THE HARD TRAVELLED PATH TO DESTINY
EXTENDED VERSION

(The story continues after Chapter 52 and starts with Chapter 53. The
Epilogue has been re-written. I have posted this separately so there is no
confusion for all that have read the story already. This way one would only
have to read the extended chapters)

Author: E'amane'Aldarion
Beta: Blackrose (Courtesy-T.Futcher)
Rating: R
Main Pairing: HALDIR/LEGOLAS
Other Pairings: Haldir/Dinendal, Haldir/Tinion, Haldir/Elladan, (other minor
pairings)                        
Feedback: Sure! Eamane5@aol.com	
Warnings: Slash/Angst/Mpreg/Minor character death
Note: This is my very first slash fic. I inadvertently stumbled across a
slash fic story while looking for something else and was pleasantly surprised
to see that I was not the only one who had these thoughts! So, I decided to
try my hand at writing one as well. Haldir does NOT die in my story however,
as he is my inspiration.                                                
Disclaimer: All characters are the property of J.R.R. Tolkien. I am just
having fun with them. No money made here. That's for sure- because I am soooo
broke!
Summary: A story of denial and obstacles facing true love. Haldir fell in
love with Legolas from the first moment he laid eyes on him, but let many
reasons stop him from pursuing him, being pursued by him or even admitting to
himself that he had the feelings to begin with.
Timeline: After the fellowship and Middle Earth. Takes place in Valinor. 
Archives: Lotrfanfiction.com, SlashFiction.net -Anyone else, please let me
know where.	
Translations: [In brackets] *-* used for Elvish language and for emphasis. 

********************

FIFTY THREE


Thranduil and the entire party from Mirkwood, including Legolas, Haldir and
Gimli arrived in Lothlorien late in the afternoon to the surprise and delight
of all. Content in the knowledge that all remaining from the elven realms of
Lothlorien, Imladris and Mirkwood were now present, Celeborn and Galadriel
orchestrated an elaborate feast for their last night in Middle Earth. Wine
flowed freely, for all of the Lords brought forth several large flasks of
their favourite vintages.  Spacious tables were set up with elaborate
platters full of breads, fruits, fish and pheasant. 
Friends both new and old gathered in the common greeting each other, telling
tales of old and laughing merrily.


To both Legolas and Gimli's surprise, Aragorn and Arwen- accompanied by
Faramir, Eomer, Gandalf, Frodo, and a small contingent from Gondor, had
arrived previously and were on hand to say a last goodbye to family and
friends. All at the celebration marvelled with relish the knowledge of the
child that Legolas carried. Orophin and Rumil were especially happy, both
with the news of their unborn nephew and of the return of their beloved
brother Haldir. 

The elves and their guests set sail the following morning amidst tearful but
joyous goodbyes. Aragorn and Arwen waved at the departing boats until they
could see them no longer as they moved in a straight line out of the harbour
along the river Nimrodel. With light hearts, they set off to return to Minas
Tirith and Gondor. Arwen smiled as she gazed into the eyes of her beloved
Elessar,* content in the knowledge that she and all she loved were now
embarking on the road to their destinies. As they passed the great divide,
Aragorn turned to see the light of the once shimmering Mallorns of the golden
wood grow darker and eventually cease entirely. It did not make him sad; for
he knew that Galadriel carried that light with her, and it would shine bright
again and forever in Valinor.

And shine it did. Though Valinor did not house the great Mallorns that grew
in Lothlorien, it did possess an abundance of foliage and other trees that
were just as old and tall; and they took on nearly the same luminance. The
elves settled and led wonderful and peaceful lives together. No longer was
there a division of the three realms. All were free to live as they chose.
Many chose to live as they did in their former realm, such as in talans high
in the trees; while others chose to live as their other kin, in the comfort
of structures with high walls. 

********************

"Look, Haldir! Is this not absolutely breathtaking?" Legolas asked excitedly
while pulling Haldir along behind him as he ran into a vast clearing laden
with numerous small waterfalls on its surround.

Haldir picked up his pace to match that of the Prince. When they finally
stopped moving, he looked around and nodded. "It is wonderful indeed,
Princeling. I can see you have been out scouting again."

Legolas smiled brightly and threw his arms around Haldir's neck. "I am so
glad I decided to come here. Valinor is wondrous, and I am truly happy."

Haldir moved his head in closer to kiss him, and then he looked into his bond
mate's dazzling sapphire eyes. "I am happy that you are happy *mir nin,* [my
treasure] and I am happy as well. You possess a great deal of vigor this day
for one so close to bearing a child. Did the healer give
am not aware of?"

Legolas laughed and winked as he pulled Haldir down onto the grass with him.
"Nay *melamin*, [my love] but 'tis true that I am full of energy. Mayhap you
can deduce what I would like to do next?"


Haldir smiled broadly. "That I can, *rwalaer.* [lusty one] You have been
insatiable all week."

Legolas grinned and kissed him as he lay across Haldir's chest. "And you
loved every minute of it, too."

"Tis certain you will never hear me complain about that, *nin bain.*" [my
beauty]

*"Amin mela lle."* [I love you] Legolas whispered, as he caressed Haldir's
face.

Haldir kissed him again, and their open mouths lingered in deep contact. Each
of the other's tongues probed further inside in exploration as if they had
never tasted one another before. Legolas swiftly started to open Haldir's
tunic when a rustle in the trees near them broke his concentration. He turned
his head to see three other elves enter the glade.

"I would be careful if I were you, Prince. That is exactly how you came to be
in your present condition." Tinion snickered as he; Fereveldir and Melpomaen
drew near them.

Legolas laughed as he rose and let Haldir up from the grass. Haldir fastened
up his tunic with a wicked smile as the elves strode up to them. "You will
pay dearly for this interruption, *mellonamin.* [My friend] This I promise
you."

Tinion laughed heartily. "Is that so? Well, I know you have changed much
since meeting the Prince my friend- but had I known you have also developed a
taste for coupling publicly 
amongst the masses, I would not have disturbed you- for seeing you in the
heat of passion 
is surely a sight well worth watching."

Haldir looked at Legolas and then back at Tinion. "What say you?"

Fereveldir chuckled." You have forgotten about the gathering this day, I can
see."

"Gathering? What gathering?"

Legolas' eyes widened. "I am afraid it is my fault, *melamin.* [My love] I
was told by Orophin to tell you and it slipped my mind. Forgive me."

Tinion snickered. "No doubt because you two are always so busy slipping
underneath the sheets."

Everyone laughed as Haldir shot out his arm and gave Tinion a friendly shove.

Melpomaen bowed. "Prince Legolas, it is wonderful to finally meet the elf
that has so captured Haldir's heart. I am Melpomaen."

Legolas extended his hand and grasped the shoulder of the fair dark- haired
elf that stood before them. "'Tis a pleasure to meet you as well, but please-
just call me Legolas."

Melpomaen nodded. "Legolas it is, then."

Fereveldir frowned. "Forgive me. I thought you knew each other."

Melpomaen smiled. ""Tis of no consequence, *mellon.* [Friend] Haldir, you are
looking well as always."

Haldir nodded. "As are you, *meldir * [Friend]

More elves started entering the glade. Tinion stole a glance their way and
then returned his gaze to Haldir and Legolas. "Will you both be gracing us
with your presence, or will you return to your talan to finish what you
started?"

Legolas grinned as Tinion quickly jumped backward out of reach of Haldir's
grasp. Fereveldir and Melpomaen laughed hard as Tinion winked, and then
turned and walked off towards those gathering near the center of the glade.

"I do hope you will join us. You are looking very well, Legolas." Fereveldir
commented.

"I am very well. Thank you Fereveldir." Legolas replied.

