{Ah yes, he knows that look! Thus why he encourages Maglor to feed the baby himself. It will help them bond; the little squirrel will look to Maglor for nourishment and safety.}
I only help you to feel your best. {The massages are something he enjoys too. Love can be shown in so many forms and he adores Maglor's hands. The damage the Silmaril did will never be erased, however he will soften those lines and give Maglor more flexibility.}
Your new child is a red squirrel, love. {Thranduil informs him, voice gentle.} They will grow tufts of fur on the tips of their ears.
{He stays close, humming a Sinda song that encourages little ones to relax and trust. Soon that nipple is latched onto and they are both greeted with the sounds of a baby eagerly drinking.}
A thirsty one! I'll fill the bottle with water when they finish.
Maglor loves those massages, even if he ends up sprawled oh so inelegantly against his husband - perhaps because of that fact? What is grace and dignity when with someone he loves?
He listens attentively to the information, resisting the urge to stroke a fingertip along a delicate ear. ]
They'll look extra handsome with those tufts.
[ Nope, not at all smitten.
Maglor shifts so he can settle against his husband as they coax the child into drinking, and the success makes him grin with delight. ]
How should I best care for them? I cannot ask you to stay with us at all hours.
{The sprawling is his favorite part, admittedly. Having Maglor so carefree in his presence is like partaking of a rare wine! This Fëanorian is his and he will do his best to care for him. It's not as if Maglor doesn't return his love and care, after all.}
Mm and they will have red fur. {He wonders if the hue will make his beloved think of Maedhros and his twin brothers. He sneaks an arm around Maglor's waist, holding him while the tiny squirrel drinks their fill.}
This you can do. For the first week, they should be fed every three hours. Keep them clean and warm. {He smiles a little.} I need not tell you to love them.
[ He likes belonging to Thranduil. What they've built between them is far more than he's had in centuries, and he feels he can actually relax around him.
Maglor hums at the addition, settling a little more against his husband as that arm curls around him. Maybe this little one is meant to remind him of his brothers - or his mother. In the end it doesn't matter, he loves the child already and it's so very clear. ]
Alternate water and milk?
[ He grins shyly and lifts his head long enough to press a soft kiss to Thranduil's cheek. ]
If I did not love them, I would not have called for your aide, my love.
{He has no qualms about holding his husband and comforting him with the gentle motions of his hand. Once the baby has their fill of the bottle, the nipple is spit out in favor of them giving a big yawn. Thranduil chuckles and guides Maglor's hand to the little round belly under the blanket.}
Much warmer, hm? {The kicking of those tiny feet is stronger than he had expected and he hums his approval.} Yes. They can have as much water as they like. But the milk is essential every three hours.
{The warm lips against his cheek have him smiling more.}
You have a strong child. We will be able to tell their sex in another week.
[ He grins at that mighty yawn! And gently tickles that nice round belly a little, admiring the strength of the tiny body that wiggles at his tease. He nuzzles his sweet husband's cheek before pulling back a little. ]
[ The gentle braiding helps him relax a little, along with the cute little squeak. Maglor nods in understanding, ready to leap to his feet to get water when he feels those soft lips press to his neck, and his intent subsides. It helps too that he sees the little squirrel snuggle deeper into the blankets, so he tilts his head to expose more of his neck for his husband's pleasure if Thranduil so wishes to play.
It amazes him how easily the other Elf manages to soothe and settle him, no matter how manic he's become. It should scare him, too, instead of comforting him. He knows it, but doesn't care enough to try pulling away. ]
In a corner of the room, perhaps? It is easy enough to keep things low to the ground for them.
A good choice. {Thranduil ties off the braid with a ribbon and then he draws Maglor into his arms. There is urgency with one so little, he understands, but while they sleep, Maglor should rest too. That is where his husband comes in, surely! What is there to fear?
Turning his head, he kisses one of his beloved's pointed ears, nuzzling the very tip.}
I do not fear you not hearing them. They will call to you for nourishment and comfort. As long as you answer them, they will continue to be quite vocal as they grow.
[ He settles in his husband's arms, frantic nerves easy a little further. Maglor is extremely grateful for Thranduil's immediate company and knowledge with little creatures. And the approval of his suggestion warms him.
Then Thranduil has to cheat! That nuzzle of an ear makes him shudder and tilt his head in offer. ]
I will not ignore their cries unless I see it hurting them beyond that of growth.
