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Aearlinn	By : narcolinde Category: -Multi-Age > General Views: 8934 -:- 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.

Chapter List
- 35
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Aearlinn - Mîl Ovor

The night was bright and clear, cool in the
temperate embrace of Ethuil, moonlight spilling from a cloudless
sky in which the suspended stars hovered near, dropping lower to glimmer and glint in joyful approbation. Elrond moved
with ease through the rugged landscape, no longer hindered by thorn
and branch, the way smoothed and the path opened before him. Seldom did the Lord of
Imladris roam these wild reaches of the realm, almost never in the
shadows of a starry night and all his senses were heightened. Not a
soul was about save the shy nocturnal beasts who peered at him
from the safety of bush and bracken, surprised and curious but not
disturbed, and their presence gave the impression he was the only
person for leagues around, a lone explorer in a wondrous place
unseen and untouched since the Time before Time. The
isolation fostered an
affinity with the natural world he had not experienced since his
elfling days. The thought arose that this was a distinctly
sylvan thing to do and gave him a sense of kinship
with his beloved Wood Elf he would have repressed
just months gone past.

Though its purpose was serious and no mere jaunt
across the valley, the journey was soothing; his body fell
into a comfortable gate and the automatic action of walking
permitted his inner vision a clarity of focus rare in the course of
his busy life. It was like Ôlpathu only his mind was fully
alert, conscious and subconscious joined in contemplation that was
both meditative and invigorating.

Suddenly he could
comprehend that all of Arda was perfect, a view contrary to his
normal perception of a great work spoiled almost beyond recognition,
a world warped and marred to the point that its inventors abandoned
it for a safe and secluded paradise. It was not so. Here was a place
made solely to suit the life with which it teemed. Here was a land
formed from the very Music of the Ainur, so imbued with the grace of
Iluvatar that all Melkor's plotting schemes had failed to destroy it.
It was a world to cherish and guard jealousy.

The Wood Elves were right after all; this was home, designed specifically
for the Children of Eru, and must be held against all enemies,
be they mortal or immortal, Vala or beast. How had he ever deemed
the sylvan elves unimportant in the fight against the spreading
Shadow? None were so fervent in their devotion to Arda.

It
was a jarring revelation for presented within it were the harsh
facts that for all of his life, Elrond had really been fighting over who would control
Arda while the Wood Elves fought for Arda itself.
The difference was both simple and profound, just like the woodland people. They fought for their world, their woods, their Tawar; their lives
entwined within the sap and the soil, the water and the wind. Alone
among the elves, the sylvans did not look ever to the west and long
for the protected lands of the Valar across the sea, though that was
changing. It made Elrond sick at heart to realise it, for nothing so
pointed to the waning light of the elves than this.

Did they
believe they could win this fight? The question made him halt and he
looked over the moonlit landscape, knowing the answer was both
irrelevant and supremely important. For the elves, the battle could
neither be won nor lost. Whatever the outcome, it was the fate of
the Second-born to inherit the earth and see to its future, whether
that be dark and filled with pain and sorrow or radiant with hope
and the exhilaration of industrious endeavours. Still, it mattered,
what the Wood Elves thought, for it meant the difference between the
breed's continuation in Aman and utter extinction, the few survivors
absorbed into the lineages of the Sindar and the Noldor. Yet Elrond
took heart, for Legolas, surely one of the youngest among his
people, had been willing to flee to the Blessed Realm to protect his
babe. If his attitude was common, then perhaps the sylvan folk would
likewise depart willingly when the time came to cede the lands to
men.

He considered how his thoughts had travelled while his
feet were moving and smiled, mildly amused at his change of
attitude. Here he was worrying over whether or not their would be
any sylvan elves in Aman when a few years ago he had rarely
acknowledged their presence on Arda. He had Legolas to thank for
this awakening and wondered anew how the sylvan archer's wounded
soul had held such strength to so transform his spirit and open his
eyes. He lifted those newly enlightened grey depths to the heavens,
admiring the infinite expanse of the glittering night, and offered
silent thanks for the gift of his uniquely admirable mate.

His
resolve intensified and he resumed his trek; it was for Legolas this
trip was necessary and yet, as was becoming ever more clear, what
was best for Aearen was likewise beneficial to the mighty Lord. In
these few hours he had grown in maturity and wisdom, reaching a
point of balance and contentment with all he was and all he was
meant to be, transformed from indifferent elitism to tolerant acceptance, from jealous husband to caring mate. Thus
came Elrond, Lord of Imladris, to the lands he had deeded over to
his sons at their majority, never imagining then to what use the
humble vale would be put.

He paused, heart stirring as the
liquid, languid voice of the stream called in welcome, and
let the whole of the glade register within his spirit. He heard the
subdued shuffle and sigh of leaves ruffling against the breeze, the
whisper and rush of grass rippling under the same soft song of
Arda's soul. There was both peace and anticipation here, a hopeful,
happy, and hallowed caste to the place as though the trees and the
water, the rocks and the flowers, moon and stars, all were now the organs with which
the Powers observed his responses. He inhaled deeply and
filled his lungs with the sweet night air, smiling as he exhaled and
advanced into the meadow.

So be it. Let them watch

Alone and glad of it, Elrond preferred to face this test without
witnesses other than those eternal ones which attended every action
both of thought and deed. If he should fail here, could he return to
Aearen and formally cement the bond between them? The doubt lay not in any
lack of desire to succeed but in his fear to disappoint Legolas
again. Where was the limit of his Wood Elf's love? He could not
guess and stifled the troubling worries. His imperative now was to demonstrate the breadth and depth of his love for Aearen. Looking into his soul, Elrond could not perceive any bounds to that love and smiled.

I will
not fail him.

The scene subtly changed, an alteration possible due to the casting aside of those gauges of self-importance against which he was wont to measure every situation. His eyes were clear, his mind open, filtering every detail through his devotion to Aearen as he looked upon the serene sanctuary. Across the moon-shadowed
meadow he beheld the silvered silhouettes of willows whispering together,
sheltering the structure he had come to see even as they presented
it in just and gentle dignity, pleased to have been chosen, eager to
demonstrate the perfection wrought in the melding of nature and
invention. Could he help but smile?

His spirit filled
with admiration and paternal pride for his sons. No less
should he expect from them and immediately his heart whelmed with
gratitude to have them back, the muscle straining to contain the
inundation of emotion for indeed they had become strangers, dark and
somewhat terrifying in their moods and manners. They were whole
again, even as he was, closer to what they had been before the
tragedy of their mother's exodus. Instead of releasing the
rising font of elated tears, Elrond voiced an exultant, exuberant laugh
and strode forward eagerly, rejoicing anew at the
gift given unto his family in placing Legolas in their path that
winter's day.

The pavilion and the plans he
passed without interest, going up to the threshold where the door
was in place now but open wide, as though he was expected, and with
a slight pause to admire the homey porch he went in. Contrary to all
previous considerations about his new relationship with his sons,
Elrond felt he was not meant to be barred from this house. Somehow,
Elladan and Elrohir had understood innately that
the four of them, soon to be five, were a family linked by a bond
perhaps curious but not less sacred for that.

He moved
through the tall foyer with its stained glass windows, recognising some of the scenes and marvelling over those he could not place, and passed into the room at the right. Elrond found himself
in a sitting room, open and spacious, the furnishings
inviting and the setting familiar, for here his sons had drawn on
that which was most comfortable to memory and commodious to a sense
of security. It was much like the parlour in the Last Homely House
wherein countless evenings saw his family gathered before the hearth
during his children's growing years, content in one another's
company, sharing the simple pleasures of conversation, quiet
reading, or games and silly play-acting.

In a flood of images
Elrond saw juxtaposed his first family and his second: himself on
the floor beside the twins as they took their first hesitant steps,
then sprawled on the rug with Tinu Mín bouncing atop his
belly. He recalled Arwen as a toddler perched on his back, kicking at his
sides and gripping his hair like a set of reins and next enjoyed a
vision of Legolas curled up cat-fashion in a chair with Tinu Mín
secure against his breast. Elrohir was nearby reading, Elladan studying
his Adar's last move upon a game-board. The scenes were neither
incongruous nor troubling and instead sent a fresh wave of abiding
love cresting through his soul.

He went and sat in one of
the chairs, the one where he'd imagined Legolas to be.
It would all come to pass and this would be a place of tranquillity,
a refuge for them away from the bustling activity of the Last Homely
House and its abundance of amiable spies. Here they could nurture the bond between them without censure or misunderstanding. Quickly he rose and
toured the remaining rooms on the first floor, brows quirking high
as he discovered the elaborate bathing chamber.

