Title: The King’s Property (1-21/?)
Author: Red Autumn (red_autumn21@yahoo.com)
Pairings: Legolas/Aragorn, Arwen/Aragorn (implied)
Rating: PG-13 to NC17 – Slash, Rape, Angst, Dark
Thoughts, Violence, MPREG.
Summary: A tale of a young prince.  (Legolas’ POV)
Warning: Very, very dark.  Lots of graphic physical
and mental descriptions.  PLEASE, PLEASE HEED THE
WARNINGS.
Disclaimer: All Tolkien’s characters created by him
belonged only to him.  I only borrowed them to bring
to life my fantasy universe.
NOTE: This fic is AU  (Galadriel has no power / No
rings existed / No Sauron or Mordor)
Thanks to beta readers Enigma Jade and Anu Anu.

Special warnings:  Not for the faint hearted, meaning
if you can't handle the graphic descriptions, don't
read it.  Just delete this email.  Also, you have to
be open minded about what I write here.
First three parts are rated PG-13 to R (depending on
you).  The rest would be NC17 (again, depending on
you).  Confusing?  I think so!
Thanks so much.



1.  The Return To Imladris

The sound of hooves thundered through the forest,
trampling the leaf-littered ground and sending them
into a blizzard of foliage storm behind us.  The
ground shook with the force of six horses as we rode
recklessly yet expertly, almost seeming to float were
someone to observe us from afar.

Creatures of all sizes fled from our path in a frenzy
unless they chose to be crushed or flattened.  Birds
flapped and zipped around irritably as our unintended
quake upset their nests.

The sky had been grey all week and temperature cooler
as the wind from the north traveled over the Misty
Mountains, bringing more cold air.  This was to be
expected because it was already autumn.

The woods surrounding us were already changing their
colours to every tone of gold, red and brown. 
Everywhere leaves rained down around us, adding a
magical touch to the atmosphere.

When I closed my eyes, I could feel an air of
melancholy encircling me as if the very nature was
bidding farewell to the old or dying, and yet if I
stretched my hearing senses, I could hear that
everything about me was actually alive.  The sound of
leaves snapping off from their branches and twirling
down before finally landing gently on the forest floor
was enchanting.  The boughs creaking in the winds
sounded like they were playing an ancient song that no
one knew when it started.

However, we were no longer awe-inspired by it.  After
traveling for two weeks from Mirkwood, my five equally
blond companions and I were anxious to get to
Imladris.  They were soldiers who were specially
handpicked for the task as bodyguards.  Ada had
stubbornly insisted on a heavy convoy for my first
trip alone but after much pleading and protesting, I
had managed to trim it down to the five best.

Since my youth, ada had always been over-protective
over me.  I never had much opportunity to leave
Mirkwood as the threats of unrest outside the border
became more apparent.

Whenever I did get the chance, I was only a tag-along
and would be ordered to stay close to my brothers or
ada.  I was dismayed at being treated like a
defenseless child.  However despite all the whining
and complaining, one glare from ada’s stern face made
me stop because it meant that either I go escorted or
I had to stay back in the palace.

Right now, the joy of freedom from ada’s constant
supervision lifted my heart with ecstasy.  For the
moment, we were free to release all inhibitions and be
impulsive.

As in elven customs, we do not ride our horses with
contraptions to control the horse’s movement.  Their
spirits were too wild to take such insults.  As a
result, we straddled them on their bare backs.

While on Rynal, I could feel the glistening white
flanks moving fluidly and with ease; its muscles
rippling under the strain.  The dark mane flew
carelessly whenever the wind changed directions, as I
too loved the way my long hair whipped about me when I
urged Rynal to gallop faster.  We were two souls
sharing the same passion.

By high noon (from guessing the position of Anar) we
were almost coming out of the forest.  We should be
near the border of Imladris by now for I can feel the
changes in the air and the familiar smell of the
woods.  My heart soared with excitement by that
knowledge.

Urging my comrades to ride faster, we soon came upon a
shallow river impeding our way forward.  Immediately,
I held up my fisted right hand and everyone came to a
stop just by the riverbank.  Maneuvering swiftly, they
began surrounding me protectively.  All eyes were
everywhere, searching for any hidden dangers.

While gazing lazily at the river, I noticed that the
water was lapping to the shore trying to touch the
horses’ legs.  To an unsuspecting trespasser, it
seemed harmless but I knew better.  It was Imladris’
first protective barrier.  Should it decide not to
like us, we would soon find ourselves swept away by a
huge, tidal wave.  So far I heard no one had ever
survived it.

Satisfied that we were no enemy, the river calmed down
and flowed innocently away as if nothing had happened.
 

Straining my hearing, I caught faint, melodious voices
hanging eerily in the air.  No one would find Imladris
if it did not want to be found for it was also
protected by magic.  Stray intruders would just pass
through an empty, gloomy forest without knowing that
they had walked on one of the realms of the elves.

“We’ve arrived,” I stated.  “I don’t think any of
Rivendell’s border patrollers will stop us from
entering,” I added as I looked around for one last
time.

“Hhmm....I cannot wait to get there so we can have a
proper hot meal tonight,” someone commented.  I
recognised the serious voice was from Tanhision.  He
was the oldest and most experienced among us. 
However, sometimes his strong sense of duty and
responsibility over my safety was too much.

I smiled at his remark.  Personally I agree with him
because we were all getting tired of eating lembas and
the small animals we caught along the way.  Our
cooking skills were however, something we would not
brag about.

“And no more burnt meat,” Vanacor added dryly.

“Oh yes”, I concur wholeheartedly.  “I cannot wait to
taste the infamous Imladris’ cuisine,” added another
cheerily.  This time it was Morethir but we all call
him Prince Melme for he has too much fondness for
beautiful she-elves.  Besides that, he was full of
bubbly spirits and the most talkative that we were
once compelled to jump on him and gag him when he
became unbearable.

“It’s more likely you can’t wait to meet that she-elf
you’ve been mumbling in your sleep almost every night.
 Oh, Nurlhawwen, my sweet Nurlly,” Mallhaw teased in a
whiney voice and all of us laughed heartily.  Then he
started making kissing sounds that even Tanhision
snorted at.

Mallhaw was the funniest and I liked him very much. 
We often exchanged a lot of jokes and sometimes gang
up to tease ‘old’ Tanhision.  At first he was calm and
in control but we proved to be too much for him and
one day he chased us all over the forest to ‘punish’
us for our disrespect for the seniors.

“Race you all!” I exclaimed suddenly and spurred Rynal
to get going.

“Hey!” they shouted after me.  “After him!” Mallhaw
yelled and made a high pitched ululating cry.

Turning around to look at them, I saw determined but
happy faces staring back at me.  I stuck out my tongue
at them and laughed impishly before prodding Rynal to
run faster.  Nevertheless they caught up with me
easily.

I was looking forward to seeing Lord Elrond and his
twin sons – Elladan and Elrohir, again.  I had not
visited them for close to three and a half centuries. 
It was quite short for an elven standard but I missed
them a lot just the same.

There had never been a day that I did not miss
frolicking under one of the waterfalls or playing
pranks on Lord Glorfindel, the blond seneschal to
Elrond; and Lord Erestor, the Last Homely House’s
Chief Steward.  In short, I was really growing up, as
a young elf should.

However, my visit this time was more formal.  When I
had just passed my majority initiation a season ago,
ada bade me to go to Rivendell for a few years so that
I may tutor under Lord Elrond as his protégé.  I was
excited of course by the idea of coming back to
Rivendell.  Not only would I get to see everyone
again, I would spend the endless hours at night
sneaking into the Lord of Imladris’ library to read.

FLASHBACK

The first time I accompanied ada to Imladris, I was
only an elfling.  Being surrounded constantly by adult
elves, ada thought that it would be healthier if I
could have friends of similar age to me.

My heart broke when ada left without me, to go back to
Mirkwood because I had never left home and ada had
always been my constant companion.  Nonetheless I soon
discovered that the twin Princes of Rivendell who,
even though they were much older than I was, were very
nice and kind to me; and after that I did not think of
going back to Mirkwood until fifty years later.

It was first proposed that I become Arwen’s playmate,
as we were almost of the same age.  She was Lord
Elrond’s youngest child.  However, by some fluke fate,
I never met her while I was there.  Apparently she had
decided to stay with her grandparents in Lothlorien.

I heard many wonderful and magical stories about the
Golden Wood when I was young.  I would really like to
go there someday.  The invitation was extended to me
and still stands as I have yet to visit it.  The
invitation came from the most unexpected person I
could imagine.

One day while fencing with Elladan at the training
field, an elf came to meet us there.  I stopped
whatever I was doing because this new comer who was
walking steadily and proudly toward us entranced me.

From the colour of his uniform and the regalia sewn on
the grey tunic, I knew immediately that he was a
Marchwarden of the Galadhrim of Lothlorien.  My heart
pounded fast, sending adrenalin all over my body as
the elf with almost white hair came up to stand in
front of us.

He gave a low bow, his face expressionless.  We
inclined slightly in return.  I was aware that Elladan
was regarding me amusedly.  I must have appeared silly
with my wide-eyed, unashamed stares at the Galadhrim.

“This is Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, youngest son of
King Thranduil,” Elladan introduced us.  “And this is
Haldir, Marchwarden of Lothlorien for Lord Celeborn
and Lady Galadriel.”

“It is an honour to meet you, Prince Legolas,” said
the Galadhrim.  His voice was sure and unhurried.

I did not realise he was addressing me until I felt
Elladan poking me in the ribs with his elbow.  I was
so awe-struck by this elf as he stood magnificently
and with an air of nobility about him.  Only two other
elves had ever made me admire them in such an avid
manner – my father and Lord Elrond.

“Oh…as well as mine,” I answered rather hastily.  As
he was tall, I had to crane my neck to look up.

“I see that you are both training sword fighting,” he
spoke again while looking at our mock, blunt swords. 
“Have you been training well since the last time I saw
you, Elladan?”

“Yes, of course,” Elladan said huffily.  “Lets have a
round, shall we?”

“Very well,” Haldir accepted the challenge.  “May I?”
he added as he looked at me and reached out a hand,
palm upwards as if waiting for something to land on
it.

“Oh, yes,” I answered, realizing that he wanted my
sword.  I quickly stepped aside and watched them as
they fenced fiercely.

From the agility of his wrist and the nimbleness of
his steps, the older elf was clearly the expert. 
Elladan was the aggressor most of the time but Haldir
easily parried all incoming slashes and jabs.  It was
fascinating to watch them move so fast and expertly.

All too soon, they stopped fencing and stood across
from each other.  Elladan was slightly out of breath
but the marchwarden was still calm and breathing
evenly.  They stared at each other silently.

“You are good Elladan.  Keep it up,” Haldir spoke
finally, a smile graced his haughty features; the
first smile that I had seen from him.  “And how about
you Prince Legolas?  Are you as good as Elladan?”

I blushed faintly as his bluish-grey eyes pierced into
mine.

“No,” I answered, struggling with difficulty to
compose myself.  “I am better in archery though.”

“Oh?  I have heard that archers from Mirkwood are well
known for their aim.  Are you one of them?”

“Not really.  My brothers think that I am a bit too
young to be able to hold a bow properly,” I confessed.

“Age is not a hindrance.  It all lies in the eyes and
the posture,” said Haldir.  “It is almost time for
lunch now.  Perhaps after the meal, we could have a
few practices shots?”

I beamed happily that a legendary marchwarden from the
Golden Woods had expressed his interest in my skills
in archery.

“Yes, of course,” I answered ecstatically.

As agreed, after lunch we trudged together to the
field to test each other’s skills.  The twins followed
us too, but not because they wanted to practice. 
Rather, they wanted to watch us compete.

That afternoon, I learned that Haldir’s passion was
like mine – archery.  We became good friends quickly
and spent a lot of time together practicing at the
fields. I was not as good as Haldir yet but he was
clearly impressed by my potentials.  He gave me
several pieces of advice on how to improve myself and
I listened to him appreciatively.

However, as duty called, he soon had to leave
Rivendell, though he promised to look for me whether I
would be in Rivendell or back in Mirkwood.  He also
did not forget to invite me to Lothlorien and I
accepted without hesitation.

I was sad to see him go but was glad that I had made a
friend from the Golden Wood.  Until today, he still
remains my one and only friend from Lothlorien.

I had also made lots of friends with the elves of
Rivendell as everyone had treated me like one of their
own.  The twins took me in as their younger brother
while Lord Elrond guided me like a father.

Ada was pleased to hear that I had enjoyed myself
while in Imladris but he was surprised when I wrote to
him one day to ask for permission if I could stay
longer.  Of course, ada never denied me anything –
well, almost never.

Secretly I knew the other reason ada gave his
permission readily to my request; it was so that I
could get out of his hair for a while and especially
Firith’s, my eldest brother and a Crown Prince of
Mirkwood, while he was being groomed to be the future
heir.

Nevertheless, the fifty years passed by swiftly and I
had to return home.  As I had grown up a lot since I
left Mirkwood, I was immediately put into training for
all the princely duties that I must perform in the
palace.

Sometimes when I find life as a prince difficult, I
would sneak a brief respite by daydreaming of the
pleasant and happy memories of Imladris.  I treasured
them always in my mind.  My brothers often caught my
reverie and they teased me that I should move to
Rivendell permanently.

They could never understand what I had experienced
until they met the twins and Haldir one day, when they
came to visit me in Mirkwood.  I was pleased to find
out later that they too liked them very much and had
even forged close brotherly ties among them.

Of course it pleased the older elves to find the new
generation forming friendly alliances among the three
realms.  All the elves in Middle-Earth should be
reunited again for the sake of our survival and our
continuing existence.

END OF FLASHBACK

The moment we rounded the bend of the mountainside,
all of us stopped to admire the grandness lay out in
front of us.  The scene was as if we had stepped into
another world, possibly even into a painted canvas.

It took all our breath away as we watched the low
hanging clouds slowly drifting away, revealing the
magnificent forever-snow capped Misty Mountains that
stretched across the entire length behind Imladris. 
The thousands of waterfalls that surrounded the
valley, from the trickling droplets to the most
splendid cascades over the tall precipice, added an
even more dramatic effect.

