Adult-FanFiction.org : Lord of the Rings

A Promise of Forever	By : redkiwi Category: +Second Age > Slash - Male/Male Views: 1566 -:- 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
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Elrond pushed through the wind, and made his way to the stables where he knew that his traveling party by now would be waiting. Upon entering the wooden building, his eyes first went to his horse, which was already packed and saddled, and stood ready for the day’s travel. Erestor was by the side of his own horse, and was finishing with fastening his bags to the saddle. His grey eyes regarded Elrond curiously when he had entered, and held within their depths the subtle knowing that indeed something was very amiss with Elrond.
“How went your night?” Erestor asked, not missing a beat when it came to Elrond’s troubles. The look of rest was also etched within Erestor's eyes, for they were bright, and his lips were quick to smile.
Elrond returned Erestor’s friendly gesture, and he smiled kindly to him. He minded to relax his crashing stream of thoughts, and he steadied his breath, feigning control and order within his spinning mind and heart.
“A quick and gentle sleep came to me. I am rested and I feel the pull of travel on my soul once more. I am eager to get to Harlond.” Elrond answered, for what he said was at least true about his want of travel. The sights of the road would surely capture his attention this day, and the worry of his heart surely would subside.
Elrond saw that Erestor's eyes moved from him to focus on something that was behind him. Elrond turned to see that Círdan had came now to see them off. He moved with a certain sadness this morning, as if laden with some worry or concern that weighed him down. Elrond thought that perhaps he must have thought all night about the fractions that were diving their people, and he wondered if Círdan even was able to take rest through the night.
But if exhaustion had came to find Círdan, his voice did not reflect this in the slightest. Indeed as he moved closer to them, his eyes shone a little brighter, although wrapped they ever were with the pains of the ages. “Go with peace, and go with safety, and may Anor and Ithil be a constant light unto your path that ensures you go and return safely.”
Cirdan said as he came to stand right by them. His words were warm with his caring, and with the genuine friendship that he offered to both Elrond and Erestor.
His ancient eyes regarded them kindly, and whatever sadness had consumed him long through the night was now replaced with his care and his warmth. Círdan handed to both Erestor and Elrond wrapped bundles of provisions for the road. They accepted the offerings gladly, for the food in Mithlond was as good as the host who was seeing them off.
“I will look for you in the passing weeks, and I will be ready to travel with you to see Gil-galad. There is much we must discuss, so I will look with urgency for your arrival back to my halls.”
They accepted his blessings and they promised that they would see him soon. And then they were once again on the road. Through the winding streets of Mithlond they passed under an awaking light of the rising sun. The sky was dark to the west in which they would soon be traveling to, and to the east, the sky was blue and upon it was the streaks of the vibrant colors of the day's awakenings.
They passed over a long bridge that spawned over the edges of the gulf, and the beginning of the river Lhûn. Here, the waters flowed like a dark and glistening torrent, silver strings flickered upon the obsidian surface of the waters, reflecting the wispy moon that had not yet faded with this morning's awakening light. Elrond let the water capture his fancy, for he very much liked the way that Ithil could cast its light and imprint itself on other things, even though it was so very far away. Elrond wished that he too had Ithil’s power, for he then would cast the want for him deep within Gil-galad’s heart and soul forever. And this love that Gil-galad would have for him would then be imprinted for all the ages, never to leave his King’s heart again.
In the early hours of the dawn's twilight, the road they travelled on lay under the lingering darkness of the early morning fog. Ithil was beginning to dim before them, and the stars had long since faded. Yonder, on the eastern horizon, the vibrant colors of the awakening sunrise painted the sky. Their colors were inviting, inspiring, and hinted that the day would be pleasant, despite the coldness of the season. Despite Elrond’s jaded demeanor, the beauty of Arda once again fully captured his fancy. He was grateful that even despite the horrors that they had lived through, beauty was still to be had in their lands.
Here in the southern reaches of Lindon, the brown grass of late autumn was a little frosted over, and the trees grew ever sparser in these lands. Great wide planes speckled with large boulders opened up around them, and the wind was even more forceful and hindering to them. This southward road had the most potential for danger, and Elrond could feel a collective energy that pulsated between the guards. He knew however that the vigil of the guards would be on high alert this day, and because of this, he feared his mind would only turn with thoughts of Gil-galad.
Gil-galad’s beautiful eyes flashed through his mind, and even despite his disquiet, Elrond smiled, glad that he had at least known what it was like to taste the one he loved, even if his lips would never be claimed by Gil-galad again. His dissatisfaction and mood had changed with the landscape, and truly, Elrond felt more jovial and the excitement of his task finally was able to penetrate to his mind.
Morning broke and did so with the promise of a beautiful day. This day's travel was much like yesterday's had been. Long was the road that they travelled on which led to Harlond, and the party knew that they would not reach it this day. As Anor climbed higher into the sky, the long brown grasses began to drip the frost that had held them captive, and Elrond could hear the dripping of water, chiming as a thousand bells from the landscape all around them.
At mid-day, they stopped to allow their horses to take the rest that they needed now. And both Erestor and Elrond decided that they too wanted to eat. They unpacked the provisions that Círdan had given them, and their eyes delighted at what was held within the bags. Fruits and berries, and bread and cheeses, along with a flask of wine came into their view. Happily, and with a hunger that they had not realized had crept over them, they began to eat, and they shared the meal with their guards.
