Title: A Past Confronted (Prologue-part 1/?) Author: Natalya Email: NLDCat@aol.com Pairing: Orcs/Rumil, Elrohir/ Rumil Rating: R-NC17 Summary: Rumil is running from a past in which he was raped by orcs and his brothers seem not to notice or care. It is up to Elrohir to prove to him that someone does indeed care if he fades and loves him no matter what. Disclaimers: Okay, I don't own them, and I have no intention of making money off of this so you can forget suing me. Warning: This contains non-consensual themes (read the summary) and I will not be held responsible if you read this and get all upset. I have warned you. Author's Note: Okay this is most definitely AU and takes place during and after the fight with Sauron. Rumil is the main character and as much as I torture him, it will turn out okay in the end. Also please note that Haldir is very much alive if not extremely OOC (I think) as is Orophin. Please let me know what you think of this!!! Flames are welcome as long as you have a valid reason in flaming me. Also, all mistakes are mine, although if you are interested in Beta-ing this, I would be very pleased to let you. Thanks! ********** Prologue: His Only Escape from His Past He was fading and he cared not a bit about it. Life had never been something he could bear after what happened when he was but a child. A resigned sigh escapes Rumil as he watches the woods. His blue eyes had lost their sparkle a long time ago, but it seemed no one had noticed and for that, Rumil is grateful. Since Sauron had begun his search for his ring no one would have enough time to notice his symptoms before it was too late to save him. "It's too quiet," Haldir suddenly murmurs, watching the forest. "Aye, it is," Orophin agrees. Rumil doesn't comment as he peers out through the foliage. The eerie silence is unsettling. Dusk in approaching when they hear the distant splashing of water. "They are at the Nimrodel River," Haldir remarks tersely. Orophin nods and notches an arrow in his bow. Rumil does the same, although, he uses less enthusiasm as his brothers. He watches as forms appear to walk through the woods. The next few hours pass by and Rumil goes about them mechanically. He was too far gone to care about trivialities such as dwarves in their woods. If he were more aware of the happenings around him, he would be irritated at his older brother's inability to put aside his anger towards someone he had never met. "Rumil, captain, are you all right?" a concerned voice inquires. He turns around to see one of the healers staring at him worriedly. "I am fine," he tells her. He had never told an outright lie, but he wasn't about to let anyone try to stop him. I can't deal with it anymore. It shall be the death of me. There is no way to win. He had tried to beat the darkness that was in him, but it was obvious that he wasn't strong enough. He heads for his talan but an arm reaches out and pulls him to a halt. "Lying has never been your way," a voice remarks close to his ear, "So why did you just do so?" he recognizes the voice. "That answer would be none of your business, Elessar," he answers wrenching himself out of the mortal man's grip. He glares at the human. "You would do well to mind your own business." "Something is obviously bothering you," Aragorn remarks calmly. "That something would be none of your business," Rumil retorts harshly. He wasn't about to get into a battle of words with the future king of Gondor. "Nay, it is my business, Rumil. Something is obviously hurting you very much. I want to know what it is," Aragorn answers. Rumil opts for silence and stares at him hoping that he will grow tired and leave. The urgency of the quest helps Rumil to avoid having to admit anything to Aragorn. The look on the mortal's face, however, tells the Galadhrim that at their next meeting he isn't going to be so lucky. Ai, I hope we shall not meet again, King Elessar. Rumil watches the fellowship depart stoically. He is not surprised that his brothers have not noticed anything wrong with him. They had always been too wrapped up in themselves to really care about their youngest sibling. Rumil allows himself to continue in his quest to fade. He begins to eat less and less and sleeping was becoming nonexistent in his schedule. Still no one seemed to take note of it. With the last battle approaching, Lothlorien was on alert and had no time to spare on making sure that no one inside their borders were fading. Part One: The Truth is Finally Revealed He is summoned one day to a meeting with his lord and Lady. They needed to send elves to the aid of men. Rumil agrees to go since the chances were good that he would be shot at. Haldir and Orophin also agree to join up with the army. Arriving there, Rumil doesn't pay any attention to what Haldir says to the mortal king. He barely notices that Aragorn is there. He follows Haldir up without making any gestures at anyone around him. He goes so far as to ignore the talking amongst the other elves. He didn't have the heart to join in their conversations. He sits against the wall and sharpens his sword. If I am lucky, I will die here. I won't have to wait and fade. It will be ironic that the creatures that defiled me will end my pain filled existence. A bitter smile crosses his face. "You are still hiding something," a familiar voice interrupts his thoughts. He inwardly groans. "Elessar, we are not having this particular conversation again. What goes on in my life happens to be none of your concern," Rumil answers heatedly. This mortal king was starting to really bother him. "Rumil, you will tell me what is bothering you one way or another. I would suggest that you just get it over with and admit it here and now," Aragorn tells him. "I am not going to live long enough for the truth to do you any good, mortal man. Do not bother me again for I have no patience for it this day," he growls back. He sees the concerned look in the human's eyes and gets up. He walks away from him quickly. Nothing good will come of me confiding in him. My mind has been made up. I shall either die in this battle or fade to the Halls of Mandos. I will not remain here in Middle Earth. My soul is shattered beyond repair and my heart cannot abide whilst orcs are allowed to roam the woods. The battle finally comes and Rumil finds himself staring at an approaching wave of evil. So this is how it shall end…so be it. I am not afraid of death. It shall be my escape. He readies his bow and waits for the signal to attack. Unfortunately, an arrow is loosed too soon. The battle commences. Rumil begins to fire off arrow after arrow as the enemy surrounds the castle. His movements are mechanical and have no real fire in them. He looses arrow after arrow without making much of an attempt to guard against an attack made at him. "Rumil!" Orophin's voice startles him into turning around to see an orc looming up behind him. He stops once he sees the creature. Why fight the inevitable? I am going to die so what is the point of taking a long time to accomplish it? He looks up at the foul creature but does not raise his weapons in defense. This throws off the orc, which gives time to Orophin to get to his little brother's side. He stabs the orc and sends it falling backwards. He grabs Rumil's arm and yanks him back towards the keep. "What by the Valar, were you thinking? You are supposed to defend yourself!" Orophin snarls at him. "My decisions are my own, Orophin," Rumil answers in a flat voice. His elder brother stares at him as if just realizing what was happening. "Fall back to the keep!" Aragorn's voice startles him. He again grabs Rumil and heads that way. Why does he have to do this? Why can't he see that I want to die? Rumil stares at his brother bitterly, but Orophin is paying no attention to him. When they arrive, Orophin shoves him into the Keep. Rumil staggers forward and catches his balance. He glares back at Orophin. "Rumil, what is the matter with you?" he demands furiously. "Nothing that is of any concern of yours!" Rumil snaps back at him. "What is going on here?" Haldir inquires walking up. Rumil growls under his breath. "Talk to your little brother and see if you can find out why he was going to allow an orc to kill him!" Orophin says sharply. Haldir stares at Rumil in shock. "You were about to let an orc slay you? Why?" he demands. "None of your business," Rumil answers irritably. 