Title: The King’s Property II
Author: Red Autumn (red_autumn21@yahoo.com)
Website: (down until further notice)
Pairing: Legolas/Haldir, Aragorn/Legolas (implied)
Rating: PG-13 to NC-17
Summary: Who will reveal his heart first?
Warning: [Slash/Some violence/Graphic Sex Scenes/Angst]
Disclaimer: Mr. J. R. R. Tolkien is the creator of Middle-Earth and
owns them them all.  I only borrowed them for non-profit entertainment
purposes.  Firith, Firnnole, Adarorn are the only characters belonging
to me.
NOTE: This fic is AU/OOC (non canon to books or movies).  You have to
read what happened in TKP before you can understand this
new saga.

Please go to http://www.slashfiction.net if you are
interested with the sequel sad version.  Thanks.


                  Thanks to beta reader Shadowess.



1.  Escaped

The forest was dark and dank, with almost no sunlight penetrating
through the dense foliage above us.  The air was stifling; for no
breeze breathed even a whisper here.  So deathly silent was the
atmosphere that I could hear only loud ringing noises in my ears and
the constant shuffle of leaves where Aragorn trod.

The ground was piled high with dead leaves and littered with rotting
branches.  A few gnarled stumps and old dead trees formed the only
natural habitat for creatures, of which who knew.  The huge, black and
malformed roots that rose from the ground made up the gigantic trees
forming the impenetrable canopy above us.

It was the total opposite from Lorien, where there the trunks were
tall, straight and majestic, with leaves of golden and the wind playing
among them.  Small yellow flowers and short grasses carpeted the forest
floor while sunlight streamed through merrily there, giving a most
welcoming brightness to one’s heart. It was not so here.

So spooky and dreadful was this place that one could not even think of
living here alone.  I shivered at that thought of ever being forced to
reside here.  Even though my beloved home – Mirkwood – was slowly
succumbing to the shadows, it was nothing compared to here.  At least
there, one did not feel the effects of evil reaching out to twist its
hand around one’s heart.

I guessed that this was the way that Aragorn had taken to enter the
Golden Wood without being known.  This must be one of the secret
passages that they were talking about.

We had traveled for most part of the day in silence except when Adarorn
made a lot of fuss because he was thirsty and hungry.  There was
nothing both of us could do to alleviate that problem.  We were in the
middle of an ominous forest and streams were probably difficult to find
(and if the water could be consumed).  

When situations became too desperate, Aragorn resorted to spitting his
saliva into the baby’s mouth and Adarorn would consumed it hungrily. 
It was not the best possible way but at least the baby would not become
too dehydrated.

His only comfort was through me.  Aragorn had now placed the baby face
down on my chest to muffle his cries.  He couldn’t afford to draw any
unwanted attention.  With my gag still in place I was unable to soothe
the baby from his agitation.  Luckily, Adarorn seemed to take comfort
from the fact that he had full body contact with me.

And that was not the only thing going on in his little mind.  Mere
moments later, I had to squirm in discomfort because the hunger-driven
child had instinctively seek out my chest for milk.  As soon as his
mouth latched on the bud of my nipple through the layers of cloth, he
started suckling and grinding his gums against the nub.  I yelped in
surprise and tried to jerk my chest gently away from him.

Aragorn looked down and saw what was wrong.  He guffawed quietly,
amused by my expression and Adarorn’s insistence.  The child made more
fuss and after sometime I gave up, taking pity on him.  I bit on my gag
and glared daggers at Aragorn as the baby continued to force milk out
of me.  How did the nursemaid withstand this?

Our situation had intensified.  He was eager to leave this place as
much as I, but for different reasons.  I needed to find some real food
for the baby to consume before he fell ill while Aragorn wanted to get
away from the marchwardens before we were discovered.

He had been lucky so far because there were less sentries posted today.
 Most of them had probably gathered at the jetty to bid farewell to the
elves who were sailing to the West.  I hoped Haldir would decide to
look for me before the ship set sail and see that I was late to arrive.

It all depended on Haldir alone to save us now.

Several times, Aragorn had to stop to rest and regain some strength
before continuing onwards.  He had been carrying both of us for the
whole journey, refusing to let me walk by myself.

Sweat glistened on his forehead while the excess dribbled down the side
of his face and fell onto his tunic.  His clothes were already quite
stained with more sweat but the grim determination on his face showed
that he refused to allow such discomfort sway from his goal.

Aragorn would look on me and the baby occasionally to make sure that we
were fine.  Right now, Adarorn had cried himself to sleep; the poor
thing being too exhausted.  I was beginning to worry for his health.
 
I hated Aragorn for making us suffer so but I was helpless to do
anything.  I was quite in agony myself because my body felt very stiff
and the aching from lack of circulation on my limbs had now turned
numb.  The headaches still plagued me, though now it was more of a
background throbbing.  My body was still healing after the birth and my
strength had not fully returned to me.

I was hanging in despair and getting steadily sicker.  I was miserable.
 The sweet taste of freedom had been so close, I could almost touch it
like some tangible item but now it had been taken away from me within
the blink of an eye.

Why was the Valar punishing me like this?  What had I done to displease
them so?  Would my torment never end?  No, I should stop blaming the
Valar.  I’m sure they did not arrange this to happen.  It was Aragorn. 
It had always been.

Sweat was trickling down my forehead, some had dripped into my eyes,
stinging them.  I blinked so often I thought I would go blind
eventually from the stings alone.  The heat in this forest was horribly
suffocating.  Not a breeze stirred.

After some time, the muscles around my neck began to stiffen and ache
because while hanging upside-down, I had been trying to lift my head
and search my surroundings to find my bearings or anyway to escape.  I
dropped my head loosely and for hours, all that filled my field of
vision was an endless floor of – dark brown leaves.  Very depressing
decorations.  I wondered whose idea was it to throw the leaves on the
ground?  Why couldn’t they let the grass grow?  Green was always more –
lively.

When the brute of a man finally decided to stop for a rest (for the
night?), he dropped me to the ground unceremoniously.  I grunted under
my gag as my back impacted the forest floor.  Luckily, the collection
of thick layers of leaves underneath me was quite springy so I didn’t
get hurt.

Adarorn was left beside me and he was extremely quiet.  I raised my
head a little to see if he was all right.  The poundings in my head had
receded a little, as blood did not have to pool in my head while I was
hanging upside-down.  It was a welcome relief.

I was unable to touch my son as Aragorn refused to release me but I
noticed that his chest was rising and falling in shallow rhythm.  He
was deeply asleep.  I hoped he was all right.

Aragorn’s movements at the corner of my eye made me turn my attention
to him.  I was wary of him but there was really nothing I could do if
he intended to hurt me now.

His face was flushed from all the physical exertion and he was sweating
profusely.  His hair was also wet and it plastered against his head and
face.  I guess the heat was getting to him too because his eyes shifted
wildly.  He was frightening to look at, like a madman.

Our gazes were locked for a moment and he reached out to touch my face.
 I whipped my head away from his hand but the act earned a hard slap on
my cheek instead.  The force of the contact was not as severe as the
sound of struck flesh.  It continued to echo into the dark shadows that
was growing around us.

“Such display of haughtiness, my love,” he said.  I could only glare at
him in defiance.  “How I love it when you stare at me with those
beautiful blue eyes,” he commented and grinned.  He looked even more
sinister.  He was truly mad now if not before.

I squirmed nervously when his hand began moving downwards, fingers
ghosting over my neck, from my chest to my abdomen and finally to my
crotch (barely missing it on purpose).  I had unconsciously whimpered
and bit down hard on my gag while my nostrils flared as if I had raced
for several leagues.

“You have been misbehaving.  And from what I heard from the little
‘birds’, you had even started to stray.  Naughty, naughty,” he clicked
his tongue in disapproval.  Suddenly, he backhanded me again, harder
this time.  As my cheek throbbed in red heat, my hearing rang loudly.

