• 1-Reasons to Hope, Reasons to live
• 2-Chapter One
• 3-Chapter Two
• 4-Chapter Three
• 5-Chapter Four
• 6-Chapter Five
• 7-Chapter Six
• 8-Chapter Seven
• 9-Chapter Eight
• 10-Chapter Nine
• 11-Chapter Ten
• 12-Announcement!!

Reasons to Hope, Reasons to Live

Chapter: Eight

Keys:

Dreams and flashbacks

“Common language”

‘Elvish language’

[Translations]

//Thoughts//

This chpt is two weeks after chpt 7…Legolas is 5
month pregnant

~~~~***~~~~

Legolas stood on the balcony, listening to the soft
whispering of the trees during the quiet night. It had been two weeks since he
had agreed to marry Aragorn. All necessary preparations for the wedding had
been made since then and tomorrow the wedding would take place in the great
hall of Lord Elrond’s house. During the past two weeks, he and Aragorn had
talked more about their marriage and its consequences. However, he still
couldn’t tell Aragorn about Haldir's brothers, though the man had asked about his
reasons for not informing them about his pregnancy.

It was agreed that the two would be joined in an
elven binding ceremony, binding their souls together.

It was also agreed to keep the precise time of the
wedding a secret; however, the marriage would be announced officially once the
couple reached Minas Tirith; along with the news of Legolas’ pregnancy.

Legolas sighed deeply, thinking of his new life after
tomorrow. Being a prince consort to a race he didn’t quite understand would be
difficult. To live in a city full of men and stone instead of the wood he was
raised in would certainly be a difficult thing for Legolas to adjust to easily.
Not to mention that both he and Aragorn would have to deal with possible
rejection from the people of Gondor on their marriage. For a moment, las las
wondered what he had gotten himself into. However, that thought was pushed away
when he remembered the life that was growing inside of him, and he was certain
that everything would be worth it at the end.

‘Still awake, Legolas?’ Legolas turned to see his
brother, Mallorn, standing at the entrance of the balcony.

‘I was thinking of tomorrow’s events,’ he answered
softly. ‘It’s hard to sleep when you’re going to get married the next morning!’

‘I suppose so,’ Mallorn said, smiling as he walked to
his brother’s side. ‘I’m sure everything will be fine, Legolas. There is no
need to worry!’

Legolas just smiled back and turned his gaze to the
sky. The two stood there silently for a while, until Mallorn spoke again.

‘Legolas, I want to tell you something,’ Legolas
looked at him questionly. ‘I have promised Aredhel to tell him the truth about
Haldir's brothers tomorrow night.’ At that statement, Legolas paled.

‘No, Mallorn!’ he said shakily. ‘Please, don’t. If
Aredhel knew, then he’ll tell father and only the Valar know what Ada
might do when word of this reaches his ears.’

‘Legolas,’ Mallorn sighed deeply. ‘It had been almost
500 years since it happened. Besides, they must know. How long are you going to
hide it! Ada and Aredhel deserve to
know, as well as Aragorn!’

At that thought, Mallorn stared at Legolas
thoughtfully. ‘You have told him, haven’t you?’

Legolas sighed, shaking his head. ‘I didn’t have the
courage to tell him yet. I just couldn’t.’

‘Legolas, you have to inform Aragorn of the possible
danger that would be coming from Rûmil, for I’m sure that the news of your
marriage will not please that disgrace of an elf.’

‘I know,’ Legolas whispered weakly. ‘I promise I'll
tell him tomorrow, after the ceremony.’

‘All right,’ Mallorn said, placing a comforting hand
on Legolas’ shoulder. ‘And I’m going to tell Aredhel too!’

‘Ok, but make sure he doesn’t tell Ada
or ride to Lothlórien to strangle Rûmil or his brother!’

Mallorn chuckled softly. ‘I will, Legolas. I don’t
want to see what Aredhel or Ada
might do to them either!’

Legolas smiled softly at his brother.

~~~~***~~~~

King Thranduil was sitting near the window, reading a
book when soft knocks were heard on his door.

‘Come in,’ he said solemnly, placing the book on a
nearby table.

Aredhel entered the room and closed the door after
him.

‘Good evening, father.’ he greeted with a small nod.

‘Good evening, Aredhel.’ King Thranduil smiled
slightly. ‘What brings you here in at this time of the night?’

‘I wanted to ask you a question, father,’ Aredhel
said carefully, sitting in front of his father. ‘It’s about Legolas.’

‘What about Legolas?’ King Thranduil asked, adjusting
himself on his seat.

‘I-I-I wanted to know...’ Aredhel took a deep breath,
trying to regain his courage back. It wasn’t an easy task to question his
father’s decisions. ‘I wanted know why you agreed to Legolas’ marriage?’

King Thranduil raised an amused eyebrow. Even his
sons sometimes appeared to fear him. Well, not that it was a bad thing at
times.

‘I agreed to that marriage because it was your
brother’s wish,’ he said simply.

‘What about you?’ Aredhel asked.

King Thranduil sighed deeply, standing from his seat
and walking to the window. ‘I don’t agree on why your brother is marrying, but
what else could I do? It’s either this or his life!’

‘But father, why Elessar? Of all the people, why
Elessar?’ Aredhel snapped.

‘Watch your temper, young one,’ King Thranduil said
in a warning tone, glaring at his son. ‘I won’t allow any son of mine yelling
at me while questioning any of my decisions!’

‘I’m sorry, father,’ Aredhel said, lowering his eyes
apologetically.

‘It’s ok, my son,’ King Thranduil said, softly. ‘I
know that you are worried about your brother. I’m not thrilled either about
your brother marrying a mortal but it’s something that Lord Elrond said that
has made me consider Elessar’s proposal.’ Aredhel looked at King Thranduil
questioningly as the King continued, ‘He gave me the impression that Elessar is
in love with your brother and would do anything to ensure his happiness and
safety. I think he is right. Legolas will find happiness with Elessar and his
child will be in good care.’

‘Elessar? In love with my brother?’ Aredhel asked in
shock; however, his surprise soon turned into anger. ‘He’s taking advantage of
Legolas’ situation then!’ he exclaimed. ‘Father, you shouldn’t agree to this
marriage. He would-’

‘Child,’ King Thranduil interrupted. ‘Calm down!
Elessar is not taking advantage of Legolas. I’m sure of this or else I wouldn’t
have agreed. However, the fact that Elessar is in love with your brother had
really shocked me at first.” King Thranduil sighed deeply, turning his gaze
again to outside the window. ‘Elrond talked about giving Legolas another chance
to find a new love. He’s still young in our standards and that dead look in his
eyes doesn’t suit him. I want to see life shining in eyes again, but that won’t
happen unless love blossoms in his heart again.’

‘But why a magical binding, father? Such a joining
will trap Legolas,’ Aredhel said. ‘Once they are bound, Legolas would not be
able to leave Middle-Earth. His fate will be bound to Elessar's! And if Elessar
should die one day, Legolas’ life would be in danger!’

‘I know,’ King Thranduil whispered sadly. ‘However,
if we agreed on a human wedding, his pregnancy would raise too many questions.
Men may be oblivious to the ways of elves but other races are not. We agreed on
a magical binding just to be on the safe side.’ The old King sighed deeply. ‘I
know that this binding will trap Legolas, but I can’t find any other way. As
for Elessar’s life, there is a spell that would enable him to share Legolas’
immortality once their marriage is consummated.’

‘A spell?’ Aredhel asked.

‘Yes, it’s an old spell that allows mortals to share
the immortality of their immortal mates,’ King Thranduil explained. ‘Not many
know about it because there were fears that men may try to force the elves into
marriages in order to become immortal.’

Aredhel nodded his agreement. ‘But if Elessar became
immortal, then Legolas will have to stay in Middle-Earth forever, Ada!’
he mused.

‘Yes,” King Thranduil sighed sorrowfully. ‘I was
hoping that one day Legolas would consider rejoining us in the undying lands,
but alas, this hope will die once Elessar and Legolas consummate their
marriage. I'll have to leave these shores knowing that one of my sons is tied
to Middle-Earth forever.’

