concerned!

 

Melpomaen felt shy at being invited to join Elrond and Glorfindel. He had seldom spent the evening in private with them. "If you are certain my presence will not displease you…"  His voice drifted off – insecurely.

 

Melpomaen's answer caused Elrond to frown. Until now, he hadn't realized that Melpomaen felt so insecure around him. "Erestor wants you there, do you not, Erestor?" He waited for Erestor to nod, and then added, "And so do I."

 

Melpomaen felt rather dazed when he rose from his chair to follow Elrond and Glorfindel out of the Hall. He exchanged a quick look with Lindir, who looked equally stunned. He would talk to his lover later – when Elrond let him retire for the night.

 

~~~

 

Elrond had poured Glorfindel and Melpomaen some wine and Melpomaen sipped the potent drink slowly. Erestor had snuggled up to Elrond and was dozing off on the Elf-Lord's lap while listening to Glorfindel, who was reading from the book. Melpomaen had felt apprehensive about spending the evening with Elrond, but the half-Elf had gone to great lengths to make him feel welcome. Elrond had apparently picked up on his unease and had acted on it.

 

"Erestor is dozing off," Melpomaen declared and placed his now empty glass on the side table. "The time has come for me to retire to my rooms." And hopefully Lindir would still be waiting for him there. He hoped his lover hadn't grown discouraged and had left or fallen asleep. They needed to discuss this unexpected development.

 

"You are probably right," Elrond whispered, not wanting to accidentally wake up Erestor. "I will speak with you in the morning. In the afternoon, Erestor will study with you…if that does not inconvenience you."

 

"It is a pleasure and an honor to teach him." Melpomaen rose from his chair and bowed respectfully. "Thank you for inviting me, Lord Elrond. It was nice listening to Glorfindel telling that tale and seeing Erestor relaxed enough to doze off."

 

"We must do this again." Elrond couldn't stand to walk Melpomaen to the door as Erestor had curled up on his lap. "And stop addressing me so formally, Melpomaen." It seemed he needed to break another one of that annoying habit!

 

Melpomaen smiled. "I will try to remember." It would be hard though, addressing the half-Elf informally. Melpomaen moved over to the doorway, pushed down the door handle, and exited the room after casting one last glance at Erestor. The boy was actually sucking his thumb. That made him look even younger and Melpomaen smiled ruefully, wondering just how hard Erestor's life had been. He would ask Elrond the next day. He needed to know more about the child. Melpomaen closed the door behind him and headed for his rooms.

 

~~~

 

"I should retire for the night as well." Glorfindel stood and approached Elrond. He lowered himself until he sat on his heels and stroked Erestor's raven hair. "He is improving, Elrond. When we visited the Bruinen earlier today he was smiling. He had fun, Elrond. I think that was a first for him."

 

"I want him to improve, Glorfindel. I want him to grow strong again."

 

"He is becoming better, Elrond. And he is making friends."

 

Elrond smiled. "Erestor is winding Melpomaen around his little finger."

 

"And he will do the same where Lindir is concerned. This is a good thing, Elrond. Erestor never had friends." Glorfindel leaned in closer and placed a parental kiss on Erestor's brow. It was a light kiss, which didn't cause the child to wake. "I will collect him in the morning." He *did* envy Elrond for being the one holding Erestor through the night, but at least he was able to care for Erestor during the day.

 

Glorfindel shifted to his feet again and gave Erestor a last smile before walking over to the doorway. "May Erestor's sleep, and yours, be peaceful and undisturbed, my friend."

 

"And may yours be the same, Glorfindel." Glorfindel exited his rooms and Elrond rose from his chair while cradling Erestor in his arms. That night, he didn't bother undressing and neither did he remove Erestor's clothes. The young half-Elf was still peacefully asleep and Elrond didn't want to disturb the boy's rest. After placing Erestor in the center of the bed, Elrond curled himself around the Elfling who immediately snuggled up to him. Elrond hummed softly and stroked Erestor's hair. The boy was getting stronger each day – Glorfindel was right about that – and each day, he discovered something new about Erestor, like his love of music. He would encourage Erestor's interest in music and Melpomaen would teach his charge to read and write. Once Erestor was older, Glorfindel could teach him how to ride a horse and when the day came, Elrond himself would teach Erestor diplomacy. He was going to create a life, and a home, there for Erestor.

