melme Colle (or: hidden love)

Chapter twenty five An unexpected visitor

Legolas was tempted to kiss his beloved goodbye, having decided he would go to the healing rooms to see how his father was doing, while Erestor would check out the library. Legolas knew he would most likely have to collect Erestor there when it was time for dinner, but he didn’t care. After a last loving, longing look he determinedly set course to the healing rooms.

Elrond smiled at the scene and walked back inside as well. There was so much to do. The twins also regretfully turned. They would miss their brother and sister more than they’d care to admit. They wanted to be with a relative but unfortunately Celeborn had left already as well. Elrohir smiled, knowing where to find him. This was about the usual hour on which the ruler would pay his lover a visit. But he didn’t want to interrupt them, so he remained silent and leaned against his twin, who returned the sentiment, as they walked inside together.

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Elrond carelessly entered his room, only to widen his eyes when Orophin stood leaning against his desk, arms crossed before the chest and an determined expression on his face.

Elrond smiled and walked closer. “What can I do for you?”
Orophin didn’t move and locked their eyes. “I thought you wanted me to court you? Slowly, you told me.”
Elrond cocked his head and smiled warmly. “And?” He already knew what this was about, but his old teasing had resurfaced.
Orophin shrugged. “It’s just that you are giving every effort not to just court me but seduce me.” He shook his head. “I keep finding presents, and not that I am complaining, but Ru is starting to bug me.” He looked a bit annoyed at his lover. “Really, scented oil?”
Elrond raised his eyebrow and gave his most innocent look. “You have been working out more lately. And thus your muscles would be sour. That is a very potent massage oil.”
Orophin retrieved it and became serious as he read the note, attached to it. “For your work out.”
Elrond had the decency to blush and swiftly covered the distance to embrace his lover. “Forgive me, I had no idea it would sound like that.”
Orophin nodded. “I’m just glad Ru didn’t see this particular gift.” He smiled warmly at the elf before him. “But I will safe it for when we can both use it.”
Elrond understood the hidden meaning and smiled.

He slowly leaned in closer and claimed the other’s lips. It was a fleeting kiss, naught but the promise of more, and then it was gone. Orophin did his best to hide his disappointment, but feared he failed miserably. Elrond blew at his ear before he spoke. “I have to beg you to leave, meleth. I have too much work to do. But after dinner I am all yours.” He placed another fleeting kiss on the surprised lips and smiled. “More and better tonight?”
Orophin’s eyes darkened and he nodded. He had to force himself not to pull the other close and kiss him for real.
Elrond could read it in his eyes and stepped back. “I’m really sorry we can’t make a start at deepening our relationship right now.”
Orophin smiled, showing he didn’t mind and left.

He instantly bumped into his brother and sighed.
Rumil grinned. “Coming out of Elrond’s study… Mmm, I wonder what you did in there.” He walked round and gave him a look over with very scrutinizing eyes. He jumped back to avoid Orophin’s punch. “And, dear brother, what did the lord want from you? Dare I hope it was your body he needed?” He jumped again and laughed, seeing the other redden.

Orophin suddenly gave up and slumped down, which alarmed his brother, who instantly lowered himself beside him. Orophin smiled at the care showing from the orbs and he shrugged. “He’s changed, Ru. I mean, really changed. He makes more jokes, almost all the time, and I constantly find presents.”
Rumil grinned. “I know. And I know I joke about it, but I am really happy for you. It really looks like he loves you, toron.”
Orophin smiled and nodded. “I sometimes just don’t know what to make of it. His latest gift was scented oil.” His voice carried a desperate tone and Rumil frowned. “I thought you said he wasn’t ready for that yet?”
Orophin nodded. “He isn’t. That’s why it is so confusing.”

Rumil nodded and stood, pulling brother up. “Know what? Why don’t you go to Erestor. There are none that would know Elrond like he does. They knew each other in Lindon. And I think the counsellor already noticed the changed state between you two. If he’s half of what they say he is, that is.” Rumil shrugged. “And I have the feeling he’s even more than everybody states.”
Orophin grinned. “Better not let Legolas hear you say that.”
Rumil laughed as well. “Aye. He’s liable to challenge me and I don’t think I would survive it.”

He guided his brother down the corridor and just knew Orophin wouldn’t mention this to Erestor. Just talking to him seemed to ease his mind sufficiently and Rumil was happy to help. But for his brother he did hope Elrond would become more intimate soon.

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Thranduil woke when the door cracked open, only to open further. He smiled warmly when Legolas silently walked closer.

He carefully disentangled himself from his sleeping lover and sat up. “Legolas, ion-nin, what brings you here? How’s Erestor? And the others?” He rubbed his head. “I feel like I’ve been in this bed for years.”
Legolas smiled and claimed the chair next to his father. “Everyone is doing just fine. Is it true what Elrohir says? Can you leave?”
Thranduil nodded. “Aye, but he begged me not to.”
Legolas grinned. “Aye, Glorfindel is behaving rather nicely in your arms.” He wiggled his eyebrows and leaned in closer to hug him. “Though I do believe his actions once again created a couple. I’m happy for you adar.”
Thranduil frowned. “How did you find out? Or do I show it that much?”

Legolas cocked his head and studied his father before answering. “Nay, if one doesn’t know he wouldn’t tell you’re in love with him.” He grinned and his eyes twinkled. “Nay, Elrohir mentioned a sudden, unexplainable relapse in Glorfindel.” Mischief shone from the blue orbs. “You didn’t do anything you shouldn’t have, did you?”
Thranduil blushed and looked at Glorfindel again. “I’m afraid I did. I thought he had healed further than he had. I wore him out.” He shook his head and looked at the ceiling. “And I didn’t even do that much.”
Legolas grinned and hugged his father. “Well, behave and you can do all you want with him after a few weeks. And until then you just have to settle for holding him.”

Thranduil smiled and looked at Legolas. “And Erestor? How is he?”
Legolas shrugged. “It’s a slow process, adar. But at least he kisses me already. I will not start anything he hasn’t done to me yet.” Seeing his father’s bemused look he smiled, saddened. “I want him to realise he is in charge, just as much as I am. And I can’t pressure him. I refuse to do that and I won’t.”

Thranduil nodded, realising there was a lot more behind this and that Legolas’ reason wasn’t even close to the real reason, or maybe only linked to it. But he knew his son enough to know he wouldn’t get an elaboration and he respected Erestor enough not to ask.

He carefully left the bed and leaned on his son. “Come on, walk me to the balcony, where we can really talk, without waking him up.”

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Haldir carefully placed his legs over the bedside, getting a bit woozy as he did so. He sat and waited until it faded and then smiled at the concerned healers, watching him. “Can you please help me up. I don’t think I can do this using only one arm.” He didn’t feel comfortable to use his other, afraid it might result in pain. The bandages had been removed and he had regretfully found Elrohir’s words to be nothing but the truth.

The healers smiled. “There, now try walking.” They beamed when Haldir effortlessly started walking and nodded, extremely pleased with the healing rate. “Well, that’s it then.”
Haldir looked at them in sheer bewilderment. “You’re resigning me?”
The healer nodded. “Provided you take it easy and rest for at least another month. And it is Lord Elrond who decides when you are fit for duty again.”
Haldir nodded. “And what that duty entails, I know.” He didn’t mind, he was glad he was no longer confined to the healing wing.

He looked at his stuff. “I shall send my brother by to pick up my stuff.”
A healer nodded. “I shall make sure it is ready. If you miss anything, let me know.”
Haldir nodded, grateful.

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Celeborn stretched and placed the last document on the pile. /I shouldn’t have taken that short walk this morn. Haldir will wonder where I am./ He frowned when his door slowly opened. Who dared enter without knocking? Even Elrond knocked, although the Peredhel didn’t wait for permission.

He stood and walked closer to his decorative weapon, just in case. A sigh of relief left his lips when Haldir carefully walked inside. Then he gasped in surprise and hurried forward.

“Haldir! You’re walking?”
Haldir smiled and allowed Celeborn to slowly and carefully embrace him. “Aye. They dismissed me just now. Provided I rest and take it easy for another month.”
Celeborn nodded and looked proud at him. “But that doesn’t mean you get rid of your minders.”
Haldir grinned. “I know; they only change their names. I know.” He smiled and looked lovingly at the other. “But as long as you are amongst them, I don’t mind.”
Celeborn nodded and sat them both down. “Of course I will. Do you think I will let you walk away after finally catching you?” He kissed his lover and then held him close. Both elves enjoyed each other’s presence.

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Celeborn groaned in annoyance when there was a knock on his door. They slowly stood and then he moved to the door.

“Who is it?”
“Ata’da? Please come, there’s an elf here and he demands to see Erestor. Dagor is restraining him. I don’t know what to do.”
Celeborn rushed out and smiled reassuringly at first his lover and then Elladan. “It’s all right. Elladan, I shall come with you and take care of it.” He looked at his lover. “Please go to Elrond, tell him this. And I am sure Orophin will take care of you then.”
Haldir smiled at the implication and nodded, slowly walking into the desired direction.

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Dagor looked at the strange elf that had showed up and demanded a whole lot. He pretended to be deaf, but in reality the insults were slowly getting to him. He couldn’t stop a relieved sign from escaping when he heard Lord Celeborn approaching him.

The ruler also took in the guarded elf, who now kept silent, realising he was now being taken in by someone with power. Celeborn descended the final stairs. “Who are you and what brings you to fair Imladris?”
The elf politely bowed. “My name is Glamor and I am looking for Erestor. I was told he dwells here. Can I speak to him?”
Celeborn smiled, but didn’t answer him. “You must be wary from your journey. Why don’t you rest and then join us at dinner?”
Realising he couldn’t decline such a friendly request of one who held power here Glamor nodded and followed a servant to some guestrooms.

Elladan came to stand next to his grandfather. “Why didn’t you answer him?”
Celeborn shrugged. “I don’t know. Instinct, I guess, but I didn’t like the look in his eyes.” He smiled. “We shall see if he recognizes our Erestor at dinner.”
Elladan nodded in understanding. “Where he can’t do any harm, since we are all there.”
Celeborn smiled and nodded.

He increased his pace when he saw Elrond hurrying down towards them. He smiled. “I’ve already dealt with it. His name is Glamor and apparently he is looking for Erestor.”
Elrond frowned. He knew he knew that name, but he couldn’t place it. He shrugged, perhaps if he saw the face that belonged to it; it might sparkle a memory.

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Legolas frowned when he found a pacing Erestor upon his return. Sensing the annoyance and frustration he looked at Gimli, who actually seemed rather afraid of the muttering counsellor.
The Dwarf smiled at the woodland elf. “I don’t know what’s wrong. He suddenly rushed from the library and has been pacing and muttering since. I don’t know enough Elvish to understand what about.”

Legolas smiled and sighed deeply before approaching. “Erestor, melamin, what is wrong? Did I do something?”
Erestor stopped his movements and blinked; he hadn’t even noticed Legolas’ return. He shook his head to reassure him. “I’d rather not talk about it now though. It’ll pass. How’s your father?”
Legolas narrowed his eyes but allowed the distraction, for now.

He talked about his father and Glorfindel while he changed into his evening attire. He looked over his shoulder at Erestor. “Shouldn’t you change as well?”
Erestor shrugged, but changed his robes none the less. He closed his eyes and deeply inhaled the calming air. “Please stay close tonight.”
If Legolas was surprised by the question he didn’t show it. Instead he simply nodded and smiled lovingly at him. “As if I could stay away from you.”

He embraced his love and slowly steered him down the corridor, grinning when he noticed Gimli’s hesitance. “Come on you, Erestor isn’t going to bite you.”

Realising he had scared the Dwarf Erestor stopped and looked apologetically at him. “Now you know why many say they fear me, dear Gimli.” He placed a warm hand on the shoulder. “We are fortunate to have you as a friend and I shall try not to let you witness my tempers again.” His eyes glistened with mirth and he leaned against his love again, needing the comfort it brought him. Legolas happily tightened his embrace and almost jumped with pride.

Translations:
Meleth - lover
Glamor - he with loud voice

Chapter twenty six Uproar

Elrond smiled when he saw Legolas had such a possessive hold on Erestor, but his smile faded when seeing the trepidation in Erestor’s eyes and the elf’s posture told him his counsellor was close to panic. Was that the result of Legolas’ hold? He frowned, not liking this at all, for he truly believed Legolas to be extremely perceptive and very tuned in on Erestor’s needs. When his look crossed Elladan and Celeborn he smiled, not wanting to alarm them.

He stood politely when their guest was shown inside and pointed him a chair. Try as he did, he could not remember seeing the elf ever before, and yet the name was extremely familiar. He smiled warmly to hide his feelings. “Well met. Celeborn informed me you wish to speak to my counsellor?”
The elf nodded and looked at Elrond.

Erestor had stiffened at the words and ignored Legolas’ concerned looks. His eyes were glued on the visitor and old pain and hatred started resurfacing. He frowned when he realised the other hadn’t recognized him. He hadn’t changed that much, had he?

