Chapter 1: To the Golden Wood
Summary: The Imladrian twins agree to guide their Mirkwood friends to the forest of their mother's home. For Elrohir, it's a chance to meet an old acquaintance he has not seen in some time.

"Elladan, Elrohir, what's Lothlorien like?"

"Not this again, gwathul-nīn! You've asked that question so many times already! Every day, almost every hour. Can you not stop already?"

"But, Celeron! I'm curious! We've never been to the Golden Wood before."

"And, at this rate, we might never." Elladan shifted in his seat, flashing his twin a mirthful grin. It had been five months since the sons of Elrond had returned from Mirkwood after spending a foster year there in the company of King Thranduil and his family. They had brought with them the Mirkwood king's children, who in turn would spend the next year in Imladris. Since that time, almost on a daily basis, Nimriel, the youngest of Thranduil's children, and his only daughter, had been asking the twin's sister, Arwen, about Lothlorien. When the Evenstar had returned two months previous to pay the Golden Wood another visit, the young princess had turned to the twins for answers to her questions, much to her brothers' dismay and slight annoyance.

"Nimriel, can we not have one breakfast...nay, one meal without you hounding the twins about Lorien?" Celeron, Thranduil's second eldest son, asked, rolling his eyes at his bouncing little sister. He thanked the Valar Elrond and his advisors were not present to see such impoliteness, though he knew quite well the lord of Imladris would simply smile in bemusement and allow the siblings to bicker without uttering a word. "They barely have time to breathe between your questions much less eat. By Elbereth, I don‘t see why they aren‘t just skin and bones by now!"

"But I'm curious!" Arondil, the eldest, simply shook his golden head while smiling into the goblet of cider he raised to his lips; to his left, Thranduil's third son, Legolas, propped his chin onto his hands, watching as his siblings had a verbal showdown once again. He had always found it most entertaining when they fought; often time, Legolas wondered if they would ever tire of debating, though he never tired of watching them.

"You're always curious. All you ever do is question things and invade people‘s privacy. It's a wonder Lord Elrond hasn't thrown you out of his study with as many times as you have wandered in there without permission, or even knocking."

"But, it's fascinating in the study! He has so many scrolls and books on everything. Ada's study isn't so vast, I can't find much in there."

"That's because Ada is not a lore master," Arondil cut in gently. Nimriel bobbed her head in agreement.

"Exactly! All the more reason to explore Lord Elrond's study as much as possible while we are here."

"It's not only his study you wander into, Nimriel. You wander everywhere! The stables, the maids' quarters, the soldiers' barracks, the kitchens. I am still surprised people tolerate you what with how many times you've interrupted things. Or do you not recall the incident just two weeks ago when you interrupted the preparations for the feast?"

"That is cruel, gwanur-nīn. You act as if I'm a bother to everyone in Imladris."

"Maybe you are."

"Celeron!"

"Were we not discussing Lothlorien?" Legolas' gently asked question brought his two siblings to a screeching halt. Elrohir couldn't contain himself and burst out laughing at the incredulous looks etched across Celeron and Nimriel's faces as they turned to stare at their brother. The prince felt the corners of his lips twitch upwards in a bemused smirk as Arondil let out a snort, and Elladan covered a smile behind a hand. A furious blush came across the princess' face, turning her emerald gaze to the hands she clasped on the table in front of her.

"Forgive me," she whispered. "I did not mean to banter on so."

"You are forgiven," Arondil said, reaching across the table and patting her hand gently before turning to the twins as Elrohir calmed down from his fit of hysterics. "But, please, meldir. Do tell us about Lorien again. The woods fascinate me as well, mostly the elves that reside there."

"There is not much more to tell than what we have already relayed," Elladan replied, sending his lover a playful smile. Legolas flashed him an equally dreamy smile in return. "We have already told you so much about our grandmother's realm that there is little left to say."

"But, much yet to be seen," Elrohir interrupted with a sudden thought. "The mellyrn trees are producing a new, lush green coat for the summer. Perhaps, if Ada approves, we may ride down and pay the Golden Wood a visit. It has been long since Elladan and I have visited our grandparents. They would be overjoyed to see us, and to meet you as few from Mirkwood have visited in recent years."

"Wonderful idea, gwenneth! We should ask Ada at noon meal. I doubt he will disapprove of the idea."