A long silver river cut through the deep dale, adding
more cataracts along the way and the rest snaking its
way behind the bluffs.  I had swam in that stream many
times and could not wait to take a dip in its cool and
crystal clear water again.

The most splendid natural wonder of Imladris was the
climate.  Being protected all around by the towering
mountains and cliffs, the valley was cut off from the
rest of the world, including the weather.  Imladris
was rarely affected by the harsh elements outside. 
Its temperature was always mild and the air fresh.

Another strange occurrence was that the moisture from
all the waterfalls combined had created constant
colourful rainbows that shimmered in the sky above
most part of the day.  This effect would not wear off
until Anar hid behind the clouds or set behind the
mountains.

As our eyes roamed through the green valley, we found
the Last Homely House standing proud against one side
of a low hanging cliff opposite from where we stood. 
The elven architecture complemented perfectly to the
surrounding nature.

Many species of plants and trees grew all around the
buildings but the most eye-catching sight was the
lined Cyprus trees planted along the flattened-stone
road leading to the main gate.  We could also see a
garden hidden partially behind a tall domed tower.

Eager to finish the last leg of the journey, we rode
down the mountain in single file, as the paths leading
to Lord Elrond’s dwellings were narrow.

I was the first to reach the black, sparkling stone
fort.  It was a wonder how the elves of Imladris had
managed to transport such a large quantity of these
strange stones to build the fort.  The guards
immediately pull back the heavy wrought-iron gates and
allowed us to enter.  After we passed under the
stilted archway completely covered with vines, I saw a
group of elves that stood at the bottom of the
stone-stacked steps, waiting for us.

My heart fluttered joyfully when I counted four
dark-haired elves and a blond, all dressed in official
robes of Imladris’ colour, grinning warmly as they saw
us approaching.

The moment I got off Rynal, two identical elves ran
forward to greet me.  At first, I did not realise they
were Elladan and Elrohir for they had matured into
adulthood and looked very handsome.  They embraced me
so tightly and ecstatically that I was practically
lifted off the ground.

“Our baby elf has returned!” exclaimed Elladan.  “Ai,
what a big escort!” he added when he turned to look at
my companions.  “Is your ada worried that no one would
change your diapers?”

I could clearly see that my friends were not amused by
the jest but held their tongues out of respect for all
the other Lords standing not far away from us.

“No, Elladan.  They are here to make sure YOU don’t
try to change my diapers!” I retorted with a grin.

“Aiya, Legolas.  How could you hurt me like that? 
Don’t you trust me to change them for you?” the older
twin made a mock hurt look on his face but I caught
him giving his brother a mischievous wink.  Elrohir
chose to ignore him.   “I could powder your bottom
too!”

“Never mind him, Legolas.  Welcome back to Rivendell. 
We’ve all missed you a lot,” interrupted Elrohir and
he hugged me again.

“I agree with Elrohir.  Elladan stop harassing him,”
chastised Lord Elrond good-naturedly

When I was finally able to untangle myself from the
twins, I walked up to Elrond and bowed respectfully. 
Unexpectedly, he hugged me warmly like a father.  The
Lord of Imladris had never shown much public
affections before and his actions surprised me.  “I’m
glad to see you again Legolas.  It has been such a
long time.”

“I apologize for not visiting you more often Lord
Elrond.  Ada has been giving me more duties in the
palace and I had to help Firith too,” I replied after
getting over my astonishment.

“That is all right, mellon-neth. [young friend]  You
have grown up a lot,” Lord Elrond said, regarding me
closely.  I blushed bashfully under his scrutiny.

“And I am sure Legolas will not play anymore childish
pranks on the eldars, now that he has passed his
majority?” interrupted Lord Glorfindel suddenly.

Giggles erupted around us as we remembered what the
twins and I had done to him.  Even Lord Erestor smiled
sheepishly despite the fact that he was also not
spared from our practical jokes.

I went to the blond eldar first and placed a hand on
his right shoulder as our customary way of greeting
each other between two adults.  It felt strange to
greet him in such manner because I was consciously
reminded that he had always regarded me as his little
Legolas. After that, I greeted Lord Erestor in the
same manner.

“Let’s let our visitors clean up first and then we
shall meet for dinner,” announced Lord Elrond.

I nodded my head and immediately the twins sauntered
up to my sides and sandwiched me between them.  I
noticed that Elladan was already holding my traveling
bag on his right hand.  While we walked up the steps
toward the main Receiving Hall where I had passed by
so many times years ago, the rest of my companions
were lead to the stable by two young elves who
appeared at that moment, to take care of the horses
and then carry the traveling packs into the manor.

At the end of the short hallway, we came to a
junction.  The three elders took the left corridor
towards the main part of the manor while we turned to
the right toward the private wings.  The twins
accompanied me to my ‘old’ room.

“Nothing has changed since you left,” said Elrohir as
we entered the chamber.

“We made sure it stayed that way,” added Elladan and
he threw my pack on the floor.

I was too distracted reliving my old memories that I
did not notice the twins crept up from behind me and
tackled me onto the bed.  I fell, face down with the
two Princes of Rivendell on top of me.

“Ai, tua! [help]” I cried, laughing loudly as they
tickled me mercilessly.  

“Lye lava? [Do you yield/surrender]” growled one of
them as they stopped for a mere moment for me to catch
my breath.

“Never!”  I tried to get up and push them off me but
with two against one it was impossible to do so,
especially when I was below them.

“Attack!” shouted Elladan and he started to scratch my
sides while he was seated on my thighs.  Meanwhile his
brother held my wrists above my head, laughing until
his face turned red.

“Amin lava!  Amin lava! [I yield/surrender!]” I
pleaded at last.  I had been laughing so much that I
could not breathe and my belly was aching terribly.

Mercifully, the twins stopped their tickling. However,
they suddenly burst out laughing even louder than
before, clutching their bellies and rolled off me.

“What is so funny?” I panted raggedly, confused by
their behaviour.  Using the back of my hand, I wiped
away my tears.

Neither could answer me but Elladan managed to point
shakily to the mirror.  Curiously I walked over to the
full-length mirror beside the bathroom door and looked
into it.  I yelped and jumped back, causing the twins
to laugh even louder and thrash on the bed furiously.

I was not aware how disheveled I looked.  My hair was
sticking out as if after being struck by lighting and
my face red as a cherry.

“That’s not funny!” I cried indignantly.

“It is!” panted Elladan, wiping his tears and trying
to stop laughing.

“I’m taking a bath,” I said and stormed into the
bathroom.

“Lye hiraetha, [We’re sorry] Legolas,” Elrohir’s voice
came muffled from behind the door.  “Really!”  But I
could still hear Elladan’s snorts.

“All right.  I’m not angry,” I answered though I could
not hide my smile.  “Can you wait for me till I finish
cleaning up?”

“Yes.  We’ll be here,” Elrohir said.

I was tempted to soak myself in the bathtub for hours
but I had to prepare myself quickly for the dinner
with Lord Elrond.  When I stepped out of the misty
room, the brothers were laying on my bed conversing
quietly.

As I was quite used to putting on my clothes in front
of them, I was not ashamed even now.  I picked up my
pack and rummaged inside for a pair of clean clothes. 
Then I dropped my towel and began putting on my
leggings first.

Suddenly, I heard loud gasps and I looked up.  Both my
childhood friends were looking at me wide-eyed, their
mouths hanging open.

In a flash of recognition, I remembered that I was no
longer the elfling they knew but had grown up and my
body had matured.

My face turned hot with embarrassment and I quickly
turned around.  I grabbed the towel to cover myself
and picked up the rest of the clothing before I hopped
into the bathroom to put them on.

When I appeared again, there was an awkward silence. 
All of us realised that we had changed and things
could not remain the same as before.  We were all
suddenly adults and had our own destiny to achieve and
fulfill.


2.  A Meeting Between The King Of Men And The Prince Of The Woodland
Realm

Bright lights splashed out onto the wide corridor, through the main
entrances of the huge Dining Hall.  There were no doors to enclose the
hall, only chiseled horseshoe arches supported by seven white marble
pillars detailing elven maidens, separated the chamber from the
outside.  Voices and laughter floated from within.  I did not know that
there would be so many people tonight.

When I walked past the first column and looked inside, I saw the
throngs of elves and a few men already crowded at various places around
the room.  Many were holding glasses of whatever beverages they were
drinking and chatting away.  Occasionally the sound of someone laughing
loudly pierced through the clamors and the mellow background music.

Hundreds of wax candles burned on the many bronze-gilt candelabras
placed around the chamber and leaf detailed chandeliers hanging midway
from the high ceiling.  The tiny crystal droplets beneath the
chandeliers reflected lights around the room, giving an effect of
magical sparkles on the gold-bordered walls.

A discreet alcove with a roaring fire on a pile of logs set at the
opposite wall to the main entrances seemed to be the most popular area
for men to hang around, as they were more susceptible to the cold
temperature.

I felt slightly nervous when I stepped over the threshold.  Elladan and
Elrohir each hooked their arms around mine and led me further inside. 
I would have gladly looked for a quiet corner and observed the events
in silence but the twins would not allow it.  As we walked among the
guests, the lesser lords would bow to us and the ladies curtsied.  I
inclined my head slightly in acknowledgement.

My heart beat furiously because unexpectedly I had to take on the role
as the ambassador of Mirkwood.  I had to put on a royal façade and
become Prince Legolas, son of King Thranduil of Greenwood the Great. 
Back home, it was more relaxing for me because the burden lies heavily
on Firith as he is the Crown Prince.

“Why did your ada not tell me that there would be a big gathering?  Are
you celebrating something special tonight?” I spoke loud enough to be
heard only by my escorts.

“We have an important guest who just arrived this morning,” answered
Elrohir from my left.  Unlike for most people, I could easily
distinguish the twins.

“Oh?  Who is it?” I inquired further.  Before they could answer I heard
someone calling my name.  I searched around the room for the source of
the voice.  It came from Lord Elrond and he was waving me over.

While walking over to him, I noted that a man was standing beside him. 
He was richly clothed in gold and purple and stood proudly like an
authoritative noble.  He was slightly taller that Elrond and much
bigger built.  Unlike the Lord of Imladris who was smiling at me, he
was studying me with interest.

“Let me introduce to you my foster son, Aragorn.”  I could see that
Lord Elrond was beaming with pride as he looked at his mortal son.

The name was familiar to me.  I bent my upper body slightly forward as
a gesture of respect to the man who was of higher station than I was.

“It is an honour to meet you, Your Majesty,” I greeted him accordingly.

King Aragorn of Gondor smiled warmly at my recognition but his eyes
spoke of something else that I could not understand.  His piercing grey
eyes sent a chill down my spine.

“I see that they had informed you well in foreign affairs,” nodded Lord
Elrond approvingly.

“Who in Middle-Earth would not have heard about Isildur’s heir?” I
asserted.  Inside, I was happy to receive the Lord of Imladris’ favor.

“True indeed.  And may I be so bold to add that there is not one being
in Middle-Earth who had not heard of Prince Legolas Thranduilion whose
fairness rivaled only by the Evenstar of Rivendell,” Aragorn
complimented.

His words made me turn red.  I was not offended by it but, being a male
elf, I was not used to being praised in such a manner.  In fact, I had
never considered myself beautiful even when I had heard rumours being
spoken in hushed tones behind my back.

“I am very sorry.  I did not mean to offend you, Prince Legolas,” the
King apologised quickly after noticing my reaction.

“No, no.  It is quite all right, Your Majesty.  I did not take any
offense.  I was merely surprised to be regarded in such high esteem by
Your Majesty.”  Our exchanges probably amused everyone around us
because suddenly I was aware that no one spoke as they watched us with
curiosity.

“Our baby elf had grown into a beautiful, humble elf?” gasped Elladan
exaggeratedly.

“Elladan!” Elrohir and his ada called out at the same time but Elladan
only giggled in response.  In all the years that I had known Elladan,
he had never changed.  Only Elrohir had seemed to take after his ada,
becoming more serious and thoughtful, except when craziness hit him.

After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Lord Elrond made an
announcement to the entire room that dinner would be served.

As this was a formal dinner gathering, King Aragorn was the highest
ranking among all the guests and thus sat on Lord Elrond’s right side. 
I was put to sit beside the King, followed immediately by the twins. 
The ushers swiftly guided the rest of the guests to their respective
seat arrangements.

After the butler finished pouring the wine into Lord Elrond’s and King
Aragorn’s wine glasses, the rest of the attendants started attending to
everyone else.  Once all the glasses were filled, a toast was made to
the King and then to me, welcoming us to Rivendell.

For the entire night, the butler would only attend to the most
important guests seated at the head of the table, including Lord
Glorfindel who was on Lord Elrond’s left and Lord Erestor who were
beside the blond eldar and opposite Legolas.

During the meals, I had not the chance to look around the table to see
if I recognised any of the guests invited.  I was constantly dragged
into conversations with the King and the other Lords.  Sometimes the
twins would join us but mostly they would either talk between
themselves or converse with the other guests.

It was only after we came to dessert that I managed to look around.  I
was extremely happy when I spotted Haldir among the invited.  He sat
not far away from me and when he looked up from his plate, he turned to
my direction as if he knew I was looking at him.  I waved to him
discreetly and he did the same.

Immediately after dinner, I excused myself quickly from Aragorn.  He
was a very interesting person to talk to but I wanted to see Haldir
badly.  I missed the Lorien elf very much.

I made my way swiftly to Haldir who was already in the company of the
twins, ignoring some of the stares I received from the people that I
had passed by.  They were always the same, to marvel at me like some
sort of exotic creature on display.

The moment I got close enough, we hugged each other warmly.  It felt so
good to see him again.

“Ai, Haldir.  Cormamin lindua ele lle [My heart sings to see thee],” I
said after letting him go and then wrapped an arm on the back of his
waist while he placed his arm on my shoulders.

Despite that I had passed my majority, Haldir still towered over me; my
height only reached to his lips.  It was good for me, nonetheless,
because he could kiss the crown of my head easily.  I always enjoyed
his undivided attention on me.  I also felt very secure around him,
knowing that he would protect me fiercely like my ada.

