Sailing Ships

Summary: The trials and tribulations of Lord and Prince

Author's Note: This story was actually begun before I got my assignment for the Slashy Santa Fic Swap. It was inspired by two songs. �Sailing Ships� by Whitesnake and �Into the West� by Annie Lenox. When I finally received by assignment I immediately emailed the Slashy Santa Admins and asked if I could use it. They quite graciously said yes. I was not sure if the requestor did not want any mention of Wizards, Hobbits or First Age elves or if they just didn't want to see pairings of them. I am sorry but this story could not continue without Mithrandir and at least a mention of Frodo in certain sections. Goheno nin.

Sailing Ships � Prologue

�������I will go.�� The clear voice rang out in the council chambers.� Thranduil turned to his youngest son and studied him carefully.� Slowly one pale gold eyebrow rose.

�������You?� he questioned.

�������Yes, Adar (Father),� Legolas answered.

�������You have refused to leave Greenwood on any diplomatic endeavor before.� Why now?�

�������It is his wife, Adar,� Legolas said as he stepped forward, his formal robes flowing around his lean legs.� �To send a mere message runner with our condolences would counter the sincerity of our words.� However, if the prince of Greenwood were to carry those words, our respect and admiration would be clear.�

�������The prince is correct, King Thranduil.� It would only benefit Greenwood to show such respect to the people and ruler of Imladris,� one of his advisors added.

�������Very well,� Thranduil said after a few moments.� �Prince Legolas will travel to Imladris.� Select your soldiers.�

�������I would travel much easier alone, Adar,� Legolas said.� �And our warriors are needed here.�

������Thranduil looked highly unpleased with the suggestion.� He studied his son again before making his decision.

�������I insist on at least two others,� he said and the look on his face brooked no further discussion on the matter.� Legolas bowed to his father and strode from the room.

������After dismissing the others, King Thranduil sighed.� How well he knew the pain Elrond was going through.� Even after so many centuries, the pain of losing his A�maelamin (Beloved) still sliced through his heart, especially when he looked upon his son.� As much as Legolas looked like him, his mother showed through in the clear piercing cerulean of his eyes, eyes that saw so much and seemed to look right into your soul.

�������So serious,� Thranduil murmured, �As if he knows his path already and it weighs upon him.�

�������Perhaps he does,� Tirnan said as he approached his king.� �You know the queen had the Sight.� It is not inconceivable that Prince Legolas would have it.�

������Thranduil touched his forehead to Tirnan�s, letting out another sigh.� He absorbed the calm of his lover and let it fill him.

�������No,� he whispered.� �He gets it from me.� His path is a long one and if I could have kept him from it, I would.� I see his road but where it ends is hidden from me.�

�������Let me take your mind from such dark thoughts, Meleth (Love),� Tirnan whispered as he led his king to the chambers they shared.

~~~

Sailing Ships 1

������He felt them before he saw them, sensed their presence like the prickling of insects along the back of his neck.� He signaled to Tathar and Raniel and they dismounted.� Legolas followed, silently pulling his bow and notched an arrow without even a whisper.

������It was a small band by Greenwood standards, but orcs were brutes in every sense of the word.� In addition, it seemed they had cornered two ellon (m. elves).� Barely a second passed before Legolas recognized the two elves, similar dark hair, matching gray eyes and the same fierce light of utter loathing upon identical faces, Elladan and Elrohir, twin sons of Elrond E�rendili�n.� The snarls the twins wore were feral as they tore into their opponents but they were still greatly outnumbered.

������Legolas wasted no time.� With no real conscious thought, he let his arrows fly.� One after another, orcs fell as Greenwood�s son came to the aid of those of Imladris.� They whittled the number quickly down to five.

������Glancing around, two of the orcs chose the option of retreat.� With a nod, Legolas sent his companions after them while he engaged a third.� The twins made short work of their foes, as did Prince Legolas.� Only when the fell creatures lay dead, did they stop to breath.

�������Mae govannen, Meldir.� (Well met, Friend),� One spoke in a soft soothing voice, a voice that belied his ferocity of a moment ago.� Legolas wasn�t sure which brother it was.� He�d always had a hard time telling them apart. Of course, it had been quite awhile since he�d last seen them.� He doubted they would recognize him.

�������Mae govannen,� Legolas said in return, placing his hand over his heart and then swinging it slowly outward.� �I did not think to find such vermin so close to Imladris.�

�������Normally you would not,� came the response.� The voice, similar yet different, was a bit harsher, the voice of one who knew the bitterness of hatred.� This one truly hated orcs.� �They grow over bold.�

�������However, we are being remiss,� the first said with a smile.� �I am Elrohir Elrondi�n.� This is my brother, Elladan.�

������They both offered short bows.� Legolas returned it but just as he was about to give them his name, a scream rent the air, an Elven scream.� Instantly Legolas was off a pale golden blur in the forest. He came upon his companions as the last orc was spitted upon a blade.� Both were bloodied, but one lay upon the ground, eyes closed, an orc blade protruding from his chest.

������From the bodies piled around, it was a clear ambush.� Legolas swore vehemently as he knelt beside his fallen comrade.� He brushed a hand over his forehead and down his cheek.

�������I am sorry, mellon n�n (my friend),� he whispered.

�������There is yet hope,� Elrohir said, resting his hand gently upon Legolas� shoulder.� �We must take him to my father.�

�������Aye, Adar (Father) will know what to do,� Elladan said as he moved bodies.

�������Very well,� Legolas agreed.�

������He had heard tales of Elrond�s abilities to heal.� Some were too incredible to be believed.� It had been a long time since he�d seen the Lord of Imladris.� Would his heart race the same as it once had?� Would his palms get damp? Would his body ache for the lord?� He wasn�t sure and he was no longer as trusting as Elrohir and Elladan.� He had learned many hard lessons since his last visit to the Hidden Valley, not all of them pleasant.� He sat with his fallen friend while the others made a litter to transport him.

������With their burden, it took them three quarters of the day to reach Imladris.� Legolas rode by Tathar, keeping a sharp eye on him.� As they reached the steps of the Last Homely House, Lord Elrond was waiting for them.� Legolas felt his heart skip a beat. Without preamble, Elrond began issuing orders as he examined the fallen ellon (m. elf).

�������We must get him to the healing halls at once,� Elrond said, not looking at any save his patient.� �Good job remembering the Athelas.� It has slowed the poison.� We may have time to save him.�

�������Adar, this is�� �

�������Later, Elrohir.� I have more important matters to attend to,� Elrond snapped as he walked beside the litter.� They rushed away to the healing wing, leaving his sons standing with a surprised Legolas.

�������Goheno n�n (Forgive me),� Elrohir said, �I forgot what he is like when there is healing to be done.�

�������He becomes quite� abrupt and single-minded,� Elladan said as he stared after his father.� He shook his head and then took the reins of their horses.� �I will take care of the horses, �Ro.� You can show our friend into the house.�

�������My soldiers are more important than politics or protocol,� Legolas answered.� �Do not be concerned that I might be offended.�

�������I am sorry but�� he smiled, �In the excitement, we did not catch your name.�

�������I am Legolas Thranduili�n,� Legolas said as he bowed, �I bring word from my father to the Lord of Imladris.�

�������I am afraid you will not see Adar until your friend is out of danger,� Elladan said as he led the horses away.

�������I will wait as long as need be,� Legolas said.

�������Well then, let me take you to Lord Erestor.� He will find a room for you,� Elrohir said.

�������No need,� came a quiet voice from the right.� Legolas turned to face the newcomer.

�������How is it you always know?�� Elrohir laughed.

�������It is my job to know,� Erestor said then he turned to Legolas, �Suilad (Greetings), Legolas, welcome to Imladris.�

�������Hannon le (Thank you), Erestor,� Legolas smiled as he gave a short bow.

�������Suitable chambers have already been arranged for you and your companions.�

�������When will I be able to see Tathar?�

�������When Lord Elrond permits,� Erestor answered as he signaled to one of his scribes.� Whispering in the young elf�s ear, he gave orders concerning Legolas� other companion then motioned the prince to follow him.� He led the way down a long corridor, �Be at ease, your friend is in the best of care.�

�������I will rest when I see,� Legolas said softly, but he followed the Chief Advisor.

������Erestor threw open the doors to spacious guest chambers.� They entered the living quarters and Legolas found it difficult not to stare in awe.� It was as if the trees came right into the room.� He looked around, marveling at the large arched windows.

�������It is quite different from what you are used to,� Erestor said with a smile.� �It has been a long time since you last visited Imladris.�

�������Yes,� Legolas gave a small smile; �I was but an elfling then.�

�������I remember a bright eyed curious child, following whichever person had captured his attention at the time,� Erestor chuckled, �You had a particular fondness for Lord Glorfindel.�

�������He is an amazing warrior,� Legolas said with a blush, �I learned much from him.�

�������Yes, as much as you learned from Lord Elrond and myself,� Erestor poured two glasses of juice.� He handed one to Legolas as they sat down in the wing-backed chairs set by the balcony door.

�������Both of you had so much to teach,� Legolas said, �But�� �

�������But what?�

�������Lord Elrond,� Legolas began, slipping into the easy camaraderie with Lord Erestor that he had felt several times in his lifetime, �I know it is been a long time and there is reason for it but, I feel his sadness and it�� �

�������It what, Legolas?�� Erestor encouraged.

�������It makes my heart ache,� Legolas whispered, �I�� �

�������You have loved him for so long,� Erestor said, �I know the feeling.� Even the smallest hurt to him is a bane to you.�

�������I am that obvious?�� Legolas laughed, �But he is bound to Celebrian.� He hurts because of her departure.� All I wish is to comfort him. Yet, I do not know if he will welcome it.�

�������Ah,� Erestor said, taking a sip of his drink as he studied the young prince.� �You must be careful, Legolas.� Elrond is not so easily approached now.� He does not wish to let anyone in.�

�������I was told it was a childhood crush,� Legolas chuckled, �I knew it was not.� Sometimes I� just know.�

�������You will have to be persistent.�� Erestor said.

�������Are you giving me your blessing, then?�

�������Yes, Legolas,� Erestor answered.� �I am.��

������Legolas sat by Tathar�s bedside, reading softly from a book of poetry.� It had taken several weeks before Lord Elrond had allowed him into the healing halls.� He�d paced for days until the twins had taken it upon themselves to distract him.� Raniel had found other things to occupy his time.� For the Prince, however, the healing halls were irresistible.

������Spending time with Tathar was not his only reason for going to the halls of healing.� He knew Elrond would be there most of the day.� In this way, he could watch the Lord to his heart�s content.� It seemed childish at times, the way he found reasons to be in the same room with the Peredhel (half-Elf).� He had yet to find a way to approach the distant elf and he spent long hours next to Tathar�s bedside.

�������You too must rest,� came Elrond�s voice.�

������Legolas glanced up, almost prepared for the shivers that ran through him as he looked at the half-elf.� Elrond was leaning against the doorframe.� The prince felt his heart begin to race.� The lord of Imladris was an impressive ellon (m. elf). Broad of shoulder and lean of hip, Elrond was the perfect combination of power and speed.� The silken darkness of his hair made Legolas� fingers ache to be buried in the shining depths.� His eyes, storm gray changing with his moods, seemed to look right into Legolas� heart.� He only wished that were true.� Perhaps then Elrond would see how much he loved him.

�������I rest, H�ren (My lord),� Legolas said softly.

�������Dozing in the chair does not count,� Elrond said, his lips quirking a bit.� �Come, Prince Legolas, I assure you, your� friend is doing quite well.�

�������He does not wake.� It concerns me that his eyes remain closed.�

�������It is a healing sleep brought on by some of the herbs I have given him.� It is necessary for him to heal.�� Elrond said, pausing beside Legolas� chair.� �You need respite as well.�

��������I will relax when he opens his eyes.�� Legolas said, then he turned piercing cerulean eyes on Elrond.� �Why did you say it like that?�

�������Say what?�

�������You paused before you said �friend�,� Legolas informed him.� �As if it was not the first word that came to mind.�

������Legolas watched as Lord Elrond glanced away.� It surprised him to see a blush tingeing the other elf�s cheeks.� The lord had barely spoken two words to him since the day he�d arrived.�

�������I am sorry, Prince Legolas.�� Elrond said softly.

������He could not stop staring into those eyes.� They were intense and he found himself drowning in them.� If it had not been for Tathar, he would have avoided the prince all together.� Legolas was far too intriguing for his peace of mind.� He had changed greatly since Lord Elrond had seen him last and he found him enticing in many ways.� It would be a betrayal of his loving wife to investigate his attraction to the young elf.

������Legolas stood and moved closer to the lord of Imladris.� Tilting his head to one side, he studied the other ellon.� Sadness rolled off him in waves.� There were dark circles under Elrond�s eyes and his cheeks were hollow.� Without thinking about it, he reached up and cupped the lord�s cheek, letting his thumb caress the smooth yet cool skin.� He gasped.

�������It seems I am not the only one lacking in sleep,� Legolas whispered softly.� �You are sad� so sad.�

�������Yes.�� Elrond answered without thinking, hypnotized by those eyes.

�������I wish to take the pain away.� Let me ease you,� Legolas answered.�

������He leaned forward, lightly brushing his lips against Elrond�s.� Pleasure rushed through him and he teased the half elf�s lips until they parted.� Slowly, savoring the sensation, he slid his tongue into Elrond�s mouth, tasting him.� A small moan of delight vibrated through Legolas� chest and he pressed closer.

������Suddenly he stumbled backwards as Elrond pushed him away.� The Lord was breathing heavily as he stared at Legolas in shock.� The prince felt heat blooming in his cheeks.� He gave a short bow.

�������Goheno n�n (Forgive me),� Legolas whispered.� �I did not� that is�� I meant only��

������With that, the prince turned on his heel and fled the halls, leaving a surprised and confused Elrond behind.� He stared at the open door, one hand touching his tingling lips.� A pleasant hum settled around him and he didn�t know what to make of it. He sat down hard in the chair that Legolas had vacated.

������The kiss had been completely unexpected but had felt so very good.� Legolas� taste remained in his mouth and it was as intoxicating as the prince himself. Guilt swamped him.� How could he have even allowed Legolas� lips to touch his?� It was treachery.

������Shaking his head, he turned to the ellon on the bed.� He checked Tathar�s dressings and then left the room.� His mind was lost in thought.� Repeatedly, he kept replaying the scene in his mind until the hum in his body grew.� He entered his chambers and closed the door behind him, shedding his robes. Elrond donned a simple shirt and leggings before sprawling on the chaise lounge near the balcony.

������He leaned one knee against the arm of the chaise and stretched the other one out, his feet bare.� Playing with a braid, he could not get Legolas out of his mind and it made him feel dirty.� There was no denying the prince was the most beautiful ellon he had ever seen.� His hair was a pale gold, a testament to a life spent in the caves of Greenwood.� His eyes were so intense, so alluring.� His body was temptation itself.� Elrond had noticed despite all his attempts not to.�

������Absently his hand wandered down his body, his mind lost in thoughts of the prince and the desires he awoke.� He stroked the front of his leggings, his breath skipping a bit.� How would it feel to have Legolas� hands upon him?� The touch today had been light, soothing.� His kiss had been sweet intoxication.

������Slowly Elrond stroked his shaft through his clothing. Then he parted the fabric so he could take himself in hand.� His mind filled with images of Legolas sprawled across his bed, legs and arms parted in invitation.� He imagined covering the young ellon�s body placing kisses on the silken skin.� His stroking increased as he envisioned parting those lovely thighs further, baring the prince�s secret entrance to his gaze.� How Legolas would shiver and moan with pleasure as Elrond teased that opening, penetrated it to prepare the way for something much larger than his fingers or tongue.

������Panting for air, Elrond leaned back and arched his body.� In his mind�s eye, he pushed into the prince�s body reveling in the moans of pleasure coming from Legolas� sweet lips. He moaned as his tempo increased, his cock leaking profusely as he stroked.� He was close, so very close to peaking.� An image of Legolas� eyes, wide with surprise, his body shaking as he came, sent Elrond over that edge.� A loud low moan echoed through the room as he spilled his seed over his own hand.

������For a few moments, he just lay on the chaise, panting in the aftermath of his pleasure. A shiver ran over his body, little aftershocks.� Eyes half closed, he jerked in surprise when a clear image of his beloved wife appeared before his eyes.� A smile greeted him but soon changed to a frown of hurt.� Elrond felt a rock settle in his gut.� Shame filled him and he hastily ran to his bathroom.� Turning the taps on has hot as they could go; he stripped down and climbed into the water.

�������I am sorry, Bria,� he cried softly.� �Goheno n�n, meleth n�n (my love).��

�������Legolas?�� Erestor�s voice surprised him as he stared out over the valley.� He turned to look at the advisor.� �What is the matter?��
��I�� Legolas turned his head away. �I have ruined everything.�

�������Ruined what?�� Erestor said.� He took Legolas by the hand and led him back into his rooms.

�������I�I kissed Lord Elrond today,� Legolas whispered, looking intently at the floor.

�������You�kissed him?�� Erestor asked.

�������Yes...I could not help it,� Legolas cried, �I felt his sorrow, Erestor, felt it deep within me.� He is so sad, his pain so deep.� All I wanted to do was ease his suffering.�

�������What happened, Legolas?�

�������He shoved me away,� the prince whispered.

�������Oh, Legolas��

�������I did not give him a chance to speak.� Like a coward I ran from him, afraid of what words would come out of his mouth.� I could not face his rejection.�� The wood elf dropped his gaze to the floor. �I would not be able to bear it. My heart would break.�

������Erestor lifted Legolas� face to his, his heart wrenching at the tears in the prince�s eyes and the look of unrequited love.� He knew Legolas truly loved Elrond.� What he didn�t know was if Elrond would be capable or willing to love Legolas.� He gathered the young elf into his arms and let him cry his grief.

\

������Legolas did his best to avoid Lord Elrond, going to the healing halls only when he knew the Peredhel (half-Elf) would be elsewhere.� He would visit Tathar in the morning when Imladris held council.� Some days he had longer to spend with his childhood friend than others and Legolas could not go without seeing him.� Yet, the pain of not seeing Elrond grew within him.