The mood during lunch was jovial, and Elrond found himself laughing at Erestor’s insight into their travel. Despite his somewhat jaded and miffed mindset about this task they had been sent on, the road agreed with Erestor. Elrond delighted to see his usually reserved and quiet friend open up and finally speak openly about what was in the depths of mind. By the end of the meal, they all were in tears from laughing so hard, and Elrond wished that this moment could forever be.
Back on the road, the day progressed in the endless hours of travel. What once had been the promise of a beautiful day, had changed to that of whisper of a distant storm that was fast approaching. The sun disappeared behind thick and copious clouds of grey. Long they were, and they spawned the entire horizon before them. Soon, the afternoon turned with its sky of grey and a wind that blew in from the sea from the west. The wind was bitter, cold, and had a bite that was annoying and hindering to all that it encountered. If not for the wind, the afternoon would have been pleasant, even despite the grey and cloudy sky that hid Anor from their views.
With each passing mile, the howling of the wind grew and intensified, and Elrond and Erestor exchanged nervous glances, as both knew that a storm was indeed blowing in from the west. The grasses bowed down with the might of the wind, and the thunder rolled in the distance as it grew louder and louder. Flashes of lightning lit the clouds on the horizon. It was unmistakable what was coming for them. Soon, travel would be too treacherous, so the decision was made to make camp for the remainder of the evening.
With a quick and hurried pace, the party was soon to make a shelter. And not too soon after they had finished, the first of the icy drops of rain began to fall around them. The wind howled and nipped at their bodies, and soon the deluge from the storm began to fall from the heavens. Cold shards of rain that felt as pellets of ice, assaulted the land around them. The sound was piercing, ringing out loud all around them, and there was no mistaking that winter had now came to their seaward home.
Huddled under their shelter, Elrond pulled his cloak tighter around his frame, and he watched in almost a trance as the lightning lit the landscape around them, briefly, violently, continuously. The storm was so mesmerizing, and it demanded everyone’s attention. Not a word was spoken between the party that camped under the small shelter, for the storm’s voice was far too powerful for anyone to break it.
For what seemed like a frozen hour, the storm was mighty in its manifestation. But like all great powers, it too died down, and left behind only a gentle mist with a wind that almost seemed to nip playfully at their noses. Firewood was brought from under the bags that had kept them hidden from the cold rain, and now a fire could be lit.
Elrond could see that the land had been transformed from the storm into an icy landscape. The fire danced across the surface of the ice covered grasses and on their shelter. It was almost whimsical, in its stark and cold beauty. For the sake of their horses, the party decided to remain camped for the rest of the night, although not a single one of them wanted or needed to take rest.
Now that the wind was less angry, and the quiet of the night had gripped the lands, Elrond began to tell them stories of lore to pass the night. The tale he picked this night, was about a maiden who had lived in Doriath and her love for one who never cared to call for her. And Elrond told the tale as it had came to him from a colleague he had worked with in the healing wings of Gil-galad’s citadel.
For hours, Elrond told her tale, embellished with the wonderment of what was the forests around Doriath. For Elrond loved most to speak about the forest that hid Thingol’s kingdom, and the enchantment of that long lost land had cast its shadow into his mind. Even though he had never seen the forests with his own eyes, the detail in which they had been told to him, impressed upon his imagination very much. Interwoven within the tale, was Elrond’s own sad laments of his love for Gil-galad. It made the story truer, deeper, and ensnarled the listeners, who were eager to hear more of the story.
When finally the story had ended, Elrond could see tears glistening in the eyes of the listeners. Even Erestor cared not to hid his emotions, for the story was moving as it was sorrowful. Although the sun was not yet to rise for many hours still, the group decided that they could travel now, for the wind was still, and Ithil shown bright and without hinderance, and illuminated the ice covered lands around them.
Quickly, they were packed and ready to go. Elrond let his eyes fall to the road before them. Even under the light of the moon, Elrond could tell that it still twisted long, and it was covered in frost. He exhaled, and he could see his breath dance through the dark air. He wished for the warming rays of the sun to make haste and find them. But Elrond knew that still many hours stood between him and his want.
When the sun did rise, the party had already traveled many miles, and yet they still had far to go. They pushed their horses harder this day, in an attempt to make up for time that they had lost to yesterday’s storm. Elrond knew within his mind that they would be lucky to reach Harlond before nightfall however.
Just around mid-day, they once again paused, but only for their horses to take water and food. Elrond stretched, glad to be off his horse, if but just for a moment.
“Do you not wonder what it is that we may actually come to learn during our time in the company of Galadriel and Celeborn?” Erestor asked, and his voice revealed that he was fully pondering their task at hand. “I know that something is pulling us apart, and perhaps it is not just old hurts that still whisper from the memories of yesteryear. What if something else, something far more sinister, has returned to these lands and would now whisper to us, and cause us to fracture?”
Elrond fully turned his attention to Erestor, and his mouth slightly opened as he took in Erestor’s question. He hadn’t stopped to think that perhaps their watchful peace was over, and that perhaps what once had haunted their lands had indeed returned.
“That is a possibility.” Elrond began to answer. “Although those who can look into our future days have not sounded any such alarm.”
“I know Elrond, but I can not believe that we will be left to days that are found in joy and in wonderment. I can not help but think that we will once again know the bitter times of strife.”
