Adult-FanFiction.org : Lord of the Rings

Liquid Diamonds	By : redkiwi Category: +Second Age > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1748 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own anything from Tolkien's world (Silmarillion/Lord of the Rings/Hobbit), nor the characters from it. No money is made from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 10
- 11
- 12
Just before the break of dawn, Thranduil awoke with a sudden startle, as he felt the beginning of the overwhelming terror of the attack arise within. He was still wrapped within Glorfindel's strong embrace and he breathed deep, separating himself as best as he could from the shadows that still haunted his dreams. Still, the echoes of the fading words of wraith resounded in his mind. Thranduil did his best to suppress a tremor and his eyes focussed on the dark leaves above him, blowing gently in the hours before the dawn. The forest canopy was dark and the early day's sky was grey as it was wedged between the dark of night and the light of day.
Slowly like a breaking dawn, Thranduil felt himself calm and his heart steadied in its beating. He did not want his memories to throw him back into the terrors he had lived through. He felt his heart settle, even though he was a little dismayed that not even Glorfindel could chase and keep away his dreams and memories that plagued him. But even as he now looked at Glorfindel who was content in a deep slumber, he was tired no more. He did not want to stir just yet and rise, instead content to enjoy the warm body that was wrapped around him. He relaxed further, as he had fully freed his mind from the grasp of his terrors. He minded to match the cadence of his breathing to match Glorfindel's deep breaths of slumber, so he could perhaps resume his own peaceful rest. And in his relaxation, he drifted in a peaceful state not quite dreaming but not yet in wakefulness.
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The breaking of the morning seemed delayed, as if the pulling of the mantles of the dark night would just not move on. Even Ithil seemed to not want to fade with submission to Anor, and the stars still fought to shine on. But the coming dawn would come sooner rather than later. Glorfindel blinked, staring up at the leaves and trees, daring not to stir. He did not want to disturb the still sleeping other who was nestled beside him. His eyes moved to the slumbering form, and slowly he moved his eyes over Thranduil. Silver-haired spilled everywhere, covering the other's face. Glorfindel remained snuggled up by Thranduil, unmoving, feeling very much like the daybreak that struggled to push through.
Glorfindel tried to piece together the events from last night, the hypnotic music, the dizzying dancing, the flowing wine. All those elements of the feast had been nothing in comparison to the luring emerald eyes that had pulled him into their depths, until he had felt trapped in Thranduil's gaze. His thoughts drifted back to that night, and again he could feel the memories of being far too dizzy, far too lost within the wicked depths of those eyes. He was certain now who had lured who, who had cast the enchantments, who had pulled him deep into the forest where still he laid entwined with Thranduil. He smiled, as he let the sensations from last night wash over him again. Oh how wickedly enchanting Thranduil had been; those eyes, those lips, his skin. Glorfindel could not think of a better time than last night, although he knew there had been many in his long life. His body had been set ablaze, turned inside and then outside. He had exploded, both in body and in mind.
He let his mind run over just what pounded in his heart. But even as he felt the growing attraction for Thranduil that wanted to burst from within, Glorfindel suppressed it. As dear as Thranduil was becoming to him, there was the meeting he would be attending today. Glorfindel knew he needed to focus all of his attention on the upcoming day instead of what he had felt the night before. He let his mind move now to the words he would say, rehearsed in the last couple of days. The time of debate was approaching like a breaking dawn, and Glorfindel could feel the excitement he had for it.
The more he thought of Oropher, the more Glorfindel wondered about the repercussions of his night together with Thranduil. He wondered if somehow word of his night together with Thranduil had made it back to Oropher, but he hardly cared anymore. He knew deep within that Oropher had already made his decision, so what was he to care anymore with giving into the sweet seduction that had driven him to surrender?
Glorfindel's thoughts were interrupted, and he gasped a little when he felt soft nimble fingers move down his body, over the tunic that covered both him and Thranduil. Those fingers messaged over the cloth above his shaft. He was surprised that Thranduil had caught him unaware, having thought that he had still been sleeping.
"Good morning," Thranduil purred, but he stopped moving his hand over the tunic, and he looked intently at Glorfindel. His large green eyes were inquisitive and wicked, and he paused, smiling, hand hovering over the clothed and awaking erection. "Would you like me to continue, my dear Glorfindel? Do you want your body to awaken with the heat of your desire?"
"Ah, you wicked creature." Glorfindel stated, suddenly caring very little about the upcoming meeting. This offering was so much better than the nervous anticipation of debate, and would be a wicked way to start his morning. "Gladly would I give into this pleasure. The want I have for you is even more so than I remember, and my eyes are drawn to you in this early rays of sunlight."
Thranduil smiled, and he moved his hands under the tunic, wrapping one around the shaft, stroking it in wicked circles. Glorfindel could feel his body come alive again, much like it had the night before. Ah, the early morning touch felt so good to him, and he breathed a deep breath of pleasure as he felt heat engulf his groins. His body was giving into those wicked fingers that were once again driving out the lust from within him. Enjoying the mounting sensations of his arousal, Glorfindel moved his own hand to return the pleasure to Thranduil, but his hand was paused from proceeding.