‘You are thinking of sailing to the Undying Lands,
father?’ Aredhel’s eyes widened in surprise and he felt a slight tightness in
his chest at the thought of his father leaving them.

King Thranduil smiled, returning to his seat. He took
his son’s hand in his and squeezed it slightly. ‘My time in Middle-Earth is
coming to its end, Aredhel. Once I’m certain that the three of you have found
your own lives and happiness, I’ll leave to the Undying Lands.’

Aredhel felt his tears falling down his cheeks. He
hated to show any kind of weakness in front of others, but the thought of his
father leaving them was overwhelming. King Thranduil wiped his son’s silent
tears with his thumb, smiling sadly.

‘Listen, Aredhel,’ he whispered softly. ‘I know that
you have wondered why I have changed my mind about Legolas’ child… True, I was
going to force your brother to abort his child for political reasons at first… but
while you three were away from me, I realized that I’m not only a King, but
also a father. A father whose youngest son had lost his lover at young age. A
father who was watching his son die from his own grief in front of his eyes,
without being able to save his life. A father who had lost a wife while she was
giving birth to his youngest. That’s why I didn’t object to Elrond’s suggestion
as many might have assumed I would. I was even willing to raise Legolas’ child
without this arranged marriage,’ King Thranduil sighed deeply. ‘When it’s time
for you to take my place, Aredhel, I want you to be not only Mirkwood’s King
but also Mallorn and Legolas’ father and big brother… especially Legolas, for
he’s just like how your mother was…always relying on his heart more than his
mind.’

Aredhel smiled softly, remembering his late mother.
‘Is that why you love Legolas more, Ada?
Because he reminds you of her?’

King Thranduil smiled softly. ‘Yes,” he whispered. ‘I
see your mother in Legolas’ face. I wanted him to be just the way she was.
Merry and carefree. I admit I wasn’t as strict with him as I was with you and
Mallorn, but it was only because she wasn’t there for him. Do you remember,
Aredhel? When I scolded you or Mallorn, you used to run to your mother’s lap and
find comfort in her arms. Legolas didn’t have that chance. No nannies in the
world could replace a parent’s love and I was the only parent he had. Even when
I scolded him sometimes, I could not sleep or do anything before I made it up
to him. No one knew, but I used to run after him and apologize for speaking so
harshly'. And sometimes at night, I used to go to his rooms and stay the whole
night watching after him.’ A tear fell down Thranduil’s cheek but he quickly
wiped it away.

‘Ada!’
Aredhel looked at his father sadly. He had never seen his father displaying
such emotions since hotheother’s death. He felt sorrow for his father. His
father had a big heart; in a time where everybody thought that he was the most
heartless elf ever existed. ‘When are you sailing to the west?’ he asked
weakly.

‘Not before you and Mallorn get married,’ King
Thranduil winked. ‘Though I assume that your wedding would be sooner than
Mallorn’s…I heard that Lady Tinûviel is quite remarkable, is that true?’

‘Father!’ Aredhel exclaimed, feeling his cheeks
getting oddly hot. //Mallorn, you are history once I get my hands on you!// he
vowed to himself.

King Thranduil chuckled, shaking his head. ‘My little
sons have grown up and I didn’t realize it. Anyways,’ he said seriously. ‘I
want you to promise me to take care of your brothers after my departure.’

‘Don’t worry, father,’ Aredhel reassured. ‘I'll take
care of them as if you were still among us.’

King Thranduil smiled proudly at his son. Aredhel
smiled back before wishing his father a good night and retuning to his
chambers.

After his son’s departure, King Thranduil went to his
bed to have some rest before Legolas’ wedding tomorrow.

~~~~***~~~~

‘Legolas! It’s time to wake up, little brother.’

Legolas’ eyes slowly came into focus at the loud
voice beside his bed. He saw a very excited Mallorn standing nearby and
grinning widely.

‘Mallorn, it’s still early,’ Legolas mumbled, pulling
the blanket over his head and trying to return to his elven reverie. Last night
he was barely able to sleep, so sleeping for another few hours was very
favorable. ‘The sun hasn’t risen yet, for Elbereth’s sake!’

‘I said it’s time to wake up, Legolas!’ Mallorn said,
pulling the blanket off his brother. ‘It’s your wedding day and you must get
ready.’

‘Is he still asleep?’ Legolas groaned upon hearing
Aredhel entering the room.

‘Wake up, you lazy little elf,’ Aredhel ordered in a
voice full of authority. ‘You have only three hours to get ready. I’ll order
the servants to prepare your bath.’

Legolas groaned as he got up from his bed, murmuring
about annoying Thranduil-ish attitudes under his breath. Mallorn chuckled
softly and followed his brother to the dressing room.

‘So what you are going to wear for the ceremony?’ he
asked cheerfully.

‘I don’t know,’ Legolas sighed as he looked into his
cupboard. Most of his clothes in Rivendell were formal, unlike his clothes in
Mirkwood where he preferred to wear simple ones most of the time. ‘But
certainly not robes.’

‘Wrong, Greenleaf.’ Legolas rolled his eyes at
Aredhel’ statement. ‘You’ll wear robes for the ceremony and for the banquet you
may wear something else. Go prepare for your bath and I’ll choose your clothes
for you.’

Legolas sighed, knowing better than to argue with
Aredhel when he was in this mood.

‘Fine,’ he said. ‘But don’t choose something very
fancy.’ With that, he left the room, leaving his two brothers behind.

‘Very fancy?’ Aredhel mused loudly. ‘What a clever
idea!’ he smirked evilly at a beaming Mallorn.

~~~~***~~~~

Legolas took off his nightshirt and tossed it on a
small chair. He was about to get into the hot bath when Mallorn rushed in.

‘What are you doing here?’ Legolas asked, blushing in
embarrassment. He grabbed a nearby towel and wrapped it around his naked body.

‘I’m here to help you with your bath, of course.’
Mallorn grinned at his brother.

‘I know how to take bath,’ Legolas said, frowning and
folding his arms in front of his chest. ‘I don’t need anyone’s help.’

‘Must you argue with everything, Legolas?’ Mallorn sighed.
‘You know perfectly that it’s a tradition to help Spouses on their wedding
day…and that includes helping them bathe,’ Mallorn said, holding Legolas by his
arm and dragging him towards the bathtub. ‘Besides, it’s not like I haven’t
seen you naked before. I still remember when I saw you for the first time after
your birth…you were-’

‘OK…OK, I get your point,’ Legolas exclaimed,
embarrassed. Mallorn smirked evilly. Knowing that he was trapped, Legolas
complied with his brother without any other word.

After getting Legolas into the bathtub, Mallorn
applied liquid soap on his brother’s golden hair and some oils and started to
wash it, messaging his scalp gently. Legolas closed his eyes, allowing his body
to relax in the hot water, under Mallorn’s gentle touch.

After washing Legolas’ body, Mallorn gave Legolas
some oil vials, telling him to apply them on his body while drying it, then
left the bathroom. Legolas got out and warped a towel around his waist, then
took another one and dried the excess water from his hair. After applying the
oils, he made his way to the changing room, where he found his two brothers
waiting for him.

‘How was your bath?’ Aredhel asked, his eyes
twinkling merrily.

‘It was fine,’ Legolas said, still not liking his
brothers attempts to help.

‘Just fine?’ Aredhel raised an eyebrow teasingly.

Legolas just glared at him. ‘What now?’ he asked,
sighing deeply.

‘These are your clothes for the ceremony,’ Aredhel
said, handing Legolas his robe.

‘I thought I said I don’t want anything fancy!’
Legolas scowled at the robe.

‘It’s your wedding, Legolas!’ Mallorn said, trying to
control his snickers. ‘Besides, it’s a beautiful robe and it’s not very fancy!’

Legolas sighed in defeat. Apparently, he didn't have
much choice. He took the robe and went behind a partition to put it on.

