Fate Denied, Fate Found, parts 1-3/5 (Glorfindel/Erestor, R); for Lady Mirfain

[empy.livejournal.com]

Note from the mods: this story is incomplete, but the missing parts should be added within a few hours. The final two parts can now be found here

Title: Fate Denied, Fate Found 1-3
Author: Amber (lackam)
Beta: Oli
Rating: R
Type: FPS, AU
Character: Glorfindel (Laurefindel)/Erestor
Disclaimer: I am only borrowing Tolkien’s characters and make no money off of this.
Summary: Glorfindel has to fight for his place in life after his father tries to dictate his life.
For Lady Mirfain (aperfectdot)
Request:
Pairing(s)/Character(s): pairing of two the following, writer's choice: Erestor, Glorfindel, Haldir, Orophin, Rumil, Elladan, Elrohir
Scenario/Prompt: love story with angst, fluff, and romance. nc-17 is great but not necessary. Plot and story line is more important. Want a look into their love life, how they deal with separation, or what happens if one sails before the other. maybe a reunion or two. Anything like that is good.
Squicks/Dislikes: no rape, bdsm, no incest of any form.


“He spends too much time with them,” his father shouted at his mother. “It has to stop, they are corrupting him. I will not have my son corrupted by the Noldor and their wicked ways.”

“You forget yourself husband,” his mother responded coldly. “I am half Noldor, is he to be forbidden my company too? The Noldor are not wicked, just different. He is not his brother and it is unfair to judge him as such.”

“That is not what I mean and you know it,” came his father again. “Laurefindel spends too much time with his Noldorian cousins and they are corrupting him. He has gotten to the point where he would rather rabble rouse with them than study or meditate. And now he has gone so far as to disrespect the Valar. I will not stand for this in my house.”
Laurefindel listened from his room down the hall as his parents fought over him, again. His older brother had already been in to yell at him for disturbing the peace of the household. His older sister just threw him disgusted looks as she passed by him. This was the way things always went. His father would become upset over something he had done, his mother would try to defend him, his siblings let him know he was a disappointment, and then he would be called in and told his punishment. Never was he asked to defend himself or why he had done something, only if he understood his punishment. It was unfair; he was not his perfect brother and sister, and should not be judged that way but nobody seemed to care.

Laurefindel’s father had been really mad this time and he could not figure out why. He had gone to Manwë’s palace with his father, as was his punishment for coming home late yesterday. It was not his fault he had become bored while waiting in the hallway while his father was stuck in meetings all day. It was not like his father had allowed him to sit in on the meetings and learn anything; no he had been relegated to sitting on a bench in the hall. He had not thought it wrong, and had been relieved when Eönwë had asked him to help paint the throne room. He thought his father would be pleased because he was helping out at the palace. He should have known better.

Laurefindel had been surprised, and rather liked it, when Eonwe had said he could paint whatever his heart led him to paint. He loved to draw and was good at it; here was a chance to prove him self. He began by painting the walls with simple nature murals and then adding a few simple cartoons on the doors. He had been surprised when Yavanna had suggested painting ivy vines on the columns when she came through but agreed it would look good and had done it. Namo had suggested the stars and comets for Varda’s throne when he came through and even helped him paint some. The hammer and anvil, and trees and plants, they had drawn on several thrones had looked really well also. He was undecided about the tears on Nienna’s throne, but the whales and waves on Ulmo’s were cool he thought. He had thought it a little weird when Oromë had suggested flowers for Manwë’s throne but decided that yellow flowers on a green background would look nice. The skull and cross bones on a black background Eönwë and Olórin had suggested for Námo’s throne had been a little weird but they had assured him that it would fit. He had made a few suggestions to the Herald himself about what to put on the other thrones as he became more comfortable. He had been having fun and helping out one of the Maiar. King Ingwë had even said laughingly that he had done a nice job when he passed through.

The best part of the day though had been when Eönwë had introduced him to another, younger boy who was also spending the day at the palace and they convinced him to help them paint. Erestor was an interesting mix of Noldor and Telri. He had the black hair of his father but the oddest chocolate colored eyes. Laurefindel had found himself lost in Erestor’s eyes several times when they looked at each other throughout the day. By the time they had been claimed by their fathers that evening, he knew he was in love.

His father, to no surprise, had been very angry with him. First he had been upset that Laurefindel had left the bench, and then he had taken a look at the throne room. His father had had a look of horror, and then fury, on his face when he had seen the paint job he and Erestor had done. Even Manwë’s assurance that it was not his fault, that the boys had himself been tricked into helping play a practical joke by Eönwë, had only stayed his father’s wrath until they had arrived home. His father seemed to think it was his idea to paint things thusly, not Eönwë’s. Now he was waiting to see what his latest punishment would be. He knew that trying to defend him self would only make things worse. Sometimes he wondered if he hadn’t been born into the wrong family. Well his father was calling for him; time to see what would happen next.

