Sons of the Stars

Disclaimer: I own nothing and make nothing financially off of my writings. I owe everything to the Great Bird of the Galaxy and Great Wizard of the Universe.

Author’s Note: Slow in coming but finally finished this chapter. The next one is already well near done (the muse bit me hard) and hopefully will be up soon, too. I apologize for the delay. Thanks again to Rhapsody and Mrs Picard for helping me out with beta-ing.

Chapter Eight: Unsettled Feelings

A gentle, fresh breeze tickled Picard’s bare chest and he snuggled further under the sheets covering the rest of his body. A contented sigh brought him out of his grogginess and the warm breath of another danced over his neck. Memories of the night before came to Picard finally as images of their tryst played in front of his eyes.

They had taken a new step in their relationship that brought more intimacy to their developing feelings. So far they had not taken the other fully, but Picard sensed that the next level would not be far off. Elrond’s veracity and drop of his often-shielded emotions had surprised Picard, but it had also flared his own desire for the elf.

Picard shifted in his place, feeling the closeness of Elrond behind him. The elf tightened his hold around Picard, his arm draped over the captain, clutching him. Soft kisses soon followed on his neck and up the back of his shoulder before Elrond’s lips returned and suckled his ear for a moment. A low moan emanated from Elrond as Picard turned to face him.

“Idh si,” Elrond murmured. “Im anírona garole.”

“What was that?” Picard asked.

Blinking, Elrond stared at Picard in confusion before realization dawned on the captain’s face. Holding up a finger to Elrond to wait a moment, Picard slipped from the bed and shuffled around in his disheveled clothing on the ground before he found his tiny communicator badge. He looked up to see Elrond eyeing him with a mischievous curl of his lips. The elf himself was pure beauty to Picard: the fine-toned muscles of a warrior covered Elrond’s bare torso and arms without a trace of hair covering him, but for that on his head and what lay beneath the sheet covering Elrond’s lower half.

“I had to retrieve this,” Picard explained as he climbed back into bed. “It is the only way we can understand each other. It has a translator in it.”

“So that is the trick. You will have to explain how it works to me sometime,” chuckled Elrond, eyeing the metal item. “I suppose that gives me more incentive to teach you my language even if there are other ways to communicate without the need for words.”

Picard caught his breath as Elrond traced a hand down his side, cupping his hip and pulling them together. The intensity of the night before renewed itself within Picard’s body and he groaned in response once he sensed how Elrond’s stiff length brushed against his own and brought it to life immediately. Picard’s breathing became erratic and he sought to be a more active player in this round between them than he had been the night before.

Elrond held Picard against him as they fed off the sensations of full skin contact. They pressed their mouths together in heated passion, tongues tasting and teasing. Elrond assumed the dominant role once more as he did the night before, but slowly had to surrender himself with a little effort to Picard’s ministrations by hand and his overwhelming kisses. His lover was keen to get him onto the bedding, pinned underneath the man’s athletic body. Elrond let him do so but with a little uncertainty mixed with curiosity to see where this might lead.

The answer to the elf’s inquisitiveness came once his lover took his shaft completely in his mouth. Elrond cut off a loud grunt that merged into a low moan as he felt his lover’s tongue tease his sensitive flesh. Hands soon found the tightening sac below Elrond’s rod and massaged it in succession with the suckling. Elrond arched his hips toward the man as Picard took him to the hilt.

“Please,” Elrond pleaded. “Jean-Luc, let me touch you.”

Picard did not let Elrond get another rational thought out once he found a sensitive place that sent Elrond’s mind spiraling. Throwing his head back, Elrond cried his lover’s name as he climaxed, feeling how Picard drank him dry.

“Now, you may,” Picard whispered huskily while he moved up Elrond’s torso to lie beside him.

Despite being out of breath still, Elrond quickly twisted Picard beneath him.

“I would and it is a tempting offer,” the elf whispered in his ear. “However, the morning is already growing late. We should be off on our trip soon before the day passes us by.”

