Title: The Price of Love Series: Lord of the Rings Author (including email): Lazy-Sloth (Lazy_Slothy@hotmail.com) Pairing/s: Aragorn/Legolas, Arwen/Aragorn Rating: PG-13 Summary: AU - Set Just Before The First Book. It Is a SLASH A/L With Some A/A And A Little L/H: Choices Have Been Made, Hearts Have Been Broken, The Past Will Be Resurrected... Warnings (if needed): none Disclaimer: I Own Nothing. It is all owned by the Tolkien Family. Note: This is my first of everything! First fanfic, first LOTR fic, first slash. Would appreciate some reviews so I can continue the story. I write for an audience and if nobody likes it then there is really no point in continuing. I'll continue even if I only have one "loyal" leader, lol. The Price of Love pt1 His blonde hair caught the end of the light breeze; he's midnight blue eyes were clear and seemed to be lost in his own personal thoughts, the moonlight bathed the lithe and already pale skin with an indescribably glow. He truly was breath taking, Estel was mesmerized. He couldn't help but stare, he couldn't even bring himself to speak incase it would shatter the serenity that enveloped them both. Estel would have been content to just stand and stare the beauty before him, carving the image forever in his mind. If Legolas had not noticed he's presence. He's sapphire eyes flickered to where Aragorn stood, he paused in almost hesitation before he's face slipped the cool, calm mask he wore so well. "You are late." Legolas's voice was icy and Estel could not help but flinch. "I'm sor-" "It's too late for apologizes," he snapped. Estel's forehead creased in frustration, why was he acting like this? Had he done something wrong? An awkward silence followed after Legolas's violent outburst, Estel shifted uncomfortably, he's mind in a muck re- running moments in which he believed may have upset his elf. He was so caught up in his own thought he didn't notice Legolas moving so close he stood mere inches away. "Estel..." he breathed, sending Estel crashing back into reality. "I must speak with you." "That is why I am here, beloved" Legolas seem to have flinched as Estel spoke the last word. Legolas nodded slowly in agreement while Estel fidgeted, squirming under the tension. He too had something to tell Legolas but didn't know how to begin. He had decided he would tell Legolas tonight, he HAD to. "No." Legolas abruptly said, interrupting Estel's thoughts. Estel looked into Legolas's eyes, confused. "Whatever it is you are thinking, Estel. Do not do it." He warned. "I do not know what you speak of", Estel replied slowly, while he's mind was in a whirlwind. Legolas couldn't possibly read he's mind.could he? "You do", Legolas insisted, narrowing his eyes as a silent warning. "What ever you wish to say I do not want to hear it." "But-" Estel began, as Legolas waved away he's feeble attempt at a counter attack. "I-" Estel stubbornly continued. He didn't care what Legolas had to say or what he thought, he was going to tell him tonight! "Estel." Legolas's voice was soft but deadly. "I love you," The adopted son of Elrond blurted out, cringing, as this was not how he had imagined it would go. Legolas's calm exterior shattered as countless emotions flooded he's beautiful face. He blinked several times before shaking his head slightly and glared at Estel, as if the three words he spoke was an insult. "How dare you." Legolas accused he's words were little louder then a whisper and Estel had to strain he's ears. Confused and hurt Estel looked away an attempt to hide he's true feelings. "Do you not love me?" Legolas stared blankly. "Did you ever think I would love someone like you?" Aragorn felt as if an icy hand gripped his heart as he turned to face Legolas not even trying to mask he's pain. "Someone like me." he mimicked meekly. Legolas scowled flicking back strays of his golden hair. "If you haven't forgotten, I am elven royalty." He spat, adding more emphasis on the word royalty. Estel swallowed hard, he's eyes stung he no longer could look at Legolas's face. This wasn't his elf; this was someone else who merely looked like him, how could the kind spirited, sweet prince turn into.this monster? "Do you still not see?" Legolas said dryly, taking more interest in he's nails then the crushed Estel standing before him. "Do you really want to hear me say it? Then will you see?" Estel throat felt parched as he summoned all his inner strength to look at the being he thought he loved whole-heartedly. "You do not love me?" Estel repeated, he's voice quivering, breaking slightly. He's full attention on the Mirkwood prince who sighed and lowered the hand he was studying so intently before. He raised he's beautiful blue eyes to meet Estel's stormy gray ones. "Nay, Estel I do not love you" By those simple seven words, Estel's whole world shattered. The scenery seemed to have dulled, nothing seemed to matter anymore. Legolas did not love him. And with those final words his prince turned around and walked away from Estel. out of his life, taking Estel's bleeding heart and torn soul. Estel watched the glowing beauty disperse as tears fell from he's eyes and as he dropped to his knees. If more elven blood had run through he's veins it would have been clear that Estel would have died from grief at that moment. "Aragorn?" A soft, melodic voice pierced through Aragorn's train of thought. The heir of Isuldir focused on the present elf that stood before him now and smiled, a gesture that was graciously returned. "Do you not feel well, my king?" She continued, glad to see that Aragorn seemed to have returned to reality. "I am fine, beloved" Aragorn replied slowly. If Arwen did not believe him she did not show it as she pressed her body to Aragorn's resting her head on his shoulder. Aragorn instinctively wrapped his arms around her body, pulling her closer while the subconscious of his mind examined their backdrop. 