“That is not a proper way to behave for one who is a consort to the
King.  Punishments will await you once we return to Gondor.  You will
learn your place and you will not forget whom you belong to.”  I
protested of course, but only grunts and incomprehensible muffled
sounds came through my gag.

Aragorn snorted at my response.  At that moment, I felt like lifting my
legs and kick his face but if I did, I would have to crush Adarorn
first before I get to him.

Aragorn did not take a long rest, to my dismay.  He started getting up
and looked around him, probably finding his bearing in this forsaken
land.  Then he bent down to pick me up and threw me over his shoulder.

“Don’t move too much or the baby will fall off,” he warned.  I felt him
adjusting Adarorn against him.  Satisfied that we were secured in his
arms, he started moving.

Once again, I bounced around uncomfortably.  I had lost all feelings to
my limbs hours ago and other parts were beginning to become
uncomfortably numb.  The stiffness in my body would surely take days to
recover.  Time that I could ill-afford if I were to survive his
punishments.

I closed my eyes in defeat.  We must be very far away from Lothlorien’s
border by now and no one would ever know that we used this route to
escape.

Aragorn’s determination and stamina was quite astounding, considering
that he had to carry both of us at the same time.  I prayed to the
Valar that someone would find us soon.  I did not wish to spend a
lifetime of prison-misery with this lunatic.

* ~ * ~ *

Strange noises followed by grunts and a sharp yell brought me out of my
sleep suddenly.  I looked around; frantically trying to discern what
was going on, and saw flashes of silver and a huge, dark misshapen
figure moving erratically.  Tentacles shot out and disappeared within
the mass of solid darkness again.  If I had not seen that flash of
silver, I would not have found the beast in this near inky blackness.

We were in the middle of a doomed forest and who knew what evil
creature lurked in the shadows.  It may have followed us for hours and
seeing that we had settled down to sleep, had used the opportunity to
attack us.

The beast growled and howled dangerously and I began to panic.  Was
that ‘thing’ devouring Aragorn now?  Fortunately, Adarorn was lying
beside me and he was still asleep.

I turned my body slightly and used my arm to try and hook Adarorn to
me.  Managing that, I worked to secure him to me as much as possible
and then try to worm away somehow but it was a slow process because I
could only managed an extremely slow crawl.  We were practically
helpless.

Adarorn was becoming cranky because he had been woken up rudely by my
gathering of him.  Soon he was wailing in distress.  I had to work
faster before the beast or other things were drawn to us.

Unexpectedly though, something landed on my right shoulder and I
panicked even further.  There was another beast and Adarorn’s cries
must have attracted its attention on us.

I lashed out my legs and tried to kick the ‘thing’.  I must have
connected something because I heard a yowl but the ‘thing’ swiftly
retaliated.  I couldn’t see what it was doing and suddenly I found
myself buried beneath its weight.

Releasing Adarorn, I fought back, bucking wildly and using my head to
butt at the creature.  It was not easy while being tied up like this
but I was desperate.  I needed to distract it from my son.

“Legolas!” a voice hissed.  That ‘thing’ could speak and it knew my
name.

‘Ai, sweet Elbereth, what sorcery is this?’

“Legolas, it’s me, Orophin,” the dark figure cried out this time.  Just
in time, I caught a flash of silver again.

My eyes widened in surprised.  That’s it.  The silver was really
reflection of light on white blond hair.

“You will pay for this!” I heard Aragorn yelled out indignantly.  Heavy
wheezing and grunting came from his direction, where the supposedly
‘misshapen beast’ was.  It was not a creature that I saw but really two
people fighting in the dark.  It was truly a relief to hear the
familiar melodic voice of my kind.

Orophin made a move to get off me and began untying my gag first.  I
worked my jaw several times to ease some numbness.

“Thank the Valar you’re here, Orophin!” I burst out though the way I
mouthed my words sounded slightly strange because my jaw was still
slightly uncooperative.

I lay crying from relief on the forest ground unable to move even after
Orophin had untied me.  I still had no feeling in my limbs.

“Are you all right?” he asked worriedly.  I could barely see his face
in the dark.

“Can’t move right now.  My limbs are dead,” I informed him through my
sobs.  “Can you look on Adarorn and see if he’s fine?”  The baby was
still crying uncontrollably.

Orophin had moved away from me for a while and then came back moments
later.  I heard the sound of something crack and then a hiss. 
Suddenly, a blinding light erupted.  I squeezed my eyes shut
instinctively to stop the momentary flash of pain.

The marchwarden was actually lighting a torch and after doing so,
shoved the end of the stick into the ground before turning his
attention to my son.  He started inspecting for any wounds on him
silently.  Then he picked up the baby and cradled him in the crook of
his arms, soothing the baby in hushed tones.

“He is fine,” Orophin said.  I nodded to him in gratitude.

When blood circulation returned, I grimaced tightly as millions of tiny
pins stabbed furiously all over my body.  I held my breath, squeezing
my eyes shut again.  I didn’t know how long I was like this but I
waited in misery until the pain had gone down to a bearable point.

Opening my eyes, I saw Orophin looking down at me with much concern
while his hand was caressing my forehead in a soothing gesture.  He was
still holding Adarorn against his chest and the baby had stopped crying
now.

“Thank you,” I whispered breathlessly.  I lifted my hands up in a
gesture to take Adarorn back into my arms again.  Orophin handed the
baby.  I kissed Adaron’s face frantically, relieved that he was still
fine.  I hugged his small body tightly to me.

Curious to know what had actually happened, I twisted my head slightly
and saw in the small area that the light was able to illuminate –
Haldir sitting on top of Aragorn, wearing a smug grin on his battered
face.

“Haldir.  You managed to find us.  But how?  I was so sure that we
would be lost forever,” I called out to him.  Tears of joy threatened
to spill again.

Aragorn snorted incredulously but he started to make strange noises in
his throat and then spit out some blood on the ground.

Orophin walked away from me and took his brother’s place to pin an
angry King with hands tied behind his back.  The man was equally
battered and blood was pouring from his broken nose – for the second
time – and his split lip.

My friend came to me as soon as his brother relieved him of his
prisoner.  He gazed at me worriedly too and placed a hand on my
shoulder to comfort me.  When I made to sit up and he helped me.

“I was worried that you didn’t show up when the ship was going to set
sail very soon so I went to look for you.  Even if you decide not to
let Adarorn sail away with Arwen, I knew you would still come to say
good-bye to her.  I just had a hunch that something was not right.  So,
I asked my brothers to come along with me.  We found Faramir in a pool
of blood and immediately followed the trail here.  I had sent Rumil to
retrieve a horse in case you were badly injured and couldn’t move,” he
explained.  He sounded very relieved.

“Is Faramir….” I trailed off, afraid of the answer.

“He’s alive but barely.  Luckily we found him in time,” Haldir answered
quickly.

“He should be dead.  He deserved it!” Aragorn growled in a strained
voice because Orophin was putting full weight on him.

That retort had earned a hard smack on the back of his head, causing
his face to hit dirt.
“Shut up,” Orophin warned threateningly.

Just then Rumil appeared, riding on a completely black or brown horse
(I was not sure).  He jumped off gracefully and landed near Orophin.

“Are you all all right?” he asked.

“Yes.  And look!” Orophin sounded smug.  “Haldir had bested this
arrogant little man!” he added in a sarcastic tone and slapped the back
of his head again.

“Ow!  How dare you hit the King..” Aragorn was cut off when Orophin
pushed his head down on the forest floor again and this time shoving
his face on it.  When he released the man, Aragorn began spitting out
dirt from his mouth furiously.

Rumil let out a chuckle.  “Serves you right!”