"You mean it?" Nimriel's voice held a tone of excitement as she shot out of her chair, upsetting the piece of furniture, as well as her brothers' goblets. The rich cider stained the white table cloth a deep red; Arondil frowned at the mess, but Nimriel didn‘t seem to notice. "We can really see the Golden Wood?"

"I don't see why not. I'm sure Ada would not object."

"When?!"

"Tomorrow, or the day after, as soon as Glorfindel can arrange for it." Almost before Elladan was allowed to finish speaking, Nimriel dashed around the table. The princess forgot all manners as she hugged the twins tightly, kissing each of them on the cheek before dashing down the corridor leading to the gardens. Dazed by her actions, Elladan and Elrohir barely caught the startled yelps echoing down the halls. It soon became apparent that Nimriel had also run into Glorfindel and Erestor on her way out, bestowing similar tokens of affection on the elder elves, who likely did not know why she was so gleeful. The princes exchanged a few hearty laughs as they imagined the confused advisors' faces before getting up and dismissing themselves after finishing their meal.

~~~~~~~~~~

"You've been silent a long time, gwanur-nīn." Elrohir was stirred out of his thoughts by the sound of his brother's voice so close to his side. It had been three days since the twins left Imladris in the company of the Mirkwood siblings for the woods of Lothlorien. Nimriel had been chattering the entire way, firing off even more questions about Lothlorien and the elves that lived there. Celeron had intercepted them all before the twins could answer, setting off round after round of a verbal sparring match with his sister. The others didn't bother to stop them as the bickering amused them and made light of their journey.

All the while, though, Elladan had noticed his twin being awfully quiet during the ride. They would reach Lorien the next morning, and still Elrohir hardly spoke a word. The elder twin had excused himself from Legolas, whom he had ridden beside until this point, to join his brother and seek his mind.

"Is something bothering you?" Elladan asked, genuine concern lacing his voice as he peered into the identical face. Elrohir shook his head, tossing strands of raven hair into his face with the motion.

"Nothing really," he replied. "I was just thinking of the last few times we were in Lorien. We hardly pay the woods a decent visit anymore."

"We did not stay long when we were here last. If I recall correctly, the very last visit was well over thirty years ago, and we only tarried there two days before moving on. We‘ve been so busy with our oath to hunt the Orcs that there has been little time for rest and relaxation."

"Aye, it has been a long time since we made a substantial visit to the wood. Do you miss it?" Elrohir thought on his brother's question a moment. He felt as much at home in Lorien as he did in Imladris, and now in Mirkwood.

"Mostly I miss the company."

"The company?" The answer seemed to startle Elladan a touch. He began to wonder just what his brother meant by such a statement. "What kind of company are you referring to?"

"The Galadhrim, of course. We were always fond of the border patrol."

"Aye, that we were." /And you were always fond of a certain patrol guard in particular. Could you be thinking of that person right now, gwanur-nīn? When you say you miss the company, do you really mean you miss him? I wonder what's really on your mind, gwenneth./

"Elladan!" Nimriel's insistant voice called from up ahead. The twins lifted their heads to find the princess sitting precariously in her saddle, facing them from waist up while the rest of her body still faced forward. Tilting ever so slightly to the right, she looked as if she were about to fall off her mount any moment. Such a precarious position didn't seem to bother Nimriel in the slightest, for she didn't seem to notice how she was seated upon her saddle. But, the uncomfortable looks on Arondil and Legolas' faces relayed their worry.

"Nimriel, don't bother Elladan with another question!" Celeron nearly ordered. She pouted at him before sticking out her tongue in defiance.

"You take all the fun out of everything!"

"I best see what it is she is curious about this time before they argue again." Elladan flashed his brother a smile before spurring his horse forward to clear the short distance and downplay the next verbal onslaught. Legolas and Arondil joined him, just in case their two siblings might resort to some sort of physical violence. Left alone with his thoughts again, Elrohir went back to reminiscing about his visits to Lorien through the years.

/It would be nice to see everyone, especially Orophin. It's been so long since I've seen him. I wonder if he's changed at all./ Unconsciously, Elrohir clutched at the mithril ring that hung about his neck through his tunic. /Tomorrow. Tomorrow, I will know./

Translations:
Gwathul-nīn-My sister
Ada-Father
Gwenneth-Younger twin
Gwanur-nīn-My brother



Chapter 2: Galadhrim
Summary: While on patrol, Orophin muses quietly about the last time he saw Elrohir and encounters the party from Imladris.