Laurefindel sat in his room in stunned shock as he contemplated his father’s punishment. His father had taken everything away. He had taken his horse, his toys, his paints, his harp, everything. Then he had told him that he was to have no further contact with his Noldorian cousins, which had cut deeply for he fit in there as he did not here. He was told that he was Vanyan and that he would associate with nobody else. Then his father had done the unforgivable. Even though he was ten years short of his majority, he was told that he would be married in three days to a girl his father had chosen. They were to be blood bound now, then consummate the marriage when they reached their majority. His mother had tried to interfere but his father had been adamant and banished her to their rooms.

Laurefindel spent the next few days in a fog as he was prepared for the wedding. He barely remembered the ceremony itself when it came time. All he remembered was that the girl was a typical Vanyan, older than him by several centuries, and a close friend of his brother’s. The pain he felt course through his body when their fathers pushed their cut palms together had driven him to his knees. He had learned in that moment when their minds momentarily touched that she loved his brother not him. Her name was Vantanya, and she hated him. She had believed that she was being joined with his older brother when her father told her about the marriage. Her father worked with his father. She refused to stay afterwards, to his relief, and returned to her home with her parents. He had spent that night crying into his pillow knowing now that there was no chance for him to find and profess his love to Erestor let alone find out if his feelings were returned. After that night his life continued to be restricted to nothing but his studies. He began looking for a way out.

Valinor had been dark for two days now and everyone was uneasy. The Valar had told everyone to return to their homes and wait. The rumors flying about said that Melkor had killed his grandfather Finwë. The rumors also said that uncle Fëanor was going to lead the Noldor back to Middle-earth to avenge his father’s death and reclaim his stolen jewels. It was while he was contemplating these rumors, and the chances they might provide, that his father called him into his study.

“You have reached your majority today. Vantanya’s father is bringing her here this afternoon and you will consummate your marriage tonight,” Laurefindel’s father told him.

“Father, can this not wait as everything is so unsettled here? I am not comfortable with this. I am not even sure I am comfortable with girls,” he said trying to find a way to forestall this final part of his binding marriage.

“I have had it with your insolence,” his father screamed in his face after slapping him. “How dare you speak of such perversions in my house? You will do this tonight as I have dictated.”

“No father, I will not,” he answered trying to stand up for himself. “This is going too far. I am no longer a child to be dictated to and what you want of me is wrong. This whole marriage is wrong.”

“You will do as I say or your mother will suffer,” his father ordered in a menacing voice. “It was she who ruined you with her Noldor blood, and it will be her I make suffer if you do not do as I say. You have no choice in this; or would you rather see your mother left open to ruin and ridicule?”

“You would do that to your own wife?” he responded in shock. “What kind of a monster are you that you would do this to your own wife? Did you ever even love her?” Then he turned and locked himself in his bedroom.

That night Laurefindel balked when they brought his bride to him and told him what he was to do. He refused to even look at Vantanya when she was pushed into his room. In frustration and anger his father did what Laurefindel would never forgive him for. Dragging his mother by the hair, his father had placed a knife to her throat and told Laurefindel that he had ten minutes. If the marriage was not consummated by then, he would cut his mother’s throat. In shock and fear, he capitulated and managed to complete the deed, but just barely. Vantanya returned to her father’s house afterward in disgust after telling him he was awful and would never touch her again. He was fine with that, he thought as he locked himself in his rooms for the rest of the night. He heard his father leave the house with Vantanya’s father discussing living arrangements a short time later. He vowed then to ensure that his father’s plans came to ruin.
In the early hours before dawn, when the others of the household had settled down for the night, Laurefindel crept into the kitchen carrying his training pack. He placed enough food for a week into the bag and turned to leave his home forever.

“You should take your cloak for you will need it,” his mother said as she came out of the shadows. “I have been waiting for you.”

“You do not fight my leaving?” he asked her.

“I do not for I am going with you. We will find sanctuary in my brother’s house. We will be accepted there,” she told her son as he tried to protest. “I can no longer stay here and will not see you left on your own. I have packed more clothes for you and have your weapons. They are on the horses I have waiting at the end of the street.”
“Are you sure mother? I know that you love father,” he inquired.

“He hurt me badly in his treatment of you, my son. And I will not discuss his treatment of me,” she whispered as they headed out the door. “He destroyed that love when he sought to use me to harm you. I am not even sure anymore that he would not have carried out his threat had you refused.”

He followed her to the horses but he felt foreboding run through him.

Two days later they rode up the road that led to her brother Ñolofinwë’s home. They could see that preparations were being made to leave. Seeing them dismount, Turukáno ran up and hugged Laurefindel and his aunt.

“Father and Uncle Curufinwë are in the study if you wish. Mother is in the kitchens,” Turukáno told them.

“Come my son, you can talk later. We need to tell my brothers,” Irime said.
They walked through the house until they came to the study. Knocking, they entered and placed their things on the floor. All three of her brothers were there and they gave her questioning glances.

“We have come seeking sanctuary,” she said. “Will you accept me and my son?”

