A.N: I hope that you enjoyed the first series in the story: Mae Govannen. This is the second installment, Alliance.

I would like to take the time to reiterate that this story, though based on canon from the stories of J.R.R. Tolkien, does stray loosely on some themes to allow artistic freedom. This includes Slash. It is rated M. If this is not to your liking, I respect your opinion, but advise that you do not continue the series.

I own nothing, and am only grateful to have been inspired by the histories of Middle Earth, Valinor, and its peoples.

Without further ado, enjoy!

oOoOoOoOo

T.A 240, Outskirts of Eryn Galen, Lothron.

"Are you sure that this is, indeed, the right path; Elrohir?"

The younger twin scowled. He was not so preumptuous to take offence at the question itself; more accurately he could feel his frustration growing with every wrong turn that lead them further astray. His father's question had been warranted: they appeared to be quite lost.

"I am no longer certain that there is a right path to be found, father!" Came the reply through clenched teeth, but there was no malice to his affirmation.

"Blasted Wood-elves and their secret passages! Had I known that we would be returning I would have paid closer attention to their wanderings last time we were here!"

Elladan could not help the snicker that escaped his lips. He knew that Elrohir´s growing discomfort stemmed more from his impatience to be reunited with their Woodland friend than from temper. Indeed, he too could hardly wait to resume their close companionship. That is, if they could navegate the immensity of the Greenwood and actually find the Kingdom hidden within.

Hearing his twin's mirth and seeing his mother's amused smile; Elrohir relaxed somewhat; an embarrassed grin taking form and lightening his features. He shook his head: he would never hear the end of this if Legolas found out!

"How do you feel, my love?"

Asked Elrond gently of his spouse. The twin´s, too, turned their attention to their mother; concerned for her well-being.

"I am well, husband. Do not worry yourself." Came the gentle, smiling reply.

The Lady of Imladris was nothing alike to her husband and sons. Where the blood of man ran through their veins, lending them a vigor and worldliness; Celebrían was ethereal; where their locks were dark; hers were of purest silver; even their masculine, contoured faces bore little to no resemblance to the delicacy and innocence of Celebrían´s.

She was beautiful. Every part the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn, her purity and gentle spirit were as famous as her allure. Yet this did not fully account for the glow that she currently emmitted.

Celebrían carried within her the life of their unborn child. The joy exuded from her very pores, clothing her in a pale light. She was a wonderous sight to behold.

Elrond had worried about undertaking this journey, given his wife´s condition. They had barely had time to celebrate this gift when Thranduil´s missive arrived: the King had finally relented to an audience with the Elvenlord to discuss the possible alliance; issuing an invitation to the Greenwood.

The master of Rivendell was beyond himself. After four years of correspondence, held back of course by the Elvenking's untrusting nature, Thranduil chose this moment to accept his proposal?! It was almost too much for Elrond to endure with good grace. The whole endeavour, all the hard work, it would come to naught if they could not accept the invitation to visit the Greenwood. Yet how could they, given his wife´s condition? It was a long and hard journey by any standards, and not to be undertaken lightly. The trecherous terrain of the Misty Mountains alone was worriesome. With a sigh, Elrond had conceaded that he would have to politely seek to postpone such a meeting; and hope that Thranduil would not reconsider his offer in the time elapsed…

However, his wife was of another mind. Although she had, at first, been unsure of the prudence of proposing an alliance after just one visit, now that they had been granted a sojourn she would certainly not let her husbands hard fought victory go to waste.

As deceiving as her fragile appearance may be; Celebrían was made of sterner stuff. She had not taken well to the idea of being coddled like a child; especially under such circumstances. She was no elfling to be told what she could or could not endure; not even by the ruler of Imladris himself. And so she had softly, but firmly, reminded her husband that she was perfectly capable of undergoing such a journey; given that she was still within her first few weeks of pregnancy. She had weighed the options, and having made her decision would not easily be deterred.

Stunned by the determination of his wife, Elrond's protests were eventually silenced. His concern for her and the safety of their third child would not ebb, but his sweet wife put many of his worries to rest with her gently resolution. As she had said, she was no elfling; but one of the most insightful and thoughtful beings this side of Valinor: if she felt that she could handle the challenge without risk being posed to their offspring, he would trust her.

