Whispers of Immortality (0-2/16)
Rating: PG13-NC17
By:  Shalimar (orionsangel2032@hotmail.com)
Pairings:  Aragorn/Legolas with some Aragorn/Arwen, Elrond/Glorfindel, 
Frodo/Sam & Celeborn/Haldir
Disclaimer:  I don’t own them
Warnings:  Slash, Character Death, Angst
Authors note:  Follows both Book story line as well as the Movie. Final 
chapters are slight AU.  Thanks to Jenny and Jackie, my beta readers.


Summary: The story of Aragorn and Legolas, from their first meeting in 
Rivendell, to Legolas’s life in the Undying Lands.  

Prologue and Chapter 1 (PG-13): Estel falls for the young Prince Legolas 
of Mirkwood, but realizes that it is a love that can never be.  Years later 
Estel, now called Aragorn, is betrothed to Arwen, yet his heart still yearns 
for Legolas.


Prologue:  Unrequited Love 0/16

      Elladan and Elrohir, the twin sons of Lord Elrond of Rivendell, 
stood facing their father.  “You must keep an eye on him.  He may be 
strong, but it is easy to forget, he is still merely a mortal child.” Elrond 
was speaking of Estel, his foster son.  “There will be a lot going on in the 
coming weeks, with the arrival of the Mirkwood elves, as well as your 
grandparents.  I will not be able to keep an eye on him.”  Elrohir, the elder 
twin, looked towards the balcony where Estel stood fuming.  “I’m not a 
child.  I don’t need someone to watch me every second.  I’m quite able to 
take care of myself,” came Estel’s reply.  
      Elrond dismissed his twins and walked out to join him on the 
balcony. “Estel, I am quite aware of the fact that you are no longer a child, 
but you are merely 19 years old, and your mother would have my head if I 
let anything happen to you.  While she’s away from Rivendell, I must 
make certain you are safe.  There will be many strangers here, some with a 
dislike for Men.  Do you understand why I must not let you run around 
freely?”  He looked at his foster-father, and saw only genuine concern in 
his eyes.  “Yes ada, I understand,” he replied.  Elrond smiled.  “Don’t 
worry, I will not keep you from the festivities.  I only ask that your 
brothers accompany you wherever you go.”
       A knock on the door disrupted whatever reply Estel may have had.  
“Come,” answered Elrond.  It was Glorfindel.  “Sorry to disturb you my 
lord,” he said,  “but there are many things we must discuss before the 
arrival of your guests.”  Estel saw a slight smile cross his father’s face. 
“Yes of course.” Elrond said.  He faced Estel once more.  “Remember my 
warning Estel.  You may go.”

	When he reached his room, he found his brothers waiting.  “Come 
Estel,” said Elladan, “we will go riding.  It will take your mind off of 
things.”  Estel, Elladan and Elrohir rode their horses out far beyond the 
reaches of the House.  Up on his balcony, Elrond watched his sons go.  I 
fear for him.  There will be many hard times in his life.  His mother is 
right, he will always suffer.  Soon I must reveal to him his heritage, and I 
fear he will not accept it with open arms.  “Are you alright my lord?” 
Glorfindel’s question shook Elrond out of his thoughts.  “Ai, Glorfindel.  I 
just worry for Estel.”  Glorfindel took hold of Elrond’s hand.  “He is 
strong my lord, he will be alright.”  Elrond smiled at Glorfindel and placed 
a gentle kiss on his lips.  “Now where were we.  Our guests will be 
arriving in a few hours.”