“Yes, Legolas.  It has been almost two centuries, has it not?”  He
smiled warmly at me.  “Why, look at you, all grown up now.  I heard
that you’ve just passed your majority initiation.  Congratulations!”

“Diola lle [Thank you], Haldir,” I smiled sweetly in return.

“Hhmm…. We’ll have to look for ada tomorrow to see if he can do
anything about your height though,” Elladan said in mock seriousness
while tapping a finger on his cheek.

“Or we can play tug-Legolas later.  You two take each of his legs while
I hold his hands and together we can tug and stretch him properly,”
jested Haldir and everyone chuckled.  When I first knew the Galadhrim,
he was quite serious but after spending a bit of time with us, he had
loosened up a lot and was able to make jokes.

“I like my height the way it is,” I pouted and crossed my hands over my
chest.

“Welcome back, aier [little one]!” snorted Elrohir.  “This is the side
of you we’ve been waiting to meet, not Prince Legolas of Mirkwood.”

“You would be like this if your ada made you attend to every boring
council session and meeting to amuse all the foreign dignitaries.  I
hate the official robe they make me wear.  I am so tempted to walk into
ada’s office, naked, and claim that someone had ambushed me and run
away with their precious robe,” I sighed while unfolding my arms and
snaked a hand instinctively around Haldir’s back again.

Giggles erupted around me.

Being brought up with strict court manners, I found it much too tedious
and boring after some time.  Nevertheless, I keep up the royal façade
whenever necessary until the cheekier side of me emerges at certain
moments that caused ada to frown excessively.

“It’s easier for us because we grew up wearing robes most of the time. 
Ada might still make you wear them sometimes,” said Elrohir.  I groaned
in despair.

“Don’t fret, Legolas.  You can always walk nude into ada’s study.  He
is very open minded about it,” shrugged Elladan.  “I, for one will
enjoy the new scene very much,” he added in a husky tone and played his
eyebrows at me.  I suspected that my friend had seen too much when I
walked out of the bathroom.

“Elladan, I am disgusted by you!  How can you think of me in that
manner?  You were my childhood friend, for the love of Valar,” I
scolded him indignantly.

“Wait, I’m missing something here,” interjected Haldir.  “Elladan, did
you see something that you shouldn’t?”

“Hey, Elrohir saw it too,” the older twin defended himself.

“Don’t drag me into your mess, Elladan,” snapped Elrohir.  “I wasn’t
the one drooling.”

“He drooled?” I expressed shock.

The guilty half-elf flashed a wide grin, exposing the two rows of
perfect white teeth and shrugged sheepishly.  “All right, all right. 
I’ll help you burn the robe so ada can’t make you wear any,” he said
finally, trying to steer away the incredulous attention we gave him.

“Ada will have my hide if I create anymore trouble.  Erestor might
accept jokes good-naturedly but I’m sure your ada and Glorfindel will
not be so tolerant this time,” I said.

“Yes indeed,” a voice interrupted us.  It was Lord Glorfindel.  “And I
will send a parchment immediately to King Thranduil and ask for
permission to spank you on the bottom like a child,” he added.  My
three friends snickered loudly.

“I will help!  I will help!” cried Elladan as he put up his right hand
and waved excitedly.

My eyes narrowed menacingly at the older twin.  “I think you have not
heard yet that the aim of my arrows had improved dramatically.  Perhaps
my stay here will be even more entertaining, now that I have a life
target to practice on.”

“If I were you, Elladan, I would be careful.  I have countless times
that Legolas was hailed as one of the best in archery.  I am sure you
do not want to pull down your leggings so that your ada can pick the
arrows out of your bottom!” Haldir chided humorously.

Elrohir clutched his belly and laughed so loudly that anyone standing
nearby us looked at our group curiously.  He even had to put a hand on
Haldir’s shoulder to support himself so he would not topple over.
“I’ll help!  I’ll help!” Elrohir struggled to speak.  “Ow!” he cried
suddenly as Elladan poked him on the ribs with his elbow.

Knowing the twins for so long, I had never once seen them fight between
them.  They were always so energetic and look at things on the bright
side.  They seldom get offended but they would resort to pranks to
exact revenge.

“Haldir, I hear that you are going to stay only for six days?” Lord
Glorfindel asked.  “Why the haste?”

My heart was saddened to hear it.

“When Arwen had arrived into Lorien, she informed me that Legolas would
be going to Rivendell.  Therefore, when Aragorn prepared to return
here, I took the opportunity to travel with him.  However my duty does
not allow me to stay too long away from the Golden Woods though I would
wish otherwise,” he explained.  He then turned to me with a question in
his eyes.  “Unless you would come with me to Lothlorien for a visit?”

“Of course!  That would be very nice indeed,” I exclaimed, happy to
know that I would finally get to see Lothlorien and meet the infamous
Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn.

“That is a very good idea.  Perhaps I could help you ask Lord Elrond if
he would approve?” suggested Glorfindel.

“Will you, Glorfindel?”  I was trembling with excitement.

When the blond eldar nodded, I rushed to him and gave him a tight
grateful hug.  Glorfindel chuckled as he returned my embrace.  I did
not care if other people would see my uncouth behavior.  I was too high
on adrenaline to notice anything else.

“I want to go too,” whined Elladan playfully.

“Me too,” Elrohir joined him.

“We shall see what your ada says,” answered the Seneschal.  “Meanwhile,
if you don’t mind, Legolas, to let me go so that I may return to
entertaining the other guests?”  I unfolded myself from Glorfindel and
allowed him to stroll away.

For the entire night, the four of us talked among ourselves as we had
many things to catch up on.  However, during our conversation I was
acutely aware that many eyes were upon me, especially a pair of eyes
that seemed to bore into me with ferocious intensity.  I was not able
to find out who was watching me so resolutely but I could not shake the
uncomfortable feeling inside that accompanied the gaze.

We spoke until everyone had left the Dining Hall.  When the twins
decided they were too tired to go on, I invited Haldir to my bedchamber
so that we could continue there.  I cautioned him though to be careful
that no one would catch him sneaking into my chamber because I did not
want to run the risk of unfair gossips circulating around.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

A soft knock startled my chain of thoughts.  Quickly I got up from my
chair and ran tiptoed to the door.  I opened just a crack and peeked
out.

Haldir stood outside, slightly hunched.

“No one saw me,” he whispered.  I opened the door and let him crept
inside quickly.  Then I closed the door gently.

Together we walked to the thick luxurious rug set in front of the small
fireplace and sat on it.  I poured two glasses of red berry juice, for
Haldir do not drink wines and handed him a glass.  We spoke in low,
hushed tones for fear of someone who happened to pass by might hear us.

By the time some light began to creep into the room through the arcades
leading to the balcony, Haldir had to leave.  Again, he was forced to
be cautious when sneaking out of my bedchamber.  I felt guilty for
making him slink around like a thief but we didn’t have any choice.  We
always had many things to talk about and time was never enough for us.

After he left, I quickly placed one glass and the empty bottle on the
table so that the servant can clear it away when he or she comes in to
clean my chamber.  I hid the other glass carefully so that I could
remove it later when I had the chance.  Next, I ruffled the bed so that
the servant would think I had slept on it.

As with Mirkwood, breakfast would be served punctually.  I washed my
face quickly and changed to a new pair of garments.  After making sure
that my hair was properly combed and braided, I got to the door.

Anar had risen just over the mountains when I stepped out of the
chamber.  Even though I felt a bit sleepy, as I had not rested since
arriving into Rivendell, the warmth of Anar cleared the webs in my
mind.  I stretched like a cat easing my stiff muscles away and then
took in a lungful of fresh crispy air.  Feeling refreshed, I made my
way to the private dining hall where Lord Elrond and his family would
gather.

Almost everyone was already seated at the table when I got there.  I
greeted them and took the seat that I had always sat on since my first
day in Imladris.  The last person to appear was Aragorn.  He did not
look like he had a good night sleep.

“Missed Arwen already, Aragorn?” teased Elladan as he eyed him
cheekily.

“Not now, Elladan,” the man answered gruffly.

I saw Lord Elrond cock an eyebrow at his foster son but he did not say
anything.  Instead, he turned his attention back to Lord Erestor and
Glorfindel.  They began discussing some of the things that the Lord of
Imladris would have to attend to later.

Leaving their younger brother to wallow in his dark mood, the twins
joined Haldir and I, in our quiet conversation.  We agreed that it was
a good day to go out riding.  We wanted to make full use of the time we
had before Haldir was to go back to Lothlorien.

“May I come too?” someone said suddenly.  We all turned to look at
Aragorn.

The man shifted uncomfortably as all eyes were on him, including the
three older elves.  All of us could see that he was trying very hard
not to appear miserable but his eyes were pleading as if a child
begging his older brothers to let him come along.

“Yes of course, Your Majesty,” I responded first.

“Please, call me Aragorn.  After all, I am the youngest among you.”

“All right, Aragorn,” I smiled warmly to him.  It had been awkward to
address him formally all the time when he was the twins’ younger
brother.

My friendly gesture seemed to have affected him greatly.  He smiled in
return and I could see his body relax immediately.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Legolas!  Jump in.  The water’s great!” yelled Elrohir but before he
realised anything, his brother had pounced him from behind and dunked
him into the water.  The younger flailed his arms in the water while
the other laughed mightily.

Haldir had already removed his tunic and undershirt swiftly, and hung
them on a nearby branch before running towards the river and dived in. 
I laughed seeing the Lorien elf acting in such immature manner.  It was
not often one could see this side of him.

We had been riding for almost two hours and finally, feeling hot and
sticky, we decided to stop by the river and cool off.  It was like déjà
vu.  When we were younger, we had done the same thing except Haldir had
not joined us and Aragorn was not born yet.

I looked at the man beside me and winked at him.  Not wanting to be
left out, I quickly stripped off my tops and soon joined the three
elves.  Aragorn was slower to come into the water.  I guess the man had
been hiding behind his kingly duties for too long that he had forgotten
to be young and carefree again.

This part of the river had been our favourite.  There were several
waterfalls on one side of the pool, the water cascading onto the
flattened-top boulders.  One could sit on the smoothened stones and
enjoy the constant torrents raining down.

Elladan was floating on his back seemingly asleep and letting the
current wash him away along the opening to the main river.  Elrohir and
Haldir were somewhere underwater, challenging each other to see who
would surface last.  That left Aragorn and me alone, sitting under the
waterfalls.

“Have you been here before when you were a child?” I shouted under the
roaring waterfalls.

“Yes, many times.  The twins always brought me here,” Aragorn shouted
back.

“I like this place,” I said, trying very hard not to stare at his hairy
body.  It intrigued me somewhat as I had never seen anyone with so much
hair on their body.

“Me too,” answered Aragorn.

An awkward silence ensued.  I did not know what to talk about with him
and something at the back of my mind was nagging at me.  I was aware
that I was still feeling a bit uncomfortable around him.  I knew I
should not feel this way, as he was my younger brother just as the
twins had taken me under their wings.

“Have you ever been to Gondor?” he asked suddenly.

“No,” I answered while my eyes stared ahead.  “Ada did not allow me to
leave Mirkwood very much.  He worries a lot about my safety and thinks
that I shouldn’t travel so much.”

“Would you go if you were given the chance?” Aragorn asked again.

“Yes, I think so.  It would be an experience to see for myself the
realm of men that everyone has been talking about.”

“Oh, what did they say?”  Aragorn’s interest was heightened.

“Many things.  How about you?  How do you find so far, living among
elves?” I inquired this time, trying to change the subject.  I did not
want to tell him of the bad things I had heard about men’s deeds. 
However, I was sure he knew anyway.

Truthfully, Aragorn was the first man I had ever had conversation with.
 I had seen men before but never had the courage to approach them.  It
was also partly due to cautions that the elders had warned of me
several times.

“I like Rivendell very much.  Compared to Lothlorien, I still prefer
here.  Besides that I grew up here, I find Rivendell more magical and
beautiful.  Arwen always preferred Lothlorien.”  I could see that his
mind had wandered off far away, like the river drifting ahead of us.

“Hey, what are you two doing sitting there?” shouted Elrohir.  “Lets
have another swim before we ride back, in time for dinner!”

Both of us jumped into the deep pool and swam toward the trio.  We
frolicked and pulled a few childish pranks on each other before
paddling back to the bank.  Like the boys we were, we shook our bodies
violently like a drowned bear to get rid of the excess water.

By the time we were mounting the horses, our hairs hung limply on our
backs except for Aragorn who had shorter locks.  Then we raced back to
the Last Homely House, letting the wind dry our tresses.



3.  On The Way To Lothlorien

Dinner was a noisy event that night.  Excitement crackled in the air and 
boisterous conversations filled the entire room.  All the young ones even 
Lord Erestor were in jovial moods.  No one really paid any attention to their 
food, busy chattering animatedly.

Both Lord Elrond and Glorfindel shook their heads in wonderment but 
despite that, they were smiling.  I guess they were surprised to see their long 
time friend who was usually quite composed in manners, so relaxed that 
night.  In fact, no one in their long memories had ever seen the Chief 
Steward laugh so much or make so many jokes.

Cheers of joy erupted; almost to the point of becoming unbearable when 
Lord Elrond announced his permission to let the three of us join Haldir on 
his return trip to Lorien.  I was especially excited and could not wait for the 
day to come.  However, the half-elf Lord insisted that I write a parchment to 
my ada informing him of my intended visit to Lothlorien.

We were already busy planning the next day’s activities when the eldars 
decided to retire one by one.  We stayed back a bit longer before all of us 
filed out of the dining room and headed for our own bedchambers.  I could 
not rest immediately because I had to write the parchment so that I could 
send it out the first thing in the morning.

As soon as I finished and sealed the letter, I was ready for bed but could not 
sleep immediately.  My mind was drifting away, imagining what the Golden 
Woods would be like.  The first thing I wanted to do when I got there was 
find the mallorn and touch one.  I had read many times and dreamt about 
the golden-leaved trees with ancient ‘life’ coursing through their trunks.

So many new images filled my mind that night that I did not know when I 
had actually fallen asleep while dreaming of Lorien.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

When the four of us got ready to ride out early next morning, Aragorn had 
finally appeared.

“Come on Aragorn.  We are all impatient to get going,” called out Elrohir.