It had been a fairly quite morning in the Golden Wood. There was nothing particularly exciting going on; nothing dangerous was trying to sneak its way past the Galadhrim, thank the Valar. Though it was their duty to keep Lothlorien safe from unwanted visitors, it could not be said that the patrols always enjoyed their jobs. They were more than happy to have an uneventful day every now and then. Such days gave them time to relax and recollect their thoughts, though, of course, they never ceased their constant watch over their beloved home. If there was a skirmish, the Galadhrim would never hesitate to take up arms and race into battle. But, more than enjoying an uneventful day, they looked forward to being off-duty now and again.

Orophin stretched in the early afternoon sun as he perched on a thick tree limb high off the ground. His days and nights of patrolling had been relatively quiet, as this morning had been, and soon he would be having a few days off to relax. His youngest brother, Rumil, would be taking over for a time when he left the patrol for his rest. And, of course, Haldir was constantly on patrol, whether he was supposed to be taking time off or not. Orophin was greatly looking forward to just relaxing and strolling through Caras Galadon for a few days, without having to worry about the borders. There was little trouble with Orcs and other dark servants as of late; Elladan and Elrohir had done their job well of making sure the passageways were safe for traveling.

Elrohir. Orophin smiled faintly as he recalled the younger twin. It had been some years since Elrohir and his twin had visited Lothlorien last. The Galadhrim missed his friend, but understood the oath the sons of Elrond had taken upon their mother's departure. Elrohir had been Orophin's closest friend since they were both children; even as they grew older, their friendship had endured, and grown stronger through the years. There were times when the patrol guard would worry as he thought about the twin riding alone in the wilds of Middle-earth, with no other companion, save his double. And, each time Elrohir had visited Lorien, even if the visits were few and far between, Orophin had felt a sense of relief wash over him at seeing the dark-haired elf safe.

Unconsciously, one hand wandered from his bow to the front of Orophin's tunic, clutching the mithril ring that hung from a chain over his heart through the gray garments. It had been the first, and last, thing that Elrohir had given him, nearly a hundred years ago. The Galadhrim had kept it safe, always close to him, as a reminder of the night they had once shared. It was also a reminder of the feelings he harbored for the twin, feelings he never shared, but kept sealed in his heart. Time and time again, Orophin would try to come up with the appropriate words to speak of his feelings each time he saw Elrohir. Each time, the emotions he had worked so hard to put into coherent thought would die on his lips. In the end, he resigned himself and kept silent, finding solace in the company of the bonding ring the twin had given him. The time wasn't right to tell Elrohir how he felt, but the time would come one day. He would just have to be patient a bit longer.

The sound of horses approaching alerted Orophin, drawing him out of his thoughts and memories. A faint rustle of leaves to his right let him know that his brother, Haldir, had also sensed the nearing riders. Along with a handful of other Galadhrim, the brothers waited, scanning the forest floor for the riders, bows drawn and ready to fire. When a familiar dark head appeared, followed by another, the Galadhrim relaxed. It had been more than thirty years since they last visited, but the twins were no strangers to the border patrol, even if their companions were.

"Mae govannen, Elladan, Elrohir," Haldir called, jumping down from the trees to nimbly land before the twins' steeds. "It has been long since you have paid a decent visit to the Wood."

"Mae govannen, Haldir," Elladan replied, inclining his head before dismounting, Elrohir and the Mirkwood siblings follow suit. "I see we have not been forgotten, at least among the Galadhrim."

"It is hard to forget a pair such as yourself and Elrohir, meldir. But, who are your companions? Judging by their statures and clothing, I shall venture to say they are from the Greenwood."

"That they are," Elrohir replied. "Might I introduce the children of King Thranduil of Mirkwood. Tis Arondil, and his brothers, Celeron and Legolas. And the fair princess, Nimriel. They are fostering a year with us, and frequently expressed wishes to visit Lorien."

"Tis a pleasure," Arondil greeted, bowing, his siblings following his lead.

"Welcome to Lothlorien, children of Thranduil," Haldir greeted, bowing to them in respect. "I am the March Warden, Haldir. This is my brother, Orophin." He stepped forward, bowing as Haldir introduced him. For a moment, Orophin caught Elrohir's eye. They stared at each other in silence as Haldir finished the introductions; their locked gaze broke when Haldir addressed the party again. "Please, follow me. I am sure the Lord and Lady have already known about your arrival. They will be eager to meet our kin from the North."

"Aye, and we ourselves are eager to see the fair Lord and Lady of this land," Arondil replied. With another bow, Haldir turned on his heels, beginning to lead the group through the forest. Elrohir lingered behind a moment before following his brother and friends. As he passed, his hand brushed against Orophin's, their fingers embracing for a mere moment. To others, it would have been a casual brushing, perhaps accidental. For Orophin, the touch spoke words they had no time to express at the moment. Later, they would meet, and become reacquainted.
~~~~~~~~~~

