Title: The Fell Winter

Author: Aglarien

Type: FPS

Pairing: Erestor/Glorfindel

Rating: NC-17

Disclaimer: Not mine. The great Master Tolkien's estate owns everything else. I promise to return his elves when I'm done playing with them.

Warning: AU. Complete disregard for canon, JRRT's timelines (although the years of The Fell Winter are accurate), and the fact that only the peredhil of Elrond's lineage got to choose between human and elf. Lots of fluff.

Timeline: The Fell Winter, T.A. 2911-2912

Beta: Patricia and Lady Mirfain - Thank you Gwathil.

Summary: Middle-earth is in the middle of the harshest winter ever known, and Erestor is suffering from the cold. A small child and a golden warrior warm his heart.

Chapter 1

Erestor was freezing. Even though Imladris was buried in one of the harshest winters he had ever known, he shouldn't be this cold. His desk was sitting directly in front of the roaring fireplace, and his too-thin body was wrapped in furs, and still his hands and feet felt like blocks of ice. Each year for the past five years he had felt the cold more and more. Elrond had tried every concoction he could think of, and nothing helped. Erestor wondered sadly if he would survive this winter. Or if anyone other than the children and healers would notice if he didn't.

~~~*~~~

Glorfindel entered Elrond's office and found his lord staring absentmindedly out of the window at the heavy snowfall. After calling Elrond's name two or three times and getting no response, Glorfindel walked over and touched his shoulder. "Elrond, are you well?"

Elrond jumped, startled. "Oh, Glorfindel. Forgive me, I was thinking about a problem."

"Is something wrong?" Glorfindel asked, concerned.

"Yes," Elrond nodded. "It is Erestor. I do not know what to do to help my old friend, and I fear for him this winter."

"What is wrong with Erestor? He cannot be ill..we elves do not become ill."

Elrond shook his head. "I cannot understand it. For the past five years he has suffered from the cold weather, but this year it is much worse. I have tried everything I can think of, and nothing helps. He is in his office, working in front of the fire, wrapped in furs, and shivering."

"For five years?" Glorfindel was shocked, and felt more than just a little guilty for never noticing. "I should have noticed, Elrond. I never noticed a thing."

"You should not feel guilty, Glorfindel," Elrond sighed. "You and Erestor do not come into contact all that much, except for meetings, and he manages to cover it up then. You spend most of your time in the barracks, and he in his office. He has not been coming to dinner in the hall; he prefers to stay in his rooms or his office where he can be warmer."

"I thought he was just working - like he always is. I never even paid attention." Glorfindel flopped down in a chair across from Elrond.

"He doesn't always work," Elrond said. "Did you really think I would allow my chief councilor to work hours like that?"

"I never really thought about it, I suppose," Glorfindel responded, mortified. "It just always seemed that he was. It's what everyone thinks. He doesn't associate much with other elves or come to the Hall of Fire with everyone after dinner. What does he do if he isn't working?"

"No, he doesn't take the time to make many friends, not because he doesn't care or doesn't want to, but because he sees a need elsewhere to devote himself to. You know we have a constant influx of wounded and ill human men, women and children into the healing halls, I suppose? He spends most of his spare time housing their families, making sure they have enough food and clothing, entertaining and caring for the children whose parents are ill, visiting and reading to those who are by themselves, teaching the older children to read and write, and even teaching some of the adults." Elrond sighed. "He has never wanted anyone to know much about it. Very few elves outside of the healers know how good-hearted Erestor is. I have known him to sit up with a sick child all night on many occasions, work the following day without rest, and then sit up with the child all night again. I usually have to order him to take some rest if we have a sick child in the halls."

Glorfindel rose and paced the room. "Does no one help him?"

Elrond nodded. "Of course. Nearly everyone here does in one way or another. Celebrian and the other ladies tirelessly make clothing and blankets for them, the cooks prepare food, our carpenters build shelters for them, many work in the greenhouses to ensure we always have the healing herbs and food we need, and I work in the healing halls several hours a day. Even you, Glorfindel, you protect this valley and keep it a safe haven. Erestor is the only one, however, who devotes such time to them - especially the children. They are his passion."

To say Glorfindel was shocked was an understatement. When he had first arrived in Imladris, he had been attracted to the beautiful councilor, but Erestor's lack of response had made him suppress his desires and move on. Not that he'd ever "moved on" to anyone else. He had simply constructed a wall of frozen ice around his heart at Erestor's perceived rejection, and buried himself in his work. Now he realized part of what had initially drawn him to Erestor - and it wasn't just his beauty. It was Erestor's shining inner goodness and kindness. Erestor had never rebuffed him - he simply hadn't pursued the returned balrog slayer as so many others had done. What Glorfindel had assumed was coldness and lack of interest on Erestor's part was really a lack of time for trivial social gatherings when he was needed to help elsewhere. He felt the ice around his heart begin to crack. "I feel so guilty for misjudging him.for not noticing. I shut him out - blinded myself to what was

going on because I assumed he wasn't interested in anyone or anything other than his work. I was a fool."

"I do not know what to do to help him, Glorfindel. It tears my heart out to see him suffer, knowing I can do nothing."

"Five years, you say? Why five years? What changed five years ago to make him to susceptible to the cold?" Glorfindel stopped pacing and looked at Elrond.

"Nothing happened that I am aware of," Elrond said, shaking his head.

Glorfindel resumed pacing, and Elrond resumed thinking. After several minutes had passed, Elrond stood suddenly. "No. It cannot be that simple," he said quietly, almost to himself.

"What? What did you think of?" Glorfindel said.

Elrond sat back down and stared at his captain. "Five years ago I married Celebrian. I began spending most of my evenings with her instead of Erestor. Could it be because he is..lonely? He gets close to those in the healing halls, but then they leave, or die, and it starts all over with new ones. And then *they* leave, or die. He does not spend time any longer with other elves just for companionship."

Glorfindel thought of the human graveyard hidden in a sheltered corner of Imladris. There were always fresh graves there. "How much of his heart breaks each time someone he had devoted himself to dies or leaves?" Glorfindel said, as more of the ice around his heart cracked. "With no close companion to share his heartbreak with, how does he manage? With no one to strengthen him, how can he keep doing it? All those fresh graves, all the graves of the children, and no one to show him that they care."

Tears began to pool in Elrond's eyes. "It is all my fault. I abandoned him except for work after I married. How could I do that to him? How could I just send him to rest, thinking that was all he would need, without considering what it was doing to him?"

Glorfindel walked over to Elrond and placed a hand on his shoulder. "You were not to know, Elrond. It is right that you spend time with your wife." Another crack. "Perhaps, if I.I want to try, Elrond. It is the least I can do, after misjudging him so badly." Glorfindel stopped for a moment, and the icy wall crumbled. "No. It is more than that. I *want* to be that companion for him."

"But why? You hardly know him." Elrond stared at Glorfindel, puzzled.

"I have wanted to be a companion - a friend, and perhaps even more to him ever since the moment I arrived here and first saw him. I tried for a little while, but he never seemed to have time for me..always turned down my offers to dine with me. So I gave up and stopped pursuing him. I thought he didn't care. I could have been there for him, Elrond. I should have discovered more - found out what was going on instead of just closing myself off from him and burying myself in my work. I want to do this. I have to try - for both of us."

Elrond simply nodded.

~~~*~~~

Erestor finished his work as quickly as he could, and then hurried through the cold halls to the healing house, pulling the heavy furs around his body and trying not to shiver. He couldn't give in to the cold now. Sarah needed him - and her brother. He had to find a good family for them when her brother was healed. Entering the healing house, he saw one of the younger female healers named Taurien trying to comfort the crying child, to no avail. Sarah fussed and sobbed, thrashing about in the healer's arms.

Seeing Erestor enter, the healer breathed a sigh of relief. "Look, little one. Here is your Erestor, come to visit you."

Sarah's little arms immediately reached out to Erestor, and her dark, tear-filled eyes pulled at his heart. "Did you miss me, my little darkling?" Erestor asked, taking the child who appeared to be about five years old from the healer and kissing the dark head he held against his chest. Carrying the child to a rocking chair, he sat and cradled her in his lap, wrapping the furs around them both. Gently stroking the long, dark, softly curling hair, he whispered, "Everything is all right now, little one. I wish I could bring your parents back, sweetheart, but I'm here now. I've got you." For the first time that day he wasn't positively freezing.

"Erestor," the little one whimpered, curling a small first into Erestor's robe.

Unseen by the councilor, someone watched from the shadows as Erestor comforted the child, singing to her softly. Glorfindel motioned the young healer Taurien over and whispered, "Tell me about that child."

"The harsh winter has driven the wild wargs down from the mountains in search of food, my lord," Taurien answered. "Sarah's village was attacked and her parents killed defending their children. Her older brother was severely injured. We are amazed that he has survived and is healing. Sarah was not hurt, but the poor little thing was very traumatized and has hardly spoken, except to say Lord Erestor's name and a few other short words."

"What will happen to her?" Glorfindel asked.

"Lord Erestor will find a good family for her and her brother with a human couple who lost their children or have none. He always does. That is why she is still here - he does not want her to be separated from her brother until he can find them a home together. He spends every moment he can with her and has become very attached to her. This one will be especially hard for him to lose. She really is a little dear. I sometimes think he would like to keep her and raise her himself, but he knows it will be better for Sarah and her brother to have a mother and father. He loves her."

"Yes," Glorfindel said. "I can see that. Tell me, will Erestor stay here all night with her?"

The healer nodded. "Yes, my lord. He usually falls asleep in that rocker holding Sarah."

"That will not do. No wonder Erestor is so thin - he doesn't take the time to eat or care for himself. Tell me, has the child eaten her dinner, and can she be taken out of the healing house?"

"Yes, to both questions, my lord. We fed her a while ago, and there is no reason she has to stay here, as long as Lord Erestor is with her."

"Good," Glorfindel said. "I am going to take them both out of here and make sure Erestor eats and rests, which he will not do without her, it seems."

Taurien gifted Glorfindel with a beaming smile. "A wonderful idea, my lord. You might see if you can get the little one to eat more, too. She was a little fussy tonight without Lord Erestor, and did not eat much."

Glorfindel thanked the healer and went to Erestor. Kneeling in front of the rocking chair and leaning up to Sarah, he smiled at the child and said softly, "Hello, little one. My name is Glorfindel."

The child's eyes went wide as she stared at the golden lord. Reaching out, she grabbed a hank of golden hair in one hand and traced one of Glorfindel's pointed ears with the other. "Ada," she whispered, and threw her arms around Glorfindel's neck.

Tbc....

******************

Chapter 2

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Glorfindel held the child and looked up at Erestor with shocked eyes.

Erestor's arms felt empty and the frost returned. Seeing the shocked look in Glorfindel's eyes, he shook his head, letting the golden elf know he didn't understand. Finally, a glimmer of what was happening occurred to him when he realized that the child had said "Ada" and not "Daddy". "Little one," he said gently "does Glorfindel look like your ada? Did he have golden hair like his, and ears like his?"

Sarah nodded against Glorfindel, and said again, "Ada."

"Did your mother call you Sarah, little one?" Erestor asked. The little dark head nodded against Glorfindel once more. "What did your ada call you, sweetheart?"

"Riniel."

Erestor decided to press for more information. "And your brother? What did your mother call your brother?"

"David," Sarah said, loosening her hold on Glorfindel and turning to Erestor. "Ada called him Melveldir. He said our names were the same in his language as Nana's names for us."

"Erestor," Glorfindel switched to Sindarin from the common tongue they had been speaking, "she speaks too well for a human child of her age, she called me "Ada", her father looked like me, and he said their elven names were in his language. The healers are amazed that her brother survived and is healing. She and her brother are peredhil (half-elves)."

Speaking in perfect Sindarin, the child responded, "Ada called us his little peredhil."

Erestor's jaw dropped. Not only had Glorfindel's presence opened up the child's speech, but she spoke Sindarin. Quickly recovering, he continued in Sindarin and asked, "What did your nana call your ada, little one?"

"Anorion," Riniel answered, "and Nana's name was Miriam. I miss them, Erestor." Tears pooled in her eyes. "Can I see Melveldir? They won't let me see him."

Several of the healers had gathered around after they saw the child they knew as Sarah throw her arms around Glorfindel's neck. "We haven't wanted to upset her, my Lord. Her brother was very severely injured, and has not really been conscious. We have barely managed to get fluids into him every day." Taurien said.