Finally he allowed a small smile and leaned into the hand rubbing his lower back, which seemed to reassure Legolas somewhat. The Prince realised Erestor would only tell him in private what was wrong, if he would tell him at all.

Elrond was still looking at the guest, awaiting an answer.
Glamor smiled. “Aye. Where is Erestor?” The moment those words left his lips Erestor completely relaxed, though he prayed Elrond wouldn’t point him out. But he spat out his drink at the following words. “He’s my mate.”
Legolas’ eyes went wide and gasps were heard all around the table. All eyes involuntarily stared disbelievingly at Erestor, who sank back into the safety of the chair.

Legolas immediately understood the panicked look and stood. He was grateful Nienna had already told him what had happened. He swiftly told a servant to fetch Gimli, complete with axe, and glared at Glamor. “How dare you say such a thing! You abandoned Erestor a long time ago.”

Glamor stood and met his glare head on. “And just who might you be?”
Legolas gave him his most haughty look. “I am Prince Legolas Thranduilion.” He snuffed, a snuff the others recognized as Dwarven. “Unless you are here to apologize you will leave this realm instantly.”
Glamor laughed. “You might be a Prince, but you cannot order me to leave.”
Elrond smiled. “Actually he can. At the moment. And I agree. If Erestor doesn’t want you here, you have to leave.”
Glamor laughed. “He is my mate.”

This was enough and Erestor jumped up, smashing his glass to the ground as he released an angry growl that made everybody shiver. “You… you… You are -not- my mate. Aye, we were engaged, once, but -you- broke it!”
Glamor widened his eyes in shock, not having recognized Erestor, but he recovered swiftly and stood, smiling warmly. “Erestor, you really have changed. I came here to give you a second chance, to give us another go.”
Legolas growled and instantly blocked him from Erestor’s path. “You stay away from him or I will send you to Mordor myself, which is a kind treatment after what you’ve done.”

Elrond suddenly made the connection to everything that happened in Lindon and he jumped up. This movement startled the others and before everyone was aware Glamor had his sword raised and was attacking Legolas, who easily avoided it. Orophin threw him his sword and together with his brothers they pulled the others out of harms way.
Elrond seemed completely stunned by this sudden aggressiveness and Orophin held him close.

Rumil had his bow drawn but he couldn’t use it, Legolas’ body was in the way.

Legolas was having trouble fighting the other off; he found himself greatly outmatched and now wished he had trained more often the last centuries. Suddenly the other tripped him and he lost not only his footing but his sword as well and all he could do was stare at the descending sword.

A large growl echoed through the room and Legolas blinked when the sword was blocked by another. Erestor hovered above him and his eyes were spitting fire. Legolas gasped, seeing real fire sparks leaving Erestor’s dark orbs.

Erestor manipulated Glamor away from Legolas. “You will not hurt my mate!”
Despite the hazardous situation the words brought a smile upon all others, hearing these first words of love from Erestor.
Legolas too was stunned to hear it. It therefore took him a while to realise Erestor was fighting Glamor and that he would be even worse than himself.

Glamor intensified his attack. “Fine. If I can’t have you, no one will.”

Gimli entered the dining room with a complete innocent look on his face, not expecting the sight that was about to greet him. When he saw the peril Erestor was in he instantly released a battle cry and attacked, ready to defend the counsellor. But when he got there he didn’t block a sword’s blade but chopped a large sausage in two. His eyes widened in disbelief as did those of the gathered elves.

Glamor dropped his sword turned to sausage on the ground and launched at Erestor again, ready to grab hold of the sword.
Suddenly he was thrown away, flung to the other side of the room, where the archers instantly placed arrows on his nose. A loud voice boomed through the room at the same moment. “You have done enough harm.”

Celeborn swiftly ordered Rumil and some other guards to take the elf to the prison. Only when the elf was escorted out did Mandos materialize and stun the elves some more.

Legolas clumsily stood and, uncaring of the image, hugged the Vala. “Thank you for all you’ve done for Erestor and myself. I don’t know how to thank you.”
Mandos smiled warmly and nodded, stepping out of the embrace. “By making Erestor happy.”
He now focused on Erestor and pulled him in an embrace and took a good look at him. “Aye, my wife is right. You look better up close.” Before anyone could say anything he was gone again.

Gimli was the first to speak. “HA! I knew I had seen that guy back then.” He snuffed. “That ought to teach Aragorn to doubt the words of a Dwarf.”
He grinned at looked at Erestor and Legolas. “You all right?”
Erestor nodded and smiled gratefully at him. His heart was pounding madly and he had trouble believing what had just happened.

Elrond walked closer and placed his arm around him. “The King and I always wondered what had happened to you. I guess now I know the answer.” He shook his head. “Was he always like that?” His voice was disbelieving.
Erestor shrugged. “I don’t know. He may have changed. Or fooled me.” He lowered his head. “I don’t want to talk about it anymore. It’s the past and I’d rather look towards the future.”
Elrond smiled knowingly. “With Legolas.” He hugged his friend. “I am glad you now openly admitted your feelings. We all heard your words, Erestor. And should you ever wish to bind…” He didn’t finish but placed a kiss on his cheek before he pulled back and looked at Legolas. “Are you all right, or do you need my skill?”
Legolas shrugged. “I think it’s merely strained, but if it doesn’t stop hurting me I will call for a healer.”
Elrond could see Legolas’ desire was to get Erestor alone where the counsellor could break down and recover and he had to agree. The ankle had to wait. “Stay with your counsellor then.”
He smiled warmly and now looked at Gimli, his eyes silently asking him to look after them both. Gimli nodded and walked in between the elves to support them both.

Celeborn sighed and stood. “Well, that was unexpected.” He looked at Elrond and decided he would have to wait with his suspicions until the Peredhel had recovered himself. He placed a hand on Elladan’s shoulder. “It seems we are all a bit shaken by it.”
Elladan nodded and leaned against his grandfather. “Ro is leading a patrol. Can I stay with you?”
Celeborn nodded. “Of course. I can use an extra pair of eyes to watch Haldir and I’ll put a chair on the balcony for you, so you can watch the stars. I take it that hasn’t changed yet?”
Elladan smiled, nodded and sighed contented. “I am glad I have such a caring family.”

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Rumil frowned when he found the dining room empty safe for Elrond and Orophin.
Sensing his brother Orophin approached him and smiled, saddened. “Legolas and Gimli took Erestor took his rooms; Celeborn left with Elladan, which leaves Elrond. He’s pretty shaken. I don’t know what to do.”
Rumil smiled and nodded. “Yes you do. Be yourself. Support him, take him to his rooms, stay with him and be there for him. Like you always have.”
Orophin smiled and nodded.

Rumil left and Orophin went back to Elrond’s side. “Elrond? Everybody has left and I think you should go to your room as well.” He placed his hands on Elrond’s shoulders and gently squished. “Come on.”
Elrond looked at him and the expression in his eyes was a little lost. He smiled gratefully at Orophin and nodded, though he had no idea what the other had just said. He had been lost in the past, feeling guilty for not seeing Erestor’s pain earlier. He allowed Orophin to pull him to his feet and guide him to his rooms.

Seeing the familiar decorations he snapped out of his state and turned to look at Orophin, who frowned at the sudden and unexpected movement. Elrond smiled and brushed back a stray lock. “Thank you. that was really kind.”

He closed his eyes and sat down. “How much time had passed between Erestor’s departure and now.”
Orophin cocked his head. “Only half an hour. Why?” Upon Elrond’s shocked look he swiftly sat down beside the Peredhel and clasped his hands.
Elrond smiled at the gesture and scooted closer. “That long?” He sighed and rested his head on Orophin’s shoulder. “I was lost in the past. That, that…” he forced himself to use the word elf, though he didn’t feel like it. “…was Erestor’s fiancée and we never knew how he’s treated Erestor. I should have known. I could have…” He stopped speaking when Orophin gently shook him and he raised his head to look at him. What he saw was understanding, love and disagreement.
Orophin smiled. “You know darn well you were still learning in those days and that there is no way you would have known had it happened today. Erestor wouldn’t have let you find out.”
Elrond stood and sighed, annoyed. “But don’t you see? It changed him and made him cold. We always wondered what had happened to cause such a change.”
Orophin sighed as well. “Perhaps he needed to turn cold to survive and to help you all survive. If Erestor hadn’t been here, as the elf he is, would things have turned out as the have?”

Elrond sat back down and realised with a shock Orophin was right. He shook his head repeatedly. “But why did the Valar allow it? My family isn’t so important; -nothing- warrants another being’s unhappiness.”
Orophin embraced him. “Erestor might have gotten hurt and turned cold, but I dare say he was happy. He had a loving family and had his wish come true. You told me yourself he always wanted to be a counsellor.”
Elrond smiled fondly and nodded. “Aye, Gil-Galad found him and was stunned to hear Erestor state that he would one day council the high-king.”
Orophin grinned. “That must have been quite startling for him. And the Valar did interrupt when his past came back to haunt him. And they gave him Legolas.”
Elrond looked at him and nodded.

He once again rested his head on Orophin’s shoulder. “You are right. But answer me this: why did Mandos interrupt like that? Something tells me he wouldn’t have interrupted had Erestor not acted.”
Orophin narrowed his eyes and kissed Elrond’s hair. “I don’t know. The ways of the Valar are mysterious. And maybe He would have interrupted hadn’t Erestor charged. To save Legolas.”
He stood and pulled Elrond up. “Come, let us enjoy the stars tonight.”

Elrond gasped. “Elladan!”
Orophin smiled. “He left with Celeborn.” He was shocked when Elrond turned on his heals and marched out, dragging him along. “Then we join them. Elladan needs company.” Orophin wanted to point out that the younger Peredhel -had- company but refrained from doing so. Elrond wouldn’t hear it anyway.

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Erestor was glad to be in his rooms again, but he needed to be alone with his lover, so he needed Gimli gone. But he didn’t want to be rude, feeling more than grateful towards the Dwarf. He smiled. “Gimli, would you go by the healing house and make sure Glorfindel and Thranduil won’t freak out when they learn of this?” Having remembered Gimli’s fondness for food his smile brightened. “And on your way back grab something to eat in the kitchen. You must be hungry.”
Gimli understood the hint and left silently, though he did appreciate the counsellor’s thoughtfulness: he was hungry.

Once they were alone Erestor embraced his lover tightly and passionately claimed his lips.
Legolas was pleasantly surprised at the sudden possession his lover displayed, but he eagerly returned the kiss and awarded Erestor victory.

When he was allowed to breath again he smiled. “Not that I am complaining, far from, but what was that for?” His eyes sparkled with happiness, so Erestor couldn’t misunderstand his words.
The counsellor smiled and leaned in closer. “For tonight. I know you desired to know what was wrong, but you remained silent, even whilst you leant me your support. And then you defended me!” His eyes shone with love and affection.
Legolas merely shrugged. “He insulted you and I couldn’t stop the urge to avenge it.” He lowered his eyes. “I should have let you handle it. Your tongue is more lethal than my weapons, but…” He frowned when Erestor forced him to make eye contact again.

Erestor smiled and kissed him again, gently this time. “It’s not -that- you did it, but -why- you did it that means so much to me. I knew you love me, but…”
In a moment of complete understanding Legolas’ smile faded and he nodded, pulling his love closer. “I love you, Erestor, everything about you. Always have, always will.”
Erestor nodded. “I know and now I fully realise it as well. And I love you too, Legolas.”

These words brought tears to Legolas’ eyes and without warning he picked up his love and twirled him round. But his ankle didn’t approve and Legolas suddenly collapsed in pain, groaning as the pain spiralled up his leg.
Erestor fell half on top of Legolas and hurried to achieve a better position. He looked at his love in worry, until he realised what was happening.

He helped Legolas get on the chair and looked stern. “You should have let Elrond tend to it. Now you stay put whilst I fetch a healer.” He ran out.

At first he was too stunned to realise Erestor had walked out but then Legolas sighed rejected and looked at his ankle with anger. Who knows what might have happened if his ankle hadn’t intervened?
He sighed again and leaned back in the chair, waiting for his lover’s return. He had no ideas on leaving it, knowing Erestor wouldn’t hesitate to follow his father’s example of controlling a disobedient patient. He snickered as he remembered the immobile, growling seneschal.

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Haldir poured three glasses and handed one to his lover. Seeing the need in the eyes he carefully, so not strain his muscles, leaned in closer and claimed his lips.
Celeborn immediately drew him closer and moaned his desire. It meant a lot to him that Haldir was this understanding.
He regretfully let go when there was knock on the door but Haldir held back his lover from rising and went to the door himself and they both smiled when Elrond entered, immediately followed by Orophin, who now blushed at the sight of his almost snickering brother.

