Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairings: Haldir/Legolas; Elrond/Glorfindel Rating: R Summary: After being imprisoned for 30 years, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkien’s creations. I only own what you don’t recognize. Warning: Will have flashbacks of (hopefully) graphic torture in future chapters. _________________________ Haldir slowly opened his eyes and stared into the darkness. Next to him, Legolas shivered and he pulled him closer, trying to keep the younger elf warm. Legolas was still asleep, his eyes closed in an attempt to block out their surroundings, and Haldir brushed a strand of dirty hair away from his face. He sighed, hugging Legolas even closer when he felt him shiver again. It must be nearing winter if the room was this cold. It wouldn’t have been much of a problem if they were allowed a fire, maybe he should ask. The men had given them a fire once a few years ago when he had asked, but that was probably because their master had been away. He felt Legolas move and looked at him, gazing into sapphire eyes. Smiling slightly, Haldir kissed him on the forehead. “Good morning, Love.” he whispered. They had no way of telling if it was morning, as there were no windows, and it sure as hell wasn’t good, but Haldir always said that when Legolas woke up. It made things feel normal, if only a little. Legolas looked at him, smiling, and kissed him. Haldir leaned into the kiss, savoring the taste of Legolas’ lips. When they broke apart, Legolas snuggled against him, not saying anything. Haldir wasn’t surprised by the silence. Legolas had stopped speaking years ago. “Legolas, it was just an empty threat! He needs the both of us, you know that,” Haldir whispered, trying to reassure his upset friend. “He just doesn’t want you to sing anymore.” Legolas just stared at him, not saying a word. Haldir sighed, hugging the younger elf. “Say something. Please, Legolas.” But he never did. When that man had threatened to kill Haldir if Legolas didn’t shut up, Legolas had believed that if he made any sound, they would follow through on their threat. They had just wanted him to stop singing, they didn’t care if he spoke. But Legolas had been too afraid to risk it. Haldir raised his head, hearing the door open. A young woman walked in, carrying a tray of food. If you could call it food. She sat the tray on the floor, smiling shyly at the two elves, before turning and leaving the room. As soon as Haldir heard the loud click of the lock sliding into place, he sat up, pulling Legolas with him. He stood, leaving Legolas to lean against the wall, and walked over to the tray. He frowned when he saw the rock- hard bread and dirty water, but he wasn’t expecting anything different. He sighed, picking up the tray and walking back to Legolas. He handed the tray to Legolas and sat down, watching Legolas break the small piece of bread in half. He handed a piece to Haldir before dropping his own half into his cup of water, trying to soften it. Haldir copied his actions, watching Legolas to make certain that he ate. Legolas always tried to save his half to give to Haldir on the days they weren’t fed. Haldir couldn’t very well get angry with him for it, seeing as he often did the same for Legolas, but the younger elf was already way too thin. They both were. Seeing Legolas eat, Haldir turned his attention to his own food. He sighed, he was tired of the tasteless bread and filthy water. He shook his head and started to eat, knowing it would do no good to complain. Especially if he wanted to ask for a fire. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Haldir smiled as he watched Legolas draw pictures in the dirt that covered the stone floor. It was times like these that Haldir was reminded of just how young Legolas really was. “Come on, Haldir!” Legolas said as he raced ahead of the older elf. “You’ll never beat me if you go that slow!” “Slow, am I?” Haldir laughed, racing after Legolas. “We’ll just see who’s slow!” Legolas just laughed, running faster. Legolas laughed, loudly, when he reached the tall tree. He turned and watched as Haldir came to a stop next to him. “You lose, Haldir!” Haldir laughed, shaking his head at the child. “Only because I let you win.” Legolas frowned. “Did not!” Haldir laughed. “Did to!” Legolas always did that, dragging Haldir into races and games of ‘did not, did to.’ Most elves gave up those games when they were as close to their coming of age as Legolas had been, but Legolas wasn’t most elves. Haldir saw Legolas run his hand through the image he had drawn, smoothing the dirt so he could draw something else. ~*~*~*~*~ Haldir and Legolas both looked up when they heard the door open. This was a surprise. The only time anyone entered their cell was when they were brought food. They had only been fed that morning and they weren’t expecting to see anyone for a few days. Haldir pushed Legolas behind him and looked up at the man who had just entered. “Get up,” the man ordered, glaring at the two elves. Haldir stood, pulling Legolas up with him. He had no wish to make this man angry. The man turned, walking through the still open door. Haldir and Legolas stared at him. The man stopped just outside the cell, turning to glare at them. “Come.” Legolas looked up at Haldir, confused. They hadn’t been allowed to leave their cell in ten years. “He’s grown tired of the two of you.” Haldir looked at the man, frowning in confusion. What did he mean? He looked at Legolas, who shook his head. He didn’t understand either. The man sighed, obviously wanting to be anyplace other than here. “He has found new toys. He no longer wishes to play with you two.” The elves stared at him, not believing what they had just heard. Would they finally be free? They should never have gotten there hopes up. They hadn’t been freed. They were just forgotten. Haldir started moving slowly towards the door, one hand wrapped around Legolas’ waist. He wanted to make certain that he and Legolas weren’t separated. ~*~*~*~*~ The man led them down a dark hallway. Haldir