Celeborn sighed; he despised these diplomatic meetings. Hours of sitting, listening to dry, monotone advisors give him equally droll reports.

He knew it was necessary, all these meetings; the Realm was new, it was important to make sure everything ran smoothly. The silver-haired lord stretched his back surreptitiously, quietly clearing the cobwebs from his head before turning his attention to the latest report. His money flow, next month's market, the problem of root rot in a breed of shrub, his wife… His wife! He received a report on his wife? He saw her everyday, he ate meals with her – they slept in the same bed for Valar's sake! Why in Valar's name did he need a report on his wife?! All these thoughts, and more, raced through his mind as he struggled to remain awake. He cursed himself again for scheduling one of these oathsome meetings the day immediately following a party.

Celeborn smiled slightly at the memory of the night before. It may have left him tired and hungover, but it was one of the most enjoyable evenings he had had in a long while. The only real benefit to the festivities the previous night was the chance to watch the ethereal youth that was part of the visiting party. He was slightly unnerved to find how his blood stirred when the almost glowing Elf had jokingly asked him for a dance. Celeborn had laughed and informed him that he was a simply dreadful dancer, but if he wished, and she consented, he was more than welcome to his wife as a dance partner. The young blonde had graced him with a dazzling smile, added a sweeping bow before dropping to one knee beside Galadriel and brazenly asking her for a dance. Galadriel had raised an eyebrow silently, the surprise evident, her face remaining drawn before her laugh tinkled throughout the hall and she graciously took his hand as he led her to the dance floor. Celeborn watched the two elegant and stunning Elves float across the dance floor, each step being both effortless and weightless. He had always admired the grace and dignity with which his wife carried her body. He had smiled and accepted the compliments that Haldir had bestowed upon her.

The cheeky marchwarden had returned from his patrol duties the evening before and was in fine form. He had raised an appreciative eyebrow as his gaze roamed favourably over the fine form of the visiting Elf. Over dinner, Celeborn had warned him off. Elder members of the party were very protective and had been careful in keeping the more innocent Elves among them away from the fickle and flirtatious marchwarden and others like him. Haldir had merely shrugged, not fussed by being excluded from a potential lover; there was still a large percentage of Lórien that he had yet to woo. However, Haldir was blessed with impeccable perception and had quickly picked up on how his Lord felt about the new arrival.

"Did our guests insist that young Glorfindel was to remain untouched by all, or just by the likes of me?" Haldir had enquired quietly as another dance began.

Celeborn blushed fiercely, "Am I that obvious?"

"No – but I know you well, my Lord." Haldir leaned closer and smiled wickedly, "He is young and I recall him mentioning in earlier conversation that he would like to be," he paused conspiratorially, "exposed…" he continued with a wink, "to other cultures during his stay."

Celeborn glared at the grinning Elf, "You know very well that is not what he meant Haldir!"

"Of course, my Lord. But he is young, as I said, and the young *do* have a reputation for being subtly cheeky. Now, if you will excuse me, I wish to join in the next dance!" With those parting words, Haldir rose from his seat, skirting his way around to a young lady seated on the other side of the room. Celeborn sat and mused his options as the dance finished, becoming so lost in his thoughts that he failed to realise that the empty seat next to him was once again filled.

"What distracts you so, Lord Celeborn?" The lilting voice of his guest drifted into his ear.

Celeborn smiled, "I think merely of how weary I grow of all these continued celebrations. I worry I grow too old to enjoy them!" he chuckled.

Glorfindel smirked, "Your wife exhausted me on the dance floor, my Lord. If you can keep pace with her, then you are surely not too old to enjoy a party."

Celeborn sighed then smiled, "It is not a matter of keeping up, my honoured guest; and I can assure you that I am *not* lacking in energy; but merely the fact that I have been part of so many in my life, that I now grow bored with them. I prefer to spend my nights differently."

"And how is that, my Lord?"

Celeborn smiled at the inquisitive youngster, "About now, were it not for this infernal celebration, I would be found walking in the woods, listening to the sounds off all the creatures that dwell within them. Were it slightly later, you could most likely find me reading, either in my room, or were my lovely wife asleep, somewhere private and secluded."

