Chapter 7: Hellacious Encounter
Summary: The short stay in Lil' Bree proves interesting and a bit troublesome for the young elven princes and princess, especially since the mannish town has not seen elves in quite some time.

A faint hush fell over the already crowded tavern as the six new arrivals entered and took a table in a darkened corner. Though it was still early evening, the Trotting Stallion was already filled to almost full capacity as men and dwarves returned from their daily comings and goings to enjoy a hot meal and fine ale and mead at their favorite gathering spot in Lil Bree. All their attentions were turned from their plates and conversations upon the entrance of the arrivals, eyes fixing on the figures for a moment longer before turning back to begin new talks. The cloaked elves said nothing until Bowman arrived at their side.

"What can I get you this fine evening, my young friends?" The princes and princess turned to one another, silent conversation passing between them as their eyes met. Their intense gray, blue and green gazes from underneath dark gray cloaks made the tavern owner a little uneasy as he waited for their answer. After a moment's time, that seemed much longer to Bowman, Arondil spoke from the owner's elbow.

"Bread, cheese, any fruits you may have and wine, kind sir," the prince said, lifting his eyes to Bowman momentarily.

"Will that be all you gentlemen will be wanting?" A simple nod was his answer. "Would you be preferring some ale, or perhaps mead rather than wine, friends?"

"Nay, wine will do," Elladan replied, eliciting a nod from Bowman who moved off quickly to fill their order before attending to other guests, leaving the elves to observe the room around them in silence.

"They are...different from those I have seen in the wood," Nimriel commented as her gaze fell from one dwarf to a second and then upon the man they were conversing with. All three were dressed in rough brown clothing, their faces dirty and dusty, but they laughed heartily as they drank from tall tankards. "I would not fancy myself as being an expert on the company of men, as I have seen and interacted with few. But it is to my current observation that the men of this town seem far from the hard working village people of Mirkwood."

"Aye, they are," Legolas agreed. "I liken that they are also different from the Dunedain. The Edain of the North are rather gruff and weather worn, but these men and dwarves place a new perspective on them. But appearances can be deceiving, gwathul-nîn. The men, and even dwarves, that you see before you might in fact be as hard working as the men of the wood, but at the present moment they are forgetting their cares and enjoying their time."

"I agree with Legolas," Elrohir said, his voice dying as Bowman returned, balancing trays piled with the food and wine they had ordered. Smiling warmly, the tavern owner laid out the plates and cups before his guests before bidding them an enjoyable meal and leaving them to their own devices.

As they ate, the elves kept their conversation between themselves and in whispered tones. Speaking in Sindarian, in voices that could only reach their own keen ears, they spoke of Imladris; the children of Mirkwood questioned the twins further on the valley dwelling. Elladan and Elrohir spoke with relish about their home and visits to Lorien, promising the others tours and introductions. Now and then they found themselves having to switch to speaking in words of Westron when their elvish senses alerted them to prying eyes and ears. This town fascinated them, though it was far from any of their expectations upon arrival; they were not inclined to reveal who they truly were until they left in the morning, if at all. Conversations around them went on as normal, almost as if the strangers were nothing unusual to Lil' Bree. Almost.

Very rarely has an elf become so intoxicated through the vintages that he or she could not remember what they did or said once they woke up with a hangover. Most knew when to stop themselves from becoming too drunk. Nonetheless, elven wine was not so much potent as it was sweet in taste, agreeable to the palate for even those who preferred something without a sugary taste. The bitterly strong taste of mead and ale, even human wine, was often too much for elves. But the princes and princess were accustomed to such potables having associated with men previously. Unfortunately, some of the men in the Trotting Stallion were not, though one would think that they would have some inhibitions since they drank in the tavern so often.

A heavy hand suddenly rested itself on Nimriel's shoulder, startling the princess just slightly from her conversation with Elrohir. Turning, green eyes gazed up past the elven cloak and into the stern, slightly red-tinted face of a rough man. He was as tall as she, but much broader in shoulder and limbs than her brothers, even more so than the twins. Coarse, dark brown hair covered his chin, as long, oily strands fell from his scalp to brush his shoulders. His tunic was as rough and coarse as his hair, sleeveless and fitting him snugly across the chest; his clothes seemed to be of a brown color, but whether that was the fabric's natural color or due to layers of dirt was unknown. The smell of his breath flowing from him alerted the elves quickly to his intoxication.

"Well well, look at what have we here?" the man said, his voice gruff and hard with just the barest hint of a slur despite his woefully drunken state. He spoke loud enough to elicit the attention of everyone else in the room, driving conversations to death or to faint whispers.

"Is there a problem?" Nimriel asked, her voice devoid of fear for she felt none. Even as a she-elf and a princess, she was more than capable of handling a man such as this. Her eyes, as she knew her brothers and the twins were doing, flickered over the man, assessing him quickly and discretely before returning to his face, awaiting his answer.