Though he loved his grandparents dearly, and was fond of his companions from Mirkwood, Elrohir felt the usual introductions between the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien and the children of Thranduil were taking far longer than they needed to. Or, so it seemed to Elrohir. He was tempted just to turn and leave to explore the realm he had missed much in recent years. But, the glances Galadriel frequently turned his way forced the twin to still his climbing anxiety, and keep still.

"It is good to see our kin from the North," Celeborn said as he greeted Arondil. "We seldom have visits from the elves of Mirkwood these days. It is a pity visits from your people are not more frequent, but it is refreshing to hear any news elves of the Greenwood may bring. How fairs your father's land in these times?"

"Well, and yet still very much encompassed by the dark," the first prince replied. "Skirmishes between our kinsmen and servants of the dark break out now and again. Our attentions are more focused on our own lands than those of others. Still, our father works hard to dispel fear and keep peace in the land."

"Lord Thranduil is a wise leader, and a caring one," the Lady Galadriel said in a sagely tone. "He loves his people, doing what he believes to be right and just. There are times where he may seem rather harsh, but that is only a faēade to hide Thranduil's more gentler side. He has raised his children to be much like himself, I am glad to notice." The four princes and princess bowed deeply to her for her compliment.

"If I may say so, my lady," Legolas began, gazing around him at the wonder of Caras Galadon, "the Golden Wood is more beautiful than Elladan and Elrohir describe it to be. And, they have often spoken of this land, the birthplace of their mother."

"That has been often indeed," Celeron muttered softly, throwing his sister a pointed look. Galadriel's musical laughter filled the air as Nimriel began to blush in embarrassment.

"I thank you for your words, Prince Legolas. I dearly hope you enjoy your stay here. For the moment, I suppose you would all like a bit of rest after your journey. I shall have servants show you to talans you may use during your stay."

"Thank you, grandmother," Elladan said, bowing to his parent's parent before servants came to lead the younger elves to a place of rest. Elrohir made to follow them, but stopped when he felt a gentle hand rest upon his shoulder. He turned to find Galadriel's kind eyes smiling at him. The Lady then began to lead the twin in a different direction.

"It has been long since you and your brother have visited the Wood," she said as they strolled the grounds together. "I was beginning to think I might never see the both of you again. Is your father well?"

"Very well, grandmother," the younger twin replied. "He expressed feelings of visiting Lorien someday soon himself before we left. How is Arwen?"

"Well. She will be pleased to know you have arrived safely." Elrohir nodded. Though it had only been a few months since Arwen had left for the Golden Wood, and there were times when the twins would go a full year without seeing her, Elrohir still missed his sister. "But," Galadriel's voice spoke again, drawing him back to the present, "your sister is not what--or should I say, who--is occupying your mind at the moment, gwenneth."

"What do you mean?" Try as he might, Elrohir found it difficult to contain the blush that threatened to color his cheeks. Galadriel smiled, and pretended not to take notice.

"There is another resident of these woods whom you think about."

"Grandmother, I..."

"You know exactly what I am saying, Elrohir. Do not try to hide the truth from me. I know you very well, in case you have forgotten." He sighed; he should have known better than to try to hide things from her. Galadriel was much older, and far wiser, than many of the elves of Middle-earth. Of course she would have known about Orophin and himself; perhaps she had always known, even before they themselves realized.

"Forgive me, grandmother," he said softly. "I did not intend to hide anything from you."

"And, please, do not try." He nodded once before she spoke again. "What do you feel towards him, Elrohir?"