'How ironic,' a voice in his mind brought up 'the very place your betrothed declares her undying love to you, forsaking her immortality is the very place where Legolas tore out your heart.' Aragorn closed he's eyes trying to block out that voice, the same voice that has been gnawing at the back of his mind ever since that fateful day. Even after all these years, even though he was no longer Estel, son of Lord Elrond of Rivendell. He was no Aragorn son of Arathorn, future King of Gondor, and yet, a part of him still refused to let go of Legolas. Legolas, that name still brought unaccountable amounts of confusion and pain. "We should return, father would need to speak with you, Aragorn" Arwen spoke, pulling back from Aragorn. "They say the journey to Mordor is dangerous. Return to me my King, safe and well" Aragorn merely nodded as Arwen smiled and touched the Evenstar which now hung around Aragorn's neck. "I love you" she finished in elvish, looking into his eyes, her look of admiration and love quickly turned into confusion as she saw the flash of pain in her lover's eyes. "Aragorn." "I am fine" He replied curtly, those three words had re ignited the emotions that Aragorn had been blocking out for the past 15 years. The roaring pain seemed to fill him up inside as Arwen started to look worried, images of Legolas flashed in he's mind. Then seven words slowly followed, echoing in he's head and heart. "Nay Aragorn, I do not love you." pt 2: A Broken Heart Still Beats Yayyyy!! I *just* my first reviews ever!! Thank you all So So So So So SO much!! I was afraid they might have been flamers! I really appreciated it and now I'm more then happy to continue the story! As long as ya'll keep reading and reviewing it!! =) I hope you all enjoy this chapter as much as the first, I worked purely on the rush I got after reading your oh-so- excellent reviews. And if you think I might be doing something wrong or it's too confusing or not confusing enough please, point it out to me. Although no flamers please, I'm afraid one would destroy me, lol. I don't have the vaccine to counter flamers as of yet. =P And since these are my first EVER reviews I'd like to personally thank each and every one of you personally!! HaldirOfLorien: Yes, I am continuing it *grins* and I am so glad you like it! I can't wait to see how Aragorn handles Legolas's presence either. Hope you stayed tuned in to find out! TaiYama/AraLego Captor Sophie: lol I agree, it is rare to see Legolas being bratty! And Yup, I am planning to add more chapters! Hope you plan or reading and reviewing it. Botticelli Angel: And I really appreciate the fact that you did review. =) Thanks for the compliment! Lol and I'll see what I can do with the whole Legolas/Arwen/Aragorn thing. It would have been easier if I made Arwen as a evil bitch but I wanted to be challenged, so I made her so sugary nice, lol Cheysuli: More coming! ^-^ Gilly-bean: Aaaaah!! My FIRST reviewer EVER!! *streamers and balloons explode everywhere* I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Hope you stay long enough to see how it turns out for our poor Aragorn and Legolas. Thanks for being #1!! *Treasures you* =) *************** Lord Elrond frowned as he looked at his adopted son standing before him, Aragorn's shoulders were slumped as if they carried an invisible burden. 'He has yet to claim the crown and already the worries of ruling a country weigh him down.' Elrond shook his head sadly, if he could help he would but he could no longer interfere with the future of men. Aragorn's head was bowed as a sign of respect to his foster father. "Look at me Aragorn" Elrond's voice was gentle but it held as light tone, which told it, was not to be disobeyed. Unwillingly, Aragorn slowly raised he's head to face the Lord of Rivendell. Lord Elrond felt his own heart break as he looked into the pained eyes of the man he still called son. 'How could this be.?' Lord Elrond thought. 'Even after all these years. Had Aragorn loved Legolas so deeply that not even time could heal this broken heart?' "What pains you, Estel?" The Halfelven asked, using Aragorn's elvish name, which meant 'Hope.' Aragorn paused for a moment to think, he would not tell his father the truth. "The journey we are to face." Answered Aragorn, half lying, the threat of Mordor had been in his thoughts. "What if I fail?" Elrond sighed; he had expected Aragorn to lie to him. 'He is getting better though', Elrond though, half amused. If he had not known better he would have believed him "I have faith in you my son", Elrond said softly placing a reassuring hand on he's son's broad shoulder. "You are man's estel now." Aragorn offered a small smile, which eased Elrond's heart, slightly. "I will call a council in due time, I expect you to attend." "I will." Aragorn raised he's eyes to meet the ones of Elrond's ".Father." He finished. Elrond smiled, he felt touched that Aragorn still considered him to be his father, even the truth had been revealed to him years ago. Aragorn nodded, bowed and then exited the room. Elrond watched the descending back of the son of Arathorn. He was truly going to be a great king; he smiled before turning his attention back to the message he was writing. He paused suddenly as if a thought just occurred to him. "Does he know he is coming?" Lord Elrond asked himself softly. ****************** Legolas frowned as Rivendell came into view, they had arrived all too soon in his opinion. However, it did not stop him admiring the beauty that was Rivendell, he had truly missed this place. They entered the main gates and Legolas nimbly jumped off of his horse, as a Rivendell elf scampered quickly towards Legolas, bowing to the Mirkwood prince as he took the reins of his and he's companions' horse. Legolas's eyes narrowed slightly as he stared at the main building of Rivendell. "We will deliver the message and then leave." He ordered as the two elves behind him nodded. They knew they're prince disliked staying in Rivendell, why was still a questioned that remained unanswered. Swallowing hard, the blond archer followed another Elf, who would lead him to Lord Elrond, he silently prayed this would not take long, he prayed that he's presence would remain unknown, he prayed he would not see the one person he had avoided for so long. Unluckily for Legolas, he's preys were to go unanswered today. ***************** A shadow fell across Elrond's desk, looking up he saw he's only daughter, concern and distress written clearly over her normally calm exterior. "Must Estel go?" She asked sadly. "My child." Elrond suddenly understood why Arwen was here as he stood and wrapped his arms around he's youngest child. "He must. you know he must." Arwen nodded, as much she could while still resting her forehead on her father's chest. "Why does Estel not love me?" She asked suddenly, while Elrond stiffened ever so slightly, Arwen had never been told about Aragorn and Legolas's relationship but Elrond knew he's daughter would not be blind to Aragorn's true feelings, she was not stupid. "Am I not worthy?" She continued. "Does he not know how I love him so?" "Arwen, you are worthy of the Gods themselves. You are my daughter, the Evenstar of elves, your beauty, grace and spirit have been written forever in the stars. Elrond lifted Arwen's chin and was surprised to see tears glistening from her cheeks, for he's daughter rarely cried. "Why do you cry?" "It hurts, to know Aragorn's love belongs to another. Am I being so selfish to ask of Aragorn to love me, even if I must share it with another? More tears filled the ocean blue eyes of the Evenstar. "Will he never love me?" For the second time that day Elrond's