Even Haldir couldn’t help laughing.  I only managed a smile.  I was
still afraid him even though Haldir and his brothers were with me.

“Lets get you and Adarorn back to Caras Galadhon.  Lord Celeborn will
deal with him later,” Haldir said.  I nodded and started to get up but
being still weak, my knees gave out.  Luckily, Haldir’s elven reflexes
caught me just in time.

“Easy, Legolas,” he said, his lips so close to my ear that I let out an
involuntary shiver.  “Are you feeling cold?” he frowned.

“No, just weak,” I answered and let him help me stand up again.

“How dare you lay hands on my Legolas!” Aragorn screamed.  “Ow!” he
yelled suddenly when Orophin gave him a kick on the ribs.

“How da….ow!” he yelled again because the marchwarden was quite annoyed
with him.

Rumil brought the horse to us and helped his brother to settle me on
the animal.  With Adarorn in my hands again and Haldir sitting behind
me, we made our way towards the city.

Rumil and Orophin were left behind.  They would be making their way
back later with the prisoner.  Before we left, I’m sure I caught a
smirk in both the brothers’ faces.

“Come back here you coward!  He’s mine, you hear?” the man shouted
angrily but suddenly he went quiet.  I didn’t want to know what the
brothers were doing to him now but I didn’t want to know either.

However, my attention quickly reverted back to myself.  I was extremely
happy that Haldir had managed to rescue us and we were now on our way
back to safety again.  I was so ready to give up before, resigned to a
life of tortured misery but now I have a new life again.

When one of Haldir’s arms wrapped around me, I couldn’t begin to
describe the jittery feelings I had inside.  It was a nice feeling
though.  However I did not know if Haldir was just being protective or
may be I was hoping too much.

I formed a picture in my mind, seeing us from another point of view,
and liked what I saw.  We were like a family – my lover sitting behind
me proudly and wrapping an arm around me just like now while another
was on my thigh.  I leaned back against him while holding an elfling
sitting astride the horse.  All of us wore happy smiles on our faces.

I almost giggled out loud at that childish wishful thinking but caught
myself in time.  However, I could not stop a wide grin from forming on
my lips.


@ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @ ~ @
	

2.  The Great Autumn Festival

Colours, light, and noises – all swirled into one, rendering me
completely giddy with exuberance and glee.  Drunken perhaps?  If you
think one giggling nonsensically and chattering in almost equal manner
without inhaling or consuming any stimulants qualifies it still, then
may be I was drunk.  The activities were not so much but it was the
feeling and atmosphere that filled the air that created such
intoxication in ones mind.

I felt like an elfling being put in the middle of a huge pen filled
with exotic creatures.  Most exhilarating of all, I was one of them! 
Yes, it was such a conspiracy!  The Prince of Mirkwood, the only
representative from Green Wood the Great, a realm supposedly filled
with solemn and serious elves – that image was now tarnished forever by
a complete lunatic grandson of Oropher.

Scandalous and eyebrow raising – I could already imagined it in my
adar’s face – and of all places, in Lothlorien.  To us, the Golden Wood
represented seriousness and sacred for it was the most illusive colony
among the elven kingdom.

With Adarorn in the care of a very kind nanny, I lost myself totally. 
I didn’t remember whom I really was anymore – just a wide-eyed,
slack-jawed elf embarrassing himself among friends the whole night.

Haldir, his brothers – Orophin and Rumil and Faramir who had now
recovered enough to walk around accompanied me.  However, I proved to
be a handful for them.  One moment I was walking in front of them and
within a blink of an eye, I disappeared somewhere among the crowds.

Often I found myself skipping and bee lining through crowds in
curiosity and wonder, towards anything that caught my eyes.  I was so
agitated the whole night that I could not stay put in one spot.  I was
like an endless bundle of energy ready to burst if I did not let off
some pressure.

My good friend shook his head in wonder, muttering to himself.  I had
probably shocked everyone tonight with my strange behaviour; or perhaps
they were thinking that I just wanted to let off some long cooped up
pressure inside me over what had happened during the past year.  May be
they think me mad now.

Many a times I hooked an arm around Haldir’s as I used to do. 
Sometimes, I would drag him along with me, making him stumble after me
and causing his brothers to chortle loudly, teasing him that ‘Serious’
Haldir had seriously come undone.  I only responded to his exasperated
look with a silly grin.

I was carefree again, forgetting my painful past for tonight.

At many locations within Caras Galadhon’s huge city ground, were long
rows of tables filled with delicious food put on display for anyone to
help themselves but I was too excited to eat anything.  Small stages
set up here and there were surrounded by elves wearing all the colours
of summer.  Everyone seemed to be enjoying him or herself watching the
dancers and musicians playing delightfully cheerful tunes.

Hundreds of colourful little lanterns in every shape hung on every tree
and talan and most elves carried one too, including me.  I even managed
to ‘convince’ Haldir to take one – an adorable yellow star (his reward
was a quick kiss on his lips, to his surprise).  Sounds of laughter and
gay chattering; beautiful eerie voices accompanied by melodic music
filled the air and around me thickly.  These were the things that had
intoxicated me.

When the great silver moon had climbed to its zenith, I was finally
quite exhausted – to Haldir’s relief.  His brothers and Faramir had
become separated from us hours ago and had not bothered to look for us.
 Probably they were happy to be rid of me and let Haldir handle me
instead.

We had somehow ended up by the edge of a garden, quite secluded from
the main events and huge crowds.  Even though the night breeze was
quite cooling but we were still sweating.  There were few elves walking
hand in hand, admiring the flowers under the bright moonlight and
several more seated not far from us, covered by partial shadows of the
trees that lined the garden paths.

We found a quiet spot under a big tree and flopped bonelessly onto the
ground.  The candle in Haldir’s lantern had long ago burned out,
leaving only mine to illuminate a dim bluish glow between us.

“Did you visit Bronwe this morning?” Haldir asked suddenly, breaking
the silence.

“Why do you ask?” I questioned him in return, unsure where he was
getting.  His face glowed in a strange ethereal bluish tint.

“I’m very sure you stole some prohibited herbs from his drawers when he
was not looking.  You were completely out of character tonight,” he
said and eyeing me suspiciously.

I stared at him for a moment and ended up cackling.  I was really
trying to laugh but it somehow came out a bit more sinisterly, and
proving to Haldir that I was really drugged.  Dropping myself back, I
landed on the soft grasses.

Then everything was quiet for a while, except some background noises
from where the merry making was still in full swing.  The night breeze
blew, making the leaves above us fluttered impatiently as if wanting to
get somewhere.

Haldir moved my lantern, placing it just an arm’s length away above my
head.  Then he stretched out on his side with a hand supporting his
head, facing me.

“Are you all right?” he asked quietly.

I turned slightly to look at him.  As I gazed his face, certain warmth
crept up behind my neck and my stomach turned as if I had accidentally
swallowed something alive.  The longer I stared at him, I found myself
steadily becoming ‘sick’.  Now, my heart was beating frantically.

The symptoms were exactly how Haldir had described to me before.  I was
sure now that I was falling in love.

Haldir didn’t seem to be waiting for an answer from me.  He too was
gazing on my face and our eyes were locked in deep stares.

That was when I saw it all.  Love.  Haldir’s eyes were full of love and
they were directed to me.  Intense heat of shyness burned my face.  Now
I understood whom he was talking about all these months.  He was
waiting for ME.

Just at that moment, the candle in my lantern chose to burn out,
leaving us in complete darkness for a while until our eyes adjusted to
it.

Before I even knew what was going on, something soft and warm touched
my lips tentatively, as if testing my reaction.  My eyes widened in
surprise but I did not pull away.

Once my eyes had adjusted to the dimness, I saw Haldir’s face above me,
eyes closed.  I closed mine too and let out a satisfied sigh.