"You are the problem, all of ya." Six elegant eyebrows arched delicately in confusion and faint annoyance at the accusation. "Damn Rangers riding into town, walking through the village with an arrogant swagger like ya'll own the place." The man seemed not to notice the brief smirks of delight that illuminated the elves' faces at his blatant mistake of their identities. The man frowned slightly as dull brown eyes flicked from one cloaked figure to another, his annoyance rising when he realized he couldn‘t see any of their faces clearly. "What ya'll want in Lil' Bree anyway?"

"Just a night's room and board and a little food before we'll be on our way in the morning," Elladan replied, eyeing the hand that still rested on the princess' shoulder. It was clear that Nimriel was becoming uneasy by the close proximity of the man, though she remained stoic and calm. "We've been riding all day. Surely the horse who carries the burden of a rider throughout the long day may take some rest at the very least." Murmurs of approval and agreement swept around the room at the twin's delicate reasoning. The truthfulness of his words only seemed to anger and annoy the man further, as he was joined by three others who the elves could only assume to be his friends; they too were also intoxicated.

"Well we don't like Rangers in this here town," one of his companions interjected. "I dun rightly care if your lame horse is tired or not. Ya'll aren't welcome here and we'll thank ya kindly to leave."

"Abel, now calm down," Bowman tried to soothe. He didn't like fighting among his guests in his place. The owner felt he had to stop the men from provoking the strangers further, as he got the funny feeling that his six new guests were much more than they seemed.

"Now you stay out of this, Butterbur. We dun intend to muck up ya place so there's no reason for ya to worry too much."

"For once, I agree," Arondil said, getting to his feet. His motion was mirrored by the others save for Nimriel. The hand, which remained on her shoulder, forced the princess back into her seat as well as causing glares that could have rivaled the flames within Khazad-dum to ignite in the eyes of her brothers. Arondil worked to keep his voice steady as he spoke again. "I shall thank you kindly to unhand my companion."

"Yeah? Or what, boy?"

"Or be unhanded." There was a moment's pause before a yelp was let loose through the tavern. Legolas had barely finished speaking when he sprung over the table from where he was opposite his sister to land nimbly at her side, painfully wrenching the hand off her shoulder. With a twist, the prince had the man pinned facedown on the table and hands held behind his back.

"Unhand him!" the one Bowman had called Abel demanded, moving on uneasy feet toward Legolas in an attempt to free his friend. The prince whirled on his heels, pulling the man up and in front of him.

"As you wish," he said, pushing the man forward whilst springing back to join his brothers. The two men stumbled into each other in a tangle of limbs and curses. Unable to keep their balances due to the combination of ale in their systems and their collision, they fell backwards into a table occupied by a group of a half dozen dwarves. This particular group had continued their conversation animatedly in whispered voices despite the confrontation going on just behind them. Upon the toppling of the men, however, not only was their conversation rudely interrupted, but their table was upset by the force of the man‘s fall, spilling their still-unfinished mead in a dozen directions.

"Ingrates!" the dwarves shouted, springing to their feet and brandishing broken table legs and chairs, whatever was within reach. "We shall teach you a lesson in manners, filthy humans!" With that they pounced, again toppling Abel and his companions, upsetting more tables, plates, cups and guests. A simple misunderstanding led into an all out tavern fight, in which no one, save for Butterbur and the elves who had retreated to a different corner, was left out of.

"This was not quite the excitement we were looking for when we came here," Celeron commented with a sheepish looking grin as he and the others observed the chaos around them.

"Aye, though this is certainly not something you see everyday," Elrohir replied. "At least I never have." The others nodded their agreement while Legolas looked over at his lover; Elladan fought to control the laughter bubbling up within him at the sight of men and dwarves yelling obscenities at the top of their lungs while trying to throttle one another in their drunken states.

"Rangers indeed," huffed Nimriel. "I admire the Dunedain, but to be mistaken for one of them!" The undignified, annoyed pout held on the princess' face was enough to send the twins and her brothers into peals of laughter. Their mirth, however, was quickly interrupted as a hand swept out, grabbing hold of a corner of Elrohir's cloak and pulling him to the ground. The twin landed unceremoniously onto his back while a large body fell upon him. Rolling to his side, Elrohir narrowly missed the fist aimed at his face, scrambling to his feet and to his brother's side, discovering that he and the others were backed into a corner.

"Think this is all very funny, do ya?" Abel sneered, peering through disheveled hair and sporting a split lip. "We'll teach ya'll a lesson in respect!"

"Nay, it is us who will be teaching such a lesson," Elladan replied, unsheathing the sword at his hip. The light caught the elven made blade, its deadly edge warning the men away. The sound of more swords being drawn was heard, a hush falling over the tavern, all eyes turning towards the strangers. Arondil and Celeron had also unsheathed their swords as Legolas brandished a pair of knives in each hand; behind them stood Elrohir and Nimriel, arrows nocked, bows drawn taut. In the process of arming themselves, each of their hoods had fallen away, revealing fair features and leaf-like ears.

