Road to Redemption

Redemption (28-30/50)
Author: Gwaelinn
Beta: BookofNicodemus
Type: FPS
Pairings: Lindir/Maglor Erestor/Maedhros Glorfindel/Orophin and a few odds and ends.
Rating: NC-17-R overall
Warnings: self pleasuring, 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.
****

Chapter 28

As Maedhros and Erestor discussed the details surrounding the smithy job, the two blond elves excused themselves.

Glorfindel smirked. “I think the dear advisor is smitten.”

Orophin laughed and Glorfindel thought it was the sweetest sound he had ever heard. It was so unlike Ecthelion’s boisterous outbursts…now what was all this comparing about? Glorfindel found himself constantly comparing his former lover to the enchanting elf next to him. The warrior let out a small sigh.

Orophin turned to look at Glorfindel and wondered about the thoughtful expression on the older elf’s face. The sigh that the Vanya let out hinted at an internal imbalance. The young archer went out on a limb.

“Is something troubling you, Glorfindel? Does it bother you that Counselor Erestor has taken a liking to Maedhros?”

“No, nothing like that.” If Glorfindel had not been staring off into the distance, he might have seen the relief that flitted in Orophin’s eyes. The warrior continued, “It is just…well…I just find myself…Oh never mind. I am sorry, it really is nothing; just an old elf’s musings.”

“You know that you can trust me, right. If something bothers you, I will gladly help.”

“You really want to help?” The archer nodded enthusiastically. “Then would you take a walk with me? I had planned to head towards the river for some peace, but I find myself not wanting to be alone with myself. That is of course, if you have no other plans.” He gave a sheepish grin.

“I can think of nothing I would enjoy more.” ‘Except maybe kissing your tempting lips,’ a little voice whispered. Glorfindel wondered about the light flush that came over the younger elf’s cheeks. Another thing that he never saw Ecthelion do, blush.

The two walked in silence for a time before the silver haired elf spoke, “You are miles away again,” he scolded, while trying to maintain a firm expression.

Glorfindel chuckled, “More like ages away.”

“You were thinking of Gondolin, were you not?”

The tall warrior nodded, looking up at the star-filled night, and answered. “Things are so different this time around. Who I have become, what I look for in life, in companions.”

Having reached the riverbank, Orophin stopped and sat on the cool grass, stretching his long legs out. He hoped that the golden warrior would do the same. Glorfindel unceremoniously dropped to the ground, wrapping his arms around his bent knees. “I find myself comparing then to now, comparing elves.”

“You must miss it, him I mean.” The words were little more than a whisper. Glorfindel took in the sight of the young elf sitting next to him. Silver hair hung down, shielding the chiseled face. Still, it was clear that the elf next to him sat in a dejected sort of position and Glorfindel wondered why.

“Yes, I miss it at times; but I must admit, I am happier here. I am no Lord of a house here, I am just another elf…” Orophin cocked his head and raised an eyebrow. “Okay, not quite just another elf. Still, I am not responsible for the politics of the house. That honor,” he snorted, “belongs to Elrond and Erestor.”

“You must miss Ecthelion, though. It must be hard to see another elf returned to Arda instead of the love of your life.”

“He was…is not the love of my life.” It came out a bit harsher than intended.

Orophin was taken aback for a moment. “ I am sorry. I did not mean…”

Glorfindel interrupted the apology. “Please, you did nothing. Yes, it bothers me, but not for the reason you think.” Without looking at his companion, the captain continued, “My relationship with Ecthelion was not as the bards make it sound. I was young and infatuated with him. He was strong, well liked, outgoing, and handsome. When he helped me through my father’s passing, I wanted to be just like him. When we became lovers, I wanted to be his everything. Unfortunately, it is not in my nature to be like him and looking back at it now, I certainly was not his everything.” Finally looking over at Orophin, the warrior continued his confession. “Do you realize that he never would have asked if something bothered me like you have…twice? He would have told me I was over-reacting and to live it up a little. He never took a walk with me, unless it was to the nearest tavern. Books, learning, intellect were foreign to him. I was just too naive to realize that the relationship was very one-sided. When Namo said that Ecthelion chose to not return to me…”

Orophin’s head snapped around and he gripped the other elf’s bicep. “Are you saying he could have come back and he did not?” This thought sickened the young warrior. How could Ecthelion just walk away?