Feeling slightly daring though only Valar knew that my heart was
beating madly, I opened my mouth slightly in invitation for Haldir to
slip his tongue in.  He was shy at first, only licking and nibbling my
lower lip, drawing more saliva from me.

When I touched his tongue with mine, he was encouraged and delved into
my mouth.  We were kissing gently and taking out time tasting each
other.

Then I discovered that Haldir’s heart was also pounding furiously
because I felt it clearly as his body lay on top of me.  I brought up
my hands and circled around him, drawing him closer while he encased my
face with his cold, clammy hands.

I could not help but giggle when I felt it because I knew now that he
too was as nervous as I was.  Haldir stopped his kissing and moved away
slightly to look at me, in puzzle.

I buried my fingers in his long, silky mane and pulled his head down to
me again.  We kissed again and this time there was no inhibitions. 
Muffled moans and sighs filled the air around us.

The need for air finally brought us apart.  Strange, how when one was
so engrossed in kissing we actually forgot to breathe.  Our eyes never
wavered from each other as we panted softly.  I saw Haldir swallowed,
the nod on his throat bobbed once.

“I have liked you from the very first day that I laid eyes on you.

I have loved you from the very first time I was in Mirkwood.

I have lost my heart completely to you from the very first time we were
in Imladris again.

And tonight, I have lost my soul to you from the very first time my
lips touched yours,” Haldir whispered.

Poetical Haldir has emerged and I was rendered speechless.

The elf had waited nervously, unsure how I would respond.  He licked
his lips as if they had turned dry and his eyes searched in mine for an
answer.  Yes, we shared a kiss but I could easily have refused his love
and only needed his friendship.

A light breeze whipped by, caressing the loose hair behind his braids. 
In that instant, I captured that moment in my heart.  Haldir was so
beautiful with his grayish blue eyes sparkling from tiny lights
reflecting on them and the pink pouted lips that were still slightly
swollen from the passion we had just shared.  The pointed ends on his
ears were so sensual and the jaw line on his face was strong and
determined. 

Finally, I was only coherent enough to give him a genuine smile not
trusting my own voice any longer.

A huge grin broke out on Haldir’s face.  He sat up immediately on my
thighs, scooping me along with him and hugged me so tightly that I was
afraid that he might crushed me to death before I could even
reciprocate my feelings to him.

“Thank you, Legolas.  Thank you.  I love you.  Ai, how I had loved you
for so long,” he cried.

“I love you too, Haldir,” I said and he hugged me even tighter,
squeezing a grunt out of my throat.

“I’m sorry,” he chattered nervously and released his death grip.

“Well, you can make it up to me by kissing me again?” I suggested
mischievously.

Without further ado, the elf dove onto me, and both of us crashed back
onto the grass, with me trapped underneath.  Luckily the ground was
soft otherwise I would have a big headache afterwards.

Our kisses had turned into something more than that.  I found my hands
stroking his back, especially his spine and my legs rubbing his in a
lascivious manner.  Haldir responded by humping the swell between his
thighs gently on my crotch.  We were both clearly aroused.

Almost reluctantly, Haldir drew away from me.  His nostrils were
flaring and he was breathing heavily.

“Not here, not like this.  You deserve better,” he whispered hoarsely. 
His voice was thick with lust and needs.  “Come,” he said and got up,
pulling my hand with him.

We walked hand in hand, like others towards my talan.

That night, we did not make love.  Haldir had wanted to ask permission
from my adar first to court me officially.  I laughed at that thought
because I reminded him that I already had a child.  However, the elf
was adamant that I deserved to be treated with proper respect.  

Besides, he wanted me to take my time to feel ready for our union, a
testament that we loved each other and not rush it because of our
bodies’ needs.

That gesture had touched my heart deeply.  As I lay wrapped warmly in
Haldir’s arms, I fell into an easy, dreamless slumber while enjoying
the feel of his fingers caressing my hair.



3.  A Swim


This part is not betaed.  I had held it for too long so I've decided to start
posting it anyway.

FOR YOUR INFO:  There are two endings for this sequel.  The one posted in LOM
has the happy ending.  If you are interested in the SAD version, go to this
site:  http://www.slashfiction.net    This version will only be available here.

I would like to take the opportunity to say thank you very much for all the
support and feedbacks you had given me and also for all the patience in hanging
on to this fic for so long.  I will not disappoint you for your virtue.

===============================================================

3.  A Swim

Several days after the Great Autumn Festival, I was summoned to meet the Lord
and Lady of the Golden Wood.  They had never the need to request a formal
meeting since my stay here but I suspected I knew what they wish to discuss
with me.  Sooner or later, I would have to make a decision about my future.

Adarorn was now safe with me while Aragorn was still in prison.  However, the
day must come that he must be released for his judgment and punishment to
proceed.  When that day comes, I must once again face him – a prospect I did
not wish to look forward to.

My stay in Lothlorien had been memorable.  Everyone was so nice and kind to me,
never showing me the pitiful stares or shun me for my strange and miserable
past.  I was greatly relieved and grateful for their understanding.

As I sat across the royal couple, I felt greatly at ease.  We were not in the
formal audience hall but met inside a beautiful gazebo with a round shape under
a huge, ancient oak tree.  Colourful stain-glasses pieced in intricate details
of the journey of elves to the west formed the roof.  Whenever sunlight
streamed across it, the different colours would splash splendidly on the
whitewashed floor.

The walls of the gazebo was really made out of thin, flexible reeds woven
together.  You could say that we were three birds perking in a magnificent
cage.

If I close my eyes and stay silent, I could easily have lost myself in its
blissful peace.  It was a good choice to meet them here.  Otherwise, I would
have felt unease to lay bare my thoughts.

“Do you miss home, Legolas?” Lord Celeborn started.

“I have thought about it almost everyday.  I miss my home.  It has been two
years,” I answered thoughtfully.

“Then you must make plans to return home.  I am not driving you away but I do
believe that Mirkwood would provide better protection for you and Adarorn.”

“It’s not that Lothlorien cannot offer you enough protection or we are
incapable of defending you.  You must understand that Lord Aragorn knew almost
every hidden route into the Golden Woods,” Lady Galadriel added immediately. 
The way they joined each other’s thoughts and sentences reminded me of Elladan
and Elrohir.  “Your home is deep in a cave and only your people knew the secret
passages.  Your father had gone to quite a lot to ensure that.  Besides, there
are the giant spiders that could indirectly aid in repelling unwanted sneak
attacks and offering extra layer of security.”

She had seated quite regally beside her husband – back straight and tall – with
delicate hands clasped on her lap.  A warm smile graced her ethereal feature as
she looked at me with affection.

“We will make arrangements with some of our best warriors to make sure that you
return home safely.  Although I do not think anyone would try to confront your
party while Lord Aragorn is still with us,” Lord Celeborn said.

“Thank you, my Lord and Lady.  Mirkwood is forever indebted to you,” I answered
with a low bow.  “What will happen to Aragorn when I have entered Mirkwood?”

“We are keeping in touch with Lord Elrond and between us, we will discuss his
punishments.  Do not worry.  In time, we will send missives to your adar
concerning this matter but you will have the final say,” Lady Galadriel spoke
for her husband.

I nodded silently.  However, I did not dwell in this any further.  I will leave
it at another time.

Our meeting had concluded at that and I quickly returned to my talan.

Despite my eagerness to return home, I was also sad at the same time because it
meant that I would have to part with Haldir.  Whatever he told me that night,
it would be impossible to continue.  He was the captain for his Lord and Lady
and that responsibility lies heavily on his shoulders.  His duty and loyally
must come first for Lothlorien.

I did not see Haldir that day.  He was probably with his fellow marchwardens. 
He had neglected his duties long enough and must now return to set them right
again.  So I stayed in my talan all day, packing and taking care of Adarorn.

