Title: After the Silence
Author: Nightley
Author's email: nightley5@yahoo.co.uk
Rating: PG to PG-13
Main Pairings: Erestor/Glorfindel
Other Pairings: If I start listing I'll never stop.
Series: Sequel to Behind the Silence.
WARNING: the usual MPREG
Disclaimer: this is for fun, not for profit and they are not, have
never been and never will be mine (damn!)
Archive: Glorfindel Yahoo Groups Archive, AFF
Summary: An elf is reborn and creates a whole lot of problems.
Notes: Well I wasn't sure about it, but it decided to be written.
Kind of hope this doesn't turn out as long as Behind the Silence but
I guess we'll see.

This isn't going to be as quickly posted as Behind the Silence - I
do have a life, or some semblance of anyway...

~*~

CHAPTER 1

Erestor watched his husband and youngest son as they played in the
front yard of their cottage. Joren had been the only one of their
three that had inherited Erestor's dark coloring; although he still
had his father's blue eyes. Chasing their sixteen year old son
Glorfindel's fair hair whipped around his face; causing Joren to
laugh even harder. Erestor had braided his hair off his face this
morning, a fact the young elf was planning to thank his father for
later.

Joren loved his family very much; his brothers Legolas and Mirilas
always made time to spend with him as did his brother-in-law, his
sister-in-law, his nieces and all the numerous aunts and uncles. He
particularly liked cuddling up with Naneth Anime; she made up the
best stories.

When one of the older boys had teased him about his strange family
Joren had punched him, earning himself a rebuke from his father's
but he hadn't been blind to the pride in their eyes that stemmed
from the fact that their fourteen year old son had managed to lay
flat a fifty-six year old. It had been a shock to the older ellon
when all the other children had sided with Joren. They knew his
family was strange but didn't care because it was obvious that there
was a lot of love in it.

He had another reason to be happy this day; only last week Legolas
and Melpomaen had announced the expectance of their second child. As
much as he loved his nieces; this one was a little strange to him as
Aneth was older then him, Joren hoped for a nephew. He also hoped
Mirilas and Saran would settle down a bit and have children.
Although married some forty odd years now they claimed to be too
busy to have elflings of their own.

"Joren! Joren!"

Joren spun around to see Silamir and Silinde coming down the path.
He and Silamir were only a few months apart in age; and although she
was a girl Joren liked spending time with her. Naneth Anime had
called her a tomboy, what ever that meant. All Joren knew was that
she liked doing the kind of things he did.

"Silamir!" Joren called out in reply, waving his arms energetically.
He stopped from pouncing on her long enough to greet his brother and
the two younger elves then tore off together.

"Don't tell me you're getting old" Silinde teased Glorfindel, taking
in the elder elf who was trying to catch his breathe.

"I am old" Glorfindel replied indignantly. "Even more so when I
watch the two off them racing around the place"

Glorfindel laughed along with Silinde; not really upset over his
words. He did occasionally feel his age but then who wouldn't once
they had lived as long as him. Looking up he saw his husband
standing in the kitchen window and offered Erestor a loving smile
before turning back to catch up with his fourth `son'.

After watching the two below for a moment longer, Erestor turned
away from the window and smiled at Gandalf, who was studying him
with an amused glint in his eye. He suspected this was more than a
social visit from the old wizard; it was just a feeling but one that
wouldn't go away.

"I do believe the kettles boiled" Gandalf said in an amused tone,
eyes flicking to the side briefly; his beard hiding the grin that
lit his face as Erestor blushed. Many things about Erestor had not
changed and Gandalf was glad.

"Sorry" Erestor smiled apologetically, moving over to the stove; not
that he thought Gandalf was at all upset. As he picked up the cast
iron kettle, that strange feeling grew.

"An elf is to be reborn" Gandalf said gently, watching Erestor
intently.

"Why are you telling me this?" Erestor asked with a frown creasing
his forehead. "Who is being reborn?"

"Ecthelion."

~*~

CHAPTER 2

Erestor went pale. Gandalf watched in concern as the kettle fell
from his hands; berating himself for not being more tactful about
it. As old as he was you'd think that he would learn to be more
careful with his words.

"Ecthelion." Erestor said faintly. "Ecthelion is reborn?"

"Aye, he is" Gandalf replied, watching Erestor sit down hard on the
chair.

Erestor's mind spun; his first lover was reborn. He knew that he'd
come back as Glorfindel had; just the same physically if nothing
else. Erestor wasn't silly enough to deny he still held feelings for
Ecthelion; a part of him would always belong to the dark elf, but
now he had Glorfindel, his sons, grandchildren.

He looked up to see that Gandalf had politely left him alone.
Ignoring the puddle forming under the fallen kettle Erestor leant
back in the chair and closed his eyes.

His first lover, the first elf to know and accept him for who he
was; the one he had planned a family with. Ecthelion would soon
grace Valinor and most likely seek him out. Erestor didn't know how
much elves in the Halls of Waiting were told about those still
living. Would Ecthelion know that Erestor and Glorfindel were
married?

As much as a part of him still loved the Lord of the Fountain, those
old feelings couldn't compare with what he felt for his husband. He
had three sons for Vala sakes; well four including Silinde, but
three he had personally bore. He had two granddaughters and another;
or grandson, on the way. Not to mention Thranduil, Anime, Elrond,
Celebrian, the twins, his children-in-law.

Ecthelion had been almost ruthless in his original pursuit of
Erestor, and giving up or in was not something that Ecthelion ever
accepted. This could cause real problems he if decided to try and
reclaim Erestor.

