Title: The old ways
Author: Britta (aka Karla)
Authors e-mail: Britta.ventura@ewetel.net
Pairings: Legolas/Haldir
Rating: NC-17
Warning: mpreg
Summary: When the fellowship comes to Lothlorien, Legolas comes face 
to face with Haldir after a long time. Will old wounds heal and are they 
prepared for what the future might bring?








THE OLD WAYS


Haldir glared at the fellowship, all of Lorien had known that they would 
approach sooner or later but no one was very happy about this fact. 
Galadriel had agreed to protect and help them in their cause, ignoring 
various complaints and angered faces. 'So', Haldir mused, 'I am the lucky 
one to bring them into the depths of the woods'. He furrowed his brow and 
sighed. Surely now, he would have to watch over them for as long as the 
fellowship stayed within their realm. 'Great, why me?' 
He scanned the little group of people again. They looked tired and worn, 
desperate and full of sorrow. Not at all like the great heroes he had been 
expecting. No sign of them being overeagerly proud or cocksure. A 
sudden wave of pity washed over the Lorien guard and he smiled a little as 
he addressed Aragorn to welcome them, when suddenly an all too familiar 
face showed a little further away. Haldir sucked in his breath hard. 
The fine featured face was full of distress and paler than usual. The skin 
had a waxy sheen to it ,traces of dirt  and scratches marred the natural 
beauty of it. Long, usually perfectly groomed and braided hair, hung 
matted and tangled over the strong shoulders. But to Haldir it still was the 
most fair and desirable person. Bright and luminous blue eyes stared back 
at him, showing recognition and joy, but also traces of fear.
Haldir tried to stay calm and turned back to Aragorn, asking them to 
follow him to the Lady of the woods.
On the way up the long and winding staircase, Haldir thought of nothing 
else but the young elf following him.
'Ha, young.' Nearly one millennia had passed since they last saw each 
other. One couldn't call that one young anymore.  He must have nearly 
reached his three thousands birthday by now. Haldir tried to glance back at 
the elf without causing any suspicion. 
He was glad when Galadriel released him of his duty as soon as they had 
reached her and he hurried back down again.

Night had fallen in Lorien and the fellowship rested beneath the 
comforting branches of the Mallorn trees. Haldir had not returned to the 
outposts again, knowing he wouldn't have reached them before it grew 
dark and it would become to dangerous on the borders of the woods. He 
wasn't very comfortable being around the strangers, but tried not to show 
it too openly. Leaning his broad back against one of the trees, steadying 
his left hand holding a chalice with wine on his drawn up knee, he 
contemplated on his situation. Usually Haldir would have heard the soft 
steps of her naked feet on the ground but his mind was too occupied to 
filter out the sounds and little noises of the night, so it was rather 
surprising for him as she addressed him.
"You should rest, March warden." Galadriel's voice spoke of soft cushions 
and peaceful silence.
Haldir's head came up in a quick motion, but he relaxed instantly seeing 
her warm smile upon him.
"Nay, my lady. I cannot. Too many thoughts and questions are on my 
mind."
Galadriel nodded and seated herself beside her guard on the ground, 
studying him closely.
"Thoughts about you and him, no doubt. Have you talked to Legolas?"
Haldir shook his head and took another sip of his wine.
"You should, you know. So much time has passed and I can see that you 
are still troubled by your actions of the past." 
"We were too eager and he was too young then. I should have known 
better. It was all a mistake. One I would gladly forget." Haldir sighed.
Galadriel chuckled a little. "Oh no, my faithful Galadrim. I know you 
better. Your heart was always with him, was it not. You have been 
yearning for him over the last ten centuries and it was your own pride that 
kept you from going to him, asking him to come back to you. You choose 
freely to be bonded to him, it was you who initiated it and now that he is 
back you hide and pretend not to care. Go to him, talk to him. Try to sort 
things out."
Haldir's eyes shone with the brightness of unshed tears listening to the 
Lady's speech. "Maybe. Maybe I will go to him, but maybe I won't. I 
cannot promise anything my Lady. We hurt each other badly, we said 
things that are not easy to forgive."
Galadriel rose from the ground and patted him lightly on the shoulder, 
"What you two have is always worth forgiving. You belong together, not 
apart. I have watched you over the last years. Your heart is growing 
heavier with each day that passes without the one you love. It is not 
getting any better, is it? Are you willing to loose him forever?" she turned 
and headed back to where she had come from.
Haldir stayed beneath the canopy of trees and stared into the night. 

Merry had woken to the sound of clattering dishes and the smell of fresh 
food. He wrinkled his nose, sat up and met Aragorn's smile "Good 
morning, Merry." As Aragorn got up and turned to leave, Merry shot a 
quick glance at the food. "Aren't you having any, Aragorn?"
"I already ate a bit. Don't worry it's all for you. Legolas has already left 
and Gimli..., well you can hear what he is doing, can't you." Aragorn 
inclined his head a little and left the clearing.
Merry turned to his left side to wake Pippin, who was still snoring 
soundly.
"Hey, Pip! Wanna miss breakfast?" He shook the sleeping form firmly.
"What?" Pippin drowsily opened his eyes and tried to focus on his 
surroundings. "Is it that late already. First or second brekkie?"
Merry snickered "Elves only have one you dummie."
Pippin got up and beamed at the dishes that were sat on a pedestal near 
their sleeping area. "Goodie, but I don't think there is enough for all of us." 
He started loading food on a plate.
Merry glanced at the growing mountain of food on Pippin's plate and 
frowned. "Don't worry Pip. Gimli is still sleeping, Aragorn already had his 
and Legolas is off into the woods somewhere. Probably chewing on some 
nuts he finds."  

Legolas wandered aimlessly through the woods and not having found any 
rest last night he felt worn out and tired. He had promised himself not to 
come to these parts of Middle earth again, but with the quest he had no 
choice but to follow the others.
He felt a wave of self-pity as he encountered places he had been before 
under much more pleasant circumstances. He quickly dismissed those 
feelings, squared his shoulders and quickened his pace, when he suddenly 
very nearly bumped into someone resting against a tree, obviously 
sleeping. Legolas glanced down and felt his pulse quickening. It was 
Haldir, who was half lying on the ground there before him. The younger 
elf tried quietly to retreat but the rustle of leaves beneath his feet was 
enough to wake the other elf.
Haldir looked up and stared at Legolas. 
"I am sorry. I didn't know you were here. I will leave immediately." 
Legolas turned quickly and moved back the way he came.
"Wait!" Haldir's voice stopped him but he didn't glance back.
Haldir got up from the ground and moved behind Legolas putting  a hand 
on the shoulder of his companion. The familiar, yet long missed, tingling 
ran up his arm as Haldir felt the bond between them flaring back into life 
again. He felt Legolas shoulder muscles trembling and he turned him 
around wanting to look into the face of the other.
Gods, how he had missed him. Galadriel had been right. His heart had 
bleed every single day. He had scolded himself for his actions in the past, 
but it had not only been his fault. Both had not been as understanding as 
they should have been. Maybe it was time to set things right.
"Legolas, meleth nín. Don't leave. Not again. Please, let us at least talk. 
Come, sit with me."
Legolas shivered underneath Haldir's touch, but he tried not to show his 
anxiety and nodded slowly. Haldir removed his hand and made an inviting 
gesture towards the tree he had been sitting under. They sat down in 
silence and both looked everywhere except at the other. Seconds passed 
by, seconds became minutes and minutes became hours. The fading light 
of the sun bathed the woods in a dark golden tone when Legolas finally 
addresses Haldir. "You wanted to talk. So why don't you".
Haldir glanced carefully at Legolas' features before answering. "I wanted 
to tell you so many things, but now I am at a loss for words."
"Maybe it is better if I leave then," Legolas pushed himself up and brushed 
leaves and dirt off his leggings "since you obviously have no words for 
me."
"No! Wait!" Haldir jumped up and grabbed Legolas' elbow, not allowing 
him to move away. "I am sorry. It is not that I have no words for you, I am 
afraid that anything I will say will not be the right thing to say."
Legolas glared at Haldir's hand holding onto his elbow. "It seems to me, 
that you have lost you wits along with your words, Galadrim."
Haldir visibly flinched at those words and Legolas regretted his temper 
immediately. They had separated fighting and now they met again 
fighting. He should have learned to control his temper. He could see the 
hurt in Haldir's eyes, it pained him, as it always had, to see his beloved 
troubled or sad. His 'beloved'. He mused a second or two about this word. 
Was he still his beloved. No, certainly not. Yes they had bonded 
themselves to another well over a millennia ago, but at what prize. Elves, 
once bonded were true to each other no matter what. With that they had 
denied themselves the chance to take another partner or bonded for good. 
But had he ever desired another? No, of course he hadn't. He had always 
only desired Haldir, dreamed of him and cried about the loss. If Haldir just 
hadn't been so stubborn, maybe then.....
Legolas was pulled out of his thoughts when he felt Haldir move away 
from him, letting go of his elbow. He couldn't let this happen again, he 
was older now, more mature, more calm and yes, more forgiving. "Haldir, 
melme. Don't leave. Forgive my cruel words. I should keep my temper in 
check, I should have learned that by now, but you know that has always 
been my flaw, hasn't it." Legolas tried a little smile and now it was his turn 
to stop the other from leaving. He softly laid his hand an Haldir's arm and 
waited for the reaction of the older elf.
Haldir felt tears threatening to spill from his eyes, but his pride got the 
better of him and he swallowed hard tilting his head back to Legolas.
He saw the shy smile and all his pride and frustration burned to ashes. 
That smile, it had been that smile in the first place, that made him fall for 
the young and inexperienced prince from the northern regions. He turned 
to face his love and took a breath to answer him, but he never had the 
chance. Warm, soft and soothing lips claimed his own and the world 
around him started spinning. Legolas tasted of the beech wood trees of 
Mirkwood, of freedom and spring rain, of everything he so clearly 
remembered. He lost himself in this kiss, never wanting it to end. A 
probing tongue, carefully stroked between his lips, parting them, asking 
for entrance. A blinding flash hit his body as his tongue met his lovers and 
the kiss grew deeper and more demanding.
Haldir clung to Legolas' tunic as if it would save him from drowning and 
keep him sane. He didn't notice going down to his knees pulling his 
beloved with him, he didn't feel being lowered to the ground and the 
weight of another body on his own, so lost he was in the long forgotten 
feeling of this kiss. 

Gimli paced their campsite and muttered curses under his breath. He 
despised the so called harmony and tranquillity here among these elves. 
Everything was so damn peaceful. As if nobody cared what happened in 
the world outside this forest. As if they weren't interested in the fate of 
Middle earth. The fellowship itself seemed to be absorbed in this 
indifference. Aragorn spent hours talking to Boromir or other elves, Merry 
and Pippin were only really interested in the meals they were supplied 
with, Sam never stopped worrying after Frodo, Frodo himself tended to 
forget the world around him and secluded himself from others and that 
blasted elf they were travelling with had vanished into the woods this 
morning and never bothered to show up again.
Was he the only one left with some common sense? He sat down on a 
stump near their camp and put his chin in his hands.
"You feel left out, Gimli son of Gloin." Galadriel stood beside the dwarf 
and lowered a hand onto his shoulder.
"Why should you be interested?" the dwarf grumbled.
"I care for all of you. Hobbits, men, elf and dwarf. Everyone of you carries 
his own burden, this place allows them to consider their actions, their fate 
and to where it might lead. Some try to solve problems, others might just 
want to put their minds at ease. What is your wish, Gimli?"
"I wish..., I wish it weren't so quiet here. I wish I knew what we are up 
against. Maybe I just wish for someone at my side to talk to, to share my 
thoughts with." Gimli muttered.
"Why don't you go and look for someone. Why then do you shut yourself 
out. Think about your journey. Who is the other one alone?"
"What do you mean, the other on alone."
"It is rather simple, son of Gloin." Everybody has a friend or kinsman 
along the road, except two of you." Galadriel smiled.
Gimli's head shot up "That elf? You think about that blasted, singing, 
always running around elf?"
Galadriel looked at him "Yes, Gimli. That elf. You will need each other on 
your journey. You will have to confide in each other, look after an other 
and share you burdens. Do you really think of him in such ways as you 
just pointed out?"
"No, not really. He's just so, ....so, argh...always eager, always alert, 
always running, always awake..." Gimli stuttered.
"Ah, I see. He is always such an elf, isn't he." Galadriel let her laughter 
ring out clearly in the cool evening air. "Don't worry my dwarven friend, 
he thinks of you quite the same way. You are always so dwarvish. 
Muttering, stumping, snoring and so on. Maybe you should try and learn 
of the others sides you two have. But wait a while longer before you 
approach him, Legolas has some matters to attend to while he resides here 
in Lorien."
Gimli shot Galadriel a stunned look. Had she just put this idea in his head 
to make friends with an elf? Was he really so dwarvish? 

Legolas' hands travelled down Haldir's sides to his hips holding him 
closely, never breaking the kiss. It felt like he was exploring the body 
beneath him for the first time, the strong shoulders, the lean sides, the 
sensual mouth opening up to his probing tongue. Yet he knew every 
muscle, every piece of flesh so well. He knew how it would tremble and 
shudder when exposed to passionate lovemaking. He wanted to feel that 
again. He wanted to loose himself to the same feeling, the same 
abandoning to this love.
Legolas felt Haldir's hands on his back slowly travelling downwards to the 
small of his back and lower to his firm buttocks, squeezing them gently. A 
soft moan escaped him into Haldir's mouth as he fought for control. He 
could feel himself growing hard underneath Haldir's ministrations and the 
poking of another erection pressing into his lower abdomen left little 
doubt about Haldir's condition. He wanted more, so much more, but this 
place was not very secluded. It took all his will and concentration to break 
the kiss and look at Haldir's flushed face. "Hervenn nín, maybe we should 
take our reunion to another place than this. I wish to hold you once more, I 
want to make you whisper my name begging for release." 
Haldir actually blushed beneath him, which made Legolas laugh. 
"Legolas, my love. I wish nothing more than to feel your skin against 
mine. To hear your breath becoming ragged and your eyes fluttering shut 
from the tension in your body, but you're right, this is not the most 
appropriate place."
Legolas rubbed himself against his husband "You still have our old talan, 
have you not? Are you still alone there, or have your brothers joined you?"
"No, I'm still alone. Why did you think differently?" Haldir frowned a 
little thinking of the mess in his home. With all the rising mistrust between 
the people of Middle earth and the continuing threats of orcs and other 
foul beasts, he never bothered to look after his home. He knew it was quite 
a mess up there. He could never take Legolas there right now.
Legolas saw Haldir frown "What is wrong, love. Is there someone else?" 
A sharp pain crept up his belly 'No, please, not someone else in Haldir's 
life.'
"No! Of course not!" Haldir protested. "It's just, well, you know....to be 
honest it's a mess! I never looked after it very well. There are clothes 
everywhere, pottery and things. Strewn all over the place. I cannot take 
you there right now."
Legolas relaxed visibly "I don't care Haldir. I only have eyes for you, I 
don't mind things lying around. I..."
"Shhh...love. I'm not taking you there. Give me two hours to tidy my, no 
our place up a bit. Come to me after sundown. Bring some wine and food 
if you want. But let me do this."
Legolas pushed himself off Haldir. He didn't want to stop now, he didn't 
care if the place was a mess. He didn't want to think, only act. But maybe 
Haldir was right, maybe it was better. They could relax more and he could 
stay until the morning. It would give him the chance to get a few things 
from the campsite. Besides they would need some kind of lubrication for 
their lovemaking, and he doubted that Haldir had some in his talan, neither 
had he some with him. So he would have to get some of that as well as 
food and drink.
Both elves got up from the ground and dusted themselves off. They smiled 
at each other shyly and departed in different directions.  

Legolas' euphoric felling dampened with every step he took towards the 
campsite of the fellowship. It felt to him like he had been in a dream world 
for the last hours, unreachable by others and he desperately had wanted to 
stay there. Stay in Haldir's arms, to feel him, to love him and to make love 
to him. But now, the nearer he came to the troubles of the others and their 
camp, the more cold he grew inside. Was it really the right decision to turn 
to Haldir again? Was he really still in love with him, or was it just the 
yearning of his body to find release again. He felt like having a hangover, 
empty and used. In the last centuries he had thought of Haldir first of the 
perfect being and later only the bitter thoughts and memories survived. 
Their continuing fights, their mistrust in each other, the fear to end up 
alone. Well, they had ended up alone after all. But that was so long ago. 
Maybe it was time to forgive and start all over again. Legolas wasn't even 
sure he would survive this quest, so why not have some comfort before 
leaving again. On the other hand he didn't think it fair to turn to Haldir 
again and then leaving into an unknown future. He was so lost in his 
thoughts, that he didn't notice having arrived at the camp and the dwarf 
watching him closely.
"So you have decided to join us again, have you. Are the woods too boring 
in the end?" Gimli snorted.
Legolas shot him a weary glance. He wasn't in the mood to argue with the 
dwarf, so he just moved to his belongings, picking up a spare shirt and 
leggings. Suddenly he heard the dwarf again. "I'm sorry Legolas. I didn't 
mean to turn you away, you don't have to leave us you know." Gimli 
pointed at the clothes Legolas held in his hands.
The elf turned around to the dwarf giving him a small smile "No, Gimli. I 
don't intend to leave you, because of what you said. But I will stay away 
for some time. Don't worry we will see each other during our time here 
and I will be at your side when we leave Lorien. I just have to take care of 
something while I'm here." With that he slowly started walking towards 
the centre of the elven realm.
Gimli watched him leave and shook his head. Had the elf actually just 
smiled at him? Wondrous things were happening, that was sure. To his 
own surprise he sighed happily and leaned back against a tree to light 
himself a pipe and stared into the dying light of the setting sun filtering 
through the trees.

Rumil did not to wait for long. He could see Legolas approach the centre 
from afar. At  first he had been surprised and a little confused when Lady 
Galadriel had ordered him to fetch some wine, goblets, bread, different 
kinds of meat and fruit and above all, and that had confused him most, a 
bottle of scented oil. Rumil knew quite well was this special oil was used 
for, and had made him blush to ask for it when he had gone to the 
alchemist to get it. The Lady had ordered him to have everything ready 
and wait for Legolas. The goods were to be given to him and no questions 
asked. Rumil understood then and grinned happily. Obviously his brother 
and his prince were making up again. This could easily lead to a little feast 
and that was always something to be appreciated.
Legolas looked sceptically at Rumil who approached him and handed him 
a heavy basket, leaving him winking at him. Rumil had just vanished 
between the trees, as Legolas lifted the cloth that covered the basket. In 
the basket was everything he wanted to obtain for Haldir. Curios. The 
Lady definitely had too much insight. And now Rumil seemed to know as 
well. Legolas shook his head and turned in direction of Haldir's talan. 

It took Legolas only some minutes to reach the part of Lorien were he and 
Haldir had build themselves a home so many years ago. Still he stood for 
another while at the bottom of the long winding stair that led to the talan. 
His heartbeat had increased in a dramatic way on his way here and he 
wasn't sure that what he was about to do was the right thing to do. If only 
he had someone to share his doubts with, someone he could confide in. 
Legolas took a deep breath and started climbing the stairs. Even though he 
felt unsure and sceptical, it made him smile to think about Haldir running 
around in the talan, desperately trying to bring order to the chaos. When 
he reached the talan, his hand hadn't even touched to door to knock, the 
door opened and a flustered Haldir beamed at him. "You came!"
Legolas smiled "Of course. Did you believe otherwise?" 
"I wasn't sure. So much has happened between us." Haldir led Legolas 
inside.
The talan was one of the bigger ones, since it was supposed to house a 
couple or some time a whole family. It consisted of three rooms. One 
bedroom, one room with cupboards and other stuff and the third room was 
the main room with wide windows and different kinds of sitting furniture. 
A large rug covered the wooden floor and the blood shot in Legolas face 
seeing the rug again and remembering certain events that included this 
particular rug. Haldir seemed to notice Legolas' hesitation and tried to 
loosen the atmosphere. "Here, give me your things. I will put them in the 
chest of drawers. Do you want to give me the basket as well?" Haldir 
stretched a hand out towards it. "No. No, it's okay. I will take the food out 
and set it up, okay." Legolas busied himself with the food and drink. Just 
thinking of Haldir finding the contents of the basket and with it the 
scented oil, made Legolas nervous. It made the whole thing look so 
planned. Well, of course it was planned somehow, but still....
Legolas hid the oil beneath the cloth and pushed the basket out of the way. 
He sat up the meat, fruits and bread on a small table and poured some of 
the wine, when Haldir returned from next door. 
Both of them felt somewhat out of place, so in the end they each took a 
seat at opposite ends of the large softly cushioned bench that took up most 
of the far wall. They sipped their wine, engaging in small talk about what 
they had done over the last years and sharing memories about their 
families and friends. It felt disconcerting sitting together like that, after 
where they had left off earlier this afternoon. Only a short while later they 
ran out of subjects to talk about, which wouldn't involve their relationship. 
So they just sat there drinking wine, nibbling a piece of fruit from time to 
time, sometimes shooting the other a reassuring smile. Legolas grew more 
nervous with every second, silently doubting that it had been very clever 
to come here in the first place. It had all been so different in the woods. 
Long forgotten feelings and the passion that had burned in his body, had it 
all been some kind of a dream? Was it really meant to be? He rose from 
the bench and walked over to the large open window, overlooking vast 
parts of the Lorien realm. The wine had grown warm in his hand, to warm 
to taste good anymore, so he sat the goblet down on the windowsill and 
leaned against its frame, letting the cool night air caress his face.
Haldir watched Legolas with a sense of dread. So much had changed 
between them, did they have enough left in common for a renewal of their 
relationship?
He rose slowly from the bench, put his goblet down and moved quietly 
behind Legolas. The younger elf seemed to be on the edge, nervous and 
agitated. Somehow a bit like he had been on their first intimate meeting, 
when Legolas was only a little over 800 years old. At that time he 
approached him very carefully trying not go to fast, it had been a similar 
night like this, Legolas had also been leaning at a window frame, even 
though it had been a different talan. They had been afraid of being 
disturbed, afraid that Thranduil, who had come here on a diplomatic 
mission, would find out. It was no secret that Legolas' father had no love 
for the Noldor elves and Haldir was one of them. In the end everything 
had worked out fine and Thranduil's worry for his son's welfare and 
happiness had outweighed his prejudices.   
Haldir had closed the distance between him and his husband, softly laying 
his hands on his shoulders. A slight tremor in the shoulder muscles was 
the answer. Haldir lifted one hand to brush away the long golden tresses 
and bare the slender neck before him. He tilted his head down and brushed 
his lips softly along the side. Nipping the skin on its way. A breathed 
moan was the answer, encouraging him to continue. His hands moved 
over the well muscled upper arms down to Legolas' hands entwining them 
with his own. Legolas bend his head back resting against Haldir's 
shoulder, his eyes were closed, his lips slightly parted and his breathing 
shallow. Haldir moved their entwined hands up crossing them over 
Legolas' chest holding him tight, slowly turning him towards his own 
body. He could feel his lips trembling as he claimed Legolas' mouth, 
pressing against his body, he wanted to feel every fibre of the other. 
Legolas groaned into Haldir's mouth feeling his body heat rising and the 
passion he had felt this afternoon returning to him full force. He freed his 
hands off Haldir's and let them roam over Haldir's body, finding the two 
perfectly rounded globes, squeezing them gently. He had always loved 
Haldir's firm backside, it was well build and firm to the touch. His hands 
wandered to the front up to the chest, fumbling with the fastenings of 
Haldir's shirt. His movements grew more frantic with every second, 
ripping cloth and tearing off the delicate silver clasps. Legolas couldn't 
wait to feel Haldir's soft creamy skin beneath his fingers, to see tiny 
Goosebumps form on it when he would tease the nipples, slightly biting or 
sucking them. While he fumbled with their clothing, Haldir had led them 
slowly into the bedroom, steering Legolas towards the bed, carefully 
lowering him onto the soft sheets. His hands travelled down across the 
chest passing the already hardened nipples, feeling the hard abdominal 
muscles ripple underneath his fingertips. Haldir parted Legolas' shirt and 
repeated the journey of his hands with his lips, licking a path across the 
body sprawled before him. Legolas lay absolutely still, only the slight 
trembling of his body betrayed him. When Haldir had reached the navel 
and dipped his tongue in, his hands raked along the thighs towards 
Legolas' crotch. Legolas arched his back off the bed, pushing hips 
upwards and his growing erection into Haldir's hands. His breath was 
coming in short pants by now, he felt like a young one being seduced for 
the first time, but it had been so long, so unbearably long. Haldir grinned 
as he ever so slowly undid the lacing of Legolas' leggings, it was a true 
torture for himself as well, but he enjoyed watching his lover's face lost in 
abandon, flushed and so vulnerable. He pulled the leggings down and 
pushed off the boots as well in one go. While doing so Legolas had 
wriggled himself out of his shirt and now lay completely naked sprawled 
across the bed.
Haldir rubbed his naked chest over the straining cock and took Legolas' 
hands down to his own trousers urging him to unfasten them. He wanted 
to feel these strong hands on his body, feel the calluses of an archers hand 
stroke him. Legolas eagerly complied and rid Haldir of the remaining 
clothes. Only seconds later they felt each others bodies closely like they 
hadn't for over a millennia. Lying flushed together, stroking each other, 
kissing and whispering words of endearment. Arousing the others body to 
the brink and stopping again, only to start anew. 
Legolas felt himself swept away like in a gush of wind loosing his sense of 
time and his surroundings. He moved beneath Haldir, he wanted to be 
possessed, owned, claimed, ground into the soft mattress of the bed. He 
opened his legs wider letting Haldir slip in between them, thrusting 
upwards again to make needs known to his partner. Haldir rubbed the 
length of his erection against Legolas', causing the friction to push them 
near the edge again. But Legolas shook his head "I want you Haldir. 
Melme, take me. Bury yourself deep inside of me, make me cry out your 
name."
Haldir looked a little bit ashamed when he kissed Legolas quickly. "Love, 
anything....I would love to...but.... since I never, I mean..."
Legolas suddenly understood. "Haldir, look in the basket I brought. You 
will find all you need in there." 
Haldir cocked an eyebrow and rose from the bed. The younger elf on the 
bed admired the lean and powerful form of his partner as he walked across 
the room. Haldir's muscles flexed in a most enchanting way and when he 
bent down to retrieve the basket, the view was astonishing. Legolas drew 
in a sharp breath, in his mind he already felt Haldir lowering him onto 
himself, parting his legs even more, pushing them apart....'Stop' he told 
himself. Try to stay calm, or it will be over too soon. Haldir smirked when 
he approached the bed again "You thought of everything, didn't you?".
Legolas was about to protest, but it seemed wiser to him not to mention 
Haldir's brother Rumil, so he only smiled and inclined his head a little.
"Well, my Prince. So it is time for you now" Haldir had a predatory look 
in his face. He uncorked the little vial and poured some of the oil into his 
hand, but instead of moving to Legolas, he started oiling up his penis with 
long languid strokes. Closing his eyes, he concentrated only on the feeling 
of his own hand on him knowing his lover was writhing on the bed. A soft 
whimper pulled him back to the present. Legolas had spread his legs wide, 
stroking himself while watching the Lorien guard pleasuring himself. He 
knew Haldir wouldn't allow him to come to completion like this, so he 
only had to wait and continue his ministrations on his own cock to get 
what he wanted. And he didn't have to wait for long. A growl escaped 
Haldir's throat seeing Legolas like that and he quickly moved and knelt 
between his legs. He poured some more oil onto his fingers and pushed 
Legolas' legs further apart with his thighs. He swatted away Legolas' 
hands and as his left hand started stroking the straining erection before 
him his other hand moved down past the sack to the tight entrance hidden 
between the buttocks. He felt his lover opening even more for him and 
heard a deep groan coming from him as he pushed two fingers in. After a 
while he added a third finger scissoring them to loosen the tight ring of 
muscles, preparing them for the invasion. 
Legolas was rising his hips and bringing them down again forcing Haldir's 
fingers deeper inside, he was more than ready. "Come to me, mellethron 
nín. Take what is yours. Fill me." His was luring Haldir to him. 
Haldir pulled his fingers out and lifted his lovers legs holding them 
underneath the knees, elevating his hips. Legolas panted in anticipation, 
waiting for the intrusion. He sighed when he felt the blunt tip of the cock 
touching his entrance and spontaneously pushed his hips up burying 
Haldir's cock partially in him. "More" he begged "Give me all, I need you. 
I want you."
His love complied and drove into him hard. Legolas threw his head back 
groaning loudly. 
It was Haldir's undoing, he started thrusting into that wanton body beneath 
him, not caring for the sounds they were making or if anyone could hear 
them. Legolas freed his legs off Haldir's hands and wrapped them around 
his husbands waist driving him deeply inside. He could feel his orgasm 
nearing, it crept upon him like a shadow, silently and unpredictable. 
Haldir's thrusts became more frantic, a sheen of sweat covered his body. 
With the last strength he had left he took Legolas' erection into his hand 
stroking it furiously, timing it with his thrusts and when he heard his lover 
cry out elfish words of love and his name like a staccato, feeling the tight 
passage spasm around his cock,  he thrust into him as deeply as he could, 
going over edge himself, his breath ragged and his hoarse voice 
whispering Legolas' name. 