"We will be off now. Take care." Fereveldir replied. Melpomaen smiled and
nodded at Legolas and Haldir before strolling away with Fereveldir. Legolas
moved closer to Haldir and took his hand.

"Forgive me for being so absent minded. Shall we join them? I am sure Ru and
Oro will be along soon." Legolas remarked.

Haldir smiled. "It is all right, *mir nin.* [My treasure] What do *you* wish
to do?"

Legolas blushed. "I think you *know* what I wish to do, but I would not want
us to miss the gathering. It would be rude, not to mention the fact that my
father, your brothers *and* Tinion would not let us hear the end of it."

Haldir took his hand and chuckled. "Then we shall do both. Come; there is
plenty of time. The gathering is just getting started."

Across the glade, Tinion tapped Fereveldir on the shoulder and pointed to the
retreating forms of Haldir and Legolas. Fereveldir shook his head and smiled
when Tinion held out his hand to receive the spoils due him for winning the
wager.

********************

"Wake up, Oro! Surely you are not going to lie in bed all day? Are you not
going to the gathering?" Rumil asked, while shaking his brother relentlessly.

Orophin groaned and pulled the pillow over his head. "I am sure there is
plenty of time, Ru. You just want to be early so you do not miss anything
worth gossiping about."

Rumil chuckled. "You know that something interesting always happens whenever
wine flows freely in large groups. Do not pretend that you do not relish the
entertainment as much as I do."

"That may be so, but what of Elladan? Why do you not go and see if he will
accompany you? I will join you later."

Rumil frowned, and pulled the pillow away from his brother's head. "Oro, you
know El likes to sleep late."

Orophin groaned and rose to sit on the edge of the bed. "So do I, and I would
too if I were not being constantly harassed by a certain mischievous elf."

"But you have a much better disposition when you are awakened. El is too
grumpy, and no fun at all until late afternoon." Rumil whined.

"Hal and Legolas are early risers. Why did you not seek them out?" Orophin
asked, as he pulled on his leggings.

"Because they are not as playful as you, dear brother. Besides, you know how
testy Legolas has become. The nearer he gets to giving birth, the more he
wants Hal with him at all times. He is getting so very moody."

Orophin tied the lacings on his tunic and smiled. "I think he well has an
excuse for that, *pen- tithen.* [Little one]

"I know." Rumil replied, sitting down on the bed. "I just miss Hal. I do not
get to spend time with him as often as I would like."

Orophin smiled down at his younger sibling and caressed his head. "I am sure
once the child is born, things will be different. It is a first for both of
them, and it is only natural that they would cling to each other."

Rumil sighed. "I guess."

Orophin took Rumil's chin in his fingers and raised it so that he could look
in his eyes. "Trust me and worry not. Remember to whom you are speaking."

Rumil smiled. "The voice of reason."

"That is correct." Orophin replied, releasing his chin. "Now, get the brush.
You have awakened me, so now it is *you* who will do my braids."

********************

After making love, Legolas tried to snuggle closer within Haldir's strong
embrace and frowned.

"What is it, *melamin?"* [My love] Haldir asked, seeing the distressful look
cross his bondmate's features.

 "I cannot get as close to you as I would like. My belly is in the way."

Haldir chuckled. "'Tis a temporary circumstance, *mir nin.* [ My treasure]
Worry not."

"I feel so big! How can you put up with me like this?"

Haldir looked at him. "Turn your back to me."

Legolas blinked, but did as he was told. Haldir pulled him close and
enveloped him in his arms, softly rubbing his belly with one hand. "There. Is
this better?"

Legolas sighed. "It is."

Haldir moved so that he could kiss him, and then tightened his hold on him
again. "We can lie like this as long as you wish, *nin bain."* [My beauty]

 "There are times I wish never to leave our bed at all."

"There are times I would agree." Haldir responded.

"What do you think our child will look like?"

"I know not, but I would hope he looks like you."

Legolas reached back and caressed the firmness of Haldir's hip. "I would hope
he looks like you."

Haldir frowned. "Why would you wish my large nose on our child? Surely yours
would be a better choice. In fact, *anyone* else's nose would be a better
choice."

Legolas wiggled free to turn and look at him. "You really have no idea how
very beguiling you are, do you?"

"I suppose not- but I am happy *you* think so, Princeling." Haldir chuckled.

Legolas grinned. "I am not the *only* one who thinks so, but I won your heart
over those hundreds of others, so I am happy."



"I know my liaisons have been many-* lirimaer,* [Lovely one] but I do not
think the number is quite that high."

Legolas laughed and stretched a leg across Haldir's hip. "Shall I name them?
Let's see… we have myself of course, Tinion, Elladan, Saelbeth, Lord
Elrond…there was also Dinendal and Siddhir, Arwen, Elrohir, Silinde…."

Haldir frowned. "I was never with Arwen, Elrohir *or* Silinde."

"I never said you were. I *said* they find you to be addictively attractive.
Elrohir admitted having a crush on you, remember? Silinde told me himself
that he found you to be fair. So did my father as a matter of fact."

Haldir's eyes widened. "Surely you jest."

Legolas laughed heartily. "If I had not set my sights on you, he would have.
Melpomaen is another. I could see it in his eyes."

Haldir looked away. "You are mistaken about that one, Princeling."

"I think not. I know lust when I see it. Care to wager?" Legolas questioned.

"Nay. In fact, I would like to end this discussion altogether, if you do not
mind."

Legolas blinked and considered him. "I was just teasing, Haldir. Have I said
something that has upset you?"

Haldir turned back towards him and smiled. "Nay, *nin bain.* [My beauty] But
we really should get dressed and go to the gathering before they come after
us."

"You are right of course." Legolas replied, removing his leg from Haldir's
hip. "We will most likely be the last to arrive at this point."

 "That is *very* likely, but somehow I suspect that it will not surprise any
of them." Come; let us prepare." Haldir replied, kissing him and rising from
the bed.

* Aragorn's name when crowned King.

FIFTY FOUR


The glade was filled with hundreds of smiling and laughing elves milling
about as Haldir and Legolas entered. Ornate tables had been set up and they
were filled to capacity with various meats, fish, vegetables, fruit and wine.
Legolas took Haldir's hand and led him to where Thranduil was seated next to
Elrond, Celeborn and Galadriel. Thranduil stood and embraced his son.

"You are looking so well, *nin ion."* [My son] Thranduil boomed, hugging him
close.

"I feel great, *Ada."* [Father]

 Thranduil released him, and Legolas bowed to Elrond, Celeborn and Galadriel.
He smiled and  nodded to Haldir. "Pleasure to see you, Haldir. How have you
been faring?"

"I fare well, my Lord. Thank you for asking." Haldir responded, nodding in
return. He also turned and nodded with respect to Galadriel and the two other
Lords seated beside her.

"Are you ready for the big event? From the looks of things, it will not be
much longer." Thranduil chuckled, gently patting Legolas' belly.

Haldir smiled. "I am quite ready, my Lord."

"As am I, but right now I am quite hungry." Legolas chimed in.

"Of course you are!" Thranduil chuckled. "Come; sit with me awhile. Haldir,
you do not mind, do you?"

"Of course not, my Lord." Haldir answered. He turned to Legolas and took his
hand. "I will seek out my brothers for a time. I will return soon,
*melamin."*[My love]

Legolas squeezed his hand and released it. "Please greet them for me."

"I will. Do not over eat, *lirimaer.*[Lovely one] Remember what happened the
last time you did so."

Legolas smiled. "I will not. Go now; have fun."

Haldir nodded, and strolled across the glade nodding and stopping to chat
with several elves as he passed on his way to find his brothers. When he
finally located them, they were exactly where he thought he would find them;
and that was with the twins. He chuckled to himself as he drew near them.
Such perfect matches they were, he thought.