"What manner of being are yee?" Abel cowered, his voice trembling as he fell to his knees before the elves.

"Antolle ulua sulrim," Celeron hissed, his voice barely a whisper but carrying through the now silent and awe-stricken room. None but the elves knew the true meaning of his insult, but the ferocity of his voice was enough to convey his anger, as well as the brandished weapons. The men and dwarves instantly released one another, backing away from the elves. Slowly and cautiously, the six put away their weapons as Elladan turned to Bowman and bowed.

"We shall be taking our leave of you tonight and retiring, kind host," he said politely. "Please see to it that our mounts are saddled and ready to leave early tomorrow morn." Bowman merely nodded, dumbfound, as the elves turned and made their way up to the rooms given to them.

Silently, Arondil, Celeron and Legolas disappeared into one, reappearing later laden with their belongings to join their sister and the twins in the second room; a silent agreement ran through them that they should spend the night in a single room. Each slumped upon a bed or the floor once the door was closed and locked, a moment of silence filled the room. The moment was broken when, as one, the six broke out into more peals of laughter, their silvery voices carrying in the room, echoing faintly against the walls.

"Did you see their faces?!" Celeron asked through laughs wracking his body. "I thought their eyes would pour out of their heads when they saw us! What a sight we must have made, six elves with swords, knives and bows in hand against a tavern full of drunken men and dwarves."

