Yours, Always

Posted: November 16, 2007
Title: Yours, Always
Author: Zilah
Type: FCS
Characters: Erestor/Glorfindel
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: Sad but true: they are not mine. I just play with them. No one pays me.
Warnings: Minor angst, slash
Genre: Romance, minor angst, fluffy
Beta: Aglarien
Author's Notes: This story is written for the Glorestor- challenge. I intended to write a beautiful, little romance story, but the plotbunny didn’t listen my pleas to stop growing.

And thank you so much for your excellent betaing, Agie! Without you, I was lost.

Summary: Erestor is surprised, because Glorfindel wants to marry him. But what are Glorfindel’s true reasons for the proposal? Erestor might not know the whole truth, but he too have a surprise or two reserved for his future mate.

*****

Erestor stared at his father and brother in disbelief. He couldn't come to terms with what they had just told him.

"You cannot mean that! I am to be forced into an arranged marriage? And you have already accepted his proposal?" Erestor whispered, starting to realize that his carefree childhood would soon be over forever. He refused to show his distress to them, knowing full well that his resistance would only raise his ada's anger. After their naneth's (mother’s) passing to the Halls of Mandos, the Lord of the House of the Fountain had been stern and bitter. It would be completely useless to say that he already loved another.

"Are you saying that you don't accept my decision, ion nín (my son)?" the lord said sternly, looking at his younger son contemptuously. Erestor had always been too sensitive and emotional for his liking.

Erestor struggled to stay calm.

"Nay, Ada (father). I will do as you say. May I ask who my betrothed is, then?" he said with a resigned voice.

"You should be grateful, ion. Your betrothed is one of King Turgon's confidantes. I never thought that someone like him would want to marry you. He is Lord Glorfindel, from the house of the Golden Flower."

Erestor stood at stunned silence, but his heart and soul were in complete chaos. Lord Glorfindel. Ecthelion's best friend and the one he had loved from afar for years now. Erestor had to admit that he wondered the same thing as his ada. Why in Arda did Lord Glorfindel want to marry him?

Ecthelion looked at his brother with growing concern. He had always thought that their ada was too stern with his little brother, but he knew better than to interfere with his ada's discipline. Erestor's face was pale and completely emotionless now; an unfailing sign that he was shocked.

"I will do, as you say, Ada,” Erestor said again. “Can I go now?" He felt that his breaking point was rapidly nearing. He needed to be alone so that he could think of this surprising twist.

"You can go, but I request you to use this time wisely. Lord Glorfindel is coming to dinner tonight and your presence is necessary. Make sure that you treat your betrothed with respect,” the lord said.

Erestor bowed respectfully and turned, leaving his ada and Ecthelion alone. As soon as he was outside of the hall, he ran. Tears flowed from his eyes when he finally reached his room. He locked the door and tumbled onto the bed, sobbing violently.

<i>"What do I do? Why in Arda would Lord Glorfindel want me? I cannot believe that he loves me. If he did he surely would have asked me first. But now… how can I bind myself with him, knowing that he will never return my feelings?"</i>

Erestor wept. He wept for his broken dreams and his future life in a loveless marriage. He was so deep in his misery that he didn't notice when his window suddenly opened. Erestor started when he found his brother beside his bed.

"If you want to dwell in your misery alone, I suggest that you lock the window too, tór dithen (little brother),” Ecthelion said softly. He sat on the bed, but Erestor turned his back.

"Why he would want me, Thel? Lord Glorfindel is one of the most pursued bachelors in the city,” Erestor whispered shakily.

Ecthelion sighed. He had known that convincing Erestor would be hard, but he would try his best. Glorfindel would make an excellent mate for his brother, even if Erestor didn't know it yet. Glorfindel had loved his brother for a long time, but he couldn't have pursued him before now, when Erestor had finally reached his majority. Ecthelion couldn't tell that to Erestor; he had promised to keep Glorfindel's secret. And Erestor didn't need to suffer for long, for tonight Glorfindel would tell him personally.

"Why don't you ask Glorfindel that? He is kind and honorable and he will surely give you an honest answer,” Ecthelion said.

"So… he is coming tonight… to see me?"

"Aye. And I suggest that you make yourself more presentable. Do you want him to see that you have been crying? There is no need to be afraid. I can guarantee that Glorfindel would never hurt you in any way."

Erestor rose from the bed, defeated. He definitely wanted to be at his best when Glorfindel came. He went to the wardrobe but Ecthelion stopped him.

"And this time you won't wear those dull black robes you so love. I brought you more suitable clothing,” Ecthelion said, a wide grin on his face.

Erestor took the bundle of clothes from Ecthelion and studied at them suspiciously.

"You cannot be serious! How can I put these on? They are far too…"

"…fitting and will present you as you really are; beautiful beyond words,” Ecthelion added, stopping Erestor's outburst. He watched amused as an adorable blush crept up Erestor's beautiful face. It was not a miracle that Glorfindel had fallen in love with his little brother. Erestor was a true beauty, desired by many. That was also the reason why Ecthelion had told Glorfindel to hurry if he wanted to have Erestor as his mate.

Ecthelion remembered how he had accidentally heard one of Gondolin’s lords speaking of Erestor. He shuddered at the memory because that particular lord was one of the most obnoxious elves in the city. The only way to save Erestor from that lecherous lord was to marry him to someone else as soon as possible. Even if Erestor didn’t love Glorfindel, he would surely be happier with him. Glorfindel would love and cherish Erestor as he deserved to be loved.

"Do you really think that he will like these?" Erestor finally asked with a little voice. Oh, how he wanted to make a good impression, but he feared that Glorfindel would find his lithe body undesirable. Those shapeless robes hid his physique, but the leggings and tunic wouldn't hide anything.

"You shouldn't hide yourself like that, Erestor. You are both beautiful and desirable. Besides, after the wedding Glorfindel will see you without any clothes," Ecthelion chuckled.

"Thel!" Erestor huffed and his face blushed crimson. He took the clothes and marched to the bathroom, knowing that all his struggles would go in vain. Ecthelion wouldn't stop his teasing until he put this ridiculous attire on.

* * * *

Erestor started to prepare a bath for himself, and while he waited for the running water to fill the tub, he stared at his naked body in the mirror. He wondered if Glorfindel would find him desirable. His brother's teasing had stirred completely new feelings in him and he blushed with the thought that Glorfindel would really be his bonded mate. Erestor couldn't stop the hot dreams that swelled in his head. He couldn’t take his eyes away from the mirror as he let his hand slide over his flushed skin. How would it feel to let Glorfindel touch him? Make love with him? The mere thought made tremors run through Erestor's body.

When he finally sat in the tub, he was hopelessly aroused. His whole body ached with feelings he had never known before. Erestor bit his lip, trying to prevent a needy moan escaping from his lips. His head reeled; what was this hunger inside him? Why did he feel the almost unbearable need to touch himself? Blushing, he finally wrapped his fingers around his hardness and stroked himself to completion. For a moment he let himself dream that it was Glorfindel who touched him.

* * * *

“Why did you have to do my hair like this? Couldn’t I just pull it back in a ponytail like I always do?” Erestor asked, feeling uncomfortable. Ecthelion had created two delicate braids on either side of his head, weaving sparkling ribbons of silver in them. The rest of his hair was left free and it flowed freely on Erestor’s back and shoulders. His new leggings were made of dark-blue velvet, and they fit like a second skin. The white tunic with silver embroidery was far too thin for his liking, but Ecthelion had been merciless, and now Erestor was ready to go to dinner.

“Oh Valar! This is it! I hope that I’ll manage without embarrassing myself or Ada. He will be furious if I let him down. I just hope that Glorfindel will care for me even a little. How I want him to learn to love me. To have Glorfindel’s love would be a dream come true.”

Erestor went downstairs, followed by Ecthelion. Their father was already waiting for them in the hall. The Lord had a more approving gaze in his eyes as he studied Erestor’s changed appearance.

“I see that you have complied with my advice, ion. Have you decided to be reasonable and accept this marriage?”

Erestor nodded, trying to contain the chilling fear that threatened to drown him. Soon he would meet his destiny!

* * * *

Glorfindel checked, for the tenth time, that his appearance was in order. He was nervous and he didn’t try to deny it. He had loved Erestor for so long, but this wasn’t how he had thought to pursue him. Erestor deserved to be wooed slowly, with care and respect. But after hearing that the Lord of the House of the Harp had set his eyes upon Erestor, Glorfindel had made his decision. He didn’t want his beloved to fall into the hands of that foul lord.

But now Glorfindel had to face a new problem: he had asked for Erestor’s hand without his consent. What if the young elf was unhappy with the situation? What if Erestor couldn’t love him?

“So, this is it. The moment of the truth. I have no other choice but to open my heart to him and hope that he will forgive me this rushed proposition. And he will never have to know the true reason for it.”