“You elves go ahead.  I won’t be joining you this morning.  Something very 
important just came up,” Aragorn said when he reached us.  I could see that 
he was not very happy and may be even anxiety hidden underneath his calm 
mask.

“Will you be coming later to meet us there?” I asked.  The man looked at 
me and smiled weakly.

“Depends.  If not, I will probably see all of you during dinner instead,” he 
sounded almost regretful.

“All right.  I hope nothing serious has happened, though,” I frowned 
slightly.  Aragorn shook his head.

“Well, you know where to find us,” said Elladan and he started to maneuver 
his horse around to head for the archway.  The rest of us followed suit.

Soon we were racing each other, shouting and urging our horses to gallop 
faster through the widely spaced trees.  It was exhilarating to move at such 
dangerous speed while dodging the low hanging branches and steering 
around the large tree trunks.

The twins had planned to ride to a small lake just by the foot of a cliff north 
from here.  Many years ago while exploring, we had found a small cave 
when we dove into the water and came out on the other side.  It had become 
our secret ‘base’ when we were elflings, pretending to be a lost civilization.  
Haldir did not like staying too long in that cave though and I could 
understand why.  Being a tree-elf, they were not used to dark and enclosed 
confinements.

Anar was already above our heads when we sat down on the grass to eat our 
packed lunches.  It consisted of sandwiches, fruit salads and some sweet 
cakes.  Just sitting there on the grass, chewing our food in silence was 
blissful.  Occasionally we heard the honks of swans passing overhead.

“Legolas, do you have a lover?” Elladan broke the silence.  I looked at him 
quizzically, not sure why he asked me this.  Then I realised that everyone 
was looking at me expectantly.

“No,” I answered almost too softly.

“Do you have someone in mind?” he asked again.  I stopped eating and 
looked at the three elves sitting in front of me, one at a time, starting with 
Elladan.  Why is everyone so intent on knowing my love life?

“Not at the moment,” and I heard someone let out a held back breath.  
“Why the sudden interest in this aspect of my life?”

“Nothing.  Just curious, that’s all,” answered Elladan trying to sound 
nonchalant.

“Lets have a short nap before we go swimming again,” suggested Haldir.  I 
was glad he changed the subject.  Up until now, I never really saw myself as 
an adult elf and have yet to convince myself that I would soon need to find 
a mate.

I laid back and placed an arm over my eyes to block out the sunlight.  With 
a full belly, I felt very lazy suddenly.  Sleep came to me easily as the breeze 
sang a gentle lullaby and the rustling of the leaves whispered their devotion 
to watch over us.

In my drowsy state, I was distantly aware that something heavy laid over 
my chest and my abdomen.  I jerked awake and to my relief, found myself 
being wedged between the twins and they had flung one of their arms over 
me.  I was tickled by this gesture because it reminded me of my elfling 
years when I was afraid of the thunderstorms.  I used to sneak into their 
chambers where the twins slept together in the same bed and hid under the 
covers between them.  They never failed to wrap an arm around me, to 
assure me of their protection.

As usual we spent most part of the day there before riding back to the Last 
Homely House in time for dinner.  Aragorn was already waiting for us, and 
was quite eager to hear our adventures.  I felt like being an elfling again, 
going on explorations and discovering new things.

I could see envy in Aragorn’s eyes as we related everything we did that day.  
I also noticed that he paid a lot of attention to me, especially when I spoke 
to him.  It was quite unnerving at times that his eyes would gaze deeply into 
mine.  Occasionally I caught his stares when he thought that I was not 
looking but I did not take offense.  

It was probably out of old habits as he was a ranger before taking up his 
birthright.  In fact, it was a rule all warriors were constantly reminded – to 
study their opponent and take note of any weakness point.  Aragorn’s 
probing however, did not worry me because after all, he was our ‘little’ 
brother; and family members do not hurt each other.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

“Legolas, ada wants our help in something, so we won’t be able to join you 
this morning.  Perhaps after lunch we could do something together,” 
Elladan said.  His brother nodded silently beside him.

“All right.  I think Haldir and I would go practise our archery then.  We 
shall meet at the dining hall?”

“Yes,” answered the twins at the same time.  It never fails to amuse me 
when they do that.  It was something that unnerved other people except 
elves because it was a borderline to sorcery that one could read another’s 
mind and people were afraid of such things.

“Why don’t you get Aragorn too?  I think he has nothing to do at the 
moment besides pestering us,” Elrohir called out as they began to walk 
away.

“All right,” I called back.

Turning the opposite from the twins’ intended direction, I went to search for 
Haldir and Aragorn.  It did not take long to locate them and it was even 
easier to convince them to join me for some practice.

The weather was hot and sunny that morning.  Unlike in Mirkwood, we did 
not get such condition often due to the gloom surrounding our forest.  It felt 
good to be under Anar and feel its heat beating down on my exposed skin.  
Even Haldir agreed with me.

While practicing, I looked to Haldir constantly for guidance to perfect my 
aim.  He was very dedicated to my needs and concentrated solely in making 
sure that I got it.  After some time though, I decided to stop, seeing that 
Aragorn was getting frustrated.  Since he was not an elf, he did not posses 
the keen eyesight that elves have and thus, he was unable to aim perfectly 
all the time.

We turned to his best skills instead – sword fighting.  I learnt from the twins 
that one of best sword fighters in Middle-Earth – Glorfindel, had trained 
Aragorn.  I was not be surprised by it, as the Heir of Isildur must be able to 
wield ‘Anduril’ well in his campaign to gain his throne.

“Haldir, I have heard many times of your great skill with the sword.  I 
would like to test them,” said Aragorn with a smug grin.  Haldir watched 
him for a moment.

“I accept,” he spoke calmly.  They both picked a blunt sword from the rack.

Without warning or waiting for Haldir to prepare himself, Aragorn attacked 
but Haldir was able to jump out of his way and parried swiftly when the 
man tried to take advantage of his distraction.  I was mesmerized to watch 
them ‘dance’ around so nimbly, the fluidity of their movements making me 
take in every scene without a blink.

Several times I caught myself sucking air audibly as I thought Haldir would 
surely be beaten however the elf proved to be a wonder.  Never had I 
witnessed such masterful art and ferocious intensity.  It was as if they were 
fighting for their honour and also a hint of dangerous hate between them.  I 
could not blame them in this for both man and elf were arrogant and did not 
make the least effort to conceal it.

When it was clear that no one would win, I stopped the fight.  Aragorn and 
Haldir stood across from each other, glaring menacingly.  No one would 
back down.  Seeing that both were panting slightly and sweating, I 
suggested that we go for a quick swim before going back to the manor to 
meet up the twins.

We walked quietly to a nearby lake.  No one spoke and I could still feel the 
tension beside me as I trudged between them.  Just as we reached to the 
bank, we were about to take off our tunics and undershirt when suddenly I 
found myself being pushed forward.  I could not stop the momentum and 
fell into the lake.

Spluttering, I desperately sought for solid ground to stand on.  When I 
finally found it, I stood up and found the water was up to my waist.  I 
coughed indignantly.  Before I could raise my head to find out who pushed 
me, I sank into the water again but this time with a heavy weight atop on 
me.

Flailing my arms helplessly, I felt a strong hand circled my waist and pull 
me up to the surface.  I coughed and spit wildly as if I had swallowed 
poison because more water had entered my lungs and my stomach.

“I’m sorry Legolas.  I just couldn’t help it,” laughed Aragorn.  I was not 
able to answer him and continued to cough.  “Are you all right?” he asked, 
this time with more concern.  His hand did not leave my waist.

Instead of answering him, I dug my feet into the soft mud, twisted my body 
and pushed Aragorn backwards.  He flapped his arms wildly before 
splashing heavily into the water.  I heard Haldir laughing uncontrollably on 
the bank.  I looked at him and smiled conceitedly.

My smirk was short-lived because then I felt a pair of hands grab my ankles 
and pull me under.  When I looked around, I saw Aragorn grinning.  He 
swam away quickly before I could extract my revenge.  At that moment, I 
heard a loud splash as if someone had dove into the water.  Soon, I caught 
Haldir coming toward me and together we ‘hunted’ for Aragorn.

After swimming around for sometime and not finding a sign of Aragorn, we 
decided to give up.  The moment we broke surface, I saw the man standing 
on the grassy bank with his hands on his hips and water dripping off him, 
flooding the spot he was standing on.  He was laughing again and it made 
his features look young.  He reminded me of a mischievous imp.

Haldir was already making his way to the bank and immediately, Aragorn 
dashed away in the direction to the ‘Last Homely House’.  Both of us were 
soon hot on his heels, calling him names.

As we chased him along the corridor, we passed by the twins who looked at 
us incredulously.  It would shock anyone to find the King of Men wet and 
running away laughing like a lunatic from two wet elves.

Aragorn managed to run to his bedchamber and locked himself inside 
before we caught him.  We panted from exertion outside his door.

“Just you wait, Aragorn.  You can’t stay inside forever,” I called out.
“We shall see,” he answered back and then was quiet.  As we could not 
afford to be late for lunch, we returned to our own bedchambers to clean up 
and change.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

On the morning of Haldir’s last day stay in Rivendell, I woke up early so 
that I could seek out my five companions because I needed a volunteer to 
come with me to Lothlorien.  Of course, without any doubt they all insisted 
on coming together.  It was no use arguing with them so I relented.  I was 
very sure the twins would never cease to tease me about this matter.

That same morning I also learned that Aragorn had to leave for Gondor on 
some urgent matter.  All of us followed him to the bailey where the rest of 
his men, more like a small troop to me, were waiting.  We were all sad to 
see him go because he could have followed us to Lothlorien and met Arwen 
there.

However, Aragorn promised that he would see us again when we returned 
from the Golden Woods.  He also bade us send his love to Arwen when we 
next saw her.

After saying our farewells and sending him off, we entered the manor.  
Haldir suggested that we pack our things first and then have a quiet day 
around the ‘Last Homely House’.  I agreed to the proposal because we had 
been exerting ourselves for the past four days.  As we wanted to make it to 
Lorien in the shortest possible time, we had to travel a lot and that meant we 
should rest well before the journey.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

As expected, the twins would not miss a chance to tease me of my ‘baby-
sitters’.  The moment they saw me approaching the stable with fully armed 
guards in tow, they opened their eyes wide in mock surprise.  Luckily by 
now, my five companions had grown used to their jesting and did not react.  
However, it gave the three eldars a peace of mind to know that the twins 
and I would be well protected by six of the best warriors.

Lord Elrond, Glorfindel and Erestor appeared to send us off.  The twins 
were given their last minute lecture on proper behaviour despite the fact that 
they had already passed their majority many years ago.  Haldir and I 
giggled when we looked at Elladan and Elrohir.  I could see the others tried 
very hard to keep a straight face and not make a noise.

When the twins finally turned around to mount their horses, I caught Lord 
Elrond’s eyes and he winked at me.  I smiled to him gratefully.  Now I have 
something to tease them with, in return.

Anar had just risen halfway from behind Misty Mountains but we were 
already well on our way out of the base of the valley.    A party of nine 
elves traveling together was quite a large group.

As soon we got out of the basin, I clicked my tongue to get Rynal to slip 
between Haldir and Tanhision who was riding just ahead.  The twins were 
behind me while the rest covered the back.

On our first night, we set up camp quite early because Haldir wanted us to 
get as much rest as possible.  He informed us that our traveling would be 
very strenuous for the next few days.  While the twins gathered wood for 
the fire, Tanhision, Haldir and Vanacor scouted around the perimeter to 
make sure that there would be no surprises at night.  Everyone else helped 
in cooking and tending to the horses.

Mallhaw made friends very quickly with the twins for obvious reasons.  I 
just hoped they did not get together and make everyone else run amok with 
their pranks.  The rest were a bit distant though they were very polite and 
respectful.  Only Tanhision seemed to be at ease around Haldir.  It was 
unusual to see the serious elf striking a friendship so quickly but I was glad.  
Haldir and Tanhision was both very experienced warriors and it was 
something that they both had in common.

That night the five guards and Haldir made an agreement on the shifts they 
were to take in guarding the camp.  The twins and I were strictly forbidden 
to take any turns though we protested determinedly.

The next day, we were a little livelier as Morethir soon became chatty 
again.  Our group had broken into two now.  Mallhaw and the twins were in 
the front, whispering conspiratorially and occasionally looking behind 
them.   A glint of mischievousness flashed in their eyes. 

Morethir, as usual, could not keep his cheery behaviour to himself.  I heard 
Vanacor and Tanhision groaning in misery as ‘Prince Mela’ went on and on 
about the beautiful and exotic she-elves he met in Rivendell.  As for me, I 
was too excited about going to Lorien to notice the dark looks the others 
aimed at the oblivious Morethir.

By the fifth night, everyone was quite exhausted.  We had just crossed over 
the Misty Mountains without much break along the way.  Haldir finally 
allowed us to rest early as the most difficult part was over.  After attending 
to the horses, I slumped on the forest floor.

I was almost dozing off when someone shook me on the shoulder.  I looked 
up groggily and found a plate with steaming food handed to me.  I took it 
and muttered a thank you before eating in semi-consciousness.  I still do not 
know if I slept with the plate still in my hand or if I managed to put it aside 
before lying down.  I was just too tired to think.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

The sound of a sharp cry woke me up in the middle of the night but I was 
barely able to register what happened in my heavily drowsy state.  All 
around me was darkness.  I tried to move but none of my body parts 
obeyed.  I could not comprehend my condition.  Unable to fight it any 
longer, I surrendered to my blissful sleep.

During my slumber, I had a strange dream.  Many times I saw a fuzzy 
image of a silhouette figure looming over me.    At other times, I had the 
sensations of a hand caressing my chest and my cheeks.  Sometimes, the 
hand would smoothed my forehead or run its fingers through my hair.

What a strange dream indeed.  When I woke up, I determined, I would ask 
Haldir what it meant.



4.  Strange Dreams

A distant disembodied moan brought me to the edge of light.

Strangely, the first thing that dominated my field of vision was a shimmering blue 
sky.  As everything was so fuzzy, I couldn’t tell what happened to me or why I 
became like this and how did I get here?  Questions and more questions, all filled 
my drowsy mind but they soon disappeared into oblivion.