"You are looking well, Haldir." Elladan greeted with a wink of an eye.


Haldir chuckled. "As are you, *mellonamin.* [My friend] *Mae Govannen,* [Well
met] Elrohir."

*"Mae Govannen,* [Well met] Haldir." Elrohir responded.

"And how are my two long lost brothers this day? Legolas sends his
greetings."

Orophin smiled, and rose with Rumil to embrace him. "We are well brother,
although Ru is missing you again. He says *you* are the long lost brother."

Haldir released them to look Rumil. "Is that so?"

"You have been scarce, brother. You spend all of your time now with the
Prince. If it were not for this gathering, it may have been forever before I
got to see you again." Rumil pouted.

"I know I have been preoccupied a lot lately, but you know that is only
because our child is due soon." Haldir replied.

"I tried to tell him that." Orophin chimed in.

"You could have come to see *me* you know." Haldir remarked, with a raised
eyebrow.

Rumil frowned. "The Prince is too moody now." Elladan and Elrohir chuckled.
Orophin smiled.

Haldir laughed. "Of course he is! Do you not think you would be in his
position?"

"I guess."

"All right, I will tell you what. How about we all get together on the morrow
at first light? You and Oro can help me to do something."

"What can we do?" Rumil inquired, interested.

"I am going to be an *Ada* [Father] soon, and we are going to need a larger
talan. I want to look for the perfect site and then later start construction.
I wish to surprise Legolas."

Rumil smiled brightly. "We can do that."

Haldir chuckled, and embraced Rumil again. "I am glad you agree."

"That sounds interesting. Can we come too?" Elladan asked.

Haldir grinned. "If you wish, but beware- I may find work for you to do."

"It sounds inviting. I look forward to it." Elrohir answered, winking at
Orophin.


"What are you looking forward to, Elrohir?" Melpomaen asked as he approached
them.

"We are going to help Haldir seek out a site in which to build a larger
talan." Elrohir responded, as everyone looked on.

"Ah!" Melpomaen said, with a knowing smile. "A larger family needs a larger
talan."

"That is correct." Orophin replied, eyeing Melpomaen curiously.

Melpomaen turned towards Haldir. "How very nice for you."

"Thank you." Haldir replied, seating himself at the table. Melpomaen sat
beside him.

********************

"Friend elf, if you eat any more you will truly be as large as a dwelling."
Gimli chuckled.

Legolas turned to him with a frown. "I am *already* as large as a dwelling."

"I was only fooling with you, laddie. Try not to be so sensitive."

Legolas's attention focused again on Haldir across the crowded meadow sitting
with his brothers, the twins and Melpomaen. He did not know why, but he began
to feel uncomfortable.

"Laddie?"

Legolas turned back to Gimli again. "Forgive me, Gimli. Were you saying
something?"

"I just wanted to inform you that Frodo and Gandalf are here. Is something
wrong, laddie?"

"Nay. I was just feeling a little insecure I suppose." Legolas replied.

"*Insecure?* *You?* About what?" Gimli inquired.

Legolas shrugged, but said nothing. Gimli followed his gaze. He watched for
awhile, and then looked back at the obviously troubled elf sitting beside
him.

"Legolas, I say this but once. There is no need to feel insecure about your
spouse. The love he has for you is legendary. Your hormones are just out of
sorts."

Legolas chuckled. "Oh, is *that* what it is? I was beginning to think it was
just me."

Gimli stood, laughing. "There! That is much better. Come; let us greet
Gandalf and Frodo."

********************

Melpomaen took another sip of his wine, as Haldir embraced his brothers.

"I had best get back to Legolas now. If he is not careful, he will over eat
again. He was miserable the last time that happened." Haldir commented, with
a grin.

Rumil laughed. "Well, we certainly do not want *that,* do we? If he gets
grumpy again, it will spoil our planned outing."  Orophin smiled at his
brother's remark.

Haldir winked. "He really is not that high strung anymore, Ru. You just came
by on a bad day the last time."

"Surely he is not *that* insecure, Haldir. You are still well within his line
of sight." Melpomaen quipped. The twins looked at each other with raised
eyebrows, and then at Orophin and Rumil. Elladan took Rumil's hand and
hastily led him away. Elrohir claimed Orophin's hand too as Orophin glared
back at Melpomaen with obvious distaste.

Haldir gazed at him with a face devoid of expression. "That is true- but the
truth be known, it is I who am eager to be with *him.* So, in light of that-
I bid you a good day." He nodded at Orophin and Elrohir and left.

Orophin turned to Elrohir. "Could you join El and Ru, *melamin?* [My love] I
wish to speak with Melpomaen for a moment."

Elrohir looked from Orophin to Melpomaen, who was gazing at Orophin
expectantly. "Um- certainly,  *A'maelamin."* [Beloved]  Orophin squeezed his
hand for reassurance and then Elrohir slowly walked away. He did not go far;
and he stood watching apprehensively.

"You and Ro are a good match, Oro. I am happy for you." Melpomaen remarked.

Orophin sat again and gazed at Melpomaen with icy blue eyes. "What are you
doing Melpomaen?"

"Whatever do you mean, Oro?"

"What was that remark about the Prince's insecurity for?" Orophin demanded.

Melpomaen smiled. "Relax, Oro. It was nothing! It was just a simple
observation."

 Orophin frowned. "There is nothing simple about you, Melpomaen- or have you
forgotten to whom you speak? Your devilishness *almost* worked with Siddhir,
but  it will not work at all with Legolas. Or is it Haldir you have set your
eyes upon?"

Melpomaen's mouth dropped open. "What say you? I rejected Haldir centuries
ago."



"You did. In favour of his lover, to no avail- but I am thinking that perhaps
you now realize your mistake. I suggest you put it out of your mind. You will
cause them no trouble, Melpomaen. You will *not* hurt my brother again. Do I
make myself clear?"

Melpomaen raised an eyebrow. "Surely you would not be threatening me, would
you Oro?"

Orophin lips curled into a deadly smile, and he slowly stood. At that moment
in Melpomaen's eyes he resembled Haldir more than ever before.

"I would never do such a thing fair one, and surely you know me well enough
to know that I- much like my brother- have never been prone to making idle
threats. Besides, protruding belly or no- it would not be prudent to
underestimate the Prince. Legolas can well take care of himself, I assure
you. Do not let yourself be fooled. *Quel re, mellonamin.*" [Good day, my
friend]

Melpomaen watched as Orophin sauntered away towards where Elrohir stood
waiting. Then he fixed his gaze on Haldir and Legolas. Even from this
distance, he could clearly see that the couple seemed very much in love;
laughing and gazing into each other's eyes. Perhaps Orophin was right again,
for he had certainly been correct in his earlier assumption. With a heavy
sigh, he rose and made his way over to Tinion and Fereveldir.

********************

"It is not wise to try and out drink an elf, friend Gimli- and *especially*
not Haldir. You have no idea what you are undertaking." Legolas warned.

Gimli burped and sat his goblet down with a thud as he wiped his mouth with
the back of his sleeve. "I am still in the running, laddie. I am one ahead of
your spouse."

"It is not how *many* you can drink, master dwarf. It is how long you can
stay *upright,* and I fear you are leaning a tad bit already." Haldir
smirked.

"Nonsense! Let us have another round." Gimli scoffed.

"Very well." Haldir replied, with a sideways wink at Legolas. He filled both
of their goblets.

Frodo chuckled. "Gimli, Haldir has not even broken a sweat. I think you
should stop now, honestly."

Gimli laughed. "Frodo my lad, Shire folk know naught about drinking such as
the Dwarves. I come from a long line of wine makers. Watch and learn, lad."

"If you say so, master Gimli." Frodo replied with a grin.

