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Aearlinn	By : narcolinde Category: -Multi-Age > General Views: 8916 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings (and associated) book series, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

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Aearlinn - Puig ar Lim

"You're so terribly quiet, Aearen. What is wrong?" Elrond squeezed the shoulder beneath his hand, rubbing his thumb gently over knotted muscles that hoisted and then dropped the joint in the archer's characteristically disconsolate one-sided shrug.

"Alnad, Nín'ódhel." Legolas' tone clearly indicated the opposite, yet it was not so much distress as irritation that modulated the lilting voice.

"Nay, there is something. Tell me; have I displeased you in some way?" Elrond had a fairly good notion of the source of Legolas' discomfort but hoped to encourage his mate to confide in him willingly.

They were walking through the grounds toward Lanthir Fân for Legolas wished to bathe and that was his chosen place, his secret place. The small crowd of the curious and the concerned that had followed Elrond's headlong flight through the gardens had all been escorted back to the Last Homely House by Mithrandir and Glorfindel, leaving the lovers to sort out the business of cleaning up alone.

"No, you've done nothing wrong, beloved." Legolas hesitated, a small sigh escaping as he felt the warmth of embarrassment flood his cheeks. He sent Elrond a side-long glance and then frowned, looking down at the trampled grass beneath his feet. Could he say? It was beyond mortifying yet surely the Elf Lord realised this.

"Now then, no more of that. Tell me and we can set your heart free of this trouble." Elrond smiled as he stopped and turned to face Legolas. Gently he peeled away a lock of clay-encrusted hair that was plastered to the silvan's cheek, sticking it to the bulk of the grimy tresses behind his ears.

"Ai!" Legolas groaned, half-raising his arms in exasperation. "I am a mess! I look like an elfling who's been wallowing in a mud hole."

"Yes, there's quite a lot of clay everywhere." Elrond nodded, trying hard not to laugh but unable to keep the amusement from his voice. "What does it matter? A bath will cure all, Aearen."

"It isn't that. I… I threw a temper tantrum like some spoiled and wilful child!" The words exploded from his heart in a burst of self-reproach and dismay. "I caused you to think something terrible was happening and all the while it was just about pots. I can't think why I reacted that way; it just seemed so hopeless all at once. No matter how hard I tried to constrain the feeling, it only grew worse and worse.

"If that isn't bad enough, I chose this particular day at this particular time to suffer such complete loss of composure and control over my emotions. Every noble Lord of the valley and a good third of the population was here to learn of it." By the time he came to the close of this diatribe, Legolas had paced to and fro before his espoused mate a few times and now seemed poised to take flight for the trees, though truly he had no wish to be apart from Nín'ódhel. Elrond's hand reached for his to eliminate that possibility and he let himself be caught.

"Ah, Legolas, it is no cause for concern. In fact, it may be for the best," Elrond reassured.

"How can you say so? They will declare me unfit to become your mate, then you will insist that we shall wed regardless, then they will vote you from office. I can't bear for that to happen!" Legolas could not really believe Elrond was making light of the situation. His eyes grew wide as he watched the venerable Lord shake his head, a gentle light in his cool grey eyes, his countenance suffused with abiding contentment and peace.

"Nay, I doubt that will come to pass. The hearing had progressed nearly to its conclusion before your despairing soul called out for me. Mithrandir cleared you of the enchantment charge and explained to the folk of the vale what is happening. They all know that you carry my fourth child. If anything, your outburst confirmed it for in these early stages the changes overtaking you are stressful to the body and the mind. I believe we will find the majority of both the Council and the populace favour our marriage now."

Legolas stared, uncertain what to make of this announcement, and decided chagrin over his display of irrational choler was less noteworthy than happiness over the Elven Lord's prediction of acceptance. He permitted a tentative hope to surface and closed the small gap separating them, leaning against Elrond's chest as he wrapped both arms tight around the robe-clad figure, enjoying the surge of safety and stability the contact evoked. "Truly? What do they say of Tinu Mín? Will he be accorded the proper respect his exalted lineage deserves or will they call him illegitimate, a means to force you into marriage?"

Elrond sighed, for there was no way to promise only the first outcome. "Aearen, most people here would not want to burden an innocent with such a harsh sentence, no matter what their personal prejudices might be, but there are bound to be some who refuse to embrace our union. We cannot hide the fact that our babe was conceived outside the traditional rites of bonding. Nothing can be done to change this, but I will do all I can to minimise the negative impact on Tinu Mín. I will make it plain that it is my fault alone, my foolish denial of the love that has grown between us, that forced you to take such a drastic step. Had I recognised the bond at once, none of this would have come to pass."

"Perhaps so, but I did not plan Tinu Mín's conception in order to make you wed me." Legolas straightened up and gazed into Elrond's eyes, not pleased to realise this notion was still a viable one. "Is this what you think?"

Elrond blinked and his brow furrowed, uncomfortably aware that he had just made another blunder. How could he not think it? "Legolas," he began and paused, trying to decipher what to say and what to leave out. "I know you believe our child is meant to become Galbreth reborn, yet the babe's begetting day was removed from the initial bonding by many years. I assumed this was because you were waiting for me to formally recognise the union." He stopped again, evaluating the grimly down-turned lips. Not very promising. He took a breath and continued. "Not that ten years is really so very long; I know of many courtships that lasted far longer, yet it is certainly unusual for one half of the couple to attempt creation of new life without that eternal commitment. Even after marriage, the subject of offspring is carefully and mutually considered."