{Maglor knows what he is doing. Little animals are not so different from younglings; all of them need care and attention to grow strong. Thranduil remembers certain stories about a pair of twins...}
You needn't worry about them being spoiled. {Because they are cuter that way. Duh.} I do not believe in an overabundance of love.
{The cheating continues... He licks the edge of that ear, purring against the sensitive skin.}
[ His sweet twins were a handful but he loves them still with every fiber of his being. Maglor has no shortage of love and spoiling to give, that is for sure!
He chuckles until a low growling purr rumbles out at that lick and he happily goes limp against his wicked husband. ]
Ai I have faced your love and do not find it wanting.
[ As any youngling should be! Maglor had been so proud of how his twins had grown, even if he still wishes they'd been a bit more cautious at times. That just wasn't who they were though, or what Middle-Earth needed.
If Elrond had been any less stubborn or strong or good...would he have Thranduil now? Probably not. And that is just horrible to recognize.
He smirks at that grin and getting pulled in so snuggly. And tips his head to invite any and all such touches, knowing how thrilled his submission makes his husband - and doesn't mind at all for it shows the depth of their ever growing bond. ]
You are worthy of a great deal more than just my attention, but since it seems to be mine that you wish for, I will happily grant it!
{For a nightmare, Maglor is soft and warm and surprisingly sweet. Thranduil knows how quickly things can shift, changing beyond all recognition, and yet he is surprised by moments like this. He understands, at last, where the loyalty originated between the Fëanorian sons. Not all of them are like Maglor, surely, but there is...was...something good in all of them.
He realizes, should they appear in the city, that he must do his best to see to their comfort too. If only to ease Maglor's mind.}
What husband doesn't seek the attention of his mate? If I were a bird, you would have no question about where I stood.
{He reaches for Maglor's hands, peering over his shoulder.}
[ Love. That is one thing that had always bound his family. A fierce loyalty to those loved. Madness had ended certain lives too soon and horribly. Had broken them to the point they could see no other way forward, if only to reach their goal.
But should any of his brothers come to Duplicity - or even, Eru forbid his father! Maglor knows he would be hard pressed not to find them the best person to contract with...and keep a sharp eye and ear on them in case that madness returned. ]
You are an excellent mate. Never doubt this.
[ He studies his hands when Thranduil tugs them up to look at them. The scars are still stark against pale skin, but no longer nearly as angry as they can be. ]
I can feel them again, thanks to your diligent care. They only hurt when I get lost in memory.
Then I shall keep you from your memories. {Thranduil brings the hands up to kiss the scars.} Or, rather, I will help you make new memories with them. Hands as deft as yours can do anything they like!
{His voice rumbles, amused, and he nudges their heads together, murmuring:}
They can care for little squirrels and soothe impatient bitter Elven-Kings.
{And, for the first time, Maglor will hear his new child cry. They are dreaming of falling and it's scary! Thranduil releases his lover's hands and hums encouragingly.}
[ He cradles his husband's face in gentle hands after those kisses warm him and leans in to steal a playful little kiss to wicked lips. ]
You are good at drawing me from them.
[ Maglor leans into the gentle nudge, hands moving to curl his arms around his husband to start rubbing soothing touches over the other's back.
Only to be distracted by that tiny squeak! He immediately pulls (carefully) away enough from the other Elf, hardly needing encouragement to run gentle fingertips over the little child. He pitches his voice into a soft lullaby to chase away bad dreams, to assure the baby of safety and love. ]
{He feels flushed with warmth and he covers the hands on his cheeks. The kiss earns a grin and Thranduil steals another because he can. What other reason does he need?}
They are grey and tattered, love. The present is bright around you; it would be a shame for you to ignore it.
{Ah yes, this comes with having children too. He continues to kiss the side of Maglor's head while he sees to the tiny creature. The squirrel immediately registers Maglor's scent and the small body relaxes.}
Your bond is fragile and new, but you have been accepted. Cradle this small fëa, Maglor, and you will be rewarded with his companionship.
[ No other reason is ever needed! He likes stolen kisses because it's playful and sweet little gestures of affection. ]
I can ignore nothing when you are near. More, I do not wish to.
[ He'd never really had this experience before. But now that he does...he accepts it, especially since Thranduil settles right beside him still and those kisses continue. He smiles, utterly charmed by the little creature's trust and relaxing because of his efforts. ]
{Thranduil will steal more, then, if that is how he feels! He finds that affection steadies him and reminds him to listen to his heart. He can't risk locking that important part of him away again.}
I have seen you smile far more and that is but part of what I wish for you.