After few moments, he reappeared again and Mallorn
whistled in amusement at his brother’s appearance, while Aredhel smiled warmly
at him.

‘You look wonderful, Legolas,’ Mallorn teased.
‘Aragorn is surely a lucky man!’

Legolas just rolled his eyes. ‘What next?’ he asked
impatiently.

‘Your hair,’ Aredhel said simply, gesturing towards
the dressing table. Legolas sighed and walked to the dressing table. He sat in
front of the mirror and waited for his brothers.

Mallorn took the brush and started to run it through
Legolas’ silky hair, before taking some of the golden locks and braiding them
beautifully into small braids.

Meanwhile, Aredhel left the room and by the time
Mallorn was done with Legolas hair, returned carrying a small wooden box.
Legolas watched with clear curiosity as Aredhel placed the box on a nearby
table.

‘What in this box, Aredhel?’ he asked as his brother
peeked into the box and smiled softly.

‘A gift,’ Aredhel said slyly, as he closed the box
again. ‘Ada had sent an eagle to
bring it from Mirkwood especially for you.’

‘What is it?’ Legolas blinked in surprise.

‘Close your eyes first,’ Aredhel said, smiling slyly.

Legolas frowned suspiciously at his brother, but then
he sighed and closed his eyes. Aredhel smiled, winking at Mallorn before he
reached for the box and opened it again. He carried the box and placed it in
front of Legolas on the dressing table.

‘You can open your eyes now, Legolas,’ Mallorn said
excitingly.

Legolas opened his eyes and looked into the opened
box. A loud gasp escaped from his mouth as soon as his eyes saw the box’s
content

‘That’s…that’s…’ Legolas felt the tears filling his
eyes.

‘Yes, Legolas,’ Aredhel said softly. ‘It’s our
mother’s most favourite crown. Ada
wanted you to wear it in your wedding as Nana did in her own wedding.’

‘I can’t…’ Legolas chocked a soft sob. When he was an
elfling, he had seen a painting in his father's chambers of his mother wearing
that exact crown in his father’s chambers when he was an elfling[remove 'in his
father’s chambers when he was an elfling']. His father had told him that the
crown was made especially for his mother. It was her symbol…her station as the
Jewel of Mirkwood…the sun-maiden of the entire East region.

He reached out his hand and touched the jewel as if
it was the most sacred thing. ‘I can’t…’

‘Yes, you can, Legolas,’ Mallorn said, taking the
crown out of the box and placing it on his brother’s head. ‘It’s yours now…see,
you look just like her...a symbol of beauty and grace.’

Legolas watched his reflection in the mirror, wearing
his mother’s small crown. A tear made its way down his cheek as he listened to
Mallorn’s soft voice.

Aredhel smiled as he watched his two brothers. He was
surprised when his father told him to give their mother’s crown to Legolas, yet
he understood it very well. Legolas was the very image of his mother, a memory
of her beauty and grace and the crown was a symbol of her.

‘Come on, now,’ he said, snapping from his thoughts.
‘We have absolutely no time and still have a lot of work to do.’ He went to
Legolas and took off the crown, returning it to its box. Legolas sighed deeply,
surrendering to his brothers’ mercy.

~~~~***~~~~

At another part of Elrond’s house, Aragorn was also
preparing himself for the wedding. He studied his appearance carefully in the
mirror. Nodding in satisfaction at his appearance, Aragorn sat in a nearby
chair, thinking of the coming moments.

He was going to marry Legolas!

A warm smile lit his face at that thought. Finally,
his dream would come true and the beautiful Prince of Mirkwood would be his…

NO, not his…

The smile faded in Aragorn’s face as he remembered
the real reason for this union. Aragorn sighed deeply; if only he could win
Legolas’ heart!

However, that was somehow an impossible thing to accomplish…Legolas’
heart belonged to Haldir…and Haldir alone.

“Estel, are you ready?” Elladan’s head popped from
behind the door, snapping Aragorn from his thoughts.

“Yes, I am,” Aragorn replied, rising from his seat.
“Is everything set?”

“Yes, everybody is waiting for your arrival…Legolas
will arrive shortly after you.”

“Let’s go then.” Aragorn smiled at his brother and
both exited the room.

~~~~***~~~~

When Aragorn entered the main hall, he released a
gasp of surprise. The hall was beautifully decorated with white roses and
ribbons. A stage was set at the end of a long red velvet carpet; a white altar
was on it. The golden rays of the morning sun were creeping through the long
opened windows, giving the room a warm and pleasant atmosphere.

“This is beautiful!” Aragorn breathed.

“Of course it is, son of Arathorn,” Gandalf’s voice
came out of nowhere. “It’s not every day that the King of men and the Prince of
Mirkwood get married.” The old wizard smiled warmly as he walked towards his
young friend.

“Gandalf!” Aragorn exclaimed happily. “It’s nice to
see you, old friend, at such a happy event!”

“I wouldn’t have missed your wedding day, Elessar,”
Gandalf smile. “Especially, when you are marrying our sweet Legolas, the one
whom your heart had chosen long time ago. Besides, you need a powerful wizard
to perform the binding ceremony, don’t you?”

Aragorn smiled sadly at his friend’s words. “Ada
hasn’t told you about the reasons behind this marriage, has he?”

“He has told me, Elessar,” Gandalf said in sympathy.
“However, I still have some hope that you’ll find a place in Legolas’ heart.
You just have to give him some time.”

Aragorn smiled and put his hand on Gandalf's
shoulder, showing his gratitude.

~~~~***~~~~

Legolas stood nervously at the entrance of main hall,
waiting to be allowed in. A hand touched his shoulder from behind and he turned
to see his father smiling warmly at him. He smiled back as his father carefully
looked him over.

‘You resemble your mother on our wedding day,’ King
Thranduil whispered. ‘You look as radiant as she was that day.’ His eyes rested
on the crown that Legolas was wearing. ‘This crown is my and her gift to you,
Legolas…I was waiting for the day that I would place it on the top of your
bride’s head…but since you are going to marry a male, this crown belongs to
you.’

‘Ada-’
King Thranduil interrupted his son by placing a finger on his lips.

‘Don’t say anything, Legolas,’ he said. ‘All I want
from you is to promise me that you will be happy. Please, Legolas, try to find
love and happiness in your new life. And remember, Mirkwood and my arms are
always open for you.’

Legolas nodded and hugged his father tightly. ‘I
promise, Ada. I promise,’ he
whispered sweetly into his father’s ear.

‘Well,’ King Thranduil said, pulling away. ‘We must
go. You don’t want your future husband to wait any longer, do you?’ With that,
Legolas took his father’s hand and entered the hall.

~~~~***~~~~

Aragorn gasped at the sight of Legolas. The elven
prince was the image of an angel or a Valar.
He was wearing a one-piece pearl white robe with little silver leaves
stitched all over in beautiful fashion. A chain made of little silver leaves
was hanging around and down his waist. He wore white boots also decorated with
silver leaves. His golden hair was falling freely down to his shoulders; two
small braids were on each side of his face and on the top of his head was a
small crown made of silver leaves; the middle leaf stood dangled, pressing
against Legolas’ forehead; in its center was a diamond in the shape of a sun.

Aragorn took deep steady breaths as Legolas
approached the altar with his father. He wondered what Legolas was thinking of
at that moment. Legolas was smiling slightly at everyone but that didn’t mean
anything. The elven prince was well trained to hide his true feelings when he
wanted. Aragorn sighed deeply; this was going to be harder than he had
thought…How was he going to have Legolas near him without ing ing his real
feelings?

