The Gift

The Gift

Posted: February 2005
Title: The Gift
Author: Tindulaith
Type: FCS
Characters: Elladan/Elrohir
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: I don't own the twins but I love to play with them.
Warnings: mild slash, implied twincest

Summary: Imladris Slash Fic Challenge - Love with no sex.

*****

Elladan's POV

I was exhausted, both mentally and physically. I had just completed another round of intensive study with Mithrandir and my head was reeling with the effort; I would never remember all that he had taught me, never. I entered the suite of rooms I shared with Elrohir and sighed sadly as I saw that he still had not returned. He had been gone for several weeks now on this latest sortie with Glorfindel and there had still been no word of them; Adar later told me that I should not even look for their return until the turning of the leaves. I sank moodily into a chair and placed my pounding head in my hands. Gods, how I ached for his touch; to feel his warm body nestled within my arms as I slept; to awaken each morning to his eager, sweet kisses.

I sighed once again and hauled my body up from the chair and into the bathing chamber where I stripped off my robes and slowly unbraided my ebony hair. I combed my fingers through its length and could not help but think of Elrohir doing this very same task for me. He loved my hair; loved to wrap its length about him as we made passionate love to one another. Loved to run his hands through the midnight mass of it and then bury his face among the thick tresses. I shut my eyes and remembered his hands upon me and a shiver rippled over my shoulders. I slowly opened my eyes to the solitary reality of the bath and stepped down into the hot, swirling waters and let my tired body sink down into the warmth of its caress. The water felt incredible as it wafted around and over my tired flesh and my hair drifted out atop the surface of the steaming pool like an inky cloud. I laid my head back against the rim of the bath and allowed my senses to absorb the pungent aroma of the spiced candles and I thought about what I would give to my brother on his arrival home.

Elrohir and I did not often gift one another so that anyone took notice; it was too unseemly and drew too much unwanted attention to us, even here in Imladris where our liaison was, for the most part, discreetly ignored. But I had been thinking on this for months and the idea would allow me no rest; and so, once again as my thoughts drifted in the lazy steam of the baths, it came to the forefront of my musings. I knew that Elrohir had recently developed a passion for reading anything and everything he could find about the history of the Eldalie and I had searched far and wide for a tome that held all the great tales of our ancestors. I even enlisted the aid of Mithrandir in my hunt for such a treasure and finally he told me he had found an ancient book in the archives of Minas Tirith that was as I described. The only problem with this particular volume was the fact that it was never allowed out of the building and any who wished to study or review it, need do so within the great library.

With the help of the Istari and certain merchant contacts of Adar, I was able to secure the services of an excellent scribe who, for an outrageous price, agreed to copy the manuscript for me from the original kept within the White City. Word had reached me that the illuminator had finished and the pages were being bound and stitched. The book would be delivered to me by the swiftest courier, but it would still be over a month before the rider could reach Imladris. I was excited beyond measure and did not know if I could keep my enthusiasm in check, for I did not wish to give away this secret before its time. I also had to think of some appropriate excuse to give my brother such an expensive gift; and that had me stymied. Our conception day had long since passed and there was no upcoming festival or celebratory day approaching for at least four months.

I supposed I could always present it to him in the privacy of our suite, yet its arrival at Imladris would not go without notice. Although Adar was well known as the Lore Master of our kindred and books were no rarity in Imladris; the delivery of a book commissioned from Minas Tirith would not be a daily occurrence and even the most urbane of our citizenry would cast a curious eye upon the messenger and the package he carried. I frowned and sat up as the waters of my bath began to cool. There had to be something that I could do that would not cause undo attention, yet would let Elrohir know just how much I treasured him and wished to please him. As I wrapped my body with a large towel, I decided to give this dilemma a rest for now and I headed for my empty bed. The thought of sleeping alone again was not a welcome one, but I was too exhausted to allow this to fester and soon found myself lost in sweet dreams of my loving brother.

'''*'''

I awoke the next morning refreshed and renewed, for in my sleep a solution to my problem had presented itself. As my overtired brain had cleared with slumber, I recalled Mithrandir mentioning to me during one of our marathon sessions that Elrohir would soon be initiated into the seventh level of the tel'Vakhar and that the wizard would be attending the rites on Tol Lirolsarin as Elrohir's patron. I, of course, would not be allowed to attend this hallowed ceremony for it was closed to all but the hílin of the en- Aer-Húd, this ancient warrior sect. I had learned from Mithrandir that Elrohir would soon become Túrmacar and as such would be expected to train and mentor new initiates into their brotherhood as those worthy of note came to their sacred halls as initiates. Elrohir's great proficiency in all aspects of forging and weaponry, martial history and lore, and his prowess with a myriad of very lethal weapons had earned him this coveted position. I was so terribly proud of him and felt the gift of this book on Elven history would be the perfect compliment to his other outstanding achievements.

