Two days passed since Legolas' fate had been decided—two days since King Thranduil had arrived and given his blessings upon Legolas and Aragorn's marriage. Legolas had locked himself in his chambers two days since, refusing to participate in his marriage preparations. Legolas rolled over his bed lazily, tired after another wave of nausea. The news of his upcoming wedding didn't help at all. Legolas choked a sob that was threatening to escape. He had agreed to marry Aragorn, but the thought of this still burned his heart. Tonight, he would be joined to Aragorn by an elven bond, binding his soul with the man who saw him as a friend and brother for eternity. They would be wed secretly in one of Elrond's house's halls; however, their marriage would be announced officially once the couple reached Minas Tirith, along with the news of Legolas' pregnancy.

Legolas sighed deeply, thinking of his new life after tonight. Being a Prince Consort to a race he didn't understand would be difficult. Living in a city full of men and stone instead of the woods he was raised in would take a lot of work for Legolas to adjust to. Not to mention that he and Aragorn would have to deal with possible rejection from the people of Gondor regarding their marriage. For a moment, Legolas wondered what he had gotten himself into!

However, that thought was pushed away when he remembered the life growing inside him.

/It's all for my child's sake./ he told himself as he got out of bed.

Entering the balcony, Legolas saw the sun shining a soothing orange in the middle of the sky. He closed his eyes, knowing that his brothers would come to prepare him for the wedding at any minute.

'What are you doing here, Legolas?' Legolas turned to see his brother Mallorn standing at the balcony entrance.

'I was thinking of tonight's events,' he answered softly. 'It's weird to think I'll be wed to someone in a few hours.'

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

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

'Legolas, I want to tell you something.' Legolas looked at him questioningly. 'I have promised Aredhel to tell him the truth about Haldir's brothers.'

At that statement, Legolas paled.

'No, Mallorn,' he said shakily. Please, don't. If Aredhel knew, he'd tell Ada, and only the Valar knew what he might do when word of this reached his ears.'

'Legolas,' Mallorn sighed deeply. 'It had been almost 500 years since it happened! Besides, they must know. How long are you going to hide it? Adar and Aredhel deserve to know, as well as Aragorn.' At that thought, Mallorn stared at Legolas thoughtfully. 'You have told him, haven't you?'

Legolas sighed, shaking his head. 'I didn't dare to tell him yet. I just couldn't,' he said.

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

'I know,' Legolas whispered weakly. 'I promise I'll tell him tonight... after the ceremony.'

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

'As you wish, but make sure he doesn't tell Ada or ride to Lothlórien to strangle Rûmil or his brother to death!'

Mallorn chuckled softly. 'I will, Legolas. I don't want to see what Aredhel or Adar might do to them either!' Legolas smiled softly at his brother. 'Alright now,' Mallorn said. 'Enough wasting time. Let's enter now. Adar and Aredhel will come soon to prepare you.'

'Ready me?' Legolas frowned as his brother pulled him inside. 'I'm not a child. I can prepare myself.'

'No, Legolas.' Mallorn said sharply, turning to face him. 'Regardless of the way, this is your wedding. I'm certain that Adar was hoping to have a big wonderful wedding for you when the time came, but because of the current circumstances, he can't. Don't deny him this small pleasure of readying you for your wedding as well.' Legolas nodded silently. 'Good.' Mallorn smiled warmly.

The two heard soft knocks on the door.

'Enter,' Legolas said softly.

Thranduil and Aredhel emerged into the room.

'Legolas, it's time,' Thranduil said. 'The servants had prepared your bath.' Legolas nodded silently and left the room, heading for the bathroom with his father.

Aredhel raised an eyebrow. 'That was unexpected,' he said when he and Mallorn were alone. 'I had expected Legolas to make a fuss about readying him.'

'He did object when I first told him,' Mallorn admitted. 'But then I told him about Adar, which was enough to convince him to comply.'

'I see,' Aredhel said, putting a mid-size velvet box on the dressing table. 'We should choose something to wear for him.'

'What is this?' Mallorn asked, eyeing the box curiously.

'A gift,' Aredhel said with a smirk. 'From Adar.'

Mallorn narrowed his eyes suspiciously. He knew that wicked look that shone in Aredhel's eyes very well. He saw it often in his father's eyes; unfortunately, they all inherited it from him. It always meant that something unexpected would happen... something big!

He observed as his brother roamed through Legolas' cabinet, searching for something for Legolas to wear.

'Now, what shall Legolas wear?' Aredhel mused loudly. He secretly thanked the Valar that most of Legolas' clothes in Rivendell were formal robes rather than the simple tunics and leggings he was fond of wearing in Mirkwood.

'I think that will be suitable,' he said, taking out a robe and showing it to Mallorn.

'He will say that it's too fancy.' Mallorn answered.

'Well, it is his wedding!' Aredhel argued, spreading the robe on the bed. 'And although it will be secretly performed, it remains a special occasion. Besides, it's not very fancy. Legolas doesn't have any fancy clothes at all!'

Mallorn just chuckled in response.

Legolas took off his shirt and leggings in the bathroom and tossed them on a small chair. He entered the hot bathtub and waited for his father.

Thranduil entered and smiled when he saw his son waiting for him. He applied liquid soap and oils to his son's golden hair and gently washed it, messaging his scalp. Legolas closed his eyes, allowing his body to relax in the hot water and under his father's gentle touch.

After washing Legolas' body, Thranduil gave him some oil vials and told him to apply them while drying it. Then, he left the bathroom. Legolas got out, took a towel, and dried the excess water from his hair. After drying his body, he applied the oils, wrapped a towel around his waist, and left.

He found his father and brothers waiting for him in his bedroom.

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

'It was fine,' Legolas answered solemnly.

'Just fine?' Aredhel raised an eyebrow teasingly. 'I remember it was the most wonderful thing that ever happened to me before my marriage!'

Legolas glared at him. He opened his mouth to say something malicious, but one stern look from Mallorn changed his mind. 'What next?' he asked instead.

'These are your clothes for the ceremony,' Thranduil said, handing Legolas his robe.

Legolas scowled at the robe but said nothing.

'It's your wedding, Legolas!' Mallorn said, trying to control his snickers at his brother's expression. 'Besides, it's a beautiful robe! It's very suitable for the occasion.'

Legolas sighed in defeat. Apparently, he didn't have much choice. He took the robe and went behind a partition to put it on. After a few moments, he reappeared again, and Mallorn whistled in amusement at his brother's appearance while Thranduil and Aredhel smiled warmly at him.

'You look wonderful, Legolas,' Mallorn teased.

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

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

Mallorn took the brush and ran it through Legolas' silky hair before taking some of the golden locks and braiding them beautifully into tiny, intricate braids. When Mallorn finished styling Legolas' hair, Thranduil picked up the box and placed it in front of Legolas.

'What is it?' Legolas blinked in surprise.

'Close your eyes first,' Aredhel said excitedly.