They stayed huddled together for a long time, laying in the aftermath over 
their lovemaking. No words were spoken, none were needed. For the first 
time in their relationship and bonding they felt absolutely sure that they 
really belonged together. No doubts, no fear, no resentments or 
accusations. They felt complete and secure with one another. Neither of 
them was seen for the next few days, they stayed in their talan to be alone.

Gimli watched the sun rise and combed through his long beard. Having a 
freshly washed body and hair was a luxurious feeling. To untangle his 
hair, groom and braid it made him happy. He scanned their camp, finding 
only Aragorn awake, who nodded slightly, raising a goblet of fresh juice 
in direction of the dwarf. 
Merry and Pippin were hardly to be seen beneath there covers, Sam had a 
hand loosely on Frodo's arm and was snoring nearly as loudly as Gimli 
himself. But were was the elf? He hadn't returned since he had left five 
days ago. 
Aragorn had noticed Gimli's confused look and addressed him "He is most 
possibly with his kin, Gimli."
"Is he going to avoid us for the rest of our stay?" Gimli sounded somewhat 
confused.
"I don't know. You have to understand, elves have a very strong family 
sense and kinship. Often they join for singing, storytelling and exchange 
of information. Being with us is not always easy for him."
"Galadriel said something about some business he had to look after while 
his stay. Do you know anything about that?"
"No, honestly I don't. Even though I have known him for a long time now, 
he does not tell me everything."
Gimli finished braiding his beard and got up from the ground. "I think I 
will take a stroll through these fabled woods. Maybe I will find the 
missing member of our fellowship."
Aragorn inclined his head in acknowledgement.
At first the trees all seemed to look the same to the dwarf and he felt quite 
uneasy, as if he were stuck between them, but after a while the air around 
him grew light and fresh. He noticed differences between the stems, the 
way a tree had grown, the colouring of the bark and the way it felt 
underneath the fingertips. 
'Absurd' Gimli thought. 'A dwarf enjoying the texture of trees. Where does 
the world come to?'
He had lost track of time some while ago, only the growing darkness was 
an evidence of the passing day. Gimli turned around and found himself 
obviously lost. 'Great, now what? I am definitely no going to cry out for 
help. Now, let's see. The sun was in my face this morning in the camp. So 
I need to have it in my back to get back.' But it wasn't as easy as he 
thought. 'I must have taken a turn or two on my way, without me noticing 
it.' Gimli kicked some rubble hard and hit his fist against the nearest tree. 
'I can hear him already. Mocking me for my heritage, making jokes about 
us dwarf. Ha, I would like to see him alone in a cave.' Gimli twirled 
around again and found no sign of recognition. With a grunt he sat down, 
it was no use to wander around in the dark, he would better wait until the 
morning and try to find his way back. Maybe, but only maybe, he would 
even try to find help. 
He had leaned against a tree for some time, trying to find rest as he heard 
some voices. Gimli shot up from the ground trying to find out from which 
direction it had been coming. After some seconds he heard the voices 
again, this time a little nearer. He was just about to call out, when he 
thought he recognised the voice of Legolas. So he kept quiet and tried to 
listen. Sometimes it sounded like light laughter, then again the voices were 
hushed like if someone was trying to keep them down. The second voice 
was a little raspier and deeper than that of Legolas, but definitely male. 
Why on earth was Legolas with another male in the middle of the woods 
at night giggling? Giggling, males giggling. That was odd. So Gimli 
decided  against his better knowledge, to creep a little nearer to the 
sounds. After some rustling around near the ground he heard a second 
sound. Yes, water. The splashing and gurgling sounds of water. It sounded 
like someone taking a bath. 'Typical, for an elf. The first thing they do at 
the sight of water is to jump in.' But did elves bath together? Two males? 
Even more curious, Gimli sneaked up even more. He could see some 
torches that were stuck into the ground near what appeared to be a small 
pond. Just barely he could make out two people, obviously in the water, 
very near to each other. The dwarf circled around the pond a bit to get a 
better view. Now he could see them clearly.
His breath caught in his throat, he stopped his movements mid-air, afraid 
to make himself known. There in the pond he saw two elves, two male 
elves at that. Gimli recognised Legolas, who was with his back to him, the 
head of the other one was buried in the crook of the neck of Legolas, 
nuzzling him. Strong arms were holding him, one hand stroking his back 
the other cupped the well muscled backside. The dwarf was just about able 
to hold back a snort. He had never ever expected that his companion did 
engage in activities such as these. Gimli was about to turn away, when he 
saw the other elf lift his head and throwing it back with his eyes closed 
moaning with pleasure. 'I don't believe this,' Gimli shook his head slightly 
'Legolas is fumbling around with that arrogant bastard of a Lorien guard.' 
"Shh...keep still, melme! How am I supposed to wash you thoroughly if 
you keep wriggling around like this? Come here, my love, let me see if 
you are really clean now." Legolas seductive voice flowed through the air. 
Gimli bit into his lower lip in shock when he saw Legolas go down onto 
his knees lapping Haldir's skin in the hollow of his hip, down to his thigh 
and back up to his navel, carefully avoiding the demanding erection 
between Haldir's legs.
It was definitely more than the dwarf wanted to see, but he was afraid of 
making to much noise if he would retreat back into the shades of the trees. 
For a second he even thought of making himself known, quickly 
dismissing that idea, being afraid of the endless taunts he surely would 
have to endure afterwards. He settled for his only possible option, closing 
his eyes, hoping they would either eventually make so much noise that 
they wouldn't notice his movements, or they'd prefer to take their actions 
elsewhere and leave, though that didn't seem likely to happen. 

Haldir tried to stop the trembling of his limbs, but to no avail. The 
exquisite torture bestowed on him was more than he could bare, he 
reached down to take hold of Legolas' head to direct him nearer to his 
aching need. To his dismay his love stopped his ministrations completely, 
only to look up to him giving him a sly grin. "Are you that much in need? 
Where is the famous control and sovereignty the Galadrim are known for? 
Or is it only your release you beg for?"
"If you leave me like this, I will make you beg in a minute."  Haldir 
strengthened his hold on Legolas' head, slowly pulling him up to him. As 
soon as his opposite was standing again, he caught him in a passionate 
kiss, plundering his mouth. He was pushing his own body against the other 
slowly urging them to the embankment of the pond. The water was only 
ankle deep and soft grass grew right to the edge of the water where Haldir 
pushed Legolas down to the ground. He started devouring the body with 
kisses and caresses whilst the water lazily lapped at their bodies. 
"Love," Haldir whispered into Legolas' ear "have we brought anything 
along that could ease your way?"
"Mhm, yes. Somewhere near our clothes, there is the bag we brought the 
drying cloths in. You should find what we need. Don't take too long 
though. I already miss your touch."
Haldir kissed his husband on the tip of his nose and got up to fetch the 
scented oil from their bag. He had just reached their clothes when he heard 
the faint sound of laboured breathing. He shot around to glance at his 
surrounding and found a huddled body behind one of the trees that grew 
around the pond. Hands clasped tightly against the ears and the eyes 
tightly closed. There sat that impertinent dwarf that had arrived along with 
the fellowship. 
Haldir lunged for his hunting knife and strode over to the dwarf reaching 
for his tunic yanking him up, holding the knife to the dwarfs' throat. "What 
are you doing here?" he yelled. The moment the elf put his hands on the 
collar of his tunic, Gimli's eyes flew open and he stared in horror at a face 
full of anger. 
"Haldir, what is the matter?" Legolas had jumped up the second he had 
heard his love cry out. 
"Look what I have found! Someone is a little too interested in your private 
life." Haldir held Gimli in a tight grip, his face distorted with anger.
"I..., I was lost..., I heard voices." Gimli was still in shock and stammered 
helplessly.
"What do you want from us, have you followed us? Can't you leave us 
elves in peace. Isn't it enough that we let you come here? Do you have to 
spy on us?" Haldir was outraged.
Legolas had reached them and put his hands on his hips. "Leave him be 
Haldir. I don't think there is any need of slitting his throat." He turned to 
Gimli "Gimli, what are you doing here?"
Haldir reluctantly let the dwarf go, but didn't move away from him.
Gimli squared his shoulders "As I said before; I was lost."
"How come then that if you were lost, you found your way here so 
easily?" Haldir growled.
"You moan so loud, I could have found you with my eyes shut." Gimli 
retorted.
" Amin feuya ten' lle!" Haldir turned away and picked up his clothes to get 
dressed. He stopped himself short before throwing the vial with the oil 
against the next tree. He had so little time with his beloved, they would 
leave soon and even in the few precious hours they had for themselves, 
this cursed dwarf had to interrupt. 
"Come Legolas, let him stay lost. Let us go back to our home." Haldir 
glanced back.
"No, Haldir. I will bring Gimli back to the camp and follow you later. 
Wait for me, will you?"
Haldir shot around "What, why do you put up with him? Is he so much 
more important to you, than the time I want to have with you? Someone 
will find him in the morning."
"A 'maelamin, Nothing is as important to me than you, but we agreed to 
travel together, we are a fellowship, we look after each other. When we 
are out there again, we will need to depend on each other. Don't you 
understand? If anything happens to Gimli now, we will miss his axe in 
battle. Uuma dela, I will be with you shortly."
Haldir snorted and left the little clearing with long strides.
"Come now Master dwarf, let me bring you back and let me get back to 
my business." Legolas bent down for his clothes and gave Gimli a 
annoyed look.
"It wasn't my fault that you were so loud!" Gimli was angry with the elves. 
Why did they have to treat him like dirt underneath their fingernails. 
"It was not your right to come here. Can't you give people their privacy? 
No matter how loud we would have been, no other elf would have dared to 
come here and watch two others who are obviously engaged in private 
matters." Legolas glared at the dwarf.
"Come!" he ordered and headed into the woods. Legolas never glanced 
back to see if the dwarf really followed him and strode quickly in direction 
of the camp.
Gimli tried his best to keep up with the elf but it wasn't easy in the dark so 
he failed miserably. "Wait, Legolas. Don't go so fast. He can hardly see 
where you are going."
"You should thought about that before you spied on us." The reply came 
from somewhere deep in the woods before him.
"I didn't spy on you, fool of an elf. I told you I was lost! I heard your voice 
and I thought maybe you could help me."
Legolas suddenly appeared right in front of him "Help you? After you 
stayed and satisfied your sick curiosity by watching us? You can't be 
serious!" Legolas looked outraged.
"I had my eyes closed! I had my hands over my ears! I was mortified after 
I saw what you two were up to. I mean, what do you see in that arrogant 
bastard. Not that I want to think about the fact that you are both male." 
Gimli looked at Legolas sternly.
Legolas looked as if he was about to loose his temper. "That arrogant 
bastard happens to be my bonded, my husband. What we do to or with 
each other is our own to decide. The fact that we are both male does not 
matter. It is quite common among us elves. But what would a dwarf know 
about that?"
"Your HUSBAND?" Gimli couldn't believe his own ears. "You are 
saying, that you are...., you are married??"
"It is called bonded among our people. And yes I have been bonded to 
Haldir for over a thousand and five hundred  years by now." 
"Why didn't you greet him in a more friendly way then, when he met us?" 
Gimli started to grow curious.
Legolas face softened a bit "We hadn't been on all too friendly terms when 
we parted the last time."
"But you obviously made up now, didn't you?" the dwarf inquired.
"Yes, we have." Legolas relaxed visibly and a small smile played around 
his lips.
"It was about time. I never thought we would though."
"When did you part?" Gimli moved alongside the elf, who had started 
moving through the woods again with a more moderate speed, making 
sure the dwarf was able to follow.
"It was about a thousand years ago." Legolas looked back at the dwarf.
"What? A thousand years ago? Weren't you in love anymore, or does love 
not matter in a bonding?" the dwarf looked utterly dumbfounded.
The elf dropped his head slightly, as if to hide his features. "Love is the 
only reason for a bonding. And yes we were and still are very much in 
love. Then obviously love is not always enough. We had our differences, I 
was very young and eager to live my life, fight for my people and see the 
world. Haldir thought otherwise. We fought and after some time I left him. 
We never saw each other again until now."
"Obviously time does heal wounds." Gimli shook his head.
Legolas shot Gimli a smile "Yes, maybe it does. Look, we have arrived." 
He gestured towards the camp a few yards ahead. "Will you manage from 
here on?"
Gimli snorted and strode towards the clearing and waved Legolas off.

Haldir paced the talan waiting for Legolas, he had calmed down and felt 
somewhat embarrassed because of his outburst and he desperately wanted 
to apologise to his bonded.
Soft footsteps of leather boots on the stairs announced Legolas and Haldir 
hurried to meet him. "Legolas, my love come to me." Haldir opened his 
arms and waited for his lover.
Legolas hesitated for a moment, but when he saw Haldir's expression he 
sank into his arms.
"I am sorry for my behaviour earlier on. Can you forgive me?" Haldir 
nuzzled Legolas neck.
"Only if you continue this." Legolas smirked.

It so happened that the dwarf and the elf of the fellowship met under 
mysterious circumstances every other day in the golden woods and were 
even accompanied by the head march warden of Lorien from time to time. 
Legolas showed Gimli the beauty of nature whilst the dwarf told him 
about the history of his people. To everybody's astonishment a fast 
friendship formed between those two, a wonder nobody would have 
believed in. The weeks passed by all to quickly and the preparations for 
their departure were nearly finished. 

Haldir grew more and more nervous the nearer the time came. He had 
restricted himself from saying anything to Legolas about not leaving, not 
wanting to start one of their fights they used to have all those years ago, 
but when the fellowship was given their elven cloaks and he fastened the it 
around his husbands shoulders he couldn't help but whisper in his ear 
"Please my love, don't leave. I'm afraid I might never see you again."
To his surprise not the expected anger hit him, but a tender hand that 
reached out to stroke his face. "I will always come back to you! Should I 
fall in battle I will wait for you in Mandos' halls. Nothing can keep us 
apart. We will see each other again, melme." Legolas gifted Haldir with a 
tender smile.
The tall elf cast his eyes downwards not wanting his opposite to see the 
worry and grief, but a slender finger tilted slipped beneath his chin and 
tilted his face up. "Believe me, my love. All will be well. Do not worry too 
much. I am in good company," Legolas laid a hand on Gimli's shoulder, 
who now stood beside him "and we will look after each other."
Haldir caught Gimli's glimpse who smiled at him reassuringly. "Don't fret, 
march warden. I will bring your better half home safely."
Aragorn called for them, ordering everybody into their boats. Legolas got 
a few astonished stared from the rest of the company when they saw the 
elf give Gimli a hand helping him into one of the boats and then taking a 
seat behind him. Boromir laughed at Aragorn "I have seen the most 
wondrous things in my live, but this outbids them all."

Their journey down the river Anduin seemed to last for ever. The winding 
river moved along the fields of Celebrant and past the towering walls of 
surrounding mountains. At night they would move the boats up on the 
shore and make camp. 
Gimli sat down heavily and stretched his short legs. Even though he did 
naught but sit in the boat and admire the landscape or hold a look out for 
foes, he felt exhausted at the end of the day. Dwarfs were not made to 
travel by boat. The endless moving and bobbing beneath him made him 
feel slightly nauseated. He drew a deep breath and watched as Legolas and 
Aragorn emerged from the trees around them, firewood in their arms 
talking quietly.
Aragorn took the wood from Legolas and went to set up a campfire. 
Boromir had left earlier on to hunt down something for their dinner and 
the hobbits huddled together, as usual, discussing the preparation of the 
dinner.
Legolas moved beside the dwarf and sat down, folding his legs gracefully 
beneath him. It astounded Gimli, but the journey on the water obviously 
even took its toll on the elf. He looked somewhat paler than usual and 
seemed to be tired. He didn't even engage in his ritual singing.
"What could be the matter" Gimli turned to his friend "that an elf, like 
yourself, appears to be worn out and tired. You don't look to well, my 
friend."
Legolas had closed his eyes and his head tilted upwards, letting the 
evening sun shine on his fair features. For a moment the dwarf thought 
that the elf hadn't even heard him but then Legolas spoke quietly "It is 
nothing, dear friend. I am just missing my beloved."
"Oh I am sure of that. Still you look rather pale today." Gimli studied the 
elf's face intently. 
"It could be your persisting questioning concerning my welfare that 
burdens me." Legolas shot the dwarf a smile and got up from the ground.
"Aragorn, I will have a look around." 
"Yes, Legolas. But don't stay too long. I believe Master Gamgee will be 
most upset if you miss his dinner." The ranger busied himself further with 
the fire.
With long strides Legolas slipped into the woods. He needed some time to 
himself. It bothered him greatly that Gimli had noticed his weariness. It 
was uncommon for an elf to tire so easily. Then again they all had endured 
much hardship and leaving his newly found 'old' love behind was nothing 
he could cope with easily. Also seemed the travel on the river to have 
upset his stomach. He felt nauseated and slightly dizzy. Luckily they 
would travel down the Anduin for only a few more days. As soon as they 
reached the Falls of Rauros the boats were to be left behind and they 
would continue on foot. An empty feeling in his stomach reminded 
Legolas of the upcoming dinner and he hurried back to the camp.
Sam sat before his cooking pot happily stirring his stew which smelled of 
rabbit, potatoes and herbs. Frodo had sat back against a tree, Boromir was 
engaged deeply in conversation with the ranger, Merry and Pippin were 
skipping stones over the water and Gimli ......Gimli watched him intently. 
Legolas pretended not to notice and sat down beside Sam staring into the 
fire. Suddenly a loud growl emitted from his stomach and everybody 
stared at him. "Ah at least somebody is looking forward to eating my 
dinner." Sam cheered and took one of the bowls to fill it up for the elf. 
"Here Master Legolas, I hope it meets yours expectations and satisfies 
your well earned hunger." 
"Thank you, Sam. This is most appreciated." With that Legolas dug into 
the food without once glancing up.

Three days later they had reached the falls and everybody was happy to 
get ashore. They would use the boats only once more to get over to the 
eastern shore and then leave them behind. That knowledge alone was 
encouraging. Nobody would have guessed, what was going to happen and 
that the fellowship was going to be torn apart by the forces of evil. They 
fought long and hard, their enemies were outnumbering them by far, not 
giving them a realistic chance to draw back. The end was sad and 
frightening. The horn of Gondor was destroyed, the hope of the Gondorian 
people lost, their son Boromir slain. The remaining Uruk-Hais had taken 
off with their friends and Frodo had managed to escape the fierce battle 
with Sam at his side. Now it was up to the three remaining members of the 
fellowship to make ends meet again, by rescuing Merry and Pippin and 
helping Frodo and Sam on their way by distracting their foes.
Gimli, Legolas and Aragorn never stopped their tiring run following the 
pack of Uruk-Hais in their persistent pursuit to rescue their friends. After 
three days they had to stop and rest for a while. Gimli was hardly able to 
draw breath anymore and Legolas looked like he was going to faint any 
minute. Even Aragorn wasn't his usual calm self anymore. His face 
showed deep lines of distress and worry. They had just sat down near 
some rocks rising from the grassy ground when Legolas jumped up again, 
turning away from his friends.
"Legolas!" Aragorn was about to get up as well "Wait! Where are you 
going. Did you hear something?"
"Leave me be Aragorn!" the elf turned and shot Aragorn an angry glance. 
"Can I not be alone a few moments? Do you two always have to pester 
me?" Legolas moved away behind the rocks only to sit down again behind 
some larger boulders some yards away from his companions. He felt so 
drawn, so tired and alone. Never before had he encountered a feeling like 
this. Then again, never had he been that far away from his home, family 
and Haldir. Yes, he had been away from Haldir, but it had been different 
then. They had parted in anger, not love like now. How he craved for his 
touch, a gentle hand to reassure him that somehow everything would 
eventually work out. Legolas leaned his head against the boulder and 
closed his eyes. He was in an emotional turmoil, one minute he was 
concerned, eager to help and felt with his friends. Then suddenly he was 
upset, annoyed and angry. The ongoing nagging of the dwarf, the ever 
worried expression in the ranger's face. All they did was running cross 
country, hunting down their enemies and sleep in the open, never enough 
food to eat, no water to wash and their clothes were covered with dirt. 
Legolas dug into his pouch pulling out a Lembas. Somehow he felt 
constantly hungry, a slight dizziness was he constant companion and he 
felt tired most of the time.
"A whole Lembas?" 
His head shot up to meet Aragorn's eyes twinkling at him. "What?" 
Legolas stared at him.
"You ate a whole Lembas."
Legolas stared at his left hand. Only a tiny peace of the elven way bread 
was left. "Oh."
"Legolas, what is wrong? Did we upset you in any way? Did Gimli ....."
"No! No one of you did anything wrong. I think I am just overcome with 
worry for our friends and the fate of Middle Earth. I assure you that 
everything is alright."
"Then come back to us. Join us at our little campfire and we will try to 
ease your worries."
Aragorn held out his hand to help his friend up and together they walked 
back.