After gathering his courage, Glorfindel left for the House of the Fountain. Soon he would meet his destiny!

* * * *

Erestor’s heart started to race when a servant came and announced Glorfindel’s arrival. Numb, he followed his ada to the hall so that they could welcome the golden lord personally. His breath caught when he finally saw Glorfindel. Had he ever seen anything more glorious than the elf he loved?

“Mae govannen, Híren (well met, my Lord),” Glorfindel said with a deep, melodious voice that made Erestor weak.

“Mae govannen, Lord Glorfindel. Welcome to my house”, the lord said and then glanced at Erestor, silently bidding him to step forwards. Erestor raised his gaze and smiled shyly at Glorfindel.

Glorfindel couldn’t take his eyes away from Erestor. He had always thought that Erestor was one of the most beautiful elves he had ever seen, but now… he was breathtaking! Glorfindel slowly took Erestor’s hand and found it trembling slightly.

“Would it be too forward if I asked to speak with Erestor alone?” Glorfindel asked, knowing that Erestor must be scared. He had to assure him that he had nothing to be afraid of. Glorfindel knew full well how stern the Lord of the Fountain was with his sons, and he was quite sure that he hadn’t asked Erestor’s opinion about the betrothal.

The lord seemed as if he was going to deny the request at first, but then waved them towards the garden. Glorfindel bowed and led Erestor out under the beautiful night sky. They didn’t speak before they sat on a stone bench near a little pool. Glorfindel turned to look into Erestor’s big, dark eyes and saw them shimmering.

“Tell me, Erestor nín (my Erestor), what do you think about this betrothal?” he asked softly, almost dreading Erestor’s answer.

“Why do you ask? I have already given my consent, otherwise you would not be here,” Erestor whispered, not knowing what to say.

“Have you really? It seems to me that you are not so happy about this. I know how your ada treats you and Thel.”

“I… I just hoped that you would tell me…. why you asked for me? You could have had almost anyone. Why me?”

“I will tell you if you want, but then I want you to answer my question, too. Are we agreed?”

“Agreed,” Erestor responded, his heart starting to race. He already felt almost dizzy because of Glorfindel’s heady closeness, and his confusion only grew when Glorfindel gently grasped his chin, making their gazes meet. Erestor felt as if he was almost drowning in the depths of those cerulean eyes that seemed to shine only for him.

“There is only one reason why I asked for your hand, Erestor nín. I know that I should have asked you first, but I feared that someone else would have you before I had the chance to woo you properly. I have loved you for so long and I couldn’t wait any longer,” Glorfindel said, opening his heart to his beloved.

Erestor felt his heart almost burst with joy and love. He couldn’t believe that Glorfindel had uttered just the words he had longed to hear for so long!

“Glorfindel… you have made me so happy,” he could only whisper, burying his face in Glorfindel’s firm chest. Tears of happiness flowed from his eyes when he felt strong arms wrap around him, holding him tightly.

“Does this mean…? Dare I believe that you return my feelings, Erestor nín?” Glorfindel asked, wondering at how good Erestor felt in his arms. He shook to his very core as Erestor raised his head and he saw deep emotion in his beautiful eyes.

“Aye, meleth nín (my love). I love you, and I will be yours till the end of Arda, if you would have me. Kiss me, saes. Let my dream finally become truth.”

*****

Erestor blushed at his own boldness, but was relieved when Glorfindel smiled at him gently.

“Nothing would make me happier, Erestor nín,” the Elda whispered, smoothing Erestor’s cheek.

Glorfindel looked into his beloved’s dark, fathomless eyes, seeing the beginnings of desire in them. After a moment’s hesitation, Glorfindel finally bent his head and captured Erestor’s soft lips in a gentle kiss. A bolt of passion shot trough Glorfindel as he felt Erestor’s moan rippling against his mouth. Their lips moved together, fitting perfectly, and heat rose between them. Glorfindel’s tongue plunged into Erestor’s mouth, seeking and finding its mate. They both moaned, consumed by the sudden passion that flared between them. When the kiss finally ended, both were panting hard.

“Oh… Glorfindel… I didn’t know that a kiss would feel like this,” Erestor whispered shakily, resting his head against Glorfindel’s strong shoulder. He still felt as if his whole body was on fire. He had never known that it was possible to want someone like this. The feeling excited and frightened him at the same time.

“When do you want to bind with me, meleth nín? I don’t think I can endure a long betrothal. You are far too tempting for your own good,” Glorfindel said, a hint of desperation in his voice. Erestor’s willing response to his kiss had been beyond his wildest dreams, making his longing all the more intense.

Erestor’s joyous laughter echoed in the nightly air. Glorfindel’s eagerness to bind with him made him happier than he ever believed possible.

“I want to be yours, Glor nín, more than anything. I’m ready to bind with you anytime you want.”

“Let’s go and tell your ada and Thel,” Glorfindel said, smiling, and led his beloved back to the house.

* * * *

“Is this all really necessary?” Erestor asked nervously. He hated this fussing over his wedding. It seemed as if the whole of Gondolin had been invited, even if a small ceremony would has been more to his liking.

“I afraid it is, tór dithen. You have to remember that Glorfindel is one of King Turgon’s closest men, and as such, his binding ceremony is an important occasion,” Ecthelion said with sympathy. He knew full well that Erestor didn’t like big, boisterous events, and this wedding would be just that.

Erestor sighed, but decided to endure the day, no matter what. He had to keep in mind that despite this nuisance, he was about to have his heart’s desire: Glorfindel would be his hervenn (husband) before the day was over.

Once again he turned and looked at his reflection in the mirror.

“Do you think that Glorfindel will find me beautiful? I want to please him,” Erestor asked, fiddling with his sleeves. He didn’t feel quite comfortable in these heavy, luxurious robes.

“Do not worry; you look radiant. Glorfindel loves you and he will find you beautiful no matter what you wear,” Ecthelion chuckled. He could see that Erestor was just as amorous as Glorfindel, and the fact made him happy. Ecthelion wanted only the best for them both.

“I love him too, Thel. More than I ever believed possible,” Erestor whispered dreamily. How he longed to be in Glorfindel’s arms and stay there forever. For so long his nights had been filled with passionate dreams. Since that first kiss, Erestor’s whole being had burned for Glorfindel.

The brethren stopped their conversation as they heard a knock at the door.

“Are you ready, young lords? Lord Glorfindel has arrived and he is waiting for you,” the valet asked, peeking in.

Erestor nodded, despite his wildly pounding heart. This was it; the moment he had waited for!

* * * *

Erestor’s heart started to race when he slowly walked down the stairs and saw Glorfindel standing in the middle of the entrance hall. When Glorfindel raised his head and their gazes met, time stood still. Erestor saw only Glorfindel, who would very soon be his. Without hesitation, he took the last few steps that separated them, and smiled shyly at his betrothed.

“You look stunning, mír nín ( my treasure),” Glorfindel said softly, and he leaned closer, kissing Erestor’s cheek.

“So do you, Glorfindel,” Erestor whispered, blushing slightly. He tried to calm his senses that seemed to be overloaded by the mere closeness of Glorfindel. He took the arm that Glorfindel offered, and together they stepped outside, where Anar herself seemed to beam for them.

* * * *

Erestor couldn’t turn his eyes away from his betrothed. Glorfindel’s gaze held him captive when they listened to the ancient words that would bind their hearts and souls forever. He was so focused on Glorfindel that their surroundings were completely lost to him. Erestor didn’t care that the elf who performed their binding ceremony was the king himself; nor did he notice all the jealous glances pointed at them both. All that mattered was Glorfindel, and the fact that he had to wait only a few more hours before Glorfindel would carry him to their wedding bed and make him his.

”Here in the sight of the Valar and the people of mighty Gondolin, you two will step into the bond that shall last until the end of all Arda. Together, supporting and loving each other, you will walk the paths of your lives. Love, shared between two souls, is the greatest blessing that life has to offer. Love, cherish and protect each other, and the Valar themselves will bless you.

Now, the time has come: Say your vows, to make this union complete.”

Glorfindel felt as if he was almost melting under Erestor’s gaze that was full of love and happiness. He took Erestor’s hand and found it trembling slightly. The realization made Glorfindel’s heart burn with affection. He started his vow, knowing that he would love Erestor for all eternity.

”I, Glorfindel O Gondolin, take you, Erestor O Gondolin, to be my friend, lover and spouse for all eternity. I enter this bonding with you, my heart full of love and joy. Every day I will thank the Valar that they have gifted me you. You will be the owner of my heart, body and soul, and there is no other for me, ever. I am most blessed among our people when I am able to say that you are mine.”

Erestor trembled when he heard Glorfindel’s vow, already feeling his love deep within him. Wordless, he let Glorfindel place a golden wedding band upon his right finger.