Faramir was my only visitor that day.  He had come to tell me that he decided
to stay in Lothlorien for good.  He could no longer step out of the forest
alone.  He was sure that there would be a high price on his head for his
treason – dead preferably.

He had contemplated on asking his brother, Boromir to come stay with him in the
Golden Woods but was not sure of his reaction.  He was afraid that Boromir
would be shun too by his fellow humans for his decision.

I assured him that all of us would take good care of Boromir because he was a
kin of Faramir and our protection and kindness extends to the kins of friend of
elves.  The young man was grateful and seemed much more relieved than when he
came.

By the touch of nightfall, Haldir had still not appeared.  I was beginning to
doubt about many things.  Who could blame me?  I was inexperienced with matters
of the heart.  I was even unsure if my family would accept me as things were
before, let alone Haldir.

Perhaps, while alone and free from my distractions, Haldir had the time to
regret his words and revelations to me.  May be he was avoiding me now, to ease
the separation but it did not.  It pained me, deeply.

In the end, it would be a very good idea to leave the Golden Woods as soon as
possible.  I could not bear to stay another day here knowing that the blonde
elf was so close and yet unattainable.  If I’m lucky enough in my life time, I
could avoid meeting Haldir ever again.

Right after dinner in my room (I did not feel like meeting anyone), I decided
to sleep early.  I gathered my son closer to me and tried to fall asleep.  It
was not easy because unwanted tears rolled off the corner of my eyes.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Morning came all too swiftly.  Anar had already peeked over the treetops of the
Mellyrn tree, casting long shadows of the forest over the ground.

I had woken from my light sleep by a few rays of light that fell on my face. 
It would have been a wonderful day had it not been for the heaviness in my
heart.

I glanced over to my child and saw that he was still deep asleep.  I adored his
chubby little face and round blue eyes.  I was lucky that my son had taken so
much from me instead of his sire.  Only time will tell what traits he would
inherit from Aragorn.

Gently and cautiously, I caressed his head with my finger.  His hair felt so
soft.  His hands and fingers were so tiny but one day they will grow big and
strong to draw the string of a bow yet elegant and delicate to caress the
softest skin of his mate.  My son will be a warrior like everyone in Oropher’s
line.

In that span of time, I had come to a decision.

Should my family shun me after hearing my story, I would have to beg them to
take Adarorn and care for him.  He was innocent after all.  Then I would
journey to Gondor alone and accept whatever fate awaits me there.

I would not go back to Lothlorien because I did not wish to meet Haldir again. 
He deserves the peace of mind to pursue a new mate.  Imladris would be out of
the question as I was sure my adar would be blaming Lord Elrond to the end of
time for shaming his family in such a scandalous incident.

Something sparkling in the room caught my eyes.  I saw up and looked around. 
It was then that I realized that the sunlight that fell on the golden leaves
had reflected back and some of the sparkles fell on the walls of my room.

It was amazing that I had not noticed this magical event before.  It had
happened every morning and I missed it entirely until my last day of stay in
Lorien.

I plan to bring my son with me later to bath in river Nimrodel.  I must make
peace with that memory where I almost drowned, along with my unborn child.  I
also wanted to take the chance and enjoy the sacred water so famous among the
elves.

The higher Anar climbed, the lower my heart sank.  I could not help forget my
disappointment.  It had been so real and so close.  My happiness was just at
the tip of my fingers and now, everything was lost.

I got out of bed and washed up.  Then I began to bundle up a few clothing and
other things that I might need to bring with me when I trek towards the river. 
By then, Adarorn was awake and he was cooing happily.

‘At least someone was happy.’

I wrote a note and left it on the table, in case someone would be looking for
me.  Swinging the pack behind my back, I then picked up Adarorn; together we
set out for the river.

Caras Galadhon was slowly becoming alive with activities.  I met a few people
along the way and waved to them in friendly gesture.

The air was slightly chilly this morning.  The end of autumn was near.  I
breathed in deeply and enjoyed the aroma of Mallorn mixed with pines.  There
were even hints of mountain freshness and sweet saps from the sugar trees.

Adarorn was very much taken by the sight around him because I could see his
eyes taking in every sight and sound with earnest.  I had never taken care of a
baby or even an elfling while in Mirkwood as we had nannies and nursemaids in
the palace.  Therefore, I could not tell if it was strange that a baby so young
could be so aware of the nature around him.

Perhaps the one and only time that I performed the ancient rites of receiving
the energy of nature while I was pregnant had affected him.  If so, I hoped it
was not a bad side effect.

It took us nearly two hours to get to the river.  I looked around and chose a
quiet spot with a flat surface where I could lay the blanket on the ground.

I began to strip both of us naked.  I then treaded quickly into the water for I
was still shy to be seen naked by strangers.

Mere human would have suffered the cold in the water but to elves, we were not
affected by the temperature.  I was rather apprehensive at first that Adarorn
might not be happy with so much water around him.  He was usually bathed in a
shallow tub.

To my surprise, Adarorn gave a squeal and then giggled drunkenly.  Spittle was
dribbling off the corner of his mouth as he smiled widely.  He reminded me of a
miniature imp.

I had heard once that baby at this age could swim on their own and decided to
try it.  Slowly, I released my hands and watched carefully for any signs that
he was drowning.

To my delight, he was like a creature from the water, taking his new
environment with ease and excitement.  He swam around in small circles, arms
and legs jerking like a four-legged fish.  When he started to dive though I
panicked.  I quickly grabbed him and pulled him out.  Instead of finding him
crying and choking, he giggled even more.

It was enough excitement for now.  I decided to swim back to land.

As I was walking back to the grassy bank, I was startled to see a figure
standing by the water’s edge, silently, watching us.

To my relief, it was Haldir.  He was alone.

I frowned.  I wondered what he was doing here.  Without greeting him, I walked
pass him.  I used Adarorn to cover my private part.

Once I sat down and drew a towel to cover my dignity, only then I realized that
a smile was spread on Haldir’s fair face.  What was so amusing?

“It was a beautiful scene, just now,” he spoke quietly and squatted down beside
us.

“Why are you here, Haldir?” I asked a bit harshly than I intended.  I was still
hurt.

A frown marred Haldir’s forehead.  Was he pretending not to notice my ache? 
However, his face showed genuine confusion.

“I’m sorry,” I said in a different tone.  “When you didn’t come to see me
yesterday nor sent a message to me that you would meet me later, I thought….” I
turned away from him.  To ease my awkwardness and inability to express my hurt
to him, I used Adarorn as an excuse by dressing him up warmly before he caught
a chill.

Adarorn looked at Haldir and reached a tiny hand for him.  Haldir turned his
attention to him and smiled.

“Thought what, Legolas?” he asked without looking at me; his fingers tickling
the baby’s face.  Adarorn giggled again and kicked enthusiastically.

I let out a soft sigh.  “I thought that you were……regretting about us,” I
whispered softly, the last words.  I didn’t look up for I dared not want to
find out an amused face staring back at me.  It hurt enough to know that Haldir
was avoiding me, I didn’t want to add the humiliation that I was just an
inexperience elf and a fool at that.

A cool finger curled under my chin and pushed it up insistently, so that I had
to meet his face.

“Legolas, never doubt that I love you.  I never regretted what I said to you
that night.  It was truly from my heart,” he whispered, his eyes gazing deeply
into mine, searching for some signs that I knew not.

Tears were trickling down my cheeks on their own accord.  I didn’t know why.  I
didn’t want to cry and yet my eyes reacted the way they wanted.  Haldir reached
up to wipe them away.  It felt so good to feel those fingers on my face.