The second
story was a bit more difficult to see, for here were the private
rooms where his sons would be alone with his mate. Our mate.
Elrond stood in the cosy study, unable to bring to mind any visions of himself there and while that should have made him feel insecure and awkward
instead he felt a degree of acceptance he wouldn't have thought
possible so soon after acknowledging his sons' claim upon Legolas.
The reason was all around him, for it was just as plain that this part of the house was designed for
Elladan and Elrohir alone. The room contained the understated but unmistakable stamp of their uniquely jointed personalities, examples of their taste and style abundant in the personal belongings already situated round the space. There was also an unhidden expression of unity, of this being a shared abode, a couple's haven. Here was a place for indulging that bond between them which
he had always denied and silently denounced.

Many were the days the brothers
would spend together in Imladris without Legolas and Tinu Mín, and
rather than being disgusted Elrond found he was relieved they would
have this house for both comfort and seclusion. His stringent moral
code had become more relaxed of late and he could no longer
condemn his sons; instead, he was subconsciously pleased over the twins' relationship. Not only were they secondary mates for Aearen, Legolas was a secondary mate for them. Elladan and Elrohir would not be plotting to steal away his beloved Wood Elf.

The bedroom he did not enter,
standing on the brink of the chamber and peering in from the
corridor. Here was territory he could not
invade, for his own peace of mind as much as respect for the privacy
of his mate. Their mate. Yet he made himself look and realise
this place was here, a place where Legolas would reveal needs Elrond
could not meet no matter how much he loved him. It gave him the
first stab of pain his heart had known since entering the homestead,
but he refused to turn from it. This ache was nothing compared to the
gruelling agony Legolas had suffered in those early days,
believing himself rejected and unloved. He did not want Aearen to
ever feel that kind of despair again and if this was the cure then
he would endure it not with bitterness but with acceptance and
gratitude. He would not permit Aearen to remain broken
when the missing pieces were within reach.

Shame washed
through him then, thinking on how many years he had traded Legolas' health and
happiness to purchase nothing but hubris and false dignity. Thus
in sorrow Elrond wandered across the short space and into the
child's nursery, lost in his ruminations over the dire result of his
ignorance and pride, and was caught by surprise when the ceiling
disappeared and the soothing presence of the tree surrounded him.

He
halted and gaped in amazement, sensing the great age of the tree,
like so many in Imladris whose life-span had been increased by the
power of Vilya. This was like no house he had ever entered and first
he smiled to think of Legolas' joy to stand in this room, but the
expression faltered almost instantly for now he understood Aearen's
anger. Surely the mighty Elven Lore-master had sufficient mental
capacity to realise how important such a place must be. Tinu Mín
was Legolas' first child and even without all the guilt accompanying
his reasons for conceiving, he loved the babe more than he did
Elrond, though this was not something Aearen could allow himself to
consciously comprehend. It should not have come
as such a shock for Elrond to know that Legolas expected him to love
the babe over all else, too. Neglecting any aspect of Tinu Mín's
development was probably the highest crime Elrond could commit, and
he had done next to nothing to provide for their babe.

This
must be remedied, not because it would please his beloved Wood Elf
but for the sake of their child. What Legolas felt so did the babe,
and Tinu Mín must not doubt, especially in the safe and sheltered
security of Legolas' womb, that his Adar cherished him. Elrond would
have far to go to supersede this room and worried if he could achieve
it.

Nay, I need not match it and indeed should not attempt
to. My goal is clear: the talan in the grotto must be the embodiment
of my love for our little babe.

At that moment he decided that their
hidden nest should be wholly sylvan in character and construction.
There would be no standard furnishings such as Elrond had used in
the nursery for his older children: no rocking chairs, no cupboards
or closets, no cribs or cradles. Whatever the equivalent might be
within the Wood Elves' culture, those items Elrond would provide. A
smile crept over his features as he imagined Legolas' pleased
surprise when the finished abode was revealed. The smile stretched
into a grin, thinking how indignant Aearen would be to find he was
barred from the grotto until construction was completed. Elrond at
once thought to redesign the walled garden to make it serve as an
alternate refuge for his young mate.

With that decided, he
turned from the house his sons had built and headed
back through the glade, his step light and filled with his eager
purpose, scarcely wanting to delay his plans long enough to attend
the sylvan bonding ceremony. As he walked he mused over how to gain
the help he needed and at once Thranduil came to mind. He had a
sylvan wife and would know exactly what was expected, what was
necessary. Moreover, he was Legolas' Adar and would know what would
most please his younger son. If it felt strange to enlist the Wood
Elves' King as his ally, Elrond drove the sensation from his
heart.

Still, he must not exclude Legolas from the
preparations completely. Recalling the disaster of the ceramic pots,
Elrond's heart filled with indulgent warmth and empathy for his
beloved, confused, and somewhat vulnerable Wood Elf. Dawn was
breaking, the sky that lovely caste of grey-tinged azure underlain
with the first crimson flush of Arien's brilliant glare. He hastened
his pace, breaking into an exuberant sprint, eager to complete the
pending rites and publicly demonstrate his love for Legolas. Thus,
he was somewhat disconcerted to find the Winter Queen in the little
yurt with his beloved and Elril waiting to speak with him. For all
his plans were interrupted, Elrond received with an open heart the
instruction of his ancient and regal kinsman.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ A Soul-Piercing Experience ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Now, it is true Elrond had thought to meet his sons in their sheltered glade and resolve the remaining vestiges of conflict between them. For his part, the issues had vanished, the evidence in the clearing sufficient to grant him assurance that they would treat their secondary mate well but not try to steal Legolas away from him. That they did not know his new mind-set could be remedied easily at any time and gave the Elf Lord no concern. The reason the meadow in the woods and the delightful
house by the stream were vacant did not worry him and never engaged his curiosity at all, yet had it he would not have been close to guessing the cause. The Twins were absent in order to keep an appointment with Aegas Mirdan and collect from him something
commissioned for Legolas.

It is a testament to the superiority of
their intuitive capabilities that they were hastening there prior to
their unsettling meeting with Thranduil. What they chose as a gift
for their mate's wedding day represented perhaps the most daring
thing the two had ever done since declaring their mutual love. Their
Adar's opinion of the present they could guess, but Legolas'
reaction filled them with mingled trepidation and anticipation,
hoping not to offend yet unable to resist the desire to see him
adorned as they had envisioned on Ened Ethuil.

In the fine
leather jewel case on pristine white silk lay those very chains of
delicate gold, the paired acorn studs, the jade-leaf ornament, and a
set of small mithril rings made to be inserted
through some of the most sensitive regions of an elf's body. This they had with them when Thranduil
arrived shortly after breakfast and not long after Elrond's
unknown visit.

Receiving the rather diffident father's
instructions raised the brothers' spirits immensely and when they in turn
revealed the purchase just concluded, Thranduil's jangled
emotions eased considerably. He left them, first issuing a strong
caution regarding Legolas' rather ragged state of health, going
ahead to stand by and do whatever needed doing to manage Elrond's
response to what came next. The twins set forth for the Wood
Elves' compound, not as buoyant as the nature of their task might
normally make them, but determined to ensure no misery
tarnished Legolas' Gwedhel Aur. They arrived at the glade with the
aid of Faron's direction and stalled just before entering, for their
father's voice was clear to them.

"This is not what I
expected," he was saying, the taint of sadness in his words.
"Is there no one else here to attend this duty? This is our
bonding day. What of Faron, his friend from childhood's
days?"

"Legolas is not comfortable having Faron
assist him in this manner," Thranduil answered calmly. "It
is as you say, they are friends from their earliest memories, but
there are many aspects of one's life unfit to share with a boon
companion. No more would he have Faron witness the babe's birth."

"There is no other. Even were there, I would order
things this way for his good and the child's, for theirs, and for yours also, though
you cannot yet see it, Elrond," Rhûn'waew added with
quiet authority. "Legolas has suffered greatly, this you do not
deny; then give him this, a gift from you more precious than the
rarest gem."

In the ensuing silence, Elladan and Elrohir
cautiously came to the verge of the clearing and halted, watching
through the trees at the unfolding scene, fearful to intrude yet
consumed with the need to meet their father and seal the breach
between them before proceeding. How to manage it defied reason; it was not possible for him to greet
with joy their intrusion upon his delicate bond with Legolas, especially on this day of all days. Even
so his sons stood beneath the pines hoping for his blessing. Though
thousands of years of tradition and custom stood between them and
reconciliation, the brothers would achieve it for the sake of their
mate, their family, and themselves.

