Road to Redemption

Road to Redemption (25-27/50)
Author: Gwaelinn
Beta: BookofNicodemus
Type: FPS
Pairings: Lindir/Maglor
Rating: NC-17/R overall
Warnings: images of violence, Slash (m/m),
Time line: AU (not really connected to the actual timeline of the books)

Disclaimer: All characters and locations are the sole property of Professor Tolkien’s Estate. This is written only for pleasure and not for profit.

Author notes: The little plot bunny popped up while listening to Loreena McKennit’s The Old Ways. Somehow, the song just screamed ‘Maglor’.
**Additional Author’s note: I know that according to canon, Maedhros, Maglor, and the twins were the ones who attacked Elwing’s town. However, I need to take some liberties. In my universe, the twins were killed in the attack on Doriath. Celegorm, Curufin, Caranthir, Maedhros and Maglor survived. The plan to attack the haven at Sirion was Curufin’s. Maglor and Maedhros were reluctant followers. In my little world, Celegrom, Curufin and Caranthir perished during the last attempt to take the gems…leaving Maglor and Maedhros with the stones. I’m also going with the idea that Elrond/Elros were about 6 at the time of the sack. I’ve also made them about 16 when they were left behind the waterfall to be found.

A/N: In my world, Glorfindel and Maedhros did not meet in Aman. Glorfindel was not born in Aman…he got the ‘Light’ when he was reborn there before he returned to Arda. I know this is really off, but I need it to make this story go the way I want it to.


Chapter 25

Later that evening, Glorfindel sat before the hearth mulling over everything Maedhros had said. He could not imagine what the old warrior was feeling right now. He could not conceive of life as anything but that of a warrior. Glorfindel’s heart went out to the other elf. A little voice in the back of his head was chastising himself for his self-doubt. Glorfindel had gone into the healing wing to fulfill a task as quickly and evasively as possible; he left there feeling a kinship to one of the Sons of Feanor. He would do whatever was in his power to see the Noldo content…no, happy.

Ithil was already high in the sky when the seneschal’s musing was interrupted by a soft knock at the door. Setting his wine glass on a side table, he rose to answer the door. He could not hide the surprise at finding a certain silver haired elf standing there.

“Orophin?”

“Good evening my Lord. I hope I did not disturb your rest?”

“No, no, please come in.” Glorfindel stepped aside to allow the younger elf to enter. “Can I get you something? A glass of wine?” Orophin nodded and moved into the room to stand near the fire. “Sit, please.” Glorfindel indicated as he handed Orophin a glass.

The archer took the glass with a nod of thanks. “I just wanted to see how your talk with Lord Maedhros went.” The underline meaning was clear, ‘I was worried about you’.

Glorfindel was touched at the sentiment. Ecthelion would have never been concerned; he would have told the golden elf to 'suck it up'. Now, why did that cross his mind? Looking away from the fire, his sapphire eyes met cornflower-blue. He smiled as he answered, “It went very well.”

“Do you still believe you are to be…um…replaced?" The younger elf asked with compassion.

“No, at least not by Maedhros. Listen, could I get your insight on something...?”

Orophin could not imagine what ‘insight’ he could offer the beautiful elf lord. Still, he nodded his consent.

“If you could no longer be a warrior, what would you be?” Orophin cast a confused look. Glorfindel tried to explain better. “If you were forced to find another trade right now, and being a warrior is all you ever knew…”

“You are not thinking of leaving the ranks…” Glorfindel chuckled at the almost panicked tone.

“No, but can I trust to your discretion?”

“Of course, my Hir nin.” Now the young elf was completely at a loss.

“First, I hate titles; it is just Glorfindel. Next, it is a dilemma that Maedhros faces. He can no longer be a warrior. The Valar set some conditions to his return. Now that he is healing, he is at a loss. I am sure that the Valar had a reason for the limitations, but they could have at least given him some guidance.”

“But they did.” Glorfindel cocked his head, curious. “They placed you as his guide. They knew that you could help him through this.” The two elves smiled at each other before Orophin quickly looked back to the fire. “What about a tactical advisor, or a trainer?”