paid little attention to the journey, focusing on Legolas. The younger elf’s eyes were wide, glancing wildly in all directions, and he was trembling. Haldir held him closer, trying to calm the frightened child. Legolas wasn’t exactly a child, but Haldir always referred to him as one. Legolas had come of age just fifteen years ago. “Happy begetting day, Legolas,” Haldir whispered, hugging Legolas close to him. Legolas looked up at him, confused. They never wished each other a happy begetting day, it was too difficult to know when the right day had arrived. Haldir smiled. “You come of age this year, Legolas. Remember?” Legolas smiled, leaning in to catch Haldir’s lips in a brief kiss. At least, Haldir thought it was fifteen years ago. They had long ago lost count of how long they had been here and for all they knew, Legolas could have come of age a century ago. ~*~*~*~ The man led them to a small room and left them alone. Haldir glanced around at there new surroundings then looked down at Legolas. Legolas had his eyes tightly closed, his trembling body pressed closed to Haldir in an attempt to feel safe. Haldir wrapped his other arm around him, hugging him close. “It’s all right, Love. He left.” Haldir didn’t know if things were all right, but he wanted to reassure the younger elf. He felt Legolas relax slightly. Haldir looked away from his love when he heard the man re-enter the room. The man threw two bags at their feet. “Here.” Haldir stared at him, then looked down at the bags. The man sighed and pointed towards a door in the far wall. Haldir glanced at it, surprised. He hadn’t noticed a second door. “The master is dead. We have no need of you. Leave.” Haldir looked at the man, his eyes wide. He glanced down at Legolas, seeing surprise and confusion shining in his eyes. They were being set free? The man turned and walked quickly to the door, yanking it open. Both elves turned wide eyes towards the open door, seeing the outside world for the first time in years. Haldir knelt down and grabbed the bags, handing the lighter of the two to Legolas. With one last glance towards the man, Haldir pulled Legolas gently through the door. They were free. Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing(s): Haldir/Legolas; Elrond/Glorfindel Rating: R Summary: After being imprisoned for 30 years, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkien’s creations. I only own what you don’t recognize. Warning: Will have flashbacks of (hopefully) graphic torture in future chapters. _________________________ Haldir caught Legolas as the younger elf stumbled. They really need to find a place to rest for the night. Preferably someplace warm, Haldir thought, feeling Legolas shiver. He glanced around the forest they had found themselves in. He sighed, not seeing anything. Legolas leaned against him, obviously exhausted, and Haldir gently lowered him to the ground. Sitting next to Legolas, Haldir opened his pack. They hadn’t taken the time to look through them earlier, and he was curious about what the man had given them. He upended the bag, spilling it’s contents on the forest floor, and began rummaging through the contents. They had been given a thin blanket, a dull hunting knife, and a flint. Haldir smiled when he saw the flint. At least they would have a fire tonight. He turned to Legolas, who had watched him the entire time, and reached out his hand. “Hand me your bag, Legolas. We need to see what all we have.” Legolas nodded, but instead of handing the back to Haldir, he upended it himself. Haldir grinned, watching Legolas look through the contents. He looked like a child who had just found buried treasure. Haldir leaned closer, trying to see what Legolas had. The contents were almost identical to those in Haldir’s pack. Almost. Legolas’ pack had another thin blanket and another dull hunting knife, but no flint. Instead, there was a short length of rope. Legolas frowned, obviously not understanding what they needed rope for. “Just in case, Legolas. The rope is for just in case.” Legolas nodded, satisfied with Haldir’s answer, and looked towards the sky. Haldir followed his gaze, smiling when he saw the stars. “They’re beautiful, aren’t they?” He waited for a response, mildly surprised when he didn’t receive one. Frowning, he turned to Legolas. “Legolas, it’s safe to speak now. He can’t hurt you anymore.” Legolas looked at him, moving closer so he could lean against him. Haldir sighed, realizing that Legolas was still afraid. “He’s dead. He can’t hurt us anymore.” Legolas looked up at him, his eyes full of sadness. Haldir felt confused, why would Legolas feel sad? He should feel excited and relieved that they were free, not sad. “What’s wrong, Love?” Legolas gazed at him, a tear trailing down his face. Haldir gently brushed it away. Legolas closed his eyes and opened his mouth. Haldir watched in anticipation. After all these years, he would finally hear Legolas’ voice again. He frowned when Legolas closed his mouth, he hadn’t made a sound. He watched as Legolas opened and closed his mouth a few more times, his concern and confusion growing. Legolas opened his eyes, looking at him, and he started to cry. Haldir gathered him into his arms, whispering soothing words. With a sinking heart, he realized why Legolas was so upset. He had forgotten how to speak. ~*~*~*~ They had been traveling for days now and both elves were exhausted. Haldir kept them moving northeast, not knowing for certain why he felt they should head that way, and they stopped only for short periods. They wanted to get as far away from the men as possible before the men decided that they did have a use for them after all. Legolas stopped walking and leaned against a tree, wincing. Haldir moved over to him and gathered him in his arms. “Are you all right, Love?” Legolas nodded, weakly. Haldir frowned, feeling Legolas shiver. He placed a hand on Legolas’ forehead, his concern growing when he felt the heat. He sighed. Elves normally didn’t get sick, but after all that had been done to them, it was no surprise that