"Excuse me if you think me impertinent, but I do not understand how you can find such pleasure in books. Surely you would find greater pleasure in the bed you share with your wife?"

Celeborn raised a surprised eyebrow, "I find you highly impertinent, Glorfindel! But you are young, so I will forgive you this once, though I should throw you out for such comments." Celeborn stared stonily at the object of his crush for several moments, waiting until Glorfindel looked suitably repentant and guilty before allowing his restrained smile to break through. "Dear Elf, I am merely teasing," he said, gently cupping and lifting the Elf's drooping head, "there is no need for you to worry; or to cry," he added seeing tears glimmering in the corners of Glorfindel's sapphire eyes, "I am no orc, I would not mistreat you like that." Glorfindel smiled slightly, a soft blush creeping into his cheeks as he attempted to rid the tears from his eyes. "Come, honoured guest. Allow me to show you some of the wonders of my new realm as way of recompense."

Celeborn rose from his chair, reaching out a hand to Glorfindel. Glorfindel looked surprised, but took the offered hand and rose from his seat. Celeborn whispered to him to precede his exit and he would make their excuses to his wife. After a brief word in Galadriel's delicate pointed ear, the Lord of Lórien left the celebrations unnoticed and followed Glorfindel into the night.

The young Elf practically danced out of the room, "You have a beautiful realm, Lord Celeborn."

The elder Elf laughed, "You have but seen a handful of rooms, Glorfindel! There is much more outside the talans. It is not yet fully formed, but already I find it beautiful. Beautiful beyond compare…" he gazed about the landscape that fell beneath them as they descended the long stairs.

"It would not be half as beautiful were you and Galadriel not its rulers. The love you have for one another will help it flourish and its beauty grow even greater."

Celeborn smiled, and more to himself than Glorfindel said, "Our love is not as great as it seems. Whilst we do love one another, we did not marry for love. There are others in our lives, but we choose to remain together. That is why it is special." He gazed out into the darkness of the night, feeling the stars dusting him with their soothing light. He closed his eyes, bathing in the healing beams cast upon him. He had been relaxed for only a few moments when he heard a gasp. He opened his eyes slowly; opened them to the sight of a gaping Glorfindel staring at him, his expression vaguely resembling awe. Celeborn did not speak, merely raised a questioning eyebrow.

"My apologies, Lord Celeborn, but in the starlight, you… you are ethereal! You are glowing the most beautiful silver…" Glorfindel's voice trailed off as he tentatively stepped forward, stretching out a hand, making to stroke Celeborn's face. "I am sorry," he stuttered, pulling back, "I am being disrespectful again. Forgive me." The golden haired Elf turned and fled down the stairs.

Celeborn hurried after him, catching him quickly as the youngster was uncertain of how stable the sweeping aerial staircase was. "You have no need to ask forgiveness. That was not impertinence." He paused, "that was a great compliment you gave me, Glorfindel. And you deserve great thanks." His voice trailed off, and he leaned in close, pulling the slender youngster into his body, brushing his lips softly against those in front of him. He pulled back slightly, searching for objection in the deep blue eyes. Finding none, he leaned in again, pressing warm, damp lips to Glorfindel's, tracing the red lips with his tongue. Glorfindel's mouth parted, asking him to enter. Celeborn obliged, stroking the golden tresses, as he let his tongue teach Glorfindel the first lessons of love.

He broke from the tender kiss, gazing concernedly down into the innocent eyes before him.

"Why do you stop, Lord Celeborn?" The voice quivered with slight worry.

"I fear that if I do not stop now, I will not be able to stop at all."

"Why would you stop?" the golden blonde inquired.

Celeborn pulled back slightly, "You will not stop me if I go further?"

"No," a slight pause, long enough to reveal the young Elf's nerves, "I will not stop you."

"I will be gentle with you, Glorfindel. You are right to be nervous, but I will go slowly, and only as far as you wish me to go."

Relief washed over Glorfindel's face, and Celeborn could hear it in his voice as he spoke, "Thank you, Lord Celeborn. Shall we continue then?" He stepped out of the warm embrace, backing slowly, further down the steps, looking cheekily up at Celeborn.