I squinted my eyes to get a better focus.  Now I could see fluffy white things 
emerging.

Finally after staring for so long, I realised it was only a ceiling painted to look like 
the sky.

Fogginess still shrouded my mind, impeding my thinking ability and memory.  I 
could not concentrate even on a tiny thread of thought for more than a few 
moments before I drifted off to the clouds.

The constant buzz in my head was annoying but I failed to see the connection to 
what I was experiencing at the moment.  It was so hard to pull myself out of this 
dream-like state.  I want to go back to sleep.  Just for a while longer.

Darkness.  I like it very much.  It is so comforting.  Where will I drift off now?  To 
my beautiful dreams perhaps?

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

‘Uuuggghhh…why is it so bright?’ I thought.

‘Draw the curtains!’ I cried.  Did I manage to say that or did I just imagine that I 
did?

My throat is so dry and my lip is parched.  I licked to moisten them.

‘Move – go – run away – now,’ something at the back of my mind warned me 
urgently.

Without knowing why and moving purely on mechanical will, I gathered my 
energies, turned to the side and used an elbow to attempt to sit up.

Dizziness hit me suddenly.  I had to close my eyes to stop the spinning vision 
because I could taste a bitter-sourish juice from the pit of my stomach that was 
threatening to force its way out.  I needed to anchor my balance to something 
solid.

Time stood still for me and I didn’t know how long I was in that sitting position, 
trying to get a hold of myself.  Feeling a bit better afterwards, I steeled myself to 
stand up.

Wait a minute!  In my drunken state, I did not even realise that I had been lying on 
a bed.

‘Where am I and how did I get here?  Think, think,’ I told myself.  Nothing comes to 
any sense.

Trusting my unbidden instinct and fearing the lurking danger, I decided that I had 
to get away as soon as possible.  I am in no condition to defend myself right now.  
Friend or foe, I will deal with it later.

Upon standing on my feet, my sight began to dim quickly.  I stretched out my 
hands and blindly grabbed at anything to steady myself.  The loud ringing inside 
my ears deafened me.  Even my lungs failed momentarily.

Before I recovered I felt hands holding my shoulders, trying to push me back down 
on to the bed.

I resisted.

“Let me go,” I protested weakly while gasping for air.

The pair of stronger hands continued pushing me back on to the bed until I rested 
my head on the soft pillow.  The same hands lifted my legs on to the bed.

A familiar face loomed over me but my muddled brain could not recognise him.

Feebly, I tried to push him away because my clothes were being peeled open; then 
ripped or cut away, I am not sure which.  Next I felt my leggings being tugged 
down roughly.

Every time I tried to get up he would stop me and when I mindlessly drew his 
hands away from me, he swatted them away.  I couldn’t comprehend what he had 
in mind but I fought anyway.

He said something but I could not hear or understand.  The ringing in my ears had 
not subsided fully.

“Tua! Tua amin! [Help me!]” I rasped.

The man on top of me started touching my chest, his fingers so rough unlike elves.  
Then he caressed my cheeks and my hair before going back to my torso.  His 
fondles felt good but something in my mind told me it was wrong.  I failed to 
recognise that he was actually molesting me.

Utter confusion and helpless frustration drove me crazy.

When his face came so close to mine; I did not move away.

Soon something warm and soft crushed on to my lips.  Then something hard and 
wet probed the inside of my mouth.  He was kissing me and his coarse facial hair 
was rubbing my delicate skin raw.

Air.  I needed air.  I tried to breathe but couldn’t.  It was impossible to push him off 
me because he caught my wrists easily and pinned them beside my body.

After he released me from his oral assault, I heaved noisily to fill my lungs.

Distracted for the moment, I was not aware that he parted my legs until too late.  A 
heavy weight settled on top of me.  Why is he moving?  What is he doing?

Suddenly, I felt an extreme pain starting from somewhere below.  I was in agony 
as the white-hot searing pain tore through my whole body up to my intoxicated 
mind.

‘Scream!’ my mind yelled at me but I seemed only to manage a hoarse cry.  I 
panted rapidly, my lungs burning.

I squeezed my eyes shut tightly, wanting to believe that this was all a nightmare.  
My eyes stung as tears spilled forth.  My senses were drowning me.  The 
excruciating pain, the need for air, the helplessness, the confusion, the frustration, 
and the anger – everything was slamming against me on all sides continuously.

‘Why am I in so much pain?  Why am I suffering like this?’

I tried to use my legs to get rid of him from above me but they did not work.  They 
were trembling uselessly and my hands were still pinned to my side.  I was totally 
helpless and I could not stop the hurt.

Frustration had turned to anger for I cannot do anything to make sense of all this.

Soon my vision swirled, adding to my turmoil.  

Finally, unable to hold on to a shred of sanity and solid ground, I was flushed down 
a tunnel of welcoming darkness.



I’VE MADE TWO MISTAKES ABOUT THE ‘INFAMOUS LADY GALADRIEL’ 
AND ‘INFAMOUS IMLADRIS CUISINE’.  IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE MEANT IN A 
GOOD WAY, NOT THE OPPOSITE.  SORRY ABOUT THE MISTAKES.  I DIDN’T 
REALISE THIS UNTIL TWO READERS POINTED THEM OUT TO ME.  THANKS.

5.  Bound For All Eternity

My world brightened again.  I blinked several times to clear away the
aching dryness in my eyes.  Most of my senses had not fully come to
life yet, but at least my brain was able to think more clearly. 
Questions nestled in my mind as more popped up like little bubbles.

Something clammy and calloused crept up my right thigh.  I yelped and
jerked away, not knowing what it was.

In a flash, something big, dark and heavy jumped on top of me, pinning
me down.  A face appeared in my line of vision with crystal clarity.

Him!  For some reason I hated him.  I fought wildly, bucking with all
my might, kicking and trying to dislodge him but he held me down
anyway, sneering at me.  No one may stay on top of me, unless I say so.
 You might say that I am arrogant but I have pride and dignity to keep.
 I am a royal prince, after all.

“Save your energy for something else, my little elf,” he growled, his
face a finger’s breadth from mine.

I glared at him spitefully.  Then something clicked in my brain.  He
was naked!

Ugly images flooded my mind.  Even though they were dream-like, I was
sure they were real.

I blanched and suddenly felt weak and giddy.  My heart had been pumping
so fast that my hands trembled.

I realised too late that my mouth was agape from shock.  He immediately
took advantage of it.  His tongue attacked me demandingly, sucking all
my saliva.  I whimpered in fear.

Desperateness and panic swam inside me.  I felt hot suddenly and sweat
seeped through every pore on my skin.

Somehow through all this, I found renewed energy to do something to
defend myself.  No matter how much I struggled against his hold, I
could not move my hands or roll away from underneath him.  It was as if
he was made up entirely of compacted muscles.

“Stop fighting!” he yelled, his face red with anger.  Throbbing veins
surfaced on his temples and thick neck from matching my wrestles.
Never did I heed him and continued to buck and thrash.

As a reward for my insolence, he backhanded me so hard that my head
bounced when it hit the bed.  It did not stop me though.

Aragorn, there I’ve said his name, became even more furious and
aggressive.  He sat on my chest and immobilized my hands to my side
with his folded legs.  The heavy weight on top of me was crushing my
lungs, leaving me almost breathless.

Using every resource I had, I tried to dislodge him.  With my legs I
used them to lift both our bodies up and bucked in hopes that I could
throw him off but no such luck.

To control me, he placed a flat palm on the middle of my collarbone
just below the neck, to restrict my movement while his other huge
calloused hand descended violently on my face; left and right, stinging
painfully.  The big ruby on his middle finger cut several times into my
left cheek while the base of the two rings – the ruby ring and the
wedding band – added solid pain to the impact.

My long blond hair flew, and my head snapped back and forth dizzily,
rendering me incoherent.  The loud smacking deafened my hearing.  He
kept going until I stopped moving.

Weakened by vertigo and the massive, pulsing hurt of my face, I was
vulnerable and at his mercy.

I tasted blood on both corners of my lips, which had swelled.  He
studied me for a while and then bent down and started to lick them.  I
flinched a little because it stung where his tongue touched the split
but I strained when he ran it further along the length of cuts on my
cheek.

I could not understand why the sight of blood seemed to excite him so. 
I am a peaceful person, never attacking anyone or anything unless
threatened.  Violence was never in my nature.

“Remember this, Legolas.  I am first - and last - man to claim the
right to be bound to you.  You belong only to me.  Obey me or I will
make you do it, but with more pain and suffering.”  I helplessly
listened, unable to answer him or take any actions to defend what was
left of my honour.

As a prince, I was born to be of service to my people.  No one can lay
claim on me like a piece of property, not even the King.

Through my limited sight because my cheeks had puffed up, I met his
silver eyes – they were cold and carnal.  There were no signs of love
or care.  How had Lord Elrond’s foster son turned into this monster? 
He had lived among elves almost all his life; I was puzzled with his
behaviour towards us.

A long time ago, I heard tales from the ancient elves that the
firstborns were cursed with beauty, grace and false sense of fragility
that caused men to seek us out for their greed.

I had not understood what greed they meant until now.

Before I could regain my strength to fight back, he quickly tied my
wrists together with a long silk sash, which had been draped over the
headboard, and then to the sturdy marble railings above me.  Then he
continued to grope me.

Soon he was eager to take me again.  He took the small bottle from the
side table and poured some liquid into his hand.  After returning the
bottle to the table, he began lubricating my hole quickly.

He pried my legs apart and forced his way in, stabbing several times at
my tightly closed portal until he managed to sheathe his huge tool
inside in one smooth movement.

It felt like Anduril inside me, burning and tearing my delicate flesh. 
I squeezed my eyes shut; my body arched involuntarily, almost snapping
in half while my fingers dug painfully into each other.  I tried
really, really hard to repress the scream but could not stop it.  The
sound came out so sickeningly.

Hot tears rolled off my face when I managed to open my eyes again and
stared in full concentration at the ceiling.  My breath traveled in and
out of my lungs laboriously.  I cried shamelessly and screamed without
care, laying bare my torn soul as well as my torn insides.

Why is he doing this? my mind screamed.  Stop!  Stop it! my heart
yelled and yet my mouth was unable to say it.  My throat had
constricted to almost a choking point.

“Oh, Legolas…..your body is driving me mad with fervor,” I heard him
panted between breaths.  “You’re mine, all mine!” he screamed further.

“Never!” I wailed, finding my voice for the first time but he did not
hear me.  He pumped harder instead, abrading my wrists from the tight
friction of the sash.

He cannot do this to me.  I am Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, son of King
Thranduil son of Great Oropher.  I belong to no one!  No one!

I sobbed again.  I was so ashamed of myself.

In the tiny fraction of a time that my body was free of intense pain,
my body responded eagerly to his rough handling especially when his
hairy abdomen rubbed constantly on my member.  I could not stifle the
moan under my breath even though waves of pain washed over me and I
held for dear life on that little boat of pleasure to keep me afloat.

Inexperienced and confused with this new sensation I spasmed suddenly,
and a strange and overpowering but wonderful feeling that held my mind
and body for several moments.

This evil man is raping me and yet I had to endure the
unwanted….pleasure?… that was forced on to me.

After hours of tortured pain – was it hours? – he finally stopped
pummeling me.  I witnessed with his final thrust, he frowned deeply and
then slowly a wide smile spread on his satisfied face.

I felt a burn inside me that made me grimace for a while (I was so
innocent that I did not know it was his seed that had bitten my wounds
inside).

“You’re such a beautiful creature, Legolas.  I will be most eager to
take you every night,” he commented, his voice all oily while he
slumped heavily on top of me and let his head rest on my heaving chest.
 My whole body shook uncontrollably, probably from the pain and crying.

When his breath had returned to normal again, he got off me and bent
over the bed to reach for something.  I had thought he was grabbing for
his clothes but I was shocked when he turned around to reveal a small
gold dagger still sheathed in a scabbard encrusted with red rubies and
sapphires.  Smaller gemstones filled the gaps on the handle and the
scabbard.

I recognised it as the ceremonial dagger, an heirloom of Gondor to be
passed from father to son on their wedding day.  I had read a lot while
in Rivendell as a child because I was fascinated and curious by many
things.  Lord Elrond was very pleased by my habits especially from one
so young.  He had often wished his twins would cultivate their fondness
for books instead of him making them read.

“Do you know about this dagger, Legolas?” he asked without looking at
me.  Instead his eyes studied the item on his hand, turning it back and
forth as if seeing it for the first time.

“Yes,” I answered simply.

“Do you know the significance of this dagger?” he asked again, this
time staring at me.

I let out a ragged breath before answering him.  “It is your family
heirloom, to be passed from father to son on his wedding day.”  My
voice sounded scratchy.

“Yes.  Someday, I wish to pass this to my son,” he said and pull out
the dagger from its casing, displaying a very sharp and well kept
blade.  It even reflected the lights that fell on its mirrored surface.

Then he stretched to the headboard and cut the sash, releasing my
wrists.  However before I could pull back my hands, he grabbed my right
wrist and pinned them painfully under his knee.  I yelped as his knee
pressed down further.  I struggled to extricate my hand.

I struggled to extricate my hand.  I hit his knee feebly, leaving red
fingerprints as well as bloodstains on his skin where my palm had
landed.

“This dagger will serve its true purpose today.”  I caught a glint in
one of his eyes and it sent shivers down my spine.  Does he mean to
kill me now?

Aragorn placed the scabbard on the bed and then gripped the fingers of
my right hand to expose my palm that had turned white from the lack of
blood circulation (I could also see three puncture wounds where my
nails had dug into them earlier).  I had a bad feeling about all this
and instinctively tried to clench it into a tight fist.

“What are you going to do to me?”  I fought the contents of my stomach
that were threatening to travel up my throat.  Already I could taste
the bitterness in my mouth.  Aragorn did not look at me or acknowledge
me.

In shocked terror, I witnessed as he positioned the blade on my palm
and drew a line, letting the blood flow slowly from the open wound.  I
hissed as pain began to throb sharply.  After he had done the same to
his own right palm, he removed his knee and clasped tightly his
bloodied hand on mine.  More blood and in larger amount from the
combined wounds, trickled down our forearms and dripped onto the bed,
soiling them.