“Don’t cry Legolas.  I didn’t want to leave you.  I’m sorry that I had
forgotten to send a message to you that I would be seeing you last night.  I
was so busy making so much preparations.  And when I finally finished, I went
to your talan but you were already asleep so I didn’t want to disturb you,”
Haldir explained.  “I did stand by your bedside for awhile, just watching you
sleep,” he added sheepishly.

“I’m sorry I doubted your words.”

“Ssshhh……. No harm done.  I love you,” Haldir whispered and drew close to me
for a kiss.

I let his soft lips brushed on mine and when he finally latched to me, I parted
my lips and teeth to let him explore as he wished.  A moan slipped unexpectedly
from my throat that I blushed.

“So beautiful when you blush like that,” Haldir said when he drew slightly
away.  I could only smile in response.  “Would you invite me to share a spot on
your blanket?”

“Ai, yes.  Come,” I said eagerly and scooted myself to one side to make room
for Haldir.  He sat down on the blanket and took off his boots before putting
his feet on the clean spread.

“Come, let me hold Adarorn while you dress yourself,” he offered and grab the
child from my hands.  Adarorn did not make a fuss by the exchange of hands.

I quickly put on my undershirt and leggings.  I was not sure if Haldir was
taking secret glances at me while I was wearing my clothes but I was sure he
would benefit nothing as I was careful to ensure that the towel covered me
properly.

When I was done, Haldir did not hand Adarorn back to me.  Instead, he lay down
and propped the wriggling baby on his broad chest.  While one hand was keeping
the baby from rolling off, he spread out the other in invitation for me to lay
my head on it and snuggle up to him.

I did not hesitate to take advantage of his offer and nestled as close as my
body could get against him.

For a few hours, we laid in silence without need for words to say what we felt
for each other.  We were as one, content, happy and together.  It felt like a
family, our family.

~*~

When we made our way back to the city, Haldir finally remembered what he had
wanted to tell me earlier.

“Your adar had sent a return missive to my Lord and Lady.  He bids you return
home immediately.”

My eyes widened in surprise and fear, I didn’t know which was worst.

“Does he know?”  I needed to know how much he knew.

“Not much I think, though it’s hard to say.  Nothing escapes a king even
outside his borders,” Haldir answered truthfully.

“Do you think he will be angry with me when I see him?”  I was still not sure.
“Legolas, your adar loves you very much.  So does your brothers.  It may come
as a shock to them and angers them but they are not going to be angry at you. 
It was the same here when you first came to Lorien.  We were all so worried for
you instead,” Haldir tried to put me at ease.

“I know but still, I feel that I had failed them.  I had not been careful
enough,” I said.  I shifted the pack behind me to balance out the weight. 
Adarorn was already fast asleep while being propped against Haldir’s chest.

“Don’t blame yourself.  No one knew and no one suspected, not even Lord Elrond.
 I am sure he was more devastated than you as he had personally raised Aragorn
and had failed to protect you.  You were his responsibility while you were in
Imladris.”   What Haldir said was true.  I could imagine the Lord of the Valley
in grief over this matter.




4.  The Journey Home

The news of my adar summoning me home had caused a lot of tension and
agitation in me.  I swiftly informed the Lord and Lady of the Golden
Woods that I must depart immediately.  I confided to them that I was
homesick and yet dreaded how my family and people would receive me. 
They advised that I should have faith in myself and that all will be
well.  I wished that I had that much confidence.

Despite the inner turmoil I was experiencing, I still have to return
home.  I needed to find out.  I headed to Haldir’s talan but did not
find him there.  However, I met Orophin and he told me that his brother
was with the other marchwardens.

I stayed back for a moment longer to chat with Orophin as I had not
seen him for a while.  I was surprised to learn from him that Haldir
was the first to volunteer to escort me back to the Greenwood.

Orophin laughed, seeing the expression on my face.  “News travel
quickly here, my friend,” he answered, a huge grin still on his face. 
I wondered at that smile.  I was sure there was something more to it
that he did not tell me.

He had also informed me that he and Rumil were coming along.  The
brothers never separate for long and that made me think about my
relationship with Haldir.  Surely his brothers would oppose Haldir
leaving Lothlorien and them.

I did not linger for long and then left Orophin to his packing.  An
idea struck me.  I went to look for Faramir and invited him to
Greenwood.  Even though my adar did not like human very much and
Aragorn had proven that point, but his strong sense of honour could not
afford him to turn Faramir away for he had saved me.  He was indebted
to this man.

Faramir was ecstatic to receive the invitation.  The look on his face
was priceless.  He was like a little boy who found Valinor.  Surely if
he had the chance to visit Imladris too, he would die the happiest man
in Middle Earth.  I was glad that it was so easy to please him.

I fetched Adarorn from the nursemaid before returning to my talan.  I
had some packing to do.  I placed a folded blanket on the floor and
left my son there.  He was beginning to learn to roll onto his belly
and leaving him on the bed would be dangerous, as he might fall off.

A sense of sadness descended on me while I searched around the room for
things that I wanted to take with me.  Even though I had not lived here
for very long, I had developed an emotional attachment to the Golden
Woods.  This talan itself held so many memories for me.  Adarorn was
born here.  Haldir and I had poured our feelings for each other on this
very bed.  He held me to sleep as a lover for the first time, that
night.  I shall miss this place very much.

When the sun began to set behind the sparkling river of Nimrodel,
Haldir appeared in my talan with his pack.  He told me that he would be
spending the night with me.  It would be my last night in Lothlorien.

I was expected to have a quiet dinner with a few close friends that
night.  Adarorn was invited too.  Together, we made our way towards the
private dining room of the Lord and Lady.

Almost everyone was already there – Faramir, Haldir’s brothers, Bronwe
and his assistant, Saiwen.  As soon as Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel
came, we all sat down and started dinner in friendly casual atmosphere.
 No one held a title there and no one was excluded, not even Adarorn.

Wines and Miruvor flowed generously and so were our merry moods. 
Faramir was the first to get drunk and thus, we took advantage of that.
 We persuaded him to sing a song for us.  He did not hesitate and
started singing in off-key notes.  We laughed at first and joined him
afterwards, equally in off-key tunes.

Adarorn was absolutely adorable that night.  Haldir set him on a
cleared spot on the table and bounced him as if a doll attached to
strings (marionette).  Adarorn would kick his legs excitedly in a
childish mimic of dancing and giggled ecstatically while drools covered
his chin and neck.  The more we clapped and encouraged him, the more
energetic he became.

It had been a long while since I last celebrated under such a happy
occasion.

* ~ * ~ *

I woke up early the next morning, as I had to prepare Adarorn for the
long ride.  Haldir got up too, to help me.  When we were ready, I took
one last look around the talan and together, we made our way to the
main bailey where the escorts and horses would be waiting.

Haldir told me that he had personally overseen the arrangements for my
safe return to Mirkwood.  There were seven marchwardens including a
nursemaid for Adarorn.  That meant there would be ten elves, a man and
an elfling traveling together.

Last night, Lord Celeborn had informed me that Lord Elrond was on his
way to Greenwoods as we speak.  The elven lord wished to seek
forgiveness from me personally.  He also wished to examine my health as
a reassurance that I had not been harmed permanently in any way.

The moment we entered the compound, many elves were already gathered
there.  The horses were being tended on one side, packs already loaded
onto the animals’ back and strapped down securely.

All of a sudden, my legs felt heavy and unable to cooperate when I saw
all eyes turned in unison to my direction.  Even though they were not
menacing looks or unconcealed disgust, I could not help myself being
swamped by an uncomfortable feeling.  I was still shy and it would take
sometime for me to rebuild my self-esteem and confidence again.

Haldir noticed my hesitation and looked at me, puzzled.

“Are you all right, Legolas?” he asked and held Adarorn closer to him
instinctively.

“I just feel shy seeing so many people come to send me off.”

