Title: Life Debts Author: Julia E-mail: jul_cat_29@hotmail.com Pairing: Aragorn/Legolas Rating: NC-17 Summary: How Aragorn and Legolas met…will true love overcome all obstacles? Series/Sequel: It’s a prequel to my other fic, Together, but you can read them separately. It doesn’t really matter. I’m hoping there will be more in the series. Disclaimer: They aren’t mine…I wish they were. They belong to New Line Cinema and the Saul Zaentz company. I own the action figures and the DVD. Warning: Graphic sex scenes. Authors Note: Ok, hi again! This is my second serious fic, I hope you all like it. It’s dedicated to Jenny again because she’s the one that proof reads it and nags me until I read. Also to Ida, my big sis, ‘cause I love her tons and she’s so encouraging, and Fia, who is fantastic and always says really nice things! Feedback: Yes please, I live for it! Everyone was really nice about Together but criticism is also welcome. If you want me to write another one….you have to tell me! ___________________________________________________________ Life Debts Aragorn felt his back collide with a solid tree trunk and despair flooded his already dazed senses. A dozen orcs lay in the clearing, all of them felled by Aragorn’s sword, but now he was faced with defeating their leader, a seemingly impossible task. The orc was skilled with his scimitar, and Aragorn had already suffered blows to his shoulder and ribs. He felt dizzy and exhausted, and it was all he could do to weakly parry the vicious slashes the orc made. He sank down, still leaning against the tree, his legs losing all their strength. He didn’t really know how it happened, but in an instant he was suddenly disarmed, defenceless against the foul creature, who now raised his scimitar way up. Aragorn knew what was about to happen, and although he desperately wanted to escape from the lethal blow that was coming, he was too weak to move. He shut his eyes, resigning himself to his fate, but the blow never came. Instead, he heard a shrill cry and a resounding thud, and Aragorn opened his eyes cautiously. The orc was lying dead, a few feet away from him, an arrow sticking out of it’s neck. Aragorn looked around, moving his neck stiffly towards the clearing edge. He winced as he did so, aggravating the injury to his shoulder. He thought he saw some movement in the trees, but he did not have the strength to stay conscious any longer, and gave in to the darkness. Legolas emerged from the trees, and crossed over to where the man lay. There were many orcs scattered about, and Legolas realised that this man must have killed them all. He was strong then, especially fighting with just a sword. He checked the man’s breathing, and was relieved to feel breath against his hand. The man’s chest rose and fell and Legolas sighed in relief; his wounds were not too serious then. He reached out with delicate hands, undoing the man’s tunic a little nervously to inspect him for injuries. His entire left side was covered in colourful bruising, and his shoulder looked as though it had been wrenched badly. There was no blood, and the vivid colouring did nothing to spoil the beauty of the man’s toned chest. Legolas couldn’t help but admire it as he traced his fingers over the bruises, allowing some of his own energy to pass into the man, helping him to recover quicker. He still did not wake up, and Legolas knew that he was going to have to get him fed and rested. He would have to carry him to the stream, where he had set up camp last night. Securing his quiver and bow on his back, he lifted the unconscious figure so that he was lying on his shoulder. He staggered slightly; the man weighed more than him and he stumbled back to the stream with some difficulty. When they got there, he collapsed to the ground next to the man, and took a moment to catch his breath before making sure that the man was comfortable, placing his own cloak underneath the man’s head and then fetching some herbs to make into a soothing ointment for the nasty bruises. He watched over him as he slept off his exhaustion, grinding the herbs and mixing them with water to create a paste. He left it to set and dampened a small cloth, then knelt beside the man, and began to gently cleanse his face of the dirt and dried blood. He was as gentle as possible, and admired the man’s face as he washed him. He had shoulder-length dark hair that hung down, framing an open, honest face. He also had stubble growing, and although Legolas normally disliked facial hair, on this man it looked good. He kept up the cleansing until the man began to stir slightly, lifting his hand weakly and groaning as he came back from unconsciousness. Legolas knelt over him, and watched as his eyelids fluttered open, revealing a pair of expressive grey eyes that right now showed confusion and some pain. “Shh, don’t try to move. You’re safe now.” Legolas said in his smooth, musical voice, and Aragorn obeyed the elf immediately, captivated by the face staring down at him with so much concern. He was more beautiful than any other Aragorn had laid eyes on, even his foster sister Lady Arwen, whose beauty was famous throughout Middle-Earth. His features were perfect, chiselled out of flawless, fair skin, and his vivid blue eyes leapt out at him as he wiped Aragorn’s forehead. The cool cloth felt like heaven against his skin, and he let himself be ministered to. The elf began to attend to his painful side and shoulder, and he tensed, preparing for his touch to be sore. “Relax. This will help.” He began to rub the ointment into the bruising and to Aragorn’s surprise, instead of hurting, the elf’s touch eased the burning pain. Aragorn relaxed a little, enjoying the feel of the elf caressing his body. He watched as he worked his hands through the knotted, abused flesh, almost massaging him, and arousing him somewhat in the process. Aragorn could feel himself growing hot and as much as he was enjoying it, he knew that he had better draw the elf’s attention away from the growing bulge in his pants. “You saved my life.” He murmured, and the elf stopped his ministrations, straightening up and looking at Aragorn. “I’m sure that you would have done the same.” He said modestly. “Thank you, anyway.” Aragorn said. “What’s your name?” “Legolas of Mirkwood. And yours?” “Aragorn, and I hail from Rivendell.” “Rivendell?” Legolas looked up. “That is where I am headed. Why are you so far from your home?” “I am a ranger. I travel far and wide. Why are you travelling to Rivendell?” “I have been sent by my father to bring news of the growing darkness in Mirkwood and the ever-increasing numbers of orcs that patrol middle-Earth. Mirkwood is in danger again. I have been attacked several times already, and I have only been travelling for five days. They managed to get my horse, although I escaped unscathed, save for a few scratches.” Legolas said, his eyes clouding with pain. Aragorn knew that the elf would take the death of his horse hard, elves being so firmly in tune with nature and all beasts. “I am sorry for your loss.” “Thank you, Aragorn.” Legolas said. I am glad that you were not lost to those foul creatures.” Aragorn smiled at him and Legolas turned to get some food out. Aragorn watched him with interest. The elf was very beautiful and he desired him, but beneath the physical attraction Aragorn felt something strange around the elf. It was not something he had felt before. Legolas turned and held out some lembas bread. “I’m sorry, it is all I have.” He said, smiling apologetically. “It’s fine.” Aragorn said, and he reached out to take it. Their fingers brushed together and they both froze suddenly, sparks of electricity filling them with warmth and taking them by surprise. They eventually pulled apart and Aragorn broke the taught silence. “Thank you.” They soon began to talk, their nervousness abating slightly as they chatted about many things, finding out more about one another. Aragorn was fascinated by the elf, not only attracted to his body anymore but to his personality also. Legolas was the youngest of seven children, six brothers and one sister, and Aragorn presumed that they were members of a noble elf-family, as Legolas had been trusted with this mission. Legolas laughed easily and was the easiest person in the world to talk to, it seemed. He listened eagerly and intently to all Aragorn had to say, his head tilted slightly to one side and chewing his bottom lip slightly. It distracted Aragorn so much that at one point he completely forgot what he was saying. It wasn’t until he noticed that Legolas was bathed in the eerie blue light of the moon that he realised how late it had become and how tired he was. He tried to stifle a yawn but Legolas spotted him and his face immediately clouded with concern. “I’m sorry, you need to rest.” He said, crossing over and making sure Aragorn was