{The baby squirrel fidgets a little, getting comfortable and then he is fast asleep again, his back foot twitching.}
And if you have questions, you know where to find me. I will always come to you.
I smile more because of you. [ And he's not ashamed or afraid to admit it. He knows himself. Maglor turns to catch his husband's lips in a soft kiss, gaze steady and serious. ]
The act I have held for centuries is less of one here. And continues to lessen with each passing day.
[ He strokes that twitching foot, attention flicking back to the child. ]
I do not need to have a question to call on you, or find you. Just as you need no reason to come to me other than you wish to.
{He presses into the kiss, making it harder, a little more demanding. Thranduil loves to hear those words. He loves being the cause of happiness in another - especially in one he loves.}
What do you have to fear? I know of your deeds and yet I am not running.
{Neither is the baby! But his tummy is full and he is dreaming about a big forest!}
We are married. You may come to me any time you like. My rooms are never barred to you.
[ Ooooh, demanding husband! Maglor immediately answers, willing - happy! - to give what his beloved wants. ]
And that continues to amaze me. You have every reason to strike me down without another thought. Instead, you have claimed me for yourself and do everything in your power to heal me. You have given me a great gift - your love.
[ The baby is too precious and cute! He won't hurt it! ]
Just as mine are always open to you, be it here, or the Forge.
{His body tingles and he gives Maglor a secretive smile - something shared between lovers as he parts. No, he won't be leaving his husband wanting tonight!}
What would striking you down do? I could delude myself; I could be proud of my feat as if it took bravery to accomplish. In truth, I would be striking you down like a coward. I know you wouldn't fight me.
{Shattering what is already broken is shameful.}
I know you better now and I have no desire to strike you.
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I only help you to feel your best. {The massages are something he enjoys too. Love can be shown in so many forms and he adores Maglor's hands. The damage the Silmaril did will never be erased, however he will soften those lines and give Maglor more flexibility.}
Your new child is a red squirrel, love. {Thranduil informs him, voice gentle.} They will grow tufts of fur on the tips of their ears.
{He stays close, humming a Sinda song that encourages little ones to relax and trust. Soon that nipple is latched onto and they are both greeted with the sounds of a baby eagerly drinking.}
A thirsty one! I'll fill the bottle with water when they finish.
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Maglor loves those massages, even if he ends up sprawled oh so inelegantly against his husband - perhaps because of that fact? What is grace and dignity when with someone he loves?
He listens attentively to the information, resisting the urge to stroke a fingertip along a delicate ear. ]
They'll look extra handsome with those tufts.
[ Nope, not at all smitten.
Maglor shifts so he can settle against his husband as they coax the child into drinking, and the success makes him grin with delight. ]
How should I best care for them? I cannot ask you to stay with us at all hours.
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Mm and they will have red fur. {He wonders if the hue will make his beloved think of Maedhros and his twin brothers. He sneaks an arm around Maglor's waist, holding him while the tiny squirrel drinks their fill.}
This you can do. For the first week, they should be fed every three hours. Keep them clean and warm. {He smiles a little.} I need not tell you to love them.
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Maglor hums at the addition, settling a little more against his husband as that arm curls around him. Maybe this little one is meant to remind him of his brothers - or his mother. In the end it doesn't matter, he loves the child already and it's so very clear. ]
Alternate water and milk?
[ He grins shyly and lifts his head long enough to press a soft kiss to Thranduil's cheek. ]
If I did not love them, I would not have called for your aide, my love.
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Much warmer, hm? {The kicking of those tiny feet is stronger than he had expected and he hums his approval.} Yes. They can have as much water as they like. But the milk is essential every three hours.
{The warm lips against his cheek have him smiling more.}
You have a strong child. We will be able to tell their sex in another week.
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They feel stronger, more than just in body.
Did you bring a second bottle for water?
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Mm I did, but the one used for milk can serve that purpose too.
{He kisses the back of Maglor's neck, continuing softly as the baby snuggles deeper into the blankets.}
We need to build a suitable nest. Blankets will do and I think it best if they are not kept in a high place.
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It amazes him how easily the other Elf manages to soothe and settle him, no matter how manic he's become. It should scare him, too, instead of comforting him. He knows it, but doesn't care enough to try pulling away. ]
In a corner of the room, perhaps? It is easy enough to keep things low to the ground for them.
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Turning his head, he kisses one of his beloved's pointed ears, nuzzling the very tip.}
I do not fear you not hearing them. They will call to you for nourishment and comfort. As long as you answer them, they will continue to be quite vocal as they grow.