”I, Erestor O Gondolin, take you, Glorfindel O Gondolin, to be my friend, lover and spouse for all eternity. I enter this bonding with you, my heart full of love and joy. Every day I will thank the Valar that they have gifted me you. You will be the owner of my heart, body and soul, and there is no other for me, ever. I am most blessed among our people when I am able to say that you are mine.”

With shaking hands, he managed to place Glorfindel’s ring on his finger.

Turgon smiled as he spoke the last words, completing the binding ceremony.

”You have spoken your vows. Remember that you haven’t said them to me, but to the Valar, who alone possess the right to bind you together. Your union will last till the end of times, and there is no Man, no Elf, no Creature who can ever drive you apart. May the Valar bless your union.”

Erestor felt Glorfindel’s grip on his hand tightening almost painfully, but he forgot the ache when Glorfindel pulled him closer and kissed him. The kiss was soft and chaste, but still succeeded in stealing his breath away. Erestor was still flushed when they turned to receive Turgon’s congratulations.

* * * *

Erestor was beginning to be tired. He wanted nothing more than to leave this pompous celebration, to be alone with his new hervenn. Glorfindel was engaged in conversation with the king, and he looked at the bustling crowd, silently wondering how anyone could think this was fun. Everywhere he watched, he saw only smiling faces, but under the facades he sensed completely different feelings: jealousy, hypocrisy, and even barely contained anger. Erestor knew full well that his ada despised his sensitivity, but that feature had helped him with his studies. He wanted to be an advisor, and he had to possess the ability to see behind people’s facades. Suddenly he felt the overwhelming need to have some fresh air and he rose, apologizing to Glorfindel and the King.

Erestor walked to the open doors that led to the big balcony, but he had barely reached the doors when he heard malicious laughing. Erestor halted, unsure what to do. He didn’t want to confront the owner of that voice, knowing full well who it was. Erestor was turning back, but stopped when he suddenly heard his own name mentioned.

“How in Arda you can laugh like that, when that delicious tidbit is now beyond our reach?” the other elf asked angrily. Erestor recognized him too, and shuddered inwardly. Lord Maeglin! The most notorious elf in Gondolin.

“You can be at peace, my lord. You forget Lord Glorfindel’s reputation as a philanderer. Do you really think that he will stay faithful to his naive and inexperienced hervenn, no matter how beautiful Erestor is? When Glorfindel’s inevitable fall from grace happens, we only have to be there to pick up the pieces. Who could blame us if we only wanted to offer consolation to the broken-hearted, betrayed young elf?” Salgant, the Lord of the Harp explained. Erestor listened to the horrid plan with rapidly growing disbelief and repulsion. He was unable to move. It was almost impossible to believe. How could anyone be so mean and heartless so as to make a plan like this?

“I must say that your plan is brilliant. It is a shame that Lord Glorfindel will have his virginity, but maybe Erestor will be more pleasurable in bed when he has had a little more experience,” Maeglin said, mockingly.

Erestor couldn’t take any more of their lecherous plotting. He turned around and walked away as silently as possible. But the conversation had happened, and Erestor wanted to hide in the darkest corner he could find. His beautiful dream was shattered forever.

Silent tears flowed from Erestor’s eyes as he crept away from the big hall. How he could ever go on after this? And the more important question was: could he consummate their marriage at all? And did he want to, knowing that Glorfindel would possibly break his heart in the future?

*****

Erestor crept furtively out of the hall and walked until he didn’t hear the noises of the celebration anymore. He leaned against the stony pillar, breathing hard and his thoughts racing.

“What am I doing? I cannot leave my own wedding like this! It will cause a scandal.”

He tried desperately to calm down; he had to gather his wits and act like a mature adult, not like a spoiled elfling. When he finally managed to compose himself, he started to think through the unwanted information more carefully. Did he really believe the two most notorious elves in Gondolin, rather than his new hervenn? Glorfindel had always been nothing but kind and loving with him, even if their marriage was somewhat arranged. Besides, if he had any doubts of Glorfindel’s feelings, he could always ask. He couldn’t believe that Glorfindel would ever lie to him.

Erestor thought further, letting all his memories about Glorfindel flow trough his mind. He found nothing but honesty, love and devotion. When it came to Glorfindel’s past, he had to admit that he wasn’t quite comfortable with the thought of Glorfindel with someone else. But he could accept that nonetheless, as long as it really was past. He couldn’t presume that Glorfindel had lived such a long life without any experiences.

Finally, after he made up his mind, Erestor turned and started to walk back to the hall. He saved the information for possible future need. Erestor was reasonable enough to comprehend that it would someday be very useful. Lords Maeglin and Salgant would surely try to carry out their horrid plan and he wanted to be ready for that.

* * * *

Erestor had hardly stepped into the hall when someone stopped him, grasping his arms painfully.

“What were you thinking, you fool?” the Lord of the Fountain hissed at his son. He had noticed Erestor’s escape and had been waiting for him. He had known that Erestor was childish but this was too much. The lord was furious with the thought that Erestor would cause a scandal with his immature behavior.

“Let me go, Ada. I just needed some time alone, that’s all. I’m sorry if I caused you worry,” Erestor whispered, trying to not wince in painful grip. He knew better than to struggle against his ada; that would only raise his fury even more.

“You better forget such stupid ideas from now on. If I were you, I would try to please Lord Glorfindel instead of running around whining. Remember that he is a mature elf who will surely want someone reasonable and compliant elf as his mate.”

“What do you mean, Ada?” Erestor asked, confused.

“I mean your future life with him, ion. Do you really think that Lord Glorfindel would tolerate your useless whining and naïve illusions about marriage? If you fail to give him what he needs, he will seek his pleasure elsewhere. Is that what you want?”

“But… I want to give him everything! Why do you say that I am not enough for him?”

“Because you are not a warrior like him. A warrior’s life is hard, and sometimes they need more drastic ways to relax. Sometimes those ways include even some pain, but not that nonsense you call lovemaking.”

Erestor could only stare at his ada. Did he really mean that Glorfindel would want to hurt him in someway? NO! He couldn’t believe that, no matter what his ada said! Erestor tore his arms away from his ada’s grip and bravely met his glare, for the first time in his life.

“You are wrong, and nothing that you say makes me believe otherwise. I love Glorfindel and he loves me. I am fully ready to take everything from his hand, even pain if that is necessary. But it isn’t, of that I am sure.” With that, Erestor turned and left the stunned lord behind.

* * * *

Erestor searched Glorfindel with his gaze and to his relief, saw him sitting right where he had left him. The king was still with Glorfindel and they seemed to be in a lively conversation. Despite his bold appearance, Erestor was still shaky when he reached his hervenn. The accidental eavesdropping and the encounter with his ada had strained Erestor’s nerves almost to the breaking-point.

Glorfindel looked up and started when he noticed how pale Erestor was. He quickly stood up and pulled his new hervenn in his arms.

“What is the matter, meleth nín? Are you not feeling well?” Glorfindel asked gently, trying to figure out what the cause was of Erestor’s obvious distress.

“I am fine,” Erestor said, bowing to the king who now studied them with interest. Erestor tried desperately to keep his calm mask, even if he still felt upset. This was not a good place to break down.

“I am not so sure of that, little one,” Turgon suddenly said. “What if you took your new hervenn and retired with him for the night?” he then suggested. The king was astute enough to see that something bothered the young elf. It was Glorfindel’s duty to find out what that was.

“Thank you, Híren (My lord). We will take your sound advice,” Glorfindel said with a bow and led Erestor out of the hall.

* * * *

Erestor’s nervousness increased as they continued their journey. He didn’t dare break the awkward silence that had fallen between them. Oh, how he wanted to please Glorfindel, but how in Arda was he supposed to know what to do? Even if Erestor trusted Glorfindel, he feared that he would disappoint him in some way. The mere thought was unbearable!

When the door was finally locked behind them, Erestor turned and hesitantly met Glorfindel’s gaze. To his surprise, Erestor saw those blue orbs looking at him sadly. He tried to say something, but Glorfindel managed first.

“Do you have any idea how long I have waited for this? This should be a happy moment, but you obviously don’t think so. Will you tell me why? I really hope that you don’t regret our bond even before it has started.”

Glorfindel’s voice was composed, but Erestor could still sense his hurt behind the words. The last thing he wanted was to hurt Glorfindel. Before he even realized it, he had stepped closer and raised his hand to caress Glorfindel’s cheek.

“I promise, I don’t regret this. How could I? I love you and I want to be yours…” Erestor didn’t know how to continue. He shivered when Glorfindel took his hand and kissed every finger in it.

“What is the matter then? Tell me, saes. I cannot stand to see you thus; with fear and doubt in your eyes.”

“I just… don’t know what to do. Would you tell me how to please you?” Erestor whispered, before he could loose his courage. He wanted to make Glorfindel happy, more than anything. The only way he could do that was to ask.