heart broke and for the first time in his life Elrond did not know what to say, instead he just held Arwen in his arms offering as much physical comfort as he could. *************** Unbeknownst to the two elves inside, a third elf stood just outside Lord Elrond's study room, where the door was just ajar. He stood in silence as the soft sobbing reached he's elven ears. He had told the Rivendell elf he knew his way to Lord Elrond's study, he had told he's companions to stay in their rooms as he was capable of delivering this simple message to Lord Elrond himself and here he stood, by himself, outside, stumbling into a conversation he couldn't help but hear. He's heart went out to Arwen, what a fool Estel was to not love the Evenstar who so obviously loved him with all of her heart. Deciding that father and daughter needed their moment, Legolas left. It wouldn't do anyone any harm if he postponed he's announcement just a little longer. pt 3: Descisions Have Been Made Lol I'm suppose to be doing a history assignment right now but I got an idea that I had to write down in case I forgot and now it's Chapter 3 =) Why can't it be this easy to talk about Bog Bodies? ANYWAY '//////' those mean flashback, could be a little confusing but you'd get the basic point. *Nods* Trust me, you will. I'm on a roll aren't I? Lol ************ Aragorn's heart skipped a beat. 'No, it couldn't be.' He glanced up again. 'Yes, it had to be. The long, blonde hair, the beautiful blue yes, the perfect lips.' The elf Aragorn could not tear he's eyes away from wore the colors of Mirkwood and the single clasp over his cloak informed onlookers that he was royalty. It was in fact Legolas; the Prince of Mirkwood who sat opposite of Aragorn at the council Lord Elrond summoned. Legolas mentally cursed himself for delaying his simple task of giving Lord Elrond the message, now here he sat in the presence of Aragorn, who he could feel continually glance at him. So far Legolas had successfully avoided eye contact with the future King Of Men, before all attention was focused on the young hobbit that placed the one ring before him. 'So it is true.' Legolas thought 'The one ring has been found-' His thoughts were interrupted by a man, one different from Aragorn who announced that perhaps the ring could be used for good. Shaking he's head Legolas frowned, why could humans not understand, you cannot alter with destiny. "You can not wield it, none of us can." Instinctively Legolas's eyes flickered to the one who spoke, his mind and heart's objections came too late as he for the first time in many years looked directly at Aragorn and Legolas's breath was taken away. Aragorn no longer looked like the young Estel Legolas once knew, he's skin looked rougher and more tanned, he's hair almost reached he's shoulders and he's eyes, eyes containing such wisdom that it did not have before. So this was Aragorn, it almost felt to Legolas he was meeting a new person. "And what would a mere ranger know of this?" Legolas suddenly rose to his feet, surprising everyone including himself. "This is no mere ranger, this is Aragorn son of Arathorn the future King of Gondor." Aragorn couldn't understand it, Legolas was defending him, and still caught up in shock all Aragorn could say was "Sit down, Legolas." Legolas glared at Aragorn, hoping he's own confusion did not show, before he sat down and avoided questioning glances from Aragorn again. So caught up in he's own thoughts Aragorn almost didn't here the other man declare that Gondor needed no King. 'Perhaps he is right' ************ Aragorn knelt before the young hobbit, he had grown fond of Frodo and would not let him carry this burden alone. "You have my sword, with my life I can protect you. I will" "You have my bow." Aragorn didn't even have to look up to know who had spoken; nevertheless he looked up to see just in time Legolas turning his face away from him. He had a feeling that Legolas would join or perhaps he was just hoping it. Before he knew it a dwarf, the man who turned out to be the Steward of Gondor and 3 more hobbits had declared himself apart of this. "You shall be known as 'The Fellowship Of The Ring'" Elrond nodded approvingly, he's eyes scanned the many faces and different races. The fate of middle earth now rested in the hands of these warriors. and hobbits. He glanced up to see Aragorn looking at Legolas; who stared straight ahead ignoring him. Elrond mentally sighed; perhaps middle earth's fate wasn't the only one in turmoil. ************** Lord Elrond massaged the temples of his head, as he sat hunched over he's desk, so many complications. Not even Galadriel could have all the answers now. The name of he's wife's mother prompted certain memories that Elrond previously had simply ignored. Now, he was too tired to push them away, 'perhaps they may even give him help in finding an answer for he's many questions. Closing he's eyes he let he's memories consume him. /////// "It is not meant to be, Elrond. You know this, I know you do." Galadriel's haunting voice echoed throughout Elrond's mind as he stood by he's window. "If he does not let go now, grief will kill him and we can not have the crowned Prince of Mirkwood die in the hands of the mortal King of Gondor. Tharanduil would not stand for it, war will be declared between Mirkwood elves and the people of Gondor." I closed my eyes, jaw clenched, he knew what Galadriel was asking him to do; he however didn't know if he could do it. I would have easily chosen to return to the fires of Mordor then to tear Estel and Legolas apart, but he knew Galadriel was right, she always was. I found Legolas leaning on the trunk of a tree in the garden, I was glad for once that Estel was not with him, this would make it slightly easier. Legolas's back faced him, as a cool night breeze lifted loose strands of Legolas's golden mane; one of his hands encircled a branch, which hung slightly above him. Slowly I watched Legolas's ears prick hearing the presence of another. "My lord?" Legolas looked surprised. "My prince." I replied. "Isn't it a little late to be up?" Legolas smiled "You speak as if I was a mere thousand year old" The Golden- Haired Elf teased. "You are still young," He countered. "Not to Estel." I grimaced suddenly remembering why I was having this conversation with Legolas; who looked confused by the sudden silence. "About Estel." "Yes?" Questioned Legolas. "He is not who you think he is" "I don't understand" "He is royalty." "Like me?" "Not exactly, Estel is not Estel, he is Aragorn son-" "-Of Arathorn." Legolas finished the sentence. "Estel is Isuldir's heir?" Legolas stared in disbelief as I nodded. "But, that means he is the rightful King of Gondor." "He is, and he will claim his throne." "He doesn't know." It was more of a statement