"Must have been quite a shock," Arondil commented. "Still, it was amusing. I dare say we shall not forget this adventure for a while to come." The others nodded their agreement before making preparations for sleep. Nimriel was given the bed while the others spread themselves about the floor. Leaning against the door to prevent any unwanted entrances were Elladan and Legolas, the pair of lovers leaning against each other, hands clasped and fingers entwined.

~~~~~~~~~~
"Think we'll have any trouble trying to leave the town?" Legolas asked. Morning had come; the elves had arisen just as Arien was ascending in the sky. Each took turns washing up while the others kept busy preparing their things for the last leg of their journey. They had decided to skip the morning meal, still having enough lembas to keep them hearty till they reached Imladris.

"I hope not, gwanur-nîn," Arondil said, slipping a knife into his wrist guard. "I should hope after what occurred last night, the men and dwarves would give us a wide girth and allow us to leave in peace."

"Let us hope it is so," Elladan replied, a faint smirk of amusement crossing his face as he recalled last night's events. The shocked look on Abel's disheveled face flashed into his memory, forcing the twin to bite down on his lip to keep from roaring in laughter.

Once ready, the princes and princess hefted their possessions, making their way downstairs and to the stables. Not a soul was in the tavern, but Bowman was awaiting them at the doors to the stable, their horses refreshed and ready for the journey. Each stallion and mare nudged their riders, greeting them as the elves began to burden their friends with first their belongings and then themselves. With a gracious smile despite last night's incident, Bowman wished the companions as safe journey as they rode off. They were halfway out of the town when Nimriel reined her mare to a stop, staring with slack jaw at the street before her. Her brothers and the twins exchanged confused glances before stopping beside her, turning their eyes to where her green orbs were focused. Their mouths too slipped open at the sight before them.

From their stopping position to just before the gates were each and every inhabitant of the village, men, women and children alike. All were kneeling prostrate on the ground, heads bowed in deep respect directed toward the elves who they seemed to revere as some sort of holy, spiritual beings. A flood of laughter threatened to overwhelm Elladan; instead, he smirked wickedly before starting his horse into a trot. The others followed suit, laughter barely suppressed on their fair faces, eyes fixed on the road ahead of them.

None looked back as they left the town, hearing the gates close behind them and the people shuffling to their feet. It was not until they were well into the surrounding forest did they allow themselves to laugh in utter amusement to the sight they had seen. Their mirth was carried by the wind back to the town, the sounds of their musical voices frightening many villagers who feared punishment for upsetting the starlit beings, same as the night before.

The children, however, delighted in the laughter they heard, impressing the sound into their minds along with the faces of the strangers. They told many a tale each night to their children, who passed it onto their own children for generations to come, long after the ships had sailed for Valinor. No elf was ever seen again within the gates of Lil' Bree, but many were careful not to upset a stray Dunedain who might pass, fearing he would be another spiritual being who would not be as merciful.

Translations:
Gwathul-nîn-My sister
Antolle ulua sulrim-Much wind pours from your mouth
Gwanur-nîn-My brother

Chapter 8: Stolen Hearts
Summary: Elladan debates on how to tell his father about his relationship, one Thranduil does not entirely approve of but lets be for his son‘s happiness. Legolas ponders a new way of attracting his lover's attention.

"Ada, I have found my soul's companion while in Mirkwood...no, that doesn't sound right. How about...I have discovered my other half residing in the beech trees of the Greenwood. No, that's wrong too." Elladan was a wreck as he paced his chambers, trying to put his thoughts into something that was not only coherent also conveyed what he wanted to say to his parent. He was having no luck despite all the diplomacy he had been taught as an elfling.

It had been nearly two months since he and Elrohir had returned to Imladris with Legolas and his siblings in tow. The Mirkwood princes and princess had been awed by the immense beauty of the valley. Glorfindel had ridden up to meet them, welcoming back the twins and greeting the guests before leading them to the Last Homely House. There, Elrond awaited them along with Arwen, who had returned from Lothlorien just two days previously. Upon seeing his father, Elladan had felt a tremor of terror fill him as he suddenly became aware of the fact that he would have to tell his father about the relationship he shared with Thranduil's youngest son.

Elladan suddenly stopped pacing as he recalled how the golden king had reacted to the news. Thranduil had gone absolutely silent; at his side, Erinien had smiled and silently given her consent to the pair. It had given them a small measure of hope as Legolas and Elladan stood before the king, close enough to draw comfort from the other, but never touching. The twin had sensed Elrohir and Legolas' siblings watching from a hidden corner, thankful for their support as well.

Long moments had passed during which a number of emotions had passed within Thranduil's eyes, before he smiled, giving his consent. Elladan, as Legolas embraced his father, had felt that the king was not in complete approval, despite his words, and had instantly promised to keep Legolas happy and safe if it were within his strength and power. The oath seemed to appease Thranduil, as his smile broadened and he motioned Elladan forward to embrace him as well, the twin‘s taut body relaxing measurably as he stepped into the warm hug.

Now it was time for Elrond to know of this coupling and, for some reason, Elladan feared his father's reaction more than he had Thranduil's. He was not sure why, as he was much more familiar with dealing with his own father than with Legolas'. Elladan sighed; this would be a difficult matter to discuss with his father. But discuss it he must, so, mounting the courage he needed, the twin left his chambers and proceeded down the corridor. Upon reaching the door to his father's study, he took a couple of deep steadying breaths, smoothed his clothes and the braids in his hair, and knocked thrice upon the wooden frame.

"Enter," a voice commanded gently from within. Taking yet another deep breath, Elladan grasped the door handle, twisted it and proceeded into the room. His attention was caught by the firm, straight back and gleaming golden hair that came into view; he hadn't expected Glorfindel to be present. As the blond Elda turned, it was revealed that Erestor was also in the room, standing next to Elrond as the pair went over a group of scrolls on the lord's table.

"Elladan," Elrond said, noting the entrance of his eldest. "You are not out with your brother and the princes?"

"Nay, there's something I must discuss with you, Ada," the son replied, working to keep his voice steady. He threw an uneasy look at his father's advisors, particular at Elrond's blond lover. Glorfindel took the hint immediately and motioned for Erestor to follow him out, mentioning something about maps as he closed the door. Elladan sighed in relief. He had always seen his father's advisors as friends and confidants, but today he needed to speak with Elrond alone.

The lord of Imladris caught the uneasy look in his son's eyes, read the mixed emotions on his youthful face. Sliding into a chair, he folded his hands across his lap, waiting in silence for Elladan to begin speaking. The elder twin remained on his feet a moment longer but claimed a chair when he noticed that his father had already done so. When Elladan remained silent for the next few moments, Elrond slowly reached across the table, laying his hand gently over his son's clasped pair, feeling the faint tremble running through the lithe body.

"Elladan," he said in a soothing voice. "Whatever it is, tell me." Hearing his father speak in such a calm voice gave the twin the courage he needed to speak his mind.

"Ada, in the year I spent in Mirkwood, I discovered a lot of things," he began, staring at their joined hands as his thoughts came to him. "Elrohir and I found that we were rather happy there. Of course we're glad to be home, but Mirkwood was a fascinating place and we loved it there."

"I thought you would." Elladan gave a faint nod before continuing.

"I rather admired King Thranduil for looking after his people so closely. He cares for them all deeply, and for his family. I've only ever seen you, Nana, grandfather and grandmother care for us so. The king loves his children, and will do anything for them." It was Elrond's turn to nod at his son's words.

"This I knew already, for that is one of the reasons why the two of us respect each other so. But that is not what you came here to discuss, is it, Elladan?" Elladan shook his head, braids of raven hair swishing into his face with his movements. Slowly, he lifted gray eyes to lock with the identical pair of his father's. Such emotion filled them, that Elrond found himself holding his breath in anticipation of his eldest child's next words.

"I have found love beneath the beeches of Mirkwood, Ada. ‘Tis a love I feel I can no longer live without. It would grieve me so to have the center of my affections taken from me to a place I cannot follow. I know not what I would do, should such an event occur, though surely I would die of the elven illness if it came to pass." A small sigh of contentment left Elrond, which went unnoticed by his son. He had waited two months for Elladan to confess to something the lord already suspected.

"I gathered as much as I observed you of late. You seemed changed, you and Elrohir both. Yet it was a different change. Your brother has had a sudden boost of energy and merriment; such mirth in his eyes I have not seen since before your mother passed. But you, ion-nîn, have changed in a different way. You are more compassionate and calm, as if something has soothed your soul and mind. I thank whichever one of Thranduil's children has brought about this change in you. But tell me, pen-neth, is it the princess, or one of her brothers?"

"It is her brother, the youngest. Legolas." Such delight filled Elladan's voice as he uttered the name. It filled Elrond with a childish glee at hearing the name leave his son's lips like a much-cherished endearment. Deftly he slid out of his chair, his feet making little noise as he seemed to glide around the table to stand behind Elladan. Leaning over, he enveloped his son in an embrace, kissing his hair tenderly.

"I am happy for you, ion-nîn," Elrond whispered into a pointed ear. "I am glad he makes you happy, and am overjoyed to see you happy. You have my consent."

"Diola lle, Ada." They stayed in the embrace for a moment longer. Elladan closed his eyes, drinking in the warmth of the paternal love radiating from the father he cherished so dearly. His heart had lightened when Elrond gave his consent and set his mind at ease. Turning his head, the twin gave his father a chaste kiss on the cheek and a brilliant smile before rising from his seat as the two departed to join the others for the afternoon meal.