 

TBC

 

Part 9

 

Melpomaen opened the door to his rooms and one look at the bed told him that Lindir had stayed and was still awake. Lindir had undressed and stretched out on the bed and was now comfortably resting between the furs which Melpomaen used for covers.

 

Lindir's pale complexion and the fair hair gave the minstrel an almost frosty appearance, but Melpomaen knew from personal experience that a passionate fire burned beneath the pale exterior. "I hoped you would still be here. I do not know why Elrond invited me to his rooms. I never expected that." Melpomaen shrugged out of his formal robes and made his way over to the bed. Eager to feel Lindir's arms close around his waist, he slipped between the furs and snuggled close to his lover. Once they were skin-on-skin, Melpomaen relaxed and released a deep sigh.

 

"It is because of that Elfling – Erestor. That is why he asked us to join him tomorrow." Lindir enfolded Melpomaen in his arms and rested his cheek against his lover's face. "I have missed you. I had hoped you would join me earlier."

 

"Elrond kept me. I already told you." Melpomaen drew in a deep breath and, in doing so, inhaled his lover's soothing scent. Only a handful of Elves knew they were lovers. They had both decided against officially announcing they were courting each other, although they couldn't exactly tell why. Maybe their love was still too young – too fresh, and they wanted to explore it without everybody giving them knowing looks. This way, they could set their own pace.

 

"I still remember the first time I saw you and heard you sing. You seemed so magical, so mystical that evening. I lost my heart instantly." Melpomaen nuzzled Lindir's throat.

 

"I remember that night as well," Lindir murmured fondly. "We met two moons after I arrived in Imladris. I was singing in the Hall of Fire and saw you standing in the shadows. You were trying to hide behind the curtains, but I still saw you standing there. You were so shy." Lindir's voice drifted off as he thought back to that evening.