“It seems he found his ‘soul-mate’ in Mandos and chose to return to Valinor.”

“I am so sorry, Glorfindel. And I mean no disrespect to Lord Ecthelion, but he is a fool. He must have been a blind idiot to not see what you offered him.” The Silvan elf’s eyes went wide when he realized what he had said. “Oh Glorfindel, I am sorry, I should not…” He could not continue because as he turned to apologize he found his mouth otherwise occupied.

Soft warm lips captured his is a sweet kiss. Glorfindel slid a hand up the young elf’s neck to tangle in silver silk. He nibbled and nipped at the other’s lips and pulled away only when air became a necessity. Caressing Orophin’s cheek with his thumb the ancient elf looked into astonished eyes. “I am not sorry he chose not to return,” he whispered. Orophin watched with amazement as the lips that had been haunting his dreams reached again for his. He could not stop the moan that escaped, allowing Glorfindel to deepen the kiss. A tentative tongue sought entrance. Its counterpart gently greeted it.

As Orophin wrapped his arms around Glorfindel’s strong shoulders, he lost the support that had been keeping him in a sitting position. The golden warrior braced his arm to insure that Orophin did not fall back. Instead, the young elf found himself being gently laid back so that Glorfindel’s body lay next to him when the warrior pulled away.

“Orophin,” was all the golden warrior could whisper before delving into the willing mouth again. Using the sliver haired elf’s firm hold on him, Glorfindel rolled over, pulling Orophin onto him. He kept one hand tangled in the soft hair while his other roamed the archer’s strong back.

Breaking the kiss, Glorfindel look deeply into Orophin’s eyes. “Ecthelion never made me feel like I feel right now, with you. I have not had or desired another’s company in decades, not until the night we first spoke." All the silver-haired elf could do was lose himself in the rich sapphire eyes.


Chapter 29

The two elves on the bed were so wrapped up in ‘smithy’ plans, they did not notice the other two exit.

“Erestor, I am in your debt. I cannot believe that I could not think of that. My father was a smith for Manwe’s sake!”

Erestor flushed and continued to stare at his hands, picking at non-existent lint on the bedspread. “I am just glad to have helped and that you will be staying here.” He flushed when he realized what he had given away. “I mean, Lord Elrond will be happy that you will be staying; so will your brother.”

Eyeing the younger elf, Maedhros took a chance. “Are they the only ones who will be happy if I stay in Imladris?”

Erestor peeked at the former warrior through his dark lashes before whispering his reply, “No.”

A silence settled over them. Taking pity on the flustered advisor, Maedhros changed the subject. “We had planned to play chess tonight. If it is not too late for you, I would really enjoy a game. Perhaps we could send for some beverages.”

“It is not too late, but I would not want to keep you from your rest. Elrond would be most displeased.” Despite his words, the raven-haired elf headed to the door to ask for tea and then began to set up the chessboard.

********

Haldir was relaxing in the Hall of Fire, keeping an eye on his little brother who was engaged in a card game. He knew that Rumil was an adult, but the free-spirited elf was still young and…well…free-spirited. He debated whether to tell the Imladrian guards that Rumil knew every trick in the book and was the world’s greatest bluffer. He decided against it when he noticed a presence behind him. Looking over his shoulder, he looked up into the platinum eyes of the younger twin.

“May I join you?”

“Of course, but are you not going to join the game?” Haldir asked, motioning to the group in the far corner.

“Elladan’s the card player, I just lose my week's earnings. Anyways, it is far more fun to watch. Notice, Elladan will nurse his drink, letting the others imbibe. It is much easier to win when everyone else cannot see straight.”

Haldir laughed. “Rumil is in trouble, then. He is good but he has already had several drinks. I fear he will be over here asking for a loan soon. Elladan just won another hand.”