"You do think it," said Legolas, "even after I told you otherwise." He felt his anger rising and with it that same old terrible ache in his chest that he'd so hoped was forever vanquished. "Elbereth, what is to be done?" he whispered forlornly, pressing his fist against the sharpening twinge over his heart.

Elrond could not very well lie to Legolas; he sincerely believed the archer's reasons were convoluted and complex, a morass of conflicting issues, among them his disappointment over Elrond's failure to make their relationship lawful and respectable. Yet, could Aearen separate this motive from the strong desire to return his brother to life? Nay, nor can he admit the unbalanced bond between us was a factor. Elrond decided that this was not the time to try and force such a realisation, but even as he opened his mouth to speak his apology and offer clarification, the sylvan shoved him hard in the chest and stepped back.

"So you agree with your sons, that I did this to claim a higher station for myself." Legolas didn't know whether to scream or dissolve into despairing tears, so he crossed his arms tight over his chest and glared.
"Nay, Aearen, I have never thought you capable of duplicity. Please, let me explain." Elrond hastened to placate him, determinedly unfolding the shielding arms, re-establishing his hold to keep Legolas fast. "I remember all you said about Galbreth but you didn't disclose why you chose that day out of all others nor why you did not speak to me of your strong desire to have this child."

"I told you why I couldn't," mourned Legolas. He didn't make any effort to get free, finding the source of his anxiety was also the only remedy for his pain. In truth, he was feeling anew the guilt for what he'd done and dearly wanted absolution. Subtly he shifted closer again. "I would have gone from here without ever telling you if it came to it; I never wanted to force you to anything you didn't really desire."

"I understand, but was it not my right to know of my fourth child? I grasp why you believed I might shun you and our babe, but I haven't. I could never renounce my own flesh and blood nor could I bear to be parted from you; I hope you accept that now." Elrond sighed and squeezed his young mate's arm tighter. "I'll never be pleased that you were so cruelly poisoned, yet I'm glad events forced the pregnancy's revelation. This is a serious undertaking and not one you can achieve alone. I cannot bear to consider what would transpire if you left me. Aearen, I might have lost you both; indeed, it is likely you would not have survived the crossing to Aman."

"Nay, I would have made it there; I'm strong enough. Yet you should have taken part in such an important decision. I'm sorry I didn't beg permission first." Legolas buried his face in the slightly sticky folds of opulent velvet as he returned to the comforting press of his mate's body against his. "I wanted to but if you had refused then how could I fulfil my vow to Námo? I couldn't take that chance. Can you forgive me?"

"Of course, beloved, set aside your remorse now and let the joy our babe gives you fill your spirit instead." Elrond smiled, his heart brimming with tender compassion as he held Legolas close. He felt a deep breath enter and leave his troubled Wood Elf and then the lean frame relaxed against him. He indulged in a gentle caress over the messy hair and down the mud-splattered back, his grin growing as he heard the softest trill in Legolas' vocal repertoire, the one that signalled his need for gentle but vigourous nurturing, waft through the air. Elrond let one hand wander lower until it was gently kneading the archer's firm round posterior.

"You haven't explained why you picked that day," he said quietly, lips pressed against a blushing ear. "Why that time instead of earlier or later? I should have asked you but instead I just fell into my old ways, concluding that what I thought must be so. Can you understand how it was in my mind? Your voice was silenced by the shame of being my bond-slave while I was behaving like an arrogant idiot. I felt you had no choice but to act in order to salvage your honour and fulfil the obligation to your deceased brother."

This gave Legolas pause for it was true, though it was evident Elrond believed the desire to remove the shame of being a bond-slave was as much a motive for the conception as his brother's rebirth. With reluctance he straightened up and put enough distance between them to watch Elrond's eyes comfortably. "Aye, some of what you say is correct, but not the part about reclaiming my honour by making a child. I would never debase the sacred gift of life by using it to gain power and prestige."

"No, I didn't mean that," interrupted Elrond sternly. "Let this subject be resolved once and for all. I do believe you felt compelled to act without my consent, but I understand why you couldn't speak of it. I am at fault, Aearen, not you. That is what I shall say to anyone crude enough to ask about the timing of Tinu Mín's conception. Now, tell me the rest. Why did you choose the day of the fountain instead of any other?"

Legolas blinked back a sudden influx of tears, for the forceful resolve behind this declaration brought his soul to a state of almost unbearable joy. He clutched tighter to the plush fabric and sought to burrow closer to the heart that held his. "I did not want to deceive you, but the days passed and you never spoke of marriage while I could not. What I have never told you is that I have been waiting and watching for the signs since the very day of Galbreth's death. I could only hope you would honour our bond before those portents arose, yet it was not to be."

"Signs? What sort of signs, Legolas?"