A dazzle as of sunlight on water
caught their sight and guided their eyes to the source: the drape shielding the interior of the yurt was fringed in a swaying array of small, finely faceted crystals. There Legolas
peered out from beneath the curtained barrier, holding it across
his naked body for modesty's sake. His eyes were huge and fixed upon
their Adar, but then he felt their presence and turned abruptly, a
faint blush and a shy smile softening his weary features ere he
ducked back inside.

He knows why we are here, then.

And
does not seem averse to the notion.

The Twins shared
amused and tender thoughts for Legolas was nothing but endearing
when he showed his youth so plainly, purity and passion combined.
They took a step and crossed into the open space.

"Aye, I
wish only for him to know he is loved," Elrond finally said and
sighed. Resolutions made in the quiet of a starlit meadow were somehow more difficult to sustain in the brilliant glare of the morning sun. "I will speak with him ere I go." Yet as he turned
from Rhûn'waew and Thranduil he met instead his sons. It was as if all of Arda paused, breathless with both faith and fear in the tension between the three.

They gazed upon one another, lost for how to
manage the situation correctly, Elrond assessing the mood and mien
of his rivals, his sons wary and uncertain of their place, each desiring to do only what would best serve
Legolas. That genuine emotion carried forth, easily recognised in three sets of similar grey eyes, and provided the correct position from which to begin.

Elrond realised there was more required than a mental adjustment, more than stifling a surge of jealousy. He would not only have to find means to accept that Aearen had other mates but to acknowledge them, make room for them within his concept of the bonded union. The notion that he could just push it to the back of his mind, blinding himself to those times when Legolas would be with his sons, evaporated as quickly as mist in sunlight. He had no choice but to share Legolas and now he had to do so without the shield of denial to hide his pride behind. It was galling; what person could bear so great a trespass?

No sooner had the thought engaged his ire than the visions of the five of them together as a family returned, sharp and clear, and he was comforted and strengthened. The scenes were true glances into the life awaiting them all, a time without bitterness between them. Dearly he wanted to reach that place of peaceful harmony and suddenly longed to skip over the intervening days and escape the pain inherent in the journey. He grimaced at this cowardly attitude and looked upon his sons anew. His heart lurched; their eyes betrayed the same mixture of determination and dread assailing him.

Here stood not his rivals but his
sons whom he loved, Elladan and Elrohir, caught in Vairë's net only because they were good and
noble, captured by the irresistible lure of sylvan magic even as
was he. For him, at least there was the bounty of Legolas'
overflowing adoration to make the bondage sweet. All
his sons would ever know was but a faint reflection of that
splendour. A second time he felt glad that their souls were already entwined one with the other. Elrond stepped forward and tendered a dignified bow, hand
over his heart, black hair sweeping the leaves.

"Elo!
You have come, bound by virtue and called by the soul-song of our
sylvan mate, to do for me and for him that which will please Legolas
most on this day of our bonding. It thus pleases me also, and this I
say to you without dissembling or falsity. You are my sons and would
never do wilfully that which might give me pain, this I attest aloud. All
that passed between us these last ten years is like a fog that
cloaked reason and vision, but now it has cleared and we can all
perceive the right path again. I leave in your care that which has
been entrusted to us: the greatest treasure this world holds."
So saying Elrond turned before they could reply, intent upon gaining
admittance to the pavilion, but found he was anticipated.

There
stood Aearen at the entrance, Elrond's robe held tight about his
slender frame, the heavy drape thrust aside, clear blue eyes
gleaming with the light of triumphant pride, his smile dulcet and demure. His mother had
only just finished explaining how important his union with the Twins
was to become and he was no small amount concerned over Nín'ódhel's
reaction. What he had just observed erased all his fears and made him
wish Elrond could stay and accomplish the ensuing task himself.

Seeing
this ardent longing, Elrond's heart could not be checked and he
crossed the distance in seconds, reaching past the barrier to cup
the nape of that long, white neck and pull his beloved into a soft
and fervent kiss.

"Aearen," he whispered, smiling
as he withdrew and they leaned together, forehead to forehead. "Be
at peace and enjoy this." He caressed the long golden hair he
so loved and sealed their lips anew, filling Legolas' need for
permission and acceptance completely. "We will meet for the
ceremony and thereafter we shall not be parted. Besides, there is
something I must attend that cannot wait either; something that I
know will please you."

"A gift? What is it?"
Legolas' eyes lit up and he pulled Elrond closer, hand enmeshed in
the ebony locks.

"It must be secret for now,"
Elrond was glad to see this response even as his heart stumbled over
the obvious fact that a gift was indeed called for and he had
nothing. Legolas' surprise revealed just as plainly he had expected
exactly that. Yet Elrond was resolved to do right and his beloved
was already looking less haggard. The time spent with his sons would
do much to restore the integrity of his exhausted soul. The twinge
of regret that he would not be the one to instill that needed
strength passed between them, but he quickly covered Aearen's lips
with his and prevented any expression of remorse his beloved might
feel moved to voice.

They enjoined a lingering, consuming
kiss infused with frantic, desperate hunger, like a last salute
between lovers parting under the pall of some long and perilous journey
from which one of them might never return. The urgent embrace of voiceless
tongues spoke eternal promises across the meagre barrier of flesh
and bone. Souls soaring, unmindful and uncaring of the audience
bearing witness, the moment distilled, the need for rites and
ceremonies vanished, and the bond between them at last came to
parity. They divided with reluctance and yet remained close, breath
mingling and hearts racing, fingers entwined in tangled hair,
clutching cloth and skin, unwilling to let go.

"I miss you already."

"I will call you to
me at the appointed time."

Elrond released him and turned, without doubt the
single most difficult thing he had ever done in all his long life,
hastening from the glade before he changed his mind and drove
everyone off so to spend his passion with Legolas again. He snatched
Thranduil by the arm and dragged him along, leaving Rhûn'waew
to her grandfather's care. Elril escorted her away with appropriate
dignity and grace, sparing the Twins a glittering appraisal and a
nod of recognition in passing. In seconds the peaceful glade was
empty but for the sons of Elrond and their fair
enchanter.

"Luthadron," Elladan hailed and gave
that silly wave.

"Elladan," Legolas smiled and his
bright eyes shifted to Elrohir. "Come inside." With that
he vanished behind the curtain again.

The Twins, for perhaps
the first time since puberty, found themselves a bit uncertain and
out of their depths. What they had just observed left them awed and
breathless, for the love between Legolas and Elrond had enveloped
the entire glade and set the very trees to singing; no less could
their spirits do. That the two were soul-mates in every sense could
not be denied and the brothers found themselves mesmerised, seeing
this rare and sacred gift, one they themselves shared, but such is
love that every soul imagines the experience to be unique, as it is,
and yet like knows like and recognition is undeniable.

Are
we like that together?

Their hands linked tight and no
other answer was required. They shared a swift embrace, a quiet
kiss, a smile, and standing brow against brow, arms draped across one
another's shoulders, permitted themselves at last to be glad,
genuinely and without restraint, for their father to know such
happiness. Even so, uneasiness invaded their joy, for how could
they imagine trespassing on such a bond? There could be no doubt
that their link to Legolas was subsidiary at best, yet everyone insisted it was necessary and must be nourished. They knew it within themselves, the healing achieved through union with the sylvan prince undeniable, but beliefs ingrained from childhood are the most difficult to counter. They sighed in
unison.

He is waiting.

Aye, and he is watching,
which I suppose is only fair.

Are we ready, then?

No!
Yet we must see this done without letting his potent bond-magic drive us too
far.

What torment! Thranduil is a cruel and heartless
lord.

Nay, don't blame him for the love he bears his son.
Would our Adar feel less rage if the situation was reversed?

No. Let us go in before
Legolas becomes concerned and begins to doubt our intent.

They
looked to him there in the doorway of the little hut and smiled,
each lifting the opposite hand, and were happy to note his bemused expression, reinforced by a slight
shake of his head at them. He held the curtain aside as they neared and
passed by him, letting them see the mithril chain and the
swallow charm. As each bent and kissed him chastely, they could not help notice the hint
of fatigue beneath his cheerful demeanour nor miss the pining
beneath his veneer of welcome, nor mistake for whom he pined.

"That was beautiful,
Luthadron," Elladan said, " you and Adar."

"Aye,"
Elrohir echoed, "never have I seen the like." The brothers
were rewarded abundantly as these simple words fairly made Legolas
bloom, that brilliant smile that could stop their
hearts unfurling.

"It is the first time we have been this close,"
he confided. "Usually he holds back, but not today. I hope it
becomes so commonplace I fail to notice it after time passes."