“No, Elladan will take a marker, or make another wager…you know, you may want to give your brother a loan, now. I have been on the receiving end of some of Elladan’s wagers.”

“I will have to ask him about that.” Haldir smirked. He cast a sidelong glance at the dark haired elf sitting next to him.

“Do not dare!” Elrohir had the most charming blush, the Lorien captain mused. He had a feeling that it would be a very entertaining evening.

*****

“Checkmate,” Maedhros said triumphantly. They had already played two games and the reborn elf had lost both. He began to fear that Erestor would grow bored with his lack of skill and no longer wish to play.

“You played that well. I never even saw that opportunity,” Erestor conceded. “I will have to be more careful.”

“Does that mean we will play again?”

“Certainly. I enjoy it very much.” Erestor paused before continuing, “I understand that Elrond will *finally* let you leave the healing wing and move into your new quarters tomorrow.”

“The healers here are wonderful and I have enjoyed my visitors,” the true meaning did not escape the quick advisor, “but I am looking forward to leaving.”

“Well, who says that your visitors will not come by you new rooms?”

“I hope they will. I really enjoy your company.”

Again, the younger elf got flustered. “It is late and if you do not get rest, you will find yourself stuck in this room indefinitely.” Erestor put away the board and set the teacups back on the try. “Good night, my lord.” He gave a soft smile and a gentle nod.

“It would be a better night if you were to call me by my given name, Councilor.”

Erestor stopped at the door and turned to the elf in the bed. He almost lost all ability to think when Maedhros adjusted the covers and showed a rippled abdomen and muscular leg. The young elf had a hard time not imagining what lay between the two areas. “G-Good night, Maedhros,” he stammered as he darted out the door. He had to flee; even in his robes, he was certain that his erection was obvious. Safely reaching his rooms, he dropped his outer robe on a chair in his sitting room as he moved to the bedroom and flopped on the bed. Staring at the ceiling, he let his imagination go.

The son of Feanor was big and strong like Glorfindel, although, the golden warrior never caused a reaction like this. Erestor was not a large elf. He stood only about 5 foot 10 and had a lithe build. He began to think about being enfolded in the strong arms, feeling the powerful body press against him. His hand stole down his body and slid into his leggings of its own device. Erestor gasped at the sensations pulsing through his body as he began to stroke himself. Groaning at the restricting clothing, Erestor’s other hand moved to unlace his legging, giving him more room to stroke the throbbing flesh. His eyes were black with desire as he thought of another elf’s strong hand rubbing him, teasing him. He began to pant as the pleasure escalated. Opening up his legs, he ran his free hand up his chest, sliding under his shirt. The writhing elf closed his eyes, moaned, and gasped as he climaxed, calling Maedhros’ name. Laying in the aftermath, riding out the quivers, Erestor lay boneless on his bed. He fell into an erotic reverie without cleaning up, changing, or even removing his hand from his leggings.

That night he dreamed like an elf just discovering his body. His hand again began to stroke him as his mind played out fantasies that would make a Gondorian soldier blush. He had no idea how many wet dreams he had; only that he woke just before dawn, extremely sticky; his heart was still racing. How was he ever to look the cinnamon-eyed elf without blushing? He blushed just thinking about it…he got hard again, too.

****

Maedhros had lived far too long to miss the look Erestor gave him before leaving. He knew what he was doing when he ‘adjusted’ his bedding. He was grateful that the young elf left, as he felt the heat rise in his groin. He wondered if his companion was aware that he was naked beneath the covers. Come to think of it, he wondered if he noticed the rise in the bedding, just below his navel. That thought caused the anatomy in question to twitch. He groaned. All he wanted to do right now was kiss Erestor’s luscious lips, and feel that delectable mouth roam his body. Suddenly, it was no longer just a heat, or twitch; Maedhros found himself painfully hard. He tried to ignore it. He thought about working in the forge, only to think about the elf that came up with the solution. He thought about his brother and the happiness he found; now he wondered if he could have that kind of happiness with Elrond’s chief councilor. Finally giving up to the feeling, the Noldo wrapped his had around his shaft, a few quick strokes and a vivid mental image and he arched off the bed with Erestor’s name escaping his mouth.