Legolas frowned suspiciously at his father and brother, but then he sighed and closed his eyes. Aredhel smiled, winking at Mallorn as their father reached for the box and opened it again.

It took everything in Mallorn's power to stop himself from gasping.

'You can open your eyes now, Legolas,' Aredhel said excitingly.

Legolas opened his eyes and looked into the opened box. As soon as his eyes saw the box's contents, a loud gasp escaped from his mouth.

'That's... that's...' Legolas felt the tears filling his eyes.

'Yes, Legolas,' Thranduil said softly, taking Mallorn's place behind Legolas. 'It's your naneth's most favourite crown. I wanted you to wear it as she wore it at our wedding.'

'I can't...' Legolas choked a soft sob. When he was an elfling, he had seen a painting of his mother wearing that crown in his father's chambers. His father had told him that the crown was made especially for his mother. It was her symbol... her status as the Jewel of Mirkwood... the Sun-Maiden of the entire East region. He touched the jewel as if it were the most sacred thing. 'I can't...'

'Yes, you can, Legolas,' Thranduil said, taking the crown out of the box and placing it on his son's head. It's yours now. See? You look just like her—a symbol of beauty and grace.'

Legolas watched his reflection in the mirror, wearing his mother's small crown. A tear made its way down his cheek.

Aredhel and Mallorn smiled as they watched their father and brother. Aredhel was surprised when his father told him to give their mother's crown to Legolas, yet he understood it very well. Legolas was the very image of his mother, a memory of her beauty and grace, and the crown symbolized her.

'Come on, now,' he said, snapping them from their thoughts. 'We have absolutely no time and still have a lot of work to do.' He went to Legolas, removed the crown, and returned it to its box. Legolas sighed and surrendered to his father and brothers.

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At another part of Elrond's house, Aragorn was also preparing himself for the wedding with the help of his twin brothers.

"Why don't you wear this robe?" Elladan held up a robe and showed it to Aragorn.

"The one I chose is fine, Elladan," Aragorn said, rolling his eyes.

"I know, but this one is fancier," Elladan prodded. "Believe me, Legolas will fall straightly in love with you if he sees you wearing it."

Aragorn raised an eyebrow, shooting his brother a 'Who-are-you-fooling' look.

Elrohir chuckled softly. "Don't bother yourself, Elladan. Estel will not listen to us anymore, especially after forcing him to be bathed by us."

"Now that you mentioned it, Elrohir," Aragorn said in annoyance. "I'm still wondering why you did it. It's not that I don't know how to bathe or wear my clothes."

The twins laughed loudly.

"We've told you before, Estel. It's a tradition." Elladan grinned. "I'm sure that Legolas also has his share of this with his father and brothers. At any rate, we are a better choice than Adar, for example."

Aragorn grimaced at that thought.

Snickering at the man's expression, the twins returned to their work in readying him.

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Aragorn entered Elrond's study, where the ceremony would take place. He gasped in surprise at the sight that met his eyes. Even if it was a secret joining, the study was beautifully decorated with white roses and ribbons; the desk was moved from the middle of the room and replaced with a white elven altar.

"This is beautiful!" Aragorn breathed.

"Of course it is, son of Arathorn," Gandalf's voice came from behind. "It's not every day that the King of Men and the Prince of Mirkwood get married." The old wizard smiled warmly as he placed a warm hand on the man's shoulder. "Even if it was in secret."

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

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

Aragorn smiled sadly at his friend's words. "Elrond hasn't told you about the reasons behind this marriage, has he?"

"He has told me, Elessar," Gandalf said in sympathy. "However, I hope you find a place in Legolas' heart. You just have to give him some time."

Aragorn smiled and put his hand on Gandalf's shoulder, showing his gratitude. Soon, Elrond, Glorfindel, Celeborn and the twins joined them.

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After Aragorn and the others, Thranduil and Legolas reached the study a few moments later. Legolas was about to enter when a hand touched his shoulder from behind, and he turned to see his father smiling warmly at him.

'Ada?' Legolas asked softly.

'You resemble your nana on our wedding day,' King Thranduil whispered. 'You look as radiant as she was that day.' His eyes rested on the crown that Legolas was wearing. 'This crown is my and her gift to you, Legolas. I have waited for the day I would place it on your bride's head for so long, but since you will marry a male, this crown belongs to you. I have wished for a wedding much more superior than this, but fate didn't allow it. I'm sorry that you have to marry this way, Legolas.'

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

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

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

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

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Aragorn felt his heart skip a beat at the sight of Legolas as the Elven Prince entered with his father.

The Elven Prince was the image of a Vala. He wore a one-piece, pearl white robe with little silver leaves stitched beautifully. A chain of little silver leaves was hanging around and down his waist. He wore white boots, also decorated with silver leaves. His golden hair fell freely down to his shoulders; two small braids were on each side of his face, and a small crown made of silver leaves was on the top of his head. The middle leaf dangled, pressing against Legolas' forehead and in its centre was a diamond in the shape of a sun.

Aragorn took deep, steady breaths as Legolas approached the altar. He wondered what Legolas was thinking of at that moment.

Legolas smiled slightly at everyone, but that didn't mean anything. The Elven Prince was well-trained to hide his true feelings when he wanted. Aragorn sighed deeply; this would be harder than he had thought. How would he have Legolas near him without showing his real feelings?

/May the Gods help me,/ he prayed silently.

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Legolas felt incredibly nervous as he entered the room and saw everyone waiting for his arrival. There weren't many present, but each one had a special place in his life: the old lords, the twins, the old wizard, Aragorn, his father, and his brothers. He felt a slight excitement filling his heart, and he thought bitterly that it would have been happiness if this was his and Haldir's wedding.

Haldir had asked his hand in marriage just before the day of his death.

Legolas felt his heart bound violently against his chest with pain. His eyes filled with tears, which were blinked away before they managed to escape. He forced himself to smile before any of these sad thoughts showed again. Legolas looked at the altar ahead of him as he walked with his father towards it. He saw Gandalf standing there wearing his usual white robes and holding his long white staff. His friend stood next to the old wizard, looking kingly and handsome. Aragorn wore a dark grey robe with sliver-threaded decorations and black leather boots; his sword hung loosely around his waist. His shoulder-length raven hair was neatly brushed and held in a loose ponytail. On his forehead, he wore a golden circlet bearing the symbol of Gondor's court. He looked more handsome than Legolas could ever remember!

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

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

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King Thranduil led Legolas to the altar next to Aragorn's side, then stepped aside.

Legolas looked at Aragorn, smiling slightly before greeting Gandalf with a slight nod.

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

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

'I do,' Aragorn said, glancing at Legolas from the corner of his eye.

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

'I do,' Legolas replied nervously.

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

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

Legolas frowned mentally. There was a shielded feeling in Aragorn's mind that he couldn't name it.

What was Aragorn hiding in that part of mind?

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

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

Aragorn looked into Legolas' eyes, seeking his permission; Legolas forced a nervous smile. Slowly, Aragorn leaned forward.