"I don't care," Riniel said. "Please, can I see him? I want to see my brother."

"Riniel, sweetheart, how old are you?" Erestor asked.

"Twelve," the child replied, wiping her eyes. "Melveldir is thirty."

The healers gasped. They had thought the wounded child was perhaps ten or eleven. "Peredhil, my lord?" Taurien asked. "I never would have guessed; their ears are perfectly human. No wonder Melveldir is healing so well. Oh, I am so glad we know his name now."

"I think perhaps it would be best for Riniel if she could visit with her brother for a little while," Glorfindel said. When Erestor nodded in agreement, the warrior continued, "Then the two of you are coming with me so I can make sure you have a meal and rest, Erestor."

Erestor raised an eyebrow at Glorfindel. He wanted to ask why the golden lord would care all of a sudden, but that question would keep until they were not surrounded by healers. Erestor held his arms open for Riniel to move into them. The elfling patted Glorfindel's face, then moved back into the shelter of Erestor's arms. "Will you take us to Melveldir now please, Taurien? Lord Glorfindel is right; Riniel needs to see her brother." As he moved to stand, Erestor was surprised to feel Glorfindel's hand under his arm to help him up. Nodding his thanks to Glorfindel, he rose and the three of them followed as Taurien led them to Melveldir.

Entering her brother's room in Erestor's arms, Riniel let out a little sob as she saw Melveldir in his bed, unconscious and nearly covered in bandages. "I want to talk to him, Erestor, please?"

Erestor gently set the elfling on the bed next to her brother and watched as she tenderly patted his hand. "Please wake up, Vel. It's me, Rin."

Glorfindel watched with tears in his eyes as Riniel leaned over and kissed her brother on the brow. "Wake up, brother. Nana and Ada are gone, and I miss you. Please wake up, Vel."

Taurien brought in a chair for Erestor to sit in and placed it next to the bed. "Please sit, Lord Erestor."

Erestor gave the healer a brief smile, then sat and took one of Melveldir's hands into his own. Bending his head down to the elfling's ear, he whispered. "Won't you wake for your sister, Vel? She needs you. We are caring for her, but she needs to know her brother will be well."

Elrond stood in the doorway watching. He had come to check on Erestor, and the healers had told him what had happened, including the fact that Sarah and her brother were really peredhil called Riniel and Melveldir. He entered the room and stood next to Erestor, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Let me try, Erestor."

Erestor stood and moved his chair out of way. Elrond moved closer to the bed and gently moved his hands over Melveldir's body. He finally rested a hand on Melveldir's brow, allowing his healing energy to pass into the elfling, then said, "Wake now, Melveldir. Come back to us. Come back to the light."

The elfling's eyes slowly fluttered open, focusing on Elrond. Feeling a little hand take his, he turned and saw his sister. "Rin." His voice was raspy. "Nana and Ada?"

Riniel shook her head, then dissolved into tears and laid her head on her brother's shoulder, sobbing.

"I'll take care of you, Rin. We'll be all right," Melveldir said hoarsely as he wrapped his arm around his little sister. Looking up to Elrond with moist eyes, he asked, "Where are we?"

Elrond smiled down at the elfling who was bravely trying to keep from crying. "You are in Imladris, and I am Lord Elrond." Taurien brought a cup of tea and he took it from the young healer. Laying his hand on the sobbing Riniel, he said, "Will you let Erestor hold you again, little one, so I can give your brother some tea?"

Riniel nodded, then sat up and held her arms out to Erestor.

Erestor picked up the child and held her close. "It will be all right now, sweetheart. Lord Elrond will take care of Vel and heal him." He kissed the child on her cheek.

Riniel watched Elrond lift her brother's head and help him drink the tea. "Does it hurt bad, Vel?"

"No, not any more Rin. It just aches."

"Melveldir, did you know that I am a peredhel too?" Elrond asked. "Would you and your sister like to stay with us here in Imladris?"

Vel looked at his sister in Erestor's arms, at the big golden elf who looked so much like his father, and at Lord Elrond. This was a good place. Riniel would be safe here, and he knew even without his injuries he was too young to take good enough care of his sister. "Yes, please, Lord Elrond. When I am better, I can work. I'm good at taking care of horses and Ada taught me a lot about farming. I can work to repay you."

Elrond smiled. "When you are older you can choose whatever you would like to do, little one. You do not have to repay us. When you are better we will see about finishing your schooling first, all right?"

"You mean we can stay here and you don't want me to work for you?"

"You are peredhel, little one. You are an elf, and you are among elves now. We will take care of you," Elrond said gently. "Erestor is going to take care of Riniel until you are better, and then we will decide which of us you will live with and who will be responsible for you."

Erestor's decision was made in an instant. Here finally was a child he already loved dearly that he would not have to give up, and he was sure he would love her brother as well. "I will care for them, Elrond. They will live with me."

Elrond smiled. This could not be better for Erestor, and from what he could see of the children, he was sure they would be his friend's salvation from all his heartbreak. "Very well, Erestor, if it is all right with Riniel and Melveldir?"

"Is that all right with you, sweetheart?" Erestor asked Riniel. "Would you like to live with me?"

Riniel nodded and then looked at her brother. "Please say yes, Vel. You'll like Erestor. Really you will. He's so nice, and he reads me stories and everything."

"All right, Rin. Yes," Vel answered, mainly because he saw how Erestor cared about Riniel. "Thank you, Erestor. Thank you for taking care of Rin for me."

"You do not have to thank me, little one. Just get well for us," Erestor said, smiling at the elfling.

Melveldir sighed and closed his eyes. "I am so tired. Can I go back to sleep now, Lord Elrond?"

"As soon as you eat something, little one," Elrond said. "You have been asleep for many days now, and you must eat. I will make you some tea that will make you feel better, and then you can sleep." He looked at Glorfindel, who had been silently waiting and watching. "Glorfindel, why don't you take Erestor and Riniel back to the house and see that they eat and rest."

"Are we going to stay with you too, Glorfindel? Are you going to take care of us too?" Riniel asked. She was too young to understand that Erestor had become the one thing she could hold on to, her shelter in the storm of her life. She loved the generous hearted elf, but for some reason she liked the big golden elf and wanted him close now as well.

"If it is all right with Erestor, little Rin, I would very much like to help him take care of you." Glorfindel looked hopefully at Erestor.

Erestor felt like he was missing something. Things were happening so fast, and he was tired and cold. Riniel had been drawn to Glorfindel and called him "Ada" because he looked like her father, so having Glorfindel around would be good for both her and her brother. Feeling like he could use the help right now, he decided he would worry about Glorfindel's motivation later. He never had a doubt that Glorfindel was a good elf. He had always been able to see the pure light of Glorfindel's soul shining brightly, and so he answered, "Thank you, Glorfindel. I would like that."

Tbc.

Sarah: Lady or princess

Riniel: Crowned lady

David: Beloved

Melveldir: Beloved friend

*****************************

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Chapter 3

While Erestor was still working, the warrior had secretly checked Erestor's cold rooms, and then had requested the house servants to light blazing fires in both the fireplace in the bedroom and the one in the study. When that was done, they were to put fresh linens and extra warm coverings on Erestor's large bed. The bed was to be moved and placed in front of the fireplace. A heavy night robe Glorfindel had found in Erestor's wardrobe was also to be placed in front of the fire to warm.

Glorfindel and Elrond were not the only elves worried about Erestor. When Glorfindel left to await Erestor in the healing hall, the servants had set about their tasks, and added a few more of their own. A table was set conveniently near the bed, and laden with decanters of miruvor, wine, and fruit juice, glasses, a basket of bread and cheese, and another basket of fruit. A jar held Erestor's favorite tea leaves, and there was a pot or two of preserves. A tray held glasses, cups, bowls, serving spoons, and spoons for eating the rich soup in the heavy kettle placed on a hook in the fireplace to keep warm. A second hook held a kettle of heating water. Fresh flowers were brought in from the greenhouses to sweeten the air, along with softly scented candles.

Glorfindel carried Riniel, her stuffed bunny, and her warm nightgown in one arm; his other arm was wrapped around the exhausted councilor as he led them back to Erestor's rooms.

Erestor was simply too tired and cold, and the warmth from Glorfindel's arm felt too good to protest. When they reached his rooms, the councilor pulled a hand out from beneath his heavy fur to open the door, astonished when the door opened on its own - no, not on its own, he realized. A servant stood on the other side holding the door open. Entering the chambers, he looked around in amazement. His normally freezing rooms were warm and inviting, and there was a wonderful smell of flowers, combined with another smell that had him suddenly ravenous. "You did all this?" he asked the smiling servant.

"There were several of us, my lord. Lord Glorfindel asked us to warm the rooms and move your bed in front of the fire. I only stayed to see if you needed any assistance and make sure your dinner didn't burn." The young maiden looked at Glorfindel for an answer.

Glorfindel was tempted to accept the servant's help with Riniel and serving dinner, but quickly realized that it would be best if he did it himself. It would be a way to get closer to Erestor and the elfling. "Thank you, but I will be able to handle it." Looking around at the extra touches the servants had done, he smiled at the maiden gratefully. "Thank you, and thank the others for me, will you?"

The servant bowed her head to Glorfindel, and then said, "There is a lovely soup over the fire, and another kettle with hot water for the tea, my lord. Just place the dirty dishes outside the door when you are finished, and I will collect them later. Good night, my lords. Enjoy your meal." With a bow, she left.

"Let's get you and Rin changed into your night clothes, Erestor, and tucked into bed where you will be warm, then you can have that lovely smelling soup in bed. Would you like that, little one?" Glorfindel said.

Riniel nodded. "Can I sit next to you, Erestor?"

Erestor smiled wearily at the elfling and sat down on his bed. "Of course you can, sweetheart. Why don't we get your nightgown on and you can get all bundled up in bed."

"I have an even better idea. Why don't I help Riniel into her nightgown while you get into your warm robe," Glorfindel said. He set Riniel on the bed, and then took Erestor's heavy night robe from where it hung by the fire and handed it to him. "Into your bathroom. Now. Change," he said quietly. Taking Erestor's hands, he pulled him up and pushed the councilor toward the bathroom.

Erestor was too weary to even think about why he was allowing Glorfindel to order his actions, so night robe in hand, he went to the bathroom to change, closing the door behind him.

"Come on, little one," Glorfindel said. "Let's get you changed." He helped Riniel off of the bed, and kneeling on the floor in front of the elfling, he removed her day clothes, quickly replacing them with her warm nightgown. He had just finished when Erestor scurried out of the bathroom to stand in front the fire, trying to warm himself. "Into bed with you, Erestor. It's nice and warm for you." Glorfindel led Erestor to the bed and quickly bundled him into it. "Warm up a little while I get you some of that wonderful smelling soup, and you can eat sitting up in bed."

Riniel scurried up onto the bed with her stuffed bunny and sat next to Erestor on top of the bedclothes. "Are you cold, Erestor?" she asked.

Erestor nodded, shivering. "Yes, sweetheart. I am very cold."

"Ada says elves don't get cold. Are you sick? I can keep you warm, Erestor. We used to keep Nana warm when she was sick." With that, Riniel got even closer to Erestor, wrapped her arms around his neck, and lay down next to him, her bunny squished between them.

Glorfindel grinned and pulled the bedclothes from underneath the elfling so she could get under the blankets, and then tucked the blankets around her.

"Is that better, Erestor? Are you warm now," Riniel asked.

"Much warmer, little one," Erestor said. "Thank you." And it was true; his heart was filled with warmth.

Glorfindel fixed a tray with bowls of the soup, glasses of wine, fruit juice for Riniel, and bread and cheese. Leaving it on the table, he said, "Time to sit up and eat, you two." He could see Erestor was weary, but he wasn't shivering anymore. He soon had his charges sitting up against a mound of pillows. He handed Erestor a glass of miruvor. "Drink this first, Erestor. It will help strengthen you."

Erestor took the glass and sipped at the miruvor. He still wondered why Glorfindel was here - why he was helping - but he could sense no guile in the warrior, and he was grateful. "I don't know how to thank you, Glorfindel," he said. "I don't know why you are here, but I also don't know how I would have managed on my own tonight, and this is so very nice."

"I am here because there is the need, Erestor. If you will let me, I would like to be your friend and help you," Glorfindel replied.