then a question. "No." "Shouldn't he know?" "He will." "When?" "Soon." "Why are you telling me before him?" I breathed deeply this is where the complications begin. "For Estel to be King, he must have a Queen. so they can create a-" "-Heir." Legolas was beginning to understand the purpose of this conversation. Silence. "He must not know of our meeting. He would not understand. He would forsake he's duties, turn he's back on he's people and country and choose exile to be with you" Legolas looked up at me, he's normally bright eyes were dulled as if a fire had been putout inside of him. "Then I know what I must do." Then without another word, Legolas turned and disappeared into the darkness. The sadness in Legolas's eyes as they finally comprehended that his and Estel's love could not last, tugged at Elrond's heartstrings. Legolas was so strong, both physically and mentally, the sacrifices he had made for the sake of mankind would go unsung. So Elrond could not blame him when he found his foster son alone, crying he's heart out on the bridge, Estel did not look up, as he had approached. Kneeling before him Elrond wrapped his arms around him, pulling him close, protecting him from the pain he, himself had caused. Words would be useless now. He had understood Legolas's strategy, he had caught off Estel completely, and he had done it with speed and precision. He's words had to have been harsh to bring him to tears; Legolas must have decided that if Estel would hate him it would be easier for them both. Elrond remembered sitting beside his distraught son, hoping Legolas was right. /////// Lord Elrond opened he's eyes. It didn't feel right, to have 2 elves and a man to be hurting, when two could be so easily healed, how could this be the right way? Elrond frowned and rubbed his temples again he's headache was getting worse. 'Perhaps,' a voice in he's mind spoke 'Galadriel is wrong.' pt 4: Galadriel's Words Yayyyyy!! Even more reviews!! Lol I'm so happy. =) Thanks for reviewing! Especially YuZira who seemed to really like the story. =O I . I am evil? . I'll take that as constructive criticism lol. Whoa, I hope this isn't too mushy, if it is let me know. Also thanks to Botticelli Angel, for pointing out my stupid grammar mistake =P and an even bigger thanks for the great review! Have I mentioned how much I love all of you?? No? I LOVE YOU ALL!! =) ************** Aragorn could not sleep, his body was weary and yet his heart and mind were restless. Tomorrow would be one of the most important journey not only in his life but for every being that existed on Middle Earth, that alone would leave any other ordinary man anxious, worried, and confused but Aragorn is no ordinary man. Aragorn tugged the hood that covered his face a little more, the wind had picked up and it was getting cooler but he refused to return into the warmth of his room. Aragorn shifted the small knife in his right hand into a more comfortable position before continuing to carve the piece of wood he had been working on for the past hour or so. He wasn't sure what he was doing; he just needed something to keep him occupied. The sweet singing of a nearby sparrow interrupted the night's silence; Aragorn paused to listen to its song. It was beautiful, it was soothing and yet it caused pain in Aragorn's heart, it reminded him of another creature whose voice was more sweet and beautiful. He sighed loudly as the small bird finished it's tune and flew away. 'Will you leave me too?' he thought sadly, he leaned back into the trunk of the tree and looked up into the night sky, it was a full moon, it's pale glow resembled that of Legolas's skin. 'Must the world mock me?' Aragorn resumed carving, paying little attention before the thumping sound of horses' hooves distracted him. 'Who would be arriving here, at this time?' Curious, Aragorn climbed the tree swiftly, pausing at its highest branch; he narrowed his eyes trying to make out what he saw. Was that his father standing out there? ******************** Lord Elrond stood patiently as the horses and the carriage they drew behind them stopped in front of him. The door swung open as an eerie glow illuminated from the inside. Lord Elrond bowed low as the companions inside stepped out. Haldir the Guardian of Lorien, was the first to stand before the bowed Lord Of Rivendell, he smirked before raising one slender hand to help the Lady of the Woods out of the carriage. Lady Galadriel's face was calm and cold as Elrond rose to meet his mother-in-law. "It is as I feared." She said slowly, her tone was similar to that of her facial expression. Haldir frowned, although he was one of Galadriel's most trusted Guardians he knew little of why they stood now, in Rivendell but, being the intelligent elf that he was he did not question his Eldar's requests. He looked around scanning the premises, someone was watching them, and he could feel it. He doubted it was an enemy. ************ Aragorn could not believe it; Galadriel had come, but why? And who was it that she brought with her? It surely was not Lord Celeborn. He continued watching before the other elf that arrived with the Lady turned to his direction, he knew that he could not see him as good as Elf sight was, but Aragorn had decided he had seen enough and jumped nimbly down to the ground with the grace of an elf. Slowly he made he's way back to his room, he would not stay outside if Galadriel were there. As much as he admired and respected the wise elf he disliked being in her company. Her gazes would leave him exposed and fearful in what she might have seen in his mind. She seemed to be able to pierce though his soul, to feel things before he felt them, to know things before he knew them and he definitely did not want her to see him in this state of mind he was in now. Hoisting himself over his balcony Aragorn paused to see if he had awaken anyone during his re-entry, noting that there was silence and some snoring he continued back to his room. Closing the door behind him, he tugged back his cloak and sighed. He would have to sleep now. Not even bothering to change, Aragorn lay down on his bed and closed his eyes. Sleep consumed him quickly. ****************** A soft glowing woke Aragorn before dawn; he knew it was not that of the rising sun for it felt cool rather then warming. Opening his eyes he saw the shimmering outline of Galadriel, he looked mildly surprised, a part of expected that Galadriel was here to see him. "You know why it is I am here" her voice sent involuntary chills down his spine. Aragorn replied by shaking his head sleepily. "You do not?" Aragorn nodded as struggled into a sitting position on his bed. Galadriel paused as if thinking of another way of approaching this. "What do you fear most?" she finally said. It was Aragorn's turn to stop and think. "The destruction of Middle Earth." He said slowly, not really clear on what Galadriel was trying to make him say. "You lie." Aragorn swallowed hard. "Why do you ask me if you already know the answer?" "For I fear that you may not know." "Enlighten me." Galadriel raised an eyebrow, the young one's tongue was sharp. Aragorn shifted uncomfortably as Galadriel did one of her infamous gazes, he shivered slightly again as he felt Galadriel's voice echoing in his head. 