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

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After the wedding ceremony, all shared a small dinner in the family's private dining room. For anyone who hadn't attended the ceremony, it was another typical private dinner between the Lord of Rivendell and his family and closest friends. But for those who were there, it was a small celebration of the newlyweds.

After dinner, Aragorn and Legolas excused themselves and retired to their newly prepared chambers.

The living room was beautifully decorated with white ribbons and bouquets of white roses, and the dim light of the candles added a more romantic atmosphere. However, the newlywed couple's thoughts were far from romantic. The two were standing in front of each other, staring at each other awkwardly, not knowing what to say or do.

Legolas took a deep breath, thinking of a way to survive the night. There were so many things that made him uneasy about this night.

He wondered how he would bear sharing a bed with another person... He asked how he would accept his new situation as a husband... True, he and Aragorn had set clear lines on their relationship, but he wondered how long this would continue. He also wondered how he would tell Aragorn about Haldir's brothers...

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

During dinner, Aragorn kept staring at Legolas, wondering how his life would be now that he was married to the one he had loved for so long. He thought of how their souls touched each other as Gandalf performed the binding spell... How close he felt to his beloved made his heart beat with joy, though sadness was the only thing that filled Legolas' soul.

Aragorn sighed deeply, remembering how much his beloved's soul was still mourning Haldir's death. However, his sadness was soon replaced with curiosity as the elf roamed in his mind, feeling his own emotions. He remembered Legolas trying to break through the mental wall surrounding the only emotion he had tried to bury for so long... his love...

Aragorn sighed; if Gandalf hadn't finished the binding spell by then, he was sure that Legolas would have managed to break through and know his true feelings...

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

Aragorn shook his head, snapping himself from his revere.

/Say something,/ he ordered himself mentally. His eyes wandered in the room, trying to find something to say.

They stared again at each other, not knowing what to say.

"Aragorn," Legolas said nervously, cutting the silence. "There is something I need to tell you."

Aragorn smiled and gestured to a small couch. "Let's sit first," he suggested.

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

Legolas looked into Aragorn's eyes and wondered again if he could accept him as a husband one day, as Mallorn had told him he would.

He shook his head; he didn't want a lover anymore. He had had his chance once, and it was over now. All he wanted was to raise his and Haldir's child in peace.

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

"Legolas, what's wrong?" he asked softly.

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

"Aragorn," he started. "Do you remember asking me if I wanted to inform Haldir's brothers about my pregnancy and our marriage?"

"Yes, I remember that you had refused." Aragorn nodded. "I also remember asking you why, and you said you would tell me when you felt ready to reveal a secret concerning the Lorièn brothers."

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

"I promise, Legolas."

Taking a deep breath, Legolas started his story. "It happened almost 500 years ago, a few weeks after Haldir and I became a couple..."

FLASHBACK

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

'Hello,' he called. 'Is anyone here?'

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

'Oh, Rûmil!' Legolas smiled softly. 'It's you! You startled me!'

Rûmil smiled cheekily and bowed his head slightly. 'I apologize, young Prince Legolas. It wasn't my intention.'

'Please, call me Legolas,' Legolas said. 'There is no need for formality. You are Haldir's brother, after all!'

'Very well then, Legolas,' Rûmil said, walking carefully towards him.

Although Legolas' first instinct was to turn around and run away from the Lothlórien elf, he managed to control himself and assured himself that Rûmil would not harm him.

'May I ask, Legolas, why are you walking through the forest alone? It is not the wisest thing for such a young, pretty elf to do,' Rûmil asked slyly.

Legolas flushed slightly. 'Why is it not safe?' he asked innocently. 'What would happen to me in the safety of Goldenwoods? I was looking for Haldir; have you seen him?' He tilted his head cutely to one side.

Rûmil stared at him for a while before answering. 'You are right, my Prince. These woods are the safest place in the Middle-Earth. As for Haldir, he has gone, scouting our borders. I don't think he'll be back tonight.'

'Oh,' Legolas said, disappointed. 'Very well then. I'll excuse myself now. Mallorn must be looking for me by now; I must return to our talan.' With that, he turned around and was about to walk away when a strong hand grabbed his wrist, forcing him to turn around. Legolas yelped in surprise as his body turned forcefully and pressed against Rûmil's.

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

'I certainly agree, Rûmil,' Orophin said. We and the young Prince must spend some time together to get to know each other better.'

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

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

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

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

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

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

'That wasn't very smart, pretty one.' He smirked.

Legolas grew furious as he tried to pull away but with no success.

'Let me go,' he yelled, tears falling.

'And if I don't?' Rûmil asked slyly.

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

Rûmil smirked evilly. 'Then make sure they know about this too!' With a swift move, Rûmil pulled Legolas' body towards his and pressed his lips on Legolas'.

Legolas quickly turned his face away from the kiss, but Rûmil would not give up so easily. The Lórien elf released one of Legolas' hands and cupped the Prince's face, shoving his tongue into the Prince's mouth.

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

Suddenly, a hard surface hit Legolas' back.

In his attempt to free himself, Legolas didn't realize that Rûmil was pushing him backwards until he hit a tree trunk. Legolas froze, realizing he was trapped between Rûmil and the tree.

Taking advantage of Legolas' momentary distraction, Rûmil pulled away and swiftly turned the Prince around, pinning him to the tree and bending Legolas' arms behind his back. Legolas yelled in pain as his face made contact with the rough surface, and his hands were bent forcefully behind his body.

'Orophin, the rope!' Rûmil glanced at his brother, who was watching nearby. With an evil smirk, Orophin took out a rope hidden between the folds of his tunic and handed it to Rûmil. 'Now, my little Prince,' Rûmil whispered in Legolas' ears as he tied the Prince's hands behind his back. 'You are ours!'

'Rûmil, please!' Legolas pleaded, his tears falling uncontrollably. 'Don't do this! Please!'

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

'No,' Legolas wept. 'Please, Rûmil. Don't.'

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

Rûmil pulled away and smirked maliciously at him.

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

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

Orophin pulled away and stared at Legolas' bare chest.

'What a beautiful sight!' He smirked deviously. He looked at his brother and saw that Rûmil had already freed himself from his clothes. He looked back at Legolas underneath him, titling his head thoughtfully.

Legolas looked up with teary eyes, realizing he was at the mercy of two elves. They were deep in the woods, and no one would hear his calls for help. The two elves would have their way with him, and nobody would ever rescue him. He closed his eyes, sobbing heartily.

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

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

'Why shouldn't we, Legolas?' Rûmil asked as he approached his brother and their prey.

Orophin stood and gave way to his brother.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hearing that, Orophin tensed.

Legolas was still a virgin!

The thought shocked him. Yes, he had desired the young elf, and seeing Haldir gaining his affection had raised his jealousy, but the elf was a virgin; that meant Haldir hadn't touched him yet!

This was his first time!

'Rûmil,' he called his brother uncertainly.

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

'Maybe we shouldn't do this,' he said nervously.