"I...I am not entirely sure." It was the truth. Elrohir knew he felt something that went beyond mere friendship for Orophin, but as to what that feeling was he was not entirely sure of at the moment. He wanted to bond to the Galadhrim; but, was it out of love, or something else?

"Is it not love?" Galadriel asked as if reading his thoughts. "Do you not feel for Orophin what your brother feels for Prince Legolas?"

"It is difficult to say. We have been friends for so long, grandmother, that I am afraid to test that friendship. If I do, and the test fails, I could well lose the closest friend I have."

"Indeed, it is a risk." Galadriel ceased walking; her white robes rustled faintly as she turned to face her grandson. Slender, pale hands cupped his face as she stared deep into his gray eyes. Her blue gaze was piercing, but Elrohir dare not flinch. "But, pen-neth, it is a risk we all take when we fall in love. It is a risk I dared, as did your father and brother. You must ask yourself if you are willing to take the same risk as we did, and if you can face the consequences. If you feel that he returns your love, even just a fraction of what you feel, then I advise you to voice what your heart desires."

"I do not know if I can."

"Then, you must discover if you can." She sighed, releasing him. A faint smile illuminated her beautiful face. "Please consider my words, gwenneth."

"I will, grandmother."

"Now, go and rest. There will be time for more discussion later." With a deep bow, he turned and left her, heading back the way he came to join his brother and companions.

While he walked, Elrohir heard her words echoing within his mind. Galadriel had spoken of the fears that laid within his heart, the fear of rejection from one of the people he cared about the most. He had warred with himself on the matter of whether he loved Orophin or not, and, if he did, whether he should speak of the matter, or love in silence. Elrohir found the matter rather confusing at times; he often wondered where Elladan had gotten the courage to tell Legolas about his love for the prince, and if his brother had ever felt as torn as he did now.

/She is right,/ he thought to himself. /I will have to speak of this matter soon. But, not now. Not yet. I am not ready. I fear I never will be./ Elrohir sighed quietly to himself, noting the falling of the sun. Arien was descending, casting long shadows across the ground. He had forgotten the passage of time during his talk with Galadriel; servants would be calling for the evening meal soon. He decided to politely pass the meal when asked to attend; there was too much going on in Elrohir's mind at the moment.

He had almost reached the talan Elladan and Thranduil's children had been escorted to when a warm arm snaked its way about Elrohir's waist from behind. Startled, the younger twin's survival instincts took hold for a moment; he struggled as he felt himself being pulled back, his shoulders pressing against another's chest. He relaxed at the kiss planted in his hair, and the familiar voice whispering into his ear.

"I have missed you, mellon-nīn."

Translation:
Mae govannen, Elladan, Elrohir-Well met, Elladan, Elrohir
Meldir-Friend
Gwenneth-Younger twin
Pen-neth-Little one
Mellon-nīn-My friend



Chapter 3: Clear Skies and Starry Nights
Summary: Orophin and Elrohir spend the night reminiscing about old times and getting reacquainted.

"You mustn't startle me so."

"Forgive me. But, we didn't have time to speak earlier. And, I've just been released from the patrol and wanted to see you, lirimaer." Smiling at the endearment, Elrohir turned within the arms encircling him, his gray gaze meeting a blue one. A kiss was planted on his brow, the faint scent of sandalwood whiffed around him as Orophin brushed closer. Elrohir felt himself drowning in the warmth surrounding him, wondering again if this was love or some mockery being played at his expense.

"It has been long since we last met," Orophin said. "Far too long."

"Aye, it has. I have been busy."

"So I have heard. It is rare that you visit the Wood anymore. But, I am glad to see you now, mellon-nīn."

"It is good to see you as well."

"Come," Orophin said, taking hold of Elrohir's hand gently in his own. "There is much for us to talk about." The twin nodded, following his friend as they began strolling through the mellyrn trees. They walked in silence for some time before the Galadhrim spoke again. "How fairs your father and Imladris? I have not had a chance to visit the valley as of late."

"Well. Though, I believe, Glorfindel thinks Ada works too hard, and tries to find ways to distract him. I find I have to agree. Ada can spend hours locked up in his study. He becomes so involved in what he's doing that he forgets to eat sometimes."

"Then, it is good that he has Lord Glorfindel to watch over him. Though, I dearly hope you have not inherited that same stubbornness." Elrohir laughed at the thought.