Legolas had a fever. They had both been ill quite a few times during their captivity. He glanced at their surroundings, seeing an abandoned campsite nearby. He frowned. Someone had been here, and it was possible that they were still nearby. He glanced down at Legolas, the younger elf was shivering violently now. Haldir didn’t know what to do. He didn’t want to risk anyone finding them, but Legolas couldn’t go any further today. He sighed, leading Legolas slowly to the campsite. He gently lowered Legolas to the ground, then turned to the fire pit. He paled when he saw smoke coming from the burnt wood. Whoever had been here, hadn’t been gone long. He gazed out into the forest, looking for any sign that someone was still close by. Not finding anything, he turned back to the fire pit and got out their flint. He quickly lit a fire and turned to pull Legolas close to it. He pulled out their blankets, draping both over Legolas, and laid down next to his love, pulling him close. Soon, both exhausted elves were sound asleep. ~*~*~*~ “Who are they?” a dark haired elf asked. Another elf, identical to the first, answered. “I don’t know, Elrohir.” He looked closely at the two elves who they had found in their camp. He frowned, seeing the elves’ torn clothing. “They must have escaped from somewhere.” Elrohir nodded, kneeling next to the strangers. “Why haven’t they awoken? They must have heard us.” He saw the young one shivering and he reached out his hand, placing it on the stranger’s forehead. “Elrohir! What do you think you’re doing?! You’ll wake them!” Elrohir frowned, removing his hand, and glared at his brother. “Relax, Elladan. Can’t you see they’re both exhausted?” His expression turned into one of concern and he returned his gaze to the young stranger. “He has a fever.” Elladan frowned, kneeling next to his brother. “Is he wounded?” He couldn’t see any wounds, but that didn’t mean there weren’t any. Elrohir shook his head. “I don’t think so.” He sighed. “I’d look closer, but I’m afraid the other one will wake up.” Elladan nodded. “Yeah. Look at how close he’s holding the young one. He’s obviously very protective.” He glanced at his brother. “What should we do?” Elrohir thought a moment, watching the figures sleep. “Let them sleep. We can wait for answers.” ____________________________ Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing(s): Haldir/Legolas; Elrond/Glorfindel Rating: R Summary: After being imprisoned for 30 years, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkien’s creations. I only own what you don’t recognize. Warning: Will have flashbacks of (hopefully) graphic torture in future chapters. _________________________ Haldir woke to the sound of someone speaking. Hoping that Legolas had remembered how to speak, he opened his eyes, frowning when he saw that Legolas was still asleep. He glanced around the camp, trying not to disturb Legolas. He paled when he saw the two strangers. Next to him, Legolas shifted, waking up. He opened his eyes and followed Haldir’s gaze. He trembled, moving closer to Haldir, and stared at the strangers. The two dark-haired elves had heard Legolas move and were now staring at them. They stood, walking slowly towards them. They knelt next to them, far enough away that they were out of reach, and smiled reassuringly. “It’s all right. We’re not going to hurt you.” He pointed to the other stranger. “His name is Elladan and I’m Elrohir.” He looked at Haldir, obviously expecting a reply. Haldir stared at them, trying to see if they really meant no harm. He relaxed slightly, seeing only concern shining in their eyes. But he still wasn’t going to tell them their names. Elrohir sighed and looked at Legolas. Legolas stared at them, his eyes wide. He was shivering and trying to move away from the strange elves. Haldir held him close, trying to keep him calm, and looked at Elrohir. He sat up, slowly, still holding the younger elf. Legolas leaned against him, closing his eyes. Elrohir stared at Legolas, concerned. “Is he all right?” Haldir glanced down at Legolas, brushing dirty hair away from his face. “He’s sick.” He sighed. “He needs help.” The twins looked at each other. “We can take the two of you to Imladris. Our father is a healer there.” Haldir gaped at them, surprised. These two don’t even know us and they’re offering to help? Somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew he should have expected it from elves. But it had been so long since anyone had helped them. He frowned, realizing something. “He can’t walk far.” Elrohir smiled. “He doesn’t have to. We have horses.” ~*~*~*~ Legolas shivered when he saw the horses and he tried to move away. Haldir smiled reassuringly, reaching out to pet the horse that was nearest to them. “It’s all right. She won’t hurt you.” He glanced at the twins, seeing them frowning in confusion. He looked down at Legolas and nodded, cocking his head towards the horse. Legolas looked fearfully at the dark mare. The horse, sensing the young elf’s fear, whinnied softly. Legolas smiled, nervously and reached out to pet her. “Why is he afraid of them?” Elrohir asked, coming up behind them. Haldir glanced at him. “It….has been a long time since he has seen a horse.” He frowned, turning his attention back to Legolas. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he has forgotten all about them.” Elrohir frowned but didn’t push the subject, sensing that he would get no answers if he did. He looked at Legolas, who was now playing with the horse’s mane, and smiled. “Does he talk? He hasn’t said a word since we met.” Haldir sighed. “No, he doesn’t talk.” Elrohir glanced back at his brother before turning his gaze to Haldir. “Why doesn’t he?” Haldir smiled, softly, at Legolas. “He doesn’t know how.” ~*~*~*~ Legolas, exhausted, leaned back into Haldir. They were riding the dark mare that they had been told belonged to Elrohir, while the twins rode Elladan’s stallion. Haldir had been afraid that Legolas would panic if he rode with one of the twins, so he had convinced them to let he and Legolas ride together. At the beginning of the day’s journey, Legolas had ignored the twins and continued to play with the horse’s mane, braiding a few strands in a tight weave. The horse thoroughly enjoyed the attention, whinnying softly and flicking her ears. She had a smooth gait, walking slowly so see wouldn’t frighten the child that she carried, and she would stop whenever she felt that Legolas was starting to slip off of her. Haldir kept a tight grip on Legolas, wrapping his arms around his waist. Legolas had leaned forward on the horse earlier, almost falling, as he braided her mane, reaching as far as he could. Now, Legolas glanced tiredly at the twins, his eyes following their every move. They watched him, curious about his inability to speak. They had questioned Haldir early on in the journey, but Haldir still refused to tell them anything they couldn’t see for themselves. He hadn’t even wanted to tell them Legolas couldn’t speak, but he felt they would have found out eventually. ~*~*~*~ Haldir held Legolas until the younger elf stopped coughing. They had stopped nearly an hour ago when Legolas’ shivering had gotten so bad, he had nearly fallen off of the horse. The older elf was worried, Legolas’ body felt like ice but his forehead was burning with fever. Haldir didn’t know what to do, neither of them had been this sick before. Haldir looked to where Elladan was feeding more wood to the fire. Elrohir had left to find some herbs that he said would help clear Legolas’ lungs. Legolas leaned against the older elf, shaking. He brought his hands to his head, grabbing his filthy hair. Haldir reached up and loosened his grip, preventing him from pulling on his hair. “Don’t do that.” Legolas whimpered, snuggling against him. Haldir sighed, wrapping his arms around Legolas. He looked worriedly at Elladan. “Is there anything you can do for him?” Elladan shook his head. “Not until Elrohir gets back with those herbs.” He sighed, gazing at the shivering elf. “I’m sorry.” ~*~*~*~ Elrohir re-entered the camp with the herbs the young elf needed. He glanced at the two blonde elves, smiling slightly when he saw how the older one cared for the other. He sighed and walked to the fire, handing the herbs to his brother. “Split the leaves and put them in a bowl. Be careful not to loose any of the juices.” Elladan nodded and did as he was told, watching as Elrohir went to their packs to retrieve a waterskin. Legolas stared at the twins, trying to figure out what they were doing. He glanced up at Haldir, nervousness shinning in his eyes. Haldir smooth his hair, whispering soothingly. “It’s all right, Love. They’re just making something that will help you breathe easier.” Legolas relaxed, slightly, for a moment. Then he took a weak breath and tensed as he started coughing again. Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing(s): Haldir/Legolas; Elrond/Glorfindel Rating: PG-13 Summary: After being imprisoned for 30 years, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Disclaimer: I own none of Tolkien’s creations. I only own what you don’t recognize. A/N: Changed the rating because I have decided to leave out the flashbacks of torture. They will show up in the sequel. _________________ Part 4 Haldir watched as the twins boiled some water, grey smoke rising from the bowl. Next to him, Legolas was shaking and Haldir wrapped his arm around him, trying to keep him warm. "Can you bring him closer to the fire?" Elladan asked, looking over to them. Haldir nodded and slowly stood, bringing Legolas with him. He helped the shaking elf walk across the small camp to the fire's side. "What do we have to do?" Elrohir looked at them, smiling gently. "All he has to do his breath the smoke. It will help clear his lungs. Don't worry if he starts coughing again, he's supposed to." Haldir frowned, looking down at Legolas. "Why?" He hugged Legolas close, trying to warm him. Except for the fever, he still felt like ice. Haldir glanced around the camp, his gaze falling on his pack. "Could one of you bring that over here? There's a blanket inside." Elrohir nodded and went to retrieve the bag. "Listen to him breathing. You can hear that he has fluid in his lungs." He removed the thin blanket from Haldir's pack and frowned, putting it back in the bag. "He needs to cough it up." Elrohir moved over to his own pack and pulled out a thicker blanket. ~*~*~*~ Haldir smiled gently at Legolas. The younger elf had fallen asleep a few hours ago, exhausted from all the coughing, and was pressed closely against Haldir. Haldir wrapped the blanket tightly around the shivering elf and gently moved him closer to the fire. He felt Legolas' forehead, relieved to feel that the fever was breaking but frowned when Legolas shivered again. “He’s still cold.” Elrohir looked over from where he and Elladan were tending to the horses. “Elladan has another blanket in his pack. He can use that.” Haldir looked at him, surprised. “Won’t Elladan need it?” He glanced down at the blanket Legolas was wrapped in. “And won’t you need yours when it gets dark?” Elladan shook his head, smiling. “It doesn’t get much colder than it already is at this time of year. We’ll manage.” Haldir nodded and gently moved away from Legolas to get the blanket. At least, he tried to move away but Legolas whimpered and held to Haldir’s arm. Haldir sighed and settled back against Legolas. “Could one of you...?” Elrohir smiled and handed Elladan the brush he had been using to groom his mare. “I’ll get it.” ~*~*~*~ Haldir woke up late the next morning and, not seeing Legolas, looked frantically around the small camp. He relaxed when he saw the younger elf brushing Elrohir’s horse. He smiled, 'He really loves that horse.' The mare, whose name was Eäradë, seemed just as fond of Legolas. She had twisted her head around and was tugging playfully at Legolas’ hair. Legolas smiled brightly and retaliated by pulling her mane. Haldir laughed quietly. Legolas seemed so much more....alive today. Legolas hadn’t acted this playful in years. Legolas coughed slightly, suddenly