'Why not?' Rûmil snapped. He was so close to having what he had desired for so long. Orophin gulped and said nothing. Rûmil might be the youngest, but he had a much stronger personality. Orophin knew that he could do nothing to stop his brother. Rûmil looked back at the sobbing elf underneath him and smirked. 'So our pretty Legolas is still a virgin, isn't he? How nice! It's an honour to be the first to mark that beautiful body!' he taunted.

Legolas did nothing but sob. He'd shame his family forever.

Rûmil moved slowly down, stroking Legolas' flesh. He was about to settle himself again between Legolas' thighs when the three elves heard the whistle of an arrow near them.

True enough, an arrow settled itself a few inches away from Legolas' figure. The three looked up and saw Mallorn and a few Mirkwood guards standing at the entrance of the clearing, all pointing, aiming their bows at them.

'Mallorn!' Legolas exclaimed.

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

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

Rûmil moved away, glaring at Mallorn with hatred.

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

'Then you must explain to her how you dared to attack one of Mirkwood's Princes, ' Mallorn said, ambling towards his brother's motionless form.

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

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

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

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

One guard removed his tunic and covered the sobbing Prince with it.

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

Mallorn sat patiently, waiting for his brother to release all his pain. When Legolas' sobs ceased, he smiled warmly down at him.

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

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

'It's alright, Legolas,' Mallorn stroked his hair tenderly. 'Thank the Valar for reaching you on time. Those two will never dare to touch you again.'

'But was it wise to let them go, Your Highness?' the head of the guards asked. 'We should have tied them to a tree and informed the lady of their deeds.'

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

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

'But Legolas-' Mallorn tried to reason.

'No,' Legolas pleaded. 'Don't tell anyone. Please, Mallorn. Nobody must know!'

Mallorn looked at his brother and sighed deeply. 'Fine, I won't tell anyone, but you have always to stay close to us, agreed?'

Legolas nodded and hugged his brother tightly.

END OF FLASHBACK

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'How DARE they touch Legolas!' Aredhel jumped from his sea, anger burning in his eyes.

Mallorn sighed deeply at his brother's very much-expected outburst.

The two were sitting in Mallorn's bedchambers, drinking wine and discussing today's wedding, when Aredhel asked Mallorn to tell him about Legolas and Haldir's brothers. So Mallorn told him the whole story; Aredhel's reaction to the story was the same as Mallorn expected it.

Mallorn's eyes followed Aredhel as he paced back and forth, boiling with anger.

'Aredhel, will you please calm down and sit so I can continue?' he asked after his head started to spin due to his brother pacing.

'How can I calm down when I know his lover's brothers nearly raped my baby brother?' Aredhel yelled in anger. 'And you knew about it and hadn't said a single word.' He glared at Mallorn. 'I can't believe you two kept such a thing a secret for 500 years!'

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

'Adar will not like this,' Aredhel shook his head, sitting again.

'You aren't planning on telling him, are you?' Mallorn asked. 'If he hears of it, nothing will stop his anger from destroying everything and anything in his way.'

'I know that!' Aredhel snorted. 'Don't worry. I'm not that stupid to tell him such a thing.'

The two sat in uncomfortable silence, each lost in his thoughts until Aredhel asked, 'Was that why Legolas stopped going to Lothlórien as frequently as before?'

'Yes,' Mallorn answered, nodding. 'After the incident, Legolas stopped going anywhere without company. He didn't wish to reencounter Rûmil or Orophin. In addition, when Haldir was back, he felt uneasy around him. Haldir had noticed that and asked me more than once if he had wronged Legolas in any way. I even was at the edge of telling him the truth out of pity.' Mallorn sighed deeply.

'What happened later?'

FLASHBACK

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

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

'Legolas, is something wrong?' he asked softly.

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

'Well, what is it?' Mallorn asked.

'I... I...' Legolas bit his lip nervously. 'I've done something that Adar would not have approved of.' He whispered.

Mallorn raised a questionable eyebrow. It wasn't the first time Legolas had done something their father would not have approved of. His youngest brother had done things that even Aredhel didn't dare to do in their father's presence, and he also got away with it well! So why was Legolas afraid that much?

'What have you done?' Mallorn asked calmly.

'Ihavesleptwithhaldir!' Legolas said in one breath.

'What did you say?' Mallorn asked in confusion. 'I didn't understand what you said.'

Legolas took a deep breath before saying. 'I have slept with Haldir...'

'YOU WHAT?' Legolas winced at his brother's shout.

'I slept with him,' he whispered.

Mallorn opened his mouth and then closed it, unable to say anything. His father might have let Legolas do what he hadn't usually allowed Aredhel and Mallorn to do, but this wasn't a thing that Thranduil would do to pass it easily.

His father would kill them both if he knew about it.

Legolas played nervously with the hem of his tunic, refusing to look up at his brother. He knew what Mallorn was thinking about right now, for he was thinking of it too. His father would not let this matter pass with a mere scowl.

Mallorn took several deep breaths. Panic wouldn't solve the problem. He knew that Legolas would not do that without a reason or motive. Then, first, he needed to know the circumstances of his brother's behaviour.

'When did it happen?' he asked suddenly.

'Yesterday,' Legolas replied.

'How?'

Legolas looked up at his brother, his cheeks reddened at the question.

'I mean, how it started?' Mallorn asked, feeling a little bit of amusement.

'Well,' Legolas said. 'You know that I've been rather uncomfortable when I'm with Haldir because of what happened. Yesterday, after our walk in the forest, we stopped at his talan, and he asked if I could join him for a drink. I hesitated a little bit but then gathered my courage and entered. We drank some wine and started kissing, and one thing led to another...' By now, Legolas' face was redder than possible.

Mallorn sighed deeply. He couldn't blame his brother for drifting after his emotions.

Oh, well! It's not as if he hadn't been in others' beds!

Mallorn smirked. If his father knew the number of maidens he had bedded, he would be dead and buried 7000 meters underground. But his father doesn't know about it. Besides, it would be the only time for Legolas.

'Alright, Legolas.' Mallorn said with a sigh. 'But let this be the only time.'

Legolas blushed again and looked away. Mallorn raised an eyebrow.

'You liked it, didn't you?' he stated.

'It-it was pleasurable,' Legolas said.

Mallorn laughed loudly. 'Alright then. But don't carry on with it. And don't let anyone see you.'

Beaming with delight, Legolas thanked his brother and left the room.

Mallorn smirked and returned to his book. A few minutes later, he realized what he had done. Sighing, he covered his face with his hands. 'Adar will kill me.'

END OF FLASHBACK

'Don't let anyone see you!' Aredhel gritted his teeth, gathering all his power to stop himself from jumping on Mallorn and strangling him to death. 'That was your advice to him?!'

'Well,' Mallorn said. 'I realize now that encouraging him was a mistake, but he needed it.'

'Needed it?' Aredhel exclaimed. 'Adar had specifically ordered us not to bed anyone, yet you encouraged him to do so.'