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	Lord Celeborn, Lady Galadriel and their party were the first to 
arrive.  A few hours later, King Thranduil and his son Legolas arrived 
from Mirkwood.  When Estel and the twins returned from riding, their 
father instructed them to bathe and return to him, so that they may greet 
their grandparents, and provide company for Prince Legolas.	When 
the three were returning to their father’s chambers, Estel turned to his 
brothers.  “Who is Prince Legolas?  I fear I have neither met nor heard of 
him before.”  “Do not worry brother,”  replied Elladan, “Once you meet 
him, I fear you may never forget him.”  Elladan shared a knowing smile 
with Elrohir.  “He is one of the fairest of our kin, and you will greatly 
enjoy his company.”  
      When they entered Elrond’s chamber, Lord Celeborn and Lady 
Galadriel were already waiting.  Estel and the twins greeted their 
grandparents, and their guard, Haldir.  They then turned and found King 
Thranduil speaking to Mithrandir (Gandalf).   The sons of Elrond greeted 
them and asked for Legolas.  “Ai, he is out exploring Rivendell.  It’s been 
many years since he has been here,” replied Elrond.  Just then Estel 
noticed as a beautiful blonde elf entered the room.  He couldn’t take his 
eyes off him.  Never in all his years, had Estel witnessed such beauty, not 
even among the elves.  “Welcome Legolas, it has been many years,” 
Elladan and Elrohir greeted the prince, and proceeded to introduce him to 
their foster-brother.  By this time Estel had regained control of his senses 
and bowed slightly to Legolas. “Welcome, it is a pleasure to make your 
acquaintance, Prince.”  
      Elladan and Elrohir led the group out to the balcony, where the 
four spent the night speaking and joking with one another.  Estel sat near 
Legolas and asked him about Mirkwood.  “I hear that the Mirkwood elves 
live underground and in caves,” asked Estel.  “Yes Estel we do, but we 
used to live in the trees like the Lorien elves.  We still feel more at home 
in the trees, but it has been necessary for us to move underground.”  
replied Legolas.  “It would seem like a good idea, I suppose, to live 
underground in Mirkwood.  With all the danger that has taken over those 
once beautiful woods, your father is wise to take the elves from the trees 
and dwell underground.”  Legolas smiled at Estel.  For a human child, he 
seems wise beyond his years.  I am growing rather fond of him.  He has an 
air of royalty that surrounds him, although I do not know whether he was 
born with it or if it comes from dwelling so long in the House of Elrond.   
The sun was already beginning to rise when Elladan and Elrohir excused 
themselves to make rounds.  “I will go with you,” Estel replied as his 
brothers were leaving.  “Nay Estel, keep the prince company.  He can keep 
an eye on you for us,”  Elladan said.  “Yes please, keep me company,” 
Legolas said to Estel.  
	Estel and Legolas spent the next few weeks becoming great 
friends.  The spent their days talking and hunting, and their nights singing 
and exploring the lands of Rivendell.  Legolas taught Estel how to use a 
bow and arrow, and Estel in turn taught Legolas all he knew of the sword.  
After spending the day practicing and sparring the two collapsed by the 
riverside, exhausted.  “Ai Estel, I fear I have met my match in you!” 
laughed Legolas.    Estel found himself staring at the prince as he smiled at 
him.  He is beautiful, thought Estel.  
      His reverie was broken when he noticed Legolas had moved 
towards the river.  “We should bathe in the river. It will help cool us 
down.”  Legolas began to remove his clothing and Estel felt his face flush.  
Estel tried hard to keep his eyes off Legolas as they removed their clothing 
and dropped themselves into the cool water.  Legolas dove underneath the 
water and surfaced in front of Estel, splashing him with water.   The two 
played  for hours and it was beginning to grow dark.  “We must return 
before your father sends out his armies looking for you,” laughed Estel.  
Legolas looked towards the boy as he was dressing.  He is amazing.  If I 
didn’t know better I would believe he was an elf.  He seems as if he could 
be Elrond’s own child, with the striking resemblance he has to the twins.  
Legolas looked over Estel’s well-built body, and noticed even with his 
dark hair and gray eyes, he was much more beautiful than the twins could 
ever be.  What am I thinking?  He’s just a boy, barely in his twenties.  The 
two took off towards the house.
        That night, as Estel stood looking over the balcony, Elladan and 
Elrohir approached him.  “Why are you not with Legolas?  You two have 
seemed inseparable these last few weeks, almost as much as Elrohir and 
I,” Elladan said to his brother.  Estel looked towards them with a shadow 
of a smile on his face.  As quickly as it had appeared it was gone.  “I fear I 
have become enamored with him.  I do not believe he could ever return 
those feelings.  I am a mere mortal, and he is a Prince.  I doubt he would 
have feelings towards another man, let alone one such as myself.”  The 
shadow of self-doubt fell over Estel’s face.  He walked away from the 
twins and proceeded to his own room.  
      “Ai, this is not good,” said Elrohir.  “What is not good?”  Elrond 
asked as he approached with Gilraen, Estel’s mother.  “I just saw Estel, is 
everything alright?  He seemed upset and almost heartbroken.”  Gilraen 
approached the twins.  “What has happened?”   Elladan told Elrond and 
Gilraen about Estel’s love for Legolas.  “You are my right my son, this is 
not good.  I fear Estel may get his heart broken.  Prince Legolas has long 
made it known that he has no desire to court or ever marry, much to the 
dismay of many. Estel must be told this, maybe it will steer his heart away 
from this ill-fated course.”  Elrond approached his door and called to a 
servant.  “Please send for Estel, I need to speak with him as soon as 
possible.”