comfortable, adjusting the cloak under his head. “I’ll keep watch, you can sleep all through tonight. Wake me if you need anything.” He told him, and then started to stand up. Aragorn reached up and caught his wrist, pulling him back down so that their faces were almost touching. “Thank you, for saving me.” He whispered, his eyes boring deep into Legolas’ blue orbs. “If I can ever repay you, I will.” “There is no need. To see you alive is more than enough reward for me.” Legolas answered honestly, and they looked at one another intensely for a few more seconds before Legolas pulled away, leaving Aragorn to lie on his makeshift bed. It was bare minutes before he gave into slumber, his exhausted, aching body finally giving way to rest. ___________________________________________________________ __________ The next day Aragorn was recovered enough to be able to walk with Legolas as they continued on to Rivendell, the elf walking behind him, watching closely in case Aragorn showed any sign of tiredness. They talked easily, any silence that fell between them easy and comfortable. To anyone who saw them, they looked like they had been friends for years, not merely one night, and were walking together as though they had done so many times before. Yet Aragorn could sense that something more than just friendship existed between him and Legolas. His own feelings were certain; he desired the beautiful elf greatly. However, Legolas’ feelings were unclear to Aragorn, his expression giving little away. Aragorn found himself opening his heart and soul to Legolas, feeling so at ease with the elf that he began to tell him why he had become a ranger. Legolas listened intently, walking behind Aragorn silently, possessing the light-footed abilities that all elves had, but Aragorn could somehow feel the elf’s presence. “My mother brought me to Rivendell when I was still a baby, and Lord Elrond took me in as his foster son. He brought me up as his own child, and his children became my sisters and brothers. Elladan and Elrohir and the Lady Arwen, although she is now staying in Lothlorien. It is only a year ago that I found out who I really was. I grew up in Rivendell, learning the ways of the elves, but when I found out my true title I had to go away for a while and think things over.” “What is your true title?” Legolas asked softly. “I am Aragorn, the son of Arathorn.” Legolas nodded his head in realisation, although Aragorn did not see. “Isildur’s heir. But I do not want that title. I am not strong enough to take it. Isildur is weak, and therefore so must I be, for his blood runs through my veins.” Aragorn sighed, continuing to walk slowly forward. Suddenly Legolas was in front of him, and the man halted quickly to avoid crashing into the smaller being. “You are strong, Aragorn. The strongest man that I have ever met.” He said earnestly. “That is not true. I would not be here now if you had not saved my life.” Aragorn replied sadly. “Listen to me.” Legolas said, his voice kind but firm. “You are strong. You were assailed by an impossible number of orcs and you felled so many of them. Countless lay in that clearing, all slain by you. Not many could do that, Aragorn. You are a true warrior. But you are not just physically strong. I feel as though I know you well, Aragorn, despite our short acquaintance, and in that short length of time I have seen that you are a kind, generous, brave man. You judge yourself too harshly, son of Arathorn. I see your soul in your eyes, Aragorn, and there is nothing but good in there.” He looked at Aragorn intensely, and the ranger could feel his face growing hot. Legolas continued in a softer voice. “When the time comes for you to accept your title, you will do so with honour and courage, as is in your spirit. The fact that you are unwilling to accept your title is the reason that you are so worthy of it.” Aragorn looked back at the elf, taking in his words and drinking in the sight of Legolas’ honest features. The elf’s words made him feel warm and gave him some hope that Legolas felt the same attraction that he did. They carried on walking, but Aragorn started to become tired, and his pace slowed and he did not have enough energy to hold a conversation with Legolas. The elf immediately noticed that something was wrong, but Aragorn insisted that he was fine. However, he couldn’t argue anymore when black spots began to swim in front of his vision and his breathing became more and more laboured. “That’s it.” Legolas said, stepping in front of him and taking hold of Aragorn’s shoulders. “You cannot continue and I will not let you risk your health more than you insist on doing so already.” His expression turned deeply concerned as his surveyed Aragorn further. His lips were turning an awful shade of blue, his skin pale and his chest heaving as he struggled for breath. “Sit.” Legolas commanded, helping Aragorn to the forest floor. “Drink this….put your head between your legs and take deep breaths.” He told him. The black spots invading Aragorn’s vision began to fade as his breathing became easier, and he looked up, searching for Legolas. The elf was standing over him, his face worried. “I have to get you to Rivendell as fast as possible.” He said. “Your wounds are more serious than I first thought. Lord Elrond will be able to heal you, but I cannot. We must move quickly, Aragorn, for I sense that something is approaching. If it is orcs, we have no hope of defeating them.” Aragorn hurried as fast as he could, aided greatly by Legolas, who at times was half carrying the breathless man, whose breathing was becoming more and more difficult. Every breath made his chest burn as though on fire inside. Legolas was becoming more and more worried by the minute. He knew now that orcs were approaching. He could hear them and smell them and at this pace, there was no way that they could outrun them. They were still a mile or so from Rivendell, and he needed to keep Aragorn safe from harm. The man needed Elrond’s medical expertise as fast as possible. There was only one way that he could see out of the situation. “Aragorn, you must carry on without me.” He told him. “Legolas, I will not leave you to battle this force alone.” “You have no choice. Go to Rivendell as fast as possible and raise the alarm. Do not argue with me, Aragorn, you are in no fit state and I will not change my mind.” He stared at Aragorn determinedly and the man nodded reluctantly. “Then go. Quickly. I will keep them off your trail.” Aragorn headed off as fast as he could, and Legolas watched him go, before turning around to face the orcs. He gritted his teeth and readied his bow. This was one battle he could not afford to lose. He would not let Aragorn get hurt. Aragorn was running as fast as he could, faster than should have been possible for someone as badly wounded as he was. The blood was pounding in his ears and his legs felt like jelly, but he kept going. It seemed like hours before the gates of Rivendell came into sight, and the sight gave him renewed energy. He sprinted as quickly as his burning lungs would allow and reached the courtyard, collapsing to his knees and breathing harshly. Elladan and Elrohir, his foster brothers, came running to his side immediately and supported him. “What happened?” They asked hurriedly. “Legolas…in trouble…help him, quick!” He gasped, and then collapsed, his exhausted body finally giving in to darkness. The twins immediately jumped into action. Elrond came down to take care of Aragorn and they leapt onto horses and galloped into the woods to help Legolas. Legolas was now fighting with his knives, slashing and killing the orcs automatically but beginning to tire and becoming overwhelmed by the staggering numbers of orcs attacking him. He was bleeding from a cut on his shoulder but he didn’t feel the pain, he was too focused on defeating the orcs and preventing them from chasing after Aragorn. “Legolas!” He suddenly heard an elf cry through the screams of the orcs. He stabbed the orc he was battling before turning and seeing Elladan and Elrohir galloping towards him. He felt engulfed by relief; Aragorn must have gotten home safely. He leapt onto Elrohir’s horse nimbly, seating himself behind the dark-haired elf. “Thank the Valar you came.” He said. “I do not think I could have held out much longer.” “Legolas, are you wounded?” Elrohir asked as they rode. “Only a scratch. What of Aragorn? Did he return safely?” “He returned.” Elrohir said. “What was his condition?” “We do not know, Legolas. He was in a lot of pain, he told us that you were in trouble and then he collapsed.” Legolas froze at Elrohir’s back, his mouth a little open. Had his efforts been in vain? He would not let the man die like that. They reached Rivendell quickly and Legolas leapt off as fast as possible. He knew Rivendell well and headed straight for the House of