"Hello dearest" Glorfindel came walking into the room, a grin on his
face. "Silinde sends his love and Joren is off with Silamir. I
noticed Gandalf leaving so guess what that means we're alone..."

Glorfindel trailed off at the look on Erestor's face; worry seizing
his heart. Not in the many years they had been together had his
husband ever looked like that.

"You look pale Erestor. Is something wrong?" Glorfindel frowned at
Erestor's complexion, although always a lovely cream, Erestor face
was devoid of any warm colour.

Erestor looked down at his hands, knowing that keeping this from
Glorfindel wasn't an option; he needed to hear it from Erestor, not
someone else. But Glorfindel had changed so much over the centuries;
he wasn't sure how the blonde would take it.

"My love" Glorfindel said leaning on the bench. "Please, you're
worrying me. What's wrong?"

"There is an elf reborn" Erestor said swallowing hard before looking
back up at his husband. "Ecthelion."

His lips pressed into a thin line Glorfindel turned on his heel and
walked out.

~*~

CHAPTER 3

It was only a few second before Glorfindel walked back in, took one
look at Erestor's downcast face and sinking to his knees in front of
his love; enfolded Erestor in a huge hug.

"Forgive me" he murmured into black hair. "I was just so shocked"

Erestor hitched slightly and uttered a sharp laugh. "You're not the
only one, love. you're not the only one"

Glorfindel tightened his arms around his husband, and held Erestor
for a long time. Ecthelion had been Erestor's first love,
Glorfindel's good friend; as well as the fact that he had chased the
darker elf for centuries beyond count.

Awkward wasn't even going to start to cover how their first meeting
would be.

~*~

"Joren!"

Joren grinned to himself at the exasperation in Silamir's voice. He
wondered how long it would be before his playmate climbed the tree
to come get him. Silamir did many things an ellon would but climbing
trees was not one of her favorite things. He supposed it was mean to
hide up here but he wouldn't keep her waiting too long.

"Ah. Joren? Someone's coming up the road" Silamir called out again,
watching the tall dark hair elf that was walking along the track.
Her Grandfather's house was not on a through road; so she assumed he
must be coming for a visit.

Not startled when Joren hit the ground beside her; Silamir squeezed
her uncles hand when he took hers in a comforting grasp. At sixteen
they were both wary of strangers; the elflings their and Aneth's age
might accept their family; but some elders still treated them oddly.
No one was ever mean to them but they had gotten used to the looks
thrown their way. They weren't comforted by the friendly look on his
face.

"Hello there pen-neth" the dark elf said gently, not wanting to
startle the two that looked ready for flight. "I am new here and was
told Erestor of Gondolin lived up this way"

Joren started slightly, he knew that both of his father's had lived
in Gondolin but most referred to his Ada as Erestor of Rivendell.
Silamir tightened he grip on his hand as the elf smiled; seeing the
start as confirmation that he was heading up the correct track.

"Yes sir" Joren finally replied, just something made him hold
back. "Erestor lives yonder in the cottage you can see from here"

"He is at home at the moment sir" Silamir added, relieved as Legolas
and Melpomaen came into view further down the path. It made her feel
more confident with three of her uncles around her; especially since
Joren had referred to his Ada by his given name; that puzzled her,
but she kept her silence.

"Well thank you master and mistress.." Deep blue eyes held a notable
question in them.

"Joren, and this is Silamir" Joren replied more comfortably. He too
had seen his brother and Melpomaen headed their way.

However; now paying them little attention, his eyes lit on the
cottage tucked into the trees, the elder didn't sense the coming
presence of others. Erestor was now so close, his heart was racing;
finally he'd see his little love again. He had been so anxious to
see him that he hadn't waited around to hear what Turgon had to say.
With a distracted farewell he continued to the cottage, not seeing
or hearing the greetings taking place behind him.

"Greeting brother, favorite niece" Legolas turned his eyes away from
the back of the strange elf and turned to Joren and Silamir; smiling
as Silamir giggled.

"Uncle Legolas! I'm your only niece" Silamir replied, thinking her
Uncle Legolas was so funny; in the way only a sixteen year old
elfling could.

"Then I guess you *are* our favorite them" Melpomaen said ruffling
Joren's dark hair affectionately, not minding when his arm was
batted away, his brother-in-law scowling at him.

"Legolas, Mellie" Joren teased the other dark elf with the nickname
Joren had bestowed on him when he was younger and couldn't pronounce
Melpomaen

"Aiya, curse you and your young tongue" Melpomaen moaned leaning
into Legolas as his husband wound an arm around his waist. He
decided to change the subject. "Who was that?"

Joren looked briefly, seeing the older elf arrive at the gate to his
home. "Not sure, but he was looking for Ada Erestor"

"He called grandfather Erestor, `Erestor of Gondolin" Silamir piped
up, still wondering about Joren's lack of proper response.

Joren looked at his brother, frowning. "Legolas I don't know why. I
have a bad feeling about this."

~*~

CHAPTER 4

Ecthelion stood by the gate looking up at the cottage; set on the
bottom on a hill an ornate staircase lead to the front door. After
two weeks of pleading he had finally found out by himself where
Erestor was living; this private out of the way place suited his
lover perfectly. It would suit them perfectly.

Standing were he was Ecthelion suddenly had elves front and back.
Erestor had walked out the front door and frozen where he stood; his
sons, Melpomaen and Silamir had just arrived behind him. But his
eyes were only on the slender elf in front of him.

So while Ecthelion was drinking in the lovely sight in front of him,
Erestor was mentally cursing Gandalf, the Vala and any other elf who
had decided not to tell him till this morning.