������With nothing else to occupy his time, Legolas watched the lord of Imladris.� Careful not to be seen he spent hours just looking at him.� At the evening meals, he watched from beneath his lashes and fidgeted with his food.

�������I am three kinds of fool,� Legolas murmured as he leaned his head against a tree in the gardens. �There is no way he could love me.� He is bonded to a great lady, the daughter of the Lady of Light.� How could I even begin to compete with such grace, beauty and gentility?� Ah Legolas, you have doomed yourself to a lifetime alone for there is no way you could give your body to another when your heart rests with him.�

������With those thoughts in his head, Legolas tried to find other ways to keep himself busy.� He spent many hours in the library with Erestor and on the practice field with Glorfindel.� He tried spending time with the twins but they looked too much like their father.� Nothing seemed to work and his melancholy grew.�

�������Elrond,� Erestor said one evening as they shared a cup of tea in the lord�s study. �I am worried about Legolas.�

�������Why is that?� Elrond answered as he straightened in his chair.� He had been thinking of the lovely elf too much of late and did not want to discuss him.

�������He has become quite�withdrawn,� Erestor began. �It is not like him.� Yes, he has changed since he came here as an elfling.� He is quieter and less impulsive.� However, he does not seem right. He is almost too quiet.�

�������Do you think he may be ill?� Elrond asked.

�������I do not know,� the councilor said. �Perhaps it is merely because he is far from home and worries about what occurs in his absence.� He was always a dutiful child despite being a bit rambunctious.�

�������Have you spoken to him about this?� the peredhel questioned.

�������I am not a healer, meldir (m. friend).� I would not know what questions to ask in order to ascertain what the problem might be,� Erestor pointed out.

�������The Spring festival is coming soon. Perhaps that will cheer him up.� If it does not then I will sit down and talk with him,� Elrond promised.� Deep inside he hoped the festivities would do the trick, being too close to the prince made thinking difficult. �

������The sword rapped him sharply on the upper arm, leaving a stinging welt behind.� With a hiss of anger, Legolas jumped back.� The movement took him out of Glorfindel�s reach.

�������Your mind is not fully focused on our fight, ernil n�n (my prince),� the seneschal pointed out. �Had I been an orc, you would now be a dead princeling.�

�������Had you been an orc, you would resemble a porcupine before you got within sword�s reach of me,� Legolas snorted.

�������Not with your current awareness,� Elladan chuckled as he swept the prince�s legs out from under him. Legolas landed with a hard thud.� Some very inventive curses spewed from the royal lips. Swinging his legs up, the Greenwood elf propelled himself to his feet without the use of his hands.� Then he dropped back into fighting stance, keeping one eye on Elladan, one on Glorfindel and both ears out for Elrohir who was the sneakier of the twins.

�������Do you kiss your adar (father) with that mouth?� Glorfindel asked, raising one golden eyebrow.

�������Where do you think I learned them?� Legolas snorted again.

�������I did not know King Thranduil�s language was so� colorful,� Elladan chuckled.

�������Only when he is supremely annoyed,� Legolas confirmed. �And he usually is after trade meetings with the men of Dale and the dwarves of the Lonely Mountain.�

�������What has your mind so distracted, young prince?� Glorfindel asked. �You are usually a much better sparring partner.�

������Immediately Legolas tensed.� He most definitely did not want to discuss things with the seneschal. It would not do, especially when he knew how close the two ellyn (pl. m. elf) were.� Attempting to hide the blush that stained his cheeks, Legolas leaned down and brushed off his leggings.

�������It is nothing, H�ren (my Lord),� he said as casually as he could.

�������You are lying,� Glorfindel said flatly. �However, if you do not wish to discuss it with me, that is fine. I will not push.�

�������Hannon le (Thank you), Glorfindel,� Legolas answered.

�������You should attend to the matter nevertheless.� Such deep distraction can be very costly, too costly,� the lord answered. �Trust me on that.� Now what are you two scamps doing here?�

�������Erestor sent us down to inform you that he will be expecting your duty roster by mid afternoon so that he knows how many meals to have prepared for those that will not be at the Spring Festival.� Elladan explained.

�������He is one pushy elf,� Glorfindel muttered.

�������You have not even started them, have you?� Elrohir chuckled from behind Legolas.

�������No, I have not,� the lord grumbled.� �It seems I must leave you three scamps now.� Duty calls in the form of one nagging ellon (m. elf).� I bid you good day.�

������The twins laughed as they watched Glorfindel trudge off to his office.� The golden elf hated being cooped up inside, but his position occasionally required it.

������With their captain gone, the twins turned to Legolas only to find the prince halfway back to the house.� They rushed to catch up to him.� Coming to a walk on either side of him, they matched steps.

�������I hope you enjoy the festivities, Legolas,� Elrohir smiled. �It is generally a grand affair.�

�������Everyone dresses in their finest and parades around like peacocks.� Some of them are very amusing.� My favorite is watching Erestor and Glorfindel dance around each other,� Elladan chuckled.

�������What do you mean?� Legolas asked.�

�������Everyone knows those two are in love with each other.� It is just not clear to them yet.� They fight like they are already bonded.� No one can ruffle Erestor�s feathers quite like Glorfindel.� Elladan explained.

�������And no one can get our Captain to do something he does not wish to do save Erestor,� Elrohir laughed. �Perhaps this spring they will finally stop dancing around each other and announce their bonding.� It would be a lovely touch to the festival.�

�������I did not bring formal robes with me,� Legolas said softly.

�������I would not worry about that,� Elladan said as he threw his arm over the prince�s shoulders. �You have a fortnight before the party. I am sure the seamstresses can come up with something.�

�������As I am sure they will take great joy just in getting the measurements,� Elrohir teased as he pinched Legolas� bottom.�

������The twins took off as the prince yelped in surprise. Just how old were they again?� Sometimes it seemed as if they were still elflings.� At others, it seemed as if they were far older.� Legolas laughed softly.� They were a study in contrasts and similarities.

������After bathing in his private bath, the prince headed to the seamstress�.� He needed to have the appropriate clothing, especially if he was going to have to spend a great deal of time in the same room with Elrond.�� The robes needed to be voluminous, VERY voluminous, for the elf lord did things to his body and the fit of his clothing.

������Elrohir had been right.� The seamstress� were very happy to accommodate him.� Moreover, if their hands lingered a bit longer than was necessary, he did not complain.� The head elleth (f. elf) promised him the robes in a week�s time.� He thanked her and then headed to the library.� It was time for his afternoon tea with Erestor.� In all of Imladris, only the councilor knew of his feelings for Lord Elrond and Legolas knew his secret was safe.�

������The two weeks preceding the festival were fraught with activity.� The kitchens were bustling as they prepared food for all those residing in Imladris, including those that would be on duty during the celebration.� Legolas made sure to keep out of the way.

������He spent many hours in the library, reading history books and herbals.� The prince could be found in the gardens with paper and charcoal, drawing his surroundings as well as portraits.� His favorite subject matter was the Lord of the land and his love showed clearly.� Those pictures he kept in a special book hidden among his clothing.

������Finally the day arrived.� The excitement in the air was palatable.� The young Greenwood elf could admit, to himself at least, that he was looking forward to the party.� His robes had been finished earlier than expected and were exquisitely done. The deep emerald set off his skin and hair to perfection. The embroidery around the collar and down the opening of the outer robe was a curling and twisting vine of leaves.�� Beneath that he wore a lighter side split robe of paler green and a light gray tunic shot through with silver thread.� The leggings matched the outer robe and molded to his frame faithfully.

������Now that he was dressed, he had just the finishing touches to put on.� In Greenwood, hair beads held different meanings depending on whom and how they wore them.� He was not sure if Imladris followed the same tradition.� Slowly he brushed his hair until it shone.� Then he carefully braided and adorned it with the silver and green beads.� He made sure to include his warrior braids and those signifying his royal status. With these last touches, Legolas was ready to face the whole of Imladris.

������Elrond was standing on the dais speaking with Lord Erestor when all conversation stopped.� Even the music faded.�� The collective gasp made him look toward the door. Suddenly he felt as if he�d been punched in the stomach.� Never had he seen a more stunning sight.� His body most whole heartedly agreed with his assessment as it tightened almost painfully.

�������He is beautiful, is he not?� Erestor smiled.

�������He is enchanting,� Elrond whispered without thinking.� Then he blushed furiously.

�������I do not think our lady would want you to spend the rest of your time here alone.� She could never be so cruel,� Erestor said softly.

�������I would not betray her memory,� Elrond stated firmly.

�������At least dance with him,� Erestor groused. �He is one of the most graceful elves I have ever met.�

�������As graceful as Glorfindel?� Elrond raised an eyebrow.

�������Well, it is a very close contest,� Erestor admitted reluctantly.

������Legolas never got a chance to sit down.� Nor did he have time to catch his breath.� Every moment he thought he was going to get a break, another ellon (m. elf) or elleth (f. elf) approached him.� He did not have the heart to refuse them and, in truth, it had been too long since he�d last felt attractive.

������Yet, enough was enough and he could not wait until the festivities ended.� He knew Elrond felt the same way.� The lord sat in his chair, drinking goblet after goblet.� It concerned him.� Not once had the lord approached him.

�������Oh, go ask him to dance,� Erestor sighed.

�������I dare not.�

�������Enough,� the councilor snipped.� He grasped the prince by the hand and led him to the dais.� Startling both elves, he pushed Legolas up in front of Elrond. �Ask him.�

�������Erestor?� Elrond began.

�������H�ren (my Lord),� the prince began hesitantly. �Would you care to dance with me?�

������The hopeful look in Legolas� eyes made it impossible to refuse him.� With a nod, Elrond led the young ellon out onto the dance floor. Hesitantly he wrapped his arm around the prince�s waist and drew him closer.� The twining of their fingers sent a shiver of pleasure through his body and he gasped softly.� The lord was just an inch taller than Legolas and so he only had to tilt his head to stare into the most hypnotizing blue eyes he had seen outside of Lothl�rien.

������They danced in complete silence.� Either they were too scared or the moment was too precious to spoil with words, Legolas knew not which.� Neither did he care.� All that concerned him was being held in this Peredhel�s arms.� The world around them faded from his mind, leaving him alone with his beloved.� He could do nothing but stare.� He wanted to burn this memory in his mind forever for he was sure it was the only time he would ever be in Elrond�s arms.

������All too soon the music ended. They stopped in the middle of the floor, still staring into each other�s eyes.� Then slowly Legolas reached out and cupped Elrond�s cheek.

�������I would ease your pain if you would let me,� Legolas whispered. �We are not meant to be alone, not for long.�

������Without waiting for a reply, the prince turned on his heel and left.� He did not run but rather departed the Hall of Fire with the grace and dignity befitting the son of King Thranduil of Greenwood. �

������Elrond sat in his chambers staring at the small vanity that his wife had used.� It held everything the way Celebrian had left it when she had sailed for the white shores.� Lifting a chalice to his lips, he took a deep drink of the miruvor it contained.� In the morning, he would greatly regret drinking as much of the potent drink as he had consumed.� However, he could not find it in himself to care at present.

������His mind swirled with images of a certain young ellon (m. elf).� The prince had occupied his thoughts since he had left the celebration a few short hours ago.� He didn�t know what to make of Legolas� departing statements.� Ease his pain?� Was that even possible?� Elrond didn�t think so.� The ache in his heart had been there since Celebrian�s departure.� She had left a hole there and he didn�t think there was anyone who could fill it.� No, the prince could not take this pain away.

������Yet, he was so lonely.� The large bed dominating his bedchambers seemed enormous without her presence in it.� It was cold and uninviting, just as these chambers no longer welcomed him after a long day.

������Rising to his feet, Elrond strode out onto the balcony overlooking the gardens.� The moonlight touched everything with hints of silver.� He took another sip of his drink.� This was the last of five bottles.� He would have to raid the wine cellar for more.

������As he stared up at Ithil, he let his mind entertain, for one moment, a night spent with the young prince.� Would he be a quiet lover?� Would he cry out his pleasure?� Would he want to take or receive?� So many interesting possibilities came to mind.� Was Legolas� skin that cream color all over?� How would his name sound spilling from those tempting lips?

������As if his thoughts summoned him, Legolas slowly strode into view.� Elrond�s breath caught as the moonlight made the prince glow in its light.� His cock jerked in response, changing the fit of his leggings.� He took in the sight before him, attempting to memorize every detail.� Silver and green beads glittered in the pale expanse of Legolas� hair, securing the braids the prince had woven. He wondered what was concealed beneath the formal robes the other elf wore.� His mind fixated on a vision of removing them and discovering for himself the sweetness of Legolas.

�������You are up late, Ernil (Prince) Legolas,� Elrond called, not really thinking about what he was about to do.

�������Aye, H�ren (my Lord),� the prince answered softly as he paused in a patch of moonlight, looking up to the balcony where Lord Elrond stood.� The light of the moon shone behind the Peredhel (half-Elf) and so he could not see his face. It did not matter.� The sight was burned into his head.� He could call to mind a perfectly clear image of the lord�s face.

�������You have not yet been to bed,� the lord commented as he took another sip of miruvor.

�������Nay, H�ren.� What of you?� Could you not sleep either?� the prince asked.

�������No,� Elrond answered. �Too many thoughts are running through my head to allow me respite.�

�������Might I ask what those thoughts are?� Legolas questioned.

�������You might,� Elrond answered. �Perhaps you would care to sit with me and discuss them.�

�������Perhaps,� the Sinda elf agreed but he did not move to the end of the stairs leading up to the lord�s balcony.

�������Or perhaps,� Elrond began. �Perhaps you would care to fulfill your offer and ease me.�

������Silently Legolas ascended the stairs until he was standing in front of Elrond.� He looked at the ellon before him, studied him for several moments.

�������Is that what you truly wish, Lord Elrond?� Legolas asked softly.

�������I am so alone,� he answered.

�������Then this night, I will stay with you,� Legolas answered. �I will ease your pain.�

������He held out his hand and the prince slid his into it.� Slowly they walked into the bedroom, staring into each other�s eyes.� Elrond set his glass aside and turned his full attention on Legolas.� He reached out hesitantly and untied the outer robe, letting it slide to the floor as he moved to remove the next piece.� The ellon watched him, not saying a word to stay his hand.

������When Legolas was dressed only in his tunic and leggings, Elrond led him over to the bed and urged him to sit down.� Then he took up position behind the young Sinda and slowly removed the beads from the prince�s hair.

������The act was so intimately gentle and reverent that it brought tears to Legolas� eyes.� It was almost as if Lord Elrond truly loved him the way his he threaded his long fingers through the pale silk of Legolas� hair and caressed his cheek.� There was a sensation niggling at the back of his mind.� Something was not quite right but Legolas had desired this, desired Elrond, for so long that he chose to ignore the warning and savor the feel of the Peredhel�s touch.