'By the Valar, can they not leave me alone? I want to die and they should just let me.' "Little brother, you are my business. Now tell me why you were about to allow one of those foul creatures to kill you," Haldir commands. Rumil doesn't answer. He just turns and walks away from him. They wouldn't understand. They hadn't noticed his pain when he had been brought back the day their parents died. He had been out with them when the group of orcs had attacked. He quickly pushes those memories away. They would serve no useful purpose. "Rumil, you are not going to avoid this. I want to know why you are willing to face death at the hand of an orc," Haldir tells him. "You don't understand! I should have died a long time ago!" Rumil finally yells back, "I should not have returned when they killed our parents!" he turns and flees to the innermost tunnels of the Keep. He hides among the rocks. Hot tears start to spill down his cheeks as memories he had tried to push away return. Soft sobs escape his throat and he pulls his knees to his chest. I cannot do this! Why did I not fade when it happened? Elves die when they are raped so why didn't I? I do not understand why my soul did not flee to the safety of Mandos Halls. It is not fair! Exhaustion finally catches up with him and he drifts off to sleep. // Elbereth had blessed them with a beautiful day. The sun was shining and no storm clouds were in sight. Out on the edges of Lothlorien a group of elves set up for a picnic under the sun. A small child races between the trees. "Rumil, don't stray too far," the female calls. "Yes, nana," the young elf responds. He smiles charmingly at her. "It's a pity your brothers chose not to come today," she remarks wistfully, "they would enjoy it." "It's their loss," Rumil responds. His father laughs. Rumil smiles at this. He continues to explore the woods a short distance from his parents. The tall trees were fun to dodge around. He peers out from behind one and watches his parents spread out the blanket they had brought and start to place the food onto it. This day was going to be perfect. "Rumil, it will be time to eat in a few minutes," he hears his mother call. "Okay," he responds heading out from his position and walking towards the blanket. His mother smiles at him and he returns it. Suddenly a sound catches their attention. Rumil watches his father look around warily. Something was close by and getting closer. Rumil pauses and peers around nervously. What was going on? Just then a group of orcs come into the clearing. Rumil's blue eyes widen in horror. He watches his mother and father try to get rid of them. He quickly goes and hides behind a tree and watches the fight unfold. Before his very eyes he watches his mother and father fall to the orc's curved blades. "Ada, nana," he whispers fearfully, "oh no." He looks over and sees that only two of the creatures were not moving. There were still six there. He presses himself closer to the tree. The orcs start to converse in their rough sounding language and Rumil wonders what they were talking about. Suddenly a shadow looms over him. He stumbles backwards in shock. Looking up he stares into the yellow eyes of one of the orcs. The creature smiles and Rumil decides it wasn't a nice smile as he gets lifted up off of the ground. He finds himself being looked at by the other five orcs. They seemed happy about something. "P- put m-me d-down," he says shakily. The creatures just laugh which scares him even more. A soft whimper escapes him. // Rumil forces himself to wake up. A cold sweat was beginning to form across his brow. He wipes it away and slowly sits up. He wasn't sure of what the time was or how long he had been sleeping. Slowly he makes his way out of the Keep looking around to see exactly what was going on. He watches and realizes that the battle must have ended. "There you are," a voice comments. He turns to see Aragorn standing there. "Aragorn," he says calmly. "Why are you doing this, Rumil? Your brothers have been sick with worry," Aragorn chastises him. The silver-haired elf stares at him incredulously. "They have been worried sick over me? Aragorn, I did not believe you to be delusion until now," Rumil retorts, "They could care less about me." "That is not true! They have been no less then terrified that something horrible happened to you," Aragorn corrects him. "Yeah, well I cannot be allowed to ruin the perfect system we have. They would have to have another captain replace me, and that would mean taking time out of their own patrols. Elessar, have you not realized that they don't care about me because I am their brother: they only care because it will make their jobs harder to do? Surely you are not that bl "How can you say that?" Aragorn demands. "Because if they had cared about me at all they would have noticed my state when I was brought back from watching my parents get killed by orcs! They would have realized that after they killed our parents they decided to relieve their sexual hunger as well on the only other elf there!" Rumil explodes before taking off once again. He doesn't look where he's going. He was hurting too much. The wind whips his hair back behind his ears. The cold is soothing to his skin. He runs until his legs finally give out and deposit him onto the ground. His body shivers as hot tears fall down his pale cheeks. "I-I can't…oh Valar this hurts," he whimpers clutching his knees to his chest desperately. He had never felt so weak in all his life. Pain that he had been holding back for centuries overwhelms him. Sobs escape his throat and before he knows it, he's curled into a tight ball sobbing helplessly. Centuries seem to pass before the tears subside and Rumil's breathing stops hitching. He stares mournfully out around him. What was the point of living if he couldn't bear the memories of what had happened? He knows that fading or dying in battle was the only escape he was given. Night falls and Rumil moves underneath a tall tree. He pulls his cloak tightly around him and curls up again. A cold breeze blows and the silver haired Galadhrim shudders. It would be a cold night. The clouds are thick and obscure the view of the stars. This depresses Rumil a little bit. He had wished to stare at the stars during the night for a little bit of comfort. Exhaustion claims him again. His eyes grow unfocused. // "Well, aren't you pretty," the orc holding him says. Rumil cringes at the grating tone. It hurt his ears. "I wonder what you look like without the clothes…hmm, I think I am going to find out." Before Rumil's young mind could comprehend the situation, his clothes are forcefully yanked from his small body, leaving him naked and subject to their hungry gaze. "He sure is delightful looking," one of the others agrees. Rumil still can't comprehend what is going on, but he does realize that it was bad, very bad. He twists and tries to free himself from their grasp. This just seems to amuse the creatures even more. After a while, he exhausts himself and ceases to struggle. The orc holding him smiles in satisfaction. He watches, terrified, as a clawed hand begins to touch his naked form. "No, don't," he says starting to thrash again. This time another orc slips his clawed hand between his small thighs and touches the most sensitive part of his body. Rumil stops struggling instantly. The orc doesn't move his hand away nor does his still it. In fact, he begins to slowly trace his claw up and down the tender flesh making the young elf whimper softly. Rumil can't understand why the creature was making him feel so good. It wasn't adding up. A soft cry escapes him and his hips arch forward of their own accord. He cannot control his body's reactions to the soft touches. The orc slides his clawed finger around the tip, which is leaking a white liquid. He brings it back up to his lips and tastes the substance. What he does next surprises Rumil. The creature leans down on his knees so that his mouth is right in front of his swollen flesh. Before Rumil has much time to ponder it, the orc pulls his erection into his mouth. // Rumil's eyes snap open. Sweat is running down his cheeks. He shudders violently. He wants the memories to stop for can bear them no longer. He suddenly realizes he's not alone. Standing not ten feet in front of him is a dark haired elf. "Your brothers are worried about you," the stranger says before coming into view and revealing that he was, in fact, no stranger. "And you would care, why Elrohir?" he demands irritably. "Because they are afraid that you are fading," the dark haired prince answers. Rumil just turns his back on him. "You are fading aren't you?" Elrohir's tone is almost accusing. "Aye, I am fading, prince. I don't want to live anymore. I haven't wanted to live since my parents died," Rumil answers. "Why?" Elrohir demands. "Because I should be dead. I was raped that day," the silver-haired guardian snaps angrily, "Unfortunately, no one realized it. Have you any idea of what I went through? Not a one of them saw that I was limping or the blood staining the back of my leggings!" Rumil spits angrily. He has never let anyone know this, and part of him is wondering why he's letting Elrohir so close. "I had to clean myself up and do the best I could with the wounds. I have never hated my brothers until that moment. That moment taught me that other things were more important than my well being. They couldn't be bothered to worry about the only survivor of an orc attack!" "I am sorry, Rumil. I had no idea of how much you are suffering," Elrohir whispers as he moves to the upset elf's side, "but you can't just fade. To have come so far shows just how strong you are. You cannot just give in to this!" "You don't know how weak I am, prince. I came to Helm's Deep to get killed. I didn't want to wait until I had faded to die. I just wanted to get it over with," Rumil tells him. Elrohir cannot answer. This was too much to take in. he had never seen an elf so desperate to die except maybe his mother. He couldn't stand the thought of watching someone else fade from such grief. He kneels down beside him and slowly pulls him close. "Reconsider, Rumil, please. Don't let those creatures beat you. You are stronger than that!" Elrohir tells him firmly. The silver-haired