//May the Gods help me!// [he prayed silently.

~~~~***~~~~

Legolas felt his heart skipped as he entered the room
and saw everyone waiting for his arrival. There weren't many present, but each
one who was there had a special place in his life. The old lords, the twins,
the old wizard, Aragorn, his father, his brothers, and some elven lords from
Rivendell all gathered around a white altar waiting for him to arrive. Legolas
felt excitement fill his heart and it would be happiness if this was his and
Haldir's wedding. He thought bitterly. Haldir had asked his hand in marriage
just before the day of his death. His eyes filled with tears which were blinked
away before they managed to escape. He forced himself to smile before any of
these sad thoughts showed again.

Legolas looked at the altar ahead of him as he walked
with his father towards it. He saw Gandalf standing there wearing his usual
white robes and holding his long white staff. Next to the old wizard was his
friend standing, looking so kingly and handsome. Aragorn was wearing a dark
gray robe with sliver-threaded decorations all over it and black leather boots;
his sword hung loosely around his waist. His shoulder-length brown hair was
neatly brushed and held in a loose ponytail. On his forehead, he wore a golden
circlet bearing the symbol of Gondor’s court.

Legolas blushed slightly; he shouldn’t think of his
friend. Yes, Aragorn was going to be his husband after few moments but that
didn't mean that he was allowed to think of his best friend in such manner.
After all, they are just friends and both had feelings for another, even if
their beloveds were gone forever. Legolas’ face saddened for an instant,
remembering that Haldir should be the one standing there waiting for them to be
joined forever. Legolas sighed deeply; this was going to be harder than he had
thought… how was he going to accept Aragorn by his side while his heart was
with another?

//May the Valar help me!// he prayed silently.

~~~~***~~~~

King Thranduil led Legolas forwards to the altar next
to Aragorn’s side, then stepped aside. Legolas looked at Aragorn, smiling
slightly before greeting Gandalf with a small nod.

Aragorn and Legolas faced Gandalf, who cleared his
throat before starting the ceremony.

‘Dear friends,’ Gandalf’s deep voice rang through the
hall. ‘We are gathered here today to witness this joyous union between King
Elessar Telcontar, King of Gondor and Prince Legolas Greenleaf, Prince of
Mirkwood.’ He looked deeply into Aragorn’s eyes. ‘King Elessar Telcontar, do
you agree, willingly, to bind your soul for eternity to Prince Legolas and
treat him with all respect, care and love?’

‘I do,’ Aragorn said, glancing at Legolas from the
corner of his eyes.

Gandalf nodded and turned his gaze towards Legolas.
‘Prince Legolas Greenleaf, do you agree, willingly, to bind your soul for
eternity to King Elessar Telcontar and treat him with all respect, care and
love?’

‘I do,’ Legolas replied, nervously.

‘Please join your hands together.’ He gestured to
Aragorn and Legolas. The two faced each other, joining both hands together.
Gandalf took their hands into his and started to murmur softly in elvish. A
white glow shone from between the joined hands, and all present closed their eyes as a warm sense of
magic filled the air.

Legolas felt as if his soul was floating like a
cloud. He saw himself standing at one end of a big white hall; in the middle of
the hall was a silver line dividing the hall into two parts. He saw Gandalf
standing in front of an altar that resembled the one in Lord Elrond’s hall. He
then saw Aragorn stepping forward towards him. Forcing himself to step forward,
he met Aragorn at the silver line. Aragorn held his hand and led him to where
Gandalf was standing. Whispering some soft spells in elvish, the wizard tied a
silver ribbon around their joined hands. Legolas felt as if Aragorn’s and his
soul integrated with each other into one and suddenly, he sensed every thing
the man was feeling that moment. Excitement, happiness, anxiety and…and…

Legolas frowned mentally. There was a shielded
feeling in Aragorn’s mind that he couldn’t name it[. What was Aragorn hiding in
that part of mind?

However, before Legolas could think of a way to break
through, the image of the white hall faded as the magic around them diminished
and slowly Legolas opened his eyes to see himself standing in front of Aragorn,
Gandalf and the rest of his family and friends in Lord Elrond’s house.

‘You are now,
joined as one for eternity,’ Gandalf announced. ‘You may now seal your bond
with a binding kiss.’ Somehow, Gandalf’s voice sound suspiciously amused.

Aragorn looked into Legolas’ eyes, seeking his
permission; Legolas forced a nervous smile on his face. Slowly, Aragorn leaned
forward. Legolas’ breathing got faster as Aragorn’s face got closer to his.
Part of his mind screamed to him to pull away. No one was allowed to kiss him
after Haldir; no one had the right to do so. However, the other part of his
mind reasoned that this was necessary to complete the binding; it didn’t mean
anything. It’d be over very soon. In addition, if he pulled away, he’d embarrassed
his father, brothers and Aragorn. No, he would not pull away. Legolas closed
his eyes tightly as Aragorn’s lips met his in a light kiss. It was brief and
light and Legolas breathed in relief when he felt Aragorn pulling away. They
were now magically bound.

~~~~***~~~~

Later that day, a banquet was held in the gardens of
the house. Aragorn stood under a tree, looking around for his husband. He had
only seen Legolas at the beginning of the banquet before he disappeared.
Aragorn frowned to himself. Where could his husband be?

His husband! Aragorn smiled at the thought. He was
married to the one he had loved for so long. The memory of Legolas’ soul
touching his was still fresh in his mind. How close he felt to his beloved made
his heart beat with joy. Legolas somehow seemed excited about what was
happening. Yet there was a sense of sadness that filled Legolas’ soul. Aragorn
sighed deeply, remembering how much his beloved’s soul was still mourning
Haldir’s death. However, his sadness and excitement were soon replaced with
curiosity as the elf roamed in his mind, feeling his own emotions. He
remembered Legolas trying to break through his mental wall that surrounded the
only emotion that he tried to bury for so long. His love...

Aragorn sighed, if Gandalf hadn’t finished the
binding spell by that time, Aragorn was sure that Legolas would have managed to
break through and know his true feelings…

//And only Gods know what would have happened then!//
Aragorn mused grimly. He remembered the nervousness that he felt coming from
Legolas while they were kissing. Legolas’ emotions were opened to him in that
moment. The elf was fighting the urge to pull away from any thing that would
take Haldir's memory from him.

“May I interrupt, your majesty?” a voice cut through
his thoughts. Aragorn turned and saw a smirking Glorfindel standing next to
him.

“Lord Glorfindel!” Aragorn blinked in surprise. “I
didn’t feel your presence. Have been here for a long time?”

“Well,” Lororfiorfindel sighed; his sly smirk was
getting wider. “I have noticed that your mind was busy daydreaming, probably
about your little husband, and I was wondering when you’d be out of your
beautiful reverie!”

Aragorn chuckled softly. “I was hardly daydreaming,
my lord, I assure you! I was merely thinking of the last days’ events.
Everything happened too quickly for my liking!”

Lord Glorfindel chuckled. “Considering the time you
have taken to admit your love for Legolas, I would say that everything happened
too slowly for my liking.”

Aragorn shook
his head in amusement. He looked away, sighing deeply. “He’ll never know about
my feelings, though,” he said, wistfully. “Haldir’s death closed his heart and
it will never be opened again.”

“Nonsense.” Lord Glorfindel shook his head. “Time
will remedy his wounds, I’m sure. Just be there for him and everything will be
fine.”

“Alas, that’s another problem, Glorfindel,” Aragorn
sighed. “I’m mortal. I will not last forever. Even if he did return my
feelings, his heart will break eventually from another loss.”

Lord Glorfindel stared at Aragorn in surprise. //He
didn’t mean what I think he meant, right? // he thought. //Surely, Elrond had
told him about sharing Legolas’ immortality after their soul binding!!//
However, a look into Aragorn’s sad eyes told Lord Glorfindel otherwise. He
sighed deeply. //I should ask Elrond about his reasons on hiding such
information from Aragorn and Legolas!//

“Don’t be sad, Elessar,” Lord Glorfindel said
solemnly. “You may be surprised at what fate has in store for you and Legolas.”

“What do you mean?” Aragorn looked at him, puzzled.

Smiling slyly, Lord Glorfindel petted his back. “You
will know when it’s the right time, Estel. By the way,” he said, changing the
subject. “I forgot to ask you about your opinion of my brilliant idea! Did you
like me matchmaking you with Legolas?”

“I was just thinking on whether I should thank you or
strangle you to death for setting up this marriage,” Aragorn chuckled.

“Do as you please, King Elessar.” Lord Glorfindel
shrugged. “If I’m destined to die, I would prefer you over King Thranduil!
Especially after what I’m planning to do now!” He smirked evilly as his eyes
settled on two figures. Aragorn trailed Lord Glorfindel’s gaze and was surprise
to see that he was staring at Elrohir and Mallorn, who seemed to be having an
interesting conversation.

Aragorn blinked and looked at his friend. “I don’t
understand!” he whispered.

Lord Glorfindel sighed, shaking his head. “You,
youngling, have never ceased to surprise me. You can’t see love when it’s only
a few inches away. Your brother has some feelings towards Mallorn. Watch them;
isn’t your brother standing a little bit closer to Mallorn than necessary?”

Aragorn looked closely at his brother and frowned,
realizing that Elrohir was indeed standing *too* close to Mallorn. His
body was practically touching Mallorn's.
Aragorn blinked again, studying his brother’s behaviour carefully.
Strangely, Elrohir was acting in a more mature way at that moment and
completely ignoring a smirking Ella who who was standing not very far away from
the two.

“Well, that’s strange!” he breathed. “He is actually
behaving!”

“Yes, I think he is trying to impress Mallorn or
rather King Thranduil,” Lord Glorfindel smirked.

“But as far as I know, Mallorn prefers females,”
Aragorn reasoned.

“Oh, that is not a problem at all,” Lord Glorfindel
shrugged. “I can help take care of that little fact!”

“You are enjoying this very much, my lord!” Aragorn
stated, smirking back.

“Without any doubt, Elessar!” Lord Glorfindel said slyly.
“Without any doubt! And if you'll excuse me, I have a mission to do.” With that, the elder elf
walked towards the three young elves.