"I
doubt that kind of love will ever feel commonplace," Elladan
corrected, spontaneously taking Legolas up in a warm hug,
overwhelmed with gentle felicity for this young elf who had suffered
so much and could yet be so unaffected and open-hearted. Lean,
strong arms squeezed him back and then Elrohir's quiet laugh rang
free before he sandwiched Legolas between them.

"I'll
not be left out," he said, failing to squelch the physical
response being pressed up against the Wood Elf's rump, Elladan's
cool grey eyes blazing into his, initiated.

Now it was
Legolas who chuckled, feeling both growing hard and trying to hide
it, a complete impossibility. He did not encourage them, however, feeling no interest in kind. Truly, his night with Nín'ódhel had drained him beyond his physical limits and much as he anticipated what would follow, he could not generate a single lurid thought. He shoved Elladan away and gave Elrohir a sympathetically reproving smirk, glancing to the tell-tale evidence of their desires. Simultaneously, each grinned and shrugged, unapologetic to be caught out in such an awkward state.

"Be at peace," said Legolas, suddenly compassionate over their discomfort. "I am grateful you agreed to fulfil this obligation; it is a tradition I'd thought to be denied. And I must say the pair of you are nearly as far-sighted as Nana. Ada said you had everything already at hand. Elril brought a set with him purchased at the last minute, but it isn't the same as having the jewels designed specifically for me."

"We meant only to present them," Elrohir was quick to state, still worried that their idea might be perceived in a negative light, considering their former attitude toward Legolas. "We wouldn't want to imply any right to adorn you thus."

"Aye, honestly we had no idea this was part of sylvan tradition," Elladan added with a shrug.

"You are prepared to see it through?" asked Legolas and somehow he knew they understood he meant not just the day's events but all of it, their commitment to him and the bond between them, their support and strength throughout the pregnancy. As he watched the brothers shared a long look filled with high hope and mild dread. They faced him and nodded in unison.

"We are," announced Elladan, reaching out a hand to squeeze Legolas' arm. "It is no burden, as we told your Adar."

"No less would we wish," Elrohir affirmed. He hesitated but a heartbeat. "Your Naneth explained to you what your Adar shared with us?"

"Aye." Legolas' answer was quiet and carried an undertone of uncertainty. He found it difficult to meet their compelling grey eyes but forced himself to do it. These were his mates and the bond would see them through the difficulties ahead. They smiled in concert, recognising his resolve.

"We will do for you whatever you require, today and every other day to follow."

"There is no other way to reverse the harm we caused."

"And considering the sort of punishment your family might have demanded, we feel not only relieved but blessed."

"Aye, thus far, what we have gained from you is more than we have given."

"We are healed and would see you whole as well. Permit us to begin balancing the debt, Luthadron."

Legolas' glowing smile sufficiently attested to the success of this speech and the gaze that tracked over them, appreciative and proud of his affect on them, pleased them very much. "Gladly do I accept your gift," he said boldly, though perhaps he felt less sure than his words might suggest, "and welcome your desire to be true mates to me."

Am I imagining his subtle emphasis on the word 'desire'?

No, but we mustn't burden him with our needs. This is all for him and it is time to begin.

They were not so young that they were unable to manage their physical reactions to him and, like their father, were quite capable of enduring and even relishing the juxtaposition of frustration and anticipation the next few hours would bring. In truth, the twins were more concerned about the actual piercing and had at first balked at poking needles through such delicate zones, but then each had assured the other that Elrond's careful training in the healing arts coupled with centuries of tending battlefield injuries made them more than qualified for the simple procedure. Elrohir smiled and held out the jewel case.

Legolas took and opened it eagerly, the loose robe falling open as he did. He caught his breath, seeing the unique design of the acorn studs and realising where they were meant to go, recognising the similarity of the tri-leaf pendant to his necklace. They had thought of this even then and he wondered about that. Did they find it strange for his people to so blatantly celebrate the inescapable drive that joined them together? He traced the light-weight links of the fine chains and recalled Elladan's words: they hadn't guessed the existence of the custom at all. This, then, was purely a fantasy of theirs and one they'd obviously wished to make real. The notion stirred his libido sharply despite his weariness and he found his heart thudding. He smiled, meeting each one's eyes with mischievous joy. "These are perfect," he assured them. "Elrond is going to be instantly aroused and I am going to be the most exquisitely exhausted ellon in Imladris tomorrow."

The brothers laughed lightly but discovered the image this elicited ineffective in ridding them of the mounting lust exposure to Legolas' half-revealed nakedness promoted. They glanced about the room, looking for an appropriate place to proceed. Typical of sylvan tradition, there were no tables other than those of the proper height for use when lounging on the floor amid the ample cushions and bolsters. The luxuriant feather mattress on the rug-strewn ground was draped in a soft coverlet of light green silk and jumbled full of pillows in all sizes and shapes. It was the only surface large enough upon which Legolas could recline while they accomplished their task and the brothers each extended a hand toward it in invitation.

A brief nod accompanied the return of the jewel case to Elrohir as a quick shrug sent the rich velvet robe sliding from Legolas' shoulders. It landed behind him with a hushed sigh, leaving him bare of all but the Twins' bonding necklace and the natural grace of his people. Proud and a little shy at the same time, he took the two steps required to reach the bed and settled cross-legged atop it, hands resting self-consciously atop his knees, eyes regarding them keenly while they prepared to adorn him as the embodiment of the bond enslaving them all.

Each had chosen a different aspect of the work. Elladan made himself busy gathering a table and setting out the tools needed: a small crystal bowl, a bottle of clear spirits, a little leather case in which several surgical needles reposed, some clean cloths, and a flask filled with miruvor. Not having any idea how much pain would accompany the procedure, he nonetheless thought it best not to use any sort of local anaesthetic, recalling Legolas' unusual sensitivity to cinnamon and considering the areas to be pierced. He and Elrohir had discussed the task frankly and he'd had to admit he couldn't jab the Wood Elf's body with anything sharp enough to draw blood. It would thus be Elladan's job to distract Legolas from what was happening and minimise the discomfort. He knelt beside him on the bed.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

"I don't know," Legolas revealed and shivered, watching Elrohir pour spirits in the bowl and drop in the little acorn studs, the tri-leaf jewel, and the small mithril rings. He selected two of the needles from the case and dropped them in to soak as well.

"Don't worry," Elrohir assured, taking his place on the mattress on the other side of the naked elf, eyes wandering freely over the places he would soon be handling. His heart rate doubled and his renewed erection pressed its painful girth against his leggings. "I will be quick and Elladan will make sure the pleasure outweighs the discomfort." He couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like; whether the sudden sharp stab through the slit of Legolas' cock might enhance his orgasm. Mayhap he would experience multiple heights of ecstasy each time he was pierced. Aye, we must try for that.

These silent ruminations made Elladan's eyes widen slightly but he could not disagree and found the visions infectious. Both were eager to begin, caring little for how maddening it would be to incite their mate's passion without being able to evoke release for themselves. That was the only restriction imposed upon them. They were free to stimulate Legolas in any way they thought might please him, but he was not to reciprocate nor could they touch one another. It was as Thranduil had said: a punishment from which they would benefit in the future. If anything, they feared it would be no punishment at all.

Elladan settled one hand over Legolas' small belly. "This being the least sensitive spot, why don't we begin with the leaf ornament?" he suggested.

Legolas nodded and leaned back against Elladan's chest as the elder twin moved behind him. Even through the intervening clothing a hot, swollen penis made its presence felt against his naked arse and he shifted closer, registering Elladan's poorly repressed grunt with a mixture of regret and exultant triumph. Lips nuzzled into his hair and against his ear. A tongue darted out and briefly lapped its tip, sending a delicious shudder all the way down to his cock, no longer flaccid, and Legolas reached for it. Instantly Elladan removed the eager fingers, replacing them with his own, and tugged the filling shaft playfully.

"My job," he whispered, taking another taste of the ear and relishing the sensation of the velvety organ slowly growing rigid in his hand. He pumped, a languid, relaxed motion. Legolas' breath noticeable quickened and he abruptly turned to offer the other ear. Elladan gave his brother a minute nod as he complied.

Legolas' eyes had drifted shut under Elladan's skillful attention, but the sudden sensation of something cold and wet swabbing over his navel made them open wide. He watched Elrohir cleansing the little fold of skin then got sidetracked as Elladan's thumb expertly massaged the glans of his cock. His sight diverted to watching the hand around his penis, flexing his pelvis to enhance the contact, willing the thumb to repeat its erotic caress. It did and in that instant a flash of pain jolted him, pulsing through his nerves right to the tip of his erection. As the sensation diminished he saw the jade jewel embedded neatly in the little hollow atop his stomach. The tiny hole through which the gold pin anchored it to his flesh tingled faintly but nothing more. He raised his eyes to Elrohir, the question in them needing no words.