Needless to say I was quite pleased with myself and could not keep the silly grin from my face as I entered the dining hall to join my family for the morning meal. Adar and Erestor were already seated at the table and both nodded to me as I took my place to my father's right. I helped myself to a generous portion of chilled fruit and honeyed cakes and earned a raised brow from Adar.

"You seem quite merry this morn," he noted as he gave Erestor a slight wink. The stern faced elder Elf made no comment but there was a glint of amusement in his dark eyes. I fear my glum moodiness had become part and parcel of the household gossip of late and I felt sure that both were quite happy to see me smiling once again.

"It is a wonderful day," I replied as I took a huge strawberry into my mouth and savored its syrupy sweetness.

"Then you shall be doubly pleased upon reading this missive from Glorfindel," Adar smiled and handed me a neatly folded piece of parchment. I took the letter from him and quickly scanned the precise Tengwar script of Glorfindel's hand.

"They're coming home!" I fairly beamed and Adar nodded, his smile widening with my glee. I returned to the brief note and re-read the words informing my father that the patrols would be returning north and were expected to be in Imladris before Narbeleth. This was indeed glorious news. The missive went on to state that Glorfindel would accompany Elrohir to the ceremonies on the Isle of Singing Stones. As my brother's Istuipedir, Glorfindel would be the honored one to present Elrohir with his regalia and accoutrements of the seventh level initiate during the ceremony. They were to leave several days after their return to Imladris.

I glanced back at my father and handed him the letter. He chuckled at my expression which I am sure was ecstatic and tucked the piece of paper back into the cuffed sleeve of his robes. I returned to my meal with renewed gusto and fairly floated through the rest of the day. However, as even the best laid plans tend to do, outside events always seem to occur that change everything and so it happened with Elrohir's arrival home. Their patrol met up with a rather large and nasty horde of orc near the Trollshaws that delayed their expected return and instead of coming to Imladris first, Elrohir and Glorfindel left directly from that skirmish to attend the rites at Tol Lirolsarin and the patrol returned home without them. I was devastated. But then I realized that perhaps this was indeed for the best as the courier from Minas Tirith was due to arrive any day. My secret would remain safe and I could prepare for my brother's return without him being in residence where the chances of him discovering my surprise would be much greater; and, as luck would have it, the messenger arrived the very next day.

'''*'''

The rider would not surrender his consignment to any save me as I was so informed by our taciturn house steward whose expression noted quite plainly his pique at not being allowed to receive this package on my behalf. I managed to soothe his ire by telling him that it was a surprise for my brother and it was in fact I who had requested that no other take possession of this bundle. He nodded stiffly and seemed to relax a bit as a sidled past him and ran toward the front steps to retrieve my gift.

The courier was a ridiculously young lad with tawny hair and the fair face of a maid with no stubble to mar it as yet; but his eyes were hard and he looked me up and down before speaking bluntly.

"I carry merchandise for Elladan Peredhil, you be he?" His eyes once again traveled up and down my body and this time I noted, there was more than a cursory interest in his blatant stare. When his eyes once again met mine I bowed and spoke.

"I am he."

The youth opened a large leather satchel strapped to the back of his saddle and withdrew a fairly good sized bundle wrapped in a smooth suede hide. It was securely tied with hemp and a small metal tag with an embossed seal upon it indicated that the package had arrived to me without being opened. I accepted the book from the boy and bowed deeply.

"I thank you with all my heart," I said and then my smile widened his eyes as I added. "Would you care for some refreshments before you must journey forth?"

The youth hesitated and I could see that he very much wished to enter the home of an Elf, but he remembered his duty and I could see his disappointment. "I thank ye, Lord, but I must decline. I must make all speed back to Minas Tirith." He seemed to look over my shoulder and I turned to see my father coming down the front steps with several scrolls in his hand. The messenger bowed again.

"Lord Elrond," he murmured. "You have something for me to deliver in return?"

Adar smiled and proffered the scrolls. "I do indeed. Please see that the Steward receives these as soon as your swift journey returns you to the White City."

The courier accepted the missives and placed them into the leather bag that had so recently held my precious book. How my father knew that the boy had come from Minas Tirith and would be hastily returning, I had no idea, but his enigmatic smile led me to believe that he had somehow been privy to the knowledge of my gift arriving all along. I clutched the book to my chest and quickly took my leave, hastening to the sanctuary of our rooms where I could inspect my present without the curious eyes of the household staff.