~~~~***~~~~

After some time, Aragorn found Legolas standing alone
on a nearby balcony above the garden. Silently, he climbed up the stairs that
led to the balcony. He stood at the edge of the stairs, admiring the elf’s
beauty. Legolas wore a midnight velvet
tunic with matching leggings over a silver shirt. Silver leaves, similar to the
ones on his robe, were around the collar and the fluffy long sleeves. Legolas’
hair was still the same, falling past his shoulders by a little distance and
the beautiful crown was still on his head. The setting sun’s rays reflected on
his golden locks.

“May I join you, my prince?” he asked the elf softly.

Legolas looked at him and smiled sadly. “Of course
you may, Estel!” he replied with sad tone, a tear sliding down his pale cheek.
He walked to the elf’s side and brushed the tear away with his thumb.

“And why is my beautiful husband crying on his
wedding day?” he whispered, feeling Legolas’ sadness filling his soul as well.

‘Because I have betrayed Haldir,’ Legolas whispered,
pulling away from Aragorn’s touch.

“What do you
mean?” Aragorn asked.

Legolas lowered his head, tears silently rolling down
his face. “During the ceremony, I allowed myself to feel excited, curious and
almost happy. Haldir’s image left my mind at that moment. I forgot that I was
binding myself to someone other than him. I was so willing that even the
binding spell was cast with ease. I feel that I have betrayed his memory by
doing that.”

“You didn’t betray Haldir, Legolas.” Aragorn slowly
warped his arms around Legolas’ thin body. Surprisingly, Legolas didn’t pull
away, instead, he buried his face into Aragorn’s chest. “Everyone would have
felt excited on their wedding day. And I’m sure that Haldir wanted you to be
overjoyed on day such as this.”

“But how could I feel happy when I was marrying
someone else?” Legolas sobbed softly.

Aragorn bit his lips, trying to control the pain and
hurt in his chest. He couldn't allow his emotions to get stronger or Legolas
would be able to feel them through their magical bond. Aragorn took a deep
breath and tightened his embrace.

“Haldir would have wanted you to be happy even if you
were with another,” Aragorn whispered. “Besides, we have married in order to
save his child. Believe me, Legolas; Haldir would not have considered you as a
betrayer just because you became happy once more.”

Legolas pulled away and looked deeply into Aragorn’s
eyes. He had heard the sincerity, care and kindness in Aragorn’s words before
even feeling them through their bond.

“Thank you, Estel!” he whispered, a small smile on
his face. “You have given me hope once more.”

Aragorn smiled warmly and wiped the tears from
Legolas’ face. The two stayed in their position, gazing into each other’s eyes
and losing any track of time.

“There you are!” a voice exclaimed from behind them.
The two looked and saw Elladan, Elrohir and Mallorn standing at the entrance of
the balcony with knowing expressions on their faces.

“What do you want?” Aragorn sighed in annoyance. He
was enjoying holding Legolas that close to him; something that never happened
except when Legolas hugged him at the steep staircase near the bridge
of Khazad-Dûm, but that was far
away from this. Now, three troublemaking elves had ruined his first and maybe
last special moment with Legolas.

The three elves smirked at Aragorn’s annoyance.

“A newlywed couple were missing from their wedding
party so father told us to find them. Have you two seen them anywhere?” Elladan
asked slyly. Legolas felt his cheeks getting hot at the stares Aragorn and he
were receiving. What would his brother and friends think of them being
practically in each other’s arms?

Sensing Legolas’ discomfort, Aragorn glared at the
three elves. “We were on our way down to the gardens,” he said firmly.

“I’m sure you were, Estel!” Elrohir smirked. “Come
on, you two are missing the first dance,” he said, advancing towards the couple
and pushing them down the stairs.

“I will not dance in front of everybody,” Legolas
said firmly as he struggled to free himself from the twins' and his brother’s
grip.

“Yes, you will, Greenleaf!” Mallorn chuckled. “It’s a
tradition that the newlyweds start the first dance!”

“But-” Legolas tried to protest.

“Not buts, Legolas,” Elladan interrupted. “You two *will*
dance.” The trio shoved Aragorn and Legolas in front of everybody, giving them
no choice but to dance together.

During the dance, Aragorn felt like he was in heaven,
holding his husband and waltzing around with the soft music. It was like a
sweet dream come true…

~~~~***~~~~

The dance last until late and feeling tired from the
day’s events, Aragorn and Legolas excused themselves and retired to their newly
prepared chambers.

The living room was beautifully decorated with white
ribbons and bouquets of white roses; the dim light of the candles added more
romantic atmosphere to the room. However, the newlywed couple’s thoughts were
far away from any romantic thoughts.

The two were standing in front of each other, staring
at each other awkwardly, not knowing what to say or do.

Legolas took a deep, thinking of a way to tell
Aragorn about Haldir's brothers but he couldn’t bring himself to tell the man
the story. He couldn’t face Haldir and his father in the past and now he had to
tell Aragorn about it!

Meanwhile, Aragorn was thinking deeply about how to
survive his first night with Legolas. It was difficult for the man to think
that in few moments, he would lay next to the source of his desires in the same
bed.

However, they couldn't stand in their spots all
night. They had to talk.

//How funny!// Aragorn smiled. For the past two
weeks, neither had done anything but talk about their marriage and yet they
still had to talk more. Well, it was better than standing and staring at each
other all night.

//Say something!// he ordered himself mentally. His
eyes caught the sight of a nearby table with two chairs opposite each other. On
the table was a large covered tray…probably their dinner.

“Do you wish to eat dinner, Legolas?” he asked,
gesturing to the covered tray.

“Not yet,” Legolas said, shaking his head. “But if
you do, please make yourself comfortable.”

Aragorn smiled softly. “We’ll eat together then!”

“Ok,” Legolas whispered. They stared again at each
other, not knowing what to say.

“Aragorn,” Legolas said nervously. “There is
something I need to tell you.”

Aragorn smiled and gestured to a small couch. “Let’s
sit first,” he suggested.

Nodding, Legolas moved and sat in the offered place
while Aragorn sat next to him.

Legolas looked into Aragorn’s eyes and wondered if he
c acc accept him as a husband one day, as Mallorn had told him he would. He
shook his head; he didn’t want a lover anymore. He had had his chance once, and
it was over now. All he wanted was to raise his and Haldir’s child in peace.

Noticing the wistful look in Legolas’ eyes, Aragorn
began to worry. He tried to focus on Legolas’ emotions through their bond but
they weren’t strong enough for him to feel.

“Legolas, what’s wrong?” he asked softly.

Legolas looked at him and smiled a tiny, sad smile.

“Aragorn,” he started. “Do you remember when you
asked me if I wanted to inform Haldir's brothers about my pregnancy and I
refused?”

“Yes.” Aragorn nodded. “I also remember asking you
for your reasons and you said you would tell me when you felt ready to reveal a
secret concerning the Lòrien brothers,”

“Well,” Legolas said nervously. “I am ready to tell
you, if you promise to not interrupt me and let me finish my tale before asking
any questions.”

“I promise, Legolas.”

Taking a deep breath, Legolas started his story. “It
happened almost 500 years ago, just after Haldir and I became a couple…”