Gimli raised his goblet. "To you, Marchwarden."


Haldir touched his goblet to Gimli's. "To you, master Dwarf."

Both Haldir and Gimli downed the contents quickly and slammed their empty
goblets on the table, to much applause and laughter.

"Legolas, have you not told your friend of your spouses proficiency where
drinking wine is concerned? That would not be quite fair." Gandalf inquired
with a hearty chuckle as he joined them with an elf that Legolas did not
recognize. 

Legolas laughed. "I did, but you know of the stubbornness of dwarves. I think
I will take a stroll. I grow tired of watching a sport that I cannot partake
in at the moment."

Haldir winked at him. "I will find you soon, *lirimaer."* [Lovely one]

"To that I hold no doubt, *A'maelamin.*" [Beloved] Legolas replied. "Gandalf,
would you like to stroll with me? I have something I wish to speak with you
about."

"Certainly." Gandalf replied. "Legolas, meet Saellion. He is the first."

Legolas' eyes widened as he focused on the stunning elf before him. He
extended his hand to touch his shoulder in greeting. "Tis a pleasure to meet
you."

"And I you." Saellion replied. "Mithrandir, I will leave you now. Legolas
wishes to speak with you. I will find you later."

"Nay, Saellion. You may walk with us as well. In fact, perhaps you can help
to answer my questions." Legolas responded.

Saellion smiled. "Very well."

The three walked a little further out in the meadow, and then Legolas turned
to them. "I have been worried as of late, *melloneamin."* [My friends]

"How so? Are you feeling ill, Legolas?" Gandalf asked.

"Nay, not at all. It is just that- well…I have been wondering how…"

"How what, my friend?" Gandalf inquired. 

Saellion smiled. "I am willing to wager that he has the same question in his
mind as I had a few years ago, friend."

Gandalf smiled." Ah! A just question it is too."



Legolas frowned. "How could you know what I am going to ask? Do you have the
gift of foresight?"

Saellion smiled. "One does not need the gift when one has been there,
*mellonamin.* [My friend] You wish to know how you will be able to deliver
your child, and you are more than a bit afraid at the prospect. Am I not
correct?"

Legolas nodded.

Gandalf placed a long arm across Legolas' shoulders. "You need not worry. You
are blessed by the Valar, my friend. He will *provide* the way."

"But, I do not see how it can possibly happen! There is no- I do not have- I
am not made to bear children." Legolas retorted.

"Prince, I gave birth to my daughter five years ago. Trust me and worry not,
for there is naught to fear. You *wil* bear your child and be witness to but
one of the many miracles the Valar can provide. Fear not. He *will* make a
way." Saellion responded.

Legolas nodded and smiled. "I understand. *Diola lle.*" [Thank you]

"You are most welcome." Saellion answered.

"Is there anything else you would like to discuss, my friend?" Gandalf asked.

"Nay." Legolas replied. "That was the answer I needed to hear."

A loud cheer reverberated across the meadow to where they were standing.
Legolas smiled. "I think that means to wine war has finished. We should
return. I am sure I have to help friend Gimli up from the grass."

Gandalf laughed loudly. "I am sure you are right. When it comes to drinking
wine, Haldir must have the best stomach in all of Arda- and many more years
doing it too." Saellion smiled at the wizard's remark.

Legolas shook his head and mumbled as they walked towards the crowd. "The
stubbornness of Dwarves! Now he will *really* be grumpy upon waking on the
morrow."
FIFTY FIVE


 The following morning, Haldir awakened with a yawn. Legolas smiled as he
gazed into his bond mate's eyes. *"Quel amrun, ‘Amaelamin.*" [Good morning,
my beloved]

Haldir smiled. *"Quel amrun, nin bain."* [Good morning, my beauty]

"Finally, I get to watch you sleep. I should have you drink wine with Gimli
more often." Legolas chuckled.

Haldir smiled. "The Dwarf was quite the challenge, I must admit-but in the
end I was the victor."

Legolas kissed him. "As I knew you would be, *melamin."* [My love]

Haldir sat up in the bed and pulled Legolas into his embrace. He placed a
hand on Legolas' swollen belly and rubbed it gently. "And how is our son this
morning?"

"He is still sleeping it seems. That is most likely because he kept me up all
night."

"Is that so?"

"It is so, and you *galad nin-* [My light] were oblivious to my tossing and
turning." Legolas chided.

"Forgive me, *lirimaer.*" [Lovely one] Haldir replied, giving him a gentle
hug.

Legolas turned his head to kiss him and smiled. "I will always forgive you,
for my heart bears naught but you in it."

"As does mine." Haldir answered.

Legolas pulled away from his embrace. "I had best get myself ready. I
promised my father I would have breakfast with him and Lord Elrond this
morning. Will you join me?"

"Nay, Princeling. I have other business to attend to this day. Please inform
them that I will attend the next time."

"Very well. What are you going to do?" Legolas questioned.

 "I will tell you soon enough, *lirimaer.* [Lovely one] Now, off with you!"
Haldir grinned, lightly slapping a chuckling Legolas on the rear end for
emphasis. "You would not want to keep your father and Lord Elrond waiting."

********************


Elrond and Thranduil each wiped tears away from the corners of their eyes as
a grinning Galdor snaked an arm around Tinion's shoulders and pulled him
close.

"My love is quite lively, is he not?" Galdor asked.

"Ah! That he is, my friend. And a uplifting addition to any gathering as
well." Elrond replied.

Tinion smiled. "Why thank you, my Lord."

"Thank *you*, Tinion. I have not laughed like that in quite some time. I
wonder where Legolas and Haldir are? It is not like them to be late."
Thranduil responded.

"I am sure the will arrive eventually, my Lord. Such has been the case for
them lately." Tinion winked.

Thranduil chuckled. "I know what you mean. Honestly, the stamina they possess
is remarkable! Especially in Legolas' delicate condition."

Tinion started to open his mouth, but Galdor silenced him with a kiss.
Thranduil and Elrond glanced at each other and smiled. When the kiss was
over, Galdor looked deep into his lover's large blue eyes. "How about we save
some of your ever sparkling repartee for Legolas and Haldir to enjoy when
they arrive, *nin bain*? [My beauty] I am sure they will want to savour it as
much as we."  Both Elrond and Thranduil nodded with knowing smiles plastered
across their faces as they grasped each other's hands.

********************

Haldir smiled as Rumil, Orophin and Elrohir met him on the path nearest
Orophin's talan. Rumil quickly pulled him into an embrace.

"You see brother? We are quite ready to join you." Rumil noted.

"I am impressed. I know that none of you have a propensity towards rising
early if you can possibly help it. I am very grateful to you all." Haldir
replied.

"I am sorry Elladan is not here. He was disagreeable this morn." Elrohir
offered. Rumil nodded in agreement.

Haldir grinned. "I knew he would be. No matter- the four of us is sufficient.
Shall we go?"

********************

Legolas continued on his way to the home of his father and Lord Elrond after
having stopped to chat with several elves he had come into contact with along
the way. It was a beautiful morning 
for a stroll and he did not mind taking the time to enjoy it. As he turned
onto a connecting path 

that would lead him to his destination, his child kicked inside him so hard
that he had to stop and steady himself against the nearest tree, his breath
coming in gasps.

*"Sedho, nin ion. Saes."*  [Be still, my son. Please] He whispered, closing
his eyes.

The child continued to kick. Legolas slid down the tree into a sitting
position on the ground beneath it and waited, holding his protruding belly.
This was not the usual ticklish fluttering that he had become accustomed to.
It was more urgent and forceful now, and also somewhat uncomfortable. He
grimaced as another set of hard kicks came forth.