“What in Arda do you mean? Please me? Where have you learned such nonsense?”

“It isn’t nonsense, Glorfindel. I love you and I want to make you happy.”

Glorfindel was stunned at first, but then he realized why Erestor was so hesitant. He took Erestor’s arm and led him sit on the couch. He obviously needed to clear up a few things with his adorable hervenn.

“Will you listen to me, Erestor?” Glorfindel asked, gently lifting Erestor’s chin so that they gazes met. The young elf nodded, and Glorfindel silently prayed that he could find the right words.

“You don’t need to think how to please me. Everything you do brings me great pleasure.”

“But… what if you are disappointed with me?”

Glorfindel sighed inwardly. He had known that the Lord of the Fountain had been hard on his sons, but Erestor’s lack of self-confidence was still a surprise for him, and not a pleasant one. Glorfindel had had no doubts about Erestor’s love, but the Lord of the Fountain had done serious damage to his son’s self-esteem by saying that he wasn’t good enough. But he had to try and convince Erestor that he was perfect just as he was.

“Tell me, Erestor, do you like my kisses?” Glorfindel asked softly.

Erestor blushed, but answered without hesitation. “Of course. Why do you ask?”

“Do you feel comfortable when I hold you like this, Erestor?” Glorfindel pulled Erestor tightly against his body. He waited for the answer patiently, even if Erestor’s sudden intake of breath and slight trembling told him the truth. Erestor *did* desire him!

“I have always felt safe in your arms, Glorfindel. I love it when you hold me close,” Erestor admitted, wondering what Glorfindel meant by his questions. But his next move took Erestor by surprise, driving all doubt from his mind. Glorfindel kissed him like never before, with a hunger that left him breathless and painfully aroused. Erestor lost all coherent thinking and surrendered to the passionate kiss which set his whole being aflame. When they finally broke the kiss, Erestor felt dizzy, but Glorfindel didn’t give him time to recover. He gently lifted Erestor’s chin, silently demanding him to meet his gaze. What Erestor saw in Glorfindel’s blue eyes sent hot tremors trough his body. It was pure desire, but also boundless love and devotion. All those feelings he had seen before, only a couple of hours ago, when they had spoken their vows.

“I love you, Erestor. I want to touch and love you, I want to hold you in my arms and see you undone, finding your completion by my touch. Would you grant me my greatest wish, mír nín (my treasure)? Would you let me love you?” Glorfindel whispered with a sultry voice, his lips almost touching Erestor’s.

Despite his patient appearance, Glorfindel trembled inwardly as the silence fell between them. He didn’t know what else he could say. Just as he began to fear that his words had gone in vain, Glorfindel felt the sweetest kiss he had ever known, pressing on his lips. He could have wept with sheer happiness that Erestor had finally opened to him. When the kiss ended, Glorfindel stood and lifted Erestor in his arms, carrying him to the bed.

*****

Erestor trembled when Glorfindel started to unbutton his robes. He wanted Glorfindel so much, but at the same time, he was extremely nervous. Would Glorfindel find him desirable? He found some consolation in Glorfindel’s gentleness and softly whispered endearments, but even they couldn’t take away all of his fears. Erestor closed his eyes tightly when he felt his clothing slipping away, leaving him bare under Glorfindel’s gaze.

“Open your eyes, meleth. I want you to look at me,” Glorfindel said softly, but demanding him to obey. Erestor did as he was bid, and gasped when he noticed the look in Glorfindel’s eyes. There was pure adoration, love, and something more that left Erestor restless and extremely aroused.

“Don’t you know how beautiful you are to my eyes, Erestor nín? Never have I seen anything as tempting as you. My whole being is burning for you,” Glorfindel whispered, lowering his head. Erestor shivered when he felt warm breath on his bare skin.

“May I, meleth nín?” Glorfindel whispered, desperately wanting to taste the skin that seemed so warm and silky. But he wouldn’t rush this, no matter what. Glorfindel wanted Erestor to feel only pleasure in his arms. Only after Erestor’s nodded permission did he press a first kiss on the heaving chest, and then another, until he finally found a hardened nipple. Glorfindel sucked it and smiled when Erestor moaned, arching even closer. He withdrew, despite Erestor’s disappointed cry. It was time to explore completely this beauty that was his hervenn now.

Erestor couldn’t turn his eyes away from Glorfindel when he finally undressed. His heart started to race when he saw that Glorfindel was already aroused, because of him! Now he started to believe that Glorfindel really wanted him. Before he realized what he was doing, Erestor had extended his hand, surprising them both.

Glorfindel moaned when he suddenly felt a light touch on his arousal, and looked at Erestor in surprise. He smiled. So his adorable, shy hervenn wanted to touch him!

“I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?” Erestor whispered, blushing furiously. He couldn’t understand what had gotten into him. How in Arda had he dared to touch Glorfindel like that? But then he cried out in surprise when he was suddenly pulled into an intimate embrace with a naked and very aroused Glorfindel. The feeling was beyond anything he had ever felt.

“You didn’t hurt me, Erestor. Remember that we are bonded now and you can touch me anytime you want,” Glorfindel said with a sultry voice, adding fuel to the fire that was already set in them. He rolled onto his back, pulling Erestor atop him.

“Touch me, Erestor nín. Show me how much you want me.”

Erestor shifted restlessly. He felt extremely hot and it took a moment for him to decide what to do next. Glorfindel’s invitation had made his blood pulse in his veins like never before. Erestor looked into Glorfindel’s blue eyes which seemed now much darker. He gathered his courage and cupped Glorfindel’s face, kissing him. Erestor moaned; he would never tire of tasting Glorfindel’s extremely tempting mouth. He trembled when Glorfindel’s hands caressed his back and buttocks ever so gently. Glorfindel’s hands felt heavenly on his bare skin. Without noticing, their kiss had deepened, and Erestor felt as if he was melting into Glorfindel’s arms. Never had he imagined that a lover’s touch would rouse such a wild need in him. Erestor continued his exploration, spreading kisses on Glorfindel’s face and neck. He buried his hands into the golden mane and found a pointed eartip. When he tentatively sucked it, Glorfindel moaned, to Erestor’s great delight. The knowledge was intoxicating; he was able to give pleasure to the elf he loved more than the life itself. Erestor touched and tasted Glorfindel further, taking pleasure in his cries that finally changed into begging.

“Saes, Erestor nín… let me touch you,” Glorfindel finally whispered brokenly. Erestor’s touch felt like magic, but even better was the knowledge that Erestor had finally forgotten his fears and enjoyed their closeness as much as he did.

Erestor’s heart swelled when he heard Glorfindel’s plea. Now he started to understand what Glorfindel had tried to tell him all along: their pleasure would be greatest when it was mutual. His ada had been completely wrong, and Erestor didn’t want to hurt his beloved hervenn by those meaningless beliefs anymore.

“I’m sorry, that I didn’t trust you, meleth nín. Make love to me. I want to be yours in every way I possibly can,” Erestor whispered, opening his whole soul to his mate. The smile he saw on Glorfindel’s face competed with Anar herself.

“Now you understand, don’t you, mir nín (my treasure)? Our lovemaking is the source of joy and rapture for both of us. Nothing will make me happier than to see you undone, wanting more of me. I will make you mine, but I am to be yours as well.”

Slowly, gently Glorfindel rose and settled Erestor on his back. For a moment, he could only feast on the beauty with his gaze, silently wondering at his luck. “Now… my sweet, beautiful hervenn… it is my turn to touch you,” he purred in Erestor’s ear and heard his moan. Glorfindel lowered his head and kissed Erestor with the passion he had suppressed for so long. He groaned as Erestor arched beneath him. Their naked bodies rubbed against one another until he was ready to explode.

Erestor returned the kiss with fervor, pouring all of his love into it. A demanding heat pooled in his body. Nothing else mattered anymore but Glorfindel. Erestor wanted more of him, with an intensity that almost scared him. Glorfindel’s gentle hands caressed his neck and soon his mouth followed their trace. Erestor cried out when Glorfindel found a sensitive spot and sucked it. He felt his whole body tightening, aching for release.

“Just like that, meleth nin… don’t hide your pleasure from me. I want to hear you,” Glorfindel whispered, smiling against Erestor’s chest. Oh, how he craved to taste his delicious hervenn everywhere he possibly could! Erestor’s moans and gasps were music to his ears; it was the most beautiful song of ecstasy he had ever heard.

Glorfindel kissed his way lower on Erestor’s writhing body until he finally reached his arousal. Erestor’s hips moved at same pace as his strokes, and Glorfindel silently thought that he had never seen anything this beautiful. He kissed Erestor’s trembling thighs and then took his aching arousal in his mouth.