One day later they had arrived at the old forest of Fangorn with the help of 
the Rohan riders and the horses they were given. Aragorn had found the 
tracks of the hobbits and with renewed hope they had followed them to the 
edges of the woods. It was decided that they would stay over night before 
entering Fangorn. Legolas took the first watch to be relieved by Gimli. 
It took only a very short while until the snoring of the dwarf drifted 
through the air. Aragorn had rolled over onto his side and his regular 
breathing indicated a deep sleep. Legolas stood and stretched his back. His 
muscles were cramped, his back felt sore and his shoulders hurt. Silently 
he walked around the camp, keeping an eye on his friends and smiled 
softly at the remembrance of Gimli's shocked face when he had discovered 
him and Haldir in the middle of the night in that little pool. Suddenly he 
felt so much despair, so much sorrow, he was so alone. For the first time 
in many centuries he felt tears well up in his eyes, making them burn.
The elf turned towards a large tree and leaned against it. It was hard to 
stifle the sobs building up in his chest.  He felt the tree comforting him, 
not in words but in giving him the strength of nature, the tranquillity of 
time. Legolas was so taken by the warming sensations, that he didn't hear 
the patter of booted feet approaching him from behind. Suddenly he felt a 
small, but scruffy hand reaching for his elbow. He gasped and turned 
quickly, to see who might have been able to sneak up on him. Two dark 
and concerned eyes regarded him carefully. "Legolas, was is the matter 
with you?" Gimli pulled on Legolas' elbow trying to make him move away 
from the tree and towards some rocks, a little away from their camp.
"Nothing, Gimli. Nothing is the matter. I merely enjoy being near a forest 
again. It has been some time, since I felt the comforting presence of the 
nature."
"Aye, my elven friend. Specially when it comes to the comforting 
presence of another elf in the middle of nature. I don't believe you. There 
is something in your eyes that tells a different story. Come, Aragorn is 
asleep, we can observe the camp from this spot and I will listen to your 
worries."
Legolas sat down on one of the rocks with a sigh and buried his face in his 
hands. Gimli sat down cross legged in front of the elf and put his hands on 
the shins of the elf.
"Come, tell me. Legolas, you need to free yourself of your burdens, we 
need your strength and agility on our mission. We don't have time to 
reconsider while we are on the move, but now, in the soothing arms of the 
night we can lay open our souls and help each other to heal."
For some time there was no answer from the elf, but after a few minutes 
he drew a shuddering breath and took his hands from his face to look into 
Gimli's eyes.
"I don't really know what the matter is. For some time now I feel so lost 
and alone. Like something has been torn from my body itself, then again 
there are times I feel like rejoicing and singing, not feeling the ground 
beneath my feet, like I was flying, but after that I fall even harder."
"Could it be that you miss you lover?"
"Yes, I miss him. I miss him very much. Maybe it is bothering me so 
much, because I don't know the outcome of our mission. There is so much 
death, so much darkness and despair. I don't know if I ever see him again, 
if I have the chance make up for the years we have lost. Lost because of 
our stupid prejudices and accusations."
"Why by all the gods, did you loose so many years anyway? How did 
everything start? Come on, tell me the whole story. I am an ageing dwarf 
and I haven't heard a moving love story for quite some time. It would 
lighten my heart on this troublesome journey."
Legolas drew a deep breath and gave Gimli a small smile. "Do you really 
want the whole story? It going to be a long story. As you know, we elves 
can grow very old. And it is not all that pretty and moving. It might take 
some more time than this night has to offer."
"I believe we will have some more nights before us. And yes, I would very 
much like to hear your story." Gimli smiled at him reassuringly. 
"I was very young when I met Haldir for the first time. My father was on a 
diplomatic errand and took me with him. I remember he hated going to the 
Lorien forest. Greenwood, or Mirkwood as it is called today, and Lorien 
were never on good terms. My father hated the Noldor, especially 
Galadriel. So going there was burden for us all. Anyway, it was my first 
time to witness a meeting of the old. I was very excited and anxious to get 
there. So I rode up front and came into the forest first. Before any of the 
entourage of my father could warn me, I was literally abducted by one of 
the guards. I found myself on a platform high up in one of the Mallorn 
trees bound at my hands and feet. Staring down at me were the faces of 
three elves, laughing at me. I was so angry, I started to scream at them to 
release me immediately, I told them of my rank and that my father would 
surely have their necks. They only laughed more calling me a pen-neth, 
joking about me and my inability to ride through a forest undetected.
My father was outraged to find out about the way I had been treated and 
demanded a punishment of the guards by the hand of Lord Celeborn 
himself. Luckily Lord Elrond was there and he was able to cease the 
tension and so the three guards were brought before the Lord and Lady of 
Lorien. I was astonished to find out, that the three were brothers and 
actually the head guards. In front of all present they were reprimanded and 
sent off to their talans. I still felt somewhat guilty. Would I have been not 
so stupid and cocksure, I would have not been caught and the wardens 
would not have been punished. The only thing they were doing, was their 
job."
"Was Haldir one of the guards?"
Legolas smiled "Yes, yes he was. He was the most arrogant of them all. 
Even while the Lord and Lady gave them a lecture, he had this smug grin 
in his face. He looked at me and winked. Oh, I hated him then, but on the 
other hand he was so handsome and smart and that really impressed me."
"He made impression on you then, what?" Gimli grinned.
"Very much so. A few days later I met them again, somewhere in the 
woods. This time they didn't hear me coming. They sat together in a 
clearing and joked around. So I sneaked up on them and tried to listen. 
Rumil, the eldest was holding his sides with laughter describing the look 
on my face as they hauled me up the tree over and over again. Orophin 
giggled constantly, but Haldir was only smiling not saying a word. After 
some seconds, Orophin noticed it and asked his brother why he didn't 
think it as funny. Haldir said something then which astounded not only his 
brothers but me also. He looked so withdrawn, he was so absent when he 
said 'His eyes turned even a darker blue as he got angry. Did you notice it 
also?' Rumil nearly choked on a sip of wine he had just been taking 
'Haldir, dear brother! Have you lost all your wits looking at the 
princeling?'. 
Haldir's head suddenly snapped up 'Don't call him that. He IS a prince by 
birth! It is his due to be treated like that.' With that he got up from the 
ground and strode away. Nearly too late I noticed he was coming right in 
my direction. I tried to duck and hide, but I was too slow. He had already 
spotted me. 'Ah, prince Legolas! Trying to improve your talents of silent 
approach?' Haldir grinned at me and passed me by, not once glancing 
back. I was totally confused. In one moment he defended my person 
against his brothers and in the next he mocked me. Had I just been proud 
and eager to talk to him, was I now angry and hurt.
I didn't know what to make of him.
I was fuming by the time I returned to the talan, we were staying in. My 
father shot me a glance but said nothing. For the next three days I did not 
leave our talan. During the day I tried to read, sitting outside on a kind of 
balcony. But usually my eyes left the book or scroll, only to scan the 
surrounding forest if by any chance I would catch a glimpse of him. Every 
time I thought I had spotted him, my heartbeat increased and my first 
intention was to run inside. But to my disappointment it usually was some 
other Noldor elf. At night I lay in my bed, turning and not getting much 
sleep. My thoughts were constantly occupied by one person. I scolded 
myself for my imaginings. Why did I think of him at all? I loathed him, 
didn't I? He was so much older, wiser, more experienced and handsome. 
When I did manage to fall asleep I had the most disturbing dreams. And 
every time he was involved." 
Gimli cocked his head a little "I wonder what kind of dreams you are 
talking about. Were it those kind of dreams that when you wake up your 
breathing has increased and your heart is hammering in your chest and you 
have the most exquisite warmth spreading in your groin?"
Legolas blushed a little "You seem to know those dreams very well, my 
dwarven friend. Yes, I was talking about those kind of dreams. You can 
imagine how that startled me. Why should I fantasise about someone I 
didn't like very much and who obviously didn't like me at all. 
After those three days I had grown so annoyed with staying up there all by 
myself that I decided I join the others again. I wandered rather aimlessly 
through the main habitat of the Noldor elves when I suddenly found 
myself face to face with Lord Celeborn himself. I was totally at a loss how 
to behave properly, that I only managed to stutter a formal greeting. He 
pretended not to notice and gave me the appropriate answer. Then he 
smiled rather warmly 'So you still are here then. My head march warden 
was worried and has already inquired after you. He was afraid you had 
left, taking their rather childish prank too seriously. He is quite taken by 
you.' Celeborn winked at me 'Maybe you should go and see him, to relieve 
his conscience. He will be going to his watch soon, so you will find him at 
the armoury now, I think.' He walked off and left me standing there 
feeling like a fool. But a very happy fool at that."
"Oh, come on. Did you talk to him? What happened? Don't tell me you 
chickened out." Gimli took a more comfortable position and nodded at the 
elf.
"You might not believe it, but I did go to the armoury. I was very happy 
and bold for the first few steps, but the nearer I came the more haltingly 
my steps became. When I had nearly reached the small building, I was 
ready to turn and run, but suddenly there he was. He came out of the door 
and was buckling his belt, so he didn't look into my direction. I hoped he 
wouldn't notice my presence, but how wrong I was. All of a sudden his 
head jerked up and he looked directly at me. My knees felt like they were 
about to buckle, but I managed to stand still and pretend that I was as calm 
as he himself. Oh Gimli, the way he looked at me, it felt like pure bliss. I 
never got around to say anything, but when he walked past me, he stroke 
my shoulder a little and whispered 'I'm glad you haven't left, my pen-neth.' 
Gimli, he said MY pen-neth! I was in heaven, but believe me, I came 
down again with a thud. There I was standing somewhere in the middle of 
Lorien with weak knees, hitching breath and a heartbeat like after running. 
But why? I didn't even like that elf. Or so I thought. I was so scared of my 
own feelings and the chance that I might like him that I dreaded his 
reaction. Did he like me? What if he only saw a young sapling in me and 
nothing more. Would my feelings, I hadn't even sorted out yet, be 
shattered before they had the chance to evolve? I ran straight to my father, 
asking for permission to leave immediately and for some guards to 
accompany me. He didn't understand why I wanted to leave, but gave in 
anyhow. I left not one hour later, heading for our home as quickly as 
possible. Haldir later told me that he had seen us leave, and that it upset 
him a lot."
"Elves! I don't believe it. Do you always make such a fuss about falling in 
love. If I were to find a dwarven maiden that warmed my heart, I would 
lay the world to her feet and beg her to be mine. You must have met again 
though, right? Where and when? Did you woe him or did he make a pass 
at you?"
"He sang to me."
"He WHAT?"
"He courted me. It was some years later in Imladris. We were visiting 
Lord Elrond, who held a big feast. I had been thinking about Haldir almost 
every day, but I never heard anything from him. I was very sad, but I 
thought it maybe was for the best.  I wouldn't have known what to do with 
him anyway."
"What do you mean, you wouldn't have known what to do with him. Are 
you telling me, that you never had....." 
"No, no my dear Gimli. Of course I wasn't that inexperienced. But with 
him, it seemed so unlikely, so out of the ordinary. I was afraid to make a 
fool out of myself. That he would laugh at me and such.
Anyway, Lord Elrond had invited so many elves from surrounding realms, 
it was packed. I didn't feel very comfortable among this crowd, but 
obviously everybody else had fun. Even my father. I would not have 
admitted it at that time, but I hoped that Haldir would be there. I always 
looked out for him, but he didn't seem to be there. My mood turned even 
fouler and I left the gathering, after some time strolling around I actually 
found a secluded spot. Had I known that I had ventured through Elrond's 
private rooms I would have definitely left at once. But there was this 
wonderful, large balcony overlooking the realm of Imladris, so peaceful 
and so comforting vast of anybody else that I stayed.  What I didn't know, 
was that Haldir indeed was there at Revelled, but he hadn't made himself 
known, so to keep me oblivious. While I was standing there I suddenly 
heard the most enchanting melody drift over the dim through the night air, 
it was a song so full of longing and unrequited love, it made my heart 
ache. I closed my eyes listening to the song and was so entranced by it, 
that I never noticed the voice singing it coming nearer. My heart bled for 
the pour soul never recognising Haldir's voice. Suddenly the fragrance of 
wild jasmine and roses drifted towards me and I opened my eyes in 
wonder. Around my feet was a carpet of flowers and before me stood 
Haldir holding one single rose in his hand. The last verse left his lips and 
he looked at me in awe.
I was so moved I couldn't utter a single word or sound. How could it be, 
that he, who was so sure of himself, so attractive, had gone through so 
much trouble to enchant me. Were my dreams and feelings answered with 
the same yearning? I don't know for how long we just stared at each other, 
but I remember a slow movement coming from Haldir and only then did I 
notice that his face showed so much pain and sorrow and he was moving 
away from me. I guess he must have thought that I was merely shocked 
and somewhat appalled by his actions. That second I realised how much I 
really wanted him and that I had to do something, this was nothing to run 
away from. I desperately  reached for his hand, the hand that was holding 
the flower and tried to pull him towards me. His expression became a little 
confused, and after a split second it shone with love and happiness." 
Legolas face was absent and his eyes lit up a little remembering that happy 
moment.
Gimli was deeply astounded, he would never have guessed that Haldir or 
his elven friend could be that romantic. "Go on! What happened? 
Passionate love play on Elrond's private balcony?"
Legolas looked at him in utter bewilderment. "Of course not! No, we...." a 
dreamy expression shone on his fair features. "We kissed for the first time. 
It was unbelievable. So pure, so perfect. It was in this one moment I knew 
that we would be together forever. I don't for how long we kissed, it must 
have been hours. Suddenly we heard someone near us clearing his throat. 
Haldir face was white with shock and I hastily turned. In the doorway 
stood Lord Elrond watching us. A smile lit his face as he said 'I guess this 
was the only sensible place tonight for some peace and quiet, especially 
when it comes to one Noldorian march warden and a crown prince of 
Mirkwood, but I would ask you to take your leave now, since it is late and 
would like to retire.' We were out of the rooms like a shot.
Gimli was giggling merrily "Oh, what a picture it must have been. 
Hilarious. Tell me, you were really embarrassed, weren't you? Oh, my 
God. Did Lord Elrond say anything later on?"
"No, I didn't see him again afterwards. Haldir and I rushed down the 
hallways, trying to find another secluded spot. Only when we had reached  
a little parapet, some way off the main halls we stopped and only then did 
I notice that we had held hands the whole time.  Breathless and laughter 
bubbling in my chest I pressed Haldir against the wall and started kissing 
him again. I just couldn't get enough of him. My biggest wish was to feel 
his hands on me, I wanted to bury my nose in his hair, taste his skin and 
touch him everywhere. He must have felt my intentions, for he drew away 
from me a little. 'No,' he said 'I don't want to rush into things. I love you 
too much my pen-neth, my starlit prince. I want to devour you, have all 
the time in the world and the peace and quiet of a private home. Please, 
my love.' I was a little disappointed but what he had just said made up for 
everything. He had spoken of love to me and it all became so clear to me. I 
had fallen in love with him in the very beginning and never had dared to 
admit it to myself. I couldn't bear the thought of being parted from him 
again.
The biggest problem though was my father. He hated the Noldor elves. 
Finding out that his precious crown prince was in love with one of them 
wouldn't be good news to him, but I was determined to hold onto this love. 
We had been in our little hideout for very long when we heard servants 
and other folk call out for my love. Galadriel had to leave and her 
Galadrim were to accompany her. All I was able to say to him in the 
seconds that were left to us, was that I loved him deeply. That was the last 
I saw of him for the next 139 years."	
"You can't be serious. For how long?? What on earth happened that you 
were kept apart for so long." Gimli sat up and moved over to the camp. 
"Wait for a moment, my elven friend. I will get my pipe. I need something 
to hold onto while listening to your sad tale." He returned more quickly 
than anticipated and seated himself again in front of the elf.
"Evil was creeping up in my home of Greenwood.  The first wargs and 
spiders showed up making life harder. I was already a trained archer and 
fighter and it was for the best that every capable fighter was at our keep. 
Also the royal family has to stand as one with their people to give them 
faith and strength. During that time I tried in every way possible to stay in 
contact with Haldir, I even blackmailed the royal messenger to carry some 
letters for me to Lothlorien. They were never answered. I didn't know if 
Haldir wasn't interested in answering or if the messenger just hadn't made 
it to Lorien. Some of the messengers didn't even return because it was too 
dangerous. I had almost given up hope, when one day may father came to 
me and told me to get a few things together until the next morn, for we 
would ride out in direction of Lorien. he had heard that the roads were 
almost safe and there were important things to be discussed about the 
upcoming future of our realms. Can you imagine in what a turmoil I was? 
I was so happy to go but on the other hand I was afraid that I might find 
out that Haldir interest in me had been nothing more than a blunt 
seduction. 
The whole time we travelled south I pondered about this problem. It took 
us nearly two weeks to get to our destination, we were ambushed several 
times and looked quite beaten when we arrived. We were greeted by some 
guardians but Haldir wasn't with them. I spied Rumil among them though, 
he looked at me and gave me a smile, before he winked and rode of to the 
front. Lord Celeborn showed us to our talans himself and send some other 
elves off to prepare the bathing houses. Fresh clothes were laid out for us 
and we were left to freshen ourselves up a bit. Of course my father and I 
were given a private bathing house and I waited outside for him to finish. I 
didn't mind sharing a bathtub with my father, especially when they are as 
big as they are in Lorien, but I wanted be on my own for a while. He made 
a quick job of it and I was left to myself while he went to meet with the 
eldars. 
I slipped  into the bathing house and was just about to undress, when 
suddenly someone else came inside. I was just about to tell this person to 
leave when I recognised him. Haldir stood near the door and studied me 
for a minute, his face showing worry and pity. Then he moved over to me 
very quickly and pulled me in his arms. 'By Elbereth. Are you hurt? How 
are you feeling, any pain anywhere?' I could only shake my head, 
breathing in his scent. 'Thank the Valar! I was so worried. I wanted so 
much to hold you again, I have missed you so much, my love.'
There he was, as I remembered him and he still loved me. All my hopes 
had come true. I pressed closer to him, wanting to feel him all along my 
body. Maybe we stood there for some minutes or even hours, when his 
nimble fingers started unbuttoning my tunic and taking it off. I let him 
undress me all the way. Curious, but not one single moment I thought of 
making love to him then, and he didn't indicate it either. This was just 
someone beloved taking care of me. He sat me in the bath and started 
washing my back, my arms and hair. Only when he had finished the upper 
part of my body he undressed himself and slipped into the tub as well.
He went on cleansing my legs with a soft cloth, but as he had reached my 
hips he halted."
"Now, I wonder why?" Gimli grinned sheepishly up at Legolas.
Legolas thoughts wandered off for a moment, all to clearly he remembered 
Haldir's hands on his heated skin. While the cloth had stroked his flesh, he 
had become unbearably aroused. Usually he would surely been afraid that 
the other one would notice his condition, but he felt so relaxed and at ease 
that only when Haldir's movements stopped he looked up and became 
aware of it. Haldir's lips curled up in a warm smile as he put the cloth 
aside and moved a little closer to Legolas. Crossing his legs he lifted 
Legolas out of the water seating him on his legs. Legolas was now leaning 
against the side of the tub, his backside resting firmly in the lap of his love 
and his legs at Haldir's sides. His arousal was very much visible now and 
he blushed a little. Haldir took some of the scented soap, dabbed it on his 
hands and moved his hands on the straining erection before him. With the 
utmost tenderness he rubbed the soap on and massaged the shaft lightly. 
Only seconds later Legolas legs crossed behind his back and he was 
rewarded with a low moan coming from his opposite. Haldir was not able 
to restrain himself any longer. His own cock twitched helplessly beneath 
Legolas' backside, so he shifted a little letting it spring free. He groaned as 
their erections touched. Legolas slowly started rubbing against him, eyes 
closed and cheeks flushed. Not wanting to end it too soon, Haldir dipped 
his hands into the water, cleansing them of the soap and scooped some 
water up to rid their cocks off soap as well. Still not sure how to proceed 
he caressed Legolas' thighs and hips, letting his love move against him. 
After a while he leaned over to his left and pulled the wooden plug to let 
some of the water out of the tub. The water depth sunk slowly bearing 
more and more of their bodies. When Haldir was satisfied he put the plug 
back into place. Again he lifted up Legolas to sit him down again on the 
bottom of the tub. The water was still lapping at his legs but the most 
important part stood proudly up in the air. Haldir got up on his knees and 
leaned forward. Legolas had his eyes still closed totally trusting him, 
slightly shivering with anticipation. 
Ever so softly Haldir let his tongue touch the head of the cock before him, 
sliding it into the small slit, evoking a shuddered gasp from his beloved. 
With his right hand he pulled the foreskin down and lapped the whole 
head and beneath the ridge. With his left hand he had started stroking 
himself. Taking Legolas' erection fully into his mouth, he moved his right 
down to his sack fondling it lightly. He tried to take as much into his 
mouth as possible, slowly drawing back up grazing the soft skin carefully 
with his teeth. His own orgasm was building up fast and he wanted to time 
it perfectly, so he repeated his actions a little harder listening to Legolas' 
breathing and feeling the sack tightening up. His love was nearly there. 
Haldir increased the ministrations on his own erection, the sensation of the 
ever so faint twitches of Legolas' cock telling him that he was ready. He 
let his own restraint go and as he felt the pulsing and Legolas' seed filling 
his mouth, he shot his own load, hitting Legolas' sack letting out a groan 
that shook him to the core.

"Legolas?" Gimli watched the absent face of his friend, to him it seemed 
he remembered something very pleasant, for his face was lit with a silent 
joy and his eyes were glittering mischievously in the darkness.
It took the elf a second to register the sound he had just heard, recognising 
Gimli's voice. He blinked once and turned to the dwarf.
"Well?" Gimli sounded a little impatient.
"Haldir helped me to dry off and escorted me to my talan."
"Oh, sure! Were you at least holding hands, I mean....you don't honestly 
want to tell......" Legolas raised his hand and silenced the dwarf. "Did you 
hear that?" he whispered and quickly stood to scan his surroundings. Only 
a low whining of the horses was to be heard, but suddenly he spotted a 
hooded figure huddling along behind some trees leaning heavily onto a 
staff. "Aragorn, quick! The was an old man. I believe it might have been 
the white wizard."
Aragorn was up in a shot and helped his friends to have a look around. 
Suddenly Gimli called out "The horses! The horses are gone!"

The horses were gone and so they had to make their way into Fangorn on 
foot. Gimli was complaining constantly  about all trees, roots and dried 
leaves on the ground, for they were only invented to make life harder for 
dwarves. In search of the two young hobbits, they encountered a hooded 
figure moving towards them. Weapons were rendered useless and to their 
surprise and joy, the cloaked man revealed himself to them as their old and 
long missed friend Gandalf. He told them about Merry and Pippin, but 
urged them on to come with him to Edoras, their help was needed there 
more badly and that the hobbits were quite safe.
As he called for his friend Shadowfax, Aragorn , Gimli and Legolas were 
happy to see that their horses were not lost but following the lead of their 
horse master.
On their ride to Edoras, Legolas noticed glances of deep thought on him 
and every time he turned to look at Gandalf, the old wizard only smiled a 
little at him and looked away again.

Deep in the Lorien woods the Lady Galadriel was holding a counsel to 
decide how to further act on the increasing threat from Mordor. The 
people of Rohan were in grave danger. Her mirror had clearly shown her a 
long and hard bloody battle which no one would survive if the elves didn't 
send reinforcements. She had also seen the three members of the 
fellowship, but their fate was uncertain.
Galadriel called on her best warriors to volunteer for this mission to relive 
the old alliance between men and elves.
She noticed Haldir's eyes scrutinising stare on her, but she ignored it for 
the moment. Haldir stepped forward and bowed his head slightly. In a 
quiet voice, meant only for her he addressed her "My Lady. Has the mirror 
shown you anything of my husband? Please I need to know."
Galadriel looked him deeply into the eyes "Not much, I am afraid. I only 
know that he will be at the Hornburg. But his fate is uncertain." She 
smiled slightly.
Haldir took a step back and squared his shoulders "I will lead the troops, 
my lady!"
She shook her head ever so lightly, trying to persuade him not to go, but 
Haldir nodded once more and turned to his archers. 
More warriors than expected had decided to join their leader and now 
everybody was quickly gathering their needed weapons and armour. 
Galadriel stepped up to her march warden, laying a soft hand on his arm. 
"Please, Haldir. Don't go. I have a bad feeling about this battle, I fear for 
your safety. “
“My Lady, you know I have to go. I need to be near him. Maybe it is my 
presence that changes a possible fate. I can not risk to loose him!” Haldir’s 
voice sounded distressed.
“But what will happen, if you are placing yourself under an irresponsible 
risk?”
“That is a risk I have to take. I fear that he needs me. I fear that something 
might not be alright with him.” With that Haldir nodded courtly and 
turned to his archers.
In the early morn they left Lorien to begin their long march in direction of  
Rohan.

The reception at the golden hall Meduseld, was not what Aragorn and his 
company had expected. After they had handed over their weapons and 
were led into the main hall, all of them discovered that King Theoden was 
obviously not himself. Gandalf had to use vast amounts of his powers to 
free the king from Saruman’s grasp, turning him into the man he once 
was. 
A short while later, Gandalf and Theoden had engaged in a long and rather 
fruitless discussions about the upcoming war. Gimli sat happily at one of 
the large wooden tables and dug into the first decent food they had for a 
long time. Aragorn, who already had eaten some bites, enjoyed his pipe 
and listened to the older men argue. Legolas leaned against a tall pillar 
behind Aragorn and had difficulties to hide his disgust. The little puffs of 
smoke emitting from Aragorn pipe, had the most annoying habit of always 
drifting in his direction. He could feel his stomach clench, when at the 
same time it craved for food. Until now he declined several offers to eat 
something. He hated eating when someone was not participating and 
watching him. He hardly noticed Aragorn making some remarks on the 
discussion, so occupied he was with his own dilemma.  After some time, 
he couldn’t hold up the pretence any longer and he slowly circled the table 
until he stood in Gimli’s back, from time to time nicking a piece of cheese 
or bread from the dwarf’s plate. To Legolas’ incredible luck the dwarf was 
already satisfied or he would have encountered a rather upset dwarf, 
willing to fight for his food. So all that he encountered was a broad grin 
from his friend, who pushed the plate a little to his right, so the elf could 
get to it a little bit easier, without making it too obvious.
Gandalf and Theoden left the three fellowship members alone to venture 
outside to the grave of Theoden’s son Theodred, leaving it up to Lady 
Eowen to show them to their quarters.
Legolas sighed deeply as he sank down onto the soft mattress covering the 
large bed. He would have to share it with Gimli, but there was so much 
room, it didn’t really matter. Without noticing it he drifted into a light 
slumber, walking the elven realm of dreams.

Gandalf walked up to the bed quietly, noticing Legolas’ deep slumber, 
even though his eyes were wide open. It astounded him that Legolas did 
not wake or stir at the least, for he surely must have felt Gandalf presence. 
On the other hand there was definitely something amiss with the elf. The 
old wizard had felt it as soon as they had met the great wood of Fangorn. 
He wasn’t quite sure what to make of it, he was to find out soon. Gandalf 
sat down on the side of the bed, still watching Legolas for any signs of 
awakening, but he couldn’t find any. Perplexed he shook the prince’s 
shoulder softly and observed the changing in the eyes. They were coming 
into focus rather slowly and Legolas had to stifle a yawn, as he looked into 
Gandalf concerned face.
“Mithrandir, I am sorry, I didn’t hear you coming in.” Legolas moved into 
a sitting position folding his legs under him.
“I was very quiet. Not to worry. I have noticed, my dear elf, that you are 
somewhat fatigued. That does not seem very much like you.” Gandalf 
watched his opposite intently.
“I don’t know. I think it’s the journey and the threat that lingers on my 
mind. But yes, you are right I am fatigued.”
“Mhm, I didn’t notice any signs of your tiredness when we were in Moria. 
Tell me were did you go after you left the caves.”
Legolas stretched his back a little. “Aragorn led us straight into Lorien.”
“I see. How do things fair in the golden woods. Let me guess, you have 
seen Haldir again?” A tiny smile curved the lips of the old wizards.
A slight blush crept up the elf’s cheeks “Yes. Yes I have seen him again.”
“Can I presume, from your reaction, that you made up a little bit? Come 
make an old man happy. Tell you pulled yourself together and overcame 
your prejudices.”
Now it was Legolas place to smile “We have pulled ourselves together and 
made up. But not only a bit, I think we actually have suddenly found what 
we were looking for all along, but without thinking about it. It just 
happened.”
“Those are wonderful news indeed. But let me ask you something, and it 
is important that you answer me truly!” Gandalf’s expression grew 
serious.
“Why would I lie to you?” the elf grew slightly nervous but tried not to 
show it.
“Now my dear Legolas, let ask you; do you encounter a slight dizziness 
from time to time?”
Legolas could only nod. He encountered it more often than only from time 
to time but didn’t want to voice it.
“Now then, what about nausea?” Gandalf cocked his head.
“Yes sometimes. But that was only while we were travelling down the 
river Anduin.”
“I see. You feel tried, fatigued and worn out?”
Another nod.
Just as the door opened Gandalf formed his next question “Problems with 
your appetite lately?” 
Suddenly Gimli’s rough voice interfered “Well, that’s a mild way of 
putting it! He either eats nothing or he would even give a hobbit a hard 
time keeping up with him!”
Legolas’ head shot around staring at his friend.
“Ah, Master Gimli. You have noticed it too then?” Gandalf looked closely 
at the dwarf. “It seems to me that you two have overcome you differences 
and exchanged them for something else, am I not right.”
Gimli stood proudly at Legolas’ side. ”I never had a better friend in my 
life! What differences were you talking about old man?” Gimli grinned.
“Oh nothing, nothing. Now, on with my questions. Any mood swings in 
the last time?”
“I don’t think so.” Legolas looked at his bed sheets. Gimli snorted “Oh? 
And what about a few days ago? Gandalf, he was with us at our campsite 
and suddenly was jumping up, running away and yelling at us to leave him 
alone!” “I wasn’t yelling!” Legolas protested weakly.
“I think it’s time that you left us alone for a short while Gimli. I have 
some things to discuss with Legolas in private.” Gandalf put his hand on 
Gimli’s shoulder.
The dwarf looked first at his friend and then at the wizard “If you need 
me, my elven friend, just give me a shout. I won’t be far off.” With that he 
turned and strode towards the door. When he had left Gandalf turned back 
to Legolas. “I would never have suspected that you two could become 
such fast friends and I am very glad about it. I think you will need his 
encouraging and trusting presence in the future.”
Legolas eyed Gandalf carefully. Was the old wizard on about? Gandalf 
moved off the bed and went across the room to pull up a chair for himself 
and sat down again opposite to the elf.
He rested his elbows on the arms on the chair and steepled his fingers. His 
brows knit as he closed his eyes and concentrated hard. Ah, yes. There it 
was. So he had been right with his assumption. Gandalf took a deep breath 
and addressed Legolas. “My dear friend. This is a most serious situation, 
who have brought upon yourself.”
Legolas eyes grew large. “What are you talking about. Where did I fail? 
Have I betrayed you in any way? Has Aragorn complained?”
“No, not that I heard. But you surely know that this is not an easy task. 
Did you talk about it?”
“Talk about what Gandalf? I know that the fate of Middle Earth is at stake. 
Of course, our goal is not easy to achieve. But when we hold together we 
will, hopefully, bring this terror to an end.”
“Legolas, how can you bring such a burden, even if it is a joyful one, onto 
yourself, at a time like this?”
“If you didn’t want me on the fellowship, why didn’t you say so in the 
first place? I don’t understand your bickering. It is not like you.” Legolas 
grew frustrated. 
“When you joined the fellowship, I didn’t know you were going to get 
yourself into this condition.”
“I am perfectly healthy. There is nothing amiss. Just because I feel dizzy 
from time to time, I am not a burden to our task.”
“Legolas! Have you thought about your condition in a few weeks time? 
How can you be so irresponsible?”
Legolas shot up from the bed and glared at the wizard. “What, in the 
Valar’s name, is wrong with you? What are you on about? How should my 
condition change in a few weeks time, have you gone mad?”
Realisation hit Gandalf like lightning. Obviously the elf had no idea what 
had happened to him. But he had thought...., no matter. He cleared his 
throat “I am sorry. I thought you knew.”
“Knew what?” Legolas hissed.
“Please sit down. I will explain.”
Not without a little protest the elf sat down on the edge of the bed again.
“Legolas, please close you eyes and concentrate on yourself. On your 
body and any changes that might have occurred.”
Hesitantly, Legolas closed his eyes and did as he had been told. After a 
few seconds of a trance like state, he feel the soft humming of his own 
body. It was like a satisfying low drumbeat. In synch with the surrounding 
nature, the steady rhythm of his heart and slow even breathing. All in all 
everything felt perfectly normal. The renewed bond of love with Haldir 
soared through his being and his body answered it with every fibre. 
Legolas was about to open his eyes again, when he felt something else. 
Something like a faint flicker, like a hesitant knock in his lower body. A 
presence he didn’t know, but on the other hand felt so familiar. A second 
mind within him, connected to his own. The shock hit him and clenched 
his heart. So hard it hurt and he gasped in pain and disbelieve.
Gandalf had watched his friend and noticed the rapidly paling colour of 
his face. Suddenly the elf gasped in shock and his eyes flew open. Gandalf 
was already there to steady him, when a loud cry burst from the elf’s lips 
“Nooo....!”
The door flew open and Gimli stood in the middle of the room, eyes wide, 
the battle axe in his hand ready to charge. All he saw was Legolas, his 
arms wrapped around himself and Gandalf at his side holding and calming 
him.
“What is the matter? Did any harm come to you? Take you hands off him, 
old man!” the dwarf advanced his axe raised.
Gandalf stopped the dwarf by raising his hand and looking calmly at him 
“No harm has been done, Master dwarf. Nor will there be. It’s just a little 
shock our elf has to get over.”
“Just a little shock?” the dwarf grumbled, but lowered his axe. With 
determined strides he moved next to the huddled elf, gently laying a hand 
on his shoulder.
“Gimli, I don’t think it is a very good idea if you stay here right now.” 
Gandalf said quietly.
“I will not leave his side. The last time you send me out of this room, his 
scream called me back here. I’m not moving and that’s final!”
They sat in silence for some time, until they felt the elf uncoil from his 
position. His face was white and his breath was ragged. He very slowly 
moved off the bed and away from his friends and turned to the window 
staring outside where the people of Edoras were going on about their 
business, not really seeing them. 
“Gandalf, what happened to him. Was he injured, did anything happen to 
his family, oh no, don’t tell me something happened to Haldir!”
“You know about Haldir? No, nothing has happened to him, neither to his 
family. I don’t think I can tell you what is the matter with him. It is up to 
Legolas.”
Gimli was everything but satisfied with the situation. He got up and 
moved over to the elf. Very gently and a little bit awkwardly he started to 
stroke his friend’s back in soothing circles. At first Legolas didn’t react at 
all, but after a few moments Gimli had the impression that Legolas leaned 
into his touch a little as if to draw strength and composure from the touch.
Gandalf watched the odd couple and smiled to himself, without doubt this 
was the most strange friendship he had ever seen and most likely the 
strongest one as well. He continued to look at them, when Legolas at last 
turned around and moved over to the chair Gandalf had previously pulled 
over to the bed. He sat down with a sigh on his lips and put his legs onto 
the bed stretching them.
“How did you know?” he asked looking directly into Gandalf’s eyes.
“I felt it as soon as we met again in Fangorn. I wasn’t sure but when I had 
some time to watch you I was certain. Legolas, what I don’t understand is, 
how you could not have noticed. You surely didn’t forget the vast 
procedure you had to endure in order to become fertile.”
Gimli listened with growing confusion. What was that all about. An elf 
becoming fertile? Why on earth was something like that important to an 
elf who was married to another male elf? Was that the secret of the low 
population of elves, because they weren’t fertile? Was Legolas supposed 
to bed a she elf in order to keep his race going. And why would it matter 
now, while they were on this quest?
Legolas hung his head and mumbled something. “Sorry, I didn’t quite get 
that.” Gandalf cocked his head and mentioned Legolas to repeat what he 
just had said.
“I really didn’t think about it. I was so happy to be with him again, to 
make up with him and to have him love me again. I forgot about the risk.”
“Well, that is obvious.” Gandalf stood and laid his hand on Legolas’ 
shoulder for a moment, “We shouldn’t tell the others and you should make 
up your mind what you will do now. I will come by again a little later on.” 
He left the room quietly and closed the door behind him.
Gimli stood in the middle of the room not really knowing what to do. 
Approaching the elf didn’t seem to be the right option, leaving neither. So 
he stood and waited, what for he didn’t know.
Legolas had his eyes closed and tried to calm down. He still couldn’t 
accept that this had happened. Once it had been his greatest wish and he 
had endured most uncomfortable and painful procedures to achieve this 
ability, that know caused him so much distress. Without really noticing it 
his hands moved down to his lower abdomen stroking his belly softly. If 
he would lay down flat on his back, would he already be able to feel 
anything?
He was very slim, there would be a distinct possibility of noticing it. 
A quite sigh called him back to the here and now. Gimli looked at him in 
wonder and disbelieve. “Can you tell me what this is all about?” The 
dwarf put down his axe and moved over to the bed. He sat down letting his 
legs dangle over the edge.
Legolas’ eyes were full of despair but also joy and love. “I am pregnant.” 
He smiled tentatively.
Gimli choked on his laughter “Oh yes, sure! You elves think you call tell a 
dwarf anything. Right. Come on. Admit it, you have eaten something that 
has upset your stomach and now you are too proud to tell. Elves never get 
sick and so on. You don’t fool me, you know. Maybe you have forgotten, 
but I saw you naked. You looked quite the male type to me.”
“Believe me Gimli, I wish it was true that I just wanted to fool you, but I 
regret it is true what I just told you. But maybe you can help me with 
something.” With that the elf rose from the chair and started unfastening 
his tunic. Gimli stared for a moment, but quickly moved off the bed, when 
his friend also took off his shirt he was wearing underneath. Maybe 
Legolas wanted the dwarf to tend to some hidden injury, so the dwarf 
stayed near the bed, but when he saw those slender hands starting to 
loosen the binding of the leggings, he backed off raising his hands in 
defence. “Ah, wait a minute there, Legolas. I don’t think that this a very 
good idea. I am not the right person for this, besides you already have 
someone on your side, who obviously loves you very much and I don’t 
think that he would be very pleased by your idea.”
Legolas stopped his movements and stared at the dwarf. A silent chuckle 
emanated from his mouth. “No, my dearest Gimli. It was not my intention 
to bed you. Nor to embarrass you, but to show you something. And it is 
not what you might think now. Come here, please.” The elf finished 
unfastening his leggings and open them over his belly. Then he lay down 
on the bed and exhaled. He reached out with his hand for Gimli and when 
he held the hand of the dwarf he pulled him over and placed the callused 
hand of his friend right on his warm skin of his lower body. The elf 
applied a little bit of pressure and nodded to Gimli. 
Slowly and very carefully the dwarf groped the soft flesh. He felt the elf 
relaxing the strong abdominal muscles and suddenly he felt something 
slightly hard and round shaped. He looked up at Legolas and took his hand 
to place it where his own hand had just been. A brilliant smiled lit the face 
of the elf and he sighed happily.
“I think you have to tell me a lot more than you might think. I’d say we 
organise ourselves some wine and food and make it a little more cosy here 
by lightning a fire and you can continue with your story and don’t forget 
to explain this little miracle to me as well. And later we will talk about 
your future in the quest. Right?” Gimli pushed himself up, winked at his 
friend and left in order to acquire the before mentioned food and drink.
Legolas stayed on the bed for a moment longer tenderly stroking the tiny 
bulge he could feel and marvelled at its existence. After some minutes he 
rose and redressed, getting to work on a fire to warm the room and pulled 
over two chairs and a little side table for Gimli and himself. He was sure it 
was going to be a long and rather interesting night.
It didn’t take Gimli long and when he came back, his arms were full of 
wine, bread, fruit and meat. Legolas shot him a smile and they made 
themselves comfortable in front of the fire. Gimli sat sideways in one of 
the large armchairs letting his legs rest on one of the arms, nursing a 
goblet of wine in his hands. “Now, my dear elf, why don’t you continue 
with your stay in Lorien? I mean after you were walked ‘home’.” 
“I thought you wanted to know how it could happen that I got pregnant?” 
Legolas raised on eyebrow.
“Well I suppose it is part of your history with Haldir, isn’t it. So when you 
come to the part where or when it happened, you will tell me. Oh and by 
the way, “ Gimli nodded in direction of Legolas’ own goblet, “maybe you 
shouldn’t drink so much wine. I don’t think it is very good for the child.” 
Legolas stared in Gimli in disbelieve. He wondered if the dwarf had 
decided to watch over him and the child now. It might prove to be slightly 
annoying in the future, he would ask the dwarf about it later.
“After Haldir had brought me back to the talan we were staying in, we 
kissed one last time and I went straight to bed. To be honest, sleep didn’t 
come easily that night. Though my body was wonderfully sated and tired 
my mind couldn’t find any rest. I was so unbelievably happy, I could have 
screamed out loud. My body was still humming with the thrill I had just 
experienced and I wanted to feel it again as soon as possible. My father 
came back late that night and didn’t bother to look into my room, for what 
I was very grateful. I was extremely nervous about my father. If he ever 
found out that his crown prince was involved with a Noldor, it would 
mean trouble.
I didn’t see Haldir for the next two days, for he had to work on the 
boarders, but on the third day I received a message form Haldir. A tiny 
piece of paper was hefted with the help of an arrow on the outside of a 
window shutter in my room. On the paper were only the directions to a 
certain talan a bit more on the outskirts of Lorien. I was very happy that 
my father had no plans for me that night, so I was free to do as I pleased. 
Not knowing what to expect I dressed in more comfortable clothes and 
anxiously followed the described directions. I took me about half an hour 
to get there and when I had arrived at last there was nobody near the tree 
that housed the talan. After some time I decided to climb the steps and see 
if somebody was up there. Even to my knocks on the door nobody 
answered and I had to let myself in. When I entered the talan I stopped 
dead in my tracks. The floor was covered with rose petals and the air was 
filled with the scent of wild jasmine. Just like in Rivendell. A decanter of 
wine and two glasses stood on a little side table, grapes beside it and some 
berries. The warm night air filled the room and I discarded my tunic in 
order to relax and wait. When after half an hour still no one had shown up 
I poured myself some wine and leaned at the window frame to stare out 
into the night. Suddenly the air stirred around me and I felt a soft cloth of 
satin covering my eyes. It was firmly but not to tight fastened and I heard 
Haldir’s sensual voice telling me how much he loved me.”
“Wow, he blindfolded you? Why? Come on what happened?” Gimli held 
out his goblet to Legolas, to get it filled again by the elf and than leaned 
back in his chair sipping the wine with relish. 
“Oh, yes he blindfolded me indeed. We elves are very sensual beings, you 
know? Every time to loose one sense, even if only temporarily,  the other 
are heightened. It is very stimulating. I could feel his hands on my body 
slowly discarding my clothes until I was completely naked. His strong 
hand s were roaming over my skin leaving trails of passion on their way. 
Then I was led to the large bed and laid down on my front. For some 
seconds nothing happened, but I heard him clattering around with 
something and the rustle of clothes. Suddenly a warm and spicy smelling 
liquid was carefully poured onto my back. I went absolutely limp under 
his hands as he massaged my back, my thighs and calves. He took his time 
with my feet and arms. I was turned over and he proceeded with my chest 
and abdomen continuing with the front of my legs. I was like melting 
butter in his hands and had never been in my life so relaxed and aroused in 
the same time.”

