Against all odds

Chapter 28 A night in town

Elladan and Elrohir had reached the house that belonged to one of Elladan’s friends. After entering it Elladan first made a check-up round.
Going from the hallways he walked through the rooms, that were all connected with their adjoining rooms, making it easy to go from one corner of the house to another. Elladan took advantage of that whenever he was watering the plants and also making sure everything was still where it was supposed to be. It ensured a quick departure.

But now he changed his route, making the kitchen the end of the line, where he retrieved four glasses. Going back into the living area, that had access to the most important rooms in the house as well as two of the four balconies, he also found a deck of playing cards. Next he planted his twin on the couch and started making everything romantic.

Elrohir squinted his eyes when he saw him lit the candles and thought his twin was preparing some matchmaking scheme, but he calmed himself, remembering Legolas was not arriving alone, he was to bring Lindir along.

Elladan grinned to himself. He did mindmind that Lindir came along. He would take Lindir for a long walk or something later in the evening. He counted on the alcohol and Lindir’s songs to relax the other two enough to allow things to happen. When he was done preparing the place he went to the balcony where he would be able to see the others approaching.
Elrohir joined him and looked at the scene in admiration. He rarely came to the village and it was a contrast with his own home. No matter where he looked he saw houses, lighted windows, rooms, laundry, smoking chimneys, and others signs of elven activity. /It’s impossible to be alone here/ Maybe he should leave his house and get one here?

Suddenly Elladan released a scream. “There they come. Legolas! Lindir! Up here! We’re here! Wait, I am coming down..” In stead of using the stairs Elladan used the branches of the tree in front of the balcony, ignoring it’s protest at the undignified manner in whish he used it. Once on the ground he ran towards them. “That took you long enough. Couldn’t you find Lindir?”
Legolas grinned at Elladan’s behaviour. /It certainly looks like they’ve talked it out. I’m glad. Elrohir needs him./
Lindir sighed. “I had already gone to bed. I did not expect a pounding elf in front of oor oor raving on about some party.” Legolas laughed. “Aye, he would not believe me. I had to steal his instrument to make him come. Here is it. Now let’s join Elrohir.”

Elladan made for the stairs but stopped dead in his tracks while Lindir shook with laughter. Even though he had been warned something like this was bound to happen for he had seen the sparkle in Legolas’ eyes, it was a sight to behold.
Legolas had decided to enter the house the way Elladan had left it. Because he was a woodland elf he made it in no time at all, not even drawing any protest from the tree. Once on the balcony he bowed graciously before Elrohir. “It is a pleasure to see you again, master Elrohir, though I must admit I had not expected such a house in a Imladrian city. A house without a door, quite extraordinary, don’t you think. You could have warn us Elladan.” Elladan growled at him but smiled none the less. He saw the effect the antics had on his twin and was pleased Elrohir was laughing once again.

If Lindir was surprised to see Elrohir doubled over laughing he didn’t show it. Instead he handed Elladan Lindóma and started climbing up the tree himself. “Forgive me for abusing you in such a manner, my branched friend, but I hardly climb trees.” In stead of uttering protest at the elf’s manners the tree assisted Lindir in his way up and so he made it rather fast. Elladan grinned. “If you don’t mind, I’ll use the stairs.”

He smiled when he entered the house again, seeing Legolas’ and Lindir’s surprised stare at the romantic environment. “Ehm, Elladan,” Legolas shook his head. “Don’t you think that, since we’re came here to drink, this isn’t a bit dangerous?”
Elladan shook his head. “Not with Lindir here. He never drinks, so we’ll have him to safe us from dangerous situations. Besides; I said drinking; getting drunk, not getting trashed. There’s a distinct difference you know.”

He picked up the cards and threw them to his brother, signalling for him to deal first. Elrohir did so and explained the rules, in case Legolas and Lindir didn’t know. And it would stop his brother from cheating.
Before long wine flowed richly and cards flew quickly and they were having fun. But Elladan always kept a close eye on his brother, monitoring his actions, seeing the stolen glances towards Legolas. Elladan wondered if Elrohir was thinking the same things he thought whenever he looked at Lindir lately. Or that it was different because he had known Lindir his entire life and Elrohir had only met Legolas? His idea to come here had been a good idea. They were all having fun and could let go.