“Erestor, reflect not on what may come to be. This meeting is only one of learning if and why Galadriel and Celeborn head to the east.”
“It’s obvious that they will go, and its obvious why. Galadriel wants her own lands, and Celeborn would never keep her from achieving what she wants. As for me, I simply cannot still my heart. I worry about something, although I do not know what it is.”
“The visions that the Valar give to me have not reviled any cause for concern, Erestor. But I do not fear that Galadriel and Celeborn will be lost to us. I think the words that Cirdan had spoken are indeed true. Galadriel passes into the east because she must, and she and Celeborn will be eyes that we need beyond the mountains.”
Erestor’s deep grey eyes regarded Elrond and they showed that he was pondering his words. It was as if he wanted to say more, but was caught in a stupor of uncertainty. But both he and Elrond saw that the guards were readying the horses for departure, and as such, their time for pause had now ended, for the time of travel was once again on them.
By the time that Ithil had outshone Anor, and the wind had once again brought the unbearable cold out from the sea, the small entourage had reached the outermost edges of Harlond. The outer gate to the settlement was just beyond the bend of the road, and their tired hearts were grateful that their travel had finally ended. Just before they reached the closed gate, the sentries of Galadriel and Celeborn met them, and with a warm welcome they opened up the doors of the gate, allowing them entrance into the southern city.
Once within the gates, Elrond and Erestor dismounted, and they watched as their horses were led away to the stables. With the beckoning of a guard, Elrond and Erestor followed him, and they passed slowly through the empty and winding streets of the city. Glowing lanterns were fastened to the trees and on the various buildings that they passed beneath. The gentle candlelight lit their path as they made their way to the halls of the Lord and Lady of Harlindon.
The road that led to the central hall was paved of cobblestone, and wound around many gardens and homes of the inhabitants who called this settlement home. Many of the windows had been closed because of the cold evening, but despite that, melodic singing still filtered out from the buildings that housed the residents. As Elrond listened to the singing, he mused that the name for the lands of Lindon to be most appropriate. The harmonious singing warmed the hearts of both Elrond and Erestor, even as the cold wind continued to blow from the sea across the land.
Galadriel's and Celeborn's halls were still lit, and despite the late hour of their arrival, quite a few of their people were present in the entrance. They regarded Elrond and Erestor with kindness, masked with their wariness, but there was no unfriendliness here, save for the silence that seemed to drown out the howling wind outside.
A few guards were posted around the entrance hall, and only a few candles still burned in the grand candelabras that hang from the walls and hung down from the ceiling. But despite the lack of light that caused the details of the room to be obscured, to Elrond’s eyes, the halls were simply beautiful, even as the were wrapped in the mystery of their details.
Despite the hour of the night that found them finally in Harlond, Galadriel and Celeborn were there to greet them. Tall and grave they stood, both like frozen mountains wrapped in icy snow. Galadriel's deep blue eyes were welcoming, and she slightly smiled when she greeted them. Celeborn, too smiled his greeting, but unlike Galadriel, his came with no words.
“Well met, Elrond, Erestor.” Her voice was deep but melodic, warm and welcoming with the words she said.
“Greetings Lady Galadriel, Lord Celeborn.” Elrond replied. “We come on business from the High-King, and as such, would request a meeting with you.”
“Certainly.” Celeborn answered. “In two day’s time, we will meet to discuss Gil-galad’s thoughts, for you arrive late, and tomorrow is already promised I regret to say.”
“Thank you, my Lord.” Elrond replied.
“Shall I call for a late meal to be brought to you?” Celeborn asked, as he extended his hospitality to his guests.
“No, that will not be necessary.” Elrond answered when he saw that Erestor shook his head no to the question. He had little hunger this night as well, despite not taking a mid-day meal. What he really wanted to do was wash the miles of the road from his body.
“Even so, I will have some refreshments brought to your rooms. And.” Celeborn added as he looked them both over. “I will see that warm baths be drawn for you both. Now, let our butler show you to your quarters, for the hour is late this night, and the miles of the road lay heavy on your brow.”
Elrond and Erestor politely exchanged words of good night to their hosts, before they turned to follow the butler to Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel. He said no words to them as they walked through the halls, and with his eyes only, indicated to where each room that they would be staying in. Elrond wished Erestor a good night, and then he entered his room, where he was glad to finally be alone.
The room that had been given to Elrond for his stay was expansive, and it was decorated with the themes of the sea. Driftwood was carved into a beautiful headboard, and the sheets on the bed were a light blue, and the color almost reminded him of sea-foam. He liked the room, and he felt very comfortable in it.
Elrond removed his boots, and then removed his outer garments, before he changed into a soft gown. He laid himself upon the very soft bed, and he stretched out, as he thoroughly enjoyed the comfortable support that wrapped around his body. Even as his mind relaxed, his mood become ever dour. He couldn’t stop his mind from drifting to Gil-galad, and he couldn’t help but wonder if someone else was within his arms.
Here he was alone, and dejected, miles away from his home where his anguish stemmed from. His task should have been the only thing that was crossing his mind, and not his worry about Gil-galad. Elrond felt annoyed, and his mood grew ever dour. Elrond’s thoughts only stopped when he heard a knocking on his door. He bade the knocker to enter, and he watched as a servant left a tray filled with food and drink on a table within the room. Some other servants had entered, and Elrond saw that they went into the bathroom, where within they were busying themselves with drawing his bath, just as Celeborn had promised.