 

~~~

 

An Elf had been watching him for most of the evening and Lindir felt intrigued. He sat amidst his fellow musicians while most of the Imladris' Elves had found a place sitting in a circle around them and were listening to the music. But one Elf seemed to prefer to stand apart. This Elf was hidden by the night's shadows, but Lindir had noticed him nonetheless. Lindir also discovered that this Elf was watching him in particular. He had seen the strange Elf shuffle his feet repeatedly, as if the hidden Elf had been trying to convince himself to reveal himself and approach after all. But the Elf hadn't moved and still stood hidden in the shadows.

 

Lindir's curiosity obtained the better of him and he excused himself. He *had* to know who the Elf was and why he was reluctant to join them. Lindir stood and covered the distance between them in a few seconds. In this way, the stranger had no time to flee the room. Lindir caught the startled expression in the green eyes and realized flight was the only thing on the other Elf's mind. "Stay!" he commanded, hoping the sound of his voice would keep the stranger in place. "Please stay!"

 

Melpomaen was torn between running for his rooms and staying. He had been watching Lindir each night for about a month and still had to reveal himself to the minstrel. He was too shy to simply join them and preferred the soothing comfort of the shadows. But then Lindir suddenly was standing in front of him and Melpomaen realized the time to flee had gone.

 

"Who are you?" Lindir took in the Elf's appearance. Once he stood in the shadows as well, it was easier to make out the other Elf's features and clothing. The stranger and he were about the same height and shared their slender build, but that was where the comparisons ended. The Elf had sparkling green eyes, which looked almost feline to Lindir. Long, dark-blond, almost light-brown hair descended down the shoulders and the front bangs had been braided into a loose plait which had been fastened at the back of the Elf's head. Lindir noted that the stranger wore formal grey robes with embroidered silver lining. They showed his standing. This wasn't a mere servant or a scribe from the library.

 

Melpomaen nervously moistened his lips once the magical being addressed him. Lindir was a stunning vision dressed as he was in warm earth tones. A cloak made from dark furs lay draped across his shoulders and the palest blond hair which almost bordered on white moved against the furs. Lindir wore his hair loose and the bangs framed an elegant face. The eyes, pale-blue, gave Lindir an almost chilly appearance, but Melpomaen had heard him sing and had noticed the passion in that voice. Fire burned beneath the pale surface.

 

"I am Melpomaen," he offered at long last when the silence between them became uncomfortable.

 

"I am Lindir." Lindir inclined his head in greeting. "I do not believe we have met before." He continued to study the other Elf and noticed the nervous tremors that coursed through Melpomaen.

 

"Nay, we have not." Melpomaen cast a longing look at the exit. It had never been his intention for Lindir to grow aware of the fact that he had a secret admirer.

 

"Why do you not join us near the fire?" Lindir raised his right hand invitingly to Melpomaen.

 

"I prefer to stay here." Melpomaen cringed, feeling bashful. It still amazed him that Elrond had taken him on as his Chief Advisor. Melpomaen sometimes thought that Elrond had made a mistake in doing so since he continued to embarrass himself whenever he met new Elves. How was he going to welcome Lord Celeborn, or any other Elf, to Imladris when he blushed and grew shy at meeting them? "I do not do well in crowds."

 

Lindir blinked. Ten Imladris' Elves had joined the musicians and that wasn't what he considered a crowd. His curiosity demanded answers and he was loath to let Melpomaen leave without having attained them. "I finished singing for today. Would you like to sit and talk for a while? We can sit down over there – it is a shadowed corner."

 

Melpomaen felt dazed. He had never expected Lindir to ask for his company! "I am not quite certain that is a good thing…" Oh, he was babbling now! For the last few nights he had wanted to know what it would be like to spend time with Lindir and, now that he was receiving his chance to find out, he was rejecting the minstrel!

 

Fortunately for Melpomaen Lindir realized that Melpomaen was shy and felt insecure around him, though Lindir didn't know why. "Come and sit with me." He made his way over to the chairs which stood partly hidden in the shadows and sat down.

 

Melpomaen followed. He didn't feel like he had a choice. Lindir was drawing him close like a moth to a flame and he sat down next to the musician. Trying to get their conversation going again, he asked, "What do you think of Imladris so far?" He tried hard not to stare at the handsome Elf seated next to him, but failed. In the end, he had to force himself to look away.

 

Melpomaen's awkward attempts to hide his interest touched Lindir. It was rare that he encountered an Elf who wore his heart on his sleeve. Most Elves had learned how to hide their feelings and would never show their interest so openly. Elven courtship was a delicate game, which Melpomaen seemed to not have mastered yet. How refreshing! "Imladris is fair. I like living here. I am glad I made the decision to come here." Lindir watched Melpomaen closely and realized the Elf was younger than he had originally thought.

 

"Where do you come from?" Melpomaen squirmed on the chair. Lindir was studying him and he was afraid to say something that would cause him embarrassment.

 