'You might not know what I speak of, but your heart does.' Aragorn paused, listening to his heart. "It can never be" Galadriel said out loud when Aragorn opened his eyes. "I know," he replied softly ". he does not love me." "Then why does he still hold your heart?" "I do not know." He answered honestly. "I see. Will you not let go?" "I can not." "Will you never stop loving him?" "To ask of me to stop loving Legolas is like asking of one's lungs to cease breathing, like asking of one's heart to stop beating. Loving Legolas seems to be the easiest thing to do, it comes so naturally to me." Galadriel stared passively "How can this be?" "How does a baby know to draw breath at after birth? The question isn't how, my Lady, it is why." Galadriel narrowed her eyes ". Why?" "To live." Aragorn answered softly, if Galadriel had not been an elf with superior powers the words may have been lost in the night. Galadriel's eyes widened ever so slightly. "You say it as if you were born loving him." Aragorn looked up, staring Galadriel in the eyes. "As I will die loving him." His voice was barely audible yet it held certain defiance. Galadriel paused; even her mirror could not have seen this. She tilted her head studying the young man of Gondor. "Even if he does not love you?" Aragorn's jaw clenched. "Aye, even if he doesn't love me." ***************** Yeah, yeah I know what ya'll saying. When the hella are they gonna actually start the journey? Soon, peeps, soon.chill lol It'll probably be next chapter, I realise I'm dragging this way too long. But please be patient with me. ^-^ pt 5: In The Arms of Another Aragorn strapped the last of the gear to Bill the pony, he was impressed, a pony this small could carry such a load but it seemed many small things were surprising him with strength, more strength then beings twice it's size. "Good Bill" Aragorn patted the grey pony fondly as it nuzzled his nose into the palm of his hand. "He likes you." A soft melodic voice interrupted the man and beast bonding moment, recognising the voice Aragorn turned around. "But, then how could he not? My king" she greeted with a small bow. "Arwen-" he began but was silenced with a slender, smooth finger upon his lips. "Say nothing, I do not need to hear it, you owe me no explanation. Let me just cherish this moment." Aragorn stood in silence, while the finger remained on his lips Arwen's free hand gently caressed the side of Aragorn's face. "No matter what happens, whatever choices you make, I will never stop loving you." She whispered into his ear, she then softly pressed her lips against Aragorn's. "Take care, beloved." Then with the grace that only Arwen had she turned and glided away. "I am so sorry, Arwen" he replied softly, it was too late she was already gone. ****************** Legolas's eyes were closed, as he stood on the balcony resting both hands on the railing, his thoughts were his own, and no one could reach him now. //// 'Hate me!' Legolas mentally screamed at Estel 'HATE ME!!' But Estel could not hate the elf that stood before him. 'Please Estel', he begged. It was getting harder by the second to hold this placid expression when he's heart was torn. "I love you." Legolas froze, 'he loves me?' for a moment Legolas's mask was broken and for a moment he had second thoughts. 'No', he scolded 'Tis too late to turn back now' "Nay Estel, I do not love you" He had done it, he had broken Estel. Summoning all he had Legolas did the hardest thing he had ever done, he turned his back on Estel and walked away. Legolas thanked the valars repeatedly, glad that Estel had not called out, glad that Estel did not follow. He braced himself against a tree, it was getting harder to stand, his chest tightened. Legolas grimaced, as it got harder to breathe. 'What had he done to deserve Estel's love? No', Legolas corrected himself 'Aragorn's.' He closed his eyes concentrating on regulating his breathing if he was to die of grief he would not do it here. Taking a few moments to compose him, Legolas raised his face to the sky. "Oh valar", Legolas gasped. 'Even the stars did not shine as bright without Estel by his side.' "Please.. forgive me." Moving more silently towards the horse he had prepared earlier he lifted himself upon the bored beast, he whispered words of encouragement to speed it up. Legolas had thought the further away he was from Rivendell the easier the pain would be to deal, he had never been so wrong before in his two thousand years of existence. //// "What's this a Mirkwood archer caught of guard? And a prince no doubt. Tsk, tsk. What would daddy say?" The interrupting voice teased. Legolas frowned as he felt the cold steel of a small blade pressed up against his throat. "Haldir" The prince warned as he pushed the Guardians arm away. "My, you look pleased to see me." Turning to face the handsome elf Legolas sighed. "Tis not the time nor place." "It never bothered you before." Haldir smirked as Legolas raise a delicate eyebrow. "It is not everyday when I can catch the Prince of Mirkwood off-guard and not wanting my company. Tis a strange day." "You speak too much, Haldir of Lorien." Legolas replied with a small smile. "Then my prince, what do you suggest we do?" Haldir had closed the short distance between himself and Legolas and now stood inches away. Legolas pressed his palm on the strong chest of Haldir "I thought you could read minds" "Your mind is not what I am reading." Haldir's gaze was distracted by a lock of Legolas's hair that had freed itself from his braids tucking it back behind his ear Haldir continued to run his finger down Legolas's face and raised his chin before meeting his lips with his own. ********************* =O bum bum BUMMMMMM!! Could it be? Legolas an-an-and Haldir?! *Ducks from all the objects thrown from Aragorn/Legolas supporters* Hey, now that Arwen's out of the picture we gotta stick another elf in there. Remember: "Distance makes the heart grow fonder- Wait, or was it wander?" Eh, you get what I'm trying to say. Why don't ya'll add your opinion?? Yeah! In fact please, add your opinions. Like to hear how some of ya'll like to see this go. pt 6: First Impressions Author's Note: =O Oh Good work, TaiYama/AraLego Captor Sophie You Knocked out one of my main characters lol. *Nudges unconscious Haldir with foot*....