Once they had left, Elrond snacked on the food that had been brought to him, for he did have some hunger this night despite what his mind had told him. Once he had his fill, he went into the bathroom, where he was quick to wash. He had debated about lounging in the bath water, but the weariness from his travels called him to rest now. And there, finally between the blankets, did Elrond find the restful slumber that had eluded him for many days now.
- - - -
The morning came with the calls of the seagulls that chased the lingering eventide. Even though hardly a soul stirred within Harlond at this hour, Elrond had already risen and he had walked the empty streets of this southern city. He had passed in wonderment under lamps that dimmed as daylight became brighter. But the beautify of the city did not call to him, as did the lonely banks of the water's shore.
He now sat alone at the shore, and his eyes mindlessly watched the rippling of the waves. Just across the gulf, was the object of his desire, who both caused great comfort and great turmoil to crash within his heart. Despite the peaceful night that had found him, where he had wonderfully been spared from thoughts of Gil-galad, this morning he felt the heavy mantle of his longing for him.
With the heaviness in his heart, Elrond felt a melody rise within his soul. Before he even realized what he was doing, his voice began to sing out the words that now moved across his heart and within his mind.
“Starlight, guide my feet to thee. For in these times of doubt, I can not see. And when this time of sorrow finally passes me, strength will I find, when I finally have been set free. Upon thy brow, would happiness settle once more. And I too will find what I had known before. I will be no longer lost in shadows dark, but instead my soul will soar. For you will be before my eyes, and I will hold you yet once more.”
Restless had been his nights as of late, and his heart held the disquiet of his weariness. He wasn't tired however, despite the weariness of his mind. Elrond shook his head, trying his hardest to dispel the trance that Gil-galad had him under. He had work to do tomorrow, and he needed a clear mind. But still his eyes could only linger on the distant horizon where he imagined just what Gil-galad was doing at this time. Was he alone, or had his night found him within the arms of another? A sharp pain of uncertainty cut through his heart, for it ached for him, and his fingers yearned to touch him.
Lost within his reflections, Elrond did not notice that another had come beside him. It was not until he had seated himself right beside him, was Elrond aware that he was no longer alone. He instantly recognized who had come to him. Thranduil, son of Oropher, who he thought had already led a group of the disenchanted out to the east, and away from the Noldor forever.
“Elrond, it is with gladness that I see you again, for it has been far too long.” Thranduil called out his greeting, and even though Elrond was surprised to see him, it was evident that Thranduil was not.
“Thranduil, it pleases me to see you too, but I thought that you had already departed these shores and headed to the east with your father.”
Thranduil's lips were slow to curve to smile, but once they did, Elrond could see the friendliness that he remembered so well from Thranduil. “It would seem here I still remain.”
Elrond's laughter was carried away on the wind, and he too let a smile cover his face.
Thranduil took in Elrond’s reaction, before he then resumed speaking to him. “I was told that you had arrived here late last night, and so I had to seek you out, for I kindly remember you. Please pardon me if I have disturbed you, for I meant not to intrude on this interlude that you have sought out this morning.”
Elrond could tell that Thranduil was studying him, and just how much he was able to read him, Elrond did not know. He knew that Thranduil was very astute, and he minded to check his emotions, as he tried to adopt an expressionless facade.
But by the look that Thranduil gave him, Elrond could tell that the other had not been fooled.
“What bothers you, Elrond?” Thranduil asked with a gaze that told Elrond that he expected an answer to his question.
Elrond sighed, and he slightly shook his head, as yet once again he was being asked what troubled his mind. He hated that he was so transparent, and he noted that he simply needed to mask his emotions better while he was abroad.
“I fear for the stability of our lands. We have guarded this watchful peace for many years, and now it seems that pieces are falling into place that would threaten our strength and our union.” He tried to present a convincing lie to Thranduil, but the look within Thranduil's eyes told him that he had not been fooled.
“That may be so, but there is still more to it, I think.” Thranduil's intense eyes were on him, scrutinizing him, but he decided not to press Elrond further for information that he was not yet ready to divulge. Even though he knew Elrond, the two had never developed a strong and close friendship, but instead, they had long remained as colleagues who had studied the healing arts together.
Instead, of opening up more to Thranduil, Elrond kept his silence on what really stormed within his mind, and he turned his eyes back out to the rolling waves of the gulf that was before him.
Together they sat in silence, until Elrond's curiosity got the better of him, and the information that he wanted to know roared within his mind. “Tell me, Thranduil, have you continued on with studying the healing arts?” Elrond inquired on the subject that had brought them together, many years ago.
“I have, yes, and am currently under the tutelage of a master healer who had served King Thingol. She knows much, and I am honored to study with her. Although, I do miss working and studying with you. You taught and showed me so much.”
Elrond smiled, and he recalled the years that he had studied with him, back when Thranduil dwelled in Gil-galad’s halls. Thranduil was a talented healer, and he was pleased to hear that he continued on with the art.
“I too continue to study the healing arts, although my official duties have me working as Gil-galad’s counsellor. But you already know that.” Elrond said.
“Yes, and I know that you are here on official business from the High-King.” Thranduil replied. “Although it seems to me that you would much rather be back in the hall’s of our king.”