Legolas wondered briefly if he was about to give birth to his baby there
under the tree and became nervous. He looked around for help, but no one was
in sight-or hearing range. He opened his mouth to yell and hesitated. The
kicking had stopped just as suddenly as it began.

He exhaled deeply and sat for a few more moments before rising and continuing
on his way. Shortly before he reached the gates of his father's home,
Melpomaen greeted him as he strolled by on another adjoining path.

*"Mae Govannen,* [Well met] Legolas. You are out early this day."

Legolas looked at him. *"Mae Govannen,* [Well met] Melpomaen. May I have a
word with you?"

"Certainly." Melpomaen replied, as he strolled over to him.

Legolas looked long into the elf's cool dark blue eyes before speaking,
choosing his words carefully. "I have noticed on at least two occasions the
way you gaze at Haldir, and I am here to tell you that I do not like it. I
have a good idea *why* you do it, for I once gazed at him in much the same
manner. I mentioned it to him, and he told me I was wrong and seemed ill to
discuss it any further- but it matters not. I will not prod him because I
know all I need to. So, hear me Melpomaen; I am his bond mate. I belong to
him, and he belongs to me. *Nothing* or *no* one will *ever* come between us.
Have I made myself understood?"

"Prince, I know not why you have come to such conclusions, but I assure you
that-"

"Have I made myself *understood,* Melpomaen?" Legolas repeated, cutting him
off.

"You have indeed, Prince." Melpomaen answered, quietly.

"Good. Enjoy your day. I am late for an appointment with my father." He
turned and walked up to the gate, opened it and strolled up to the entrance
of his father's home. Melpomaen watched him for awhile and then continued on
his way, concluding with a heavy sigh that the time had indeed passed.
Orophin was right. Pursuing Haldir now would be a fruitless venture. There
simply were too many obstacles to bear.

********************

"How about this one?" Rumil asked, pointing to a large tree.

Haldir looked at it and shook his head. "It's not big enough, Ru. I would
like to have at least four rooms."

*"Four * rooms?" Rumil replied, shocked. "How many children is Legolas
carrying?"

Haldir laughed. "Just one, *penneth.*[Young one] But, I would not like to
have to move again if there should be another in the future. Understand?"

"That is sensible." Orophin commented. "The Valar has blessed you, and it is
quite possible there might be another child one day. Have you considered a
structure brother? We could search for an appropriate clearing. The Prince
was used to living within the walls of a castle."

"But he likes living in a talan too." Rumil interjected. 

Haldir shrugged. "I care not which, as long as it allows for plenty of room."

"May I offer a suggestion?" Elrohir asked.

"Certainly, *mellonamin."* [My friend] Haldir responded.

"How about a little of both? Over the hills there are several trees that are
low in stature, but strong; with thick limbs that could very well support a
structure of grand size. And, there are many clumped together somewhat like
shrubbery. I think an expanse of rooms would serve well upon them. You will
have both the above ground feeling of a talan, and the feeling of a structure
as well. You can place a staircase instead of a ladder."

Haldir smiled. "That is a very interesting prospect, Ro. Please, show me
these trees you speak of."

********************

"I thought you were not going to make it, *nin ion*. [my son] Where is
Haldir?" Thranduil asked, as Legolas entered the dining hall.

"He had some business to attend to. He offers his apologies, and asked me to
tell you that he will definitely join us the next time." Legolas replied.
*"Mae Govannen*, [Well met] Lord Elrond, Tinion; Galdor."

The other elves smiled and nodded in greeting. Thranduil stood quickly and
helped Legolas into his chair. "Legolas, you look pale. Are you not feeling
well?"

Legolas took his seat and sighed. "I am well, *Ada.* [Father] I was just a
little rattled earlier. I am sure I will be fine."

Thranduil's brow creased. "Rattled? About what?"

"I had a few words with Melpomaen before arriving here. It may have upset me
more than I thought. I was already a little shaken before coming upon him.
Legolas answered.

"Melpomaen? I am surprised, Prince. He is usually a very agreeable elf."
Elrond remarked.

 "He *was* very agreeable. I just do not like the way he ogles Haldir, and I
cautioned him to cease doing so."

Tinion chuckled. "You have nothing to fear from Melpomaen, Prince. You worry
for naught."

Legolas looked at him. "Oh, I am not worried. I just thought it necessary to
let him understand my position when it comes to Haldir, that is all."

The elves smiled at each other, all well knowing the Prince's inclination
towards being possessive when it came to Haldir. 

"I say this again Legolas, whatever you may think Melpomaen was doing, or
*trying* to do-it is clear to all in Valinor that Haldir has eyes only for
you. You said you were already rattled *before* seeing him though. What else
has troubled you?" Tinion asked.

"I thought I was going to have my child in the woods on the way here. He was
kicking so forcefully that I had to stop and rest." Legolas answered. "It
unnerved me somewhat, but I am fine now."

"Are you sure, *nin ion?* [My son] Here; have something to eat." Thranduil
remarked, as he passed a bowl of rolls to him.

*"Diola lle."*  [Thank you] Legolas replied. He took a roll and started to
eat. "I am sure I will be back to normal as soon as I fill my belly and feed
my child. He is probably hungry too."

Galdor smiled. "I am sure that is the case, Prince."

"I hope so." Legolas answered, as he added food from the table onto a small
plate.

Elrond frowned. "You sound uncertain, Legolas. Surely you are not worried
about your child? He is perfectly healthy, I assure you." 

"Nay, but I will admit that I am nervous about birthing him. I know not what
to expect."

"Did not Saellion and Mithrandir advise you? I saw you speak with them at the
gathering." Tinion questioned.

"They did, but I am nervous still." Legolas replied quietly.

"That is certainly understandable. Please rest assured that you may count on
all of us with whatever you may need, Legolas." Elrond remarked.

Legolas smiled. *"Diola lle,* [Thank you] I appreciate that."

"Have you met Saellion's daughter, Legolas? She is a vision." Galdor
commented.

"Nay, I have not yet had the pleasure."

"I am sure your son will be quite a vision as well, Prince. After all, look
at his parents." Tinion quipped. Thranduil and Elrond chuckled.

Legolas turned to him, smiling brightly. "You find me fair, Tinion? I must
say that I am surprised to say the least."

Tinion frowned. "I fail to see why. I am a far cry from blind, Prince."

"But your eyes were always for Haldir- when Galdor was not present of
course." Legolas replied. Galdor winked and grinned.

Tinion laughed. I had eyes for you as well, Prince. But alas, you only had
eyes for Haldir- so I had to drown my sorrows elsewhere."

"And drown them he did." Galdor added, to everyone's amusement.

Legolas laughed, and then the smile abruptly left his face. Everyone fell
silent.

"Have I offended you, Legolas? Forgive me, for I did not mean to." Tinion
remarked.

"Nay, it is not that… I – I think something is happening." Legolas answered.

Tinion looked at him, and noticed water seeping from the chair in which he
sat. "It is all right, Legolas. Worry not." He calmly looked at Thranduil.
"My Lord, is there a room available in which we can take the Prince quickly?"

"Of course." Thranduil replied. "Why?"

Tinion tapped Galdor on the shoulder and they both stood and quickly moved to
where Legolas was still seated-looking stunned. Galdor saw what Tinion had
seen, and he turned to Thranduil. "Because we believe the Prince is about to
give birth to your grandson."
FIFTY SIX


"What do you think, Haldir? Are they not everything I have said?" Elrohir
asked.

Haldir smiled and turned to him. "These trees are lovely, Ro. They are also
quite unusual. I have never seen the likes of them before."

"Nor have I." Orophin added.

"My father says they are exclusive to Valinor." Elrohir answered.

"They are wonderful! Look Hal, you can build a great talan-like structure on
this group right here. They look really sturdy." Rumil called out a few feet
away from them.