The other watched with curiosity and some trepidation as the two
dark elves seem to gravitate towards each other. Legolas and
Melpomaen had been on their way to tell Erestor and Glorfindel of
the news of Ecthelion's birth, but one look at his father's face and
Legolas finally realised just who this was.

Joren watched the strange elf whisper `pen-neth'; before tightly
embracing his father. He could see his other father by the front
door and the look on his face made Joren frown. Ada didn't look sad
or angry, just resigned and Joren thought that was the worst look
that Glorfindel could've worn. He grew even more alarmed when he
heard Ada `Tor call the stranger `Ecthelion'.

"Oh pen-neth" Ecthelion said releasing Erestor only so he could
raise his hands and cup the soft face. "I have missed you so much,
meleth"

"I have missed you too" Erestor replied raising his hand to take
Ecthelion's away from his face. "But there are things you need to
know."

"What's to know, love" Ecthelion didn't want to talk just now. "We
are together again and nothing will separate us"

Ecthelion started as he felt himself pushed away from Erestor.
Frowning in annoyance he looked down to see the elfling from the
track standing between him and Erestor. Less than amused he still
allowed a tight lipped smile when Joren put his hands on his hips
and glared at him.

"I don't like you" Joren said sounding ever bit like his sixteen
years. "You leave my Ada alone"

Ecthelion looked shocked; Erestor had a son? His eyes flicked to a
resigned looking Erestor before glancing back down into glaring blue
eyes. Ah, Ecthelion reasoned that the child was obviously adopted;
very few Noldo had cornflower blue eyes like that, not to mention
that if Erestor had bedded a Silvan or Sinda elleth then the child
would have blonde hair.

His little love had obviously been his usual adorable self and
helped out a friend, promising to care for the elfling as he would
his own, once he and Ecthelion decided to have their own children.
Perhaps in time Joren would accept him as his other adopted father.

"Well pen-neth I'm sure we'll grow to like each other, if we take
the time. Then I can be your other Ada" Ecthelion moved to ruffle
the dark hair but his hand was slapped away.

Joren didn't take his eyes of Ecthelion, although his could see
Melpomaen hugging Silamir close. Legolas was standing with his arms
crossed; trusting his brother to do and say exactly what he would in
the same situation; only Joren had gotten in first and Legolas had
no intention of interfering.

Legolas flicked his eyes up to Glorfindel and nodded slightly in
greeting and reassurance.

"I have another Ada" Joren almost growled. "In fact I have three
Ada's and a Naneth, I don't need you; I certainly don't want you"

"What are you talking about?" Ecthelion was growing more annoyed and
more confused. Was this child handed around several elves for his
upbringing?

"He's talking, in part at least, about me" Glorfindel finally came
down the stairs. To Ecthelion consternation he wrapped an arm around
Erestor. "Please, allow me to introduce our son Joren. Behind you
if one of our other sons Legolas and his husband Melpomaen. The
little elleth is Silamir our granddaughter"

Nothing else truly registered to Ecthelion, he'd taken one look at
Erestor and Glorfindel standing side by side, behind Joren and seen
the truth. The young elf had Erestor's dark hair, but his eyes. well
they were Glorfindel's. The result of a Noldo begetting the child of
a descendent of the Vanyar.

~*~

INTERLUDE

Deep in shock Ecthelion turned around and looked at the other elves.
There was no mistaking which one was their child; Legolas had to be
the one - with Glorfindel's hair and eyes; but Erestor's facial
features. He only spared a quick glance for the other two but he had
to briefly wonder how a blonde and a brunette could beget a child
with silver hair.

Erestor knew where Ecthelion's thoughts would eventually take him;
to assuming Erestor had taken comfort while he was away, possibly
even pushed into having children.

"Glorfindel and I are married, we have three sons; Mirilas is the
last. However we also have a foster-son who is Silamir's father.
Legolas and Melpomaen's daughter is Aneth"

All; almost all, of Ecthelion's internal arguments collapsed in on
themselves. There was now little doubt in his mind that Erestor had
moved on without him after his death. Had gained what they had
discussed all those years ago; a family. But even in the face of
truth the heart can accept little.

"My congratulations to you both then" Ecthelion said numbly, gazing
at Erestor; and despite his words trying to erase Glorfindel from
the picture in front of him.

"Thank you" Glorfindel replied softly, not really knowing what to
say, but as Erestor seemed disinclined to say anything, he thought
it was the polite thing to do by accepting Ecthelion's words at face
value. In the very least it might help dispel the tension if they
could for the moment pretend that things were happy between them all.

Joren watched Ecthelion closely; he had a feeling no one currently
standing there truly believed he had already accepted what he had
been told. Late one night his Ada `Tor had told him all about
Ecthelion, he probably knew the most out of all his family, about
the relationship the two dark haired elves had had.

Joren was sorry that Ecthelion had died, but he couldn't be sorry
that his father's had found love together. At sixteen he didn't know
where his preferences lay; Joren just hoped that he would find the
same kind of deep love Erestor and Glorfindel had found together.

"I should get back, Turgon..." Ecthelion trailed off knowing what
ever he said was going to sound like he was running away, which was
the truth after all. He couldn't stop the look of longing in his
eyes as he took one last look at Erestor.

No body said anything as he turned to leave. Legolas stepped out of
his way but Ecthelion didn't even look at him. All of his dreams had
just crashed around him; he didn't happen to care about anyone else
at the moment.

"Uncle?" Silamir spoke softly, tugged on Melpomaen's sleeve. "What's
wrong?"