~~~~***~~~~

Slightly R-part…if u don’t
want to read it…just skip the flashback…

~~~~***~~~~

FLASHBACK

Legolas walked
through the thick trees, wondering where his lover would be. He hadn’t seen
Haldir for two days and he missed him dearly. He gently moved a tree branch out
of his way, and entered a small clearing. Suddenly, he felt as if he was being
watched. He looked around, frowning when he couldn’t see anyone.

‘Hello,’ he
called. ‘Is anyone here?’

To his right,
he heard the soft sound of movement in the bushes. He quickly turned around and
saw Rûmil standing near a tall tree.

‘Oh, Rûmil!’
Legolas smiled softly. ‘How nice to see you!’

Rûmil smiled
cheekily and bowed his head slightly. ‘The honor is mine, young prince
Legolas.’

‘Please, call
me Legolas,’ Legolas said. ‘There is no need for formality when we are alone.’

‘Very well then, Legolas’ Rûmil said, walking towards
him with careful steps. Although Legolas’ first hunch had told him to turn
around and run away from the Lothlórien elf, he managed to control
himself, saying that Rûmil would not harm him.

‘May I ask, *Legolas*,
why you are walking through the forest alone? It is not the wisest thing for a
young elf to do,’ Rûmil said slyly.

Legolas flushed
slightly. ‘Why is it not safe?’ he asked innocently. ‘What would happen to me
in the safety of Golden Woods? Anyway, I was looking for Haldir; have you seen
him?’ He tilted his head cutely to one side. Rûmil stared at him for a while,
before answering. ‘You are right, my prince. These woods are the safest place
in Middle-Earth. As for Haldir, he has gone; scouting our borders. I don’t
think he’ll be back tonight.’

‘Oh,’ Legolas
said disappointedly. ‘Very well then. I’ll excuse myself now. Mallorn must be
looking for me by now; I must return to our talan.’ With that, he turned around
and was about to walk away if not for a strong hand grabbing his wrist, forcing
him to turn around. Legolas yelped in surprise as his body was turned
forcefully and was pressed against Rûmil’s.

‘Not yet, my
price,’ Rûmil said oily. ‘You can’t just come and go like that! We've hardly
had time in the past to talk and get to know each other better. Don’t you agree
with me, Orophin?’ Legolas looked over Rûmil’s shoulder and saw Orophin
approaching them with evil smirk on his face. The young prince gulped. He had
always felt uneasy around Haldir's brothers but now this unease had turned into
fear.

‘I certainly do
agree, Rûmil,’ Orophin said. ‘We and the young prince must have some time
together in order to *know* each other better.’

Legolas felt
afraid and tried to free himself but Rûmil’s grip was seemingly stronger than
iron.

‘Let me go,’ he
demanded. ‘I’m ordering you!’

‘Ordering us?’
Rûmil snorted. ‘You are in no position to order us, young one.’ He tightened
his grip around Legolas’ wrist.

‘Rûmil,
please,’ Legolas whimpered softly. ‘Why
you are hurting me? I haven’t done anything to you! Please, Rûmil! I’m your
brother’s lover, for Elbereth’s sake!’

Rûmil smirked
evilly and glanced over his shoulder at his brother. ‘Did you hear that,
Orophin? He’s our brother’s lover! How nice! Well, young one,’ he said, turning
his attention back to Legolas. ‘Because you are our brother’s lover, you have
some obligations towards us, as well. You see, Legolas, ever since our parents
left Middle-Earth, and Haldir has been like a parent to us. We used to share *everything*
b*
between the three of us. However, when Haldir took you as a lover, he didn’t
share you with us!’

Legolas’ eyes
widened in fear, anger, and disgust. ‘You bastards!’ he yelled, struggling to
free himself. ‘How dare you speak of me as if I was a piece of property! And
how dare you speak of your own brother in that way!’ His free hand formed a
fist; he wanted to punch Rûmil. However, Rûmil’s other hand was faster than his
and grabbed the fist before it touched his face.

‘That wasn’t
very smart, pretty one.’ He smirked. Legolas now was furious. He tried to pull
away but with no success.

‘Let me go,’ he
yelled, feeling his tears falling down from his eyes.

‘And if I
don't?’ Rûmil asked slyly.

‘You will be
sorry for this, Rûmil,’ Legolas hissed. ‘Haldir will learn about this and so
will your Lord and Lady.’

Rûmil smirked
evilly. ‘Then make sure they know about this too!’ With a swift move, Rûmil
pulled Legolas’ body towards his and pressed his lips on Legolas’. Legolas
tuned his face quickly away from the kiss but Rûmil was not going to give up so
easily. The Lòrien elf released one of Legolas’ hands and cupped the
prince’s face, shoving his tongue into the prince’s mouth'.

Using his now
free hand, Legolas tried to push Rûmil away but failed miserably. He started to
punch and claw Rûmil’s shoulder but that didn’t stop the Lòrien elf from
violating his mouth.

Suddenly, a
hard surface higolagolas’ back. In his attempt to free himself, Legolas didn’t
realize that Rûmil was pushing him backwards until he hit a tree trunk. Legolas
froze, realizing that he was now trapped between Rûmil and the tree.

Taking
advantage of Legolas’ momentary distraction, Rûmil pulled away and in a swift
move, turned the prince’s body and pinned it to the tree, bending Legolas’ arms
behind his back. Legolas yelled in pain as his face made contact with the rough
surface and his hands were bent forcefully behind his back.

‘Orophin, the
rope!’ Rûmil glanced at his brother, who was watching nearby. With an evil
smirk, Orophin took out a rope hidden between the folds of his tunic and handed
it to Rûmil.

‘Now, my little
prince,’ Rûmil whispered in Legolas’ ears as he tied the prince’s hands behind
his back. ‘You are ours!’

‘Rûmil, please!’
Legolas pleaded, his tears were falling uncontrolled. ‘Don’t do this! Please!’

‘Don’t do what,
my prince?’ Rûmil asked in mocking innocent. ‘It’s nothing that you haven't
experienced before! I’m sure that Haldir has pleased you well, my little prince!’

‘No,’ Legolas
wept. ‘Please, Rûmil. Don’t.’

‘Enough of
this!’ Rûmil ordered, turning Legolas around. He looked into Legolas’ eyes,
with anger burning in his green eyes. ‘I always have what I want…and *you* are
what I want right now.’ With that, he kissed Legolas forcefully and the prince
whimpered as Rûmil forced his month open.

Rûmil pulled
away and smirked evilly at him.

‘Here, Orophin.
I’m sure you’d love to taste this,’ he said as he pushed Legolas into his
brother’s arms. Orophin seized the thin body with his strong grip and crushed
his lips with Legolas’ swollen ones.

Soft sobs came
from the young prince as Orophin pushed him to the ground with his body. He
felt his hands’ bones crushing as Orophin’s weight pinned him down. Orophin
smirked and started to open Legolas’ tunic and shirt.

Orophin pulled
away and stared at Legolas’ bare chest.

‘What a
beautiful sight!’ He smirked evilly. He looked up at his brother and saw that
Rûmil had already freed himself from his clothes. He looked back at Legolas
underneath him, titling his head thoughtfully. Legolas looked at himh teh teary
eyes, realizing that he was at two elves’ mercy. They were deep in the woods;
no one would hear his calls for help. The two elves would have their way with
him and nobody would ever rescue him. He closed his eyes, sobbing
heartily.

‘There seems to
be something missing though,’ Orophin said, rubbing his chin. ‘Oh, yes. I
remember.’ With a quick move, he flipped the prince onto his stomach. Legolas
gasped as Orophin pulled his leggings down to his knees.

‘No, Orophin,
please!’ he yelled in panic. ‘Please, No!’ His body was shaking violently as he
felt Orophin's hands stroking his tender flesh. ‘Please, don’t!’

‘Why shouldn’t
we, Legolas?’ Rûmil asked as he walked over to his brother and their prey.
Orophin stood and gave way to his brother.

Rûmil smirked,
sensing Legolas’ fear as he pulled Legolas’ legs apart and settled himself
between them.

He ran his hand
over the soft skin and moaned in desire. Legolas closed his eyes, praying to
the Valar to take his soul now and spare him from this.

Rûmil leaned
over, covering Legolas’ body with his, and placed his lips at the young elf’s
nape, tasting the salt of sweat beading on his back. Taking his time, he slowly
traced Legolas’ back with his mouth, licking up sweat along the way. Reaching
the small of Legolas’ back, he placed there a chaste kiss. Wrapping his arms
around Legolas’ upper torso, he lifted him, letting his weight lean against his
body. Wrapping one arm around Legolas’ chest, he let his free hand drift down
and his fingers wrapped around Legolas’ hard length. He felt the body he hugged
tremble.

‘Please, Rûmil,
No!’ Legolas pleaded helplessly. ‘You will kill me!’

‘Is that why
you are fighting back, my beautiful elf?’ Rûmil sneered. ‘We can always get
around that little problem, can’t we?’ he whispered into Legolas’ ears. He
licked the tip of Legolas’ ears, dragging a loud gasp from the elf underneath
him.

‘No!’ Legolas
shut his eyes; tears streaming from them like rivers. ‘Please, Rûmil! I have
never done this before!’ he whispered between his sobs.

Hearing that,
Orophin tensed. Legolas was still virgin! The thought shocked him. Yes, he had
desired the young elf and seeing Haldir gaining his affection had raised his
jealousy but the elf was virgin; that meant even Haldir hadn’t touched him yet!
This was his first time!

‘Rûmil,’ he
called his brother uncertainly.

‘What?’ Rûmil
looked at his brother, annoyed to hear uncertainly in his voice.

‘Maybe we
shouldn’t do this,’ he said nervously.

‘Why not?’
Rûmil snapped. He was so close to having what he had desired for so long.
Orophin gulped and said nothing. Rûmil might be the youngest, but he had much
stronger personality. Orophin knew that he could do nothing to stop his
brother.

Rûmil looked
back at the sobbing elf underneath him and smirked. ‘So our pretty Legolas is
still virgin, isn’t he? How nice! It’s an honor to be the first one to mark
that beautiful body!’ he taunted. Legolas did nothing but sob. He’d shame his
family forever.

Rûmil moved
slowly down, stroking Legolas’ flesh. He was about to settle himself once again
between Legolas’ ts whs when the three elves heard the whistle of an arrow near
them. True enough, an arrow settled itself a few inches away from Legolas’ figure.
The three looup aup and saw Mallorn and few Mirkwood guards standing at the
entrance of the clearing, all pointing aiming their bows at them.

‘Mallorn!’
Legolas exclaimed.

Mallorn,
however, didn’t even look to his brother. His eyes were glued on Rûmil.

‘Move away from
him, Rûmil!’ he ordered coldly. His arrow was pointing directly to the elf’s
heart. ‘I said move away or the next arrow will land into your dark heart.’ he
spat.

Rûmil moved
away, glaring at Mallorn with hatred.

‘The lady will hear
about this, Mallorn,’ he said. ‘You will have to explain how you dared to
threaten one of her guards.’

‘Then you will
have to explain to her how you dared to attack one of Mirkwood's princes.’
Mallorn walked slowly towards his brother’s motionless form.

The Mirkwood
guards followed him with careful steps, their arrows and eyes on the two
Lòrien elves.

‘Go out of my
sight,’ Mallorn spat, throwing Rûmil’s clothes at him. ‘And I warn you, if I
see you near my brother again, I’ll make sure that that would be the last thing
you do.’ With that, Orophin and Rûmil walked away.

Mallorn knelt
near Legolas and took him in his arms. Legolas’ sobs increased as he felt
Mallorn's warmth envelope him.

‘Shhhhhhhhhh,
young one,’ Mallorn whispered, untying his brother’s hands. ‘Everything will be
all right. They are gone.’

Legolas cried
his heart out, soaking Mallorn's tunic with hot tears. He was ashamed to be
seen in that humiliated position by his brother and his own guards. He sobbed
until there were no tears left.

Mallorn sat
patiently, waiting for his brother to release all his pain. When Legolas’ sobs
cd, hd, he looked down at him and smiled warmly.

‘It’s all
right, Greenleaf,’ he said reassuringly. ‘Everything is all right.’

Legolas looked
at him sadly. ‘They tried to…’ he choked. ‘I couldn’t fight back…I was weak…I
couldn’t fight.’ His sobs started all over again and he buried his face in
Mallorn’s chest and wept.

‘It’s ok,
Legolas,’ Mallorn stroke his hair tenderly. ‘Thank the Valar that we reached
you in time. Those two will never dare to touch you again.’

‘But was it
wise to let them go, your highness?’ the head of the guards asked. ‘We should
have tied them to a tree and informed the lady of their deeds.’

‘Don’t worry,
Amélas,’ Mallorn said, glancing at the young guard. ‘I didn’t want to draw any
attention by doing anything to those two. None of this should be known to the
others, is that understood?’ Seeing the guards nodding in agreement, Mallorn
continued. ‘As for the lord and lady of the wood, I’ll inform them myself of
what has occurred.’

‘No!’ Legolas
snapped his head. ‘No one should know of this.’ He looked at his brother with
pleading eyes. ‘Please, I don’t want anyone to know. Not the Lord, not the
Lady, not Haldir, no one should know of this!’

‘But Legolas-’
Mallorn tried to reason.

‘No,’ Legolas
pleaded.n’t n’t tell anyone. Please, Mallorn. Nobody must know!’

Mallorn looked
at his brother and sighed deeply. ‘Ok, I won't tell anyone but you have to stay
close to us at all times; agreed?’

Legolas nodded
and hugged his brother tightly.

END OF
FLASHBACK

