Against all odds

Chapter 27 some plans are made

Elladan and Elrohir had walked Legolas to his rooms, saying the blond needed to make himself decent before going anywhere with them, or else Thranduil would think they raped the unsuspecting Prince. Legolas had laughed and taken their lead.

When they had reached his rooms he invited them in, disappearing into the bathroom, to make himself presentable.
Elladan had noticed Elrohir’s weird behaviour and flushing cheeks and saw how his twin’s eyes never leaved Legolas’ form as the blond walked into the bathroom. He sat down, pulling Elrohir next to him, and dropped his voice to the lowest whisper. “Are you in love with him?” Elrohir’s eyes widened and nearly left his sockets. /Trust him to be so forward./ “Why? Looking for reasons to hate him again?” The words hurt Elladan but he accepted it, knowing he had pained Legolas more. “Elrohir, I’m sorry. I feel so stupid. He would be dead now and it would have been my fault. I was seeing things that weren’t there, I guess. I guess seeing you look at him the way you do made me realise I would lose you. It never crossed my mind I would never lose you, Ro. I would be gaining a brother.”

Even though Elladan’s words made Elrohir smile and proud, knowing his twin accepted his love he laughed bitterly. “No, you wouldn’t. I don’t love him. And even if I did, he would never return it.”
Elladan shook him. “Of course he will. You are caring, compassionate and gentle. Not to mention noble, rich and stunningly beautiful. He will have no choice but to love you.”
Elrohir smiled ruefully. “No, he won’t. He doesn’t. Why should he?” Seeing Elladan was about to tell him Elrohir shook his head. “Dan, I know you mean well, but it’s not meant to be.”
Elladan knew why Elrohir was saying this but right now he was not having it. “You don’t know that, Ro. He already cares greatly about you. He would have left and rode to a certain death. For you! Now I would only do that for those I love deeply. My family, my closest friends or my lover. Please don’t deny yourself this happiness because you’re afraid.”
By now Elrohir was beginning to cry. “Let’s face it, Dan, he’s only here until Thranduil sends word he can leave. And when he does Legolas will be gone faster than a Dwarf would be. And then he will forget all about me. I will be alone again.”

The last words were barely audible and Elladan had to strain his hearing to catch them. His gaze saddened and he had to force back his own tears at his twin’s unhappiness. He would have folded him in a hug but he knew Elrohir would only push him away. He always did. After ending up in the healing wing a couple of times, Elladan had given up on consoling his brother in such ways. Instead he used words, hoping they would make Elrohir see different and make him trust and reach out. But before he could voice one word the bathroom door opened and a shocked and highly concerned Legolas stood in the doorway.

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Legolas took his time getting himself ready. He knew the twins needed a moment alone.
But he was done rather fast and went to cleaning the room a bit, saving the maids the trouble. He tried to envision their stunned and surprised faces at finding something in his rooms tidy.
Even though his family had nagged him endlessly he had never bothered to clean up or keep everything tidy.
Most had given up, except Thranduil. The king could outdo a mule on being stubborn and continued to nag and try to change Legolas. Truth was he knew Legolas would be crushed if he stopped as he had sometimes thought of doing. But knowing Legolas only saw it as a sing of his love and affection he never stopped his efforts whilst he would be the most shocked elf alive should Legolas actually listen one day.

Soft sounds shook Legolas out of his musings and he strained his hearing, determining the sound and origin. At first he could not recognize it but then he realised they were sobs. /Elrohir../ He ran towards the door and flew it open, shocked to see Elrohir crying in such a painful way.

He marched to the bed and wanted to shout at Elladan, but one look told him he was just as concerned as he was, if not more. He sat down on Elrohir’s other side and placed his arm around the upset elf’s shoulders. Elladan tried to tell him not to do that but he had been too late. Elrohir pushed the arm away with force and Legolas fell on the floor in an ungraceful heap. He looked surprised. Elrohir had allowed him to comfort him before. Why not now?

Elladan saw his confusion and put his finger to his lips, indicating Legolas should remain silent. He had witnessed many of these turmoils and storms and knew the outcome. Suddenly Legolas saw him count down with his fingers: five, four, three, two, one and then Elrohir fell backwards, collapsing onto the bed.
Elladan smiled sadly and tugged some stray hairs behind Elrohir’s ears.