Haldir freed Orophin’s wrist from Elrond grip and sat him down. “What are you two doing here?”
Orophin shrugged. “Don’t know. He said Elladan can’t be alone and apparently you’re not company.” His voice was mocking but the disbelief shone from his eyes. At the moment he really didn’t understand the Peredhel.

Celeborn groaned and lowered his head, understanding only too well. He spoke without raising his head. “Elladan and Elrohir usually watch Earendil together. Without his twin something is missing for Elladan. I forgot.”
Orophin nodded in understanding and smiled. “Elrond didn’t. How are you, my lord.”
Celeborn looked up in surprise and smiled. “I thought Elrond is -your- lord now?” He grinned at the blush and smiled warmly. He was glad for Elrond and Orophin. He reached for the third glass, still waiting for an owner, and handed it to Orophin. “We shall bring one to them when we refill ours.”
Orophin nodded and watched the balcony with one eye, needing to be sure his love was all right.

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Elladan had a hard time holding on to his composure and he was glad Haldir was there to distract his grandfather. Now he might not notice his grandson was crying. He angrily wiped at his tears but then stilled when he heard footfalls behind him.
A minute later a hand was placed on his shoulder. “None of us should be alone now, ion-nin.”
Elladan sighed relaxed, hearing his father’s voice, and he gratefully leaned backwards and into the embrace. Feeling his father wipe away the remaining tears he managed a smile, albeit a bit weak, and rested his head against Elrond’s shoulder and closed his eyes. He didn’t want to see anything right now, just feel the comfort his father offered.
Elrond in turn looked up for the first time since ages and smiled, talking to his father in his mind.

Chapter twenty seven Here he comes again

After they’ve been standing for a while Elrond noticed his son had fallen asleep against his chest and smiled.

He carefully lifted him and walked back inside. “He’s fallen asleep.”
Celeborn smiled and pulled the sheets on his bed back. “Here, lay him down here. No use risking the trip to wake him up.”
Elrond smiled grateful and placed the sleeping Elladan on the bed; Celeborn instantly pulled the covers back up, tugging his grandson in.

Orophin approached Elrond and handed him a glass miruvor.

Elrond smiled warmly and walked to the table. “Celeborn, we need to talk.”
The Sindar prince smiled and sat down as well, nodding. “Aye, we do. I take it you are referring to Mandos’ sudden appearance?”
Elrond nodded. “It is not the way of the Valar to interfere.” He looked at Orophin and smiled. “Or at least not this openly.”
Celeborn nodded. “True. Though Mandos is known for his meddling.” He shook his head. “He and his brother.” He looked at Elrond. “Twins, ha?”
Elrond ignored the comment and sighed. “I wonder what’s so special about Erestor.”
Haldir frowned. “Couldn’t it be Legolas? That he doesn’t want him back there?”
Elrond shook his head. “Nay. It’s about Erestor. These three things are all about Erestor.”

Seeing three pair of shocked eyes he realised he had just said too much. He shrugged. “Erestor will probably kill me but…” He need some extra stimulant and emptied his glass in one go.
“Before the fellowship of nine was formed I had a vision of Legolas’ death. Galadriel consulted her mirror and it showed us that Legolas would die if they entered the mines of Moria, but should the fellowship travel through Gondor he’d remain alive.”

Celeborn gasped as he suddenly remembered Elrond’s words in Mirkwood when they were waiting for the rescuing party to return.

Elrond swallowed deep again, but took heart at the sudden arm around his shoulders. He didn’t have to look to know it was Orophin and he smiled. “Erestor knew I had seen something and confronted me. He knew the only way to safe Legolas was to bind him to another. I had to defy Mandos, pull Legolas back and bind him to another.”
He sighed again. “Erestor never gave us a choice: it had to be him and he forbade us to tell anyone.” He sighed. “It went so easy, and I’ve been feeling funny about it since. Now I know it was too easy. Mandos appeared before me, asking me what I wanted, why I was approaching his halls when I wasn’t even death.”
He leaned against Orophin, needing the contact to keep him grounded. “I told him Legolas had suffered a fatal wound in Moria and that he was too valuable to loose; I begged him to let his soul return to his body. When he asked who would offer half his life force I told him Erestor did, for I could not. Mandos instantly agreed.”
He smiled, saddened. “I should have wondered, but I did not. And when Legolas remained alive everything seemed to have worked out. I had no reason to question it.”

He needed another drink and looked at Haldir, who understood and instantly refilled his glass. After drinking some of it he sighed again and made contact with Celeborn. “And I just know he accepted Legolas’ offer in Mirkwood to change things for the better. After all, he didn’t completely kill him and Erestor would have made it without that as well.”
Celeborn frowned. “Then why did he appear? If Erestor wasn’t dying he had no reason to be there? And Gimli saw him too, so he was really there.”
Elrond nodded. “Aye, he was. I think because Legolas needed to believe he was there for Erestor. I think he was meddling to make Erestor happy.”

Orophin smiled. “Like he did today. Openly. I thought I was losing my marbles when that sword turned into a sausage.”
Celeborn grinned. “And Gimli’s look was real comical as well. And if you ask me Mandos was real pissed at Glamor. The way he was flown through the room…”
Elrond nodded. “Aye. Remember his words: ‘you’ve hurt him enough.’”

Orophin frowned. “Erestor! You are right, all those three times it was about Erestor, not Legolas.” He rolled his eyes at his brother’s expression and nodded his head. “Think about it, Hal, if it was about Legolas Mandos wouldn’t have said that or intervened after the sausage, probably not even that. Gimli was there and more than capable of besting that elf.”

Celeborn sighed and cast a look at the bed, making sure Elladan still slept. “So we have our job cut out for us. We have to find out more about Erestor and why he is so special to the Valar. Or at least to Mandos.”
Elrond nodded and sighed. “I would ask Erestor, but since this is about him I can’t.” He smiled wickedly. “Though I can ask Thranduil. He has a nag for seeing things we’ve missed.”
Celeborn nodded and stood. “And now we need to rest. We all had a straining day.”
Elrond nodded and walked to the bed. “I’m taking him with me. I know he prefers to sleep in his own bed.”
Orophin frowned. “But surely not today, when his twin isn’t near. Can’t he share your bed?”
Elrond nodded, but looked indecisive. He didn’t want Orophin to sleep elsewhere.
The warrior grinned and guided Elrond out. “Come on then, allow me to open the doors for you.” Once on the corridor he smiled. “If there’s not enough room in your bed, which I doubt, I shall sleep on the couch.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas smiled when the door opened and Erestor walked back in with the former Mirkwood chief healer following him.

The elf had a stern and disapproving look on his face and kneeled down. “And just when did you think to have that tended?”
Legolas sighed and rolled his eyes. “I don’t know what Erestor told you, but I am sure it is over exaggerated.”
The healer narrowed his eyes. “I’ve known you since you were a babe, Legolas. And Erestor’s words are kinder than you think. It’s my expertise that guides me now.”
He tisked when he saw the way Legolas’ ankle was swelling up and turning red. “You really should have called me sooner.”

He stood and locked eyes with the counsellor. “Make sure he doesn’t use it. It is broken and needs to be set and bound. Keep it levitated.”
Erestor sighed, gave Legolas a stern look and pushed the healer out. “Hurry.”

He turned and crossed his arms before his chest.
Legolas rolled his eyes. “Don’t give me that look, Erestor, I really thought it was merely broken. Ai, this means I won’t be able to ride for a while.”
Erestor smiled and cocked his head. “That remains to be seen. If the healers agree you can. And riding is a good way to help the blood circulation.” He sighed and approached him, sitting down before the chair. “You are a troublemaker, that’s what you are.”
Legolas nodded. “Aye, and I am darn proud of it.”

He leaned in closer and claimed Erestor’s lips. “But don’t stay at my side all day or I will have to fight two jealous horses.”
Erestor grinned and stood, arranging for some pillows for Legolas’ leg. “You’d better sleep. Gimli is bound to yell at you.”
Legolas grinned. “And my father too, now that he can walk about again…” He smiled fondly and shook his head. “Erestor?” The counsellor stopped rummaging about and looked questioningly. Legolas shrugged. “Would you hold me?” He shivered. “I’ve never had a broken leg before.”
Erestor grinned, but settled on the arm stool, holding Legolas. “It is your ankle that’s broken, not your leg. I think that would hurt even more.” He still shook his head at the other’s behaviour. “It is beyond me how you managed to walk on it.”
Legolas nodded. “I know. That’s why I figured it was strained.”

They looked up in amazement when Elrond walked inside.
“Ah, I see Gimli’s muttering is, for once, based on reality.” He grinned. “I’ve send him to the training grounds to release his tension.”
Erestor frowned. “Where did you see him?”
Elrond laughed. “The kitchen. Some maids had come to me, begging me to stop an insane Dwarf.” He laughed as he saw the scene replay itself before his mind’s eye. Gimli had started swearing in Dwarvish when he heard what happened. And with movements of his axe it wasn’t that amusing for the kitchen staff.

Legolas and Erestor grinned as well; they could vividly image. Legolas looked apologetically at the ruler. “I really thought it was strained.”
Elrond nodded. “Aye, so did I.” He kneeled and examined the injury himself, shaking his head when he found out what was wrong. “You two are really something else. Your father manages to get a splintered rib and you break only one bone in your ankle.”
He snickered and looked at Legolas. “That’s why you can still use it, though it isn’t recommendable. It does need to rest. I shall place the bones back together and then time will do the rest.”
He smiled ruefully at Erestor. “I wish I could do this now, but I am too tired.”
Erestor nodded. “This eve drained us all. How’s Elladan?” He knew the twin would miss Elrohir tonight.
Elrond smiled at the affectionate tone. “Well. He’s asleep in my bed at the moment. Orophin’s watching him.” He smiled at Legolas. “I shall see if I can do it tomorrow. Until then: do not use it!”
Legolas nodded and smiled wickedly at his lover. “That means you have to carry me around.”
Erestor grinned. “I could ask Rumil to do it.” He kissed him to make up for the joke.
Elrond shook his head and left, eager to be reunited with his son and lover.

Legolas ignored the puzzled look Erestor gave him when he pulled him closer and ruthlessly claimed his lips. “I love you so much.”
Erestor smiled and settled on his legs and rested against him. “I feared losing you.” Tears filled his eyes but he refused to shed them. “Don’t ever scare me again.”
Legolas responded by tightening his embrace and lovingly promised to be careful from now on. He held Erestor close as the counsellor rode out the emotional storm.

He frowned when the door flung open, though he smiled when he saw his father march inside. However, his eyes narrowed when he noticed the anger in his father’s orbs and he swallowed. “Adar?”
Thranduil managed a smile when seeing the way his son and his lover were holding each other, but he didn’t utter a word. Instead he grabbed Legolas’ bow and arrows, sword and twin daggers and placed them near his son. “Glamor escaped.”
This blow made Erestor yelp and jump up and Legolas’ eyes widened in disbelief. “What? How?”
Thranduil shrugged and placed a calming hand on Erestor’s shoulder. “We shall stay together until he is found. The best trackers are already searching for him and Gimli will come here as well. I’ve sent for him.”
Legolas nodded absentmindedly whilst girding on his weapons. “Be careful adar, he is one hell of warrior.”
Thranduil nodded. “I heard.” He smiled. “But he isn’t thinking clearly. His need to kill Erestor will force him to make mistakes.” Erestor shuddered and Thranduil pulled him close. “It’ll be fine.”

The door opened and Gimli entered, huffing and puffing. He felt like a run boy, being sent one way before being sent somewhere else, only to be fetched again and told to go to yet another place. “You elves are magnets for trouble!”
Even though he was petrified Erestor smiled and Gimli’s presence calmed him down further.

The next to storm through the door was Elrohir, who shook his head. “A healer told me you managed to walk with a broken ankle?”
Legolas grinned and nodded. “Aye.” And he silently vowed to fight with it as well. He would not allow Glamor close to Erestor again.
Elrohir noticed the worried atmosphere and the many weapons both woodland elves carried and cocked his head. “What don’t I know?” What had happened while he was on patrol and soaking in the tub?
Erestor sighed and smiled. “Glamor escaped prison and he will be coming for me again.”
The twin blinked. “Who? What? Again?”
Legolas grinned. “That’s right. You weren’t there.” He smiled and signalled for the twin to sit. “Well, Glamor came here blazing fire, rambling on about Erestor being his mate.”
Elrohir laughed. “So naturally you attack him.” He shook his head and looked at the ankle. “Did you kick him and encounter steel?”
Legolas snuffed and shook his head. “Nay. I found myself outmatched. But he was subdued and escorted to prison.” He swallowed. “But apparently he now escaped.”
Erestor smiled and for some reason the little hairs and the back of his head stood upright. “He tried to kill me. Remember what I told you before I became apathic?” He smiled at Elrohir’s nod and fearful look. “That elf was Glamor.”
Elrohir’s eyes filled with hatred and he stood, passion flaring in the orbs. “He will never come near you again. Ever!”