"It is something from the most ancient days of my people," Legolas explained. "We had no way of understanding death when our very nature cries out against it. We have always recognised that our kin persisted in spirit even after the body was destroyed. It has also always been known that in such an unhoused state the soul is vulnerable to capture by evil shadows." Legolas shuddered. "There are tales of darkness consuming these unfortunate ones, destroying forever who they had been and what they had been. We don't like to talk of those lost so long ago. The solution seemed to be to provide a new body as quickly as possible and so it has been among the sylvans since those first days.

"When the parents are still living, no sanction is required; it is their right to recreate their child and none would dare say otherwise. If the parents are no longer alive other relatives may undertake the reincarnation, again without any need for approval from Iluvatar and the Powers. In a case like mine, where I directly caused my brother's demise, permission must be granted for my parents are hale and hearty. I was waiting to learn if my pleas would be heard and the answer favourable. I could not bear for my Ada and Nana to learn of what I had done until I could also offer the promise of returning their son to them. That I survived the attack by bonding I took as the first sign that it would be so."

"I see." Elrond found the explanation fascinating, for there was much lore here of which he had been unaware for all these long centuries of time. He smiled gently, thinking again what a wonder it was to have this unique Elf for his own, and cautiously drew Legolas from the fold of his arms so to meet his gaze, for he had something serious to say. "My lack of enthusiasm for formalising our union must have been viewed as a negative indication."

"Aye," Legolas sighed, the word barely a whisper.

"I'm sorry."

"Nay, you could not have known all this."

"True, but I could have easily remedied my ignorance by talking with you. I should have inquired about sylvan customs regarding death and rebirth; indeed, I should have asked about the customs surrounding our emergency bonding. I didn't even realise you had any living kin in Mirkwood. I was afraid; I didn't expect to fall in love with you and didn't know what to do when it happened."

"It is in the past," Legolas answered, "let us leave it there."

"As long as you have forgiven my haughty disregard, I am content to do that."

"I have." Legolas smiled. "How could I not when you've pardoned me for making life without your consent?"

Elrond smiled and freed one hand, running it lovingly, possessively, protectively over the barely detectable curve of his mate's middle. "I admit I wasn't thinking of having another child, yet I find myself delighted to be a father again and even more pleased to know the infant's birth will ease a terrible burden upon your soul." Elrond leaned in and kissed lips dusted with the saline residue of the tantrum's frantic tears. It made him aware of all the times he had tasted the evidence of Legolas' sorrows and failed to determine the cause. "Aearen, I have many regrets concerning our time together but none of them reflect upon you. Indeed, I admire your strength and determination to hold true to your vow. You really meant to go to Aman and raise our babe there, alone if need be. Tell me the rest now; what signs convinced you to proceed in the face of my ongoing denial?"

Legolas was silent for a few moments, gathering both his thoughts and his courage. He didn't like revealing these heartaches, wanting the time of tears and dread done with forever. He sighed and shimmied back into the solace of their embrace, pressing his ear against the broad Noldorin chest where the steady rhythm of Elrond's heart soothed him. He felt a squeeze compress his sides and the quick pressure of lips against his crown. At last he spoke.

"There was often war between my heart and mind. When we were alone together I had no doubts of your love for me; I could see it in your eyes, hear it in your words, and feel it in your touch just as I do now. Yet apart from you I was accosted by so many voices telling me I was nothing to you. Sometimes I believed them, sometimes I held true to my heart's counsel." The arms around him tightened their hold and a rush of whispered entreaties for forgiveness washed over his ear accompanied by soft nuzzling of his hair and neck. Legolas shivered and returned the embrace.

"Nay, be at peace. If I did not believe in your heart's commitment, I could never have created life, no matter the promises I'd made. Whatever misgivings my thoughts have manufactured, my heart has always been unshakeable and true, Elrond. As for the rest, the omen came as the trees slept in in the deeps of Rhîw at this year's very beginning. A visiting star entered the sky, arising behind Menelmacar and crossing from east to west through the heavens. For ten days the star grew brighter and blazed with a bright banner tail. On the tenth day, it stood still, poised above the head of the Hunter. Thereafter it decreased until I saw it no more.

"Menelmacar is the constellation under which Galbreth was conceived and the visiting star was there then, too, according to my parents. I was forced to make a decision. Either I must ignore the rede and deny my brother new life or proceed and defy the custom of both my people and yours. I didn't know what to do and was afraid to confide in you.

"How could I negate my word to Galbreth and all the Valar? I cannot recall how many times I promised to do anything asked if only he might live again. Though you had never spoken of marriage, I believed you had come to love me, at least a little bit. I reasoned that it would be more wrong to prove false to my vow than to fly against the mores of our people. I…I seduced you and together we created Tinu Mín." Legolas concluded his confession and inhaled a deep breath, glad to have it all out in the open at last.

"Be at peace," crooned Elrond, deeply moved by the turmoil his beloved Wood Elf had undergone all alone. "You did not seduce me, or if so then it was a most welcome temptation. I saw the star, too. Among my people it is called Gîl Adonnen, for the old tales say it first appeared to herald the rebirth of Luthien and Beren. It has come many times to our skies and returns every 1200 years. Each time I witness its arrival I anticipate momentous events. Sometimes my expectations hold true and other times the star just comes and goes without incident. This particular occurrence is significant indeed, wouldn't you agree?"