Elrond drew Picard on top of him again, his arms enveloping the man in his embrace. The lovers exchanged shaky kisses between deep breaths as their racing hearts calmed. Picard wrapped his arms tightly around Elrond and lost himself in the soft, long locks of the elf’s hair.

Im meleth-le.

Picard sat up with a start and looked at Elrond cautiously.

“What is it, Jean-Luc?” he asked.

“I… it may have been nothing,” Picard said. “My mind may be playing tricks on me but I thought I heard your voice, yet you did not speak.”

Elrond’s face brightened considerably and his eyes shone with an inner sparkle.

“You could hear my thoughts?” Elrond smiled. “I knew it could be possible between Man and Elf… but I have wondered much about it; especially if it is possible for you to return your thoughts to me in return, rather than just my speaking to you directly. You heard me during your fever-dreams as well, although I do not think you understood at the time.”

“What…? How is that possible?” Picard asked uncertainly.

“Jean-Luc, elves have abilities that let them link minds. Often it can be with one to whom they have bonded intimately,” Elrond explained. “The strength of one’s ability is different for each elf, but with me, my Maiar lineage enables me to do much more.”

“Then you are a telepath to some degree?” Picard somewhat understood what his lover was trying to explain.

“Ah, but your term for it is so limiting,” Elrond said as he caressed Picard’s cheek. “Our bond is much more than that, Jean-Luc. Our souls mingle.”

“Oh,” Picard answered quietly.

The clear discontent on Picard’s face was missed by the ecstatic elf. Elrond quickly arose from the bed, donning a bed robe, still smiling at his partner. Picard held his breath for a moment as Elrond took his face into his hands.

“So long I wanted you to know my inner feelings and thoughts for you,” he said. “This is a great joy for us and will change everything between us. I cannot wait to share so much more with you. For now, we must be on our way. I will fetch us our morning meal and be back shortly, Jean-Luc.”

Picard was hardly able to form an answer before Elrond whisked away to gather their meal. Looking around the empty room, Picard sat silently when the soft click of the door seemed to echo through the room. Slowly he rose and headed into the bathing chamber. There he attempted to draw a bath, once he realized that his hands were shaking involuntarily. Clasping them together did little to stop the creeping fear in his mind and limbs.

“He meant no harm,” Picard whispered to himself. “I trust Elrond and I have nothing to be afraid of from him.”

A shudder racked his body and Picard tightly clutched the edge of the basin. Slipping himself into the warm water, Picard dripped it over his face, and then covered his eyes with his hands. The water did nothing to stop the cold chill he still felt

“It is no different from when Beverly and I were connected by those interrogation devices from Kespritt. A mind meld with a Vulcan… or even Deanna’s empathic abilities,” Picard said aloud, his voice muffled under his hands. Suddenly he realized that this talent of Elrond’s was much stronger than anything he had come across for some time. “This is ridiculous, I trust Elrond. I…”

Picard paused before the word reached his lips. The realization of his deepest thoughts that slipped out in his unguarded moment shook him to the core.

* * * * *

Silence reigned between them as Elrond and Picard rode into the forest highlands above Imladris. Around them the birds chirped and creatures rustled, the day was very much alive. Elrond eyed Picard out of the corner of his eye next to him. The captain kept his gaze straight ahead but looked sullen. Then his stare fell to Picard’s hands that he had let the elf hold earlier, but with a strange awkwardness.

What is it I have done to you that you are displeased by me now? Elrond thought to himself.

When Elrond had returned with their breakfast, he heard Picard readying himself in the bathing chamber. Expecting this, Elrond had stopped by Picard’s room to gather clothing that had not been packed away for their trip. However, when the captain came back to the room, he had distanced himself completely. Not wanting to upset him further, Elrond kept his more expressive caresses to himself.

Have I caused a breach between us, Jean-Luc? Did I drive you further than you were ready to go?

Hiding a saddened sigh, Elrond let their horses trod along. Elrond knew Picard certainly did not want to cancel their plans out of politeness so suddenly, thus their reason for still leaving the elven-city. Yet, Elrond wondered if their time away would worsen the situation.