Celeborn smiled, "Much as I would love to take you gently in the wilds of these woods, I wish to make this time as pleasant as possible for you." He held out his hand, "Come; we will go somewhere I can make you comfortable." He led Glorfindel back up the winding staircase, moving away from the celebrations and into another room. He guided him to the bed before divesting his body of the heavy clothing that covered him. The Elven Lord stood looking at the young Elf lying on the bed. "Come to me, Glorfindel."

Shyly, the golden-haired Elf approached, "my Lord…" he breathed.

Celeborn pressed a finger to Glorfindel's lips, "If we are to go further, I will not have you call me Lord," he lifted his chin, kissing him again, "I would have you call me by my name this night."

"If that is your wish, then I will abide by it," he paused, "Celeborn." Glorfindel smiled and tentatively leaned into Celeborn, his head tilting slightly, red lips quivering.

Celeborn smiled, and unable to resist, claimed those lips in a dizzying kiss. When they finally broke, Celeborn could hear Glorfindel's deep, gasping pants and could see his blue eyes already beginning to glaze with lust. Wordlessly, the Lord removed Glorfindel's thick robes, sliding his hands over the supple, silken body as it was revealed. Silently, Celeborn drew him to the bed again, pressing him down into the softness of the sheets; dipping his head to press teasing kisses to Glorfindel's collarbone, listening to the soft sighs of enjoyment escaping his mouth. Slowly, Celeborn worked his way down Glorfindel's body, using only his mouth to seek out points of pleasure all over the finely sculpted physique. When he finally reached his throbbing arousal, it was steadily weeping and Celeborn knew his partner would not last long. He cleaned Glorfindel's head of the silvery liquid, smiling at the moan his action elicited. He savoured the taste on his tongue, "Would you like to taste yourself, meleth nín? You are very sweet."

A breathy, panted "yes" was the only answer he received and the only answer he needed. He slid gracefully up the muscled torso before pressing his mouth to Glorfindel's and sliding his tongue softly into his mouth and allowing it to glide over his partner's. Slowly, he broke the kiss, smiling down at Glorfindel. "It is up to you, sweet one. Do you wish me to continue?"

A wanton moan escaped Glorfindel's lips, "Oh yes. Do not stop now, Celeborn."

With that, Celeborn slid quickly down, taking Glorfindel into his mouth. It took little coaxing for Glorfindel to reach his orgasm. Celeborn drank each drop, allowing his partner's reaction to subside before moving. "You taste even sweeter, my dear. Allow me to me to give you even more pleasure." This time, he did not wait for an answer, merely spread Glorfindel's legs wider. He dipped his head lower, pressing his tongue gently against the virgin entrance. Slowly, he moistened Glorfindel, gradually sliding his tongue further and further in, his hands pressing down on the blonde's hips to stop the sensual squirming. Celeborn raised his head and stopping the sigh of disappointment with a light kiss, reached up, slowly wetting his finger in his own mouth. He pressed his index finger to the already moist entrance and warned, "This may feel strange, Glorfindel, but I will not hurt you." Slowly, joint-by-joint, Celeborn pressed his finger inside, his eyes never leaving Glorfindel's face, always seeking for signs of discomfort or pain. Finding only a smile of pleasure, he continued, twisting his finger within Glorfindel, until he elicited soft pleading.

"Please, Celeborn! I am ready! Do not tease me anymore!"

Celeborn chuckled, "I believe I am the experienced one, Glorfindel. But if you are this eager, then I shall make you wait no longer. Roll onto your stomach for me."

Glorfindel pouted but obediently flipped over, "Can I not look at you, Celeborn? I would prefer to see your face as you made love to me. Is that not possible?" The blue eyes gazed over a muscled shoulder.

"Of course it is. Lie on your back, and either wrap your legs around my waist or hook them over my shoulders. I shall leave that choice to you."

Glorfindel stretched his long legs around the Elf Lord's waist, looking teasingly up at him. Celeborn smiled down, before adjusting his position so that he was pressed against Glorfindel. Suddenly, a nervous look crossed his face. "Celeborn…" It came out almost as a whimper, and concern flooded the sapphire eyes.