*sighs* What am I going to do now? And the reason why I update so quickly? Because I do it for ya'll ^-^ and cause I have no life =P but I'm getting like 3 assessment tasks due in two weeks so updates will definitely decrease if not ceasing completely. I apologise for it now! This is probably another reason on why I'm updating so much now, making up for later. Please bare with me =) Oh and don't forget to check out my other fic "Beautiful." It's an Elladan/Legolas slash that I could continue, if ya'll want me too =) To Gilly-Bean, =O You want mah fanfic on your prettiful site? =) Sure! No probs I give you permission.*gives her the permission* For being my first ever reviewer!! lol I am SO flattered that you would want my story on your site! ANYWAY back to the story. I know, I know. I'm technically not moving forward with this story I'm kinda stuck in 'constantly doing flashbacks' gear. But I really wanted to see what it was like 'When Beautiful, Sweet Legolas Met Sexy, Arrogant Haldir.' And Now I Know lol. And hopefully so will you ^-^ Review!! (archiver's note: Yesh yesh, I wanted it for my site ^_^ and as soon as I get Marauders of Middle Earth up it'll be there as well, cause dat's my sitey, too! read on fans!) *************** Haldir smiled softly as he thought of Legolas, the stunning Prince of Mirkwood, his prince. "Come Haldir, you would not want to be late." Her voice was cool and calm and yet it held an unreadable tone. Haldir raised a dark eyebrow, he could not deny it he was suspicious of his lady's intentions. 'Why is she so intent for me to meet this elf?' he thought. 'And why must she feel she has to personally introduce us.' Galadriel glided slightly ahead of Haldir, smiling slightly, she had expected he Guardian to think this way, but it would not matter as arrogant and stubborn as he was he would never disobey her. Never. Haldir knew Galadriel could read his mind quite clearly and yet he could not help it, his own curiosity got the better of him. "Who am I to meet, my lady?" He heard himself say. "A prince." She simply replied, hardly slowing down. Haldir frowned; he did not like being left in the dark, it made him feel vulnerable and defenseless. 'Do not fear dear Haldir,' Galdriel's voice echoed in his mind. 'You will like this surprise very much. I promise you.' Nevertheless, the Guardian could not help but feel a little uncomfortable in this situation. Finally they reached a clearing and all of Haldir's doubt and suspicions disappeared as he gazed at the vision before him. By far the fairest being Haldir had ever laid his eyes upon, he was speechless as he jaw law slack, mouth slightly opened. If Haldir could have seen himself at that moment it would have bruised his elvish pride, but at the time all Haldir cared about was meeting this exquisite beauty. Galadriel mentally smiled, this was already going better then she had imagined. She was saving the future of men while also finding her most favorite guardian a lover. She was truly killing two birds with one stone. "Haldir," she finally said. "I'd like you to meet the fair Prince Legolas of Mirkwood." Anticipating that Haldir had yet to regain his senses to speak Galadriel took it upon herself to introduce Legolas to her handsome guardian elf. "Legolas, this is Haldir, my head Guardian of Lorien." Legolas mentally sighed, he knew what Galadriel was up to; she wished to push Estel out of his mind and heart by replacing with someone else. 'Perhaps.' Her distant, cool voice replied. 'Why do you not give him a chance? It might be easier then you think.' Legolas thought about it, he would not wish to disrespect Galadriel, he would give this Haldir a chance, and he was after all quite pleasant on the eyes. His slender, yet muscular body, his silvery blonde hair, his steel gray eyes. Automatically Haldir smiled arrogantly when he noticed the young Prince returning his gaze, it was a reflex he could not help. Haldir knew of his own handsomeness and sometimes used it to take advantage of other elves, not in a forceful way but in an irresistibly charming way. Given the chance many had thought, Haldir could maybe have charmed Isildur himself into throwing the One Ring into the flaming depths of Mordor. Or possibly, others added, pushed him into it if he still refused. Haldir was renowned for his fiery temper and was not one to cross when upset or angered, fortunately such rarities hardly occurred. Haldir was simply too cool to upset easily. So here he was the cool, calm, collective Guardian of Lorien, seconds away from making a complete fool of himself in front of the Golden Prince. "It is a pleasure to meet you Haldir of Lorien." Legolas said politely. To hear Legolas speak seemed to have snapped Haldir back into his original state of mind, taking the initiative Haldir gently took one of Legolas's slender, smooth hands into his own. "You have yet to know pleasure, my prince." Haldir purred. Legolas blushed profusely at Haldir's daring statement. "I-" it was Legolas's turn to be speechless. "Not much of a talker?" Haldir frowned slightly. "That is quite alright, perhaps there is some other use we can use your mouth for." He finished, grinning wickedly. Legolas's azure eyes widened in astonishment, he turned to look at where Galadriel had stood, wondering what she would think of her Guardian now, but she had disappeared. Leaving Legolas alone with the striking Lorien elf that was making such suggestive remarks. Legolas who was usually such a good judge of character was at a loss with Haldir, he did not know if he was only taunting or if he really meant what he said. Haldir smiled, within seconds and he already had Legolas baffled. "I am only teasing you, sweet prince." Legolas let out a sigh of relief maybe a little louder then he intended as Haldir raised an inquisitive eyebrow as him. "You believed of what I said to be true?" "No." Legolas added quickly, shaking his head. He did not want to insult the good-looking elf for something he was merely joking at; it was not Haldir's fault that he was naïve. "It is just that-' he paused trying to think of the right words to say. "I do not understand you, Haldir Guardian of Lorien." Haldir laughed softly as he brushed strands of Legolas's golden locks back behind his ears. "Good. Good." And with that Haldir kissed Legolas; who has caught off-guard and when his mind finally clicked with the thought that Haldir was kissing him he found himself to be enjoying it and very soon found himself melting into the arms of an elf he barely knew. 'He was right,' Legolas thought. 