“You are well-loved, Legolas.  That’s why they are here,” Haldir said
and looked at them.  “Come,” he urged.  He gave a gentle push on my
back and together, we continued onwards.

@@@@@@@

Galadriel:  They look so beautiful together.  With Adarorn, they are
complete, like a family.  Pity the past circumstances had not been a
happier one.

Celeborn:  Yes, my dear wife.  I agree.  However, we definitely did not
make a mistake in letting Haldir go.  They deserve each other and
Haldir will be a strong anchor for Legolas to hold on to and heal.

Galadriel:  They remind me of a couple I know.

Celeborn:  Ah, I know them too dear wife.  And one day they will sail
to Valinor to spend their eternal life together.  (smiled and held his
wife tighter, an intimate gesture not often displayed in public)

@@@@@@@


With a last wave, I turned around and followed the others through the
perfectly lined trees on both sides of the stone path.  I was leaving
behind friends whom I might not see again for quite sometime although
Lord Celeborn promised that he would come to Greenwoods in a month’s
time.

My hands were still trembling slightly.  It had been an overwhelming
experience to be surrounded by so many elves wishing me safe journey
home.  The ones closest to me gave me hugs.  I was eternally grateful
to everyone and cherished their patience and friendship that they had
extended to me without judgment.

I caught up to Haldir and checked to see if Adarorn was making a fuss. 
He was safely propped against Haldir’s back while inside a special
sling.  Haldir had offered to carry the baby first because he wanted me
to get used to the hard riding after so long away from intense physical
endurance.  It was nice of him to think of me but this was nothing
compared to what I had to endure while in Aragorn’s hands.

Every once in a while, I would turn to look at my lover’s face.  It
brought gladness and calmness in me.  At the same time, he would cause
a furious turbulent in my heart whenever he caught me staring at him.

Things seemed to be working better for me now.  I have a lover who
genuinely loved and respected me and I was finally going home to see my
family again.  No matter what happened, I have Haldir and Adarorn
beside me.  That was more important now.  I have my own family.


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


5.  Two Princes To Meet The King

Night descended swiftly during the late season of autumn.  Shadows
lengthened and many parts of the forest were already dark where the
weak sunlight could not reach it.

Soon we must set up camp.  It was for the sake of convenience for the
baby and Faramir.  Elves were able to travel in the inky blackness for
we could still see our way around but Faramir could not.  Besides, my
son had enough riding for one day and we were not in a hurry anyway.

The temperature had dropped drastically but it matters not to us except
the baby.  Adarorn was only three months old after all and was still
vulnerable to the weather changes.

My son had been quite distressed and fussy at first.  He was not used
to be bounced about unceasingly.  We had to slow down slightly and let
the nursemaid attend to him.  I was impressed that she was able to calm
him most of the way afterwards.

Our journey would normally have taken five days at least if we tarry
only for minimal rest but at the rate we were moving, we would add
another day or so.  I didn’t mind the length of travel because I could
grab every spared moment to spend time with Haldir.  I wouldn’t know
when I would see him again after he returned to Lothlorien.  This
thought saddened me but for the moment, I put it behind me.

Over the course of the journey, our group had split into two.  Half the
group was riding in front with Rumil leading them.  They had sent
scouts ahead to make sure the path was clear.  Haldir and I were with
the second group.

Sometimes the nursemaid would join us but of late, she had purposely
left us alone and joined Orophin instead.  I suspected that she knew
about us but appreciated that she had given us every opportunity to be
alone without being too obvious.  I wondered if the rest knew and had
been pretending unaware all these while.

Since the journey started, I noticed that Faramir was constantly riding
beside Orophin.  The two had been inseparable for days.  As I was
riding behind them, I could see everything that went on.  It was no
mere enjoyment of each other’s company; something more was between
them.

They exchanged many whispers between them and laughed at each other’s
private jokes.  Their behavior was clear to anyone who cared to observe
that they were infatuated by each other.

Was my lover aware of this?  Would he approve that one of his brothers
liked a human?  After the troubles with Aragorn, I was afraid that
Haldir would be fiercely against the friendship.  I would be terribly
disappointed if he were.

Besides that, had Haldir told his brothers about us?  If he had already
done so, did they accepted me without protest?  So far, they had been
very nice and civil to me and yet, I wanted to know for sure.

Meanwhile, Haldir and I had been stealing caresses and kisses whenever
we could.  My heart would pound with excitement, afraid that someone
might have seen it but mostly, it was from yearning for those
spine-tingling-belly-lurching touches.  I felt lightheaded afterwards.

From the first night in our travel, Haldir had assigned everyone a
specific duty except me.  I had volunteered many times to help in any
way they needed me but everyone had conspired behind my back to refuse
any offers that I made.  Haldir’s pathetic excuse was that I was a
Prince and should be treated as my station required.

I gave him a sour look but the arrogant elf only laughed at me for my
spoilt behavior.  That made me bristled madly.

“Careful Haldir, he’s going to throw a royal tantrum,” someone remarked
while the others chuckled softly.  I was sure I recognized that voice
as Orophin’s, and when I turned to glare at him, he had already started
to crept away, as well as the others.

While their backs were to us, Haldir suddenly stole a quick kiss from
my lips.  “You’re so cute when your cheeks are all pink like that,” he
whispered and went away.  I couldn’t stay angry at him anymore after
that.

Finally, I was assigned a duty – to stay with Adarorn and the nursemaid
at all times.  I was to run away with the baby and the nursemaid at the
first sign of trouble.  That certainly would make me look very noble
and brave indeed!

Every night, my lover (I always shivered in delight when I say that
word) would set up his bedroll near mine.  How I wished he would set it
beside me or we could even share one, snuggling together.

I could understand that we had to behave and be discreet about such
matter but all the hiding around was killing me.  I so badly wanted
everyone to know of my love for this wonderful elf but Haldir would not
have it.  He kept reminding me that I was a prince to a great king
after all and that I should be careful to guard my honour and
reputation.

How I wished that I was only a commoner.  Even when I told him that I
would denounce my title for him, Haldir insisted that he would still
seek my family’s permission unless my family chose to severe all ties
with me and banish me from Mirkwood.  I was too precious to him to be
treated so commonly, he said.  That was very chivalrous of him.

Nevertheless, I put to use my well-practiced patience.  Haldir was
right, not only that he had to protect my honour but also the pride of
everyone in Lothlorien and his brothers.

“I will talk to my adar the moment I get the opportunity,” I whispered.
 I watched in rapt fascination as the light and shadow danced merrily
on his handsome face.

Haldir smiled and reached out to caress my fingers briefly.  That
gesture warmed my heart.

“Good night, my star,” I said affectionately and gathered Adarorn
closer to me to settle into sleep.

“Sleep well.  I will watch over you,” he whispered back.  My stomach
felt queasy when I heard that.

My lover.  Haldir was my beautiful, loving lover.  I couldn’t suppress
a smile at that thought.  I drifted off to sleep while dreaming of our
sweet future.

* ^ * ^ *

By the fifth rising of Anar, my heart grew restless.  The very thought
that I was so close to home and seeing my family again was
overwhelming.

I was constantly plagued by agitation and nervousness.  I was easily
jumpy, my heart pounded fiercely at the slightest noise.  I was always
anticipating something bad to happen that could delay my reunion. 
After going through similar experience twice in the past, I could not
help being afraid that it would happen again.

Everyone had noticed my behaviour and had tried to reassure me.  Haldir
tried to pacify me, telling me that nothing would keep me from going
home now.  I tried to believe him and it was hard, but at least I was
calmer afterwards.

Anar had traveled past the highest peak when suddenly, two riders rode
hard towards us.  We could not see them yet due to the covers of the
forest foliage but we could hear them and was sure that the riders were
elven.  As extra precaution anyway, the marchwardens surrounded the
nursemaid and me.  Faramir was beside me instantly while Haldir had
ridden to the front to confront the incoming riders.