Erestor did not reply, but finished his miruvor and handed the empty glass to Glorfindel.

After the elves had finished their meal, Erestor and Riniel quickly fell asleep, the councilor's arms wrapped protectively around the elfling. Glorfindel sat in a chair watching them, and wondering what turn his life would now take. Every so often he added more wood to the fire, or tucked the warm bedclothes closer around the sleeping elves, and sat down again in the chair to watch over his charges and think some more.

Chapter 4

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Dawn had not yet begun to roll back the darkness when Glorfindel was awakened by a small tug on his sleeve. Instantly alert, he looked down into soft brown eyes and tussled dark curls.

"Glorfindel, we have to go to Vel. He needs me. I can feel it - in here," Riniel said in a whisper, clutching her bunny with one hand and pointing to her head with a finger of her other.

Glancing to the bed to see Erestor still sleeping, he whispered back, "It is still very early, little one." But the elfling said she could feel it, and so he said kindly, "Why does Vel need you? Tell me what you sense?"

"He is sad. He hurts..and I think he is crying. He is lonely without me. Please, Glorfindel?" Riniel whispered, plaintively, tears beginning to pool in her eyes.

Glorfindel nodded. "All right, little Rin. We will go and check on your brother. Let me get my boots back on." If Vel was truly grieving, he knew it would help him to have his sister there, so he quickly pulled on his boots. After checking to make sure that Erestor was still asleep and the bedclothes were warmly tucked around him, Glorfindel slipped his heavy cloak over his shoulders and picked up the elfling, wrapping her and her bunny, warmly, next to his chest.

The corridors were freezing as Glorfindel made his way to the healing hall. Slipping quietly through the main hall, they entered Melveldir's room and found the elfling sobbing in Elrond's arms.

Elrond looked up at Glorfindel gratefully. "Vel, look, little one. Your sister is here."

Melveldir lifted his head from Elrond's shoulder and held his arms out for Riniel just as Glorfindel was setting her on the bed. He hugged his little sister tightly in his still-bandaged arms and sobbed out her name.

The little elfling wrapped her arms around her larger brother the best that she could and cried with him. Glorfindel sat next to the two little ones and simply held them both until the elflings finally fell into an exhausted sleep.

"Elrond," Glorfindel whispered, "do you think I could take Vel back to Erestor's rooms? I do not want to leave Erestor alone, and I think it might be better for all of them if they were together when they awoke."

Elrond thought for a moment, and then nodded. "His wounds have nearly healed in the time they have been here, and now that he has regained consciousness there is not much more the healers need to do. He just needs several more days of rest and good food to regain his strength. I think he will fare much better with his sister close to him. And Erestor is sure to love Melveldir as much as he already does Riniel. The sooner they are able to become close, the sooner the elflings will heal from the tragedy of their parents' death. They both need Erestor's love and support right now."

"They will have mine as well, Elrond. Riniel has already crept unknowing into my heart, and I think Vel has one of his feet there. I begin to understand Erestor's falling in love with his elflings. I just never imagined it could happen so fast," Glorfindel said quietly. "I think I would do anything to keep these two from further pain."

Elrond smiled. "They do have a way about them, don't they? Well..let's get them to Erestor's rooms, and we will just deal with what may come when it comes. Now, how shall we do this?"

"I will carry them both," Glorfindel said. "If we separate them, they may awaken, and they are both so small. Just open the doors for me." He carefully lifted the elflings together in his large arms, enclosing them in his cloak, and then realized too late that he'd missed the bunny. Motioning with his head to Elrond, he whispered, "Bunny."

Elrond grinned and picked up the stuffed toy. Leading the way, they walked silently back to Erestor's rooms. Elrond closed the door behind them to keep the chill from the corridors out of the room, and then walked quickly into Erestor's bedroom. Erestor was still sleeping, albeit fitfully, and Elrond carefully lifted the blankets covering him to allow Glorfindel to lay the elflings beside the councilor. Elrond set the bunny next to Riniel, and they tucked the blankets back around the sleeping elves.

Glorfindel motioned for Elrond to follow him into the sitting room, and when the bedroom door was closed behind them, said, "Did you notice how Erestor settled down again and stopped shivering when we set the elflings beside him? He had stopped shivering before when Riniel lay beside him. She warms him."

Elrond nodded. "I do believe these elflings are the best thing in the world for him. She warms him from the inside. You will stay and help him, Glorfindel, won't you? I think Erestor needs you, too."

"Of course I will," Glorfindel replied. "I meant what I said last night. I want to be his friend." The warrior sighed. "Oh, who do I think I am fooling? I want to be more than his friend. Truth be told, I think I fell in love with him the moment I arrived here. I have spent a lot of time thinking since we spoke. I want a family, Elrond. I want this family - Erestor and the elflings."

Elrond grinned happily. "Good. Very good." Giving Glorfindel's shoulder a clasp, he continued, "I will say good night then - or good morning - and leave you to them, my friend." He started for the door, then stopped and turned back to Glorfindel. "Take good care of them. And just go.slow.with Erestor. He has a very loving heart - he has just never thought to use it for someone to love him back. You will need to show him that he is loved - I don't believe he thinks that he is, you know - loveable I mean. So you will just have to show him. We will talk more tomorrow of how you can do that."

After another goodnight, Elrond left, and Glorfindel returned to the bedroom. He once more removed his boots, and then stripped down to his leggings and light shirt. Very carefully, so as not to wake Erestor or the elflings, he slipped into the bed next to the elflings. Wrapping one long arm around all three sleeping elves, he lay awake thinking. Finally, just as the dawn started to peek through the darkness, he slept.

Tbc.

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Chapter 5

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Chapter 10

Elrond had stopped in for a second time to check on Erestor and was pleased with his recovery, but ordered him to remain resting for another day. As much as Erestor hated staying in bed, he had to admit that his experience had scared him and he had no desire for a repeat of it.

After Elrond was gone again, Erestor rested with his head against Glorfindel''s chest. "I never dreamt that I would finally find love, and now my heart is telling me that you are the reason I have stayed so alone for all these millennia."

"If you will have me, Erestor, I promise you will never be alone again. You will live in my heart and I will love you forever." Glorfindel lifted Erestor''s head and looked into dark eyes sparkling with tears. "Tell me those are tears of happiness?"

Erestor nodded and smiled. "I do not understand why you want me, but yes, I will have you and love you forever. As I live in your heart, you will live in mine. I love you, Glorfindel." Tears ran in earnest down Erestor''s face. "You fill my heart with joy. You are so beautiful, and there is such goodness and strength in you. I am either dreaming, or I am the most fortunate elf who ever lived, to have such a one as you love me."

"No dream, beloved, and perhaps we are both the most fortunate elves to have found each other." Glorfindel moved his lips over Erestor''s face, kissing the tears away, before capturing his mouth once more in a kiss that spoke of sweet promises of all there was to come.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

When Lindir opened his door in response to the soft knock, he was more than a little surprised to see the healer standing there. "Galuvaeron? Is something wrong?"

"Not at all, Lindir." The tall, dark-haired healer smiled. "Elrond just asked me to stop by and check on Melveldir -- he was concerned since the little one is still healing."

"He was tired after our wandering through the rooms, and is napping with his sister," Lindir said quietly. Blushing, he remembered his manners. The healer could always make him forget a lot of things. "Please -- come in." Leading the healer to the chairs set in front of the fire, he said, "May I offer you some hot tea?"

"Tea would be lovely, Lindir. Thank you. The halls are quite cold. I do not recall a winter quite so cold."

"There was another winter such as this in the past century, but it did not reach as far south as where you were in the Havens. It was even colder than this one is."

"Amazing," Galuvaeron said, taking the teacup Lindir handed him. "Hard to believe anything could be colder than it is now."

"How do you like it here in Imladris, Galuvaeron? I am sorry you arrived right before this horrid winter, but I promise you, our valley is wondrous the rest of the year. The gardens are beautiful in the spring and summer."

"I like it here very much, Lindir. Unfortunately, there are so many sick and wounded little ones, especially now, but I am pleased that I am here and able to help. I am very glad that Lord Elrond sent for me because of my experience in treating human younglings at the Havens. And please call me Vaeron -- all of my friends do."

Lindir bowed slightly at the complement the healer offered in allowing him to use his familiar name. "Then I would be pleased to call you Vaeron as well."

"So tell me, how is little Melveldir?"

"He was quite worn out with finding the new rooms for Erestor. He managed to drink half of his milk and have a cookie before falling asleep. I imagine he will be quite hungry come time for dinner. They are such lovely little elflings, Vaeron." Lindir answered.

Galuvaeron nodded. "There is something quite special about them -- especially little Riniel. Is it true that Lord Erestor is going to adopt them for his own?"

"It is. They will be a family, and Erestor will no longer be alone."

"I am glad to hear it," Galuvaeron replied. "It is not good for him to be alone. He has a loving heart."

"And what of you, Vaeron?" Lindir asked. "Have you a family?" The seneschal felt very forward, but what he really longed to know was if the tall and handsome healer had a mate.

"What family I had sailed long ago." The healer sighed. "It is many years that I have had only my work to keep me company. I admit I am lonely sometimes."

"My family has sailed as well," Lindir said softly. "As many friends as I have here in Imladris, I get lonely sometimes too -- especially in the evenings. Everyone has their family or spouses, and I cannot expect them to spend their family time with me."

Galuvaeron nodded. "It is the same with me. Perhaps…….we could spend some evenings together since we are both alone? If you would not mind my company, that is." He hoped Lindir would agree. The seneschal was the most enchanting elf in Imladris, and Vaeron had fallen head-over-heels for him the first time they had met. Since he had already found out that Lindir did not have a mate or anyone he was interested in, he had jumped at the chance to pay a visit and check on Melveldir.