******

Most players had retired; most had lost all their coin to a very sober Noldo. Rumil remained however, determined to regain what he lost…even if it did seem like the cards were a little fuzzy.

“Do not bother your brother.,” Elladan said as he upped the bid, beyond what Rumil had in front of him. “I take markers or perhaps a non-monetary wager?” Rumil was attempting to stand so he could ask Haldir for some money.

Rumil raised an eyebrow and smirked. “What did you have in mind?” He dropped back into his chair.

“Nothing dangerous…well, nothing life threatening anyway.”
**************
Chapter 30
**A special ‘Thanks’ to Vesta for getting me past my little block (hope ya don’t mind a bit of comedy!)*****

Rumil eyed the Noldo across from him suspiciously; there was something in those steely eyes. After a few moments, he answered. “All right, I agree to the wager.”

Elladan laughed, “Do you not want to know what it is first? I could be making you eat orc meat!”

The younger elf smirked, “As long as it is ‘blackened’. Anyway, I trust you.”

“Oh, that hurts. Now I’ll have to think of something else.”

Elrohir and Haldir watched in amusement. They could hear the ongoing conversation as the din in the hall had long ago stopped. Both could be seen rolling their eyes.

“Well, since you trust me, I will go easy on you. If you loose this hand, you must accompany me on a hunt.”

The silver-haired elf looked at Elladan incredulously. “A hunt?”

“Yes, just a hunt.”

“Agreed.” Rumil played out the hand as best he could. While he really needed to win back some of what he lost, the prospect of going hunting, especially with Elladan, certainly had its appeal. All too soon, Rumil noticed the lop-sided grin gracing Elladan’s face; the game was over. Rumil dropped his head to his forearms where they rested on the table. “I guess I should prepare for a hunt,” he said, as he glanced at the winning hand.

Elladan reached over and patted the young elf’s shoulder. “Do not worry; I said it would not be life-threatening. I just have to find a missing horse.”

“A horse? I always thought they would be rather tough, but the cooks here are remarkable.”

Elrohir chuckled as he and Haldir approached the table.

“Well, little brother, how bad is it this time?”

“I did not come and ask you for money did I?”

“No,” Haldir said dramatically, “You just agreed to go horse hunting.”

The small group laughed. Elrohir asked a remaining servant for a round of drinks as he and the Lorien captain sat down. Eying his brother, the younger elf spoke.

“You are to hunt that horse alone, since you alone *forgot* to lock the corral. I do not think Glorfindel will be happy with this.”

The young Silvan’s eyes went wide. “This is a punishment from Lord Glorfindel?” He groaned. “I really do not want to get on his bad side. Please, Elladan. I will do anything else…just please do not make me cross the Captain.”

The older twin cast a heated look at his brother before explaining the situation. “Yes, I was responsible for the horse getting out and yes, Glorfindel did order me to find it. Yes, it is true that ‘Ro cannot help me…,” he winked at the silver-haired elf, “but he never said I had to go it alone. Think about it, it really would not be safe to go wandering around the valley all alone.”

Rumil’s outlook improved and with a gleeful smile he replied, “Anyway, with Glorfindel chasing after our dear brother, he will never notice I went with you.”

Haldir smacked the youngest brother one the shoulder quite hard. “Stop it!” He said through gritted teeth. While he too thought Orophin set his sights a bit high, he was not about to let the elf be embarrassed in front of the twins, or anyone else for that matter. Rumil looked at his brother and quickly muttered an apology, looking quite contrite.

The twins watched the interplay, each admiring a different quality. Ellladan really enjoyed Rumil’s light-heartedness and adventurous disposition. Somehow the worries of the world seemed lighter with the young elf around. On the other hand, Elohir was impressed with Haldir’s sense of honor and family loyalty. There was never any doubt that he cared for his siblings, but he often seemed to be tougher on them than the other guardians. Yet, at this moment, it was clear that the Captain was not always *the captain*. The youngest son of Elrond hoped to spend more time with the often-stoic elf.