~~~~~~~~~~
"Where are you leading me, ernil-nîn?"

"Be patient, melethron-nîn. You shall see soon enough." Elladan gave his lover a playful scowl as Legolas led him through the woods of Imladris. The dark elf had felt much more lighthearted after the earlier talk with his father, even more delighted at the dazzling smile Legolas had given him when he relayed Elrond's consent. Now evening was approaching, the evening meal commencing in less than two hours, as the prince led his lover along a curving path through the woods.

"Two months here and you act as if you've known the place forever," Elladan jested. Legolas flashed him another smile over his shoulder.

"Perhaps I have," he replied teasingly. "I spent many a night listening to you talk of your home, you might well recall. Besides, while you were speaking with your father, Elrohir was kind enough to show me some hidden places he said you liked to visit."

"It would seem that my dear brother is trying to play matchmaker."

"Nay, that is impossible, melme, for we are already matched." A soft chuckle left the twin at the truth of his sun's words. "Ah, here we are." Elladan was amazed as they entered a small clearing about a hundred yards away from the falls of the Bruinen. His astonishment was aimed directly at Legolas, rather than the beauty of the clearing and the swirling pool of water. The twin wanted to be the one leading Legolas to the location; he had never expected to have his prince led him here. "Amazed?"

"Very." With a smile, Elladan turned, wrapping the golden prince in his arms and kissing him lightly on the lips. "But glad. I wanted to show you this place, at least once." Legolas smiled, leaning his head on Elladan's shoulder.

"I can see why you like it so much. It's so serene and calm here, a place to get away when the world is too much."

"Or when you just want a little privacy." There was a glint in the gray eyes that Legolas knew all too well. He smiled knowingly, stretching his arms about the twin's neck to pull them into another, more heated kiss. They parted for air only to come back together with more passion, hands fumbling with clasps and casting clothing aside. Limbs tangled, bodies crumpled against one another as each brought his lover to rest on the soft, carpet-like grass at their feet. For a moment they just held one another, stormy gray orbs locking with a beloved sapphire pair, hands playing softly across liquid silk skin. The world seemed to stand still; nothing else existed save for the entwined pair.

With a smile, Elladan leaned closer, placing soft kisses over Legolas' cheek before moving to the smooth column of his neck. He nipped lightly at the skin, producing soft sighs and moans of pleasure. As he worked his mouth, Elladan kept his hands busy, lightly tickling and brushing curves and planes, knowing just where to touch to excite his lover. He felt Legolas' hands in his hair, fingering the strands and massaging the scalp gently, causing Elladan to give his own moan of pleasure as a fingertip brushed over his ear.

"Saes, ithil-nîn," the prince whispered with an almost pleading voice. "Don't make me wait. Im lle gara."

"Anything for you," Elladan replied, gently soothing him with a tender kiss. Rolling onto his back, he brought them both in a sitting position, Legolas placed across his lap. Ever so gently he encircled the prince's weeping erection with his fingers, his thumb flicking over the head to collect the pearly drops gathering there. Legolas gasped, then moaned at the touch. A frustrated groan sounded as the hand left, but it was cut short as Elladan wiggled a finger, coated in his own pre-cum, past his entrance. He moaned as a second finger joined the first, gently stretching and preparing him with the utmost care.

"Sii', saes."

"Uma, sii'." Withdrawing his fingers slowly, Elladan cupped his love's slender hips, positioning his entrance over the twin's straining member. Slowly he lowered the prince onto himself, gasping sharply at the delightful feel of being engulfed by overwhelming heat. For a moment neither dared to move, savoring the feeling of their joining.