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Then Thranduil has to cheat! That nuzzle of an ear makes him shudder and tilt his head in offer. ]
I will not ignore their cries unless I see it hurting them beyond that of growth.
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You needn't worry about them being spoiled. {Because they are cuter that way. Duh.} I do not believe in an overabundance of love.
{The cheating continues... He licks the edge of that ear, purring against the sensitive skin.}
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He chuckles until a low growling purr rumbles out at that lick and he happily goes limp against his wicked husband. ]
Ai I have faced your love and do not find it wanting.
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He grins victoriously and wraps Maglor snugly in his arms. His lips touch that ear, his neck, his temple...}
I am pleased! I would not be worthy of your attention if I was cheap in my affections.
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If Elrond had been any less stubborn or strong or good...would he have Thranduil now? Probably not. And that is just horrible to recognize.
He smirks at that grin and getting pulled in so snuggly. And tips his head to invite any and all such touches, knowing how thrilled his submission makes his husband - and doesn't mind at all for it shows the depth of their ever growing bond. ]
You are worthy of a great deal more than just my attention, but since it seems to be mine that you wish for, I will happily grant it!
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He realizes, should they appear in the city, that he must do his best to see to their comfort too. If only to ease Maglor's mind.}
What husband doesn't seek the attention of his mate? If I were a bird, you would have no question about where I stood.
{He reaches for Maglor's hands, peering over his shoulder.}
How are your beautiful hands, love?
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But should any of his brothers come to Duplicity - or even, Eru forbid his father! Maglor knows he would be hard pressed not to find them the best person to contract with...and keep a sharp eye and ear on them in case that madness returned. ]
You are an excellent mate. Never doubt this.
[ He studies his hands when Thranduil tugs them up to look at them. The scars are still stark against pale skin, but no longer nearly as angry as they can be. ]
I can feel them again, thanks to your diligent care. They only hurt when I get lost in memory.
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{His voice rumbles, amused, and he nudges their heads together, murmuring:}
They can care for little squirrels and soothe impatient bitter Elven-Kings.
{And, for the first time, Maglor will hear his new child cry. They are dreaming of falling and it's scary! Thranduil releases his lover's hands and hums encouragingly.}
A little touch can chase those shadows away.
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You are good at drawing me from them.
[ Maglor leans into the gentle nudge, hands moving to curl his arms around his husband to start rubbing soothing touches over the other's back.
Only to be distracted by that tiny squeak! He immediately pulls (carefully) away enough from the other Elf, hardly needing encouragement to run gentle fingertips over the little child. He pitches his voice into a soft lullaby to chase away bad dreams, to assure the baby of safety and love. ]
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They are grey and tattered, love. The present is bright around you; it would be a shame for you to ignore it.
{Ah yes, this comes with having children too. He continues to kiss the side of Maglor's head while he sees to the tiny creature. The squirrel immediately registers Maglor's scent and the small body relaxes.}
Your bond is fragile and new, but you have been accepted. Cradle this small fëa, Maglor, and you will be rewarded with his companionship.
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I can ignore nothing when you are near. More, I do not wish to.
[ He'd never really had this experience before. But now that he does...he accepts it, especially since Thranduil settles right beside him still and those kisses continue. He smiles, utterly charmed by the little creature's trust and relaxing because of his efforts. ]
Nothing will harm this one.
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I have seen you smile far more and that is but part of what I wish for you.
{The baby squirrel fidgets a little, getting comfortable and then he is fast asleep again, his back foot twitching.}
And if you have questions, you know where to find me. I will always come to you.
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The act I have held for centuries is less of one here. And continues to lessen with each passing day.
[ He strokes that twitching foot, attention flicking back to the child. ]
I do not need to have a question to call on you, or find you. Just as you need no reason to come to me other than you wish to.
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What do you have to fear? I know of your deeds and yet I am not running.
{Neither is the baby! But his tummy is full and he is dreaming about a big forest!}
We are married. You may come to me any time you like. My rooms are never barred to you.
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And that continues to amaze me. You have every reason to strike me down without another thought. Instead, you have claimed me for yourself and do everything in your power to heal me. You have given me a great gift - your love.
[ The baby is too precious and cute! He won't hurt it! ]
Just as mine are always open to you, be it here, or the Forge.
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What would striking you down do? I could delude myself; I could be proud of my feat as if it took bravery to accomplish. In truth, I would be striking you down like a coward. I know you wouldn't fight me.
{Shattering what is already broken is shameful.}
I know you better now and I have no desire to strike you.
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