������When all the beads had been removed, Elrond reached down and grasped Legolas� tunic.� He slid it up the elf�s body, revealing more smooth pale skin to his hungry eyes.� Once the offending material was out of the way, he swept the corn silk hair aside and placed a kiss upon Legolas� shoulder.� He chuckled when the prince shivered in response.

�������I have long desired this,� Legolas� whispered as he leaned into Elrond�s embrace. �I have dreamt of it so often, the feel of your hands upon me, the taste of your lips.� I have longed for the feel of you inside me, taking me and making me yours.�

�������You have fantasized about me?� Elrond asked in surprise.

������He turned the prince to face him and saw clearly the desire revealed there.� It set his blood boiling and he claimed those sweet perfect lips in a passionate kiss.� Immediately he felt Legolas yield to him, opening his lips and permitting the deep thrust of Elrond�s tongue.

������In short order, and never truly breaking contact between them, Elrond had them naked and stretched out on his bed.� His hands roamed the alabaster skin, teasing moans and whimpers from the prince.� He feasted on Legolas� mouth, tasting the sweetness that was his lover.� Sensation washed over him and all else faded into nothingness.

������He nipped at the prince�s ear, suckling on the tip and earning a loud moan for his efforts.� Strong archer�s fingers buried in his hair and clutched at his broad shoulders. His way was eased when Legolas turned his head, allowing him further access to sensitive skin.� Slowly Elrond worked his way down the column of his throat, nipping lightly, until he found his prize.� He took the furled nipple into his mouth, sucking gently at first and then with more strength.� Immediately Legolas arched into his mouth, clutching at his head in his ecstasy.

�������Elrond,� he moaned.

������He could not catch his breath.� Sensations swarmed over and through his body.� His entire world centered on the ellon in his arms.� Without conscious thought, he thrust his hips against Elrond�s thigh, seeking greater contact.� His body throbbed and pulsed with the pounding of his heart.� He nearly screamed when the lord of Imladris positioned himself between his thighs.� In willing surrender, Legolas spread his legs wider, offering himself to his beloved.� No trepidation filled him.� Elrond would be the first and only person to claim him.� It was as it should be for the Elven lord already held his heart.

�������Elrond, saes (please),� He pleaded as the peredhel rocked against him, brushing their straining erections together. �I need you, need to feel you inside of me.�

�������Patience, pen vain n�n (my fair one),� Elrond whispered against his skin.�

������Little bites against the firm muscles of his abdomen and stomach had Legolas gasping.� One hand clutched at the pillows while the other gripped Elrond�s hair as the peredhel moved lower.� Anticipation filled him, making him quiver and shake.� Yet, even that could not prepare him for the feel of his cock being engulfed in the warm wet heat of Elrond�s mouth.� His body jerked, surprising his lover but the elf recovered quickly and pinned his hips to the bed.

������Legolas was overwhelmed.� The sensations bombarded him and all he could do was lie back and take it.� And he would so willingly, for this was a fantasy come true.� Never had he thought he would ever be making love with Elrond.

�������You taste sweet, melethron (lover),� the Peredhel purred as he licked a long line up the underside of Legolas� shaft.� �Your scent fills my nose and hardens my body.�

�������Saes, Elrond,� he whimpered, his head tossing back and forth on the pillow.

������He pushed Legolas� thighs up a bit farther, baring the ellon to his hungry gaze and questing fingers.� Elrond knew he would not last much longer and he did not wish to cause Legolas any pain.� He reached into his nightstand and pulled a vial of oil from inside. Pouring a generous amount on his fingers, he gently teased Legolas� opening as he took his cock deep inside his mouth, sucking and swirling his tongue around the shaft.

������With gentle steady pressure, he slid one finger inside, twisting it slowly and coating as much of the tight passage as he could.� Then, he pushed a bit deeper and repeated the motion.� After a few moments, he withdrew far enough to add a second and repeat the process, all the while listening to the pleasure sounds singing from Legolas� mouth.� The prince was a very vocal lover.

�������By the Valar,� he moaned as he was slowly stretched.� Never had he felt anything like what Elrond was doing to him.� Caught between the Peredhel�s wicked mouth and devilish fingers, he could do nothing bur ride the waves of pleasure crashing around him. �More.�

�������As you wish,� Elrond chuckled against his shaft.

������He pulled his fingers free long enough to coat them with more oil and then slide three back into the prince�s passage.� Soon he would be ready to receive Elrond�s cock and the lord couldn�t wait to feel the tight heat wrapped around him.

�������Ai, Elrond,� Legolas screamed as sparks exploded behind his eyes. �Do that again.�

������Elrond chuckled as he repeatedly stroked the prince�s sweet spot, making his hips jerk with the intensity of his pleasure. When Legolas pressed back against his fingers, he knew his lover was ready.� Slowly he withdrew, smiling at the whimper of protest.

�������Easy, pen melui n�n (my sweet one),� he purred as he moved back up the prince�s body.� �I am not finished yet. I want to be inside you when you come.�

������Taking Legolas� mouth in a fierce kiss, he grabbed his hand.� Then he slowly poured oil into his palm.� Smiling against Legolas� lips he guided the prince�s hand to his aching shaft.� Patiently he showed him exactly how he liked to be touched.� The young ellon was a fast learner and soon he took his hand away and let Legolas prepare him.

������After a few strokes, Elrond found he could not take anymore.� Pulling Legolas� hand away, he twined their fingers together.� He moved atop the elf and guided one lean leg up and over his hip.� He relished the whimpers of pleasure, tasted them, as he gently nudged against Legolas� opening.

������Patiently he moved though he knew not where such restraint came from.� However, he soon learned that it was a quality the prince of Greenwood did not possess� at least not in the bedroom.

�������Now, Elrond, saes,� He moaned, gripping the Peredhel�s shoulders tightly and lifting his hips. �I need you now.�

�������I do not wish to hurt you,� the lord panted, trying to maintain his control.

�������I do not care if you hurt me,� Legolas cried. �I want to be one with you.�

������With a thrust of his hips and a deft twist, Legolas reversed their positions without losing contact.� Immediately he sank down onto Elrond�s hard shaft.� A scream tore its way free as pain nearly shattered the cocoon of ecstasy Elrond had woven about him.

������For his part, the lord of Imladris gripped the prince tightly. Yet, even then his nails dug furrows in Legolas� back as he was engulfed hard and fast into tight heat. The younger elf collapsed against his chest and he wrapped his arms around the shivering form.

�������Legolas?� Elrond breathed, stroking his hair and back. �Legolas, are you alright?�

�������Yes,� the prince panted. �I did not know��

�������Did not? You were untouched?� Elrond asked shocked.

�������Yes,� Legolas breathed. �I feel�stretched�full�the pain fades even as we speak.� Elrond��

�������Shhh,� the lord said as he ran his hands over Legolas� back. �There is more, pen vain (fair one).�� But we must�by the Valar!�

������Legolas rose, lifting himself on Elrond�s cock.� His hands braced on the lord�s shoulders, he slowly began to move.� The full filling continued but the burning pain faded as he sought the pleasure Elrond had shown him before.

������No words were spoken, only that of tongues and lips and bodies as they moved into a steady rhythm.� Elrond gripped his hips and guided their lovemaking.� He watched as the emotions traveled over Legolas� face, in his eyes.�� Everything the prince felt could be read there.� He did not think it was possible for the Sinda to be more beautiful.� Nevertheless, as the passion carried them higher and higher, he became exquisite.

������Then Elrond could think no more.� The sensations swamped him, pulling him under in a tide of ecstasy he had not experienced.� Legolas was a passionate lover and used all of his body to please.� The lord rolled them once more as he kissed him, sweeping his tongue deep into his mouth.� The prince�s taste was sweet and intoxicating, his body tight and welcoming.� It had been so long. Elrond knew he would not last much longer, not with the way Legolas trembled around him.

������He reached between their bodies and wrapped long graceful fingers around Legolas� shaft.� Slowly he stroked counterpoint to their movements.� A cry of pleasure was his reward.� The thrashing of the prince�s head and the jerking movements of his body told Elrond he was close.

�������That is it, ernil n�n (my prince),� he purred against the sensitive shell of Legolas� ear. �Come for me.�

������He could not disobey, nor did he want to. His body shattered, sparks and bolts of pleasure raced out to his extremities from that spot Elrond kept stroking with his shaft.� His entire body tensed and jerked as he spilled his seed between their bodies in great silver ropes.� Yet, that was not the half of it.� He could feel the pulsing deep inside him as Elrond joined him and that made his peak even more intense.� He screamed Elrond�s name holding tight as he was tossed about in the storm of passion they had created.

������His body overcome with passion and miruvor, Elrond collapsed on top of the prince.� Sated, he slipped into a deep sleep, not even noticing the softening of his shaft as it slipped from Legolas� body. A thought floated through his mind briefly that he must check the prince but soon it was gone in the haze of alcohol and post coital bliss.

������Legolas wrapped his arms around Elrond tightly and sighed in pleasure. His body ached but he would not have traded one moment of this glorious night.� He had never known the very act could be so incredible and hoped Elrond would show him more. Perhaps in the morning, he could pleasure the Peredhel as he had been pleasured.� It was definitely something to look forward to.� With a soft sigh, Legolas closed his eyes and slipped into sleep. �

������Elrond opened his eyes to the sound of singing birds.� He listened to the melody of the waterfalls as he took note of his state.� The sun warmed the skin of his face and arm where it fell through the windows.� However, his chest was warmer still, with the soft caress of silken hair teasing his skin.� Glancing down, he saw the back of a head, pale gold locks spilling over him.� His steel gray eyes narrowed in uncertainty.

�������Celebr�an?� he whispered as he stroked the strands.� His hervess (wife) had often sprawled across his body during the night.

�������No, H�ren (my Lord),� came the musical voice.� Hot breath fanned across his belly, making him shiver.� Slowly the head rose and turned to face him.� Cerulean eyes captured his as he stared at Legolas Thranduili�n.� Something flashed in the prince�s eyes before they became shuttered.� He smiled a casual smile. Confusion welled within him.� What was Legolas doing here?

������Elrond sat up quickly, scrambling up to lean against the headboard.� He stared at Legolas in shock.� Pain swirled through his head, making it pound viciously.� What had happened last night?

�������What are you doing in my� in my bed?� he demanded.

�������You invited me, H�ren,� Legolas said, pulling the sheet up to cover himself without realizing it.� �Do you not remember?�

�������I�� I would do nothing of the sort,� Elrond growled, �I am a married ellon (m. elf).� Get out now.�

�������Very well, H�ren,� Legolas said softly.�

������He gracefully slid from the bed, the sheet falling down to pool on the floor.� Elrond watched as the Prince of Greenwood reached for his leggings, his movements a bit stiff.� He stared as Legolas bent over, his long hair parting over his shoulders.� As he straightened, Elrond caught sight of several deep scratches in the pale expanse of his back.

�������Where did you get those?�� Elrond asked instinctively.

�������Do not concern yourself, H�ren,� Legolas answered, drawing away from the bed before Elrond could move to touch them.� It would not do for him to see how much his touch pleased him or how much Legolas craved it.� He caught up his tunic and swirled his formal robes around his shoulders.

������Quickly Legolas moved to Elrond�s doors and the half-elf could only stare at him.� He felt guilt well up inside him.� Then his head pounded again and he rolled into a laying position.

�������I drank too much,� he muttered softly.� �Entirely too much.� Bria would be ashamed of me.�

������He lay back in bed for a moment, trying to get the room to stop spinning.� Why had he consumed so much?� Miruvor always messed him up in the morning.� He could not remember a single thing and would not until hours from now.

������What had Legolas been doing here? Had he truly invited the prince to share his bed? What had transpired between them?� He drew a deep breath and the smell of sex filled his nose.

�������Oh, dear,� Elrond moaned. �What have I done?�

������He simply could not remember the details of the previous night.� It was frustrating.� Yet, for the first time in years, he felt energized.� His body felt sated and at ease.�� There was no ache in his chest.� An image of his departed wife flashed before his eyes.

�������By the Valar,� Elrond said. �I am sorry, Bria.� I do not know what I was thinking.� How could I betray you like that? I do not even know if I DID betray you with Legolas.��

������Legolas took a deep breath after closing Elrond�s door.� Quickly he wiped a tear from his eye.� He had hoped the morning would be as wonderful as the night had been but apparently not.� He bowed his head for a moment, staring down at his bare feet.� He was most definitely NOT going back in for his shoes.� If there was one thing he had, it was pride.

������Angrily he brushed a lock of hair out of his face, only to realize he�d left his beads behind as well.� For a moment, he stopped, remembering how gently, almost reverently, Elrond had removed them the night before.� His breath hitched and he moved as quickly as his aching body would allow down the hallway.

������In his haste, he did not see the golden haired warrior step from the shadows.� Glorfindel glanced back at Elrond�s door, then after the fleeing prince.� Something was amiss.

������He knocked on the door.� Sharp ears caught the sounds of scrambling.� Being Elrond�s oldest friend allowed him certain privileges.� He opened the half elf�s door and walked in. Glorfindel watched as Elrond spun around, pulling his bathing robe tightly around his body.� He noted that his lord winced slightly at the sudden movement and his cheeks were flushed.

�������Is everything alright, Elrond?�� Glorfindel asked, his sapphire eyes scanning and noting several things out of place.�

�������Yes �Fin,� Elrond answered absently as he caught a glint on his nightstand.� �Everything is fine.�

�������Those are not your shoes, Elrond,� Glorfindel answered, crossing his arms over his broad chest.� �They have a distinct Sinda look to them.� In addition, those are not your beads.� Why do you try to lie to me, Elrond?� You are not at all good at it.�

������The lord walked over to the nightstand, his long fingers trailing over the silver and emerald beads lying there.� Something tickled at the back of his mind but he could not grasp it and bring it forth.

�������I do not know what happened,� Elrond whispered as he stared at the beads.� One hand went to his own hair absently and found it completely loose from its own braids.

�������Well,� Glorfindel said as he guided his lord and friend back to his bed. �I want you to get back in bed and rest.� You are in no condition to do anything today. But I must ask one thing.�

�������What is it, meldir (m. friend)?� Elrond sighed.

�������Did Legolas take advantage of you, Elrond? Did he force you?� the Balrog Slayer questioned.

�������I�I do not know.� I woke up with him in my bed,� Elrond answered honestly. �I just do not know.�

�������Do not worry, meldir n�n (my m. friend),� Glorfindel said through gritted teeth. �I will take care of everything.�

�������Hannon le (Thank you), Glorfindel,� the Peredhel (half-Elf) answered as he slipped back into sleep.� He would need water to rehydrate his body later, but right now, he wanted the escape of sleep.

������The seneschal tucked his friend into his bed and then set about cleaning up the room.� He noticed Elrond�s clothes piled on one side of the bed.� Upon closer examination, he did not find them torn or ripped.� Another turn around the room revealed something else.� Miruvor bottles.� Several of them. Glorfindel growled.�� That little brat had taken advantage of Elrond. The Balrog Slayer was going to skin him alive and leave him for the crows.