“So delicious…and all mine. Come for me, meleth,” Glorfindel urged and smiled when Erestor screamed his name in total abandon. How he loved to watch Erestor’s pleasure, but even more, he cherished the fact that he was the only one who would ever see this glorious sight. Glorfindel groaned when Erestor finally came with a loud cry. He would never tire of Erestor’s heavenly taste on his tongue.

Erestor hardly noticed when he was pulled into a warm embrace. His whole being was still pulsing in the throes of completion as he rested his head against Glorfindel’s strong shoulder. When his body finally relaxed, Erestor realized that his whole world had changed. Glorfindel had lifted him up to sensual heights that he had never experienced before, but even more, Erestor treasured the utmost tenderness that Glorfindel had shown to him. He searched Glorfindel’s lips with a lingering kiss, taking pleasure in their intimate embrace.

“How do you feel, meleth nín?” Glorfindel finally asked, tenderly smoothing Erestor’s hair.

“I feel… wonderful. I love you, Glorfindel,” Erestor whispered, blushing.

“I love you too, Erestor nín,” Glorfindel said softly. He smiled when he felt Erestor finally relax in his arms. His beautiful hervenn was really opening up to him.

After a moment’s hesitation Glorfindel finally caressed Erestor’s buttocks. He longed to take Erestor, but he didn’t want to scare him. To his delight, Erestor didn’t flinch at his touch, but purred and snuggled even closer.

Erestor didn’t resist at all, when Glorfindel carefully settled him on his back. His heart started to race. This was it; the moment when Glorfindel would make him his! For so long he had dreamed of making love with Glorfindel; of knowing the power of his complete possession.

“Take me, meleth nín. I want you so much,” Erestor pleaded, looking into Glorfindel’s cerulean eyes. His heart almost stopped when Glorfindel smiled at him gently.

“I will, mír nín. Relax for me. I want you to find only pleasure in my arms,” Glorfindel said, a lump in his throat. Erestor’s trust was the most precious gift to him, and he made a silent vow to always be worth it. Glorfindel knew that he had to be very careful, for Erestor was small but he was not.

Erestor was nervous, but he felt no pain as Glorfindel prepared him carefully. The first intrusion felt strange but sensual at the same time. He loved to feel Glorfindel’s fingers inside him, touching him lovingly. More fingers followed, stretching him further and finally finding his pleasure spot. Again and again Glorfindel brushed his fingers over it, driving Erestor wild with need. He panted heavily when Glorfindel finally withdrew, but only to prepare himself. At the very next moment Erestor felt Glorfindel’s delicious weight pinning him against the mattress.

“Saes, Glorfindel. I can’t wait anymore,” he sobbed, clinging onto Glorfindel’s powerful body.

“Shh… You don’t need to wait, meleth,” Glorfindel whispered. He captured Erestor’s lips in a passionate kiss as he slowly pushed in, joining them as one. Glorfindel’s heart quivered with affection when he felt Erestor writhing beneath him.

“Are you all right, Erestor nín?” he gently asked, even if his whole being demanded him to move, to claim this beauty as his own. Their union felt heavenly; the experience was beyond anything he had ever felt.

“I… I’m better than all right. You feel… heavenly,” Erestor whispered, breathless. He met Glorfindel’s every thrust when he finally began to move, and soon Erestor drifted into mindless ecstasy. The room filled with their moans and cries as they loved each other for the very first time.

Erestor’s pleasure finally broke Glorfindel’s control and he thrust into the willing body with wild abandon until they both reached their peaks, crying each other’s names. Together they fell over the edge, and their faer (souls) joined together so that they were not two anymore, but one.

Minutes passed as they slowly came back themselves. Glorfindel drew his exhausted mate as close as possible, whispering at him lovingly. “Sleep, meleth nín. I will hold you.”

“I will. I’m so tired… it was amazing, meleth. ‘You’ were amazing,” Erestor murmured and cuddled closer, until finally he slept, a happy smile on his face.

“So were you, Erestor nin, so were you,” Glorfindel whispered, kissing Erestor’s cheek. He knew that he would never forget how beautifully Erestor had given himself to him, no matter how long he lived.

*****

Erestor woke slowly, feeling completely wonderful. He noticed that he was still tightly in Glorfindel’s arms, and the intimate embrace felt heavenly. But then he stirred from his haze, and felt Glorfindel’s arousal pressing against his buttocks. The feeling set his own body aflame, but he wasn’t sure what he could do about it. A little moan escaped from his lips before he managed to stop it.

“So, you are finally awake, Erestor nín,” a deep voice purred behind him. Erestor blushed. He still felt a little sore, and memories from last night started to come back to his mind…

“Maer aur, meleth (good morning, love) how do you feel?” Erestor asked shyly.

“Don’t you think that I should be the one to ask that? I have never in my life felt better. But what of you, ind nín (my heart)?” Glorfindel chuckled, turning Erestor around, so that they now were face to face. He studied Erestor carefully, and was relieved when he found his eyes shining with languid but obvious happiness.

Glorfindel hadn’t slept at all; he had been far too happy to sleep when he was finally able to hold Erestor in his arms and watch his slumber. Glorfindel quivered with affection when he remembered how Erestor had, even in his sleep, snuggled closer, searching for his touch. He had watched for hours without becoming bored when Erestor’s dark head rested against his chest. Every now and then Glorfindel had smoothed those silky, raven locks, or kissed Erestor’s brow. The happy smile he had seen on Erestor’s face every time he had touched or kissed him had warmed Glorfindel’s heart.

“Are you happy, Erestor nín?” he finally asked, even if he could see the truth in Erestor’s eyes that shone brighter than any star.

The gentle question made Erestor happier than he ever believed possible. He felt warm and safe, and what was even more important, loved.

“I am happy, Glorfindel. How I could not be? I love you so much,” Erestor said, and after a moment’s hesitation, he leaned in to kiss Glorfindel.

“I love you too. You are the very breath of my life,” Glorfindel whispered against Erestor’s lips, when the kiss finally ended. He tenderly smoothed Erestor’s raven hair, thinking that there was no happier elf on Arda than he was, now that this beautiful, completely lovable elf was finally his. Erestor was all he would ever want from life.

Erestor moaned when their arousals rubbed against each other. Suddenly their embrace turned from gentle to sensual and seductive. Again their lips met, but this time Glorfindel didn’t dominate the kiss, instead opening his mouth, tempting Erestor to explore. And Erestor did; he felt he would never get enough of Glorfindel’s delicious lips or the sweet secrets of his hot mouth. When they finally broke the kiss, Erestor writhed with need. He wanted Glorfindel, now. The new feelings that rose in him almost scared him with theirs intensity.

“Make love to me, meleth. I want you so much,” Erestor whispered with a courage he never knew he possessed.

“Nothing would make me happier, but are you sure? Are you not sore from last night?” Glorfindel asked hoarsely. He had known that there was much hidden fire inside Erestor, but he would never have believed that his adorable, shy hervenn would open up to him so quickly.

“Only a little. I feel…wonderful. I feel loved and possessed. Let me feel that again, Glorfindel. I love you so much.”

Glorfindel couldn’t deny him. He could deny Erestor nothing, especially not now, when he begged to be taken. Slowly, gently, Glorfindel caressed Erestor’s writhing body, savoring the fact that his mate loved his touch as much as he loved to touch him. Still, he was a little worried at first; he didn’t want to hurt Erestor, no matter how much he wanted him. But Glorfindel’s last inhibitions disappeared when he found his mate still ready, and obviously not sore. Erestor’s hoarse cries made him wild with love and desire.

“We will make love, ind nín. Come here,” Glorfindel whispered, and leaned his back against the headboard, pulling Erestor atop him. Erestor blushed but obeyed, and Glorfindel groaned with pleasure when he entered him. He looked into Erestor’s dark eyes that were dilated with desire, and gently urged him to move.

With Glorfindel’s help, Erestor managed to set a slow but sensual pace that soon had the noises of their shared pleasure echoing in the room. Erestor put his hands on Glorfindel’s shoulders, kissing him with the all love he held in his heart for his mate. Glorfindel’s hands were caressing his body, inflaming him even more. Erestor felt as if he was almost melting under Glorfindel’s heated touches as he moved faster.

Glorfindel couldn’t believe his senses; where had his shy, lovely hervenn disappeared to, and who was this amazing creature who was quickly driving him towards ecstasy he had never known before?

“Oh… oh… Erestor,” Glorfindel heard himself moaning. He was completely beyond all control. He wept with joy and rapture that seared within him, until Erestor finally cried out and collapsed against his chest in the throes of his completion. With a loud grunt, Glorfindel let go and released himself deep inside his mate, and almost passed out with the force of his orgasm.

Glorfindel opened his eyes, and saw Erestor looking at him, worried.

“You cried. Why? I’m sorry if you didn’t like…” Erestor whispered, unsure. He touched Glorfindel’s cheek that still was wet from his tears.