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~


	Estel approached his room, thoughts weighed heavy on his heart 
and mind.  He was supposed to meet Legolas over an hour ago, but could 
not find the courage to seek him out.  He was so lost in his own thoughts 
that he did not see Legolas had stepped into his path until we had almost 
collided with the prince.  Estel looked up sharply, trying to disguise the 
storm that raged within him.  “You’re late,” whispered the prince, 
pretending to be angry.  As Estel struggled to find an apology Legolas 
smiled and brought his hand to rest on his shoulder.  “This is my last night 
in Imladris, and I wish for your company.  Estel sighed softly and smiled, 
“of course my friend, it would be my honor.”  Just then, the servant Elrond 
had sent approached the two.  “Forgive the intrusion my lords, but Lord 
Elrond wishes to speak with Estel.”  Legolas smiled and bowed to Estel 
and the servant.  “I will be waiting then my friend,” he said to Estel as he 
turned and made his way to his room.
~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	As Estel entered Elrond’s chamber, he noticed immediately the 
somber look on his face.  He also noticed that he had been so engrossed in 
Legolas’s company that his mother had returned and he had not even 
noticed.  “Forgive me mother, I did not know you had returned.”  Gilraen 
smiled at her son.  “I didn’t expect you to Estel.  You seemed to have 
found some more pleasurable company these last few weeks.”  Estel 
looked up sharply at his mother.  “Yes, my son, I know of your love for 
the prince.  We must discuss this.  I fear you are headed for heartache.”  
Estel sighed.  “Yes I know that mother, but I can’t seem to help the way I 
feel about him.”  Gilraen stepped towards her son.  “Just promise me 
Estel, that you will not lose yourself in him.”  She kissed his cheek and he 
smiled softly at her.  Elrond stepped towards him.  “There are many things 
we must speak of soon Estel.  You will reach your 20th year in a few days, 
and there are things about your past and about your father’s, which we 
must discuss.  But before this, I must offer you some advice.  I am happy 
that you have found love, but Legolas is a prince, and he has expressed 
that he has no desire for love.  I can make no assumptions on his feelings 
for you, but do not be surprised if he does not return your feelings.  I can 
only advise that you ask him yourself.”  Estel thought on Elrond’s words.  
“No, I do not think I will do that.  I would not wish you lose his 
friendship. 
	“Very well, you may go.  But tonight I will need to speak with you 
about your heritage.”  Estel looked puzzled.  “Maybe it would be best if 
we spoke of this now my lord.”  Elrond looked at Estel for a long time 
before answering.  “Very well Aragorn, son of Arathorn;  Isildur’s heir 
and rightful King of Gondor.

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	Estel, or rather, Aragorn, approached Legolas’s room quietly.  His 
mind was still reeling from all that Elrond had told him.  He resolved in 
his mind to discuss it with Legolas.  Maybe it would make it easier to 
understand.  Aragorn had no desire to be king.  He feared he had not the 
strength to be the king of men, and Isildur’s fate would be his own.  He 
spent so long contemplating his future that Legolas had heard him outside 
his room and went to open the door.  Aragorn jumped at the noise as the 
door opened in front of him.  He was greeted with the sight of Legolas 
laughing at him.  “You seem to be lost in your thoughts quite often lately 
Estel.”  Aragorn smiled and Legolas stepped aside so he could enter his 
room.  “What is troubling you my friend?”  Aragorn looked at Legolas and 
replied, ”Elrond has just told me of my true heritage this night.  My name 
is not Estel, but rather Aragorn, son of Arathorn.”  Legolas’s eyes widened 
in surprise.  I knew there was more to him than everyone believed.  “You.  
You’re Aragorn?  The King of Men?”  Aragorn sighed and sat down in a 
chair near Legolas’s bed.  His eyes drifted over the unmade bed, and 
thoughts of he and Legolas on that bed raced into his mind.  He blushed 
and looked away.  When he spoke again, his voice slightly trembled.  “I 
do not wish to have that power Legolas.  I do not believe I am worthy of 
it.”  
      “Aragorn,” Legolas sat across from him, “ You are the rightful 
king.  It is in your blood.”  Aragorn looked Legolas in the eye and spoke, 
his voice barely above a whisper.  “But it is not in my heart.  Please, my 
friend, let us speak of other things this night, for you are leaving at dawn.”  
Aragorn’s eyes met Legolas’s and he briefly entertained the thought of 
revealing his feelings to him.  Nay, I cannot.  His feelings for me are 
simply that of friendship.  Legolas’s eyes drifted over Aragorn’s body as 
he appeared deep in thought.  Ai, my thoughts this night are impure.  We 
must leave my room before I reveal too much.  There will always be time 
later to tell him of my feelings.  Tonight he has too much on his mind.
~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	The next morning came and Aragorn bid Legolas and King 
Thranduil farewell.  He had resolved in his mind that his feelings for the 
prince must never be revealed, for he would lose a true friend.  “Till we 
meet again, Aragorn.” Legolas looked into his eyes and saw a glimmer of 
something more in them.  Could it be?  But as soon as Legolas thought he 
saw it, it was gone.  My mind must be  playing tricks.  Ah well, ‘tis for the 
better.  I should not reveal my feelings for him just yet anyway.  “Good 
journey, my friend,” replied Aragorn.  He briefly embraced Legolas and 
stepped away from him as he mounted his horse.  Elrond watched Aragorn 
as Legolas’s party rode away.  I hope he will one day learn to accept who 
he is, and that he will find love.  “I’m sorry things did not work for you 
two Aragorn.  I’m sorry you did not find love.  Aragorn smiled at Elrond.  
“Nay, my lord,  I have never been without love.  I have my mother’s and 
my brother’s love, and I have yours.  Elrond smiled at him.  “Always, my 
son.  Never doubt that.”  Lord Elrond and Aragorn walked back towards 
the great hall of Elrond’s house.  Yes it’s true Aragorn.  You have never 
been without love, and as hard as I fear your life will be, I know in my 
heart, you never will be.