“No. He cannot have any direct contact with the art of warfare.” The two elves sat in silence for a time, each trying to solve the puzzle. Glorfindel was amazed at the younger elf’s concern and willingness to help. Definitely not something that one would find Ecthelion doing. Actually, Glorfindel would have not felt comfortable voicing these things to the Lord of the Fountain. Ecthelion’s solution would be simple: wine, song, and women (or men) and not necessarily in that order. Yet here was an elf, less that four centuries old seemingly content to sit in companionable silence and mature discussion. The fact that he was very strikingly fair only added to the appeal.

Ithil had begun his descent when the two elves bid each other a quiet goodnight. As they parted, Glorfindel called after the retreating elf. “Would you join me for a walk tomorrow after evening meal?” Orophin retraced a couple of steps until he stood in front of Glorfindel.

“I would enjoy that.” With a shy smile and gentle bow, the young Galadhrim disappeared down the hall.

*******

Turning the corner to his rooms, Orophin was faced with his younger brother being supported by one of the twins. It was obvious that Rumil had enjoyed the Hall of Fire a little too much. Reaching them, he opened the door and helped the twin drag the stumbling elf to his bed. They dropped him rather unceremoniously onto the bed. As Orophin lifted Rumil's legs onto the bed and removed the boots, he noticed the twin, now clearly recognizable as Elladan, grab a quilt from the wardrobe and carefully covered the now-passed out elf.

“I am sorry Prince Elladan. I fear he never knows when to quit until it is too late.”

Elladan gave the young elf sleeping on the bed a doting smile. “That is alright. He will certainly live to regret it come morning, I am sure.” The two elder elves slipped from the room, closing the door behind them. Coming into the common room, Elladan stopped and turned to Orophin. “It may be none of my business, but does he drink himself into oblivion often?”

“No, usually only if he is interested in someone. He fears rejection, so he hides behind the spirits. That way, if things do not work out, he can blame his advances on the wine. Not the most mature way to handle things, but the truth is he is shyer than I am. He just hides it behind his frivolous behavior.”

“Are you telling me that he got drunk because he fancies someone?”

“Yes.”

“Do you know who he is interested in?”

“No.” Orophin cast the dark haired elf an inquisitive look. “Why?”

“Oh no reason. I was just curious. Good night, Orophin.” Elladan left the silver-haired elf to think about his evening, his drunken brother’s love interest, and where his ever-responsible older brother was. Haldir should have been dragging Rumil from the hall cursing his childish behavior. His thoughts quickly returned to his evening and the promise of an evening walk with one of the most sought-after elves in all Arda. He knew the warrior was out of his league, but he could not help himself. He really enjoyed Glorfindel’s company, and certainly not because of his *hero* status or his handsome physique.


CHAPTER 26

Lindir woke to an empty bed. With worried eyes, he looked around his room, lit with a pre-dawn glow. He quickly spotted his lover sitting in a chair, staring at the embers in the fireplace. Moving quietly, Lindir came to stand next to the ebony haired elf. Gently caressing the soft mane, the minstrel inquired quietly, “What is it meldir? It is cold in bed without you.”



Maglor smiled and grasped Lindir’s hand, pulling the startled elf into his lap. Once Lindir was situated on his lover’s lap, legs hanging over the arms of the chair, the Noldo captured the minstrel’s soft lips in a gentle kiss. Lindir moaned at the sensations awakening in his body. Reluctantly, he pulled away and looked into Maglor’s eyes.


“You have not told me what troubles you.”


Hugging the elf in his arms close, Maglor sighed. “I am worried about Maedhros. It has been nearly three weeks; his wounds are healing, but he seems hesitant to leave the healing wing.”


“It is natural. Lord Glorfindel said it took him many weeks to reconcile that he was in fact re-made. I know that he has been visiting with your brother. He will make sure that Maedhros adjusts.” Lindir planted a kiss on the older elf’s temple and whispered seductively, “Come back to bed and let me make you forget about the outside world. It will still be there when I am through with you.”