Haldir and the others made their way over to him. Haldir tested the strength
of a few of the lower branches and looked around, smiling when he realized
how close they were to the grand brook. "You are right, Ru. I think we need
not search any further. This would be a wonderful place for our home. Legolas
will be happy here."

"I am sure he will." Rumil remarked. "Looks like we have done a good job
scouting after all, have we not, brother?"

Haldir smiled. "That is certain. I suppose we should head back now. I am
interested in looking after the necessary supplies to start construction as
soon as possible."

"How are you ever going to get the talan built without the Prince being
suspicious?" Rumil asked. "You know how he gets when you are away too long."

 "I will find a way. In fact, I will-" Haldir stopped in mid-sentence as a
grimace crossed his fair features. Orophin ran to him.

"What is wrong brother? Are you all right?"

Haldir grabbed his stomach and bent forward, catching his breath. "I have to
get back. Legolas needs me."

********************

*"Aiya!"* [Oh!] Legolas screamed, clutching his belly as Galdor and Tinion
placed him carefully on the large bed. Thranduil quickly moved to his son's
bedside to comfort him.

"Galdor, could you and Tinion seek out Mithrandir and the lady Galadriel?
Elrond asked. "We will be needing their help here."

"Of course." Galdor replied.

"Try to keep him calm as best as you can. We will be back shortly." Tinion
remarked.

Elrond nodded. 

"Tinion?"

Tinion stopped and turned around. "Yes, Prince?"

"Please find Haldir. I know not where he is."

Tinion smiled. "I already had that in mind, Prince. Now relax, he will soon
be here." He and Galdor quickly left the room.

Elrond moved to Legolas' beside. "How bad is the pain, Prince?"

"It is bearable. I think I was just surprised. Legolas answered. 

"Well, that is good. I am going to examine you now and see how much time we
have. Is that acceptable?" Elrond queried.

Legolas nodded, and took Thranduil's hand.

********************

After finding both Galadriel and Mithrandir, Galdor escorted them both back
to Elrond and Thranduil's home while Tinion set out to find Haldir. Not
having a definite place to look, he decided to inquire amongst the talans of
elves as he passed along the way. Several doors were knocked upon, but to no
avail. None had seen the tall, regal elf that morn.

With a heavy sigh, he trod on. Neither Orophin nor Rumil had been at home as
well, and he concluded that they all had to be together. Where would they go
so early in the day? He thought. He stopped by the stream near their talan
thinking that they might be bathing, but it too was deserted. At last he
reached the home of the twins, and smiled. If they were there, surely they
would know something. Even in Valinor, Elladan and Rumil both still held the
record for being the biggest gossipmongers in all the land. No one knew how
they did it, but they always seemed to know almost everything about everyone.

He rapped hard on the door, calling out the twins names. Finally when he
thought all hope was lost, a sleepy Elladan opened the door.

"By the Gods, Tinion!" Why are you banging down our door at the break of
dawn?

Tinion smirked. "It is a far cry from dawn, snide one- and I am here on a
matter of urgency. I need to know if either you or Elrohir know anything
about the whereabouts of Haldir. I must find him quickly."

Elladan blinked. "Is something wrong?"

Tinion groaned. "Elladan, I have not the time for banter. Have you any
information or no?"

"He is with his brothers and mine. They went to scout for a site for a new
talan for he and Legolas."

"And where might that be?" Tinion prodded.

Elladan shrugged. "I know not. They could be anywhere."

"Very well." Tinion replied, turning on his heel and walking away.

"Wait!" Elladan cried out. Tinion stopped and turned to look back at him,
mildly annoyed.

"I have an idea! Ro loves this place we have been a few times that has really
strange trees that we never saw before. It is not far from the grand brook-
about a league or so from where Glorfindel and Erestor stay. He may have
taken Haldir there! It is a nice spot upon which to build."

Tinion nodded. *"Hannon lle."* [Thank you]

"Can you please tell me what is amiss now?" Elladan pleaded.

Tinion smiled. "Forgive me. It has been an active morning. Haldir is about to
become an *Ada,* [Father] and that is why I really must go now. Have a
pleasant day, *mellon."* [Friend]

********************

*"AIYA!"* [OH!] Legolas yelled out again, as he tightened his grip on
Thranduil's hand.

"We have less time than I thought, *lirimaer.* [Lovely one] It seems your
grandson is anxious to join us, and the Prince's body is quite ready." Elrond
said, looking at Thranduil.

The door opened and Galdor entered along with Galadriel and Mithrandir.
Galadriel immediately went to Legolas' bedside and took his other hand.

"Your son wants to be born today, Legolas?" Galadriel asked with a smile.

"It …seems so, milady. *AIYA!"* [OH!]

Galadriel reached for a nearby cloth and rubbed the sweat from Legolas' brow,
as his hair was already damp from his exertions. She smiled as she looked
into Thranduil's troubled eyes. "It will not be long, *mellon-* [Friend] for
either of you." She whispered.


"I… hope that is…so." Legolas replied.

"Is his body ready?" Mithrandir asked. 

Elrond nodded. "It is. His pain is coming quicker now as well."

Mithrandir smiled. "Well then. Let us prepare to bring this blessed child
into the world my friends. Is everything ready?"

"It is." Elrond answered.

"Wait! I cannot have my child without Haldir! I *need* him here. Please!"
Legolas cried.

"Prince, I do not think your child *wants* to wait. Worry not. Tinion will
find him and he will be here. Try to stay calm." Galdor responded.

"*AIYA!* *AIYA!"* [OH! OH!] Legolas cried out.

"All right, let us elevate his legs. Galdor, please fill that basin with
water and bring it forth." Mithrandir remarked. "Elrond please place those
towels here."

"What can I do?" Thranduil asked.

Galadriel smiled. "Just what you are doing, *mellon.* [friend] Comfort your
son."

Mithrandir lifted the sheet covering Legolas body and smiled. "Prince, your
son has his father's hair colour."

"How… how do you know that?" Legolas asked.

Mithrandir chuckled. "Because I can see his head, young Prince." He looked at
Elrond and Galadriel. "It is time, my friends."

********************

Tinion came upon them as they crossed over the brook, and ran up to them.
"Haldir! It is urgent that I get you to Lord Elrond's. Legolas is giving
birth to your son."

"At long last! How exciting!" Rumil quipped. Orophin and Elrohir looked at
each other and smiled.

Haldir chuckled. *"Hannon lle, mellonamin"* [Thank you, my friend] I knew
that was so, but I did not know where he might be."
 
Tinion grinned. "You feel his pain?"

"Intensely." Haldir replied, placing a hand over his mid-section.

"The Prince asked me to find you, and find you I have. Now let us quicken our
pace, for everyone knows he becomes quite agitated when you are not near- and
that is not good for the child."

Rumil laughed. "See? I told you, Hal. Even Tinion knows how Legolas is."

********************

"I cannot do this!" Legolas screamed. "I want Haldir! Where is he?"

"Yes, you can. Now Prince, you must calm down. It is time now to push. You
must collect yourself and push with all you have." Galadriel cooed.

Legolas closed his eyes and did as he was told. A scream emanated from his
lips.

Mithrandir smiled. "That was very good Prince. Soon it will be time for
another push. Keep breathing and ready yourself."

Celeborn entered the room, and quietly strolled to Galadriel's side not
uttering a word.

"All right, Legolas push again now." Mithrandir urged.

Thranduil thought Legolas might crush his hand as he pushed a second time.
When he was done he fell back onto the pillows, exhausted.

"I cannot… do this." Legolas cried, tears streaming down his face.

*"Nin ion*, [My son] do you not want to see your beautiful child enter the
world? How can he do so if you fight against it?" Thranduil asked.