As his dark lover began to set a steady rhythm, Legolas leaned forward, placing his golden crown on Elladan's shoulders and his lips across the skin of the neck exposed before him; Elladan silently thanked the Valar for his discarded high necked robes, for he didn‘t want to have to explain anything during dinner. He moved slowly, in and out of his lover, both hands settled on slim hips to keep the movements steady. One hand slipped from its place to grasp the prince's member, pumping in time to the movement of their hips. Legolas moved as well, pushing against Elladan each time the twin thrust into him, delicious sensations washing over the pair at their harmonious joining. His muscles clenched as his orgasm came, spilling his seed between their two clasped bodies. The tightening feeling surrounding him, accompanied by the vibrations of the prince's moans against his throat, sent Elladan over the edge as he too came deep within his lover.

Exhausted but unwilling to give into sleep, Elladan leaned back, settling on the grass and drawing Legolas with him. They lay together, fingers ghosting over skin and hair, feeling completely satisfied and positively glowing in the aftermath of their lovemaking.

"Vanima," Legolas whispered, snuggling closer to the warmth of the twin.

"Lle naa vanima, anor-nîn, a‘maelamin."

"N'uma. Lle naa, ithil-nîn. Lle naa cormamin." They smiled at each other and their whispered endearments of love before joining in another kiss. They stayed in their embrace for a while longer, unashamed to be exposed to the stars. The sounds of voices calling their names could be heard in the far distance, calling the pair to the evening meal. Reluctantly they parted, gathering their clothing and dressing themselves. They took a moment to smooth the other's hair and garments, picking out stray grass blades from hair and robes. When everything was back in order, Elladan gave Legolas another loving kiss before wrapping an arm about the slim waist as the two lovers headed back to join their families for dinner.

Translations:
Ada-Father
Nana-mother
Ion-nîn-My son
Diola lle, Ada-Thank you, father
Ernil-nîn-My prince
Melethron-nîn-My love/lover
Melme-Love
Saes, ithil-nîn-Please, my moon
Im lle gar-I need you
Sii', saes-Now, please
Uma, sii'-Yes, now
Vanima-Beautiful
Lle naa vanime, anor-nîn, a'maelamin-You are beautiful, my sun, my beloved
N'uma. Lle naa, ithil-nîn. Lle naa cormamin-No. You are, my moom. You are my heart

Chapter 9: Under Eärendil
Summary: The year in Imladris has passed; it is time for the Mirkwood siblings to return to their realm. Under the light of a Silmaril, Elladan and Legolas make a promise (slash).

Winter in Imladris was a magnificent affair. As the approaching cold descended upon the valley, trees turned from brilliant green to majestic red, brown and yellow before shedding their coats for the winter, littering the ground with an assortment of vibrant colors. Early snows dusted the valley lightly now and again as the elves donned their winter cloaks of rich velvets and wool, though they hardly felt the cold. It was a time of year the Firstborns enjoyed for the changing seasons and the anticipation of a new spring which would soon appear.

But this year there was one who found no joy in the season as he had done countless times before. Indeed, Elladan was feeling rather low in spirits as the end of autumn approached, early winter chills playing over the valley some nights. For this winter signified the return of the Mirkwood children to their forest home after completing their foster year as agreed between; a mere four days remained before their journey back northward. Though it had only been two full years since they met, Elladan felt he could no longer roam the lands of Middle-earth without Legolas at his side. The approaching winter distressed him as he roamed the house and grounds, his steps heavy and his eyes downcast.

Twilight began settling in just as Elladan made his way onto a balcony that overlooked the Bruinen. It was another one of his cherished spots, a place he often visited to gaze at the stars at night, seeking silent comfort and counsel in the star that his grandfather Eärendil had become. Lifting his eyes, he sought out that very same star, finding it easily in the fading light. The bright point of light flickered as if to acknowledge his presence. A faint smile graced his lips as he began to whisper as if the Silmaril could hear him and respond.

"Ata'da," he whispered, gazing fondly at the flickering light far above his head. "You're watching me tonight, as you doubtlessly have done each night since my birth. You know a lot about me, don't you? Even though you aren't here in physical form, you've always been with me, watching over us all.
"Did you know I've fallen in love? You must have. You've seen him, haven't you? He's like the sun, Ata'da. A sun sent down here from above, and I've caught him. Caught him...and I don't want to let go." Elladan paused for a moment, his hands on the carved railing tightening when he spoke again, voice choking ever so slightly. "He's leaving soon, to go back to his home. I knew it was going to happen, and I can only let him go. But I don't want him to go, Ata'da. I wish he could stay and be with me, or that I could go with him. But he can't, and neither can I." Tears threatened to spill from his eyes; he closed them to hold the silvery drops back. "I love him so much." Giving into the emotions welling up inside him, Elladan leaned forward, resting his forehead against the railing as he allowed himself to cry.

He didn't hear the light footsteps, nor did he take notice of the presence beside him until a pair of arms wrapped themselves gently about Elladan's waist. Another body pressed against his back as a head came to rest upon his shoulder. The scent of beeches permeated around him, and he lifted his head to look at his love.

"Legolas?"