~~~�

������Cautiously Legolas walked down the hall.� His body ached in places he didn�t know he had and sitting would be nigh impossible for a bit. Slowly he opened the door to his rooms and stepped inside. As he tossed his rolled up tunic on a chair, he heard several small objects drop.� Bending down hesitantly, he gathered up the burgundy and gold beads that had fallen to the floor.� Rolling them between his fingers, he studied them.

������They were Lord Elrond�s.� Under different circumstances, this would mean that the lord and he were in a serious long-term relationship.� Now Legolas knew they meant nothing, At least nothing to Lord Elrond.� To him they meant everything, his hopes and dreams of love. They were all he had to go with his beautiful memories of the previous night.

������Shifting, Legolas gasped as a shard of pain shot through his pelvis.� Carefully he moved into the bathing chambers and turned on the faucet.� Soon steam filled the room and he slipped, naked into the water.� It eased the aching of his muscles, but not the deeper ache inside his body.� He had to shift to rest on one hip so that no pressure was placed on his bottom.

������After a few moments, he gathered up the soap and began cleansing his body.� The tears did not start until he was gingerly washing between his legs.� He could feel the slickness on his thighs and the last few minutes came rushing back to his mind.� What had been so beautiful the previous night was tainted by morning�s light and Elrond�s reaction.�

������Legolas just finished dressing when the door to his chambers burst open and an angry Balrog Slayer stepped into the room.� Before he had a chance to offer a greeting, his vision exploded.� Glorfindel�s fist sent his head rocking to the side and he went spinning after it.

�������Why do you attack me?� Legolas asked in shock, his hand cupping his cheek.

�������You have great nerve asking that after what you did,� Glorfindel growled.

�������I have done nothing,� the prince shot back.

�������Nothing? You call taking advantage of an Elven lord in his own home nothing?� Glorfindel snarled. �I saw you and how you left him.�

�������He told you that?� Legolas asked shocked.� There was a loud roaring in his ears and he stared off into the air as those words spun around his head.� Elrond had told Glorfindel he�d taken advantage of him. The seneschal kept talking but the prince heard none of it.