"We do not have to continue, young one. We can stop now if you wish." He withdrew from his position, gazing worriedly down at his trembling partner.

"No! I do not wish to stop. I am merely nervous. I would have thought nerves to be normal?"

"Yes they are. But most do not normally tremble like you are. Come," he beckoned him forward, "I have another idea that may put you more at ease. Kneel before me, Glorfindel. This will allow you more control over what happens."

Glorfindel slid towards Celeborn, "I am new at this, Celeborn. I do not know what to do, so how am I to take control?"

"I do not anticipate you taking charge. I will still guide you, young one. I merely wish to put you in a position that you can make yourself more comfortable. Now, come," he beckoned Glorfindel closer, "seat yourself in my lap." When Glorfindel looked confused he continued, "Do not question my instructions just yet. Now, wrap your legs around my waist." Glorfindel moved slowly, still uncertain, but the elder Elf guided him, pulling him gently into position. Celeborn kissed him sweetly, "Do you see where I am leading you, Glorfindel?"

Glorfindel nodded slowly, his breathing heavy, "I believe I do, Celeborn." He pressed his lips against the Lord's, in a desperate, yearning kiss, pulling his body close into that of the elder Elf, "Will you take me now? Will you make me your own? " He rubbed himself against Celeborn, yearning for any stimulation he could get. "Please… Do not make me wait any longer; I have wanted this for so long…" his voice trailed off, "Please…" was whispered once more in his ear, "Please…" so soft, it was almost inaudible.

Celeborn pulled him back into a kiss, this one slower and even more tender than before, "I would not do this to you if I did not intend to finish it." He kissed him again, "Now…raise yourself up…" Celeborn spoke slowly, helping Glorfindel as he moved into position, "and then, bring yourself down again, but this time..."

"Allow you inside me." Glorfindel finished the sentence. "Celeborn, will this," Celeborn stopped him from saying another word by kissing his mouth firmly, pulling Glorfindel against him, slowly easing him down. He felt his breath flutter as he pressed against him and then the inevitable pain in his shoulder as nails bit into flesh at sensation of being properly breached for that first time. Celeborn ran his hands slowly over the toned back, tangling one in the long golden hair, allowing the other one to provide reassuring caresses as he allowed his partner to settle.

Gradually, Glorfindel sank down until he was once again sitting in Celeborn's lap. He was sweating with exertion and nerves, ignorant of what sensations to expect. He knew he ought to relax but it was so hard to do. He felt hands slide down, moving to massage his lower back. He tried to slow his breathing, painfully aware of how it rasped into his own ears. He pressed his head against the creamy shoulder of his lover; who, in return, pressed a kiss to the crook of his neck; hands sliding from his lower back to his buttocks, gripping them firmly and beginning to guide him, encouraging him to move.

Tentatively, he began to move, uncertain of how to bring pleasure to his lover. He had some idea of what felt good for him, but he was uncertain of how to bring similar satisfaction to a partner.

Celeborn stilled his lover's actions, kissing him firmly, pushing him down towards the bed. He encountered little resistance as he took control. His movements sped up, slicking in and out of Glorfindel. He let his eyes catch the sapphire ones underneath him; he would have loved to stare into those eyes for the rest of time. There was so much he wished he could impart to this young Elf, not just of physical love but also of the real world. He had known him only a short time, but already he longed to keep him in his realm, keep him as his lover, perhaps even more in time…

But he knew that he could not do that. Not now… This young Elf needed to live the life that he was destined to live; he could not; he *would* not; interfere with whatever was to be. He may not have possessed his wife's foresight, but his heart was telling him that he needed to let his lover go. Time would tell if they would be able to renew their love…

Celeborn pushed all the dark thoughts from his mind. They could wait for the morning. For now, he focused his attention of giving Glorfindel at least one beautiful experience in Lórien.