Melpomaen looked at the faces of those around him, catching the
slight nod of Erestor's head. "Come get cleaned up and I'll tell you"

"OK" Silamir said, still quiet. Normally she disliked getting
cleaned up but something told her that it was for the best. So
Silamir took hold of the proffered hand and allowed her uncle to
lead her inside.

Legolas watched his husband and niece before glancing back to Joren.
His little brother still looked angry; however Ada just looked sad
and Glorfindel looked resigned. He decided to break the silence.

"Come brother, you should get cleaned up too" Legolas said offering
his own hand. Although Joren felt that at sixteen he was too old for
that kind of thing he sighed and accepted Legolas' hand,
sardonically wondering if perhaps he should lend his pregnant
brother his support instead. He glanced quickly at his parents and
was sad to see the resigned look still on his Ada Fin's face.

Their boys behind them Glorfindel wrapped both arms around his
husband and pressed a soft kiss to Erestor's cheek. He didn't say
anything; just hugged his love close before turning to follow the
younger four.

A few minutes later Erestor was the last one in the house; but just
before he entered he looked back down the trail. Ecthelion was out
of sight, and Erestor sighed.

~*~

CHAPTER 5

Ecthelion stomped passed the elves around the door of his abode.
Studiously ignoring the looks of sympathy on the faces of Turgon,
Elrond and one of the old Rivendell Lords sons; he slammed the door
closed behind him. He had no intention of listening to any well
meaning drabble from *anyone*. And he certainly was interested in
any `I told you so', he knew now he should have waited to find out
what Turgon was going to say to him; but it was too late for that.

He had walked back, his sadness giving way to anger, and now out of
sight of everyone he grabbed the vase on the side board and threw it
at the wall. As the pieces fell to the ground he picked up the heavy
marble carving of a horse and threw it as well. Unbreakable itself,
it none the less dented the wooden wall.

After all his waiting, after a life time in the Halls of Waiting;
his little love wasn't waiting for him. It wasn't fair! He'd
sacrificed everything and lost everything; his life and his love. He
knew ultimately that his sacrifice in Gondolin had been worth it,
but to lose Erestor. and to Glorfindel!

Oh he remembered the blonde chasing him back when they had been
warriors together, not interested in those whom pursued scholarly
careers. That was how he'd been able to keep his interest in Erestor
quiet while he courted the younger elf. He wouldn't have cared if
Glorfindel had mocked him for taking a quiet counselor as his lover,
but feared what Glorfindel would do if he'd found he'd had
competition.

Something must have changed over the years to bring the two of them
together. He didn't for one moment believe that Glorfindel had had
an epiphany upon being reborn; he had returned with all the old
feelings within him, Glorfindel wouldn't have been any different.
There was a story behind it all, he was sure of it; may be he could
use it to his advantage.

Not being able to see himself Ecthelion couldn't see the black look
which had settled on his face, a look of hatred. He could hear the
other's talking quietly outside his door. He schooled his features
into a passable look of pain and misery; it was actually harder to
do than he thought. Satisfied he turned back to the front door.

It was time to hear what Turgon had been going to tell him.

~*~

Later that night Erestor was curled up on the couch, stroking
Joren's hair as his son sat on the floor in front of him. Glorfindel
was finishing up the kitchen chores and they could hear him move
about putting the clean dishes away.

Legolas and Melpomaen had left before the evening meal, promising to
escort Silamir back to Silinde and Rumil. Erestor had taken Legolas
aside and told him it would be best if he could tell his brothers
what had happened; Ecthelion's rebirth more than anything else.

He had warned his son to be careful how he put things to Mirilas;
their second son was notoriously protective of his family; even
putting his father-in-law in his place once; much the amusement of
Saran. Legolas had given him `the look', the one that said `how
stupid do you think I am'; inherited from Erestor according to
Glorfindel.

"Bed pen-neth" Glorfindel told Joren as he walked into the room. "No
arguments"

Joren wasn't silly; his father's needed to talk. Raising himself
Joren kissed Ada `Tor on the forehead, before accepting the same
treatment from Glorfindel. He went and got himself a glass of water
and as he passed the room again to head upstairs he saw Glorfindel
was now on the couch holding Erestor in font of him. Joren went to
bed with a smile on his face.

"I love you Fin" Erestor finally broke the silence between them.
This day had to have been as hard on his husband as on him, although
the blonde had tried to hide it.

"I know" Glorfindel said resting his chin on soft black hair. "I
love you too."

Erestor looked down at their interwoven hands. No matter how much
Glorfindel handled a sword his hands were always so soft. Erestor
sighed quietly; he loved his husband so much.

"He won't give up" he felt compelled to say, feeling Glorfindel arms
tighten slightly around him in comfort. It was perhaps not a good
thing that he couldn't see the blondes face.

Glorfindel awaited with hope for Erestor to say he wouldn't leave
him, but no further words were forthcoming. Only after Erestor had
fallen asleep in his arms did Glorfindel allow his tears to fall.
His tightened his grip on his beautiful husband and hoped.

~*~

CHAPTER 6

Ecthelion made his way up to the house. He had already watched from
the bushes as Erestor had taken Joren off into the village. He had
checked and made sure no one of the rest of their family was visiting
today; and so knew Glorfindel to currently be alone.

Despite the shock of a few days ago Ecthelion had a bounce in his
step and was whistling cheerfully as he went along. It was amazing
what one could find out in a few days if you got the right elves
gossiping. Or that is to say you got Lindir talking. The good natured
minstrel had no idea he was helping Ecthelion in his plan.