"It's beautiful," he assured, his voice bright with relief as he flicked the leaves and sent them dancing, glad the deed was done and proud to have done it well.

Legolas grinned, pleased with the way the jewel shifted over his skin with his every breath, deciding the sensation of weight, like that of a pebble resting on his stomach, was not irritating as he'd worried it might be. Before he had time to imagine Elrond's reaction, fingers softly stroked across his chest, dragging against nipples already erect; the sudden contact made him flinch. Attention instantly diverted, he watched as the roving digits pinched one of the ruby nodes and initiated a spasm of pleasure that rippled down to his groin where pelvis and penis rocked in spontaneous salute.

"These next," Elladan whispered behind him, "and it may take some time to prepare you for it."

So saying, he set about rhythmically squeezing and tugging, pulling and releasing the nipples, first one then its twin. Legolas arched against him, a quick gasp announcing his excitement. Under Elladan's touch, the tender tips grew tumid and hot, the desire to taste them unbearable, but before he could act Elrohir beat him to it, leaning over to greedily suck at the firm, ripe flesh. In seconds the brothers had their young mate flat on his back, feasting on the delicious tidbits, alternating left and right in perfect harmony, Elladan still jealously controlling stimulus to the sylvan's cock while Elrohir's fingers dived lower and dipped inside the slick cavity behind the balls.

Legolas' response was predictably sensational. Desperately he spread his thighs, inviting deeper penetration, and moaned a soft note of needy complaint, knowing neither one of his lovers would be able to answer his demands. He had not envisioned this frustration, believing he was too tired to generate sufficient interest, and squirmed under the combined assault, lifting into the suction, trembling in rapturous tremors when teeth bit down and pulled the soft, red tissue. Frantic, he clutched at the coverlet and watched as the right nipple was stretched unbearably and then slowly escaped from Elladan's mouth, snapping free and quivering as he gasped and panted. The next second Elrohir swooped in and devoured it and thus they traded sides once more. The relentless fist slapped lazily as it slid easily up and down his slickened shaft and the fingers inside dug deeper, probing for the hidden gland. He exhaled a huge breath, nearly a sob, for the spot could not be stroked this way.

"Please," he choked out, shuddering as they switched again. "I can't…I need to…" He couldn't go on and abruptly all contact ceased. He peered beseechingly into identical grey eyes filled with concern and regret.

"We can't," murmured Elladan.

"It's forbidden," added Elrohir. He met his brother's eyes. Unless we can find something else to use besides our cocks.

Aye, where is that box of toys Faelon mentioned?

"Over there, under that blue cushion," Legolas' words were more moaned than spoken and the Twins gaped at one another in amazement.

They decided his remarkable response to the unspoken thoughts was coincidence; their idea was not really so difficult to divine. Quickly Elladan found the collection of erotic playthings and rummaged amid the contents with interest even though what he wanted was readily evident. Grinning with salacious delight he drew out the garnets for Elrohir to see, but was at once sorry for it. In a trice Legolas was on his feet, snatched the bulbous red gems from his hands, cheeks nearly the same colour, and stuffed them inside the small wooden box he'd made to hold them. The latch shut with a sharp and censorious click as he turned away, wrapping his arms about him and trying to hide his body and his dismay.

"That is private," he said quietly and though he knew no harm was meant he felt wronged, as if they'd spied on him and Elrond for their amusement.

The silence was horrible. The brothers didn't know what to do, never having encountered this kind of problem before, and Legolas was upset without being able to explain why, even to himself. Elladan sighed and set a hand gently on his shoulder.

"Forgive me," he offered. "I wasn't thinking clearly."

"We didn't mean to pry," added Elrohir, joining them and wrapping a consoling arm about the distraught Wood Elf.

"I know; I just…I think we should leave those things alone, that's all."

Legolas knew this must sound childish but he couldn't help it. No matter how wondrous their experienced techniques made him feel, the Twins were still strangers for the most part. This was not the sort of thing he wanted them to know about him, though he knew they must anyway, and again he couldn't define his concerns. He truly did not want them inserting the phallus carved to match Elrond's penis into him, bringing him to orgasm while they watched. Yet, the idea made him shiver with undeniable craving, delicious in its dark decadence.

Unbidden his secret fantasy arose: he was on his knees bent over their prone bodies sucking them, one long cock in each fist as his mouth moved from one to the other while they strained for access. Their hands tangled in his hair as they tried to get both erections in at once, crying for him to finish them, and all the while Elrond fucked him slow and hard from behind, shoving them deeper down his throat, ramming his prostate with each thrust, all of them wailing in ecstasy as they came together. Face afire and pulse pounding, he wondered if the Twins would be disgusted by this lurid scenario or intrigued.

The incongruity over this lavish, four-way phantasm and his bashfulness over having the Twins know what he liked to do alone with Elrond was not lost on Legolas and served to confuse him even more. In vain he scolded his prudish reaction, unable to comprehend that he was awash in guilt and resentment, aware only that he was ashamed of his needs and fearful of having them known, exhausted from the long night salving Elrond's anguished soul, depressed that none of his mates seemed aware of the deplorable state of his, and now he'd spoiled the piercing ritual, too. All of this turmoil was influenced strongly by his body's efforts to cope with the radical shifts in hormones imposed by the pregnancy. Suddenly terrified he might break down in tears, Legolas exhaled a forlorn groan and slumped against Elrohir, face burrowing into the midnight mane.

"Why can't it be simple?" he complained.

"Nae, few lives are simple, yet yours is indeed more complex than most," agreed Elrohir, softly rubbing the sylvan's back. "I'm sorry we complicated things."

"It just keeps getting worse," pouted Legolas, pulling free only to go and throw himself face down on the bed. How was he supposed to juggle three mates and make them all happy? And now there's a child, too. Where am I in all this? Who will see to my happiness? The jade leaves caught on the blanket and pinched his skin and suddenly he was furious to be glorifying the bondage that had forever altered his life. He rolled back over, intending to rip the ornament out, but instead found Elladan beside him holding tight to his wrist, effectively preventing the violent act.

"I didn't mean to spoil it, Legolas, truly," he said. "It's true we've been curious about the garnets; we couldn't help it, but I should not have intruded on your privacy."

Legolas, engulfed in his misery, had quite forgotten what the catalyst of his black mood had been. Wide-eyed he stared at Elladan's stricken face, shocked back into reality. "Ai! Nay, Elladan, I'm not angry about that, not really. It's as Elrohir said, everything is just overwhelming. I feel like I'm trapped in a pit and can't climb out." He blinked, only just that instant realising this was exactly what he felt and his temper exploded with volcanic energy.

"This isn't what I wanted; I'm a warrior not a pretty little pet to amuse and delight the mighty Lords of Imladris!" He twisted out of Elladan's hold and leaped up to prowl the yurt, shoving Elrohir aside and kicking at the robe he'd discarded. He abruptly realised this was the same fury he'd unleashed upon Elrond and didn't care, deeming all his mates should partake of his wrath just as they shared his body. "I never wanted this and I don't want it now! I will unbind myself from the lot of you, so help me; there must be a way to reclaim who I was before… I am a prince among my people and I won't be reduced to…I won't be traded back and forth like a…like I don't really belong to anyone at all. And I don't want to be a life-bearer!"

The words were out before he realised it and Legolas gasped in horror, struck dumb by both the audacity required to utter such a terrible thing and the sad fact that it was nothing less than the truth. All colour drained from his face as the anger receded and he found himself peering at identical countenances replete with astonishment, dismay, and disbelief. His head dropped low in shame and self-loathing, unable to hold their boggled stares. He stumbled back to the bed and sat heavily, hands delicately covering the hidden child as if the tiny soul was already broken. Tears blurred his eyes and he shut them.

"Nay, Tinu Mîn, nay I didn't mean it, not that last, not really," he whispered and startled when two sets of arms enveloped him, two heads leaned against his, and two voices murmured in support and love.

"He knows that."

"Aye, your love is so abundant it spills over onto us."

"Who certainly don't deserve any at all."

"If you can learn to love us, how could you not love the babe?"

"Perhaps you never planned to have children, yet you want this one desperately."

"What you reject is the way all choice was stolen away from you. Everything that has happened since that day in Eregion has been forced upon you."

"Even the child you were compelled to create," said Elrohir bluntly and settled his fingers over Legolas' mouth before he could disagree. "Whatever your reason, it was not because you wanted to be a life-bearer and that is the point."