He twirled when he hear a snicker behind him and his hatred intensified when he saw the elf that had to be Glamor standing there, smirking.
Without warning the elf launched himself at Elrohir. He had come to kill Erestor and he didn’t care how many elves he had to hurt to achieve it.
But Elrohir was swift and before the blow stuck the twin had grabbed hold of Legolas’ sword and easily blocked it. His many years orc-hunting now paid of, for there wasn’t much difference here. Glamor wanted to kill Erestor and wouldn’t hesitate to kill him first.

Though Elrohir knew Elladan was the better fighter he wouldn’t stand down and let Gimli and Thranduil fight. If he lost then at least Glamor would have been worn down, making it easier for the others to defeat him. The knowledge he was protecting Erestor fuelled him and he actually managed to drive Glamor back to the doorway.
He ignored the cries the others released; Legolas’ frustrated ones because Elrohir blocked the arrows’ path, Thranduil’s authoritive ones to stand aside and let him deal with it and Gimli’s muttering to grant him access.
Elrohir was focused on his task.

When Glamor charged again and delivered a wound it only fuelled his determination. “You are not entering. Mandos help me, but I will not let you near Legolas and Erestor!” Suddenly he felt adrift on air and the world seemed to spin and turn black.

The others gasped in surprise when Elrohir suddenly released a light, brighter than any has ever seen. Thranduil narrowed his eyes. /Not even an ancient can shine like that./
When they heard Elrohir speak the voice carried a strange note to it and even Glamor backed away from it. “Sail to Valinor or die.”
When the elf charged again Elrohir’s smile was seen. “Then death it is.” With one smooth move Glamor’s life was ended.
Elrohir instantly collapsed and Thranduil was barely swift enough to catch him, who looked at the corpse in dismay. Didn’t this make Elrohir a kinslayer?

Erestor too walked closer and his eyes were wet with tears, but all too soon determination was born and he looked at the others. “He killed himself; it was suicide.”
Gimli swallowed. “I hate to disappoint you, counsellor, but Elrohir ended his life.”
Erestor glared at him. “And make him a kinslayer? No!” He crossed his arms. “Just the four of us have seen it and if we don’t tell, no one will know. That wound could easily have been self-inflicted.”
Thranduil shook his head. “I am sorry, Erestor, but that is not what happened. Elrohir killed him and he needs to justify his actions.” He ignored the cold, hateful glare Erestor threw him and sighed. “Even though he did it to defend you, he shouldn’t have. It wasn’t necessary.” Groans emanating from the elf in his arms stopped him from speaking further.

Elrohir blinked several times but then jumped up with shock. “Erestor? Where’s…” He stopped speaking when he saw his surroundings and he gasped in shock when he saw the corpse. “How…”
Thranduil placed a hand on his arm. “You passed out after killing him.”
Elrohir shook his head. “Nay, I passed out after I told him I wouldn’t let him near Erestor and Legolas.” He rubbed his head. “I suddenly felt like I was floating and the world turned black.”
Erestor narrowed his eyes, but a smile soon broke through. “It wasn’t you!”
To this even Legolas frowned and he pulled his lover’s sleeve. “Melamin? What are you talking about? Nothing will happen to Elrohir. We will all speak in his favour and…”
Elrohir blinked, not understanding this conversation, but Erestor’s lips became thin lines and he nodded. “Remember the funny note to the voice. And the words Elrohir uttered before that?”

Gimli threw his axe to the floor and released a growl. “Mandos!” He shook his head. “Again!” He kept shaking his head an rubbed his beard. “Wasn’t turning the sword into a sausage enough? Did he have to possess an elf?”
He looked at Erestor. “Is that even possible?”
Erestor nodded. “Aye, it is. Though it hardly happens, a Vala can take over an elven body at any given time.”
Legolas frowned; it seemed hardly likely but he knew he had to believe Erestor; the counsellor knew everything. “But what happens to the fëa that originally inhabits the body?”
Erestor smiled. “It passes out. Elrohir passed out because Mandos took over his body to defeat Glamor.”
Thranduil shook his head. “With all due respect, Erestor, that doesn’t make sense.” He sighed. “We shall discuss this together in the morn. Elrohir, I must ask you to go to your room and remain there until then.”
Elrohir nodded and went, still not completely understanding what had happened, but he found comfort in the fact Erestor seemed to be on his side.

Thranduil swallowed away his sudden fear when Erestor’s glare intensified.
The counsellor suddenly turned. “I shall stay somewhere else.”
Legolas jumped up, yelping as he did so.
Erestor turned and regarded him coldly. “You are his son before you are my lover. Keep that leg up.”
Legolas could do naught but blink as he lover walked away.

Next he looked at his father. “Get him back!”
Thranduil shook his head. “No way. I do not want to sport new wounds.”
Gimli picked up his weapon and made to go after Erestor but Legolas called him back. “Stay here, Gimli. I need your help. Adar is leaving.”
Thranduil frowned and kneeled. “Now what is wrong with you? Don’t you understand I am merely following.”
Legolas nodded and became angry. “The procedure. Yes I know. I know we all saw Elrohir kill Glamor, but can’t you understand Erestor’s need to have closure? He is indebted to Elrohir, as am I. And perhaps he is right and Mandos did do it. Would you really punish Elrond’s son for the actions of a Vala?” He stood, hiding a smile when Gimli instantly supported him, enabling him to raise himself to his full height. “Can’t you understand that seeing this through will force Erestor to tell us all about his past. That it would open up old wounds. It might ruin our relationship.”

He sat and hid his head in his hands. “Go. Leave me.”
Thranduil wanted to stay but Gimli’s look told him to leave. The Dwarf wouldn’t hesitate to push him out and he smiled, knowing Erestor and his son had a formidable protector in Gimli.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Orophin smiled when Elladan released a contented sigh after pulling Elrond’s pillow closer as well as the Peredhel’s clothes. After another look the warrior returned to the book and waited for Elrond to return.

His lover was true to his words and returned swiftly, smiling when he saw Elladan curled up in his bed. It forced a pang of guilt to sweep through him and he sighed before he hung his head.

He silently walked closer and caressed Elladan’s face.
Next he kneeled before he his lover. “I am sorry, but I need to check up on Elrohir. I don’t know, but I’ve got this feeling…” He trailed off, not sure how to explain this.
Orophin smiled, nodded and pushed Elrond back on his feet. “Go. I shall watch Elladan.”
Elrond smiled and walked out just as silently.

He swiftly walked to the younger twin’s rooms but found them empty. Shrugging, he closed the door and turned. A frown was born on his face when he saw Elrohir walking towards him with a hung head and fear, despair and upsetting emotions came from the twin in waves. It forced Elrond into action and his hurried closer. “Elrohir, ion-nin, man raica?”

Elrohir was stunned to see his father, but gratefully leaned into the hug, and continued the walk to his rooms. He waited until he was a bit more stable before he opened his mouth, but then he told his father everything, even though he still didn’t manage to tie the dots.
But Elrond did and he stood, growling. “How dare he?” He pulled Elrohir up and pulled him along. “Come, Elladan is in my rooms and you will stay there too. Orophin will watch you.”

They made the trip in no time and Elrond barged in, not caring if he did wake his sleeping son, who fortunately did not even stir.
Orophin jumped up and rushed to the door, ready to fight anything.
Elrond smiled and pushed Elrohir towards his lover. “He’s a bit shaken and will sleep here too. Take care of him?”
Orophin nodded. “Always.” He pulled Elrohir towards the bed and forced him to lie down and removed the twin’s boots. “Try not to wake up you twin, though. Do you want something to drink?” Though he didn’t know what had happened to place that anger in Elrond, he would not ask questions now but tend to his children. That Elrond had brought Elrohir here and trusted him to look after them warmed him more than words of love could have done.
Elrohir smiled gratefully at the almost maternal fussing Orophin displayed and he sighed contended when he snuggled up to his twin. He still felt confused and it stopped him from reaching sleep. Orophin seemed to understand for he settled on the bed as well and started singing a lullaby to help him sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Celeborn flared up when his door flung open and Elrond marched inside. “I need you and your lover. Now!”

Celeborn recognized the dangerous undercurrent and instantly left the bed, waking up Haldir. “What happened? Tell me, or we are not moving.” He knew it was dangerous and he knew he risked a personal war, but he needed to know.
Elrond shook his head. “Not now. Haldir, please track Erestor. He will not fight a still healing elf.”

Haldir nodded and left. He wanted to ask why Erestor needed to be tracked but he refrained from doing so, seeing the dangerous glow in the Peredhel’s eyes. He had never seen it there, but he knew it did not bode well for those who opposed him. He hurried as fast as his body allowed him to.

Celeborn had no choice but to follow Elrond, who walked so swiftly his father practically had to run to keep up. He had no time to ponder this sudden change in Elrond as he had to focus his entire being on keeping up.

He frowned when Elrond marched to the healing house and without any warning forcefully pushed the door open.

Glorfindel flared up and looked bewildered at the door. He swallowed when he saw the fury in Elrond’s eyes. “My lord?”
Elrond scanned the room, growling when he found Glorfindel the only inhabitant. “Where is he?”
Glorfindel swallowed and backed away on the bed. “Who? Thranduil?” He shrugged. “Don’t know. He barged off after a servant delivered a message. Is there something wrong with Legolas and Erestor?”
This made Elrond realise he was about to get angry at the wrong elf and he smiled at Glorfindel, though the rage didn’t leave him. “No. Mandos intervened. Again.” He could see he puzzled Glorfindel and heard the gasp behind him, filled with sudden understanding.

He sighed and sat down. “Celeborn, sit.”
To Glorfindel’s bemusement the ruler obeyed instantly. “Elrond, what happened? Glamor’s” He didn’t get the chance to finish as Elrond growled again, but this time the Peredhel calmed down.
Elrond locked eyes with Glorfindel. “Today a strange elf came here, stating he was looking for Erestor. He didn’t even recognize him, Glorfindel, and the things he said.” He shuddered as he remembered. “Suffice it to say he’s the reason Erestor became cold at heart.” Seeing Glorfindel’s eyes fill with fire calmed Elrond down further, knowing the blond cared greatly about his friends.
He sighed. “Perhaps it is better if you tell him what happened, Celeborn?”

Understanding, Celeborn nodded and told the seneschal everything that happened, not leaving out a single detail.
Glorfindel had to blink several times to digest the information and then he narrowed his eyes. “What did you mean when you said he intervened again?”
Elrond jumped up and growled again. “That… that…” Another growl left him and he looked at Glorfindel. “Glamor escaped the prison and made his way to Erestor’s rooms.”

Celeborn gasped, jumped up and almost ran away to go to Erestor’s defence, but remembered Elrond’s words and looked at him in amazement. “Are you telling me Mandos prevented that as well?”
Elrond nodded. “Aye.”
Glorfindel cocked his head, wondering what had placed Elrond in this foul mood. “Will you tell me what precisely happened?”
Elrond sat down and nodded. “He wasn’t alone, Glorfindel. Thranduil was there to protect them. That’s why he left, they’d just told him.”

Glorfindel nodded but the questions in his eyes remained. “Then what happened to make you this mad? At him, I guess.”
Another growl left Elrond’s lips and the Peredhel stood, his eyes aflame. “He thinks my youngest son is capable of murder.”
Glorfindel sat up, shaking his head. “Elrohir? Never!”
Celeborn settled a hand on Elrond’s arm. “Please tell us what happened.”
Elrond sighed and nodded. “Elrohir told me he went to check Legolas’ ankle and shortly after the bastard arrived.”
Glorfindel gasped. Never before had he heard Elrond scold someone like that.
“He charged and you know our Ro.”
Glorfindel nodded. “Aye. No one can surprise him, not even Elladan. Fighting orcs has done them more good than harm.”
Elrond nodded. “He passed out and when he woke up Glamor was dead and Erestor was defying Thranduil. Apparently they saw him slay the elf.”

Celeborn nodded, understanding what had happened. “Where’s Elrohir now?”
Elrond smiled at his concern. “In my rooms. Having Elladan close will soothe his nerves. And Orophin is watching them.”
This calmed Celeborn down. He knew the warrior enough to know he would not allow anything or anyone close.

Glorfindel nodded as well. “Why do I have the feeling there’s more?”
Elrond raised his eyebrow but Celeborn smiled and nodded. “Because there is.” He told Glorfindel the rest and the seneschal gasped.
“Erestor did what? And you didn’t even tell Legolas?” He shook his head in sheer amazement. “Good thing he loves him then.” He narrowed his eyes when realisation hit him. “Our counsellor must really be important to Mandos then. This is the fourth time he’s intervened in Erestor’s life to make it better. As far as we know.”