Maglor took in the lust filled gaze of his young lover, and in one swift motion lifted the small elf and headed back to the bed. Dropping Lindir unceremoniously onto the bed, Maglor quickly straddled Lindir’s hips and placed a hand on either side of the minstrel’s head. Leaning forward, he placed a gentle kiss on first one cheek and then the other before claiming the luscious mouth, which opened for him hungrily. The lovers’ body began to move and rock together. Moans and gasps came with increasing speed. Maglor had abandoned Lindir’s lips to trail kisses and nips down the shapely neck. Glancing up briefly, the dark-haired elf ducked down to tease a hardened nipple. Lindir arched off the bed, trying to get as close as possible to the wet warmth. With a chuckle, Maglor gave the same attention to the other rosy peak before licking his way down the flat abdomen, dipping his tongue into the minstrel’s quivering navel. Lindir had a grip on the bedding to the point of nearly tearing it as he writhed below his exquisite lover. Without hesitation, Maglor swallowed Lindir’s rigid shaft and began sucking on it in earnest.

“Aye, what…what you do…OHH…Elbereth, yes!” Lindir could not form a complete thought as he felt his body head towards climax. Just when he thought he could not be stimulated any further, a slim finger pushed past his guardian muscle. The minstrel bucked and groaned, earning him another chuckle from Maglor.


“You like that, do you?”


“Mmm, oh yes,” came the breathless reply.


“And what about now...?” The Noldo slid another finger into the warm channel.
“Ahhh!!” As the silver-haired elf felt his climax approach, he let out a moan of disappointment when the fullness left him. A gasp followed when Maglor slid up the trembling thighs and wrapped them around his waist. Maglor braced himself on his hands as he thrust home. A moan of divine pleasure was ripped from kiss-swollen lips. Dancing to a rhythm as old as time, two bodies moved to reach climax together. The lovers lay embraced as they rode out the waves of ecstasy. Lindir held Maglor close as the other elf rolled off and out of him. Sated, the two drifted back to sleep.


*****
Maedhros finished his breakfast as Elrond came to check on him. Carefully removing the bandages, the healer gently probed the newly-grown flesh.


“The burns have all healed over. I have a balm for you to use that will help with the healing and keep scars from forming. I think you can move out of the healing wing tomorrow. A suite of rooms is ready for you and once you get settled, we will feast!” The elf lord’s eyes misted as he whispered, “I never thought to see you again.” He caressed Maedhros’ face. The older elf closed his eyes in response.


Opening his eyes, he smirked up at his foster son. “So, tell me, what is there between you and your dark advisor?” Elrond blushed at that. “Ah ha! So there is something. I knew it. You two look good together. It has been a long time since your lady left. I am glad to see you found…”


“Maedhros….Maedh…ADAR!” Maedhros stopped in mid-ramble staring with wide eyes. Elrond smiled. “There is nothing between us except a deep friendship. My heart belongs to another.”


“Just friends you say?” Maedhros had an odd look on his face at this revelation. Elrond eyed the warrior. If he did not know better, he would swear that he saw relief in the cinnamon eyes.

‘That is good to know. But really, get a hold of yourself,’ Maedhros thought, ‘a young, beautiful elf would hardly want an old, battle-worn kinslayer.’ Elrond saw the sadness creep into the expressive eyes. Aloud Maedhros simply said, “I am feeling a bit tired, Elrond. I think I will take a rest.”


Elrond kissed the warrior on the forehead before he left. Something about the conversation tugged at him. Did he see interest in the older elf’s eyes? As a boy, Elrond never saw the mahogany-haired elf in the company of another…intimately that is. Well, he had a letter to respond to, his musings would have to wait.


*******


A knock at the door woke the sleeping warrior. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, marveling that he now had two hands again, he propping himself up, he called for the person to enter. A young elleth came with a lunch tray. He thanked her and she left in a flustered state, blushing. The re-born warrior chuckled as he ate. Setting the empty tray aside, he stared out the window, his thoughts drifting to his dilemma…what to do with himself now. Another knock interrupted him.

“Come.” He called out with a sigh. Maedhros knew it was not Glorfindel, for the captain had training sessions this afternoon. He did not really care for company right now, especially his brother’s. Maglor fussed over him far too much. His lack of enthusiasm changed once the door opened. The Valley’s chief advisor stood in the doorway with something tucked under his arm. Maedhros waved the elf in.