"Aye, and if anyone has the right to rail a bit against fate, you do," added Elladan and kissed his temple. "We know you would die that the child might live and if we know it he knows it all the more."

"Aye," said Legolas, his surprise evident, and looked from one to the other, wondering how they came so suddenly to be so wise.

Together Elrohir and Elladan eased Legolas into the piled up cushions, careful to keep him safely sandwiched between them, and urged him to speak of his lost hopes and broken dreams. Legolas talked for hours and they let him, never interrupting except to caress or hug him as need demanded, listening intently as he told them of who he was before that day in Eregion.

He described his life in Greenwood, his exalted reputation as the best archer under the trees, his place in the family, his role in the defence of the forest. He painted for them the scenes of dire battles he had fought and revealed the plot to topple the black spike of Dol Guldur and run the Wraiths from his woods. He introduced them to Galbreth and the close bond between them; he explained about his Nana's foresight and what her prophesy meant to him; what it ultimately meant to his father. He poured out his waking nightmare that his Adar would trade him away to a foreign land to be the mate of some foreign Lord, desired solely for the bragging rights possessing a spouse with his unique physique permitted. He revealed that he'd refused to acknowledge his natural desires when they began to arise, denying that he could want to be mated to anyone much less another male who might get him with child.

It all came to nothing and by his will had his future been stolen, his identity erased. Legolas told them what he had only explained to Elrond before and at last they understood how he'd come to be in Eregion and why he'd felt the need to make life. Even that purpose had proved false and now he was left with this convoluted mess to unravel. How could he divide up his heart and soul between three mates who were not sylvan and didn't understand the bond? How could he love three mates who, being father and sons, could never come to terms with loving him jointly? How could he be a good parent, aiding his son to grow and develop, when he didn't even know who he was anymore? How could he nurture a child to maturity when he felt as bewildered and vulnerable as any elfling would?

It was almost noon when he finished and lay quiescent between them, exhausted but lighter in spirit, glad to have finally voiced his sorrows so fully, amazed that it was to them he gave this trust. Perhaps it was because they were strangers that he was able to reveal such things; things too painful to express to his parents, too humiliating to discuss with Faron, too damning to express to Elrond. He didn't expect them to have the answers to his dilemma and was in truth glad they didn't try to solve everything with some trite phrases or quotes of ancient wisdom. They simply acknowledged and validated all he had said and in the end he was just grateful to have someone with whom to mourn the ellon he once had been and now could never be.

After a time, Elrohir stirred and spoke:

"This is not the life you chose, but it will be a good life," he said, "though not perhaps an easy one."

"And it is true you are no longer what you once were, but we love you as you are now," Elladan remarked. "As for Adar, he is too blinded by love to understand how you can grieve over what you've lost. In his eyes, you are perfect."

"Whatever fate doles out, you are not to face it alone, Luthadron," they said as one.

He sighed, realising he must be content with that promise as there was no way to alter the past. Before more could be said, noisy commotion outside the hut announced the arrival of someone who plainly did not want to go unnoticed. A slight cough preceded a brief explanation:

"Try and encourage Legolas to eat something," Elril's ancient voice reached them, filled with amused affection, "before looking in the bag." There was a pause and then he called out again, a bit farther away. "Oh, and no miruvor for him. And make him sleep, too, when you're done doing whatever it is you're doing in there." A mild snicker faded into silence as he left them then.

"I don't think he believes we can abstain until after the bonding rites," huffed Elrohir.

"How rude, to impugn our characters so baldly," muttered Elladan.

"Hîr Elril is very old and knows almost everything," retorted Legolas, "but that doesn't mean he doubts your resolve. Let's see what he brought." He clambered over the Twins, presenting a tantalising display of his hind quarters as he went, and cautiously cracked the curtain over the door. "He's gone," he announced and darted out and back, "and left a basket of food and this leather bag." The brothers joined him, one relieving him of the small satchel, the other taking the cold picnic. "Open it," demanded Legolas, pointing to the bag.

"Nay, I am inspired to obey your protector," intoned Elrohir, holding the leather sack close to keep Legolas from grabbing it away. "He might be up in the trees just waiting to report our errors to your Ada."

"We've no wish to tempt Aran Thranduil's wrath again," added Elladan. "Sit and eat first." They did so, Legolas suddenly realising he was famished and wolfing down most of the food himself, the speed with which he did so making the Twins smile.

"Now you may do the honours, Luthadron," said Elrohir and held out the mysterious bag.

Legolas snatched it up and opened it, the brothers leaning close and peering in. There was a small box similar to the jewel case the Twins had brought, but that was summarily ignored in favour of the other object. At the bottom of the sack rested a unique devise composed of smooth, supple leather with a short wooden handle at one end. The shape was unmistakable and wholly indecent. Elladan fished it out and examined it appreciatively, feeling the subtle give of the stuffed tool with interest.

"Sawdust?" he wondered, passing it into Legolas' demanding hands.

"Nay, more like fine sand," the Wood Elf disagreed, squeezing the firm phallus in his fist. The girth was perfect and the length more than sufficient. Salacious hunger transformed his features as he glanced from Elrohir to Elladan and shoved the toy back into the elder brother's grasp. "Come on, I want to try it." He was back on the bed in a second, legs wide and knees up.

The brothers were frozen in place for a moment enjoying the sight, then Elladan elbowed his brother.

"Anything in that satchel to make it slick?"

"Aye. This ancient kinsman of ours is highly resourceful."

"And infinitely wise. We must make certain to thank him."

"Enough talk," Legolas glared at them between his parted knees, "about Elril."
Elrohir retrieved the vial of oil, discarded the bag, and raced to the bed, Elladan on his heels. At first they vied for who should have the privilege of inserting the tool inside their eager mate, but since Elrohir was the one doing the piercing Elladan won by default.

With practised speed he uncorked the oil and poured some out, making sure to let Legolas watch him smooth it over every inch of the leather cock. Noting how stiff and dark the Wood Elf's penis had become, he took hold of it and stroked it a few times with his oily hand, so to camouflage the moment of penetration. When Legolas was suitably distracted, he shoved it in all the way to its handle, immensely pleased to feel the shaft in his hand quiver as a thrilling tremor racked the naked body on display. He pulled the phallus out a bit and rammed it back in, certain he was striking the hidden pleasure zone though the sylvan was as silent as usual.

"I think he likes it," snickered Elrohir. He watched a while as Elladan fucked him with the toy, relishing the way Legolas jerked and shook, hands knotted in the coverlet, sweat breaking out over his rosy skin. He swooped in and kissed the parted lips savagely and quickly for Legolas could barely breathe. Glancing back he saw Elladan sucking Legolas' cock, humming in time with his plunging hand. "Keep it up just so."

He gathered one of the needles and one of the studs from the crystal bowl, shifting along the bed to a better position. Smiling, he met Legolas' dreamy expression, openly awash in the rising tide of pleasure, and bent to resume the enjoyable task of preparing the engorged nipples for piercing, suckling and biting randomly, delighted to feel fingers entwine within his hair as a shaky cry graced the air. A whispery phrase followed it, something indecipherable in Nandorin. Elrohir's soul expanded and met his brother's, exulting over the response their attentions brought forth. Time became meaningless; after offering Legolas nothing but anguish and sorrow for so long, they became lost in the pleasure of giving him joy. Then the hand was yanking Elrohir's mane in a half-hearted kind of way and he withdrew to peer at Legolas.

"Going to come," he husked, struggling for air and trying to hold back, but Elladan knew what he was doing and there was no denying the impending release.

"Aye, come for us, Luthadron," Elrohir murmured and pushed the needle through the ruddy flesh, inserting the stud at once and screwing the end down tight.

For a second Legolas remained poised on the pinnacle of surrender, then a small abrupt grunt escaped his body. He shimmied and shook, the orgasm rippling through him in gentle swells of sweet release, keenly aware of Elladan's tongue lapping across the tingling slit and vaguely sensing the swift prick of pain through his nipple. The discomfort was minimal, not nearly as sharp as the clamps Elrond liked to use, but enough to raise the ecstasy higher, a small pulsing connection between his penis and the excited node.

Just as it began to fade another flash of heat shot through his chest and he opened his eyes wide, focusing on Elrohir's fingers as they secured the second stud. He peered down at the little chunks of golden metal glinting against the dark red buds and tentatively touched one. Immediately a sharper spasm raced through the nerves and he exhaled a decadent moan. He flopped against the downy mattress, smiling when the twins crawled alongside him, each lightly kissing one pierced nipple.