reminding Haldir that the younger elf was sick. He stood and walked quickly over to Legolas. “Are you all right, Love?” Legolas looked up at him and nodded, then continued to brush Eäradë’s coat. Haldir sighed and glanced around the camp, trying to find the twins. He jumped slightly when a hand suddenly appeared in front of his face, pointing across the clearing. He looked at Legolas, who was smiling brightly, then turned his gaze to where Legolas indicated. Elrohir was on the far side of the clearing, going through his pack. He was apparently restocking his healer’s bag, filling it with fresh herbs that he must have gathered earlier that morning. Elrohir placed the healer's bag in his pack, then stood and made his way over to the two blonde elves. "Good morning," he said, smiling. Haldir glanced towards the sky, suddenly realizing just how late he had slept. "Why didn't you wake me? We should have been on our way by now." Elrohir shook his head and glanced at Legolas. "He wouldn't let us. Every time we came to wake you, he'd glare at us." He laughed, seeing Legolas start to braid Eäradë's mane. "If he keeps doing that, he'll spoil her." Eäradë snorted and moved closer to Legolas. She glared at her master for a moment, then lowered her head so Legolas could reach the mane near her ears. Elrohir sighed and turned to Haldir. "I just hope I still have a horse when we get to Imladris." Haldir laughed and reached out to pet the horse. "I doubt he'd steal your horse. Legolas doesn't even...." He winced, realizing what he just said. Elrohir was looking at him, smiling slightly. "Legolas? Is that his name?" He glanced at Legolas, who was still braiding the horse's mane and not paying the older elves any attention. 'Either he's been ignoring us, or he doesn't care if I know.' Haldir nodded, reluctantly. "Yes. His name is Legolas." He sighed, shaking his head. "I'm sorry for not telling you earlier, but...." He smiled softly at Legolas, who had finished braiding Eäradë's mane. "You wanted to keep him safe." Haldir stared at the dark-haired elf. "Yes. How....?" He shook his head, deciding he didn't need to know, and changed the subject. "Where's Elladan?" He still hadn't found the other twin and looked at Legolas, expecting him to point again. Elrohir laughed. "He went chasing after his horse. Apparently, Elulith didn't want his mane braided and he took off towards the river when he saw Legolas coming." Haldir shook his head, amused. "I'm sorry if we've caused you any trouble." Elrohir rolled his eyes. "Elulith would have found an excuse to go off on his own whether or not you two were here. He likes to make Elladan chase him." He smiled. "There is really no need to apologize." He looked over at Legolas, a look of surprise crossing his face. "Legolas is an artist, I take it." Haldir followed his gaze, smiling when he saw what had surprised the dark haired elf. While Haldir and Elrohir had been talking, Legolas had poured water on the side of the horse and smoothed it with a cloth. Now, he was using a small brush to brush some of her coat against the grain, creating the image of a leaf. When he finished, he stepped back and turned towards the two older elves, smiling brightly. Haldir shook his head, his eyes shining in amusement. "Yes, he's an artist." __________________________ Part 5 “Where are you from?” Haldir turned to Elrohir and cocked an eyebrow. “Why?” The dark haired elf shrugged and glanced at Legolas, who was still with Eäradë. “I just wanted to see if you would tell me.” He grinned and turned back to Haldir. “But I’m not surprised you didn’t.” Haldir shook his head, sighing. “I’m sorry. It’s just that….” “I understand.” Elrohir turned back to Legolas, watching as the younger elf put the brush he had been using back into one of Elrohir’s packs. “I think he’s tired.” Haldir turned to the younger blonde, seeing Legolas trying to hide a yawn. He took Legolas by the arm and led him away from the horse. “He’s always tired when he’s sick.” Elrohir frowned. “Always?” He followed the two blonde elves across the camp. “Is he sick a lot?” Haldir froze for a moment, then lowered Legolas to the ground. “Yes,” he sighed. He sat next to Legolas and held him close, letting the tired elf rest against him. “Haldir.” Elrohir blinked. “What?” he asked, sitting across from the two blonde elves. He smiled softly at Legolas, who was half asleep, then gazed at Haldir. Haldir sighed. “My name is Haldir.” Elrohir smiled, brightly. “Well, Haldir, it’s nice to meet you.” ~*~*~*~ A soaking Elladan returned to the camp a few moments later, trying to squeeze excess water out of his hair. A guilty looking Elulith trudged slowly behind him, his head lowered. Elladan turned to glare at the grey stallion, then went over to the fire and plopped down. Elrohir looked at him, trying very hard not to laugh. Elladan ignored him and continued squeezing his hair. “Having trouble with your horse, Elladan?” Elrohir asked, chuckling. Elladan glared at him and shook his head, causing drops of water to fly everywhere. “It’s not funny.” Haldir had been watching them both, thoroughly amused. However, when Elladan got everyone wet he began to get slightly angry. “I don’t mean to be rude, Elladan, but could you shake yourself dry elsewhere?” Elladan turned to him, seeming to notice him for the first time. He smiled, sheepishly. “I’m sorry, friend. I wasn’t thinking.” Legolas had woken from his light doze when he felt water fall on him and was now watching the two dark haired elves. He sat up and stared at Elladan, then tugged at his still filthy hair. He cocked his head and watched Elladan expectantly. Elladan frowned. “What’s he doing?” Haldir smiled, laughing slightly. “He’s waiting for you to answer his question.” Elladan looked at his brother, hoping for some help. Elrohir just shook his head and shrugged. Elladan sighed and turned back to the blonde elves. “What question?” “He wants to know what happened to your hair.” The twins stared at Legolas, then back at Haldir. “How do you know that’s what he asked,” Elrohir