Healing. He knew that that was where Elrond would have taken Aragorn. Sure enough, he entered and Elrond was standing over the bed where Aragorn lay, the ranger’s face pale underneath the soft stubble. He crossed over to the bed and watched as Elrond examined Aragorn’s chest and shoulder. Aragorn did not seem to be breathing as harshly or as heavily as before, but his breathing was still somewhat laboured. “Is he alright?” He asked Elrond quietly, as the elf-lord began to pull a sheet up over Aragorn’s body. “He has some cracked ribs, and that was what was making his breathing so difficult. But his shoulder is merely bruised, nothing more. In a few weeks he will be completely recovered. What happened out there?” “I met Aragorn while journeying here. He had been attacked by orcs and that is how he got his injuries. I am sorry; I did not think they were so serious. We were walking home and Aragorn was getting worse, so when another band of orcs attacked, I decided that I would fend off the orcs so that Aragorn could get here safely. He was in no state to fight.” Legolas said, his voice getting a little weaker as the pain in his arm began to flare up. “Sit, Legolas, your arm must be bandaged.” Elrond said, bringing him a chair and helping him into it gently. He began to bandage the arm carefully. “It appears that you have saved my son’s life, Legolas. I am most grateful.” He finished tying the bandage and stood up properly. “Your efforts saved Aragorn’s life.” “Again.” Came a raspy voice. “Aragorn!” Legolas said, leaning forward quickly to see him and regretting it as a wave of dizziness passed through him. “Calm down, Legolas, you are injured too.” Elrond scolded gently. “Injured? I knew I should not have left you alone.” Aragorn croaked. “It is nothing, Aragorn, I promise you.” Legolas said. “Here, Aragorn. Drink this. It will ease your breathing and numb some of your pain.” Elrond handed him a cup full of vile-smelling medicine. Aragorn drank it all in one gulp and then made a face. “Has that helped?” “Surprisingly, yes, despite it’s foul taste.” Aragorn said, and Legolas smiled. “Though I appreciate that I would not be here to drink it, were it not for Legolas. Twice you have saved me now, so I owe you two life debts.” “You owe me nothing.” Legolas said, smiling gently. “But, I…” Aragorn broke off into a huge yawn. “I forgot to mention that that medicine would also help you sleep.” Elrond said, giving Legolas a sly grin. Aragorn gave him a grumpy look and then found himself falling into a healing sleep. “We should leave him to rest.” Legolas nodded and followed Elrond out of the room, leaving Aragorn to rest peacefully. Legolas followed the elf-lord to his study, where he sat down with him near a blazing fire, that warmed his chilled limbs and made him feel much more relaxed and at ease. “What did you come here to tell me, young Legolas?” “I’m hardly young.” Legolas protested. “To me, you are.” Elrond said with a smile. “It has been too long since we have seen you, Legolas. How is Mirkwood?” “It is about Mirkwood that I come here, Lord Elrond. We fear that a second darkness has come, and foul creatures once again invade my land. People are unable to go into the forest alone anymore, and anyone who ventures out at night is almost certainly heading to their death. We lose another elf every week, it seems, and orcs are becoming more and more numerous, not just in Mirkwood but all over Middle- Earth.” “We have noticed this also. I had hoped that it was just my imagination, but there have been more orc patrols than I have seen since…the time of Sauron’s reign.” Legolas looked up at him with wide eyes. “You don’t think…it cannot be!” “Sauron was not killed, Legolas, only defeated. I do not know for certain but if evil is arising in Middle-Earth again, I am pretty sure that Sauron is at the back of it.” Elrond said, and Legolas was speechless for some moments. “Then what are we going to do?” He asked eventually. “All that we can do, Legolas. We must find out as much as we can. I will call for the wizard Gandalf, he is our ally and he will know more about Sauron than we do. In the mean time, we must continue as best we can, strengthening our defences against the orcs and hoping that it is not as serious as we think.” “What use is that?” Legolas asked bitterly. “Calm yourself, Legolas. Trust in your father to take care of Mirkwood. You have already done enough today. You should rest.” “I have done little, only what anyone would have done.” Legolas said, and a silence fell on them for a few minutes before Legolas spoke up again. “I would like to remain in Rivendell for the time being, if that is alright with you, and help with defending your city against this evil.” “If you are sure you are not needed in Mirkwood.” Elrond said. “My brothers are all there, and besides, father does not wish for me to face the dangers, despite my having proven myself a thousand times over. He sends me instead as a messenger.” Legolas said, some anger in his voice. “Your father cares deeply for you, Legolas; that is why he does not wish for you to be in danger.” “I know that. I just wish that sometimes he would not be so over-protective. It is stifling.” Elrond smiled kindly at Legolas, and the two elves stood. “Rest, Legolas. Build up your strength. You may join the patrols going out during your stay here, and try to defend Rivendell against these orcs.” “It is my honour to do so.” Legolas replied, bowing in respect before leaving to take his usual quarters. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Aragorn was confined to bed for the next few days, and spent most of that time bored out of his mind. He was too weak still to get out of bed but alert and awake all of the day. His boredom was alleviated only by Legolas, who visited whenever he could. The elf was kind and amusing and listened intently to anything Aragorn had to say. They sometimes talked long into the night, and Aragorn found himself growing increasingly attracted and attached to the beautiful creature. He was even beginning to hope that there could be the spark of a relationship between the two of them, until one evening, Legolas did not visit him. Aragorn immediately began to worry. He knew that Legolas had been going out with Elladan and Elrohir to hunt for orcs nearly every day, and he instantly feared that the elf had been harmed. He got out of bed stiffly, one arm wrapped around his still tender ribs, intent on asking Elrond what had happened. However, as he stepped out onto the balcony, he looked down at the courtyard below, and stopped in his tracks. Legolas was down there, talking with an elf that Aragorn had not seen before. He must have arrived just that day, for his hair was blond and the only other elf with blond hair in Rivendell at that time was Legolas. There had been few visitors to the beautiful city lately, save for Legolas and a messenger who had brought the news that Gandalf the Grey would not be able to come until a much later time. He watched as they talked, and he took in the smile on Legolas’ face. He looked overjoyed to see the other elf, and they joined in a long embrace, with the strange elf rubbing Legolas’ back tenderly and sparking off Aragorn’s jealousy. He crept a little closer, hanging on to the railing for support and leaning as close as he dared to listen to their conversation. “It has been a long time, Haldir.” Legolas said, pulling back but leaving his hands on Haldir’s shoulders affectionately. Aragorn’s blood boiled with anger at the new arrival. “Yes, too long, Legolas. I have missed you.” Haldir replied. He took Legolas’ face in his hands gently and looked at him. “You look different, somehow. Happier.” “It’s being in Rivendell. And seeing you, of course.” “You flatter me, Legolas. But I am still glad to see you. I love you and want to see you more in the future!” Haldir said, his smile wide on his face. Aragorn couldn’t bear to hear anymore. He pulled away and fled to his room in agony. Legolas’ heart was already taken! However, he did not stay long enough to hear Legolas’ next words to Haldir. “And I love you, Guardian of Lorien. You are like a brother to me.” “I would have thought you would have enough of those already.” Haldir said, laughing. “It is good that you are here, Haldir. Come, I will take you to see Elrond and then you must meet with Aragorn.” He took Haldir by the hand and led him up to the balcony corridor where Aragorn had been standing only moments before. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Aragorn did not meet Haldir until the next day, when Legolas came to visit him and brought the elf with him. “Aragorn this is Haldir of Lothlorien.” He introduced them. “Haldir, this is Aragorn, son of Arathorn.” “It is good to meet you, Aragorn. I have heard much of you from the Lady Arwen. She sends you her love.” Aragorn nodded curtly. “It is good to meet you too, Haldir. How long are you staying with us?” He did not even make an attempt to sound courteous, his anger at himself for thinking that he could ever have a chance with Legolas clouding his usual common sense. “I am not sure…for as long as I am welcome.” Haldir said, frowning slightly at Aragorn’s offhand attitude. From what Legolas had spoken about the ranger to him last night, he had expected him to be a friendly and nice man. Legolas also frowned at Aragorn’s words and manner. “Is there something wrong, Aragorn? Don’t you feel well?” He asked in concern. “I am just tired, Legolas.” Aragorn snapped, rolling over in his bed. He could guess that Legolas’ expression would be hurt without even seeing him, but he refused to turn around. He heard the door click shut as the two elves left, and then buried his head into his pillow. Outside the door, Legolas turned to Haldir. “I am sorry, he is usually fine…his injuries must be bothering him. I will alert Elrond.” Legolas made to head for Elrond’s study, but Haldir caught his arm. “No, Legolas, do not do that. I am sure that Aragorn will be fine. Have you thought that he might just be jealous of seeing you with me, when you have been devoting most of your time to him recently?” “Aragorn is not the type to get jealous of friends, Haldir. But I will leave telling Elrond until another day. I will see you later, though, Haldir; Elladan and Elrohir will be waiting for me.” He smiled at him and then ran off, leaving Haldir with a frown on his face again. Could Legolas really not see that the man adored him? He sighed, and then went to get something to eat, determined to go and speak to Aragorn again later. He went to see Aragorn before Legolas got back, knocking softly on the door and entering without waiting for Aragorn to answer. The ranger was sitting on the bed and he looked up as the elf walked in, but his face fell when he realised that it was Haldir, not Legolas, who had come to see him. “Oh…Haldir.” He said, his tone as hostile as it had been earlier. Haldir ignored the coldness in Aragorn’s voice and pulled up a chair next to his bed, sitting down in it and looking directly into Aragorn’s eyes. “Aragorn, why do you act so around me?” He asked bluntly. “Act like what?” Aragorn answered, feigning ignorance. “Do not pretend you do not know what I mean.” Haldir said, giving Aragorn a look. “I know that you do not like me because I was with Legolas.” “Legolas’ love life is nothing to do with me.” Aragorn said coldly, crossing his arms. “Love life?” Haldir said in surprise, but then made a silent ‘o’ with his mouth as realisation hit him. “You think that Legolas and me are in a relationship?” “Aren’t you?” “No, of course not!” Haldir said, laughing. “I can’t believe you thought that we were together. I have known Legolas since he was only a child. I taught him archery. I love him as a brother, nothing more.” “Oh…” Aragorn buried his head in his hands. “I can’t believe I was so stupid…I am so sorry, Haldir.” “It’s alright, don’t worry. If it makes you feel any better, I think that Legolas likes you too.” “Really?” Aragorn asked, looking up with hope in his eyes. “Yes. He adores you. As soon as I arrived he was harping on about how brilliant you were and how much I was going to like you and what a nice person you are…” “And then you came in and I was so horrible to you!” Aragorn finished for him, breaking into laughter. Haldir joined in. They spent the rest of the afternoon talking together, mainly about Legolas. As soon as they heard the clattering of hooves, signalling the party’s arrival home, they went outside, going down into the courtyard. However, instead of being met by the twins and Legolas, only Elladan came in, galloping on his horse with blood pouring from a wound in his shoulder. He slid off the horse and would have fallen to the ground had Haldir not caught him. “Elladan, where are Elrohir and Legolas?” Aragorn asked desperately. The dark-haired elf looked up at him. “We were attacked by orcs. There were too many of them…we were outnumbered at least a hundred to one…I do not know what happened to them. We turned to flee but they did not make it out.” He said, and Aragorn stood up, feeling numb. Elrond took Elladan away to heal him and gave Haldir control of all the elf patrols. The blond elf immediately stepped into action, seeing that Aragorn was still shocked. He arranged for about a hundred elves to take on the orcs, leaving some behind to defend Rivendell, just in case. As Haldir mounted his horse, Aragorn began to wake up. “Get me a horse!” He ordered one of the stable-hands. “Aragorn stay here. You are still wounded, you cannot fight.” Haldir ordered. Aragorn pulled himself stiffly onto a horse and gave him a defiant look. “I will not leave him out there to who knows what fate. He has saved my life, I will not ignore him when he is in need.” Haldir looked at him for a minute before nodding curtly. “Alright. But stay to the back. You are here to find Legolas, not to fight orcs and risk your own life. Legolas would not want that.” Aragorn nodded his agreement and they rode out into the forest. The small army of elves soon reached the orcs, who attacked brutally at first but soon found themselves in trouble as the elves skilfully cut orc after orc down, until the rest of them started to flee. Aragorn hung back as he had promised Haldir, scouring the area for any sign of Legolas. But the ground was too battle-scarred now for him to find any tracks, and Legolas’ footfalls were so light anyway, even if the ground was clean it would have been a challenge. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Legolas fought desperately to stay conscious, but it was a losing battle. He had crawled away from the orcs; by some miracle they had lost his trail and he lay hidden in the bushes. He didn’t think he could move anymore. He was out of breath and exhausted, his head pounding and blood dripping down his temple and into his hair. He had seen Elrohir fall and wondered whether he was alright, but his mind was too confused for him to think straight or concentrate on one thought for any length of time. His pelvic area was too painful for him to move, and he was sure that he had been injured internally. His arm had been twisted back and he didn’t know whether it was broken or sprained, but it hurt a great deal. He could still hear the orcs scuffling around as the threatening darkness came closer. The forest was spinning around him, and before he passed out he imagined that he heard the thundering of hooves. ___________________________________________________________ __________ When the last of the orcs had fled, Haldir went over to where Aragorn was searching in the dirt. “Any sign?” He asked. “None…the earth is too disturbed for me to find a sign of him. There is blood everywhere, I do not know whether it is his.” Aragorn replied, his eyes full of sadness. For the rest of the day they searched, but to no avail. Haldir sent the rest of the elves home after he was certain that the orcs were gone, but Aragorn refused to stop looking, and Haldir did not want to give up either. They were forced to stop when it got too late, and they set up camp, Aragorn helping as much as he could despite his exhaustion and his sore chest. By the time they were finished, he was ready to drop and sat down heavily by the fire opposite Haldir. The elf looked at Aragorn’s despondent expression. “Do not fear, Aragorn. Legolas is strong. He will survive.” “Are you sure of that?” Aragorn asked quietly. “He has fought many battles and lived through them all. We will find him and we will find Elrohir too.” Aragorn swallowed guiltily; in his worry over Legolas he had spared no thought toward his missing foster brother. Haldir tilted his head to one side and spoke up in a very gentle voice. “You really like Legolas, don’t you?” He asked. “I admire his courage and he is one of the most interesting, friendly people I have ever met.” Aragorn said guardedly. “No, it is not just that. I can tell. You care for him as a lover would.” Aragorn did not answer, refusing to meet Haldir’s eyes. “Do you love him?” For a long moment Aragorn was silent, and then he replied. “Yes. I do. I have never felt for anyone the way I do for Legolas. And it kills me that our last words together were tense, although that is my fault entirely.” “Legolas will not hold it against you.” Haldir tried to reassure him, but Aragorn still felt guilty. He slept fitfully that night, plagued by dreams of Legolas in terrible pain, lying in the woods bleeding slowly to death. He awoke just before dawn and set about packing. Haldir rose also and they set out again, intent on finding the missing elves. Aragorn was still struggling with his painful injuries but any attempt on Haldir’s part to persuade him to rest