Thranduil’s words caught Elrond off-guard, and he choked, before he was able to regain his composure. He let his mind run over Thranduil’s words, and he was intent now to change the subject to anything but him.
“Will you soon depart these lands, and join your father to the east?” Elrond asked, hoping Thranduil would take the bate and reveal more to him on the matter. The truth of the matter though, was that this was a topic that Elrond was very much interested in.
Thranduil closed his eyes, and he understood that Elrond little wanted to speak about himself today. But the topic that Elrond now moved to was of a deep and sorrowful issue to Thranduil. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to open up to Elrond about it all, even though they were acquaintances. It was true that they shared some details of their lives with one another, but that had been so long ago. He knew however, that what he did was the business of the High-King, and as such, his actions were Elrond’s business as well.
He breathed deeply before he answered Elrond’s question. “Yes soon will I leave, for I can not leave Oropher’s side.”
Thranduil turned his gaze back on Elrond, and it was evident that Elrond had touched upon a great sorrow within Thranduil's heart.
“Even though I will go to the east with my kin, there are those who will not. A part of my heart will stay right here in Lindon.”
“Your sister stays?” Elrond asked with surprise at Thranduil's words.
“Sadly, yes, she will stay in Lindon, for she is now dead to our father. He has little love for those who would bind themselves to the Noldor.”
Elrond's eyes went wide, and he regarded Thranduil more closely now. Indeed he was dejected, for it radiated throughout his body and seemed etched within his eyes. Elrond could tell that through many a night Thranduil had fought within his mind over the course of what choice he would make. Even now, Thranduil still looked like that battle of choice still ragged within his heart and soul.
“But you, Thranduil? You do not hold the hate that consumes Oropher, so why do you depart from those who love you, and from the lands that you have called home for many happy and peaceful years? Why go into the uncertainties of the wilds?”
“The choice was not an easy one to make, but I know that deep within my heart that my father needs me. Even though I have seen him survive so much, I have seen his heart harden to that of a mere shadow of what he once was. I know that if he is completely severed from his family, that he will completely lose his soul. I know this Elrond. I fear for him, and I know that he needs me. I simply can not be torn asunder from him.”
Although Elrond did not agree with Thranduil’s choice, he understood the reasoning. Family was a strong tie, and even though Thranduil was grown, the connection he had with Oropher was strong. Elrond envied the bond that Thranduil and Oropher shared, for he wished that he too could have relished in the shadow of his father.
“When do you leave?” Elrond asked him, words tinged with the sadness of knowing that even more people would depart from the lands of Lindon.
“We leave in a month's time. There will be many who join with me, and together we will pass into the east, beyond Gil-galad's keep. Out in the wilds, we will meet up with Oropher and the host that he has led. But do not look to this as a goodbye of forever. I would not think that the fates would grant that to us, despite what my father wants. Remember me, when times of trouble find you, and remind Gil-galad that he has a friend in me.”
“I suppose your words will ring true, for the fates of all seem interwoven, and even in this peace, my heart can little settle, for I know that it is a but an illusion.”
Thranduil's beautiful smile pulled Elrond from his gloomy thoughts, and he moved closer to him. “I will miss our times studying the healing arts together. You taught me much, and I will never forget that Elrond. For what kindness you have shown me, and for all that you taught me, know that I am forever indebted. Even if into the wilds I have seemed to vanish, know you this, I am forever your friend and ally, and always will be.”
Elrond smiled at Thranduil's words, and in his heart, he knew that what he said would indeed ring true. Thranduil was ever a kindred spirit, and he knew that he would answer whatever call he may make to him in future days come.
Thranduil abruptly stood, and he kept his eyes out on the rolling waves of the gulf. His long and unbraided hair blew within the crests of the wind. Elrond could tell that Thranduil's own mind was troubled, and he mused on those thoughts that troubled him still.
Elrond also stood, and it was then that Thranduil's gaze moved from the flowing waters, and onto him. Elrond could see that his face was unreadable now, and his bright eyes had grown darker, like the stormy clouded skies of winter. He did not speak his words of goodbye, but he gestured them to Elrond. Elrond too returned the wordless valediction, and once again he was alone.
The unexpected reunion with Thranduil lifted Elrond’s jaded heart just a little. But still the storm within his heart seemed to mirror the choppy waves of the sea that was before him. He knew that he shouldn’t let his woeful obsessions drive him any further, for he was here on official business of the High-King, and Elrond little wanted the inhabitants of Harlond to think him of him as anything less than pleasant.
He mulled over Thranduil’s words, and he was sad to hear that Thranduil as well would be leaving the lands of Lindon. Although he knew that Thranduil would leave with the host of the Sindar, the confirmation made him sadder than he thought it would. With a long cast gaze, Elrond looked out to the sea, and he took the choppy waves in. The water was as grey as the winter sky, and the sun was hidden behind grey and long clouds.
No longer feeling the want to spend his day by the shore, Elrond walked slowly back to Celeborn’s and Galadriel’s halls. He took in the sights along the winding streets of the settlement. Unlike earlier this morning when he had walked these streets, now they were filled with people who greeted him and Elrond minded to be as pleasant and charming as he could be.