Lindir smiled. "I would like that very much, Vaeron."

~~~*~~~

Erestor was overjoyed to have the elflings back with him again, although he would have been happier if Glorfindel had let him get out of bed for their dinner. The fact that the healer, Galuvaeron, who had accompanied Lindir and joined them for the meal, not only agreed with Glorfindel but thought Melveldir should join Erestor and eat while resting in bed, had put an end to any arguments the councilor was about to use.

If Erestor was overjoyed to see the elflings, it was nothing to how happy the little ones were to be back with him and Glorfindel. Riniel squealed as Glorfindel picked her up and twirled her around in his arms, before burying her head contently in his neck, her little hands entwined in his sweet-smelling golden hair. Melveldir cuddled happily onto Erestor''s lap, breathing a sigh of contentment as he was held securely in the councilor''s arms. He didn''t understand why, but when Erestor held him he always felt peaceful and happy. It was just like when his Nana or Ada had held him.

Erestor held the elfling and felt the joy that once again infused his being. He did not know why, but his heart told him that Melveldir and his sister were very special. Beyond that, he knew he had lost his heart to them, and he poured all of his love into the elfling in his arms, praying that Vel would be comforted and made whole again. "Did you enjoy being with Lindir today, my sweet one?" he asked softly.

Vel nodded his head vigorously, which wasn''t easy to do, considering it was tucked under Erestor''s chin. "We looked at lots and lots of rooms until we found the perfect one for you, Erestor. And then Lindir carried me back to his rooms because I was tired and we had milk and cookies, and then we took a nap in Lindir''s bed with the kittens."

"Tell me about our new rooms?" Erestor asked. The little head under his chin moved from side to side this time. "No?"

Melveldir giggled. "It''s a surprise. Lindir says you have to wait until tomorrow."

Erestor had a sudden desire to tickle the information out of the elfling, and only the fact that Vel was still healing from his injury kept him doing so. He sighed. "Oh, very well then, I shall just have to wait."

Erestor was kept from any further discussion about the new rooms by the arrival of servants with their meal. He and Melveldir were seated comfortably against stacks of pillows, Glorfindel and Riniel sat crossed-legged at the end of the bed, and Lindir and Galuvaeron sat in chairs next to the bed. Erestor couldn''t remember when he had shared such a delightful meal full of good food, good friends, and laughter.

Glorfindel kept filling Erestor''s plate with delicacies, and the councilor''s heart was so light that he ate until he felt he would burst. "I cannot eat another bite, Glorfindel," he finally said, pulling his plate away just as his new love as about to add more food to it. "I have eaten more than I usually do in a week!"

"Yes, I noticed," Glorfindel said, and then teasingly added. "I have committed myself to stuffing you and putting some flesh back on your bones."

Erestor raised his eyebrows and thought about being affronted, but sighed instead, knowing Glorfindel was right. He hadn''t been eating enough, but he could not help his former lack of appetite. "Well," he finally said, "if you keep feeding me like this, I shall be a plump little cabbage in no time at all."

"Ah, but you will be my plump little cabbage," Glorfindel replied with a grin, "and ready for harvesting." He wiggled his eyebrows at Erestor.

Galuvaeron snorted, and then quickly covered his mouth with his hand, while Lindir shook with silent laughter. Erestor managed to keep from laughing out loud at the comical look on Glorfindel''s face and gave the golden elf a scowl.

"Forgive me for teasing you," Glorfindel said. There was a pause before he added, "My little cabbage," and doubled over with laughter.

That was all it took for Erestor to give in to his own mirth, and he laughed louder and longer than he had in many a year. To the others his voice was as a sweetly peeling bell, tolling joyous hours; a sound they had either never heard before, or had not heard in a very long time.

Outside in the hall, two elves stood listening in amazement. "Listen, my love," Elrond whispered. "It is Erestor! I have not heard him laugh like that for a year or more!"

"I had forgotten how beautiful his laughter sounds," Celebrian whispered back smiling. "We will obviously not disturb them." She opened the outer door and pulled Elrond in with her, calling out, "May we join you, friends?"

"As long as you did not bring any cabbage," Glorfindel managed say, before collapsing in laughter again.

Elrond pulled two chairs from the sitting room to the bedroom, and when Celebrian was seated, asked, "Cabbage?"

"Erestor is going to be a stuffed cabbage," Riniel said, giggling, which set Erestor off all the more.

It was long minutes before the laughter had ceased and Erestor had extracted promises that neither the word ''plump'', nor the word ''cabbage'' would ever be used to refer to him -- except by Glorfindel, of course, but never in public.

Glorfindel was standing by the table pouring goblets of wine for the adults and fruit juice for the elflings as Lindir reached into a pocket and drew out a silver flute. Handing it to Melveldir, he said, "Here is your flute I promised to bring you, Vel. Will you play us a song?"

"Oh, play Ada''s song, Vel," Riniel said.

"Thank you, Lindir," Melveldir said, smiling at the flute. "It is beautiful. All right, Rin. I will try to play Ada''s song."

After handing everyone their goblet, Glorfindel stood in front of the fireplace sipping his own wine and watching Melveldir, deep in thought. Seeing the elfling with the flute brought back such memories. Scenes of teaching his younger brother Anaro how to play the instrument drifted through his mind; of how they had played together with Ecthelion in the gardens on warm summer nights.

Everyone was focused on Melveldir as he began to play. The tune was lilting and sweet in the beginning, gradually becoming playful and merry. All of the elves were smiling and nodding their heads to the music but one.

No one saw the color drain from Glorfindel''s face. No one noticed as his hands shook and the goblet slipped from his fingers.

The crystal goblet plummeted to the tile floor and shattered into a thousand pieces.

Tbc……

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Chapter 11

The music ceased and the room stilled at the shattering of the crystal.

Erestor wanted to rush to Glorfindel when he saw how shaken the warrior was, but Melveldir had stopped playing when the goblet shattered and both of the elflings looked frightened. He was torn between needing to comfort the elflings he loved, and running to the elf he loved.

His dilemma was solved almost instantaneously when Elrond motioned to Erestor to remain where he was and quickly went to Glorfindel''s side. Erestor pulled the elflings to him and held them close, whispering comforting words.

Placing a hand on the dazed Glorfindel''s shoulder, Elrond spoke quietly. "What is it, Glorfindel?"

Glorfindel continued to stare into nothingness for long moments, seemingly not even aware of Elrond''s presence. Finally he turned his head and looked at his lord. "The song," he whispered. "That music." His eyes moved to the bed and the elflings. He had frightened the elflings. Guilt mixed with overwhelming sorrow in his heart. Moving away from Elrond, he slowly approached the bed and dropped to both of his knees at its side. Placing one of his large hands on each of the elflings'' heads, he softly stroked their dark hair. "Forgive me. I did not mean to frighten you," he whispered hoarsely, as unshed tears glistened in his eyes.

"Glorfindel……please……what is wrong?" Erestor asked anxiously. In an instant, everything had changed from merriment to distress as the golden lord shattered along with the goblet. Unease gripped the councilor''s heart, and he wanted to pull Glorfindel into his arms and hold him along with the elflings.

Glorfindel labored to control the anguish flooding his soul, and his hands dropped to his sides. Grief was overwhelming him, and his heart felt like it would break. "Where did you learn that song, little one?" he finally whispered, his voice shaking with the effort.

"My...my...ada," Melveldir said, his eyes large and full of fear at the change in Glorfindel. "My ada taught me."

"Do you……do you know where he learned it?" Glorfindel asked as gently as he was able. He could see the fear in the elfling, and it hurt his heart all the more.

"He……he said his brother wrote it for him. When Ada was little. It was for his begetting day. It was a……a…… gift from his older brother." Melveldir held onto Erestor tightly.

Glorfindel nodded, his eyes once again looking off into the distance. Tears were streaming down his face as he finally whispered, "Tell me your ada''s name again?"

"Anorion," Vel whispered.

Nodding again, Glorfindel roughly wiped the tears from his face and drew a ragged breath. Speaking to no one he whispered, "All this time. All this time……so close. So close and we never knew. I could have seen him. Held him. My little Anaro. How I loved you, my sweet little brother. How I miss you." His eyes closed and the agony in his heart was on his face.

Erestor finally understood, and his heart broke along with Glorfindel''s. It was Glorfindel who had gifted the song to the elflings'' father for his begetting day. He had written it. Glorfindel had lost his younger brother not once, but twice. Stifling a sob, he held the elflings close and buried his face in their dark locks.

The room was silent as one by one, the hearts of the other grown elves filled with sorrow for the golden warrior as realization dawned, and more than one quietly wiped tears from their eyes. Glorfindel''s brother Anaro had changed his Quenyan name to the Sindarin Anorion.

Elrond went to Glorfindel''s side and dropped to his knees beside him, placing his hand once again on the broad shoulder. "Oh, Glorfindel, I am so very sorry, my friend."

Melveldir did not understand, and looked up at Erestor in confusion. Erestor simply held him closer and placed a kiss on his head. Riniel, however, never took her eyes from Glorfindel and watched him thoughtfully.

Glorfindel placed his hand over Elrond''s, and then dropped down to rest on his haunches. The elflings……he had to think of the elflings. He had already grieved for the loss of his brother once, and for their sake he would not give into this anguish. He would be strong for them. Wiping his eyes again, he attempted a small smile at the elflings. "Melveldir……Riniel……little ones……your ada''s older brother did write that song for him. Long ago……long ago in a city named Gondolin. It was for his fortieth begetting day, and your ada was already a gifted musician. Oh, when he played his flute……when he played, it was as if all of the most beautiful sounding birds in all of Arda had gathered to sing for us. It was…… magical."

"You knew Ada?" Melveldir whispered in amazement.

"Oh, yes. I knew him……and I loved him very much," Glorfindel whispered. His eyes closed once again as he remembered bright Anaro let those memories fill his aching heart.

Riniel pulled away from Erestor and quietly climbed off of the bed and onto Glorfindel''s lap. Wrapping her little arms as far as she could reach around the big warrior, she said, "You are Ada''s brother."

Glorfindel''s eyes opened as he felt Riniel crawl onto his lap, and he nodded. "Yes, my little Rin. I am your ada''s brother," he said, holding the little elfling tightly.

Riniel buried her face in Glorfindel''s golden mane and breathed deeply. "You smell like Ada."

Erestor whispered to the elfling on his lap, "Go to him, Vel. He needs you."

Melveldir nodded, and then slowly crawled off of the bed to join his sister in Glorfindel''s arms.

Glorfindel held the elflings, slowly rocking them back and forth, tears streaming down his face.

~~~*~~~

Galuvaeron and Lindir walked slowly back to the seneschal''s rooms in silence. Finally reaching the door, Lindir looked up at the tall healer and said, "I do not want to be alone tonight. Would you……can you……stay with me? Please? My heart……it hurts, Vaeron. I need a friend tonight." The elflings would stay with Glorfindel and Erestor for the night instead of Lindir, and he was just too sad to remain all by himself.

The healer nodded. "I do not want to be alone either, Lindir. I will stay, and we will sit together and talk…….or not. Whatever you would like -- just as long as we are not alone. We will get through this night together."

Inside his rooms, Lindir first checked on the kittens they had left in his bedroom, and finding them fast asleep in their basket, he returned to the sitting room. Curling up on the chaise next to Vaeron, he buried his head in his hands.

The healer waited, unsure if he should offer Lindir comfort. He knew the elf had been deeply affected by Glorfindel''s grief at finding his beloved brother had been so close. Had Glorfindel only known, Anorion and his family would all be safe in Imladris, and he suspected the seneschal felt that he somehow should have known. His uncertainly about what to do came to an abrupt halt when he heard Lindir stifle a sob and the smaller elf''s shoulders shook. His own heart broke, and he wrapped his arms around Lindir, holding him close.

Lindir put his arms around Vaeron, grateful for the healer''s presence, and wept onto his shoulder. He knew he was soaking his new friend''s tunic, but he couldn''t stop. It was just so unfair. They were all safe and secure in Imladris, and Glorfindel''s poor brother had been out in nearly the wild with his family. Why hadn''t he thought about those families out there? Why hadn''t he asked Elrond about bring them to Imladris when the winter started turning so cold? He could have kept Anorion and his wife from being killed. "It''s all my fault," he whimpered. "I could have had Elrond bring those families here."

Galuvaeron lifted Lindir''s head from his shoulder and looked into his tearful eyes. Holding Lindir''s face in his hands and wiping his tears away with his thumbs, he said quietly, "No. It is not your fault. No one here knew much of those families out there, Lindir."

"But I could have done something. We should have known."

"No, Lindir. It is your role to run this house, not to keep every elven settlement safe. The Valar work in mysterious ways. Maybe they meant it to happen. What would have happened to Erestor if it didn''t? He was fading. If it were not for the elflings and Glorfindel, maybe he wouldn''t even be alive now. And Glorfindel is with him now only because of the elflings. They found their love for each other because of it. It is *not* your fault. You are beautiful, Lindir, inside and out, and your caring heart hurts for your friend. But do not blame yourself for his loss."

Lindir drew a deep breath. In his heart, he knew Galuvaeron was right. It had just hurt so much to see Glorfindel like that. When he nodded, the healer released his face and Lindir was once again wrapped in strong, comforting arms. With a sigh, he rested his head once more on the broad chest. Long minutes passed in silence, and Lindir felt Vaeron''s warmth and healing energy fill his spirit.

Tbc…….

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And yes, my Lindir is a Noldo and has dark hair.

//in here be thoughts//

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Chapter 12

Erestor gave Glorfindel and the elflings several minutes together after everyone had left before he joined them on the floor. "Come to bed, all of you," he said softly.

