The Nightingale, the Peach and the Waterfall

Summary: Luscious Lindir loves Evasive Elrohir, will he catch him or will he be the one to be caught?

Author's Notes: Dedication - to whomever gave me this challenge, I thank you greatly for nice material to work with�

~~~

A regiment of the Imladrin forces rode up the courtyard, the hooves of the horses making a hard and unpleasant noise. Lindir had hurried outside as soon as he had heard one of the scouts report to Glorfindel that one of the party was severely wounded. Cold fear had gripped his heart upon hearing the ominous sound of hooves upon marble, the Elf must be in great danger indeed for them to literally ride up the steps of the Last Homely House. �

Please, not him, oh please don�t let it be him! Lindir prayed as he made his way to the front of the crowd. He could not stop a sigh of relief from leaving his throat as he saw Elrohir was well. His expression was grim however and his face smeared with dirt and Eru knew what more� That�s when Lindir noticed the figure riding with Roh. The Elf sat slumped and his tunic was smeared with red as well as black blood. The large stains indicated severe and lethal wounds, this Elf needed immediate care! �

A flash of jealousy went through the minstrel upon seeing an Elf so close to Elrohir and he hated himself for it. The Elf was dying and he was envying him! Elrohir very gently handed the wounded to a small army of waiting healers. The crease in his brow and the hard line around his mouth showed how concerned he was for the other Elf. The Elf-knight looked pale and weary; Lindir would not have been surprised if his hands would have been icy cold to the touch��

Many other Elves had minor wounds and cuts, Elladan as well. Roh went to look after his twin, but their father put a gentle hand on his shoulder and after a final glance to make sure he was truly fine, the younger twin turned to walk inside, to his chambers, no doubt.�

Lindir was surprised to find moisture at the corner of his eyes. Upon seeing Elrohir alive and well, a large weight had lifted off his shoulders, but for a moment a numbing, bone chilling fear had gripped his heart. Swallowing, he discreetly wiped at them and walked to his study, where he could deal with the shock, without any witnesses.�

He had admired Elrohir silently and from afar for a very long time. His music classes with the twins had started a few years before their majority; he had barely been an adult himself� Elladan had been the most endearing, more outgoing and eager than his brother, while Elrohir had been much more quiet and even a bit timid. Nevertheless it� had been Elrohir who had continued the lessons after their fiftieth Begetting Day and not Elladan. In the end it had exactly been his calmness that had attracted Lindir to the younger twin. How delighted he had been to discover that the young lord also held great passion and fire when he had seen him sparring. How great his disappointment had been upon discovering that Roh favoured ellith. �

For so long he had kept his silent attraction and admiration a secret, hoping it would pass. To no avail it would seem� At the Midsummer�s fest almost a decade ago the minstrel had realised he had grown to love the Peredhel. Every year Elrohir had grown into a more handsome, intelligent and attractive Elf. Lindir had stood by, powerless, as Elrohir flirted extensively with ellith and occasionally an ellon. The white-haired Elf was well-aware of the duty that lay before the Elf lord. It was the twins� task to provide heirs, for either of them to take a male lover could pose problems. �

After a few moments he had control over his raging emotions once more and began copying a list of goods to be delivered for this year�s Midsummer Festival. His hand shook lightly, but other than that, no one could discern anything different about the minstrel. Melpomaen walked in and graced him with a brilliant smile. Lindir looked up and returned it in a flash, but the smile never reached his eyes. For a moment Melpomaen looked confused, but decided to leave his friend be. The minstrel would only clamp shut even more if he pushed him.�

The weeks before the Imladris Midsummer fest were always stressful and meant hard work. Lindir was, however, thankful for the distraction and threw himself into his work completely. It kept his mind off of more unpleasant thoughts. Late in the afternoon the minstrel was frowning over a calculation that wasn�t entirely correct. He had a cute smudge of ink on his cheek and his long white hair was bound away from his face. He was so engrossed with the calculation that he didn�t notice anyone coming in.�

*~*~*~*�

Elrohir leaned against the doorframe as he watched the scribe. Lindir seemed exhausted to him and his brow creased in concern for his long-time friend. When he was young he had always enjoyed going to his music classes. Lindir had been his favourite tutor; the minstrel was only a few centuries older than his twin and himself. It seemed as if he knew how difficult it was for them to stay attentive all the time and had been lenient, yet firm enough to keep authority over the twins. Later on Elrohir had found himself compelled to continue their classes up until the point where his duties as warrior and son of the Lord of Imladris had prevented him from doing so. Lindir and he had become friends, a friendship which Elrohir valued highly.�

What he found most disturbing was that Lindir seemed to avoid him the past few months. For a couple of years now their friendship had been strained by Elrohir�s frequent diplomatic trips, patrols and training sessions. They hadn�t been able to see each other so often, but Roh began to realise that was partly Lindir�s fault. There was a time when his friend would seek him out in the training area and they would have lunch together or take and afternoon swim. Lately Lindir had been nowhere in sight.�

Seeing him like this did resolve some questions. The Elf was clearly overworked. Erestor shouldn�t give the poor scribe so much work! Elrohir shook his head and pushed himself away from the doorframe. It surprised him that Lindir still hadn�t noticed him. He was chewing fervently on the back of his pen, an old habit of his which made the twin smile softly. As not to startle him too much, Roh coughed lightly. Lindir�s head shot up and his eyes grew wide. Elrohir was shocked and more than a little hurt at seeing naked fear there. �

Lindir immediately composed himself and smiled at his former pupil. Elrohir felt relieved himself, it would seem as if Lindir had just been afraid that something evil could have snuck up on him. The minstrel must be really worn out if he was jumpy even inside the Valley. �Not to worry, songbird. It is no Orc that comes to see you.� Roh chuckled softly. The use of this endearment stung Lindir, it would never be pronounced as more than a fond nickname.�

�I know at least one person who would beg to differ�� Lindir knew that was the answer he was expecting. Luckily it came almost spontaneously; his mind was still reeling with the unexpectedness of the young Lord�s visit. The smile on Roh�s face was brilliant and relieved. They had not grown so far apart that Lindir could not make jokes about him and Elladan.�

�Well, it is time he realises that if he thinks I�m an Orc, that automatically makes him one as well.� He moved to sit on the minstrel�s desk. Immediately Lindir bowed his head to go over the list of guests they were expecting for the Feast next week. Elrohir frowned ever so slightly, he felt as if his long-time friend was retreating again and slipping through his fingers.�

�Lindir�� his own voice sounded strange to him, but it did make the minstrel stop writing. �Is something amiss? You seem� different and distracted.��

Lindir sighed and rubbed his eyes, �I am just a bit tired Roh� You know how many things need to be settled.� It was a poor excuse and he knew it. There were plenty of capable Elves willing to ease his work. The minstrel was not surprised when he noticed Elrohir�s sceptic gaze as he glanced up for a moment. �

�I do not entirely believe you Lindir, there is something else burdening you.� When the scribe didn�t answer the Elf-knight sighed and put his hand over his to stop it from writing any further. Lindir swallowed and closed his eyes, warmth creeping up his body from where their skin touched. His chin was lifted and his green gaze met unyielding grey eyes. They would not give up until they had an explanation. His entire body stilled, hoping it would veil his true feelings. �

�What is it, my friend? It pains me that you cannot seem to tell me.� The last thing Lindir wanted was to cause the object of his affections pain. Yet he did not wish to lie either. He could not, Elrohir�s tender voice and worried gaze held him captive. He decided to tell the truth or at least part of it. �I feared for you. When I heard an Elf was injured, severely injured�� Lindir swallowed and cast his eyes down. �

Elrohir�s gaze softened, had Lindir truly feared for him? It gave him a tingly feeling inside and made him smile. Lindir was still very concerned for his well-being. �You know I can take care of myself, songbird. I have Elladan to watch my back.� Lindir looked at him again, his gaze haunted. It took the Elf-knight by surprise and for a moment he did not know what to say. His eyes were wide, like those of a cornered deer. The slender Elf seemed about to break. What could make him react this way? �

Impulsively Elrohir reached forward to pull the smaller Elf into his embrace. Lindir stiffened until he let the familiar warmth soothe him. The tears would not come this time and he was glad for that. Taking a deep breath he gently pushed away and held the taller Elf at arms length. �I have lost enough, what I hold dear, what is precious to me has been taken from me once before, I would not survive having that happen again.��

Elrohir had not expected such words and was struck speechless for a moment. Glorfindel had once told him how they had found Lindir in a village close to the border that had been raided by Orcs. They had not been in time to save his family. Only Lindir and his youngest sister had survived by hiding themselves in a cupboard. What became of the sister he did not know. Suddenly he was appalled by the fact that he knew so little of Lindir�s past. Had he truly been so blind? Had he been too preoccupied and had he ignored his friend�s needs? �Is there anything I can do for you, my friend?� �

�Yes���

�Tell me, I will do anything.��

Elrohir had no idea how those words hurt Lindir. �Could you send for some peaches? They are my favourite fruit and I have not eaten in a while.� If that would lift some of Roh�s apparent guilt, he was happy to give the other a task like this one.�

�Peaches, coming up.� �

Once more he was filled with warmth at the same time. He was dear to the minstrel, precious even. Quickly he murmured a good-bye and walked back out into the hall. Lindir made him feel all sorts of conflicting emotions at the same time and it exhausted him. He had only had time to take a quick bath and was still tired from their long patrol. �

The reason he had come to the scribes� offices was to find out where his father was and whether there was news on Antien�s health. The Elf had been too late to dodge an arrow and it struck in his shoulder. Immediately Elrohir and Elladan had moved in to help him. In the end Antien had thrown himself upon a blade that would have pierced Elrohir�s lungs and possibly his heart. The younger Elf was gravely wounded; the blade had caught him between the shoulder blades and had pierced his lung. He was greatly concerned for his well-being and felt guilty over the Elf�s injuries. �

As he thought back on the infinite sadness that had shone through in Lindir�s eyes, Roh felt a near overwhelming urge to hold him close and promise him that it would all be alright. Ridiculous� the other Elf was older than him! Elrohir shook his shoulder�s hoping to get rid of this new strange feeling. The tingle in the pit of his stomach wouldn�t go away though. He did not even want to think of what it might imply. It was probably just relief at hearing that Lindir still held him dear. The surge of bubbles in his belly at that thought already told him he was lying to himself, but for now he chose to ignore that fact.�

*~*~*�

As soon as the Peredhel had left Lindir sank in his chair, sighing. He had been so surprised to see him there, as if he had materialized from his thoughts, his raven locks still slightly damp from his recent bath. For a moment he had feared for his mental health, but it had been no vision, Roh had truly been there, in his office. It seemed� emptier now he was not in it anymore. The visit had been so unexpected that he feared he had been too overwhelmed to string up a decent conversation. �

Lindir let his head hang between his arms and closed his eyes. One of them had to go. Seeing Elrohir was the son of the Lord, it would have to be him. Where would he go? He had always wished to see the sea� He could always ask Melpomaen to write a letter to Gildor who could ask Cirdan if he�d mind another minstrel there. Yet it seemed impossible. Elrond would never let him go, not without an explanation. That he was not willing to give his Lord. What would he say? The truth? That would make his humiliation complete��

Unwittingly his thoughts went back to their conversation and the demise of his family. It had been some time since he had recalled their last day. Usually he focussed on better memories, from times when they were happy. The mutilated body he had seen lying on the floor had not been his mother, but an empty shell, a shadow of what she had once been. The elleth smiling when he and Venessiel had drawn something for her, that was how he wished to remember her.�

His younger sister Venessiel had been too small to understand what had happened. She kept asking for her mother and would not sleep alone. Lindir comforted her for weeks, cradling her as she cried. It was a burden no Elfling should have to endure, but he had done it out of love for his little sister. After a few months she started suffering from grave nightmares and the lack of sleep took its toll. After a few weeks the young Elfling was so exhausted she slipped into unconsciousness and would not wake. Before long the young Elfling was on a ship to Valinor entrusted to a former chamber maiden who had long desired a child. �

Within a year�s time Lindir had lost both his parents and his sister. His dark red hair had paled in the weeks after Venessiel�s departure. Now it was a large mass of white, a constant reminder of all the tragedy that had befallen him. All had feared he would fade as well, but the young Elf prevailed and found his refuge in music. It took Erestor years to coax the youngster to speak more than two words at a time. Eventually he had blossomed, vulnerably so, but he had been encouraged by friends. The great Glorfindel had even courted him for a while, but Lindir had soon felt that this was not what either of them needed and they had parted on friendly terms. �

Irritated by the directions his thoughts had taken, he tried to focus on the task at hand once more. Fervently he began writing names from the list on small papers, trying to remember whom he could not possibly set at the same side of the table. It would take him all night to piece the puzzle together. It was of vital importance that no unstable diplomatic agreements were broken or kin slayings took place over a mistake in the table arrangement. �

A few minutes later peaches were delivered to him in a thick syrup, just the way he liked. Elrohir remembered. A lone tear rolled down his cheek, whether it was one of joy and hope or desperation he did not know.�

*~*~*�

Elrohir walked to the halls on his way to his chambers. A bit further he spotted Erestor talking to Llewlyn, one of the women from the human settlements who helped for the Midsummer Fest. She was their link to the human settlements for dancers, some special orders for food like chocolate and wine, flowers and porcelain service. He knew the woman worked at the pottery in the village surrounding the Last Homely House. The way Erestor�s eyes strayed to her backside when she walked away did not slip his notice and he grinned impishly.�

Erestor looked up at him innocently, as if nothing had happened. Elrohir watched the female�s retreating form suspiciously, but made no further comment. Erestor was old and wise enough to know that he would play a dangerous game if he indulged himself in such a liaison. Remembering Lindir�s exhaustion and paleness he decided to address the matter. �

�Master Erestor, I know many things need to be done before the Fest, but Lindir seems over-worked. I�m sure there are plenty Elves who can take over many of his heavy tasks.� Elrohir put a hand on the Councillor�s arm to emphasize his concern for the minstrel.�

For a moment Erestor stared at him blankly, �I will see what I can do, my Lord.��

Elrohir�s face was painted with relief. �I thank you Erestor.� He started to walk away, but couldn�t contain his mischievous side any longer and turned around. �Oh and Erestor, her favourite flowers are orchids. Arwen told me.� �

Erestor�s cheeks took on a slightly pinkish colour and he coughed slightly, making the younger twin snicker. It felt good to let go of some tension after the emotional turmoil he had already been through that day. Growing more serious again, he decided to see how Anthien fared.�

Erestor looked at the retreating back of the young Lord and frowned. Lindir had requested more work, it had been Erestor who had uttered his concern for the minstrel�s well-being, but Lindir had waved it away. If Lindir was over-worked it was because he wanted it himself. He had observed the white-haired Elf closely and had noticed something was amiss. That�s why he had played along, pretending not to be aware of Lindir�s tiredness. It was high time he had a little chat with a certain minstrel.�

So her favourite flowers were orchids, eh? With a small smile he stored that information for later.�

*~*~*�

Lindir woke with a start and his eyes became focussed on the leather of the couch he had fallen asleep on. It took him a moment to remember where he was. He sat up with a groan, several joints popping as he raised his arms above his head to stretch like a lazy cat. His white hair was tousled and his robes were wrinkled. He frowned as he yawned lightly. That was the third time this week he had fallen asleep in his office. Rubbing the last remnants of reverie from his eyes, he got up. What had he been working on? Oh right� the table arrangement. Better take those to Erestor right away. �

He looked down at himself and noticed that his clothing just would not do. It looked like he had spent the entire night rolling around in the grass. Sighing briefly he went through an armoire where he kept some spare clothes should something like this happen. Putting on the dark blue leggings and the silvery white tunic he noticed the unnatural pallor of his skin. Perhaps he did really need to stop working so late. Shaking his head, he hopped into his boots before hurrying to Erestor�s study. Judging by the sun shining through his window the morning was not yet half over. �

Erestor looked up as he heard a soft knock. �Yes?� he called out. Lindir stepped inside the large study. The room was beautifully decorated with dark furniture, which contrasted beautifully with the earth-tone walls. It always impressed and awed him every time he went inside. One eyebrow rose as he watched the minstrel walk inside. �I have finished the table arrangement, Master Erestor,� his voice was soft, but firm. Without further words he handed the document over to the Advisor. �

Erestor was amazed that the younger Elf had managed to perform such a tedious task with such success in such a short time. After inspecting it carefully he smiled and closed the paper. �Excellent work, dear Lindir. I must say I never anticipated you would be done with it so soon. I take it you worked late last night?�

The minstrel nodded slightly, �Important matters must be handled with the utmost care.� Erestor looked at him for a moment and then shook his head. �Indeed Lindir, which is why I am not giving you anymore tasks.� The shock on the scribe�s face was evident. So he had not complained to Elrohir, the twin must have jumped to conclusions. �But, Master Erestor, so many things are not done yet, I still have to arrange�� he was cut short by Erestor�s pragmatic speech. �You will arrange the afternoon freely and for yourself. I do not wish to catch you working in any way. Otherwise I will force you to take a long vacation!� his brow rose ominously as he glared at the smaller Elf.�

Lindir knew he had lost the argument and that there was no way to make stubborn Erestor reconsider his decision. His shoulders slumped slightly. Lately his work had been a welcome distraction from his thoughts concerning a certain Peredhel. It had become increasingly difficult to steer his thoughts away from the alluring image in his head though and he had taken up more and more work to drive it from his mind. �Aye, Master Erestor.� With that he turned around and left the Advisor�s study.�

Erestor sat back in his chair, a frown marring his flawless features as he watched Lindir�s slumped back. Something was severely wrong with the minstrel� It was of the utmost importance he found out what it was that was causing him so much pain. The pallor of his skin did not bode well for the artist. Perhaps it would be wise to call in some help��

*~*~*�

Lindir sighed and leaned back against the heavy door leading to Erestor�s study. For a moment he closed his weary eyes and rubbed them with his hand. Of course he knew what he was doing wasn�t healthy for him, but it was better than the constant ache, the feeling of emptiness if he let his thoughts drift too far. Feeling a little out of sorts for a moment he was grateful for the solidness of the wood behind his back. Some air would surely do him good. Well now that he had all day he might as well enjoy the sun for a moment��

The warmth of the rays of the sun on his chilly skin made him feel invigorated. Lindir smiled as he felt some of his melancholy fall off his shoulders. How long had it been since he had stood in the sun like this? Too long� His lips curled up into a smile as he could feel a melody bubbling up inside of him. Quickly he pulled some music paper, some ink and a pen out of the satchel he always brought with him. Sometimes inspiration could hit him unexpectedly and he wanted to be prepared should that happen. It had been some time since he had truly felt an urge to compose such as this one, but he took it as a good sign. �

Lindir hummed the music he could hear so clearly in his head and vigorously translated it on paper. It was a slightly haunting melody, reflecting some of his sadness. A bittersweet symphony that had his heart beating faster. His eyes were fixed on the paper, tongue peeking from between his pink lips. That�s how Elladan found him in the middle of a bed of flowers. The young Elf lord laughed merrily at the sight. The minstrel was known for being so engrossed with his music that he�d walk straight into a pond and not notice until his papers got soaked. The musical laughter roused Lindir from his concentration and the artist looked at his lord questioningly. Elladan just grinned and looked at the white-haired Elf�s feet. Lindir followed his gaze and blushed as he realised where he stood. �Oh.� He walked from between the slightly damaged flowers with as much dignity he could muster, before looking in the Peredhel�s eyes. The both of them burst out in snickers and giggles.�

�It�s good to see you laugh again, my friend.� Elladan said as he looked at his former mentor. It had been plain to see for everyone in the Last Homely House that Lindir was not well. He only hoped this meant that the artist was past whatever had been bothering him. Pain flashed through Lindir�s eyes though and Elladan sighed. �I hate to see you like this Lindir, I care for you. We all worry.� When Lindir cast his eyes down, he reached out and brushed a white tress from his face. He had not expected Lindir to flinch at his touch and frowned when he did.�

It came instinctively for the artist, why did he have to have the face of his beloved? That hurt him more than anything. Was he that delusional that, if only for a moment, he had thought or imagined it to be Elrohir? �I� I�m sorry Elladan� I did not� I am not myself� Forgive me.� With that the minstrel sidestepped the older twin to pass him. Suddenly he froze in place. The music that had been roaring in his head just seconds ago stilled completely so that he could clearly and distinctly hear his own heart shatter. The only thing keeping him from sinking to his knees, curling up and weeping like an Elfling was his pride.�

Elladan�s frown deepened as he saw every muscle in Lindir�s body tense. There was something heartbreakingly fragile about him at that moment that it made the Peredhel�s heart swell painfully in his chest. Elladan followed Lindir�s transfixed gaze. He could not stop a gasp from escaping as his eyes fell on his brother, sitting in a bower, laughing and kissing an elleth. The agony reflected in Lindir�s eyes made his chest contract painfully. Valar, no� Lindir loved Elrohir. Just moments before Elladan would have been prepared to give the Elf causing his friend so much pain a proper beating, but all he could do now was stare incredulously at his own twin/�

Before Elladan could make another move, Lindir had run further into the gardens and was already out of sight. Knowing it was futile to try and find him in the maze of bowers, plants, rocks and waterfalls, Elladan walked over to where his brother sat with whatever conquest he had that day and smacked him over the head for good measure. Elrohir opened his mouth, but the older twin cut him short. �That�s for being a completely blind and blithering fool of an ogre!� Elladan snapped and kept on walking, leaving his brother in utter astonishment.�

*~*~*�

Lindir ran and ran; it did not matter where, just away from the pain cutting sharply through his chest. A sob escaped him and the dam he had built to keep his feelings in check burst open. Tears streaked his face and blurred his sight. His foot caught behind a root and he tripped to land into the dirt. Not bothering to get up, he made himself as small as possible and wept. His body shook with the violence of his heartfelt cries. At this point, he cared not whether any one heard. He allowed himself to grieve, for that what was it was. Grieve for his dreams and hopes, all smashed, but also grieve for himself because he honestly did not know how much of this he could take anymore.�

After a few minutes he started to calm down and just let the tears dampen the soil beneath his cheek. When he began to regain some control of his whirling emotions, he began putting things in perspective. He had never seen the Elf-knight with that particular elleth before; she was probably just another cute diversion to him. Nevertheless it hurt him unspeakably much to see him go through elleth after elleth. Not once did the Peredhel look at him as a possible lover. Lindir closed his eyes at the sharp sting shooting through him at that thought. Once again he had made a complete fool out of himself. �

When he began curling up his hand into a fist, he noticed the papers with the melody scribbled on them. After looking at them for a moment, he began to write words to the music. Everything he felt inside poured out into beautiful lines, fitting perfectly to the tune he had just composed. As if the words had been there in the music all along. �

When his hand stopped writing, he looked at it in slight astonishment. His eyes travelled back to the words he had written. It would make a perfect ballad for the Midsummer fest.�

*~*~*�

Elladan watched Lindir closely the next few days. His former tutor�s infatuation with his twin became ever clearer to him. How could he have missed it before? Lindir�s reaction had been rather vehement though the Elf was usually known to be calm and collected. Perhaps this was more than a mere infatuation� How he wished to speak to Lindir of it, but the minstrel had busied himself with many tasks. It was almost impossible to catch his undivided attention. There was also the possibility of talking to his brother, but it was not his place. And no matter what he tried, his brother was too thick-headed to see his subtle signs. Well he had to be if he missed Lindir�s blatant attraction to him. �

Why was it that no one else, not even Erestor, the evil eye that sees everything, had noticed so far? Elladan had to admit he had never truly paid attention to it before. His brother seemed so preoccupied with ellith that the thought of an ellon courting him simply had not crossed his mind. Besides Lindir wasn�t the courting type. �

Sighing he looked at the boxes filled with greenery surrounding him. First he had to get these decorations up; Erestor would kill him if he did not. Next year he would make sure he was not in Imladris for this festival. Too much stress and intrigue. Shaking his head he began unpacking all of it. Strange� white flowers with a slight touch of pink stood in between the other boxes. Elladan took the pot with flowers out of the box and held it up. �Orchids? What are�?� �

He was cut off by Erestor, who pulled the pot from his hands and hastily took the flowers inside, muttering something about �insolent Elven princes�. Elladan couldn�t for the life of him think of what he had done wrong. Quite astonished by the strange behaviour of his former tutor, he shook his head and caught sight of his grinning brother. It would seem as if Elrohir knew more of this. Roh carried on with the task he had been given and Dan watched him. �

He could clearly remember that the two of them and Arwen had been laying a little came of truth or dare. They all had to admit whom of their tutors they were most attracted to. Arwen had said it was Glorfindel she favoured most. Unfortunately he had no interest in maidens. He himself had admitted to finding Erestor very beautiful. To his surprise though Elrohir had named Lindir. They told each other the truth, there was no questioning that. If one teased the other, the other had enough material to tease that one back. They would never betray their sibling by telling their secrets to anyone else, so Roh must have spoken truthfully. For some time Elladan had thought his twin would pursue a relationship with the fair minstrel, but then something had happened. �

Legolas of Mirkwood had made his first visit to the Hidden Valley. The twins had easily befriended him and Elrohir had even made him his first male lover. Elladan believed it to have also been his last. Before Legolas they had spoken openly of their amorous feelings and explorations, but afterwards Elrohir had kept that part of him shielded from him. It was something that disturbed him greatly, but he respected Roh�s need for privacy. Sometimes he had thought that the Wood Elf had wounded his brother�s heart so that he would never take a male lover again. When Legolas had returned a few decades later and they had greeted each other warmly, Elladan had known that something else must have caused this change in his brother. Perhaps it was something they had said?�

Sighing he looked back at the greenery and began arranging the decorations. He had tried several times to bring up the subject, but Roh always found a way around it. Now he hoped that he would be able to talk some sense into his thick-headed brother. �

*~*~*�

Lindir smiled as he looked at the many guests of every race in Middle Earth eat on the beautifully decorated tables. His smile faltered somewhat when he noticed the object of his affections with the same elleth of a few days earlier on his arm. Licking his lips he decided it would do him no good to act like a love-sick puppy only to get kicked. Instead he turned to a table where they were making merry. Among them was Antien, the Elf who had been brought in heavily injured over a month before. Apart from his paleness and a large bandage around his arm the Elf looked good. It warmed his heart to see that his lord had saved yet another one�s life.�

He felt better than he had in days, it was rewarding to see all his hard work realised. Many had come to compliment him on the festival. Even Elrohir had commented on the cunningness of the table arrangements. The skin on his shoulder where the younger Elf had given him and affectionate squeeze still glowed warmly. Dessert was served, a majestic structure, decorated with all the fruits summer had to offer and a table full of ice cream in every flavour, puddings, cakes, pies, everything remotely compatible with the idea of dessert. �

The guests clapped enthusiastically, some Hobbits nearly fainted at the prospect of so much food. Lindir laughed along with them merrily and took a plate to fill with sweets. Quickly he took some peaches before they were stolen by eager Hobbit hands. How a creature so small could eat so much was beyond him. By the time everyone had finished eating, darkness had fallen. A great bonfire had been lit and little Elflings were drowsing against each other in its warmth. �

Lindir chanced a glance at his beloved and froze momentarily as Elrohir caught his gaze. For a long moment they silently gazed at each other. Suddenly Lindir broke the spell by quickly averting his eyes. He only hoped the glow of the fire kept the blush he knew to be colouring his cheeks from showing. Soon he would be asked to play the harp and sing. Tonight he would sing the ballad he wrote in the woods and hope. If he did not tell Elrohir about his feelings soon, he would burst. He had to know, even if the answer was negative. This uncertainty was eating him alive.�

Elrohir watched the play of the fire�s glow on Lindir�s long hair. His eyes narrowed somewhat as he felt his gut clench. It was no secret to himself that he desired Lindir, had done so for some time. Yet he could not allow that desire to grow into something more. When he had watched Lindir in his study a few weeks prior, he had not understood the signs yet. As the Midsummer Fest drew nearer he had recognized that his old desire had flared up again. Why it happened now after so many decades he did not know. He had better get a hold of himself� The patrol he had just accepted from Glorfindel would do him good. Perhaps he just needed to stay away from Imladris for a while.�

Elrond gestured for Lindir to take the stage and the minstrel inclined his head in respect. To his irritation he noticed his palms were damp. Taking a deep breath he stepped towards the small stage where his beautiful instrument stood. It had been especially made for him; it had been a gift from Glorfindel for one of his Begetting Days. The sight of the familiar instrument put him at ease somewhat. �

The small stage was illuminated by the glow of the bonfire and many little candles places on the floor around his harp. There were two candles attached to his music stand to make sure he could read the notes written on his paper. Over the days he had learned the text by heart, but he felt better knowing that the music was there should he suddenly fall silent. Melpomaen sat next to his music stand to turn the pages as he played. Lindir smiled at him and drew strength from the encouraging look in his friend�s eyes. What would he be if not for Mel?� �

As he settled behind his harp, his anxiety returned. Silently he berated himself, he was never nervous about a performance. Yet never before had he truly bared his heart like this. Elrond frowned slightly at seeing the tremor in his hands, but the minstrel closed his eyes for a moment and began. The sounds the harp produced were like little raindrops falling on light leaves in the forest. The haunting melody soon had everyone present entranced. �

Lindir opened his mouth and began to sing. Many gasps went through the audience. Some had never heard an Elf sing before and others simply had not heard Lindir sing before. His clear, beautiful voice wound itself around the hearts of the spectators. No one dared to move for fear of breaking the spell the minstrel had woven. Lindir himself was oblivious to it all, only he and the music existed to him in that moment. The words came naturally, from his heart and moved many in the audience.�

He sang of a great love, so great that it could hardly be contained in one heart. Therefore it had to be carried by two hearts. But his love would not hear of his pleas and songs. He sang of loss and grief of and Elf doomed to be alone for eternity. When he reached the tragic end, the music became more frantic and heartfelt. Lindir sang of how the Elf couldn�t bear it anymore and faded over the loss of his only true love. As the last notes died down, everyone sat in utter silence, until the sob of a young elleth broke the spell. The audience burst in a loud applause; many were blinking away moisture in their eyes. Elrond himself squeezed his lady�s hand and swallowed heavily. �

Lindir panted slightly and opened his eyes only to realise to his own astonishment that he had been playing with his eyes closed. His bewildered gaze stuck on grey eyes staring back in confusion. Elrohir had always been good at reading feelings when looking for them, perhaps he had recognized the truth of his words. Then he caught sight of Elladan, his eyes big and fearful. Did he know? Had he told Elrohir? No, then Roh would not look at him like that. Lindir quickly bowed and left the stage to find a place to think over what he was going to say to Elrohir.�

Two identical sets of eyes followed his retreat; two identical Elves excused themselves and rushed after the minstrel. Elladan easily found a way through the crowd still murmuring about the song Lindir had just sung. He could see the reflection of the moonlight on the minstrel�s white tresses and hurried after him. �Lindir! We must speak, please�� �

At hearing his name he turned around and saw a figure approaching. His voice had been like Elladan�s, but he could not be sure until he saw the Elf�s eyes. �Lindir�� The artist slowed his pace, but did not stop walking completely. He had no desire for a conversation with Elladan, all he wanted was a bit of solitude to think. �All I need to say is that my brother will leave on an extended patrol tomorrow, without me. He will not be coming back for a long time. Whatever it is you would wish to say to him� I hope you will say it before he leaves.� Lindir squeezed his eyes shut and nodded to signal he had understood his words. Biting his lip he continued walking.�

Elrohir had more difficulty in finding his way through the mass of guests. When he suddenly managed to reach the edge of the crowd, a warm hand came to lie on his arm. Eyes much like his own stared back at him. �Ada�� the younger twin could not fathom why, but he was very grateful that his father was there. Elrond smiled at his youngest son and pulled him in a light hug, his gaze was locked on the path Lindir had run through with his eldest in suit.�

�I think it would be good for you to rest, my son. You must be well-rested when you leave on patrol. Glorfindel would not take kindly to a drowsing Elf among his guards.� Elrohir smiled and shook his head. �No, that would not do. It is best for me to retire for the night.� His eyes strayed hesitantly to the narrow path leading further into the gardens, before he allowed his father to redirect him towards the Last Homely House.�

�Have you wished your mother and sister goodnight yet?� Elrohir nodded and smiled as his Adar put an arm around his waist. �Ah, you grew up so quickly� Tomorrow I will see you leave again, hoping you will return.� When Roh opened his mouth to object, Elrond waved his protests away. �I know, my son, and I will not make you stay. You love this world and wish to save it and protect it. Know that you make me very proud Elrohir, both you and your brother. A father could not wish for better sons.� Elrond kissed his son�s brow. �Be safe. And Elrohir, I love you and always will, no matter what choices you make in life. Remember that your happiness is more important to me than anything else.��

Roh looked at his father strangely for a moment. What was he speaking of? Or was that a general statement? His father rarely said such a thing without a purpose� �I will. I love you as well, Ada.� With that he ascended the steps to the palace. When he was nearly at the door, he looked back to the crowd once. For a fleeting moment he thought he caught a flash of silver between the bushes out in the gardens, but it was gone before he could ascertain its source. Another scene caught his eye. Erestor handed the beautiful orchids to Llewlyn and the girl blushed like a maiden. He had to repress a chuckle as he walked towards his rooms. �

�I hope you do son, for your sake and that of my minstrel�� Elrond murmured as he returned to the festivities.�

*~*~*�

Elrohir woke before first light with a start. Had something awoken him? After a few moments of silence he relaxed again and groaned. Today he was to leave on a long patrol, one he had willingly chosen. At least Elladan was to join him in a few weeks so he at least had some distraction. Sighing he swung his legs over the side of the bed and got up. He�d start with a long bath. That was a luxury he would have to miss for quite some time. �

Lindir crumpled up another piece of paper in frustration and threw it over his shoulder to join the quite impressive pile he had built on the floor. Sighing he hung his head between his hands. Valar he had no words to say what he wanted to say. How could he write it in a letter? It would never convey his feelings the way a song would. But he even lacked the inspiration for composing a melody. He was just so tired. He had been up all night, trying to find out what he would say to Elrohir. If only he would not leave.�

Elrohir put on his light Elven armour and braided his hair as all warriors of Imladris did. Just like his father had declined the title of King, even though by his blood he was entitled to, Elrohir chose not to wear distinctive braids to indicate his rank. In battle he was just like any other Elven warrior. Around his neck he wore a small white stone of quartz. It was tucked into the neckline of his tunic. It was a stone Lindir had once given him when he was an Elfling and had been crying over a nasty fall. The young minstrel had found a piece of pure white quartz in the river. It was a rare find, most stones were not completely white or damaged. Lindir had given it to him then. �For luck,� he had said. Elrohir had worn it to every patrol and had never been injured heavily. It was the only bit of superstition he allowed himself.�

As he rubbed its smooth surface his thoughts strayed to the one who had gifted it to him. Not for the first time that morning did he ask himself why he was going on this patrol again� Reason all the more to go. He could not� Legolas had said� No he must leave and clear his head. Determined the young lord walked through the hallways, not realizing how formidable he looked. Every bit the lord of the valley.�

Lindir wrung his hands as he saw the sun rise. It would not be long before he would hear hooves clatter, carrying the one he loved away from him. And his own heart. He could not just stand by and do nothing� Elladan�s words rung clear in his head, images of Antien and Elrohir, covered in blood and grime flashed before his exhausted eyes. What if Elrohir never came back? Could he live with the fact that he had never told him? Lindir looked at his own door for a moment and then bolted through it, praying to the Valar he would be in time.�

Glorfindel smiled as he saw his former pupil walk into the courtyard. The younger Elf was a good warrior and brave of heart. He would make a fine leader one day. Never for a moment did he doubt the fact that they would rule together, side by side. Elladan would not wish to rule without his twin and neither would Elrohir. He clasped his shoulder lightly. �Today is a fine day to hunt Orc, pen neth.� Elrohir wrinkled his nose at the pet name, but recognized it to be mere teasing from the Balrog Slayer. �

Both their heads turned as Lindir skidded to a halt a few feet away from them. Elrohir�s eyes lit up in surprise, �Lindir? What are you doing here?� The minstrel had not expected to be face to face with his former lover while he confessed his love for another and he seemed a bit thrown off balance. Glorfindel caught Lindir�s look of desperation and his heart went out to the artist. With and encouraging nod and smile he hoped to make it clear to him that the minstrel was truly free to give his heart to someone else.�

Lindir licked his lips and sent his former lover a grateful smile as he watched his retreat discreetly to allow them some privacy. Elrohir hadn�t noticed the small exchange but he did notice his friend�s paleness and exhaustion. �Lindir what is wrong you seem exhausted and thin, what is�� The minstrel cut him off anxiously and gripped his arm. �Don�t go,� he whispered and then repeated it more urgently, �Please, don�t go.� �

Elrohir looked at the smaller Elf, perplexed. �What?� he said intelligently. Lindir nervously licked his lips again. �Please, stay here Elrohir. Just don�t leave�� Roh frowned at the pleading tone of voice. What had gotten into the minstrel, why had he come out here, what did he want? Still confused the Elf lord shook his head, �Why?��

Lindir saw it in his face, the other truly did not understand. Erestor had said to him on the festival the day before that if words did not suffice, maybe actions would. He felt a surge of energy run through his veins in anticipation of what he was about to do. His heart hammered against his chest, but he knew it was now or never. Quickly he pushed up on his toes and brought their lips together in a gentle and tender caress. His hand came to rest on the Elf-knight�s chest, over his heart. It lurched at the feeling of satin soft lips pressed against his own. Lindir pulled back slightly to look into his eyes. �

Elrohir struggled with himself as he tried to regain control of his wayward thoughts. The only coherent thing that sprang into his mind was: Lindir wants me! His stormy grey eyes were wide with surprise as emotions warred within him. Lindir�s intoxicating closeness made it even more difficult to compose himself and for a brief moment he allowed himself to indulge. He brought his lips down for another kiss, a look of blissful happiness crossing the artist�s face. Just as soon as they kissed again, Roh knew it was wrong. Legolas flashed through his head and the words he had spoken so long ago were like a cold shower.�

Gently he pushed the minstrel away, even though a part of him wanted to hurl him over his shoulder, carry him off to his bedroom and have his wicked way with him. He could not; he had a duty to his people, his father, and his brother. �Lindir� I cannot.� His eyes were closed tightly as all the muscles in his body went taut. He had to physically keep himself from reaching out to the minstrel.�

Those three words shattered Lindir�s world. To his own surprise he was eerily calm. Now he knew. His head nodded mechanically. �I see.� Taking a step back he cast his eyes down. Elrohir curled his fists in an attempt not to pull Lindir in a hug. Screaming and anger he could have handled, but not this� numbness. �I�m sorry; I will not bother you again.� When he raised his green gaze to Roh�s grey one, there was an emptiness there that made the Elf-knight flinch.�

With all the dignity he could muster Lindir walked away. �Lindir, wait�� But the minstrel kept on walking, refusing to give up the last remnants of his pride. What would he have said if Lindir had stopped walking? All Roh knew was that he wanted to wipe away the unspeakable hurt that seemed to roll off the white-haired Elf in waves. But he could not. Biting his lips, he blinked furiously against the tears that threatened to fall. He had to leave now, later when he�d come back he would explain. Lindir would understand. His own heart contracted painfully in his chest, but he pushed it away. Silently he swung onto his horse to join the rest of the patrol.�

Glorfindel had watched the exchange from afar. So his little minstrel had finally made his move� But the he had seen Elrohir make a big mistake. The younger Elf turned him down, while his body language was so obviously indicating he wanted the opposite. Even from a distance Glorfindel was able to see the conflict in the Peredhel�s eyes. At the same time he knew it was not his place to shake him and ask him what the fuck he was thinking. The Elf-knight had to figure it out for himself. �

Silently they rode out. Glorfindel could only hope that Elrohir would come to his senses and soon. Lindir did not look entirely healthy and though he was no longer in love with him, he did care much for the minstrel.�

Lindir refused to eat. Food would not still the hunger he felt. The minstrel still had not spilt a tear or said a word by noon. All he did was sit in his chair and stare out the window. Some part of him was relieved to know, even though his feelings were not returned. For a moment he had thought� But it had been foolish. Suddenly the room seemed too small for him. The walls were making him feel trapped and caged. Melpomaen came in to see how he was doing just as he walked out. He murmured something to the scribe about going to a waterfall. Melpomaen looked at his best friend and his shoulders slumped, he did not know what had happened to the artist, but he worried he might never recover from whatever had befallen him.�

*~*~*�

They had been riding for the better part of the day. Elrohir had been distracted all the time, unable to forget the look on Lindir�s face. His heart fluttered at the thought that his former tutor may love him. His jaw tightened as he did not even try to suppress it, it was futile anyway. His lips still tingled slightly from the caress Lindir had bestowed upon them hours ago. Sighing he tried to focus on his surroundings, it was not safe for him to let his mind wander, even though they had yet to cross the Bruinen. It did not take long for his thoughts to return to white hair and emerald green eyes. �

He had come to realise that his desire for Lindir ran much deeper than he had expected. The fact that he had hurt Lindir tore him apart. Feelings he had denied for so long swirled inside of him. It was as if a dam had broken and a great flood of emotions he had suppressed threatened to overwhelm him. It was a whirlwind he could not stop. Every step his horse took ate at his heart. Had he just made the biggest mistake in his long life? Some time apart would do him good. Elrohir would gain some perspective and he would have a better view on things.�

But his sense of duty told him he could never act upon his feelings. He would one day need to provide an heir for his father�s realm. It would not be wise to take on a male lover. The warning Legolas had given him so many years prior still rang clearly in his head. Suddenly he could hear his father�s loud and clear as if he was standing next to him. �Elrohir, I love you and always will, no matter what choices you make in life. Remember that your happiness is more important to me than anything else.��

Had his father meant this? This line of thought made him doubt his decision again and he stopped his horse after leading it out of the way of the other warriors. Indecision made him pause and bite his lip. His heart cried out to hurry back, but his head told him it was not to be. Glorfindel came to a halt next to him as well. He said nothing but looked at the younger Elf intently. In his eyes Elrohir could read what he was letting go. The Balrog Slayer still felt a warm affection towards his former lover. If both their hearts had not chosen their own ways, he would have asked Lindir to bind with him.�

The haunting song of a Nightingale drew the Peredhel out of his musings. It was rare and unusual to see a Nightingale so far from the numerous waterfalls in the valley itself and it made him frown. Its song reminded him of Lindir�s heavenly voice singing a song of love and� grief. The Elf in his song had faded when his love had remained unanswered. The horror must have been apparent on his face and made Glorfindel come to the same conclusion.�

�Glorfindel, I���

�Go to him. Hurry!��

Elrohir needed no more encouragement and turned his steed to gallop back to Rivendell. Spurring on his horse he only hoped he would not be too late. His heart raced in his chest as cold fear spread through his veins. Father would understand, their family wed for love� He would rather see his son happy with an ellon that unhappy with an elleth and a family. They would have to understand. No matter how much he tried he would never be able to deny the fact that he loved Lindir. As he thought the words a large weight seemed to lift off his shoulders. �

What a fool he had been to think his actions had no repercussions on others than himself! He could not make this decision for Lindir, the other Elf deserved to know the true nature of his feelings. The thought of Lindir dying because of him made him swallow and blink against unexpected tears. Now that he had allowed himself to admit his true feelings, he could not fathom that he could have harboured them for so long without knowing their depth. His horse ran faster than the wind and it took him only a few hours to reach the Last Homely House. �

Elrohir jumped off of his horse, throwing the reins to a bewildered stable boy. Without stopping to catch his breath, the Elf-knight sprinted up the steps leading to the entry hall. Many an elf looked at him in question. What was the son of Elrond doing here in full armour? He was supposed to be on patrol. The surprise on Elladan�s face was evident as he was nearly run over by his younger brother. �Elrohir, what are you�?� As he spotted the haunted look in his face, he frowned. �So you�ve finally figured things out? I think Melpomaen knows where he is�� Elrohir looked at his brother in confusion. �How do you know who� Never mind.� �

The both of them ran to the scribe�s office. Mel looked up at the twins and frowned at seeing Elrohir. He opened his mouth to speak, but Elladan cut him short. �There�s no time, do you know where Lindir is?� For a moment the scribe looked from the one Peredhel to the other. �Ah,� was all he said as everything fell into place. Elrohir�s departure, Lindir�s depression, Roh�s urgent return� �He said something about going to a waterfall, I don�t know which one. He seemed distressed, but he is stronger than you think.� Mel looked apologetic; there were many waterfalls in the valley, so that would not help them much.�

Roh thought for a moment and absently fingered the quartz stone around his neck. Suddenly it hit him. �I know where he is.� He turned around to dash off, but Elladan grabbed his arm. �Wait a moment little brother. You weren�t going to go to him like this, were you?� Roh looked down at his impeccable armour and looked back up. It was not the most appropriate dress, but it looked good on him. �No?� he chanced. Melpomaen shook his head as well. �Do not forget Master Elrohir, he has been waiting for this for some time I reckon�� Elrohir bit his lip in thought. �And,� Elladan chimed in, �You have hurt his feelings gravely. If we are to do this, we will do it properly.� �

With that he took a hold of Roh�s arm and pushed him into his room, telling him to �put on something nice�. He and Melpomaen would take care of a little picnic in the meantime. Now that he thought about it, he had to agree he could not barge in empty-handed. Quickly he put on a burgundy tunic with dark leggings, his hair loose for one braid at either side of his head keeping his hair out of his face.�

Dan and Mel brought him a small basket. Quickly he scanned their contents and smiled gratefully at the both of them. �Oh, there�s one thing missing. Quickly he walked to the kitchens and took a large jar filled with peaches in syrup. Perfect. Elladan wished him luck and he walked to where he thought Lindir to be. What if he had alienated the minstrel and the other did not want to be with him anymore? He would have to deal with the consequences of his actions. That did not stop his hands from shaking slightly or his heart from beating nervously. Along the way he plucked some beautiful flowers and put them in the basket as well. If only the minstrel would be there. Taking one last calming breath, he pushed through the bushes separating him from a beautiful clearing around a small waterfall. It was near a hot water spring, so the water felt pleasantly warm. His breath caught as he saw Lindir sitting on a rock, one foot dangling in the warm water, the other bent at the knee and his head resting on it. His eyes were closed and the dark circles underneath them were visible. His light hair sparkled in the sunlight, creating a halo around him. �

Cautiously Elrohir approached him as not to startle the artist. A soft sound reached the minstrel�s ears and he turned to see who had produced it. He froze as his eyes fell on Elrohir. Disbelief was written all over his face. It could not be� the other Elf had left on an extended patrol that morning, making it quite clear that he did not wish to be with him. He eyed Roh distrustfully, he must be hallucinating. But then this was a very realistic image, he could even smell the young Peredhel�s scent carried to him by a soft breeze. �

Elrohir stepped towards him and put the basket on the ground. Lindir had turned on the rock so that he faced him. Roh stopped right before him and dropped to his knees. �I am an utter and complete fool. I almost walked out on the best thing I could have in my eternal life. Please, Lindir, I beg you to forgive my hard-headedness. I will make it up to you for as long as you�ll have me.� Now Lindir knew he had to be imagining this. Then Elrohir took a hold of his hand and the minstrel gasped as he felt solid flesh and warmth against his own skin. This was real, Elrohir was real� And he was sitting on his knees, begging for forgiveness. �

Lindir was struck speechless as he watched Elrohir�s hand rub his own and the warmth spreading through his arm. �Your hands are cold love,� he said. Love. That word cut through the haze in his mind and his eyes watered. For the first time that day he wept, silently at fist, before he broke into heartfelt sobs. At first Roh had no idea what he should do, but then he thought of what he would want in Lindir�s position. Slowly he settled next to him on the rock and pulled him into his arms. The older Elf allowed him to do so and soon he was sobbing into his tunic. Elrohir held him for a long time, soothing and consoling him.�

Eventually the minstrel calmed down and just lay into the Peredhel�s arms, still not quite daring to believe it was all real. Elrohir kissed his brow softly and Lindir closed his eyes. �You are really here. With me. For me.� It was as much a question as an observation. Roh had to swallow past the guilt in his throat for a moment. He had led him to the point where the minstrel believed to be hallucinating. �Yes Lindir, I am here. And I will never leave again unless you ask me so.��

Silence reigned between them for a moment. �How did you know I was here?� Lindir chanced to curl his hand into his love�s. Elrohir�s fingers entwined with his in response. �You gave me a small stone here once, a piece of quartz.� Lindir raised his head and sat back a little. �You remember that?� Elrohir smiled and fished the leather string to which the small stone was attached. Lindir�s eyes widened as he looked upon the same stone he had gifted the Elf-knight hundreds of years prior. It moved him to know that he had kept it all these years, wearing it even.�

�That is when I first started to develop my crush on you,� he admitted softly. The made Lindir frown in confusion. �You had a crush on me?� Suddenly the reality of the situation hit him full force. The hurt he had felt so keenly only hours before cut through him painfully again. All his indignation, fear and pride swirled inside, battling for domination. Closing his eyes he pushed away from the rock they had been sitting on. �You crush all I had hoped for, leave me behind after pleading with you, baring my soul to you. And now you come here, telling me that you will never let me go. How can you do that to me? After everything I have had to watch you do with ellith, after being given false hope only to be ruthlessly rejected. How can you be so different from this morning? You were so cold� How will I be able to trust you again Elrohir? How?� The minstrel sighed and hugged himself, already regretting his outburst. Elrohir had not known how deep his feelings ran. After a few calming breaths he turned to face him again. �You cannot expect me to come flying into your arms now. I would want to, but I don�t know if I can. Maybe if you could tell me why you left me if you had a crush on me�� �

Elrohir winced at his words, but did not protest, he deserved them. What hurt him the most was Lindir�s obvious pain. If the other wished to know, he would tell him everything. The minstrel deserved that much. Elrohir slid off the rock as well and took a hold of Lindir�s hand. �There is no excuse and I will not make them. My behaviour was foolish, rash and selfish. But there is an explanation for my stupidity. When I reached my majority and decided to continue my classes with you, it was only partly because of my love of music. Mostly I was fascinated by you and admired your talents greatly. You are beyond fair Lindir and as a young adult it was sometimes difficult to hide my interest for you.��

�Then Lord Glorfindel began to court you. I watched how he would come in with a rose for you sometimes, how it would make you blush most becomingly and how happy you seemed. I so was sure the two of you would bind. Up until this day it is a mystery to me why you did not. I was disappointed and suffered from a minor heartbreak. At the time it seemed like the end of the world, but Elladan supported me greatly at the time. I was young and fresh, I realised that in time I would find the one I was supposed to be with. But then the two of you broke off your liaison. I felt hope flare, but it was diminished by the depression evident in your posture. I was so certain you would get back together. If not I had decided I would try to court you, even if it meant defying Glorfindel� And then Legolas came.��

A flash of jealousy passed over Lindir�s features, it made Elrohir�s heart jump slightly. �He was beauty incarnate, so good a warrior, so eager to learn.� The artist�s complexion darkened further, but Roh cupped his cheek lightly. �He was not you Lindir, I have never loved Legolas. I knew from the very beginning he was a surrogate for you as I was but a nice diversion to him.� This seemed to allay Lindir�s worries somewhat. �It did not take long for us to become lovers. He was my very first and only male lover. It was pleasant and brought me much relief, but there were no feelings of romantic love involved, only a warm affection towards each other. I once asked him why he stayed with me when we both knew it would never last, while there were many in line who would gladly take my place. There might be one among them with whom true love was possible. 'That�s what I�m afraid of,' he had answered. Then Legolas explained why he could never take on a male lover permanently.��

�As heir to the throne of Mirkwood, he would one day have to provide an heir himself. He was expected to marry a nice elleth and father children. What he did in the meantime mattered little, as long as he ended up with a female. It is his duty to his people. Not having children would endanger the Royal line and that would weaken the Kingdom. He could not allow for that to happen. It made me think of my situation as well. Darkness is lurking everywhere, over the next few centuries battles will only get fiercer and more frequent. I couldn�t allow Imladris to fall short of an heir because I refused to father a child. From then on I steered away from ellyn and tried to find a good wife among the ellith. It took me a long time, but I managed to bury my feelings for you deep inside my heart and lock them there. When I realised the rift between you and Glorfindel was final, I hurt unspeakably, because I could never act upon my feelings. I was away from home for long periods in that time. I struggled with myself and my duty and it was much easier to come to terms with the fact that I would marry an elleth when I wasn�t in your vicinity.��

�Later as I grew older I minimized my feelings for you, telling myself it was calf love. I did not realise just how great a lie that was until very recently. I could not find an elleth who truly made me happy. Subconsciously I think I always compared them to how I felt around you. When you began to pale and wither, I worried. It roused feelings of protectiveness and possessiveness that frightened me at first. Desperately I tried to flee again and took on the extended patrol I left with this morning. I could not stand another day in your presence and not tell you. Foolish as I was I thought that I needed to provide an heir and that that would be best for Imladris.� �

�On the road I realised the repercussions of my actions. I was not the only one suffering from this self-deprivation, you were so obviously not well, but I dared not think it was because of my actions. I began to think about settling with an elleth and having children. I would never be able to give her the passionate love she deserves. She would always be second to you. I could never condemn any elleth to such a life� Even though I had ignored my feelings for you, even though I locked them far away, they had grown silently for decades. When I rode away from you I realised I rode away from my heart. I had lost it to you and I had not realised it. I love you Lindir, I am not afraid anymore. All I am afraid of now is losing you. I heard a Nightingale� Your song� Valar Lindir, I was so afraid I would be too late. That I had lost what I love most in life because of some foolish idea in my head.� Now it was Elrohir needing comfort as his voice shook. His hand still held on to Lindir�s, which now felt pleasantly warm. �

It broke Lindir�s heart to see Elrohir so vulnerable and powerless. Suddenly he was very aware of their difference in age. Had he expected too much from him too soon? Roh was still young and inexperienced in matters of the heart, much like he had been with Glorfindel. The Peredhel had been impressionable when he had taken Legolas as a lover. Was he not just as much to blame as Elrohir for this misunderstanding? If he had guided the younger twin, shown more trust in his integrity and trusted him with his love sooner, they could have avoided much pain. As he looked at the wide and trusting eyes, the hope there and, yes, the love his heart rejoiced. But dare he take the risk? Roh was young still and he did not wish to tie him down� But it was not a decision he could make for the warrior. He refused to waste the rest of his life on �what ifs�. Could he turn away and leave Elrohir?�

The answer was no.�

Slowly he stepped closer to Roh, his Roh. His hand cupped the Elf lord�s face and he saw disbelief and intense happiness there as he brought his lips to Elrohir�s. The kiss was tender and sweet, soft and yet full of promise. Elrohir wrapped his arms around the minstrel and lifted him slightly off the ground. Lindir giggled in response, the sound was like music to their ears. The kiss deepened tentatively as they savoured each other. It was a slow and sweet exploration, which left them breathless. Elrohir rested his forehead against Lindir�s when they broke apart for air.�

�I brought us a picnic, songbird.� Lindir smiled brilliantly, only days ago he never would have believed to hear the endearment pronounced with such affection. �I am hungry�� Lindir glanced at the Elf-knight to see if he caught the innuendo in his voice. It was so liberating to be able to say such things around him now. Lindir greatly enjoyed flirting and he only hoped Elrohir would catch on.�

�Oh, is that so? Then I shan�t keep you waiting too long.� The younger Elf grinned wolfishly. They went through the contents of the basket and Lindir gasped at the sight of the peaches. He took a hold of Roh�s hand and squeezed it gently. They ate in silence at first, still a bit tentative about their freshly blooming relationship. Not everything was sorted out yet, they had much to discuss still. It would take time and effort from the both of them if they wished to make it work. For now Lindir chose to enjoy this moment, they would talk and worry later.�

Lindir felt refreshed by the food, it was as if he hadn�t truly eaten in days� Roh watched him eat, amusement clear in his eyes. But there was also desire there. Lindir was beautiful in the golden light of the setting sun and Elrohir could not help but wonder what his skin would look like in the pale moonlight. That vision sent a slight tremor through his body. He could not believe how lucky he was. He could just as well have lost the minstrel, that thought made him wince. �

Lindir ate languidly, savouring his food. It was delicious to him. When he was almost done, he opened the jar filled with peaches and syrup and fished on out between his fingers. The thick juice ran over his hand as he ate it and his tongue darted from between his lips to lick up the trail. Elrohir watched the tongue�s process, transfixed by the erotic gesture. He could feel arousal coursing through his veins and his breath hitched. Lindir was oblivious to the sinful picture he made until his eyes fell on Elrohir�s smouldering gaze. He stopped dead and then sucked the last remnants of the syrup from his palm.�

Smiling mischievously he dug in for another peach and this time started to lick the sweet juice from the fruit itself, all too aware of the almost obscene gesture. The want in Elrohir�s gaze was evident and it made Lindir bold. He had been waiting for this so long and he wanted the Peredhel and he would have him. That thought made his stomach jump and he bit his lower lip slightly, still watching his new lover. His lover. Even though they had not consummated their love �yet- he could call Elrohir his lover. That thought sent a hot wave of desire through him and made him whimper slightly.�

The small helpless sound that came from his throat was Elrohir�s undoing, with a soft growl he crawled closer and began to lap at the syrup that ran down his beloved�s arm. Gently he worked his way up to his wrist where he traced the sensitive veins on the inside with the tip of his tongue. Lindir couldn�t take his eyes off of his lover and watched the movements of his tongue entranced. He shuddered at both the visual and tactile stimulus. He moaned as he saw Elrohir�s luscious lips eat some of his peach.�

That sound made Elrohir harden in his breeches and he reached up to crush his lips to Lindir�s. The artist promptly dropped the already forgotten peach and gave into the passionate onslaught with a sigh of delight. Elrohir eagerly accepted the invitation and deepened the kiss as he gently pushed him down to lie in the moss. His hands fumbled with the fastenings of Lindir�s tunic, but managed to loosen and discard the infuriating garment. His hands landed on the creamy white skin of his chest and started to map every inch of it. �

His fingers brushed the minstrel�s nipples and they hardened in response. Soon his mouth replaced his digits and he had Lindir moaning and arching into him. The minstrel�s fingers buried themselves in a thick mass of raven tresses as he pushed Elrohir closer to him, making his arousal evident. Elrohir shifted his hips so that his own erection rubbed against that of his lover. He gasped and Lindir called out his name hoarsely. The huskiness in his musical voice made Elrohir�s movements more frantic. His fingers made quick work of the fastenings holding his leggings together.�

Soon he had Lindir underneath him, naked as the day he was born. It took Elrohir a few moments to gather his bearings as he openly admired the perfection of his lover�s body. He stilled in awe as the moonlight made his near translucent hair glow. Lindir looked at him in confusion, why was he stopping? His breath caught at the look of wonder on Elrohir�s face. �You are so beautiful,� he whispered shakily. The artist cupped his cheek and kissed him tenderly. �

Roh�s hand strayed downwards leaving a path of teasing, feather light touches, before reaching its destination. His long fingers wrapped around the minstrel�s shaft and Lindir cried out in response. �You are so sweet� I must taste you.� His mouth followed the trail of his fingers. Dipping one finger in the thick syrup of the peaches, he smeared some onto Lindir�s arousal. The chill of the liquid made him gasp and buck lightly. �

The Peredhel chuckled at his lover�s reaction, before dipping his head to lick it off in one swipe. Lindir bit his lip tightly and moaned when the head of his erection was sucked inside his lover�s moist, hot and sinful mouth. His eyes were trained on his lover as he raised himself up on his elbows. The sight of Elrohir swirling his talented tongue around his shaft was almost his undoing. �Roh� love� I can�t, you�ll make me�� �

Speech was not longer possible as Elrohir took the words as an encouragement. His hands stroked the moist arousal as he spoke, �I want to taste you my love. Come for me.� It sounded so wanton, so bold and it was exactly that strong command that made Lindir give in. His hips thrust inside his lover�s mouth, his hand were buried in his long dark tresses and his heart sang with joy. When the younger Elf hummed around his shaft, Lindir shouted his name and spilled his sot seed down the other�s throat. �Oh� Roh.� He muttered incoherently for a moment as the Elf-knight crawled over to him to cradle him in his arms. �

Lindir�s pupils were dilated and a blissfully happy smile graced his features. Never in his life had he experienced anything quite like this. His lover pulled his fingers through his long white tresses and was content for the moment to just hold him. His cheek rubbed against the soft material of Roh�s tunic and that seemed to bring him back to reality. Elrohir was still dressed, that would not do. �

As soon as he had recovered from his drowsiness he flipped them over, so that he sat astride his love. Elrohir looked amused, �What will you do now, songbird?� Lindir�s eyes glinted as he smiled wickedly. His index finger drew a hot trail down Elrohir�s chest, unfastening his tunic as it went down. Roh felt as if he was on fire and his eyes darkened. His position and his lover�s obvious desire made Lindir feel slightly brazen. �First I will make sure you wear nothing but my quartz stone.� With that he threw Roh�s tunic in the general direction of his own. �And then?� the younger Elf�s hands came to settle upon Lindir�s slim hips. The minstrel bent forward to whisper hotly in his ear, �Then I will ride you like no one has even ridden you before.� �

Roh swallowed and closed his eyes, his erection twitched at the sound of his lover�s husky voice, the feel of his hot breath against the delicate shell of his ear. Lindir traced its outline with the tip of his tongue, before gently sucking the tip inside. Elrohir cried out and bucked up against Lindir�s hips to create some friction, anything to relieve the burning ache in his abdomen. �

Feeling his lover�s need, Lindir quickly divested Elrohir of his breeches and boots. The sight of his lover wearing nothing but his necklace stirred his desire again. With a hungry look on his face he settled on the Elf-knight�s lap again. Slowly he began to move against him, teasing Roh mercilessly. It was working if his closed eyes and flaring nostrils were any indication. When Lindir took a nipple between his teeth and rolled his tongue over it, Elrohir�s eyes flew open again. �Oil,� he whispered urgently, �we need oil.� �

Lindir looked in the general direction of their picnic basket, but he had not seen any oily substance, unless� With a feral grin he reached for the jar of peaches. Roh�s eyes widened for a moment, before he chuckled, �It will do�� Pleased with that answer, Lindir dipped his entire hand in the thick juice and began to generously coat Elrohir�s erection with the sticky liquid. At first his lover flinched away from its coolness, but it soon heated up under Lindir�s expertise. When he was satisfied with the result, he poured some more on his hand and fingers. �

His eyes never left his lover�s as he circled his own entrance with the wet fingers. When guided one finger inside, he moaned and threw his head back, his own shaft springing to full attention. Elrohir moaned at the erotic sight his lover made against the glitter of the pale moonlight on the waterfall behind them. His hand brushed a white strand behind his ear, an intimate gesture that made his heart leap. Lindir turned his head to kiss the palm of his hand. His breath hitched against its skin as he added a second finger. Soon he had three of his own fingers preparing him for his lover.�

When he was ready he dipped his hand briefly in the clear water near to them and Roh positioned himself. Lindir placed his hands on his love�s chest and moaned as he lowered himself onto Elrohir�s erection. The tight heat that enveloped him nearly took the Elf-knight�s breath away as he had the odd sensation of going home. He held still in an attempt to gain enough control to last long enough to see his lover climax on top of him. �

Lindir rolled his hips experimentally and mewled at the pleasure shooting through his body. His movements accelerated and Elrohir met him thrust for thrust. Lindir saw stars behind his closed lids, hot white, searing pleasure made his arms tremble. Roh took a hold of his hands and entwined their fingers. The artist opened his green eyes to look into loving grey ones. They were dark with desire, desire for him. Roh took a hold of his lover�s arousal and stroked him in tandem with their movements. He sat up to kiss his lover and deepen his thrusts. Lindir bent down and bit his shoulder hard enough to mark him. It surprised Roh, but also aroused him even more. He belonged to Lindir now.�

Lindir went higher and higher, coming closer to his climax with each brush of Elrohir�s shaft against that hidden spot deep inside of him. When he pushed himself down one final time, he cried out hoarsely, �Elrohir!� Hearing his lover cry out his name like that was his undoing. Roh climaxed deep inside of his lover�s body, saying his name over an over again like a prayer.�

Lindir collapsed on top of his lover, sated and utterly happy. Roh wrapped his arms around him and after gently pulling out of his body, he rolled them to one side so they lay facing each other. For a long moment he said nothing and watched Lindir�s dazed eyes. He kissed his nose. �Shall we bathe now or sleep first?��

As tempting as the prospect of sleeping in Elrohir�s arms was, Lindir felt sticky from the peaches� syrup. �Bath,� was all he said and before he could speak again, Roh had lifted him in his arms and carried him towards the waterfall where they washed each other and played like young children. Elrohir turned around to look at his lover and inhaled sharply at the vision before him. The water reached up to his hips and the drops on his torso glittered like a million small diamonds on his skin in the moonlight. There were even tiny drops on his white lashes. He would never allow Lindir to be taken from him again he vowed. Then he pulled his love in his arms and kissed him gently. �

Much later they collapsed on the soft moss and Roh curled the both of them in a thick blanket Mel and Dan had put in the basket. Lindir�s head rested on his chest and for the first time in much too long, Elrohir felt profoundly happy. He could feel Lindir tracing the outlines of the bruise on the joint of his shoulder and neck where he had marked him. Elrohir knew he had a giddy smile all over his face, but he cared not. He would fall asleep knowing that he�d wake up with Lindir in his arms.�

His lover tilted his chin up and gently kissed the corner of his mouth. Elrohir smiled and nuzzled him. �I love you.� Lindir was the first one, not belonging to his family, he had said those words to. Although saying the words scared him to death, they were true and Lindir needed to know.�

Lindir traced an invisible path from his nose over his jaw and smiled tenderly. �I know.� �

*~*~*�

Elladan walked into the room busily reading a piece of paper. Elrohir was sitting in front of the fire with a book in his lap and Lindir leaned back against his legs in front of his seat, working on a composition. Roh lifted his head at hearing someone entering and mimicked his brother�s frown with one of his own. �What is it Dan?� There had been no reports of Orc attacks lately and he hoped his brother had not just been informed of one. Elladan looked up from the letter distractedly. �It�s Legolas�� Lindir�s head shot up as well. �He is to marry an elleth, Nerdanel.� �

Elrohir looked down at his lover and took a hold of his hand. �He has made his choice, melethen. As I have made mine. I would not wish to trade for anything in the world. Lindir smiled in return and kissed Roh�s knuckles. They had had many things to sort out between them, many misgivings and misunderstandings to work through, but they had been lovers for over half a century now and still they were as in love as they had been that first night at the waterfall. Elrohir rubbed a finger over the smooth surface of the quartz stone he now always wore. No, he would not trade for anything in the world��
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The End

Elvish translations

Ada: father

pen neth: young one

melethen: my love