Legolas looked at him with swollen red eyes as Galadriel wiped his brow
again. "I do want to see him…. But, I want Haldir to see him too. *AIYA!"*
[OH!]

"Push, Legolas!" Elrond urged.

With a loud cry, Legolas bore down hard. He collapsed onto the pillows again,
which were soaked from the wetness of his hair. Galadriel wiped his brow with
a cool damp cloth this time.

"Haldir *will* see him, *nin ion*. [my son] I am certain we will be informed
the minute he gets here, and then you will know he will be right outside-as
in the tradition of all expectant fathers."

"To *flames* with tradition!" Haldir answered, as he burst forth into the
room. "I will *not* stay outside and listen to him scream! I am here
*lirimaer."* [Lovely one] He took Legolas' hand as 

Thranduil released it.

All in the room glanced at Tinion, who shrugged with a smile. "Surely none of
you expected Haldir to fall in with tradition on this matter?"

Celeborn laughed. "I certainly did not." Galadriel smiled.

"It is hard, Haldir. I am so weary." Legolas sighed.

Haldir pulled his fingers lightly through Legolas' damp hair and moved it
away from his face. "I know it is hard, *melamin.* [My love] If the pain I
feel is any indication, I am sure yours is tenfold. It will be over soon, and
we will rejoice with our blessing from the Valar."

Legolas blinked. "You feel my pain?"

Haldir smiled. "As you felt mine so very long ago." Legolas grinned and then
started to grimace.

"Push again, Prince." Mithrandir stated.

Legolas squeezed Haldir's hand and pushed with all of his might. His blood-
curdling scream echoed throughout the room- followed by his child's cries, as
he fell back on the pillows again.

Mithrandir smiled. "There we are! Your little one has come forth. A very
*healthy* little one, I might add too."

Haldir peered over the sheet to see his son. His mouth dropped open in
wonder.

Legolas turned to look at him. "Is he all right?"

Haldir gazed in his bond mates eyes with tears of joy threatening to spill
from his. "He is absolutely beautiful, *A'maelamin.* [My beloved] Although I
do wish he looked more like you. Right now, it seems he looks very much like
me."

Legolas smiled. "That was *my* wish."

"Prince, behold your son." Elrond said, as he handed the wrapped bundle to
Legolas.

Legolas took the silver haired infant and cradled him in his arms with a wide
smile. "He *does* look like you! Elbereth! He looks *exactly* like you! How
very beautiful he is…our Dinedhir."

FIFTY SEVEN


Haldir and Legolas looked up as Elrond quietly re-entered the room with a
bright smile. He closed the large oak doors behind him and moved to stand at
the foot of the bed where Legolas lay with Dinedhir cradled in his arms, and
Haldir sitting by his bedside.

"Are you two ready for visitors yet? It seems my love is so happy to be a
grandfather that he has spread the news throughout all of Valinor. There is a
line a league long outside of this door." 

Legolas laughed. "I am not surprised he would do that." He turned to Haldir,
who was smiling and gazing lovingly at his son. "Are you ready, *melamin?"*
[My love]

"I am ready, for I am just as overjoyed." Haldir replied.

"Very well. I shall open the doors, but only a few will be allowed in all at
once."

"That will be fine." Legolas answered.

Elrond strolled back to the doors and opened them. Haldir and Legolas looked
at each other and chuckled when they saw how many elves stood waiting.

"May I present the elfling called Dinedhir; Valinor's first born male."
Elrond announced. Several elves applauded with delight as they strained to
get a peek at the child. "I realize everyone wants to see him, and everyone
*will* see him-but we must not overwhelm his parents. Therefore only five or
six will go in at one time. Saelbeth, Silinde, Orophin, Rumil, Fereveldir,
and Saellion… we will start with you."

The elves moved forward and entered the room all smiles. 

"By the Valar! He looks just like Hal!" Rumil exclaimed.

Orophin smiled. "That he does, Ru."

"He is beautiful Legolas. You have done well." Saelbeth remarked. Silinde
nodded and smiled in agreement as he gazed upon the elfling.

*"Diola lle." * [Thank you] Legolas replied.

Fereveldir chuckled and patted Haldir on the shoulder. "Let us not forget our
dear Haldir. He did good too. He has helped to make a stunning child."

"Oh, but of course! I meant no slight to you, Haldir. Forgive me." Saelbeth
commented.



Haldir laughed. "There is nothing to forgive *mellon,* [Friend] for I take no
offence. Legolas *did* do all the work after all- and there is nothing that
can be said nor done to spoil my spirit this day." He looked at Legolas, who
gazed back lovingly at him.

"What a treasure he is! Perhaps your child and mine will be close someday."
Saellion remarked. 

"To that I have no doubt, but I must scold you now, *mellonamin.* [My friend]
You told me not of the *pain!"* Legolas responded.

Saellion smiled as everyone in the room chuckled. "May I ask you something,
Prince?"

"Of course."

"Does it matter now?"

Legolas looked down at the gurgling bundle in his arms that was smiling as
Rumil played with him. "Nay, Saellion. It matters not."

Saellion grinned. "That is what I said, and how I felt. Somehow, I knew you
would too."

"All right, good elves- we must let others have their turn this day." Elrond
interrupted.

The elves in the room nodded and said their farewells. The next to enter the
room were Elladan, Elrohir, Gimli, Frodo and Calaglin.

"He is a healthy lad!" Gimli exclaimed. 

Legolas smiled and winked at Haldir. "So is his father."

Gimli laughed. "That he is, laddie. That he is."

"He is beautiful, Legolas." Frodo remarked.

"Thank you, master Frodo."

"You two make a fine looking child. I have to give you that." Elladan
commented. Elrohir nodded and caressed the child's platinum head.

"I am so very happy for you both." Calaglin stated.

*"Hannon lle, mellonamin."*  [Thank you, my friend] Haldir responded.

"So, how painful was it Legolas?" Elladan asked.



"El! Why would you ask him a question like *that?"* Elrohir scolded, giving
his twin a gentle shove.

Legolas smiled. "That is all right, Ro. El, I have not the words to explain
the pain. I do not recommend it for everyone, that is certain."

Elladan grimaced. "You have a stout heart, Prince. *That* is certain."

"The child has *two* stout hearted parents, and that will give *him* a will
of stone." Gimli remarked, as the elfling tugged on his finger.

"Haldir, you are very quiet this day." Elrohir noted.

Haldir looked at Legolas and then back at Elrohir. "I assure you, I am beyond
happy, Ro. Make no mistake about that."

"We are glad for you." Elladan announced. "We had better get going before
father comes in and throws us out. The line is still very long."

"Thank you all for coming. Could you please tell Lord Elrond to give us a few
minutes before sending more in?" Haldir asked.

"Certainly." Gimli answered.

After they left, Legolas turned to Haldir. "Are you weary, *melamin?"* [My
love]

"Nay, but I think perhaps *you* are. You have had a long day, Princeling.
Would you like me to ask Lord Elrond to stop the visits until the morrow?"

Legolas smiled. *"Diola lle, galad nin.* [Thank you, my light] But weary or
no, I have naught a problem showing off our beautiful child to all who wish
to see him. I can rest later."

Haldir gently caressed his son's tiny face. "You are certain, * nin bain?"*
[My beauty]

Legolas leaned over and kissed him. "I am certain, *mir nin."* [My treasure]

Haldir stood. "Very well. I will inform Lord Elrond that he can resume then."

"Haldir?"

"Yes?" Haldir replied, turning to look at him.

*"Amin mela lle."* [I love you]



Haldir gazed back at him for a long moment, and then smiled.  "Not more than
I love you, Princeling."