"Lindon. I came here because I heard Lord Elrond is a great benefactor to all kinds of artists." Lindir cocked his head and smiled. He liked Melpomaen's shy but calm nature. This wasn't an Elf prone to hysterics or tantrums. Melpomaen possessed an inner balance that made him attractive. "I am a minstrel and a storyteller and I hope to make Imladris my home."

 

"Are you going to stay then?" Melpomaen wanted to bite off his tongue! That had come out wrong! He had sounded needy and the fact that he couldn't hide his interest frustrated him.

 

"Aye, I will stay." Lindir gave Melpomaen a reassuring smile. "So far, we have been talking about me, but I know nothing about you except for your name, Melpomaen. Tell me about you." His question caused Melpomaen's features to contort. That confirmed Lindir's suspicions that Melpomaen felt shy around him for a reason. It had been a while since someone had felt attracted and tried to court him, but he was experienced enough to recognize the signs.

 

"I am Elrond's Advisor." Melpomaen's fingernails scraped at the arm rest as he tried to calm down his raging nerves. This wasn't the first time he had been in love, but it was the first time that he had actually managed to talk to the Elf in question. And that was only because Lindir had stepped up to him! Had Lindir not noticed him, he would have returned to his rooms without addressing the minstrel. Lindir gave him a curious look and Melpomaen realized the musician wanted more information, but what else was there to tell? "I am only four hundred years old… I can tell you are older than that. You feel older." Lindir probably thought of him as a babbling child...

 

Lindir nodded once. "Aye, I am older. I celebrated my Begetting Day only yesterday. I am one thousand, two hundred and twenty-four years old." Lindir was amazed to see Melpomaen cringe at hearing that. What was he missing? Why was their conversation going downhill? What had he done wrong? Was it due to his age?

 

"I should leave," Melpomaen said and jumped to his feet. "I need to report to Lord Elrond early in the morning and I need a good night's sleep." Like he was going to sleep! Not after the way he had embarrassed himself while talking to Lindir!

 

"Do not leave yet." Lindir placed his hand on Melpomaen's arm. The gesture was enough to convince Melpomaen to sit down again, but now the Advisor looked absolutely miserable. "You must be wise and cunning for Elrond to make you an Advisor at this age." Lindir hoped Melpomaen understood what he was trying to say and wouldn't misinterpret his words on purpose. "Age does not say much, Melpomaen. Sometimes it is the very old who act ignorant or careless while the young show wisdom and maturity."

 

"Thank you," Melpomaen whispered in a grateful voice. "I sometimes feel much too young to be Elrond's Advisor, but he was adamant about it and…" And Elrond had made him his Chief Advisor *after* discarding Melpomaen's protests. Melpomaen still wasn't convinced that Elrond had made the right decision where he was concerned. There were much older and more experienced Elves on Elrond's Council who would have been much better candidates.

 

"I have heard that Lord Elrond is very wise and I surmise that he knew what he was doing when he asked you to serve him as his Advisor." Lindir was sharply aware of the fact that his hand still rested on Melpomaen's wrist. His fingers had even curled around the limb to make sure the other Elf wouldn't leave abruptly. "I find I like your company, Melpomaen."

 

"You do?" Melpomaen's eyes widened, showing his surprise. "You really do?"

 

Lindir smiled. "I do." He didn't know why, but for some reason Melpomaen didn't think as highly of himself as he should and Lindir wanted to find out why that was. "I will let you return to your rooms now, but only if you agree to go for a walk with me tomorrow. I still have to see the gardens and I was hoping you would show me around." Aye, he could have been more diplomatic, but he wasn't sure Melpomaen would have understood a more subtle hint and he wanted the Advisor to realize that he wanted to spend time with him. He couldn't afford to play games with Melpomaen's young and inexperienced heart.

 

Melpomaen swallowed nervously. The fact that Lindir wanted to talk to him again was more than he had hoped for. "Tomorrow evening?" He was off most evenings as Elrond always spent those with his family.

 

"Meet me here after dinner, Melpomaen. I would like to talk to you again." Lindir knew he had to tread carefully where Melpomaen's feelings were concerned. He had more experience where the matters of the heart were involved, but he had also experienced heartache and therefore was determined to go slowly. They had only just met, but Melpomaen had made an excellent impression on him. He even thought the other Elf's bashfulness attractive. He had always been drawn toward the silent ones.

 

"I will be there," Melpomaen answered as he pushed himself to his feet as well. The smile which Lindir gave him made him feel ecstatic. He had never dared to hope that the minstrel would like him! Inclining his head in farewell, he said, "May your sleep be restful."

 

Lindir smiled warmly at the shy Advisor. "And may yours be filled with pleasant dreams, Melpomaen." He turned away from the Advisor and headed toward the corridor. He had a lot to think about.

 

Melpomaen felt afloat on feelings of bliss and happiness. Lindir had noticed him and wanted to get to know him! A contented smile surfaced on his face. Maybe he had a chance to win the minstrel's love after all. Oh, he hoped so!

 