That widened Elrond’s eyes, realising Glorfindel was right. How many times had Mandos steered Erestor’s life without them knowing it? He looked at Glorfindel. “You better tell your lover a Vala killed that bastard, not my son.”
Celeborn smiled. “Which is why you sent Haldir after Erestor. And I shall look for Thranduil if he doesn’t show up soon.”
Glorfindel sighed sadly. “Thranduil’s stubborn. He will not believe me. I fear Elrohir is in for some hard times.”
Elrond growled. “If he dares…”
Celeborn laid a calming hand upon his shoulder. “We know what happened, Elrond, we know Mandos took over and used Elrohir’s body to kill Glamor, but we don’t have any proof and there are four pairs of eyes that saw Elrohir strike. Thranduil will want to follow procedure.” He sighed and closed his eyes. “Though nothing will happen. Everybody, including Thranduil, shall speak for him.”
Elrond growled. “But he is my heir, heir to Imladris; him and Elladan. Do you have any idea how this will affect their future?”
Celeborn sighed, knowing only too well both twin would face a hard time if Thranduil pressed things. “We shall all talk to him. And we will tell him what happened in private. Perhaps then he will change his mind.” He hoped he would.

Chapter twenty eight Now what is wrong?

Haldir smiled, having located the counsellor. “Erestor, Lord Elrond asked me to find you.”
Erestor didn’t look, but smiled. “Now you have, so you can go and tell him I am fine.”
Haldir didn’t move and the warrior cocked his head at the venom he detected in the counsellor’s voice. “Did I do something to upset you, lord Erestor?”
Erestor shook his head. “Nay. Something upsetting has happened and no, I do not wish to talk about it.”

Haldir sat down beside him. “Why are you here all alone? Where’s Legolas?”
Erestor lowered his head, fighting back the tears and he clung to his anger even more. “A broken ankle.”
Haldir frowned, but knew better than to ask further. “Why aren’t you with him then? Don’t tell me you had a fight?” That he simply wouldn’t believe.
Erestor shook his head. “He’s Thranduil’s son first.”

Haldir remained silent for a while but when he spoke it was with wisdom. “So you and Thranduil had a fight and now you fear Legolas will side with his father. Logical, but you forget he is your lover too. Being a son and being a lover don’t outmatch each other, Erestor, and you should know Legolas enough to realise he would not take sides without weighing everything. And do you really think he will give up on you -that- easily? After all that happened?”
Erestor looked at him and smiled. “Perhaps you should be a counsellor too?”
Haldir smiled. “Well, maybe, I shall have to do something until Lord Elrond allows me to wield a weapon again.”

He stood and hauled Erestor to his feet. “Go to him, Erestor, talk to him. And trust in the Dwarf to prevent the worst.”
Erestor laughed. “Aiya, he must be worried sick.”
Haldir grinned and walked him back. “Care to tell me what happened?”

And to his surprise Erestor found he did, he wanted to talk to someone, about everything. For the first time in his life he told another. It was beyond him why it wasn’t Elrond or Legolas or why he seemed to have picked Haldir to carry that burden, but he didn’t care as he emptied his heart and unburdened his soul.
Haldir on the other hand tumbled from discovery to discovery and found out nobody really knew the real Erestor, the one hidden beneath the façade.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thranduil paced his room. He hasn’t been there for a while but he refused to go to Glorfindel in this mood.

He frowned when there was a knock. “Gimli, if that’s you…” The frown deepened when the voice on the other side belonged to Celeborn, who asked to be allowed inside. “Now isn’t really a good time, Celeborn.” He knew the other would instantly see something was wrong and he didn’t want to tell him what happened.

Doubt had started to eat at him and he knew the Peredhil couldn’t kill without a reason and he knew they would rather hurt someone before killing, but he couldn’t just ignore what he had seen. It was impossible to combine those two together and he didn’t know how Celeborn would react to learning his grandson might have taken a life, had taken a life, did take a life, appeared to have taken a life… He inwardly growled. This was getting confusing.

He jumped up when Elrond’s voice boomed through the room. “Thranduil, open up now before I break it.”
Knowing Elrond was capable of doing just that he rushed forward, but not without taking a firm hold on his sword; there was no telling how Elrond was going to act and he wanted to be prepared.

Elrond pushed him backward and barged inside, slamming his fist on the desk, which uttered a protest at the treatment.

Celeborn closed the door behind him. “Elrond, ease down and Thranduil, there are some things you should know.” He didn’t say anything else but sat down between the two others, presenting a living barrier. This seemed to calm Elrond down sufficiently to talk and Thranduil was relaxed enough to actually hear and listen.

After an hour Thranduil shook his head wildly to force it to cooperate. “Mandos did what?”
Celeborn smiled. “You didn’t see Gimli’s axe cleave a sausage when he wanted to block a deadly blow.”
Thranduil nodded. “No, I didn’t.” He sighed and kneeled before Elrond. “I wish I had. Maybe it would have helped me tonight. Elrond, I know you and your sons wouldn’t take a life without reason. When you hunt you always look for the injured and old animals, even if it lengthens the hunt. I know this, but I had trouble combining that knowledge with what I saw.”

Hearing the honesty and regret in the blond’s voice made Elrond let go of his anger and clasp his hands. “You’d better make good with Erestor too. Or I fear Legolas will suffer the consequences.”
Thranduil nodded. “I shall go find him. And tell Legolas.”

He frowned. “I don’t understand one thing though?” Elrond cocked his head and Thranduil shrugged. “All other interferences I can see the logic, but this time…” He shook his head. “Nay, I fail to see the logic here. Why did Mandos kill him? Elrohir is a capable enough soldier, Legolas a good archer and Gimli and I were there too. Even if Glamor would have outmatched your son, it could never have resulted in the death of any of us. So why jump in Elrohir’s body like that and kill Glamor?”
Elrond stood, determination in his eyes. “We will find out. By Elbereth, we will.”
Thranduil nodded. “But first we both need to do something. I need to find Erestor and apologize and you need to look after your sons.”
Celeborn laughed. “And if any of you see Haldir, I am in the study. I cannot sleep now.” The other two nodded and together they left.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Legolas sighed when Gimli pried his hands away and dangled a glass before his face.
“Come on, laddy, drink something. I can go search him, but he would only attack me for leaving you alone. He loves you.”
Legolas remained silent but listened to his friend, needing to hear those words and he clung to them. Erestor would return.

After a while the door opened and he feared to look at it.
Gimli shook his head at the behaviour and smiled at the elves in greeting. “Well, thank you for returning him to us.”
Haldir had to force inside his laugh. “You’d better be careful, Dwarf, for Erestor is in a foul mood tonight.” He squished the other’s shoulder. “Take my advice Counsellor, and tell our leaders, especially Elrond. And you might want to consider telling your lover.”

Legolas now stared at them in disbelief and he didn’t care about his appearance. He cast the blanket Gimli had placed over him aside and struggled to stand.
This prompted Erestor into action and he rushed forward, preventing him from completing the movement. “Elrond told you not to use it. Sit!”
Legolas smiled when Erestor pushed him back and he swiftly grabbed a firm hold on Erestor’s wrists. “I love you, Erestor, and I will never desert you. And you must understand it is difficult for adar to understand that Elrohir was temporarily not Elrohir. Aye, we all saw him move and we heard him speak, but it was Mandos.”

He frowned when he heard Haldir snicker and threw the warrior a glare.
Haldir smiled. “I think this is my cue to leave.” He looked at Gimli. “Guard them well.”
Gimli nodded and walked the other out. “I have no desire to see them make out.” He looked over his shoulder. “Yell when you need something.”

Erestor hadn’t noticed any of it as he stared at Legolas in amazement. “What?”
Legolas shrugged. “It is the only logical conclusion. You said it yourself. Elrohir’s body was temporarily possessed by a Vala. And I know only one that would intervene in our lives.” He snickered. “Has already done so several times.”
He caressed Erestor’s cheek. “Don’t worry about Elrohir. If it comes to a trail we will all speak up for him and I will pledge my allegiance to the Peredhil there if need be. Don’t worry about their future.”

Erestor smiled and leaned in closer. “I’m sorry for walking out on you like that.”
Legolas smiled, a wicked gleam appearing in his eyes. “Does that mean another romantic arrangement?”
Erestor shook his head. “Nay, that means I will take mercy on you and carry you to the bed, so you can sleep properly.” Feeling Legolas grow hard his gaze became stern. “And you can forget about that! Elrond said you needed to…”
Legolas placed his finger on Erestor’s lips. “To keep my foot elevated and not to strain it. He did not mention anything about the rest of my body and no, I shall not ravage you.” He smiled. “Unless you me to. And I prefer you to ravage me.”
He sighed when Erestor stood and lifted him. “But as I said. You decide the pace. Just don’t stop kissing me.”

Erestor gently placed him on the bed and started removing his clothing; that combined with the touches heated Legolas from the inside and soon he was slowly writing on the bed, moaning and purring his contentment.
Erestor smiled at the image as he placed Legolas’ clothes on one pile and then started on his own clothes but his eyes were still admiring his lover’s naked body.
Legolas didn’t protest at the absence of touch; Erestor’s look on his body was touch enough and seeing his lover undress himself worked miracles; the only regret he had was being unable to touch and kiss the flesh slowly revealed. That image made him buck and he moaned loudly.
Erestor smiled and stalked closer, resembling a large hunting cat.
Legolas purred when Erestor settled besides him. Just the feel of Erestor’s naked flesh against his own was stimulation enough and he came, screaming his lover’s name. He vaguely noticed the door cracking open only to silently close again, but he cared not. He wouldn’t even have cared had Gimli entered; all he could think about at this moment was the elf beside him.

Erestor smiled and pulled Legolas closer. “I know I am a virgin, but I do know the basics, Legolas. How is it possible you just…” He shook his head in disbelief.
Legolas snuggled closer, whimpering when he felt a minor discomfort in his ankle. He ignored it for now and placed his arms around Erestor and looked into his eyes, his own sated ones showing nothing but love. Before answering he gently kissed him. “I don’t know. Maybe because I am a young, horny elf and was already pretty aroused when you touched me. I don’t know, Erestor.”

He sighed contented and carefully studied his lover’s eyes. He found them free of terror or pain, but he wanted to make sure his lover had a pleasant rest. “I hope it will be in your dreams.”
Erestor nodded. “In a way.” Seeing Legolas’ bemused expression he blushed. “Not now, Legolas. Can we sleep?”
Understanding dawned on Legolas and he nodded, though inwardly he beamed with happiness. If Erestor already had sensual dreams it meant it wouldn’t be long before they’d deepen the relationship.

“Can we change places? My ankle.”
Erestor gasped in shock and sat up. After aiding Legolas to roll onto his other side, making sure the ankle wasn’t hampered he smiled. “You want me on your front or back?”
Legolas moaned at the images that flashed before him but he shrugged, indicating he didn’t mind one way or the other. That made Erestor crawl over him to his front where he settled down and pulled him close again.

Legolas now purred and snuggled closer and kissed him. “I love you.”
Erestor rested his head on Legolas’ shoulder and sighed. “I know and I love you too. But I will never tire of hearing you say it.”
Legolas responded by tightening his hold. “Then I shall say it forever. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you, I…”
“Legolas! Be quiet now.”
Legolas grinned and nodded, making his hair move over Erestor’s hand in a hidden caress. “As you desire, melamin.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Orophin frowned when his ears picked up hurried footfalls. He wanted to know what was going on, but he feared moving. Elrohir had managed to gain a tight hold on him as well and he feared waking him if he moved.
He sighed in relief when Elrond walked inside, carefully closed the door and then silently walked closer.

Seeing Orophin carefully search his eyes the Peredhel realised he must have scared his lover earlier and felt bad about springing it on him. Seeing the twins asleep, cuddled up, and Elrohir’s possessive hold on Orophin, made him smile warmly.

Kneeling next to his bed he rested his hand on Orophin’s leg. “I’m sorry, but I don’t think I can explain now.”
Orophin caressed him with his free hand. “You don’t have to. But it’s too bad I can’t hold you tonight.”
Elrond looked up and smiled. “Do you yearn it?”
Orophin shrugged. “Only all the time.” He smiled warmly. “It’s all right. Your children come first and I can go back to holding you tomorrow.”

Elrond stood and slowly freed his lover from Elrohir’s grip, placing the now free hand on Elladan.
Elrohir immediately tightened his hold and as a result pulled Elladan closer, who made approving sounds in his sleep.
Elrond smiled warmly when he saw Elladan clutch his pillow and clothes. “You are right. Elladan will be holding me tonight.”

He held out his hand to Orophin and smiled when the other took it and stood. Elrond leaned in closer. “I need a bath, to really calm me down.”
Orophin nodded. “Is it safe to leave them alone? Elrohir seemed pretty shaken and Elladan…”
Elrond sighed. “I know.” It meant a lot to him that his lover cared about his children this much. He swiftly stole a kiss and smiled. “I shall swiftly bathe. If I’m not back soon I have fallen asleep.”
Orophin nodded. “I shall come and carry you to bed.” He picked up the book and settled in the chair, watching the sleeping twins.

He waited until he had finished the chapter before checking on Elrond.