That was not to say that he would not take precautions, however. Elrond had proceeded to thoroughly examine his wife to be sure that there were no exceptional circumstances which may prohibit their travels. This confirmed, their acceptance was duly returned by missive. There was no time to be lost. With all possible haste, Glorfindel was entrusted to rule in Elrond´s stead; advisors were made aware of their imminent departure; preparations were undertaken; bags were packed; farewells were said and the beloved Lords of the Hidden Vale had ventured forth.

It had been a rather tiresome journey, as expected. They had taken rest more frequently than the first time the twins had crossed this path; ever conscious not to put too much strain upon their dear mother, who was, in turn, thankful of this consideration. During the nights, after seeing that the horses were settled, the small group of elves escorting the family took turns on guard duty with the Peredhil twins. Many were seen to smile upon their Lady as they either began or ended their shift; ensconsed in the warm protection of her husband's emrace; a loving hand cradling her as yet unswollen stomach.

They had continued thusly for many a week; until finally they had reached the edge of the forrest. Looks of content had been exchanged upon reaching their destination, the trees a welcome sight. At least, at first. Before they lost their way. Elation had turned to impatience, and soon the elves were heard to mutter curses to the endless trees that had, once, been such a cause for joy.

"I found the path!"

Elrohir could have kissed his brother upon hearing those blessed words. It seemed that all was not lost, and the hopeful party from Imladris soon resumed their course toward a rather unsure Greenwood….

oOo

T.A 240, Eryn Galen, Lothron.

The Royal family stood proudly outside their palace, awaiting the arrival of their guests. All the Lords and Ladies of the realm had also been summoned; the magnitude of such an event occassioned formal reception.

"Dan! Roh!"

It was all Legolas could do to hold his younger brother in line once he caught sight of the two familiar figures. Elation at their arrival had swiftly overtaken decorum; and it seemed that Thranduil had wasted his breath explaining the Royal protocol to his dark haired child.

Said child merely grinned sheepishly; though he realised his error he remained unabashed and unrepentant.

Under normal circumstances, Thranduil would have indulged his sweet boy in a gentle smile. Under normal circumstances. Today, it was all the ruler could do to maintain his calm.

Having discussed the proposition of an alliance with his advisors; Thranduil had, as he expected, been met with opposition from the most part. Centuries of isolation would not be overcome in one short visit; even from ones so renowned as Glorfindel and the Peredhil twins. Years had been spent considering the ramifications of either decison. Should he accept he would no doubt bring about the discomfort of many; should he refuse the offer may never be made again.

At last, he had taken the advice offered by his second son to heart. There was much to be risked in making such a bold move as overturning the apple cart, so to speak. But without risks; there can be no gain.

Having finally made his decision; the King had quickly dispatched the message of acceptance; worried that his courage to do so may not last long. And how wise he had been in this foresight.

King Thranduil was not one to second guess his decisions, once made. Yet he could not help doubting this course of action. No sooner had the missive left to deliver that fateful message than he began to repent. It was not only concern that knawed away at the son of Oropher; but his own pride.

He had not seen Lord Elrond since the Last Alliance. It smote him that he should be considering union between the two realms after such a tormentuous parting. Doubly so when he thought back on his own fiery words; on his presumptuous assertion that his folk would never more seek the company nor aid of their Noldorin kin.

It was little wonder, therefore, that he had awaited the response from the Hidden Vale with mixed feelings. Thranduil had felt his stomach drop even as he rejoiced at their acceptance of his offer and sudden departure. Clearly they were of the same mind that to linger may give the King time to reconsider; and as such had decided to head for the forrest realm with all haste.

Swallowing his pride, Thranduil awaited his noble guests. He would never let his own feelings overcome his duty to those he ruled.

As their guests arrived, the King stepped forward to greet them. Though he could sense the impatience of Legolas; it was important that the protocol was followed upon this first meeting between the two estranged communities.

"Lord Elrond, Lady Celebrían: mae govannen, my honoured guests. I extend my thanks for accepting the invitation."

Elrond and Celebrían nodded their respects; also somewhat nervous.

"It is a great pleasure to be welcomed to so fine a realm; King Thranduil, son of Oropher; and we are thankful for the opportunity to discuss an alliance with Eryn Galen."