It surprised her that it was her oldest brother that responded first.

“What has happened?” Curufinwë asked her suspiciously. “It is no fluke that you choose to leave your husband and other children behind. We all know that they will never leave the Valor’s side. Why are you here?”

“All you need to know is that I will never go back and Laurefindel can never return,” was all she would say.

“Laurefindel, go get something to eat in the kitchen and have Anairë bring a plate in here for your mother,” Ñolofinwë told him. He hesitated to leave his mother but at her nod did as he was told.

“Now tell us,” Curufinwë demanded.

She broke down as she told them of all her husband had done to her youngest son. When she told them of the night her husband had held a knife to her throat, there was angry grumbling.

“Please, let this go. We will go with you as part of your host and that will be the end of it,” she pleaded to her brothers.

“I like this not but agree to it,” Curufinwë told her. “I am actually ashamed to have been right about the type of man we let you marry.”

“You will travel with me and mine,” Ñolofinwë stated as his wife brought food enough for all of them. “Will Laurefindel be alright, or should we call a healer to confer with him?”

“If you call being forcibly married and having his future destroyed alright, then he is fine for now,” she answered as tears streamed down her face. “I do not think he has really had time to realize the repercussions of what his father has done to him. In time it may drive him to despair but he seems fine for now. And before you ask, yes I am sure of what I am doing and you will not change my mind. I have failed my youngest with my inaction before now. I will be there for him from now on.”
Unknown to them all, Laurefindel was standing just outside the door and heard all that was said. His sense of foreboding grew.

As they headed North after the Kin-slaying, Laurefindel knew that everything had changed for everyone. There was blood spilled now that would demand an answering. Although his hands were clean, many of his friends and relatives could not say the same thing. It was during this time that Arafinwë and others turned back, although all of his cousins continued on. He and his mother decided to continue on and make there way across the Helcaraxë even after being betrayed by his uncle Fëanor when he burned the ships.

He was not surprised when Námo appeared on the hill before them and spoke their doom. Although he did not want to leave, he knew that he had to go on, that he had no choice for now he had no home. He tried to persuade his mother to stay but she refused to leave him. He took some comfort in the fact the he had found Erestor among the crowd. He would at least have the comfort of his new best friend. The only time he hesitated was when he and Erestor came upon Eönwë. The look in the Maia’s eyes told Laurefindel that he knew all. He knew Laurefindel did not want to leave but felt he had no choice just as Erestor was leaving because his father made him. There were tears in all of their eyes as he turned away to follow his cousins.

The time passed slowly as they crossed the grinding ice of the Helcaraxë. Few had been prepared for a long walk as they had planned to cross by sea. There was little food and many were not dressed properly for the extreme cold. Their numbers had dwindled as the cold and lack of food began to take their toll, mainly on the young. Then to everyone’s horror the ice beneath them began to shift and break apart pulling the unfortunate into their icy depths. Others were left behind as they lost their way in the blinding glare or whiteout conditions that seemed to alternate. Some just lost hope and sat down giving up as grief and guilt took over. Erestor and Laurefindel were soon placed in the center of one of the leading groups with most of the other youngsters who had managed to survive this far.

Elenwë, Turukáno’s wife, had been lost four days earlier when the ice had suddenly shifted and broken beneath her. Laurefindel had been nearby and had managed to grab little Itarillë from the water before the ice had shifted back over her but had been unable to save his cousin’s wife. Turukáno had been inconsolable and his father had been forced to keep him going by physical means. Laurefindel and his mother had assisted Artanis in keeping Itarillë going until her father came to grips with his own loss.

They continued on. Laurefindel and Erestor were walking with his mother and uncle when the scouts came back to report that land was but a day away for those in the front. Soon the ordeal would be over. As smiles were shared all around at this good news a great crack was heard in the ice directly below their feet. Looking down, Laurefindel saw the ice below him give way. Suddenly he was thrown to the side as another body crashed into him with force. Looking back, he saw his mother looking at him as she disappeared below the ice in the swift current.

“Amé!” he screamed as he tried to dive into the water after her. Only the quick action of Erestor grabbing his legs as his uncle in turn grabbed him prevented Laurefindel from following her to his demise. H fought and struggled to get free and follow his mother as he was dragged away from the edge of the opening. Finally his uncle slapped him hard to get his attention.

“She is gone child; there is nothing you can do. She pushed you to safety so that you could live, Laurefindel. Do not make her sacrifice in vain son,” Ñolofinwë scolded him. “Come, you are one of my sons now and we must lead everyone else to safety.”
Laurefindel struggled some more before finally breaking down in tears. Ecthelion, a mixed blood Noldorian boy their age traveling alone who he and Erestor had made friends with on the journey, came forwards and helped Erestor calm Laurefindel. Finally pulling himself together, he thanked his friends before they continued forward. He allowed Itarillë to take his hand and lead them to their group. As they crossed onto the land, she pulled him to the side and wrapped her arms around him. There they clung together as they watched the others come off the ice and mourned their loss.