~~~~***~~~~

End of the R-part…

~~~~***~~~~

‘How DARE they
try to touch Legolas!’ Aredhel jumped from his sea, anger burning in his eyes.
Mallorn sighed deeply at his brother’s very-much-expected outburst. His eyes
followed Aredhel as he paced back and forth, boiling with anger.

‘Aredhel, will you please calm and sit so I can
continue?’ he asked after his head started pin pin due to his brother’s pacing.

‘How can I calm down when I know that my baby brother
was nearly raped by his lover’s brothers! And you knew about it and hadn’t said
a single word.’ He glared at Mallorn. ‘I can’t believe that you two kept such
thing a secret for 500 years!’

‘I hadn’t had a choice,’ Mallorn sighed. ‘Legolas was
hurt and I didn’t want to add to his pain. He was afraid of what father, you
and Haldir would say or do. I had to do something to assure him!’

‘Father will not like this!’ Aredhel shook his head,
sitting once more.

‘He shouldn’t know, then,’ Mallorn said determinedly.
‘If he heard of it, nothing will stop his anger from destroying anything in his
way.’

Aredhel nodded solemnly. The two sat in uncomfortable
silence, each lost in his own thoughts; until Aredhel asked, ‘Was that the
reason why Legolas stopped going to Lothlórien as frequently as before?’

‘Yes,’ Mallorn answered, nodding. ‘After the
incident, Legolas stopped going anywhere without company. He didn’t wish to
encounter Rûmil or Orophin again. In addition, when Haldir was back, he tried
to avoid him at the beginning. When he failed, he started to feel uneasy around
him. Haldir had noticed that and asked me more than once if he had wronged
Legolas in any way. I even was at edge of telling him the truth out of pity.’
Mallorn took a dbreabreath before he continued, ‘This had continued until one
day…’

~~~~***~~~~

FLASHBACK

Mallorn looked up from the book he was reading and
frowned at his brother’s condition. The two Mirkwood brothers were sitting near
the window in their private talan, enjoying the peaceful night together.
Mallorn was reading an interesting book about Middle-Earth's different races
while Legolas was looking out of the window, lost deep in thought. That of
course was before Legolas started to shift restlessly in his seat, glancing in
Mallorn's direction from time to time as if he wanted to say something but was
afraid to do so.