As he rounded the last bend he grinned to himself, seeing Glorfindel
in the front yard trimming the holly bush. This was shaping up better
then he had hoped; outside of the house the blonde wouldn't have all
his happy memories around him.

"Greetings Glorfindel" Ecthelion hailed from the front gate.

"Greetings Ecthelion" Glorfindel replied setting the clippers on the
ground. "Please come into the shade, is a hot day for work"

Ecthelion smiled and joined Glorfindel under in the shade. Although
elves did not feel the heat to the same degree as mortals it was
still a polite practice. The darker elf scanned the face of his
competition, if Glorfindel was feeling anything other then polite
interest he was hiding his feelings well.

"I think you know what I'm here to speak about" Ecthelion was not
going to waste time in his pursuit and didn't think that denying
Glorfindel's intelligence would get them very far.

"Aye, I know" Glorfindel replied tilting his head in a movement
Ecthelion recognized from all those years ago in Gondolin. It meant
that the blonde would listen but that didn't particularly mean he was
going to agree. But Ecthelion knew he couldn't deny a lot that he
would say.

"I came back for Erestor, for my little love. A love you wouldn't
have even conceived of when we were brothers-in-arms in Gondolin; and
yet here you are married to a scholar" Ecthelion started intent on
relentlessly following through. "But then I heard the most
interesting story; of Legolas' birth, his subsequent adoption and the
delayed actions that brought you and Erestor together"

Glorfindel just stood there listening to the darker elf. He knew what
was coming; he was no fool. Even to this day the circumstances of
Erestor and his relationship were open to debate.

"My dear Glorfindel" Ecthelion continued without break. "Do you
really think that a relationship built on the forgiveness of virtual
rape would ever truly last? You did not want him then or before in
Gondolin. But I do. I always wanted to bring a family into this world
with him, where as your feelings seem to change as the seasons do.
You are a warrior to the core Glorfindel and a relationship with a
scholar will only hold you for so long and you will regret having a
family to provide for; to answer to"

"I will not regret my family Ecthelion" Glorfindel said mildly, still
hiding his thoughts and feelings carefully. "They are my life"

"May be so" Ecthelion tossed out casually, leading the conversation
to where he truly wanted it to go. "But the question is do you truly
deserve them? Do you truly deserve Erestor? You took advantage of him
and through your drinking forced him away from his home. You made him
doubt his friends, his loved ones and even himself through your
actions. You thought he was someone else, for vala's sake. You fucked
him and if not for the birth of Legolas you wouldn't even know! You
wouldn't even have feelings for him if not for your sons birth. A
father you maybe, but I can not see how a solid relationship could
have been built between the two of you when Legolas is a constant
reminder of the pain you inflicted upon him; a reminder that once you
didn't wish for a family. A reminder Erestor must know each time he
sees his first born son, making him wonder when you will finally
leave"

Glorfindel had turned away at this point, trying hard no to let his
shoulders fall. Ecthelion's words were doing exactly as he had hoped;
as Glorfindel knew they would.

"Leave him now Glorfindel. Leave him to someone whom would heal his
wounds quickly; with much love and the knowledge that he and any
children he bore would be welcomed for always."

~*~

CHAPTER 7

Ecthelion had left Glorfindel under the tree eventually and wandered
back to town. If he had timed everything correctly Erestor would
head up the area of track not visible from either direction just as
Ecthelion also entered it. He did to some degree regret being so
harsh, but felt justified. His words had only been the truth after
all. A bit early he settled on the flat boulder on the edge of the
dust track and waited patiently.

He didn't have to wait long before Erestor came walking up the path
alone; having dropped off Joren at Elrond's house to spend sometime
with the twins.

"Greetings Erestor" Ecthelion said gracefully leaping down to face
his little love.

"Greetings Ecthelion" Erestor replied graciously, hiding his
suspicions on finding the older elf half way up the track to his
cottage.

"I had hoped to speak to you in private mellon-nin" Ecthelion smiled
deceptively sweet. "Away from any disruptions"

"Alright." Erestor agreed hesitantly, willing to humor Ecthelion if
it meant keeping him away from Glorfindel and his sons. As he sat on
a wide rock he vaguely noted Ecthelion's tracks on the path; he
frowned briefly but dismissed the thoughts as irrelevant.

"I have missed you pen-neth" Ecthelion knew Erestor well enough to
not try and take his hand, no mater how much he wanted to. "It was
lonely in Mandos' halls without you"

"I missed you too Ecthelion" Erestor replied honestly. "Your passing
caused me much pain, but I went on knowing you would wish me to"

"Aye, I did. As lonely as the halls were; I did not want to see you
there" Ecthelion smiled as Erestor looked sideways at him. "Only the
thought of seeing you again held me through the long days"

Erestor started to feel uncomfortable; Ecthelion was acting like..
Well he was acting as if he had returned to a free and waiting
Erestor. He shifted uncomfortably on the rock and looked at the
ground again. After all hadn't he told Glorfindel that Ecthelion
wouldn't give up?

"I heard about the circumstances on Legolas' birth and your flight
from your home. I am so sorry Erestor that I wasn't there to help
you through the pain. But I am here now" Ecthelion smiled again,
incorrectly interpreting the look Erestor threw him.

"Ecthelion." Erestor started warningly, only to be cut off.