"No!" Thranduil stated with an authority in his voice that Glorfindel had never heard from him before. "Stay laying back like that, because I will do for you what you have done for me. Let me be the one who brings pleasure to you now."
Glorfindel smiled as he yielded to those words and he felt warm and moist lips move down his body, kissing him, while lithe fingers messaged his muscles. Glorfindel wondered just how disarrayed he was this morning, covered still in the forest and the evidence from their escapades from last night. But whatever his current state was, it seemed not to deter Thranduil whose fingers had now wrapped more around his growing erection.
Thranduil's hands were warm and he had used the very last of the oil on them, and he now began to increase the friction while his other hand teased Glorfindel's weeping slit. He watched as Glorfindel closed his eyes, and his checks began to flush. Soft moans were escaping from his moist lips as Glorfindel gave into the touches. Thranduil could see just how flushed his body became and Glorfindel was beyond beautiful to him. Thranduil moved closer into Glorfindel, who spread his legs wider, allowing Thranduil to nestle between his legs. However, taking together both of their erections was tricky at first, and Thranduil had to reposition himself several times with Glorfindel's aid before he could find the correct and best angle needed. FInally, he took both of their erections into his hands and he moved his hands up and down, increasing the friction.
Glorfindel was content to allow Thranduil to work their bodies, giving into his wish that he be in control, so that he could bring him pleasure. He felt waves of pleasure began to roll through him, mounting, growing as if it spilled from his inner core, ready to burst forth from his body. But Thranduil was not ready yet for their combined releases, and he slowed the pace, focusing instead to tease again Glorfindel's sensitive and weeping head.
A gentle kiss was placed again to Glorfindel, but since he was so close to coming undone, the kiss turned hungrier, wilder, fueled with their want this early morning. Not even Thranduil, with his patience and control, could slow the pace for too long, for his own body ached and craved for his release. As Thranduil increased the pace again, he joined in louder with Glorfindel's moans, ever increasing the maddening friction. And when they finally had found their release, it was done so together, and it was in unison that their orgasms erupted.
"Ah, my dear Thranduil." Glorfindel gasped as he rode out the waves of pleasure that rippled through his body. "How you have made a show of us as the forest awakens and the dawn would reveal us both."
"Mhm." Thranduil sat up, tugging on his tunic. "And imagine Oropher's face, if he would have happened to come upon this scene on one of his early morning walks." Thranduil had to stifle his laughter at seeing the other visibly pale with his words. "Worry not. This area is not under guard. My father's eyes do not see in this area."
Glorfindel was shocked when he heard Thranduil's words and he cried aloud. "Are you just now telling me that I was slumbering out of doors, beyond that eyes of guards, and at the mercy of the Greenwood? Not just a few days ago, you were almost killed in this very forest. Thranduil, have you learned nothing?"
"In retrospect, I believe that what you say is warranted. The Greenwood is a wild place, and there are many dangerous inhabitants who call this forest home. And neither you or I had any weapons on us." Thranduil laughed, but then his voice turned more serious. "The forest was peaceful last night, and through the whispers I knew that no harm would find us. We are still within the bounds of the realm of my father, although this area is not where patrols camp or march. The worse that could have happened was for someone to have wondered on us in their walk through the forest, but I worried for this not, because we are far from any dwellings."
Glorfindel smiled, and finally laughed. "Ever have I been at the mercy of the inhabitants of the Greenwood, and still I remain in this predicament. But it is with gladness that I do." He smiled, as he looked around the awakening forest. "The sun will soon break this lingering dawn, and the time to meet with Oropher will be at hand."
"Ah yes!." Thranduil interjected. "The great debate will soon commence."
Thranduil frowned, as he wondered just how this day would soon unfold. "I both anticipate with gladness and with trepidation the answer to your request. Something Oropher had said to me has given me hope that the alliance Gil-galad envisions will come to pass." His voice stalled in his speech, and his eyes closed as if a cold and sudden doubt washed over him. Finally he sighed, admitting the enigma that was his father's mindset. "But I am really not so certain as to what he will decide."
Glorfindel stated nothing, since he did not want his heart to believe just yet that his mission would come to pass. The answer, however, would soon be known to him.
Thranduil had finished dressing, and was smoothing down his hair, picking idly at twigs and leaves that were tangled in it while Glorfindel finished dressing. Once they were content with their early morning appearances, they began the walk back to the citadel. The still awakening forest continued to slowly chase away the lingering eventide. And Glorfindel let the dewey dawn fill his nostrils, and he pulled with long breaths the cool forest air deep into his lungs. All the richness of the forest was an aroma like no other. The pines, the ferns, the emerald broad leaves, mixed with the early mooning dew that moistened the very soil of Arda, creating a beautiful aroma that was heavy with its richness.
And Glorfindel let the peace of the forest wash over him. While they walked, Thranduil looked long at him, and his eyes smiled at Glorfindel in their emerald depths.
When they had finally approached the citadel, they entered without further conversation, each knowing that soon they would meet again at the meeting. Both were focused on getting ready for the meeting, and they quickly parted ways in the great hall.
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The early morning splendor spread through the forest slowly, and Oropher had risen early, taking the budding dawn in. The nights's festivities had been pleasant for him, and even had stirred his heart with joy. The simple celebrations of the good still found in life usually had a way of penetrating through the layers of his soul. Oropher felt his energy renewed and he was ready for the day's debate with Glorfindel.