Glorfindel looked at Erestor with eyes full of sadness, but nodded. "Come, little ones. We will put on our nightclothes and then get warm in bed so we can talk."

~~~*~~~

Lindir rested with his head on Galuvaeron''s chest. He loved the tall elf''s scent; the sweet-smelling wood burning in the fireplace was but a faint copy compared to it. The healer''s scent was a combination of fresh-smelling pine, combined with the heady aroma of sandalwood; and if that wasn''t enough, Vaeron was just so comfortable. It felt like he had been made to fit in the larger healer''s arms. It would have been all too relaxing……if it wasn''t for the desire that was filling him for the first time in centuries. It wasn''t that he''d never had any interest in a relationship before, but his work kept him more than occupied, and besides, he''d just never known anyone before that interested him as Vaeron did. And interest him Vaeron did -- and with more than a passing fancy. With the wisdom of his long years and the innate knowledge of the heart that came easily to his people, he knew Galuvaeron was his heart''s desire. Visions of having this strong elf beside him for the rest of

his days, of falling asleep and waking in his arms, flooded his mind. The time had finally come, and in the blink of an eye he decided. He had lived too long not to go after what he desired. After all, it was not known for an elf to err in matters of the heart.

Galuvaeron gently stroked Lindir''s dark hair, relishing the silky softness under his fingers. The seneschal smelled of soothing lavender -- a scent that the healer had always loved. Lindir fit so well in his arms -- like he belonged there. How he longed to tell the smaller elf how he felt, and how he had fallen in love with him the first moment he had seen him. His heart had skipped and he had forgotten to breathe, and he knew in that instant that Lindir was the only elf he would ever give his heart to. Meeting Lindir had made him realize how much he was missing in his life -- he longed for someone to hold and to love, someone to care for. In the short time he had been in Imladris, he realized just how lonely he was without a mate -- and the only elf he wanted for that role was Lindir.

"You are so comfortable," Lindir whispered. "And you smell so good -- like the forest just after a spring rain."

"I was just thinking the same thing about you." Galuvaeron said quietly, still stroking Lindir''s hair. "You smell like a field of blossoming lavender on a spring''s day." //And you feel so good in my arms. Just as if you were made for them. I never want to let you go, my sweet Lindir. I want so much to tell you how much I love you, but I am afraid you would think me forward. It has been too many long centuries since someone made me feel half of what you do.// He rested his cheek against Lindir''s soft hair.

"Vaeron, may I ask you something?" Lindir''s voice was muffled against the strong chest.

"Of course you may. You may ask me anything."

"How old are you?"

"I am over three thousand years old, Lindir. Why do you ask?"

"Because I am nearing four thousand, and I have just decided that I am too old for the games of the young." Lifting his head, Lindir looked into the healer''s eyes, and said softly, "You are the most generous and caring soul I have ever known, and I am in love with you." He held his breath waiting for Vaeron''s reply.

Galuvaeron''s heart thumped so hard he was certain that Lindir, resting against his chest, could feel it. Reaching out to stroke the seneschal''s cheek softly, he said, "Surely I have been blessed by the Valar, for I have loved you since the first moment I gazed upon your beautiful face."

Lindir''s smile nearly lit the darkened room and he leaned his face into the hand that now lay against his cheek, still gazing into Galuvaeron''s sparkling grey eyes. "Then perhaps you will not mind if I kiss you," he whispered, pulling the healer''s head down to make good on his words.

If they had stopped to consider it, both elves would have been amazed. There was no hesitation, no unskilled fumbling of mouths and hands, no self-conscious awkwardness, no embarrassing clanking of teeth; mouths simply met in a fluid, tantalizing symphony.

~~~*~~~

Late into the night, Glorfindel and the elflings talked, the elder elf telling of his life in Gondolin with his younger brother, and the elflings of their life on their farm with their parents.

Glorfindel came to see that theirs had been a happy home, and it was evident that Anaro had loved his wife passionately, as she had loved him. Even as she continued to age and threads of grey had crept into her dark hair, he had still loved her as much as he had in the bloom of her youth -- or perhaps he had even loved her more. His brother had met his wife when he had stopped to rest in the town she lived in whilst journeying to the Havens, and there his journey had ended until they had left to build their farm.

"I will not see my brother again on these shores," Glorfindel said quietly, "but in the two of you he yet lives. Melveldir, you have his gift of music, his strength, and his gentleness. Little Riniel, in your eyes I see that same gentleness and strength, along with his gift of discernment." Both elflings were on his lap and he sat next to Erestor in the bed, all of them covered with warm blankets and leaning against pillows. "Your mother must indeed have been most fair and good, for the two of you are beautiful with her dark hair and eyes. I love you with your father''s love, not only for him but because you are beautiful and good inside. You both have your father''s sweetness and goodness, and your lights shine brightly."

"Uncle, will we all be together - you and Erestor and Rin and me?" Melveldir asked. He loved Glorfindel, but he did not want to leave Erestor. Erestor was special. "Will we still be Erestor''s elflings too?"

In his heart, Erestor knew what Glorfindel''s answer would be, but he could not suppress a feeling of anxiousness while they waited for the golden elf''s answer. He couldn''t bear losing the elflings now -- not after they had stolen his heart. Not after his long-dreamed of family was within his grasp. But he wanted Glorfindel too -- even more than he wanted the elflings. Lifting his eyes to Glorfindel, he waited breathlessly.

Glorfindel''s eyes met Erestor''s, and he read the hope within them. Smiling softly at the councilor he said, "If Erestor will have me, it is my dearest wish for all of us to be together. You will be Erestor''s elflings, and mine, and we will be a family."

Erestor smiled and his eyes shone with unshed tears. "I will have you, Glorfindel, most gladly. And we will be a family."

Riniel giggled and wrapped her little hands in Glorfindel''s hair. "You love Erestor, Uncle," she whispered, "and he loves you too. When you marry Erestor, he will be our uncle too, and he won''t be lonely anymore because he will have all of us."

Erestor blushed and Glorfindel let out a laugh. "Did I not say that she had her father''s gift for discernment, Erestor?" He smiled down at Riniel as she grinned up at him and stroked her soft hair. Looking up to Erestor he caught the other elf''s eyes with his own and when he spoke, sincerity replaced his earlier laughter. "Erestor, you know that I love you. As great as my desire is for both of us to be uncles to my brother''s children, my love for you is greater still. Were they not here, know that the question would be the same. Will you bind with me and be my mate?"

Erestor''s heart flipped and he drew a deep breath. "Were they not here," he answered quietly, "know that my answer would be the same, Glorfindel. As much as I love Rin and Vel, my love for you is greater still. In you I have found the part of my soul that was missing. I will bind with you and be your mate."

Melveldir grinned and moved from Glorfindel''s lap to Erestor''s. Wrapping his arms around the councilor and burying his head against Erestor''s chest, he said, "Good. I love you, Eres... I mean Uncle Erestor."

Erestor wrapped his arms around the elfling and kissed the top of his head. "I love you too, Vel," he whispered. Smiling up at Glorfindel, he thought Uncle Erestor was the nicest name he had ever been called. Seeing how exhausted Glorfindel looked, he said, "I think it is time for all of us to rest. You have talked long, and your uncle is weary. His day has not been an easy one."

"I am indeed weary," Glorfindel said, leaning his head back against a pillow and closing his eyes. Almost as if speaking to himself, he continued, "My mind is in shreds and calling me to rest, and I do not think my heart could bear another thing, unless it is all of you telling me you love me and bidding me sweet dreams. I have been frightened nearly out of my wits, and felt grief such as I never hope to feel again. But I have also had the greatest joy in knowing that I have found my soul mate and discovered my brother''s children." Opening his eyes again, he lifted his head and gathered the other three into his arms. "My heart has been broken," he whispered, his eyes sparkling with unshed tears, "and you have all mended it. I love you all so very much. My family."

Glorfindel''s wish was fulfilled as they all snuggled down together to sleep. The last thing he felt was the sweet touch of Erestor''s lips upon his own, and the last words he heard as reverie overtook him were "I love you" and "sweet dreams".

Tbc……

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http://aglarien1.livejournal.com/184192.html#cutid1

Lindir groaned as the warmth beside him moved, and he tried to snuggle closer to it again. "It is too early for you to leave," he said. "It is the middle of the night."

"I must rise and go to the healing house to check on those under my care, Lindir," a soft voice whispered in the seneschal''s ear. "I know it is early yet, but they need me. I will try and return quickly."

Lindir nodded sleepily. "If you are delayed and I am not here, seek for me in Erestor''s new rooms. We will move the elflings and him there after breakfast." He held his arms up, reaching for the healer for one last kiss to hold him until they met again.

Galuvaeron held the slighter elf close and kissed him softly. "I love you, Lindir. If you are free before me, come and find me in the healing house?"

The seneschal smiled. "I will," he whispered, kissing Vaeron slowly and deeply one last time until they met again. "I love you, Vaeron."

The healer quickly dressed, and just before he left, he lifted the two kittens from their basket and set them on the bed to curl up beside the once again sleeping Lindir. Bestowing a final soft kiss onto Lindir''s hair, he quietly left. As he hurried to the healing house, he smiled and hummed a merry little tune under his breath. He couldn''t quite remember how, but sometime after their first declaration of love, the two had ended up in Lindir''s bed, where the seneschal at one point had even begged for Vaeron to bond with him. Using every ounce of control he possessed, Galuvaeron had gently refused, finally able to convince Lindir that as much as they loved each other and were sure of their decision, he did not want their binding to come on the tail of such an emotional night. //No, my beautiful Lindir, I want all the emotions you experience on the day of our bonding to be from me alone. And I promise, I will not make you wait long.// He couldn''t help adding a little skip to

his step. Their not-so-chaste lovemaking, while short of completing their love, had been stunning.

~ ~ ~ ~ * ~ ~ ~ ~

Although he had slept much later than normal, Glorfindel was the only one awake and dressed when servants arrived with breakfast, followed by Lindir carrying the kittens in their basket. Hating to wake Erestor and the elflings, the warrior did so nonetheless. It was time to get Erestor out of these rooms and into his new warm ones. The cold which continued to seep into the rooms and the frigid bathroom posed too great a risk to the weakened councilor. Erestor might have recovered from his near-death and be feeling better, but his strength was dangerously depleted and he was far from well. Only if he was kept warm, continued to eat well, and got plenty of rest, would he fully regain his health. Melveldir was recovering more quickly than Erestor, but he too required care until he was fully healed of his wounds.

Trays of food were carried into the bedroom, where Erestor and the elflings were treated to breakfast in bed, while a gaggle of softly chattering servants began the task of moving the contents of the councilor''s sitting room -- desk, books, papers, and personal belongings -- into the new rooms.

Erestor heard the sounds coming from his sitting room and look inquisitively at Lindir. "What is happening, Lindir?" he asked.

"The servants are moving your desk and your belongings into your new rooms, Erestor. I have asked them to move your chaise longue as well, although there is already one there. With both you and Melveldir still healing you will need both of them," the seneschal replied. "When you have all finished your breakfast, we will go to your new chambers where you can rest comfortably in your new sitting room, and the servants will move everything except the furniture from your bedroom and bathroom."

Erestor looked confused. In the blink of an eye his life was changing, and for the better, but he would have liked to have had some say in it. He was looking forward to moving into the new rooms with Glorfindel and the elflings, wherever they were, but his furniture was comfortable -- he had had it for centuries and was used to it. He knew exactly where everything was and how his clothes fit in his wardrobe. And he really loved the comfort of his bed. "No furniture? My bed…….I like my bed. We are not moving my bed?"

"Elrond has ordered that you have all new furniture, my friend," Lindir replied. "Wait until you see the new rooms and your new furniture. If you still wish for your old furnishing, I will have them moved. Will that suit?"

"Erestor," Glorfindel said softly, "the elflings and I will be sharing the rooms with you. Do you still wish this?"

"Of course I do! I want you all with me. It is just that…….oh, I am being silly, worrying about my bed." Erestor chuckled. "I am a silly old elf sometimes," he whispered to the elflings. He sighed and then smiled. "All that matters is that we are together."

"You will like the rooms, Uncle Erestor," Riniel said. "Really you will. I promise."