Galadhrim doesn't answer. Elrohir is well aware of what he's attempting to do. "I won't leave if you don't answer me, mellon- nin. I care about you too much to ever do that." "No one cares about me," Rumil mutters. Elrohir just leans down and scoops him up into his arms. Ignoring the guardian's protests, he carries him back to where the others are camping. Elladan looks up at him quizzically. Elrohir just sets Rumil down in front of the fire. He grabs him before the silver-haired elf can scamper off. "You are not going anywhere, mellon-nin," he tells him. Rumil glares at him. The younger twin just smiles and sits behind him. Rumil cannot stand that Elrohir is trying to keep him from letting go of life. How dare the half-elf interfere? "So you finally found him?" a voice inquires. Rumil has strength enough to glare at his eldest brother. "And you care why?" he spits at him venomously. "Rumil, why is it you are so angry with us?" Orophin asks. "Because you are both the most oblivious creatures ever born!" he snarls back. He is finally going to have it out with them. "When I was brought back I cannot believe that the elves that had rescued me didn't notice the state I was in. It was even more painful when you two who are supposed to be my brothers and should have known something was wrong, didn't notice a thing! I was raped you blonde nitwit by the same foul creatures who killed nana and Ada and you didn't notice! That is why I want to die. That is why I tried to let that orc kill me!" He stares up at Orophin with an expression of pure pain. Orophin walks away from him without saying a word. Rumil knew that neither one of them would apologize to him. That just makes him hurt worse and he finds himself clinging to Elrohir as tears spill down his cheeks and sobs start to escape him. Elrohir holds the sobbing Galadhrim against him and starts murmuring softly in elvish trying to soothe him. He cannot stand to see Rumil in such agony. It makes him wonder when he had first lost his heart to the silver haired guardian for Elrohir knows that is what has happened. Somewhere along the times he had met the quiet guardian he had fall in love with him. There was just something about him that drew Elrohir like a moth to a flame. Soon compassion turns to rage. How dare his brothers not care about this! This was inexcusable. No one should have to suffer so much at the hands of orcs only to have their own brothers not notice a thing. Somehow, he is going to make Haldir and Orophin pay for this. He watches Rumil fall into a fitful sleep and he holds him closer to his chest to try and keep the memories at bay. "How long have you loved him, brother?" Elladan asks softly. Elrohir looks at his twin wondrously. How did Elladan know? "You seem keen on forgetting that we are twins and cannot hide things from one another," he tells him. Elrohir nods. "I think I have loved him since the first day we met in Lothlorien. He was so sweet and gentle. I cannot believe the burden he was already carrying in his soul," Elrohir answers quietly. Elladan nods. "Mayhap you can help lift this burden. He seems to respond well near you," his twin says. "Nay, I have not the skills Ada has in this area," Elrohir corrects him. Elladan just shakes his head. He disagrees with his brother but he decides to let his younger twin find that out for himself. He watches Elrohir gently cradle the silver haired elf. It was obvious to him that they were meant for each other. There was no doubt in his mind that they would end up bonded. He hides a soft smile... Part Two: Elrohir’s admission Rumil wakes up a few days later to cheering. He looks around and wonders what had caused such jubilation. “Sauron has been destroyed,” a voice remarks. Rumil’s eyes snap open recognizing the voice. He looks up at Gandalf. “So it is over,” he says softly looking back towards the window. “Don’t regret waking up, R. Li. Life is not over for you. Mandos won’t take you until it is your time,” Gandalf responds. “So I get to face being raped when that is supposed to kill an elf?” Rumil demands bitterly. Gandalf gives him a sad smile. “I don’t understand any more than you do, but that does not mean you are being punished, Rumil,” the wizard answers. “But it feels as if that is so! I cannot sleep at night without watching it over and over again, Gandalf! I just want it to end!” he argues as he feels tears welling up. “Why do I have to bear this? Why?” A soft sob escapes him and before he knows it, he has his knees against his chest and is crying. Two strong arms wrap around him and Rumil finds himself cradled against Gandalf. He can’t hold back the torrent of tears that flow down his cheeks. He had held them back for far too long. Finally, the tears stop falling and he manages to compose himself a little bit before pulling away. “You must think me weak for my tears,” he says softly. “Not at all, my dear elf. You have been hurting for a long time and no one has tried to ease your pain. You have nothing to feel guilty over,” Gandalf assures him. This is a small comfort to Rumil. He wipes the tears off of his cheeks and weakly stands up. He walks outside to see the celebrations going on in full swing. At least Sauron has been destroyed. This lighthis his heart a little bit. He wanders the the street wondering where to find one of his people or at least one of the twins. “You are finally awake,” a voice says. He turns to see Legolas and Gimli. “Aye,” he answers the blonde prince. Legolas walks up to him and gently hugs him. Rumil leans into the touch. It has been so long since he has allowed anyone close. ElroElrohir has been worried about you,” Gimli remarks. “He has?” Rumil says in shock. “Aye. I don’t think he’s slept since you took two weeks to awaken,” Legolas answers. Rumil is surprised that someone is worried about him. “Where is he?” he asks. “Probably with Aragorn. Follow us, we’ll lead you there,” Legolas answers. Rumil nods and follows him and Gimli. He isn’t sure of how to approach the youngest son of Elrond after what has happened. Nevertheless, he goes to see him. They find the younger twin with Aragorn just as Legolas had said. He immediately turns when he sees Rumil. “You are awake!” he exclaims. Before Rumil has a chance to react he’s incased in a hug. “I was worried when you didn’t awake. I thought something terrible had blen len you.” “You shouldn’t have worried so much about me, prince. I am not worth it,” Rumil tells him. “Nay that is not true! Aiya, Rumil, I cannot believe this! You are worth a lot more than you think. I don’t care what you brothers say about this,” the dark haired elf responds. Rumil doesn’t answer. “You cannot just close into yourself, mellon-nin. I will not allow it. You are far too precious for me to allow that to happen.” “Why do you care so much about me, prince of Imladris?” Rumil finally demands, “Why can’t you just let me die?” Elrohir knows that he is going out on a limb but he cannot allow Rumil to fade. “Because…I love you,” he whispers. He knows that Rumilbablbably isn’t going to believe him, but he’s too scared of losing the silver-haired elf to care. Rumil stares at him incredulously. “Are you mad? How could you love me?” Rumil exclaims. Elrohir stares back at him. “How could anyone not love you? You have one of the sweetest spirits of any of the Ghrimhrim and you are quite beautiful,” the son of Elrond answers. “I was raped by six orcs, Elrohir, or did you not listen to me before? I am vile and disgusting and you should want nothing to do with me,” Rumil argues. “Nay, you are not vile and disgusting! Rumil, listen to me! What those orcs did to you was horrible, but it in no way changed anything about you. I still find you very attractive both physically and personally,” Elrohir responds. “You…you,” he struggles to say something to argue with the elf-prince. He closes his eyes. “I am sorry, prince, but I cannot allow this.” With this said he turns and flees once again. He passes Aragorn and almost shoves the mortal out of his way. He disappears between the buildings. Aragorn quickly heads into the rooere ere Elrohir is sitting motionlessly on the floor. “What happened?” he asks. Elrohir looks up at him. “I told him, Elessar, I told im I was in love with him and that what had happened to him didn’t change anything and he just fled. I-I don’t know what to do to keep him from fading! He has no support from his brothers and I fear that is what shall drive him over the edge,” he cries. Aragorn leans down and gathers the trembling form into his arms. “We shall find a way, Elrohir. I know how much Rumil means to you. Do not give up yet. Mayhaps the fact that you told him will give him the strength he needs to stay here in Middle Earth,” Aragorn assures him, “but we should go and find where he has gone to. If his brothers come upon him things could get out of hand.” Elrohir nods and wipes the few tears that have made their way down his cheeks. He stands up quickly and heads out the door. Aragorn leads him the way he saw Rumil fleeing. Elrohir sends up a prayer to the lady that Rumil is still all right. He doesn’t know what he will do if Rumil has intentionally hurt himself. ‘I must find him. I cannot allow him to do something he will regret.’ Part Three: More Pain on the Horizon Rumil staggers to a stop when his legs can no longer take the strain of caring him. he sinks down onto the cold stones and begins to cry anew. He cannot understand why all this is happening to him. “Rumil, you are pathetic,” a voice scoffs. The sobbing Galadhrim looks into the merciless eyes of his eldest brother Orophin. “L-leave m-me a-alone,” he responds. He hates the way his voice trembles. Now Orophin is definitely going to torment him for his weakened state. “Why should I do that?” Orophin inquires in a sickly sweet tone. Rumil cringes. Why couldn’t his brother just leave him a?? “Because I am not worth your time,” Rumil responds quietly. He has no desire tro hear anymore of what Orophin has to say on the subject. “Sad, but true. You are not worth my time, Rumil. You never were. I have no idea why Haldir was so adamant about having another sibling. You came prematurely and never really filled out like us,” he retorts. “What? Haldir wanted a younger sibling?” Rumil asks in shock. “Oh yes, Haldioredored you when you were born, but you were too young to remember it. It was pathetic really. You should have seen him the day we were told you were raped. He wanted to come and be with you at the cost of his career as a Galadhrim. I would not have it and actually had to forcefully restrain him. He has too much to offer Lothlorien to be tied up in caring for a pathetic excuse for an elf who is a whore to orcs!” Orophin spits. Rumil’s eyes widen. Haldir did care and Orophin was just keeping him away from him! “I would never do anything to intentionally hurt Haldir’s or your reputations, Orophin, please you have to understand that,” he whispers. “I am not as easily won over as Haldir, Rumil. I told ada and nana not to have another child, that it would be nothing but trouble and I was right,” Orophin retorts. “I did not try to do it on purpose! You are acting like I asked to be raped!” Rumil shouts back. “Indeed he does,” a voice says from behind them, “But what I do not understand is how he could think such a thing.” Rumil turns to see Aragorn standing there. Elrohir is right behind him. Rumil refuses to meet the dark haired prince’s eyes. He is afraid of what he might see in their depths. “Aragorn, this concerns you not, so leave,” Orophin states irritably. “No, I think I shall stay lest you do more harm to your brother’s already fragile state,” Aragorn answers. “What I say to my brother is not your concern, mortal man. Do not tempt me to do something I shall regret,” he warns. “Such as what, dear brother? Aragorn has every right to step in. You are not being fair and further more, I am stepping in as well. You get away from my brother or I will be forced to hurt you,” Haldir interjects walking into view. Ice cold fury shines in his eyes. “You have hurt Rumil enough.” “He is not worth wasting your time on, Haldir. You have more important things you can be doing,” Orophin tells him. “More important than my kin? Nay, there is nothing more so! Even our Lord and Lady understand that. Nothing is more important then the well-being of our family, the little we have left, Orophin. How dare you say that Rumil asked for what happened to him! You care nothing for anyone unless it benefits you, well I will not stand for it. I shall not stand by while your spit wor words send my brother to the halls of Mandos. Take your opinionated self and get out of my sight before I become a kinslayer!” Haldir yells. His patience has finally found its limit. When Rumil had first been hurt, Haldir had made every attempt he d tod to return to his side, but Orophin always stopped him right before he could get there. No longer is he going to allow that to continue. Rumil is his little brother and he has a responsibility to protect him, and Halhas has never taken his responsibilities lightly. “You would risk your reputation over this, Haldir? I promise you that if you chose your brother, for he is not and never will be mine, I shall make sure that you are never looked at the same way,” Orophin promises. “Then I shall take that chance, Orophin. Do to my reputation what you will, but you leave my little brother out of it,” Haldir answers. Orophin just spits and disappears. Rumil stares up at Haldir in shock. “You should not have done that,” he says softly. “Yes, I should have. In fact, I should have done that a long time ago. I am sorry, little one,” Haldir answers. “So you two knew all along?” he asks. “Yes, we did. I knew what you had tried to do at Helm’s Deep, but I was too afraid to admit my shortcoming. I should have done something more back when it happened,” he says heavily, “I am sorry, Rumil. I am sorry that you had to face it alone when we should have been there making sure you knew that you were not to blame for anything. That is where we failed as brothers.” “Nay, that is whereophiophin failed. You tried to get to me. I don’t know why he hates me as much ae doe does, but this is not your fault. I just wish I had known before that you were aware of my pain. It might have kept me from this,” Rumil answers looking away. “You’re fading aren’t you?” Haldir says. Rumil silently nods his head. Haldir’s eyes close tightly before he reaches down and pulls his little brother into his arms. For the first time, since Rumil can remember, Haldir starts to cry. “I am so sorry, Rumil. I am so sorry,” he whispers over and over through his tears. Rumil finds himself wrapping his arms back around his brother and resting his head underneath his chin. He cannot believe that Haldir is grieving because of him. “Please, Haldir, do not do this. I cannot bear to see you thusly,” he begs. Haldir does not answer nor does he halt the flood of tears. “Oh, brother, please.” Haldir is making it so difficult to allow himself to go through with fading. He looks over Haldir’s shoulder and sees that Aragorn and Elrohir and still there and they are watching both of them intently. “If I promise to stay, will you stop?” he finally asks. That question catches Haldir offguard. He stares at Rumil. “Are you jesting?” he asks. “Nay, I am not. I shall ask again. If I promise not to fade, will you please stop crying? This is making me nervous for I have never once seen you cry,” Rumil answers. “I shall try,” Haldir answers. Rumil smiles slightly. “Very well, then I shall do the same…for now,” he tells him. Haldir knows that even if Rumil does not fade, it does not guarentee that he will not sail for Valinor like Lady Celebrian. Haldir is hoping desperately that Rumil’s battered heart and soul will heal here in Middle earth. He pulls him into another hug. “I know you will overcome this,” Haldir whispers in his ear. “At least I know that someone believes in me,” he responds. “I believe that as well, don’t you ever forget that,” Elrohir says walking up. Rumil just gives him a sad smile. “You should be with someone who deserves you, prince. You should not be with an elf who has been ravaged by orcs and fears being intimate. Please, for your own sake, do not try and court me. I am not worthy of an elf such as yourself,” he tells him… Part four: It is not Over Yet It takes all of Elrohir’s self-control not to throttle Rumil. He cannot believe that Rumil can think so lowly of himself. “You are wrong, Rumil, but it is obvious that you are not ready to hear this so I shall wait until you are. Just be warned, I will not give up on you easily, mellon-nin. Eventually, you shall understand that I love you no matter what and I shall wait for you until the end of Middle Earth if that is what it takes to make you understand what unconditional love means,” Elrohir says. “Prince, I have already told you not to bother. Your quest is a doomed one. Please, find someone more worthy of you for I shall not see your heart broken because of me,” Rumil answers. “I will never find someone more worthy of me than you, Rumil. Fear not, you shall not break my heart. It is not all that fragile. I shall wait until you are ready to accept that someone loves you and cares for you the way you deserve. Do not argue with me on this matter for I shall always win,” he tells him firmly. Rumil sighs but he says no more knowing that Elrohir is stubborn. “Shall I escort you to your room?” Haldir asks gently. Rumil nods his head. He has no desire to walk alone for a while. He rests his head on Haldir’s shoulder as they walk, and he takes comfort in his brother’s presence. Elrohir watches them walk away and sighs softly. “You did the right thing, Elrohir. All Rumil needs now is time. I am sure he will come around since he knows that you will patiently wait for him,” Aragorn says from his side. “Deep down, I know you speak the truth, Elessar, but I am not so sure that Rumil will come to terms with it with Orophin around. I fear that this is only the beginning,” he says softly. Aragorn squeezes his shoulder reassuringly. “Surely, even Orophin is not malicious enough to do anything really evil to either Haldir or Rumil. He might not like his youngest brother but I do not believe that he would really endanger him,” Aragorn says. “You“You put too much faith in Orophin, brother. I saw the look in his eyes. He means to hurt both of them and I shall not allow it,” Elrohir answers. The king of man sighs. He knows that Elrohir is probably right but still he hopes for the best. Haldir stares at his little brother as they walk. It breaks his heart to see Rumil look so