Legolas pulled back, a slight frown marring his features, and studied his mate's pleased visage. "So then, it is not Galbreth's star? My Naneth told Galbreth it was his star."

"And so it is," agreed the Elven Lord with magnanimity. "It is a very old star and must have foretold the conception of many Elves. Why not your brother's and Tinu Mín's?"

"Well, that is not exactly the same," complained Legolas. "I was led to believe it was only for Galbreth. This means I misunderstood the signs. Perhaps he is not meant to be reborn now."

"Nay, don't start doubting yourself," cautioned Elrond. "Haven't you already stated the importance of quickly ensuring a new body for the unhoused soul? The star came for your brother's conception and returned for our babe's; that is very clear. Could you have endured another 1200 years without easing this burden, never seeing your family?"

"No, I can't even imagine that long a time passing much less living through it with this sin weighing upon me," Legolas averred.

Elrond stifled his chuckle over this admitted lack of comprehension regarding time from an immortal perspective, a clear indication of just how few in number the archer's years were. Such loss was obviously too serious a topic for mirth and more so for Legolas, else he would not still refer to his mistake with so severe a term, but the remark did cause Elrond to wonder something else. "What of you, Aearen? When is your Begetting Day?"

"It is the first day of Ethuil."

"Really? That is quite a coincidence," remarked the Lord of Imladris in surprise.

"How so?"

"It is my Begetting Day as well as my twin brother Elros', though he chose the Gift of Men and has left this world long Ages past."

The lovers stared at one another, taking this in, smiling warmly for this seemed to them both, learned Lore Master and humble warrior alike, an indication that their union was indeed ordained from the very beginning. In silent accord they drew together and kissed, the press of lips quickly evolving into the thrilling entanglement of tongues. Once they separated, they set forth once more, hand in hand, heading with greater urgency toward the grotto and its misty pool.

They arrived to find all that might be required for a thorough cleansing was awaiting them, for Erestor had expected this to be their destination and thoughtfully ordered a basket of toiletries and another of clean garments to be carried there. Atop the hamper of clothes a soft woollen blanket lay folded.

"Someone has anticipated our needs," remarked Elrond with a grin. He halted and took up one basket as Legolas grasped the other and they hurried forward, laughing a little. Once within the sheltered glade they found the falls and the chimes as peaceful as ever and there within the water a bottle of wine lay chilling. Two glassed and a covered tray stood ready upon the bank nearby. "It seems we are expected to celebrate."

"That can only mean there is good cause for us to do so," enthused Legolas and he gave an exultant whoop of pure relief as he spun a quick pirouette with his basket. "The Council must have voted to support you!" he shouted and plunked the hamper down. He snatched Elrond's away and tossed it carelessly aside as well, catching up the noble lord's hands to twirl him round in a dance of glee.

"I believe it must be so," agreed Elrond, just as pleased and relieved. He stilled their capering feet by pulling firmly on the fingers clasping his, drawing Legolas up sharp against him for another lingering oral exploration. He moaned softly, a sound filled with longing, his tongue proprietary and demanding as it curled hungrily around his mate's. Without consciously ordering them to do so, his hands framed the sylvan's jaw and slithered appreciatively up amid the tangled hair, there to search for the sensitive tips of pointed ears. With just the faintest pressure, Elrond traced over the pinnacles, smiling as he felt a deep shiver run through the svelte body leaning into his, triumphant as a single, low, fractious wail moved through Legolas' vocal chords.

Elrond disengaged from the enticing lips in order to sample the throat from whence that unbelievably erotic sound arose, nipping and lapping at the pulse now thumping wildly beneath the supple skin. Unable to restrain a short grunt of delight as Legolas' fingers worked their way into his hair, he let his own hands do as they wished, which was to begin undressing the Wood Elf. He was impatient and hastily pulled and jerked to get the tunic off, scarcely pausing to enjoy the sight of each bit of naked flesh as it was uncovered. He wanted all of Legolas bared before him, now, ready for whatever Elrond decided to do. Abruptly he knelt, dragging the archer down to his knees also, and then pushed him back upon his elbows in the mossy turf. Elrond grabbed the waist of the leggings and in one swift yank off they came, for Legolas was wearing them loosely tied over his expanding belly.

"Ai!" he called out in surprise and that drew Elrond's attention to his face, if but for a moment.

The Wood Elf was staring, all wide-eyed and open-mouthed and red-cheeked with astonishment at the speed with which this seduction was progressing. It made Elrond smile and he loomed over the prostrate form to claim another deeply satisfying kiss from the parted lips, black hair cascading down around the fair face, draping over smooth apricot flesh growing rosier by the second. Their mouths parted silently and he heard Legolas drag in a deep lungful of air. It was quickly exhaled in a forceful gasp as Elrond flicked the tip of his tongue against a ruddy, peaked nipple. He glanced up to find Legolas watching him avidly and set about teasing the enticing little nodes, lapping and sucking, nipping and tugging, back and forth between the twinned maroon points until they were wet with saliva and Legolas was trembling all over.