"I am sure I will, little one," Erestor said, drawing the elflings close. Gazing up at Glorfindel, he saw the golden elf watching them with a gentle smile on his face. "I am sure I will."

~~~*~~~

Erestor was bundled in furs and being shepherded along the halls, Glorfindel''s arms wrapped securely around his waist for support. Servants carrying Erestor''s belongings scurried around them, hurrying to and from the new suite of rooms. Other residents of the Last Homely House smiled and nodded to the councilor in passing, some calling out cheerful greetings. Several scribes and advisors even stopped and congratulated Erestor on his new rooms. "Glorfindel, what is going on?" he whispered. "No one ever smiles at me except for the servants and the healers. They never even notice me outside of my office."

Glorfindel shook his head. "I have no idea. Lindir, do you?" he asked, turning to the seneschal, who carried little Riniel in his arms while Melveldir walked along side.

Lindir nodded. "I believe I do. I think you will find everyone''s attitude toward you charged, Erestor -- and for the better. You see, word spread about everything that happened -- you know what a hub of gossip we have here, especially since nearly everyone is confined inside with the cold. I think the servants started it, and then the healers started talking about just how special you are, and then there were the stories about all of the refugees you arranged housing for, and all the children you found homes for, and..."

"Enough!" whispered Erestor sharply, his pale cheeks turning a bright rose color. "So now I am fodder for the gossips?"

"Erestor," Glorfindel said gently, "I think I understand now. When Elrond first told me what you have been doing all these years, wearing yourself down in the service of others, I was ashamed and felt very guilty."

Erestor looked up at the Glorfindel, not understanding what the captain was trying to say. "Why ever would you feel ashamed? Guilty of what?"

"Because I had misjudged you. I thought, like many of these others, that you simply spent all of your time working because you didn''t want to socialize with any of us. All that time, I could have been helping you. I could have offered you my companionship, my friendship -- and instead, I did not even bother to find out what you were doing. I left you to wear yourself out alone - we all did. I think everyone wants to make it up to you now that they know."

Erestor stopped walking and looked up at Glorfindel with a panicked look on his face. "It is not guilt that makes you want to stay with me, is it?" His heart clenched at the possibility that the warrior did not truly love him, and he closed his eyes to suppress the tears he felt welling.

The warrior pulled the slight elf closer and whispered fervently, "Open your eyes. Look at me and see the truth of my words, Erestor." Glorfindel waited until two tear-drenches orbs looked into his own. "I love you, Erestor. Yes, I still feel guilty, but it is not guilt that draws me to you. You are all that is good and bright in this cold and frozen world, and you fill my heart with warmth. You are the mate my soul has been waiting for, and I bless the Valar for finding you. I love you." Bending down, he placed a soft but fervent kiss upon Erestor''s lips.

The giggles of the elflings behind them drew them apart; the thought of others seeing them kiss in the hallway caused a blush to rise to Erestor''s ear tips. "I love you, Glorfindel," he whispered as they resumed walking, and he leaned his head against the warrior''s shoulder. "I do not want to lose you now that I have found you."

"You will never lose me, Erestor," Glorfindel said quietly. "Never." Tightening his arm around the councilor, he added, "You''re even more beautiful when you blush. I must make you do it more often." Spying another group of elves approaching, he leaned down and kissed Erestor again, this time more passionately, and when the kiss ended, he whispered into a cherry-red, delicate ear, "I am yours."

Tbc……

*******************************

Chapter 14

Erestor kept his eyes on the floor as the group of chuckling elves passed them. When they had done so, he looked up shyly to see Glorfindel smirking. "What?" he whispered.

"They are happy for us -- and I have just made it known that……well, we are both off of the "market".

Erestor snorted. "I do not believe I was ever on the "market", Glorfindel. No one was interested in me. You, however……" He left the statement unfinished. Glorfindel was a glorious elf, and Erestor knew he had been much sought after. He still could not believe that the powerful warrior wanted *him*.

"Erestor, my love, there are many here who longed to know you better. Do you not know how truly beautiful you are?" Glorfindel responded.

The councilor shook his head. "I am not beautiful, Glorfindel. I am too thin, too pale, and too……ornery."

Glorfindel drew Erestor''s pale hand to his lips and kissed it softly. "You are beautiful. Yes, you are too thin and pale, but you are ethereally lovely, and your delicate body belies the strength within. And you are not ornery -- you are sweet."

Erestor shook his head again and was about to retort when they arrived at his new rooms, which were located in the new family wing. With their lord''s marriage, the need for better rooms arose, rooms not only for Elrond and Celebríían, but for visits from her parents and other dignitaries. The rooms in the wing that had housed Erestor, and formerly Elrond, were of the original construction of the Last Homely House, and badly in need of refurbishing, not to mention some repair. Although asked about moving at the time the new wing was constructed, Erestor had declined, being more than settled in the rooms that he had occupied for centuries.

Finally seeing where they were, Erestor turned around and looked at Lindir. "Oh, no," he told the seneschal. "No, I refuse to take these rooms, Lindir! How could you imagine that I would occupy……."

Any further words were stilled as Celebríían left her task of directing the servants to walk over to Erestor. She leaned over to kiss his cheek, and then took his hand. "Please, Erestor," she said softly, "let us do this for you."

The elflings become uncomfortable when Erestor said he would not take the rooms, but when Celebríían approached and spoke, they relaxed against Lindir. She would make it all right. Erestor just *had* to take these rooms -- after all, they had chosen the rooms themselves!

"My lady," Erestor said, "this is the suite of rooms that is meant for your parents! How could I possibly……I do not deserve rooms like these."

"Erestor," Celebríían said, "there is no one more worthy of these rooms, and there is a great deal of self-reproach involved in our offering them to you, not least on the part of our lord. Do not take away the chance for him to make amends and lessen the guilt he feels. Please accept them, my friend. There is more than enough time to add more rooms for my parents. Please do this for me? For him?"

Erestor looked at Celebríían for a long moment, and then raised her hand to his lips and kissed it. "You know I can refuse neither him nor you anything. If it is truly what you wish, I will take the rooms, but I do not deserve such opulence."

"And what of Glorfindel and the elflings?" Celebríían asked quietly. "Do they not deserve these rooms?"

Erestor nodded. "You are right," he answered. "They deserve them, and more."

Melveldir and Erestor were bundled in furs and settled on the chaises in the sitting room to watch as Celebríían, Lindir, and a myriad of servants scurried around arranging furniture, putting clothing away, and placing books on the bookshelves that had been brought into the room for the councilor''s collection. Glorfindel finally stopped "supervising" and settled on the chaise with Vel while Riniel curled up with Erestor. The golden lord would have much rather been curled up with Erestor, but both of the elder elves knew how important it was for the elflings to feel secure and loved in their new surroundings.

Erestor was anxious to see all of his new rooms and furnishings now that he had accepted them, but knowing he would only be in the way, he patiently waited for everyone to finish. He liked what he saw already; the heavy, deep green curtains draping the windows would help hold the warmth inside of the room, and the green and gold furnishings in the sitting room were lovely. A large table surrounded by chairs sat to one side, and could be used for meals or working. His desk sat in a corner and bookcases stood near along the wall. In addition to the two chaises, a grouping of chairs and side tables sat before the hearth. The floor was covered with richly woven rugs that would be perfect for small elflings to play upon. The mantel was richly carved of dark wood, its forest pattern echoed on the tables and chairs and even around the room on the wainscoting. The candles in the two chandeliers and in holders dotted around the room cast a gentle glow. It was a warm and beautiful

room that emitted a sense of coziness and security.

The servants finally finished and were sent on their way by Celebríían, who placed a few finishing touches before she, too, departed. A kettle of water was left to heat inside the hearth, hanging from a metal hook. A tray with all the makings for tea was left on the table, along with a basket of sweet rolls and a bowl of dried autumn fruits from the valley''s storage cellars.

Lindir opened the kittens'' basket and placed it before the fire, allowing the two curious animals to finally escape and explore their new surroundings. "Will you inspect the remainder of your new rooms now, Erestor, and see if you approve of the furnishings?" the seneschal asked.

"I am most anxious to do so," Erestor said. "If they are as lovely as this room, I am sure I will love them." Rising slowly from the chaise to avoid feeling lightheaded, he stood and smiled at Lindir. "I do not know how to thank you, my dear friend. The words seem so inadequate."

Lindir bowed his head in acknowledgement and returned Erestor''s smile. "Knowing you are happy and cared for is enough, my friend, and all the thanks I need."

"I, for one, would like to see my new home," Glorfindel said with a grin. He rose, picked up Melveldir, and motioned with his head to Riniel. "Let us go and see what wonderful magic has been done to your bedroom!"

Riniel fairly bounced as she led the way into the room that Lindir had said would be hers and Vel''s. Stopping at the doorway, her mouth formed into an "O", and then she ran into the room and crawled up onto her bed to try and hold all the dolls and stuffed animals there in her little arms. The burgundy bed coverings were nearly obscured by the amount of toys. "Are these all for me?" she whispered in amazement, finally settling on hugging one large stuffed rabbit and a beautifully dressed doll together.

Lindir stood in the doorway as the others filed into the room. "All for you, little one."

As Glorfindel set Melveldir down on his bed amidst more stuffed animals, Lindir walked to a bookshelf and said, "Your flute and music are here, Vel, as well as books for both of you. The chests at the foot of your beds are for storing your toys. Inside the wardrobes are clothing and shoes for each of you." Word of who the children were had spread like wildfire, and the outpouring of generosity from the elves of the hidden valley was unstoppable -- not that anyone had tried to put a halt to it.

Erestor walked around the room shaking his head. He opened the wardrobes and inspected the clothing. Walking into the bathroom, he examined the towels, bathing oils, and soaps. Still shaking his head, he exclaimed, "Lindir, you are a wonder! However did you do all of this?" Glorfindel smiled, having been earlier told secretly about the rooms and what had been happening out of their sight.

Lindir simply smiled and whispered, "Later."

Riniel bounded off of the bed, still hugging her doll and rabbit, and said excitedly, "Come and see your room now, Uncle Erestor!" Taking Erestor''s hand in one of her small ones, she pulled him out into the sitting room and into the bedroom her two uncles would share.

Erestor stood inside the doorway to his new bedroom and breathed, "Oh, my." Candles flickered in a chandelier, on the mantle and on the bedside tables, and the gold threads shot through the dark counterpane, canopy, and bed curtains sparkled in their light. A large vase of hothouse flowers stood on a tabletop, infusing the room with their sweet fragrance. Erestor''s brushes and combs lay beside Glorfindel''s on the large dressing table. The massive wardrobe doors stood open, revealing the clothing of warrior and councilor, neatly stored, side by side. On the floor of the wardrobe, toes of boots peeked out, half of the pairs larger than the other. A fire burned in the hearth, its flames reflected in the rich polished wood of the tables and chairs arranged around it. A deep fur rug lay in front of the hearth, along with large pillows.

But the bed……the bed was beautiful beyond anything Erestor had ever seen. The dark wooden headboard, full of sweeping curls, broad leaves and blooming flowers carved at the peak of their fullness, swirled up to the ceiling and then down, spreading its canopy to hold the drape of rich cloth on its branches. These were no mere bedposts; these were woodland trees in whose limbs nestled the sparkling curtains that would hide lovers within its sheltered bower.

Erestor blushed at the thought and whispered, "Oh, my," once again.

"Does it please you, dear one?" Glorfindel asked softly, pulling Erestor close with an arm about the councilor''s waist.

"Oh, yes," Erestor said quietly, his eyes never leaving the beautiful bed. "Oh, yes."

Elrond''s voice from the sitting room broke the spell that seemed to surround the councilor. "If we bring lunch, may we come in and join you?" he called out.

Erestor turned to see Elrond, Celebríían and Galuvaeron carrying in trays with their noon meal and placing them on the table in the sitting room. "Elrond, my dear friend," Erestor said, "I do not know what to say to thank you for all……..this." His arms spread out to encompass his new rooms. "I have never seen anything so lovely." As Elrond joined them in the bedroom, Erestor clasped his lord in a tight hug and whispered, "Thank you. Thank you for……everything."

Elrond''s smile was brilliant as he returned his friend''s hug. "Your happiness gives me great joy, Erestor," he said quietly. "Come to the sitting room. Let us have a meal together with our friends to initiate these new rooms of yours and celebrate your new family."

Erestor was too overcome for words, and with Elrond and Glorfindel on either side and Lindir and the elflings following, they returned to the sitting room. If Erestor was shocked to see Lindir fly into the arms of Galuvaeron to receive a lingering kiss, it was clear that Elrond and Celebríían were not. "Did I miss something?" Erestor asked with a grin.

"I think I did too," Glorfindel said, winking at Erestor. "Why are we always the last to know things, Erestor?"

"I have finally found my soulmate, Erestor," Lindir said softly. Looking to Elrond, he said, "Forgive me for not telling you, my lord. May I hope I have your blessing?"

Elrond grinned. "In the absence of your family, Galuvaeron has already asked for my consent to marry you. I have given it wholeheartedly, conditional on your acceptance. I take it that your answer is yes?"

"With all my heart it is," Lindir said. "With all my heart. Thank you, Elrond." He beamed up at the tall healer. "I love you, Vaeron."

"And I love you, Lindir," Galuvaeron replied softly.

Riniel grinned at her brother and whispered, "Do you think it is always like this here? Everyone all kissing and everything?"

Melveldir groaned. "I hope not," he said.

Glorfindel chuckled at his nephew. "Just wait until you are older, Vel. You will not think it so disgusting then."

Melveldir grimaced.