�������Do you hear me?� he demanded, grabbing the prince by the tunic. �I want you out of Imladris.�

�������Glorfindel? What is the meaning of this?� Erestor snapped from the doorway.� He rushed into the room and pushed his way between the two elves. �Take your hands off him.�

�������I want your pet princeling out of here, Erestor,� Glorfindel demanded. �If he is still here by midday, I will make sure he regrets it.�

�������You are being completely unreasonable,� Erestor began.

�������NO ARGUMENTS!� the Balrog Slayer roared. �He goes or he dies. Your choice.�

������With those words, Glorfindel left in the same fury he had entered. Erestor was about to follow him when a small voice stopped him.

�������Do not,� Legolas said softly as he collapsed against the bed, his legs no longer able to support him.� He shivered with cold.

�������I do not know what has gotten into him,� Erestor said. �He is not thinking clearly.�

�������It does not matter,� the prince said.

������The councilor turned towards the ellon (m. elf) with a questioning glance.� His shrewd eyes missed nothing and he immediately came to the prince�s side.

�������Tell me what has happened, Legolas,� he said gently. �I am here to listen and to help if I may.�

�������There is nothing you can do,� he answered.

�������You may trust in me, Legolas. I am not so rash as our resident Balrog Slayer,� Erestor encouraged.

�������Last night I took a walk through the gardens,� Legolas began slowly. �Lord Elrond was standing on his balcony and he called to me.� After a short conversation, he invited me into his rooms� and his bed.� Perhaps I should have said no but it was as if my dearest wish was granted.� Here was the ellon I love calling to me, willing to let me ease his loneliness.� I had dreamt of this moment, denied all others for this one hope and to have it granted was the greatest of gifts.� I gave him the last gift I had to give for he already has my heart. I gave him my body, untouched by another. Yet, this morning he remembers none of it. He thinks I took advantage of him.� At least, that is what he told Lord Glorfindel.�

�������Oh, Legolas,� Erestor whispered. �I am so sorry, mellon n�n (my friend). I will speak to him.�

�������Do not, Erestor.� It does not matter now. I will leave and he will be at peace,� Legolas said, wiping the tears from his eyes.

������He rose from the bed and began packing his things.

�������Are you sure you wish to do this? Clearly, Elrond is mistaken.� Leaving will only�� Erestor began.

�������It will only benefit us both,� Legolas answered. �I do not think I am physically capable of remaining, Erestor.� I do not know how much more my heart can take before it shatters into pieces.� I cannot watch him day after day as he lets Celebr�an�s departure eat at him.� His sadness is like a sharp ache in my chest.� Moreover, he clearly does not wish me to remain either.� It is plain that Lord Glorfindel desires me gone.� No, it is best that I leave.�

������Erestor tried several times to persuade Legolas to change his mind but to no avail.� As the prince gingerly mounted his horse, the Councilor tried one more time.

�������Legolas, are you sure?� he said.

�������No baid l�n galen a no i 'waew adel len, mellon n�n (May your paths be green and the breeze behind you, my friend),� Legolas answered softly touching his hand to his heart.

�������G�ren ninnatha nanarad as ach�n len (My heart shall weep until it sees you again.)� Erestor sighed.

������The councilor watched the prince and his companions ride off with a heavy heart.� He could only imagine what King Thranduil would have to say, if Legolas told him.� Relations between the two nations would be strained, to say the least, if he did.� However, more importantly, two of his friends would suffer, Legolas because he loved and Elrond because he felt guilty.

�������What fools these ellyn (pl. m. elf) are,� Erestor said sadly as he turned back to the house.

�������Is Legolas leaving Erestor?� Elladan asked as he and his brother hurried down the steps.

�������Yes,� the Chief Advisor answered. �And you two can do a favor for me.� See that he reaches the borders safely and without incident.�

�������I do not understand,� Elrohir said. �Why is he leaving?�

�������It is complicated, �Ro, and it is not my tale to tell,� Erestor replied, placing his hand on the younger twin�s shoulder.

�������Will we see him again?� they asked.

�������Perhaps, but I do not think it will be within these borders,� came the solemn answer. �Some things only time can tell.�

������Erestor nodded to the twins and then continued into the Last Homely house.� He knew they would carry out his request and see to Legolas� safety.

�������Is he gone?� Glorfindel demanded.

�������You are an idiot, Glorfindel,� Erestor snapped. �Impulsive and fool hardy as well.� Perhaps if you used the brain Il�vatar put in your head for more than a support for your helm, you would realize there is more to this situation than you think.� And what in the world possessed you to strike Prince Legolas?�

�������I��

�������Shut up.� I am too angry to speak to you right now.� Go away.� Dunk your head in a trough somewhere. Perhaps it will cool that damnable temper of yours.�� Erestor interrupted. �Valar save me from stupid, idiotic, impulsive, aggressive Balrog Slayers.� Is it a prerequisite for them not to think before they act?� I swear it must be.�

������The councilor continued his tirade all the way to his office, slamming the door and leaving a surprised seneschal behind him.� Glorfindel shook his head, not understanding Erestor�s mood in the least.