"Liked that, did you?" whispered Elrond smugly. He was rewarded with a verily evil grin as his sylvan archer suddenly caught him in a strangle hold and twisted him over. He lifted his eyes to find Legolas hovering above him and smiled, hands sliding up the strong sinewy arms and over shoulders made broad by wielding the bow. He let his palms slide casually down the firm pectorals and settled his thumbs over the protruding nipples, pressing in hard. Legolas grunted and his head tipped back as he pushed against the pressure, shuddering when the contact disappeared. "Well, did you?"

"Ah! You will soon discover how much I liked it," said Legolas, eyes hooded as he cast his gaze hungrily over Elrond's fully-clothed body. Rather than begin stripping away the barrier of velvet and silk, as he was sure Elrond believed he would, Legolas decided to go for the ears instead. He straddled the Elven Lord's chest and bent down, verily pouncing on the pointed tips protruding from the lengthy onyx mane. He massaged them slowly, deliberately, thoroughly and soon had Elrond moaning in appreciation. "Does this please you?" he asked with a poorly smothered giggle.

"Yes, yes," sighed Elrond, "but I would like it more if you used your delicate and sensitive lips instead of your talented and lethal fingers."

"Oh? So then I should stop what I'm doing now?" teased Legolas.

"Only if you plan to do it again with you mouth, yes," pleaded Elrond, finding his own digits inexplicably buried in the golden hair fluttering around the naked torso poised above him.

He caught his breath as Legolas shimmied forward a bit, purposely pivoting his pelvis to make his erect penis bob and duck. Elrond waited, eyes appreciatively taking in the trimly muscled chest and its ruby buds, the shallow hollow of the navel, and the jutting column of engorged flesh resting atop his stomach, mesmerised by the way everything moved in such lovely rippling waves in time with every breath the Wood Elf took. He waited for Legolas' next effort, but nothing else happened for what suddenly seemed like an awful long time. Elrond returned his eyes to study the face above him, opening his mouth in preparation to do a bit of coaxing, and at once found his tongue captured in a commanding suction that made his thoughts evaporate.

He emitted a muffled yelp and struggled briefly to regain control of the kiss but it ended abruptly with a loud smack. Before he could respond in kind, he was nearly smothered by the archer's hot, heaving chest as Legolas at last leaned closer and took one ear between his lips, tonguing the sensitive point lavishly. Elrond whimpered into the warm skin, licking whatever was closest to his mouth, inhaling the scent of honeysuckle and clay that inundated his senses. Hands flitted about searching for sensitive zones to rub and press, one settling on the pleasing swell of Legolas' arse and the other enclosing his rigid shaft, squeezing just enough to make the younger Elf twitch in anticipation.

Legolas shifted to the other ear, managing to make his nipple align with Elrond's lips so that the tightly pointed flesh brushed them softly. As he'd hoped, the hard red bud was instantly engulfed by warm wet heat and teeth connected with exactly the right amount of bite to make the pain delicious. The hand gripping his cock started pumping in earnest. He moaned against the ear and mimicked the attention he received, sighing as he was suckled and then lapped, bitten and then kissed, squeezed and then fondled in the most delightful ways. He was quickly losing focus, too absorbed in the tantalising stimulation, and before he even realised what was happening found himself roughly cast over and tackled. He lay staring up in disbelief, not altogether displeased, into the triumphant leer of the noble Lord.

"Liked that, did you?" snickered Elrond.

"Aye," sighed Legolas, ready to yield.

The sylvan's desire to capitulate was evident and since he had him down again, Elrond decided to take him at once. He parted the long legs, hastily throwing open his robes and undoing his pants, one hand drawing out his cock as the other probed the moist heat from the sylvan's vaginal opening. He could not drag his sight form the exposed genitals between Legolas' outspread limbs: the slender penis ready, rigid, and scarlet; the scrotum pulled up tight at its base, hugging the paired glands within while revealing the dark red slit below. Elrond smeared his fingers over the slickened skin, parting the lips redolent with desire, inhaling the scent from the aroused flesh. It was a pause of mere seconds as he crouched forward, his penis twitching as its tip encountered the heat of the cavity and plunged in.

"Ah, Legolas!" he called, pumping vigourously, gripping the slender hips. He lifted his eyes to meet his mate's and finding them wide with exuberant passion laughed aloud, thrusting hard at the perfect angle. The result was most gratifying, for Legolas jerked and twisted beneath him, knees falling open to either side, hands grappling with the springy moss as his back arched and his eyes sealed shut, transformed into this decadently writhing creature by absolute pleasure.

Elrond worked to keep the degree of penetration exact, the force of each invasion precise, the length of each stroke perfect to ensure Legolas would remain in this state of elevated ecstasy. Usually it was he who succumbed to the thrill of coupling first but this time he wanted to watch as his beloved dissolved into the throes of orgasm. He shifted forward the slightest bit and steadied the quivering thighs, pressing them down, opening them wider, giving a mighty shove that raised a loud slap as their bodies connected. A plaintive, urgent cry slipped from Legolas soul and Elrond duplicated the manoeuvre.