'They had already slept with each other!' Mallorn said. 'What else was I supposed to do?'

'You should have dragged him out of Lothlórien when you knew what happened. You should have warned Haldir not to do anything like this again. You should have done lots of things instead of encouraging him.'

'He was young and hurt,' Mallorn protested. 'He needed to forget the pain was caused him by Rûmil, and Haldir was the only one who could wipe that pain!'

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

Mallorn flinched at his brother's tone. 'We didn't know then that we could get pregnant naturally, Aredhel. You can't really blame him or me for this. Besides, we both had our share of lovers in our beds, and it was only fair that I would allow Legolas to feel the pleasure of being in his lover's bed.'

'You had your share of lovers in your bed,' Aredhel stated coldly. 'And believe me, if Adar had known about all the maidens you have taken to your bed or if one had been impregnated, then be sure that Adar would have forced you to marry her, whether you liked it or not.'

Mallorn gulped at that thought. He had never thought of that. Aredhel wasn't serious about this, was he?

His Adar wouldn't force him to marry one of the maidens he had slept with, would he?

'Anyway,' Aredhel shook his head. 'Adar mustn't know about Legolas and Haldir, or he'll cut you into pieces. For Haldir's brothers, it's wise if they didn't know about the baby's real sire. One of us must stay with Legolas even if he goes to Gondor. You are closer to him than I, so it's best if you go with him.'

'But will Adar agree to this?' Mallorn asked, amazed at his brother's natural leadership.

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

'Mirkwood? Is everything all right there?' Mallorn asked worriedly.

'Yes, it's only a bunch of Orcs making some trouble at our borders. It's nothing to worry about. On the other hand, you must watch Legolas, understood? He will be alone in a city full of men.'

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

'And do me a favour, Mallorn,' Aredhel sighed. 'Next time, don't give Legolas any advice that Adar might separate your head because of.' With that, Aredhel wished his brother a good night and left.

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"And that's what happened," Legolas said softly, tears falling silently down his cheeks. "I felt so loved and protected in Haldir's arms. It wasn't the physical need that brought me to Haldir's bed; it was the feeling of being safe... of knowing he would always be with me." A soft sob escaped from between his lips. "But I was wrong. Haldir left me when I needed him the most. He left me, and I don't know if he will ever return to me again." At this point, Legolas broke down and sobbed uncontrollably. Aragorn took the weeping elf in his arms, whispering soothing words in his ears.

"It's alright, Legolas." The man whispered soothingly. 'Haldir will always be with you... in your heart."

"Do-do you think so?" Legolas said, pulling away.

"Of course I do." Aragorn smiled, wiping Legolas' crystal tears.

Legolas looked away from Aragorn's gaze.

"I have never told anyone of that, not even my Ada. I was so afraid of his reaction," he whispered. "I was even afraid to tell you about it. I'm still ashamed of what happened or was about to happen."

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

Legolas looked at his friend and smiled sadly. "I promise, Aragorn," he whispered.

Aragorn smiled back and gestured towards the door of the bed chamber. "Now, aren't you tired?"

"Yes, I think I am." Legolas smiled.

Aragorn stood and pulled Legolas up, guiding him to the bed chamber.

"Would you like to change your clothes in the bathroom or here?" Aragorn asked.

"The bathroom," Legolas replied, gazing at the bed warily. He felt highly uneasy at the thought of sharing a bed with Aragorn filled his mind. He quickly took a nightshirt and ran to the bathroom. He washed his face from the tears and then changed into a nightshirt.

When he returned to the room, his cheeks burned with embarrassment as he saw Aragorn standing beside the clothes cabinet, wearing only undergarments.

"I-I'm-I'm sorry," Legolas murmured, looking away. "I didn't know that... I thought that-"

"It's alright, Legolas," Aragorn said amusedly. "I'm sorry I didn't warn you that I would change here. Anyway, I'm used to sleeping with nothing but my underpants, but if that would be a problem with you, then-"

"No," Legolas interrupted. "You don't have to change your habits because of me." He quickly ran and slipped under the covers.

Aragorn slowly walked to the bed and went under the covers.

The two lay on the far ends of the bed, both starting at their sides, their minds filled with many thoughts.

Soon, Aragorn heard Legolas' regular breathing even out. Turning around to face the ceiling, Aragorn wondered what would happen next. What Legolas had told him tonight was a serious matter. His and his child's lives might be in grave danger. Looking at the sleeping elf beside him, Aragorn knew what to do.

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

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Legolas woke up early the following day, hearing the sound of soft knocks on the room door. He groaned softly. It probably hadn't been more than four hours since he fell asleep, and now someone was disturbing his sleep again. He closed his eyes and shifted his body lazily to the other side of the bed, trying to ignore the knocking and return to his reverie. However, every intention to go back to sleep was discarded when his body came to contact with a rigid yet soft object lying next to him. Opening his eyes, Legolas found himself lying partially over Aragorn's naked chest, their legs tangled with each other's and their faces just a few inches apart.

Legolas jerked away from the sleeping man as if a fire had burned him, blushing to the tips of his ears. He stared at Aragorn momentarily, trying to remember how they ended up in the same bed. Then, memories of the last few days came rushing to his mind. He sighed deeply.

This was all so new to him!

And to think that he had shared a bed with his best friend!

Legolas shook his head, sighing again.

He would need a very long time to get used to all this...

Another soft knock reached Legolas' ears. Not knowing whether he should curse or thank whoever was knocking, Legolas got out of bed and left the room, still only wearing his night robe. He crossed the sitting room and opened the enormous wooden door. Peeking outside, he saw Mallorn standing in front of him.

'Mallorn?' he asked quietly.

'Good morning, Legolas,' Mallorn said, smiling warmly. 'Sleep well?'

'Good morning. Yes, thank you,' Legolas said, emerging outside the room and closing the door behind him. 'Is something wrong?'

'No.' Mallorn shook his head. 'But Adar and Aredhel are returning to Mirkwood in a few minutes. I came to take you to say your goodbyes to them.'

'Returning to Mirkwood?' Legolas asked in surprise. It was too early; his father couldn't leave him the morning following his wedding unless... 'Is something wrong in Mirkwood, Mallorn?'

'Adar received some news about some Orc attacks near our borders yesterday. He didn't want to disturb your wedding, so he decided to leave early in the morning.'

'And why wasn't I informed of this?' Legolas asked angrily. Mirkwood is his homeland; he had the right to know about anything concerning it.

'Don't be angry, Legolas.' Mallorn said. 'Adar didn't want to bother you on your wedding day. Besides, Aredhel said that it wasn't something big. I wasn't informed of this until last night when I talked to Aredhel.'

Remembering that issue, Legolas asked, 'How did it go last night?'

'Well,' Mallorn rubbed the back of his neck. 'Aredhel was more understanding than I thought. He got angry for a few moments but then calmed down and shifted into the Crown-Prince-of-Mirkwood mode, making decisions and ordering me around."