Some time later, Turukáno came and lead his daughter and the three boys over to a fire that had been built where they were camped. It was with great reluctance that Laurefindel returned her to her father for the night. It was Artanis who came forward and suggested to her uncle that it would be easier, and best, if the four were kept together as their destinies were intertwined. It had turned out that none knew if Erestor’s parents had survived the crossing either. Knowing of her gift of foresight, Ñolofinwë ordered the four to stay at Turukáno’s side. Ñolofinwë realized that Laurefindel was still a child, despite his large size, who had grown up in a very protected and restrictive household. He was unsure of the background of the other two boys but decided to take no chances.

Ñolofinwë stayed several weeks at the edge of the ice field to ensure that they waited for all who were coming. During the last week he had sent a party of scouts back out onto the ice to see if they would find any others. He would never forgive himself if some were left behind so close to reaching their goal. That morning the scouts had returned leading a party of ten elflings whose parents had not survived the ice. They had banded together as they came across each other while trailing behind the others. If not for the scouts seeing them in the distance on the day they turned back, it was doubtful that any would have survived.

Staying another several days to ensure the health and safety of the ten orphaned elflings, Ñolofinwë’s party was surprised by the arrival of a party of mounted elves lead by Nelyafinwë. After ensuring the survival of Findekáno and his other cousins, Nelyafinwë met with his uncle in private and gave him an update on their party. He apologized for his father’s actions and let it be known that he thought a reconciliation of the two groups could still be brought about. Ñolofinwë agreed to lead his people to the Lake of Mithrim, where the two groups could meet and work out their differences.


- Part 2 -

After the meeting and a reconciliation feast, the different groups parted and went their separate ways. There were many new conditions and people to meet and learn to cooperate with. Artanis and her brothers headed south to meet up with their Sindarin relations while Turgon took his people to the sea just south of that area. His father and brothers stayed farther north and east setting up kingdoms of their own. As time passed, Turgon’s father, uncle, and many of his cousins met their fates by way of Morgoth and the other peoples of Middle-earth.

Glorfindel, Ecthelion, and Erestor stayed with Turgon and over the years became mighty Lords among his van. They fought in many battles and earned the trust and respect of many despite their age. Glorfindel and Ecthelion made many friends among the people as their popularity grew and both became sought after mates. Erestor earn his reputation in the area of lore and became a gifted counselor and strategist to Turgon. He also became a target for the mothers with eligible daughters. Glorfindel avoided all attempts at bonding and became wary of who he associated with. Even so he became close friends with Idril, Egalmoth, and Rog. The six could be seen together constantly and it was with much anticipation that Turgon’s people watched to see which would end up with whom.

Then a day came when Turgon called together his most trusted advisors and warriors. He had received a message from Ulmo leading him to build a city in the hidden reaches of the mountains. For weeks his architects had been designing a city to rival Tirion in Valinor and today he was revealing his plans to those he had chosen to lead the building and defense of his new city. As he pulled the cover off of the model of his new city, Erestor was passing around a time table for building, and supply lists. Many sacrifices were going to have to be made by those in the room but the reward would be lordships of their own houses. All accepted Turgon’s terms and plans were made.
The first of those assigned to the building of the city left with their people in the following month. None but the new Lords knew where they were going, or for how long they would be gone. Egalmoth, Rog, and Ecthelion lead the first groups out taking those few who considered themselves under Lord Glorfindel with them. Lord Glorfindel himself left a week later going in the opposite direction with only a small guard. His job was to recruit elves of the other kindred’s who could help them in the building of the city in exchange for a place in the city. He also kept his eyes out for stray artisans who might show an interest in joining them. Most of those who joined Glorfindel’s party pledged fealty to him as Lord, and to Turgon as King.

As the numbers of those who joined his party grew, Glorfindel decided to send groups ahead to the hidden city. Selecting one of his guards, he gave them directions to the entrance of the hidden city. He ensured that his party knew that none were to know these directions except them. He reminded them that none were to leave the party alive to tell others of the city. Ten groups of twenty did Glorfindel send off before he was left alone to finish his task.

He had recruited a last twenty craftsmen who brought their families with them and was making his way north when they ran into the survivors of an orc attack. There were many wounded and several dead. Stopping to help, Glorfindel learned that they were part of a group of Noldor who had left one of Fingolfin’s cities to start a town of their own. They had left later than the others that morning due to the birth on an elfling in the evening before and had been unable to catch up because they did not wish to cause harm to the mother and new child. Glorfindel decided that they would travel with the group and stopped a short way further down the road where he deemed it was safe.

After the camp was set and a meal served, Glorfindel questioned the survivors of the group. He learned that the group was mainly made up of warriors and their families. They did not have a real destination in mind. They thought that they would stop when they found somewhere all agreed on. He learned that the group numbered over a hundred families altogether.