He looked at Legolas, stood and walked to the window, signalling the blond to follow him. Legolas wanted to stay and hold Elrohir, but his curiosity won and he followed the elder twin to the window. “I tried to warn you not to do that, Legolas, but I was too late. Elrohir always pushes everyone away when he’s like this. I’ve learned the hard way not to comfort him. But I will not leave his side. I hope my presence somehow soothes him.”
The questions in Legolas only increased. Elladan sighed, unsure on how to act. Should he tell or not?

Legolas spoke before he had made up his mind. “But he let me hold him before.” He was having a difficult time fitting those two behaviours together.
“Legolas, Elrohir suffers intense internal and emotional storms. If he let you comfort him earlier it was just a normal outburst.” But Legolas shook his head. It had been the same type of turmoil and he told Elladan so. “I wish I could help him somehow.”
He didn’t like the look Elladan threw his way but he didn’t lower his gaze. “You wish to befriend him?” The question took Legolas aback. “We already are friends, Elladan, the three of us.”
Elladan shook his head. “No, we are not. You will go back to Mirkwood once you’re father says you can. What I want to know is whether or not you will keep in touch. Think before you answer and answer truthfully.”

His sincerity made Legolas frown and actually think before answering. “Unless something happens to make me shun Imladris I would return here often. I see it as my second home.” His frown deepened. “Which is strange, considering I’ve not spend much time here and spend so much in Lothlóriën. And yet that shall always remain a place to visit, a nice vacation perhaps, as the mortals say, but never home away from home.”
Elladan nodded. This was more than he had hoped. He now had made up his mind but seeing Legolas’ expression he waited. Suddenly Legolas grinned. “Maybe that’s what Elrohir needs: aatioation. To be away from home for a while. I’ve wanted to invite you both along when I return to Mirkwood and this is a perfect excuse.” His eyes glistered in excitement. He would love to show the twins his home.
“Maybe we will. But that’s not what is ailing my brother. His pain is internal. He’s afraid, scared and scarred. I don’t know if I should tell you. Elrohir will not approve.”
Legolas placed his hand on Elladan’s shoulder. “Not to worry. He told me all the other night, when he broke down after I made him laugh.” Seeing Elladan’s eyes grow wide he explained. “Aye, he told me, about his pains. He feels lonely and misses Celebrían. He’s also afraid of losing you, Elrond, Erestor and Glorfindel.”

Elladan had to shake his head before he was over his initial shock. “That’s not all Legolas. He’s afraid to love and to trust, ever again. And not only because of mother. He laughed?!” His voice and face betrayed his surprise.
Legolas laughed. “Aye, he did. I told him about my life back home. What pranks I pulled and such. He’s got the most contagious laugh I’ve ever heard. I tell you, Elladan, we were both rolling on the bed, laughing till it hurt.” His gaze sobered. “And then he broke down.”

Elladan shook his head. He was having a hard time believing this. But it showed him his perception was correct. “So he was laughing? Well, whatever you did or say, do it again. It might open his heart.”
“Without your help?” That remark took Elladan back and he looked at Legolas in bafflement. “It was your antics with Lindir at night that made him laugh first. I would not have made him laugh if he wasn’t already laughing about you and Lindir jumping around like madman.” Seeing the image again he grinned, even copying Elladan’s jumping, rubbing his butt in the process.
Elladan laughed at that and at his own memory of it. “We were attacked by ants. Poor Lindir turned out to be allergic to them. Glorfindel had sentenced me to kitchen duty.” He grinned at the memory.
“And Apsontë send you back to Glorfindel.” The voice from the bed said. Simultaneously the two elves turned and faced Elrohir who was looking at them with mixed emotions.

Legolas laughed. “That’s right. She did. You will have to tell us both what he did, Elladan, did he explode? You simply must tell us, Elladan. But first we are getting out of this room and take a walk. It will do us all good.” While speaking he had approached the bed and now extended his hand, ready to hoist Elrohir onto his feet.

Seeing this Elladan’s face turned plotting, his mouth drawn together, eyes squinted and two frowns in his forehead. “No, I have a better idea. I still have to give you a peace-offering, Legolas. Why don’t we go to the village and get drunk? One of my friends is out of town, staying with his sisters in the Grey Havens and asked me to look after things. He’s got a really large amount of wine and other alcoholics. Come on. I have plenty of time to refill it before he comes back. And I don’t even think he’ll mind.”
His first instinct was to decline but Elladan had shot him a look that told him to accept and so Legolas did.
Now Elladan looked at his twin. Elrohir nodded. He didn’t really want to go but if Legolas wanted, then he would come along. Elladan smiled. He was determined to render his insanity and hook those two together.