Regardless of Glorfindel's words of persuasion, Oropher basically had already made his mind up regarding Gil-galad's request for alliance, although he vowed to keep his promise. He would allow Glorfindel to try to persuade him and if he did, he did. However, he sincerely doubted that Glorfindel could change his mind. Oropher doubted this would happen but he didn't completely dispel that his mind could be changed or swayed. If Glorfindel had the power of persuasion and if Gil-galad's terms were favorable, maybe he would consider alliance. Glorfindel was certainly valiant, and the spirit of the forest whispered to him. Oropher disliked him still, for the fire of his son's heart burned in his eyes for Glorfindel. And the only conclusion that Oropher could arrive at was that it would be disastrous for them to get more involved with the Noldor.
Oropher walked the halls of his home in this early day, letting his mind break free from his thoughts of alliance for the time being. Despite what lay ahead in the coming hours, Oropher still felt the swelling of his soul. The night under the stars, surrounded by the forest's beauty and the mirth of his people had kindled a long forgotten joy in him. Oropher had almost been convinced that his heart could no longer beat with happiness, but it had, at last night's feast. As fleeting as this feeling was, he would allow its illusion to lighten his mood and heart. Even though he very much knew what reached for them. He knew of Sauron's hate and of his iniquity. He sighed, not caring to check his growing concern for what was coming.
He continued walking, and the movement of two figures emerging from the forest and to the citadel caught his attention. There was no mistaking who the figures were, as the beams of Anor cut into the glade around the citadel, setting their golden and silver hair ablaze. Oropher frowned, angered, but that moment passed quickly when he reminded himself that Glorfindel would be gone soon. With his banishment, he would no longer be allowed to haunt his halls or bewitch his son.
Oropher moved back as the figures arrived closer to the door, shielding his form from their sight when they entered, hoping to catch their words. But the two were silent on their parting, and he only moved on with his walk after the two were long gone. As much as Oropher wished to pursue Thranduil and make his venom known, his plans of sending Glorfindel away were the calming restraint that kept the storm of his rage at bay. There were other, more effective ways to tear the two apart with ways which were only logical and permanent, despite what Thranduil wanted.
Oropher replaced the scowl on his face with a smile. Soon the natural balance and order of his and Thranduil's lives would return. Glorfindel would be gone and he wouldn't have to interfere any longer with keeping the other from his son. What a fool he had been in his stubbornness. If only he would have received Glorfindel immediately instead of toying with him in these mind games, then Thranduil's infatuation would have never grown to what it was now. Hindsight usually led to bitter and mocking revelations, and this revelation was even more so tormenting with the knowing of the final fruition of ones choices and actions. He felt the joy that had once eased his heart disappear to a void. He felt responsible for Thranduil's confused attraction to Glorfindel. If only he hadn't been so stubborn. He made a tight fist and could feel his fingernails dig into the flesh of his palm while he fumed about his choices.
With a scowl still etched upon his face, Oropher continued his walk through his halls, where now the bustle of the early morning had already commenced. And still, Oropher's anger raged on, and he looked forward to unleashing his ire on Glorfindel this day.
"My King." Galion's rich voice pulled him from his thoughts, and he relaxed, grateful for Galion's intervention. "The council room is prepared and ready. I made sure to bring vases of water and of wine, for I was not sure how late your meeting will last. When the time is right, I will ensure that Lord Glorfindel is escorted to the counsel room."
Oropher nodded, showing his gratitude for all that Galion had done. With a kind smile, he departed, continuing his original walk through his halls before the morning meeting.
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Glorfindel snuck into his room, eager for a bath, for he felt like a sticky mess, covered as he was in forest soil, moss, and leaves. He was also coated in the night's and mornings escalades, and he very much wished to refresh now. He entered into the washroom and sighed in displeasure when he saw that no bath had been drawn for him. He muttered under his breath, and stripped himself bare of his soiled clothes. He wondered if this was of Oropher's command, or if it was just a misunderstanding since he had not been within his room this morning. It seemed that this had caused the servants to conclude that he did not want or need his water drawn for a morning bath.
Luckily for him, a vase of drinking water was in his room, and as it was tepid with the room's temperature. Making due with what he had, he smiled, eager to refresh, despite his limited resources. He wetted a wash cloth and cleaned himself as best he could. He had washed his hair the day before, and luckily for him, despite just a few leaves and moss that he picked out, his hair was not too unclean. He combed it down until his golden locks shown and glistened like running streams of silk. Before he dressed he rubbed some fragrant body oil over his skin. The scent was of soft musk, delicate but fragrant. He knew that Thranduil loved it and he wanted to bring a smile on that fair face once more.
He finally dressed himself in a less impressive ensemble than the one he had worn the night before, and he made sure to set those garments aside to be cleaned. He looked himself over in the mirror pleased with his appearance. And he turned, just as he heard a knock sound on his door.
"Good morning." Galion's greeting was cold in its tones and his eyes had that knowing displeasure that radiated deep from within them. Glorfindel could tell that he knew that he and Thranduil had been together all night, but he did not understand why it bothered Galion.