"Elrond!" the Wood Elf called the name, a swift gasp as he tried to steady his breathing and adjust to the sublime tension building in his groin. He struggled to get his hand to co-operate and reach for his cock, but the pounding intensity of the Noldo Lord's lusty onslaught kept disrupting such commands. Besides, he needed his hands where they were, pressed hard against the ground, keeping him from sliding roughly over the ferns and into the less comfy rocks around the pool. He managed to pry his eyelids open and focused on Elrond's eyes, staring at the glittering, avaricious craving displayed there. "Ai, saes!" he managed to huff out in an imploring rasp before a particularly potent lunge sent another cascade of blinding sparks dancing through his soul.

"I know what you want," Elrond growled, the words pitched in seductive tones that rippled through Legolas' body in a shuddering wave. "Yet I will not touch you." He had to pause for air, gulping in three huge breaths before continuing. "You don't need it, not so much as a whisper of touch shall brush your cock, Aearen. Just feel me moving in you; just feel."

Legolas whimpered, unable to reply, unable to say that he was submerged in feeling, aware of the engorged penis spearing him, pressing against the erotic core of his being, the centre of his delight, stroking him with intimate friction that warmed his heart and set his body ablaze with a frenzy of desire. It was too much and not enough. His cock tingled, frantic little spasms coursing through it every time Elrond's belly managed to drag over its seeping tip. Just once more and he would be lost to everything. Just once more and he would give in. At last it happened and Legolas let go, his seed quickly jetting free as his heart gave vent to a soft cry of gratification.

He lay shivering in the aftermath, content and spent, vaguely aware of Elrond withdrawing. He smiled, hearing the Elven Lord quietly praising him, thanking him; then the muted rustling of clothes being discarded. He felt the warmth of naked skin as his mate lay beside him, the press of lips imprinted a line from his stomach up to his chest where a wet tongue lapped at his nipples. That made him tremble anew and he sighed, opening eyes he had forgotten were closed so bright was the glory of their love. Legolas grinned into Elrond's equally beaming face. "You should do that more often."

Elrond laughed brightly, his smile composed of every ounce of love he held in his heart for this uniquely magnificent Elf. He stole a quick kiss and settled close beside his mate, propped on an elbow so to take in every nuance of satisfied, languid joy radiating from Legolas."Then so it shall be. Besides, we're just beginning." Legolas reached up to touch his face and he leaned into the contact, finding his heart pounding with desire and adoration combined.

"I am so in love with you," whispered the Wood Elf, "that it frightens me sometimes. If anything should happen, if we can't stay together, I would…"

"Hush," admonished Elrond, making it so with another kiss, this one gentle but authoritative: Legolas must trust him to look after him and the child. "Nothing like that is going to happen, beloved."

"But Mithrandir said…"

"That I would not be sent away to war. Enough, I will not permit you to be taken from me by anyone, not even the Valar or Eru himself. Come on, you fat and lazy slug, that hair is simply too dirty for words." Elrond interrupted Legolas' fears by hoisting him up in his arms and running for the pool amid the sylvan's garbled exclamations of protest. Once at the water's edge, the Lord of Imladris leaped into the cool liquid, tucking his knees in so that they were submerged in the flow for a few seconds and came up laughing and coughing all at the same time.

"Ai! You are terrible!" scolded Legolas, grinning with delight as he held on, arms wrapped around Elrond's neck. "What now? You've left all the soap and lotions over there in the basket." He disengaged an arm to point and was turned round as Elrond followed the motion.

"Oh, so you think I should go and get the soap?" demanded the Lore Master severely.

"Yes, since you are the one who insisted on jumping into the water without it."

"So be it. Anything to please you, my love." Elrond shrugged and as he did so managed to toss Legolas out into the centre of the falling water. He was already fleeing when the splash hit him, laughing as he heard more water-logged shouts and the sound of a pursuing Wood Elf sloshing through the spray.

So it went. Elrond washed Legolas' hair thoroughly and carefully, fucking him anally after the final rinse, propping him against the rim of the pool for support. Then he had to make certain every speck of clay was cleansed from the sylvan's delicate skin, claiming some properties of the gritty mud might cause a reaction similar to the cinnamon poisoning. While he was doing that, Legolas sucked him off. Then it was Legolas' turn to wash his hair and Elrond needed no other stimulation at all to experience another orgasm, and since he was so pleased with that he wished to return the favour, devouring the Wood Elf's cock and wringing another of those warbling cries of abandon that were so rare and oh so cherished. By then Legolas was close to exhaustion and Elrond decided he needed to eat to keep up his strength, and of course they shared the bottle of wine between them. When the sun was just beginning to set, the couple were finally stretched out on the blanket, Legolas slumbering peacefully in Elrond's arms.

Elrond watched the final beams of Anor's light play among the falling drops of water, a shimmering rainbow gracing the fine veil of liquid as it sang its soporific song, and thought it would be fine to remain in the glade all night. He knew this idea would meet with Legolas' approval and so did not wake him to ask, training his gaze again upon the lanky figure cuddled beside him. He grinned and let a soft chuckle pass his lips; Legolas slept all curled up, one leg crossed around the other and one hand tucked beneath his chin. Elrond found it endearing, especially since the other leg was sandwiched between his and the other hand was flung loosely across his hip. He leaned over and kissed the elbow there, wondering if he should send for more food for later when Legolas awakened but decided against it. He would gather some berries and perhaps catch a fish or two; they would be fine.