Glorfindel spent the night thinking about what he had been told and as the sun rose over the trees the next morning he made a decision. Approaching the survivors that morning before they set out, he made an offer to them. He explained who they were and what they were doing without revealing the location of the city. Then he offered to let them join his group explaining that they would have to swear fealty to King Turgon. He also let them know that if they agreed, they would most likely be split among the various Lords as they all needed more warriors.

The group moved off to talk among themselves while Glorfindel’s group broke up the camp and prepared to leave. Coming to a decision, the lead warrior of the survivors approached Glorfindel.

“We will join you but speak only for ourselves. We cannot say whether the others ahead will be interested in joining you at this city. We are a small group and ask only that you let us choose you as our Lord. You came to our aid when we needed it and we are thankful. You should also know that two of my men are married to Avari, will this make a difference?” he asked.

“I thank you for joining us and I will agree to your group joining my house. As for the Avari, they are welcome in my house where all are accepted but I know this is not so in some of the other houses. The King will not mind if you promise to be loyal to him and serve under me. I have others who are not accepted by the other houses but believe in a second chance for all,” Glorfindel told them. Smiling in agreement, the heads of the families swore their allegiance to Glorfindel before they left.

The group, now doubled in size, moved out an hour later and it was nightfall when they came across the larger Noldor group camped and waiting for them. Camping apart but beside the larger group, Glorfindel let the lead warrior of the group who had joined him approach the others and explain what they were about. Staying separate that night, they listened to the many discussions and arguments of the larger group. Finally, the groups settled down for the night to rest. They would have to wait till morning for a decision.

Morning came and after a quick meal both groups began to break camp. The leader of the larger group approached Glorfindel and asked to speak with him.

“The majority of our group have agreed to join you. Those who have not only ask that they be allowed to leave,” he said.

“If they travel to the south I will leave them alone, but let them know that if we catch them following us we will kill them,” Glorfindel told him.

“You would commit a kin-slaying to keep your destination secret?” the warrior asked in surprised.

“We are under Ulmo’s orders and cannot risk exposure, Glorfindel continued.

“I understand and will tell them. We also have a stray we have picked up. We know not what his name is or where he is from. We destroyed a troop of orc and goblins two days ago and found him as their prisoner. He is young, probably not past his majority. He has been traumatized for Vala knows how long and does not talk. Should we take him with us or leave him with the group staying behind?” the warrior continued.
“We will take him with us, there will be healers where we are headed,” Glorfindel said. “Tell the group separating from us that we will camp tonight for several days to give them a head start. Tell them, good luck.”

The warrior relayed the messages and the groups set out in separate directions. The group going their separate way was smaller than originally planned as many decided to go with Glorfindel after learning that Ulmo himself had a hand in the city. They set the camp back up and stayed two more days to ensure that they were not followed.
It was a month later that Glorfindel’s group approached the first entrance to the hidden city. A dark haired Lord rode out to meet them with a troop of warriors behind him. Coming up to Glorfindel he dismounted and hugged the golden haired Lord.
“Send you out to gather a few craftsmen and you populate the city by half,” Ecthelion joked. “What is this mixed group here?”

“This is the last group of craftsmen and their families,” Glorfindel explained as he pointed to a small group to the side of his procession. Then he pointed to the main body of his group. “We came across a troop of Noldorin warriors who were seeking a home of their own on our way here. Most agreed to join with us. Do not worry, the others kept their word and did not follow.”

“Welcome to Gondolin. Come in and have a meal as you rest. I will have a scribe come around to each of you for information. We will sort you out amongst us tomorrow with the information we gather,” Ecthelion told them.

“This group here is for my house,” Glorfindel said as he pointed to a small group off to the rear. “They have already sworn fealty to me.”

“I will have them taken directly to where they are building your house. That will save time and they can begin to settle in. Most of the Lords have already built some kind of house for their people to stay in until time to build everyone’s main homes. You have been assigned the area between the outer wall and the sixth gate,” Ecthelion told Glorfindel fearing his reaction.

“Because I accept any who will commit to me, or because I am Vanyan?” Glorfindel asked with a raised brow.

“Both,” came the sorrowful reply. “Erestor is in the section beside you and I am in the next section after that for some fear I am too powerful already. I fear we bring our petty jealousies with us. Join me for dinner after refreshing yourself and I will tell you how things are going.”

Glorfindel nodded in agreement and turned to see to the dispensation of the groups he had brought in. Leading his people to the housing structure, he took in as much as he could see of his area and was pleased. Without their realizing it, the others had actually given him control of the better land. Because of its size and location, with this area would come the control of the animals and crops. Most of the fields were either in his area or just outside and would fall under his protection. He would have training fields in his area too even though he suspected that most training would fall to Ecthelion. Glorfindel would have to rely on all he had learned about government and estate/city planning to ensure he kept his place as Lord. That, and he would have to find a good advisor or more likely several.