He smiled fondly when he found the Peredhel fast asleep in the tub and after hanging a towel over his arm he carefully lifted him from the now cold water. He walked back and placed the sleeping half-elf on the couch.

Even in his sleep Elrond noticed the sensation of being dried and he tried to wake up, mumbling unintelligently.
Orophin smiled and leaned in closer to whisper in his ear. “Sérë, melamin. Aucaratyen nénen úve ringatsal. Úve tápan fúmë Elladano irë partulan caimasse. Fuma. Ná ú yalmë tápá fúmetya. Fumat.”
Elrond’s mumbling turned appreciative and grateful and Orophin saw the eyelids flutter close again. He made a mental note to watch Elrond waking process closely the coming days. He had no idea if the eyelids opened before awareness returned or the other way around. And knowing it would be a good idea.

He finished drying his love and lifted him again. After carrying him to the bed he carefully placed him beside Elladan. Now came the tricky part: freeing Elrond’s pillow from the twin’s possessive hold without waking any of the three elves. He rubbed his nose and then smiled, he thought he could try the trick Haldir used to pull on him and Rumil.
He manipulated only Elladan’s left arm and placed that one around Elrond.
He couldn’t help but smirk in satisfaction when he saw Elladan instantly gain a tight hold on Elrond and use his other arm as well. The pillow was free and he placed it beneath Elrond’s head.

The sleeping Elrond moved closer to his son as well, lightly embracing him.
Orophin shook his head and helped him gain a hold on Elrohir as well.

Now that he was done he picked up the book and silently walked to the window. He would watch them from a distance now.

Translation:
Sérë, melamin. Aucaratyen nénen úve ringatsal. Úve tápan fúmë Elladano irë partulan caimasse. Fuma. Ná ú yalmë tápá fúmetya. Fumat. ----- Peace, melamin. I need to dry you or you might catch a cold. Or wake up Elladan when I place you on the bed. Sleep. There’s no need to wake up. Sleep.

Chapter twenty nine Ai Melamin

Elladan groaned when he woke and instantly his eyes returned to full awareness. The shock at not waking in his room faded when he saw his father’s face.

He smiled contented and snuggled even closer than he already was. Feeling the body behind him move he frowned, not knowing whether it was his twin or Orophin. He soon decided on his twin, figuring Orophin would be on Elrond’s other side and not on his.

He remained completely silent and impassive as he waited for the other two to wake up.
Unknown to him Orophin smiled at his concern.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Glorfindel stirred when someone crept into his bed, but instantly relaxed. Even in his sleep Thranduil’s scent soothed him and the blond’s voice was luring him deeper into the dream world.

Thranduil smiled. /I shall ask the healers if you can be moved. I much rather sleep in my own bed, but not without holding you./ He hadn’t realised he had spoken out loud and therefore he looked confused when there was a snicker at the door.

A healer approached him and smiled warmly. “I daresay it is possible, though you’d better wait until either Lord Elrond or Lord Elrohir has said so.”
Thranduil smiled. “They’re asleep and I’d rather not wake them now. It’ll wait.”

He looked at his lover. “How long before he’s completely healed?”
The healer shrugged. “Not long. A month at most, though I think with your help less is more likely. Last time he didn’t pace himself and tried sparring and shooting the moment Lord Elrond released him.”
Thranduil shook his head. “I shall tie him to the bed if I have to.”
The healer’s eyes sparkled. “I heard you already have. Too bad I haven’t seen it. Must have been quite a sight.”
Thranduil grinned and nodded. “Aye. Gagged and bound he still managed to upset everyone and everything.” He watched the healer check the healing rate and once the healer was gone he settled down and pulled his love close.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Erestor sighed contented and watched his love sleep. His life had completely changed lately and all for the better. And the recent events hadn’t left him shaken and confused, but had liberated him instead, which had been nothing but a surprise to him. He no longer felt fear of giving his heart away, of speaking his love.

Overcome by passion he straddled Legolas and claimed his luscious, red slip in a demanding kiss. It took a moment for the orbs to regain awareness but when they did pleased surprise and undying love was visible.

Erestor pulled back and smiled. “I need you.”
Legolas almost choked on his next breath, hearing these words. He blinked, not trusting his hearing, but he could read the sincerity in Erestor’s eyes. He blinked again and inhaled deep to calm himself. “You have me.” His eyes showed complete surrender. He raised a hand and caressed Erestor’s cheek. “I love you, Erestor. Melatyen.”

Erestor’s eyes darkened and before Legolas was aware of it his lips were claimed again. Even as the kiss deepened he could feel Erestor’s hands caressing his body and he grew achingly hard within seconds.
It was then that he noticed his movements restrained by Erestor’s weight and legs. The counsellor was sitting on him in such a way it prevented the blond from bucking and writhing. All Legolas could do was moan his pleasure.
His hands pulled his advisor closer. “Take me?”
Erestor nodded.

He took his time undressing his lover, carefully mapping the body beneath him. When he removed the pants he stopped his lover from moving about to much; he didn’t want to strain the injury.

Legolas moaned deliriously when he felt Erestor touch his member for the first time. “You really are beautiful everywhere.” Those words heated him up and no amount of restraint could have prevented the buckle he gave as response.

Erestor swiftly straddled him again and looked reproaching. “Your ankle will not approve.”
Legolas merely gazed at him before pulling him down for another hot kiss. “You’re wearing too many clothes.”
Erestor chuckled and sat back, nodding. He carefully removed his sleeping robe and warmed inside when Legolas’ approving groans registered.

Legolas could not believe his eyes. Erestor was extremely well build, not at all like the clothes have led him to believe and he slowly glided his hands over the upper body, feeling the muscles react to his touch.
Erestor cocked his head in question when he saw Legolas’ disbelief, though the desire in the orbs had intensified.
Legolas was speechless for some time but when he found his voice he hurried to assure his lover. “I never expected to see this. I thought you would be thin, lithe; not this muscular and tough. Your clothes are quite deceptional.”
Erestor laughed and placed his hands on Legolas. “You should speak… Now I know why you always wear a cloak above your tunic. To hide those well toned body parts.”
Legolas grinned and raised his upper body to kiss Erestor’s chest. “I can’t wait to worship you.”

His eyes darted down and another extremely pleased gasp escaped him. “My, you are well endowed.”
Erestor cocked his head the other way. “Begging your pardon?”
Legolas nodded, but couldn’t take his eyes of Erestor’s member. “So beautiful, so wise, so large, and -all- mine.” Some possessiveness shone in the words, but it was different from the possessiveness Erestor had heard before. He knew instinctively Legolas would let him be but hunt down everyone who made a pass at him. “Jealous, are we?” He couldn’t resist the tease.

Legolas now did look up and nodded, his eyes showing his love. “Aye, extremely. I don’t want to share you…” He trailed off and bit off his tongue when he heard his own words, his arousal fading a little because he felt extremely bad about himself right now.
Erestor slowly leaned in closer and kissed him. “Good! For I am not planning on sharing you either, verno-nin.”
Legolas’ eyes opened wide and Erestor didn’t give him time to respond but started manipulating his lover’s body in such a way he ended up spooned behind Legolas.

Even though he was new at this he knew what to do, having devoured many books on the subject. Oh, the positions he knew. Just seeing the images, with Legolas and himself placed into them, was enough to make him leak.

Legolas was still taken aback by Erestor’s words and the intrusion came as a complete surprise. He suddenly noticed he was on his side, Erestor spooned behind him and obviously preparing him. He yelped when Erestor had found his hidden gland and his pushed back. “Hurry. I won’t last long.”
Erestor nodded, soothed his lover and indeed hurried up the preparation. “Are you sure?”
Legolas nodded. “Aye. I need you, melamin, take me, make me yours, claim me. Now!”

Erestor didn’t wait and carefully slid inside. It was unlike anything else he has ever experienced and he pulled his love as close as possible as he was overcome by the sudden need to saviour it.
Legolas was unable to move but desired to do so. The sensation was overwhelming and he ached to reach completion.

When his whimpers reached Erestor the counsellor gasped, afraid he had hurt his beloved. “Nin-ind?”
Hearing the endearment Legolas stilled his attempts to push back and managed to cock his head and look at his love. The sight got imprinted on his very soul and he licked his lips, moaning when Erestor took his cue and claimed them.

When he had his freedom again Legolas smiled. “Move?”
Understanding dawned on Erestor and he nodded, eager to comply and release the tension for his lover. He carefully started thrusting, aiming at the hidden gland. Hearing Legolas’ cries he couldn’t help but laugh.
Legolas didn’t have the change to ask questions as spasms suddenly shook his body, climaxing.
Erestor’s eyes widened when he felt Legolas contract around him. Looking at Legolas he reached his climax as well, seeing his love like he never had before.

After coming down Legolas carefully wiggled forward, whimpering a little when Erestor left his body, and turned to face his love, who stared at him, sated and relaxed. Legolas snuggled close and embraced him. “Let’s get cleaned and prepare for breakfast.”
Erestor’s gaze became stern and he shook his head. “You are not leaving. Not until it is healed. I shall bring you breakfast on bed.”
Legolas pouted but nodded, realising Erestor was right. “But you should go. They’d be worried if you don’t.”
Erestor nodded. “After last night, I know…”

His eyes saddened. He didn’t want to go without Legolas, but knew he had to. He jumped a foot in the air when he heard a couch.
“Sorry, for intruding, but I think I have an idea.”

Gimli carefully walked forward, almost expecting a bow to be aimed at him, and smiled. “How about carrying him?”
Legolas sat up, his eyes beaming. “Aye. You could carry me.”
Erestor narrowed his eyes. “I remember some words where you stated no one carries you.”
Legolas pouted, even as he was throwing Erestor a most seductive look. “No one that isn’t my love. Please, Erestor?” He could see the counsellor giving in and smiled. “Gimli, get a washcloth, would you, I do have to get clean.” This brought a blush to both Gimli as Erestor.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Elrond stretched as he awoke, smiling when he saw Elladan already fully alert. “How are you, ion-nin?”
Elladan briefly tightened the embrace and smiled. “Fine. But shouldn’t you be resting in Orophin’s arms?” A laugh from the window made them both look up and Elrond smiled when he saw his love relaxed.
“I get to hold him at any time, Elladan. And besides; last night was for his children. Too much has happened.”
Elladan nodded. “How’s Ro? He’s back soon.”

Elrond nodded and sighed. He reluctantly disentangled himself from Elaldan and put on a robe before walking to the other side of the bed. “Elrohir, ion-nin, wake up. It is morn.”

Elladan frowned at the behaviour. What was wrong? Why did his father want Elrohir to wake up? Something had to have happened for otherwise Elrond wouldn’t have trouble letting Elrohir sleep, he knew that.

Elrohir stirred and beamed when realising he was holding Elladan close and was watched over by his father. He frowned a moment later. “Why do I recall Orophin singing a lullaby?”
Elrond temporarily looked at his lover with love and gratitude before looking at Elrohir again, grinning a little. “Because he did. He watched you and Elladan for me while I was away.”

He carefully searched Elrohir’s eyes. “I need you to tell me what happened last night.”
Elrohir sat up and frowned, not understanding why his father said that. But he did so anyway, knowing from experience his father had a reason. “All right. I came back from the patrol and took a swift bath before I went in search of Elladan.” He smiled at the squish on his leg at those words. He locked eyes with his father. “A healer told me Legolas managed to break his ankle somehow. I went there and…”

He gasped and flared up. “Erestor! Where is he? How is he?”
Elrond pulled him close and soothed him. “He’s fine, Elrohir. Sleeping in Legolas’ arms.” /If that is all they do./
Elladan narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean? Did something happen?”
Elrond nodded. “Aye. Glamor escaped prison and tried again.” He heard the gasp from his lover and smiled rueful. He felt bad for not telling him.
Orophin hurried close and placed an arm around Elrond. “I take it he didn’t succeed? Did the sword turn to sausage again?” He had a pretty good idea on what had happened, but he wanted to lighten the atmosphere.
Elladan went into a laughing fit, seeing it happen again in his mind’s eye, and Elrohir smiled at well. “Legolas told me what happened. And then the elf showed up.” He locked his eyes with his father. “All I could think about was protecting them, adar.”

His eyes became questioning. “Who stopped him? I might have died too.”
Elladan gasped and pulled his twin close.
Elrohir smiled. “Don’t worry. I passed out and when I woke up he was dead. Who saved us? Legolas?”
Elrond smiled, but remained silent. “Later, Elrohir. First I want to take a look at your wound. I didn’t fully register it last night, but you sport an injury.”
Elrohir looked at his arm and grinned. “Aye, he got me. But it only fuelled me.” He looked regretful. “It happened just before I passed out. I didn’t loose that much blood, though, adar. I must have been exhausted, I think.” He frowned as he said that, hoping he had managed to calm his father down.

Elrond smiled after carefully probing the wound. “It’s nothing. But I want you to stay away from weapons the next three days, Elrohir.” With Orophin’s aid he swiftly tended to his son’s wound and then stood. “Right. You two raid my closet for something you can wear. It is about breakfast time.”