"Nay, I believe Elladan received most of that. When my brother fixes his eye on something, he'll do just about anything to get what he wants. There is very little that can get in his way--much less stop him--when he is in such a wanting state."

"Are you referring to the Prince Legolas perhaps?" Elrohir smiled, turning to the guardian.

"Meldir, you never cease to amaze me." He received a snort in reply, to which Elrohir frowned playfully. "I am being serious. How else would you know of my brother and the prince? Did my sister speak on the matter?"

"Hardly. Ask any Galadhrim that saw--or will see them--and they will give you the same assessment."

"Are they that obvious?"

"To our keen observation, I suppose they are." The twin thought on that last statement for a moment. It was true that the Galadhrim were rather perceptive of the things that occurred around them. Their senses were even acute to events that did not concern them in the least. Such fine-tuned sight and hearing made them who they were, the best elven border patrols in the three havens. But, it made Elrohir wonder if they were also able to deduce what passed between himself and Orophin. Or, more importantly, his inner struggle.

"Elrohir? Elrohir?" When he received no reply, Orophin laid a gentle hand upon the twin's shoulder. Elrohir seemed to revive at the touch.

"I'm sorry." He shook himself back to the moment. "Did you say something?" Orophin stared at his friend. Something was bothering Elrohir, he could sense it. But, he decided not to press the issue further. Elrohir would tell him in time, he need not rush things.

"Nay, I said nothing."

"I must have been drifting off. But, tell me, how have things been on the borders?"

"There is little to do nowadays. The borders are quiet by day, and by night. It is all thanks to you and Elladan." Elrohir shook his head, tossing dark chocolate locks about his face.

"Do not give us too much credit. We only do what we can."

"You do a great deal. Many are grateful that they can use the Redhorn Pass with some measure of safety in these days. It is gruesome work, the kind that many would not under go for an extended period of time. And, yet, you an Elladan guard the pass, and others. Many praise the both of you for your effort. But, sometimes, I think, you do far more than you should."

"I suppose. It is all very tiring work. We spend most of the year riding and hunting, in the wild far more than any elf could imagine. We winter in Imladris, and spend every other summer in Mirkwood. I see my father and sister little, my grandparents even less. For now, I wish to relax and not think about Orcs, or anything of the like, for some time."

"Come, let me see if I cannot remedy that for you." The twin smiled, following the guardian back to Orophin's talan. Deftly, they climbed the rope ladder before bringing it up after them. Slipping into the other's embrace, they kissed, long and deeply, pressing their bodies as close as possible. Orophin nibbled lightly at Elrohir's lower lip, delighting at the moan that escaped, before pulling away to explore the curves and plateaus of the pale face before him. He slipped to an ear, and gently sucked at a pointed tip, sending shivers down Elrohir's spine.

He had missed this. Only once had they joined, solong ago, but Elrohir found that once had not been frequent enough, even if they had had little time to spend together. He arched his head back, pressing his exposed neck more fully onto the lips that lingered there. The warm summer air breezed across the skin of his chest as the clasps of his tunic were undone, allowing the garment to fall open. Blindly, Elrohir reached for Orophin's own garments, tugging at the gray cloak and tunic until they gave way and joined his own upon the talan floor. Feeling himself being turned, he backpedaled to the bed, following Orophin's guide. His knees buckled when they hit the edge of the frame, propelling both elves onto the straw mattress in a tangle of limbs and peals of giggles.

As the laughter died down, the heat within their bodies began to rise again. Eyes darkened with lust and wanting, hands skimmed over warm, pale skin, remembering sensitive spots not touched in a century. Lips collided as hands undid lacings, discarding two pairs of leggings. For a moment the pair lay quiet, eyes closed, as they relished the feel of the other's nearness and warmth. Lust crept in again, as did impatience. It had been far too long.

Elrohir gasped as slender fingers curled around his erection, the pads dancing around the base of the column in fluttering touches. Orophin's lips were fastened to his neck, sucking lightly at the throbbing pulse they found; his other hand smoothed over planes of silken skin stretched over the taut muscles of thighs and hips. He kept up a steady motion; one suck with each pulse, one gentle stroke with each quiver of muscle, one brush of the thumb over a heated shaft with each moan. It was slow and steady, but arousing all the same.