Legolas took a sip of his wine and stared into the fire. Would he ever be 
able to feel Haldir’s touch again? Feel his hands on every part of his body. 
Like in the wondrous night they made love for the first time and their 
hearts bound themselves to another? It was like it happened only minutes 
ago, so clearly could Legolas remember every single gesture and touch. 
The way Haldir’ hands soothed his body as he turned him back to lay on 
the bed face down and how his circular motions moved towards his upper 
legs ever so slowly until he reached his firm backside. He had felt a slow 
dribble of the massaging oil again at the small of his back turning into a 
constant trickle moving right over his cleft, feeling the liquid running 
down to his sack and onto the blanket his was lying on.
Haldir had then started to knead the round globes running his thumbs in 
between from time to time. Legolas was so aroused by then, that his 
erection was pressing painfully into the mattress underneath him and every 
time Haldir’s thumbs brushed his tender opening he arched his hips of the 
bed. Suddenly Haldir stopped his ministrations and moved his body down 
onto Legolas’ using his broad chest and strong thighs to massage his love 
even more. While doing so his cock slid easily into the cleft rubbing up 
and down while Haldir moved over Legolas’ back. Never had he felt any 
sensations as this and Legolas was moaning helplessly into the cushions. 
He felt Haldir moved downwards pushing himself up on his knees placing 
his hands on the two mounds of Legolas’ backside. Kneading them 
playfully he pulled them apart and flicked his tongue over the soft 
puckered flesh before him. Again and again his tongue moved across the 
entrance and Legolas body answered by twitching every time. When 
Haldir felt the trembling body beneath him tense up he slowly drove his 
tongue in, carefully breaching the tight ring of muscle. The younger elf 
arched his back driving himself up to Haldir’s face, closing on his orgasm, 
his hands fisting the sheet he was laying on. Haldir removed his tongue 
and tried to calm Legolas down, running his hands down his back in 
soothing motions.
“Shhh.., melme. Calm down, I’m not finished with you yet. Please turn 
over, I want to see your face. Legolas world shifted and he was rearranged 
on the bed. His body was covered with light sheen of sweat and the night 
air streaming through the open window chilled his skin. Haldir nudged the 
legs apart a little bit and knelt in between them. He ran he Hands up the 
long and lean thighs, drawing little circles with his thumbs on the way. 
When the breathing of his young lover had slowed down a bit, he decided 
it was time for the next step. Leaning over to the bedside table Haldir 
retrieved the oil he previously had you for the massage and poured a tiny 
bit onto Legolas’ hard cock. A soft moan was the answer, as he started to 
stroke the erection with languid and long moves. He turned his attention to 
the soft twin sack below, rolling it tenderly in his hands and feeling the 
heaviness of it. Legolas sighed and unconsciously spread his legs wider. 
The older elf grinned ever so slightly at this invitation and looked at his 
lover’s face. It was flushed, the nostrils flaring and the open lips revealing 
pearl white teeth as he tried to get enough air into his lungs. It was the 
look of total abandon and trust. Haldir’s hands moved lower behind the 
Legolas’ testicles and probed carefully. Using his own thighs he spread the 
prince’s legs wider, opening him up for him to look at. Again he let some 
oil trickle down over the sack, watching it run down right over the tight 
entrance, he so much craved for. Just looking at this made him groan and 
he could feel his own arousal throb. Knowing he wouldn’t be able to hold 
onto himself for much longer he gently moved his right hand down and 
slowly circled the starburst flesh with his index finger, when Legolas 
didn’t flinch, he carefully dipped the tip of his finger in. Imagining it was 
his own cock, he closed his eyes and pushed his finger in the whole way. 
Legolas arched his back of the bed and groaned deeply, urging him to 
continue. Haldir was becoming desperate and inserted a second finger, 
scissoring them to loosen up the muscles and probing for Legolas prostate. 
A stifled cry from the young elf told him that he had found what we was 
looking for. Haldir continued his ministrations for some minutes, pulled 
his fingers out and then took hold of Legolas’ arms pulling him into a 
sitting position. Haldir knelt and ran his hands down Legolas’ back 
gripping his buttocks hard, pulling the wanton body up on his own legs. 
When Legolas was sitting on Haldir’s thighs, he lifted his lover up by the 
hips and let him hover right above his own straining erection. Legolas 
could do nothing but feel, Haldir’s hands on his body, reaching for parts 
that never had been touched like this, doing things to him that never been 
dared before. He knew what was about to happen next, he had dreaded it 
and feared the pain, so many friends had told him about tearing tissue, 
blood and unbearable pain, but he wanted it, wanted it to be Haldir that 
took him, Haldir that made him feel this way and so he gave into that 
blissful feeling of utter trust and love. Legolas felt Haldir’s warm hands on 
his hips guiding him first up and then slowly down again. Suddenly he felt 
the hard and round tip of Haldir’s erection pressing against his entrance. 
‘Legolas, my love. It’s up to you now. Tell me what you want, make me 
feel what you want and then take what you want. Can you feel me? Can 
you feel my desire? My need for you!’ Haldir moved his lips over 
Legolas’, claiming his mouth and kissing him deeply. Their tongues 
fought for domination and while Haldir devoured Legolas, he felt his lover 
slowly descending, impaling himself on Haldir’s cock. The young elf let 
go of Haldir’s mouth and threw his head back, crying out in contentment 
and lust. This was far from anything he had expected. This was 
unbelievable, he tried to look into himself, wanted to see the large cock 
breaching his body, stretching his flesh, gliding in deeper and deeper. 
Haldir watched his love closely, his face was lost in abandon, the flushed 
and bruised lips parted, the breathing coming in short gasps and the long 
golden mane brushing his thighs and knees. Legolas started thrusting up 
and down by himself, driving Haldir insane within seconds. Both were not 
able to last much longer, due to their rather long foreplay and so Haldir 
reached for Legolas’ erection trapped between their bodies stroking it 
firmly to Legolas’ thrusts. He could feel the tight grip of Legolas’ hands 
on his shoulders, leaving bruises on his pale flesh. Their moves became 
more erratic and only moments later Legolas cried out loudly repeating 
Haldir’s name over and over again. The spasmodic clenching of Legolas’ 
inner muscles pumped Haldir’s erection and pushed him over the edge. 
Haldir could only gasp as he held Legolas tight in the aftershocks of their 
lovemaking.


Legolas felt like in a dream. His body thrummed and a lovely pain spread 
in his nether regions. It had been his first time with another male and he 
had dreamed it to be like this. Haldir had been so loving, caring and 
gentle. His strong arms were wrapped around him sheltering him from any 
harm, holding him, caressing him and showing him that he was the most 
important being.

“I had never thought that love making could be so pleasurable and how 
much I needed Haldir near me. We met as often as we could. Every time 
my father was attending a counsel session I managed to sneak away and 
meet with Haldir somewhere in the woods. The fear that my father could 
find out about our relationship was with us all the time. After some weeks 
the entourage of Mirkwood left again and so did we. Haldir was on duty 
and we didn’t even have the chance to say goodbye properly. 
For many years Haldir and I met in secret, somewhere in the vast realm of 
Mirkwood. I went on patrol to the south border on my free will. No one 
was particularly fond of going there, for it was far from home and Dol 
Guldur was near but that was the only chance I had to come near Lorien. 
Haldir and I were desperate to see each other and we even managed to 
share a few nights of passion together. We both knew that the relationship 
we had would not work out on a long term, but neither of us wanted to 
think or speak about it.”
Gimli nursed his pipe for a few moments and looked up at his friend “If it 
was so difficult, how did you two manage to get together for good? Did 
you father find out?”
“Sort of. It all happened at the celebration of my 1000th birthday. My 
father had organised a great feast and had invited many guests. I think he 
even hoped that a fair elf maiden would catch my eye in this event but he 
never pressed me. Anyway, I felt very lonely that evening, knowing that 
Haldir was somewhere south in Lorien hopefully thinking of me, maybe 
even wishing me all the best. I tried my best to be in a good mood, but I 
presume I failed miserably. My relatives and even my father tried to cheer 
me up, by presenting me with the most exquisite of gifts and well wishes. 
Still all I longed for was far away and unreachable. It must have been 
around midnight and the feast at its peak, when suddenly my father’s 
seneschal announced a new arrival. Most of the guests went quiet and 
stared at the large entrance to the hall with growing curiosity, of who 
might be coming at this late hour. My father stood in the middle of the 
hall, with one of his closest friends at his side turning to see who was 
coming. The doors were opened again and in strode Haldir. Adorned in his 
finest he made his way steadily across the floor to halt before my father 
and bowed low in respect. I can clearly remember that my heart stopped 
the moment I saw my love enter the hall and I tried to hide behind some 
guests. Why was he here? Maybe he was carrying an urgent message from 
Lorien? But why was he clothed in the finest silk and not in a travelling 
garb? From were I stood, I could watch him and my father without being 
seen. At the first moment all seemed to be formal, but not unusual. Maybe 
he just had dressed like this because he knew we were holding a feast and 
he didn’t want to offend, but then I heard him speak. “My Lord Thranduil, 
I have come from the woods of Lothlorien on my own behalf. I thank you 
for your kind admittance to your festivities and your consent. I wish to 
give my congratulations and well wishes to your son on his birthday and 
hereby ask for your permission to court the crown prince and have his 
hand in marriage.”” Legolas smiled dreamily at the memory.
“Wow!” Gimli sat upright in his chair. “That was very noble and 
courageous of him, wasn’t it? Oh my, how did you father react to that? 
And you, did everybody hear it? I bet I would have died on the spot.” He 
gestured to Legolas to continue and eagerly suckled on his pipe.
“I can tell you, I nearly did die on the spot. Though my father would never 
show any strong emotions in the open, I could read his body language like 
a book. I can clearly say that he was beside himself. But the only 
noticeable gesture he made that moment was arching his eyebrows and 
clearing his throat. A lot of the guests had turned towards me, an 
unreadable expression on their faces. They all knew of my father’s dislike 
for the elves of Lorien and of course because of the fact that Haldir was 
everything BUT a fair maiden who would secure our royal bloodline. My 
face must have beet red, when my father’s voice carried over the dim 
calling me to his side. It was like walking to my own execution, 
everybody staring at me, whispered comments or even insults flowing  
through the air. My father turned to me, his eyes glaring “Legolas 
Greenleaf, my son!” My father hardly ever addressed me in that manner, 
only if I was in very deep trouble. And obviously I was more than just in 
very deep trouble at that moment. My heart was hammering, my face 
burning and my hands were shaking as I made my way to my father and 
Haldir, who stood as proud as Galadriel herself would. “Legolas,” my 
father repeated “there is someone here to wish you well on this special 
day.” He gestured towards Haldir. 
I couldn’t believe this was happening and moved to stand before my 
beloved, expecting him to shake my hand, but instead he threw a glance at 
my father and pulled me in a tight embrace. “I wish you all the very best 
and a long and healthy life.” He said out loud, only to whisper in my ear “I 
cannot live without you, my love.”
As he withdrew my father was at my side resting a hand on my shoulder 
holding me in a tight grip. “Come my son, I think we have a few things to 
discuss. You will attend us also, Haldir of Lorien.” We had no other 
chance as to follow him out of the hall and into his study, where he moved 
to his seat behind a large wooden desk. While he sat down, Haldir and I 
had no other option than to stand. I could see my father gathering his 
thoughts, filling his lungs with air, no doubt to shout at us any second 
now. But it never happened. Instead he looked at me and then at Haldir, 
addressing him in an unusually quiet voice. “You understand I can not 
grant you your request concerning my son. I can and will not let a Noldor 
pursue him or by any means marry him. Which is obviously out of the 
question anyway, hence you are clearly the wrong gender.” Haldir looked 
stricken at these words, but bowed slightly reaching into his robe 
retrieving a parchment.
I stood transfixed, not able to utter a single word. My world was shattering 
around me, I felt like the floor would open beneath me and send me falling 
into a fiery pit. All my hopes left me that instant my father had spoken 
these heartless words. Only Haldir’s actions pulled me back to the there 
and then, when I heard him speak to my father “My Lord Thranduil, I can 
understand your reaction to my proposal, but let me give you something to 
ponder about. It is my family tree, to show you where I do come from. It is 
true that my brothers and I were raised by the elves of Lorien, it is true 
that a vast amount of them are indeed of the Noldor, but as you can clearly 
see on this paper my heritage is of the Silvan blood. Not too unlike yours. 
Mine might not be as pure as yours, and of course not as noble but 
nonetheless I am Silvan just like you. As for not being the right gender, 
indeed I am not a noble maiden, but I seriously doubt that Legolas would 
ever choose one. His preferences do lie with his own gender, which is, if I 
maybe so bold, not so uncommon among us elves. I thought only the 
narrow minded prejudices of men forbade something like this.” My 
father’s face had taken a slight shade of purple during Haldir’s speech. I 
am sure no one in all his live had ever dared to speak to him like this. His 
voice was like a far off thunder as he spoke to Haldir. “I think, Haldir of 
Lorien, that you have absolutely no right whatsoever to judge my opinion 
on such matters. Neither have you the right to claim that your blood could 
be anything like mine. And to whom I give my son’s hand in marriage is 
alone mine to decide. You do understand that I command you to remove 
yourself off my land this instant, never to return. Oh and one thing, if I 
ever find out that you came near my son again, I will have your head!” 
Haldir stood proud as he addressed my father one last time. “I hope for the 
sake of Legolas, whom we both love dearly, that your opinion in this 
matter will not lead to any harm on his behalf.” With that he turned 
without giving me a second glance and left. I had never felt so devastated 
in my life before. Neither did I feel the tears running freely down my face 
nor did I notice my father moving over to me gripping my shoulders, 
shaking me. “How long, Legolas? How long?” He shouted at me. Again 
and again.” Legolas looked at Gimli’s concerned expression. “He didn’t 
really, did he? I mean how could he be so mean? Didn’t he see that you 
two were in love? And Haldir simply left? Not even a word for you?” 
Gimli couldn’t believe it. Only knowing that Legolas and Haldir were 
married and still together calmed him.
“My father continued shouting at me, but I wasn’t able to answer him. I 
think the only thing that saved me from my father’s wrath was the fact that 
Theon, our healer walked into the room clearly concerned about my 
wellbeing. When he saw my father shaking me and shoving me through 
the room he put an end to it. My father’s chest was heaving, his eyes were 
ablaze and he was no longer in control of his feelings. I think he couldn’t 
cope with the fact that his only son was not behaving as he should be, or 
maybe it was because I had done something that wasn’t proper, something 
that he himself would not have dared to do. Maybe there was even a bit of 
jealousy in him. He left Theon and me standing in his study and stormed 
from the room. Only then did I collapse to the ground. I can’t remember 
from there on. I awoke in the rooms of healing, but only partially. My 
body was on fire, a sharp pain in my chest and my head was spinning. All 
other impressions, like hearing, seeing and smelling were somewhat 
muffled. I can remember Theon at my side, some other female elf and 
even my father was there from time to time. After some days of worry for 
me, my father moved to the side of my bed, gently placing his hand on my 
bruised shoulder stroking me slightly. “Legolas, my dear Legolas. Can 
you hear me? Please wake up for me.” He called out softly, never moving 
his hand away. “Legolas, please. I worry so much. Don’t do this. Don’t 
give in. He is still here you know? Haldir is still in Mirkwood. Don’t you 
want to see him again? Shall I fetch him for you? I think I will. Maybe it 
will bring you back to us.” He left my side and only moments later I heard 
someone else enter the room, the rustling of clothes and soft steps 
approaching my bed. 
I could feel the tender touch of Haldir at my neck, shoulders and on my 
face. His voice was shaking as he called to me. “Melethron nín! Please 
hear me. You can not leave me. I need you. I need you by my side, all the 
time. Come back to me.”
My father was quietly speaking to Theon, he wanted to know why I had 
fainted and was now lying in a deep coma on one of the healing beds. 
Theon told my father, what he dreaded most. Obviously had Haldir’s and 
my heart bound themselves to another and so the fear of loosing my 
beloved had grieved me such, that I started to fade. Haldir’s voice slowly 
pulled me to his side. My senses came back to me, enabling me to feel and 
see my surroundings again. I could still feel Haldir’s hands on my body 
when I opened my eyes. His face was stained with the tears of desperation, 
but a genuine smiled brightened his face when he saw me awakening 
again. My father noticed that I had come to again and he immediately 
turned to us, only to pull Haldir away from me. “I am very grateful that 
you have helped my son to regain his consciousness again, but I must ask 
you again to keep his hands off him!” “
“That ungrateful son of a warg!” Gimli was so outraged that he had not 
noticed his pipe slipping from his hands and it clattered to the ground. 
Legolas eyed his friend fondly and smiled "Calm yourself master dwarf. 
As you know the story has a happy ending and I told you from the 
beginning that it wasn’t all pretty. Do you want me to continue?”
Gimli grumbled into his beard as he bent down to retrieve his pipe, settling 
once more into the large armchair nodding to Legolas. “Please, go on!”
“When my father had pulled Haldir away from me, I tried to protest the 
best I could, but I was weaker than I thought and only managed to whisper 
a strangled ‘NO!’. To Haldir’s and my surprise it was our healer Theon 
who helped us “My Lord.” he said. “I don’t think it wise to separate the 
two right now. As I have told you, obviously their hearts have bound 
themselves to another and you are endangering your son immensely by 
depriving him of his chosen. Let Haldir sit with him for while. I will 
ensure that nothing indecent will happen.” Thranduil wasn’t happy at all 
about the things Theon had told him, but my state was far more important 
to him than his hatred for Haldir. “Very well. I trust you Theon. Keep me 
informed, if anything happens to my son you will have seen the last of 
Mirkwood.” He stormed out of the room and left us alone. Theon smiled 
at Haldir and gestured in my direction. “Sit with him. I am sorry, no 
holding hands, no kissing or anything else! At least not while I’m 
watching. Unfortunately I have to prepare some herbal potions and have to 
work in the next room. I will leave the door open and trust you won’t take 
advantage of it.” He winked at us and left, leaving the door to his 
laboratory open by merely an inch. Haldir looked at me and didn’t dare to 
move a muscle. I could feel the warmth returning to my body and having 
him near was all I ever wanted. Very quietly I reached out for him with 
my right hand and tenderly touched his arm. “I love you, melme.” I 
whispered and saw tears spring to his eyes. “I am sorry for coming here. I 
never thought it would end like this. I had hoped I could convince your 
father, make him understand. Now I have ruined it all. By the Valar, this 
was supposed to be a happy day for you, now look what has become of it. 
And you still tell me that you love me.” Haldir’s voice cracked and the 
tears were now flowing freely down his face. I couldn’t help it, I pulled 
him down to me, holding him to my chest, quieting his sobs, stroking his 
back. Suddenly the faint rustle of clothes drew my attention to the main 
door and before I could react my father was back at my bed. Haldir shot 
up and jumped back, but I grabbed his hand keeping him from moving 
away too far. I was about to say something when my father silenced me 
with a wave of his hand. “Haldir, you will stay here at my court for at least 
the next few years. I have already sent a message to Lady Galadriel. I want 
to have an eye on you and watch you. If, and I repeat IF, you really are 
worthy of my son, I have to be able to watch you. And that closely. Maybe 
you can even earn my trust and approval. It does not mean that I agree to 
your plans to marry my son. But Legolas obviously needs your presence 
here.” With that he turned, his robe swishing behind him and left the 
room.
So, Haldir stayed in Mirkwood at my fathers court. My father used him 
like he would an unworthy servant, sending him to retrieve messages, 
bring messages, clean the stables, clean saddles or even for the lowest 
works in the kitchen. My love never complained, he did everything he was 
asked for, he wore his head high and showed everyone that it was not the 
work that makes a person being less than others but the attitude. We met 
only at official occasions, but it was enough to keep me going. He was 
near me and somewhere deep inside I still hoped that everything would 
work out for us. My father kept a close watch not only on Haldir but on 
me also. I knew that he only waited for us to slip and make a move 
towards each other, but no matter how often I was tempted, Haldir kept 
me at distance. The only thing we had, were the letters we wrote to one 
another. I believe my father knew about them, but they were always 
delivered and never tempered with.
Exactly one year later, the unbelievable happened. A small banquet was 
held in honour of my 1001st birthday and much to my dismay Haldir had 
been ordered to serve us at the table. It was embarrassing for me, but I 
pulled myself together and tried to ignore the stare of the others. Before 
dessert was served my father rose from his seat and addressed me “My 
dear Legolas, many have wished you well on this day and have gifted you 
with not only jewels and goods but also with their presence. Only I have 
been late with my gift, I am sorry for the delay, but I needed  for all to be 
present. Please come here to me.” I looked a bit awkwardly in some 
smiling and quizzical faces and moved to the seat of my father. When I 
reached him, he held a small wooden box in his hands. “This my son, 
comes from the very bottom of my heart and I hope it will conjure a smile 
on your face.” I took the box, not knowing what to expect. As far as I 
could remember my father had never, in my hole life, given me anything 
‘from the bottom of his heart’. With slightly shaking fingers I untied the 
silver ribbon holding the box closed. I felt the stares of all, including 
Haldir, on me as I opened the box. Inside lay a piece of ivy about 15 
inches long.
My heart was hammering  and I felt all colour drain from my face as I 
flung myself at my father."
“Oh my God! Was it such a bad sign? What did it mean? Something like a 
death sentence?” Gimli sat upright in his chair.
“Oh no! No, Gimli! It was a very special gift. A piece of ivy is used during 
the elven bonding ceremony. In that moment I knew that my father had 
given us his consent, and was willing to accept Haldir into our family. He 
motioned to Haldir to join us, who still looked a bit confused, for he could 
not see what it was that caused my emotional outburst. Haldir moved 
across the room to join us and kept his distance, but my father reached for 
his hand only to put it into mine. He took the ivy from the box and wound 
it round our hands and wrists for everyone to see and announced that the 
crown prince and Haldir of Lorien were to bound for life.”  