Elrohir nodded but locked their eyes once more. “Hmm. Adar?”
Elrond settled his eyes on him with wonder.
Elrohir smiled. “Are you and Orophin really…?” He stopped speaking when Elladan hit him and they glared at each other.
Elladan rolled his eyes. “You can’t be so blunt, Ro. And it isn’t our affair.”
Elrond laughed warmly. “It’s all right. I’ve been thinking on how to tell you.” He looked at Elrohir. “Aye. Orophin is my lover. But I don’t want you to think he’s replacing your mother.”
Elrohir hurried to stop his father and rushed forward to hug him. “I know, adar, I know. I want you to be happy. I can’t speak for my twin but you finding new love is great and I welcome it.”
Elladan growled. “Elrohir! Sometimes that mouth of yours really isn’t connected to your brain.” He hugged his father and then Orophin, who was stunned by the movement. “Welcome to the family then.” He stuck out his tongue to Elrohir and started dressing.

Elrond shook his head and leaned against his lover, happy his sons have so easily accepted it. Orophin smiled and kissed his neck. “You need to dress as well, or do you plan to attend breakfast wearing nothing but a night robe? One that doesn’t even close properly.”
Elrond grinned and nodded. He did need to dress. “And what about you?”
Orophin shrugged. “I think this is still acceptable. I shall change later, after my sparring match with Ru.”
Elladan’s eyes sparkled. “Can I come? I haven’t sparred for a while and…”
Orophin nodded. “Of course. You need not ask.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thranduil woke to the sensation of someone kissing him and he smiled when he stared straight into his lover’s eyes; to him to most beautiful ones on Arda.

Glorfindel broke the kiss and grinned. “I was hoping that might wake you.”
Thranduil laughed warmly. “Now why do I know those words?” He pulled him close and kissed his lips swiftly. “I have to go soon. I have some apologies to make.”
Glorfindel’s smile widened. “Elrohir and Erestor?”
Thranduil narrowed his eyes. “How do you know?”
Glorfindel shrugged. “Elrond came bursting in here, extremely pissed I might add. They told me what happened; he and Celeborn.”

He struggled to sit up. “I want to go.” Thranduil placed a hand on his arm and Glorfindel growled. “Don’t stop me, melamin. I want to leave. For two reasons: I want to be there this morn and this confining room is driving my insane. The only thing keeping me sane is waking up in your arms.”
Thranduil raised his eyebrows. “Am I to conclude you don’t wish to sleep in my arms elsewhere?” Glorfindel looked at him in horror and shock and Thranduil hastily prevented him from speaking. “’Cause if so, I shall reconsider moving you to my rooms. The healer said I could, provided you rest. And Elrond’s or Elrohir’s say-so.”

Glorfindel looked at him, needing to know he was serious and then beamed. “In your bed… I don’t think I shall ever want to leave it.”
Thranduil laughed and stood. “Come on then. Let’s see if we can get you to the breakfast table. They can hardly deny it then.”
Glorfindel smiled. “You shall have to carry me, meleth.”
Thranduil grinned. “Now that might become my favourite pass time.”
Glorfindel rolled his eyes. “We shall see about that!”

Thranduil licked his lips seductively and Glorfindel groaned. “Stop that! Do you want me hard?”
Thranduil pretended to think and then nodded. “Aye, that would be most enjoyable.”
Glorfindel crossed his arms. “Just forget about it. I have no desire to get another mysterious ‘relapse’.” He mocked the word. “So you just behave.”
Thranduil sighed and looked rejected. “But you taste too good. I don’t want to behave. I want to ravage you.”
Glorfindel’s glare intensified. It was all he could do to stop himself from getting aroused. “Just think on this: the more you behave, the sooner I am healed and we can engage in that activity again.” He smiled wickedly. “And if you don’t behave I shall ask Legolas to take me back here.”
Thranduil sucked in his breath, knowing full well the other wasn’t kidding. His look was shocked before he burst out laughing. “You and I truly are a match.”

He shook his head. “Are you ready to get dressed now?”
Glorfindel nodded and pulled his love close. “Don’t think I don’t want to. I do. That’s why I want to heal to swift.”
Thranduil nodded, his eyes glistening. “I know, I know. I shall behave.”
Glorfindel smiled and growled when he had trouble getting dressed. Thranduil smiled, but waited for him to ask him to help, knowing how frustrating it was.

Chapter thirty I’m a what?

Elladan smiled when they finally reached the dining room. “It looks like we have some unannounced guests.”
Elrond frowned and rushed forward. The last unannounced guest hadn’t been a success. But he could not help but shake his head at the sight.

Legolas and Glorfindel exchanged annoyed glances as their lovers tended to them, though they continuously threw them loving glances as well, adoring them for doing this.
Glorfindel grinned when Erestor buttered Legolas’ bread. “Really, Erestor, he didn’t break his arms. He can still use his wrists.”
Legolas threw him an angry glance. “Pipe down, seneschal. Don’t take out your frustration on Erestor. And I adore him for it.” He smiled lovingly and gratefully at his mate.

Celeborn politely coughed to announce his arrival and smiled warmly at the present elves. “How’s your night been, Counsellor?”
Erestor smiled and hid a blush. “Peaceful.”
Legolas grinned. “Until he decided to wake me up, that is.” He locked eyes with his father. “Could you perhaps find some occupation for Gimli, adar? I mean, we love him for taking care of us, but we don’t want him walking in on us.”
Gimli kindly tapped his axe on his shoulder. “Kindly not talk about the Dwarf as though he weren’t here. And aye, do grant me an occupation. I shall go quite mad guarding them.”
Erestor smiled warmly at him. “Why don’t you aid Glorfindel? He’s not ready to do his duty, but he will want to know how everything goes.”
Gimli nodded. “Make sure everyone follows their orders, you mean?” He grinned. “Are you sure you don’t want me to check the counsellors?”
Erestor laughed freely. “Nay. Legolas’ arrows are more than enough threat. But should I need you…” He left the sentence unfinished for he was suddenly covered in half-elf.

His bemused eyes locked with Elrond, who smiled warmly in return. Just the look in his knowing eyes told Erestor just how long they’ve been standing there.
Elrohir finally pulled back. “I’m so glad you are all right.”
Erestor smiled and sat down, pulling Elrohir on his lap. “Thanks to you.” His eyes briefly flashed to Thranduil, who gasped at the fire.
He pinched himself, not trusting his eyes. “Erestor… your eyes…”
Erestor ignored him and focused on Elrohir instead. “How are you today, pen-neth?”
Elrohir smiled and stood, seeing Legolas’ jealous look. “Better.”

He looked at Celeborn. “Should Elladan and I spend some time with Rumil? With both his brothers engaged he might turn lonely.”
Orophin laughed freely, sitting down. “Ru? Lonely? Never! He’ll come to us if he needs us and don’t you think he will be embarrassed if he interrupts anything.” He snickered. “Ask Haldir.”
Celeborn grinned as well. “No need. Galadriel and I could hear his screams clearly. I think the entire realm knew Rumil had walked in on his brother.”
Elladan frowned. “Why do I have the feeling it was more than walking in on someone?”
Orophin laughed. “Because Ru has the habit of just jumping on the bed.”
Celeborn nodded. “Which is exactly what he did.” He looked at Elrond. “You and I better have locks installed.”
Elrond shook his head. “I prefer to have a door left after a visit from Rumil. I think he’s also very capable of kicking in the door.”

He grinned and sat down. “Legolas, Glorfindel, would the two of you please explain why you are here?”
Legolas smiled as disarmingly as he could, silencing his love when Erestor wanted to speak. “I don’t know about Glorfindel, but I just needed to be at Erestor’s side. Gimli and Erestor helped me to get here and I promise I’ve kept my leg elevated at all times.” He cocked his head. “When will you heal it?”
Elrond smiled. “Perhaps after breakfast. If Erestor permits it.”

He grinned at the counsellor’s blush and immediately settled his attention on Glorfindel. “And you? I don’t remember giving you permission to leave the healing house. Elrohir?”
The twin shook his head. “Not me, adar. I haven’t seen him all day yesterday. But I did give permission for Haldir to leave.” He looked at his grandfather. “Where is he?”
Celeborn smiled warmly. “Sleeping. He was extremely tired. He -is- still healing after all and it will take some more month before his old stamina is back.”
Elrond nodded. “I would like it if he checked in every now and then. So we can monitor his recovery.”

He resettled his attention on Glorfindel. “Glorfindel?”
The seneschal smiled. “The walls were coming in on me. It’s driving me insane, Elrond. You must let me stay somewhere. I promise to behave.” Thranduil blushed at the words, though only Glorfindel understood the reason and smiled briefly at him. “Thranduil shall make sure I do. After all, he has no trouble tying me down.”
Elrond grinned. “I have no intentions of ordering you back, but I do want you in bed, Glorfindel, though perhaps we should place it near the balcony or on it, so the sun can aid your recovery.”
Thranduil nodded. “I shall look after him.”

He swallowed and stood, deciding to do this now and get it over. “Elrohir, Erestor, I owe you an apology. You were right, Erestor. I jumped to conclusions but it was hard to understand.”
Elrohir frowned. “Forgive you? For what?”

Legolas stared at his plate. He suddenly remembered seeing fire sparks flashing from Erestor’s orbs. Could it be? He jumped up. “Adar? What was with Erestor’s eyes?”
Thranduil swallowed and minutely shook his head. He did not feel comfortable addressing this. He didn’t want the others to think him insane.
Legolas grinned. “Fire sparks?”
Thranduil widened his eyes. “You saw it too?”
Legolas nodded. “Some days ago.” He shrugged. “I didn’t pay it any attention at the time, though.” He batted the hands that wanted to place him on his seat away and sat down himself, hissing when the pain in his ankle registered and travelled up.
Elrond sighed. “I don’t know who’s worse right now; you or Glorfindel.” He placed his hands on Legolas’ shoulders. “Now stay put.”

He looked at everyone. “It seems we have some riddles to solve.”
He settled his eyes on Elrohir. “Firstly: Mandos took over you body when you blacked out. It was he that killed Glamor.” He spoke the name with such venom even Erestor shivered. They knew if Elrond would ever meet him again he would still make the other pay. Elrond growled and sat down between Elrohir and Erestor. “That’s also why Thranduil thought it was you.”
Thranduil jumped up. “Not anymore and Elrohir, I want you to know I knew you don’t kill, I mean not for pleasure and not when you can avoid it, but it was hard to combine it with what I saw.”
Elrohir nodded. “It’s all right. I would have thought the same.” He looked at his father. “But why did he do that? It’s not the way of the Valar to intervene in our lives, but he did that with Erestor twice now.”
Celeborn smiled. “Trice, Elrohir, and according to your father even a fourth time, but we cannot talk about that. Remember Legolas’ three years….” He looked at Elrond. “What is the proper word for it?”
Elrohir grinned. “I think we all know what you mean. Aye, you right. I had forgotten that.” He suddenly realised something and looked at his twin who nodded.

Elladan stood and embraced Erestor. “Was Glamor that idiot?”
Erestor nodded. “Aye.” He smiled at Elrond. “He came to me, forcing me to choose between him and my dreams because he made enough money to provide for a family and since he was with me…” His eyes darkened and Elladan backed away when fire came to live again.

Suddenly the sparks flew forward, setting the tablecloth on fire.
Even though they were stunned Gimli, Celeborn and Thranduil were clear-headed enough to put it out before it could do any damage.

Elrond approached his counsellor who had fallen back, stunned and shocked and clearly afraid.
Legolas embraced him as good as their positions allowed him to and looked at Elrond, hoping the Peredhel had some answers.
Elrond suddenly smiled mysteriously and leaned in to whisper in Gimli’s ear. “In the top drawer of my desk in my room is a ring. Bring it.”
Gimli understood and ran away. He knew what Elrond wanted to do and to be honest, he wanted to know what would happen.

Elrond waited for Gimli to be gone and then sat down again. “Well, let’s continue our breakfast and let our nerves settle down, shall we? Some of us have some healing to do and need to be calm.” His family understood he wanted to wait and they agreed. And some of them were more afraid of what might happen if Erestor didn’t calm down.

Before long they were all relaxed again and Erestor even returned his attention to Legolas. He found he needed to if he wanted to stop himself from pondering this morn’s events. He couldn’t explain what had happened and he hated it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Gimli smiled when he ran back in and handed Elrond a box the others well knew.
Glorfindel smiled in understanding and kept a close eye on them both. Who knew what would happen.

Elrond merely accepted the box but didn’t do anything with it, forcing the others to redirect their attention again. And that’s what he wanted.

Silently he removed Vilya from its box and placed it on Erestor’s finger who looked at him in more than curious wonder. The second Vilya was on Erestor’s finger it sparkled brightly.
Everyone looked at it, the light was so bright they had no choice.