I dashed into our suite and quickly locked the door behind me before placing the wrapped package upon the table. I carefully broke the seal with my knife and pulled the hemp away from the book's protective covering. The book itself was neatly swathed in several layers of sheep's wool and when I finally uncovered the tome I gasped in awe at the beauty of its red gold embellished cover. The gilded lettering upon the smooth leather read: Nyári i Lumenyári Eldalie. I ran my hand over the illumination with a reverent touch and carefully lifted the volume out of its nest of wool. Once freed from its wrappings I placed the book on the table and opened it to the first page. Again I was struck by the meticulous beauty and workmanship, and the fine attention to detail, as I perused the detailed hand of the skilled artisan. This was a book that I would have treasured had it been given to me and I felt certain that Elrohir would be overcome with joy upon receiving it from me.

I left the tome upon the table and moved to my personal chest and began to rummage through the contents. I finally found a large square of black velvet cloth and a goodly length of lathrig interwoven with strands of mithril. I brought these back to the table and carefully wrapped the book within the velvet and secured it with the ties. I then hid the book within my chest and closed the lid upon it. My excitement was overflowing and I did not know if I could wait until my brother returned before shouting to the roof eaves what I had acquired for him. I snatched up the wool and leather and stuffed them deep into my closet and then tried to bring my mind back to the matter of my studies.

'''*'''

Elrohir's POV

I strained my eyes searching for the first glimpse of Elladan and upon finding him my heart soared. Even as elated as I was over the recent events at Tirnen Iaun that I had participated in, and been honored by, nothing could replace the joy I felt upon returning home to the company of my brother. I had been parted from him for close to three months now and the separation I had been forced to endure was almost more than I could bear. We had not been apart for this long a time since my horrendous trip to Lothlorien in my youth and my heart was sick with longing for him. As we neared I could feel his excitement and his loving words caressed my mind.

Ah, Ronin! Le melon, Túrmacarnin!

I could feel how proud he was of my achievements and the sting of hot tears burned at my eyes. Glorfindel could sense my yearning need and I felt his strong hand clasp my shoulder.

"You realize that your father will have prepared a great celebration in your honor," he told me. I turned to meet his knowing eyes and my face mirrored my great disappointment. Of course he would; by now every Elf in Imladris would be converging upon the Last Homely House to join in the feasting and revelry, not only for our safe return but for my prestigious accolades and the honors I was accorded within the brotherhood of the en- Aer-Húd. There would be endless, untold hours to endure before Elladan and I could find any time to be alone.

Glorfindel was no stranger to our bond and was all too aware of what this lengthy parting had done to my nerves. He also, knew that my relationship with Adar was strained at best and often our dialogues were reduced to bouts of shouting and outright anger. My shoulders slumped forward slightly and his hand gave my shoulder another squeeze.

"Your father truly loves you, Elrohir," he said quietly. "He only wishes the best for you and to demonstrate to all assembled that he acknowledges your skill as a warrior and that you are a gifted scholar in your own right." He smiled a bit sadly at me. "Allow him to do this for you."

I knew in my heart that he spoke the truth and I was letting my own selfish needs come before the loving acts of those who truly cared for me. I nodded slowly in reluctant acceptance and then I heard Elladan's words whisper in my head.

Do not despair, my Elf Knight! The mere sight of your beautiful face will fill me with such joy that I shall be able to withstand the long hours until we can at last be together.

His words gave me heart and I could not help but smile. And finally I could truly see his glowing face as he stood atop the stairs and hailed us. I urged Mórdú into a canter and clattered across the last remaining bridge spanning the Bruinen, racing toward my love and my heart. I was off my horse even before he skidded to a jerking halt and ran up the stone stairs to my laughing brother. I threw my arms about him and crushed his body to me as I buried my face into his glorious rain sweetened hair.

"Ah, Dan!" I sobbed against him as my emotions broke free at last and my tears fell in earnest. He held me to him, stroking my back and hugging me until I thought my ribs would crack. However, we soon became achingly aware of the audience we were attracting and although it pained both of us to part, we did so and turned to make our way into the house. As I looked up I saw Adar standing in the doorway, watching us intently. I started to pull away from Elladan but he gripped my hand tightly and then slipped his arm about my waist. I could not help but moan softly at the feel of his body so close to mine as we walked up to our father and stood before him.

Adar opened his arms to me and I found myself moving into them as easily as I had done when I was an Elfling, clinging to him and laying my head against his shoulder as he held me close to him. The words he whispered into my ear brought new tears to my eyes and it was some time before I could compose myself enough to face him. When at last I looked into his ancient grey eyes, they, too, glistened wetly and held nothing but love for me. My heart filled with a giddy euphoria as I realized that I had finally succeeded in making my father proud of me and Elladan's chiding words made me flush hotly.