Gimli blinked and tried to wipe a few tears from his eyes, hoping the elf 
wouldn’t notice it.
“And so you got married?” 
“Oh no!” Legolas laughed. Many years passed until that day and many 
events. My father wouldn’t  let anybody else plan our wedding. In the end 
it was decided that the main ceremony was to be held in Rivendell where 
Lord Elrond would take our vows. From there we would travel to Lorien, 
Haldir’s home and last but not least a large feast and ball in Mirkwood. 
But until that day many things happened.”
“When did the idea with the child come up? Was it Haldir’s idea?”
“Actually no. I think my father was one who brought it up. Even though 
he never spoke of it. It was a real problem for him. Of course we could 
adopt a child, but I think deep in his heart he wanted it to be a real son of 
Thranduil. He must have talked about this with Gandalf and Elrond but he 
never uttered a word about it. Anyway one day I wanted to speak to my 
father and went to his study and library, but he wasn’t there. Strewn all 
over the place were open books and scrolls, very unusual for him. My 
father is rather fussy when it comes to documents. I decided to wait for 
him and threw a glance at the papers. One was titled ‘Male born children’, 
the next ‘Fertility of a male elf’, ‘Pregnancy among elves’ and ‘The 
physical endurance for a male in order to be prepared’. Those were odd 
titles and I sat down to read some it. All were about the same issue; the 
possibility to get a male elf fertile in order to carry children. Same gender 
couples were and still are quite normal among elves. Though after the 
wars during the first age and the problem of the low population of elves 
due to the slow reproduction rate, many wise alchemists and healer had 
pondered about the idea of pregnancy for males. At first I was excited 
about it, until I read about the procedure. I can tell you, it sounded not 
very pleasant. Rather painful and somehow disturbing. Parts of the body 
were to be accessed that I don’t want to talk about. 
Still, somehow the idea had planted itself somewhere in my head. On the 
other hand it took another 434 years until we got married. Mirkwood was 
threatened more than once in that time, Lothlorien was under attack and a 
marriage of a Mirkwood prince was obviously nothing my father would 
allow without the proper preparation.”
“Oh my, so long. How did you manage for all that time? Were you 
allowed to be together? I mean you didn’t have to stay chaste all the time, 
did you?” Gimli looked shocked.
Legolas leaned back and laughed. “No, we didn’t have to stay chaste. 
Although it came to us as a surprise. In the beginning we had our separate 
bedrooms, but after some time my father came to me and asked me to 
follow him. He led me down a winding corridor to lower part of the vast 
caves, in which Thranduil’s halls are build, until we arrived in front of a 
large wooden door. Haldir was already there waiting for us. We threw a 
glance at each other but neither of us knew what this was all about. To my 
astonishment, my father grinned slightly and handed me a key. I looked at 
him questioningly, but he only nodded towards the door. So I unlocked it 
and opened it hesitantly. I can remember very clearly that it was one of the 
rare moments that I was completely speechless. Behind that door lay a 
beautiful room, warm and full of light, which came in through specially 
build canals that lead form the caves to the outside,” Gimli nodded 
knowingly  as Legolas continued “ the furniture and decorations were in 
the finest shades of green and gold, like the forest and a little spring ran 
from the right far wall to a little pool in the middle of the room and on to 
the opposite end only to disappear in the ground. The ground beneath the 
little stream and pool glittered as if it was made of emeralds. Opposite of 
the entrance door there was another door leading to a large bedroom 
decorated in shades of blue and silver like the night. When I think about it 
now, I suspect that my father had hoped that Haldir and I would make our 
permanent home at Mirkwood. But anyway, we were absolutely taken 
aback. My father hushed us inside and threw us an amused smile. ‘I hope 
you two feel comfortable here. It is a little off, but I presume you don’t 
mind, and we won’t disturb you or you us. Make yourselves at home and I 
wish you many happy days and nights from now on. Oh, I have already 
ordered your belongings down hear, so you don’t have to busy yourself 
with that. And Haldir, you are of course relieved of all your duties, you 
used to have. But I would be very grateful if you could join my guards for 
the remains of your stay.’ 
Haldir looked at my father in total puzzlement. After door had closed we 
stood in the middle of the main room not daring to move for some 
minutes, it all seemed too unrealistic. Then my joy and glee won over, I 
pulled Haldir to me showering him with kisses, dragging him along to the 
connecting bedroom. Suddenly my need to feel Haldir was so great I 
wasn’t able to hold back any longer. For a whole year we had seen each 
other every day not being allowed to touch and now we had these rooms 
for ourselves. I wanted him to hold me, take me , make me beg and 
scream, but Haldir was having second thoughts. He wasn’t sure how to 
take this. Maybe this was another test my father had put upon us. Later we 
found out that it wasn’t. “
Gimli smiled as he puffed little smoke rings into the air. “So you had your 
love nest all to yourselves then?”
“Yes, but the first night was really disappointing. Haldir was not able to 
relax the slightest bit and all he wanted was to cuddle. So we lay there in 
out bed holding each other close and I was trembling with passion and 
need. But after some days it got better.”
“Tell me about that famous wedding of yours. Why did it take so long?”
“Oh my father wanted everything to be perfect. The whole entourage that 
would accompany us was be in new clothes, which had to be designed 
first, some of your kin were to build some more rooms near Thranduil’s 
halls and so on. So at last in the year ....... we left for Imladris were the 
ceremony was to be held. Neither Haldir nor I knew what to expect. My 
father had kept everything hushed up until the end and wanted it all to be a 
big surprise.”
Gimli looked flustered “Sounds very romantic to me. And I thought your 
father was more the practical type.”
“I was astounded, too. But I think I was too excited and eager to really 
think about it. Anyway it was early spring when we arrived at Elrond’s 
home and were brought, much to our dismay, to separate rooms. We were 
not supposed to see each other before the ceremony. The next day 
Celeborn and Galadriel arrived accompanied by their entourage and, of 
course, Rumil and Orphin. I was as giddy as an elfling and was pacing my 
room when my father entered followed by three handmaidens and Theon.
I was ushered into the bath and literally ducked under. They fussed about 
my hair, my father had someone to do my fingernails and from time to 
time silently talked to Theon. After an hour I was allowed to leave the 
water as clean and somewhat pink in colour as the day I was born. I my 
bedroom I found they had laid out the clothes for me on my bed and I was 
astounded. The upper shirt was in the shade of the lush summer green of 
the beach wood tree, the leggings in a dark velvety green resembling the 
dark moss of a forest and the sleeveless robe to be worn over it all had 
now distinct colour at all. It shimmered when moved displaying all the 
shades of green and gold you can find when the sunlight pours through the 
treetops shortly before sundown. As it was tradition I was to walk barefoot 
to the ceremony. The handmaidens now sat me down onto a stool and 
went to work on my hair. I hoped my father had not given them the 
instruction to braid it too much. I didn’t want to look like a maiden in the 
end. But all they did was comb and dry it thoroughly and then they wove 
only two ceremonial side braids into my hair, leaving the rest open and 
flowing down my back. When I had dressed my father came to me and to 
my shock I could actually see tears shimmering in his eyes. ‘Legolas, you 
are my only son and I wish you all the happiness you can get, may your 
life be long and without troubles and may your love always be at your 
side. I had this made for you for this special day,’ he held a polished 
wooden box, with silver inlays in his hand. It looked very precious and 
elegant. My father smiled at me and continued  ‘it resembles your state as 
crown prince, your love for nature and the beauty of your heart and soul.’ 
He opened it and took out a something golden and round. I couldn’t make 
out what it exactly was at first but then my father placed it carefully on my 
brow and turned me around towards the large mirror standing in the 
bedroom. I hardly noticed my self, I was adorned in these wonderful 
flowing clothes and on my head I saw a delicate golden circlet. Strands of 
tiny golden leaves were entwined to a braid and each leave was decorated 
with a tiny emerald making it glitter and shine with the light. I felt my 
father’s arms draw me close from behind and he whispered in my ear ‘I 
love you Legolas, with all my heart. Promise me never to forget me and 
your home. I couldn’t bare the loss.’
I grasped my father’s hands and held them tightly. ‘Never father, I could 
never forget you!’.
About two hours later, I was a nerves wreck by then, Theon came to get 
me. He led me to a large garden near Elrond’s home. Though the sun had 
not set yet torches lined the path and were placed all around the garden. A 
large amount of elves had gathered there and when I was lead into their 
midst I saw that Haldir was led there at the same time from the opposite 
direction. I nearly stopped dead in my tracks when I saw him bit Theon 
tugged me along. Haldir was dressed in the colours of Lorien. Different 
shades of silver and grey highlighting the colour of his hair and eyes. To 
me looked like one of the Valar as the candlelight flickered on his silvery 
robe. Judging by his hesitant steps he must have thought the same when he 
saw me coming towards him. His brother Rumil led him to the empty 
space in front of Elrond, Celeborn and my father. We stood facing each 
other as the ceremony, we both had been waiting for so long began. 

Gimli bend forward a little eagerly nursing his pipe and looked at Legolas 
with anticipation. 
"Galadriel stood at Haldir's side and my father at mine. Elrond was 
addressing them; 'Lady Galadriel of the golden woods, you are here to 
hold testimony to the joining of two hearts and souls. Are you willing to 
give away the warrior Haldir into Prince Legolas' hands in the formal 
binding?"
Galadriel inclined her head gracefully and answered in a clear voice 
"Yes!"
Elrond turned to Thranduil "King Thranduil of the Mirkwood realm, you 
are here to hold testimony to the joining of two hearts and souls. Are you 
willing to give away your son, the crown prince Legolas of Mirkwood into 
Haldir's hands in the formal binding?" 
Thranduil's voice was not as steady as Galadriel's as he answered but still 
it was a convinced "Yes!"
Elrond now turned now to Haldir and me bidding us to step forward a 
little. My nervousness increased tenfold and I was asking myself for a few 
seconds if I was doing the right thing. But a single glance into Haldir's 
face wiped all my doubts away immediately. Elrond made us face each 
other again and we were to hold our hands a little outstretched in front of 
us. Haldir's hands felt a bit clammy and I could feel a slight tremor. 
Elrond's voice pulled me out of my thoughts. You two have come to us to 
give your vows to the Valar with us as witnesses. May your union be 
blessed and guarded. You do understand that this union is one of trust and 
understanding. You will stand by your bonded through ages and times, 
give him the respect and freedom that is his due. A bonding should be one 
of consideration and harmony. You choose your partner with your heart 
and head, let it be forever that your heart is filled and your mind at ease." 
Elrond reached to his left, where a little pedestal was standing and took a 
long peace of ivy into his hands.
"Nature will guard and protect in times of need," with he wound the ivy 
around our wrists binding to another, "the earth will bless you and hold 
you when you need warmth and comfort", he took some sand and strewed 
over our bound hands.
"The water will guide and nourish you when you are hungry and lost," 
water was poured onto our holdings hands, "and the wind will be the force 
to bring you home to the undying lands." Elrond bent down a little and 
blew across the ivy.
"Haldir of Lorien, do you pledge your life and soul to Legolas of 
Mirkwood? Will you hold and protect him, will you share everything that 
is yours with him and guard his life to your last breath?"
Haldir closed his eyes for a second and then looked deeply into mine 
"Yes, his life will be my life and my life will fade should his end."
"Legolas Thranduillion, prince of Mirkwood, do you pledge your life and 
soul to Haldir of Lorien? Will you hold and protect him, will you share 
everything that is yours with him and guard his life to your last breath?
I swallowed hard, so this was it, no way back now "Yes," I looked into 
Haldir's face observing every facet of his mimic "his life will be my life 
and my life will fade should his end." I could hear my father taking a 
shuddering breath behind me.
"Legolas and Haldir, you are now one, you will face all perils and joys 
together, walk the path of life given to us in union and rejoice in your 
love. You are now bound with all rights there are to it. Let us now 
celebrate and bless your decision with our laughter."
Cheers erupted around us and Haldir pulled me close to him. The ivy was 
crushed and our robes slightly soiled with the sand and water but nobody 
cared. I could feel his lips on mine and everything began to fade around 
me. No longer could I hear the roar of the surrounding people, not the 
music playing or the congratulations given to us. I was so absorbed in this 
feeling of utter love.

It felt like pure bliss. I was in the arms of the one I loved most, we were 
now bound to another and nothing in the world could bring us apart. Or so 
I thought. 
A great party was held all through the night. My father had obviously, for 
a change, put his miserliness aside and had spent a fortune to host this 
feast. There was music and dance, songs were sung and stories told. It was 
way past midnight, when Galadriel and my father approached us, grinning 
widely. I could see, that my father had indeed indulged in a fair amount of 
wine by now and he was beaming. “We have one more surprise for 
tonight. Would you please follow us.” Galadriel spoke in a cheering 
manner and my father nudged us to follow her. We were led through the 
surrounding wood on a narrow path, through some thicket and we could 
hear the silent roar and gushing sound of a nearby waterfall. After some 
minutes we came to a clearing right at the edge of the mountainside. 
There, dancing down the rocky slope, was a small waterfall that ended in a 
rather large pond lying in the middle of this clearing. Here, too, were 
torches lining the clearing, bathing everything in a warming light. 
Blankets and cushions were laid out and tablets with food, accompanied 
by goblets and wine were set out for us. Thranduil and Galadriel inclined 
their heads to us “You will not be disturbed here. Should you be in need of 
anything, though; just ring the bell, which you will find attached to the 
rocks near the waterfall at the left side.” Galadriel moved a little closer to 
Haldir and smiled secretively to him “You may need this.” and she put 
something small and cylinder shaped into his hand. Haldir blushed 
furiously.
My father came over to me and pulled me into a bear hug. “I wish you so 
much happiness and luck with you chosen one. May your love never end 
and may you always be a fountain of joy for each other. I love you my son 
and I am very proud of you.” He turned quickly, barely hiding some tears 
that threatened to spill from his eyes and quickly left the clearing followed 
closely by Lady Galadriel.
Haldir and I stood for some seconds, wondering at our surroundings. 
Never had we felt so loved by others, so cared for. At last Haldir moved 
off to the blankets and the laid out food. He sat down and beckoned me to 
him. “
“Ah, I think I don’t want those details.” The dwarf snickered “It is late my 
friend. Maybe we should try and get a little sleep before dawn.” Gimli 
moved off his chair and stretched. He smiled at Legolas, patted his 
shoulder and moved to the door. Just before he left the room he turned 
once more to the elf. “Don’t you think now, that you are off the hook. As 
soon as there is time for us, you will tell how it went on between you and 
Haldir and,” Gimli crossed the room back to Legolas “how you managed 
this little miracle.” The dwarf very gently caressed Legolas’ lower 
abdomen. Smiling he left and closed the door quietly behind him.

Legolas moved his hand to where the dwarf’s had just been and smiled. 
Very softly he began to sing to the unborn child telling it of the beauty of 
the world, springtime flowers, waterfalls and love and happiness. A dull 
pain around his heart remained though, missing his husband and his touch. 
On the other hand he was afraid that Haldir would find out about his 
pregnancy and about the decision he had to make. Sighing he decided it 
could wait until the morning, for his mind was already made up. He 
undressed and slipped beneath the warm covers of his bed. Easily he 
slipped into the elven dreamscape remembering the warm night in 
Imladris right after Haldir’s and his bonding.
They had sat on the warm and soft blankets spread out on the ground, 
feeding each other with small pieces of fruits and sweets. Legolas poured 
them some wine and pushed Haldir onto his back. He took a sip of his 
wine and bent down to kiss Haldir, who opened his lips in anticipation. 
Very carefully Legolas let the wine he held in his mouth dribble between 
Haldir’s lips. A few of the deep red drops lingered on those moist and 
willing lips and Legolas tenderly licked them off. He trailed paths down 
his lover’s throat to the adam’s apple, carefully nipping at one of the 
delicate fastenings of the lush gown with his teeth. Haldir moved his 
hands to the fastenings but his hands were pushed away by Legolas’ chin 
and with a few nips and tugging with his teeth and tongue the first of the 
silver clasps was undone. Every time a bit of ivory flesh was laid bare, 
Legolas took another bit of wine only to carefully spill it onto the flesh. 
Haldir had to restrain himself from arching off he ground when he felt 
Legolas tongue lave his skin.  He felt his body burning with passion and 
his erection was becoming painfully hard by now.  Legolas had bared 
Haldir’s torso and started at the lacing of his leggings, he smiled to 
himself when he felt the straining cock beneath the fabric and gave it a 
few teasing licks. Haldir moaned and threw his head back. Legolas gave a 
small giggle and rubbed his cheek to Haldir’s groin, then again with tiny 
tugs off his teeth, he undid the lacing at the front of Haldir’s leggings 
enjoying the writhing of his mate. The scent of musk and willing flesh hit 
him as soon as he parted the cloth with his teeth and Legolas drew it in 
like a drug. Just the smell of his partner aroused him beyond believe and 
he had to call on his stamina to restrain himself from charging down onto 
Haldir’s cock like a hawk would on its prey.
Slowly he peeled the soft luxurious cloth off Haldir’s legs until his love 
lay naked before him. Legolas sat on his heels for a few seconds admiring 
the view, drinking in the sight of ivory flesh against the dark colour of the 
blanket. Haldir’s eyes were ablaze and darkened with lust. His silver hair 
had spilled around his head like liquid mithril and his muscles shivered 
faintly in anticipation. Legolas bent down and kissed Haldir’s toes, one by 
one, carrying on to the ankles which he lavished and kissed. He moved 
slowly upwards caressing the long firm calves and thighs with his mouth 
and hands, sometimes drawing lazy circles then again kneading the flesh 
firmly. Haldir grunted with the effort to stay halfway calm, shivers were 
running up and down his body and he longed for Legolas’ skin on his 
own. He could see his lover and now husband taking another sip of wine, 
bending over his torso letting the ruby liquid drip into the navel. Haldir 
suppressed a giggle. It tickled, but in a good way. Legolas looked at the 
little red pool in the middle of Haldir’s body and smiled, then he dipped 
his tongue and lapped the wine like a cat would drink its water. The last 
bit of the tasty wine he didn’t swallow but move down a little only to let it 
go again off his mouth, directing it onto Haldir’s arousal. This time the 
proud marchwarden arched slightly off the ground moaning deeply from 
his throat. “Please, my love. Take me into your mouth. Let me feel that 
skilled tongue of yours.” His pleading was heard and the prince licked 
slowly and without too much of pressure from the base to the tip of the 
gorgeous cock before him. He drew the tip into his willing mouth, 
carefully pushing the foreskin down with his lips, running the tongue 
along the tender flesh beneath the ridge. His right hand wandered down to 
the tightly drawn sack, kneading it lightly, rolling it in his hand. Haldir 
started to push into Legolas mouth needing more friction, wanting to feel 
the burning sensation of the upcoming orgasm. He knew that Legolas 
didn’t mind him coming now, not needing the actual sexual contact. That 
would hopefully come later and he blessed the fact that elves had a strong 
endurance that enabled them to come to completion more than once in a 
short time. His husband let go off his cock and the skilled tongue moved 
down to his sack drawing it into the hot mouth, suckling on it while his 
hands spread his legs wide. Suddenly those wicked hands got a hold under 
the knees and pushed Haldir’s legs up to his chest elevating the hips in a 
drastic way. His sack was set free drawing itself tightly against the shaft in 
preparation of a shattering climax. Haldir’s breath was coming in short 
gasps and his own hands travelled to his neglected member, touching it 
softly, moving the foreskin up and down. He knew that instant that 
Legolas was grinning but  choose to ignore it. The hot and wet tongue 
travelled unhurriedly lower until it reached its destination, drawing slow 
and wet circles around his anus. He could feel the muscles of it spasm in 
delight and gripped his shaft a little firmer. “Yes, touch yourself. Let me 
feel you need. Come, show me how much you want my tongue in that 
tight hole of yours.” Legolas whispered seductively. Haldir groaned and 
gripped his erection more firmly, stroking himself from the tip to the base 
in long and fast strokes. He felt Legolas’ tongue penetrate the tight ring of 
muscle and shuddered with delight. “More, push it in deeper.” Haldir 
begged and felt the first spasms course through his body. Legolas 
tightened his grip on Haldir’s legs and thrust his tongue in Haldir’s 
entrance with quick sharp movements, pushing a little deeper every time 
as far as it was possible. He could hear the laboured breathing of his 
beloved and felt the sudden tension of the muscles as Haldir gave a load 
roar and spilled his seed across his belly.
Legolas moved up again and watched Haldir as he lay panting, his limbs 
shivering. He felt strangely satisfied, even though his own arousal was 
pressing at the inside of his leggings, demanding some attention. He 
ignored it and continued watching the older elf as he tried to regain some 
composure. After some minutes Haldir smiled at Legolas and stretched a 
hand out to him, begging him move down to him. When Legolas 
complied, Haldir moved him to lay beside him and drew him close in an 
embrace. They lay close like this, cuddling for a long time until a strange 
gurgling sounds pulled them out of their reverie. Legolas laughed and 
blushed a little. “Sorry, I think I have to bribe my stomach a little to keep 
him quiet.” Both elves sat up and satisfied their hunger with bits of meat 
and bread. Haldir poured them some more wine, grinning mischievously at 
the Mirkwood prince. “Ah, you want more?” Legolas asked immediately 
licking his lips lasciviously. “Ay, later my love. I think I will cleanse 
myself a little. The water does look very inviting, don’t you think? And it 
would give me the opportunity to look at your beautiful body at last, hence 
you would have to shed your clothes.” Haldir laughed and got up to walk 
over to the pond, to graciously move into the water. 
He dived and was gone from Legolas sight. The prince chuckled and 
removed his clothing. It took some time, for there where many layers he 
had to shed and when he was finished at last he turned to the water with 
sparkling eyes to look at his love. Shock paled his face when he saw that 
Haldir had obviously not resurfaced and he ran yelling to the water. 
“Haldir! Haldir, please where are you?” he jumped head first into the 
water and immediately scanned the area under water. But Haldir was no 
where to be seen. Legolas frantically shot up and broke the water’s surface 
to get some air and was under water again in no time. Still there was no 
sign of his husband. Suddenly he was pulled even further down and before 
he could react a warm and smiling mouth found his in a passionate kiss. 
Both elves swam up again and Haldir held Legolas firmly in his embrace, 
for the Mirkwood elf was kicking him shouting at him, what an idiot 
Haldir was. After some time he relaxed again and joined Haldir’s laughter, 
tickling or pinching every time it was possible. It didn’t take long until the 
joyful banter turned into a more heated groping and Haldir had Legolas 
panting with desire in no time. He pulled Legolas with him a bit closer to 
the bank of the pond and they settled down, arms and legs entwined. His 
hands wandered along the creamy soft skin of Legolas, mapping every 
contour, every strong muscles along his legs, hips and back. He dipped his 
head nipping at the skin along the long throat, sometimes placing a soft 
bite on the unblemished flesh. Haldir rubbed himself on Legolas’ hard and 
strong chest and abdomen, letting his erection press against a well muscled 
thigh. His hands cradled the skull of his beloved and his teasing mouth 
moved back up to the slightly parted lips. Their kiss was unhurried and 
they enjoyed many minutes of tasting and caressing the other with lips, 
tongue and teeth. While the rest of their bodies matched the languid pace, 
their hands however were busy stroking, groping and kneading the other’s 
flesh. Haldir imagined how Legolas strong hands were spreading his 
buttocks wide, stretching him and slowly pushing his erection into him. It 
had only happened a very few times and never as forceful as Haldir had 
wished. Legolas had always preferred the submissive role in their 
partnership and seemed to be afraid to dominate Haldir. Maybe it had 
something to do with the fact that he usually was made to order others 
around. As a prince there were servants, maids and others to fulfil duties 
and wishes for the royal family and Legolas obviously didn’t want the 
same rules in their private life. So he choose not to dominate Haldir, to 
show him that they were equals. Haldir decided he would have to make 
Legolas understand his hidden wishes and desires and that he would never 
feel wrongly pushed in any way.
Haldir felt his erection swell painfully with the vivid imaginings in his 
head and he took Legolas’ hands in his and guided them down to his own 
buttocks. He spread his legs invitingly a bit further, hoping his husband 
would get the hint. To his pleasure the prince actually started kneading the 
firm flesh and rub himself against Haldir’s body. The marchwarden 
reached between their bodies and took Legolas’ arousal into his hand 
stroking it lightly, while he pressed it between his own legs. His opposite 
groaned deeply when he felt the tip of his cock touching Haldir’s sack and 
immediately started pushing carefully against it. 
“Yes, come on. Spread me open. Make me yours. I want to feel you 
moving inside me, stretch me and fill me.” Haldir moaned lustfully into 
Legolas’ ear. He felt Legolas shiver with his words and press against him 
a little more forceful. Haldir hoped he would achieve his goal and pushed 
his love a tiny bit more “Can you already feel it, my love. Your hard and 
hot cock slowly making its way into my body. The tight muscles around it, 
my body literately sucking you in? Your hands on my hips, my legs spread 
wide my face flushed and my breath coming in short gasps?” Legolas 
growled and pushed Haldir off him and down onto the soft grass on the 
bank of the pond. He ground his hips and arousal down, grinding into 
Haldir. Legolas blond hair was dishevelled, hanging in his eyes, clinging 
to his wet lips and his eyes were ablaze. He resumed a similar position to 
the one he had taken before when he was teasing Haldir on the blanket and 
pushed Haldir’s legs apart brutally. The hot tip of his member already 
touched the quivering entrance of Haldir and he gave a few short thrusts, 
barely putting any pressure in it, only to show Haldir what was to come. 
Thankfully Haldir’s mind was still with him, because when he looked into 
Legolas’ eyes, he could see that this one clearly wasn’t able to think 
straight anymore. So Haldir quickly reached behind him, were he had 
deposited the scented oil, Galadriel had given him, as a precaution. He 
uncorked the little vial with his teeth and handed it to Legolas. 
Legolas let go of Haldir’s legs, who quickly hooked his knees himself, and 
poured some of the oil on his fingers. When the bottle was safely sat aside, 
he regarded Haldir’s position for a moment, taken in the sight of the total 
abandonment and without warning pushed one oiled finger into the 
inviting entrance. Haldir closed his eyes in excitement and pushed against 
the finger. Only seconds later he could feel his hole spread wider when 
second finger entered loosening the muscles and he could feel additional 
oil run down his cleft to the ground . This was bliss, this was what he had 
craved for. Being taken by someone else without warning, without 
questioning. He barely registered the removal of the fingers, when he felt 
strong hands gripping his rear cheeks, holding them firmly, spreading 
them even further, near to the point of pain. A delicious pain. Haldir 
opened his eyes and drank in the look on Legolas’ face as the blunt tip of a 
strong erection touched his quivering opening, breaching it without 
hesitation. It was then that Haldir threw his head back and a deep groan 
escaped him. Legolas had watched mesmerised as the tip of his cock 
touched the puckered flesh, as he slowly pushed forward, the way the skin 
stretched under the pressure and how his member ground itself into the 
willing body until it was fully sheathed. He pulled out again seeing his 
cock glistening with oil and pre-cum. The prince breathed hard at the sight 
and pushed back in forcefully. He heard Haldir give a small yelp but that 
couldn’t be helped anymore. All that mattered to him now was this 
burning sensation of the tight but velvet flesh enclosing him and the 
coiling of his muscles deep in his stomach. Haldir was panting by now, 
voicing short elven endearments to his husband, urging him to go even 
harder and faster. Legolas complied and drove into Haldir with all his 
strength. All he could hear now, was the slapping of wet and oiled skin. A 
storm broke loose in his body and he pushed in one more time grunting 
Haldir’s name as he spilled himself deep inside of his beloved. Haldir’s 
back had been pushed up the bank further with the might with which 
Legolas had taken him, his body was aflame with passion and when he felt 
the pulsing of Legolas’ flesh deep inside of him it was enough to push him 
over the edge as well. He gave a loud shout and his semen covered his 
abdomen and chest. Panting and exhausted Legolas collapsed on Haldir’s 
chest, kissing him lovingly. Both slipped carefully into the lukewarm 
water without pulling apart. Only when they were floating in the water, 
slowly relaxing, did Legolas pull out of Haldir embracing him firmly.