~End Prologue~



Chapter 1:  Aragorn and Arwen  (1/16) 

	Six years had passed since Aragorn had last set eyes on Legolas.  
So much had happened since then, and Aragorn had just turned 26 years 
old.  A few years earlier he had come across Mithrandir again, and the two 
of them had become good friends.  The wizard was always full of 
knowledge, and had never ending patience for Aragorn.  He was just 
returning from one of his many meetings with Mithrandir, when he 
decided he would take a short cut through the woods.  He had reached a 
clearing when he heard a beautiful voice singing a song about Lothlorien 
and the Golden Lady.
        Aragorn hid himself in the bushes, and approached the source of 
the song.  His eyes widened in surprise. My eyes must be playing tricks on 
me.  It cannot be.  Luthien Tunuviel?  The songs and stories do not do her 
beauty justice.  Aragorn presented himself, and the maiden turned in 
surprise.  “Tunuviel?”  asked Aragorn.  “Is that you?”  The maiden 
laughed sweetly.  “Nay, My lord.  I am Arwen Undomiel, Daughter of 
Elrond Peredhil.”  Aragorn smiled at this.  “Are you sure?  I have lived in 
Rivendell all my life, and I have never met you, nor has your father 
spoken of you.  I am Aragorn, Elrond’s foster-son.”  Arwen bowed to 
Aragorn.  “Yes, my father has spoken of you. He is quite fond of you, and 
I can see why.”   The two spent hours talking and laughing, and Aragorn 
slowly felt the pain of his unrequited love for Legolas fade.

~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	Later that night Aragorn sought out his mother.  He wished to tell 
her of his encounter with Arwen. When Aragorn entered his mother’s 
room, Gilraen immediately noticed the change in his mood.  “It’s been 
years since I’ve seen you this happy, my love.  Tell me, what has 
happened?”  Aragorn told his mother of Arwen and their hours of 
conversation.  “I am falling for her.  Mother, I am finally happy.  I believe 
I wish to marry her.”  Gilraen stayed quiet for a moment.  “We will speak 
to Lord Elrond about this and see what he thinks.”  I fear he is on a course 
for another heartbreak.  Elrond will never allow anyone who is not royalty 
to marry his daughter, and Aragorn has already forsaken his throne.  
Gilraen and Aragorn approached Elrond with the matter.  Just as she 
feared, Elrond was none too happy.  “I will not allow it Aragorn.  I will 
not allow my daughter to wed a man who has turned from his own duties.
	If you become King, you may marry Arwen, but until then, it 
cannot be.”
	Aragorn was heartbroken.  Tears welled in his eyes and he refused 
to look at Elrond or his mother.  “Please Aragorn, understand.  I wish only 
the best for her, and for you.  I do know you are worthy of Arwen, but you 
must prove it to me, “  Elrond pleaded with his foster son to understand.  
“I know what you ask of me Elrond, and I fear I cannot do it.  I’m sorry, I 
have no desire to be king.”  With that said, Aragorn excused himself.  Why 
must love forsake me?  What have I done?  Aragorn retired to his 
chambers early, but sleep escaped him that night.  I know what I must do.  
I cannot stay here much longer.  My mother will be leaving soon to go 
back to Eriador, and I shall also leave here.  I shall become a ranger, and 
spend my days killing orcs and protecting my home.

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
	Twenty-three years passed by, and Aragorn felt every one of them.  
He was now 49, which would be old, if he were a regular mortal man.  But 
he was a descendant of the Numenorians, a line of men, which began with 
Elros, Elrond’s twin brother.  He would live a long life, possibly two or 
three lifetimes compared to that of a mortal man.  Aragorn’s mother had 
died several years earlier, and since leaving Rivendell, he felt he was no 
longer as close to Elrond as he had been before his foster father denied 
him permission to marry Arwen..  It was about this time that Aragorn was 
approached by his old friend Mithrandir, whom he now called Gandalf.  
He asked the ranger’s help in seeking the creature Gollum.  Aragorn, of 
course, agreed.  His journey sent him to all parts of Middle earth, and even 
through the edges of Lothlorien.
	When Aragorn entered ‘Lorien, he had not hoped to find Arwen 
there, but yet she was.  In his heart, Aragorn now held two lost loves, and 
never had any hope of regaining either one of them.  Legolas and he had 
not spoken for 29 years, and he knew nothing of what had become of the 
prince.  Aragorn guessed Legolas had spent those years defending 
Mirkwood against orcs, just as he had spent them defending Rivendell and 
Eriador.  And here was Arwen, as beautiful as ever.  The years had not 
changed her appearance one bit, nor had they much changed Aragorn.  
Much to his surprise, Arwen and he renewed their love.  With or without 
Elrond’s permission, he though, I will ask her to marry me.  Aragorn and 
Arwen were betrothed that very day.  He knew however, that they could 
not marry just yet, or any time soon.  There was still the question of 
Gollum, and the growing evil in middle earth.  Something had to be done 
before he could even think of marrying Arwen.
	Thirty-seven years later, Aragorn caught the creature Gollum in the 
Dead Marshes.  He feared he could not make it all the way to Rivendell, 
but instead brought the creature to Mirkwood.  The second he entered the 
woods, his thoughts turned to Legolas.  Much to his surprise, Aragorn 
found his heart yearned for the prince as much as before.  Nay, it cannot 
be.  I am now betrothed to Arwen, my heart will not stray.  Even though he 
told himself this, Aragorn could not help the excitement he felt at the 
chance to see Legolas again.