Of course, everyone in the household would wonder why they had not returned but he hoped Erestor would have enough sense to leave them alone. No sooner had he let the notion enter his mind than the seneschal's tell-tale throat-clearing introductory cough signalled his arrival at the grotto's boundaries.

Silently Elrond cursed his kinsman and carefully disengaged from his tangled embrace of Legolas, hoping his mate would remain asleep, yet it was not to be. The sylvan stirred and blinked at him blearily, reaching for him, so Elrond kissed him and gathered him back in his arms. "I'm sorry I woke you. Erestor has arrived; let me go see what he wants and I'll be right back. We're to spend the night here, if that's well with you," he said quietly to prevent his cousin from eavesdropping. Sudden alarm pierced that thought as he wondered just how long Erestor had been there, but he let it slip away as he gazed into the dream-cast azure eyes smiling up at him.

"Aye, 'tis well with me. Hurry." murmured Legolas, lapsing almost instantly back into deep reverie.

Elrond could only watch him for a moment, unwilling to take his eyes from the sight. Every time they coupled it filled him with wonder, for Legolas gave every ounce of his soul into his mate's safekeeping, all the while opening his heart to shelter and protect Elrond's, and between them their love nurtured the bond that protected their babe. Another hesitant cough disrupted his serene contemplation and he scowled, rising and taking up the soft white robe from the basket. If not for Legolas' sake, Erestor would have had to suffer a severe and lengthy reprimand, but Elrond didn't want any sort of hostile emanations to disturb him. He cinched the robe tight and walked carefully out into the flower-dotted meadow, prepared to confront his cousin, but Erestor's words drove the remarks from his senses.

"I am sorry to intrude, but there is something vital I need to tell you. The Wood Elves have arrived," Erestor blurted out quickly, fully cognisant of his Lord's displeasure. The effect was dramatic, for Elrond's mouth actually dropped open for a second or two.

"What?" he managed to hiss in disbelief. It took a couple more tries before he could get anything more sensible to make it past his complete shock. Then he glared. "That is not possible. Legolas himself said they are five days out. Erestor, there better be a valid reason for this interruption because I don't find such jokes funny in the least."

"It is not a jest," Erestor answered in affronted tones of wounded pride. "I would never try to prevent you from enjoying a quiet evening with your mate." His cheeks suddenly bloomed with chagrin for he had indeed done that very thing on innumerable occasions in the past. Elrond's deepening glower revealed he had not forgotten this, either. "I mean, a messenger from the Woodland Realm is waiting in your office, otherwise I would not have bothered you."

"I see." Elrond's brow puckered and he chewed his lower lip, considering this unexpected situation. "Did he say he needs to speak to me right now?"

"Well, no, but…"

"Exactly what did he say?"

"He announced that he is the herald for Legolas' family and arrived to ensure all is made ready for their imminent arrival."

"That doesn't sound so terribly urgent. Can't you make him comfortable in a nice suite of rooms, invite him to a sumptuous meal, escort him to the Hall of Fire to hear Glorfindel spin tales?"

"I … I suppose I…"

"Or perhaps Lindir could be cajoled into playing host to this messenger for the night. He is sylvan, after all, and mayhap he would like to spend time with one of his own people for a change of pace," Elrond continued, his tone thoughtful with just a touch of scathing sarcasm. For the first time, he was experiencing this situation from a point of view remarkably similar to Legolas' thoughts regarding emissaries from Gondor or Dol Amroth. "Surely there is someone, in all the mighty realm of Imladris, capable of interviewing and/or entertaining one lowly messenger from the Woodland Realm without having to bother me about it."

"I thought you would want to know," sniffed Erestor, displeased by the scornful note in his cousin's voice.

"Thank you," Elrond said with a magnanimous bow and overweening sufferance. "Please explain to this messenger that I am with Legolas and we are not to be disturbed. If he is offended by that, apologise on my behalf and tell him we will meet with him at dawn and break fast together. Ensure him that I am looking forward to greeting my beloved's kinfolk in due time and all shall be made ready according to their traditions and tastes."

"Yes, Lord Elrond," Erestor bowed in turn, careful to keep his tone, manner and every other aspect of himself absolutely formal and deferential. "If I may add, Hiren?"

"What is it now?" demanded and exasperated Elven Lord.

"This messenger announced himself as Fennas, Legolas' second cousin."

Elrond was quiet for a time, deliberating whether he should now reverse his pronouncement and wake his mate. Perhaps Legolas would wish to meet with his kinsman at once. He glanced over his shoulder toward the glen, frowning. Legolas was exhausted and needed rest, for his health and the babe's. Any kinfolk of his should be able to comprehend that simple fact and would not take umbrage at being made to wait. With that thought, Elrond nodded briskly.

"I will inform Legolas when he wakes, but tell Fennas not to expect us until dawn. As a way to honour our guest's arrival, have Mithrandir make some of those fireworks he so loves to show off. You may explain to Fennas about his cousins delicate condition if he seems to be insulted by my decision. Clear?"

"Yes, Elrond, I understand," muttered Erestor, a bit resentful to be treated like any common servant of the House but unwilling to test his kinsman's temper further. "Shall I have anything sent out for your evening repast?"