was firmly rejected. They spent the day searching in silence mostly, their moods low and their minds fixated on their grim task. It was nearly dark when Aragorn gave out a loud cry and fell to his knees. Haldir ran over to him instantly and stood over the ranger, who was examining the ground intently. “What is it?” He asked, hardly daring to breathe. “Blood…elf-blood. And…Elrohir’s scabbard.” He looked up at Haldir, a flicker of renewed hope in his eyes. “This way.” He pointed and they set off immediately, Haldir following with both horses. Aragorn followed the near invisible trail that even Haldir had trouble finding, but Aragorn’s experience as a ranger helped him. There were some visible marks of blood, and they led the two elves deep into the woods, and that was when Haldir spotted the leg. Sticking out from behind a clump of trees was a slender leg, and Aragorn’s heart leapt into his throat as they both ran forward, until all hope suddenly sank right into his shoes. It was not Legolas, but Elrohir. He was relieved that his foster brother was still alive, but it meant that Legolas was still out there somewhere, alone and perhaps even dead. “Aragorn, help me!” Haldir called out, and he went forward numbly. Elrohir was bleeding from a gash in his arm, but it was not too serious. He had a wound to his head too, but as they knelt beside him he began to come round. He groaned as his eyes opened and looked up into Aragorn and Haldir’s concerned faces. “Elladan…Legolas?” He managed to croak. “Elladan is back in Rivendell. We have not yet found Legolas.” Haldir said, helping the injured elf to his feet and over to the horse. They got him up and Haldir jumped up behind him, when Elrohir suddenly grabbed hold of Aragorn’s shirt. “I saw him…” “Who? Legolas?” Aragorn asked desperately. “He fell…over there somewhere…I think.” Elrohir pointed weakly with his good arm towards the East. Aragorn looked over and then back at Haldir. “Take him to Rivendell and then come back here as quick as you can. I will search for Legolas.” He told him, and Haldir nodded curtly before spinning his horse around and galloping away. Aragorn set off in the direction Elrohir had pointed in, running on foot, leaving his horse to follow Haldir, knowing that he could easily miss the elf if he was riding. He ran through the dark as quickly as he could while checking every tree, bush and shadow in meticulous detail, checking for any sign of Legolas. It began to get harder as darkness set in fast and thick, but he kept moving, knowing that Legolas could be in a terrible condition and using that thought to keep himself motivated. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Legolas had come round sometime that day, he couldn’t say when; he had lost all track of time in his dazed state. He had lost some feeling in his limbs, which he didn’t know whether to see as a blessing or a curse. His head was still thundering and his vision was blurred and confused. He was so cold. He couldn’t stop shivering but every tremor drove new pain through his abdomen. He knew that he couldn’t survive much longer. He was hungry, thirsty, cold and in pain and he couldn’t quite believe that he was going to die this way. He was certain that no-one was going to find him now. He had hidden himself well and he had heard no-one for the entire time he had lain there. It felt like weeks, although he knew it must be a shorter time. Closing his eyes against the rush of tears and the dizziness that assailed him, he thought of Aragorn. He could remember their last encounter but somehow it didn’t matter anymore, because he could remember all their other conversations as well. And he could remember how the ranger looked. He remembered the sculptured, stubbled face and he smiled despite his pain. The last thing he thought of before he took his last breath was Aragorn, smiling widely at him. And then his heart stopped beating. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Aragorn was about to give up. He had been searching for ages now, going round and round the area that Legolas was supposed to be in, but finding nothing and wondering whether Elrohir had pointed him in the wrong direction. Then suddenly, he caught sight of something, a tiny strand of hair glinting faintly in the moonlight near a clump of bushes. Aragorn ran towards it, hardly daring to hope, but let out a huge gasp when it turned out to be not just a few strands but all of Legolas’ blond hair. He pushed the bushes aside and gasped when he saw the elf. He was completely still and his face was deathly pale. Aragorn sat down next to him and pulled him so that his head was in his lap, feeling for the elf’s pulse at his neck. His skin was freezing, and Aragorn’s heart skipped a beat when he couldn’t find a pulse. The elf wasn’t breathing and Aragorn quickly snapped into action, doing everything that Elrond had taught him to do in cases like this. He breathed into Legolas’ mouth for him, and then began to do compressions on his chest. In any other situation it would have been nice to feel Legolas’ lips touch his own, but right now all he could think about was getting Legolas to live. He pumped on the elf’s lightly muscled chest for what seemed like ages, continuing the process until his hands and arms were aching and tears were falling silently down his face. He finally stopped with a loud cry of despair, and he cradled Legolas to him, bending over the fallen elf and sobbing in sadness and anger. He hugged the limp body to him and started to speak through huge, sobbing gasps. “Legolas…please don’t do this to me. Not now. I’m sorry…I’m sorry I got here too late. I’m sorry for snapping at you and Haldir. You have to understand why, Legolas. If you can hear me…You saved my life, Legolas. That in itself makes you a good person; that you put yourself at risk for someone you did not even know. But that is only part of your personality, Legolas. I have known you for such a short time and I know little about you, but I do know that you are kind, and funny, and interesting, and have so many other qualities that it is impossible to list them all. And all those other things that I don’t know about you, I really want to find out. So you have to live, Legolas. Because…I love you.” He finished talking and found that his tears had stopped. He had released so much emotion that he felt somehow empty now. He sat with Legolas cradled in his arms, barely noticing when Haldir arrived back. The blond elf jumped silently off his horse and approached slowly, staring down in disbelief at Aragorn holding the lifeless elf in his arms. Legolas felt as though he were floating. He knew where he was now; travelling away from the light into a maze of long tunnels that he knew were the Halls of Mandos. He didn’t want to be here. He wanted to go back. He spun round and began to run, desperately searching for an exit. Then suddenly he froze. He could hear Aragorn’s voice, what he was saying hard to make out because he seemed to be crying. However, he clearly heard him say, “I love you.” Making a renewed effort, he sprinted towards the light, leaving the Halls of Mandos behind him and stepping out of the tunnels. Aragorn jumped when Legolas suddenly heaved beneath him, gulping in huge mouthfuls of air and his eyes opening wide, revealing blue orbs filled with confusion and wonder. He reached up, touching Aragorn’s cheek very gently, his fingers lightly tickling Aragorn’s stubbled face. Aragorn looked down at him tenderly, fresh tears falling from his relieved grey eyes. Legolas gave him a wan smile, and Aragorn nearly let go of the elf in his relief and joy at seeing the dry lips crack as they turned upwards. Then suddenly his world shattered once more. Legolas’ weak attempt at a smile turned into a horrid grimace, and he arched upwards in his arms, letting out a piercing scream of agony as the pain hit him once again full force. For a moment Aragorn wondered whether he would ever finish the blood-curdling yell, but then the elf mercifully gave into unconsciousness and slumped back in his arms, his head lolling back sickeningly against Aragorn’s lap. “Quick! We must get him to Rivendell, and fast.” Haldir said, moving in and helping Aragorn lift Legolas so that when the ranger was mounted he was sitting with the elf clutched to him securely. Then they rode. Aragorn rode faster and more dangerously than he ever had before. The trees whipped past in a blur, and it was all he could do to avoid the more solid branches that snapped at his face. He trusted his horse to find the way back to Rivendell, concentrating on keeping Legolas safe. The elf looked very pale, his lips an odd shade of blue, and Aragorn could hear his harsh, rasping breaths even through the pounding of his horse’s hooves and the sound of the wind whistling by. It seemed like forever that they rode, but in reality they reached Rivendell in record time. Aragorn leapt off immediately and lifted Legolas down very gently. He carried him as easily as he would a child, taking him up to the House of Healing where Elrond was waiting for them. He motioned for Aragorn to lay him down on a freshly-made bed and then started to do a quick check of the elf’s condition. He had a grim expression on his face that Aragorn disliked intensely. Aragorn found himself being ushered out by the imposing high-elf, and stepped back reluctantly, looking at the still creature lying on the bed with worry he did not even attempt to conceal. Elrond set about healing Legolas immediately. He knew that he did not have much time to waste. The young elf was extremely pale, and he could tell that he was bleeding internally, and quite badly. That was what he needed to sort out first. It took him some time, even with his nimble and experienced hands, but eventually Legolas’ breathing eased and Elrond was satisfied that he was out of danger. Then it was on to fixing the rest of him. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Aragorn paced outside in front of his patched-up foster brothers. The twins looked equally worried, wearing identical concerned frowns, and Haldir stood chewing on a nail anxiously in the corner. They all looked up with grave expressions when Elrond came out of the room, a similarly serious look on his own face. “How is he?” Aragorn asked eventually, his voice shaky. “I’ve managed to attend to his injuries but he’s not quite out of the woods yet. He was bleeding internally, in his abdomen, and although I’ve stopped the bleeding he’s going to be very sore when he wakes up and he’s also very weak from blood loss. He has a badly sprained arm and a cut to his head which probably means he has a concussion. He’ll be very stiff and sore for a while.” “But he will wake up, won’t he?” Aragorn asked nervously. “Yes, but I’m not sure when.” Elrond told him honestly. Haldir stepped up behind Aragorn. “Can we go in and see him?” “Yes, but only for a few minutes. Try talking to him. He’ll be able to hear what you say.” Elrond said, and then stepped aside so that Aragorn and Haldir could go in. Aragorn walked in slowly and stood back from the bed, reluctant to go nearer. Legolas looked very fragile and young, his face so pale it was nearly translucent, and a purple bruise was beginning to spread out from underneath the bandage around his forehead. Aragorn could hear Haldir behind him and he felt glad of the elf’s presence. He felt somehow strengthened. He took one hesitant step forward, followed by another, and another, until he was standing next to the bed, his knees lightly brushing the sheets. The whole room was silent, the only sound Aragorn’s shuddering breaths as he looked down on the pale, motionless elf. Haldir’s voice cut through the air like lightning through a dark sky. “You can talk to him, you know. He’ll be able to hear you. He will have been able to hear you the whole time.” The words, meant to reassure the worried ranger, had completely the opposite effect. Aragorn froze, the room becoming eerily still and quiet as his breathing halted for a second. Then he whirled around, letting out an anguished cry as he fell against Haldir’s chest. The astonished elf rubbed his back soothingly, automatically trying to calm him down. “Aragorn, what is it? Your words were probably what-” He was cut off by another anguished cry, and he felt the ranger shaking against him. “He heard everything…he will have heard me say those words…oh Haldir…I need to get out of here.” He tore out of Haldir’s grip and fled the room, streaming down the corridor and leaving the confused elf alone with Legolas. Aragorn ran for ages, until his sore chest was burning with pain, and he collapsed to the ground somewhere in the woods of Rivendell, gasping with both exertion and horror at what he had just found out. He sat there for some while, and waited until it was dark before he slipped back to his own quarters, not wishing to see Haldir, his foster father, or anyone for that matter. For the next few days he kept himself locked away in his room, having a servant bring him what little food he ate and refusing to speak with anyone. He fought desperately against the urge to go and see Legolas, although he found himself staring into the Healing House many times, his concern for the injured elf overwhelming. Yet his fear of the elf’s reaction if he saw him was hardly worth thinking about. He was certain that Legolas would reject him. How could a creature so fair love him? The declaration of love had been made when he thought Legolas dead; the blue lips parted, his lifeless eyes staring, and his head lolling back sickly as Aragorn held him. He could still remember every moment so clearly. Every night his dreams were filled with that sight, of Legolas, his love, dead in his arms. ___________________________________________________________ __________ Haldir did not push the ranger, realising that he was very emotionally vulnerable at the moment, fearing Legolas’ reaction and confused by his feelings also. He sat by Legolas’ side most of the time, hugely concerned over the elf who was like a brother to him. The elf’s temperature fluctuated wildly at first, so that at times he was burning hot and at others freezing cold. He slept obliviously through most of it, Elrond waking him only for very short, delirious periods of time so that he could get some food into him. Despite his efforts, Legolas had lost weight, but he was mending, and after five days his temperature was back to normal and his eyes unglazed for the first time in what seemed like years to Haldir. Legolas looked around in confusion, unsure of where he was. Haldir sent a servant to fetch Elrond and then sat beside the disoriented elf and began to calm him down. “Legolas, it’s alright. You’re in Rivendell. Lord Elrond is looking after you. He is coming. Are you in pain?” “Aragorn!” Was Legolas’ only answer, his voice dry and raspy. “He’s not here right now, but he will be.” Haldir said, and then struggled to hold Legolas down as he fought weakly to get up. It was not much of a challenge; Legolas was still weak from losing so much blood and only one of his arms was in good health, but Haldir was still relieved when Elrond entered and commanded Legolas to lie back down. His voice was so powerful that Legolas obeyed immediately, albeit grudgingly. “Calm yourself, young one. You are still very sick. Do you remember what happened?” Elrond asked, handing Legolas a drink. “Most of it, yes.” Legolas said, once his thirst was quenched. “There so many orcs….we couldn’t take them all. We were fighting for our lives…I fell and then I saw Elrohir fall also…where are the twins? Are they alright?” “They are better than you, Legolas. How did you get away from the orcs?” “I crawled…I’m not sure how I got away but I did, thank the Valar. I hid myself among some bushes…and then the rest of it is somewhat blurred. I drifted in an out of consciousness.” His dropped as he remembered the next occurrence. “I…I think I died…I was in the Halls…but then something brought me back…” Realisation and remembrance shone in his eyes and he sat up suddenly, crying out Aragorn’s name. He was immediately met with dizziness and Elrond helped him to lie back down. Legolas shut his eyes against the waves of nausea and rode it out until it was bearable before speaking once more. “Where is Aragorn? I must see him. He was there…he brought me back.” “He isn’t here right now, Legolas, but he’ll see you soon.” Haldir said reassuringly, but Legolas remained unconvinced. “There’s something wrong…is he alright?” “He is fine, Legolas. Nothing is wrong with Aragorn save for his nearly-healed ribs. You however, are a different matter. You must rest. Once I am certain that you are recovering, we will talk about this further.” Elrond said. Legolas glared at him defiantly, but could feel his head becoming heavy. He fought against it but his wearied body gave in and his eyes glazed over, his breathing evening out. Over the next few days, Legolas recovered sufficiently to stay awake for long periods of time, during which he pestered Elrond and Haldir to let him get up and see Aragorn, who was still hiding. The elf was still in obvious pain and tired quickly but he seemed to have brought a whole new meaning to the word ’stubborn’. It was dusk one night when Legolas was trying to get up again, having to be forced back down by Haldir, who was getting increasingly frustrated. “Legolas! Will you stop! I swear that I’ll tie you to this bed, do not think that I won’t.” Haldir threatened. “I know you miss Aragorn but he is dealing with some things right now.” “Well will you not tell me what they are? He saved my life, Haldir. I want to see him.” Legolas said. Haldir frowned but had been