It took them some time to find the strength to climb out of the water and 
back to the blankets. Once there, Haldir pulled one of them over their 
exhausted bodies and they snuggled close together. After some minutes 
Legolas started to feed Haldir with some tiny pieces of fruit, laughing at 
his husband as he wickedly licked the fingers feeding him. What Legolas 
didn’t see, was the fact that Haldir reached underneath the blanket, in a 
moment that Legolas bent over to his left to pick up some more fruit. 
Legolas had picked some ripe strawberries and held one delicately 
between his thumb and index finger as he slowly moved his hand towards 
Haldir’s mouth. Haldir only parted his lips ever so slightly forcing Legolas 
to push the red berry between them and when the fruit lingered at the 
entrance to his mouth, Haldir lasciviously closed the enchanting flesh 
around it and very carefully sucked it in. Legolas groaned at the sight. But 
Haldir didn’t stop after he had consumed the strawberry and now pulled in 
Legolas index finger, sensually circling the tip with his tongue. He 
enjoyed the obvious tension building up in Legolas body. Suddenly 
Legolas felt something hard being pushed against the tip of his finger. The 
unexpected hard thing was now pushed over his finger and Haldir 
withdrew and placed a last kiss on the finger tip. The blond prince looked 
mesmerised at the delicate golden and silver circle that lay around his 
finger. Two strands of leaves from the Mallorntree and Mirkwood beeches 
were woven around each other, melting into a union. “Haldir! Love, it is 
beautiful.” Haldir smiled his very special smile “I know it is not a custom 
among us elves to wear wedding bands, but I find this idea of mankind 
most lovely and I thought it would resemble our love so perfectly.” He 
bent down a little to push the ring on Legolas finger all the way down. 
“Here.” Haldir retrieved its brother and handed it to his lover “Will you 
place it on my hand?” Legolas hands were shaking slightly as he took the 
ring of Haldir and carefully placed it on Haldir’s finger.
They embraced tightly and shared a passionate kiss, sinking onto the 
ground.
Sleep overcame them quickly, laying their limbs entwined. After some 
hours Legolas felt a shudder going through Haldir’s body and he raised his 
head, still somewhat sleepy. He looked at his beloved and it seemed to 
him that he was somewhat paler then usual. As he moved to stroke the 
noble forehead, his hand encountered a wet sticky substance. Surprised he 
looked closer and in the fading moonlight and saw large pools of blood 
around Haldir’s form and still more was coming from unseen cuts in 
Haldir’s back. Legolas screamed and bolted upright.
Sweat ran down his face and he had unusual difficulties adjusting to the 
dark light in the room. He was breathing hard and dizziness made him 
sway. Ever so slowly he could make out the contours of the two large arm 
chairs in front of the fireside, his clothes hanging over a stool near the bed 
and the decorated curtains fluttering in the breeze from the open window.
Legolas shivered and hid his face in his hands. Sobs escaped him and tears 
started to flow freely. It had just been a dream but he wished for nothing 
more than to be held by Haldir right now. The fear that something might 
happen to his husband drove him to despair. He desperately tried to pull 
himself together and took deep and calming breaths. After a while he got 
up from his bed and moved to the window to draw the curtains back. The 
first rays of the rising sun crept over the surrounding hills and mountains. 
Legolas closed his eyes and drew in the crisp morning air, letting himself 
be comforted by the strength of the surrounding nature.


The speed, with which they moved, was exhausting, even for elves. But 
Haldir’s determination and leadership drove them onwards. They were in 
reach of the first Rohan villages and already they could smell the smoke of 
burning wood and the stench of decaying flesh. Galadriel had given them 
the order or rather advice to move directly to Helm deep, without passing 
Edoras first. They halted shortly on a hill top and Haldir observed the area. 
He could make out smoke rising from the east and some way down the hill 
he could clearly see a broad track of trampled ground, as if a large army 
had passed here.
He estimated that they had one maybe two days, at the most, left to reach 
Helm deep in time. He scanned the area again, this time looking for a 
reasonable place where they could rest for a while. Rumil approached him 
laying a hand on his shoulder, “Brother what bothers you?” Haldir turned 
and gave him a small smile. “Nothing, Rumil. I merely thought about 
resting for a few hours. We will need our strength in the upcoming battle, 
we mustn’t exhaust ourselves to much on this march.”
The large army of elves moved down the hill towards the south west and 
made camp near a small stream, that used to feed the vast fields that were 
now burned to ashes. 
Rumil surveyed the building of a few campfires and the handing out of 
food rations. Haldir had walked away some paces and sat down heavily on 
a rock and rested his eyes on the openness of the Rohan planes. If one did 
not look into the direction of the burning village nearby and ignored the 
smells drifting over from there, this was a peaceful and well nourished 
country.  What had Middle earth come to in these days. Peace had lasted 
only a few thousand years. Of course to mankind that was a vast amount 
of time, but to the elves it seemed only a short break from violence and 
death. He was still lost in his thoughts, when a fluid movement caught his 
eye. He looked over to right side of the fields he had been observing and 
caught sight of some wild horses running. Some of them seemed to be 
yearlings and the gallop was not yet as graceful and they were running in 
circles around the moving herd. They seemed so full of energy and will to 
live it was bewitching. He found himself smiling. Somehow these young 
horses reminded him of his husband. Always energetic and full of 
mischief. Haldir leaned forward and put his elbows on his knees and 
folded his hands. He was very eager to see Legolas again, a dark worry 
had grown in his heart and he was constantly nervous, always wondering 
what it was that made him think that something was very wrong or was 
going to go wrong. Haldir took a deep breath and watched the horses 
again. One of the young ones, a white one, was constantly annoying an 
older stallion, who was desperately trying to lead the herd. A wide grin 
sneaked itself across Haldir’s face and he remembered one particular night 
that he had come to their rooms while they were staying in Mirkwood. It 
had been a strenuous day and Haldir felt like he had been driven through 
hell. His body hurt and all he wanted was a long hot bath and something to 
eat. And after that a soft feather bed with satin sheets. But when he 
returned to their rooms he found Legolas all wound up and eager to spend 
time with him. It took nearly half an hour of persuasion to get Legolas to 
leave him alone in the bath so he could relax.  His husband looked 
somewhat disappointed but Haldir would try to make it up to him later on. 
He let his body soak in the hot water for nearly an hour and wondered 
about the lack of movements and sounds from the connecting rooms. At 
first he had heard Legolas moving around in the other rooms but now it 
was absolutely quiet. He hoped that Legolas had not been so upset, that he 
had left and would be in a sour mood for the rest of the night. Haldir 
sighed and pushed himself upwards to climb out of the large tub. He 
towelled himself dry and left the bathing chamber. The fountain room, as 
they used to call the main room with the stream and pond, was lit by a few 
candles, giving all a golden light. Beside the little pond he spotted some 
blankets and on top of them a soft and downy feather bed. Set aside a few 
feet he could make out a tray with food and some wine. But Legolas was 
nowhere to be seen. The marchwarden shook his head and dropped down 
on the feather bed stretching and letting one hand dangle in the warm 
water of the pond.
He must have dosed off, because when suddenly the door opened with a 
soft click he nearly jumped out of his skin. He sat up a bit and looked over 
to the door. Haldir held his breath when Legolas moved in, quietly closing 
the door behind him. He was only dressed in a pearly white loin cloth and 
he carried a tray with different small bowls and vials. When he saw Haldir 
watching him, he put his finger to his mouth silencing Haldir. Legolas 
moved gracefully over to his husband and pressed him down into a laying 
position again. He gently stroked Haldir’s cheeks and shoulders and set his 
tray down at his side. With one hand Legolas gently closed Haldir’s eyes 
while he fetched one of the bowls with the other. Haldir obediently kept 
his eyes closed and tried to guess what the young Mirkwood elf had in 
mind this time. Legolas was always full of ideas and had an unimaginable 
amount of energy to put his plans into action. 
Legolas dipped his fingers into the body warmth oil and rubbed his hands 
to spread the oil evenly onto his fingers and palms. He started at the chest 
in slow soothing circles and with little pressure. Haldir relaxed visibly 
under his hands and he smiled to himself. Legolas moved his hands lower 
to massage the sides and abdomen of Haldir. He loved the taunt body and 
now he could feel the strong muscles flex under his fingers. Haldir’s 
breath had grown deep and calm. After some more warm circles Legolas 
hands moved even lower. Always drawing concentric circles he slowly 
and tenderly spread Haldir’s legs.  Again he dipped his fingers into the 
warm oil and slid his hands between Haldir’s thighs and caressed the 
warm and soft sack lying innocently between the strong muscled thighs.


With long and tender strokes Legolas worked the thighs of his love, 
getting the muscles to relax. He took his time down the shins and on to the 
feet lingering at every one at least a few minutes. With tender but firm 
hands Legolas persuaded Haldir to move over and lay down on his front. 
When his husband was in position, the young Mirkwood elf took the bowl 
with the warm oil and carefully poured a small amount onto Haldir broad 
back. A soft groan was the answer and Legolas smiled to himself. He 
reached for the shoulders and began his work from anew. The further he 
came to Haldir’s lower back the more he could feel Haldir shudder slightly 
from time to time. But Legolas teased him mercilessly, kneading the firm 
buttocks moving to the back of the thighs and calves. Only then did touch 
the two round globes right before him again. This time he let his thumbs 
glide into the cleft with every stroke, each time a little deeper. Haldir 
parted his legs unconsciously and arched his back a bit so that his backside 
pushed out more, encouraging Legolas to dare more. 
With a final caress Legolas took his hands off and unseen to Haldir’s eyes 
took his loincloth off. He leaned over to the tray and fetched another vial 
with a creamy substance. He knelt between the parted legs and put the vial 
between his knees to steady it. Dipping his index and middle finger deeply 
into it, Legolas coated them with the substance and withdrew them 
rubbing them against each other. With his other hand the prince spread the 
cheeks slightly and brushed his creamed fingers against the entrance. 
Haldir bucked upwards but the archers strong hand held him down. 
Suddenly he felt the tip of, obviously a finger, dip between the tight ring 
of muscles and linger there. His member had grown hard and needful 
some time ago and he wished he could touch himself, or someone else 
would.  The finger moved slowly forward breaching the muscles and 
circled slightly. Haldir fought to stay still, drawing deep breaths and his 
hands clawed the feather bed. A second finger joined the first and they 
were pushed all the way in, arousing him immensely. All too soon the 
fingers withdrew and left him empty and disappointed. 
Legolas put the vial he had been holding between his knees back onto the 
tray and picked something else. A broad smile brightened his face and he 
hoped that Haldir was up to his plan. In his hand he held something white, 
cylinder shaped and ever so slightly curved. One of the ends was rounded. 
Holding it tightly in his right hand, Legolas moved the object between the 
still spread buttocks and slowly moved the rounded tip over the puckered 
hole, up and down, again and again. Haldir moaned helplessly and spread 
his legs further, pushing against that thing that stroked him so teasingly.
Legolas had to stifle a groan himself, his member stood proudly and 
constantly leaked pre cum by now, but he had to wait. Wait for what was 
to come. Gently he moved the object to Haldir’s entrance and carefully 
pushed in. He didn’t encounter any resistance and pushed in further, then 
slowly pulling out only to push it in deeply again. Haldir’s breath was 
coming in short gasps by now and indicated that Legolas could dare his 
next move. Without removing the object from Haldir, Legolas turned 
Haldir over again. Haldir’s face was flushed and he was gasping for 
breath, his eyes were dark with smouldering passion and his hands reached 
for his husband, who hushed him and kissed his stomach. He moved the 
object in and out again a few times and watched the reaction of Haldir. 
Yes, he was more than ready. He pushed the white pole in as deeply as he 
thought was pleasurable and pushed some folds of the blanket against the 
end that was still sticking out, so it wouldn’t slip out. The blond prince 
used his still in cream covered fingers to coat Haldir’s member generously 
and straddled Haldir’s hips. He positioned himself right above the 
straining erection and lowered himself onto it, forcing it into him in one 
go. It felt like he was cleaved in half but the unbearable pleasure 
outweighed the pain. Haldir was beside himself and clutched at Legolas 
arms bucking his hips wildly. Every time he moved up against his lover 
the thing inside him slipped out a bit and when Legolas ground down he 
was pushed onto it forcefully. Haldir tried to get into a motion that 
allowed him to drive deeply into the blond elf on top of him and at the 
same time impale himself. He could already feel the tension of the 
muscles in his abdomen, the burning sensation in his balls, the slight 
quivering of his cock and a mighty roar building up somewhere in his 
throat. With the last bit of conscious thought he took a hold of Legolas’ 
arousal, stroking it with strong movements trying to match them to his 
hectic movements. Legolas had his head thrown back, sweat glistening on 
his pale chest and his hair hanging wildly around his flushed body. His 
breath was ragged and Haldir could feel, even though he was far from this 
world by now, that Legolas was close, very close.
Haldir gave on more mighty thrust upwards and immediately after pushing 
down with all the power he could muster and he cried out Legolas name as 
he came deep inside of him. His body trembled and twitched as he rode 
out  the wave of his orgasm. At the time he had impaled himself again, he 
had felt a shudder go through his lover and a hot sweet smelling liquid hit 
his belly. 
Legolas collapsed down onto Haldir and kissed him deeply. “I think you 
need another bath, my lover.” The prince whispered, teasingly. He 
carefully moved off his husband and knelt between is thighs. With gentle 
hands he removed the white object from Haldir and laid it aside. Then he 
moved up again and snuggled close to the marchwarden.
After some minutes of mutual relaxation, Haldir turned his head to 
Legolas “What, by the Valar, did you do to me?” his voice was still 
shaking slightly.
“I gave you the chance to be taken, while you took me at the same time. 
And since I don’t want to share you with anyone, not even for some sexual 
pleasure I had to think of something else.” Legolas couldn’t keep a 
straight face anymore and smiled wildly “No, to be honest, a few days ago 
I saw something that gave me this idea, you know. One of the candles had 
been standing to near to the fire and it had grown soft and it was bent over 
a little. Well, it looked tempting and it had about the right size. It didn’t 
take a lot of imagination to.....”
Haldir cut him off, laughing out load. He was holding his sides and he 
pinched his husband in the side. “What have I gotten myself into? Come 
let us take a bath together, but please no more surprises. I am quite worn 
out by now.”
“You aren’t really pleased by my idea, are you. I am sorry....” Legolas 
frowned sadly.
“Oh no, my little one. You got me all wrong. I loved it, it’s just that I am 
really tired now and would love nothing more than to slip into some hot 
water with you and then beneath some cosy covers, snuggle up and sleep.”

Haldir closed his eyes and fought down the urge to touch himself. The 
memory had been very vivid and his body had reacted strongly to it. He 
stood and stretched, considering a short walk, to get his senses back and to 
calm down the erection he was wearing. He doubted that his army would 
approve of the state of their commanding leader. 

A slight gush of wind ruffled his hair as he turned back downhill towards 
the large camp.  Even though he had just remembered a loving and gentle 
time a few moments ago, still somewhere in the back of his mind the 
feeling of dread and danger lingered and made him shiver with coldness 
that did not come from the outside but rather from his inner being.
Something or someone did feel wrong, something was about to happen. 
And Haldir was almost certain that it had something to do with Legolas. 
He hoped he would see his husband at Helm’s deep, and be able to protect 
him through the upcoming battle. Galadriel had only mentioned that she 
suspected the battle to be fierce and long but not what they were up 
against. The mentioning of a fierce battle was enough for the 
marchwarden to be worried. The Lady tended to understate things and 
Haldir had learned to interpret her words. It was going to be a living hell. 

Legolas had just finished dressing himself in his usual attire, when a 
hesitant knock announced an early visitor. He smiled to himself, knowing 
for certain that it was the dwarf standing at the other side of the door. 
Gandalf would have walked in after knocking, Aragorn would never 
knock that carefully and neither Eowyn nor Theoden would wish to enter 
his room at a time like this. 
“Come Gimli, the door is open.”
The door swung open and before his visitor was seen he already heard the 
friendly grumble of the dwarven warrior “I didn’t breath that loud, did I?”
“No, my friend you didn’t. I guessed and obviously I guessed right. Come 
in and wait until I am ready, so we can both go down into the hall for a 
little breakfast.”
“Are you forgetting that you still need to discuss a few things with me and 
Gandalf, Master Elf?”
Legolas frowned visibly, “No I haven’t forgotten. I’d rather not discuss it 
now, though.”
“But you can not wait. Now is the time. We need your advice on the 
upcoming battle, even though your bow will be sorely missed, you can 
still give us some tactical hints , can’t you.” Gimli folded his arms before 
his chest. 
“Gimli, you sound like you think I would abandon you on this quest.” 
Legolas tilted his head a little and studied the face of his friend carefully.
“No, I don’t think that you are ‘abandoning’ us. I know that you would 
stand by our side if it weren’t for your condition. I’m not blaming you. I 
understand perfectly. I am sorry, maybe I have chosen the wrong words, 
I....”
“Shhh...!” Legolas silenced the dwarf gently. “I did not misinterpret 
anything you said, but I think you got to the wrong conclusion. I am not 
leaving the fellowship. I am going with you to Helm’s deep.”
“Legolas, even you might think that it is safer in Helm’s deep, I strongly 
advice to leave in direction of Lothlorien. If you leave now, you can make 
it. A single rider will not be of interest to wandering hordes of orcs. They 
will come here anyway.” Gimli strode over to one of the chairs in front of 
the fire and sat down heavily.
“Gimli, you still are not understanding. I am NOT leaving. I will fight 
alongside you. And from there we will go on, to Gondor and to Mordor if 
need be.” Now Legolas crossed his arms defensively in front of his chest. 
It took Gimli a  few seconds to comprehend. “What?” He hollered. “You 
can not possible be serious about that. I will not let you near any battle or 
foe in that condition of yours. You have not only your life to protect now. 
How can you be so, .... so uncaring?” Gimli had jumped up and now 
glared at the tall elf.
“Gimli, please calm yourself, I...” “Calm myself? This is outrageous. 
Propitious. Unbelievable. You cannot....”
“Gimli!” Legolas had raised his voice “Listen to me. I know it is very hard 
to understand this. But we are talking about the fate of Middle earth. We 
elves are the ones responsible for this world. The Valar gave us the duty to 
look after Middle earth and all its creatures. It is not just a duty, it is our 
fate. I cannot simple abandon this, not in a time like this. I know in what 
great risk I will put myself and the child in, but it is my duty.”
“Your duty?? Where are all those, ah so responsible elves now, that 
Middle earth needs them? I thought children were so precious to your 
people? How can you endanger it like this.”
“Gimli, do you honestly believe, that I went through all this trouble, to get 
fertile, I became pregnant, kind of by accident and now I am going to 
throw it all away? Do you believe that I don’t care? This child means more 
to me than you can possible understand or comprehend. But if I stray away 
from my course now, and maybe it was this one arrow I could have shot, 
that holds the fate of Sauron or any of his servants, and Middle earth falls; 
what kind of world will it be? I wouldn’t be able to leave anymore. What 
would happen to Valinor? How could I raise a child here? Gimli, I have to 
go!”
Gimli was just about to give the elf his answer, when the door opened and 
Gandalf strode in. One look the two friends told him all he needed to 
know.
He turned to Legolas “So you have chosen to come with us then?”
Legolas look at Gandalf “Yes.”
Gimli strode towards the old Istari “How can you be this calm about it? 
We cannot let him go! Say something, do something!”
“Gimli, I don’t believe, I can change our elf’s mind, in this matter. You 
have to understand that elves do have a special role here on Middle earth. I 
fear for him and the unborn child as much as you do, but all we can do is 
to help and protect him the best we can. And I think you will be the 
perfect protection for him. Legolas, “ Gandalf turned and addressed the elf 
“only we know about your condition. Don’t you think you should tell 
Aragorn as well?”
“No, Gandalf. He doesn’t even know about our marriage. Haldir and I had 
been apart for a long time already when I got to know Aragorn, that I 
wouldn’t want to bother him with my private life now. He has enough to 
worry about already. No, maybe, if we all survive this, he will know 
eventually. Let me keep it to myself for now.”
“If you wish. But if the need arises, don’t hesitate to ask for help, for I 
won’t be there to help you.”
Gimli stood proud as he interrupted “Don’t worry Master Gandalf. I will 
protect not only our elf but also his child. I think my head has the perfect 
height. So Legolas, if you just stay behind me, nothing can go wrong.” 

Gandalf left them, in order to find Eomer and promised to be back on  the 
fifth day. The people of Edoras had evacuated their homes and took only 
the most important things with them and now they marched towards 
Helm’s deep. Legolas was scouting the area on foot, while some others 
went on horses to clear their path of any approaching foe. Gimli had 
chosen to stay on Arod, not because he liked riding so much, or his short 
legs wouldn’t carry him, but he had made up his mind, that even if he was 
not an accomplished rider, he wanted to bring the horse to Legolas as 
quickly as possible, if it was needed. They had not walked half the 
distance when they were attacked by warg riders. Gimli tried to suppress 
his panic and rode after Legolas quickly. The fight was hard but over in no 
time. Many good fighters had lost their life in this fight and would be 
badly missed in the upcoming battle for Helm’s deep. When the dust had 
settled, Gimli and Legolas frantically searched for Aragorn, who was still 
missing. All they found was the pendant of the Evenstar in the hands of an 
orc who laughed at them before he died.
It was a quiet and sad returning to the rest of the group, who had already 
reached the keep. Gimli busied himself with tasks, grouping up women 
and their children, organising troops and their stations. It looked hopeless. 
Far too little men who would be able to fight, too little weapons and no 
courage wherever he looked. All his eyes met was despair and fatigue. 
Aragorn’s death weighed heavily upon them and he didn’t want to think 
about how it was for Legolas. He found the elf huddled in a corner, lost in 
thought and as if he wasn’t quite there. The dwarf crouched before 
Legolas and put his hands on the elf’s knees, a little like he had done in 
Fangorn forest. “Legolas, do you hear me?”
After a few seconds Legolas eyes refocused and he looked at the dwarf 
questioningly “Yes, Gimli?”
“How do you feel. Any problems? Nausea, dizziness? Pain? Do you need 
anything?”
“No, thank you. I just, I don’t know. I wish I could have Haldir here. I 
need him so badly. But on the other hand I dread meeting him again.”


“Why do you dread meeting him again? Are you scared that he would 
have the same opinion as I about you joining us in your condition? Maybe 
you would listen to him. I still don’t think it is a very good idea. Specially 
now that we have lost Aragorn as well.”
“Oh Gimli. It is worse than that. The main reason I choose to leave Haldir 
all those years ago was something he said, that hurt me very much. 
Coming to think of it now, I think he was right. He was right about me and 
that is taking all my hope for our future.”
“Are you talking about the future of Middle earth or your future with 
Haldir?” Gimli sat back on his heels.
“Haldir’s and my future.”
“Hey, come on. You just got back together again and you seemed quite 
happy. What could be so bad that it wouldn’t work out somehow?”
“Gimli, Haldir and I had a lot of fights when we were still together. But 
the worst bit was, when I had undergone the procedure to become fertile. 
It was not certain as when I would become pregnant, they told us that the 
first time would happen eventually and after that I could control my body 
functions to an extent that I could actually have an influence as to when I 
want to become pregnant again. But anyhow, the first time was to be kind 
of surprising. The whole time Haldir was at me, ‘be careful’, ‘don’t do 
this, don’t do that’, ‘what if your are pregnant and you don’t notice’ and so 
on. At that time Mirkwood was heavily invaded by Sauron’s creatures and 
I begged him to come with me and go to my home to defend it. He 
wouldn’t hear of it. In the end our fight got so bad that I threatened him to 
go on my own. All he said to me was; ‘Legolas, you are the most 
irresponsible person I have ever met. One can not trust in your judgement, 
or your not existing wisdom. I, for myself, would never in my life trust 
you, of all, with the life of my child. You would manage to go to war 
carrying my child and I want no part of it. Do you understand what I am 
saying?”
Gimli looked a little shocked but pulled himself together immediately 
“Listen, I don’t think he meant it like that. And he’s not here. So, he 
doesn’t know and when this war is over and we are all healthy and back 
together again, you will tell him and you’ll see that he will be happy and 
everything is going to work out just fine.”
Legolas’ lips curved in the smallest of smiles “Thank you for your 
comforting words my friend. I know Haldir hadn’t meant the words he 
said, but there is a truth in them that scares me. And I don’t think he will 
take it lightly when he finds out. But there is much time until then and we 
will have to face this battle first. There is just so little hope that we will 
make it through the night. And to think that I won’t see my love again and 
that I haven’t had the chance of telling him about our child makes me very 
sad.”
“As Aragorn said; there is always hope.” Gimli nudged Legolas legs a 
little and stood up “Come, my friend help me to get a small troop together, 
we have to make do with what we’ve got.”
Legolas got up as well and followed his comrade to the great hall and out 
to the entrance, when he suddenly heard Gimli raise his voice and saw him 
hugging the familiar form of his friend Aragorn. It couldn’t be. He was 
alive. Legolas felt his knees weaken a little. Hope flared in his chest and 
he stood waiting on top of the stairs, still not quite believing what he saw. 
Then Aragorn was ascending the steps, keeping his gaze downcast, nearly 
bumping into the elf.
The short banter between the two clearly showed the stress they were 
under and the relief to see each other again. But even though the leader of 
the fellowship was with them again, it didn’t improve the fact that there 
were no soldiers to defend the keep. Gimli sensed the upcoming fight 
between Legolas and Aragorn but he was in no situation to stop it. The 
fear was clear to see on the elf’s face when he shouted at Aragorn and 
Gimli knew better than to explain to Aragorn that Legolas was not only in 
fear for himself but also for the unborn child he was carrying. He knew the 
two friends would make up sooner or later, so he let them be. And how 
right he was, as Gimli was trying to find a chain mail for himself, he 
spotted Aragorn and the elf hugging and obviously excusing themselves 
for their previous behaviour. The dwarf couldn’t help himself making a 
joke about the chain mail he had just been trying on, as suddenly horns 
were to be heard and only he noticed the mixed emotions in Legolas voice 
as he exclaimed “Those are no orc horns!”. The elf was clearly happy to 
hear horns of his own people, but a slight twinge of fear laced his voice, 
hoping it were not the Galadrim who had come to their aid.
Aragorn stormed out of the armoury to meet whoever had announced 
himself so loudly. Out on the stairs to the great hall they all stood and 
stared, through the large gate of the keep poured an elven army of archers 
and sword fighters and leading them in a shining gold and red armour 
came Haldir of Lorien a brilliant smile on his features.
Gimli felt Legolas tense beside him but on his face the dwarf could clearly 
see love and longing shining along with a faint nervousness. Aragorn 
strode towards Haldir and hugged him close. Haldir did look a little taken 
aback but nevertheless returned the gesture, his eyes flicking form left to 
right, looking out for someone else. Legolas left Gimli’s side and when 
Aragorn had released the Lorien elf moved towards him in a warriors 
greeting. Gimli looked closely on their features and saw a deep and 
trusting love in their bottomless blue eyes.
Legolas was still a bit nervous about Haldir being here at Helm’s deep, but 
their help was very much appreciated and for him it was a great relieve to 
have his husband near at an hour like this. If they were to die in this battle, 
they still would be together in this. 
Haldir was glad when he saw Legolas unharmed. From this moment on, he 
would be able to look after him, make sure nothing happened to him and 
he would protect him. He looked deeply into his husband’s eyes and 
rejoiced at the love and longing he saw in them, though there was 
something else. Something he couldn’t quite place, something knew. 
Maybe it was something that had been there all along, he just hadn’t 
noticed before. But then again, it seemed so strange. Strange yet, not 
threatening. Haldir sighed and whispered so quietly, that he was sure only 
Legolas would be able to hear him “Let us meet a little later on, alone for 
a few minutes. Is there a place?”
Legolas smiled knowingly “Yes, through the armoury on the left hand, is a 
little room. Meet me there in two hours.” He released Haldir and stood 
behind him as Haldir turned towards Theoden once more, to announce the 
will of the elves to enter into the alliance with man once more.