������Elrond stood on the balcony overlooking the pathways of Imladris.� He watched the prince as he rode away.� He noted the proud yet tense lines of Legolas� back and his eyes narrowed.� He had persistently refused to examine his actions and memories of this day.� Why did the young ellon�s departure cause an ache within his chest?� If only he could remember what had transpired between them.

~~~~~~~~~~

������King Thranduil noted the return of his son.� He noticed the look in his eyes and the stiffness of his step.� Something had occurred while he�d been away from home.� He knocked on Legolas� chamber door that night and was bid enter.� Striding gracefully over to the side of the bed, he sat upon it and just looked at the prince.

�������You have lost your heart,� he whispered softly, seeing it as clear as day in his son�s eyes.

�������My heart was lost long before this,� Legolas answered. �I did not realize to love would hurt so.�

�������No one ever does,� Thranduil said as he wrapped his arms about his Greenleaf.� �I cannot say you will forget about it in time.� It is clear that you will not.� I can only say that perhaps time will ease the pain.� I have learned in my life that you can choose to do one of two things in situations such as this.� You may either let the pain carry you down into shadow and lead you to the halls or you can rise above it and let it make you stronger to withstand the challenges that the future will bring.� Do not regret, Legolas.� Never regret loving someone for love is never a mistake. It is the greatest of Il�vatar�s gifts.�

�������The greatest, Ada (Papa)?� Legolas asked.

�������Well,� the king smiled. �That and rambunctious little elflings like you used to be.�

�������Ada,� the prince gave a watery chuckle.

�������You are always a gift to me, Legolas.� You are all that I have left of your Naneth (Mother) save for memories.� I look into your eyes and I can see her so clearly.� It is in you that she lives.�

������Legolas rested his head against his father�s shoulder, content to be held in that strong embrace, as he had not done since he was an elfling.

�������Ada,� he began hesitantly. �There will never be another for me. I will not have someone like Tirnan in my life.�

�������I know, i�nen (my son), I know.� Thranduil answered. �Legolas, there is much left for you to do in this world.� You have the strength deep within you and that strength will carry you through the dark days to come.� This I see.� If I could carry these pains and burdens for you, I would. But know that I will always be with you, only a thought away.�

�������Hannon le (Thank you), Ada,�

������The king hugged his son close and placed a kiss upon his brow.� Then he rose and left him to his thoughts.� There were times when he still saw the small elfling he had rocked to sleep.� At others, he was amazed and proud of the ellon his son had become. The males of his line were not known for their good fortunes in matters of the heart, but Thranduil had the feeling that his Greenleaf would be different. He could only hope that feeling was true.�

Imladris, Third Age: Iavas (Autumn), 3018.�

�������I will go,� Legolas said, a sense of d�j� vu overtaking him.� He had said those very same words centuries ago.

�I do not��

�������Adar (Father), it is my fault Gollum escaped,� Legolas interrupted. �I should be the one to carry the news to the Council of Elrond.�

������Looking at the determination in his son�s eyes, Thranduil turned and paced a few moments, thinking hard on whether he should send someone else or not.� The Council would be held in Imladris and Legolas had not been there in many years.� Was it wise to send him back?

�������Very well,� Thranduil sighed. �Carry the news to the Council.� Tell them Mirkwood will help, as she is able.� We can only hope they act with wisdom.�

�������As you wish,� Legolas bowed to his father and, turning on his heel, left the hall.

�������It is hard to watch him go a second time,� Tirnan said from the King�s right.

�������My son is strong,� Thranduil said. �I have trained him and he has surpassed many. I can see his path though it is crossed with shadows.� I fear for him but I know I must let him go. I cannot protect him forever.�

�������You have raised him well,� Tirnan smiled.� �He is more stubborn than you and Oropher combined.�

�������Then he is more than a match for whatever he shall face,� Thranduil chuckled.

�������Indeed,� Tirnan agreed.�

������Legolas rode into Imladris, trepidation in his heart.� He had no idea how Elrond would react upon seeing him again.� In truth, he did not know how he would react to seeing his beloved after so many centuries.

������He had received news of Imladris and her lord from the twins as they had passed through Mirkwood.� He had become friends with Elrond�s foster son, Estel, and had traveled with the three for a brief time. However, he had yet to see the lord of his heart.

�������Legolas!� A voice called happily and the prince looked up to see Erestor rushing down the steps.� Avgennin anann chen (I have not seen you for a long time), pen vuin (dear one)�

�������G�ren linna ceni chen, mellonen vr�n (My heart sings to see you, my old friend)� Legolas smiled as he was hauled into a tight embrace.

�������It has been too long,� Erestor whispered.

�������It was for the best,� the prince answered.

�������Was it? I am not so sure,� the councilor said. �But come, we must get you settled in.� There is much to discuss and some of it of great importance.�

�������How is he?� the younger ellon (m. elf) asked. He did not need to say the name for Erestor to know whom he was speaking of.

�������He has stopped drinking miruvor all together,� Erestor said.� �However, he has become�a bit��

�������A bit what?� Legolas asked.

�������A couple of centuries after you left, he started taking lovers to his bed,� Erestor answered. �There is no delicate way to really say that.�

�������I did not expect him to remain celibate, my friend,� Legolas gave a sad smile. �It is not as if he cared for me, or loved me.� I was merely a night�s diversion for him.�

�������Yet you wear his beads in your hair. Do not think the significance is wasted on me.� I know what it means. It is to indicate to one and all that you are not available,� the councilor asked.

�������There is, was and always will be only one ellon for me.� No one has shared my bed since I left all those years ago. Whether he chooses to accept me or not, I am his - body and soul,� Legolas said. �I could not change that even if I wanted to.� I would dishonor another if I pretended otherwise. Now tell me, does Lord Glorfindel still wish to kill me?�

�������I am sure he has calmed down by now. However, you never can quite tell with that lummox,� Erestor snorted.

�������You have loved him a long time,� Legolas laughed.

�������Two lifetime�s worth,� the councilor admitted. �Yet he frustrates me to no end.�

�������Of course he does,� Legolas said.

�������He just returned with Estel and his traveling companions a few days ago.� Mithrand�r arrived before them.� We are expecting a contingent from the dwarves and a man of Gondor arrived shortly before you did.� The twins should be returning shortly.�

�������It seems I have arrived right on time,� the prince said.

�������Indeed, the council will start in a few minutes.� You may not have a chance to change, but perhaps you can freshen up a bit,� Erestor teased. �It would not do for the Mirkwood delegation to appear with dirt from the road upon his face.�

�������I do not!� Legolas laughed.�

������The prince straightened his clothing for the hundredth time as he stood at the doors to the council chambers.� Butterflies danced a rapid beat in his stomach.� Could he do this?� Could he face Elrond again?� He was not so sure.

�������You are not going to be alone in there,� Erestor said softly. �I will be with you, as will Estel and the twins.� They do not know why you left, but they knew you were upset when you did so.�

�������They followed me to the very borders of Mirkwood,� Legolas smiled. �On your request I believe.� I have never let them forget that I caught them trailing us.�

�������Good for you,� the councilor chuckled. �Sometimes they need to be taken down a peg or two.�

�������Shall we go in then?� Erestor asked.

�������Yes,� the prince nodded.�

������They opened the doors at the same time and strode into the room.� Legolas smiled at his friend and moved to stand with two of the four that had traveled with him.� Tathar had asked to accompany him and was, even now, ensconced with the elleth (f. elf) that had tended him.�� He would travel home with one more companion or one less. Either way he was happy for his friend.

������When he reached his seat, he took a deep breath and lifted his eyes to the dais where Elrond stood.� His breath caught in his throat and his heart beat madly in his chest.� Those storm gray eyes were locked on his.� They stared at each other for a few moments before the lord stepped down and approached him.� Legolas tried to control the shiver of awareness as Elrond came to a stop a foot from him.

�������When we have adjourned here, Prince Legolas, I wish to have a word in private, if you will permit it,� the lord asked softly.� It was not a command as a lord of the land. It was a request from one ellon to another.

�������Of course, H�ren (my Lord),� he answered.

�������Hannon le (Thank you),� Elrond said and then he returned to his seat.�

������Legolas looked away as Frodo placed the ring on the pedestal.� A hissing voice whispered through his head and he knew, in that instant, it was the malicious voice of the One Ring.

�������Legolas,� it whispered. �I know what you want, Prince of the Wood Elves.� I can give it to you.�

�������You know nothing of my desires,� he thought.

�������Oh, but I do. Can you not see it? The great Lord of Imladris at your feet, begging for your merest touch.� Yours to command as you see fit.� He will be yours for all eternity.� I can make him want you, love you.� All you have to do is claim me for your own.� No one else here is as worthy as you.�

������Legolas laughed within his own mind.

�������You know nothing of love, foul thing,� he whispered inside his head. �And therein lays your greatest weakness.� You cannot comprehend the power of such a tender emotion.� You cannot grasp the infinite rewards and the strength it gives. No, if Lord Elrond comes to me, it will be of his own free will and I would have it no other way.� Be gone, shadow, I have nothing further to say to you.�

�������Know this, little princeling; I will win out in the end.� There are others here so easy to corrupt.� You will see and you will be powerless.�

������Legolas did not dignify the comment with an answer.� He merely closed his eyes and emptied his mind of all thought.� Once he could no longer hear the ring�s voice, he returned his attention to the Council to find the man, Boromir, speaking passionately of his people.

�������What does a mere ranger know of such things?� Boromir asked.¹

�������This is no mere ranger,� Legolas said shooting to his feet.� �He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn and heir to the throne of Gondor.� You owe him your allegiance.�²

�������Havo dad (Sit down), Legolas,� Aragorn said quietly.³

������Slowly the prince lowered himself to his chair as the Gondorian took one last verbal shot at his friend.� Glancing to Aragorn, he nodded as the D�nedain shook his head just slightly.� He was right.� It was not worth causing a scene in Council.

������They had been debating for hours before it had dissolved into arguments. When the Periannath (Hobbit) offered to bear the burden, Legolas could do nothing save offer his bow.� He would do his best to see the deed done, as would they all.� He could even tolerate a dwarf if he had to.�

������Elrond waited by the pond in the garden.� He did not know if Legolas would show.� He would not blame the prince if he didn�t.� Their last encounter had ended poorly and he was very much to blame for it.� When the memories had returned, Elrond had felt so very ashamed.� Each night he had sat down at his desk and written a letter of apology only to realize that mere words on paper would belittle the sincerity of his words.

�������You wished to speak with me, H�ren?� Legolas said softly from behind him.� Immediately Elrond rose to his feet.

�������Yes,� he answered. �Please, have a seat.� There is much I desire to say to you.�

������Gracefully the prince lowered himself to the bench at Elrond�s side.� Those cerulean eyes pierced him to his very core as he took the other side of the seat.� Swallowing past the lump in his throat, he realized this was going to be a great deal more difficult than he had anticipated.

������Suddenly a jolt of pure pleasure went through him and he looked down to see Legolas� hand resting on his.

�������What is it?� the ellon encouraged.

�������I�,� Elrond took a deep breath and began again. �I am so terribly sorry for my abhorrent behavior upon your last visit.� I allowed Glorfindel to believe you had taken advantage of me when in truth it was I who took advantage of you.� I should never have invited you into my chambers in the condition I was in.� Being drunk is no excuse for my actions.� I know better than to drink great quantities of miruvor.� I can never remember anything the next morning.� Because of this, I hurt you greatly. I hope some day you can forgive me.�

�������Do you regret our night together?� Legolas asked softly.� He did not look at Elrond. �Do you now wish it had never happened?

�������No,� the lord answered just as quietly. �I do not.� You gave me a precious gift, Legolas.� It was your first time and I ruined it for you.� That I did so is my only regret.�

������Hesitantly the Peredhel (half-Elf) reached out and caressed the prince�s cheek.� The skin was as soft and warm as he remembered.� He let his eyes wander over Legolas� face, taking in every detail of the beauty before him.� Did he regret being allowed to make love to this ellon?� Never.

�������Do you wish to make it up to me?� the prince asked as he stared into Elrond�s eyes. His heart was beating so rapidly. Hope flared inside his chest.� He took both of the lord�s hands in his.

�������What?� came the quiet reply.

�������Do you wish to make it up to me?� Legolas repeated.

�������What are you saying?� Elrond asked dumbfounded.

�������I am asking if you wish to take me to your chambers and make love to me again.� I am asking if you would replace the unpleasant memories of the morning after with new, more joyous ones,� the prince laughed softly.

�������How can you forgive me so easily?� Elrond asked.

�������I do not know if I forgive you, Elrond,� he answered. �There is a reason you were my first and have been my only.� Now is not quite the time to speak of it.� However, I do know that I ache for your touch.� I long to feel your body moving within me once more. I want to be joined to you, to travel to that place of exquisite ecstasy that only you can show me. Is that wrong of me?�

������In answer, Elrond pulled Legolas to his feet and led the way to his chambers.� Reverently he removed their clothing and placed the prince upon his bed.� He took his time, caressing every inch of creamy skin with light fingertips.� Then he repeated the journey with tongue and lips until Legolas was writhing beneath him and panting for breath.

�������Perhaps this time,� Elrond whispered against his ear. �You will heed my words and not be so anxious to have me inside you.�

�������Perhaps,� Legolas moaned as a shiver ran through him. �But I would not count on it.�

������Those were the last words either spoke for a very long time.� Elrond refused to be rushed by his lover�s pleading cries.� He took his time and drove the young elf insane with passion until finally he could take no more.

������When the lord slid deep into his princely lover�s body, he felt as if he had come home.� Never before had it felt like this, not with Celebr�an, though he loved her dearly.� No, with Legolas it was different, more intense and more addicting.� He wanted nothing more than to continually watch the passion play across the Sinda�s face.� Legolas held nothing back from him.

������They moved as one, breathed as one, and peaked as one.� It was a slow slide into the miasma of pleasure.� All else faded from existence save each other.� Legolas held on tightly as the sensations swept him over the edge.� His vision darkened and the only solid thing in his life was Elrond, moving deep within him, taking him higher and higher.

������The lord could not explain the awareness overtaking him.� He felt separated from his body, yet still within it.� Light flared all around them.� He could see their bodies moving in the ancient rhythm of passion.� When he looked around he could see another light approaching him, bright and new. Somehow, he knew it was Legolas and it clicked inside his brain.� He was looking at the prince�s f�a.

������Without realizing it, he moved towards that beautiful sight.� Reaching out fingers of pure light, he brushed up against Legolas.� Their hands entwined.

�������I do not understand,� Elrond whispered.

�������Nor do I,� the prince smiled. �It is exquisite though.� I can feel you, Elrond.�

�������It is a bit hard not to,� the Peredhel said dryly.

�������No, I can feel your pleasure. I can feel what it is like for you to be inside my body�I�� Legolas paused, tossing his head back with a moan of pure bliss as they crested another wave, the lord following shortly after.

������Their fingers broke apart as they swirled around each other, floating in the ecstasy of their peak.� All too soon they were settling back into their bodies, sated and exhausted.� Immediately Elrond shifted to the side and gathered Legolas to his side.

�������Your timing is a bit deplorable,� Legolas pouted.

�������Is it?� Elrond asked in surprise. �How so?�

�������The Fellowship leaves tomorrow,� the prince answered softly. �Yet, I cannot regret this moment.� My feelings are all jumbled but I know that being with you like this is�I cannot explain it.�

�������A great darkness looms over all the lands of Arda.� It is a threat I have faced before,� Elrond said as he tightened his grip. �I do not know where your path may lead, or that of my children.� We have come up with a plan and now all that remains is to see it done in any way that we can.� I will never regret these moments spent with you, Legolas.� You have given me great pleasure and joy.�

�������No more dark thoughts,� the prince whispered as he snuggled down against Elrond�s chest.� �We must rest and in the morning, �

�������In the morning, ernil vain n�n (my fair prince), I will claim you again,� the Peredhel purred.

������Elrond made good on his promise.� And it was the hardest thing he ever had to do when he watched both his beloved foster son and his lover leave Imladris on a quest that could mean their deaths.� He had lost his first love to Sauron and now he threw more that he cared about against the returning shadow.

�������Have hope, mellon n�n (my friend),� Erestor said softly from his right.

�������Believe they will return,� Glorfindel added from his left.

�������They will be forever changed,� Elrond answered.

�������It is the way of life,� the seneschal said. �It is my recommendation that you use this time to figure out exactly how you feel about the young prince.�

�������As if you are one to give out advice on thinking,� Erestor snorted.

�������Of course not, you do enough thinking for the entire realm,� Glorfindel shot back.

�������Someone has to for it is certainly not YOUR forte,� the councilor sneered.

�������That is it,� Elrond growled as the two continued to argue.� �GUARDS! Escort Lords Erestor and Glorfindel to the guest chambers at the end of the southern hall. Lock them in it and give me the key.�

�������Elrond!� Erestor gasped in shock.

�������You cannot be serious,� Glorfindel added.

�������I most certainly am.� I am tired of your sniping at each other.� Either you will acknowledge your love or you will kill each other. Barring those two solutions you will at least vent your desires for each other in a much more pleasurable manner than this constant bickering.� Elrond said.

������With that the lord turned on his heel and left his two best friends at the mercy of his best guards, trained by the seneschal himself.� He knew they would carry out his orders despite Glorfindel�s being their captain.

�������This is your fault,� Erestor grumbled as the door locked behind them.

�������MY fault? You MUST be delusional,� the seneschal shot back.

������They continued to bicker long into the night.� Thankfully there was no one in residence in the southern hall save them.� Elrond had planned it that way.�

Minas Tirth �

������Legolas strode wearily up the winding streets of Minas Tirith.� It had been a long battle at the Black Gate but they had emerged victorious.� It was all thanks to one tiny hobbit, the determination of one man and his ability to rouse his countrymen to great deeds.� The prince could admit, if only to himself, that there were times when his hope had waned and he despaired.

������Now Aragorn would be crowned king in a week�s time.� The only thing missing in his friend�s life was the sweet Elven lady the man had fallen in love with.�� Legolas opened the door to his chambers and heaved a sigh.� He placed his weapons to one side and began removing his clothing. The prince did not ever remember feeling so tired.� A great weight was lifted from the world.� Sauron had finally been defeated; the West had triumphed against his evil.� Why did he not feel happier?

������He slipped into the water and leaned his head back against the rim.� Closing his eyes, he gave another sigh.� There was still doubt in his heart, not for the survival of Middle Earth.� That had been assured.� What he doubted was the heart of a Peredhel.� Elrond E�rendili�n.� He did not know how the lord felt about him.� Never had words of love passed his lips.� Never had he spoken of anything beyond a night�s pleasure.� Legolas could not be sure that the emotions he had seen on Elrond�s face were not just a figment of his imagination brought on by his fervent desire for them to be true.�

������In another part of the citadel, Lord Elrond sat staring out the window over the Pelinor fields, but his stormy eyes did not see them. Absently his long fingers sifted through a small container containing four beads of emerald and silver, Legolas� beads.

������Lord Glorfindel had bid him think upon how he felt about the prince.� He was no closer to defining the emotions that flared within him then he had been before the Fellowship had left on their journey. So lost in thought was he that Elrond almost did not hear the knock on his chamber door.

�������Come,� the lord said and Mithrand�r stepped into the room.

�������Good day, Mithrand�r. How are you?� he asked.

�������A site better than you I imagine, Elrond.� What has you so troubled?� the wizard said as he sat on another chair by the window.

�������A debate within myself, mellon vr�n (old friend),� the elf answered.

�������You are ready to sail,� Mithrand�r said softly. �The sea calls you home to a land you have never seen but feel in your heart.�

�������Yes,� Elrond answered. �But that is not the only concern.�

�������Ah, our young prince,� the Istari smiled.� �He is a proud one, and stubborn, much like his father and grandfather before him.�

�������I fear I love him,� the lord finally admitted.

�������Why is love something to fear?� Gandalf questioned.

�������He is still young, full of the life.� I am� ��
��If you say old, Elrond, I may just strike you,� the wizard teased.

�������I was going to say weary,� Elrond chuckled despite himself. �Vilya�s power is fading and our time here is ending. What if he does not wish to sail with me?� What if he chooses to remain in Arda?�

�������I have never known you to be one who wastes time on �what ifs�, Elrond.� Have a bit more faith in Legolas.� He is young, it is true, but he is a unique ellon (m. elf).� He may just surprise you,� Gandalf smiled.

�������You are forever bringing hope to the people,� Elrond gave an answering smile.

�������I am very good at it,� the Istari confided.� Then he rose from his chair and left the Lord to his thoughts.

������In the days that followed their return from the Black Gate, Legolas had no time to see Elrond.� They spent the night in separate chambers, much to the prince�s annoyance.� It bothered him to have Elrond so close and not be able to touch him, to feel his kisses.� However, he could be patient.� After the coronation ceremony that day, he was going to kidnap the Elven lord.

������He walked into the library and found the twins in deep discussion.� From the look, it was an angry debate.

�������Mae govannen (Well met), Elladan, Elrohir,� he said, his eyes narrowing when they looked at him with wariness in their eyes.� �What is it?�

�������Do you love Adar (Father)?� Elladan blurted out.

��������Dan!� Elrohir gasped in shock.

�������Well, I am tired of waiting to see what will happen. Either he is or he is not,� the older twin snapped.

�������I do,� Legolas answered. �I have since I was an elfling.�

�������So you will sail when he sails,� Elladan smiled.� His twin nudged him when he saw the color drain from the prince�s face.

�������He is leaving me?� Legolas whispered as he stared at his friends.

�������Leaving you? Will you not sail to Aman with him?� Elladan asked.

��������Dan, leave him alone.� Can you not see he knew nothing of this? Ada (Papa) has not spoken to him about it,� Elrohir said as he came to Legolas� side.

�������He does not wish me to go with him. That is why he has not said anything,� the prince whispered. �Celebr�an is in Aman. He must wish to be reunited with her.�

������Legolas turned and walked out of the library, shock guiding his footsteps to the highest point in the city.� He stood on the very edge, staring out over Minas Tirith, across the Pelinor fields to the sea beyond.