Legolas chuckled softly. 'Typical... Did you make sure that he is not going to tell Ada?'

'Don't worry,' Mallorn shrugged. 'He's aware of Adar's temper. He will not say a word to him.'

'That's good,' Legolas sighed deeply. 'So aren't you going with them too?' he asked.

'No,' Mallorn shook his head. 'At least one of your family should stay with you at a time like this. Besides, Adar thinks it would be more comfortable if I kept you company when you leave for Gondor.'

'You are coming with me to Gondor?' Legolas asked in surprise.

'Of course I am,' Mallorn grinned teasingly. 'Adar would be worried about you if you went there alone. Besides, someone has to ensure you stay out of trouble, especially in your condition.'

Legolas sighed, shaking his head. His brother had never let any opportunity to tease him slip away.

'Come on, now,' Mallorn said. 'Adar and Aredhel will leave Imladris in a few minutes. They want to see you before they leave.'

'Give me a few moments to change my clothes, and we'll be on our way,' Legolas said, opening the door quietly and entering the room. A few moments later, he returned wearing a green tunic, white shirt and brown leggings. Gesturing to Mallorn to lead them, Legolas walked behind his brother, lost in thought.

The two walked through the empty corridors of Lord Elrond's house until they reached the main entrance and then made their way through the gardens to the great gate. Legolas saw his father and brother standing near their horses, ready to go.

'Ada!' Legolas ran to his father's arms. 'So you are truly leaving?' He looked up at his father with sadness shining in his blue eyes.

King Thranduil smiled sadly at his youngest. 'Yes, Greenleaf. I'm sorry I must leave like this, but I'm needed in Mirkwood.'

'I want to go with you,' Legolas whispered sadly. 'I want to help you keep our land safe from foul creatures. '

'No, Legolas,' the old King shook his head. 'From now on, your place is by your husband's side. Your place, my little leaf, is now in Gondor.'

'But Mirkwood will always be my homeland, Ada,' Legolas whispered, his hurt clearly shining in his eyes.

'Yes, it will, my child.' King Thranduil smiled sadly. 'And you are always welcome to visit whenever you wish.'

Legolas looked into his father's eyes, fighting the urge to cry. It hurt him to hear that Mirkwood would no longer be his home, that he had become nothing but a stranger to the Greenwood.

Mallorn put a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder and squeezed it gently.

'Take care of yourself, baby brother,' Aredhel said softly. Legolas looked at his brother and smiled slightly.

'So should you, big brother.' He walked to his brother and hugged him tightly. He pulled away and smiled at Aredhel. 'And I hope that I'll hear news of the arrival of your child soon.'

Aredhel smiled warmly but said nothing.

'Well, it's time for us to leave,' King Thranduil declared. 'Aa' lasser en lle coia orn n' omenta gurtha, Legolas,' (May the leaves of your life tree never turn brown, Legolas) he whispered, hugging Legolas one more time.

'Aa' menealle nauva calen ar' malta, Adar,' (May your ways be green and golden, Father) Legolas whispered with a sweet smile.

King Thranduil turned to Mallorn. 'Take care of your brother, Mallorn,'

'Sure, Adar,' Mallorn replied. King Thranduil smiled and walked outside the gate where his guards were waiting. Aredhel hugged his brothers and followed his father. The two brothers didn't move until they heard horses' hooves rushing away.

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When Legolas returned to the bedroom, he found Aragorn sitting on a couch by the window.

"Aragorn," he greeted. "Why are you awake at this hour?"

"I'm not sure," Aragon said with a smile. "My eyes opened a few moments ago, and I couldn't go back to sleep. Plus, I was worried when I didn't find you in the bed. Where did you go?"

"I went to bid farewell to my father and Aredhel. They are returning to Mirkwood," Legolas replied in a low voice as he sat beside his husband.

Aragorn frowned. How could King Thranduil leave his son on the morning after his wedding?

"Why did he leave so soon?" he asked.

"He had received some news from Mirkwood yesterday," Legolas said quietly. "There had been an Orc attack on our south borders. He was needed there."

"Is it anything serious?" Aragorn asked in a worried tone.

Legolas shook his head. "As far as I've been told, it's nothing serious. However, Father must be there to see how the investigations were carried out. He has taken Aredhel with him and told Mallorn to stay with me." Legolas let out a deep sigh, looking outside the window.

"Oh." That was all Aragorn was able to say.

The two sat silent, watching as the dim light of the rising sun started to lighten the dark sky.

Legolas sighed deeply, thinking of his father's words.

/So this is how I will end up.../ he thought sadly. /I shall have to live in a strange land and consider it my home while my true home is no longer mine./

Legolas sighed again, remembering his last night with Haldir. He wondered if he and Haldir had married, would he also have to leave Mirkwood and live in Lothlórien?

He had never left Mirkwood without the intention of returning. Each time he was on a mission, he longed for the day he would return home... his wonderful Greenwoods...

Maybe he would have convinced Haldir to move to Mirkwood instead, or he would have contented himself to live in the Goldenwoods with his lover. After all, unlike Gondor, Lothlórien was more like Mirkwood, right?

Legolas sighed. There was no use in thinking of this now...

What had happened... had happened.

He was married to Gondor's King and had to prepare himself for his responsibilities as Gondor's Prince Consort. A single tear escaped from his eyes.

Aragorn stared silently at his husband's face. He could tell that Legolas was sad about something; he could see shadows of sadness clouding his blue eyes. And what were these? Tears!

"What's wrong, Legolas?" he asked softly. "Why you are crying?"

Legolas looked at his husband and shook his head. "Nothing." His voice was barely above a whisper.

Aragorn looked deeply into Legolas' eyes, unconvinced. "Legolas, what's wrong?" he insisted.

"I said nothing." Legolas choked back a sob. He tore his eyes from Aragorn's, looking away.

"Then why are you crying, Greenleaf? If it's nothing, then you shouldn't be crying," Aragorn said firmly, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

Legolas lowered his head, sobbing softly. He didn't know why he was overreacting to his father's words, but they had hurt him greatly.

"I feel as if I'm unwanted in Mirkwood," he whispered between sobs.

Aragorn raised a surprised eyebrow. Now, from where did Legolas get that idea?

The man slowly moved closer and took the distressed elf in his arms. Legolas buried his face into Aragorn's chest, crying his heart out.

"Who said that you aren't wanted anymore in Mirkwood?" Aragorn asked softly, stroking Legolas' golden hair gently.

"Nobody," Legolas whispered. "I felt hurt when Ada said my place isn't in Mirkwood anymore. He said that my place now is by your side in Gondor."

"Oh." Hurt was evident in Aragorn's voice.

Legolas pulled away, wiping his tears. "I'm sorry, Aragorn," he said, looking at his husband. "I didn't mean to offend or hurt you. I have accepted all the consequences of our marriage, but it's hard to know that Mirkwood is no longer my home."