"Good morning, and thank you very much for all the work you did with preparing and planning the feast." Glorfindel responded.
Galion regarded the words but he did not respond. Instead he motioned for Glorfindel to follow him out into the hall.
Despite his calm demeanor, Glorfindel could feel his heart pound. It might have beat with the growing anticipation of finally being able to challenge and debate with Oropher on the alliance, or perhaps his heart pounded now for the lingering connection he had shared with Thranduil. A smile must have escaped from his thoughts and spread across his face, for he noticed that Galion gazed hard at him with a sideways glance, glowering almost in his indifferent eyes.
Without a word, Galion opened the door to the council room for Glorfindel when their walk had finally ended. He motioned for Glorfindel to follow him into the room. "This is your seat, Lord Glorfindel." He said, moving now past him and to a side table that held drinking water and some wine. "May I offer you a drink before I leave?"
"No thank you, Galion."
Glorfindel did not care to sit yet. His eyes instead were drawn to a large and beautiful mural that covered one of the walls, and he let the mural grab his full attention. It was a depiction of the creation of the stars, and their lights burned brightly, almost calling out to him in an erie manner. It was a powerful scene, and his eyes fixated on that light that could cut through the strong darkness. It seemed to him that it was a light that could travel through the very folds of space and time. The scene delighted Glorfindel, as if he was seeing the event unfold before him, and he was witnessing a legend. It was so beautiful, so enchanting. The mural made him think of strength, and Glorfindel knew that he would find his when he battled Oropher. He would finally today match the will of Oropher. There was so much to lose if the request was turned down. He shuddered at this thought.
His attention was snapped when the chief-advisor entered, and he politely inclined his head towards Glorfindel when he entered. But he said nothing to Glorfindel, simply taking his seat. Glorfindel moved and took his seat as well, expecting Oropher to arrive any moment. However, as the minutes started to tick away, Glorfindel started to wonder, to doubt. Was Oropher again playing with his mind? Glorfindel wondered what caused both Oropher and Thranduil delay. Perhaps Oropher knew of their night together and had called it all off….
His eyes snapped to attention when Oropher and Thranduil arrived. Thranduil took his seat beside him, while Oropher seated himself on the other side of Glorfindel. Just the four of them were within the counsel room, seated in a circle.
Glorfindel peered at the the figures, expecting a tension to settle in the room. But as his eyes passed over Oropher who seemed hesitant to begin their meeting, he could see no discord on Oropher, nor could he feel any of the unease he had expected. Instead, the council room was bright with lanterns and the beautiful mural strangely emitted a subtle starlight. A pleasant and peaceful ease filled the room, and not even his heart was beating with a nervous anticipation. Glorfindel smiled within, wondering what new tricks Oropher was playing with his mind now.
The pause before the debate began was different to each party gathered in the room. While Glorfindel was at ease, Thranduil could feel an uneasy discord rise within his stomach until it pierced his heart. He already knew that he would be asked what his stance was on alliance, and would be asked to recount his dark dreams once more. He caught his father's glance and he stilled his mind, readying himself for the beginning of council.
Oropher had studied those in the room and decided it was best to begin the discussions and not delay the proceedings any longer. His clear voice pierced the silence in the room. "Today we gather to hear the Lord Glorfindel's request of alliance with the Noldor, a call to march together in war against our shared enemy. I will listen to each person's opinion on the matter, before I make my final decision regarding our stance on this alliance." Oropher let his eyes travel to Glorfindel and he paused before he continued.
"We are all aware of the stakes and we all know the bitter history of the death and destruction that Sauron has waged against the free peoples of Arda. I see no reason to comment or reflect on what has occurred, for today we meet to discuss what may come to pass. Lord Glorfindel, please deliver your message from your king and then we will begin our debate."
Glorfindel appreciated the direct approach from Oropher, who got straight to the point of the matter, instead of spending time on the background that was always thoroughly explored when Gil-galad or Elrond held their councils. He looked the others in the eyes before he began to speak.
"As you already know, I have journeyed to your lands to request an alliance between the Elven realms of Lindon and the Greenwood. My High-King, Gil-galad knows that Sauron will never be satisfied nor will he rest until he has covered every reach of the lands of Arda under his shadow. My King requests an alliance with the Greenwood, and in this alliance we will march together against that evil that threatens us all. Gil-galad recognizes the skill of your archers, and covets
highly to add the might and skill of your warriors in our fight against Sauron."
Oropher was silent, already having anticipated the words Glorfindel had spoken. But there was still more to be learned from Glorfindel regarding what Gil-galad really wanted from them.
"Continue." He finally stated, his face was placid, and he seemed genuinely interested to learn more.
"Besides the alliance of your realm, GIl-galad will also request alliance with Lorien. He has deemed that a united elven people is essential to victory over Sauron. We anticipate that in response, if he has not already begun, Sauron will gather even more wicked beasts and men to his side. "
Oropher's mind seemed to drift to something that had clicked within his memories on hearing of Sauron's call to arms. But if he knew something more on that subject, Oropher did not elaborate. Instead he chose another topic when he finally did question. "Do just the elves carry this burden? Or do the Numenoreans assemble a host of their own people to join us? I would imagine they hold more grievances against Sauron than we do, and would be eager to challenge any further assault."