driven to the end of his tether and grudgingly agreed. He sat on the bed next to Legolas, relieved to see the too-pale elf stop struggling. The smaller blond looked up at him expectantly. “Well?” “Legolas, Aragorn is frightened to come see you.” Seeing the confused expression on Legolas’ face, he explained. “He told you that he loved you, Legolas; did you hear him? He opened his heart to you when he thought you were dead and now that you’re alive he’s terrified of what your reaction will be.” Legolas lay in silence for a few moments, chewing on his bottom lip; his face serious and his brow furrowed in thought. “Yes.” He said eventually. “Yes, I heard what he said. He said ‘I love you’ and I came back. I came back because I suddenly had something extra to live for. I had fought for so long and then the Halls had summoned, and I had lost all hope of being found, so I gave up. But then I heard Aragorn’s voice - heard him say those words, and I was filled with new strength.” He looked up at Haldir. “I love him too. He should know that.” “Then when you are recovered, you will have the chance to tell him. But he will not come and see you, even worried as he is. Waiting will not harm your relationship, Legolas. Tomorrow, Lord Elrond will let you rise and walk for the first time.” “Good. Thank you, Haldir. I will rest peacefully now, knowing this.” He smiled at Haldir. “As should you…you look exhausted. I must have been a trial to put up with.” “You were…a bit.” Haldir said, grinning. “But I am glad to see you well again, my friend.” Legolas smiled gratefully up at him and then Haldir let out a huge yawn. Legolas laughed. “Go get some rest, Haldir. I will be fine.” “As long as you are sure?” Haldir asked. “Positive. Go. And thank you.” Haldir smiled at him and then left for his own quarters, ready for a well-deserved sleep. Legolas waited for about ten minutes and then threw back his covers, shivering slightly at the chill. He shifted awkwardly until he was sitting on the edge of the bed, and then pulled himself up with some difficulty, his abdomen straining in pain and protest. He ignored the pain and stepped forward on wobbling legs, heading for the balcony, which spread all around Rivendell and led to Aragorn’s room. He half-crept, half-hobbled to the ranger’s rooms, only to be filled with disappointment when he found them to be empty. Turning away, he wondered where Aragorn could be. He leant against the balcony railing, staring out at the moonlit courtyard and gardens reaching out beyond that. He started when he caught sight of a familiar figure, who would have been invisible, even to Legolas’ keen eyes, if the moonlight had done caught the hilt of his sword and made it glint. Legolas headed over, keeping Aragorn in sight, though it was hard to do because of the thick decorative hedge he was sitting behind. He stole towards him and despite his awkward gait, Aragorn did not know of the elf’s presence until he was standing right in front of him. He stood up abruptly and they stared at one another for a few moments before Aragorn spoke, stuttering slightly. “Aren’t you supposed to be in bed?” He asked. “I’m fine.” Legolas said. “Aragorn, I heard everything that you said, that day in the forest.” “Oh, Legolas. I’m so sorry. I promise, it was just words-” “Do you mean it when you say it was just words?” Legolas interrupted him, and Aragorn looked at him soulfully. Legolas stepped a little closer, his breath warm on Aragorn’s cheek. “Because I’d hate it.” Aragorn looked at him in shock and disbelief at what he was hearing. “I’d hate it because those words, Aragorn, those three small words, brought me back from the dead. You saved me Aragorn.” Aragorn was too stunned to say anything, and for an awful moment Legolas thought that he had made a terrible mistake. Then the ranger spoke up, his voice thick with emotion. “No, they weren’t just words. They were true.” “Then say them again.” Legolas said. Aragorn looked blankly at him. “Say those three words, Aragorn. Tell me again…save me, Aragorn.” “I love you.” Aragorn said, and Legolas’ face broke into a smile of pure joy. “I love you too, Aragorn.” He said, and then they moved closer together, both so nervous yet somehow feeling as though this was meant to be. Their lips met so tenderly, so gently at first, the soft touch sending them into heaven. Aragorn nudged Legolas’ mouth open and explored the velvety softness with his tongue, making Legolas release a very sexy whimper. The kiss became more heated, but Aragorn stopped it, pulling away gently. Legolas looked up at him. “What? Have I done something wrong?” He asked nervously. “No, Legolas, you have done nothing wrong, but I want you out of this chill.” He reached up to feel Legolas’ cheeks and forehead. “Your face is warm, yet you shiver.” “I am fine.” The elf said, but Aragorn was unconvinced, as even as he spoke, Legolas swayed on his feet. Aragorn moved to stand beside him, murmuring softly, “Why don’t you look after yourself better?” He slipped a hand around Legolas’ slim waist and then caught the elf as his legs gave out. Legolas fell back, fighting the sudden dizziness that he knew was a consequence of his excursion into the cold night. However, despite the fever he felt happy - he loved Aragorn and Aragorn loved him back. He let the ranger carry him like a child up to the room, and felt Aragorn’s arms tighten protectively around him when they met a very angry Lord Elrond. The elf-lord took one look at Legolas and frowned. “Lay him on the bed. What were you thinking?” He asked the elf, not expecting an answer as he swiftly prepared a concoction. Legolas took it and Aragorn helped him drink it tenderly. Legolas looked up at him gratefully and Aragorn tucked him in at Elrond’s command, not even looking at his foster father; his gaze focused solely on Legolas. Elrond told him exactly what to do, and Aragorn nodded, listening but concentrating on Legolas. Elrond was not too worried; Legolas was not that ill anymore and going out in the cold was just a minor setback. Under Aragorn’s smothering care he would be well in no time at all. Aragorn hovered over Legolas for the next week, until the elf was nearly completely recovered. His fever quickly broke, but Legolas was no longer as frustrated and desperate to get up, content to lie in bed or on the balcony with Aragorn most of the day. He was soon permitted to get up and could walk around without getting tired as quickly. One day, he vanished completely, making some lame excuse to Aragorn about needing to go see Elladan. Aragorn knew for a fact that the twins had been out riding, but ignored it, knowing that Legolas was up to something and also knowing that he would tell him when he felt ready. That night, Legolas came back to the room and Aragorn hugged him in relief. Legolas looked up at him, a strange expression in his blue orbs. “I was worried.” Aragorn said quietly. “I’m fine. But I need to talk to you.” Legolas said, and Aragorn’s heart skipped a beat. This was it, he thought. Legolas had finally come to his senses and was going to leave him. “Don’t look so frightened!” Legolas laughed, and Aragorn felt a little more relaxed. He looked expectantly at Legolas but the elf hesitated, heightening Aragorn’s fear once more. “Legolas, what is it?” He asked anxiously. “Aragorn, over the last few days you’ve looked after me, and I think that I’ve learnt lots about you…I’d love to learn more. You saved my life, Aragorn, and I love you more than I though I could ever love anyone…so I got you this.” He held out his hand and opened his delicate fingers to reveal a beautiful necklace, silver and adorned with a glittering gem. Aragorn took it gently, almost fearfully, and held it up to examine it. It was unlike any other necklace he had ever seen. It seemed almost to glow, and just holding it in his hand made him feel warm. He looked at Legolas, who was looking at him nervously, his blue eyes revealing that he wanted his opinion. Aragorn couldn’t say anything for a few minutes, his emotions overwhelming him for a while before he managed to say in a choked voice, “it’s beautiful, Legolas, thank you so much.” “It symbolises my love for you, and…your love for me.” “Do not sound unsure, Legolas. I love you with all of my heart. My love for you will never fade.” He pulled Legolas close to him, leaning in for a long passionate kiss that they pulled back from reluctantly. “Let me see it on you.” Legolas said, and Aragorn turned away to let the elf fasten the catch. When he was done, Aragorn turned around slowly, letting his arms fall to his sides. Legolas looked at him admiringly. “It looks great…but you know what?” Aragorn shook his head and Legolas smiled wickedly. “If you were wearing just the necklace…and nothing else, it‘d look even better.” Aragorn grinned back and proceeded to pull off his