*****

The morning sun peaked over the mountain and flooded the courtyard with gentle warmth. A small group of elves was gathered, saying brief goodbyes.

“Be careful, alright? Do not let anything happen to Rumil.” Elladan rolled his eyes at his twin. Elrohir was such a worrywart.

“We are looking for a horse, not an orc pack. What could possibly go wrong?” Rumil piped in.

Elrohir sighed, if Rumil only knew.

“Do not embarrass yourself. Remember who you ride with.” Rumil looked down at his brother from the saddle, ready to make an off-handed comment when he saw the sincerity in Haldir’s eyes. The older elf did care. Haldir could see the interest in his brother’s eyes and he only wanted to be sure Rumil would not get hurt…and he did not mean physically. It was a well-known fact that Rumil plowed through things headfirst, often falling victim to his own naiveté.

“I will behave,” came Rumil’s cheeky reply. With that, the two elves departed. Haldir sighed. Before Elrohir could ask him what troubled the older elf, a young page came running toward them.

“Lord Elrohir! Lord Elrohir!” The page came to a skidding halt before the scowling elf. The younger twin hated being addressed by his title. It only served to set him apart from everyone else, something he really did not want to see happen at the moment. He did not want Haldir to start treating him differently. He enjoyed the older elf’s company.

“What is it?” He hoped he was able to mask his irritation.

“Your father would like to see you in his office. He said you were to come quickly.”

Flashing a worried look at Haldir, Elrohir quickly strode up the steps and towards his father’s office, Haldir following in his wake.

Reaching the closed door, Elrohir knocked softly.

“Enter.”

Elrohir entered the office, leaving the door ajar. Haldir hung back in the hall. He was not sent for and did not want to intrude. He did, however, want to be available if needed.

“Ah, son.” The elf lord said affectionately. “I understand that your brother has left to find a way-ward horse.”

“Yes sir.”

“I understand that you were not to help him out this time, but I hope he did not go off alone.”

“No sir. Rumil went with him.” Elrond’s eyebrow rose slightly, but he really had no time to inquire about that development.

“Son, as you know, a delegation from Mirkwood is due to arrive.” Elrohir nodded. “I must ask you then to greet them at the border, Glorfindel can go as your escort.”

“With due respect, sir. Glorfindel is supposed to be helping Maedhros settle in and get acclimated. I will not be traveling outside our boarders and will be within shouting distance on a guard post at nearly every time. I am sure I can handle this alone.”

Elrond smiled at his youngest. Elrohir was not as battle-hearty as his brother. The younger twin was the diplomat, the healer, and in some respects, the follower. Perhaps it is for the best that his brother is not able to go with him. “I do not doubt you abilities, my son. It simply is not safe to travel all alone. I would feel better if Glorfindel went with you.”

Elrohir really had no desire to go with Glorfindel. With the re-born warrior with him, he would no longer be in charge of the situation. How could he demonstrate his ability with his tutor hovering over him? “Adar, what if I could find an equally suited escort?”

“Well, if you have someone in mind, that is fine. I just do not want you riding out alone. From the messages, it sounds like the delegation will be at our border the day after tomorrow.”

“Then I had best get set. It will take at least a day to get to the meeting point and I would like to be early. I would rather wait for them than they for us.” With a curt bow, the twin left the study.

Elrond smiled with pride at his son. The twins were two sides to one coin, a perfect split of mother and father in them both. Elladan was a capable strategist and born leader, which he got from Elrond. His stubborn streak and his seriousness he got from his mother. Elrohir on the other hand assumed his role as a diplomat and healer. His mother blessed him with compassion and a desire to learn everything. The elf lord sighed at the thought of his departed wife.

Haldir had been leaning causally against the wall about half way down the hall. He stood straight when Elrohir entered the hall.

“Everything alright?” He asked.

Elrohir smiled at the tall warrior. Haldir was taken aback by the twinkle in the younger elf’s eye.

“Oh, yes. Everything is all right. Tell me, do you have any plans for the next couple of days?”

“No.”

“Good. Now you do. You’ll need to pack up and be ready to leave after mid-day meal.” With that, the dark-haired elf glided past him.

TBC