“I hope I am not disturbing you,” The younger elf inquired quietly.


“No, not at all.” Maedhros’ smile lit the room. “To what do I owe this pleasure?”

“Um, well I thought you might be getting a bit bored; I thought you might like to play a game of chess…if you play.” There was a refreshing air about the raven-haired elf. He did not have that ‘ooo, ahh, let us stare at the re-born elf' look in his eyes as most others did. The younger elf seemed to want to play chess with just 'another' elf.


“You will need to be patient with me,” the warrior began, “It has been a *few* years since I last played.” The smile Erestor gifted him with was the most radiant thing Maedhros had ever seen.


The advisor cleared off the nightstand and moved it so the Noldo could reach the board comfortably. Placing one pawn of each color in a hand, he shuffled the pieces behind his back.


“Pick one,” he said, holding out his closed fists. Maedhros reached out and tapped Erestor’s left hand. A wave of warmth flowed through him with the innocent touch. Erestor opened his hand and revealed the white pawn.


Setting up the board accordingly, Erestor looked at the handsome elf. “You start, my lord.”
Making eye contact, the older elf moved his pawn and replied, “Maedhros please, I am not one for titles; never was.”


The raven-haired elf nodded and made his move. Maedhros was surprised that the game lasted as long as it did as he kept finding himself looking at his opponent. He noticed the ebony hair had a blue-black sheen to it when the sun hit it. As the advisor was contemplating a strategic move, his dark eyes narrowed and the most enticing smirk followed as he made his move. It was just such an expression that held the older elf captivated when he heard, “Check mate." Looking at the board, Maedhros lay his king down.


“Well done. Thank you for the game, I enjoyed it.”


Erestor blushed. “Thank you. You play very well.”


Maedhros became lost in the dark eyes and hoped to never be found. Shaking himself back to reality he began, “I would wonder if you could honor me with a chance to redeem myself, but I am certain you have work to do. Thank you for the little diversion. Perhaps you could return sometime?” He asked.


Erestor did have some matters to finish this afternoon but his evening was free (as usual). “I do have some trade deals to review for tomorrow, but I would love to come again, perhaps after the evening meal?"
Maedhros smiled. “I will be waiting.”


Leaving the board, the young advisor took one last look at the bare-chested warrior and hurried from the room before a blush could set in. He had been so intent on the game that he did not notice the well muscled chest and abdomen that were visible for the duration of the game. ‘Probably a good thing, though,’ he thought, ‘I would never have been able to play and would have only made a fool of myself. Stick to those of your station, Erestor…he is a prince, for Manwe’s sake,’ Erestor berated himself as he entered his office.

Chapter 27

Glorfindel finished his training session. The Lorien archers were proving their worth with the sword. The warrior had just enough time to wash up before supper. He was looking forward to speaking with Orophin again. For a youngling, the elf was extremely level-headed. When he had explained Maedhros’ problem, the silver-haired elf spent nearly a whole night looking at possible solutions. Glorfindel sighed. As of yet they had thought of nothing. Namo had to know the answer, but he was not likely to tell. This evening, he would ask Orophin to join him when he went to talk to the Noldo. It would give Maedhros a chance to meet someone new. Finally feeling presentable, the elf lord headed to the dining hall.

When he arrives, he found the twins and Haldir hassling Rumil about something. That young elf had a real lively streak in him; he was energetic, loved to drink and gamble and could out shoot every archer, the golden lord included, in Imladris. Despite his immature behavior off the field, Rumil more than made up for it in discipline on the field. Glorfindel noticed the changed seating arrangements and wondered. Maglor sat in Celebrian’s seat (the children did not seem to mind) next to Lindir followedby Haldir. It seemed that Elrohir and Rumil had traded places. Elladan now sat next to Rumil and Orophin found himself seated in Elladan’s usual spot next to Glorfindel. The ancient warrior did not mind the arrangement, but he did wonder about the reason…somehow the twins were looking decidedly guilty. Greeting the table and eyeing the twins, he took his seat. A few minutes latter, the Lord of the Valley appeared and the meal began. It was a relaxing affair; he, Elrond and Orophin had a wonderful discussion about the advantages of various bows. Haldir and Elrohir were in deep in discussion about healing plants and Elladan and Rumil were in a tense debate about…ale? The warrior shook his head. It was then that he noticed someone missing.