"I am here," came the soft reply before the golden head was raised, gentle lips placing a sweet kiss on a pale, tear streaked cheek. "I am here, melme." Elladan sighed, turning in his lover's arms to bury his face into the creamy neck and flaxen hair. Legolas had heard the end of Elladan's speech and offered comfort to his lover, tightening his arms around the slim form. He too felt grieved concerning his return; he didn't want to leave Elladan behind, but he couldn't very well stay with him either. Each had fathers who were lords of a realm, and each, as a son and a prince, had their own duties to perform. This they knew, and this was why they despaired.

"I'd ask you not to go, but I know you have to." Legolas nodded, stroking the long raven strands. "When will I see you again?" The prince's heart nearly broke as hearing the distress and hope intermingling in the voice he knew so well, making Elladan sound like a little lost child rather than the prince and fierce warrior he was.

"Soon, I hope. I'm come as soon as I am able." The words and emotion behind them, as well as the gentle hand stroking his hair, seemed to appease Elladan. The pair grew silent again, listening to the rushing of the Bruinen and holding the other as close as they possibly could.

"You promise?" The prince smiled at his love's whispered words, nodding his head before replying.

"Always. I shall always come back to you. There is nothing in this world that can stop me from seeing or being with you." He kissed the dark crown of hair before leaning in to whisper. "I promise you, always. Im vesta, ithil-nîn."

Elladan smiled before straightening and drawing away. He fumbled about in the folds of his robes for a moment; Legolas watched him in confusion but waited patiently. After a moment, the twin withdrew his arm from inside his robes and produced two thin bands of mithril rings nestled in the palm of his hand. They were beautiful for their simplicity, twin singular bands without any markings. Legolas' eyes sparkled with the light the rings reflected from the stars. "They are beautiful."

"My mother gave them to me, long ago. She gave another set to Elrohir and told us to keep one for ourselves and give the other to the one we wished to bind ourselves to. I know not what Elrohir has done with his, though one seems to be missing." The twin chuckled softly, interrupting himself. "Perhaps my brother has a secret love he does not wish to share." The two laughed softly for a moment, trying to imagine who could have stolen the heart of the other twin.

As their laughter died down, Elladan found himself gazing fondly at the golden prince. He held a ring out to Legolas before taking the prince's other hand, returning the dazzling smile he was given, his voice a whisper as he spoke. "One day I will bind myself to you, ernil-nîn. But, until then, let these rings represent our love and our promise for an eternity."

"Im mela lle." With a smile of genuine love on his face, Elladan slipped the simple band of mithril upon his lover's right ring finger, his gray eyes sparkling in the starlight. He watched with a child-like fascination as Legolas reciprocated the act with a similar mithril band on the twin's finger. The tokens of love and symbolisms of their promise in place, each pair of eyes lifted to gaze into the other before them, as Eärendil shone from above, silvery beams of light playing over the star's grandson and his lover.

Yet again Elladan found himself marveling at the golden beauty before him while he lifted his arms, cupping the slender face in warm palms. He sought to memorize every inch of Legolas' face lest he forget the young prince's features in the time they would be apart; thumbs simultaneously flicked over creamy pale skin covering high cheekbones, relishing their smoothness. Leaning forward, he planted a chaste kiss above a sapphire eye as he felt slim fingers folding over his own. Eyes half-lidded, each stared at the other, breaths mingling as they slowly drew closer into a kiss so filled with love and devotion that all others they had shared before paled in comparison.

The need to breathe nagged at them as, reluctantly, they pulled away from the other. Elladan leaned his forehead against Legolas', each drinking in the love radiating from the other's eyes as they steadied the rising and falling of their chests. Once calm again, the twin took the prince's hand into his own, leading him back inside and down the hall. Together they bypassed the dining hall where Elladan's family was sitting with Glorfindel, Erestor and Legolas' siblings. A hearty laugh erupted within the room before Celeron made some statement of denial, eliciting more laughter. The pair of lovers resolved to join the group later, needing only each other for the moment. In silence they made their way to Elladan's chamber, their footsteps making little sound as they slipped into the darkened room.

Not a word passed between them as, once the door was closed, they slipped into each other's arms again, sharing another sheering kiss while blindly making their way to the bed. Fingers and hands fumbled just the slightest bit as they worked to undo intricate clasps and lacings, pushing delicate robes from equally delicate shoulders, revealing pale creamy skin in the faint moonlight that illuminated the room through fluttering curtains. For a moment all movement ceased, save for the roaming of eyes as the lovers drowned in the sight of skin, limbs and bodies they knew and loved so well. Smiles played across their faces as they slipped into the bed to begin their passionate dance.

Limbs tangled, lips brushed lips and skin, fingers twisted into silken hair undoing braids, yet still no words were uttered, no sound made except moans and gasps of ecstasy. Elladan allowed his hands to wander of their own accord as he kissed red tinted lips, bruising them slightly. Fingertips brushed against the skin of a taut abdomen, a faint hiss issuing from slightly parted teeth; the twin smiled in delight at the sounds he was creating from his lover. Experimenting, he placed his lips where his fingers had been only to be rewarded with a soft moan of pleasure.