Legolas groaned when he lost again. “I don’t think I will ever learn those rules. Can’t you sing us a song, Lindir. Safe me from total humiliation. I have a reputation to uphold you know.”
Elladan grinned. “Sore loser, are we?” Legolas didn’t bite. “I don’t think playing this game for more than twenty rounds, knowing it would always result in losing, hardly fits that description.” Lindir smiled.” “Spoken like a true Prince. And you’re right. I was brought here to sing, so sing I shall.”
He stood up and retrieved Lindóma, sitting back down in his spot after checking she was tuned properly. “Just music or would you like to hear a song?” Before Elladan could voice his thoughts and instigate his plan Elrohir spoke: “I think Legolas should decide. You are our guest.”

Legolas thought for a while and then his eyes started twinkling. He addressed Lindir. “Do you perhaps know the song Fúmela Naira?” At seeing Lindir’s misty expression he continued. “It’s called Sleeping sun in the common tongue and it’s absolutely adorable. I’ve heard it some times and know it by heart, but I can never seem to remember the melody.”
Elrohir and Elladan looked at Lindir hopefully. They had never heard of a song with this title and were eager to hear it.
But Lindir shook his head. “I am sorry, Legolas, I have to disappoint you. It doesn’t ring a bell. I would ask you to hum a bit but since you say you have trouble with that…”

Their sad expressions urged him to search his databank of melody’s, titles and lyrics. After a while he did find the title in his mind, very far away, indicating it had been a long time ago since he’d heard or played it last. But if he had the title, he should also know the melody and maybe even the lyrics. “Perhaps if you recite the first line, it might trigger a memory.” Legolas did as he was bid and kept repeating it as Lindir signalled for him to do. The bard had closed his eyes in concentration and suddenly they flew open. “That’s the one. Found it. It’s a very ancient song, Legolas. But I think I can get the melody right, let me try a few times.”
He went to work, trying this and that, always producing different note patterns from Lindóma. And then his smile appeared. “This is the one. This is the melody that belongs to your lyrics, Legolas. Would you sing it? I don’t remember it that well.” olasolas nodded his consent and waited for Lindir to give the signal. And then his voice filled the room.

Anar fúma úhloni ar anëa cenda
Hísievë noar, send’ ar carnë
Sard’ ar unfúra sedë
Olorinyan mapin cuilenyan
Mermin cenen lóminyan
Anwan i mentessë lúrwa
Lencië voronwa túla minya

Ni méra an sin lúlómë erë an cuillú
I morniessë vaitaina nissë
Anmussë, ilcenina
A, anmerin núta yo Anar
Fumië, nirië arwa ten

‘Sintamë fúma endanyassë
An Valarnya, avuvas
Nain círa cainquainë ránar
Úvoro tuvië massë lelya
Cant’ lemp’cain ar atta réin calava
Naruva milinar i lómë
Tittalú i ringë ná naicë
Tenna úqua ná lemba quetë

Ni méra an sin lúlómë erë an cuillú
I morniessë vaitaina nissë
Anmussë, ilcenina
A, anmerin núta yo Anar
Fumië, nirië arwa ten

Ni méra an sin lúlómë erë an cuillú
I morniessë vaitaina nissë
Anmussë, ilcenina
A, anmerin núta yo Anar
Fumië, nirië arwa ten

Throughout the song, from the first note to the very last Elrohir and Elladan sat entranced, though both for different reasons. For Elladan only had eyes for Lindir and the way he played his instrument and Elrohir was enchanted by Legolas.
He just couldn’t take his eyes of him, listening in admiration as the blond’s voice filled the room. The song brought tears to his eyes and they flowed freely as he was bewitched by the vision of beauty that went with the enchanting voice.

When the song ended Elladan praised Lindir before his mind started working again, telling him he should have complimented Legolas first. But Legolas shook his head, indicating he did not mind.