Before they had left the room Legolas spoke. “But maybe you should invite Lindir along. Even the number.” Elrohir, seeing Elladan’s sudden flush, nodded, eager to get even with him. “Aye, maybe he will sing. Tell him to bring that instrument of his. Legolas and I will go ahead. I doubt we will have reached the village before the two of you catch up.”
Legolas shook his head. He wanted the twins to have some moments alone. Something told him they still hadn’t finished their talk. “Nay, I shall fetch him and I can track you down if you are faster than the two of us. See you later.” Not giving them time to react he ran away. Elladan and Elrohir looked at each other and shrugged. Elladan pulled his twin close and started walking. “Let’s go then.”

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Erestor stood in the window gazing at the descending dawn. It would be a while before night would approach but it was already in the air. He closed his eyes and allowed the air to caress his face. It was strange but he felt at peace, a peace he never thought he would feel. He smiled, realising why it was. He was grateful to the Valar for granting him this happiness, and love. An ancient song erupted in his mind and before he knew it he was singing.

He didn’t notice Elrond walking into his room. Erestor had temporarily left his side to come to his own room. He hadn’t told Elrond, but it would be the last time he would see it. Even as he was singing he wondered how Elrond would react.

He had told Elrond he would join him later, but Elrond had grown worried, knowing Erestor was weak, and had come here. After receiving no reply to his knocking he had carefully entered and intended to speak, but all words died in his throat when Erestor started singing. Elrond smiled as he recognized the language. /I never knew he could sing./
Erestor’s voice had an enchanting effect upon him and he stood fixed to the spot. His surroundings faded until only the singing elf filled his vision. The words no longer registered wit Elrond, although he had remembered reading it before. It was an ancient song, the first one made by elves, and it was a song of reverie and peace.

When Erestor stopped singing he turned around, intending to leave his room and join Elrond, and he was surprised to see thlf-elf-elf standing there. Erestor smiled in greeting, but Elrond did not move. His eyes were glazed and his posture more relaxed than Erestor had ever seen. /Is he sleeping on the spot?/ “Elrond?”
His voice brought the unfocused elf back to attention and Elrond shook his head to clear it. Seeing Erestor staring at him in confusion he smiled shyly. “Your song, it, I don’t know, it was enchanting, Erestor. And your voice as well.” He now approached the other. “Are you alright?”

Erestor smiled and nodded. “I’ve never felt so at peace, Elrond. And I have you to thank for that.” Elrond smiled but cocked his head when he saw seriousness creeping onto Erestor’s face.
Erestor sighed. /It’s now or never./ “Elrond?” How was he going to say this? /What have I been thinking? There’s no way he’ll agree to this./ Through the link Elrond received an echo of those thoughts and frowned. “Agree to what?” Erestor’s eyes widened, realising Elrond had read his mind. “Nay, your thoughts just entered mine. Through the link. You’ll probably will be hearing my thoughts too when it grows stronger.” He closed the distance between them and enveloped Erestor in a hug. “Now, what is on your mind?”

Erestor laughed at the way Elrond phrased it, smiling as he knew it was the reason why Elrond had done so. “Well, I, ehm,” Erestor swallowed and lowered his eyes before continuing. “I don’t wish to be alone anymore and as you’ve bound us, it’s only logical I share your quarters, that is if you will let me.” He startled when Elrond lifted his head, surprised to see the loving gaze. Although it shouldn’t have surprised him at all.
“Sometimes, Erestor, I don’t understand you at all. First you push me away, and only a few hours ago you kissed me like one starved.” Elrond stayed clear of the morning conversation. “And now you’re saying this. Don’t misunderstand me, I welcome your acceptance, but your words make me wonder if the kiss was just an illusion.” Seeing confusion in Erestor’s eyes he sighed. “Did you kiss me out of love for me? Or because of mine? Do you suggest living together because you desire so or out of obligation? Because if it’s the second I won’t have it.” He released his hold on Erestor and stepped back.