~~~*~~~

After their shared meal, Celebríían took Riniel off to the kitchens to help the elfling make her mother''s cakes, and a tired Melveldir napped in his new bed. The remainder of the elves lounged in the sitting room, talking quietly, as the door to the elflings'' room had been left ajar so Vel would not feel alone when he woke. Vaeron and Lindir were sprawled on the floor in front of the fire, Erestor rested on the chaise in Glorfindel''s arms, and Elrond was draped over one of the large upholstered chairs.

"I suspect you are not the only ones who have found mates over this long winter. I have noticed several other new couples since we have been forced together inside for so long. It will be another two months before this winter weather breaks. I have been thinking…….perhaps we should start a new tradition. What do you think about a "Wedding Day"? The first fine day of spring, we can have one big wedding celebration in the gardens for everyone……invite the whole valley."

"I think that is a fine idea," Lindir said. "What a beautiful way to end the cold winter -- celebrating the joy of starting a new life together with one''s new mate."

Galuvaeron smiled at Lindir and leaned over to kiss his cheek. "Marry me in the garden in spring?" When Lindir nodded, Vaeron wrapped his arms around the smaller elf. He could wait to marry his precious Lindir for two more months. After all, there was nothing that said they could not be bonded before the actual ceremony.

"A new life together. Yes. I like that idea," Erestor said softly. "How very perfect to celebrate the beginning of spring with the joy of weddings." He leaned his head back and looked up at his golden warrior. "Will you marry me in the spring……in the garden……and begin our new life with me, Glorfindel?"

"That I will, my dear Erestor," Glorfindel whispered. "That I will. And spring can not come soon enough for me."

Tbc……

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Chapter 15

Lindir and Galuvaeron walked slowly, arms encircling one another''s waists, through the halls to the seneschal''s rooms. They had spent the remainder of the afternoon and evening in the company of Elrond, Erestor and Glorfindel, planning the elaborate wedding ceremonies and celebration that would take place in the spring. Perhaps it would even become a tradition -- as in most places, if something happened once, everyone said, "We have always done it that way".

They had continued the planning through dinner, for which Celebríían had rejoined them and added her own ideas. Dinner was a lively, happy meal, ending with the special cakes made by Riniel and Celebríían from the elfling''s memory. The delicious little cakes were sure to become another Imladris tradition, and the cooks had carefully written down the recipe to make them regularly.

It was a brilliant idea of Elrond''s. Instead of overtaxing the kitchens and everyone''s nerves with a constant stream of weddings, it would be one grand celebration that would also welcome the spring. Everyone in the valley would be invited, and it appeared as if the first Wedding Day would see at least five couples joined.

Although Lindir suspected that Erestor and Glorfindel would wait for their wedding day to bond, he had no intention of waiting. He had waited nearly four thousand years to find his soulmate, and he saw no reason to delay his heart''s desire.

Arriving at his door, the seneschal looked up at the tall healer and whispered, "Stay with me."

Galuvaeron simply nodded, and opened the door to Lindir''s rooms.

Lindir gasped as the door closed and he found himself lifted against the healer''s chest. Wrapping his legs around Vaeron''s waist, his back pressed against the door, he held the healer''s face in his hands. His long, slender fingers threaded their way through Vaeron''s thick, dark hair, and he looked down into silver pools that sparkled with love and desire, before plundering the healer''s mouth with his own. Tongues dueled for dominance before Lindir finally relinquished any semblance of control and gave in to the intoxication of Vaeron''s kiss. When the need for breath finally forced their bruised lips apart, Lindir whispered huskily, "Take me to bed."

~~~~~~*~~~~~~

Erestor smiled as he lay in his new, comfortable, and large bed, curled against Glorfindel''s chest. One of the elflings'' beds had been moved into the room with them, and Melveldir and Riniel lay snuggled together with their kittens, sleeping, secure in the knowledge that their uncles were just a breath away, albeit within the curtain shrouded bed. Both elves knew the Peredhel elflings needed to be close to them - at least for a while. Helping them begin their new lives without their parents had to be placed above the elves'' own desires, and it was not so hard, for they loved the little ones as their own.

Both Erestor and Glorfindel knew when the time came that Melveldir and Riniel slept in their own room alone, it would be a night for tears and sadness. But that time was not now, and the elves hoped that the days and nights the children spent with them would help to ease the pain when the little ones realized they would never see their parents again in Arda.

The light of the full winter moon pierced the darkness through a small opening in the heavy curtains, and twinkling gleams of white softly illumined the room. Glorfindel caressed Erestor's cheek and smiled down at him, wondering anew at how one so beautiful could love him. "Are you happy, dear one?" he whispered.

"How could I not be?" Erestor said softly. "We are sheltered in this forested bower, away from the world, and the ones I love the most in all of Middle-earth are here with me."

Glorfindel could not resist the temptation, and wrapping his arms around the slighter elf, he kissed Erestor long and lovingly.

~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~

Discarded clothing was scattered on the floor, and shoes lay where they had been dropped. Lindir moaned as the healer''s mouth and hands elicited feelings he had never known before. Flashes of lightening ran through his body, and his toes tingled from the sensation. Words of undying devotion and love……always love……softly resonated in his ear, and there was no doubt in his heart or in his mind that he was Vaeron''s…….and Vaeron was his. Lindir''s legs wrapped around the strong body hovering above him, as his mouth was once again plundered in a deep kiss.

Galuvaeron marveled at how this perfect, lithe elf fitted against him, as if they had been made for each other. Lindir was not as large as the healer, but he was strong. Firm muscles lay beneath silken skin, and the healer gently stroked the smaller elf''s sides and chest, eliciting soft moans from the one beneath him. Their tongues glided together, each tasting of the sweetness, and Vaeron felt as if his body was being consumed in the flames of Lindir''s fire.

There was an equality to their lovemaking, each giving and taking generously, until Lindir finally drew back, and once again twining his fingers through the healer''s dark hair, he searched silver eyes grown dark with passion and love, knowing they matched his own, and whispered, "All that I am, I surrender to you. My heart, my soul, my body, my love, I surrender to you. To you, my strong healer, I give all that I am. All my life, I have waited for the one who would complete me, and now I hold him in my arms. I give you my heart, and take yours in return. I give you my soul, and take yours in return. My body is your body. My breath is your breath. Each beat of your heart is my heart beating. With every breath you take, you breathe life into me. Take me and fill me with your love, for you have all of mine. No longer am I simply Lindir. I am Lindir, beloved of Galuvaeron. No longer do I exist without you."

Vaeron''s throat constricted with emotion, and he nearly forgot to draw breath as he listened to Lindir''s words. Gently taking one of the seneschal''s hands from his hair, he held it over his heart and said slowly, his voice awash with wonder and love, "Feel the beating of my heart. It beats for you. Each breath I take, I breathe for you. I give you my heart, in exchange for your loving heart. I give you my soul, in exchange for your pure soul. I give you my body in exchange for your beautiful body. With all my heart, I love you, Lindir. From this moment forth, I belong to you. No longer am I alone, for you are here, within me." He pressed seneschal''s hand firmly over his heart. "I am no longer merely Vaeron, for Lindir lives within me."

So focused was Lindir on Galuvaeron''s words that he did not see the healer''s tears until one fell onto his cheek. Bringing his free hand to his own face, he touched his cheek and found that Vaeron''s tear had mingled with his own. "Why do we weep?" he asked in amazement.

"Because we love deeply," the healer said, and he gently wiped Lindir''s cheeks with his fingers.

"Oh……Vaeron," Lindir whispered. Throwing his arms around the healer''s shoulders, he held Galuvaeron to his heart.

The healer pushed his arms beneath Lindir and held him close. "Let me love you, Lindir," he said softly. "Let me make you mine."

And Lindir's heart sang.

~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~

Nearly three months later……..

Erestor stood on the balcony outside of his office, leaning against a pillar, and watched as a myriad of elves placed the finishing touches to the decorations. The gardens had been turned into a wonderland: the trees, newly clothed in their green raiment, were adorned with colorful lanterns that would be lit at dusk, and ribbons of white and gold were tied around the trunks. Tables were placed throughout the gardens on fresh spring grass, and dressed in white clothes and garlands of flowers. Crystal and silver tableware sparkled among the flowers. He smiled at the sight, for the cruel winter had finally passed, and today was Imladris'' Wedding Day, the day when he was to finally bind himself to Glorfindel.

He had worked as hard as all of the other residents of the valley preparing for the day, for it was Erestor who had laid out all of the plans, down to the menus for the meals for each of the newly wedded couples that would be left in their rooms.

The cooks in the kitchens had labored for days preparing all of the delicacies for the huge banquet that would follow the ceremony; the gardeners had coaxed the sweetest blooms to grow for the decorations; tailors and dressmakers had labored for weeks over the garments for the engaged couples; and the jewelers had worked for many hours, crafting the finest golden rings. Every crystal goblet and silver plate had been polished until they shined; every linen tablecloth had been ironed until no wrinkle remained. The finest wines from the cellars had been opened and tasted for approval, a task that Elrond and Glorfindel had been delighted to claim for themselves. Elves brought out and inspected their finest clothing and jewels, making sure that all was perfect for the occasion. There was an excitement in the air that was palpable.

Elrond joined Erestor on the balcony, and standing beside him, said quietly, "Happy, my friend?"

Erestor nodded. "Very. And excited -- a bit nervous. I am very glad we decided to break with tradition and have the ceremonies first before the feast. I doubt I could eat anything."

"I could not eat a thing before my wedding," Elrond recalled. "It is a silly tradition that needs to be done away with, in my opinion. Once the ceremony was over and my nerves were back to normal, I was starving."

"It is nearly time for me to go and get ready." Erestor said. "Are you sure that you and Celebrían do not mind taking the children tonight?"

"Quite sure." Elrond smiled. "They are a joy, and you and Glorfindel should be alone on your wedding night."

Erestor blushed and murmured his thanks. The elflings had finally settled into a routine after several long weeks of trials. The first several nights the little ones had tried to sleep in their own room resulted in Erestor and Glorfindel joining them in the elflings'' room for the night. Once the shock and the newness of Imladris had worn off, grief had taken its place, and there were many days and nights of tears that had pained the older elves as much as it had the elflings. They had trusted their uncles when Glorfindel and Erestor had told that it was all right to be sad and cry sometimes, and the elflings did not try to hide their pain. But all of that was past, and Melveldir and Riniel were once again happy, with only occasional times of sadness and tears. "They are a joy, indeed," Erestor said. "They have brought so much laughter and love into my life, as their uncle has. Sometimes I wonder how I could possibly have been so fortunate to be gifted with such love in my

life."

"Love *is* a gift, Erestor. Each day I thank the Valar for the gift of Celebríían''s love. To have her love and companionship is the greatest joy I have known. My wish for you this day is that you know the same joy with Glorfindel."

Erestor nodded. "I know I shall. The weeks of winter that I spent in his arms are the happiest I have ever know." He smiled. "What of the other couples you were checking on? Are they ready?"

Elrond snorted. "Lindir and Galuvaeron are acting as if it is nothing out of the ordinary, while arguing amicably, just like an old wedded couple, over what finery they should wear. Doroniel -- the little house maid -- had her mother so frazzled that the cooks had to shoo them away so they could finish cooking. She is a sweet maiden, and will make a good wife for Randirion, although I am still wondering how that shy, gentle, little maid ended up with Glorfindel''s second-in-command."

Erestor chuckled. "The ways of love are strange, indeed. Whoever would have thought that Councilor Demegion would end up with the dairymaid Ninniel? They are in the hands of Ninniel''s mother, by the way, and I have her word they will be ready in time. Demegion was wearing a bemused smile on his face and gazing adoringly at Ninniel."

"Have you checked on the others?" Elrond asked.

"Gaelon and Aerion were whispering in a corner of the library, exchanging kisses when they thought I could not see, so I sent them off to get ready. One is so alike the other that it is easy to see how they fell in love. They will be very happy together."

"And our dear little scribe Maeriel?" Elrond asked.

"She was last seen dragging Dirhir from his smithy, bemoaning the state of his hands and wondering if they could get them clean in time for the ceremony," Erestor answered with a grin.

"Six weddings." Elrond sighed happily. Something good had come out of their fell winter. "Celebríían is with Glorfindel and the elflings, helping them dress. It is time for you to come with me and do the same, my friend."