asked. “Or even if he asked anything?” Haldir grinned. “He may not be able to speak, but he can communicate.” He reached up to his own hair, tugging slightly. “When he does this, he usually means something about hair.” Legolas nodded and tugged on his hair again then pointed at Elladan. Elladan understood now and glanced at Elrohir, who was grinning, before answering. “Elulith pushed me into the river.” Elrohir laughed, shaking his head. “I swear that horse of yours believes he is the master and you are his pet.” Elladan glared at his brother. “Oh, like your horse is any better.” He waved his hand towards Eäradë. “She is every bit as-” Elladan stopped and stared at the dark mare, studying the many braids on her mane and tail and the images of leaves on her coat. “Elrohir….” he asked quietly. “What happened to your horse?” Elrohir smiled and glanced at the two blonde elves. “Legolas is an artist.” ~*~*~*~ Elladan had found Eäradë’s appearance very amusing and had kept teasing his brother. He had finally calmed down when he noticed the slightly hurt expression on Legolas’ face. “It’s ok, friend.” He grinned at the young elf and moved closer, his dripping hair nearly brushing the dusty ground. “I think you are a very good artist.” He glanced at his brother. “I would tease him about anything.” Legolas glanced uncertainly at Elladan then looked to Haldir for reassurance. Seeing the older elf smiling, Legolas grinned and turned back to the dark haired elf. He studied Elladan for a moment then reached forward and grabbed a handful of the dark hair, tugging it gently and pulling Elladan’s head down so his hair was now laying in a small puddle of mud. Elrohir took one look at the shocked face of his brother and started laughing. “That’ll teach you to laugh at his work,” he choked, gasping for breath. Elladan glared at him then disentangled his hair from the younger elf’s grip. Choosing to ignore his brother for the moment, Elladan stood up and began walking towards the horses. “Come on. We should reach Imladris by nightfall.” Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli Email: cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing: Legolas/Haldir, Glorfindel/Elrond Rating: PG-13 Summary: After 30 years of imprisonment, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Pre-LOTR Genre: Mystery Author's Notes: There will be a sequel. ~....~ = italics, '....' = thoughts. ______________________ Part 6/? Haldir was fighting to stay awake as they rode slowly towards Imladris. It was nearing nightfall and, just as Elladan had said, they would soon arrive at the valley. Haldir was exhausted, all his energy had been spent protecting Legolas. Even after they had met the twins, he refused to let down his guard. After so many years, what was once his duty and then his choice had become instinct. And he had a hard time believing it wasn’t necessary anymore. He yawned and tightened his grip on the younger elf. Legolas turned and glanced back at him, nearly falling off the horse, and smiled. Haldir chuckled. It was hard to believe, sometimes, that Legolas was an adult. He acted half his age. 'Not that I can blame him,' Haldir thought, shaking his head. 'He didn’t have much of a childhood.' Legolas frowned when he saw how distant Haldir and then returned his attention to where they were going. He cocked his head as he heard birdcall coming from nearby and turned to look at Elladan when the dark- haired elf repeated the call. Legolas stared at the twins and Elrohir looked over and smiled at him. “Those are just the border guards.” He nodded towards where the sounds had come from. “We’re entering Imladris.” ~*~*~*~ Elrond looked up from his book when Glorfindel raced into his study. “Is something wrong, Glorfindel?” Glorfindel stopped in front of Elrond’s desk and shook his head, smiling. “No.” Elrond sat his book down and waited for Glorfindel to continue. Glorfindel was still smiling, his eyes shining with amusement, and Elrond shook his head when he realized the blonde was in a playful mood. “Glorfindel, what happened?” Glorfindel cocked his head and frowned, feigning confusion. “What ever do you mean, my lord?” Elrond laughed and stood from his desk, walking over to the blonde elf. “Whenever you act like this, it usually means something has happened.” He stood in front of Glorfindel and crossed his arms. “Now, tell me. What happened?” Glorfindel sighed and hung his head, disappointed that his game had to end so soon. After a few moments he smiled and looked up at the taller elf. “Your sons have returned.” ~*~*~*~ Haldir studied the guestroom they had been given, looking over at Legolas every few moments. As soon as they had arrived in Imladris, the twins had gone off to try to find their father while another elf brought them to this room. It was cozy, with large windows overlooking a flower garden, and a soft bed that Legolas was sitting, or rather, bouncing on. Haldir smiled. “Don’t fall off, Love.” Legolas stopped moving and pouted for a moment. He sighed and wrapped his arms around himself, shivering slightly, reminding Haldir that he was sick. The older elf shook his head and walked over to the bed, picking up a soft blanket and draping it across Legolas’ shoulders. “The twins will be here with their father soon, Love.” He smiled when Legolas looked up at him. “He’s a healer and he’ll make you feel better.” Legolas nodded and yawned, laying back on the bed and turning to lay on his side. Haldir tucked the blanket around him and kissed his head. “Sleep now, Legolas. I’ll wake you when the healer arrives.” Legolas nodded and closed his eyes, yawning again. Within moments he was sound asleep. ~*~*~*~ Elrond gazed at his sons, thinking over all that they had just told him. “You’re telling me that an elf, who is uninjured, is ill?” Elrohir nodded. “We had a hard time believing it as well, Ada. But Haldir says that Legolas has been sick before.” Elrond shook his head and looked over at Glorfindel. “What do you think?” The blonde elf shrugged and sat down on Elrond’s