“Oh, Erestor! My sweet, sweet hervenn! Don’t think even for one second that I didn’t enjoy our lovemaking, do you hear me? You were amazing, and I shed tears because you made me so happy. I knew that you would be passionate, but now, when I have gotten a first taste of your love, I am stunned with your fiery spirit. Don’t ever hide your true nature from me, meleth,” Glorfindel said, making Erestor blush fiercely. He smiled, and kissed Erestor’s flushed cheek, silently thinking how very lucky he was. “Come, meleth, and I prepare us a bath. I want to wash you from head to toe,” he continued, lifting his mate up and carrying him to the bathroom.

* * * *

Erestor was happier than he had ever been before. His life with Glorfindel had soon become a comfortable routine. Erestor loved to come home from work, since he now lived with Glorfindel. Everyone in the House of the Golden Flower had tried their best to make Erestor feel welcome. Erestor was flattered by their attention, though he silently thought that Glorfindel was all he needed to feel loved and welcome.

Every afternoon Erestor left his little study, and walked the short distance to the practicing fields where Glorfindel performed his own duties. Together they continued to their home, telling each other about their day while they walked. They didn’t need any particular entertainment for the evening. They had each other and that was enough for both of them. They spoke, and sometimes played chess after their dinner, and even the silences between them didn’t feel awkward, but warm and comfortable. But Erestor thought that the nights were the best. Every evening Glorfindel and he made love, sometimes slowly and gently, and other times, hard and fast. And Glorfindel had turned out to be a very attentive and generous lover. He denied Erestor nothing, saying that he wanted them to be equal, although Erestor had to admit that even more than taking Glorfindel, he enjoyed Glorfindel taking him. He loved the feeling when Glorfindel possessed him fiercely, but always with the utmost tenderness. And every evening Erestor fell asleep in Glorfindel’s warm embrace, his mate’s loving whispers and kisses lulling him into slumber.

And there was one more thing that had changed completely in Erestor’s life after their bonding. He still flushed at the memory of their first bath together. How he had jumped in surprise when Glorfindel had started to wash him. He had been embarrassed because he had become aroused, even though Glorfindel was only washing him… and Glorfindel had smiled at him gently when he had finally admitted his condition to his new hervenn…and Glorfindel had purred into his ear that it had been his very intention, and during their bath, had caressed him till completion so many times that he had been too exhausted to leave the bathtub by himself…

But tonight everything would change. They needed to leave their safe nest, for it was time for them to attend their first, big celebration together. Erestor was nervous; he had left work unusually early so that he had time to get ready. He didn’t like the crowds, but this was his duty as Glorfindel’s mate, and he didn’t want to let his beloved hervenn down. With all the effort he could possibly muster, Erestor had readied himself for the celebration. He was nervous, mostly because the Lords Salgant and Maeglin would attend the celebration too. Erestor had seen those two only from afar after his wedding, but occasionally, he had sensed them staring at him with lecherous eyes, revealing that they had not forgotten their repulsive plot. But Erestor had decided to fight for his honor and marriage. He wouldn’t let them ruin his life with Glorfindel, no matter what!

Erestor looked his reflection in the mirror and was satisfied. His hair was braided and he had chosen the robes made of night-blue velvet with mithril embroidery. They were festive enough for the great party, but much more to his liking than those he had worn at his wedding. Erestor had no desire to wear any revealing clothes, especially not now when he knew that the Lords Salgant and Maeglin were after him. The only one who was allowed to see more of him was Glorfindel, and Erestor knew that his mate loved him, no matter what he wore. And these robes had one more benefit; they fit together with the beautiful mithril belt that Glorfindel had gifted him with. There were two ceremonial daggers in it, giving Erestor a perfect excuse to carry weapons. He had furtively changed the decorative daggers for real ones, small but lethal. And even if Erestor was an advisor now, he still knew how to use them. Daggers and long knives had always been his best weapons, and he still practiced daily. If necessary, Erestor was fully ready to protect himself.

The door opened and he turned to look at Glorfindel, who stepped in.

“I see that you are ready, meleth,” the Elda said, after kissing Erestor gently.

“I am… as ready as I can ever be. I just hope that everything will go fine,” Erestor whispered, trying to hide his fear. He couldn’t deny the fact that he was nervous; almost anything could happen tonight. If Salgant and Maeglin were desperate enough, they might try something.

“You don’t need to be afraid. You are now my hervenn, and as such you don’t need to bow to anyone but the king and his daughter, princess Idril.”

Erestor straightened himself, thinking that as long as Glorfindel was beside him, he was ready for anything. He managed a smile when they finally headed to the door.

“Just like that, meleth nín. I know that you will make me proud.”

Erestor silently hoped that Glorfindel’s words would turn out to be true.

*****

They met Ecthelion in the entrance hall and Erestor greeted his brother, glad to see him. They had seen each other only in passing after wedding.

"I can see that you are happy, tôr díthen (little brother)," Ecthelion said, and smiled at his brother. He was relieved to see that Glorfindel had made Erestor happy. He only hoped that the lords Salgant and Maeglin had given up the hope of having his brother to themselves. Though he couldn’t be sure about that, not yet. Erestor had always been beautiful, but happiness had made him even more radiant. Now he was an even bigger temptation to those who lusted after him.

"I am happy, Thel. Happier than I have ever been," Erestor assured him, leaning closer to Glorfindel, who wrapped his arm around his husband’s waist. Erestor was happy and loved; it was all that mattered.

* * * *

The great doors opened and Erestor and Glorfindel stepped to the Throne Room. Erestor’s heart pounded, but he managed to keep his face. He had to do this right, for Glorfindel’s sake. For his beloved hervenn, Erestor was ready for almost anything!

Together they bowed to the king, and Erestor was relieved when he saw Turgon smiling to them.

“It is time that you finally brought your beautiful mate to greet us, Lord Glorfindel. I already thought that you were going to keep him all by yourself,” he said in a teasing tone. Erestor managed not to blush, even if he was a little embarrassed at the king’s attention. Still, the words didn’t impress him. Glorfindel’s opinion was the only one that mattered to him. But it still felt good to know that he hadn’t caused any problems to his beloved mate.

“I am not going to hide my hervenn, Híren (My Lord). But I must admit that the very thought is beginning to seem surprisingly tempting.” Glorfindel smiled, but held Erestor tightly close to him. He wanted everyone to see that Erestor was not only his hervenn, but the one who held his heart.

* * * *

Ecthelion looked at his friend and brother, and he was happy at what he saw. There was no one who could not see the obvious love between those two. Glorfindel held Erestor in a very gentle manner and Erestor quite beamed with happiness. Ecthelion could also see the beautiful flush on Erestor’s face and slight dark circles under his eyes; both unfailing signs of constant, passionate lovemaking.

But Ecthelion failed to notice that he wasn’t the only one who saw this, and poisonous jealousy burned in the other two.

“That is disgusting! It seems that you were wrong, Salgant. Those fools don’t see anyone else but each other,” Maeglin hissed, outraged.

“Maybe it is time to try harder methods to get that little tidbit where he belongs. And don’t forget: Glorfindel has, without doubt, taught him how to satisfy one’s needs. He will be even more enjoyable now… and believe me, I have every intention of putting those skills to good use,” Salgant whispered, trying to calm Maeglin down. But his words weren’t only empty comfort; Salgant had a plan, and if everything went as planned, Erestor would be theirs before the day was over.

* * * *

Glorfindel noticed that the king seemed worried, despite his usual, calm appearance. He wondered what was wrong, but decided not to ask. It was Turgon’s decision if he wanted to share his thoughts with him. And Glorfindel had learned long ago that the king would eventually tell him about all the important issues.

Glorfindel’s suspicions became truth much sooner than he would have thought. Turgon requested a private audience with him, and Glorfindel didn’t dare decline. But he left Erestor alone with a heavy heart. If Salgant and Maeglin still were after Erestor, this would be an excellent opportunity to act. Glorfindel wondered if he had acted wisely in hiding the lords’ attempts from Erestor. Surely Erestor would have been more cautious if he knew. But Glorfindel didn’t want to burden his beloved with matters like this. Had he been wrong? He scanned through the hall with his gaze, but didn’t see Ecthelion. Where was he, when Glorfindel needed him most?

“Be careful, meleth. I won’t stay long, but I must go to the king as he asked me to,” Glorfindel whispered to Erestor, trying to hide his worry. But Erestor could still sense his anxiety through their bond.

“I won’t go anywhere. I will wait for you just here,” Erestor assured, sitting on the chair beside the window. He was nervous, but supposed that Salgant and Maeglin wouldn’t dare try anything in public.

He was completely wrong.

* * * *

Erestor looked suspiciously at the servant who came to deliver him a message.

“Why ever have my hervenn and the king asked me to join them? Surely they can manage without me. I’m only an inexperienced advisor,” he said, without making any attempt to follow the elf.