lost. “It will be all right, Rumil,” he whispers trying to assure his distraught sibling. “Nay, Haldir, it will not. Orophin is up to something. I know him. He will first try to ruin your reputation and get you out of the way before he comes after me,” Rumil answers. “What he does to my reputation is not important. I will persevere no matter what he says about me. I refuse to let him hurt you anymore,” Haldir states firmly. “I cannot allow you to protect me, Haldir. I do not want to see what damage he will do to you. I am not worth that! Please, just let me face him alone. It will be better that way,” Rumil pleads. “Nay, I will not. You want me to go so that you feel like it justifies your attempt to fade. I am sorry, little brother, but I shall not allow you to face this on your own. I know that Elrohir does love you. It is plain in his eyes. Do not keep pushing him away out of fear of rejection for he has already told you that nothing about you is displeasing to him,” Haldir tells him. “He feels that way now but once he stops and really takes in what I have told him then he will realize what a waste of time it will be to try and win my battered heart,” Rumil argues. Haldir lets out a soft sigh. He knows that Rumil will argue this until he is blue in the face, but he is not willing to let him win. “Go to sleep, Rumil. I shall not argue with you this night,” he tells him firmly. Rumil reluctantly agrees and slips into the bed. Exhaustion claims him once more. Haldir stays awake most of the night and guards his little brother. ‘Why does Orophin hate him so much? What did Rumil ever do to him to warrant this kind of behavior? It makes no sense,’ he thinks. A soft sigh escapes him. Has his little brother not suffered enough? Elrohir reluctantly returns to his room. “How did it go?” Elladan inquires. Elrohir lets out a soft sigh. “Not well, brother. He does not believe himself worthy of me, and Orophin is going to make things difficult for him,” Elrohir answers as he collapses onto the bed. Elladan moves over to his twin’s side and lays a comforting hand on his shoulder. “Things will all work out, Elrohir. Be patient and try to make Rumil realize that you are serious,” he tells him. Elrohir looks up at him. “What if he does something before that? What if Orophin convinces him that there is nothing left for him here?” Elrohir asks panicked. Elladan is suddenly worried. He has never seen his twin panic so before. He slides up onto the bed beside him. “Shh, it will be okay,” he whispers reassuringly, “Do not fret, dear brother. Everything will be just fine. “How do you know this?” Elrohir demands. “Because I do. Quit worrying about Orophin and get some sleep. It will do you no good to stay up all night wondering what that poor excuse for a Galadhrim has in store. Whatever he decides to do will be stopped by us, I promise,” he tells him. This calms Elrohir down enough that he slips off to sleep. Elladan pulls the blankets up around his brother. 'I hope that this is a promise I can keep, little brother.’ He stays awake the rest of the night and watches his little brother sleep. Things were bound to get ugly and the dark haired elf is wondering just how far Orophin is willing to go over this. He hopes that the misgiving he has is proven wrong…for everyone’s sake. The next morning comes, and Rumil reluctantly opens his eyes as sunlight comes streaming down onto him. He yawns and stretches his arms over his head. “Did you sleep well?” Haldir asks. Rumil starts before remembering that Haldir had spent the night in the room with him. “Yes,” he answers softly as he slowly sits up. There are dark circles under his eyes, which tell Haldir that his brother is far from being well. “Do you want to go and join the others for breakfast or should I bring something back here for you?” Haldir inquires. “I think I shall remain here this morning,” Rumil answers softly. Haldir nods and heads for the door. “I shall be back in a moment,” he promises before leaving the room and shutting the door behind him. Rumil slowly gets up out of the bed. He wanders over to the window overlooking the street. People were busy rushing to and fro. A soft sigh escapes him. At least Sauron was gone, though it made little difference to Rumil’s melancholy mood. “Thinking again, little brother?” a voice sneers. Rumil spins around cursing himself for not paying attention. He stares at Orophin who is leaning against the doorframe. An uncharacteristic sneer is on his eldest brother’s fair face and Rumil feels his blood run cold. “I happen to do that a lot,” Rumil retorts. He is in no mood to have a conversation with him. ‘Haldir, please get back here,’ he mentally pleads, ‘before Orophin does something.’ “Why Haldir is wasting his time with a whore such as yourself is beyond me,” Orophin remarks casually as if he were discussing something as ordinary as the weather. Rumil is stung by his words. “I am no whore!” he spits back. How dare Orophin say such things of him? Orophin just laughs. It is not a nice laugh and Rumil feels himself shudder. “Little brother, you just cannot admit the truth can you? The only creature that would want you is an orc. Elrohir will soon realize this. You know I speak the truth so why deny it?” Orophin tells him. “No, you are wrong,” Rumil responds but the answer is only half-hearted. Orophin smirks knowing that he is beginning to make Rumil believe him. “If I was wrong then you would sound more confident in your response. I think, deep down, you know I speak naught but the truth, but you do not want to believe it,” Orophin presses, “You know that deep down, you liked what happened to you. Do not deny it.” “I-I…” he tries to vehemently deny that accusation but the realization that he did indeed want some of what happened to him. Tears fill his eyes. “Oh Valar, I am a whore.” Hot tears fill his eyes and he curls up on the ground and misses the triumphant smirk that crosses his brother’s lips. Orophin slips out of the room and heads down the hall. Haldir, walking back towards the room, meets him in the hallway. “Hello, Haldir,” he says. Something in his tone worries Haldir. “Orophin,” Haldir answers looking slightly confused. “Oh, you might want to make sure Rumil is not trying to hurt himself since he realizes what a whore he is,” Orophin remarks casually. Haldir’s blood runs cold. He reacts without thinking and races down the hallway towards the room Rumil is currently occupying. He reaches the door and tries to open it only to find himself locked out. “Rumil, open this door right now!” Haldir commands. “No,” Rumil whispers from within. “Rumil, open the door!” Haldir says louder. “Haldir, I cannot,” he says through the door in a pain-filled voice, “I do not want to stay here.” Panic courses through his veins at that comment. “You promised me that you would not fade!” Haldir exclaims. “And fade I shall not. I never did promise not to end it quickly, however,” Rumil answers listlessly. “No!” Haldir yells, “Rumil, you cannot!” “I am sorry, Haldir. I cannot do this. Please, just go. I do not want you to bear witness to my weakness,” Rumil tells him. Haldir cannot stand anymore of this. He turns and races down the hallway. He has to find Aragorn to unlock his brother’s door before it is too late. He heads down to where Aragorn is eating his breakfast.rowirowing open the doors, he makes everyone look up at him. “Haldir, is something wrong?” Aragorn asks. The terrified look on the Galadhrim’s usually reserved expression worries him. “I need your help. Rumil’s locked himself in his room and is going to kill himself if he is not stopped,” Haldir gasps out… Authors Note: Here is part five. I might be adding another pairing to this as you will see. If you want me to do so, please either review and tell me this or send me an e-mail at NLDCat@aol.com. I would like to know your opinions. I might just go ahead with it even if it is not to everyone’s liking because it is my story, and I should know that I cannot please everyone, but I still want your thoughts. I hope you like this part regardless and that you keep reading this fic. Reviews are greatly appreciated and desired. I also want to thank all of you who have reviewed, the few that you are. You are what makes me continue writing this! Please keep on reviewing! And now with no more interruptions: Part Five: Death is Denied and a Painful Bargain is Made Elrohir is on his feet instantly as is Aragorn. "What happened?" the dark haired elf demands. "I left the room for a moment and Orophin got in there. He convinced Rumil that his no better than a whore," Haldir answers as they race down the hall. "Oh Valar, how could he?" Elrohir growls. He is so furious with Orophin. "Obviously his hatred of my little brother runs deep," Haldir answers as they arrive. Aragorn pulls a key out of his pocket and unlocks the door. Haldir throws it open. Lying on the bed is Rumil. The puddle of blood around his arms tells everything. Haldir is at his side in a moment. He scoops the limp form of his brother up. "Take him to the healing house. Elrohir, hurry and get father," Aragorn commands. Haldir just runs out of the room. ‘Oh Valar, please do not let him die.’ Haldir is frantic. He skids down the hallways as he turns down the corridors. He arrives at the healing house and kicks the door open. He lies Rumil down on the bed and quickly tries to put as much pressure as he can to try and stop the bleeding. Waiting for Lord Elrond to arrive seems to take hours. The dark haired elf-lord swiftly enters the room. He comes up beside Haldir and looks down at Rumil. The younger elf is deathly pale. "Haldir, I am going to need you to leave," Elrond says softly. Haldir looks at him in confusion. "I cannot allow others in the room whilst I heal. Please go outside the door and I will see to your brother." Haldir reluctantly agrees and leaves his brother in the care of the Lord of Imladris. He steps outside the door and closes it silently. He sinks against the wall. ‘I never should have left Rumilne. ne. If he dies it will be my fault,’ he thinks miserably. Tears prick his eyes and find a way down his cheeks. He sinks onto the floor as soft sobs escape him. Unbeknownst to Haldir, Elrohir is watching from farther up the hallway. Ice-cold fury washes over the prince. Orophin is going to pay for this. He turns and heads up the hallway to find the poor excuse for an elf. ‘I swear you will pay for this you bastard!’ he mentally vows. No one got away with such a heinous crime. Elrond works for two hours to get the wounds to heal. He checks Rumil’s pulse and finds that it is normal. "Sorry, captain, you are not going to run from whatever is haunting you by killing yourself," he says softly as he pulls the blankets up. He opens the door and finds Haldir. "How is he?" the silver-haired elf inquires. "He is resting," Elrond answers, "You may stay with him if you like." "I shall do that. Thank you, lord," Haldir responds. Elrond just nods before walking down the hall. Haldir enters the room and goes to Rumil’s side. "I cannot leave you by yourself can I? I will not let you kill yourself. Orophin shall not be the victor." "Ah, but that is not true, Haldir," a voice sneers. Haldir spins around. "How did you get in here?" he demands. "I have been here all morning," Orophin responds. "Why did you not come out?" Haldir demands. "It was not a good time to," Orophin remarks, "but since Lord Elrond is gone…" He starts advancing towards Haldir. The younger elf tenses for a fight. Orophin leans very close to his ear. "If you seem so bent on protecting him from me, realize that you are going to be ruined. Especially when I reveal your feelings for a certain dwarf," he hisses in his ear. Haldir’s blue-gray eyes widen in shock. Orophin steps away and smirks at him. "You…you wouldn’t," he whispers. "I most certainly would. Now what is it going to be, Haldir? Shall I tell the others that you harbor feelings for Gimli son of Gloin?" Orophin inquires. Haldir closes his eyes. He knows what he must do. "I will always protect my little brother from you," he answers harshly, " so say what you will, Orophin." His older brother smiles deviously before leaving the room. Haldir sinks heavily onto the ground beside his brother. This day was going to be a very long one. Rumil feels himself coming to and curses. He had been so close to Mandos’ Halls. He blinks and looks up at the ceiling. "Why did you stop me?" he demands. "Because I care too much about you to ever let you do something so stupid," Haldir responds. Rumil looks at him. "Orophin is wrong, Rumil. You are no whore." "Nay, he is right. I wanted some of what was done to me," Rumil argues. "It is of no fault of yours that your body enjoys pleasure, Rumil," Haldir answers. Rumil does not answer. He goes back to looking at the wall. Haldir sighs softly. "Do not close me out, brother. I will not stand for it." "Why? Why do you keep trying to stop me? I do not want to live like this, Haldir!" Rumil yells. "I know this hurts, but you have people who love you and want to help you through this!" Haldir responds. Rumil glares at him. "I do not want others in my way! I want to die!" he yells. "You will do no such thing," Haldir states firmly. Rumil opens his mouth to protest but Haldir places his hand over it. "No, pen-neth, you will listen to me. Orophin is wrong in calling you a whore. Moreover, you have too many reasons yet to live." "He will not stay by me forever, Haldir. He will come to the same conclusion as Orophin," Rumil says softly. "Do you really think the youngest son of Lord Elrond to be that shallow? I think you are misjudging him, dear brother," Haldir responds. "Nay, and I wish not to find that out the hard way. I cannot be what he wants. He will find someone more to his liking and this passing attraction will fade out of existence," Rumil persists. "Rumil, do you not see the way he looks at you! This is no passing attraction. He is deeply in love with you, brother!" Haldir argues. "I cannot allow him to be! I deserve not one of the sons of Lord Elrond, Haldir! I am unworthy of such a love," Rumil retorts. His voice is cracking and he feels the tears filling his eyes. "I am lowly compared to he." "Rumil, you are more than worthy of Elrohir. Please listen to me. I know no one who has ever caught his eye and many have tried. He shows only love for you. Believe me on this, brother. He loves you more than anything here in Middle Earth," Haldir says gently as he strokes Rumil’s cheek. "I know that you need time and time you shall be given. Worry not about Orophin for I shall take care of him. Please, just think on what I have said about Elrohir." "All right, I shall think over everything you have said, and no, I shall not try to hurt myself again. I know that either you or Elrohir will stop me," Rumil finally consents before rolling over and pulling the blankets back up. Haldir smiles. One hurdle has been passed but Rumil is far from healed. ‘I will get you out of the past, little brother. I will make sure that you allow yourself to be loved by Elrohir. Even at the cost of my reputation as a Galadhrim. I will not let Orophin hurt you,’ he silently vows before leaving the room and heading outside. He wanders down the streets of Gondor aimlessly. Without realizing it he ends up near the stables. He enters and immediately gets out of sight seeing Orophin. "You are not serious, captain! Haldir in love with that dwarf? That is preposterous!" the other figure exclaims. Haldir knows that the second person is an elf, but he does not recognize the voice. "It is the truth. Haldir has feelings for that hole-digger ever since he stepped foot onto our soil," Orophin responds, "I think that the others have a right to know just what kind of captain they are following." "I agree. Shall I reveal this?" the elf inquires. Haldir closes his eyes knowing what his brother’s answer will be. ‘Elbereth, give me the strength to stand through this,’ he mentally pleads. "Aye, you tell the other Galadhrim. I shall accompany you so that they know you are speaking the truth," Orophin says. Haldir does not stay long enough to hear the elf’s reply. He quickly heads out and goes to the room he has occupied since his arrival at the white city. He knows that it is going to be a very long day. ‘This will be worth it to know that Rumil is safe,’ he thinks lying down on the bed, ‘anything is worth protecting him.’ He just hopes that he will still be holding to that once everyone knows of his attraction to Gimli… Author’s Notes: Hey, it’s me again! I think I am going to add Gimli/Haldir since most of the reviews are for it. You still have time to give me your opinion on the matter, however, so please either email me or review this story! Thank you for your time I hope you enjoy this part although Orophin is a complete bastard! I promise that I will eventually explain Orophin’s pathetic reason for hating his youngest brother and wishing him ill. Enjoy! A Past Confronted Part Six: A New Storm Hits Haldir avoids leaving his room until a knock on the door catches his attention. "Who is it?” he asks. “It is me, Rumil,” his brother says. “Come on in. The door is unlocked,” he answers. Rumil opens the door and steps inside. The younger elf still looks haunted but there is a slightly less burdened look on the younger elf’s face but that is only for a moment. He looks at Haldir intently. “What did you say to Orophin to make him leave me alone?” Rumil asks. Haldir looks away. “Do not worry about it, little brother. I did what I had to do to keep you safe,” he answers trying his best to keep a calm tone. “I am worried. The others are acting strangely. I do not know why but I have a feeling it has something to do with you. What did Orophin do?” Rumil demands. He is worried about his brother’s reputation and if Orophin did anything to endanger his brother’s position as a captain, there would be retaliation by the younger elf. Haldir sees the determined look in Rumil’s eyes and knows that there is no way to avoid telling him the truth. “Orophin was in the room with you this morning but because Lord Elrond was with you, he did not make a move. After I was left here with you, Orophin came out and told me that if I was so bent on protecting you that he would reveal a secret about me. I told him that you were more important to me and that he could say what he would. He was not idly threatening and now the elves who remain here with us know that I am attracted to Gimli,” He finally admits. Rumil’s eyes widen in shock. He had not expected that. How could Orophin be so cruel? “You have feelings for Gimli?” Rumil asks. “Yes, I do. I started