"He doesn't deserve you meleth" Ecthelion tried to reach out to
Erestor but he pulled away slightly. "He hurt you so much. He took
advantage of you, made you doubt your friends, your loved ones and
even yourself through his actions. If not for the birth of your son
he wouldn't have even known! I can not see how a solid relationship
could have been built between the two of you when Legolas is a
constant reminder of the pain he inflicted upon you; a reminder that
once he didn't wish for a family. One fact you must be reminded of
each time you look at your first born son, making you wonder when he
*will* finally leave you"

"What did you do?" Erestor gasped out jumping to his feet, finally
noting that Ecthelion's tracks led back to the house. He remembered
that Glorfindel was the only one there this morning. He turned to
leave.

Ecthelion gave up his words and stood; catching Erestor around the
waist. Pulling the younger elf to him he smiled before capturing
those luscious lips with his own. When Erestor's mouth opened in
shock, Ecthelion slipped his tongue inside. His heart leapt in his
chest as he felt Erestor's hand come up to rest on his shoulders.

Everything would work out for the best, Ecthelion just knew it.

~*~

CHAPTER 8

Erestor raced up the final part of the track and saw their cottage
set into the hill. The front yard looked empty until he stepped up
to the gate and saw Glorfindel lying on the ground looking up at the
sky; his golden hair like a halo around his face. He had grasped
Ecthelion's shoulders and pushed him away. Without a further thought
for the dark elf, he had desired only to see his husband.

Only when he came closer did he see the tear tracks on the blondes
face; and his heart gave a painful lurch. In his mind he berated
himself for never reassuring his husband that he would never leave
him; because he never would. Glorfindel was his future. Ecthelion:
his distant past.

"Fin." Erestor said softly, whilst lying down beside
Glorfindel. "Fin, don't listen to anything he had to say. Fin,
please meleth you're worrying me"

"I'm scared" Glorfindel admitted in a whisper so quiet Erestor
almost didn't hear him. The darker elf closed his eyes in pain; for
Glorfindel to admit that meant Erestor had done little to reassure
his husband over the last few days.

"You don't have to be" Erestor whispered back, gently resting his
hand on the blonde's broad chest.

"But what if he's right" Glorfindel replied, another tear slipping
down his face. He turned to look into the dark eyes he loved so
much. "Every day since that night you first kissed me I've wondered
why you would ever have fallen in love with me. And why you would
continue to love me. I'm far from perfect Erestor and I did hurt you
all those years ago."

Erestor laid a finger across his lips, silencing him. "I love you
for who you are; a kind, loving and protective elf who knows he
faults and works to correct them. No one is perfect my love and I
love you including all your flaws. Just as I know you love me for
all my own flaws" Erestor sighed, looking into uncertain blue
eyes. "Why did you never share your worries with me before; I would
have done everything to lay them to rest"

"I was afraid you would agree with me. No matter what happens or
what has happened; always know I love you" Glorfindel said turning
his face away.

Erestor growled softly, silently swearing he was going to send
Ecthelion back to Mandos' halls. If Ecthelion had repeated his words
to Erestor fairly much identically to what he had said to
Glorfindel, Erestor knew he could have a fight on his hands. He laid
his head down on his husbands' chest and wound the fingers of their
left hands together.

"When I see Joren, I see our third son brought forth from a love
that continues to grow through the years; a son whom sees the love
between his parents and hopes to find it when it is his turn. When I
see Mirilas I see his father; pride without arrogance, love without
boundaries and loyalty with both a strong and tender protectiveness.
When I look at Legolas I see us; us whom together made something so
beautiful, so wonderful. I see the love of a child that brought the
love between parents together"

Glorfindel shut his eyes as more tears escaped to trail down his
face. Every word Erestor said sent a spear through his heart; not of
pain but of love. Love for the beautiful creature within his arms.

"Everyone has problems in their relationship, we just had them
early" Erestor lifted his head to look at his beloved face. "No
blame rests with one of us for it, it was merely continued
circumstances"

"'Tor." Glorfindel whispered harshly around the lump in his throat.

"Yes, Fin" Erestor waited patiently, whilst Glorfindel swallowed a
few times.

"I love you `Tor" Glorfindel finally opened his eyes to see his
husband still gazing at him; dark eyes soft and alight with
love. "Please don't leave me"

"I could never leave you, I would fade knowing you weren't close to
me" Erestor replied, a single tear spilling down his face. "You are
my everything; I love you"

A trembling smile lit Glorfindel's face; enough to make Erestor's
heart soar. Leaning up his pressed his lips to his husband's and
happily deepened it when Glorfindel opened his lips to grant him
entrance.

Glorfindel extricated his hand from Erestor's grip and drawing the
younger elf into his arms rolled them over so that Erestor lay
beneath him. Dark eyes still alight with love gazed back up at him
as he looked down at his love. Not a single word was spoken for some
time as two elves reaffirmed their love physically on the soft
grass; as the sun caressed them from above.

~*~

INTERLUDE 2

Joren watched his parents carefully over dinner; something was up
but he didn't think it was completely a bad thing. He felt this
because the sparkle was back in his father's blue eyes; besides the
fact that both of his father's were acting half their age.

Something very important had happened and it was annoying him not to
know. Joren had the vaguest suspicion that it had something to do
with Ecthelion, well not to do with him as his parents wouldn't be
so happy; but due to him. He wasn't an idiot whom didn't realise
that the dark elf would not let his Ada `Tor go easily.

Joren's head came up from his contemplation; Erestor and Glorfindel
were acting similar to Elrohir and Elladan after they had made up
after a disagreement. He watched with narrowed eyes as his Ada `Fin
curled an arm around Ada `Tor and placed a chaste kiss on his cheek.
He realised that he hadn't seen that happen since Ecthelion had
turned up.

Smiling at his father's Joren figured that whatever may have
happened had brought his father's closer; rather then driving them
apart.