'I have yet to know such pleasures.' ************* pt 7: Taste of Jealousy Ooh Ooh!! *Hopes around* I just got my first flamer by a 'Miss Kitty' *Continues hopping around* Wait a minute. That's not a good thing. *tear* It isn't as bad as I would have thought. Or perhaps I got a particularly bad flamer. *Shrugs* I do remember putting "Slash" in the summary, unless you did not know what slash was, honey. Then I guess it was nobody's fault.and I thought I was being realistic!! =O I'm nasty? I'm NASTY?! I'M NASTY?! *Gets all offended* Lol now back to the reviewers who ARE worth my time.. I just finished writing the last chapter of my story. even though I have yet to even reach the middle, or somewhat. I know it's weird but hey, that's just how I write.I guess. Lol obviously I'm going to put the last chapter up at the end DUH! *************** "We shall go through Moria." Young Frodo said loudly. He would prefer anywhere over this impossible mountain. "So be it." Gandalf replied. If Aragorn had not been staring at Legolas so intently he may have missed the flash of horror on Legolas's otherwise stunning face. Aragorn knew of his fear in dark, restricted places, especially caves and *especially* underground tunnels. A secret Legolas had confided in him in which, to Aragorn, felt like a lifetime ago. "Perhaps there is some other way." Aragorn heard himself say. "There is no other way." Gimli gruffly said. "We must go through Moria." The fellowship stood outside the entrance of Moria, waiting impatiently for Gandalf to solve the riddle. Aragorn turned to the direction of where Legolas stood. 'Legolas.' He had spoken as little to the ranger as he could he treated Aragorn little more then a stranger, which for some strange reason hurt Aragorn more then if Legolas had simply ignored him. It made Aragorn feel that the relationship he had with Legolas never existed, the love he shared with the Golden Prince was nothing more then a dream.. "No good would come of this." Legolas softly stated, speaking to no one in particular. 'Aye,' Aragorn thought he had the same feeling. ******************* The hobbits clung to each other tears streamed from their faces Boromir had to restrain Gimli while shouting curses to the sky. Legolas stood at the edge of the cliff, looking away lost in his own thoughts, he had never lost a loved one to death before. 'Had could mortals deal with this so commonly?' he thought. He looked up to see Aragorn nearby, cleaning his sword. 'Is this how mortals dealt with grief?' "Get them up." He suddenly commanded. "Give them a moment for pity's sake!" Boromir cried. "By nightfall these hills will be swarming with orcs. Legolas!" Legolas turned towards Sam and pulled him to his feet. "Be strong little one." He whispered gently. Aragorn was right, they had to keep moving no matter how cruel it sounded at this time. "You shall rest in . Lothlorien." Legolas encouraged, pulling Merry and Pippin to their feets. Aragorn watched on, his elf was so strong, so kind spirited. Even when consumed in his own grief he would still put other's needs before his own. 'What about your needs?' a voice in his head questioned. Scowling Aragorn pushed his thought away; he would not deal with such questions now. **************** Haldir's eyes scanned the premises, nothing. Gradually he eased back into stand-by position, it was nothing. Once sure that there was nothing-unusual Haldir once again let his mind drift. // 'His heart is broken, he will need time to heal, Haldir.' He nodded. This explained the strange behaviour of the Golden prince. 'I trust you'll treat him gently.' Haldir held back a smirk. 'He may never love, you.' He nodded again. It did not bother him that Legolas did not love him or the possibility that Haldir could never hold the prince's heart, all that mattered to the Guardian was that he could have Legolas, even if it was just physically. As long as he could feel the soft, smooth skin against his, to taste the sweetness of his kisses. That was all that Haldir wanted, needed. // It was true, Haldir initially did not care or wish for Legolas's affections but now after all these years after Haldir discovered there was more to Legolas then his great beauty, Haldir wanted more. His 3000 years of existence had suddenly caught up with him, he realised how lonely it was to have no one to share his thoughts and feelings with, no one to truly call his own. Haldir had always had more then his fair share of lovers but Legolas, Legolas was something else; the fair prince was in a league of his own, no other could possibly compare. He wanted Legolas as more then an elf to share his nights with; he wanted Legolas to be his, to be his mate for all of eternity. 'He may never love you.' Haldir grimaced; he suddenly became insanely jealous of the one who held the Prince's heart, a relatively new emotion Haldir had ever felt before, for Haldir rarely had to be jealous. If he wanted something he would get it, whether it was a new bow or an elf's affections. But surely there was no need to be jealous? Slowly it dawned to Haldir, somehow, someway, he had fallen in love with the Fairest of them all. Was it so gradual he himself did not notice it? Or perhaps he tried to deceive himself with the impossibility of having the Golden Prince return his feelings. Haldir's new found emotion was disrupted when his elven sense noticed something was amiss with the woods. His eyes narrowed, turning his head to a direction. "Strangers." **************** Lothlorien was more beautiful then Aragorn could have ever possibly imagined. However his feeling of awe was interrupted when he noticed at least three bows, notched with sharp arrows pointed at his face. Aragorn's eyes widened in surprise and mentally kicked himself, how could be so careless and forget about the Guardians of Lothlorien. "The dwarf was breathing so loud I could have shot him in the dark." Haldir smirked, he had noticed their entrance into the woods long before but had purposely timed his appearance to upstage the dwarf. It had worked beautifully. "We are but weary travellers, looking for a place to rest." Haldir turned to face the human who spoke, raising an eyebrow with curiosity he analysed the son or Arathorn with interest. "I see." He finally replied. "Come with me, the Lady has been expecting you." Aragorn nodded his thanks and turned to follow the other elves before he noticed Haldir turned to greet the Prince of Mirkwood, he paused curiously. Did they know each other? Haldir and Legolas embraced. "Do not think that I have forgotten you, my Prince." Legolas smiled and buried his face into the older elf's shoulder as the Guradian gently caressed Legolas's hair. Meanwhile, Aragorn stood not too far away. 'They embrace as if they were more then friends, like lovers.' Aragorn's mind panicked. 'How could this be? Legolas had found another?' 'Of course.' Another voice interrupted. 