desk, pulling his legs up so he could lay his head on them. “I don’t know. Something about this whole thing doesn’t feel right.” He sighed and glanced out the window. “Two strange elves, filthy and sick, alone in the wilds without even a single horse.” He raised his head and looked back at the dark-haired elves. “When you first met them, what did you see?” Elrohir glanced at his twin before answering. “We saw two exhausted elves who were sleeping-” “With their eyes closed,” Elladan interrupted. The younger twin glared at his brother. “~Thank~ you, Elladan. I had ~completely~ forgotten.” Elladan smiled sheepishly. “Heh. Sorry.” Elrohir returned his attention to Glorfindel. “~As~ I was saying, they were sleeping,” he glanced at his brother, “~with~ their eyes closed. And Haldir, the older one, was holding Legolas close to him, trying to keep him warm.” Elrond cocked his head. “Legolas was cold?” The twins nodded. “Strange, I know,” Elladan answered. “Everything seems strange about those two.” Elrond looked at Glorfindel, frowning slightly when he realized the blonde was still on his desk. Glorfindel smiled sheepishly and stood, crossing the room towards the door. “Well, let’s go meet our strange guests.” He stopped in the open doorway and looked back, raising an eyebrow. “Well? What are you waiting for?” Not waiting for an answer, he left the room. Elrond sighed and rolled his eyes. “I hate it when he does that.” ______________________________ Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli Email: cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing: Legolas/Haldir, Glorfindel/Elrond Rating: PG-13 Summary: After 30 years of imprisonment, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Pre-LOTR Genre: Mystery Author's Notes: There will be a sequel. ~....~ = italics, '....' = thoughts. ______________________ Haldir looked over at the closed door when he heard a quiet knock. He glanced at Legolas to make sure that the younger elf was still asleep, then crossed the room and opened the door. He came face to face with an....energetic blonde elf. "Hello, I'm Glorfindel," the strange elf said, smiling brightly. "Elrond will be here shortly." Glorfindel cocked his head, then turned slightly to look down the hall. "In fact, here he comes now." Haldir stared at him, confused. He didn't know quite what to make of this elf, but something about him seemed familiar. A sound from behind him brought his attention to Legolas, who was waking up. Haldir smiled, now he knew why Glorfindel seemed familiar. He reminded him of Legolas before they were captured. He sighed, wondering if Legolas would ever be as free-spirited as he once was. Haldir returned his attention to the doorway when he heard someone clear their throat. He was surprised to see a dark-haired elf standing behind Glorfindel. Haldir looked closely at the new stranger and concluded that this must be the twins' father. Haldir smiled shyly and moved back from the door, allowing the two to enter but still keeping between them and Legolas. "Hello." The dark-haired elf smiled gently and moved around Glorfindel so he could enter the room. "Hello, Haldir," he looked over at the bed, "Hello, Legolas." Legolas stared at him for a moment, then pulled the blanket up over his head. Haldir walked over to the bed and sat next to Legolas, taking the younger elf's hand. He looked back at the dark-haired elf. "You're a healer?" Haldir asked, hesitantly. "Yes," The dark-haired elf answered, nodding. "I am Lord Elrond." He stood next to the bed and smiled down at Legolas, who was still hiding. "I wont hurt you, Legolas." Legolas squeezed Haldir's hand and tried to burrow further into the bed. Haldir moved closer to Legolas. "Legolas, he's a healer. He'll help you get well." Haldir smiled reassuringly when Legolas peeked out from under the blanket. "Come on out, it's safe here." Legolas watched him for a moment, then glanced quickly at Elrond. Then he sat up, letting the blanket fall off of him, and leaned against Haldir. Elrond smiled at the young elf and knelt down so he was at Legolas' eye level. "I'm a healer, Legolas, and I would like to help you feel better," he said, smiling gently. "Will you allow me to examine you?" Legolas stared at him, then looked over at Haldir for reassurance. Haldir smiled and nodded, stroking Legolas' hair. The young elf turned back to Lord Elrond and smiled, nodding. Elrond looked over at Glorfindel, gesturing for the blonde to help. As soon as Glorfindel moved to stand beside him, Elrond handed him his healing bag before turning back to Legolas. "Legolas, I'm going to check your temperature." He waited until Legolas nodded, then slowly raised his hand to the young elf's forehead. Legolas held tightly to Haldir's hand, trembling slightly. He had gotten used to the twins, but this was someone new and he was nervous. Haldir squeezed is hand and gave him a reassuring smile. Elrond frowned when he felt the slight heat of a fever, then looked over at Haldir. "How long has he had this fever?" Haldir glanced worriedly at him, then returned his attention to Legolas. "Quite a few days now. It's not as high as it was, Elrohir was able to bring it down slightly." "It is still high," Elrond said, sighing. "What are his other symptoms?" Haldir cocked his head, thinking. "He had a bad cough and Elrohir said he had fluid in his lungs." He paused, staring at Legolas. "He's been cold and he's nearly always tired." Elrond nodded, continuing his examination. He glanced at Haldir. "I need to listen to his breathing." Haldir thought a moment, then nodded. He smiled at Legolas to show the younger elf that it was all right. Legolas cocked his head, confused. He glanced uncertainly at Elrond, who leaned forward slowly and put his ear on Legolas' chest. Legolas jumped slightly and Haldir rubbed his back, whispering soothingly. Elrond leaned back and frowned, thinking. "Has he been eating?" Haldir sighed. "Only a little. He's hardly ever hungry and I don't like to force him." He hugged Legolas close to him, smiling gently. Elrond nodded, as if this confirmed something he already knew. "Has he experienced any chest pain?" Haldir frowned then looked at Legolas, who bit his lip and nodded. Elrond sighed, then looked over at Glorfindel who handed him his bag. Elrond returned his attention to the two elves on the bed. He sighed and shook his head. "Haldir, I'm afraid Legolas has pneumonia." ___________________________ Title: Keep Breathing Author: Cheysuli Email: cheysuli@gvtc.com Pairing: Legolas/Haldir, Glorfindel/Elrond Rating: PG-13 Summary: After 30 years of imprisonment, can Legolas and Haldir learn to live again? Pre-LOTR Genre: Mystery Author's Notes: There will be a sequel. ~....