********************

 Fereveldir and Tinion laughed merrily near the end of the line of elves
outside of the house that waited to see Legolas and Haldir's firstborn. They
both spotted and called out to Melpomaen when they saw him strolling on the
road that crossed the entrance to Lord Elrond and King Thranduil's home.
Melpomaen smiled and walked up to them.

"Where are you headed, my friend? Are you not coming to look upon the first
born male of Valinor?" Tinion inquired.

"I would have liked to, but I think mayhap it is not a very good idea. I had
best leave them to their happiness. I wish them well." Melpomaen replied,
quietly.

Fereveldir frowned. "What say you, Melpomaen?"

Melpomaen sighed. "You both know that Haldir has not been comfortable in my
presence for centuries, and besides that- I had words with the Prince this
morn. It is best I stay away."

"You had words with the Prince about what?" Tinion asked.

Melpomaen sighed again. "I came upon him earlier, and he subtlety accused me
of going after Haldir- and not so subtlety warned me against it."

"And were you?" Tinion queried, his eyebrow raised.

Melpomaen looked at him. "I was."

Fereveldir groaned. "Melpomaen…."

"I know." Melpomaen interjected. "It was a foolish thought, and I have since
abandoned it- I assure you."

"That is wise." Fereveldir replied.

Melpomaen looked at the ground. "There is naught a need to lecture me,
Fereveldir. I have seen the error of my ways, and I have accepted defeat."

Fereveldir glanced at Tinion, who nodded- and then placed an arm across
Melpomaen's shoulders. "I was not going to lecture you, *mellonamin.*  [My
friend] I know both of your guilt and your pain. I have long been Haldir's
friend, and I know him well. I am positive he holds no hatred in his heart
for you, however indifferent he may seem. That simply is not his way."


"I too can say that is true." Tinion added. "Come; I am certain he would not
want to exclude you in sharing his joy on this day."

********************

"Is he not the most beautiful child you have ever seen?" Thranduil asked,
beaming at his grandchild over Haldir's shoulder. 

"He is breathtaking indeed. We agree on many things, Thranduil." Celeborn
chuckled.

"I think you two are biased-but I agree with you." Haldir countered, gazing
down at the lively bundle in his arms.

Legolas laughed hard, "And you are not, *melamin?* [My love] Surely you
jest."

"Haldir, *nin ion;* [my son] never have I seen happiness shine so radiantly
over your face as I do this day. It is a happiness well deserved and it warms
my heart." Galadriel remarked, kissing him on the cheek.

*"Hannon lle, Arwenamin."* [Thank you, My Lady] Haldir answered.

Elrond stood. "I think perhaps it is time we kept this thing going. We have
taken two turns, and there is still a few left out there."

"You are right." Thranduil agreed. "We shall visit the dining hall. Legolas,
I will have something sent in to you and Haldir shortly."

*"Diola lle, Ada."* [Thank you, Father] I am feeling rather hungry now."

The Elven Lords left the room and Elrond showed the last of the elves waiting
inside and left the door open. Then he departed. Melpomaen stood hesitantly
inside the archway.

Legolas noticed him first, and gestured for him to come inside. Haldir looked
his way also and smiled. Melpomaen turned around, unsure if they were
gesturing to him. He was alone. He turned back to them, still rooted to his
place.

"Melpomaen, please come inside. Forgive me for my earlier outburst. I was not
myself." Legolas urged.

Melpomaen slowly walked over to them. Tinion grinned and stepped back to let
him pass.

Haldir looked up at him and smiled brightly, shifting a gurgling Dinedhir so
that he could see. "Yes, come closer Melpomaen. Come and see the vision who
is our son."

Melpomaen smiled. "He is extraordinary! Both of you are so very blessed."

"Yes, we are." Legolas replied.

Tinion grinned. "So Prince, when will you be having your next child?"

"I know not about that, *mellon.* [Friend] The pain is still fresh in my
mind. Mayhap Dinedhir will be an only child bearing the gift as well."
Legolas chuckled.

"Ah! Well, let us see… that makes for an interesting possibility."

"What possibility?" Legolas asked. Haldir and Melpomaen looked at Tinion
expectantly.

"You are considering bearing no more children. No more children means no more
coupling, for if you two couple, there is *certainly* a chance that there
will be more children. So…that would mean our dear Haldir will be deprived.
We cannot have *that,* now could we? I may just have to volunteer my services
again."

Perplexed, Legolas looked at Haldir, who was smiling and shaking his head-
and then back at Tinion. Realization hitting him, his lips spread into a
devilish grin. "Oh! plot not, you fair silver devil! I never said *anything*
about not coupling! If the Valar deems I shall bear more children, then more
children I *will* bear!" 

Tinion winked at Haldir and laughed hard. "I *knew* he would say that!"

All in the room laughed with him; including Legolas.



EPILOGUE



Haldir had their new talan constructed to perfection and surprised Legolas
with it on Dinedhir's first birthday. Legolas was overjoyed, both at the
talan itself- for it had the look and feel of both a talan and a structure;
and its location- near the periphery of the grand brook, of which Legolas had
marvelled at since they first arrived in Valinor. Over time, Legolas would
bear three more children; another male, and two females; both of whom at
their majority were capable of bearing children themselves- as did several of
the offspring of Saellion; the first.

In the centuries that followed, Valinor thrived with the playful sounds of
many Elven children milling about under the watchful eyes of their adoring
parents. There were also many other 
bindings performed in the wake of Haldir and Legolas' eternal love. After the
first two years, the forever-blue skies of Valinor saw binding ceremonies
performed by Galadriel for Saelbeth and 
Silinde, Orophin and Elrohir, Glorfindel and Erestor and also Rumil and
Elladan. Though both Elrond and Thranduil had vowed to never bind again after
the passing of their respective wives several centuries before, they lived as
though they were; for they needed no official ceremony to express what was in
their hearts. All there acknowledged their union just the same.

Gimli, Frodo, and Gandalf enjoyed their lives in Valinor amongst the Elves,
for never had they known such peace. All laughed heartily as Gimli proudly
and loudly proclaimed himself granduncle to all of Legolas' children. Haldir,
Orophin and Rumil laughed as well, for they had not the heart to disagree.
The Elves had long ago opened their hearts again to Dwarves and Men.

Nearly half a century later, Orolonn's widow, Aranel- found love again with
Fereveldir, and the two were also bound on a sunny spring afternoon.
Melpomaen eventually found love as well with a quiet Elf called Anarin, of
whom was also originally from Rivendell. They got on so well that all were
sure that one day they too would bind. Galdor travelled back once more to
Middle Earth and returned bearing the joyous news that Arwen had bore Aragorn
not one, but two healthy sons. Not long after that, to everyone's joy and
surprise, Galdor and Tinion grew weary of their loose arrangement, and they
too were bound together in their love and commitment. 

Calaglin was happy for many years, overjoyed at the births of Valinor's many
children and extremely pleased for the happiness of his friends, whom had
found love and cherished it. There was peace in his land, but not in his
heart. As the years went by, he began to miss Dinendal more and more, and he
eventually succumbed to a broken heart.

All in Valinor mourned his passing, but their hearts were not heavy-for they
knew that his spirit was in the place it had always longed to be. The slight
smile on the face of his lifeless body as it lay peacefully still in his bed
had told them so.

In the Halls of Mandos, Dinendal was waiting when Calaglin appeared, a bright
smile lighting up his fair features as he grasped the outstretched hand of
his lover. Arm in arm and smiling, they strolled leisurely towards the light.
                                            
The End


I just want you to know                         
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be                    
A reason to start over new                     
And the reason is you…                         
  
"The Reason"                                                                        
  Hooberstank                                         

Now that we're here, it's so far away           
All the struggles we thought was in vain
All the mistakes, one life contained
They all finally start to go away
Now that we're here, it's so far away
And I feel like I can face the day

 "So Far Away"          
   Staind