* * *

Celeborn knew it was inevitable; the party with which Glorfindel had arrived was preparing to leave. He was now faced with the event he had been dreading; saying goodbye to the Elf who had bought him more pleasure, both physical and emotional, than he had known in many years. Glorfindel had known when he had walked into his room.

"I can feel it in your embrace," he had said, "There is something different; something sad."

"I have come to say goodbye, young lover. You will be leaving Lórien shortly and I have no way to keep you here."

Glorfindel spun around, "I can stay, Celeborn! Your realm is new; you will need guards to patrol the borders. I can fight for the safety of your lands. I - "

Celeborn put a finger to his lips, "You cannot stay, Glorfindel. It is true that Lórien will need much help in growing strong and remaining safe, but I have already sent guards to the borders and have many more training. And I would not send my lover to ride with them; I would have him here in my bed where it is safe." he grinned wickedly.

"Then let me stay! I will do anything you wish of me, just do not ask me to leave!" the sapphire eyes bored into Celeborn's grey ones.

"I cannot let you stay. You have many years to live and to learn and many more things to experience. I cannot take those from you."

"I have no need of more than I have here with you."

Although his heart was breaking, Celeborn was tiring of the continuing argument. He was longing to allow the golden-haired Elf to stay, but knew that he could not steal this young warrior from the world for his own selfish reasons. He did not know how to convince Glorfindel that neither of them had a choice.

"Glorfindel… Please believe me when I say that you will be a lesser Elf if you were to remain here with me. You have to leave Lothlórien. I know you will be great, but to be that, you cannot stay here." It took every ounce of will that the silver-haired Lord possessed to retain his composure. He did not know how he stopped himself from reaching out and grasping his lover at the look of the pain that his words caused flashed into his features.

"You do not wish me to stay?" he whispered hoarsely.

"You cannot." Celeborn responded quietly.

"Why…"

Celeborn's exasperation peaked; he had given his lover reason upon reason! He could not continue to repeat himself any longer. "Glorfindel!" he yelled, his anger flaring in his eyes, "I have answered you all this time and yet you still ask me why?! What must I say to convince you? Do you need to hear I do not love you? Do you wish me to say I have another lover? Do you want me to tell you that my wife grows unhappy with our relationship? I have no more reasons for you. You have heard them all!" Despite his annoyance, every word that Celeborn spoke was a fresh knife into his broken heart. "I have no more… I have nothing more I can give you, Glorfindel." He said softly.

Glorfindel's blue eyes grew black with pain and hatred. He had offered this Elf his entire life and he had rebuffed him cruelly. He walked to the door, looking pointedly at Celeborn as he held it open. He watched wordlessly as the astute Lord exited, pausing to offer a small bow of recognition before taking his final step out the door.

Celeborn closed his eyes as he heard the soft thud behind him, "You have broken me, Glorfindel. I am nothing without you." he murmured into the air.

* * *

Glorfindel ran his hand over the ornate timber, the tears flowing in silent, salty rivers down his cheeks. "You do not know what you ask of me, Celeborn… I am nothing without you." He tore his hand from the door, feeling the Lórien wood burning beneath his palm. Glorfindel turned away from the door, resuming his packing, the words of his lover ringing in his ears. He did not know which of them were true; whether the Elf Lord had been trying to release him for his own good; or if he had truly grown weary of him. Glorfindel had no wish to know, the words had stung far too much and had made his heart bitter and broken; but he knew the wound was green and with time and maturity it would heal.

* * *

Celeborn was barely aware of the formalities that he dictated in the days that followed; his mind was consumed with visions of his lover; his former lover, he corrected himself. He fought not to cry as he saw the dead look in the eyes of Glorfindel, sitting high atop his horse, preparing to ride out of his life forever. As the party at last vanished into the distance, Celeborn turned and found himself face to face with his wife. Neither of them spoke any words; she merely took his hands in her own, smiling sadly at him. Celeborn could see in her eyes that she understood; she knew the pain that flowed within him but that he would not let it be his end. He would continue on, but that even time would never heal his wound completely. He knew he could trust her to do what he was needed to do, but was unable to in this state. He smiled as she released her grip; there was one in this world who he could love without fear, and who would love him the same in return. And that was a light in his heart.

END