“Lord Glorfindel asked permission for you to attend the negotiations. Saes, believe me, Híren (My Lord). They really need you,” the servant assured him, beginning to seem nervous.

Erestor’s thoughts raced. It was possible that Glorfindel had really sent this elf to fetch him? But how in Arda could he make sure that this wasn’t Salgant’s or Maeglin’s try to catch him? On the other hand, if the invitation was real, the king would surely be annoyed if he didn’t obey it. Finally, after long hesitation, Erestor stood and followed the servant, but he made sure that his daggers were still at hand if needed.

* * * *

Erestor knew immediately that something was wrong when the door locked behind him. The room was quite dark, and beside the fireplace were two elves. And they weren’t Glorfindel and the king, but two raven-haired elves.

“Maeglin and Salgant! Dear Valar, help me now!”

“So, you decided to join us, pen neth,” Maeglin finally said, a false smile on his face. Erestor shuddered but decided that he had to hide his fear, no matter what!

“Why I am here? I thought that it was my hervenn who wanted to meet me.”

“We decided that you needed company, when Lord Glorfindel was so thoughtless as to abandon his newly-wed hervenn, leave him on his own, and return to his lover’s bed so soon after the wedding. And tell me, how long you have been married? A month, or is it two? I don’t remember,” Salgant purred, trying to come closer.

“You are lying! Glorfindel would never betray me. He loves me!” Erestor whispered, backing up until he felt the wooden door behind him.

“That wasn’t a nice thing to say, pen neth. We are only trying to help you, that’s all,” Maeglin hissed, his calm appearance cracking slightly.

“Was it a nice thing to do, when you invited me here with lies? I don’t need your help. Let me go, now,” Erestor commanded with a low voice.

“We will let you go as soon as you are a little bit friendlier to us. You could help your brother, you know.”

Erestor paled. What in the Valar’s name did they mean?

“What have you done to him?” he blurted out, before he managed to stop himself. Silently he berated himself for revealing his weakness to Maeglin and Salgant, but Ecthelion was dear to him. If those two had done anything to him…

The two elves smiled now, and their obvious triumph chilled Erestor’s heart. He followed their gaze to the bed that he hadn’t noticed before because his attention had been elsewhere. To his dismay, Erestor saw his brother lying on the bed, pale and silent.

* * * *

“So, what say you? Are you finally beginning to see things on our side, pen neth?” Salgant asked softly. His dark eyes glittered victoriously, and for the first time he let his lecherous gaze wander over Erestor’s body.

“What has happened to him? Before I say anything, I want you to free him,” Erestor demanded, trying frantically to think of a way out of this horrible situation.

“Ah, ah ah! I think that you are not in the position to request anything. Here is the deal: we won’t make you stay against your will. You are free to go anytime you want. But if you want your brother with you, you need to stay to us for this one night. After this one night, we let you both go, alive. On the other hand, if you decide to decline… I’m sorry to tell you, but your brother will die before morning.”

“What do you mean? What in Arda have you done to him?” Erestor shouted, trying to suppress his tears.

“I think that as an advisor you know the little plant, named Black Dream? It was easier than we ever thought, to slip that little addition to his drink. And he will die without the antidote.”

“And you will not give it to him, unless I agree to let you rape me,” Erestor continued, his heart frozen. Tears threatened to blind him, but he refused to break down in front of these monsters. So, this was their horrible plot: when he didn’t believe their filthy lies about Glorfindel, Maeglin and Salgant tried to force him to submit by blackmailing him in a most cruel way! How he ever could leave Ecthelion to their mercy?

*****

Desperate, Erestor tried to think any way out of this horrible situation. He found none. Only one thing he knew for sure. If he let Maeglin and Salgant have their way with him, his life and his marriage with Glorfindel would be ruined, destroyed beyond repair. How he could ever again meet his beloved husband’s gaze, or make love with him, when he was touched, tainted by another?

He also was sure that he couldn’t trust Maeglin and Salgant to give the antidote to Ecthelion, even if he submitted to them. The situation dawned on him finally: his sacrifice would probably go completely in vain. Ecthelion was lost, and he would be too, if he gave up to them.

With all the effort he could muster, Erestor managed to stay calm. He needed to convince Maeglin and Salgant that they had succeeded; in their triumph, they might be careless. It was Erestor’s only hope. In his despair, he thought of his beloved hervenn, leaving his final farewell.

“Whatever happens, remember that I love you forever, meleth nín. I will never love another. Never!”

* * * *

Glorfindel flinched, when he suddenly heard Erestor’s desperate voice in his mind.

//Meleth? Are you all right?// he thought, suddenly fearing for his hervenn. What in Arda was going on?

Erestor could have wept with relief; Glorfindel had heard him!

//Glorfindel? I need you, now. I have no time explain, but bring soldiers with you and come to the eastern wing. We are in the third room to the right.//

Glorfindel acted immediately. He jumped up and ran to the door. Not even etiquette or the fear of the king’s disapproval stopped him now. If Erestor said that he needed him, he would go without any delay. He commanded all the soldiers he met on his way to come with him. Glorfindel was determined: he would find his hervenn, and if Erestor had any complaints towards anyone, then that poor elf would regret the day he was born!

* * * *

Erestor jumped, and then started, when he turned his attention back to Maeglin and Salgant and noticed that they had come much closer.

“It is time to answer, lirimaer. We have waited long enough,” Maeglin said, his patience obviously at an end. Erestor felt nauseous with fear, but forced himself to answer. He tried to think of a way to delay the inevitable so that Glorfindel would have enough time to find them. Every second he could win for himself and for his brother was now precious!

“You have made yourself clear. I have no other options but to obey. But do you realize that after you have used me, you will be guilty, not only of rape, but of kinslaying, too? I cannot continue my life after this night,” Erestor said slowly, trying to reason with them one last time.

“I cannot believe that you are this naïve, pen neth. Your stepping into the Halls of Mandos will be great waste, but if that is your choice… we won’t stop you,” Maeglin taunted.

“So let’s make sure that we will never forget this one night, if that is all that we are having from you,” Salgant smiled evilly, stepping aside so that Maeglin now had easy access to their prey. He would have his share of Erestor, but first it was Maeglin’s turn to taste the young elf’s charms.

Erestor stared, almost mesmerized, when Maeglin slowly approached. His heart pounded wildly in his chest; he knew that he had only one, weak chance to save himself and his brother. Just one more moment, and his fate would be resolved…

* * * *

Maeglin took one last step and closed the distance between them. Erestor shuddered with disgust when he was suddenly pulled into a gripping embrace, and eager lips searched his mouth. He squirmed, and directed one, perfectly targeted kick to Maeglin’s groin. The lord sank on the floor, moaning with pain. Before Salgant even noticed, his friend lay on the ground, a dagger pressed on his throat.

“Stay right where you are, Salgant! If you take one step closer, I will cut his throat!” Erestor commanded with a cold voice. He intensified his threat by pressing the dagger even more, so that its blade cut a little wound on Maeglin’s neck, and the elf screamed, not only with pain, but also with fear.

“And what you are going to do, pen neth? Surely you realize that your struggling doesn’t help your situation at all. Glorfindel will never find you in time, and your brother will soon be dead. Is that what you want?” Salgant hissed, but his voice was unsure, even fearful, now that he was alone against Erestor. The young elf was maybe petite, but obviously there was nothing wrong with his warrior’s skills. And Salgant could read on Erestor’s face that he was furious.

“I can assure you that Glorfindel will find us very soon. And even if he doesn’t… I will gladly give a payback for what you have done to my brother,” Erestor spat, his hand completely firm. He was fully ready to take this bastard’s life if necessary. All he had to do was to wait for his hervenn.

* * * *

Erestor didn’t know how long they waited, but every passing moment felt longer than the last. Finally, when he was beginning to be desperate, the door opened.

“Thank to the Valar, Glorfindel! You came!” Erestor cried, and he threw the dagger down, rushing to Glorfindel.

“Are you all right, meleth? Why in Arda are you here with these two, and how did this happen?” Glorfindel asked anxiously, taking Erestor into his arms.

“You are right. I want to know those facts too, and especially why your hervenn was holding the dagger on my nephew´s throat,” a familiar voice said calmly.

Erestor started when he saw the king standing at the door. Had he made a grave mistake, attacking Maeglin? What if the King sentenced him to exile, or even to death because of this?

Maeglin tried to speak but the king waved him silent.

“I didn’t speak to you, Maeglin. Your turn is later. Now, speak your mind, Erestor of the Golden Flower.”

Erestor drew his breath and began. “I was sitting in the hall when a servant came to me, saying that my hervenn and you requested my presence. I was suspicious, but finally I followed, when he asked me again. But the servant didn’t bring me to you, but here, where Lords Maeglin and Salgant were waiting for me.” While he spoke, Erestor noticed that Salgant had furtively crept closer to the door.