�������Mellon?� Aragorn called softly from behind him.� The way he stood so close to the rim bothered the man, that and the distraught air surrounding his dear friend and companion.� He moved cautiously to sit on the edge of the wall. �What are you doing up here, Legolas?�

�������Thinking,� came the short answer.

������Looking up Aragorn saw unshed tears in the elf�s eyes.

�������What are you thinking about?� he asked.

�������How much love hurts,� came the soft answer. �It is good that I have friends.� I will not be so alone when he leaves.� Perhaps I will even enjoy the travel.�

�������You talk of your promise to Gimli,� Aragorn smiled.

�������Yes,� Legolas said after a moment.� �We will travel together, he and I.� I will show him the wonders of Fangorn Forest and he will show me the Glittering Caves.� I am not ready to sail.� I hear the gulls crying but I am not ready.� There is so much I want to see and I cannot leave you.�

�������No one is asking you to sail, Legolas,�

�������But HE will sail. I can feel it.� He will leave me behind on these shores, bereft of his touch and the joy he brings my heart,� the prince cried. �He will return to her and I will forever be alone. Even should I travel to the white shores some day, it will bring me nothing but pain.�

�������I am sorry, meldir (m. friend),� Aragorn said as he pulled his friend into a comforting embrace.

�������Do you wish to know the worst of it?� the prince said.

�������What is that?� the man asked.

�������I still love him.� I will never stop loving him,� Legolas whispered. �Would that I had died upon the field.�

�������NO!� Aragorn growled fiercely. �Do not EVER say that!� It was your strength and your faith in me that helped me to carry on.� It was knowing that you and Gimli were by my side that made it possible for me to face the dead on the Dimholt Road.� Do not EVER wish yourself dead, Legolas.� I still need you.�

�������Oh, Aragorn,� the prince sighed as he leaned his head against the man�s shoulder. �It is now you who gives me strength.�

�������That is what friends are for,� he whispered as he placed a kiss on his pale golden brow. �Now come, we must dress for the coronation.� �

������Though he wore a small smile on his face and seemed to pay attention to the ceremony, Legolas was imminently aware of Elrond�s presence behind him. He could feel those gray eyes boring into his back.� After his discovery, he had taken to avoiding the lord, fearing he would shatter if he did not.

������He departed on swift feet when the ceremony ended.� There were many places where one could conceal themselves.� Perhaps it was the act of a coward but he could stand no more beatings upon his heart.

������Legolas did not return to his rooms until late into the evening.� Opening the door, he tossed his circlet upon the dresser and started to unbutton his tunic.

�������You have been avoiding me,� came a voice from the darkness.

�������Elrond,� the prince breathed, his hands ceasing their movements and his body trembling with desire.

�������Have I done something to offend you, pen vain n�n (my fair one)?� the lord asked as he gracefully crossed the floor. �Have I angered you in some way?�

�������I,� Legolas began. �I have been out walking.�

�������For several hours,� Elrond nodded as he took up where the prince�s hands had left off.� No move was made to stop him so he stripped his love naked.

�������I have had much to think about,� came the breathless reply.

������The Peredhel stepped behind him and covered his cerulean eyes with his hands. Immediately Legolas gripped his wrists.

�������Trust in me,� Elrond whispered as he guided the young ellon into the bathing chambers.� �Keep your eyes closed.�

�������Elrond?� he questioned but did not open his eyes.� He heard the soft rustle of cloth and tilted his head toward the sound. Then he felt the barest of touches along his back and over his arms.� Shivers raced over him as his beloved lord traced the lines of his body from head to toe.

������Rising, Elrond placed a small nip on Legolas� right buttock before he wrapped his arms around the pale golden elf.� The prince yelped before pressing back against his naked flesh.� He rested his chin on one creamy shoulder.

�������Open your eyes, meleth (love),� he purred.

������Cerulean eyes fluttered open and Legolas gasped.� The entire chamber was bathed in the soft golden light of hundreds of candles.� The tub, filled with steaming water, was covered with rose petals.� A bowl of the prince�s favorite fruit rested to one side.

�������Do you like it?� the lord asked, unsure of Legolas� stunned reaction.� Those eyes turned to him and beamed.

�������It is�perfect,� the prince breathed.

�������Then join me, melethron (m. lover),� Elrond offered his hand, smiling wickedly. �Allow me to care for and pamper you this evening.�

�������As you wish, h�ren (my lord),� Legolas answered.

������They slipped into the water in silence, the heat relaxing their bodies even as their slow kisses aroused them.� Elrond indeed pampered him, washing and anointing every part of his fair body with scented oil.

������When they finally came together on the bed, they were more than ready for their joining.� Legolas rose above the Elven lord, slowly impaling himself on Elrond�s shaft.� He rode unhurriedly, making every movement count in the miasma of pleasure surrounding them.

������It did not take them long to reach that incredible peak, such was their passion and desire for one another.� Elrond held him tightly as the prince collapsed against his chest.� As he regained his breath, he slowly stroked his fingers through the pale silk of Legolas� hair.� He could not stop touching the beautiful creature on top of him.� He did not want to.

�������I have something I wish to discuss with you,� Elrond said.

�������Can it not wait until morning?� Legolas answered, keeping his eyes on one of the candles.� He did not wish to hear the words that would finally tear out his heart.� He did not wish to hear that Elrond was leaving Middle Earth and rejoining his hervess (wife) in Aman.

�������Yes,� the lord sighed. �It can wait.�

������Many times Elrond tried to discuss his departure with the prince.� Each time Legolas found away to distract him, whether it was with love play or an errand that suddenly needed doing.� He knew there was something bothering the ellon but he could not convince Legolas to talk to him about it.� He even went so far as to ask Aragorn but the man would not divulge anything.� In a final effort to discover what the problem was, Elrond even asked Gimli.� The dwarf was as tight lipped as the man.� It was increasingly frustrating.

������Finally, the day arrived and Elrond could wait no more.� The following morning he and Galadriel would set out for the Grey Havens with Gandalf.� He HAD to speak to Legolas that night.� There could be no more dancing around the issue.�

������He waited until Legolas joined him that evening.� After a quiet meal, he took the prince by the hand and sat down on the couch by the fire.� Then he pulled his beloved into his embrace and held him close.� He would not let him leave until they had talked.

�������Legolas, there is something I need to discuss with you,� Elrond began.

�������Can it not wait?� came the usual response.

�������No, pen vain (fair one).� It cannot wait,� Elrond sighed.

������Legolas tried to pull out of his arms but the lord would not release him.� He looked away, trying to hide the tears that already glistened in his eyes.

�������I have heard the cry of the sea,� Elrond began slowly, stroking his hand down Legolas� arm in an attempt to soothe him. �It calls me home to the White Shores.� With the war ended, the ring and Sauron destroyed and Vilya�s power fading, I am finally free.� I find, ernil n�n (my prince), I am weary.� Though there are many I love who will remain in Arda, I cannot.�

������Legolas remained quiet, saying nothing.

�������You are young yet.� This world still holds new wonders and sights for you to see.� I�� Elrond said but stopped when the prince finally tore himself free from his embrace.

�������If you must go, then go, but do not try to make this easier for me,� he shouted as the tears ran down his face. �Do not tell me that I will find another to love for there will be no other.� I have loved you ever since I was a child and it has only grown stronger as I have grown older.� No one will ever replace you in my heart.

�������Legolas, I was not going to say that,� Elrond said rising.

�������I know you do not love me, that the nights spent together were nothing more to you than diversions until you could leave these shores.� She awaits you across the sea.� That is what truly calls to you,� the prince cried.

�������No, meleth,� Elrond gasped as he tried to gather the Sinda into his arms. �These nights have meant everything to me. I love you.�

�������Do NOT say that.� Never say that to me, not when you are about to leave me,� Legolas snarled. �Go if you must, Elrond, but do not taint our time together with false words of love.� Your heart has never been mine. �

�������Legolas, please listen to me,� Elrond tried again. �I do not lie to you. I only want you to� �

�������Forget?� the prince snarled. �Forget how just being near you sends my heart soaring?� Am I to forget how my body aches for your touch, your kiss?� Am I to pretend that these nights never happened? I will never forget. NEVER!�

������Legolas turned on his heel and bolted out the door.�� Elrond followed quickly after but the prince was out of sight around a corner before he made it to the archway.

�������I want you to come with me,� the lord finished.�

������Legolas rode out of Minas Tirith that very night, taking nothing with him but a light pack and his weapons.� He had no clear destination in mind.� He just knew that he needed to leave. He could not watch Elrond walk out of his life.

������Yet, the prince could not deny his heart and after wandering for several days, he found himself at the Grey Havens.� Grungy and filthy, he looked nothing like the crown prince of Greenwood.� The luster had gone from his pale golden hair.� His cerulean eyes no longer sparkled with mischief or joy. The only thing that glittered upon his person was the burgundy and gold beads in his hair.

������He did not make his presence known to anyone in the small town.� He slinked through the streets until he found a tall house on which to perch as he watched the dock below.� Tied to the dock was a beautiful white ship but Legolas detested it.

������The wait was not long.� He could hear the rickety wheels of Mithrand�r�s cart.� He had eyes for no one save the tall elegant ellon standing closest to the ship.� His heart, nay his soul, cried out in pain as he watched Elrond board the ship.� As it pulled away from the dock, he felt a cold chill sweep over him. The farther it moved away the more pain welled inside him until finally he could contain it no longer.

������His body arched up and he threw his head back as a scream of excruciating pain tore its way out of his throat. It echoed across the water and resounded in the hearts of all who heard it.

������Aboard the ship, Elrond ran to the back of the ship.� His hands gripped the railing so hard his knuckles were white.� A sharp pain stabbed through his chest.� He stared hard at the shore, barely making out anyone standing on the docks.� He did not need to see him clearly to know who it was.

�������Legolas n�n,� he whispered as the tears flowed down his face. �Why do you come now when it is too late? Melithon chen uireb (I will love you forever), Legolas Thranduili�n,��
�

Fourth Age: 120 122 years after the War of the Ring �

������Legolas and Gimli stood on either side of the bed.� Each held the withered hand of their dear friend and companion.� Long ago, they had traveled together, working to save the world from evil.� They had been a fellowship.� Though their members had been scattered, the bond between them had never been truly broken.

������Now they came to say goodbye and it was never an easy thing to do.� Gimli let the tears slide down his face openly, knowing his friend would understand.�� They bowed their heads as Aragorn, son of Arathorn, Elessar, known as Estel among the elves; King of Gondor breathed his last.

������They stayed to offer his widow, Queen Arwen Und�miel, their support as her husband was laid to rest.� They escorted her to the abandoned woods of Lothl�rien and left as per her request.� She would never be seen again.� Then they rode in no particular direction at all. Or so Gimli thought.

�������What is this place, Master Elf?� he asked gruffly, the sound a bit more haggard than before.

�������It is the Grey Havens, meldir (m. friend),� the prince answered softly. �It is time.�

�������Time for what?� the dwarf asked.

�������For us to leave these shores.� I am taking you with me, Gimli.�

�������Taking me where?� came the suspicious question.� �Last time you took me someplace and wouldn�t tell me where we were going, we ended up fighting that huge ugly spider thing. Big as that Oliphaunt I wager. Hard fight that one, good exercise and it was my kill.�

�������Yes, Gimli,� Legolas chuckled softly. �It was your kill.� I am taking you to Aman, the place where the Eldar go when they leave these shores. I am taking you into the West.�

�������I� ��
��Shush, Gimli,� the prince said bringing a finger to his lips as they rode right onto the white ship.

������Wisely, the dwarf did as he was bid.� There was something about Legolas� mood that he didn�t like.� He watched him carefully, looking for the wince the prince always tried to hide.� The journey took both a long time to complete and no time at all.� It seemed they had just set out and next they were docking in the most beautiful quay he had ever seen.� The sands glittered in the sunlight and voices greeted them from the shore, raised in unison.

�������I will need your strength, my friend,� Legolas whispered, his voice tight.

�������You were a fool to let him go,� the dwarf pointed out. �I am here.�

������They gathered their belongings, shouldering their packs, and moved to the top of the gangplank.� Looking down, Legolas saw some faces he recognized, but not the one his heart yearned for.� Though he knew better than to expect him, the prince had hoped Elrond would be there.� Gimli was right. He had been a fool.� There was nothing for it now.� At least he would have his friend with him for a little while longer.

�������Mae Govannen (Well Met), Gimli, son of Gl�in,� came a deep musical voice.

�������Lady Galadriel,� the dwarf actually smiled.

�������You have been accorded a place here among the elves.� Come, take your ease.�� Galadriel said as she held out her hand. Eagerly Gimli took it and she escorted him away.

������Legolas stood alone in a crowd.� He could not deny his friend and so let him go.� He hiked his pack back up on his shoulder and moved through the thong, not sure exactly where to go.� Perhaps there was a place where he could find shelter until he built one of his own.� His heart was heavy and his mind weary.� Long had he resisted both the cry of the gulls and the call of the Halls.� All his companions were gone save one, and all too soon that would change.� His heart was battered and broken.

�������Legolas Thranduili�n?� a clear voice called.

������He turned to see the Lady Celebr�an walking towards him.� He felt the pain stabbing through his heart. Sharp and cutting, it made him gasp and grab at his chest.� His pack slid from his arm as he began to fall.

�������Foolish ellon (m. elf),� the lady muttered as she gripped his upper arms to keep him from collapsing. �If you were not already suffering, I would take you over my knee.�

�������Please,� the prince begged as the tears welled in his eyes. �Leave me be, Hirilen (my Lady).� I have nothing left.�

�������How long have you had the pains, Legolas?� she asked as she looped his arm over her shoulder.

�������I do not,� he began.

�������How long?� she demanded.

�������One hundred and twenty-two years,� he answered softly, gripping his chest as the pain continued.

�������Bria?� came a strong voice.

�������Over here, Gil,� she called. �I have found him.�

�������Here, let me take him. �

������Before Legolas realized it, he was scooped into strong arms. He struggled against the grip to no avail.

�������Cease your wiggling,� Gil growled.

�������Be nice, Gil,� Celebr�an scolded. �He is in just as much pain as Elrond is.�

�������They are both idiots,� the ellon commented.

�������Elrond suffers?� Legolas mumbled, feeling as if he was not attached to his body.

�������Shhh, pen neth (young one),� Celebr�an soothed.

������Another pain stabbed through his chest, making him gasp for breath.� He felt warm lips touch his forehead and whispered words caressed his ears.� Legolas felt the urge to close his eyes, an urge he could not resist.� Sleep claimed him.

�������I will say one thing,� Gil muttered as he studied the ellon in his arms.

�������And what is that, Meleth (Love)?� Bria asked as the walked up the hill.

�������Elrond still has good taste,� the warrior chuckled. �He is a bit filthy but not so hard on the eyes.�

�������You should see him when he is cleaned up.� It is enough to make you cry.� Bria laughed softly.

�������He does not compare to you, Seron vell (Dear lover),� Gil commented with a warm smile.

�������I am afraid that is what he thought as well,� she answered. �He thought Elrond sailed West for me.�

�������Like I said, he is an idiot,� Gil returned as he pushed through the archway.

�������Finally,� Gandalf muttered as they came through the door.� �Stubborn elfling.� Just like his grandfather.�

�������How is Elrond?� Bria asked as she dropped Legolas� pack in the corner.

�������Only a small bout of the thrashing,� the wizard commented as he examined the elf in Gil�s arms. �About the time Legolas stepped foot on the white shores.�

������After a quick sponge bath, they tucked the prince into the same bed as Elrond.� Then they waited.

�������Nothing is happening,� Gil said after a few moments.

�������Some things cannot be rushed,� Gandalf said, never taking his eyes off the two in the bed.� He had worried a great deal about these two.� A tiny thread already connected their f�ar (pl. soul) and so their fates were linked.� Now they only needed to complete the joining to be whole once more.� The question remained whether they would come to their senses or not.

������Slowly, almost unnoticeably, they turned towards each other. Their hands reached out and their fingers wound tightly together.� Inch by inch, their bodies moved across the bed until they were entwined around each other. Legolas� head became tucked under Elrond�s chin.� A soft sigh escaped their lips and a soft glow overtook them.

������Gandalf laughed softly.

�������Things will be fine now,� he said with a smile. �The bonding has been completed.�

�������Good, now everyone out,� Bria said making shooing motions with her hands.� �They need rest and, when they wake, they will need to talk.� All those things they can do without us here. Out.�

�������You are as pushy as your mother,� the wizard mumbled.

�������I like it when you are pushy,� Gil said. Then he swung her up and over her shoulder. �Let me show you how much.�

�������Gil!� she laughed. �Put me down, you yrch (orc).�

�������Never,� the former High King laughed.�

������Elrond slowly opened his eyes.� They drifted shut again only to snap open in shock.� There, tucked on the other pillow, was Legolas.� Was he dreaming again?� No, he was definitely awake.� Could he be hallucinating?� That was always a possibility.�� He had dreamed of this so many times that perhaps now he was seeing it when he was awake.� Legolas could not be here.

������Reaching out a hand, he hesitantly ran it down the pale curve of his cheek.� A soft sound of surprise escaped him.� He WAS here.� It was not a dream.� Wasting no time, Elrond grabbed him and pulled him into his arms.� Tears streamed down his face.

�������Legolas,� he cried. �I have missed you so much.�

�������You left me,� the soft sleepy voice answered.

�������Oh, Meleth,� Elrond said as he looked into those intense blue eyes. �I tried to tell you but you did not want to hear it.� You never let me finish that night.� I wanted you to come with me.� I was so scared that you would say no� and then you ran away into the night.�� No one could find you.�

�������You do not love me,� Legolas said in a small voice.

�������Whatever gave you that idea?� Elrond demanded.

�������You never said it,� the prince answered. �Not once.� I knew I would only drive you away if I told you how I felt.� Moreover, you mourned for Celebr�an so that I was sure you could never feel anything but desire for me.� I was a diversion, nothing more.�

�������My dear prince, I said it the night you ran away,� the lord smiled as he kissed him gently. �You are the only one I have truly loved.� Yes, I love Celebr�an in my own way but ours was never a soul match.�

�������I did not believe you.� How could you love me and leave me behind? You did not even tell me you were thinking of sailing,� Legolas said, shaking slightly.� �I promised myself that I would not watch you sail but I could not stay away.� It hurt so much, Elrond.�

�������I heard you,� he answered, placing butterfly kisses over the prince�s face. �I heard your pain, it stabbed through my heart.� Nevertheless, you came too late.� Once a ship sails, it does not turn back.�

�������I know,� Legolas sobbed, burying his face against Elrond�s chest.

�������Shhh, A�maelamin (Beloved).� Everything will be all right now. We are together,� the Peredhel soothed.

�������But what of Celebr�an?� She met me on the docks,� the Sinda asked.

�������What of her? She is happily bonded to Gil-Galad and they have a beautiful elfling named Tuilinn.� I am happy for them,� Elrond said. �You see, g�ren (my heart)? I am free to bond with the ellon of my choice.�

�������Oh,� Legolas dropped his gaze. Then he made as if to get out of the bed.

�������Where do you think you are going?� Elrond asked, one dark eyebrow rising slowly.

�������Well�I��
��Legolas,� Elrond sighed. �YOU are the ellon I wish to bond with.� For the last one hundred and twenty-two years, I have waited for you to come to these shores.� I have felt your pain, to the point where it was debilitating.� I feared you would go to the halls instead and called to you each night, trying to give you strength and hope.�

�������You wish to bond with me? Why?� Legolas asked.

�������Because, Legolas Thranduili�n.� Nothing in Aman held any pleasure for me because you were not here.� I needed my heart and it was still in Endor with you.�

�������And mine left Middle Earth with you,� the prince whispered.

������The next thing Elrond knew, his arms were filled with lustful prince.� Lips and tongues met in a fury of movement as they rolled over the bed.� Hands never ceased moving, familiarizing themselves once more with each other�s bodies.

������Soon Legolas found himself pinned beneath his beloved and there was no other place he wanted to be.� His heart felt lighter and he laughed with the joy coursing through him.� He gripped Elrond�s broad shoulders and pulled him down for a wild kiss.

������From outside, the sounds of lovemaking could be heard as Elrond made his prince scream repeatedly.� Smiles adorned those that passed by.

������Long into the night they celebrated their love for one another until they fell into an exhausted sleep.� Visitors left baskets for them and went on their way.� It was good to know that Elrond would be happy now.

������The lord stared at the beads Legolas was braiding into his hair.

�������Are those mine?� he asked as he looked closer.

�������Yes,� came the soft answer.

�������When did you get them? I have not seen those in awhile,� Elrond said.

�������I...They were wrapped up in my tunic the first night we made love,� Legolas explained.� �I had left mine in your chambers along with my shoes.� I was not about to go back for them.�

�������Why did you not leave them when you left Imladris?� Elrond asked as he massaged Legolas� shoulders.

�������They were all I had left besides memories. I have worn them every day since then.� The prince explained.

�������Does that not have some significance in Mirkwood?� the Peredhel asked as he brushed Legolas� fingers aside and continued the braiding himself.

�������It means that I was no longer available to court.� I was involved with someone,� the prince explained.

�������I did not realize,� Elrond stared down at his beloved in awe. �You have loved me for a long time.�

�������Since I was small,� Legolas answered.

�������Beads mean the same thing here as well,� Elrond said as he pulled Legolas to his feet.�� Reaching into a small wooden bowl on the nightstand, he pulled out something.� Then he took hold of Legolas� wrist and turned his hand over.� Slowly he dropped the prince�s beads into his hand. �Would you do the honors?�

�������Of course,� came the breathless answer.

������Slowly Legolas rose and began braiding his beads into Elrond�s silken hair. By the time he was finished, tears were sliding down his face.� Immediately Elrond gathered him into his arms.

�������I did not mean to make you cry, meleth,� he whispered.

�������I never thought to see this day,� Legolas sobbed. �I thought that when I arrived here, you would be with Celebr�an and I would be alone.�

�������You will never be alone, g�r-e-g�ren (heart of my heart),� Elrond said capturing his lips in a deep passionate kiss.

������In a simple ceremony celebrated in their home, Elrond E�rendilion, Lord of Imladris bonded with Legolas Thranduili�n, Crown Prince of Mirkwood.� The Prince�s dear friend, Gimli, son of Gl�in, witnessed the ceremony along with Lady Galadriel of Lothlorien, High King Gil-Galad and his lovely wife Lady Celebr�an of Imladris and Lothlorien. The happy couple was not seen for several weeks following the ceremony.� They had one hundred and twenty-two years to make up for.�

The End.

������ �