'He doesn't love you, remember?' Aye, Aragorn had not forgotten and yet apart of him could not believe that Legolas did not love him, a part of him held on to the tiniest of possibility that Legolas had lied. Now after the scene he just witnessed the tiniest possibility vanished as well as his ability to breath, to think, to do anything. **************** "What is it they sing?" "A lament for Gandalf." "What do they say?" "I have not the heart to tell you, for me the grief is still too near." Aragorn mentally laughed bitterly at Legolas's words. 'You know nothing of the word grief, dear elf. Nothing!' ***************** pt 8: Confrontations Artist: Blue Album: Unknown Title: Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word <== The song that is used! Sorry for taking so long to update! Be patient with me!!! ^-^ Thanks to the reviewers!! Enjoy! ************************ Aragorn was so caught up in his own thoughts he didn't even notice the thick, tree root which protruded from the earth. Caught off guard, Aragorn was meant to have fallen, hard and fast to the ground if a pair of slender yet strong arms did not catch him, the future king stumbled awkwardly into the body of Legolas who patiently waited for him to gain his footing. Suddenly realising that the Prince was the one who caught him Aragorn frowned and pushed him away. "I do not need your help" he spat. The elf just raised an unconcern eyebrow. "Then you should watch where you are going." He answered coolly before turning his back on the scowling human. At the beginning of this journey Aragorn would had given anything for the beautiful elf to catch him in his arms but now, knowing the truth Aragorn wished Legolas to stay as far away as possible. He couldn't bear to look at the stunning elf let alone have him touch him, to catch him, to save him. It tore at his already broken heart. Meanwhile the rest of the fellowship looked at each other, confused, unsure of how to register the incident that had just happened. Legolas was far up ahead, scouting, and far behind was the fuming Aragorn, both of them separated by the rest of the members of the fellowship. The tension between man and elf seemed to have built up exceedingly ever since the visit to Lothlorien. What could have happened? ****************** Aragorn stood alone, in the middle of a forest, distancing himself from the beings he was suppose to watch over as they peacefully slept on, he closed his eyes trying to clear his cluttered mind. However a twig snapping, interrupted his train of thought, he opened his eyes only to be met by sapphire ones. "I thought the purpose of a watch was to watch." "I am watching." The man replied. "So you say." Aragorn swallowed hard, here he stood inches away from the creature that he both loved and hated, if leaned slightly forward their lips would meet. Mentally he shook his head; he would have none of this. "What are you doing here?" Aragorn finally said, breaking the uncomfortable silence. "Did I interrupt something?" "No." Legolas didn't reply, his blue eyes trailed from Aragorn's face to the Evenstar that hung loosely around his neck. "She has given up her immortality." He said softly. Dumbfounded Aragorn merely nodded. "Then you have sentenced her to death." Aragorn's eyes widened. "What?" Was all that he managed to say. Legolas's eyes looked back up at Aragorn. "Then you have sentenced her to death." He repeated slightly louder then before. "Why do you say such a thing?" Legolas merely shrugged. "Tis true. She will die" "It was her own choice." Aragorn began. "Her judgement was clouded." Legolas interrupted. "By what?" "Her love for you." Legolas unnecessarily pointed out. "And if you truly loved her, you would not allow her to have such a fate." "You speak, as if a mortal life is not good enough for one of your kind." Legolas stared dully into Aragorn's eyes and shrugged again. "Perhaps." Then suddenly something inside of Aragorn snapped, he had had enough and he charged at the unsuspecting elf. Caught off-guard Legolas was brought down by a much heavier Aragorn, the Prince winced as he felt the full weight of the human fall on top of him, his wince was however, cut short as he felt a small, sharp blade pressed against his throat. "How dare you." Aragorn barely breathed. "How dare you speak as if you are superior to men." Legolas's face, like always betrayed no emotion as he swiftly flipped over pulling Aragorn down and rolling on top of him while pulling the blade out of his grasps and it was Aragorn's turn to be pinned with a knife to his throat. "I do and say anything I want, King of Gondor." Legolas replied calmly. His voice seem to mock the already enraged Aragorn and ignoring the fact that a sharp instrument was held against his throat he lunged at Legolas whose elven reflexes saved Aragorn from killing himself. Caught once again off-guard Legolas gasped as he felt two strong hands constricting around his throat, instinctively he kneed his attacker hard in the torso. Knocking the wind out of Aragorn, the king rolled off as Legolas sat up, rubbing his throat and scowling at the breathless man. "You are foolish, Aragorn." He finally said in between gasps. "You could have killed yourself." "What would you care?" Aragorn questioned, trying to breathe properly. Legolas narrowed his eyes as he got up to his feet. "Stupid human." Aragorn closed his eyes as he heard the distinctive rustling sound, which indicated that the elf has left. Sighing, he sat up and looked at the direction Legolas had stalked off too. Once again left alone with only his thoughts, Aragorn did something he hadn't done for a long, long time; he began to sing, softly into the night air "What I got to do to make you love me? What I got to do to make you care? What do I do when lightning strikes me? And I wake to find that you're not there? What I got to go to make you want me? What I got to do to be heard? What do I say when it's all over? Sorry seems to be the hardest word. It's sad, so sad It's a sad, sad situation. And it's getting more and more absurd. It's sad, so sad Why can't we talk it over? Oh it seems to me That sorry seems to be the hardest word. What do I do to make you want me? What I got to do to be heard? What do I say when it's all over? Sorry seems to be the hardest word. It's sad, so sad It's a sad, sad situation. And it's getting more and more absurd. It's sad, so sad Why can't we talk it over? Oh it seems to me That sorry seems to be the hardest word. What I got to do to make you love me? What I got to do to be heard? What do I do when lightning strikes me? What have I got to do? What have I got to do? When sorry seems to be the hardest word." A single tear fell from the normally, calm, bright eyes of Aragorn. The pain ran deeper then he wished to believe. 'If he only knew.' He thought sadly. 'If he only knew how I truly felt.' TBC...