"At the time I had left Imladris, a formal alliance had not yet been forged. Although our High-King does anticipate that King Elendil will call for one. We anticipate that even the might from Moria lead by Durin will join in this fight. When he does call, Gil-galad wants to answer with a united elven people."
"What does the Noldor offer in this alliance that they seek? Why should we answer this request?"
"Gil-galad will offer to you everything that he has to ensure that your armies are prepared and ready. The best minds will gather to plan our strategies, and you will be invited to join in the war councils. In our alliance, we will have strength in numbers, and will become a mighty force of will and ruin to our enemy. In addition, Gil-galad would see to any assistance he can offer: be it with the forging of weapons, or other items. We can make strong blades that are crafted by the best elven smiths, as well as armor and shields. Together our armies can train together, and we will be battle ready before we march."
"I want specifics, Lord Glorfindel, not honey covered words of friendship, and insults that come in the guise of offerings. Tell me truly what Gil-galad wants with us, and why he would think that the Greenwood would ever bow to his whims." He snarled, anger evident in his disdain for all that Gil-galad offered to them, as if he felt insulted that they would even need the help of the Noldor.
Glorfindel noted that Oropher's face had contorted into a leer, and he had to note to keep his emotions in check and he kept his voice calm before he answered. Oropher would not unnerve or intimidate him this day. He was mighty and just as strong as Oropher was. In his wisdom, he knew what it was that Oropher sought, and he knew that he could not lie to Oropher regarding this one detail. Oropher was far too astute to be fooled on Gil-galad's plans. No, he had to provide the answer that Oropher sought. Lying would only throw him into a rage.
"Gil-galad will be the commander over all the elves, and all other generals will march under his banner. You will lead your own armies, who would carry your banners, but ultimately, you would follow his battle orders." He kept his voice even, steady in its clarity.
"This is as much as I had suspected." Oropher's voice was calm. He paused while he shook his head, face leering more in his mounting anger. But to his credit, he did not let his wraith unleash on Glorfindel. Instead he watched him intently, seeing that Glorfindel picked up some documents that had been nestled by him in his seat. He paused in his speech while he studied the hard gaze that Oropher gave him. "I have summarized the details of the documents prepared by Gil-galad."
Glorfindel held the documents out to Oropher now, who motioned for him to hand them to his advisor. Taking the documents with a hasty snatch, the advisor unfolded them with a sneer on his face and began to read the documents contents. While he read, the other fell into silence, as none of them cared to speak, intent instead to watch the advisor's face while he read.
"Yes." He finally stated when he had finished reading the documents. "Glorfindel did indeed provide an accurate summary and there is nothing more hidden in these letters. Most of it is simple history, a pleading justification as to why we should all go to war against Sauron. And the last page is meant to be returned to Gil-galad with your signature of agreement on alliance."
"Give me the documents." Oropher stated, reaching for them. Not too gently, he snatched them from the advisor, as if the action was a manifestation of his anger and disdain for the High-King. But Oropher did not look at the documents, but instead he walked over to the side table, and once there, he sat them atop it, and not too gently. He kept his back to the others and not caring that it was still not yet midday, he poured himself some wine. Languidly, he took a deep drink of the wine, as if he was trying to stifle a rage that had been steadily growing in him. When he finally did turn, his face was calm, but his eyes were ever cold as hard glacial rocks. He stated nothing more about the documents, and he sat the goblet onto the table, before he walked back slowly to take his seat in the circle. Once back in his seat, he turned the topic now to something else.
"I have been told by Thranduil of a troubling dream that I believe is relevant to to what we debate this day." And without asking Thranduil to recount it, Oropher spoke of the vision, but he did so with perfect accuracy, repeating the dream as it had been told to him by Thranduil.
It was only the chief-advisor who had not heard of the dream, and his eyes went wide with worry at hearing it. "What does this mean?" he asked. "That Thranduil dreams of war and death just before the Noldor came knocking at our door."
"I have wondered that myself." Oropher said. "But before I add my thoughts on that topic, I would ask Lord Glorfindel what his take on this is."
Glorfindel was unprepared for this question, but he quickly gathered his thoughts for his response. "Would I be the one to interpret such visions for the Greenwood? I cannot profess to say what these dreams are or are not." He stated aloud while he thought. He noticed that Oropher's eyes were staring intently at him, curious almost as he awaited his opinion.
"Surely the dreams must somehow tie in with the coming of this war, and is not related to another event that may or may not come to pass." Glorfindel stated the most obvious about the dream. "But with all the signs of what we know will come, the dream resounds to me that death and peril is what we may all find in the end, if our alliance is to fail. Our might just can not be broken, for if it does, death will come swiftly to us all. Together these tidings; the dream, my arrival, they are signs for you, Lord Oropher, that you must join in with the alliance."
Glorfindel instantly stooped his speech, regretting immediately the approach he had taken, when he saw Oropher's eyes flash more in anger. But what was said, was said, and it was the simple truth, even if Oropher cared not to hear it.
Eyes aglow with his ire, Oropher began speaking, but as he spoke, his voice and his face relaxed once more. "I would send you away now, because I care not to hear another word from your lips. But I will remain true to my word." Oropher finally responded. "Thranduil and my advisor have yet to offer their input, so please, Lord Glorfindel, if there is anything you wish to add, do it now before you loose your platform."