"It's alright, Legolas," Aragorn reassured, brushing a golden strand behind Legolas' pointed ear. "I know exactly how you feel. I felt the same way when I first went to Gondor. I felt like I had left Rivendell behind me forever. But then I realized that Rivendell would be where I grew up and had lovely memories no matter what happened. It'll always be my true home. And so do you, Legolas. Mirkwood will always be part of you. The Greenwoods will always be in your heart; wherever you go, it will go with you."

Legolas looked at Aragorn and smiled brightly, his heart beating with joy at Aragorn's warm words.

"Ada said that I'd be welcome to visit Mirkwood occasionally," Legolas said softly. "He said that his arms would always be open for me.

"See!" Aragorn smiled. "So you aren't unwanted there after all."

"I suppose so," Legolas whispered. "It's just that my emotions overwhelm me sometimes."

Aragorn chuckled softly. "Well, considering your condition, Legolas, I'm not surprised. Did you forget that you are pregnant?"

"I think I do forget that sometimes," Legolas looked away, blushing. He placed his hand on his flat stomach and chuckled softly. "I wonder how I'll look when my belly starts to show!"

Aragorn laughed. "I'm really looking forward to that day, my dear elf."

Legolas glared at Aragorn mockingly. "Is that so, King Elessar? Do you want to make fun of your pregnant husband? Say one funny comment about me, and I'll ensure my father hears about it."

"Oh, no," Aragorn said in mocked fear. "Then King Thranduil will knock the White Tower down with one blow! Please, Legolas, forgive me... please!"

Legolas laughed and shook his head. "Only this time, King Elessar, and on one condition."

"And what does my dear husband desire me to do?" Aragorn stood and bowed in front of Legolas.

"I want you to escort me to the kitchens, my King," Legolas said, reaching out for Aragorn. "I'm so hungry that I would eat more than a hobbit would!"

"Then to the kitchens we go," Aragorn said, pulling Legolas to his feet.

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Five days after their marriage, Aragorn and Legolas were ready to return to Gondor. Mallorn was searching for Legolas when he saw Elrohir coming from the opposite direction.

'Elrohir,' Mallorn greeted with a smile. 'Have you seen Legolas anywhere?'

'Nay,' Elrohir shook his head. 'Isn't he in his chambers?'

'No, I haven't found him there,' Mallorn replied with a sigh. 'I wonder where he went at this hour of the night!'

'He may be in gardens,' Elrohir suggested. 'You know how much he loves talking to the trees.'

'Yes, he is probably there!' Mallorn exclaimed. 'Thank you, Elrohir.' The Mirkwood prince smiled brightly, clasping Elrohir's shoulder gratefully before rushing towards the gardens. Elrohir watched Mallorn until he disappeared into the shadows. With a sigh, Elrohir shook his head and continued his way.

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Legolas was sitting on a bench in Lord Elrond's gardens, enjoying his last night in Rivendell, when he sensed his brother nearing him. He turned and greeted Mallorn with a sweet smile.

'Brooding again, Greenleaf?' Mallorn smirked.

'No,' Legolas smirked back. 'I was merely enjoying the peace of the night until you arrived and disturbed it.'

'Is that so, baby brother?' Mallorn raised an amusing eyebrow as he sat near Legolas. 'Then I'm glad I did.'

Legolas laughed softly at him. 'Nothing can drop your spirits, Mallorn, can't they?'

'No, my dear brother. Nothing can affect the one and only Mallorn,' Mallorn said, winking slyly at him.

'I'm glad to hear that.' Legolas smiled and looked away.

The two sat silently, listening to the night creatures as they went out, searching for food.

'So, how is your marriage going?' Mallorn asked suddenly.

'It's going well,' Legolas replied. 'Aragorn is a gentleman, and we are doing quite fine.'

Mallorn smiled. 'Do I take it that you have accepted him as your husband, Legolas?' he asked slyly.

'No!' Legolas exclaimed, terrified. The tips of his ears became rosy red. 'I didn't mean that. I meant that we are not as embarrassed as we were at the beginning of our marriage! We are just good friends.'

Mallorn burst into merry laughter at his brother's embarrassed expression. 'Relax, Legolas,' he finally managed to say. 'I was only joking.'

'Well, that wasn't funny,' Legolas frowned. 'You are insulting our friendship by saying that. Besides, Aragorn is in love with someone, but, like mine, his lover is no longer here.'

Mallorn chuckled softly. He wondered when Legolas would realize that Aragorn was in love with him. During the past two days, Mallorn had observed the man carefully and was surprised to see how much Aragorn was in love with his brother. A short talk with the twins had confirmed his suspicion. However, he couldn't do anything about this; his brother had to acknowledge Aragorn's love.

'Legolas,' he said suddenly. 'How do you know if you are in love with someone?'

Legolas looked surprised at Mallorn's question.

'How do you know if you are in love with someone?' Legolas repeated, raising an eyebrow.

'Yes,' Mallorn replied, nodding. 'For instance, how did you know you were in love with Haldir?'

Legolas frowned. 'Why you are asking?'

'Answer me first,' Mallorn insisted. 'How do you know if you are in love with someone?'

'Well,' Legolas said dreamily after thinking deeply for a few minutes. 'Whenever I was with Haldir, I used to feel safe, happy, and very content. I felt like my soul was flying on a cloud, and the whole world was mine. And when we kissed, and he took me into his strong arms, or when I looked deeply into his beautiful green eyes, I forget who I am, where I am, and time suddenly stops.' He sighed deeply, looking into space with a lost gaze.

Mallorn raised his eyebrows as he heard and watched his brother. He blinked several times regarding Legolas, as the latter's mind was lost in another world.

'Fine,' Mallorn shouted, snapping Legolas from his dream. 'But that was after you two confessed your love to each other. I want to know how you knew that you loved him.'

'Well, I just knew,' Legolas replied. 'I can't really describe how... it's just that when it happens, you simply know.'

'Oh,' Mallorn said before losing himself in deep thought.

Legolas frowned at his brother's behaviour; it wasn't like Mallorn to ask such questions.

/How do you know if you are in love with someone?/ Legolas mused. /What kind of question is that? He is 2383 years older than I am and has his share of lovers... he has practically courted half of Mirkwood's maidens! But none of them were serious. He has courted maidens for fun more than for love... could it be possible that he has finally found someone?/

'Mallorn, is there someone?' he asked.

Mallorn looked at his brother and sighed deeply. He stood up from his seat and walked to a nearby tree.

'Maybe,' he said softly, running his hand along the tree's trunk.

'Maybe?' Legolas asked, puzzled. 'What do you mean by maybe?'

'Well,' Mallorn said, nervously rubbing the back of his neck. 'I think Elrohir is in love with me.'

'Elrohir!' Legolas gasped in surprise. 'Elrohir is in love with you!'

Mallorn nodded. 'At times, I see that strange look in his eyes. A look that screams of love and adoration. But it doesn't last for long. It disappears as soon as it comes and is replaced by a brotherly and friendly look.'