The sounds of a river began to sift through the leaves and became louder against the forest noises. A dull roar soon accompanied the river and unexpectedly the tree line ended. Bathed in sunlight, they beheld a cascading waterfall of white foam and crystal-blue water falling into a clear pool below the craggy rock face. The peacefulness of the sight soothed Elrond’s soul somewhat and his heart skipped as he watched Picard’s reaction of awe while he took in the beauteous scene. He only hoped that it was a sign that Picard was moving out of his strange demeanor.

“Feel free to wander, I am going to set up our camp,” Elrond said as he dismounted.

The elf-lord did not need help, but deep down he would have enjoyed sharing the experience of the their trip more fully with Picard at his side. However, he knew at the moment that it would be best to give Picard time alone. Elrond watched how he wandered down to the water’s edge and kneeled next to the bank to let his hand feel the water. Elrond felt the need within him to take Picard in his arms, but he held it back as he led the horses away and began unpacking the tent equipment and food basket.

The summer weather had warmed considerably since Picard’s arrival and the heat was already becoming oppressive while the sun climbed higher in the sky. Elrond tossed aside his shirt while he set to work, pitching their tent in a shaded glen. Wanting to avoid more worrisome thoughts, the elf focused on his task and turned his back to where he last saw Picard near the pool at the base of the waterfall. Finishing, he faced the river only to find himself alone. Sighing, Elrond walked to the river’s edge and quenched his thirst. From his hands the crystal-clear water sparkled and fell to the river. It was cool to the touch and he suddenly desired refreshing himself in the soothing pool to wash away the hot work and sweat that made him feel sticky and uncomfortable. He had enough time until Picard returned.

* * * * *

The shade of the forest made Picard feel that he could get away from his worries and time appeared to stand still. The warmth of the day was not as strong while he hid under the canopy of birches and oak. The captain lay against the moss and grass floor, staring up toward patches of blue sky through the leaves of trees. His thoughts drifted back to another day many years in the past that he had long tried to forget. Shivers swiftly coursed through him despite the heat and humidity. Drowsily he relaxed and his eyes drooped, then closed.

The body beneath Picard strained and shuddered but continued to move with the rhythm of his hips. Messy blond hair was tossed back as Louis cried out his pleasure and Picard smiled with lust, thrusting into the withering form in his grasp. Picard ran his hand down Louis’ back, the sweat glistening on his body while well-toned muscles curved and flexed beneath his fingers. Moving his hand back to his lover’s hip, Picard dropped his other to underneath his partner’s torso and taking the hardened shaft in his palm.

“Faster, Jean,” cried Louis.

“You… always liked it… this way,” Picard said between breaths. “Perhaps… I should go slower. Torture you… beg me to finish it.”

“Whatever you want,” moaned Louis. “Your touch… I always want more. It is never finished.”

“So be it then,” Picard drawled, making his thrusts move together with his caresses of Louis’ length.

The groans of Louis’ climax reached Picard’s ears and he felt how the warm fluid trickled over his hand. Feeling the finish of his partner clench around his own shaft, Picard thrust deep within Louis and spilled his own seed. The young man beneath him shook from the sensations, clearly weakened from the exertion. With care, Picard withdrew from him and curled him against his chest.

Their breathing slowly returned to normal and the warm, lazy day was perfect for enjoying a day in bed relaxing and pleasuring; however, Picard could sense there was something heavy on Louis’ mind. It had been an anxious quiet between them and Picard knew Louis would voice his concern eventually, but he would not prod him if he was not ready.

“You leave in the morning?” Louis finally spoke.

“Yes, I told you before that the transport will be in town at oh-eight-hundred,” Picard said, snuggling into the pillow and trailing his hand over Louis’ arm. “Do not worry, we have this whole day to visit with each other. And, I must say, quench your thirst until I come back on leave.”

Picard chuckled to himself, but quieted when Louis turned over and stared at him seriously.

“When will that be? How often do you think you will come back home?” Louis asked. “Would you even consider inviting me to visit you at the Academy?”