"Did you enjoy your time with the twins today, ion" Glorfindel asked
his solemn looking son sitting at the table, smiling when Joren gave
him a blinding smile full of love.

"Aye, I did Ada" Joren replied, not noticing that he was showing his
age by swinging his legs under the table; garnering adoring looks
from his parents.

"That's good" Erestor said, putting away the last washed up
dish. "But I think it's time for you to go to bed, don't you?"

"Yes Ada" Joren answered meekly; knowing that his `uncles' had tired
him out. "I will go wash up and put myself to bed. I promise"

Rising Joren kissed his father when Erestor bent down to accept it;
but then he turned and flung himself into Glorfindel's arms and gave
the blonde a fierce hug. Startled Glorfindel embraced him until he
felt Joren loosen the hug. Allowing his son to step out of his arms
Glorfindel looked down into a face with brightly shining blue eyes.

Turning away to head upstairs Joren missed the equally blue eyes
widening. "He knows" Glorfindel said sounding startled. "Well
probably not the whole story but he's guessed some of it"

"It doesn't surprise me; he's extremely sensitive to our feelings"
Erestor wound his arms around Glorfindel's waist and rested his head
on his husband's shoulder. He smiled softly when he felt
Glorfindel's arms come up around his own waist. He always felt
content within the blondes' warm embrace.

Glorfindel sighed and softly began talking about his insecurities;
not holding anything back. They had known that they still needed to
do this; even before making love in the garden. So intent on
listening to each other hopes, dreams and fears neither realised
that their son was sitting on the stairs listening to every word.

Joren was only glad that their words continued to show how much love
they held for each other. Ecthelion on the other hand was going to
end up wishing he had never been reborn.

~*~

CHAPTER 9

With a face set into a scowl Joren opened the front gate of the
cottage in front of him. None of his family knew he was here, but
he'd decided to take it upon himself to put Ecthelion in his place;
and may the Valar help Ecthelion if the older elf decided not to
take his words to heart. He just hoped that no one realised that
he'd planned his day with an hour free; set between his lessons and
going riding with Mirilas and Saran.

He knocked on the door and waited as patiently as he could. When
Ecthelion opened the door and saw him Joren couldn't hold back the
smirk upon seeing the older elf's reaction. As Ecthelion stood
surprised Joren brushed past him and entered his cottage.

"Are you going to close the door?" Joren asked seriously, arms
crossed in front of him. "Or do you care to tell anyone whom, walks
past exactly what you've been trying to do"

Ecthelion closed the door and sighed; how was he to explain that
what was happening was not his fault. He had just encouraged Erestor
and Glorfindel to admit to the truth they'd been hiding behind.
Clearly Erestor had wanted to settle things between himself and
Glorfindel before committing to Ecthelion. It would be hard for
their sons to accept that but they would all work through it.

"Would you like to sit down and drink with me pen-neth?" Ecthelion
asked calmly, moving past the younger elf. A firm hand on his arm
stopped him in his tracks.

"No" Joren said equally as calm, staring into his eyes. "I want to
tell you to stay away from my parents, and you *will* listen to me"

"What ever you were trying to do, it didn't work. You failed in
pushing them apart and simply brought them closer. They were not
aware at the time but I sat on the stairs in our cottage and listen
to them discuss all their fears and hopes. The one thing that came
through clearly is how much they love each other"

Ecthelion was finding hard to doubt the young ones sincerity.
Joren's words were calm and level, clearly thought out properly; and
not the desperate ramblings of an elfling that saw the
disintegration of his parents love and relationship. But the mind
and heart can still rebel.

"Now pen-neth I have heard of the circumstances of their
relationship, can you really tell me that you yourself see a long
term future for your fathers?" Ecthelion asked patiently for Joren
to answer him as he thought how to best word his response.

"Oh bugger it" Joren swore slightly giving up on diplomacy. "You
don't understand that they already have a long term relationship;
they have been married for well over a millennia. Do you really
think they would have lasted that long if they didn't truly love
each other? I might be only sixteen but I don't. You can't come
between them because Ada `Tor doesn't want you! He doesn't love you
anymore! You have no place in his life! I wish I could say that I
don't wish to hurt you but after what you've done I don't care - you
would have been better off if you'd never been reborn. I'm sorry you
died but that doesn't excuse what you've tried to do!"

Ecthelion reeled from Joren's words, wanting to shut them out. Too
much truth came through the words spoken to him; his heart felt like
it was going to break. Everything elves had been trying to tell him
for the past few days was thrown into his face by the son of his
little love and Glorfindel.

He closed his eyes; trying to hide from it, from the blue eyes so
like Glorfindel's yet set in a face that resembled Erestor's. He
still stood by his words but perhaps they were words too many
centuries out of date. He just loved Erestor so much, had missed him
beyond comprehension whilst in the Halls of Waiting, and he wanted
to feel that love again.

"Go" Ecthelion whispered not opening his eyes. He felt Joren
hesitate to leave; clearly not finished with his words. "Please, I
accept what you're saying. Please, just go."

~*~

CHAPTER 10

"Joren?"

"Yes brother"

"What did you do?"

Joren looked up at Mirilas standing over him, blocking out the sun;
much to his annoyance. He should have guess that Mirilas would be the
first one to figure that he'd had a part in everything that was going
on. It had been a surprise to all of them when Ecthelion had dropped
out of view for a few weeks. Well maybe not a surprise to Joren.