~~~

 

Lindir chuckled. "You were so shy, love. You looked adorable." He ran his fingers through his lover's hair and rested his brow against Melpomaen's. "It was a good thing I took charge the next day."

 

~~~~

 

Melpomaen wrung his hands and that gesture alone showed just how apprehensive he felt. He was waiting for Lindir to join him, but at the same time he wasn't certain he was courageous enough to go through with their meeting. Throughout the day he had been distracted. Luckily, he had been able to hide the fact from Elrond. Melpomaen's thoughts had wandered all day long from his work to Lindir. The nearer the hour of their appointment came, the more anxious he became and, at the moment, he was ready to break out into a run and hide in his rooms.

 

He was so very young compared to Lindir and inexperienced on top of everything else. Why would such a handsome Elf as Lindir bother with him? Melpomaen had half convinced himself that it was because the minstrel pitied him when Lindir finally joined him in the Hall.

 

Lindir halted and studied Melpomaen. The other Elf's features and stance betrayed his nervousness and insecurity. Lindir drew in a deep breath and reminded himself to tread carefully. By now, he had become convinced that Melpomaen was in love with him and the last thing Lindir wanted was to unwillingly hurt the Advisor's feelings.

 

"Good evening, Melpomaen," Lindir said as he advanced on the tense Advisor. "I am glad to find you here. Are you ready to go for our walk?"

 

Melpomaen had jumped at hearing Lindir's voice so unexpectedly. He had been so lost in thought that he hadn't even heard the minstrel approach! Casting a shy look in Lindir's direction, he hid his hands in the long sleeves. His hands were trembling and he didn't want to show his nervousness. "Good evening, Lindir." Ai, his voice trembled as well! There was no way to hide that he felt uneasy!  

 

Lindir gestured for Melpomaen to start walking and they headed for the gardens. Melpomaen remained stressed and stared at the ground, unable to meet Lindir's gaze just yet. Realizing that it was up to him to break the ice, Lindir said, "I must confess that I made some inquiries about you today."

 

That grabbed Melpomaen's attention! He stopped walking and stared at Lindir in shock. "You did what?"

 

"You did not tell me everything last night," Lindir replied and continued to walk even though Melpomaen remained standing frozen a few steps behind him. "You are not just an Advisor, Melpomaen. You are Elrond's Chief Advisor."

 

Melpomaen blinked as he realized he had fallen behind and caught up with Lindir. "Is that a bad thing?"

 

Lindir stopped walking, turned around, and smiled at Melpomaen. "Nay, not at all. I just wonder why you did not tell me last night."

 

"I told you I am Elrond's Advisor. I did not think I needed to go into detail." Melpomaen's face had become flustered and he nervously shuffled his feet.

 

"There is more to you than meets the eye," Lindir remarked thoughtfully. "I would like to find out more about you. The real you." It was true. During the day, he had made inquiries about Melpomaen and he had liked what he had heard. Melpomaen was regarded as a kind Elf, a bit shy perhaps, but always easily approachable. He listened to everyone who wanted to plead their case and always offered sound advice to Elrond.

 

"You might not like the real me." Melpomaen bowed his head and hid behind his hair. He had let it hang loose on purpose, knowing he might want to hide behind it. "I am shy… I am young and I do not think Elrond should place much trust in my advice. He made a mistake making me his Chief Advisor." And suddenly his doubts kept tumbling from his lips. "I am inexperienced in formal matters. I do not excel at diplomacy as I should and I will let Elrond down. I just know I will. Just look at me standing here, babbling, and unable to properly court you like I would. It is beyond me why you want to spend time with me and all I can think about is running to my rooms because of my embarrassing behavior!" Feeling angry and disappointed with himself Melpomaen tried to step away from Lindir, but the minstrel acted faster and curled his fingers around his wrist like he had done the night before.

 

"I caught you, Melpomaen. Stop running away from me." Lindir didn't know why he had said that. He had wanted to soothe Melpomaen instead and assure him that he was a good Chief Advisor and that Elrond had appointed him for a reason, but instead, different words had come out. "You are young, aye that is true, and that means you still have to experience love, Melpomaen. It is a grand journey you are setting out on." Lindir realized he had said the wrong thing when Melpomaen's eyes widened and tried to free himself of the restraining hold.

 

"Oh…" The sound escaped Melpomaen unintentionally. Lindir knew! The minstrel knew about his interest in him! He had failed at hiding even that from Lindir! Why did that surprise him? He had never managed to hide his feelings! "Is it that obvious?" Lindir refused to let go of him and Melpomaen had no other choice than to stand there and wait for whatever Lindir was going to say to him. The minstrel would probably let him down gently and encourage him to try to his luck elsewhere. Unfortunately, he was utterly in love with Lindir, especially since he now knew about the minstrel's compassionate nature.

 

"Aye, it is rather obvious." Lindir took a step closer to Melpomaen. The Advisor's gaze was still trained on the ground and Melpomaen avoided making eye contact at all cost. "I am flattered that you like me in that way."

 

"But I am too young for you – too awkward and too nervous. I understand." Melpomaen's only wish was that Lindir would finally let go of him. Then he could run inside, fling himself onto his bed, and have a good cry. He had completely embarrassed himself!

 

Lindir drew in a deep breath. "I have handled this conversation wrong." Maybe he wasn't as experienced in these matters as he had thought. Lindir placed a finger beneath Melpomaen's chin and lifted the Advisor's face in the hope to finally make eye contact. But Melpomaen simply closed his eyes instead. "Open them. I can not talk to you in this way."

 

Melpomaen realized he was acting childishly and opened his eyes to finally look at Lindir. He didn't see any smugness in the pale-blue eyes. Instead he saw compassion and a hint of curiosity.

 

"What I am trying to say is that I am flattered to be the object of your affection. It has been a while since someone fell in love with me and I feel a bit awkward having this conversation myself." Lindir moved his fingers until they were caressing Melpomaen's face. "I like the things I heard about you. Your people think highly of you and so does Lord Elrond. I would like to know you better, Melpomaen. I can not promise you that I will fall head over heels in love with you, but I *do* like you. It is a start, do you not agree?" Lindir cocked his head and smiled.

 

Melpomaen forgot to breathe as he listened to Lindir. Had the minstrel really said what he thought Lindir had said? "Are you giving me a chance to court you?" He felt like he was about to burst out in hysterical laughter. He had made an utter fool of himself and had thought he had destroyed the chance he'd had at courting Lindir by behaving like he had, but now it seemed Lindir was still willing to give him that opportunity! "I do not even know how to court you! I have never done such a thing before!" His nervousness was back and becoming worse.

 

"Do not worry about that, Melpomaen. We will find our way together." Lindir smiled affectionately at the younger Elf. Melpomaen wasn't just fair, but also intelligent and compassionate. He would give the young Elf his chance at courting him.

 