~ = italics, '....' = thoughts. ______________________ Haldir cocked his head, confused. “Pneumonia?” Elrond nodded, digging around in his bag. “It’s a human disease. I’ve never heard of an Elf getting it, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t happened before.” He looked up, frowning, as Legolas coughed quietly. Legolas leaned against Haldir, hiding his face in the older elf’s chest. Haldir smiled at him. “It’s all right, Legolas.” He stroked Legolas’ dirty blonde hair, trying to calm the nervous elf. Elrond sighed and glanced over at Glorfindel, who was for once standing quietly in the corner. Glorfindel cocked his head and gestured at the bag in Elrond’s hands. Elrond quickly resumed looking through the bag. After a few moments, he withdrew a few small leaves and looked around the room. A soft knock on the door startled them, causing Legolas to grab onto Haldir as if his life depended on it. Glorfindel smiled and walked quickly to the door, opening it and speaking quietly to the servant for a few moments. He turned and quietly closed the door, holding a steaming mug in one hand. He grinned at Elrond, who was staring at him. “Hot water. I thought you might need it, so I asked Isar to fetch some from the kitchen.” Elrond cocked an eyebrow, amused. “I see. Thank you, Glorfindel.” Glorfindel handed the mug to him, and then watched as Elrond crushed the dry leaves and dropped them into the water. Haldir was whispering softly to Legolas, trying to still the younger elf’s trembling. He looked up when Elrond held a mug of….something in front of his face. “What is that?” he asked, glaring at the steaming mug. Elrond smiled. “It’s Peppermint tea. It will help him breathe easier.” He handed the tea to the blonde elf. Haldir stared at the tea, then looked at Legolas. “Legolas, are you thirsty?” he asked softly, frowning when Legolas shook his head. Haldir glanced at Elrond. “He doesn’t want it, and I won’t force him to drink it.” Elrond sighed and looked over at Glorfindel. The blonde elf shrugged, shaking his head. “Very well,” Elrond said, turning back to the two elves on the bed. “He does not have to drink it at this moment.” He studied the young elf, frowning when he saw that he still trembled. “He should rest for a few hours, then we’ll have dinner brought to you.” Haldir nodded and glanced around the room, trying to find a place to put the tea. Elrond took it from him and set it on the table by the window. “I’ll have Isar bring some warm water, cloths and clothes,” Elrond said, turning back to Haldir, “You need to get him clean and into some clean clothes.” Legolas whimpered softly, turning so he could see what everyone was doing. He frowned when he saw Elrond staring at him and turned back to Haldir. He patted Haldir’s arm before reaching for a pillow that was next to him, hugging it close. Haldir smiled at him. “He’s tired, Lord Elrond, can he go back to sleep now or do you need to examine him some more?” Elrond glanced at Glorfindel, cocking an eyebrow. The blonde elf shook his head and gestured towards the door. “We’ll let you two get some rest,” Elrond said, closing his bag. “I want you to try to get Legolas to drink that tea before it gets cold.” He stood and walked to the door, Glorfindel following close behind him. They stopped near the door and Elrond looked over his shoulder. “If you need anything, call for Isar.” Haldir nodded and helped Legolas lay down, tucking the blankets around him. He smiled and stroked Legolas' hair, watching as the younger elf fell asleep. Glorfindel smiled and reached around Elrond, who was still watching Haldir and Legolas, and opened the door. With one last glance at the two elves on the bed, Glorfindel and Elrond left the room. ~*~*~*~ Elrond sighed and glared at the blonde elf that was practically skipping next to him. “Must you always be so….so….” He frowned, trying to think of a word to describe his energetic friend. “Bouncy?” Glorfindel stopped and moved in front of him, causing Elrond to run into the blonde elf. Glorfindel frowned, a confused expression on his face. “Bouncy?” He shook his head. “I am ~not~ bouncy.” Elrond laughed, laying a hand on Glorfindel’s shoulder. “Of ~course~ you aren’t.” He smirked at the energetic elf. “You are the calmest elf in all of Middle-Earth.” Glorfindel stared at him, clearly not believing him. Elrond stopped smirking when he saw a slow grin cross Glorfindel‘s face. “Whatever you say, oh mighty Lord of Imladris,” Glorfindel said, bowing low. When he stood, his eyes were sparkling and he stared hard at the dark haired elf. Elrond frowned, suspicious, and slowly started to back away. “What are you planning, Glorfindel?” Glorfindel cocked his head, feigning confusion. “Planning? What ever do you mean, my Lord?” Elrond glared at him, and tried to move around Glorfindel, who was blocking the way. “I don’t trust you. How do I know you ~aren‘t~ planning anything?” The blonde elf started to pout. After a few moments, when it was clear that he was not fooling Elrond, his expression became blank. “I am hurt that you think so little of me, Lord Elrond.” He glared at the dark haired elf for a moment, then turned and stormed down the hall. Elrond stared after him, confused. 'I really hope he doesn’t believe I was ~serious~.' He shook his head and sighed, telling himself to be extra cautious around the blonde elf for the next few days.