Loving the melodic sounds of his lover's voice while in the throes of passion, Elladan resolved to make more music, beginning by gliding his fingertips over the skin of a creamy inner thigh. The muscle beneath his fingers tensed slightly before relaxing, a groan escaping moist parted lips. Again he replaced his fingers with his tongue, the tip barely rasping against the smooth skin. Another moan sounded, cut off by a short gasp as fingers, then tongue, encircled the engorged head of his sex. Sapphire eyes fluttered closed as Legolas drank in the feel of being pleasured, twisting the sheets in one hand, dark silken hair in the other. He whimpered, imploring his lover to give him more, which Elladan did so willingly.

Relaxing his throat, the twin swallowed his love's erection slowly, allowing his teeth to scrape lightly across the heated flesh, quivers running through the lithe body prone before him. His tongue created a swirling dance around the engorged sex, making both of their minds spin at the sensations spiraling through them. For a few moments, Elladan willed his mind still, concentrating on only how to best pleasure his sun. When he felt Legolas about to release, he pulled away, smiling faintly as the groan of frustration that sounded. Gentle hands soothed the body before him, turning the prince over onto his side, allowing Elladan to spoon up behind him, arms secured about a slim waist.

Legolas' mind was in a daze, and he loved every moment of it. He wanted to drown and never surface from the touch of Elladan's hands and lips across his skin, the tremors they caused; just the feel of his lover was all he wanted, now and forever. The dark twin was his whole being, his whole world. It had only been two years, but the prince could no longer remember life without his Peredhel, his moon. He wanted--nay, needed--to see the smiling face in the morning, to hear the slightly alto laughter, to watch the dancing gray orbs, to experience everything Elladan could give to him, and more. The twin was his soul, his being, his heart. He was sure Elladan felt the same about him.

He felt something slick run lazy patterns along his lower back. Legolas shifted impatiently, willing the hand to move lower. But he was denied as oiled fingers, scented lightly with lavender, continued to draw grapevine patterns along his back. When his patience was about to snap, the hand complied, slipping down to his entrance, teasing just slightly before moving inside. The prince sighed in pleasure as the digit was joined by another, slowly scissoring and preparing. A smile came to him; Elladan always seemed so patient and gentle, but Legolas knew he was forcing himself to take things slowly.

A kiss was planted on the nape of his neck as the hand withdrew, replaced with something larger, harder. His body relaxed completely as Elladan's hands came to rest on his hip, drawing him closer until he was sheathed and Legolas was filled. They lay still for a moment, relishing in the feeling of being joined; both let out a sigh of contentment. As wordlessly as they have been the entire evening, Elladan began to move, slowly at first but his pacing quickening with each moment. The twin set his lips to a delicately pointed ear, sucking gently as his rhythm built to a higher pitch; one hand, still slick, slipped from its place on an alabaster hip to the prince's throbbing erection, pumping it gently in time to the other movements.

It was mind boggling, the pleasurable tremors and shivers running through both their forms. Gone were the worries of the nearing departure, the idea of being separated for extended periods of time. All that seemed to matter any more was each other, the night and their coupling. Reaching blindly, Legolas found Elladan's right hand with his own, joining their fingers together. The twin mithril rings made a charming ringing sound as their fingers became locked, bringing smiles to both lovers, soon cut off by gasps and moans. Each was nearing his end. Near his peak, Legolas threw back his golden head until it came to rest against Elladan's strong shoulder. The twin in turn placed his lips on the smooth curve of neck exposed to him, sucking lightly on the pale skin. Together they came, rising to the highest peaks before falling into the warm, soothing waves of being satiated.

As the stars cleared from his eyes, Legolas turned, exhausted, to the form behind him. He smiled at the arms clasped tightly about him as if never wanting to let go. He liked the feeling of being wanted as he gazed into sleepy gray eyes, a similar smile given to him in return before lips descended over his in a tender kiss.

"Im mela lle." The prince smiled at the echo of his earlier words, whispered into his ear before a delicate, fluttering kiss was placed on the tip. He shivered slightly at the touch, sinking deeper into the warmth of his lover as Elladan pulled the sheets over them. Turning, Legolas smiled again, pulling the sheets higher until only their eyes and flowing crowns of hair could be seen.

"Im vithel," he whispered back in a dreamy voice. "Im mela lle, a'maelamin." Snuggling closer to one another, the lovers soon departed into sleep, forgetting their earlier thought to join their families. All they needed was one another and the promise that bound them together.

Through the curtains, Eärendil shone down, illuminating the slumbering forms. The star twinkled as if in mirth, and through the linens of the bed, two bands of mithril glowed, symbols of eternal love and a promise to be forever unbroken.

Translations:
Ata'da-Grandfather
Melme-Love
Im vest, ithil-nîn-I promise, my moon
Im mela lle-I love you
Im vithel-I also
A'maelamin-My beloved

[Return] [1-3] [4-6] [10-12] [13-15] [16-18] [19-20] [Epilogue] [Next]