His people welcomed the newcomers and settled them for the night. The stray elfling found in the orc camp was being taken care of by one of his new warrior’s family but was turned over to the healers for care and assessment. After being brought up to date by his advisors, he bathed and headed to the sixth gate to meet with Ecthelion.
After a good meal and wine, Ecthelion gave Glorfindel a tour of what had been completed so far. He also talked about how the different Lords had worked out the assignment of healers, cooks, and others that did not participate directly in the construction. He told Glorfindel that after seeing the diversity of the group Glorfindel had brought in, it would do much in the way of relieving the overwork of those assigned to work for more than one house. He spoke of the general school built for all the present elflings that would be turned over to the general public once everybody was moved and settled in. It was one of the more progressive ideas of Turgon’s that everybody had agreed was a good thing.

Glorfindel was amazed at the progress that had been made and was glad that he had decided to send the people he found onto the city in groups. It had relieved the work load of others and progressed the building ahead of schedule. If this continued they would meet their 50 year deadline for building and have time to plant a season of crops and gather enough goods to see the people through several years. That would go towards allowing things to settle once everyone arrived, and allow the planning of un-looked for shortages. While the rumors of a city being built was bound to get out, what most of the people, including most all of the Lords, didn’t know was that the plan was to hide the city and cut it off from all outside contact. This would take much work and planning in advance. There were sure to be unexpected problems arising that none had anticipated.

After the tour they retired to Ecthelion’s quarters for more wine and music. As they drank another bottle of wine and relaxed, Ecthelion began to lay plans for a subtle courting and seduction of Glorfindel. He knew that Glorfindel had never been formally courted. Assuming it was because of shyness and modesty, Ecthelion was determined to go slow and take whatever time was needed. He had developed feelings for the blonde years ago but had held off as he tried to determine if it was Idril that Glorfindel was truly interested in. He had finally broke down and asked Idril about her relationship with the blonde before they left for the city. He had been greatly relieved to learn that they considered each other brother and sister. Idril had even confided that she believed that Glorfindel preferred males. She agreed to support his suit if he had not already won Glorfindel over by the time they moved to the city. Ecthelion figured it was only a matter of time.

Glorfindel left shortly after midnight claiming the need for rest. Ecthelion let him leave knowing that there was much work to be done over the next several weeks as they prepared to settle in for the winter. He knew that the more helpful he was to Glorfindel the more he could integrate himself closer to him. He would have plenty of time to court when everything settled down. After all, Ulmo had provided this city for them.

Work on the city progressed at a faster than normal pace. While the weather was warm, they concentrated on working outdoors building structures. When the weather turned bad, they moved their work inside. Doing this allowed them to work year round without interruptions. The smiths used the bad weather times to explore the caves around them and discovered veins of gold, silver, bronze, mithril, and iron ore. They also came across several pockets of various stones which they began mining with the metal ores. As they mined, storerooms were created for grains and other goods as rock was dumped outside to be used on the buildings in good weather. Warm springs were discovered and piping was laid to bring the water to the surface for baths and kitchen use.

Glorfindel used the older elflings to plant a cool weather crop that first year which greatly helped feed the workers and their families. During that first winter he and Erestor assisted his advisors in laying out plans for crop fields and pasture land. When spring came he halted the work on the buildings and walls in his section for two weeks and transformed his people into farmers while he planted all the fields. After that was done and the building recommenced, he borrowed warriors and odd laborers from the other Lords. These he sent out in groups, in different directions to purchase excess farm animals or round up wild game that they could transfer to their pastures and land. They also found some among them who knew the farming of water creatures to create ponds and set up fisheries from the mountain streams. He also ordered them to farm the surrounding lake and make maximum use of its resources.

His people were successful, and the city was self sufficient by the end of the second year. By the fifth year they had stored enough food, and their animals had produced enough off spring, that excess was taken to various towns and cities outside the valley below, with the gems they mined, and exchanged for the purchase of additional supplies to use in the building of the city. By the tenth year, all the basic gate and palace structures had been completed as well as houses for all of the building party in proper portions of the city. By the Thirtieth year all public buildings had been completed and a small working city was already in place as the different craftsmen set up shops to accommodate the builders various needs. By the thirty-fifth year all housing had been built and only a few odd buildings remained.

The decoration of the city began the following year as well as the planting of the main parks and gardens in each section. Since this was to be a city cut off from the outside world, plants and herbs were placed in pots all around the city. Trees were dispersed through out the city to provide shade and fruit. As the years passed the vegetation matured and the city grew more beautiful as the decorations were completed. By the end of the fortieth year a message was sent to Turgon from the Lords stating that the city was nearing completion and that the libraries and such could begin to be transferred. Three years ahead of schedule, Ecthelion, Glorfindel, and Egalmoth were selected to return to Nevrast and lead the people to their new home.

Ecthelion had used his time well over the years to become closer to Glorfindel. He lent his aid when called for and supported him before the other Lords when that was needed. It was common to see the two of them together and many already assumed that they were in a relationship but that they decided to keep it secret. He had yet to make a move physically but decided that he would take their relationship to that level after everyone was moved into the new city. Little did he know that Glorfindel’s heart was already taken.