“Elrond, where is Erestor? He did not lose track of time again, did he?”


Elrond swallowed his bite before answering. “I saw him carrying a tray earlier. He said he was anxious to finish going over the trade agreements.” Glorfindel nodded.


With the meal over, most headed to the Hall of Fire for merry-making. Touching Orophin lightly on the arm, the golden lord asked the young elf to join him when speaking to Maedhros. Orophin agreed and the two headed out the other door.


Eying the pair, the younger twin asked, “Does you brother not like to relax? He has been to the hall for no more than an hour since he got here.”


Rumil laughed, “Orophin prefers books to fun.”


“I don't know, looks to me like he prefers tall golden-haired warriors to your company,” Elladan replied with a smile. The group laughed. Haldir however had a concerned look in his eye.
Slowing down a bit, Elrohir leaned a bit closer to the Lorien captain. “Is something wrong, Haldir?”

“Um, no nothing.” Haldir glanced behind them.

“Is this about your brother?” Haldir just stared. This dark-haired elf walking next to him was only a few years older that Rumil, however, he was extremely intuitive. “You know, you can talk to me. I will keep quiet.” Elrohir looked up at the archer with compassionate eyes. Haldir was an intense elf that took looking after his brothers seriously.

Seeing Elladan and Rumil farther down the hall, Haldir decided to speak. “It is Lord Glorfindel. I think Orophin fancies him.”

“Glorfindel is an honorable elf. Why does it bother you?”

“When Orophin pursues a relationship, he does so with his whole heart. I have seen it broken to many times by those who bed him for his looks or to gain favor with me, or the Lady. I have tried to subtly tell him that Lord Glorfindel would not bother with a simple archer. He could have the king of Mirkwood if he so desired. Stars above, he was Ecthelion’s lover. I have read accounts of their merry-making; love like that does not end with death. Rumil was correct when he said that Orophin prefers books.” Haldir finally stopped, giving Elrohir an opportunity to speak up.

“You do not really know Glorfindel. He could care less about station in life; respect is earned, not an expectation of birth. I have not seen him with anyone, romantically, in decades. That is because he suffers the same fate as you brother… they wish to bed the mighty Balrog Slayer, the re-born warrior. They are developing a friendship, do not worry about it till it becomes an issue.”

Haldir was impressed. “Are you always this insightful?” He asked.

Elrohir looked down and chuckled. “No, not really. You just seemed troubled, and I wanted to ease that for you.”

“Thank you.” Came the sincere response. Holding the door to the Hall of Fire, they entered and looked for their brothers.

******

Maedhros was so wrapped up in thoughts involving a certain dark-haired beauty that he did not hear the knock on the door. He looked back from the window when he heard his name.

“Maedhros, good evening, may I come in?”

“Of course, Captain.”

“I have a friend with me who might be able to help.” Entering the room with a hesitant Orophin in tow, “This is Orophin, a guardian from Lothlorien.” The younger elf bowed to the Noldorian Prince.

“It is an honor.”

“The honor is mine. Thank you for offering your help. I am afraid Glorfindel and I have worn out our old brains looking for a solution.”

“Hey, you are older…quite older…than I, I might add.” The Balrog Slayer bantered. Orophin pulled up another chair and the three began rehashing Maedhros’ dilemma.

After about an hour, Maedhros dropped his head back onto the headboard. “I give up! That Vala is out of his omnipotent mind.” Orophin shook his head in defeat and Glorfindel rubbed a hand over his face.

“What are we not seeing?” He asked exasperated. Their defeat was interrupted by a knock.

“Come!” The reclining elf called out with a sigh, never moving his head from the headboard. He was looking at the ceiling in hope that the answer could be found there.