~End Chapter 1~


Chapter 2:  Reunions and Fellowships (2/16)

      “Welcome Aragorn! It’s good to see you again after so many 
years, even under these circumstances.”  King Thranduil had just called 
his guards to come and collect Gollum from Aragorn, and motioned for 
Aragorn to take a seat.  “So it’s been, what, 66 years?  My son has 
expressed great desire to go and visit Rivendell again, but unfortunately, 
he has been kept busy leading our soldiers against invading orc armies.  
Aragorn perked up at the mention of Legolas.  “So is he here?  I would 
greatly enjoy being reunited with him after so long,” Aragorn replied.  He 
tried not to seem so anxious, but he could not seem to think of anything 
but seeing his old friend again.  Thranduil smiled warmly at this.  “Of 
course he is!  I will send for him immediately.  In the meantime, why 
don’t you warm yourself with a nice meal, and I’ll have a room made up 
for you.”  Aragorn bowed to show his appreciation.  “That would be most 
welcome, my Lord.  Thank you.”  
      As food was brought to him, Aragorn finally realized how hungry 
he had been.  He didn’t notice that all this time, Legolas had been standing 
in the doorway, practically in shock at seeing the object of his undying 
affection after so many years.  He’s still as beautiful as ever.  I never 
imagined it would be so many years before we saw each other again.  If I 
had known, I would have told him how I felt about him before I left.  But 
he’s here now, and I won’t waste another moment.
      Legolas made his way into the dining room and smiled at Aragorn.  
“It’s been too many years my friend,” Legolas said.  Aragorn looked up 
sharply and his smile widened at the sight of the prince.  “Legolas!”  
Aragorn jumped up and embraced him in a tight hug, his hunger 
temporarily forgotten.  “You know,” Legolas began, “As happy as I am to 
see you, I wouldn’t have minded you taking a bath before you embraced 
me.”  Aragorn scowled and Legolas laughed heartily. He embraced 
Aragorn again, and led him away from the dining hall.  “I will take you to 
the baths.  You can wash there, and we can catch up on the last 66 years.”  
Aragorn found himself at war with his own emotions.  I have missed him 
so much, but my heart now belongs to Arwen.  I could never betray her; 
my love for her is too great.  However, I cannot pretend that I do not still 
love Legolas as much as I did the day I met him.  What am I going to do? 
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      
	Aragorn sighed as Legolas massaged and shampooed his hair.  “I’ll 
never understand how you Men can get so dirty,” Legolas muttered.  
Aragorn laughed, “It must be because, unlike elves, we Men don’t spend 
half the day primping ourselves and brushing our hair.”  Legolas grinned 
mischievously and dunked Aragorn’s head under the water.  He came up 
sputtering and grabbed for Legolas, but the prince moved out of his reach.  
“Enough games,” Legolas laughed.  “Tell me, what have you been doing 
since the last time I saw you?”  Aragorn wiped away the water dripping 
down his face and met Legolas’s eyes.  “Not much.  I became a ranger so 
that I could protect Rivendell and Eriador from orcs.  I also served the 
King of Rohan and the Steward of Gondor for a while.”  
      Legolas frowned.  “So you choose to serve Gondor as a mere 
soldier rather than lead them as their King?  Why Aragorn?  Do you still 
believe yourself unworthy?”  Aragorn sighed.  “One day, I will have to 
step up and reclaim my throne.  I know that now.  I’m just in no hurry to 
do that.  Elrond says there is a great darkness growing again in Middle 
Earth.”  Legolas returned to the edge of the tub.  “Yes, my people have felt 
it too.”  Aragorn turned to face him.  “I’ve spent the last thirty years living 
between Lorien and Rivendell.”  Legolas seemed puzzled as to the 
direction of the conversation.  “Why have you resided in Lorien?”   
Aragorn smiled.  It’s now or never…  “Do you know Elrond’s daughter?  
Arwen Undomiel?”  Legolas smiled, although he was still unsure of what 
Aragorn was trying to say.  “Yes of course.”  Aragorn smiled.  “We have 
been betrothed now for over thirty years.  She’s the reason I’ve been 
traveling so much to Lorien.
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      	Legolas stared long and hard at Aragorn.  Did he just 
say…No it can’t be?  I’ve waited too long!  Oh Elbereth, my heart aches.  
I must leave here; I need to be alone.  
“I am happy for you Aragorn, truly I am.  But it is late, I will leave you to 
finish your bath.”  Legolas tried to face Aragorn, but found that he could 
not.  “Excuse me.  We can talk more in the morning.  Goodnight.”  With 
that, Legolas left.  Aragorn was a little bewildered.  Have I said something 
wrong?  He seemed upset.  Maybe it’s Arwen…Nay, I cannot think that.  
Legolas has no feelings for me…He never has.
	Legolas entered his room and shut the door.  He’s betrothed to 
Arwen…He’s never loved me, it was my imagination.  Maybe if I had 
spoken all those years ago…I don’t know… What am I going to do?  I 
cannot stay away from him.  I must face him.  And for the first time in his 
long life, Legolas began to cry.
~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~