Now that the music had stopped Elrohir realised he was crying and quickly averted his head. He saw the empty glasses and rose, pointing to them. Elladan nodded, they needed another bottle. He was so possessed by Lindir he did not notice his twin wasn’t feeling well. But Legolas did.
He had seen the tears during the song but hadn’t read anything into them. Now he felt guilty for picking this song. He realised it represented Elrohir’s mood perfectly. /He was happy tonight and I’ve brought back his pain./ Seeing him leave ached him and he knew Elrohir fled the room because of the song. /The wine is not on the balcony./ He rose and went after the youngest twin.

When he too stepped unto the balcony he could see the trembling lips. “Elrohir?”
Hearing his voice made the twin jump up and bolt around. Seeing Legolas standing there, a concerned expression on his face made him wipe his tears away. “Just leave me alone!”
Legolas shook his head. “Nay, you do not have to face this alone, Elrohir. I am sorry. I should have thought better than to pick that song. Forgive me. I was not thinking.” He slowly approached the trembling elf and carefully enfolded him in a tight embrace. “I held you throughout the night once before. I will do so again.” /Forever if you wish it./ He was glad he was already embracing Elrohir or else his shocked expression at his own thought would have been visible. /Am I falling in love with you?/

Elrohir was torn between drawing closer or pushing him away. Seeing his smiling brother in the doorway made him push away. “I’m fine.” He turned and left, using the tree as Elladan had before.
Legolas looked torn. He wanted to go after him, but he couldn’t just leave. He did not wish to aggravate Elladan. He startled when he suddenly heard Elladan’s voice behind him. “Go after him, Legolas. You’re breaking down his walls. Please?!” He wasn’t beyond begging. Seeing Legolas make way to do just that he stopped the blond. “Wait, there’s something you should know.”
Seeing Legolas cock his and look agitated he smiled. The affection for his brother clearly showed on the blond’s face and he knew it would grow into much more soon, or maybe even was.
“Everyone he has ever loved has left him. Hold that in mind when you talk to him. And Legolas, why don’t you tell him about your invitation. Of us joining you back to Mirkwood?” Legolas nodded but now made speed to climb down and run after Elrohir.

Elladan went back inside and joined Lindir. “Elrohir has run off and Legolas is after him. It might take a while before they join us again, I’m afraid, Lindir. Will you sing for me?” Lindir nodded his head and started singing, suddenly thinking coming hadn’t been such a good idea. He felt as if the others had set them up.

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

Legolas ran after Elrohir and tackled him to the ground. Taking ntagntage of Elrohir’s surprise he quickly turned the elf around and straddled him. “Why do I have to keep running after you? Fun as it might be, there are more enjoyable things to be doing.”
He wanted to say more but stopped when an image of those things flashed before his eyes. Feeling the effect it was having on his body he immediately stood, pulling Elrohir along. “Why won’t you talk? I won’t tell anyone and Elladan won’t pry on us here.”

He guided Elrohir to a small park in the midst of the houses and sat him down on a bench. After some moments of silence, just watching the surroundings Legolas tried again. “It’s lovely here, isn’t it? It reminds me of home. I think I should come here more. Would you like to join me, Elrohir? I too do not wish to be alone.”
Elrohir shrugged. The more time he spend with Legolas the more attracted he became. And more desperate to hide it. He tensed when he felt Legolas’ arm pull him close. It felt intimate to him, sensual, but he was sure the blond only had comfort on his mind.
Legolas grew saddened now that Elrohir wasn’t responding to his cheerful chatter. /Have I lost my ability to make him laugh?/

Suddenly he released a cheer, which startled Elrohir. The young Peredhel now stared at him wild-eyed. “I am sorry, Elrohir, but look”
Elrohir followed his finger and saw what the blond was referring to. He shrugged. “Ëarendil” Legolas nodded. “Aye, but look how bright it shines. I’ve never seen it so brightly as here in Imladris.” His gaze pierced the skies. “I’m sure it’s because it’s your grandfather’s star.”
Elrohir shrugged again. “Itays ays shines like this, Legolas, no matter where we look at it.” Legolas looked at him. “You’re telling me that no matter where you look at the stars, it shines this bright everywhere?”
When Elrohir nodded Legolas’ smile broadened. He knew he had found the perfect way to cheer him up but that it would turn out this perfect he hadn’t known. “Well, it definitely loses it’s glow whenever I travel. Only in Imladris have I seen it this brightly and beautiful.” When Elrohir turned away Legolas cupped his chin. “Don’t you see, Elrohir? It’s your grandfather’s star. It never loses it’s glow for you because of that. Because he’s always wherever you are. If you leave Imladris he will not deny you but shine just as brightly, maybe even more so, as ever.”
Seeing slow understanding dawn on Elrohir he smiled. “Whenever you feel lonely all you have to do is look up, Elrohir. Your grandfather is with you always.”