“I am sorry, I did not know you had company. I will return another time.” Erestor hoped that the twinge of sadness he felt was not present in his voice. However, before he could turn back through the door Glorfindel stopped him.

“Wait!” The elf turned from the door to look at his friend. “We need your brain.” Erestor gave Glorfindel an incredulous look and sighed. That is until he saw Maedhros’ tired eyes look at him with something akin to desperate hope. Making his way into the room, the dark elf waited for the situation to present itself.

“Come sit down. Why I did not think of this sooner is beyond me.” Glorfindel patted the foot of Maedhros’ bed. As the advisor got himself comfortable, leaning against the footboard, Glorfindel continued with his rambling. “We are warriors. It is all we have ever known.”


"In other words, we could not look beyond that way of life.” Orophin interjected. Glorfindel beamed at the quick-thinking elf next to him. For a brief moment, they locked eyes and became oblivious to all else. Erestor quietly cleared his throat.


Glorfindel look a bit sheepish but continued, “Erestor is not a warrior; he can see beyond that way of life. Furthermore, I cannot think of an elf with broader knowledge.” Erestor found the fuzz on the blanket very interesting at this point. He was always uncomfortable with attention.

Maedhros looked at the young elf sitting on the end of his bed. He could not get over the beauty this one elf had; his stomach did a little flip.

“Will you help me?” beseeched the warrior. Erestor looked into deep cinnamon eyes and knew he was lost. He would challenge a Balrog if this remarkable elf asked it. Erestor gave a slight nod.

“Perfect!” said an excited Glorfindel. “The problem is that Maedhros cannot be a warrior and we cannot figure out what he could do instead.”

Erestor looked puzzled. “Namo put conditions on my return to Arda. I can not be a warrior or train solders or even work in the capacity of a strategic advisor.” The great elf said with a dejected tone. Now he stared at the blanket in defeat. What would a beautiful, young, highly intelligent elf want with an old has-been who does not even know what to do with his new life?

“You will need to be a bit more specific.” Maedhros looked up. “I need to know exactly what Namo told you…word for word, if you can recall it.”

Maedhros smiled a little and began relating his restrictions. “I am not permitted to use a sword or arrow or any weapon with a point or cutting edge.” Erestor nodded understanding. The former warrior continued, “I can not be directly involved with the planning of a battle…even against the Darkness.” He stopped here. There was no need to go over the love thing, as it was not relevant.

Erestor tilted his head to the side in thought. Maedhros was reminded of the expression Erestor used while playing chess. “Well, I have a thought; however, I want to make sure I understand correctly. Namo said you could not *use* a sword or such. Did he say you could not handle them at all?”

“No, he did not use those words.”

“Alright. You cannot be a trainer because that directly involves preparing for battle. You can not be an advisor to Glorfindel or Elrond…at least not for tactical situations.” All three warriors were waiting for the councilor to get to his conclusion.


After what seemed like hours, Erestor looked up with a smile. “The smithy.” He was rewarded with three blank stares. With a sigh, he began to explain. “I assume you would prefer a more physical trade. You have extensive knowledge about weaponry. Making a sword is completely different than using one. Furthermore, there are other items that can be made that have absolutely nothing to do with warfare.”

The smile started slow and quickly grew as the red-haired elf grasped the concept. This young elf is absolutely brilliant!

“I do not know,” Glorfindel was hesitant. He knew that to break an agreement with Namo had the most unpleasant results. “He would still be making items, which are used in battle.”

“But that is not their sole purpose; they are used in hunting, and it is the owner of the sword that carries it into battle. The same applies to arrows and knives, which also have practical uses. In addition, even if I cannot make them, Erestor is right. There are other things that are made at the smithy.” Erestor’s heart raced as he heard the hope and excitement in the other elf’s voice. “Of course,” Maedhros continued, “the question remains: is there a position available?”

Ignoring the other two elves in the room, the two on the bed conversed. “Actually, there might be. I am a friend of the elf who runs the forge. One of his smiths was married and moved to Lorien. He has been desperately looking for skilled help. I will introduce you if you would like.”

“I would be in your debt, Erestor. If you friend is willing to give me a chance, I promise neither of you will be disappointed.”

TBC