His meeting with Galadriel and Celeborn wasn’t scheduled until tomorrow, and Elrond was unsure how he would spend the rest of his day here in Harlond. He knew that lunch would be commencing soon, and he wondered what Erestor was doing or if he would be present at the dining hall. Elrond had greatly enjoyed Erestor’s presence through their travels, and he missed his presence now.
Back in the halls of the Lord and Lady of Harlindon, Elrond went straight to his rooms. He shut the door behind him, and went into the bathroom. There, he let his hand skim over the bath water that had been drawn for him this morning. Elrond disrobed quickly, as he was eager to relax within the warm water that beckoned to his weary body. Around the tub were all kinds of bath oils and salts, but he cared not to use any of them. As he lowered himself into the warm water, Elrond instantly felt his body relax, as if the water itself held a spell over him.
As Elrond lounged, the memories of a dream came back to him, and he felt a certain deja vu wash over him. He could almost feel Gil-galad’s hand roam over him, touching him, and bringing his arousal to life. Absentmindedly, he reached down between his legs, and he grasped his awakening length within his hand. Languidly at first, he began to stroke his cock, while he let Gil-galad’s face materialize within his mind.
A smile spread across his face, and as he moved his hand quicker, his erection sprang more to life. His fingers moved across his sensitive head, and he felt a shudder deep within his core. Elrond imagined that it was Gil-galad’s hands that were bringing him pleasure, and the fire in his loin burned even stronger.
Quicker, Elrond’s movement grew, and he closed his eyes and rolled his head back onto the edge of the tub. Sighs began to escape his lips, which had parted as his pleasure grew. Up and down, Elrond’s hand moved along his shaft, as his mounting orgasm built within. Within his mind it was not his hand, but was instead Gil-galad’s own long and mighty fingers that brought his body to life. And within his mind he heard Gil-galad’s voice whisper in his ear. Words of passion and of lust flooded his mind, and before Elrond realized it, his finger was pushing into his bottom.
His long finger stroked his inner wall, deep within, and even as good as that felt, he wanted and needed more. Another finger was pushed into his greedy hole, and in Elrond’s mind it was Gil-galad who was preparing him for better things to come. Deeper, Elrond pushed his fingers in, scissoring, stretching as if preparing himself for Gil-galad’s cock. And soon another finger was pushed within, and Elrond gasped when he finally found his hidden spot, deep within, that made him shudder and gasp.
Twisting his wrist, Elrond found the best angle that allowed him to hit that sensitive spot, and his other hand brought sweet friction around his cock. The waves of the water washed over him, and he was back in that dream, where he had been rippling on the waves with Gil-galad, who wound his body around him, engulfing him in his sweetest of embraces. Faster his hand moved up and down his shaft, and Elrond’s moans grew louder, even though his fingers could little satisfy what his body craved. But he could no longer formulate his thoughts, as he gave into his orgasm.
Gil-galad’s name was on Elrond’s lips when his orgasm spilled from his body. Within the water, he rode out the waves of his release, as the pleasure rippled and reverberated deep within. His heart fluttered, as it was flooded with the emotions that held his soul in captivity. And even as the wonderful sensations of his orgasm pulsated with pleasure, his mind turned over with the sadness that he was so far away from the one he loved, without the understanding of what their relationship was.
Elrond felt a sadness and an emptiness fill him, and his heart became pained. A sort of shame crept over him, and he hastily stood, and got out of the bath. With a heart that was numb, and a mind that was blank, he dressed himself and then combed out his hair. Across the room, Elrond saw himself reflected in a mirror, but he turned away, not even wanting to look at his own pathetic reflection.
- - - -
Evening finally came to the lands by the southern sea shore, and did so with an invitation to dinner with Galadriel and Celeborn. Elrond was grateful for the distraction of company this night, and he was glad that he would be dinning with them. He had spent the reminder of the afternoon alone within his rooms, and he had failed to dull the raging emotions that kept him captive within his mind. Now that the time for dinner was on him, Elrond’s heart was weary, but his mind was flooded with the anticipation of company and of distraction. It was elating, and he walked with a haste to join the other dinners.
On entering the dinning hall, Elrond’s eyes first went to Erestor, who was already within the dining hall. Erestor stood facing him, although his eyes held the attention of something other, and he was already drinking from a goblet filled with a deep red wine. Elrond let his eyes scan the room, and he saw that Galadriel and Celeborn were not yet present.
“Good evening Erestor.” Elrond called out to his friend, for he was glad to finally see him again. He was not sure what Erestor had been up to this day, and he was curious to find out.
“Elrond!” Erestor replied. “You simply must try the wine.” He added with a smile on his face. “This is already my second glass, for it is the best that I’ve ever had. I do wonder what it is.”
Elrond returned the smile, and he allowed Erestor to lead him to where the wine was being poured. Elrond accepted a goblet from a server, and with Erestor’s beckoning, he took a drink of the rich red liquid. A wonderful full and zesty taste washed over his tongue, and Elrond had to agree with Erestor’s assessment of the wine.
Elrond turned his attention back to Erestor, and he noticed that his gaze kept moving back to a lady who was across the room. She was speaking with two other people, who Elrond recognized as counsellors to the Lord and Lady of Harlindon. Elrond knew her not, and he doubted that Erestor knew who she was either.
“Well, tell me what you think of the wine.” Erestor said, as his attention was now back on Elrond.