"Remember Eregion! Remember the war Sauron waged on us!" Glorfindel's voice cried. "Remember all the suffering and destruction that the hand of Sauron and his forces have brought to the elves. Sauron hates with a passion unequaled the First Born, and his wraith would be mighty and swift against the Greenwood. Remember Eregion, and how the mighty crumbled to ruin. The pain from those wounds still resound in my home, and I would not want that same pain to sting in the hearts of Greenwood's people. I know that you do not want this also." Glorfindel switched to an emotional plea, trying to play the King's heartstrings.
Oropher's eyes, as hard as stone, kept his intense gaze on Glorfindel. His mind spun the details of the war between the elves and Sauron in his mind, and he had to admit, the details were gruesome and caused him great distress. Oropher was not so cruel as to not mourn for the innocent who had been killed and wounded in the battles, although in a way, he had viewed it as almost poetic justice to those who were guilty. Even now, with the grim details that rendered the horrors and malevolent hatred that Sauron had with his need to control all others, Oropher could only remind himself that to become involved or aligned with the Noldor would only bring those hours that Glorfindel had alluded to, to their own knowing.
"Lord Glorfindel, we all know the travesties that have befallen the people of Arda by the hand of Sauron." Oropher wanted no more to hear the justification for the need of alliance. He knew the history already because even if isolation he wanted, the sad and woeful tidings of the other lands always ended up reaching his ears. And he of course knew of the foolishness of Celebrimbor who listened not to those whom he should have heeded. The Noldor had only themselves to blame, and Oropher replaced his sympathy with his ever persistent disdain for the Noldor.
Glorfindel quickly let his frustrations fade away as he realized that he could not sway Oropher with the use of emotional persuasion. Another strategy would have to be utilized if he were to break through to the stubborn Oropher.
"Greenwood will be attacked, in time. Sauron's plan is to destroy those who would oppose him will lead him right to your door. You are no friend of Sauron, and for that, you and your people will have to face him in the end. Tell me, can you really stand alone? Why not turn to your allies to help you in your fight?"
Oropher looked on without a response, although his eyes flashed more in anger. But instead of responding to Glorfindel, it was the advisor who spoke next.
"We have nothing here that would turn Sauron's attention to us. We meddle little in other's affairs and he knows we hold no alliance nor love for the Noldor, and have not came to their aid through these wars. Perhaps it may even be that while you all take on this fight and move to victory, that the realm of Greenwood would remain immune to his attention."
"No." Thranduil stated, interrupting the asinine reasoning of the counselor. "Our freedom to remain as we will, apart, independent, is contingent only on the outcome of a victory over Sauron. Do you risk that chance of our very existence on that the outcome of the alliance will prevail over Sauron? The will and strength of the alliance is mighty, but it is perilous to chance one's fortunes on the actions and outcomes of others. We must join this fight to preserve what is ours."
"Exactly." Glorfindel interjected before the counsellor could answer Thranduil's question, very much wanting to build on the wishes of Greenwood's terms. "You care to preserve the peace of your people and the independence of your realm, and by joining us in this march against our shared enemy, you can. We only ask for alliance, and nothing more…."
"Lies!" Oropher shouted, interrupting Glorfindel. "And the truth of the matter is that Gil-galad would have me and my army submit to his command. And with that first step of submitting, more demands and steps would only follow. I would rather die before I subject my people to the rule of the Noldor."
At those words from Oropher, Thranduil lowered his head, shaking visibly. "That is my darkest fear." He murmured under his breath. His words were audible however to the others in the room.
"Your dreams reaffirm just why we can not submit, Thranduil. Those dreams were sent to us in warning, just on the eve of the arrival of THIS vassal from Gil-galad. The dream is an omen that this is ill advice, guised in the request of alliance. If we submit, it will be the doom of our people."
"But what if we interpret both possibilities?" The advisor surprisingly added his thoughts. "What if the dreams came with the arrival of this request because to heed it not, would lead to our downfall?"
"This is Thranduil's interpretation." Oropher said. "And long have I pondered this riddle since the day he told me of it. But I can not turn my heart from the belief that this dream is a warning to stay away from the Noldor. It is simply not because of the wrongs they have done to me in ages long since past that I heed this warning." Oropher's eyes flashed in his anger, and he directed his gaze to Glorfindel.
"Nor is this interpretation because of the current acts from the Noldor. Even though we all know just how foolishly power hungry and crazed they easily become. I heed this dream because the message is clear to me. Death it warns! Not the death of any one person, as Thranduil has been led to believe, but the death of something far more important and profound. It foretells the end of our very sovereignty. It might all come to ruin if we begin to slowly open our doors to the Noldor. A simple alliance agreed on here could set a precedent for even more involvement and meddling. Who is not to say that the Noldor will not be requesting more alliances, more requests, more infiltration!" Oropher's eyes gleamed dangerously at Glorfindel, directing all the years of his furry at him, as if he was the whipping boy of the Noldor now.
"I fear what this alliance might mean to my people more so than I fear Sauron's armies. We are strong and we can fight and withstand an assault from any who would dare attack the Greenwood."