shirt, making sure to move slowly, revealing his taut muscles inch by inch, eliciting gasps and moans from a very excited Legolas. The elf couldn’t stand just watching him and stepped in to help, unfastening Aragorn’s pants and letting them drop, revealing his very erect penis. Lightly touching it, he made Aragorn remove the rest of his clothing before stepping back to look at him. The ranger was well-proportioned, and looked every bit as manly as the elf had imagined him to be. A relatively smooth chest, with tanned skin and defined muscle rippling sexily under the surface. He was beautiful in his own way, Legolas thought - his own extremely unique, masculine way. Being so close to him was driving Legolas wild with desire. “Why don’t you get rid of some of your own clothes?” Aragorn suggested. “It’s getting rather hot in here.” He smiled and stepped closer to the elf, and their lips met gently but passionately. They kept on kissing as Aragorn helped Legolas remove his own clothing, and they ended up somehow on the bed. Aragorn looked at Legolas, savouring the view. The elf was delicately formed, his body slender and seemingly fragile, yet light muscle rippled under the pale skin whenever he moved, and he gave off an ethereal glow that made him even more beautiful to Aragorn’s eyes. He leaned in again, resuming his gentle caresses, and felt Legolas’ erection rub against his own, making him even more stimulated than he was before. He managed to manoeuvre himself so that he was lying on top, kissing Legolas with his mouth and exploring his lush, smooth body with his hands. The elf let out more of those whimpers that Aragorn found so arousing, and he did everything he could to make the elf release the sounds more often. His tongue found a nipple and he began to tease it, making Legolas moan in pleasure and arch off the bed, his hands gripping Aragorn’s hair almost painfully. Aragorn delved lower, overcome with a need to give Legolas pleasure; his only wish in life was to make the elf scream in ecstasy. Just feeling Legolas’ hot, writhing body beneath his own was almost enough to make him come. His lips found what they were looking for; Legolas’ erection, proud and huge, begging to be touched. Aragorn obliged, but slowly, teasing Legolas as he ran his tongue up and down the hard member, his touch feather light and not giving the elf the release he so clearly craved. Legolas’ whimpers had given way to full-blown moans and grunts as Aragorn continued his torturous ministrations. Hearing the note of desperation creeping into Legolas’ throat, the ranger took pity on him and did what Legolas wanted him to do - take the elf fully into his mouth. The reaction was instantaneous; the smaller being arched upwards with a primal scream that Aragorn knew conveyed his pleasure. He began to move up and down as before, his own cock getting harder as he became more aroused, and Legolas let out huge gasps, whispering Aragorn’s name in rapture. Suddenly, the hands in his dark hair became very tight, past the point of pain, and Aragorn realised that Legolas was asking him to stop. He drew away and looked at the elf, terrified that he’d done something wrong. He asked Legolas what was wrong and he replied between gasps, his chest still heaving. “Nothing’s wrong…everything’s perfect…but I want you inside me, Aragorn.” Legolas’ eyes were an even more intense blue than usual and Aragorn slid up to look at him closely, taking a good look into the depths of those passionate eyes. Legolas stared right back at him, searching for a sign of shock in the grey eyes of his lover. There was none, only deep caring and love. “I would like nothing more, Legolas, but I have to be sure that you do also.” Aragorn said quietly, sincerely. “I do want it, Aragorn.” “I am touched that would trust me so much, Legolas, but I do not want to hurt you…you nearly died only a little while ago.” “You give me strength.” Legolas said passionately. “You will not hurt me, you only make me better.” Aragorn was speechless, but didn’t have to say anything because his eyes communicated all of what he felt, the love and the trust and the caring. Legolas leaned forward and captured his lips, and they melted into one another. Aragorn drew back a little to get into position, but Legolas didn’t stop caressing the ranger’s chest with his mouth or his hands. “I need some lubricant.” Aragorn said with some difficulty, finding it hard to think straight as Legolas attacked one of his nipples. The elf didn’t stop his almost feral assault but reached blindly in the bedside table, bringing out some gel. Aragorn took it and grinned. “You were prepared.” Legolas let out a muffled sound which Aragorn couldn’t make out but guessed what it was along the lines of. Slicking his fingers, he slid a finger gently inside Legolas’ opening, and instantly Legolas abandoned Aragorn’s nipple, throwing his head backward in pleasure at the new sensation. Aragorn smiled, enjoying the sensations that were running through him and getting more and more turned on at the sight of Legolas’ chest heaving, his pale neck exposed enticingly. He inserted another finger and watched as Legolas’ usually fair face flushed to the tips of his pointed ears. The moans grew even louder, and Aragorn was losing himself in the moment, adding another finger to Legolas’ tight opening and making sure the elf was ready to take him. When he was sure, he withdrew his fingers, making Legolas cry out at the loss. Aragorn leant over him. “Are you ready for this?” “More than ready!” Legolas gasped. Aragorn bent to kiss him, rubbing his fingers along the tips of Legolas’ ears, which he knew was an erogenous zone from the way it made Legolas writhe in pleasure beneath him. Then he drew back, and nudged his penis at the entrance of Legolas’ opening. Legolas tensed up a little; it felt so big and he was beginning to worry slightly. He knew that it could hurt but in his nervousness he was thinking it impossible for the man’s huge, erect member to ever fit inside him. “Just relax, Legolas, I will not hurt you.” Aragorn said, looking deep into his eyes, and Legolas’ fears dissipated, lost in Aragorn’s intent gaze. He immediately began to relax a little more, and Aragorn found himself able to push his way in a little more, with the aid of some lubricant. Legolas concentrated on breathing deeply, riding out the waves of pain that Aragorn could not prevent, no matter how gentle he was being. Aragorn managed to keep himself under control, but Legolas was so tight around him and he was finding it more and more difficult not to just plunge in, giving himself the release he desperately craved. But his protectiveness over Legolas kept him from doing so until he had finally penetrated him fully. Legolas gasped, his face and eyes alight with pain. Aragorn stared at him, and watched in relief as the grimace on the elf’s flawless face began to fade. Then he began to move. Slowly at first, but growing in speed, never taking his eyes off Legolas. The elf was panting now as Aragorn hit his sweet spot again and again; the waves of sharp pain had turned to rapturous, dizzying electric shocks. They made love slowly and gently, savouring every moment, and when they came they came together, softly calling out each other’s names. Aragorn collapsed onto Legolas’ chest, withdrawing from the sated elf, and breathing harshly and rapidly. He could feel Legolas’ chest heaving underneath him and reminded himself that he was still fragile, and rolled off to lie next to him. Legolas moved very close, putting his arms around the larger man. Aragorn lay next to him contentedly, gently stroking Legolas’ ears. The elf smiled up at him. “Thank you.” He whispered. “You’re welcome.” Aragorn replied with a cheeky grin. “Are you alright?” He asked, more seriously. “Yes, I am fine. How could I not be, with you protecting me wherever I go and whatever I do?” He smiled again and Aragorn returned the gesture, then looked deeply into Legolas’ eyes. “I will protect you for as long as I can, Legolas. You saved my life twice, I will stay with you always.” “You have paid back your life debts in full, Aragorn, do not worry.” “How so?” “You saved my life, Aragorn, or had you forgotten? You brought me back from the Halls of Mandos.” “But you saved me twice, Legolas.” He said. Legolas shifted a little so that he was looking down on the ranger. “Aragorn, you pay me back by being here, with me. All that I ever could have wished for is right here with me now. You are my life, Aragorn. Without you I would be nothing. Therefore you save my life every hour of every day.” Leaning closer, he whispered passionately, “I love you, Aragorn.” “And I you, Legolas.” Aragorn said back through the ball of emotion in his throat. The elf lay down again, nestling against him, the two of them entirely content. And then they fell asleep.