~~~

 

Melpomaen buried his face in the pillow, feeling too embarrassed to look his lover in the eye. "I acted like an Elfling around you." He mumbled the words into the pillow and then slowly raised his head so he could look at the lovely vision resting next to him. "I was so very nervous. You seemed unreachable at first. I had already made my peace with never having a chance to win your love and then you said something like that. Your words almost caused my heart to stop beating!"

 

Lindir smiled and rubbed the small of Melpomaen's back. His lover had rolled onto his stomach so he could hide his face from him and the soft curve of buttocks and spine called to him. "I have to touch you," he whispered breathlessly. "It would be a shame not to."

 

Melpomaen turned his head toward his lover and rested it on the pillow. Lindir's long and nimble fingers moved to massage his right buttock. Melpomaen sighed and closed his eyes. Savoring the intimate touch, he smiled. "I never thought I would have you – like this."

 

"You caught me in turn, Melpomaen. How could I possibly have resisted falling in love with you? You are the sweetest Elf Ilúvatar ever created. You even taste sweet!" Lindir leaned in closer, gave Melpomaen a wink, and then wickedly licked along his lover's shoulder blade, knowing the contact would make Melpomaen quiver with love and passion. But it hadn't been like that from the start. Melpomaen had been clumsy when they had kissed that first time.