'What about you?' Legolas asked. 'How do you feel about this?'

'I don't know,' Mallorn admitted, looking back at Legolas. 'Elrohir and I have been friends for 3000 years, but I have never felt attracted to him in that manner. Besides, I have always preferred females.'

'Are you sure that Elrohir looked at you in that way? You might be mistaken,' Legolas said thoughtfully.

Mallorn shook his head. 'As I said, I'm only assuming. Some signs first alerted me to this assumption, but I'm unsure.

'Such as?' Legolas asked.

'Well,' Mallorn said, shrugging. 'Ever since I joined you in Rivendell, he has never left my side. And there are all the hidden hints he's always dropping about his happiness with me. Moreover, sometimes, he stares at me when he thinks no one is looking. His stares are full of love.'

'And how did you know that they were full of love?' Legolas asked slyly. 'How did you know that he was staring in the first place?'

'I'm not an idiot, Legolas.' Mallorn smirked. 'Nor am I naïve or oblivious. I have two sharp eyes to see with and even sharper instincts.'

'So Elrohir loves you, and you don't know what to do about it,' Legolas mused. 'Why?'

'I don't want this to affect our friendship.' Mallorn sighed. 'I don't know if I could return his feelings, and if I rejected them, our friendship might be lost.'

'Why don't you try to look at him like he looks at you?' Legolas suggested. 'You have courted so many maidens, yet none have satisfied your choosy self. So why don't you try males instead? Besides, you know Elrohir very well; you know how he thinks, what he likes and doesn't.'

'But what if it doesn't work out between us?' Mallorn asked, frowning.

'Then you two will always remain good friends,' Legolas said, smiling warmly. 'So what do you say?'

'I don't know,' Mallorn whispered, shaking his head. 'Come inside, Legolas,' he finally said with a quiet voice. 'You must rest, for we have a long journey ahead of us tomorrow.'

'As you wish,' Legolas said as he let his brother lead him inside.

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Meanwhile, Aragorn and Lord Glorfindel were in Elrond's library, discussing the final arrangements for the trip to Gondor.

"Are you satisfied with our arrangements regarding the blacksmiths and builders, King Elessar?" the blond elf asked.

"Yes," Aragorn replied dully. "They are indeed satisfactory. I thank you very much, lord Glorfindel."

"Yet," Glorfindel said quietly. "You don't seem pleased. Is there anything that doesn't meet with your approval? I know you'll be leaving early in the morning, but surely, I'll be able to arrange things to your satisfaction by then!"

"It's not about this, Glorfindel," Aragorn said with a sigh, standing up from his seat and walking to the window. "I'm worried about Legolas. Maybe it's better if he stayed here until he gives birth. I don't think it's wise to let him travel to Gondor. The road will surely be wearing on him, not to mention dangerous."

"On the contrary, Elessar," Glorfindel said. "It's better for you and Legolas if he was present in Gondor. Your people deserve to know their Prince Consort. Besides, his presence may cease any rejection your marriage may face."

"But what about the road? Will he be able to travel all the way to Gondor?" Aragorn asked worriedly. "He gets tired very quickly, even if he tries not to show it!"

"He will be fine, Estel; I assure you!" the two heard Elrond saying calmly. Looking behind them, they saw the Lord of Rivendell standing at the entrance of the study.

"Are you sure of that, Adar?" Aragorn asked uncertainly.

"He is only five months pregnant, Estel," Elrond said, approaching them. "The baby is still small; it's not taking much energy from Legolas. It is safer for Legolas to travel now than later. You need one month to reach the White City, which will make him in his sixth month. This means that he has to get as much rest as possible because the baby would start to feed more on his body's nutrients, draining his energy."

"Maybe you should come with us, Adar." Aragorn looked pleadingly at Lord Elrond. "It would be safer for Legolas if you were with us during the journey. At least you could prevent him from getting into more trouble."

Lord Elrond raised an eyebrow, taking a seat next to Glorfindel. "Estel, if you, who are Legolas' husband, can't keep him out of trouble, then no one can," he said in amusement. "Besides, I'll send you one of the best healers in Rivendell. Moreover, Mallorn will come with you. I'm sure that he would be a great help for you."

"I suppose," Aragorn said uncertainly, sitting back on his chair.

"Relax, Estel," he said, smiling. "I'll follow you to Gondor after two or three months to help deliver the baby, so you shouldn't worry."

"Adar," Aragorn sighed deeply. "I can't help but worry. Legolas' condition is so delicate. And I don't want to risk his health, his life, or the baby's."

"I said it will be fine, Estel." Lord Elrond smiled reassuringly. "However, you must rest as much as possible, and I suggest that you and your company rest for a few days in Rohan when you arrive there."

"Rohan," Aragorn closed his eyes and threw his head backwards, sighing. "That's another matter I'm worried about. I don't know how Legolas will react when we arrive there."

"You mean Helm's Deep?" Glorfindel asked.

Aragorn nodded. "Legolas is emotionally unstable right now. Every time Haldir is mentioned, he starts to cry. I'm afraid his reaction would risk his life or the baby's."

Lord Elrond shook his head. "Don't worry, Aragorn. Now that Legolas has you, you don't need to worry. Let him feel that you are always by his side, and he'll be able to get through this. Legolas needs this opportunity to face his loss. He has to face Haldir's death one day."

Aragorn nodded, uncertain.

"I better go and get some rest before tomorrow," he said, standing. "Good night, Adar. Lord Glorfindel."

"Good night, Estel." With that, Aragorn left the room.

Lord Elrond shook his head and sighed.

'He is so worried about Legolas' welfare,' Lord Elrond sighed.

'That's understandable,' Lord Glorfindel said. 'After all, Legolas is indeed fragile now.'

'Yes,' Lord Elrond said solemnly. 'He is.'

'Speaking of those two,' Lord Glorfindel said. 'Why haven't you informed them about the immortality spell? Aragorn is afraid of the day he will die, leaving Legolas alone again.'

'Because they aren't yet ready for it,' Lord Elrond said.

'How so?' Lord Glorfindel asked, confused.

Lord Elrond sighed deeply, standing from his seat and walking to the window. 'For the spell to work, Aragorn and Legolas must consummate their marriage. But they are not yet ready for that step; at least Legolas isn't, and Aragorn would not agree to complete the spell just to have immortal life. And as you know, this spell can be cast only once upon a couple. If it's not completed within a few days, its effects will wear off and be useless...'

'And thus, Aragorn and Legolas might lose their chance to live happily together,' Lord Glorfindel finished. Lord Elrond nodded.

'I want to give them a chance to get close to each other, and then we will have time to think about spells and immortality,' he said, looking deeply into Lord Glorfindel's eyes. 'Besides, we won't be able to cast the spell without Galadriel's help. She is the only one who can cast it.'

'I understand.' Glorfindel nodded. 'Anyhow, I'm very optimistic about those two. I'm sure that everything will end well.'

'I pray to the Valar for that.'

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To Be Continued...