	Aragorn and Legolas spent the next few days catching up.  But all 
too soon, it was time for Aragorn to go back to Rivendell.  “Please 
Legolas, do not let it be another 66 years before we see each other again,” 
Aragorn said to him as he mounted his horse.  I could not bear to be away 
from you that long.  “Come see me soon, I will be in Rivendell for some 
time I believe, since Arwen is back at her Father’s house.”  Legolas smiled 
sadly up at his old friend.  “Of course I will, Aragorn.  Be safe on your 
journey.”  Aragorn started off towards Rivendell as Legolas watched.  I 
will try not to stay away my friend, although I know it will break my heart 
to see you with Arwen.  I have lived almost a thousand years before you 
were born Aragorn, and I will no doubt live thousands after you pass 
away.  Yet it seems as if I had not lived till the moment I set eyes on you, 
and I fear your death will be my undoing.
~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~


	A few months later, Aragorn was back in Rivendell, renewing his 
strained relationship with Elrond.  Aragorn had just returned from Bree, 
and the hobbits he helped rescue were safe and sound.  Even Frodo was up 
and about these days, always accompanied by his dear friend Sam.  
      “I have called a Council to discuss this growing threat.”  Elrond’s 
voice broke the comfortable silence that had been between them for many 
minutes.  “I’m sure you will be happy to hear that King Thranduil has sent 
Legolas as his representative.  I’m glad you two had a chance to renew 
your friendship.”  Aragorn looked up and smiled.  So it hasn’t been too 
long after all.  Although I didn’t think I would see him again so soon.  
“That’s good news, my Lord.  I am happy to hear it.  Will I also be 
attending your council?”  Elrond smiled “Of course my son.  I feel you’re 
input in this matter is greatly needed.”  
      Elrond stayed quiet for a moment.  “Aragorn, why is it that you no 
longer call me Ada?  Am I not still the one you look to as your father?”  
Aragorn sighed and met his father’s eyes.  “I still do.  It’s just that there is 
so much that has changed.  And with Arwen…”  He let it hang unspoken 
between them for a moment, but finished his thoughts.  “I know you asked 
me to end it with her, so that she could stay with her people and not 
forsake her immortality.  I tried, but she has no desire to do so, and 
truthfully, I do not wish to let her go.  It is selfish of me, I know, but I love 
her.  I cannot help that.”  Elrond looked thoughtful.  “And what of 
Legolas?” he finally asked.  
      Aragorn looked away guiltily and growled.  “Do not think that I 
would ever betray your daughter, Elrond. I have more honor than that!”  
Elrond sighed and placed a hand on Aragorn’s shoulder.  “I know that 
Aragorn, but I also see that you still love Legolas.  Are you sure you are 
with the one you truly want to be with?”  Aragorn met his foster-father’s 
eyes.  “I cannot answer that.  All I know is that I love Arwen and I know 
that she loves me.  We have shared that love for many years now, and I 
have no desire to lose that.  As of Legolas…”  Aragorn sat back and took a 
deep breath.  “Legolas and I aren’t meant to be.  He does not love me.”  
Elrond raised an eyebrow at this.  “Are you sure of that, my son?”  
Aragorn stood up abruptly and began to pace around the room.  “What 
does it matter?  It is too late now.  My heart belongs to Arwen.  That will 
not change!”  Elrond nodded and walked towards Aragorn.  “I did not 
mean to upset you Aragorn.  I only wish to understand what you are going 
through.  It hurts me to see your heart so divided, but I fear it will always 
be so.  Your love for Legolas will not simply fade away, nor will your 
love for my daughter.  But you have made a decision, and I know you will 
honor that.”