“I request that you don’t let him go. I am sure that the king will have something to say to him when I am finished,” he said calmly, and two soldiers went immediately and held onto the lord while Erestor continued his story.

“So, the servant brought me here and locked the door behind me. And then these two tried to get me into bed, saying that…” Erestor halted, not knowing how he could say their horrid lies aloud.

“What did they say, meleth? You can tell us,” Glorfindel finally said with a gentle voice, trying to give Erestor his support.

“… they said that you didn’t care anyway, even if I did agree, because… you…you were with your lover while I was… here,” Erestor whispered, not daring to look Glorfindel in the eye.

Glorfindel had never hated anyone, but when he heard Erestor’s unsure words, he would have gladly killed those two monsters. They had hurt his beloved, and that was enough for Glorfindel to now consider them his enemies. But first he had to take care of his adorable, brave hervenn. Gently, he lifted Erestor’s chin, making their gazes meet.

“I do hope that you didn’t believe a word, Erestor nín. I have never loved anyone but you,” Glorfindel whispered seriously, looking into Erestor’s eyes. And he was delighted when he found no sign of doubt in them.

“I do believe you, and I told them that,” Erestor assured him, “but they didn’t give up so easily. They have captured my brother and poisoned him. They blackmailed me, saying that Ecthelion will die before morning if I didn’t let them have their way with me.”

After a moment’s silence, the king spoke. “If I were you,” he said slowly, addressing the two lords, “… if I were you, I would have the antidote with me. Because if he dies…”

The threat was clear. Turgon would show no mercy to kinslayers.

“He will be all right within a few hours. He only got an ordinary sleeping drug,” Salgant confessed. His courage had completely left him when their plot was finally revealed. They were in serious trouble, and he knew it.

“I hope that you speak the truth, for both of your sakes. But even if Lord Ecthelion is all right, your crimes are far too grave for me to let you go free. I am especially disgusted to hear that you tried to seduce Lord Glorfindel’s wedded spouse, and when you didn’t succeed, tried to rape him. I have no words to describe my contempt for such wicked deeds.”

The king requested the guards to take the two lords. “From this moment on, you two stay in your homes, and you are not allowed to leave from there without at least two guards to follow your every move. If I ever find out that you have tried to pursue Lord Erestor again in any way, or someone else has suffered because of you two, I will show no mercy. You are my kin, Maeglin, and thus you will share your father’s fate. But you, Salgant, are not so lucky… Have I made myself clear?” the king asked with a cold tone that scared even the bravest ones.

The two lords nodded without a word and the king commanded his guards to take them away. Erestor could sense their hatred and jealousy, exuding towards him like a poisonous fog, but he didn’t care. He was safe again, and he was with Glorfindel. It was all that mattered.

* * * *

“I think that it is time for you to take your mate home and pamper him a little. This has been far too rough an experience for him,” the king said to Glorfindel, and this time his voice was much friendlier.

“I will do as you say, my King.” Glorfindel bowed to Turgon. He was so proud of his Erestor. Who would have known that his beautiful, little hervenn would best two the most notorious elves in the whole of Gondolin?

“And what of you, pen neth? You surely are something extraordinary. Not only have you succeeded in capturing Glorfindel’s heart, but now you uncover two disgusting villains. I want you to join my closest advisors, but I also want to reward your braveness and quick thinking. What is your heart’s desire, young Erestor? Just name the prize and it will be yours, if it is within my powers to give it,” Turgon promised generously.

Erestor blushed, embarrassed by Turgon’s generosity, but finally he found the courage to answer. “I’m very grateful to you, my King, for your generous offer. But I already have everything I ever wanted from life,” he said, turning to glance at Glorfindel. He heard the king chuckling when he pulled his mate into a loving kiss.

*****

They rested on the bed, languid and sated after their lovemaking. Erestor didn’t say anything, but Glorfindel could sense his restlessness.

“Would you tell me what you have on your mind, meleth?” Glorfindel finally asked, when the silence threatened to continue. He didn’t want any secrets between them.

Erestor raised his head and Glorfindel could see uncertainty in his dark eyes.

“I just… I was so afraid, Glorfindel. I thought that I would never see you again,” Erestor finally confessed.

“Oh, meleth! I should never have left you alone!” Glorfindel whispered, but halted with a start. In his worry, he had forgotten completely that Erestor didn’t know the whole truth.

“What in Arda do you mean? How could you have guessed what those two would try?” Erestor asked, confused.

Glorfindel hesitated; he wanted to be honest, but what would Erestor say when he found out that he had hidden certain things from him? He had intended to bury the truth about his proposal forever, because he didn’t want to hurt his beloved mate. But now the secret threatened to be exposed, only because of his careless words.

“Glorfindel? What are you thinking?”

“I’m sorry. I was just distracted for a moment. The truth is… that I anticipated that they might try something. Maeglin and Salgant have always lusted after young elves, and you are very beautiful, meleth. I didn’t want to tell you because I wanted to protect you.”

“But… since when did you suspected this? We have been together almost constantly since our wedding. When did you have time to observe their…” Erestor broke off, when a sudden dread came to his mind. Was it possible that Glorfindel had known the truth before their marriage, maybe even before their betrothal? And that thought led to one more question. Was it possible that Maeglin’s and Salgant’s plot had something to do with Glorfindel’s proposal? Erestor decided that he had had enough secrets; he wanted the whole truth and he wanted it now.

“Why did you want to marry me, Glorfindel?” he finally asked softly, but there was such a demand in his voice that Glorfindel had never heard.

The Elda began to anticipate that there was a completely new side to his sweet hervenn; a side he had never seen before - until this night. The Erestor who had kept Maeglin as his captive hadn’t been his shy, adorable hervenn, but a warrior, fierce and fully capable of taking care of himself. And the comprehension made Erestor even more precious in Glorfindel’s eyes. He was lucky to have this amazing creature as his hervenn.

“Do you remember the night I came to your father’s house and we sat in the garden?” he finally started, fearing that his secrecy might have damaged Erestor’s feelings for him. The mere thought was unbearable, and he had to convince Erestor about his honesty.

Erestor nodded, but he felt a chilling fear inside him. Suddenly he feared what Glorfindel would say to him, and he wanted to stop him, to say that he didn’t want to know after all! What if Glorfindel admitted that his feelings didn’t run as deep as his own?

Glorfindel took Erestor’s hand and found it shaking. He felt a pang of guilt. Erestor didn’t need any of this; hadn’t he had enough troubles for one night? And he had added to Erestor’s distress by his careless words.

“Erestor, meleth, you have to believe me. When I proposed to you, I did it only because I loved you, and I still do, more than I ever believed possible. I admit that I knew about Maeglin’s and Salgant’s intention, and I was afraid because of it. But the knowledge only made me hurry my proposal. I wanted to make sure that you would be mine, as I have wanted you to be for a long time. My original intention was to court you slowly and properly, but I couldn’t bear the thought of losing you.”

Glorfindel’s heartfelt declaration made waves of relief wash trough Erestor. He could see that Glorfindel meant every word. But still he couldn’t relax, not yet. “I can understand that, Glorfindel. But you should have told me the truth from the beginning. I am no child, you know,” he said with a frown but his expression softened.

“I know that you are not a child, meleth. And if I had known that my secrecy would lead you to such danger…” Glorfindel shuddered at the thought. “I’m so sorry, Erestor nín. Will you forgive me? I swear that I will never hide anything from you again.”

Erestor was silent for a moment, studying Glorfindel’s anxious face.

“I forgive you…but you’d better remember that I won’t share you. You are mine now,” he finally said. Erestor didn’t believe that Glorfindel would betray him, but he still wanted to say aloud this last, disturbing thought, and then forget this horrible night forever.

Glorfindel raised his hand to smooth Erestor’s cheek. “I am the luckiest elf in all of Arda to belong to you, meleth. I will be yours till the end of time.”

Erestor smiled at his mate, all his fears finally put in rest. “And I am yours as well, meleth nín. And I am not sorry at all about your hasty proposal.”

“Oh? And why is that?” Glorfindel asked, almost fearing the answer. There was such a wicked gleam in Erestor’s eyes that warned him.

“Because… now I’m able to do this,” Erestor whispered, and kissed Glorfindel, just as sweetly as he always did.

* * * *

Glorfindel looked, mesmerized, at his beautiful harvenn who rested atop him, completely exhausted, but with a happy smile on his face. He took Erestor’s hand and pressed it upon his heart.

Erestor was almost dozing off, but still he could feel Glorfindel’s steady heartbeat under his hand, and he heard the softly whispered words: “Do you feel this, meleth nín? My heart beats, because you hold it in your hand.”

*****

THE END

If you enjoyed this story, please send feedback to: Zilah

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