Legolas was feeling like a young elfling again as he waited for Haldir in 
the room he had described. He had been overjoyed to see Haldir and he 
had been stunned how Haldir had looked, but he couldn’t shake the 
impression that Haldir had indeed noticed a change in Legolas. No matter, 
he would know in a few minutes.
Legolas had sat down in a corner on a bundle of rolled up carpets. He 
leaned his head back against the wall and closed his eyes.
Haldir felt himself shiver with anticipation as he walked towards the 
armoury. He knew that the fellowship had been through a lot since they 
had left Lothlorien. From the Lady he had heard that Boromir of Gondor 
had died and he doubted that the journey to Rohan had been an easy one. 
Fatigue was one of the first signs he had noticed in Legolas. Haldir had 
reached the room and hesitated for a second. He smoothed his hair and 
adjusted his gown before he entered. It had been only a few weeks since 
they had seen each other but to him it seemed like an eternity. He opened 
the door and peered in.  He found his beloved sitting in a corner, one leg 
pulled against his chest and head back against the wall, but as soon as 
some light poured in the eyes opened and smiled at him.
Haldir took one of the candles that had been set out in the armoury and 
moved inside, softly closing the door behind him. “Legolas!” he opened 
his arms and Legolas was on his feet in seconds moving in between them, 
letting himself be wrapped up in these strong, comforting arms. He 
inhaled Haldir’s scent deeply and sighed in contentment. How he had 
missed this feeling of security and warmth. 
Haldir felt Legolas relax in his arms and for the first time in all those 
weeks they had been apart he felt whole again. They stood like this for a 
long time, until Haldir moved his right hand, that had been stroking 
Legolas back, up to cup the chin of his husband and lifted his head up. 
“My love, are you alright? Has anything happened to you while you were 
away? Have you been injured?”
Legolas shook his head and studied Haldir closely. “No! No, melme. 
Nothing has happened to me. It was a very hard journey, full of peril but 
also of joy and satisfaction. We are all tired and we all fear the upcoming 
battle. But now that you are here with your troops we might have chance. 
Theoden overestimates this keep, he thinks nothing can get in, but he 
might not know what he is up against. Aragorn has seen such a large army 
moving in this direction, that it makes my heart tremble.”
“Shhh, I will let nothing happen to you. I do intend to spend more time 
with you than the last time. So loosing you in battle is not an option.” 
Haldir tried to smile reassuringly. Legolas cocked his head and smirked 
“Oh, and who is going to look after you then? And anyhow, I already have 
someone to look after me. So you see, you are too late to save me.”
“Who is it, that claims my place? Do I have to be jealous?” Even though 
Haldir tried to keep his tone light, a hardly noticeable trace of upcoming 
jealousy laced his voice.
“My saviour is the noble Gimli, son of Gloin. He vowed to protect me and 
wants to use his body as a shield.”
Haldir’s face split with a grin “Oh! Oh, yes I see. Well at least the parts 
are protected then!”
Legolas swallowed hard. Haldir never knew how right he was with his 
exclamation. Haldir’s hands slowly started moving along the contours of 
Legolas body, following the shoulder blades, his back, over his hips to his 
buttocks, gently squeezing them. “It has been such a long time. I need to 
feel your skin against mine, melme. Please, let me give us some pleasure 
before our world is going to be turned upside down.” One of his hands 
moved beneath Legolas’ tunic, trying to pass the shirt he was wearing to 
reach the soft, warm skin of his husband.
Legolas felt his nervousness increase with every move Haldir made. No, 
he couldn’t undress now. It was not that they hadn’t enough time, or that 
he found it unethical to enjoy bodily pleasures before an upcoming battle, 
it might as well be their last time, but he was afraid, that Haldir might 
indeed find changes in Legolas’ body. Although he was quite sure that 
nothing could be seen, yet, but still the mere thought scared him. On the 
other hand reacted his body to the caresses with renewed energy and an 
enthusiasm, that made a declination impossible. Haldir buried his face in 
the crook of Legolas’ neck and inhaled his scent deeply. He had missed 
this every waking hour for the last weeks. His moves grew more frantic to 
get beneath the clothes and armour, to get in touch with what he craved 
most. Legolas’ body. He could feel the growing tension in his beloved and 
didn’t miss the nervousness and also the growing bulge in his leggings. 
Haldir didn’t know what to make of it, but decided, that it must have 
something to do with the stress and fatigue Legolas had been under for the 
last days.
Finally he had reached his goal and Legolas’ chest lay bare before him. 
The creamy skin seemed to glow with an inner light, which was enhanced 
in the flickering light of the candle. Haldir moved his head down and took 
a nipple between his lips, gently caressing it with his teeth and tongue. His 
hands still roamed the lithe body fondling every bit of bare flesh they 
could find. In the meantime Legolas’ hands were busy themselves of 
getting rid of Haldir’s annoying armour, cloak and shirt. But it seemed a 
hopeless task. “No, my love.” Haldir stopped Legolas’ failing attempts. 
“There are too many layers on me. Let me give you pleasure, you can 
always return the favour later on. But for now let me taste you, feel you 
trembling, loosing yourself to me. Please, give me a sweet memory I can 
take with me out there to the fight we are about to face. Legolas growled 
in frustration, but soon Haldir’s hands turned those sounds of mock anger 
into sounds of utter pleasure and abandon. He moved his head down again, 
licking and biting his way down the plains of the taunt stomach, nibbling 
with his lips the slightly softer skin at the lower abdomen and nipped at 
the lacing of the offending breeches. He had pushed Legolas against a 
wall, to which the Mirkwood elf now hung onto for support, and holding 
his hands still to the narrow hips before him he went down to his knees.
It didn’t take Haldir long to untie the leggings and carefully he freed the 
straining erection from its confinement only using his tongue. He could 
feel Legolas’ legs tremble beneath his touch and it made him smile. It was 
something wonderful to have the other tremble with lust for oneself even 
after so many years of knowing each other. Wonderful that the other did 
still react that strongly to his ministrations and that his own body showed 
its passion in the same way.
Haldir licked his lips, wetting them thoroughly, closed them and pushed 
them slowly against the head of the arousal. Using only the slight pressure 
of Legolas’ tiny moves towards him to push open his mouth. The younger 
elf groaned, it felt like penetrating Haldir’s body in a totally other region 
and it amazed him what his lover could do with his mouth.
Once the head was inside, Haldir gave it quick and tiny licks with the tip 
of his tongue. He moved one hand down to fondle the soft sack between 
his fingers and all of a sudden took Legolas’ erection all the way in. 
Fighting down the gag reflex he let the head nudge the back of his throat, 
swallowing a few times after another, achieving the wanted effect. Legolas 
lost all his coherency and clutched at Haldir’s head thrusting deeply into 
Haldir’s willing mouth. He pulled out nearly all the way and plunged in 
again to the limit. All the while Haldir managed to keep his lips tightly 
sealed around the shaft giving the effect of a tight canal, hot and wet 
inside. He felt his own erection pressing against his clothes painfully and 
he knew it would only take a single touch for him to reach his climax. 
When he felt Legolas’ cock pulsing and the thrusts becoming more and 
more shallow he slipped his other hand down and grasped his own 
member firmly through the leggings pumping into his own hands with all 
the strength he had. Legolas let out a load roar as he exploded into 
Haldir’s mouth and sagged against the wall, his chest heaving and breath 
coming in short gasps. When he opened his eyes, he saw the most erotic 
sight. Haldir was pushing into his own hand, head thrown back and 
Legolas could see his own semen dribble from Haldir’s chin. Suddenly 
Haldir’s body shuddered and he collapsed forward, holding onto Legolas’ 
legs for support.


Haldir rested his forehead against the lower abdomen of his lover and 
fought for breath. He circled his arms around Legolas holding him firmly. 
Deep inside Haldir felt so whole and relaxed it surprised him. Kneeling in 
front of his husband feeling the soft skin of his body oh his face, an energy 
pulsing between them, it felt like something he had always waited for. A 
feeling of closeness and togetherness, for the first time it felt like it should. 
They were one, a little bit like family, something to hold on to in times of 
need and despair. Something....., something had definitely changed, he just 
couldn’t figure out what it was, something was there between them and on 
the other hand holding them together, something.....
Noises from the armoury interrupted Haldir’s musings and he let out a 
sigh, slowly getting up from the ground, helping Legolas back into his 
clothes and armour. Legolas laughed quietly as he reached for Haldir’s 
face and wiped his chin and mouth with his hand. “You had there 
something....” 
Haldir shook his head and claimed the smiling mouth in a loving and 
tender kiss. “Come, I think we have to got now. It is time to face whatever 
is out there.” He turned to open the door, but before he did so he suddenly 
looked at Legolas again “Tell me that you love me. Please. I need to hear 
it before we go out there.”
Legolas felt tears stinging his eyes “I love you, Hervenn nín. More than 
my life. And what ever will happen to us, I will never stop loving you. 
And I will always wait for you, where ever that may be. You have my 
heart and my soul.” He kissed Haldir deeply, while his inner self was in an 
uproar. He so much wanted to tell Haldir about the child he was carrying, 
but he knew it would only make things worse. But he promised himself, 
right after the battle was over he would tell Haldir and together they would 
protect it and find a way to leave Middle earth.
Haldir opened the door and found a smiling Gimli on the other side. “Ah, 
there you are. I was wondering were you two had disappeared to. Haldir I 
hope you have been checking Legolas’ armour and if everything is in 
working order.” 
Haldir nudged Gimli’s slightly and nodded his voice sounding neutral “Of 
course. I wanted him to wear a little more than just this bit of arm defences 
but he insisted that he wouldn’t need anything else, for he had a walking 
armour to guard him. Did I understand him correctly?”
“I promised you once before, I will protect your better half. Aragorn called 
for you, Sauron’s army is approaching and you might want to give your 
archers your commands.”

Haldir had stationed himself with his troops, while Legolas and Gimli 
were positioned a little more two the right of the large entrance gates. 
What everybody saw was nothing to heighten their spirits. A dark mass as 
far as the eyes could see, had marched up to Helm’s deep and as darkness 
fell it started to rain as if the Valar were truly signalling the end of elves 
and men alike.
A stray arrow started the massacre and the following fight was brutal and 
bloody. Theoden had been so overly sure about his keep, that when the 
Uruk-Hai managed to break to walls with the help of Saruman’s explosive, 
chaos erupted. It was hard to make out who was friend or foe, the darkness 
and rain had covered the keep and amidst the fallen bodies and mud 
everybody looked a little bit alike. 
Haldir tried to keep a look out for Legolas from time to time, sometimes 
even spotting a flash of golden hair among the black mass that was 
continuously fighting its way into the keep. Suddenly he hard Aragorn call 
out for him, telling him to draw back. He ordered his remaining fighters to 
pull back into the keep, when all of a sudden he was attacked from his left 
side. He managed to block the first blow, but the second pierced his side 
and he fought to stay upright. Haldir pushed his opponent away, when he 
felt an agonising pain right from his skull to his lower back. All feeling in 
his legs left him and he sagged down helplessly to his knees. ‘Legolas. 
Legolas were are you?’ All he saw were dead elven bodies, so many, all 
slaughtered. Was his beloved among them? He would soon know. He tried 
to call out, but no sound escaped his lips, he wanted to tell Legolas he 
would wait for him, wait for him in Mando’s halls.
Suddenly somebody was holding him, talking to him, but he couldn’t 
answer, couldn’t see anything anymore. All he knew, that is was Aragorn, 
he could still hear his voice, shouting in anger at the surrounding orcs. 
Then, even though his eyes were wide open, everything went black. 
‘Legolas’ was his last thought, before he was no more.
Aragorn roared and fought like a madman to kill everything that was 
around him.

All that were left had drawn back into the halls of Helm’s deep and the 
glittering caves. Some soldiers and the three members of the fellowship 
were trying to barricade the doors against the still advancing Uruk-Hais. 
No one could tell for sure who and how many had survived the onslaught, 
some had already retreated into the caves, some had fled to the open fields 
or up the mountain walls. But here in the depth of the keep they were 
definitely trapped. But when the morning broke and Aragorn saw the sun 
rise in the east, their decision stood. They would ride out and meet their 
foes in a hand to hand battle. Even Gimli had no time telling Legolas not 
to go, for he had been sent to sound the horn of Helm Hammerhand once 
more. And so they rode out, slashing Uruk-Hais as they went, Legolas 
swung his sword cleaving heads on his way. 
Then they saw Gandalf approaching and with him Eomer and his men. 
Together they chased the remaining army of Saruman way into the next 
night, by then having crossed half the distance to Isengard.
All were tired but also happy to still be alive, even though their battered 
bodies told a different story. Eomer’s men took it upon them to built up a 
few campfires, being not as exhausted as the fighters that had left Helm’s 
deep. 
The remains of the fellowship and Eomer had gathered around one of the 
fires resting their tired bodies. Gandalf and Aragorn were quietly talking 
to each other while Gimli fuzzed over Legolas, looking after some 
scratches and minor wounds the elf had received during the fights. A 
sudden choked sob from Aragorn stopped their moves or their talk. 
Legolas looked at his friend in confusion. Gimli, still holding a bandage he 
was just putting around Legolas’ upper arm forgot what he was doing and 
Eomer was the one to ask Aragorn if he was in any pain. Only Gandalf 
stayed calm and threw a sad glance at Legolas.
“No, Eomer. He is not in pain. At least not his body, but his soul is.” 
Gandalf tried to calm them, but to no avail, for suddenly Aragorn let go of 
his torment “He just died. He died in my arms. One moment he was 
standing tall as a young and strong tree and in the next he was broken, like 
a twig snapped in the middle. I could see the light break in his eyes, at first 
it was like he was looking out for something and then they just went still. 
He tried to speak but no sound ever left his lips. His blood was soaking my 
legs and arm, he must have been cleaved in two, so bad it was. Oh, by the 
Valar, I had known him for so long, I counted him among my friends and 
now he is gone. I can not believe it. He meant so much to me and Arwen.”
Legolas had paled drastically during Aragorn’s speech and he didn’t dare 
to utter a single sound.
“Who died, my friend?” Eomer asked in a soft voice.
“Haldir. Haldir of Lorien.” 



Before Gimli heard anything he felt a violent tremor go through Legolas 
body and only a split second afterwards he heard the worst sound his ears 
ever had witnessed. It was not a loud sound, it was not a cry, neither a sob 
nor a whimper. It was a faint sound from the bottom of a broken soul. It 
was so small but it broke the hearts of all the surrounding persons that had 
heard it. Legolas was deathly pale as he rose and left the circle of his 
friends without another word. 
Aragorn’s look was one of confusion as he watched his life long friend 
leave. He watched as Gimli immediately followed the vanishing silhouette 
of the elf. Eomer looked shocked and taken aback, for he had never heard 
anything like it but understood that someone was in very great pain, so he 
stayed where he was and tried not to interfere. 
Gandalf laid a comforting hand on Aragorn’s shoulder and turned to him.
“I am sorry, my friend. You did not know. Legolas and Haldir were more 
than just good friends. They have been bound to each other for nearly two 
millennia by now.”
Aragorn’s eyes were brimmed with tears “What? He never spoke of it to 
me. And I have known both all my life.”
“Yes, I know. They had been apart for a long time. They had separated in 
anger over a thousand years ago, but while you stayed in Lothlorien they 
have made up again and discovered that they were still very much in love 
with each other. It must have been hard on them, but they choose not to 
tell you because they didn’t want to trouble you any further. Only Gimli 
found out and he has been Legolas emotional right hand, so to say, ever 
since.”
“Oh my.....! What will happen to him now. Gandalf, if it is true that elves 
can die of a broken heart, Gandalf that sound that he just made, it sounded 
like...., like ...”
“Yes, I know. Like his heart and soul had ceased to exist. But maybe if we 
are lucky, there might be a chance that there is something in his life that 
will keep him alive.”

Gimli ran after Legolas as fast as his short legs would carry him, but it 
took him a long time until he found the elf huddled against the trunk of an 
old tree. He looked lifeless, the breathing barely noticeable, the skin had a 
waxy colour and his eyes were closed. Only the continuos flow of tears 
showed that he obviously was still alive.
Very carefully the dwarf moved up to the elf. He softly laid a hand on the 
slim shoulder and felt the trembling of the body. “Legolas. Legolas, can 
you hear me? Please my friend, answer me. Are you there?” The dwarf 
stroke the shoulder tenderly and shook him slightly. Still he got no 
response from the elf. Gimli feared for Legolas life and shook him a bit 
stronger. “Legolas! Listen to me. Open your eyes. Don’t do this to me. 
Don’t do this at all. I mean you have a lot to look after now. We need you, 
the child needs you! Listen, your child. You are not going to give up now 
are you?”
Legolas felt nothing, heard nothing and saw nothing. Only the pain that 
was in his heart. A pain that outdid everything he had encountered before. 
It paralysed him, made it impossible to breath and move, all he wanted 
was to find peace and rest. A rest that would last forever. A peace that 
would bring him back to Haldir. But through it all came a constant 
heartbeat keeping him from giving it all up, a very little faint flutter and 
presence that demanded his care and his love. If it hadn’t been for the 
unborn child the Prince of Mirkwood would have not lasted through this 
night.
Slowly his consciousness resurfaced and with it all the anguish and 
sadness. Hadn’t there been the constant warmth of another person holding 
his shoulders speaking words of comfort and friendship, he would have 
cried out his agony into the darkness of the night. 



Eowyn listened intently until no more cries of war were heard. It was 
getting dark outside and the upcoming task was not an easy one. She and a 
few other women had remained in the keep together with a few of the 
older fighters, who were now going to help them with most possibly 
gruesome part of a battle. After all enemies were gone, they had to go out 
and sort out the wounded from the dead. Very often severely wounded 
fighters were left for dead by the enemy and it was their task to find them 
quickly and see if they could be saved. The dead were to be piled up and 
burned in order to avoid a plague or diseases caused by rotting flesh. War 
was always a terrible burden on the remaining people and families.
The shieldmaiden of Edoras turned and gestured to a small group of men 
and  women to follow her outside. Some time before she had given each 
one specific orders, on what they had to look for, what to ignore and when 
to call for her help.
With the help of torches and a few remaining oil lamps they went into the 
yard of the keep. What they saw here was worse then what they had 
expected, even Eowyn, who took pride in being as tough as most of the 
male fighters, felt her throat tighten as she overlooked the scene. Pushing 
up her sleeve and fighting down the urge to run away from all of this she 
went to work.
Hours later they had already found several survivors, men, children, young 
men and some women. Where they stumbled across alive orc or Uruk-
Hais they slit their throats and immediately set fire to their bodies. Dawn 
was already creeping up over the surrounding hills and mountain, when in 
the faint morning light and the ghastly flickering of the burning corpses, 
Eowyn sorted her way through the remains of men, elves and foe on one 
of the parapets. Tiredness and sore muscles had used up her last energy, 
but she was determined to go on. She felt a sting at her heart as she got 
hold of a piece of bright red cloth while shifting dead bodies aside. She 
remembered the colour well. It had been the armour of the elf from 
Lothlorien, who had lead the elven army here. Had he fallen, too? She 
hoped not. Maybe this was just a piece of the cloth that had been ripped 
off during the fight. She tugged at it a little bit stronger, but obviously it 
was hanging on to something. She shifted another dead orc, and noticed to 
her horror, that she was holding onto the lower hem of the cloak of that 
elven warrior. Eowyn franticly continued throwing corpses aside until he 
was lying before her. Eyes open and unseeing, his body still and cold. She 
bowed her head in sadness and moved her hand to close his eyes.
Weakness overcame her and she slumped down on her knees and buried 
her face in her hands. Tears of frustration welled up in her eyes and she let 
them flow. After some minutes she gathered herself again and was about 
to get up from the ground, when she suddenly noticed a slight ripple in the 
pool of blood before her. Quickly she raised her head and checked for 
wind. No, not the slightest breeze. Nothing. She looked down again and 
then she saw it. The body must still be bleeding. The pool was slowly but 
steadily growing bigger. Hectically Eowyn placed a hand beneath the chin 
of the elven warrior and tried to find a pulse. It took her some time to find 
it, for her hands were shaking and it was very faint, but there it was. The 
sign of life. 

Eowyn searched the body for wounds and broken bones. There was 
nothing she could make out from this side, she had to turn him over but 
she hadn’t enough strength left. She quickly got off the ground and called 
for help. Marna and Hamling were the nearest and rushed to her aid. Very 
carefully they turned the  elf over. Marna quickly turned around and 
leaned over the edge of the parapet for fresh air. Eowyn choked and 
Hamling closed his eyes for a second. A mighty stroke of an axe had 
cleaved the back nearly in two. Right beside the spinal column, most of 
the ribs had been separated from it and the cut had even reached the skull. 
The skull had been cracked at the bottom, but not to such a bad extend that 
it was open, though the blank bone shone through. Eowyn took a deep 
breath and ordered Hamling to build a stretcher and lift the elf carefully 
onto it. 
After half an hour they had managed to bring the body of the elf inside the 
keep into a large room were most of the wounded were treated. By the 
time they laid him face down on a table, more helpers had arrived and 
were now busy treating wounded and dying. Marna helped Eowyn, who 
had decided to tend to the Lorien elf herself, and fetched some water, 
healing herbs and bandages. Eowyn had heard that elves were fast healers 
but she had no idea how fast and if those healing powers were able to 
restore flesh and bone, like it was needed in this case. Very carefully 
Eowyn cut through the remaining layers of cloth and armour, laying bare 
the pale and slender body. When she cut away the shirt in the area of the 
neck, she found a severely damaged chain of the finest Mithril. While 
Marna went to cleaning the gashes, Eowyn cautiously pulled the chain out 
from under the shirt. Two matching rings hung to it, one slightly smaller 
than the other. It was hard to make out in this light, but she could make out 
different kind of leaves entwined with each other.

There was so much pain, scorching, searing and ripping through his body. 
A mixture of hot and cold, burning him. There was not supposed to be any 
pain in Mandos Halls, was there? The feeling of hands on his body, 
pushing him, rubbing something onto his skin, tying him up in some way. 
What was happening, he still couldn’t see, his hearing was not as it used to 
be and he couldn’t move. Where was he? What was happening? He 
wished to leave this torment, get rid of this pain, he wanted to be free to 
move and make himself known. His lips parted on their own accord, 
drawing in a shuddering breath. His tongue seemed to be glued to the roof 
of his mouth, it seemed swollen and partly paralysed, but after some failed 
attempts he was able to make a sound. It was no more than a harsh breath 
but Eowyn, who stood at the head of the table, bandaging his head, heard 
it nonetheless. “Legolas”.



Gimli still sat with the trembling elf in his arms. After some time the 
racking sobs subsided and the breathing became easier. Legolas slowly 
opened his bleary eyes and a small whimper left his mouth.
“My dear elven friend. It seems that I have you back at last. Come open 
you eyes a little further. Please speak to me. Legolas.” Gimli was gently 
stroking Legolas back, while he wiped the tears away from the pale face 
with his other hand.
“Gimli,” Legolas voice was faint and weak “Gimli, have you been here all 
the time?”
“Yes, Master elf. I have not left your side.”
“Gimli, I can not go on. I cannot live without him. It hurts so much. I need 
him, I can still feel his hands on my skin, his lips on mine. Gimli, help 
me.” Legolas shuddered and the tears fell from anew.
“Legolas, listen to me. You have to hold on. We need you. Your child 
needs you. Do you hear me? Your child, Legolas. It is a part of Haldir you 
are carrying. It needs you very badly, don’t give up now. We will all help 
you get through this.”
“Oh Gimli, why did he come to Helm’s deep? Why did this happen. Oh 
Elbereth, and I didn’t even tell him of our child. He died without knowing. 
I was too scared to tell him, but I decided that after the battle I would tell 
him everything, I even would have left the fellowship if he had asked me 
to. He was my everything, Gimli.” Sobs started shaking the slim frame 
again, as Legolas buried his face in Gimli’s shoulder and cried.
It took a long time until Gimli felt Legolas relax and the partially regular 
breathing indicated that the elf had fallen into a light but healing sleep.

Gandalf had left the campsite and followed the path Gimli had taken to 
find Legolas. It didn’t take the old wizard long to find them. He found 
them beneath an old and large tree, the dwarf holding the elf in his arms 
stroking his back soothingly. If it hadn’t been such a tragic situation 
Gandalf would have laughed about the odd pair. But now he just quietly 
stepped nearer and gently laid his hand on the elf’s head.
“He is sleeping. That is a good sign. Maybe his will and love for his child 
will keep him going. But we have to get him nearer to the fire. He needs 
warmth. Come Master dwarf, I will carry him.” With that the old Istari 
cautiously took the slim frame from Gimli’s arms and moved through the 
darkness towards the campsite.

Aragorn jumped as soon as he saw Gandalf emerging from the woods 
carrying Legolas limp body in his arms. Gimli followed on the wizards 
heels and as they reached the fire he hurried to lay out a bedroll near the 
warmth from the fire and watched with a concerned expression as Gandalf 
lowered his friend onto the blanket. They covered him with some blankets 
and sat down to either side of him. 
“Gandalf, what happened? He isn’t...” Aragorn looked shaken as he stared 
down at the lifeless form.
“No. No, my friend. He is still with us. But it will take time for him to 
recover, if he ever will. We all have to help him. Maybe, if we are lucky, 
there are things for him to live for. But I cannot make any statements at 
present. Go, rest now Aragorn. We are all weary and it will not help us or 
him if we weaken ourselves further.”


Eowyn sat quietly beside the silver haired elf, watching him sleep. Or at 
least she thought so. She had heard about elves sleeping with open eyes, 
but she had never witnessed it. It made her feel uneasy to see it actually 
happen before her own eyes. Not knowing if it was a good or bad sign, she 
leaned over from time to time to check if he was still breathing. The 
wounds had stopped bleeding some time ago, but it would take weeks, if 
not month until they were able to roll him onto his back again. If it would 
happen at all, but she refused to give up hope. No sound had come past his 
lips since he uttered the name Legolas some hours ago.
When Marna came into the smaller room again, in which they had moved 
the mortally wounded fighters, she found Eowyn sleeping in one of the 
chairs beside the bed with the elf. She didn’t want to wake her, so she 
simply pulled a blanket over the sleeping woman and sat down on the 
other vacant chair for the night watch.
A small sound woke Eowyn, it was a harsh whisper that caught her 
attention. She looked around in the nearly completely dark room, where 
only one candle was lit not to disturb the sleeping. She could see Marna’s 
wide open eyes, staring at her questioningly. There it was again; 
something she didn’t understand “Nen, seas.”
“Nen”
Eowyn’s eyes went wide, the elf was speaking. His voice was hoarse and 
fragile but nonetheless he was speaking “Sorry, I don’t understand you! 
Do you want something? Some water perhaps?”
“Mae. Yes, please. Water.”
The shieldmaiden was up in no time. She picked up a goblet filled with 
water and hastily returned to the wounded elf. When he wanted to move, 
she quickly held him back “No, you mustn’t move. Please your back was 
badly injured. Here let me help you.” She put the Goblet to Haldir’s lips 
and watched him drink thirstily. 
“Diola lle. Thank you.” He muttered as he rested his again on the pillow. 
“Where am I?” 
“We are still at Helm’s deep. We found you outside after the battle. 
Everyone believed you were dead, but I saw you were still bleeding. We 
brought you in here and tended your wounds. They are really bad, but 
maybe with the healing powers of your people you might recover. I know 
you came here from Lorien, but I do not know your name Master elf. 
Would you care to tell it me?”
“My name is Haldir, Haldir of Lorien.”
“I am Eowyn, niece of King Theoden.”
“Has the battle ended? What happened to my people? There was another 
elf, he didn’t come with my troops, he...” Haldir’s voice trembled and 
coughing kept him from speaking any further.
“Shhh... You must rest. We will talk later. Please you will need your 
strength.”
“Please I must know. His name... his name is Legolas.”
“He left with Aragorn, the dwarf, Theoden and some soldiers to meet 
Gandalf to hunt down the remaining foes.”
A faint smile lit up Haldir’s face “He is alive then. Oh Elbereth. I thank 
thee.” He sank down onto the pillow again and weariness overtook him 
and sent him back into a deep sleep.



Eowyn stared in amazement at Haldir. His injuries had been so severe, that 
she was sure he would not survive another night. She sat back in her chair 
and rested her right hand on Haldir’s uninjured shoulder. Like this she had 
the chance to notice any change in his breathing.