“Yes, this is very good wine indeed.” Elrond stated before he took another drink, and he watched as Erestor smiled, before he moved his gaze once again. Erestor’s eyes and mind were preoccupied, but then his glass went dry, and he went to have it refilled. A chuckle escaped Elrond’s lips, and he felt jovial this night and grateful for this wonderful distraction.
“Elrond, good evening.” Thranduil’s dulcet voice pulled Elrond to turn to him and away from Erestor. His green eyes shown with the warmth of his greeting.
Elrond smiled his greeting, glad to see that Thranduil as well had been invited to this dinner tonight. Thranduil wore a tunic of blue, trimmed with silver, and grey leggings tucked into high boots of black. His long silver hair was unbraided, and his eyes were bright and clear and no longer held the trepidation that he felt about his uncertain future. He looked stunning, but to Elrond, no-one compared to Gil-galad.
“How did your day go, Thranduil?” Elrond asked, curious what had kept him busy this day.
“Good enough, I suppose. I was kept in dialogue all afternoon with Celeborn, and some of the Lords who will join my father. I don’t even know why I had to be present through it all. I simply care not for such politics, and Oropher’s decision really has nothing to do with me.” Thranduil smiled, and his eyes shone with a playful light that Elrond wished he too could have.
Elrond wondered if he would come to learn of what was discussed in the meeting from Celeborn tomorrow, because what was discussed also concerned Gil-galad. He felt a tinge in his heart at the divide that was growing between his people. Instead of unifying, the Eldar were only growing further and further apart, and nothing could bring them together. Perhaps it was only an illusion that they were ever united however. Some wounds were indeed too strong to ever heal, but Elrond hadn’t suspected that Celeborn too held some of those prejudices, and that he too wished to leave the service of the High-King.
“And you Elrond, how went your day?”
“Pleasant, for the lands here are beautiful, even at the start of winter.” He motioned for Thranduil to follow him as he spoke, for he needed to refill his wine.
“Try this wine, Thranduil.” And Elrond watched as Thranduil was handed a glass of the delicious red wine.
“It’s such a good wine that I fear it will all be gone before dinner is even to start. Let me know what you think of it, Thranduil.” Elrond said, while he watched Thranduil take a sip of it.
Thranduil didn’t respond, but he only sipped his wine, and his eyes seem to pierce through Elrond’s soul as if he had questions that he very much wanted to know the answer to. If he were about to pry into Elrond’s business, Thranduil didn’t get the chance, because Celeborn and Galadriel now entered the dinning room.
Both were dressed in whites and silvers, and they both wore mithril circlets on their brows. Galadriel’s hair flowed down her back in waves of golden silk, and her eyes were clear and bright, and held within them wisdom beyond comprehension. Grave Celebron and Galadriel ever were, but they smiled politely, and their faces held the warmth of their welcome.
Everyone turned to them when they entered, and they moved to their seats once the Lord and Lady did. Elrond found himself seated to Celeborn’s right, and to his left was Thranduil, and Erestor was to Thranduil’s right. Galadriel was seated next to Celeborn, and the lady who had caught Erestor’s fancy was seated next to Galadriel. The counsellors took the other seats at the table. The table was just set for ten this night, and Elrond was a little surprised that the dinner was not more intimate, but he was grateful at all that he got to dine with the Lord and the Lady.
Conversation began almost immediately, for Galadriel was quick to welcome all to the dinner. And soon enough, the food was brought in with plate after plate, and bottles of wines that went around the table as each goblet was filled or refilled. Elrond watched with amusement the dining precession, and it reminded him a little of the grand dinners that were had in the halls of Gil-galad. He wished he were back there, dining with Gil-galad, but he quickly dispelled any thoughts of his king.
Celeborn turned to Elrond, and his face was kind, although his eyes looked tired, worried even. But he spoke not of what was really on his mind, and instead chose a different topic at hand.
“Thranduil told me that you looked a little weary this morning when he saw you by the shore. It reminded me of the shadow that I saw in your eyes when you arrived here.”
Celeborn face showed his concern. “Do not tell me that your duties to the High-King are too taxing. I know you are rather young to be a counsellor to the High-King, but Elrond, there is hardly any in all these lands that equal your intellect and cunning. And the foresight that you possess is beyond equal. Gil-galad needs you very much.”
Elrond smiled, pleased that Celeborn had missed the mark. He was a little annoyed though, that Thranduil had spoken of him in such a way with Celeborn, but Elrond knew that Thranduil was very close with Celeborn, and as such, hardly anything passed between one without the other knowing.
“Yes, Celeborn, I must admit that this task that I have been appointed by the High-King is a little new and strange for me, but I am learning to accept whatever it is that I am asked to do in the service of the King.”
“Well, Gil-galad is lucky to have you in his service.” And Celeborn’s voice trailed off as if his mind brought him somewhere else. “You know Elrond, I would not mind having you in my service. Ah, but this is not the time to discuss such matters, for that will wait tomorrow. I already know what information Gil-galad seeks.”
Elrond was a little surprised with what Celeborn stated to him, as the thought of leaving Gil-galad’s service had never even crossed his mind. Dispelling the thoughts, he took a bite of his food, and he allowed the delicious food to dance upon his senses. He held much hunger this night, and he hungrily ate up his food.