He allowed Elrohir to come closer. He understood his need and he meant every word he had said. Tonight he would hold Elrohir again. but for now he would sit here, rocking Elrohir as the Peredhel rode out his storm. “Thank you Legolas. That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.”
Legolas smiled. “And you’ll be able to test that theory of mine when it’s safe for me to return home. I’ve already asked Elladan and now I am asking you: Would you join me? I would love to show the two of you my home.”

Elrohir sat stunned. Had Legolas just asked him to go back with him? With Elladan? But what did that mean? When he looked at Legolas he saw a waiting expression on his face, but there was something else as well. Did he see correctly? /Fear and rejection? Why would he fear my answer? Or rejection? Rejection of what?/ But there was only one answer possible for him. “I’d like that.” The smile Legolas threw his way was dazzling and he felt a bit surprised he had the power to bring that smile to his face.

Legolas would have enjoyed staying where they were but Elrohir was shivering, making it hard for them to stay out all night. “Come on, let’s go. It’s getting cold.”
Elrohir stood up resentfully. He didn’t really want to go back to Elladan and Lindir, but since Legolas had gone to the trouble of aiding him, he felt he could not deny the blond their company. On the walk back he grew introvert again, alerting Legolas’ senses. /I will have to talk to Elrond. He should know about this./

When they had reached the house they quickly entered it, halfway Lindir’s second song. Elladan glared at them. He hated them for coming back so soon. His first glance was for his brother and he frowned, seeing sadness hover around him and he was tempted to pick a fight with Legolas but he restrained himself, telling himself that Legolas did manage to bring him back.
The blond stopped Elrohir when the Peredhel wanted to sit himself down. “Elladan, Lindir, we’re sorry but we’re heading back. Elrohir is feeling rather tired and I will not have him walk alone. As we also did not wish you to worry, we came to tell you.” Elladan smiled at this. It meant he would get Lindir back to himself and Elrohir would spend more time with Legolas. /Perfect. Now it’s up to you to keep him there, brother./
Lindir inclined his head. “We understand. Rest well, Elrohir. Perhaps we will see you back later, Legolas.” Legolas smiled in answer, already guiding a surprised and stunned Elrohir outside. While he walked past the coat-rack he grabbed two. “Elladan, I’m taking these. It’s rather chilly. Remind me to give them back to you.” Elladan waved his hand, telling Legolas to go, drawing a laugh from Lindir.

“Guess your brother’s not sleeping alone tonight.” He grinned at Elladan’s shocked expression. “Come on, Elladan. I know you’re not dense, so stop looking like that.”
Elladan shook his head. “You knew?!” Now it was Lindir’s turn to look stunned. “Knew what? Don’t tell me they’re already together?” Elladan shook his head. “Nay, they are not, but I am an orc if I will let that continue much longer.”
Lindir smiled. “Hence this rather nice entourage. Too bad they decided not to use it. Guess they prefer starlight to candlelight. What a waste of effort.” Elladan pouted, knowing it would draw a smile from the other. “Don’t worry, Elladan, I like it.”
He rose himself. “I am getting a bit cramped up, I think I’m going to walk around for a while.” Elladan nodded. “Do that, I’ll clean up.”