The youngest son of Erestor and Glorfindel had been the one to see
the look of anguish on Ecthelion's face that day. That night those
weeks ago when he had listened in on his parents he had heard
Ada `Fin say that the truth always hurt the most; the truth he had
told Ecthelion had hurt the elder elf but Joren could only feel so
bad towards someone whom had set out to destroy his family.

"I told the truth" Joren answered his brother honestly.

~*~

"Do you think Ecthelion is OK?" Glorfindel asked his husband as
Erestor settled on the couch next to him. He merely smiled slightly
at Erestor's annoyed look.

"Does it truly matter?" Erestor replied tightly, not wanting to
discuss his former lover; his former `friend'.

"Aye it does" Glorfindel rejoined lightly. "His words and actions
were not borne out of malice; merely hurt and jealousy. Would I have
not done the same in Gondolin if I had known you were my competition
for his affections?"

"He almost destroyed you Fin" Erestor said with a frown on his
face. "You would never have taken it that far" He leaned into the
touch when a soft finger stroked the lines on his forehead away.

"But he never meant to" Glorfindel said finally; ignoring for the
moment how much he would have fought for Ecthelion's love all those
years ago, that was a discussion best left for a lot later. "All
anyone ever wants is to love and be loved in return; I can understand
that very well."

~*~

Ecthelion stood on the shore watching the waves crest and foam around
his feet. The pain in his heart would take a long time to heal; but
he knew that with time he could perhaps learn to be whom he once was.
Before he let jealousy rule his actions, before his lonely time in
the Halls of Waiting. before his death all those years ago.

Unbeknownst to the others he had watched Erestor and Glorfindel
several times in the last few weeks. Not in private situations, but
when they strolled into town to attend the market or just bringing
Joren to his many members of family for his lessons. The couple
practically glowed with the love they had for each other. Ecthelion
wished he had someone to love like that.

During his time spent alone Ecthelion had spoken to no one, although
he knew there were a few elves that would gladly offer him comfort
and an ear for him to truly unburden himself. Perhaps in a few days
he would approach someone; but at the moment he had to do things for
himself.

And so, standing with the water caressing his feet, Ecthelion did the
first thing he could on his way to healing - he opened his heart and
let Erestor go.

~*~

EPILOGUE

Joren and Silamir shared a grin; they were having a joint celebration
for their coming-of-age. Much to everyone's surprise it had been
their own suggestion. Uncle and niece they may be; but the closest of
friends they also were.

All their friends and family were in attendance; and this included
Ecthelion. Over the years since he turned away from his jealousy, the
three of them had slowly rebuilt the friendship they once had in
Gondolin. To Ecthelion's eternal gratitude it had been Glorfindel
whom had made the first move; and he had done his best to prove that
they had no reason to doubt him.

Long after everything had died down Joren finally accepted
Ecthelion's part in their lives. The two of them had originally
struck an uneasy truce but now the older elf was Joren's sword
trainer and friend. It had been Ecthelion whom had assured the
younger elf on his place in his family when his father's had
announced that Erestor had been carrying their fourth child.

Joren had come to dote upon his little sister; and truly happy for
his friends, Ecthelion had become yet another surrogate Uncle to
their brood. The little elfling had dispelled the last feelings of
regret, sorrow and bitterness in Ecthelion's heart over the fact he
had lost Erestor.

Ecthelion had been mortified the first night he had dreamed of Joren;
an extremely erotic dream just a few years past. Believing he had
transferred his feelings on the child that looked most like his
little love, Ecthelion had crushed any emotion deep down.

He had been beyond mortified when Glorfindel had approached him with
his knowledge of Ecthelion's feelings towards his youngest son. Yet
surprisingly the blonde had been the one to show him that his
feelings were true and not simple transference. Glorfindel had said
that he had his and Erestor's blessing as long as he waited for
Joren's majority. And now he stood to the side gazing at the lovely
face as the speeches were made.

Erestor smiled as Glorfindel spoke, but his smile was for Ecthelion.
It had pleased him immensely to know his friends feeling for his son
were real. Erestor didn't know where Joren's preferences lay; his son
had been most stubborn in keeping *that* secret, but he hoped for the
best.

As for Joren, he looked over all his family. He now had a nephew;
Legolas and Melpomaen had had a son - Aarin; who was now thirty-
three, his sister Aneth fifty four.

To the shock of everyone Mirilas and Saran finally decided to have a
family, starting with the now twenty five year old Lauran, yet
another niece. Haldir had been most pleased with his first grandchild.

Ada `Duil and Naneth Anime were standing behind Silinde, Rumil and
Silamir. His sister was cuddled in Anime's arms, the little elfling
had fallen asleep despite the loud celebrations.

Elrond and Celebrian were holding hands, occasionally casting fond
glances at the twins; whom were curled up together on a couch. Joren
was highly suspect of the glint in his Uncle's identical eyes; but
knew he would find out what they were up to before the end of the
night.

And then there was his parents standing beside him, also holding
hands whilst Glorfindel spoke. But as Glorfindel was making everyone
laugh yet again with his speech, Joren looked away from them and
glanced across the hall; where he knew Ecthelion was standing. Their
eyes met and Joren couldn't resist winking.

Ecthelion blushed.

~*The End*~

Notes: This chapter was finished before that damn first Interlude -
so glad all the other chapters stayed true to the basic outline I
had. Heck the Interlude was so hard to write Chapter 5 was half
finished before it; and Chapter 8 was completed entirely before
chapter 7 was hardly started! This story was written backwards! If ya
need a family tree by the end of this - don't worry I had to write
one out for myself! Thanks to everyone for all your support and
comments; and even to those that read but didn't comment - I love ya
anyway.