Now that Celeborn’s conversation went to another, Elrond turned his attention to Thranduil. Thranduil had been quiet this evening, having said not a word to Erestor or to him, and he hadn’t touched his food. All Thranduil had done this dinner was refill his wine glass again and again, which hadn’t been lost on Elrond. His deep green eyes seemed stormy as if his mind was despondent over his father’s decision to leave the lands of Lindon.
As if Thrandul could feel the weight of Elrond’s gaze on him, he turned his attention to Elrond. He regarded Elrond only briefly before he sat his wine glass down and began a conversation. “So Celeborn has shared with you a bit of today’s topic from our meeting.” Thranduil took another drink from his glass, and his green eyes locked with Elrond’s.
“Yes he did, for he told me that you were worried about me, for my weariness had impressed upon you some great concern.”
“It is the truth, for I can feel a weariness in your soul, and I believe that this weariness has nothing to do with our departure from Lindon.”
Elrond didn’t respond, but his eyes went to his dinner plate, and he gripped his wine glass tightly before he took a deep drink from it.
“This weariness is everywhere now.” Thranduil continued. “And I little believe that a change of scenery will fix anything, but will only bring more complications and trials. I know that you have the gift of foresight, and I would have to believe that you sense this discord as well.”
Thranduil grumbled now, for it was evident that he little cared for the decisions that his Lords had made regarding their future days. Elrond was pleased to see that Thranduil was far too distracted this night to interlope into the matters of his heart, and for that, Elrond was very grateful.
“You stopped in Mithlond, did you not?” Thranduil asked as he motioned for more wine to be poured.
“We did, yes?” Elrond answered.
“So Cirdan is to be involved in this all?”
“I do not know why he would not be. You know that Gil-galad holds his council very dear.” Elrond responded, and he wondered just what Thranduil was getting at.
“It is just so peculiar.” Thranduil said. “Suddenly it seems that everyone is so eager to depart these lands all at once, and find their own place in this world, as if something unknown has implanted these desires.”
“So it would seem.” Elrond responded. “And that is the reason why Erestor and I are here.”
Thranduil’s green eyes regarded him, and a smile finally crossed his face. “Yes, I would imagine that Gil-galad is most concerned indeed, for what is being set in place deeply impacts us all. Although, I do find it peculiar that he has sent Erestor along for this task. Forgive me if I am mistaken, but is he not a researcher, and not a counsellor?”
“Yes you are right, he is a researcher. Even he was a taken aback by Gil-galad’s request that he join me for this meeting. But let me assure you, Erestor is very astute, as he is perceptive. He will come to understand things that need to be known.”
“Are you so sure about that, Elrond, for he seems a little distracted.” Thranduil said.
And Elrond turned his gaze to see that Erestor was completely lost within his gaze on the lady who was seated by and was speaking with Galadriel.
“Do you know who she is, Thranduil?”
Thranduil only raised an eyebrow before he answered. “She is the newest counsellor to Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel. Very kind, very smart, but what I like about her most is her brashness. She’s not afraid to push for causes that concern her.”
“So I see.” Elrond regarded her. “So her time here in Lindon is limited.”
Thranduil smiled at the question, but he didn’t answer, for Elrond would come to understand what it is that Gil-galad sought tomorrow.
“I will go back with you when you depart for Harlond, for there are things that I must discuss with Gil-galad as well before I pass over the mountains and into the wilds of Arda.”
Elrond smiled at hearing Thranduil’s words, for he was pleased that he would be spending just a little more time with him. “We will leave the day after our meeting with Celeborn and Galadriel has finished, for we are expected immediately back to Gil-galad’s halls. I hope that works for you.”
“It will.” Thranduil answered. “I do find myself glad that I will see Gil-galad’s halls one more time before I leave.”
“And will you try to convince your sister to leave with you?” Elrond had to asked, curious about Thranduil’s other motives for journeying back with them.
“No, for she is even more stubborn than is Oropher. Enough has been said on that matter, and I would do nothing to bring her to more anger.”
Elrond let his eyes drop to his plate. Most of the food was finished, and he no longer felt hunger. He looked back at Thranduil’s uneaten plate, and he gained a little understanding of just how deeply personal and life-changing the current situation found them all in. Elrond could tell that Thranduil no longer wished to speak, and it was not too soon that he had excused himself from the dinner, and had disappeared into the night.
Dinner concluded, but before Elrond could slip away for rest, Celeborn stopped him. “Elrond, just a word before the night concludes.”
“Before tomorrow’s meeting, I was curious to know if any visions have came to you. We haven not heard of any for awhile now, and I would think that as the tides begin to change, that something may have come to you.”
Elrond was caught a little off guard with the question, but he understood why Celeborn asked it of him. There had not been any visions of the future, and now with his mind and heart so preoccupied with Gil-galad, he doubted that any visions would come to him at all until the matters of his heart had settled.
“Well no, nothing has came to me as of late. And when I spoke with Cirdan, all he could see was that the winds are shifting for us, but the future remains unknown to his as well. And what of Galadriel? Has she shared anything with you?”
“Nothing beyond the need for what it is that we must do.” Celeborn kept his response brief, and wrapped within his ambiguity. “This will be discussed tomorrow, and until then, Elrond, a bid you now a good night.”
“Good night, Celeborn.”
Elrond watched him leave, and he then headed back to his rooms where the night passed for him in the long hours of his yearning.
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A Promise of Forever