Glorfindel looked to Thranduil whose face looked as if Sauron had already defeated them all. But despite his displeased appearance, he stated nothing, as if he did not wish to set his father off further. Not even the chief-advisor had a response and all eyes turned to Glorfindel.
"I can only speak on behalf of this request of alliance, and for me to try to refute your fears about what may come to pass between the realms, would only be speculation on my part. I am not on the counsel of the High-King and I do not know his plans beyond this alliance."
Oropher calmed with Glorfindel's response, pleased that the mighty Glorfindel had admitted his limits.
Glorfindel pressed on. "I do believe however, that a real and growing threat of annihilation of our race should surmount a future fear that may never materialize."
"Surely the threat of Sauron is the greater of the two evils." The councilor added siding with Glorfindel's logic, much to Glorfindel's surprise. Although he little liked being labeled as an evil alongside Sauron, he decided not to protest this slight.
Oropher raised a curious eyebrow, although he was not surprised his advisor had poised this question. "Approaching a problem with a solution contrived by one's interlopers is certainly not in the best interest of the people that I have been charged to protect." Oropher said, obstinate as ever.
"But it is the best option that we have to preserve what you are charged to protect!" Thranduil added.
"Not as I see it." Oropher responded calmly, his mind set now. "We will see to the protection of the Greenwood and we will resist Sauron. I see little reason to march under the authority of the Noldor to achieve a victory over our enemy. The Noldor can do what they want, and when they want. We will be free to do the same, and will be the masters of our own decisions and wills. I led a fearless people into the wilderness to make a new home in the Greenwood. I will not throw all of what they did here in establishing this realm, nor will I throw the good of the people here to Noldorin rule."
"The only chance for peace and the silencing of Sauron will be this war." Glorfindel tried the logical approach with Oropher. "Do you abstain from war, and leave your peace to chance, or do you stop your enemy from attack? Lord Oropher, you can help stop a dreadful future, and you can assure peace for your people if you act."
"Such was it." Oropher stated absentmindedly, and his eyes seemed to reflect with the light from an age ago. "Such was it ever. Ever does evil grow and fester until its ruinous hands have their grasp on all. I will preserve peace and will do so here. I will not lead my people out to the subjugation of Noldorin rule. Thranduil, do you care to tell me what your opinion is on this matter?"
"I still believe with all my heart that we should answer the call of alliance. Now we see a threat the likes of which we have not seen for many years, and it rises against us all like a great turning tide. This is beyond what we alone can withstand, I am afraid." Thranduil said, voice distressed in its bare emotion. "I fear the cost of isolation against Sauron."
Oropher listened to Thranduil's words, frowning a little in his response. "Do not discredit the might of your own people, Thranduil. The Noldor offer nothing to us that I deem necessary for our own victory over those who would assault us."
Oropher finished his words, and then turned his eyes to his chief-advisor, signifying that he wanted to hear his closing opinions now.
"I have heard both argument today, and although we agree that Sauron must be defeated if peace we will have, that is all we have agreed on. There is a differing of opinions here, and I do not think that even Sauron can bring us together. Long have I listened today to all of your words, and I now have made my mind up. I can not agree that the Greenwood should march under Gil-galad. I believe our place is here and that we should stay under broad and green leaves and protect our own boundaries. The people here hold steadfast to their home and we should not ask them to part from it in their march to war. They will flight valiantly here, if war does find us. I do not agree to alliance, but Gil-galad and the Noldor should know that we hold Sauron as a sordid enemy. We will resist and silence all his allies should they come to assault us."
Oropher paused, taking in all that had been said, and he studied the faces who watched in intense anticipation of his words regarding what his verdict was.
"Gil-galad cares not for our council, but would only use us as he sees fit. I make my stance known now, Lord Glorfindel, and I have to say that I will never march under the command of Gil-galad. The Noldor can go to war with the forces that they have. The Greenwood will not be a buffer nor will we be vassals that Gil-galad can toy with. I will see to the protection of my own realm and my own people. You can tell Gil-galad that I will not answer his call of alliance. He will never have command of my people!"
Both Thranduil and Glorfindel's eyes went wide, and Thranduil opened his mouth to protest, but Oropher's stern gaze caused him to remain silent. Glorfindel on the other hand decided to throw all diplomacy to the wind and finally speak his mind to Oropher.
"Sauron will never be satisfied until all lands are under his control. We need to attack before he has the time to cover our lands under his veil. Would you really keep your people isolated under this constant threat? Our armies will be engaged. No one will march to your aid. You are not as strong as you think. Do you risk the utter collapse and enslavement of the people you wish to protect?"
"There is malice even in the the guise of allies. I do what is best for my people. Marching under Gil-galad and Noldorin control is something that I would never subject my people to. I have seen far too much evil committed by the hands of our "allies" to ever submit to your king."
Glorfindel understood just how set Oropher was on his decision, but still he was not ready to admit defeat.
"It is the call that all who cherish and protect peace and freedom should answer. We view you as an ally, and equal, and invite our woodland friends to help in the planning of the war plans. March with us, defend your people! Defeat the evil that threatens all that is good in this land."
