Road to Redemption

Road to Redemption (45-46/50)
Author: Gwaelinn
Beta: Aglarien
Pairings: Lindir/Maglor, Erestor/Maedhros and others
Rating: NC-17-R overall
Warnings: 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’. I began it in 2005 as a fic called Redemption…now I am back to it and with a new name the story continues.

FEEDBACK MOST WELCOME, please :)

Chapter 45


Legolas took a last look in the full-length mirror before leaving his quarters. He looked more like himself than he had in years, but he was overly thin and his face was a bit drawn. His eyes lacked sparkle and showed a weariness that one so young should not feel. He sighed and pulled the door closed behind him. The time for atonement and hopefully redemption was upon him.

The pre-celebration had already begun in the courtyard when the young prince descended the steps. He entered from the side, hoping to apologize to Lindir and Maglor first. He feared approaching the couple if Maedhros was present. Fortunately, the great elf was nowhere in sight. He located the pair standing near a fountain. As he approached, he had to admit that they were one of the most beautiful couples to grace Arda. The Noldo’s dark hair and eyes was a striking contrast to Lindir’s moonlight features. The prince stopped next to Lindir. “I am so sorry” Legolas choked. “I have behaved so poorly. Please forgive me. I…”

Lindir pulled him into a tight embrace, pulled back and stroked his friend’s cheek. “Hush. All is forgiven. Here, there is someone I wish you to meet.” As the minstrel stepped back he reached for his lover.

In all the weeks Legolas had been in Imladris, he had never met the either of the sons of Fëanor. He tentatively looked into deep eyes and was surprised to find the spark of friendship, albeit with a bit of reservation. It was more than he could have hoped.

“Hîr nin,” he said, placing his had to his heart. “It is a great honor. I ask your forgiveness as well for my poor showing. I was jealous and selfish.”

Maglor smiled and returned the gesture. “I am please to meet a close friend of Lindir’s. You arrived under duress…there is nothing to forgive as you intended no true malice.

Legolas started to object, but seeing the understanding and forgiveness in Maglor’s eyes, he stayed his words. Maglor knew he *had* intended to create a rift between the lovers but was willing to let it go. Legolas smiled in silent thanks.

The three chatted briefly; unaware of dancing green eyes watching them. They looked to the main stairs when a collective gasp was heard in the courtyard. Erestor and Maedhros arrived. The two elves blushed when all eyes seemed to turn to them. Neither liked to be the center of attention, but there was no denying they were a stunning sight. Maedhros’ discomfort mounted when elves began to bow as they would to Lord Elrond.

“See,” Erestor whispered, “I told you they see you as a lord.”

The former warrior squeezed his lover’s hand. “It is your beauty that captivates them so. I will not leave your side lest someone steal you away.”

Erestor stopped. Maedhros turned to face the smaller elf. “No one can steal me away!” Erestor said with heated conviction.

Maedhros leaned down and kissed the councilor’s cheek chastely before moving on. They greeted those they passed on their way to join Elrond.

“It is about time,” Glorfindel said as a way of greeting. “What kept you?”

Erestor blushed crimson. Maedhros took a breath to speak but Elrond's hand stayed him. “No, do not answer that,” the elf-lord said quickly. Maedhros just smirked and winked. The group, including Erestor, chuckled.

Across the room, Legolas watched the pair enter. He owed the couple an apology also, but seeing the ancient Noldo, taller than even Glorfindel, caused his courage to fail. Maglor noticed the fear in the young ellon’s eyes.

“Do not fear penneth. He is the most reasonable of my father’s seed,” Maglor said. “His growl is worse than his bite.” Lindir smacked his lover’s arm but nodded his agreement.

The young elf gave a little smile and excused himself, promising to return after he had taken care of business. He centered himself and approached the Lord of the Valley and the small group he was talking with. Among them were Erestor, Glorfindel, a rather large elf, Maedhros the Tall, and Orophin. The Silvan elf and he had developed a bit of a friendship some seasons ago…before the prince began to change. There was one other elf present that he did not know. Something about the unknown elf made his body hum. The ellon was clearly someone of importance. He carried himself with dignity and was dressed in fine robes. His eyes were a beautiful bright green and the prince expected to see great wisdom in them. The surprise was along with that expected wisdom, there was mischief shining through the orbs. The elf was strong and handsome, and Legolas found himself staring into those playful eyes as he approached the group.

“Prince Legolas.” Elrond addressed him coolly.

“My lords,” he replied, again with a bow of respect. “I wonder if I could trouble you for a moment of your time.”

Several eyebrows rose at the humble request. Erestor was the first to speak. “We will leave you two then.” Before the group could break up the fair Prince spoke up.

“Please, stay. What I have to say I need to say to you all. I have acted very poorly and have brought dishonor to myself and my father,” he continued, making eye contact briefly with Elrond before looking down. “Lord Elrond, my behavior and words to you were most inappropriate! There is no excuse for it and I can only hope that in time I can show you that I have changed. My father is quite lucky to have you in his life. Furthermore, it was most gracious of you to take me in at my father’s request.”