Elrond sat back, smiled and nodded. “You have magic in your veins, Erestor.”
Erestor pulled back, shook his head and kept his hand pulled out, the ring towards Elrond. “I do not. How could I? How can Vilya…?”
Legolas nodded. “Aye. Didn’t the rings lost their magic when the One was destroyed?”
Elrond nodded. “Aye. But it is still in there. We just cannot reach it anymore. It needs magic to come out.” He removed Vilya from Erestor’s finger and placed it on his own. Itnow was a normal ring again. “I can no longer wield her. Nor can any of you.” He smiled. “Do you know a Maia has the ring of fire and can still wield it?”
Legolas gasped. “Are you saying Erestor is…is… is a… a Maia?”

Erestor jumped up and stared at Elrond. “I’m a what?”
Elrond shrugged. “I don’t know what you are, Erestor. You seems fully Elven, but you do have magic inside of you. The fire coming from your eyes and Vilya prove that.” Again he shoved the ring on Erestor’s finger and once more it sparkled brightly before dimming. Though the light was gone, it was clear to all its magic had not.

Elrond kneeled before Erestor. “Who was your sire, Erestor? Your mother?”
Erestor shrugged. “My mother died in birth, Elrond. I knew her not and my father was a passing elf. I was raised by my grandmother.”
He smiled fondly. “We lived in the Grey Havens, but when she realised my fondness for books and my desires she took me to Lindon.” He looked and Elrond and smiled. “Even though she wanted to return, she did not, knowing I couldn’t do without her.”
Elrond nodded. “I remember her. I often told her to return to sea, to answer its call.” His eyes turned sad but Erestor didn’t stop smiling.
“I know that when she finally did it was too late, but she wouldn’t have found happiness in the Grey havens or in Valinor either, Elrond. She needs to take care of another. All her life she had looked after her daughter and then after me. She is happy now. I am sure she’s a great support for Mandos.”

A grin made them turn and their eyes widened when Mandos stood before them, a female next to him. “Aye, that she is.” His voice was fond. “Though sometimes she can be a pain in the butt.” He looked at Erestor. “Now I know where you got that from.”
The female snorted. “Ha! As if you are easy.” She walked forward and hugged Erestor. “I know what happened. I am so glad you let Legolas in. He shall make you happy.”

Erestor blinked away his surprise and hugged his grandmother, though his eyes settled on Mandos. “What is going on? And what is Elrond raving on about?”
Mandos chuckled. “Elrond can do a lot of things, Erestor, but I’ve never known him to rave.” The female snorted again, a snort the others recognized as Erestor’s, and she glared the Vala before looking at Erestor again. “Ignore him, Erestor. He gets those playful moods now and then. And you do have powers, Erestor. From your sire.”

She sighed and sat down. “Your mother was unhappy, Erestor and she really desired a child. I often sat at the waterside, weeping for her. One day Ossë showed up.” Her eyes sparkled at the remembrance. “What a sight that was. I thought I was dying or something and somehow he got me to tell everything and then he left, saying it would be taken care of.”
She shrugged. “A weak later some travellers passed by and one made your mother very happy.”
Erestor nodded. “Who was he?”
She frowned. “I don’t remember. I remember writing to him, telling him my daughter found herself with child…” She rubbed her forehead. “Why can’t I remember anything else?”

Suddenly she stood and glared at Mandos. “You know more of this? You are the one to remove memories, so why remove mine?”
Mandos shrugged. “Because I had to.” He smiled at Erestor. “She’s right. She did write. And he wrote back.”
Erestor nodded, understanding Mandos had brought his grandmother here to give him the truth. “Then why didn’t he come back?”
She screamed happy and banged her fist on the table, scaring even Glorfindel. “That’s it. He wrote he was barren. He couldn’t have fathered a child, even if he wanted to.” Her eyes glistened. “That’s what happened, Erestor. Ossë must have taken over his body and so made my daughter pregnant.”

Elrond shook his head. His arms were crossed before his chest and he looked even more regal than Mandos. “Impossible. Erestor’s power is obviously fire.”
Legolas nodded. “Aye, he nearly torched the tablecloth.” He looked at Mandos. “Please tell him?”
Mandos sighed and nodded. “All right. First: the letter also stated he didn’t even know of a night with your mother, Erestor. He was passed out.” He smiled at Erestor’s understanding look. “Ossë had gone to your grandmother according to our order. -We- wanted to know what was wrong and -we- took care of it.”
Legolas frowned. “Who’s we?”
Mandos smiled. “Varië, Nienna, Ulmo and myself.”
Elrond narrowed his eyes, understanding the hidden meaning. He wanted to ask some questions but the two were gone.

Erestor sighed when he had lost his grandmother again and he felt his anger building, aiming it at the Vala for he took her away again.

They all remained in the seats, staring at their plates, trying to understand what had been said.

Suddenly the female materialised before them again and she shook her head at Erestor. “Mandos asks if you would kindly stop putting his wardrobe on fire and you should know he will always send me when you need me.” She hugged him again. “I’ve never stopped watching you, my child.”
Erestor grinned. “I’m putting his wardrobe on fire? How?”
She shrugged. “Your powers obviously.” She faded again, but held out a pointing finger, scolding Erestor for his behaviour. It made him chuckle.

Legolas grinned. “I don’t know how my father would react if I put his wardrobe on fire…”
Elrond raised his eyebrow. “It can also be Ulmo, Legolas.”
Thranduil cleared his throat. “And on what do you two base that?”
Elrond smiled. “Mandos stressed the word ‘we’, so it is obvious those were the ones responsible. It sounds unlikely they brought in another person to impregnate her.”
Legolas nodded. “Aye, and considering what Mandos has done for Erestor it can only be him. If Ulmo was the father Ulmo would have interrupted and Erestor would not be so ‘flammable’.”
Elrond now nodded as well. Ulmo was also water, therefore couldn’t have produced the fire in Erestor. It had to be Mandos.

Erestor frowned. “All right. I am willing to believe I have powers, but I am not the son of a Vala. I am not. I have an elven father and an elven mother.”
Thranduil nodded. “Aye, you do. The truth must remain a secret.” He smirked. “But I do suggest you work on controlling your power, that is obviously surfacing. Perhaps Vilya can guide you?”

Elrond smiled. Finally he had solved the puzzle that was Erestor; finally he knew why Gandalf never argued with Erestor, because he owed him his allegiance. He smiled and promised to guard Erestor’s secret and make sure it wouldn’t be spoken of ever again. He would say Vilya still possessed some healing powers. That would explain why Erestor would wear it from time to time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Erestor rested his head on his papers. In the confines of his walls he was ready to start believing the truth. /The elf that laid with my mother was temporarily inhabited by a Vala. By Mandos. But what does that make me? Fully elf or Peredhel? The second I think, but then with Valar blood instead of Mortal blood./ He smiled, glad he was finally able to make sense of it all.
He closed his eyes and sighed. /I shall always be an elf. I shall have to hide Vilya. Why Elrond didn’t want to take it back…/ He shook his head at his own thoughts. He knew precisely why Elrond insisted he wore the ring. Because it would aid him; Vilya’s magic would allow him to control his own.
He shuddered, not really understanding the totality of the fact he had powers.

He looked up startled when the door opened and Legolas walked in. He flared up; reproach visible in his eyes.
Legolas smiled and waved his concern away. “Can’t you see I’m not limping? Elrond healed me. Aye, I have to be careful the next two days, but I can walk again. Shall we finally go for the ride?”
Erestor nodded. “Aye. I long to be on him again. Do you prefer your own horse or will you ride Yule?”
“My own, why?”
Erestor shrugged. “I want them both to come. Perhaps we should invite Gimli? She’s already agreed to carrying him.”
Legolas grinned. “Aye, let’s. That I want to see.” He practically dragged his love out to the stables.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Elladan and Elrohir had just finished saddling their horses when they saw company arriving and smiled warmly. “Ah, you are finally capable of riding, Erestor? I am glad.”
Erestor smiled. “Legolas told me what you had to endure, Elladan. I am sorry.”
The twin smiled and waved it away. “Don’t be. I am grateful they are so loyal to you. Come, let’s saddle them. Gimli?” He was surprised to see him near horses.
The Dwarf grinned. “Erestor wants me along and I belief laddy is hoping I fly through the air.” He looked at the horses with a bit of fright.
Erestor first caressed Voronwië and then led Yule out her box. “Nay, that won’t happen. Yule here will be careful, won’t you?” Yule whinnied and nuzzled Erestor’s hand, making him laugh. “I see Voronwië already enlightened you. I’m sorry, my friends, but no sugar today.”

He saddled Yule while Elladan swiftly saddled his steed. “And why are you not inside? Aren’t you supposed to negotiate with the healers, Elrohir?”
Elrohir nodded. “It will have to wait.” He grinned. “And adar and Orophin are no longer a secret.”
Legolas frowned. “How so?”
Elrohir laughed freely. “Well, I was about to start the meeting when my twin burst in, highly flushed and started rambling…”
Erestor could already fill in the rest and burst out laughing. “Nay, Elladan. Don’t tell -you- walked in on them?” He shook his head. They would undoubtedly have Rumil doing that on occasions and now Elladan was added to the list?
The twin blushed and nodded. “I heard a scream and thought they were under attack and then…” He shrugged. “How was I supposed to know they forgot to look where they went and knocked over the table?”
To this even Gimli laughed. “Never a dull moment around the lot of you.”

He still looked indecisive about the ride and eyes the horse with suspicion. Yule stepped forward and playfully hit his helm.
Erestor grinned. “I think she likes you, Gimli.”
Gimli snorted. “Are you sure she isn’t thinking on way to take of with me?” That prospect terrified him more than riding itself or falling off.
Erestor nodded. “Aye. She will be careful. She saved my life, Gimli. She will never endanger the life of a friend.”
As if to emphasise those words Yule whinnied again and scraped the floor. She didn’t understand the Dwarf, but if Erestor wanted him along, she would carry him.

Elladan smiled and whispered in his twin’s ear. “Ro? Do you think they can sense he’s…. different?”
Elrohir nodded and whispered back. “Aye. I think so. I’ve never seen horses this loyal as with Erestor. They must somehow sense his power.” He shrugged and smiled. “And all horses are descendents of the Valarin ones. Perhaps it is a common memory to recognize it?”
Erestor looked at them and the twins shuddered. Always they had found that look terrifying, as if Erestor knew precisely what they were talking about even though he couldn’t hear, and now they wondered if maybe he actually did hear.

Erestor smiled. “What are you two mumbling about? Are we ready to go?”
Legolas nodded and jumped on his horse. “Aye, let us away.”
Voronwië rushed outside as well where he started moving about, eager to get going. But, like Yule, he wouldn’t dream of leaving without Erestor. He wanted his master to mount him and take off. But Erestor was still inside, making the last preparations on Yule.

She didn’t really like the more confining saddle, but she understood the Dwarf needed it.
Erestor led her out and she started stepping about a bit to acquaint herself with it.
Elladan smiled most wickedly and suddenly picked up Gimli and placed him on the horse’s back. “There, now we can go. Erestor, let’s mount.”
Erestor nodded and easily mounted his steed, who neighed in happiness. He tapped the flank. “Patience, my friend.”

He was indecisive on the next move. He wanted to go fast and feel the wind and he knew Elladan needed it too. But he knew they couldn’t leave Gimli alone.
Legolas smiled. “Go. Ro and I shall stay with Gimli and we’ll meat you at the Bruinen.”
Erestor smiled gratefully and nodded. He leaned over and swiftly kissed him before he and Elladan took of at full speed, Voronwië’s happy sounds accompanying them.

Legolas smiled and looked at Gimli and Elrohir. The three of them were going slow. “He -did- hear, you know.”
Elrohir’s eyes widened. “He did? That explains a lot.” He smiled warmly and fondly. “He was always there to save us or keep us out of trouble, Legolas. And that look; looking at you with reproach as if he heard what we were talking about even though it hadn’t been possible.”
Legolas shrugged. “He always knew his ears were more evolved than others. He told me.” He smiled fondly, staring in the direction his mate had gone. “And aye. Whatever you were talking about: it is true.”
Elrohir frowned. “Uh?”
Legolas laughed. “Well, that was eloquent.” He shook his head and squished Gimli’s arm, showing his support. The Dwarf was slowly starting to relax. “Erestor said so. He said that you were right.”
Gimli nodded. “Aye. The horses always told him he was special.” He smiled smugly but then laughed. “Elrond told me.”

They laughed and together they continued their way to meet Elladan and Erestor.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Celeborn stood on his balcony and looked into the distance. `Thank you, Galadriel.` He never expected to receive an answer and nearly fell down when he suddenly heard her voice.
`You’re more than welcome. Be happy. All of you. Nienna told me how happy you all are. It pleases me.`
Celeborn smiled. `Aye. Everything has turned out right.` He didn’t think on the future, that was bound to be filled with surprises as Erestor’s powers would evolve. He knew that everything was, and would remain, perfect.

THE END