Then, I felt something strange stirring from the palm of my hand. 
Warmth seemed to spread from within that slowly became hot.  The heat
was not unbearable but I panicked when it began to travel down my arm
and into my body.  I began to struggle again. 

To my relief, the heat seemed to have stopped on its own but something
else appeared.  It was vague at first but became more insistent and
distinct.  It did not feel like pain but on the borderline to it.  Soon
however, it became too overwhelming.  I gnashed my teeth and began to
fight feebly to pull my hand away.  Aragorn held it firmly, not letting
go.

“Do you feel the power of our bonding?  Now you are sharing your
immortality with me and we shall be together forever, Legolas Elessar
of the House of Telcontar,” he chanted his words dreamily.

That was the only thing I heard before I lost consciousness.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

To be conscious again was a curse.  My veins felt like they were filled
with hot lava.  Every joint that existed was stiff and there was a
throb in places that I never thought could ache.

An unchecked moan escaped from my throat.

Lifting a hand was like lifting a piece of heavy lead.  White bandages
were wrapped on both palms of my hands where they were wounded, down to
around my wrists.  It brought back memories of what Aragorn had done to
me but I shoved them away from my mind.  I was too tired and also not
ready to dwell in that at the moment.

Gently I brought one of my hands to my face to check the damages and
found it still swollen but not as bad as before.

My stomach rumbled – hunger.  I wondered how long I had not had food in
my stomach.

I cautiously adjusted my body under the thin blanket to a more
comfortable position.  It took a lot of effort as I was still weak and
in much pain.  To my dismay, I discovered three of my limbs were free
except my left ankle where a steel manacle was clasped and a short
chain attached to the bedpost.

Since there was nothing to do or anywhere to go, I used my time to
observe my surroundings methodically so that I would not miss anything.

My prison chamber was quite spacious, sparsely furnished with good
taste.  Beginning from the left wall, was a small, cold fireplace.  It
had a beautiful metal-cast screen imbedded by hinges so that it could
be swung open.  Two paces from it was a white bathtub lined with gold
set on top of a dark grey rug.  A stool was placed next to the bathtub.

Two, tall candelabras with nine candles stood on each opposite corners.
 The little crystal teardrops hanging beneath twinkled delicately as
light fell on the multi-faceted gems.  A lion’s paw table with matching
chair was against the opposite wall from me, next to the heavy Mahogany
door – my portal to freedom.

I could only guess that the whole bed frame was made of black marble
too, as I noticed the four posts itself was carved from marble,
depicting thin, sensual elves.  The coverlet on me was rich rouge
without any trimmings or embellishments.  There was also a side table
on the left bed and another door that I guessed led to the bathroom on
my right. 

The only two windows on the right wall of my prison were hung rich
maroon curtains, closely matching the coverlet of the bed, with
embroidered intricate designs of gold threads.  Sheer curtains were
drawn over it, blocking the view outside but I could see distorted
shapes of rods barring the windows.

The whole chamber was camouflaged to fill one with a sense of luxury
and sensuality but the bars on the windows shattered its carefully
designed effect.

I longed to go to the windows and look out.  I also wished to feel the
sun on my skin, to feel alive again but just as it is, it was a wish
and a hope.

Still feeling tired from the last ordeal and from the aching that
refused to lessen, I closed my eyes to sleep and let my healing set to
work.  I was sure today I would not get any food.  However it was easy
to forget my hunger as exhaustion conquered my needs.

There was nothing I could do.  I would have to figure that out later.




6.  Real Intentions

My mood was foul this morning and my temper threatened to burst.  Added
with the lack of nutrition that caused my hands to tremble, it made me
even more irritated and impatient.

I hated my prison with its cold, stone walls and sick attempt to dilute
its purpose.  I hated being locked up against my will and
especially…I…DESPISED…Aragorn.  This man had betrayed my trust, taken
my chastity without consent and forced me into a wedlock that I did not
want.

I had woken up with a heavy heart this morning but I hated myself for
wallowing in self-pity and for being so weak.

Determined to fight this and survive, even for a while longer so I can
get away, I turned my sorrow to anger.  It was not my wish to die alone
so far away from Mirkwood and my family.  However, if that is not
possible, at least I could die honorably.

I am a proud prince and warrior; and I definitely did not want to be
reduced to a piece of flesh, to be used as seen fit by a mere man.

I was only a babe when my nana was killed.  At that time, my two
brothers were just entering their majority.  Without our nana’s care
and love, ada had taken the extra role to be both parents to us.

Truthfully, I cannot really recall her image in my mind most of the
time.  Usually it’s only a fuzzy picture of a pale and ethereal beauty
looking at me.  There was only the one portrait hung in ada’s
bedchamber.  I often went in to stare at it for a very long time and
tried to imagine what she was like.

The big age gap between my siblings and I meant that either they
bullied me or I would trail along with them like a cute puppy.  Usually
it was the latter as ada often pressed them to relent to my every whim,
owing to my young age.  On the occasion I did not get what I wanted, I
would throw a tantrum that would send everyone into exasperation.

Right now, I felt one coming.  I threw a white pillow to the door and
it bounced uselessly to the floor.  Then I grabbed more pillows that I
could get my hands on and threw them aimlessly.
As my eyes searched for more things to target, I heard the click from
the lock and the door opened.  A young servant girl entered, carrying a
tray with breakfast.

Food, finally.  It irritated me even further to think that that man had
purposely forgotten to feed me since my captivity here.
She bowed respectfully and then walked towards me, noticing the mess I
had made.

Carefully she placed the tray on the side of the bed, near my legs and
bowed again.  Then she turned around and started to pick up the pillows
on the floor.

Taking a sniff at the bowl of steaming porridge, I wrinkled my nose in
disgust.  This food was fit only for an orc.

I hate human food.  Greatly vexed, I took the bowl and threw it to the
floor forcefully.

The girl jumped and turned around to see what happened.

I took the glass of pink juice and threw it against the wall, breaking
the glass into thousand pieces and splashing the sweet sticky liquid
all over.  Some of it stained the curtains.

Fear showed in her face.  One look on my face made her dropped the
pillows to the floor and ran out of the chamber screaming.  I could
still hear her frightened wails as she ran down the passage.  I could
not help the naughty smirk that formed on my lips.

A guard outside peered cautiously from behind the doorframe.  I had not
counted that my captor would post a guard outside my prison.  Seeing
the mess and the scowl on my face, he jumped to close the door and lock
it.  Then I heard him scurry away, probably to inform the King.

‘I don’t care if Aragorn comes,’ I told myself.

“Aaaarrrrggggghhhh!!” I yelled in frustration and kicked the tray off
the bed.  It clattered loudly, splashing all its contents.  “I want my
freedom!  I need my freedom!”  Then I thrashed my legs like a small
child.  It amazed me that I still clung to my childish behavior but I
had only just reached my majority.  It would probably take me several
centuries more before I became obliged to behave like an adult.

Soon I heard footsteps running to my prison chamber.  Unlike other men,
Aragorn was the only one who could run lightly, almost as graceful as
elves.

The King burst into the room, a worried expression on his face.  The
guard stood just outside, wary of my every move.

The man’s grey eyes took in the mess and then finally my face.  Within
moments his feature transformed into something horrible that sent a
chill to my bone.

With just a few quick strides, he advanced upon me and smacked me so
brutally that I stumbled back onto the bed.  A sharp sting throbbed on
the side of my face and I could hear my ear ringing loudly.  Before I
could get up, he punched my abdomen once, forcing the air out of my
lungs and adding more pain.  Clutching my belly, I lay unmoving.

“Don’t ever throw a tantrum again,” he snapped.

“Release me from this accursed prison!” I lashed out defiantly after my
pain had subsided to a bearable level.

Unexpectedly, Aragorn jumped on top of me and pinned me down by
circling a hand around my throat tightly.  He moved his head so close
to my face that I could see every weathered line below his eyes.  His
fingers clenched my throat to the point that I saw stars popping in my
vision.

I tried to pry and pull his hand away but was unsuccessful for the
bandages bound tightly around my palms hindered me.

“You can forget it.  You belong to me now and you will stay here
forever,” he hissed, enraged.

“My ada will come for me soon,” I retorted in a strained voice as he
gripped harder.  My head ached terribly and the constricted blood flow
pounded loudly in my ears.

“Not likely, so don’t put your hopes up.  No one will ever know you’re
here.”

“What do you mean?” I demanded, my eyes narrowing.

He kept quiet, refusing to answer me.

“What do you want from me?  Why did you bond me to you?”  My temper had
subsided a little and I wanted to know what this man has in mind for
me.  I searched his face, intent on getting as much of an answer as I
could.

“I want all of you,” he answered in a controlled tone.

He let go of my throat.  Immediately the throbbing lessened and I drew
in long shuddering breaths.  “I want every single part of you forever,”
he repeated his intention, to stress his point.

I arched an eyebrow haughtily.

“The first time I laid eyes on you, when my foster father introduced
you, I set my heart on you.  However, you distanced yourself from me
and you stayed with the others, especially that blond from Lorien.  I
was so hurt and angry when the two of you spent so much time together
and especially when you let him so close to you.”

Aragorn now sat on his heels, easing the pressure on my upper chest.

“With whom I spend my time is my business.  What gives you the right to
take me like this?  Don’t forget, you’re already married!” I spat, my
anger returning.

“What rights?  I am a king and I take what I want, including whomever I
desire,” he said curtly.

“How dare you!” I shouted angrily.

“I am jealously possessive as well as greedy.  Arwen accepts my
faults,” Aragorn chortled cynically.  I did not know what did he found
amusing but I was deeply disturbed by what he had said.

“There’s more, lirimaer [lovely one],” he sneered wolfishly.  My eyes
narrowed venomously at his boldness to call me in such an affectionate
way.

“You see, my Queen Arwen has been barren for all these years that we
have been together.  I need heirs.”

“What has that got to do with me?”  Curiosity caught my attention. 
Surely he was not implying that I had to impregnate his wife?  Was that
why he bound me to him?  A threesome could be quite a crowd.

“I’ve made you my consort and YOU will carry my heirs,” he beamed
proudly as if he had won a tournament.

“You’re mad.  I am a MALE elf!  How can I produce heirs?”  The man was
definitely out of his mind.  Probably the stress of being a king had
gotten to him.  I sympathized the heavy burdens that weighed on one’s
shoulders when one is dedicated to the entire nation.  My ada seemed to
enjoy his power but then again, he had had several thousand years in
which to get used to it.

“With a little magic potion you will give me as many children as I
want,” he said, still smiling smugly.

I pictured myself with a big belly and a bunch of scruffy elflings
surrounding me.

Total absurdity!

This time I roared with laughter forgetting my predicament for the
moment.

“What is so funny?” he demanded, confused with my behaviour.

“Me?  Pregnant?  Hahahaha!”  More tears rolled off my cheeks, as I
could not stop laughing.  “If Queen …… Arwen is ….. barren, …..why
don’t ….. you give ……her the potion?”  I laughed even harder and tried
to breathe at the same time.

If the previous day’s encounter had not happened, I would have thought
that Aragorn and the twins had got together to trap me into one of
their pranks but it was not so.  Unfortunately what was happening to me
was real.

“Believe me, a’maelamin. [my beloved] I am not jesting.  I want only
you to carry my heirs now.  I want only you to fill my life with your
laughter and OUR palace with OUR beautiful children.”  Aragorn’s face
was dead serious.  His gaze locked on my face and did not falter.

I made myself stop laughing and observed him through my blurred vision.
 Unstoppable hiccups sometimes threatened to start me laughing again.

“No, you’re just jesting,” my head shook with denial, still unable to
accept the truth.  “Right?”  A doubt settled in my mind.

“We performed the complete union, Legolas ELESSAR,” he spoke evenly
without any expression on his face except the movement of his mouth. 
“Remember that we were bound through our first lovemaking and also
through the ritual blood-infusion.  We share immortality now.  Don’t
you think I’m serious enough?”

Horror crept into me like a dark shadow and held me stubbornly in its
grotesquely gnarled fingers.  Could we really share immortality?

I stared at his face searchingly.  Slowly it dawned on me that he had
changed, physically.  I could see that the hair on his head were
thicker and fuller, the colour more vibrant and shining.  The lines on
his face had faded considerably making him looked younger.  Even the
muscles on his shoulders were well toned and solid as it showed through
the tight tunic he was wearing.  Only his eyes never changed.  It still
held the same cold, cruel and calculative gaze.

How could this happen to me?  What have I done that the Valar decided
to punish me with such fate?  I had never shown vainness and had always
been humble.

“Your people will never accept this bond and this child.  You know how
terrified they are about sorcery,” I tried to reason with him.  Surely
he could see this coming.

“I am not worried about it,” he shrugged noncommittally but offered no
further explanation.  “Well melamin [my love], I leave you to your
thoughts.  I must get back to work.  See you tonight.”  He bent down
and gave me a quick kiss on my lips before getting off me.

After he left, the chamber turned deathly silent as nothing stirred. 
Only the sound of my breathing hovered in the room.

Still stunned, I failed to move a single muscle in my body.

“Noooooooo!” I howled suddenly, unable to hold my emotions any longer. 
My hands hit the mattress ineffectively, as I vented my frustrations.

The man had sealed a deadly fate for me.




7.  Hot Bath (* Night time from chapter 6 *)

What appealed to me the most about nighttime was the chance to see the
stars twinkling, a source of wonder to me since childhood.

In Mirkwood, ada, my two brothers and I would stay up late into the
night to watch it.  Sometimes we were lucky enough to see a
‘long-tailed star’ trailing above us.  

Whenever the full moon appeared, ada would take us to his favourite
pool and we would have a nice long soak in it.  There, he would point
out to us the different stars and name them.  Then he would tell us a
tale about them.  Often I ended up knowing half the story as I fell
asleep easily in ada’s warm embrace.

On other nights, we would just lie on a flat clearing and look up
silently, letting our minds drift freely.  I always knew what ada was
thinking about.  There was never a doubt in my mind.  It hurt me
sometimes to see him when his thoughts would drift to nana.  However, I
was unable to do anything to cheer him up because I had no recollection
of my nana.  The only thing that we both shared and reminded my ada
about her was my eyes and my mouth.