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	Elrond sat alone in his thoughts long after Aragorn left his room.  
Love unspoken can be very painful Aragorn.  I hope you realize what you 
will be setting yourself up for in the coming years.  Suddenly, Elrond 
found himself laughing out loud.  Oh, who am I to talk?  I’ve loved 
Glorfindel for more years than I can count; yet I resign myself to stolen 
kisses in the name of friendship!  I spent my days seeking his company, 
and yet I do nothing.  I say nothing.  
	Elrond’s musing was disturbed by a knock on his door. “Come.”  
Glorfindel presented himself to Elrond.  “Why are you sitting her alone 
my lord?  Do you not wish for company?”  Elrond smiled warmly as 
Glorfindel sat beside him.  “I always wish for your company Glorfindel.”  
This has gone unspoken long enough.  I cannot continue to fool him into 
thinking my touches and kisses are simply that of friendship.  It is wrong.  
If he has no desire for me, then so be it, but I cannot continue to run 
around acting like a lovesick child.  Elrond embraced Glorfindel in a 
warm hug, and much to his surprise, Glorfindel returned the embrace with 
the same warmth and affection as he gave.  Elrond slowly began to caress 
Glorfindel’s back, and he thought he heard him sigh.  He smiled slightly, 
as he brought his hands to rest in Glorfindel’s crown of golden hair.  As he 
ran his hands through it, Glorfindel stiffened slightly and looked up at him 
confused.  Why is he holding me like this?  Glorfindel thought.  He never 
held me like this before.  
      Elrond smiled down at his slightly dazed friend and placed a sweet 
kiss on his lips.  He let his lips linger on Glorfindel’s before pulling away 
slightly.  Glorfindel searched Elrond’s gaze for a reason behind his strange 
behavior, but saw only love shining down at him.  To long I’ve waited 
Elrond, for you to look at me like this.  But what if something is wrong?  
What if Elrond is simply confused?  “My Lord?  Is everything all right?  
Glorfindel’s voice came out in a shaky whisper.  “Yes, my love, 
everything is fine.”  Elrond claimed Glorfindel’s lips in another kiss, but 
this time let his tongue seek entrance into his mouth.  He said “my love…” 
Glorfindel could barely register Elrond’s comment before he felt himself 
being thoroughly kissed by his dearest friend. Glorfindel found himself 
growing aroused as Elrond’s hands swept over his body.  Before he 
realized what was happening he felt his fingers undoing buttons and ties, 
and clothing being shifted and removed.  
      Elrond could not believe what was happening.  It was like a dam of 
pent up emotions had been released.  The two Lords were practically 
ravishing each other, and had somehow ended up naked and on the floor.  
Elrond looked into Glorfindel’s eyes, searching for any doubt.  When he 
found none, he lowered his lips to Glorfindel’s and whispered, “I’ve 
waited too long for this my love.”  Glorfindel looked up and smiled, his 
reply came out in a deep, desire-laden whisper.  “Then claim me.”
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      	Legolas dismounted his horse, and took in his 
surroundings.  Ai, it has been too long since I have been here.  His 
thoughts suddenly darkened and his mood changed.  Aragorn is here 
somewhere, most likely with Arwen.  I hope I am not unfortunate enough 
to run across them right now, the grief is still fresh.  Legolas sighed and 
turned back to his horse as he unpacked his belongings.  Before long he 
felt a presence standing behind him, and knew at once that it was Aragorn.  
He turned to face him, and found Aragorn smiling warmly at him.  “My 
friend, it is good to see you again.”  Aragorn placed his hand on Legolas’s 
shoulder, but did not embrace him.  “It is also good to see you Aragorn,” 
Legolas replied.  Although he noticed the sudden lack of physical contact 
between them, he said nothing.  “Let me help you unpack your things.”  
Aragorn stepped towards the horse, and noticed Legolas was unmoving 
and very quiet.  Ah, ‘tis for the better.  But I hope he isn’t offended that I 
did not embrace him.  “Come Legolas, I will show you to your room.”  
The pair took off, unaware of the pair of eyes that followed them.  Why 
are they so distant to one another?  I’ve heard Aragorn talk of Legolas 
many times, and he’s had nothing but wonderful things to say about him.  I 
guess time can sometimes drift people apart.  I’ll encourage them to spend 
more time together in the future, maybe that will help.  With that, Arwen 
turned away and walked back to the gardens.

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

	Emotions had run high at the council, but in the end Legolas had 
found himself agreeing to help the halfling Frodo bear his burden to 
Mordor.  It was on a sudden impulse that Legolas had agreed to go. When 
he realized Aragorn would accompany him, Legolas had decided that the 
journey would be dangerous, and they could use an Elf.  He could not bear 
the thought of any ill fate befalling Aragorn, nor the brave little hobbit.  
As Legolas tried to settle in his room that night, he found that sleep did not 
come easy.  All he could think about was Aragorn and Arwen, and 
Aragorn’s apparent distance.  Emotions were overwhelming him and he 
suddenly felt claustrophobic.  He decided a walk in the gardens would do 
him some good.