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Glorfindel was on his way back from the patrols and he smiled seeing Legolas and Elrohir walk together and his smile intensified when he took in Elrohir’s composure. It certainly seemed Legolas’ presence had a good effect on him. /And he defends him easily. Could it be…?/ Glorfindel smiled at the thought. He would welcome it. They were suited for each other. /That means I will have to start behaving. Too bad, teasingolasolas is always fun. And he doesn’t give in or surrenders./

He strode towards them, blocking their path. “Elrohir, how are you faring? I’ve just returned from patrols. Fanyandil and Fánafindel send their greetings. They said they missed having you and Elladan around. Where is he, anyway?”
Elrohir smiled. “How are they? Still as stubborn as mules I wager. Elladan is in Laivëcaro’s house. That way.”
Glorfindel nodded. “Than I’ll go there. I can use some salve for my feet anyway. When you get as old as I am, they suddenly start to let you know they’re there.” He smiled and left.

Legolas was stunned and stood mouth agape and he had to shake his head to clear it. “He made no comments or remarks or anything. Is he sick?”
Elrohir smiled. “Must be my presence.” He started walking but stopped when he realised Legolas was not following. Turning around he saw the blond staring after Glorfindel’s disappearing form. He walked back and touched Legolas’ shoulder. “Don’t tell me you enjoy those battles with him?”
That made Legolas laugh. “You know what, now that you mention it, I think I do. Hmmm, must have drank more than I thought.”

He turned and faced Elrohir. “Who are those elves you two mentioned? Which reminds me, you agreed to teaching me Quenya. So let me see, Laivëcaro means salvemaker and the other two…” Ripples appeared as Legolas thought deep. He wasn’t used to Quenya names. Most he heard were Sindarin. “Something with friend and hair, but I’ve totally forgotten everything it seems.”
Elrohir smiled. “Cloudlover and cloud-white hair. They are twins, and the four of us instantly liked each other. I think because we’re both twins. They told us that when they were babies the eldest, Fanyandil, used to cry when he couldn’t see the clouds, and was already kicking his mother in the womb when he wanted her to look at them. That’s why they named him so. And his twin really does have hair as white as clouds.”
And while they walked back Elrohir talked about his friends, drawing Legolas into telling about his own friends back home.

Unknown to them two pairs of eyes saw them approaching the house.
Apsontë was taking her usual walk and saw them from her path, liking the look of things. She, like Glorfindel, instantly noticed the change in Elrohir and decided to make sure those two spend as much time together as possible. Another matchmaker had been born.
The second pair of eyes that saw them coming belonged to Elrond. He had woken and needed some fresh air. Careful not to waken his sleeping lover he had stood and walked to the open window. He smiled when Legolas and Elrohir entered his vision. /A little late for a walk./ He knew Elrohir well enough to know there couldn’t be anything more, at least yet.yet. But he also instantly realised something more was highly possible. /Aye, Legolas, having you around is interesting indeed./

End chapter 28
TBC

Just a little note before i continue with the translations:
I am brainstorming on a new tale, (don't worry about the ones I have going, i won't desert my children.) about Erestor-Rumil. Elrond-Glorfindel will be on the side. It's going to be called 'Breaking the ice' and I just wanted to ask you if there are any other pairings you would like to see? I might not be able to add them in here, but I adore odd pairings. And to let you know about my plans.

Translations:
Fanyandil means cloudlover or cloudfriend
Fánafindel means cloud-white hair
Laivëcaro means salvemaker; I decided to give Elladan’s friend a job.
Fúmela Naira means Sleeping Sun.
Notes and translations to the song: I know it from a group called Nightwish and here are the lyrics:
The sun is sleeping quietly and surpassing to red
Mist full notions, calm and red
Hard and caresses to rest
For my dreams I hold my life
For wishes I behold my nights
In truth at the end of time
Losing faith makes a prime

I wish for this night time to last for a lifetime
In the darkness surround me
So soft, so unseen
O, how I wish to go down with the sun
Sleeping, weeping, with you

Sorrow asleep in my heart
For my God it will depart
I’d sail a thousand moons
Never finding where to go
Two hundred twenty two days of light
Will be desired by the night
Moment for the cold, it’s pain
Until there’s nothing left to say

I wish for this night time to last for a lifetime
In the darkness surround me
So soft, so unseen
O, how I wish to go down with the sun
Sleeping, weeping, with you

I wish for this night time to last for a lifetime
In the darkness surround me
So soft, so unseen
O, how I wish to go down with the sun
Sleeping, weeping, with you