He then turned to Erestor and continued, “Master Erestor I spoke wrongly to you as well. You are a most respected councilor and my elder. I had no right to address you as I did. Lord Maedhros, we have never met, but I did you and your brother an injustice just the same. He has forgiven me; I hope that I can prove to you that I am worthy of forgiveness. Captain Glorfindel, thank you for the ‘training sessions’ you have provided. They have helped me burn out the fire which was consuming me.” Here he paused, not sure what to do next; he was suddenly very tired. With bowed head he quietly added, “I am very sorry to you all. If you will excuse me, I think it best I return to my room; I will leave for home come morning. I have caused enough trouble.”

He turned to leave when a hand on his forearm stopped him. “Stay penneth. There is no reason to rush off. I am sure all will be forgiven, and if you leave now, how can you show everyone that you have in fact changed.” Gildor looked at the young prince with compassion. Legolas felt his heart flutter.

“You are welcome to stay in the valley as long as you would like. I am sure Lindir would like to visit with you.” Elrond gave Legolas’ shoulder a squeeze. When Legolas looked up with moist, contrite eyes, the older elf could do naught but pull the young ellon into a paternal hug. “It is good to have you back,” he said as he released the prince.

Gildor felt a pang of envy, wishing his arms encircled the prince. When Elrond finally stepped back, he made his move. “Forgive me, but we have not been introduced. I am Gildor of the Wandering Company.”

Legolas’ eyes went wide. He had heard stories of the Wandering Company…and their leader who was from Aman. “Hîr nin.” The prince began to bow low to the Vanya.

Gildor stopped him with a laugh. “Oh no. Do not start all that. I am a simple gypsy elf.”

“But…” Legolas began

“But nothing. Come, let us get a drink. I am grateful you came along. No matter who I spoke with, I felt like a third wheel. All this couple-ness is driving me to drink.” He draped his arm over the young blonde’s shoulder as if they were long-time friends and led him to the wine table. He handed the prince a glass with a wink. There was little doubt in his ancient mind that not only was he to take Legolas with him, but the young, attractive prince was the love he was promised.

Ch 46

Legolas spent the evening in Gildor’s company. The young prince felt a bit uncomfortable and Gildor kept things light. When dinner was announced, the older elf ushered Legolas to the head table. He pulled a chair out and indicated the prince should sit; Gildor then sat next to him. Legolas was relieved to find himself seated across from Lindir and next to the Lórien Marchwarden. The dinner went by without incident. It took some time before Legolas openly took part in the conversations around him, though. He listened to the tales Gildor shared, finding them uplifting. The young prince soon found himself enamored.

After dinner, the celebration moved to the Hall of Fire. Legolas would have excused himself at that point, tired from the earlier emotional drain, if Gildor had not taken his arm and escorted him towards the gardens. “Come, penneth. You look like you could use a bit of air. We will still be able to hear the music,” Gildor said gently.

Legolas nodded. “I think I would enjoy a walk.”

Elrond saw the pair leave and he was relieved. He would be able to send word to Thanduil that the young prince was one the mend. He knew that Gildor would heal the prince. The elf-lord looked back over the Hall of Fire and saw those he loved most enjoying themselves in laughter and love. A pang of loneliness stabbed his heart. It had been years since he and Thranduil had been together.

*****

Gildor led Legolas to a small patch of grass near a rose arbor. Dropping gracefully to the ground he looked at the young prince expectantly. “Sit and relax. It is a beautiful evening and the stars shine brightly.”

Legolas smiled shyly and sat next to the stunning elf-lord. He pulled his knees to his chest and rested his chin on his folded arms. He sighed.

“I am willing to listen,” Gildor said softly. “It will help you heal to get it all out.”

The dam broke and the young blond let out a strangled sob.

Gildor shifted slightly so he could wrap an arm around the now shaking shoulders. “That is it, little one. Let it all out. I am here for you.”

Legolas turned into the embrace and clung to the silk shirt of the older elf. Gildor wrapped his other arm around the distraught ellon, completing the embrace.

“I am sorry,” Legolas croaked, attempting to pull away. “You did not come out here for this. I am acting like an elfling!”

Gildor did not let the prince go. “There is nothing to be sorry about. You have needed to purge these feelings for some time now. And actually, this is exactly why I brought us out here; and everyone feels like an elfling sometimes. Even me!” Gildor rested his cheek on the top of Legolas’ wheat-blonde hair. He breathed in the prince’s scent: fresh juniper.

They spent the evening locked in each other’s embrace, talking and sharing. Legolas opened up wholly to the elf-lord.