 

~~~

 

They continued to meet each evening. They either walked in the gardens or sat in the Hall of Fire. Lindir sang and played the lyre and Melpomaen listened. Melpomaen no longer felt like he had to hide in the shadows and had joined the rest of the Imladris' Elves who sat in a circle around the musicians.

 

Melpomaen was giving him another adoring look, causing Lindir to grow a little flustered. During the last few weeks they had opened up to each other and had begun building a relationship based on friendship. Lindir knew Melpomaen was in love with him and the minstrel had to admit to developing similar feelings for Melpomaen.

 

One evening when they were walking in the gardens, Lindir decided the time had come to put the bonds of their new relationship to the test. "Melpomaen?" He drew the Advisor into his arms and held him close. The big, adoring eyes fastened on him and he impulsively kissed the younger Elf, half expecting Melpomaen to be surprised and to pull away, but the younger Elf's reaction was quite the opposite. Melpomaen latched onto the kiss and deepened it. Arms which were stronger than he had thought wrapped themselves around him and Lindir felt like he was about to drown in Melpomaen's passion. /He wants to devour me whole.../ was the only thought Lindir was capable of that very moment. He had obviously underestimated Melpomaen's ardor for him.

 

Melpomaen had to release Lindir's lips because they had both begun to struggle for breath. Wide-eyed, they looked each other in the eye. "I am sorry if I came on too strongly," Melpomaen said.

 

Lindir smiled and shook his head. "You are not sorry, love, nor should you be. You have been trying to tell me how much you love me…and I underestimated your feelings for me. You are hungry, are you not?"

 

"Hungry for you, aye." Melpomaen drew in a deep breath, crushed Lindir to his chest, and deeply inhaled the minstrel's scent. "I am scared," he admitted in a tense voice.

 

"Why are you scared?" Lindir rested his head against Melpomaen's shoulder and smiled. Locks of Melpomaen's hair teased against his face and he playfully blew them out of the way.

 

"I have never done this before. I never had a lover." Melpomaen swallowed convulsively and then sought out Lindir's eyes. "Do you know what to do?"

 

"I do." Lindir caressed Melpomaen's face with his fingertips and soothed his love. He knew how much Melpomaen wanted to take the next step. He had always known. But was he ready to make Melpomaen his own and become his mate? "Once we make love there will be no more turning back. We will be bonded to each other."

 

"I want that," Melpomaen whispered. "I always wanted that – from the first time I laid eyes on you." He quivered with anticipation as Lindir finally addressed the real issue. "Do you love me back, Lindir? Or are you simply pretending? Are you in love with me?" Those were questions they had tiptoed around for some weeks. Normally an Elven courtship would last longer, but Melpomaen was young, eager, and ready to commit to Lindir. Melpomaen probed Lindir's eyes and relaxed when he saw the love reflected back at him. "You do."

 

"I do. You took me by surprise, love. I do not know when it happened, but sometime during these last few weeks, I fell in love with you." Lindir smiled and rubbed his cheek against Melpomaen's. "How can I not love you? You are sweet and kind, Melpomaen. Any Elf would be happy to call you their own." Love seldom happened – real love that was – and Lindir was no fool. He was going to embrace and cherish this. "I want to be your mate for as long as we shall live, my love." The love that stared at him from Melpomaen's eyes made Lindir go weak in the knees. "Right here…right now?"

 

Melpomaen's heart missed a beat. "Under the starlit sky? You want to make love to me out in the open?" That had been his favorite fantasy for weeks now. He had never told Lindir though that he wanted their first time to be in the gardens, their only witness being Ithil and some wandering stars. "I want to give myself to you."

 

Lindir nodded his head once and placed his hands on either side of Melpomaen's head. "And I accept what you are giving me." He then lay Melpomaen down onto the grass and claimed the younger Elf while Ithil's silver rays caressed their naked bodies entwined in delight and fulfillment.

 

~~~

 

"That night was magical," Melpomaen mumbled as he looked at Lindir, who was moving on top of him and deep inside of him. Each time they made love in this way, his thoughts traveled back in time and space to that one night when Lindir had claimed him for the very first time.

 

"This is magical too." Lindir closed his eyes in bliss, buried himself deep inside his lover's body, and then collapsed onto Melpomaen when his orgasm was ripped from him. Making love to Melpomaen was divine and he would never have enough of it. "I love you, imp."

 

Melpomaen strained toward Lindir and caught the rosy lips with his.

 

Ever since their first time in the gardens, they had made love each night and had become well acquainted with each other's bodies. Lindir twirled his tongue around Melpomaen's, knowing quite well it would send his lover off into his own climax.

 

The two Elves clung to each other and then laughed softly. Lindir composed himself first and rested his forehead against Melpomaen's so he could stare into his lover's eyes. "I love you."

 

Melpomaen smiled at his lover and moved his arms up along Lindir's back. He pulled him close and Lindir rested his head against Melpomaen's shoulder. He had come a long way from being a nervous and clumsy Elf to a lover who could sate Lindir's needs. "I love you too, Lindir…"

 

For that one moment, Elrond's odd behavior, and Erestor's mysterious past didn't matter to them. They would find out about Erestor in time, but for now, they only had eyes for each other.

 

The end (for now)