"Amazing," whispered Elladan.

"Glorious," sighed Elrohir.

"Do my ears now," demanded Legolas.

Shifting his legs against the fat phallus still inside him, he wondered if it was even possible to get hard again after so much stimulation and decided he didn't need to worry about it. He was too relaxed to care. There wasn't a hint of tension anywhere in his being and he thought it would be lovely to drift into reverie while the Twins finished the piercing, though he knew once they started on his ears he would never be able to remain so deliciously lax and languid.

The soft swipe of a warm wet tongue across the left ear-tip reinforced the truth as his heart leaped and he became acutely aware of the heavy swath of black hair tickling his skin. He reached into the satiny strands and held on. Two sets of fingers simultaneously plucked the studs through his nipples and every nerve vibrated with the same bright note of joyous delight. "Ai Valar," he whispered, opening eyes he hadn't realised he'd shut. Matched smirks and dancing grey depths met his gaze, calling forth an answering smile. "The things you do to me, Atata Îdê."

"Ah, Luthadron, only what you wish." A pet-name!

"Only what will please you." Aye, but what does it mean? And for who? That's an old tongue, indeed.

The mental image of Legolas' very young and sensuous tongue was simply more interesting than deciphering their mate's obscure language and the brothers took turns tasting the mobile red muscle, pausing at intervals to make sure he could breathe well enough to remain conscious. The scattered, pleasure-dazzled glaze beneath golden lashes assured them the treatment was appreciated. Elladan dipped his head for another helping and was surprised to find his advance rebuffed by a sharp tug on his hair. Pulling back, he faced an impatient Wood Elf, the scowl marring his fair features only half-pretence.

"The ears," reminded Legolas.

"As you command, Ernil-en-mín-Ind," Elrohir could not help laughing, liking the more assertive attitude and pleased to see fresh aspects of the sylvan's personality emerging. "Allow me to assist you, Luthadron, for this magnificent mane of vibrant gold must be restrained for a time." Though his eyes were on the yellow tresses, his hand made quick work of pulling the phallus free as Elladan sat Legolas upright, both enjoying the little shiver that ran through the naked ellon.

Then Elrohir indulged his obsession with hair for a time, combing his fingers through the shimmering strands before braiding them all together in a single long plait. Now the ears were fully exposed and shaded a deep rosy red. The brothers couldn't resist the impulse to stroke them and Legolas clutched to whatever his hands could find for support, gripping one's knee and the front of the other's tunic. Neither minded in the least, lost in the appreciation of the soft skin of the fleshy point. Silently they debated whether there was any place on the enticing form before them any softer and this at once prompted a lengthy series of comparative rubbing and touching over various sensitive spots. Legolas, unaware of the motivation for this impromptu exploration, nonetheless found he had no difficulty become aroused again. The analysis ended in a draw, Elrohir adamant that the ears possessed the softest and most velvety texture on Legolas' topography while Elladan disagreed.

"Nay, 'tis here, muindor, the very tip of this lovely erection is surely softer to the touch," so attesting, he traced his initial over the hot, slick glans, the pressure of his finger unbearably light and teasing.

"Ai, Elladan!" Legolas gasped out, watching this, and reached for the retreating hand before it could get away, pressing it to his rigid cock. "Don't stop."

Gratified to invoke such a demanding reply, Elladan fisted the warm column of red flesh, stroking in short quick jolts that had Legolas twitching where he sat. While that tended to impede any possibility of the piercing continuing, it did enhance the effect of Elrohir's lips where they nibbled and sucked the Wood Elf's ears. The Twins silently agreed they were working to provoke one of the soft trills Legolas made during intimacy, a sound to which they'd been exposed only twice. They'd identified at once the state of excitement necessary to elicit the unique vocal signal and thenceforth considered it the benchmark of their prowess in pleasing the sylvan. Thus far each had succeeded in bringing it forth and competition over who would be able to repeat the experience was intense.

Legolas knew nothing of that but surely benefited the more for it. The sensations were quickly overwhelming him, though it would be long before he would climb to the heights of orgasm again. He shifted into a different state, something he had never experienced, almost a somatic version of Ôlpathu where thought and feeling perfectly merged. Unconsciously, he gave voice to an entirely new sort of song, a wordless, double note, a rising and falling sigh ringing along a continuum of pure contentment. He was utterly lost to what was happening, no longer differentiating separate actions but experiencing the twins' ravishing hands and lips as one spectacular fire of scintillating impulses coursing through his being. It was like gliding along the crest of orgasm, free to dip into the bottomless well of ecstasy while never falling. When the first ring passed through his ear, Legolas passed out.

"Ai!" the brothers cried as one, each grabbing the lax body as Legolas went limp. Carefully they laid him on his back and could not help feeling smugly self-satisfied over the expression of peaceful jubilation that remained in his open eyes. Without further ado, Elrohir inserted the remaining ring and was not surprised when this raised barely a flutter of golden lashes. Legolas was in deep reverie, no doubt enjoying a replay of recent events. There was only one more piercing to complete and the brothers looked doubtfully from the lovely mithril ring to their exhausted mate's spent penis. It was their understanding that the easiest way to accomplish this last and most delicate of the procedures was to make sure Legolas was erect and ready to pop.

Should have started there and worked upwards.

Can't be helped now. Do we wait? He is far beyond fatigue and this rest is vital.

True, but the day advances and this must be done. He can sleep until the ceremony once we're finished here.

I'm glad you're doing it. Just thinking about forcing a sharp metal needle into the slit and out through the skin makes me feel ill.

Coward. I will be quick and perhaps he won't awaken.

They both recognised this for the ridiculous notion it was and determined to minimise the stress Legolas would undergo. Elrohir retrieved the leather cock from the floor where he'd tossed it, his face contorting in disgust as he inspected it. The oily coating had formed a crusty surface to which bits of leaves, dust, dirt, and lint adhered. "I don't think this is meant to be reusable," he commented and decided to get rid of it, retrieving the bag so to carry it away later. The weight of the sack reminded him of the box inside and he dumped it out on the bed. His eyes met his brother's in wicked curiosity. "Do you suppose?"

"Yes," Elladan grinned and grabbed the little case, opening it in such haste its contents spilled into his lap. It was a beautifully faceted set of royal blue stones linked on a sturdy mithril chain, four in all in graduated sizes from the diameter of his thumb to that of a hen's egg. "There can now be no doubt that Elril is indeed our kinsman," announced Elladan, "for it becomes obvious that certain predilections run in the bloodlines."

Elrohir laughed at that and took up the pleasure balls. "These look just like the garnets; do you suppose they were made from troll guts, too?"

"Ai! Must you spoil every lovely image with a gruesome reference?" complained Elladan, but the likelihood of his brother's idea being true was high. Perhaps these gems had been made from one of Legolas' earlier kills in Greenwood. He sighed, deciding he would just have to focus on the image of Legolas being bold and brave as he fought his foe instead of imagining the Wood Elf carving out the bloody heart of the vanquished monster. He shuddered. For all the killing he did, Elladan was not proud of it and wanted no trophies to remind him of the numbers dispatched by his blade.

A hand landed on his shoulder and he looked up into Elrohir's understanding face. A moment of commiseration passed between them in which each reaffirmed the necessity of their vow and comforted one another over the strain it placed upon their hearts. Both felt immensely grateful for the peace being with Legolas gave them. He simply accepted this aspect of their existence, never questioning the validity of their quest nor pointing out its ultimate futility. Though he slumbered through this communion, Legolas was intricately bound up in it and this was a new experience for the Twins. Never before had their been another with whom to share such feelings. Carefully they stretched beside him and cuddled him close, nuzzling at his neck and placing soft kisses against his cheeks, the erotic toy forgotten. He stirred and murmured in pleased contentment but did not wake and the brothers found it difficult to disengage from this embrace of spirits.

"We must finish this," Elladan at last announced, speaking the words in grim fortitude as though the task ahead was some dire challenge set upon them by the Valar.

"True, and I don't know but that it will make it impossible to give him back to Adar after all. This gets more complicated every minute," agreed Elrohir. "I suppose its the way we were raised, but binding him in rings and chains really makes me feel my claim on him the more."

"Aye, except it is our claim and in fact it is he who has our souls on a leash. And if we need clarification on whose claim is foremost we need look no further than this little jewel here," Elladan's fingers touched on the tri-leaf ornament embedded in Legolas' navel. "This is not our child, Elrohir."

That was enough to sober them both and they sat up, gazing in mixed appreciation and disappointment at Legolas, for he might have been theirs alone had things been handled differently once not so many years ago. Yet he was beautiful and it was simply impossible to look upon him long and still remain unhappy. Together they inhaled a fortifying breath and silently agreed to commence with the final piercing, accepting their lesser place in his heart without rancour.