~~~*~~~

Erestor finally stood in front of the mirror in Elrond''s rooms and took a deep breath. He barely recognized himself. Elrond had arranged a few intricate braids at the sides of his face, but the remainder of his hair fell in a shimmering ebon cascade down his back. Sapphires were woven among the braids and here and there among his loose hair. He wore new robes ordered by Elrond: a cream colored, floor-length tunic that sparkled with golden embroidery, and a golden surcoate and sash that shimmered like the sun. A healthy glow had returned to his skin, and his eyes sparkled.

"Oh, my," Erestor breathed. "I am afraid that even Glorfindel will not recognize me."

"He will," Elrond said, "and he will think you are the most beautiful elf in all of Arda."

Erestor could feel himself blush. He had tried very hard to become accustomed to compliments and accept them gracefully, but it was still difficult.

"There is one more thing. It is your wedding gift from Glorfindel," Elrond said, opening a box which sat upon his dressing table. From the box, he withdrew a golden circlet etched with small golden flowers, and placed it on Erestor''s brow, securing it among the braids.

Erestor gazed at his reflection in the mirror and raised his hand to the circlet, softly running his fingers along its curves. "It is the same as Glorfindel''s," he said softly, and there was wonder in his voice.

~~~*~~~

"Glorfindel, for the love of the Valar, hold still!" Celebríían commanded, as the last hank of golden hair she was attempting to weave a sapphire into slipped from her fingers.

Blue eyes gazed into the mirror to meet those of his Lady, and Glorfindel smiled apologetically. Holding his head still, he fingered the golden silk of his surcoate.

"Done, finally!" Celebríían exclaimed. Taking his circlet from the dressing table, she threaded its ends through his braids and placed it on his brow. "One more thing," she said, opening a box on the table and removing a sapphire brooch set in gold. "Beautiful," she said softly, pinning it to the neckline of his cream-colored tunic. "It is your wedding gift from Erestor."

~~~*~~~

One by one, the wedding ceremonies were witnessed by the valley''s elves, all gathered for the happy event. Those couples fortunate to have their parents in Imladris were wed in the traditional way with one parent of each joining their hands and pronouncing the blessing before golden rings were exchanged.

The Lord and Lady of the valley had chosen to stand-in as parents for both Lindir and Galuvaeron and Erestor and Glorfindel, not only in the giving of the traditional wedding jewels, but in the joining of the couples'' hands and pronouncing the blessings during the ceremony. Elrond could not have been happier as he and Celebríían joined each couples'' hands and spoke the name of the One. In his heart, he knew each of them had found the one the he was meant to be with until the end of Arda, and each would find love and strength from their mate.

When the ceremonies were completed, the lanterns were lit in the trees, and their light cast a golden glow in the fading sunlight. To lantern and candlelight, the elves feasted, danced and sang, until one by one, each newly wedded couple faded away to their rooms.

~~~*~~~

Erestor and Glorfindel walked slowly back to their rooms -- slowly because each few steps necessitated a stop to lean again a convenient wall as Glorfindel stole a passionate kiss, or Erestor grabbed Glorfindel and leaned against a pillar to taste the sweetness of his lover''s mouth just once more. When they finally made it to their rooms, neither one could enter fast enough. Hastily shutting the door behind them, they hurried to their bedroom -- and stopped.

"Oh, my," breathed Erestor.

"Indeed." Glorfindel stepped into the room, Erestor having no alternative but to follow since his hand was held in the warrior''s.

The room had been transformed into a forest wonderland. Scented candles sparkled from mantle and tabletop. Along the carved trees forming the canopy of the bed were stretched branches of sweet smelling pine, and garlands of flowers trailed up the bedposts and headboard. The bedclothes were turned down, and petals of roses were strewn across the silken sheets. Posies of wildflowers were tied along the mantle, and a bouquet of roses sat on a table in front of the hearth, amid plates of delicacies and carafes of water and wine.

"It is wonderful," Erestor said softly, "and I cannot think of more perfect place to be with you this night."

"It is perfect," Glorfindel said, smiling down at the slight blush on Erestor''s cheeks. "You are perfect."

"Will you take me to bed, my love?" Erestor asked, feeling almost shy. Even though he and Glorfindel had been sleeping together for months, they had never touched intimately. Shy or not, Erestor was more than ready for what the night would bring, and he longed for Glorfindel''s touch. His breath caught as he was swooped up into the warrior''s arms and carried to the bed to be gently laid upon rose petals. As the smell from the crushed petals filled his senses, his mouth was captured in a deep kiss that stole his breath away and robbed his mind of all but the glorious elf who held him in his arms.

No words were spoken as sapphire jewels and clasps, wedding gifts from Elrond and Celebríían, were carefully removed from sable and golden hair and lovingly laid aside to be stored and treasured. Two pair of gentle hands slowly and carefully unfastened the elaborate robes and untied undergarments, savoring every moment before each was revealed to the other. Lips hesitantly……shyly……followed hands, with whisper soft touches on firm skin.

"You are so beautiful," Erestor whispered, laying beside Glorfindel and slowly moving his hands over his husband''s sculpted chest, still bronzed after the long winter months.

"No, that is you," Glorfindel answered softly, his hands relishing the feel of soft, alabaster skin over light muscle. Moving his mouth along Erestor''s jaw line, he lapped at his lover''s neck, tasting and gently nibbling. "Touch me," he whispered, moving his own hand to wrap firmly around Erestor''s hard shaft.

Erestor gasped when he felt Glorfindel''s hand wrap around him. He couldn''t remember anything ever feeling quite so good, and he cautiously grasped his husband''s member, feeling it swell even larger in his hand. "Oh," he breathed, and then moved his head to kiss his mate deeply.

Glorfindel''s moan was lost in Erestor''s mouth as their tongues slid together in a slow, sensuous dance. Moving over Erestor, he aligned their lengths, encircling both of them with his hand and feeling Erestor do the same. And when their kiss finally ended, he looked down at his mate''s face, thinking that Erestor had never looked more beautiful. "So beautiful," he whispered.

Hands danced over taut and supple skin, mouths explored and tasted, and teeth gently nipped. Each elf reveled in new sensations and tastes, and the stimulation to their senses filled the room the soft moans and gasps. Gentle fingers lovingly prepared for the completion of their bonding, and when Glorfindel finally slid his aching arousal into Erestor''s tight heat, both elves gasped.

The sensation was so incredible that Glorfindel nearly lost control and spilled into the delicious warmth of Erestor''s body. "Are you well, beloved?" Glorfindel asked, stilling his movement for a moment to regain control of his body and to allow Erestor time to adjust. "I did not hurt you?"

Erestor looked up at Glorfindel, feeling the nearly uncontrollable urge to weep, so great was his heart filled with love for his wondrous spouse. "I am more than well," he whispered, smiling gently at his mate. "You did not hurt me. It was perfect. You are perfect."

Glorfindel bent his head to capture Erestor''s mouth in a deep kiss as he slowly moved his hips and withdrew from the silken heat, only to slowly sink back into the pulsing channel again. Twice, thrice, and he knew neither of them would last long, so great had been their longing for this final act of loving and binding. As Erestor wrapped his legs around the captain''s waist, pulling him in deeper, Glorfindel reached for the thick, hard erection that lay between them, stroking it firmly it time with his thrusts.

Erestor whimpered as the small bundle of nerves within him was touched with each thrust, the pleasure so blinding it was nearly unbearable, but he wanted it never to stop. Crying out, he wrapped his arms around Glorfindel''s broad shoulders, drawing the golden head down to rest on his neck, pulling his mate into himself.

Their bond was lovingly forged, link by precious link, each giving and taking, souls merging and withdrawing to merge again, until they were one. Melded, linked, moving together in perfect harmony, one breath, one soul, they rose to the heavens, and then fell, no longer two but one; separate still, but each carrying a part of the other.

~~~*~~~

The elflings grew, and under their uncles' guidance they learned knowledge and wisdom, and they became just and honorable. Riniel learned the art of healing from Elrond himself and became a skilled healer. Melveldir never gave up his music, but chose to join the Imladris guards. In time, they took their own mates, and new children were added to the House of the Golden Flower. Riniel and Melveldir's children and grandchildren were all deeply loved by Erestor and Glorfindel, and the little ones filled their hearts with joy and loved them in return.

And when the time came for the Elves to leave Middle-earth, Erestor, Glorfindel, and their family sailed with Lord Elrond. They looked forward to a new life, and were filled with the hope that Anorion would be waiting for them. When the white shores were in sight, they stood at the railings with the rest of the elves on the ship, and keen eyes scoured the docks, searching for loved ones. Two joyful cries sounded as Elrond and Galadriel spotted the now-healed Celebríían, but still Glorfindel's eyes searched the shore.

"There he is, Uncle," Riniel said excitedly, pointing to a golden-haired figure standing on the docks, and her face lit up in a smile matched only by those of her brother and uncle. Glorfindel's eyes sparkled with unshed tears of joy as he gazed upon the far figure of his long-lost brother.

As the ship docked, Erestor took his newest grand-niece from Riniel's arms and said, "Take them to their father, Glorfindel. The rest of us will be along behind."

As Riniel and Melveldir's spouses and families nodded in agreement, Glorfindel wrapped an arm around his niece and nephew and guided them to the gangway.

"And besides, we want to watch what happens and the view is better from here, is it not, my dears?" Erestor said to his family after the three had left.

"It is indeed, Uncle," said Melveldir's wife, laughing joyfully, a sentiment echoed by the rest of the family.

Upon hearing word that a ship was arriving, Anorion had joined the throng at the docks, hoping for new word of his brother and children. He knew from Celebríían that his children had survived the attack and had been raised and loved by Glorfindel and his mate, but that knowledge did not adequately prepare him for the sight of his tall, golden brother walking slowly towards him, one arm around each of the beaming, beautiful, dark-haired peredhil at his sides. Overcome with emotion, he simply stood and waited, tears blurring his vision.

Glorfindel gently guided the two ahead of him and into his brother's arms while he stood behind for a moment. Finally wrapping his arms around the three of them, he whispered brokenly, "I have loved them as my own and I have brought them home to you."

Tears streamed freely down Anorion's cheeks as he kissed the three beloved faces before him over and over again.

Erestor wiped the tears from his eyes with his sleeve. His were not the only tears shed while watching the sight, and many handkerchiefs and sleeves were hurriedly put into use. "Come along, everyone," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "It is time to meet him and find our new home."

~~~*~~~

Erestor stood at the window, a gentle smile on his face, and his eyes fixed on the star-studded sky. The family was all safely sheltered in Anorion's large house near the coast, and Glorfindel's brother had spent much of the day getting to know his new family and reveling in his children and grandchildren. Riniel, Melveldir, their children, and grandchildren would eventually set up homes of their own, but for now, all were content under Anorion''s roof.

"Happy, dear one?" Glorfindel asked, coming up behind his mate and enclosing Erestor in his arms.

"Very," Erestor whispered, leaning back against the beloved body of his husband and tucking his head under Glorfindel's chin. A soft chuckle sprang from his lips.

"What?" Glorfindel asked.

"I was just remembering Anorion's face when you started introducing all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren to him."

Glorfindel's shoulders shook with silent laughter. "That is what he gets for dying and leaving his children with us. A good thing he has this big house and room for all of us."

A comfortable silence grew around them and they looked at the stars together for long moments. Finally, Erestor spoke softly. "Glorfindel, in all our long years together, I have never asked for anything but your love, and that you have given me in abundance. But there is something I wish for and would ask for now."

"Tell me, and it is yours, my love," Glorfindel answered, bending down to steal a kiss from Erestor's lips.

"I have dreamt of us having our own home - for just the two of us. Big enough for the young ones and friends to come and visit when they please, and small enough for the two of us to keep. In a valley by a river, surrounded by trees. And gardens. Gardens where we can grow flowers and our own fruits and vegetables."

"And a very large bedroom to hold our bed," Glorfindel added. Unwilling to part with that one piece of furniture, their bed lay in the hold of the ship, waiting to be brought ashore. "And a library for all of our books."

And so a valley with a gentle river was found and a home was built. It was small enough for the two of them, but close enough and big enough for new nephews and nieces to come and gain knowledge and wisdom at Erestor's knee, and to learn justice and honor at Glorfindel's. Anorion, Riniel, Melveldir, Elrond, and the rest of their family and friends came and visited often, and the family flourished and grew in the gentle breezes that flowed through Erestor's gardens.

The End