The lore-master´s reply was dignified; none could tell by looking at him the discomfort he truly felt.

Thranduil turned to Celebrían. His eyebrows rose slightly. There was no mistaking the light that emenated from her; the luscious shimmer of her hair; nor the utter content that exuded her being. She is with child!

"I hope that the journey was not too tiresome, My Lady, in such a condition?"

Celebrían smiled. Even should she have wanted to, there was no concealing that she was expecting. Not from Elven eyes. She unconsciously reached a hand down the cradle her stomach nurturingly.

"I thank you for your concern, King Thranduil, but it was as uneventful as we could have hoped."

Both Elrond and Thranduil somewhat relaxed at these words. The silver-haired Lady of the Vale had the most calming effect on both that Elrond wondered at the prospect of keeping her close by to smooth out any tensions.

"I shall not delay your rest any longer than necessary. May I present to you my sons: Lenwë, Legolas and Findecáno."

As their names were said, each son bowed respectfully to the renowned couple; their names proceeding them.

"My servants shall tend to your horses and see that food is brought to your rooms." – Continued Thranduil – "I invite you to explore and enjoy the comforts of our home as you wish."

Elrond and Celebrían were thankful of this thoughtful consideration, and gladly acquiesced: negociations could wait for the time being. The twins, however, were more thankful that the formalities were done with and they could now greet their friends!

The two sliding quickly and gracefully from their horses wasted no time in closing the gap to the rapidly approaching Legolas and Findecáno. They were all reunited in a tight embrace; words rendered unnecessary.

Stepping back; they all looked anew upon each other.

"I had not thought to see you both so soon."

Legolas broke the silence, his voice full of mirth and his eyes beaming with happiness.

The twins smiled in return; but Elrohir cocked an eyebrow:

"I am sorry if our swift reappearance displeases you. We would have extended our stay within the woods to explore thoroughly if we had but known our arrival would be an inconvenience."

The words uttered by Elrohir would have been provoking if not for the playful expression that danced upon his face. His brother smiled, and goadingly replied:

"Nay, gwanneth! I could not have remained any longer within those woods than we were forced to by your own lacking sense of direction!"

This elicited a surprised laugh from both Legolas and Findecáno. Elrohir looked in mock disapproval upon his older brother for sharing this confidence, but his stern countenance did not last long. Soon, he also joined the good natured laughing.

The twin´s parents looked lovingly upon the two: they had not witnessed first hand the bond that had been formed; having only to rely upon stories and retellings from their sons and Glorfindel. This was the first that they had seen of the sons of Thranduil, and they had to admit that no exaggerations had been made in regards to the comeliness or gentle nature of the two youngest.

Content that their sons were happy; the Lord and Lady of Imladris allowed themselves to be escorted to their chambers by the servants; grateful at the prospect of rest.

The same could not be said of the four young elves who were, by now, exchanging stories of the years that had passed since their first meeting. Findecáno took possesive hold of Elrohir´s hand, demanding his undevided attention, while Legolas was happy to saunter alongside Elladan as they made their way to their usual spot in the glade; the twins belongings and need to unpack forgotten for the time being.

Thranduil, in spite of his misgivings, could not help but smile at such an open and affectionate manner held by the four companions. He looked to his side, at Lenwë, who nodded his head at the passing of the party.

With matters seen to and nothing left to attend, Lenwë took leave, also, of his father.

The King was left alone with his thoughts, the Lords and Ladies in attendance following their crown prince and dispersing. Their first meeting had gone well. And his heart had been lightened by the knowledge that he had managed to bring joy to two of his sons.

What would come to pass was in his hands now. It had taken a good deal for Thranduil to put his pride to one side; but he was encouraged by the courteous, if somewhat reserved, greetings.

Valar give him strength, he hoped that he would not grow to regret his decision! But as soon as the idea crossed his mind, he felt another rise within him and overtake his unease: A hope that a bond might be forged between the two realms by more than their sons shared friendship.

It was a small and apprehensive hope; but it would very slowly begin to take hold over not just the King; but the majority of his subjects.

Glossary:

Eryn Galen – Green wood
Lothron – May (Sindarin)
Mae Govannen – Well Met
Eryn Galen – Greenwood the Great