The move to the city began the following year. Turgon had quite a following and it was decided that the people would be escorted to the city in three groups. The first group that left contained all of the elflings and expectant mothers. A large contingent of warriors was select to escort this group and their belongings. This group was expected to take the longest to reach the new city and finally arrived after ten months of travel. By the time they arrived, there number had swelled to almost double its original size due to the addition of stray elves they encountered along the way in addition to the newborns. All whom they come into contact with on the journey came along and were welcomed.

The next group left the following spring and contained most of the craftsmen and laborers. These were used to help transport great quantities of supplies and most of the animals being transferred. This group only took four months to make the journey, and upon arrival was greatly impressed by the way the city had been prepared. They found the transfer into the prepared shops easy and soon settled into normal life.
The final group contained the royal household and all who remained. They brought all of their personal belongings and any other items that were not being left behind. This group traveled fairly fast and reached the city in two months time. They arrived and passed through the first gate where the Lords who had remained behind met and welcomed them. The King made a short speech about the protection of this city and released everyone to find their homes. He was escorted to his palace by Glorfindel who took a scenic route to show the royal household as much of their new city as possible. Turgon was very pleased with the results.

- Part 3 -

Life in the city of Gondolin had its own ups and downs. Most of the time the city flourished without incident and sometimes excitement came unlooked for. The mortals entering their city were a surprise but welcome despite their grave news of the outside world. The leaving and subsequent loss of the King’s sister was much more dramatic and sorrowful. Mostly life continued much as it had before with the exception that Turgon had finally revealed that his city was closed. Once inside the city’s hidden area, one was there to stay. Many felt relieved to live in the relative safety despite the travel restrictions. The changes to education and social life were welcome after the restrictions most had grown up in.

The Lords of the city, including Glorfindel and Ecthelion, spent the first hundred years settling the affairs of their houses and making sure things ran smoothly in the city. There were the usual minor squabbles among the Lords due to jealously but no major problems despite the divisions within the city. In the first few years there was much moving around as people evened out throughout the city and collected with others of like mind. The King required all to undergo warrior training of some sort even after he closed the city off. He was taking no chances after all they had been through since crossing the ice. As the elves grew used to the restrictions and safety, their population exploded with elflings as many who had put off having young finally relaxed their guard.

Glorfindel found that despite the mixed collection of elves within the city, he still stood out. The golden coloring he had inherited from his father marked him as Vanya regardless of his efforts. Many of the non Noldoreans within the city ended up in his house. As most were artisans or general laborers it worked out well for he needed the personnel to man the fields and maintain the flocks which were growing constantly. He was glad that room had been planned into the city for growth and marveled at his friend Erestor’s foresight for the future. Most of the free land was under his control for the flocks and fields but even he had set some aside for other Lords to expand into. He prospered more than most other Lords as he required his people to be self sufficient themselves as well as work to feed the city.

Life settled eventually and the populace enjoyed watching the daily antics of its Lords as they chose mates and settled themselves. The most enjoyed gossip revolved around the fast friendship of Glorfindel, Ecthelion, Erestor, and Idril. Many still thought that Glorfindel and the King’s daughter would marry as he was her escort most days until word finally leaked out that they were cousins too close in kinship to marry. None of the four would indulge the populace when questioned about the possibility of marriage but that did not stop the speculation.

Ecthelion had continued his courting of Glorfindel but found himself stymied at every turn. He finally admitted that Glorfindel would never be more than a close friend, brother even. Once he had accepted that, he watched as Erestor tried his hand at courting his friend openly. He seemed more successful and they were acknowledged as an inseperatable couple as they were seen together constantly whenever one of them was not waiting on the King or Princess. Despite the love that was more and more obvious between them, Glorfindel refused to commit.

Finally Ecthelion could take no more of seeing his friends’ confused love and cornered Glorfindel while on patrol and demanded an explanation. After several minutes of silence Glorfindel told him the truth of his time before leaving Valinor. Ecthelion was shocked to learn that Glorfindel was already bonded for it did not show in his friend’s eyes as normal. When told of this Glorfindel was surprised and knew not what to think. All he knew was that he was trapped in an unwanted and useless marriage to a woman who loved his brother and hated him.

Ecthelion urged his friend to tell Erestor the truth. Upon their return a week later Glorfindel met Erestor for dinner and explained everything to him. Saying he had to think everything through, Erestor left and walked the streets of the city until dawn. The only conclusion he came to in that time was that he loved Glorfindel regardless. Returning to his quartesr to change for work, he crossed through one of the living areas of his house and observed the people. Seeing the different interactions he came to the conclusion that he would be willing to at least try and live together as a couple but platonically. He only hoped that Glorfindel would agree.

Meeting again at the King’s banquet that night, they slipped out onto a balcony and talked about their situation. After coming to an agreement between themselves, they applied to Turgon for a private audience. Following him into a side study, Glorfindel explained his and Erestor’s feelings and what they planned to do.

“I am sorry but I cannot allow this,” Turgon said as he looked sadly at his cousin. “You will have to stay separate.”