Closing his book with a sigh, Mallorn looked
directly at Legolas.

‘Legolas, is something wrong?’ he asked softly.

Legolas looked at his brother and shook his head.
Mallorn raised an eyebrow, eyeing his brother with a knowing look. Knowing that
he wouldn’t be able to fool his brother, Legolas nodded with a sigh.

‘Well, what is it?’ Mallorn asked.

‘I…I…’ Legolas bit his lip nervously. ‘I've been
thinking for the past few days…it’s nothing, really.’ He shrugged.

‘Thinking of?’ Mallorn asked, frowning at his
brother’s behaviour. It was unusual for him to have to pull out words from his
carefree brother.

‘I was thinking of what had happened and how it
affects my relationship with Haldir.’ Legolas turned his gaze to the window,
sighing deeply. ‘I feel as we have pulled apart!’

‘Have your feelings towards Haldir changed,
Legolas?’ Mallorn asked quietly.

‘No!’ Legolas exclaimed, looking at his brother
again. ‘I am still in love with him. It just that every time we've been in an intimate moment, I felt
afraid and thus, I pulled away.’

‘That’s all right, Legolas,’ Mallorn smiled
reassuringly. ‘With time, you will get over what happened!’

‘I want to get over it now,’ Legolas said
determinedly. ‘That’s why I was thinking of…’ he took breath before he
continued. ‘I was thinking of sleeping with Haldir,’ he said in one breath.

Mallorn gasped. ‘Legolas! Have you lost your
mind?’ he exclaimed. ‘You can’t do that without an official marriage!’

‘Why not?’ Legolas asked. ‘I want this. Haldir is
my lover. I want be to his and his alone.’

‘But Legolas, father will not be pleased if he
hears that you have disobeyed him. You are a prince. You can’t give yourself to
anyone without marriage. Father will-’

‘Then no one will have to know,’ Legolas said,
stubbornly. ‘Please, Mallorn.’ His tone softened. ‘I need this to overcome my
fears. Rûmil was about to ruin my life and tainted my soul with shame for the
rest of my life. I want my first time to be with the one I love. I’m not ready
for the responsibilities of marriage yet, but I want to feel my lover’s touch
on my body.’ Legolas stood from his seat and knelt in front of his brother.
‘I’m telling you this because I know that you will understand me. I need Haldir
to erase Rûmil’s hateful memory. Please, Mallorn, please understand me!’

Mallorn looked deeply into Legolas’ pleading eyes
and sighed. He couldn’t understand Legolas and he was sure that his father and
Aredhel would not like this, but Legolas seemed to be in desperate need of this
right now.

‘All right. I will let you to do it,’ he said in
defeat. ‘But only this once, Legolas! And don’t let anyone see you.’

‘Thank you, Mallorn!’ With that, Legolas rose to
his feet. ‘I’ll go and talk to Haldir! I want this done tonight!’

‘One more thing!’ Mallorn exclaimed as Legolas
reached the door of the talan. Legolas looked back at him questionly. Clearing
his throat, Mallorn said, ‘Don’t sleep in Haldir’s talan. Return here after you
two are finished.’ With a nod, Legolas left the room.

Mallorn covered his face with hands. ‘Father will
kill me!’

END OF FLASHBACK

~~~~***~~~~

‘You let him do WHAT?’ Aredhel glared at his brother.

Mallorn sighed deeply. ‘Yes, I let him sleep with
Haldir against father’s orders.’

‘I can’t believe it!’ Aredhel exclaimed. ‘You went
against father’s orders and allowed Legolas to sleep with Haldir!’

‘I felt that he needed to, Aredhel. You don't know
how distressed he was that night…he
needed to forget!’ Mallorn exclaimed.

‘Well, thanks to you…he has gotten himself in big
trouble because of his need to forget,’ Aredhel said coldly.

Mallorn flinched at his brother’s tone. ‘We didn’t
know then that we could get pregnant naturally, Aredhel. You can’t really blame
me or him for this.’

‘I suppose not,’ Aredhel said grimly. ‘Yet, I doubt
that Legolas got pregnant from that time; 500 years ago.’

‘No,’ Mallorn said, rubbing the back of his neck.
‘But I swear he didn’t do it again while he was in my company!’

‘Regardless of this, what you did was wrong.’ Aredhel
shook his head. ‘Anyway, father mustn’t know about any of this. As for Haldir’s
brothers, it’s wise if they didn’t know about the baby’s real sire. One of us
must stay with Legolas even if he goes to Gondor. You are closer to him than I,
so it’s best if you go with him.’

‘But will father agree too this?’ Mallorn asked,
amazed at his brother’s natural leadership.

‘Leave him to me; I’ll be able to convince him.’ With
that, Aredhel stood from his seat. ‘Father received some news from Mirkwood today.
We are leaving in the morning.’

‘Aredhel, is everything all right in Mirkwood?’
Mallorn asked worriedly.

‘Yes, it’s only bunch of Orcs making some trouble at
our borders. It’s nothing to worry about. You, on the other hand, have to keep
an eye on Legolas, understood? He will be alone in a city full of men.’

Mallorn nodded. ‘Don’t worry, brother. I’ll keep a
good eye on him.’

With that, Aredhel wished his brother a good night
and left.

~~~~***~~~~

“And that’s what happened,” Legolas said softly,
tears falling silently down his cheeks. “On that night, I used Haldir’s love
against him. I never told him the real reason for my sudden desire…I didn't
stop even when he said that it wasn’t the proper thing to do. I let the need of
erasing Rûmil’s memory control my mind and I used Haldir in the most horrible
way.” At this point, Legolas broke down and sobbed uncontrollably. Aragorn took
the weeping elf in his arms, whispering soothing words in his ears.

“You didn't use him, Legolas!” he assured. “You were
in need of some comfort, that’s all. Don’t blame yourself too much, Legolas.
I’m sure that Haldir was more than happy to comfort you.”

Legolas pulled away and looked at Aragorn. “Are you
really sure of that?”

“Of course, I am.” Aragorn smiled, wiping Legolas’ crystal
tears. Legolas looked away from Aragorn’s gaze.

“I have never told anyone of that, not even my
father! I was so afraid of his reaction,” he whispered softly. “I was even
afraid to tell you about it. I’m still ashamed of what happened or was about to
happen.”

“I understand your fear, Legolas.” Aragorn stroked
Legolas’ hair gently. “But there isn’t any reason for you to be ashamed. I’ll
help you do whatever it takes and I’ll never think any less of you. You have to
trust me with everything in your life. We are married now and I’m responsible
for your safety. Please, Legolas. Please promise me that you’ll tell me about
anything that bothers you!”

Legolas looked at his friend and smiled sadly. “I
promise, Aragorn,” he whispered softly.

Aragorn smiled back and gestured to their
long-forgotten dinner. “Now, would you like to have dinner with me, my dear
husband?”

“I’d be honored to, my dear.” Legolas chuckled
softly. Both stood and went to the small table.

Later that night, Aragorn watched as Legolas slept soundlessly
beside him. He took a deep breath, turning to stare at the ceiling above him.

//I swear I’ll protect you and your child with all my
power.// With that vow, the king of men closed his eyes and surrendered to
sleep.

~~~~***~~~~

T.B.C.