"That is most courteous of you to offer," Elrond smiled this time, feeling a little remorse for his harshness. "I would like to thank you for everything found in the glen. It was perfect."

Erestor smiled back. "Glad to hear it," he said and meant it. "He's all right, then?"

"Aye, we sorted everything out. He's very pleased to know the Council has not permanently unseated me. That was troubling him rather more than he'd admitted."

"I was going to talk to you about that; he seems to make a habit of hiding his worries for fear of adding to your burdens."

"Yes." Elrond's scowl returned, displeased to have Erestor, chief instigator of the contemptuous jests and unending obscene propositions Legolas had so long endured, take him to task for failing to alleviate his mate's anxieties. "I will be overturning that trait in the days ahead."

A chilly silence ensued and Erestor sighed, realising he'd overstepped his bounds again. It was irritating and rather hurtful, too, for the boundaries had changed so suddenly and he hadn't had a chance to adjust. Once boon companions as well as kinsmen, he and Elrond had been best friends so long that it was a shock to find himself secondary in the venerable Lord's life. Even during the marriage to Celebrian, their long-standing camaraderie had never altered, nor had there been any change during the first ten years of Legolas' residency in Imladris. Now, Elrond seemed not to understand that Erestor only had his best interests in mind. Well, perhaps it's true he has reason to doubt me. The Chief Advisor shifted uneasily and stuffed his hands into the deep pockets of his robes. Elrond remained motionless, arms crossed before him, brows arched in query, verily daring him to bring up any other news or offer any more advise.

"Well, I should return with your tidings to Fennas of the Woodland Realm," he said and gave a dip of his head in farewell. "Until tomorrow, then."

Elrond nodded and turned back to the grotto, quite pleased with himself for recognising and subduing two of Legolas' fundamental pet peeves concerning their relationship. He'd shown Erestor his place quite firmly and for the first time had put his young mate before any duty of state of demand of Lordship. He was tempted to wake Legolas and tell him about it, but that would spoil things. Humming a complacently pleased tune, the Elven Lord strutted into the sheltered glen, shed his long white robe, and settled back into the comforting contortions of Legolas' embrace, prepared to enjoy the next few hours just watching his beloved Aearen sleep, blissfully unaware that he had just made a serious error in judgement.

TBC

~ ~ Glossary ~ ~

Puig ar Lim: Clean and Clear

Rhîw: Winter

Menelmacar: sky swordsman - the constellation Orion (the Hunter)
Gîl Adonnen: Star of Rebirth

Fennas: Doorway

Tinu Mín: our little star

NOTE: Whew! This is hard work! So much I need to cover. I guess it is pretty obvious this is going to run more than 20 chapters. I know everyone is probably groaning and gnashing their teeth, or perhaps cursing me out loud and thumping the wall in frustration. Please forgive me for that cliff-hanger! I had to stop there for now. Please believe me it will be worth it in the long run. The reason why it's taking longer now? I am still without a permanent home (as if I ever had one, but you know what I mean - four walls and a roof with a lock and a key) but at least there is a job so hopefully I will save enough to get the place soon. And it was my birthday, which I spent trying to finish this up, and this is as far as I got.

In the meantime, I have found a 24 hour Kinkos copy centre where I can pop in and type at any hour day or night, though I can't get on the internet for free there. For that, I go to my son's apartment, but he is out of town this week on spring break from school. I can still sit outside the building and pick up his signal, though, so this post is coming to you from my car on Hemlock Street in Ventura, CA. I have joined the Y so I can work out and get back in shape, which may sound like it has nothing to do with writing but I've found it has everything to do with motivation. So, I am developing a routine that I can function within and as long as my car holds up all will be well.

As it stands, I hope the chapter was good. We have one of Legolas' kin showing up ahead of the main group, something Elrond might have expected had he been thinking about that sort of thing, but he was a little distracted today. I went ahead and dealt with Legolas' reasons for deciding to have a child out of wedlock and hopefully handled his guilty conscience over it, with Elrond's help. As for the comet arising in the constellation Orion (Menelmacar) I just made that up, so don't go trying to figure out which actual comet this is supposed to be. Also, I have no idea when Elrond's conception day was and chose this at random. Forgive me these liberties; usually I try to research such details a bit more but internet is sketchy right now.

I am rather proud of Elrond these days, trying so hard to be a good mate and take care of Legolas, easing his worries and finally considering things from Legolas' perspective first. Unfortunately, his decision to make Fennas wait may backfire, but his heart was in the right place and that has to count for something. Still haven't decided if Legolas will wish to name the child after his brother or not. We'll wait and see what his Ada and Nana have to say about it all.

Finally, thanks to one and all still reading and enjoying the story. It is especially appreciated as I've recently had the same folks who periodically decide to rag on my stories, mainly Feud, go after Aearlinn. Makes all the fine folks reading and enjoying this along with me all the more wonderful, in my view. You guys are great and I'm having fun and so we shall continue!
© 03/31/2008 Ellen Robey (my birthday!)
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Aearlinn

Aearlinn - Puig ar Lim

~ ~ Glossary ~ ~