“Why?” Erestor wanted to know.

“Father explained to me what happened to you one time while I visited him before we sheltered here,” the King explained. “Glorfindel, he made me promise to look after you and stressed that you must remain true to the bonds you were forced into. He would never say more except that it was important. I am sorry Glorfindel but I will hold to the promise I made to my father, you must remain separate and above question. Do not make me order the two of you to stay away from each other.”

Erestor was angry but did not press the King further as he knew he would not change his mind when he spoke this way. Glorfindel just stood there looking lost. Finally Turgon returned to the reception and left the two alone.

“I love you Glorfindel,” the dark haired elf began. “If we have no choice but to go on as we are then I will endure through this. I refuse to believe that Eru would punish you in this way for something you had no choice in. One day we will find a way. Please do not give up hope.”

Glorfindel only nodded as he tried to reconcile his feelings with what must be. Finally they returned to the party but both left early to return to their homes. Over the next few weeks they were stiff around each other as they tried to come to terms with their situation. Finally after much effort they were able to return to a semblance of the life they had lead before declaring their feelings to each other. Glorfindel concentrated his life on the running of his house, the training of his warriors, and the protection of the city. Erestor busied himself with his role as advisor and librarian. Ecthelion and Idril saw their friends fall back into their previous lives. When their questions went unanswered they decide to give them time before trying to bring them together again. Several years later Glorfindel stood as best man when Ecthelion married Rog’s daughter.

When Tuor came with Ulmo’s warning and stayed, Glorfindel began to have dreams. He watched as his cousin Idril fell in love with the man and married. He wished her well but it left a hole in his heart every time he looked at Erestor. Idril and Erestor began having dreams shortly before the wedding although theirs were vastly different. When Idril married Tuor, Glorfindel’s foreboding grew. He confided his fears to Erestor who in turn told Idril. Soon the friends had decided that despite the King’s insistence that Gondolin was impenetrable, they needed an escape route out. Work on a secret tunnel was begun under the guise of warriors under punishment being used to build another storage room.

When Melkor attacked and Gondolin fell, Glorfindel watched as most of his friends died in its defense. The tunnel was only barely cut through the mountain but he and Erestor were able to ensure that Tuor and his family were on their way to safety through the tunnel and up the cliffs grabbing whoever else they came across to accompany them. When the Balrog found them, Glorfindel realized that his end had come. He was tired of living his ruined life and chose to end it by giving his friends and family a chance to survive. Pulling Erestor close, he extracted a promise that his secret love would fight and live while watching over little Eärendil. Then he kissed Erestor and left to battle the balrog.

Erestor watched in horror as his heart died with Glorfindel. He painfully honored his promise to live and watch over Eärendil. He finally settled in the Havens of Sirion with the other refugees and continued on with life although it now had little meaning. When the twins Elrond and Elros were born he made a pledge to Manwë to protect them to the best of his ability. Being their mentor and tutor provided him with a medium of happiness. When they were taken by the sons’ of Fëanor, he gave up all hope of ever being happy again.

He joined Gil-Galad’s troops and fought in the War of Wrath hoping to die but he did not. It seemed to him that he was destined to live, alone. Choosing to stay in Middle-earth rather than go to a Valinor that held no family, he attached himself to Cirdan. Eventually, Gil-Galad enticed him to Lindon upon Elrond’s return. The Peredhel had pledged himself to the King and been named his Herald. Erestor was placed among the King’s counselors and loremasters. Erestor became one of Elrond’s tutors and eventually attached himself to Elrond’s entourage full time.

~ Meanwhile in Valinor ~

“It is time you leave these Halls,” Namo told Glorfindel as they stood before a fountain in one of the gardens.

“Why am I being released before the others?” Glorfindel wanted to know. “None of the others from Gondolin have even left their rooms yet.”

“You are needed and have unfinished business to complete,” came the concealing answer. “You will be told more as time approaches. First you must spend time in my brother’s gardens learning to live again.”

“Will I have to face my family?” Glorfindel asked unsure of how he felt about the idea. He was no longer the unsure child to be picked on by his Adar and siblings. And then there was the fact of his forced marriage.

“We will talk more about that later,” Namo explained. “For now, you need to learn to live again. I will come and visit you when I think you are ready.”

Glorfindel knew his questions were not being answered but was willing to wait. He had been told about his Naneth’s choice to remain in the Halls rather than be reborn. He had been allowed to speak with her and they had made peace between them. While not liking it, he understood and honored her choice. He did extract a promise of possibly being reborn and joining him later. Something within him told him it would be many years before he saw her again but he also knew that they both needed the time to come to terms with their lives.

Nodding his head to Namo he signaled that he was ready. The Lord of Mandos leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss upon his forehead. Slowly everything went black.

Glorfindel opened his eyes to find himself lying on a bed being cared for by a Maia. Within days, he was up and working on regaining use of his body. His memories were blank but with each passing day he remembered more of how to live and small parts of who he was began to return.

[Parts 4 - 6 can be found here]