~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~

      Arwen and Aragorn were sitting in the garden enjoying each 
other’s company when she noticed Legolas walk by.  He didn’t seem to be 
aware of their presence and he seemed sad.  “Go to him Aragorn.  See 
what is troubling him.  I do not know what has transpired between the two 
of you that you would grow so distant, but he needs you now.  I sense 
great heartache and pain, though I do not know why.”  Aragorn gently 
kissed Arwen and got up to seek out his friend.  When he found him, 
Legolas was kneeling by the riverside.  Images of the two of them playing 
together on that same bank many years ago came flooding into Aragorn’s 
mind.  So much has happened since then my friend.  Legolas heard 
Aragorn’s approach and stood up abruptly, taking deep breaths to calm 
himself before turning to face Aragorn.  His face was streaked with 
moisture, and his eyes were still wet with tears unshed.  Aragorn’s breath 
caught in his throat at the sight of Legolas in pain.  “Legolas, my friend, 
what is wrong?”  He took a step towards the elf and their eyes locked.  
The blue orbs reflected so much pain and suffering, as well as fear and 
self-loathing.  Aragorn could not figure out what it was that could make 
Legolas so unhappy.  “Leave me be Aragorn, I do not need pity.”  Legolas 
knew his words stung Aragorn, but he could not find the courage to meet 
his eyes again.  “Legolas…”  Before he could finish his words, Legolas 
had taken off down the river.  Aragorn’s words came out in a strangled 
whisper.  “I only want to help you.”  
      Whatever it is that’s hurting him, thought Aragorn, I must help 
him.  We will be leaving here in two months on our quest to Mount Doom, 
and I cannot let him go if he is still in so much pain.  Aragorn decided he 
would give Legolas some time, but he would seek him out again in the 
morning.
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      What is wrong with me!  How could I let him see me like that?  
Legolas settled himself high in a tree and closed his eyes.  This cannot go 
on.  I must get control of my feelings.  I must be stronger than this.  I know 
Aragorn will try to find me in the morning.  By then, I must have these 
emotions under control.  A few hours later, Legolas settled himself in his 
room.  He wasn’t sure if he would be able to sleep, but at least he would 
try.
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      Just as Legolas expected, Aragorn sought him out at the break of 
dawn.  He was engrossed in his archery when Aragorn approached him.  
“Did you sleep well my friend?”  Legolas turned to face him.  “Yes, of 
course.”  Aragorn didn’t look convinced.  “Look, I know you are 
concerned for me, but I am fine.  Everyone is allowed a moment of 
weakness, are they not?” Legolas dropped his bow to the ground as he 
asked the question.  Aragorn had no words, but took a few tentative steps 
toward the elf.  “I don’t expect you to open up to me; I know how 
stubborn you Elves can be.  But just know that there is no shame in tears, 
and whatever the cause behind your pain, it isn’t worth it.”  At that, 
Aragorn embraced Legolas in a tight hug.  “Whatever is hurting you, let 
me help.”  Legolas relaxed in Aragorn’s embrace.  “You cannot help me 
Aragorn, do not worry yourself.  We have more important matters at 
hand.”  With that Legolas released himself from Aragorn’s grip and set his 
face in a calm, emotionless mask.  Aragorn noticed immediately, but 
realized that if Legolas did not want to talk about it, nothing could make 
him.  “Very well then.”  Aragorn turned and walked away, back towards 
the house.  Legolas looked longingly after Aragorn, his skin still burning 
from his touch.  He sighed and closed his eyes, letting the wind and the 
sounds of Rivendell calm his mind.  I will be strong.  I will survive this.  I 
have no choice.  
      
      ~~~~~~~~    ****    ~~~~~~~~
      
      On a cool morning late in December, the fellowship of nine set out 
towards Cahadras, but soon found it would be impossible to pass.  Frodo 
had then chosen that instead of trying to continue over the mountain, they 
would have to go under through Moria.  
      Moria.  No light, no air, only darkness and shadow.  It’s like a 
tomb thought Legolas.  I will not show my fear, although we Elves can 
hardly stand dark, cold, empty places.  Legolas sighed deeply as they 
waited at the entrance, trying to calm himself against the fear that 
threatened to overtake him.
      Aragorn and Gandalf immediately noticed his distress.  Both of 
them knew the secret fear of all elves, and to be locked away so deep 
underneath the world for several days could drive Legolas mad.  Aragorn 
approached him, and Legolas immediately turned away.  “I’m fine 
Aragorn.  Do not worry yourself with my well being, look after the little 
ones.”  The door had finally been opened and the group was making their 
way into the entrance when the guardian attacked; collapsing the entrance, 
and sealing them in darkness.  
      
      ~End Chapter 2~