I held Adarorn closer to me while my other hand reached for my long
knife.  It had been a gift from Haldir.  The pale, gold hilt was carved
from a Mallorn tree branch, taken from the very tree his talan was
built on.  Runes that read ‘Bregol limlug’ (fierce serpent) was
inscribed on one side of the blade.  It was as its name – sharp and
deadly.

The uneasy tenseness crackled around us.  No one spoke a word for all
eyes were staring in the direction of the incoming riders.  I held my
breath and gripped the hilt of my knife tighter, ready to draw and
fight.

They called out before we saw them.  Either they had anticipated our
intentions or they were too eager to give news to us, we were relieved
to hear their familiar voices.

“We met with the scouts from Greenwood the Great.  King Thranduil and
his party are heading this way,” one of them shouted even while he was
still some distance away.

“I’ve informed the scouts our location,” the other reported as soon as
they got close to us.

Haldir turned to look at me.  He had probably read my mind.  I nodded
curtly and immediately removed the sling and handed Adarorn to Faramir.
 I was off with a flash.

I made the horse run fast as if a group of wargs were chasing us.  Not
far from behind me, I heard another lone rider following.  Without
looking back, I knew it was Haldir.  He wanted to ensure my safety.

The rest of them would catch up later, with their precious cargo in
tow.  I could not wait any longer.  I had been separated from my family
for too long.

It was some distance before I finally saw a group of elves in
Mirkwood’s colour about a league away.  I was already out of the forest
and now in a shallow, barren valley.  The winds were strong here,
forcing the tall grasses to ripple in one direction.

My heart soared with joy at seeing them.  I spurred my horse to go
faster and close the distance between us swiftly.  Already I could see
my adar and my brother, Firnnole breaking away from their group to
speed towards me.

At long last, I was going to feel their warmth and strength around me. 
I did not have to rely on dreams and memories anymore.  This was the
real thing.  Whatever they were going to decide afterwards, I would
accept it gracefully.  I would carry every shame with me and never
plague them again.  But for now, I only wanted to see them and hold
them, at least this once.

The very moment we were within reach, I jumped off the horse smoothly
and ran the last distance.  My adar did the same.

I practically launched myself onto my adar and wrapped my arms tightly
around his muscled back.  He, in turn, grabbed me and lifted me off the
ground.  I could not believe it; I was in his arms again, hugging him. 
I missed the warmth of his protectiveness.

“Legolas, my Legolas,” my adar cried as he kissed the crown of my head
and teary face frantically.

“We’ve missed you terribly.  We thought that you were really lost to
us,” my brother exclaimed while wrapped around my back.

Our reunion was tearful but also filled with happiness.  I counted
myself lucky that I was able to see them again.

When I was able to extract myself from them, I took my time to look at
them.  I had to convince myself that my family was really standing in
front of me.  The only elf missing now was my eldest brother, Firith. 
I hoped to see him soon.

They too regarded me closely but not with disappointment or anger as I
had feared uselessly for months.  I knew now and should have more faith
and trust in them that they would never shun me away, no matter what
happened.  We were a family and from love, we were created and bind
together.  I hoped they would forgive me for ever doubting their love
for me.

Seeing their eyes filled with relief and tears dribbling down to their
chins, unashamed to display such emotions gave me a sense of
contentment that everything would be fine.

The last time I had witnessed my adar crying was when he missed my
mother terribly but he had done so away from the eyes of the others,
including my brothers.  I was very young then, and had been searching
for my adar that night to snuggle into his bed because I had awaken
from a nightmare.

I had seen the grief in his face and the misery in his eyes when I
peeked from behind the door, unknown to him.

I decided to leave him alone and gently closed the door of the inner
room.  The guard posted outside the King’s bedchamber was puzzled that
I came out again.  I must have looked pale and when the guard asked me
what’s wrong, I shook my head silently.  Thinking that something was
wrong with his King, he turned and was about to enter but I stopped
him.  I told him to leave my adar in peace.  A knowing look crossed his
face.  He patted my head gently and wished me goodnight before sending
me back to my own chamber.



“I’m home.  I’m home,” I cried and embraced my adar again.

“I love you, my little greenleaf,“ my adar’s voice sounded choked and
he tightened his hold around me even more.

Haldir’s timely arrival made us look up.  He dismounted and stood at a
respective distance from us.  “Greetings, King Thranduil.  My Lord and
Lady sent their greetings and wishes of prosperity to you.”  The
Captain of the Marchwardens bowed deeply.

“Please thank them for me and return my greetings too.  Where are the
others?”

“They will be here soon,” Haldir answered before taking a quick glance
at me.

“We shall wait for them then,” my adar said.  There was a moment of
awkward silence until my adar spoke again.  “Is my new grandson with
them?” my adar asked while regarding me with seriousness.  I shifted
uncomfortably.  It was a question I dreaded the most.

“Yes,” I mumbled my answer.

“Really?” my brother exclaimed excitedly.

I honestly had not expected this reaction.  I didn’t realize that my
jaw was hanging from shock until my brother asked me if I was all
right.

“Aren’t you angry with me about this?  I was afraid that you would be
disappointed and disgusted of me.”

“Do you really think so lowly of your family?” my adar asked, a tone of
hurt evident in his voice.

“No.  I…I was just afraid…how you would receive this news.  I’m sorry,
adar.  I didn’t mean to hurt you,” I babbled, feeling miserable and
guilty for hurting his feelings.  I hung my head in shame.

“Let’s not discuss this now,” Firn interjected.

The first party to arrive was Greenwoods warriors.  They had purposely
given our family some moment of privacy for our reunion.  The group
from Lorien appeared not long after.

After the formal greetings, Faramir came forward to hand back Adarorn
to me.  I could see that he was rather nervous to meet the King of
Greenwoods the Great for the first time.  I felt his hands tremble
slightly.

Taking a deep breath and releasing it silently, I turned to face my
adar.  I held out my son to him and waited for his reaction.  I could
see that the Mirkwood elves were curious and wanted to take a closer
look at the child.

Suddenly, I felt awkward and embarrassed.  The others stood silently
behind us and watched with abated breath.

Firn was like an open book.  Anyone could see even from leagues away
that he was instantly taken by the giggling baby in the bundle.  He was
beaming proudly as if he was the father.

“He looked so much like you!” he exclaimed in an unexpected high pitch
voice.  I would have laughed at him if it were not for my adar’s
serious feature.

Without so much as a word, he took Adarorn into his arms.  Both the
baby and he stared at each other in curiosity.  It was both amusing and
nerve-wracking to watch them.  I was prepared that my son would wail
shrilly any moment and my adar would scrunched his face in disgust.

“What is his name?” my adar asked calmly without looking up.

“Adarorn,” I replied.  I only now noticed that my fingers were busy
fidgeting with the hem of my tunic.

My adar looked up and stared at me with his blue eyes, a trademark of
Oropher’s besides the golden blond hair.  Even though my mother had
grey eyes, none of her children inherited it from her.

“A fitting name for a prince who is direct descendants of Mighty
Oropher.”  A grin broke out on his face to the cheers of everyone
around us.  Firn slapped my back earnestly in joy.

A tremendous burden lifted from my heart and shoulders.  I was
overjoyed beyond belief.

“I wish to ride with my grandson,” my adar announced.  He handed
Adarorn to me and then quickly mounted his horse.  When he bent low to
me, I tucked my son into his waiting arm.

With a shrill battle cry, he took off suddenly.  We scrambled to chase
after him.  When I caught up with the excited elf, my adar looked at me
with glee.

“Don’t worry.  I had done the same to all three of you when you were a
babe like him,” he called out and spurred the horse to go faster.

I slowed down slightly to let Haldir catch up to me.  We rode the rest
of the way home, together.