Erestor stared at him wide-eyed. Receiving no answer Elrond sighed regretfully and made to leave. Instantly Erestor flung himself at him. “No, don’t leave. Don’t leave me. Please.” He was crying in earnest, clinging to Elrond, telling him he loved him through his tears.
Unable to see his beloved cry Elrond pulled him close and started soothing him, guiding him to the bed where he sat down besides Erestor. “Erestor, á carë naë. Avuvan quentë yana quetin. Únán náva téra. Istan melanyet, ar melatyen. Apsenë nin. Saes pusta naë, ohtarnya hondo.”
Hearing Elrond’s words he looked up, beggingly. He resembled a small puppy begging for food. Elrond smiled and removed the left-over tears, pulling Erestor even closer. “I shall never leave you, I am yours forever.”
Erestor smiled ruefully. “But I can’t move in.” This made Elrond laugh. “Of course you can, though I wonder how long you will last before running away screaming. Apparently I am a horrible roommate.” Suddenly his eyes went serious. “But you can’t hear the water there. Isn’t that going to bother you?” Erestor shrugged. “I can always go outside if I want to hear it.” Suddenly Elrond smiled mischievously.

Erestor narrowed his eyes. He had seen that look too many times within Arwen and the twins and it presented trouble. Elrond smiled reassuringly. “I was just thinking we could also move elsewhere. To rooms big enough for the both of us and within hearing range of the water.” He grinned when he found Erestor’s lips on his. After he had pulled back he smiled. “I take it you approve?” “Aye, it sounds lovely. But I don’t wish to impose and” “Enough, Erestor. I love you and you could never impose, be a nuisance or burden. What do I have to do for you to believe that? Make you a large breakfast?”
Erestor laughed. “No, we have Glorfindel for that. And I -do- believe it, and you. It’s just that..”
Elrond nodded in understanding. “It’s new and a lot has happened. We both need to st tst to it, Erestor, but I know I will manage as long as I have you.” Realising the room was getting darker, because night now was upon them he disentangled himself from Erestor. “I’m going to light some candles.”

When he was done he returned to the bed and once again pulled Erestor close. “Let’s sleep here.” “It’s weird, having two mothers and fathers. I miss them, though I hardly remember my first.”
Elrond rubbed soothing circled on his back and it made him relax. “Will they understand?” Elrond knew Erestor referred to Glorfindel and the twins. “I don’t know, but I believe they might. But with or without understanding they will stand by you as well.”
Erestor lifted his head and smiled. “What will happen?” Now that he had made up his mind and had accepted the bond and thereby Elrond as his lover he was wondering about the future. Would he have to pretend they weren’t together or not? And he didn’t even wish to think about the physical aspect of their relationship. Not after what had happened to him.
Elrond smiled ruefully in understanding. “We will take it slowly and you decide the pace. I am content with what you can give me, my love. And I don’t plan on hiding our love. I think it will be impossible to do anyway.” He felt proud at the smile Erestor send him. “Thank you, Elrond. Are you sure you’ll be able to cope with my uncontrollable emotions and flinching?”

In stead of answering Elrond slowly, so Erestor could see what he was doing, touched Erestor’s ear tips, caressing them with his fingers and then drew him close for another kiss. In it he poured his love, devotion and understanding. He smiled when Erestor responded, moaning into his mouth. It told tha that even though Erestor wasn’t yet willing to admit it he did desire this.
“You did not pull away, nor did you flinch, Erestor. And don’t tell me it’s because it’s me, for it’s a lie and you know it. You accept others to touch you as well: Elladan, Elrohir, Glorfi. I . I know you find it hard to believe but you’ve hardly any emotional scars. Do you have any idea how strong you are?”
Erestor sighed and rested his head on Elrond’s chest again, loving the sensation. “Can we sleep now?” Elrond smiled, planted another kiss on Erestor’s hair and tightened his hold. He was going to stay silent but a sudden thought made him laugh uncontrollably and Erestor groaned in annoyance. “What?!” Realising he had pulled Erestor out of his reverie Elrond sobered. “I am sorry, melmë, but I just realised we had our first quarrel today.”
“And that’s to laugh about?” Erestor shook his head. “Don’t answer that, just let me sleep. I need it.”
“Or else you wont share a room with me?” Erestor was already back in his dream state and didn’t hear Elrond’s joke. /Just as well. He might have taken it the wrong way./ Elrond realised their love was not only new, it was still very fragile. To be more precise, Erestor was fragile. But he would do anything to protect him.

End chapter 27
TBC

Translations:
Erestor, á carë naë. Avuvan quentë yana quetin. Únán náva téra. Istan melanyet, ar melatyen. Apsenë nin. Saes pusta naë, ohtarnya hondo Means Erestor, please don’t cry. I shouldn’t have said what I’ve said. I wasn’t thinking straight. I know you love me, and love you. I’m sorry. Please stop crying, my warrior of the heart.
Note: na- comes from noun nië.
Melmë means love