to fall for him before he left with the Fellowship andn I n I saw him at Helm’s Deep, I understood that my heart had been lost to the stout dwarf. I am never going to tell him that, however,” Haldir answers. “If I know Orophin, Gimli will know soon,” Rumil tells him. Haldir nods and lets out a soft sigh. “I do not know what I will do when he reacts badly. I am not sure what I am afraid of most; having him kill me or bursting out laughing. Both reactions I could live without seeing,” Haldir remarks. “How do you know that he shall remark badly?” Rumil inquires. “Did you not notice the way I treated him upon arrival to our woods, little brother? I was not respectful to him at all. I gave him no reason to think me anything but an arrogant and highly annoying elf,” Haldir answers, “I did not handle that situation very well. I could not accept what I was feeling so I lashed out at him. That is where my one fatal flaw is. I cannot deal with such strong emotions so I lash out at everyone around me.” “I am sure that he has changed his mind especially when you arrived at Helm’s Deep to aid them against Sauron,” Rumil tells him. Haldir wishes he is as optemistice as his brother but he doubts that is so. ‘We are alike Rumil and I. He believes that Gimli will see something in me, but he cannot believe that Elrohir will love him. I am the opposite. Both of us believe that love is beyond what we deserve,’ he thinks. A horn sounds interrupting his thoughts. “That is the summoning for lunch,” Haldir murmurs. “You do not have to attend,” Rumil says to him. “I know but I will not hide from this. I made the choice to protect you so now I shall take the consequences whatever they maybe,” he answers heading for the door. He wishes he feels as confident as he sounded. It would make this less terrifying. He walks down the corridor dreading his arrival into the dining hall. He feels Rumil’s hand on his shoulder and knows that his little brother is going to support him no matter what. He stops in front of the door to collect himself before reaching out and entering the room. He feels the anger before he even looks at his Galadhrim. He knows that they do not approve. He slowly meets their gazes and feels his blood run cold at the hatred he sees. Orophin had accomplished what he had threatened. He has completely turned his troops against him. He tilts his head as he hears Rumil’s sharp intake of breath and knows his little brother has noticed the looks sent towards him. Rumil is shocked. How they could even begin to judge Haldir so harshly is beyond him. They have no right to be so closed-minded. “Ah, you finally show up, Rumil,” Orophin says blantantly ignoring Haldir’s presence. “Yes,” Rumil says through clenched teeth. He refrains from saying what he wants, however. Hot fury sweeps through his veins and he would like nothing more than to shove the nearest pointed implement through his brother’s chest. He has never been so disgusted with his brother in all of his life. “Well it is good to know that you are not out selling yourself to orcs,” he remarks calmly. Rumil is stopped dead in his tracks as silence fills the room. “Wh-what did you just say?” he demands. “I was merely commenting on how proud I am that you are not out selling yourself to orcs like you usually do. I am glad because having to deal with Haldir being in love with Gimli is enough to swallow without having to walk upon you letting an orc sheathe himself in your body,” Orophin answers in that same calm tone. The audacity his brother has makes Rumil lose his temper. “You pathetic excuse for an elf! Where do you get off saying such slanders towards us? You, who cares nothing about anyone else and would willingly let your patrol die if only to save your hide! You have no honor, Orophin, and further more the fact that you can say such a lie about me is pathetic really, but such is your way. Fine then, Orophin, say what you will but just remember that the next time you are in trouble and wish for Haldir’s and my help, we shall not aid you. You deserve no intervention from either of us!” Rumil growls. “As if I would need the assistance of an orc’s whore or the traitorous dwarf-lover? You are gravely mistaken and I do believe about to be out of a home and rank,” Orophin answers scornfully. Haldir’s eyes widen. Orophin could not be serious about that! “What are you saying?” Haldir demands. “I am saying that you two are going to either resign from your ranks as Marchwardens and not step foot into Lothlorien ever again or I, as your older brother, can formally and in the most humilating way possible discharge the both of you,” Orophin responds. “Orophin, that is enough!” Aragorn snaps. “Mind your own business, mortal king!” Orophin retorts. “No! I think you have needlessly slandered the both of them enough for one lifetime,” Aragorn answers. “You are of no concern of mine, son of Arathorn. I will do what I see fit to protect my lord from such elves as my younger brothers,” Orophin retorts. Ha can cannot bear to hear another word and he flees the room. Rumil stays long enough to send a hateful look at Orophin before following. He catches Haldir at the door to his room. He grabs his arm. “Haldir, we cannot let him beat us. We can get through this,” he says. Haldir looks at him and for the second time, Rumil sees tears falling. “I never expected this. I never thought he would actually send us from Lothlorien! What are we going to do?” Haldir whispers. Rumil hugs him tightly. “We will get through this,” he answers, “somehow we will both get through this.” He leans his head against Haldir’s chest doe does not know of he can deal with this along with the turmoil already running through him but he knows that he has to help Haldir no matter how much his own soul is hurting. Haldir holds him close. “I am sorry. You are hurting worse than I am right now. I should not be falling to pieces,” Haldir says quietly. “It is quite all right, brother. I shall deal with my own demons but right now you are in pain and that I cannot bear,” Rumil answers. Haldir does not respond. He just holds Rumil tightly against him and wonders how they are going to make it through this storm. He wonders if either of them have the strength to withstand Orophin… Part Seven: A New Start Rumil manages to drag his brother into the room after exhausts himself. He lies him down and covers him up before sitting down and watching him sleep. A rueful sigh escapes him. If it were not for him then Haldir would not be in this mess. He is responsible for his brother’s plight. A soft knock at the door gets his attention. He quickly walks over and opens it so that the door is slightly ajar. He sees Lord Elrond standing there flanked by his two sons and Legolas. “Haldir is sleeping,” Rumil says softly. “Then will you come out and talk with us?” Elrond asks. “I cannot leave Ha alo alone. I do not trust Orophin,” Rumil answers. “I will stay with him,” a deep voice responds. Rumil finally notices Gimli. He stares intently at the dwarf before finally nodding and stepping out to let him in. He closes the door and turns to face the four elves standing in the hallway. “The audacity your brother had in saying what he did is repulsive. No one should say such things about their own kin especially when some are not even true,” Legolas says heatedly. “He only spoke true of Haldir, is that correct?” Elladan inquires. “Yes, that he was being honest about. Haldir is in love with Gimli,” Rumil answers, “but there was nothing about what he said of me that is or will ever be true. I am no orcish whore.” “So he is really going to make you two resign or discharge you?” Elrohir asks. “Yes, I am afraid he will. That is going to be the hardest part. I do not know how Haldir is going to cope without being in the service of another. It has always been his way. He needs someone to protect and fight for. With no home and no real sense of purpose he is going to be lost. I am already floundering as it is and this will not help me either,” Rumil answers. “Ada, could they not come back with us to Imladris?” Elrohir asks suddenly, “ I am sure that Glorifindel could use help on the borders.” Rumil is shocked at Elrohir’s question. “That is a possibility, Elrohir. Rumil, do you think Haldir would mind coming to Imladris?” Elrond asks. “Gimli is returning there for awhile,” Elladan pipes up smirking. Rumil actually smiles at that. “With what your son said, Lord, I doubt very much that Haldir will be too against going,” he answers. “And yourself?” Elrond asks. Rumil thinks for a moment. “I do not believe I will mind all that much either, although I think I will help out Erestor in the library. I do not think I want to see orcs anytime soon,” he answers after awhile. “Erestor will love you forever,” Elladan remarks, “he is quite overworked as it is.” Rumil smiles again. “I am sure that is why you want me to come,” he remarks with a knowing smile, “With Erestor having less to do then it gives you more time to spend with him. I know you too well, son of Elrond.” Elladan laughs. “Maybe that is part of it, but I do honestly want you to come to Imladris. It is probably the safest place for you and Haldir to stay,” the older twin remarks. ‘And it will keep you close to Elrohir,’ he finishes mentally. He had seen how panicked his twin was when Rumil