Elladan took up the sapphire globes and Elrohir dropped the mithril ring and another needle into the bowl of spirits. While his brother coated the largest gem with the oil, the younger twin reached up and tugged on one of the small hoops gracing the Wood Elf's ear-tip.

Legolas' twitched and his eyes blinked and just as Elladan inserted the first ball he awoke. The sensation of the hard jewel being pushed inside the tender invagination made him part his legs and groan, but then he thought about what was going in him and at once imagined the garnets. His face flushed and he rolled to his side, kicking away Elladan's hand and reaching for the chain. The jewel came free as he dragged himself away from their grasping arms and snatched it to him. He stood, intending to unleash his fury and order them from the hut and only then did he realise the nature of the object in his clasp. He stared at the slick blue stone, mouth ajar, and then raised contrite eyes to theirs. "Oh," he said sheepishly but they were smiling.

"Come back here, naked wood sprite, and let us play with you," coaxed Elladan.

"We promise you'll enjoy it," added Elrohir.

"Another gift from Hîr Elril?" asked Legolas, returning to sit between them. He dutifully returned the toy to Elladan's waiting palm.

"Indeed. He seems determined to enhance our encounter today," Elrohir said and gave one of the earrings another tug. He exulted in the sharp gasp this forced from Legolas. "Is that good?" He did it again.

"Ai! Yes!" Legolas gaped at him. "I didn't think it would make that much difference. Do it again." They both took a ring and twisted it slightly. The feeling went straight to his cock and he whimpered. "Ai Valar, the things you do to me! Elladan, the gems, please!" Legolas reclined on his elbows and raised his knees, exposing his unique genitalia, watching in avid delight as Elladan pushed the cold, hard stone inside him. He moaned and let his head fall back, shuddering when Elrohir tweaked the pierced ear again. The second sapphire was poised for entry and followed the first, forcing it deeper.

One by one Elladan crammed them in until all four were deep inside the Wood Elf's body, the largest resting against his prostate, producing the most maddeningly erotic itch. The constant attention to his ears was enhanced as Elrohir decided to use his tongue, freeing his fingers to play with the golden studded nipples. They rose to rigid points as every nerve in Legolas' body came alive. Between his legs, his cock was filling again, growing dark and gathering the balls up tight against its root.

He jerked wildly when a cool, wet dollop of oil landed right on the head and immediately a firm hand enveloped the organ, smearing the lubrication from crown to base. He struggled to lift his head and see which one was stroking him thus but was distracted when teeth bit down on his nipples, first one and then its twin. Legolas decided he didn't need to sort out who did what and gave in to the experience, hoping to drop into that newly discovered state of Srawâ Olsol and there remain for as long as possible. What Elrohir was going to do to his cock gave him both a tremor of fear and a thrill of desire. He wanted to tell him to wait until he was riding that incredible wave, that unending tide of mounting pleasure, but couldn't gather the words or sufficient energy to speak.

He needn't have worried, for both Twins were observing his responses keenly, enthralled by the sight of him slipping away from reality into a place they could only imagine, wishing dearly to join him there. Now did the punishment of Thranduil make itself felt, for it was plain that Legolas was experiencing something that far surpassed the standard benefits sexual union was known to give. That this was a state only they had as yet been able to engender made them hard beyond their normal capacity and the ache to plunge their cocks in with the sapphires grew in accord. Legolas would not stop them from doing as they pleased, this they knew, and the temptation was great. What prevented them was the absolute trust of their mate.

Slowly Elladan pulled the mithril chain and the smallest of the gems popped free. To this Legolas barely quivered, the change almost imperceptible. Elrohir felt his pulse leap, however, and sent silent confirmation to his brother, urging him to continue.

The second sapphire slipped out and now Legolas groaned, for the largest gem dragged over his prostate at last. He strained against the gathering explosion and tried to focus on what was happening. Elrohir ceased teasing his nipples and retrieved something form the crystal bowl; Elladan stopped stroking him and held his penis up straight. The third ball was yanked from his body and the last followed swiftly, but just before it came free Elrohir pushed the needle through his cock and secured the mithril ring in place. Legolas howled, undoubtedly the loudest outcry he had ever made during sex, and shook in a paroxysm of pain and delight. Only a small trickle of clear fluid eased from the tip of his wounded shaft but the sensation was sufficient to send him reeling into oblivion.

"Valar! Almost makes me want to have you do it to me, too," murmured Elrohir, gazing in unabashed awe at the flushed, sweaty, and unarguably sated figure sprawled on the mattress.

"Nay, banish the thought, muindor. I could never keep my hands steady enough. I would damage you terribly." Elladan lay beside Legolas with a happy sigh as Elrohir put away the needles and the sapphires. He stretched out his arm to caress
his slumbering mate and let his touch come to rest upon the small swell
beneath which the babe grew, and there he spread his hand wide,
noting how its breadth nearly spanned Legolas' abdomen. The lovely new jewel pressed into his palm and he smiled, imagining how content the child must be to know his Ada was so at peace. Then he wondered whether the little one would view his unusual parent as his mother and found the notion just a tad bit funny, considering Legolas' adamant insistence to remain a warrior first and foremost. All at once the babe's
spirit, bright and pure and mirroring his mirth, was easy to detect; Elladan's heart
leaped to feel it.

"Ai, Elrohir, the little one knows
us," he announced in breathless joy.

"Nay, that
cannot be," Elrohir declaimed as he clambered onto the bed, but willingly let his brother
place his palm over the Wood Elf's naval. A warm smile transformed
his features as he sensed the child and felt a small, faint glimmer
touch his soul. "This is wondrous indeed," he whispered.
"No longer do I doubt the King's words; our light shall nourish
this little one."

"Strange, to be involved in our
brother's development this way. I wonder if this is common for the
sylvan folk."

"No, Thranduil said such bonds as
this are rare."

"I meant whether all members of a
family contribute directly to the soul-light of unborn
babes."

"Perhaps it is so."

They fell
quiet and rested on the bed beside their mate, each one
propped up on an elbow facing the recumbent form, and bent to kiss
the angelic face, sharing gleeful smiles when Legolas sighed and
shifted, reaching for them even as he slept, entwining his fingers
in their ebony hair. The Twins snuggled closer until they lay flush
against him, one to ether side, and then Legolas settled into deeper
sleep, eyes almost shut, breath deep and slow, heart-beat light and
quick.

Ah, Luthadron, could you ever love us enough to give us such a gift? Elladan could not help hoping but never meant to reveal his secret wish, not yet at any rate. Thus, he was stunned when Legolas stirred and blinked up into his eyes, expression serious and fully aware.

"Perhaps, some day, but I'll not make the same mistake twice. We'd all have to agree," Legolas answered. Then his eyelids closed for a few seconds as he tumbled back into the depths of healing sleep. Beside him, Elladan pillowed his head on the firm little belly and wept.

TBC

~ ~ Glossary ~
~

Mîl Ovor: Abundant Love

Gwedhel Aur: Bonding Day

Atata Îdê: Two Hearts (primitive elvish)

Ernil-en-mín-Ind: Prince of our Hearts

Srawâ Olsol: Body Dreaming (primitive elvish)

NOTE: Finally, an update to Aearlinn. This is really long and I don't know if it should have been cut further, but obviously I am done with it. Maybe it's two chapters or three, but Elrond's awakening conscience and maturing spirit are linked with his sons' emerging roles as real mates. Hope the idea of the five of them as a family is not unsettling, though I know some will shudder a little bit over it. They must reach consensus and accord or tragedy results.

The reprise of Legolas' angry outburst seemed appropriate to me; the Twins have treated him terribly and why should he just ignore the pain that caused him? I don't think any normal person could. I have not forgotten Erestor (or Arwen). There is something in store for him no one could disagree is sufficient punishment so Legolas will no doubt be moved to pity him rather than take him to task. Poor Erestor :(

I hope everyone enjoyed the scenes with the twins and the piercing was not ugly or gruesome. I did not go into much graphic detail with it so I hope it doesn't seem superficial either. Can't tell. But this chapter is for Galad-en-Elen, who expressed the desire to see the piercing done. Thank you so very much to everyone who has given me support and kind words through what has been and continues to be a truly horrible time. Every day is a struggle right now and knowing you good people are out there in the world, wishing me well and sending me positive energy, keeps me going. Literally.
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Aearlinn

Aearlinn - Mîl Ovor

~ ~ Glossary ~ ~

~ ~ Glossary ~
~