"No!" Said Oropher. "This debate is over. You will depart tomorrow and once you return, you can deliver the news of your failure to your masters. Tell them that the Greenwood will never submit to Gil-galad's commands. Tell them that if there were any truth to his words of friendship, that we may have answered, but I can see through his lies. The Noldor will not have the souls of the Greenwood."
Glorfindel let Oropher's words echo in his mind. The more he heard the more each word struck him like a blow to his heart and soul, pounding into him until he felt nothing but numbness. He had no retort, no fight left and he rose in a stunned silence, and left the council room in his anger and his stunned disbelief.
Oropher smiled in victory at seeing Glorfindel's reactions. How stupid had Glorfindel really been, to think that he could come here to the Greenwood and convince him to bow to the whims of the Noldor. He looked over at the documents that Glorfindel had brought with him. He did not care to compose a single word in response to what Gil-galad had written to send away with Glorfindel. He didn't even want to read the documents that requested alliance. He would have Galion toss those documents out or burn them at some point.
Thranduil stood, finally breaking the stillness that had settled in the room. However, he only took two steps towards the door to follow Glorfindel, but Oropher's calling of his name stopped him. Slowly with hard and angry eyes, Thranduil turned to face his father. He didn't speak, and silently waited for Oropher's words.
But Oropher as well kept the silence in the room, holding the disappointed glare from his son. It was disheartening to Oropher that Thranduil could not understand why they should stay out of the politics of the Noldor. He had thought that he had made his point clear. The justification was to be found in the blood on the hands of the Noldor, and those grievances had never healed. Oropher almost felt that Thranduil had lost his way, fully bewitched by the blasted Glorfindel. But soon he would be gone and the spell would lift. And it couldn't disappear soon enough. They needed to prepare in case of an attack from Sauron.
Oropher had already began to piece together his own plans for the Greenwood's resistance of Sauron. He would place more duty on Thranduil's shoulders. It was time for his son to change from being a healer to a true guardian of the forest. Ever had Thranduil wanted to live a gentle life as a humble healer, and Oropher had let him, but he had indulged in that art for far too long. Now was the time for him to train and become a real warrior, and his gentle soul would transform. Thranduil needed to understand and set his mind with the same beliefs he had.
He knew that Thranduil feared his dreams, but Oropher was positive that if they stayed out of he path of the Noldor, they would stay safer. They could defend their own and they could keep Sauron from covering their lands under his oppressive domination. To hell with the Noldor! Let their lies woo the minds of lesser beings. Oropher knew that he would not march under or even with the Noldor in this alliance of theirs. His army would remain in the Greenwood, and together with Thranduil, they would protect the only people that he cared enough to die for.
"It is for the best, your decision." The chief-advisor finally broke the tension and silence that hung in the room. "I will never forget the stifling politics of the Noldor from when I lived in Lindon. I would rather leave these lands forever before I submit to their governing again. And I do believe that my heart would break if the good people here were to get tangled in their webs of lies and deceit."
Oropher regarded the words as the perfect response to his reasoning, but Thranduil only shook his head at hearing those words.
"In times of peace, I too agree with your reasoning, my King. But these are not those times. You understand that our peace has long since been broken, and that we are only living an illusion here. Sauron does not look at our divides, and views Noldor and Silvan as one and the same. He would enslave us all, and it should be for our common enemy that we join together to defeat him."
"We will join, but on our own terms. If the armies of Sauron march on our lands, we will fight them. But again, I repeat Thranduil, the Greenwood does not march as part of the alliance to Mordor." Oropher's tone had matched the same harshness that he had used moments ago with Glorfindel.
Thranduil's heart had crashed and felt like it had been broken. Just like Glorfindel, he had little fight left. Thranduil knew that Oropher did not want to debate any longer and to press him further would only illicit further anger. Perhaps at a later time he could get his father to reconsider. But no, he thought within. Oropher's word was law, and he did not want to be in rebellion with so many threats at their door.
"I do not believe this is over." Thranduil said, and when Oropher did not respond, Thranduil left the room.
Oropher had been very close to lashing out at Thranduil regarding Glorfindel, but he could read just how dejected his son was. No, it was better not to walk that path, for he couldn't risk losing Thranduil to anger over someone that didn't matter in the end. Now was not the time for anger, not when his plans were so close to transpiring.
"Patience, Thranduil." He breathed. "Patience. The days are still not yet so dark, and you will still find your joy even before this coming storm of war."
The advisor looked at Oropher, face thoughtful while he pondered the words that he had heard, taking them in as he understood their meaning. "I will look forward to this coming joy. It is what our lands need. A new hope in life. And also do I look forward to the change that is much needed in Thranduil, for although he is strong and is thoughtful, he gives little care to the consequences of his actions."
Oropher nodded, a little regretful that he was now required to give his son the not so gentle push he had always been so hesitant to give. But the times were worrisome, and he feared for the Greenwood. Thranduil's dream had troubled him like nothing else had for many long years. It pained his heart and it pooled in his mind. He had made his choice for what he thought was the best course of action. The storm was coming, and he wondered if he could provide the proper shelter to his people when it finally did engulf them. For better or for worse, his choice had been made.
The Greenwood would remain isolated when war finally did come for them all.
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Not beta read. So sorry for the mistakes
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Liquid Diamonds