He has always loved you, Ronin...as do I.

I had no wish for this moment to end, but all too soon friends and family, well wishers and acquaintances began to pour onto the stairs offering congratulations, greetings and words of welcome and Glorfindel and I were swept up into the crowd of boisterous Elven folk and washed forth into the Hall of Fire where a host of other guests eagerly awaited our appearance. I tried to delay the inevitable by protesting that I needed to see to the stabling of my horse, but father assured me that the grooms had already taken care of Mórdú and I need worry no further on that score. I knew then that it would be a terribly long night indeed before I could savor the touch of my brother's hand.

'''*'''

It was well after midnight before Elladan and I could even conceivably make our excuses to retire, but fortunately my father graciously came to our rescue and told the ebullient guests that I had spent a hard day in travel and was deserving of an early acquittal from the festivities. And so, feeling the effects of the heady wine rather more than usual, I allowed Elladan to usher me from the feast hall after politely taking our leave of the guests; and with his steadying arm for support, we made our way to our rooms.

We had barely reached our door when Elladan pinned me to the heavy wooden entryway and ravaged my mouth with his own. I was gasping and breathless as I frantically tried to fumble the door open. Somewhere in the back of my addled thoughts was the need to get out of this very public hall and into the privacy of our room, but I could barely keep my senses about me with Elladan's body pressed so closely to mine and his tongue filling my mouth with such ardent lust.

At last the handle moved and the door swung open, tumbling us both into the sitting room. Near hysterical laughter issued from both of us as Elladan quickly shut and bolted the door and I began yanking at the formal robes I was wearing in an effort to strip them from my body. I could not wait any longer; I had to have his hands upon me, but to my utter dismay he stilled my hands and shook his head.

"Not yet," he said with a mischievous glint in his dark eyes. My need for him grew all the hotter as my imagination conjured up all manner of things that he might have planned to do to me. His lips brushed mine in a swift, teasing kiss and then he took my hand and led me to the table. I looked at him quizzically and he stared into my eyes with such love that my knees felt weak. "I have a gift for you," he said softly.

A present! I loved presents. My eyes lit up and I felt a surge of delight rush through me and for a brief moment my lust for him simmered, patiently awaiting its turn. Dan rushed to his chest and lifted the lid. His back was to me and I could not see what it was that he pulled from the cache of his prized personal treasures, but he deftly swept it behind his back as he came toward me. I could see that he was just as eager for me to have this gift as I now was to receive it and he stepped as close as a breath to me before he spoke.

"I wanted to give you something that would show you how very much you mean to me, Ronin," he began. "To tell you how proud I am of your great achievements; how awed I am by your skill as a warrior and your talent as an artisan. To let you know that no matter what else in this world, you are all that matters to me."

His eyes glistened with his emotion and I felt all the muzziness of the wine leave me as I stared at him. His love for me was staggering and suddenly I felt utterly undeserving of him, but he shook his head vigorously and placed a slender finger to my lips. "Do not ever think such a thing, meleth. You are more precious to me than life itself."

I could barely breathe and the anticipation of what he was about to bestow upon me was almost more than I could withstand. He slowly withdrew the present from behind his back and placed it upon the table in front of me. I stared at it for a long time before I could even bring myself to touch it. The gift was wrapped in black velvet and tied with string entwined with mithril filaments. A small card was nestled beneath the twine and simply read "Elrohir". I looked at my brother and then finally placed my hand upon the package. It was solid and most assuredly a book of some kind but I could not bring myself to do more than stare at it.

"Well, open it!" he laughed at my hesitancy and my fugue was broken. I sucked in a great lungful of air, not even aware that I had been holding my breath. I slipped the string off the velvet and then carefully unwrapped the covering. My gasp was audible as I beheld the incredibly beautiful tome that was revealed therein; it fairly glowed as it lay within its nest of ebony cloth.

My eyes traveled across the gilded script and I tentatively touched the ruddy leather cover. "Oh, Dan," I whispered as I slowly opened the book and began to leaf through the pages one by one. I had barely passed the first chapter when I could contain my tears no longer and a wrenching sob shook my shoulders. I turned to my brother and reached for him, crushing his body to me as I wept into his neck. He held me tightly, not speaking, merely rubbing my back until I had quieted. When I could at last speak again, I pulled back from him to gaze into his dark grey eyes.

He smiled at me and I could see how greatly pleased he was to be able to do this for me. "Do you like it?" he asked; knowing full well that I did, but he wanted to give me a moment more to collect myself.

I nodded and smiled through my tears. "Oh, yes," I managed. "Yes."

His grin widened and a wicked glint came into his eyes. "Then show me," he whispered as his lips brushed mine and his hand pulled me toward our bed.

*****

THE END