Gildor, for his part shared little bits of his life’s story. When dawn began to break, the gypsy elf stood. Legoals followed and moved towards the main house. “Legolas,” Gildor said, stopping him. “I’ve had a thought. It seems to me that you are not completely at ease here and you are not ready to return home. I will be leaving in a week or two with most of my company. Come with us. Travel, see Arda, get the spark of life back. It pains me to see so bright a flame nearly snuffed out.”

Legolas looked into rich green eyes. He saw acceptance and caring. Perhaps the elf-lord was right. Perhaps he did need a break from it all. For the first time since Gildor had seen the prince, the small smile on Legolas’ face reached his eyes. “I think I would like that,” Legolas said softly.

The young elf was pulled into a tight embrace. “I would like that, too, Gildor said softly.”

Legolas blushed. The two returned to the main house, hand in hand.

From the shadows bright eyes watched with pleasure. The Great Huntsman smiled. That was easier than he thought it would be. Gildor deserved this happiness for his faithful service to the people and creatures of Arda.

*******
Elrohir excused himself from the Hall of Fire earlier than usual, claiming to be tired. Haldir, naturally, escorted the younger twin to his room. No sooner had the door closed than the Marchwarden found his arms full. Elrohir threw himself at the blond elf with such fervor. The dark-haired elf maintained lip contact as he pulled Haldir towards his bedroom. Halidr needed little coaxing, although he sensed an underlying distress in the younger elf.

“Aye, penneth, slow down! We have time,” Haldir panted as impatient hands pulled at his clothing.

Dark eyes looked up in shock. “No, no we do not. You will leave and I will not see you for so long. I need you, Haldir! Please, I… Elrohir backed away suddenly and dropped on to his bed. “I cannot do this. I can not make love to you and have you leave me. I am sorry Haldir.” Elrohir bowed his head in embarrassment.

Haldir came to kneel before his would be lover. “Is that what has been troubling you? That I will return to Lórien?” The young elf nodded. “Are you saying then that your feelings for me as more than just close friendship?” Another nod. Haldir grabbed the twin’s hands and brought them to his lips. “My feelings for you are more than friendship, too. I desire you greatly. I have enjoyed our time together and do not wish it to end either.”

“Then what are we to do?” Dark brown eyes looked pleadingly at Haldir. “I want you so badly, but I fear my heart will break if we are intimate and you leave.”

Haldir moved to sit next to the distressed ellon. He wrapped an arm around Elrohir and kissed the sable crown. “What we will do is sleep in each other’s embrace tonight and solve this issue in the morning. Then, once we find an agreeable solution, I will ravish you as I so desire!” The two chuckled. “Anyway, I do not think we are the only ones with this dilemma.”

Elrohir smiled at the elf he loved more than he thought possible. He thought of Glorfindel and Elladan. Haldir was right. They were not alone in this, and come morning, they would all figure out the answer. Feeling better about everything, he and Haldir readied themselves for bed and, true to his promise, Haldir held the young twin close through the night. It was the best night’s sleep Elohir ever had.

*****
Two blonds lay panting in the aftermath of orgasmic pleasure. One was golden and powerful, the other fair and lean. The first tints of orange colored the sky.

“Does Imladris have rules about superior officers bedding the common ranks?” Orophin asked, drawing lazy circles on Glorfindel’s chest.

The Imlarian elf combed his fingers through his lover’s pale hair. “Hmm…not really,” he said contently. “Lovers cannot be in the same patrol, regardless of rank.”

“Then how do they ever see each other?”

Glorfindel sighed. “They may be on patrol at the same time, but not in the same group. One of my captains is bound to an archer who guards the mountain pass. This is an odd thing to bring up after a night of passion.”

Orophin chuckled. “I guess, but you see, I have grown rather fond of you.” He propped himself up on his elbow so he could look into the sapphire eyes he so loved.

“Fond?” Glorfindel asked with mock disdain.

The young sylvan smiled. “All right, more than fond. I would like..that is to say if you feel the same about me, I would…”

“Yes, I am *fond* of you, too,” Glorfindel interrupted with a laugh.

Orophin slapped his shoulder. “Funny. What I am saying is that I want to stay in Imladris.”

Glorfindel looked at his young lover intently. “You wish to stay here? With me?” Orophin nodded. “You would give up your life in the Golden Wood, your life as a guardian to be with me?” Glorfindel could not believe that someone would give up so much to be with him.

“Aye, I gladly give it up for you…if you want me, that is.”

“I want you, never doubt that; but to leave your family, your home?”

Orophin hesitated. “Unless you do not want me to stay here. I will return home if you think that is best. But you have my heart and I will take no other to my bed, regardless of where I reside.”

Glorfindel stroked Orophin’s cheek lovingly. “I want you to stay with me; I just do not know if it is plausible. You are bound to the service of your lord and lady. They must give you leave.” He pulled the younger elf to him and, yawning, continued, “Sleep now… solve problem later.” Orophin chuckled as he snuggled in for a few hours sleep.