“What is the matter, Louis?” Picard said, his brow furrowing. “It is not like I am leaving you for a long tour at the edges of Federation territory.”

“That is just it,” Louis sighed and caressed Picard’s cheek, then ran his fingers through the fine, brown hair that Picard had cut shorter for his impending days at Starfleet Academy. “When you get assigned to a ship and go off on adventures… what then? I would never ask you to not leave, this is your dream.”

Frowning, Picard replied, “But it seems you have a problem with the type of life I will be leading: away at outposts and exploring faraway sectors. If you have a problem with my departure and choice, then say it, Louis.”

“No, it is not that, Jean-Luc,” Louis said, his eyes searching Picard’s before he nuzzled against his chest. “I think I will miss you dreadfully. I fear our lengthy separation.”

“Come now, Louis. You are acting like a child,” Picard laughed nervously. “Our friendship is strong and we have had time apart before.”

“It has not been the same since…” Louis paused mid-sentence, but Picard knew what he was referring to: their intimacy. “I think our friendship is much different now.”

“Look,” Picard said, forcing Louis to look at him. “Life will be changing for both of us. Your studies and research projects in hydroponics are gathering a lot of attention in the field. You will be just as busy as myself in no time.”

“I do not want to forget about this,” Louis sighed wistfully.

“Brooding does not become you,” Picard said as he kissed his lover’s hair. “Boredom does not either. I would not mind if you found someone else to keep you busy. I know I probably will have to do the same.”

“Are you not listening to me?” Louis exclaimed suddenly. “I do not want that. I want us to be together.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Louis,” Picard grumbled. “This was all for fun, we both said it would not be anything else.”

“That’s changed,” the blond man said quietly. “I want to keep this.”

Picard’s frown deepened and he stood from the bed, pulling his clothing out of the pile on the floor.

“I think this time apart will help you clear your mind and rethink a few things,” Picard said, his back turned to Louis. “When I come back for the winter break, we can discuss it again.”

“Why are you doing this, Jean?” Louis said, his voice cracking.

“What? I am doing nothing,” Picard said while he pulled up his trousers and fixed the sleeves of his shirt. “You are the one who seems to be changing our friendship from what I am comfortable with at the moment. I think we both need time apart to reconsider our actions and past.”

Louis’ face fell and visibly paled in the sunlight cascading through the window. He did not move but obviously was fighting the chaotic tumble of emotions running through his mind.

“Please,” Louis asked. “Don’t do this now. Not when you leave tomorrow.”

“Good-bye, Louis,” Picard said, walking toward the door. “I will write to you or call soon.”

* * * * *

With quick gasp, Picard awoke and tried to control his rapid breathing. Looking around, he found himself in a green forest of another planet, not in France in Louis’ bedroom where his dream had taken him. He covered his face with his hands, shaking from the overwhelming emotions of memories past.

After Picard had returned from the Academy during the semester break, things had indeed changed between him and Louis. A rift was now between them, but Louis was content with the fact that Picard had no interest in letting their intimacy grow to love. During the time Picard had been away, Louis had become closer friends with the Bloom sisters, childhood friends of their youth. The four of them had decided to take a cycling trip together when Picard came to visit the following summer and, in a strange accident, Louis had broken his leg. One of the sisters, Picard could never remember which, had taken to caring for Louis during that time before he could be taken to a medical station. He ended up wedding her, then divorcing her and marrying the other sister. Picard and Louis’ bedroom escapades had ended, but they were still able to mend their friendship and were closer than ever, yet it was not ever again the same.

However, the dream reminded Picard of the jealousy and loss he had felt when he had realized his trespasses against Louis. His best friend had been truthful and open to Picard about how his feelings once it had changed and grown. Picard had thrown it back in his face and when he had sought to return to it, it had no longer been an option for Louis. That regret always lingered in Picard’s mind.

The worries and fright Picard had experienced earlier that morn after his lustful encounters with Elrond returned with full clarity. All he could think of was that history had afforded him another chance to not repeat itself. Standing quickly, Picard wandered out of the shaded glen in search of Elrond.