Being thrice touched with each slight motion of his body or sound that he made almost threw Elrohir over the edge, but he checked himself. He wanted it slow, wanted to take his time, wanted to be touched. His eyes still closed, Elrohir reached for the stand next to the bed, his hand almost instantly grasping a small phial that rested there. It mildly surprised him that, in all those years, not a thing had changed in Orophin's talan, not even where the small glass of oil had been placed. With a twist, he removed the stopper, slick liquid spilling over his hands. Reaching for the hand sliding up his hip, Elrohir pressed their palms together, slicking the other's hand, before moving elsewhere. He grinned at the gasp sounding near his ear as his fingers wrapped about the Galadhrim's erection.

Raising his head, Orophin gazed into Elrohir's eyes. As the two stared longingly at the other, his hand slipped around the twin's hip, finding the opening and beginning the preparation. Their eyes remained locked as they worked to ready the other for their joining. Feeling their work done, they kissed again, the rings hanging about their necks chiming as they collided against one another. Slowly, Orophin sheathed himself into the shearing heat, unable to quiet the moan he issued within the kiss. Elrohir quieted his own voice as he pulled the guardian forward, silent asking him to move.

Together they set up an unbroken rhythm. At each of Orophin's thrusts, Elrohir would arch up to meet him. Sweat gathered, creating a light sheen on their skins. Everything ceased to exist around them as time stood still. As their climax neared, Elrohir reached out, burying his hands among the silvery locks of the Galadhrim, pulling them together into another desire-filled kiss. Their tongues danced in rhythm to their bodies, joining and entwining themselves about one another. With one angled thrust, Orophin struck Elrohir's sweet spot, causing the twin to climax; his own followed a moment later at the tightening of the muscles encircling his erection.

He sank down into a warm, open embrace. Smiling in a sleepy manner, Orophin kissed column of flesh exposed to him before burying his face into chocolate locks. A soft kiss was bestowed upon his head as Elrohir pulled him closer. As they drifted off into a content sleep, enfolded with the other's embrace, the stars shone down on them from above, reflecting off the mithril rings lying between them, the chains entwined.
~~~~~~~~~~

It was late in the night when Elrohir awoke again. He blinked to clear the sleep from his eyes before moving to sit up. Looking around, he noted that he was alone in bed, his clothes neatly folded and resting on a chair nearby. He felt too comfortable to move; instead, he took to sitting in the bed and staring at the stars above him, arms wrapped around his knees. He had not been staring long when a sound caused him to turn towards the entrance of the talan.

Up through the entrance came Orophin, bearing a tray precariously balanced on one arm as he climbed the rope ladder. Setting the tray down, he climbed the rest of the way up before drawing the ladder after him. Noticing the twin awake, he smiled, retrieving his tray, plus two glasses and a bottle from a nearby table. Elrohir returned the smile, shifting a little closer towards the Galadhrim.

"And, where have you been off to?" Elrohir asked as Orophin sat next to him on the bed.

"Seeing as how I kept you...occupied during the evening meal, I thought it fitting for me to bring you something to eat.." With that, the Galadhrim set the tray, filled with fruits, cheeses and some wafers of lembas, upon Elrohir's lap. Setting the glasses down on the stand, he opened the bottle with a faint pop, and proceeded to pour a glass of cider for the both of them as Elrohir took a bite of cheese.

"Hm...I think you'll do," Elrohir said in a teasing voice as he took the glass offered to him. Orophin arched a delicate eyebrow as he took a small sip of his own cup.

"I'll do?" A nod came in reply. "For what?"

"As a go-fer." He giggled at the stunned look Orophin gave him before kissing a pale cheek. "I'm only teasing, a'maelamin."

"I should hope so." He scowled, bringing about more laughter from the twin. But, Orophin couldn't help the smile that crept across his face at Elrohir's endearment. He kissed the dark crown, brushing a stray strand of raven hair behind a pointed ear before moving closer. Leaning against one another, they took their share of the food before spending the rest of the night in a content sleep beneath the stars and in each other's arms.

Translations:
Lirimaer-Lovely one
Mellon-nīn-My friend
Meldir-Friend
A'maelamin-My beloved
Go-fer-Ok, so it's not an elvish term. A go-fer is someone you ask to run errands or go to pick up things. ‘Go for this, go for that', get it?

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