tried to kill himself. He hopes that the silver-haired elf does not try that again. Haldir senses another presence in his room and awakens. He turns his head and his breathing almost stops when he realizes who is sitting next to him. “G-Gimli?” he whispers hardly daring to believe what he is seeing. “Well, master elf, you certainly know how to make a reputation for yourself,” Gimli responds. “I could not let him harm Rumil, though it seems that he is still able to tear into my little brother’s heart no matter what I do,” Haldir answers. He is not about to apologize for what Orophin revealed. Sometimes the truth hurt. “Why does he hate Rumil so much?” Gimli asks. “By the time Rumil came, our mother was not as strong as she had been with Orophin and I, and the birth almost killed her. Rumil was unnaturally frail and so a lot of time was spent having to tend to both of them. Orophin felt that Rumil was a waste of time and that more could be done for our mother. I do not think Orophin ever forgave Rumil for not being as strong as we are. As you have probably noticed, Rumil did not fill out like us and has stayed more feminine. I believe wholeheartedly that Orophin blames Rumil for our mother’s death more than he blames the orcs,” Haldir explains. “But your mother’s death could not have possibly been your brother’s fault. They were out enjoying a day in the woods when orcs attacked them. Rumil did not kill her,” Gimli argues. “That is true, but Orophin will not see it that way. He is firmly convinced that had our mother not had Rumil she would have been out there in the first place and she would not have lost as much strength as she did,” Haldir responds. Gimli scowls. “Your brother has a few problems, Haldir,” the dwarf comments. “I know this,” Haldir agrees. He is quite relieved that Gimli is not asking about what Orophin had said about him. He knows not if he has the strength for such a conversation. A knock at the door gives Haldir the interruption he needs. “Who is it?” “I need to ask you something,” Rumil answers. “Well, come in,” Haldir responds. He watches his little brother come in. “Where were you?” “I was out speaking to Lord Elrond, his sons, and Prince Legolas. Lord Elrond has offered to allow us to return with him to Imladris if we so choose,” Rumil answers. Haldir stares at him in shock. “He said that?” Haldir asks. “Aye, he did,” Rumil answers. He smiles when he sees the look of utter disbelief on his brother’s face. “What do you want to do, Haldir?” “I am not the one who should decide, Rumil. You are,” he tells him. “I think it would be a good idea to be there. I do not exactly trust myself alone and I know that Elrohir is not going to give me another opportunity to try and kill myself,” Rumil responds. Haldir nods. “Gimli is going to be there,” he adds on just to see his reaction. Sure enough Haldir’s eyes light up. Rumil cannot help but laugh. “Ai, dear brother, you have lost your heart to him.” “I know this, Rumil…All right, I do believe Imladris is the best place for you and I and I know that it will be good for you to be around Elrohir knowing that the prince honestly cares for you,” Haldir consents. Rumil smiles and nods. “So the fact that I am going to be there does not make you want to come?” Gimli asks. Only then does Haldir realize the dwarf was still in the room and had heard everything they said. Haldir blushes a bright crimson and stares at the floor. “I-I,” he stammers struggling for the right words to say. He has no idea how to broach the subject with Gimli. This is very embarrassing. The dwarf chuckles. “I never thought I would actually see the proud elf Haldir speechless. I do believe that Sauron won after all,” Gimli teases him. Haldir flushes even darker and that sends Rumil into a fit of laughter. “Little brother,” Haldir growls. His voice holds little anger and Rumil just continues laughing. “Oh come on, Haldir. It is funny. You have never once been speechless,” Rumil gasps out. Haldir scowls at him. His little brother’s attitude towards the situation is not helping anything, least of all Haldir’s pride. “Maybe to you, it is funny, little brother, but I do not find it so amusing,” Haldir tells him sourly. “Master elf, you really need a sense of humor,” Gimli remarks with a slight smile. Haldir scowls at him. “I recognize that look.” A smile begins at the corner of Haldir’s lips. “So do I,” he remarks, “I wasn’t the nicest elf in all of Middle Earth.” “No, you were not, I must agree, but even when you were acting proud there was something quite charming about you,” Gimli responds. “Charming, me?” Haldir says shocked, “You must be joking.” Gimli just laughs without responding. Rumil watches his brother and Gimli with gro am amusement. This was the kind of distraction he desperately needed to keep himself from thinking about the situation. He pushes his dark thoughts back in favor of seeing how this confrontation between his brother and Gimli turned out… Part Eight: Onward Towards Rivendell Haldir and Gimli soon leave for Gimli's room leaving Rumil alone. The silver-haired Galadhrim decides that he does not want to give Orophin a chance to try anything else so he goes in search of some company. Wandering out into Gondor, he finds Elrohir sitting in one of the newly planted gardens. He watches the dark haired Peredhel for a moment without letting him know he is being watched. The younger twin was quite beautiful and Rumil knows that he could easily fall in love with the prince if he is not careful. 'Prince, why must you love me? I cannot give you what you want. You should find someone else with whom to spend your life with,' he thinks. A soft sigh escapes him and he turns to head back inside. Elrohir chooses at that moment to look his way. "Rumil?" The silver-haired elf stops as he hears the soft tone. "Prince Elrohir," he answers turning around. "What are you doing out here?" Elrohir asks. "Wandering around. I do not feel comfortable staying alone in that room while Orophin is around," Rumil answers as he slowly walks over to him. "Would you like to sit with me awhile?" he asks. Rumil would like to decline Elrohir's offer, afraid of what might transpire, but it seems his mouth has other ideas. "I have nothing else to do," Rumil finds himself saying. Deciding that he might as well just go with it, he sits down next to Elrohir. The dark haired half-elf smiles gently at him. He manages to get himself to calm down. "I am guessing that Haldir and Gimli went somewhere a bit more private," he comments. Rumil smiles. "Aye, prince, they did. I have a feeling that my brother is not going to be walking straight tomorrow if we see him at all," Rumil responds. The mental image alone is enough to make them both start to laugh. "I hope that Gimli can ease some of the pahat hat Orophin has caused your brother," Elrohir says after a moment. "I think that he will. Haldir will adjust to Imladris. He is always up for new challenges and faces whatever comes with the same eager attitude," Rumil responds. He stares into the distance. "How are you doing? It must be difficult with Orophin acting the way he is," Elrohir remarks. "I have Haldir’s support so I am not wholly alone and I know that you are watching out for me. I do appreciate your willess ess to support me, prince," he answers. Elrohir smiles. ‘At least you are accepting me as a friend, Rumil. Maybe one day you will allow me to be more,’ he thinks. He would be patient. He had an eternity to woo the younger elf. Rumil allows himself to relax in Elrohir’s presence. He knows that the dark haired half-elf is not a threat to him. "Thank you," he says suddenly. "For what?" Elrohir asks. "Allowing my brother and me to come to Imladris with you," he answers. "There is nothing to thank me for. You and Haldir needed somewhere to stay where you could both heal," Elrohir responds with a smile. Rumil cannot help but smile back. Maybe now things would begin to return to some semblance of normalcy. It is only three more days until they depart and Rumil is glad for it. Haldir was looking rather miserable after a few unfriendly encounters with some of the other Galadhrim. "Are you all right, Haldir?" he asks him. "Aye, little brother, I am fine. It is just surprising that people you have grown up with can change their mind about you over your choice of a lover," Haldir answers. "It is rather childish," Rumil agrees. He smiles as Gimli holds a little bit tighter to the back of Haldir. "Still not comfortable on horses, Gimli?" "Master elf, there is a reason dwarves waquotquot; Gimli answers. Rumil chuckles slightly. His brother and Gimli were a sight together although, not an unpleasant one. ‘At least he is happy,’ Rumil thinks to himself watching Haldir tease Gimli mercilessly as they ride. ‘You have a chance at it, too,’ a small voice says in his mind, ‘Remember Prince Elrohir?’ ‘He deserves better,’ Rumil responds. ‘He seems not to want someone better. He seems to want YOU,’ the voice answers. Rumil quickly silences it. There was no point in listening to it. He was never going to feel good enough for a crown prince of Imladris. He was tainted and Elrohir deserved a lot better than him. A soft sigh escapes him. Why was he torturing himself like this? "Rumil, are you all right?" Elrohir’s concerned tone startles him from his melancholy thoughts.