I remembered one summer when I was an elfling, a time when I was just
able to form long sentences in my speech, I would tell ada to catch me
a star.  I had heard many times from my siblings that sometimes little
stars came down to Middle-Earth to play and if we were lucky we would
see them.

Ada smiled and brought me to the garden.  True enough, I saw many
flying around the rose bushes and on other flowerbeds.  We would run
around trying to catch one.  Ada always catches one and he would put it
in my small fisted hand.  I would peek through the small hole that I
made with the base of my thumb and pointing finger and watched in rapt
fascination as it blinked.

Fond memories of Mirkwood evaporated as the early nightfall of winter
came too swiftly.  Tonight would be different and I became more
agitated as the hours pass by.  This morning’s revelation had shocked
me to the core.  My naivety and lack of experience about men’s
behaviour had cost me dearly.

Different scenarios of escape played in my mind.  If I did not succeed,
at least I could try to escape from him for tonight.  My plans were not
exactly guaranteed success but I felt less helpless.
All too soon, I heard a band of people marching towards my prison
chamber.

When Aragorn entered, he brought a tow of servants, each carrying a
bucket of steaming water while the last two in line carried trays – one
was laden with food while the other, two crystal wine glasses and a
bottle of white wine.

The servants worked silently and swiftly, never once stealing glances
at me.  Only one came close to me.  He spread a thick downs quilt
beneath the coverlet and a pile of new clean clothes on a nearby chair.

Then one of them lit the fireplace.  Being an elf, I am impartial to
heat and cold of the weather.  However, I welcomed the warmth it gave. 
This chamber was always so cold for some reason.

The King stood by the window watching the activities.  I could sense
sometimes he shifted his gaze towards me but I refused to meet his
stares.

Once finished, the servants were quickly dismissed.

The silence was welcoming this time.  I like to hear the crackling and
sizzling of the fire.  It always brings back happier memories.  Neither
of us moved a muscle.  I could tell he was still watching me while I
continued to stare into the fire.

After sometime, I heard him walking towards me.  I steeled my nerves
not to show any fear.

Standing in front of me, he blocked the view of the fireplace.  I
looked up and found him staring at me, as if there was something on my
face.

When he made the first move, I jumped.  An amused smile formed on his
face that made me blush slightly from embarrassment.  He reached into
his pocket and retrieved a golden chain with a key hanging from it. 
Throwing the covers to one side, he bent down to place the key in the
lock.

As soon as he released my leg, I pulled it hurriedly and started
inspecting the sore where the steel clamp had abraded.  I could see
angry wounds around it after my episode this morning.

Just as he reached out to grab me, I crawled backwards but was not fast
enough – curse his elven reflexes!  One of his hands caught my leg and
started to pull me back to him.  I tried to kick his hand away with my
other leg but he managed to grab that too.

In the most undignified manner, he tugged me down.  As my body slid
towards him, my undershirt went opposite, causing it to expose my full
nakedness and finally it bunched up above my chest.  If I had not
brought down my hands, it would have continued to slide over my head.

Before I could protest, he scooped me up into his arms.  I tried my
best to cover myself up.  It was an outrage for a Prince to be
mistreated in such manner.  Then again, I had already received quite a
lot of abuse from him since being kept here.  Who knows how much more I
would get in the near future?

When we got to the bathtub, he let me down gently on the plush blue
carpet.  Then he made a move to take off the only piece of clothing I
had on.  I batted his hands away and tried to make a dash for the door.
 However, I could only managed two steps before he caught my waist and
dragged me back.

“Let go of me!” I yelled, and tried to hit his crotch with my hand. 
Aragorn had already anticipated my intention.  Arms still around my
waist, he hoisted me off the floor while I kicked uselessly in the
empty space.

“If you stop fighting, then I might be persuaded to be nicer to you!”
he said in a strained voice.  “I only want to let you take a bath. 
Surely you would have a strong urge for that by now?” he continued. 
Knowing defeat, I stopped struggling and let him lower me down.

“Yes,” I mumbled and my shoulders sagged, suddenly feeling tired.

“Go ahead, before the water gets cold,” his voice was more loving this
time.

“Could you please turn around?” I did not want to take off my clothes
while he looked.

He cocked an eyebrow at me.  “I don’t think so.  I’m not letting you
out of my sight.”

I looked at him and then at the bathtub where the steam was rising in
little wisp.  The water was so inviting that I could not resist it. 
Besides, I needed to get rid of his smell and his stains on my body
desperately.

Turning around so that my back faced him, I slipped the undershirt
tentatively over my head and let it fall to the floor.  Then I stepped
quickly into the tub.

It felt so good as my body fully submerged into the hot water.  All the
tight knots in my muscles immediately began to unwind and I felt
calmness wash over me.  I closed my eyes and let my senses drift
freely, temporarily forgetting my surroundings.  The scented oil that
the servant had added into the water slowly wafted into my nostrils,
relaxing me even further.  I could almost hear myself purr with
contentment.

A pair of hands on my shoulders brought me back to reality.  I opened
my eyes and saw a naked body towering above me.  The most revolting
sight was his limp member dangling dangerously close to my face.  I
knew he did it on purpose just to taunt me.

Without invitation, he joined me in the tub.  I moved as far back away
from him as possible, becoming alert and following his every movement.

“I need a bath too,” he smiled sheepishly.  “I am not like other men. 
I grew up among elves, remember?”

How could I forget?

“How could you be so violently cruel to me especially when I am also an
elf and might I remind you, we were brothers?”  I had to refer to our
relationship as a past because my faith in him was betrayed.  I should
never have trusted him from the first day I met him.  I should have
listened to my instinct.  So many should have and I had failed myself
and got myself into this mess.  “Do you take pleasure in making another
suffer so?”

“No, Legolas,” his hands splashed some water on his tan hairy chest. 
“I’m sorry that I have been very harsh on you but your actions and
resistance infuriate me.”

“I think I have the right to defend myself.”  My eyes narrowed with
disapproval.  For the first time, he looked away from me, as if
embarrassed or avoiding something.  I could not care less because I
hated him and what he had done was unforgivable.  “I trusted you as
Elladan and Elrohir did.  Even Lord Elrond had his complete confidence
in you.  What have I done to earn such treatment from you?”

Aragorn did not immediately answer me.  Instead he reached to the small
table where the trays were laid and poured some wine into the two
glasses.

“Here,” he said, handing me a glass.  I took it and smelled the
contents.  “I didn’t put any drugs in it,” he chuckled.

“I merely want to smell the wine,” I retorted, eyeing him a little
suspiciously.

He raised his glass, clinking with my glass before taking a sip.

Wine was not one of my favourite drinks but this one tasted very good. 
It was fruity, light and refreshing.

“You have not answered my question yet,” I reminded him.

“I saw Haldir enter your bedchamber in Rivendell.  Therefore, it is
only natural to assume that every time you fought against me, you were
trying to save yourself for him.”  His gazes locked on to my face,
studying me for my reaction.

Shock gripped me.  I did not think anyone had witnessed Haldir enter my
bedchamber that night.  I warned him to be sure that no one would see
him go in.  My father would not be happy to hear such news in Mirkwood,
no matter how innocent the situation can be.  Nevertheless, Haldir was
not wrong in this matter for I am sure he had been careful.  Only that
he could not avoid it, if someone were to spy on us purposely.

“Were you two lovers?” he broke into my chain of thoughts.

This time it was my turn to study his feature.  I found it strange that
he would refer my relationship to Haldir as a past.  He may have
claimed me as his consort but without my heart, he has nothing.

“When I first met Haldir, he was already a MarchWarden for Lord
Celeborn and Lady Galadriel.  It happened that on my first visit I met
him while he was on duty carrying important messages between Imladris
and Lorien.  The second time I met him was when he appeared in Mirkwood
for a brief visit.  We have a very close …….connection to each other.” 
I purposely answered in a vague manner, wanting to see his reaction.

“You mean like a lover’s bond?” Aragorn interrupted impatiently.

So, he was jealous of Haldir.  Everything seemed to fall into places –
the sword fights, his venomous stares and barely concealed dislike
towards the Lorien elf.  I had thought that Aragorn did not like the
elf for his arrogance.  Was Aragorn so good at concealing himself that
no one, no even his own foster father had detected the treachery in the
family?

“No.  As with my family, Haldir loved me dearly and was very protective
over me.  He was very much like my own brother…….who would never harm
me.”

I could see the man’s tensed muscles relaxed after my revelation yet it
angers me at the same time that he did not seem to take note of my last
sentence.  He seemed to be casually indifferent about it.

“I told him to come to my chamber because there are many things I
wanted to catch up with him for I have not seen him for almost two
centuries since his last visit to Mirkwood.”

“I see,” as he churned this new information in his mind.

I wondered that if I did not sort out this misunderstanding, would he
try to hurt Haldir?

“Did you do anything to Haldir the night you kidnapped me?”  I prayed
in my heart that no harm comes to him.

“No,” he answered simply.  “Let me wash your hair,” he said, changing
the subject.

“No,” I refused flatly.  “I will do it myself.”  I placed the glass of
wine on the floor beside the tub.
The man shrugged and handed me a glass bottle.  I took it and opened
the cap.  When I held it close to my nose I could smell a sweet flowery
aroma.  Dabbing the liquid onto my hair, I washed quickly though a bit
clumsily as my palms were still bandaged.  Then I dipped my whole head
under the water.  When I sat up, I felt the water chased down along my
silky blond hair.  I wiped my face as some of it dripped from my
forehead too.  It felt so good now that I finally had the chance to
clean myself thoroughly.  Aragorn took the opportunity to do the same.

As the water had turned cold, he got up, dried himself and wrapped the
towel around his waist.  He also handed a towel for me too.

Taking it, I used it to cover myself as I got up.

Just as I was about to step out of the tub, the King bent down and
tried to pick me up but this time I was too quick for him.  I dashed to
the bed and slipped under the thick quilt.

My actions seemed to tickle him because I heard him chortle lightly as
he walked over to the bed.  I pulled the towel from around me and
wrapped it on my head to dry my wet hair.

The bed dipped slightly as he climbed into bed, and sat next to me.

Suddenly, he grabbed my one of my wrists, snatched the towel and threw
it to the floor.  I tried to pull my wrist back, feeling fear creeping
into my spine.

Without saying a word, he started to pull off the bandages and inspect
the wounds.  He did the same to the other.  Satisfied, he let go of my
hands without re-bandaging it.

“You are healing quickly,” he remarked.

“I am an elf,” I quipped.

“A very beautiful elf,” he corrected me.  “Let’s eat and then we will
go to sleep.”

Did I hear wrong?  I eyed him cautiously.  He must have felt it.

“Unless you wish to do something else?”  He eyed me suggestively.

“No, I need rest,” I answered quickly.

We ate quietly, each in his thoughts.

As we prepared to sleep, I thought he was going to give me a clean
undershirt to put on.

“I’m not used to sleeping naked.  Can I have something to wear?” I
asked Aragorn when I saw that he was laying the quilts over us.

“No.  You will sleep naked whenever I am with you.”  Saying that, he
pulled me down and pressed his naked body against my bare back, which
made me very uncomfortable.

I was about to protest.  “I said no, Legolas,” he snapped
threateningly.

With a barely restrained anger, I laid down quietly.  A hand crept over
my waist and wrapped itself possessively as he snuggled closer against
me.  However being too tired, I soon fell asleep.


8.  Punishable By The King Of Gondor

Strong gusts of wind rattled the glass windows continuously. 
Occasionally loud tapping sounds as water droplets were splashed onto
the glass could be heard.  The noises were so loud that they woke me
up.  Slowly, my mind drift back, to full consciousness.

Strangely, my body shivered from the cold.  Probably I was weakening
from the effects of grief.  Naturally, I pulled the thick quilt up to
my neck and I balled myself up tightly.

Without intention, a nagging thought surfaced and soon it became clear
to me.  Firstly, I was alone in bed and secondly, I could move my legs
freely.  Aragorn must have forgotten to shackle my ankle.

My heart raced at that thought and without wasting a moment, I sat up
and immediately surveyed the room to make sure I was really alone.  I
also pushed the covers away to inspect my ankle.

I was really free!

For the first time, my heart pumped furiously with joy and excitement. 
The fact that I finally had a chance to escape was unbelievable.

My eyes searched around for something to wear.  Then I saw a clean
undershirt draped over the back of a chair.  I got out of bed gingerly,
grabbed it and put it on quickly.  The thin material felt soft and cool
on my skin.  It was mostly white except some silver-blue trimmings and
shinning-gold treading in intricate elvish designs on the lapels of the
shirt.

As usual, the length just barely covered my dignity.  It would not be
enough for my long journey back to Mirkwood.  I would have to steal
some clothes when I get the chance, but right now it would have to
suffice.

My next problem would be to get rid of the guard posted outside.  I
looked around for something that I could use as a weapon but found none
useful.  Severely without options, I would have to rely on my wits to
get out of this.

I crept to hide against the wall, just behind the door, so that when he
opened it I would be safely out of sight.

“Aaahhh!  Help me!” I cried loudly.  The guard must come in to check on
me and this was the one and only chance I have.  Otherwise, who knows
when I would get the opportunity to try to escape next time.

The door was opened hesitantly and a head of brown hair peered
cautiously from behind it.  The guard was smart in being careful but he
did not realised that his prisoner was free from the manacle.  Surprise
would be my only weapon at the moment.

Before he noticed that I was not lying on the bed, I grabbed his head
and yanked him inside.  A hard jab in the abdomen with my knee and a
quick punch to his nose sent him doubling over, crumbling to the floor.

The man cursed while holding his bloodied and broken nose.

I threw open the door widely and jumped out of the chamber.  For the
first time, I saw what was outside my prison.  Again I was not left
with much choice.

Apparently my prison chamber was situated right at the very end of a
long, wide passage.  There were few doors along the left wall and the
right stone wall was graced only with paintings of elven folklores. 
Pity I did not have the time to study them, as I love all folklore.

The lack of servants’ presence and few chambers indicated that I was
living at a very private wing of the palace.  That probably also meant
that I was somewhere deep within the castle.  As I never had the chance
to look out of the windows in my prison chamber I could not tell where
I was.

From my quick assessment, there were no openings or windows to allow
entry of the natural lights from Anar.  The only light came from the
two rows of beautifully carved or wrought metal torch holders on the
walls.  I did not know which material was used because I did not wish
to waste time finding out.

A pair of delicate white hands with their palms up, held each deep
glass bowl where the yellow flame danced on the surface of clear
liquid.  The eerie thing was that the hands that protruded out of the
walls seemed natural, as if an extension of the wall or someone was
buried inside the wall, leaving the hands to show.

Pressed for time, I started to run down the aisle, hoping that no one
would appear on the other end before I got there.  Reaching the end, I
found that I had two choices.  There were two corridors on opposite
sides that could lead to my freedom though none looked promising. 
While I pondered on which side to go, a shout from behind me prompted
me to hurry.

Praying to Elbereth for guidance, I chose the right.  I took off with
all speed and grace as all elves do.  My heart pounded with each step I
took, sending more adrenaline into every fiber of my body.

Unfortunately before I got very far, a group of five guards were just
coming out of one of the chambers.  They were chatting and laughing
jovially until they saw me.  Everyone stopped dead in his tracks.

From a surprised expression, it slowly turned into lust.  I could see
their eyes bulging, almost popping out of their sockets.  I could guess
what was going on in their minds as Aragorn had shown me several times.
 With my long blond hair framing my face, I probably appeared like a
maiden to them.  At the same time, my skimpy clothing made matters
worst as my pale skin revealed too much but not the most important
detail.

Suddenly a shout from behind me made them look over me, almost
reluctantly.

“Catch him!” cried the voice behind me again.  The guards seemed
puzzled by his command.

Taking the opportunity in their distraction, I doubled back to the
direction I had come from because it would be much easier to deal with
one guard than five.  

Realization dawned on them too late.  I heard them shouting for me to
stop and stomping after me like a herd of cattle.

The guard with the bloodied face opened his arms wide to catch me but I
was ready to retaliate.  As soon as I was close enough, I lashed out to
punch his face but he was prepared too and caught my fisted hand in
time.  Without missing a beat, I used my body weight to twist out of
his grasp, whirled around and landed behind him.

Before he got over his surprise, I lifted my right leg and ram it
heavily behind his knee, sending him down to the smooth flagstones.  I
heard a sharp crack of bones snapping, followed immediately by a scream
of pain.  The man crumpled onto the floor in heap, holding the injured
limb in agony.

Without wasting anymore time, I ran towards the other corridor that I
did not chose at first.  This part of the passage was sparsely
decorated with paintings and tapestries.  However, the further I went
the more richly ornate the palace became.  Not knowing where I was
going, I just hoped I was not heading deeper into the palace.  It was
difficult to be sure within this maze.

Rounding the third corner, I had not realised in my flight that someone
was coming from the other side until I crashed into a broad, hard
chest.

“Oof!” I heard him huff.  The impact was quite severe because I had
been running very fast.  I bounced backward and would have toppled if
he had not caught my upper arms.  Even after I had steadied myself, his
hands did not leave me.

I was keenly aware that I had bumped into two men.

When I looked up, to my utter horror, the last person I would expect to
run into was Aragorn himself.  He was just as surprised as I was but it
quickly turned into fury.  I did not get the chance to see who the
other person was because my attentions were too caught up with my foe.

Within moments, the five guards who finally caught up were also
surprised to confront the King.

“Sire.  Lord Boromir,” I heard them salute abruptly.

Fueled by panic and fear, I tried to liberate myself from his steel
grip and started to kick him but Aragorn pushed me back until I slammed
against the wall.  My head hit the stone wall with a loud thud that
made the others jump.

Stars appeared in front of my eyes while darkness began closing in.  I
winced while a pitiful moan rumbled inside my throat.  My legs nearly
gave out beneath me.  I would have succumbed to unconsciousness if his
fingers had not dug painfully into my flesh, keeping me from slipping
away.

Before I even recovered, Aragorn turned me around and twisted my left
arm painfully behind me.  I yelped out loud.  He pinned me very
securely, making sure I could not fight back, although I tried and only
managed to scrape my face on the rough wall instead.

“How did he get out?” he questioned his guards sternly.

No one answered him but I could hear them shifting uncomfortably.
Moments later he wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me back to
his body.  Then he lifted me while one arm was still twisted behind me.
 Unable to move, I dangled by his side helplessly like a stuffed doll.

“You two…..follow me,” I heard him order.  “I will see you later
Boromir.”  I could not hear what the other man replied because the King
had already turned away from him and started to walk.

How much more humiliation could an elven Prince suffer, to be carried
away like a child and not to mention that my naked backside flashed
freely for anyone to see?

Instead of pondering whether I was blushing from embarrassment or
simply all the blood rushing to my head, I was fearful of the
punishment he would surely bestow on me later.

The four of us marched (I dangled all the way) solemnly back to my
prison chamber.  Several times I grunted as his arm dug into my stomach
because I bounced a lot.  Like a defeated prisoner, I did not struggle
or yell.

Halfway we met the guard whom I had fought earlier with.  He was
limping painfully towards where I had bumped into Aragorn.  His eyes
widened in surprise at meeting us, especially his King.

“Sire, I’m…I’m…” he stammered, fully aware that he had failed in his
duty.

“Go to the healers now,” commanded the King.

“Yes, your Majesty,” he answered, relief evidently shown on his face. 
He gave a bow cautiously and then hobbled away.

I had expected the man to give me a venomous look for getting him into
trouble but I saw only pity in his eyes, knowing that I would be in
much trouble for this attempted escape.  I felt guilty for making him
hurt so much as he was only doing his duty.

It did not take long for us to reach the prison chamber.  I wished it
would be an eternity to get here.  My heart pounded furiously as gloom
began to spread its way around me.  I was panicking and terrified of
entering that chamber.

Once inside, he dropped me on to the bed.  I tried to use the
opportunity to clamber away though a bit too slow due to my stiff arm
from being twisted too long behind my back.  He caught my waist, hauled
me back and positioned half my body on the bed, leaving my other half
over the side, fully exposing my naked buttocks.

I struggled frantically.  He was going to execute my punishment.

“Hold him down securely,” I heard him order.  The guards did as they
were told.

‘Please, please don’t rape me in front of them,’ my heart pleaded.  I
had suffered enough humiliation for one day that would last me a
lifetime.

Suddenly, I heard a crack and a fiery sting invaded my taut bottom.  He
was whipping me with something flat, probably a belt.

I clenched my teeth hard, not wanting to make any noise but I could not
stop my tears from flowing.  Luckily my unbraided hair cascaded around
my face, allowing me to hide them behind it.

The burns kept invading all my senses and I did not know how many
lashes he gave me as I had lost count half way.  I was tiring from all
the tensed muscles and in too much pain.  I did not know how long I
could hold on to.

Finally he stopped and I heard him panting amidst my soft sobs. 
Without a word, the two guards let go of me and left the chamber.  I
briefly wondered if they thought I was a harlot to their King.

I did not attempt get up because I could not move.  I was too stiff and
the hurt on my rear end still throbbed terribly.  I felt Aragorn kissed
my buttocks where it hurts the most, lovingly and tenderly; and then he
wrapped himself around me.

“You are my consort, Legolas and therefore, you are required to stay
here.  Today, you’ve been very bad and your disobedience must be
punished,” he whispered into my ear.  “I love you very much.  Do you
know that?”

“I didn’t ask for this,” I sobbed bitterly.  “I did not want your love
and I did not want to be your consort.  I want my family and my life
back!”

“Why do you hate me so?” he asked, louder this time.

Abruptly, he got up and turned me around to face him.  I cringed
because my buttocks suffered from the unexpected movements.

“I have been trying to be nice to you and you have treated me with
nothing but contempt!” he bellowed.

“You took me against my will!” I yelled shrilly.  I stared at him with
burnt hatred.

His face turned dark red and his eyes looked as if it would pop out. 
Suddenly, a hand flew down and struck me so hard that I lay dazed for a
while.

“So be it.  I will have you as I wish!” he hissed dangerously.

With that, he pulled down his leggings and started to stroke himself. 
It did not take long for his eager manhood to spring to life.

Terror awoke in me and I tried to get away from him.  Unfortunately, he
had anticipated my intentions.  He grabbed my upper arms and shoved me
to the middle of the bed.  Even though my backside felt like the skin
was being peeled from it, I endured.  It was nothing compared to what
he was about to do to me.

In a futile attempt, I scratched and clawed at him but he gripped my
neck and squeezed it.  Choking, I tried to pull his hand away. 
Colourful stars burst in my vision and a loud ringing noise filled my
hearings.  I tried to kick him but was unable to raise them.  Then my
lungs burned because I could not breathe.

All was lost when I perceived something wet against my opening and then
he penetrated me immediately.  A strangled sob tore from my throat and
I almost black out.

Without letting me adjust to his intrusion, he began pounding me
brutally.  I felt him let go of his hand from my neck and started to
lick it.  Just as I was about to draw precious air into my lungs, he
crushed his mouth to my lips and bit them, drawing blood from them.  I
cried into his mouth as my hands clutched his tunic so tightly as to
almost tear it.

The torture was unbearable yet he did not stop.  He was so intent on
hurting me even more.  Whenever I could, I tried to breathe, to recover
enough strength to fight him.  Every time that I was able to muster
some energy within me, I almost wasted it on screaming.

Luckily (or not), the man came quickly and withdrew without care.  I
lay unmoving, soaked through with sweats and trembling furiously. 
Something warm trickled between the cleft of my buttocks, its amount
too much to be just semen. 

Aragorn’s face was flushed and wet.  His hair had pasted around his
face, making him look like a dangerous predator.

Thinking that it was over as I saw him stand on his knees, I was
greatly dismayed when he began taking off all his clothes instead. 
Then he did the same to me.

“I’m not done with you yet,” he leered, probably he had notice the look
on my face.  “You will learn your lesson well today, for displeasing
your master.”

My heart sank into a bottomless pit.  How would I survive after this,
as he had no intention of killing me and putting me out of my misery?

Aragorn pulled me up and shoved me to the headboard.  “On your knees,
and spread them apart,” he commanded.

I did what I was told, albeit reluctantly.  It was difficult to move
quickly, as my body did not allow it and my head was spinning
nauseatingly.  More bodily fluid seeped from my sore hole and it
dribbled down my inner thighs.  I did not dare to look down because I
did not wish to see my own blood.

All the same, he did not waste any time.  I heard him open the drawer
to the side table and then, when he circled his arms around me I saw
that he was holding a long piece of silk rope.  He grabbed both of my
wrists and tied them together securely on one of the carved marble
railings.

Free to do what he wished, he started by running his hand down my back.
 “You have such a sensual spine.  It makes my fingers tingle by just
touching it,” he whispered from behind me.

When the hand reached my raw buttocks, he kneaded them, making me
squeal.  I wrestled feebly as I had not fully recovered from my first
attack.  Everything below my waist seemed to pulse with much distress.

“Do you know how much my body yearns for you every time I think of you,
hhhmmm…..?  Do you know that I would love to have my hard member inside
you all the time, feeling the heat radiating from inside you?” he
muttered under his heavy breathing.

The words were disgusting to my ears.  I attempted to press my upper
arms over them to stop them from being abused by his sick thoughts.

“I know your body enjoys having me pounding you hard, doesn’t it,
Legolas?” he continued, undaunted by my actions.  “You like it hard and
rough, isn’t it?  You like being submissive, to surrender to my every
whim.”

“Tampa ta! [Stop it!]  I’m sorry I tried to escape.  I will never do it
again,” I cried.  “Just, please stop it.  Saes [Please].”

“Too late, Legolas.  I’ve been very nice to you and now you will suffer
by your own decision.”

“No, don’t….,” I whimpered.

“Don’t…. what, Legolas?” he tormented me.

“Tua amin, ada [Help me],” I begged pitifully.

“Your ada will never come and rescue you.  In fact, everyone thinks
that you are already dead.”

My jaw dropped from the shock.  How could they possibly believe that I
was dead?

The body behind me shifted close against me and I tensed exaggeratedly
when his member forced its way in.  For the second time, he tore my
bleeding hole.

I screamed in anguish, my voice bouncing against the wall and echoed
back to me.  In that moment of rage and helplessness, I had stretched
my neck back, crying to the Valar for mercy.

With no hope of freeing my wrists, I shifted my energy to take the
pain.  The man took his time in pummeling me deliberately, making sure
that I felt the length that filled me, and the fleshy desire that
throbbed inside me.  There was no love or care, only lust and greedy
needs.

Then something inside me snapped.  It was as if the chain to an anchor
broke and I drifted away unwillingly.  I gave up fighting him.  I was
too weak and terrified.  I was no longer an elven prince.  I was not
strong, for I was as fragile as I looked.  I had no more pride or
dignity.  And the saddest part of all was that I no longer had a
family.  I.  Legolas Greenleaf.  Had.  Nothing.  Left.

Aragorn, son of Arathorn, the King of Gondor, had succeeded in breaking
me.

His loud groan had woken me from my thoughts of self-pity.  He gave a
last thrust and stayed unmoving, buried deep inside me.  When his warm
seeds filled me, I felt so unclean.  After pulling away his spent
member, he wrapped his arms around me fondly.  I slumped into him,
completely drained.  Again, I felt more fluid coming out from me.

‘May be I could bleed to death?’  It was only wishful thinking.

“You are the property of the King of Gondor.  You will perform your
duties as I require.  Understand?” he stated.  I was too tired to
reply.

“Do you understand?” he repeated a little louder.

“Yes,” I answered, barely a whisper.  My head was downcast in sorrow
and my body sagged with weariness.

“Good,” he said and released my wrists.  I brought my legs together and
sat down on one side like a maiden so that I would not hurt myself
again.  With my hands on my laps, I rested my weary head against the
cold marble headboard.

I heard him pick up the manacle that was dangling over the side of the
bed.  Then he pulled me by my waist towards him and grabbed my left
leg.  I watched wearily as he placed the steel contraption around my
ankle.

When he clasped it shut with a loud snap, I jumped.  The sound echoed
horribly loud and clear, torturing every p