Haldir felt like he was floating. The pain had not really lessened, but 
Eowyn had just told him that Legolas was still alive. Or rather he had been 
still alive when they left. Haldir knew quite well, that Legolas’ chance of 
survival out in the open was better than in a closed keep like this. Elves 
were not made for walls of stone.
When the axe of the Uruk-Hai had cleaved his back and all his senses had 
failed him, Haldir had been sure that he was dead. He had regretted all 
those wasted years as his life seemed to pass him by in a matter of a split 
second. And now he was here, saved by someone he had not even known. 
Deep in his heart he begged that all would come to a good end and that he 
would see his love again. His thoughts still lingered with Legolas when his 
mind slipped into sleep.

Hamling came and woke Eowyn and Marna when the sun had risen and 
the room was flooded with the warming rays of an early summer day.
Eowyn immediately checked on Haldir finding him fast asleep. She left 
his side only a few minutes to fetch some warm water and fresh healing 
herbs and bandages. The dressings on his back needed a change. Marna 
was instantly at her side, when she saw that Eowyn was removing the 
spoiled bandages from Haldir’s upper back. 
When they had removed them, both gasped in surprise. It looked like the 
flesh and bone were mending rapidly. Even though Eowyn didn’t dare to 
probe for the ribs that been severed from the spinal column, from what she 
saw, she guessed that they were slowly growing new connecting tissue. 
This was amazing, but he would still need a few weeks to recover fully. A 
sigh of relief left Eowyn. She was sure now that this elf was going to make 
it. She didn’t know why she cared so much for this particular one, there 
were many brave and wounded fighters, maybe it was because he had 
brought the elves to Helm’s deep or maybe because he was fighting so 
hard to get well. Obviously because he needed to know if Legolas was 
well. It made her curious and she sat her mind on finding out more about 
this subject.

After they had finished redressing Haldir’s wounds, the two women 
moved to the other wounded in this room. Maybe it was the influence of a 
firstborn within these walls, or just mere luck, but no one had died the last 
night and it sent their hope flying.
Later during the day, after Eowyn had watched over the preparation of the 
food for the wounded, she took a bowl of porridge with small cut bacon in 
it and went back to the elf. He obviously had been awake for some time 
and his eyes were much clearer than during the night. Eowyn smiled at 
him and sat down beside his bed.
“’Quel re, my lady.” Haldir spoke quietly and with some effort.
“I presume you are wishing me a good day, am I right?” she smiled.
Haldir nodded in response and a tiny smile curved his lips.
“I hope you are hungry, I have brought something to strengthen you and 
some fresh water if you like.” Eowyn showed Haldir the bowl of food.
Haldir restrained himself from frowning. He had heard about the eating 
habits of man, but he was too well educated in diplomacy to let his 
revulsion get the upper hand and ask the Lady for some fresh fruit. He 
would have to make do with what was offered. Far worse was the fact that 
Lady Eowyn seemed to have made up her mind about this and was 
definitely going to hand feed him. Maybe she was right though, the 
slightest movement let a piercing pain shoot through his back and 
shoulders. So he smiled and nodded at her.
“I am sorry to treat you like an invalid,” she laughed suddenly “well, then 
again you are, aren’t you. But I can not allow you to move. You will have 
to accept my help and let me feed you.”
Haldir was impressed by her gentle but lively spirit, she was a remarkable 
woman of her kind. So he willingly accepted her offer and enthusiastically 
wolfed down the offered porridge. It was fantastic how much better he felt 
afterwards.
Eowyn placed the empty bowl on the ground and leaned back in her chair. 
She enjoyed watching the elf getting better and she wanted to know more 
about him.
“I see you did enjoy the meal, even though I had the feeling that you were 
slightly taken aback at first. I promise, when we are in Edoras again, we 
hopefully will have a greater variety of food we can offer you.”
“Thank you, yes indeed I obviously was very hungry. And I am sorry, I 
did not want to offend you. I am in your depth for your generous help and 
hospitality. But you are very perceptive, I would indeed have preferred 
some fruit and bread.”
“No offence taken. I for myself am not too keen on porridge. But we’re 
soldiers and as such we do not tend to mutter. Right?” She smiled 
winningly at him.
“No, I suppose not.”
“Are you in need of anything else? Would you like to sleep or rather talk a 
little. I for myself sometimes find a little conversation during a healing 
process quite valuable. It keeps the mind off the pain and time passes more 
quickly.”
“Is it that you can read my mind, my dear Lady? I didn’t dare bother you 
with my questions and now you suggest it yourself. You truly are a 
shining example of your people and they must be very proud to have you.”
Eowyn blushes slightly and waved it off with her hand “Oh, thank you, 
but I think it is just a matter of education. You can find as much 
hospitality and friendliness in a farmer’s wife as in a noble woman. But I 
am flattered that you feel that way. Now, what question did you want to 
ask me?”
Haldir cleared his throat carefully fearing the pain that would instantly 
follow and took a deep breath “This may sound unusual to you, but though 
I remember I asked you this before, I need to know more. I can only recall 
the battle to the point were Aragorn called out to me to draw my people 
back.” Suddenly Haldir’s face paled visibly “Oh, by Elbereth. Aragorn 
was there when I fell. He held me in his arms. I can remember his voice. 
He must have thought me dead. Just like I did. If he told Legolas. Oh no! I 
must get word to him immediately.”
“Haldir, please calm down. What can I do to help? Is Legolas family? Do 
we need to tell anyone else? Are you afraid that these new could reach the 
golden wood. Have you got a wife that needs to know that you are still 
alive? I have heard that elves do suffer terribly once they loose a loved 
one.”
“No, no wife. Legolas, no.... if Aragorn tells him, he will.... la! Mela en’ 
coiamin! ...”
“Haldir! Listen to me, please. Look at me. Look me in the eyes, take a 
deep breath.” Eowyn had got up from her chair and held Haldir’s 
shoulders down. After a few seconds the elf calmed down a bit and Eowyn 
moved back to her chair. 
“Now, Haldir. What is the matter. What could be wrong with your fellow 
elf?”
“He is my Hervenn. Bonded, husband. If learns of this...”
“Your what?” Eowyn looked astonished and confused.
“He is my husband. My beloved. He will die of a broken heart if he is not 
informed that I am still alive. Do you know where they are, or where they 
will be going?”
“No, I am not sure. But I think they will be going to Edoras in a few days. 
I could write a message for you and send it there. So when they arrive he 
will know that you are here and healing.”
“Yes, yes please I would be for ever grateful. I hope it’s not too late. 
Maybe he doesn’t know yet. Maybe we still have the time.”
Eowyn turned to Marna, who had been quietly talking to another wounded 
“Marna, please. Fetch me an blank scroll and ink and quill. Quickly!”
Marna was true to her word and left immediately having heard the distress 
in her Lady’s voice.
In the meantime Eowyn tried to calm down Haldir. She was mildly 
shocked at this unexpected turn of events. Two males married? It was a 
subject that was thought upon with tolerance and good will among man. 
She had heard of so called male ‘couples’, but they were not looked upon 
with a favoured eye and so they mostly lived in secrecy. 
Why she waited for Marna to return with the utensils, she had told her to 
fetch, she dwelled upon these thoughts and after a while found it hard to 
understand the rejection those people experienced. Haldir seemed such a 
nice person and Legolas had been charming, a fabulous fighter and both 
elves had left her with the impression of gentleness and valour. Her 
thoughts about them hadn’t changed in the last minutes, now that she 
knew about them and their relationship. And if they were truly committed 
to each other, with all the consequences and joys of a bonding, what could 
possibly be wrong with that. 
Anyhow, she would help them the best way she could and in return she 
would ask Haldir to tell her a bit more about them.



It was a dreadful night for all of them. Most of the Rohan riders were not 
able to rest peacefully. Aragorn was muttering in his sleep and Legolas 
cried out more then one time. Gimli sometimes dozed off but all through 
the night he stayed at the elf’s side, holding and comforting him. Rather 
early in the morning Aragorn got up and moved away from the camp. It 
seemed he needed to sort out a few things on his own.
Gandalf took the advantage of the situation and moved over to Legolas 
and Gimli. When he reached them, he saw something amazing and never 
had he witnessed such gentleness and devotion. Legolas head was resting 
in Gimli’s lap and a large and callused hand very lovingly stroking the 
elves belly, were the child grew. Gimli was whispering to it in a low and 
quiet voice, telling it of hope and its father’s desperation. Telling it how 
he, Gimli, and all the others would help Legolas to hold on and that it 
needed to make itself known from time to time, to give its father 
encouragement and the will to live. 
Gandalf cleared his throat and smiled when Gimli removed his hand as if 
caught. 
“How is our dear Legolas faring?”
Gimli’s voice was a low rumble “I think he doing better than yesterday 
night. His breathing is more regular than before. Do you think we should 
try and wake him?”
“Mhm, maybe yes. I will get us something to drink and eat.” Gandalf got 
up and moved over to their supplies.
Gimli touched the side of the elf’s face and spoke gently to him “Master 
elf, are you willing to wake up? Willing to join us for a little breakfast?”
It took Legolas some minutes to find his way back from the elven dream 
realm to the land of the living, he had felt save and warm, far away from 
the perils of the world. The pain had faded and he felt like Haldir was still 
with him. Like he was still here on Middle earth and he just had stretch out 
his hands to touch him. He wasn’t willing to leave the realm just yet, but 
Gimli was continuously talking to him and pulling him out.
Legolas opened his eyes and the first thing he saw were Gimli’s dark, 
smiling eyes.
“Good morning, my dear friend. I am glad to have you back. How are you 
feeling?”
But Legolas just stared at him to weak to speak. Tears were welling up in 
his eyes and he turned his head. “No, dear Legolas, you are not going to 
hide from me. Come, let me help you up and you will get something to eat 
and drink.”
“Please, leave me alone. I don’t want anything.”
“Legolas, no! I am not going to leave you. I want you to get better. I don’t 
want to loose you.” Gimli held his friend by the shoulders and got him 
into a sitting position.
“Look at me elf! You are not going to give in. Not yet!” one hand left the 
elf’s shoulder and grasps one of the slender, pale hands. “Feel this. This is 
a part of Haldir. And a part of you. Do you want to risk its life as well??” 
with that he placed Legolas’ hand above the child and applied a bit 
pressure.
Just in that moment Gandalf had moved up behind them and knelt down. 
In his hands he held some bread, an apple and fresh water.
“I think I convinced our prince to have some breakfast.” Gimli nodded at 
the wizard.
“Legolas, we have not told anybody else about your condition. But please 
don’t ignore your pregnancy yourself. I know that your only wish now is 
to leave this world and meet your husband in the halls of Mandos. But we 
still have work to do here. Middle earth’s fate lies in our hands. The life of 
your child lies within the same fate. You will see Haldir again, I don’t 
know where and I don’t know when. But you will see him again, of that I 
am certain. And now, I think you should eat something. Gimli and I will 
be at your side to help and guide you. Aragorn is very upset and thinks 
that he is guilty of hurting you this much. He wishes that he hadn’t told 
anything about Haldir. I hope I acted in your interest when I told him, that 
it wasn’t his fault and you wouldn’t hold him responsible.”
Legolas shook his head slightly and his voice was barely audible “It 
wasn’t his fault. I am glad that he was there when Haldir...., when...” his 
voice cracked and he couldn’t continue.
“It is alright.” Gimli patted the elf’s back “We know.”

After some hours the group of Rohan riders and the four members of the 
fellowship rode towards Isengard. Gimli was glad that he was sitting 
behind Legolas. This way he was able to register any tremor or shudder in 
the elf’s form, and thus had the chance to calm him whenever there was 
the need.


Haldir watched as Eowyn rolled the parchment on her lap and started to 
write a short notice on his condition and that she would try and bring him 
to Edoras as soon as possible. When she had finished, she rolled it up and 
gave it to Marna to seal it and take it to the messenger who was to leave 
for Edoras next morning. She wished she could have told Haldir, that the 
note was being send this very day, but they all knew that it made more 
sense and was far less risky to leave at dawn the next day.
Haldir smiled gratefully at her and sighed with relief when he laid his head 
back down onto the pillow. He had been holding his head up for most of 
the time without really noticing it and the pain had become unbearable by 
now. 
Eowyn saw Haldir wince slightly as he lowered his head again and she 
decided it would be a good time to distract him from his perils and lighten 
his mood a bit.
“Tell me Haldir, you really are married to Legolas? With an actual 
celebration and everything?”
“Yes, it is called bonded among my people, but you would call it a 
wedding. I must have shocked you, my Lady by telling it to you. For I 
have heard that mankind is objecting relationships as ours. I am sorry if I 
have caused you distress.”
“You are right, though I can not speak for all of mankind. Here in Rohan it 
is, well, not common so to say. But I thought about you and Legolas. How 
can we judge a relationship like yours. For it is obviously as important and 
valued like any other relationship between a man and a woman. So, no 
you have caused me no distress. On the contrary, I would love to hear 
more about you and Legolas. I have only known Legolas for a very short 
while, but I found he was very kind and I liked him a lot.”
Haldir’s had brightened as he answered her “If it pleases you, I would tell 
you some more about us.”
“Please do so. For how long have you been married?”
“For over 1500 years.”
“Oh my, that is a long time. You love him very much don’t you?”
“Yes, even though there were some times where I thought that I didn’t. 
Not enough anyway.”
“Don’t tell you two had a fight.” Eowyn pretended to look shocked.
Haldir gave a small chuckle “Believe me you can have a lot of fights in so 
many years. But we weren’t together all the time.”
“Why? What did separate you?”
“We did , my Lady. We had known each other for many, many years 
before we got bonded. We lived together quite happily for a while after 
our marriage, but then came a time where we had more and more 
disagreements. Legolas was very young when I met and fell in love with 
him. I am much older than he is, so at first I thought that it was a problem 
resulting from the age difference. Then again, Legolas is a crown prince 
and sometimes he behaved as such. Obnoxious, a little bit selfish and he 
was used to getting his way. I on the other hand sometimes tried to order 
him around so naturally those situation ended up in a fight. After about 
500 years it got very bad indeed and in the end, he threw his ring at me 
and left. That was the time that I thought I didn’t really loved him. You 
see, I didn’t even try to hold him back.”
“I am sorry, for you two. You said he threw his ring at you? What ring?”
“I had adopted the idea of mankind of giving my beloved a wedding band 
on our wedding day. It was his ring he threw down on the ground to my 
feet.”
Eowyn suddenly blushed furiously and quickly withdrew something from 
her pouch that was hanging down from her belt. “Oh Haldir, I am sorry. I 
completely forgot about this,” she held the Mithril chain with the two 
rings out to him “I found these on you when we had to disrobe you. The 
chain is broken, but I think that doesn’t really matter, does it?”
Haldir looked at the rings and tears welled up in his eyes. “I was sure that 
they were lost in battle. I didn’t have the heart to throw them away and 
kept them. When Legolas came to Lothlorien on his way here, I didn’t 
think of returning it to him, I was to occupied with making up for the lost 
time with him. But when I had decided to lead our troops here, I took them 
with me. I wanted to give him his ring back, if he still wants it after the 
battle with a more enchanting atmosphere, but alas that did not happen.”
“I am sure you will have this opportunity soon. It sounds though as if you 
two have overcome your differences and are happy again.” 
“Yes, we have. The years apart have changed both of us. He has grown 
more mature and I have tried to understand his motives. I hope we have 
the chance of making our marriage work. When the war is over and 
Middle earth has found peace again.” Haldir’s looked tired and he smiled 
at Eowyn. “You look tired my Lord Haldir. Maybe it was time you took a 
rest. I will look after you, while you rest and if you are hungry later on I 
can always try and get some more of the delicious porridge.” She smiled 
sheepishly and carefully drew the covers up over Haldir’s back. 
Haldir sighed and closed his eyes for a second. He tried to push the feeling 
of fear and uncertainty aside and remember the feeling of Legolas’ hands 
on his body, his voice in his ear and his laughter in his face. His eyes were 
open when he slipped into the dream world.

The sun was warm and its rays sparkled and glittered on the gently 
moving surface of the river Anduin. Haldir smiled happily as he carried 
two large wooden baskets to the boat waiting at the shore. A large blanket 
and two bottles of wine were already placed underneath a piece a white 
linen, so the sun wouldn’t warm it to quickly. He placed the baskets at the 
opposite end and went to fetch his beloved. 
Legolas sat waiting near their talan on a stump and wondered was Haldir 
was up to. It had been a rather uncomfortable week he had endured, while 
he was with Gandalf and two other healers who were treating him for his 
fertility. The herbal concoctions had made him sick and his body felt tired. 
He knew the worst bit was yet to come, even though Gandalf and 
Celonniar, the head healer of Lothlorien had told him that the last part 
would both be painful and pleasurable. And Haldir had to perform it. 
Haldir walked up to his husband and smiled at him. He circled around 
Legolas and when he stood behind him he tied a satin scarf around his 
head blinding him.
He heard Legolas chuckle and reach out for him. Haldir took him by the 
hands and carefully led him through the forest to the waiting boat. When 
he had seated Legolas in it, Haldir pushed them off and paddled them a 
short distance stream down to the other side. When he had reached the 
place he had chosen, he tied the boat to a tree and helped Legolas out of 
the boat. While the prince stood waiting, Haldir prepared what he had 
brought along with him. He studied the setting and when he was satisfied 
with his work he brought Legolas over and sat him down on the ground. 
Then he removed the scarf and kissed Legolas tenderly. 
Legolas blinked once staring at the feast that was laid out around him, and 
then glanced at Haldir. "You looked like you needed some rest and I 
wanted to put your mind on the other things. And I wanted to get away 
from all these elves poking around at you for some time. I hope you don't 
mind. You looked so tired and worn out. Maybe I can lift your spirits a 
little." 
The young prince smiled gratefully at Haldir and moved himself into a 
more comfortable position. Before he could reach for the filled bread, 
Haldir stopped him and pushed Legolas down on the ground. "No, you 
don't have to do anything today. Let me serve you." 
"Haldir, no .... really. I can do that ...." 
"Shhh..., melthron n? You are my guest today. I want to do this. You do so 
much for me, now let me do something for you." 
Legolas smiled and gave in. He rolled onto his side and propped himself 
up on his left elbow. "If you are so eager to serve me, then I command you 
to feed me with some of that delicious bread I see over there. And after 
that I wouldn't mind some fresh juice." 
Haldir cut of a slice of the bread filled with freshly cooked vegetables and 
herbs, and fed it to the princes’ lips. Legolas smiled at him and chewed 
carefully, he liked the idea of telling Haldir his wishes and watch him 
putting them into action. He just wondered how much he could wish. 
Thoughts and imagination of tender or passionate moves slowly trickled 
into his mind and he felt himself grow hard beneath his clothes. Legolas 
cocked his head and gestured towards the fresh juice with his chin. 
Haldir complied and handed his beloved a goblet, bowing his head 
slightly. The prince accepted it gracefully and let the cool, fresh liquid run 
down his throat. He felt refreshed and much better than just a few hours 
before, and he loved Haldir for bringing him here as a diversion from the 
perils he had to suffer during the last weeks. 
He placed the goblet down and stretched out on his back "I feel rather 
warm. Take my shoes off. And maybe my tunic as well. The sun shines 
rather strong today, don't you think so?" 
Haldir suppressed a grin and moved obligingly toward Legolas’ feet. After 
he had removed the soft leather shoes, Haldir massaged the slender feet 
lovingly and smiled when he saw Legolas closing his eyes with 
enjoyment. After a few minutes Haldir took Legolas hands in his and 
pulled him up into a sitting position. Legolas kept his eyes closed and 
waited for Haldir's next action. True to his word, Haldir unfastened the 
bindings of Legolas’ tunic and carefully removed it, lifting the shining 
blond hair out of the way. 
"There, does this feel better?" Haldir helped Legolas down to the ground 
again. 
"Yes, thank you." The blond elf smiled and opened his bright blue eyes 
again. "But are you not warm yourself?" 
Haldir shook his head slightly, there was something menacing glittering in 
Legolas' eyes and he didn't quite know what to make of it. 
"Oh, but I think you are! You will take your shirt off for me." Legolas 
smile faded. 
The marchwarden felt somewhat confused but he had promised to fulfil 
Legolas' wishes and so he complied. He opened the clasps of his light grey 
shirt and wanted to pull it over his head, but Legolas' voice stopped him. 
"No! Undo the whole front. Slowly. And when it is open all the way, you 
may let it slide down over your shoulders." He had placed his arms under 
his head and studied his lover with a stare of lust and power. 
Haldir's hand had started trembling ever so slightly. This was going in a 
completely different direction than he had thought of, but the feeling of 
submission and not knowing what the other would ask of him, thrilled him 
and so he undid all of the, seemingly endless fastenings until he had 
reached the last one. He shook his shoulder a little and the soft fabric slid 
down revealing his broad back and slender waist. When the shirt had 
pooled on the ground, around his kneeling legs and backside, Legolas 
raised his head a fracture "Throw it over there" and indicated in direction 
of the boat. 
"Ah, that is much better, isn't it?" Legolas closed his eyes again and 
relaxed back. "You will stay right were you are. I don't want you to 
move!" 
Haldir was confused, he wanted to have a nice picnic with his husband, 
finger feed him, devour him and tell him how much he loved him and now 
this. But this was exciting as well. So he stayed right were he was and 
tortured his mind with what his husband was up to next. 
A long time nothing happened and Haldir's legs were growing tired. He 
could feel a nervous tension creeping up his body and to his surprise he 
grew more and more aroused. He wanted to move to do something, 
anything but he had not been allowed yet, so he stayed. 
He was so lost in his thought, that he didn't notice Legolas opening his 
eyes, watching him. 
"Ah, I see you did indeed stayed were I told you to. Very well, please I am 
still somewhat uncomfortable. Help me get out of these restraining 
clothes. I would like to feel the sun on my skin." 
Haldir tried to regain his composure and with trembling legs moved onto 
the knees over his lover. He undid the lacing of the leggings and pulled 
them down with great care, before he again sat himself up to remove the 
pearly white shirt. Once again he was captivated by the creamy, soft and 
unblemished skin. Oh, he wanted to touch it so desperately but Legolas 
held him back. "Please, retake your seat. I am not in need of anything right 
now, so just sit there and keep your hands on your thighs." 
What kind of a weird order was that now, Haldir mused but moved back 
into his kneeling position and placed his hands on his thighs. Slowly he 
relaxed, letting the sun warm his back and he bent his head back, his long 
silvers hair spilling down his back. He was starting to enjoy this, when 
after some time a faint sound made him look up again. His gaze was 
answered by two sparkling, deep blue orbs that challenged him. Haldir 
kept his place and broke the eye contact, his gaze mapping the contours of 
Legolas body. Suddenly he realized, that where ever his eyes went, one of 
Legolas’ hands followed. 
Heat rushed to Haldir's face and he tried to look away, but didn't succeed. 
His hands trembled on his legs and his breath grew harsher. 
Legolas could see his beloved grow anxious and excited. He smiled 
inwardly and let his hands slide languidly over his heated skin. He touched 
his chest, caressed his pectorals, dipped his fingers in the little hollow 
place between his collar bones and traveled down to his nipples. Haldir's 
tension grew as he become aware of Legolas intentions. He gasped as he 
saw Legolas bring his left hand to his mouth and slip his index finger 
between his lips. Legolas cheeks hollowed while he suckled on his finger, 
his eyes never leaving Haldir's face. With a soft pop he released his finger 
and swirled the wet finger lasciviously around the tightened nub of his left 
nipple. After a while he repeated the same act with his right hand. 
"My love, I have grown thirsty. Do give me a sip of the cool white wine." 
The Mirkwood prince smiled charmingly at Haldir, taking his hands away 
from his nipples. 
Haldir had to fight for his breath and crawled over to the basket, where he 
had kept the wine, still covered with the white wet linen to keep it cool. 
After opening the bottle he reached for an unused goblet, but Legolas 
stopped him. "No, Haldir. Feed it to me with your lips." 
Haldir's back went rigid, imagining what Legolas had in mind. He took a 
deep gulp of wine and bent over to his lover. Legolas opened his lips a bit 
and shivered inwardly with anticipation. Very carefully Haldir bent down 
and placed his lips above those soft, inviting ones before him. When he 
had pressed down hard enough, he opened his own lips and let the wine 
run into Legolas mouth. 
Legolas swallowed and pushed Haldir from him. "I thank thee, melme." 

Haldir knew what was expected from him and resumed his former 
position. His mind raced, trying to guess Legolas' next moves. But 
Legolas just lay down again and relaxed his hands, fingers uncurled and 
stretched out on his lower abdomen. Haldir was not sure if Legolas might 
have dozed off, when he noticed slight movements in the long, slender 
fingers. The fingertips touched the soft flesh, constantly moving lower 
until they brushed the fine blond pubic hair. Haldir's breath hitched at the 
sight. He wanted to move forward, grab these teasing hands, hold them, 
take over himself, let his own finger dig into the tiny, golden curls, but he 
restrained himself and continued watching. He was mesmerised by the 
slow pumping in Legolas cock, growing steadily, filling itself. He could 
see the column of flesh raising until it stood erect and hard against the flat 
belly. Legolas eyes were still closed and Haldir wondered what he was 
thinking, and maybe imagining right now. 
Without opening his eyes, Legolas addressed his loved one "Haldir, my 
beloved. You must be hungry by now. I want you to eat something. Go 
and get some of the finely cut fruit and sweet bread. When you have them 
come back here to me." Haldir raised an eyebrow and got up to get what 
his husband had told him to. When he had gathered the food in his hands, 
he turned around facing the blond elf with a questioning glance. 
"Lay the food out, so you can see it better. Lay it out on my body." The 
bright blue eyes sparkled mischievously. 
With trembling hands, Haldir placed the pieces of fruit and bread on 
Legolas warm body. He tried to avoid all too prominent places, but 
Legolas would have none of it. He directed Haldir to lay out a pattern on 
his skin, from his throat down to his nipples, across the plain of his 
stomach, to his navel and down to his groin. His breathing had become a 
note faster when he ordered Haldir to consume the food. 
Legolas closed his eyes and his skin shivered wherever Haldir's mouth and 
tongue went. 
Haldir had great difficulties to keep from plundering Legolas there and 
then, so aroused he was and he was glad when he had finished his meal. 
What made him happy though, was that Legolas was a shivering and 
trembling mass by the time he had finished. Haldir had put his tongue to 
good use and had lavished the skin over and over again, even though never 
touching the parts where it was desired most. Haldir had thought that it 
was a little payback for Legolas. 
He sat back on his calves, resting his hands again on his thighs and waited. 
Haldir's eyes bulged when his lover let his hands wander down his body, 
trailing the wet strokes of Haldir's tongue. But this time he didn't stop, and 
instead took his erection in a light grip and started stroking it tenderly. 
Legolas eyes fluttered open and he looked directly into Haldir's, never 
stopping his ministrations. "Haldir," he breathed "Oh, it is so good to feel 
you. Your hand on me, I can’t do anything, you just carry on, I cannot stop 
you. My body is screaming for release, but just keep your touch light and 
slow." 
Haldir wanted to move to his husband, but Legolas eyes clearly told him 
to stay where he was. But what was Legolas getting at? He didn't have his 
hands on his beloved. Did Legolas wanted to show him what he would do 
to himself when Haldir wasn't there? Did he talk like this in times when he 
was alone and aching? 
Legolas was spreading his legs slightly and thus allowed Haldir a glance at 
the inside of his muscular thighs and the hidden point of Haldir's desire. 
Haldir felt his own hands snake down to touch himself, but the harsh 
"No!" stopped him. Legolas glared at him while he was fisting his cock 
stronger now. His lithe body was arching off the ground and his other 
hand moved to his right nipple teasing it mercilessly. The princes’ voice 
was raspy and coming in short pants as he ordered Haldir to get something 
for him again "Haldir, I believe you have brought something like butter 
with you, haven't you. If so, bring it to me." 
Haldir had trouble moving as graciously as an elf normally would, but he 
managed to retrieve the butter he had brought along for the fresh sweet 
bread, and placed it near Legolas. 
The younger elf let go of his erection for few seconds to break of a piece 
of the cooled butter and then smeared it onto his erection. He groaned in 
pleasure and continued stroking it in first fast motions. Haldir watched the 
butter melt and run down the length of the arousal and further over the 
quivering entrance. 
His own body was shaking from the built up tension, as Haldir moved 
between Legolas’ feet to watch. By now he learned to enjoy the 
helplessness in which this situation had left him and he drank in the sight 
of the writhing body before his eyes. 
Legolas moved his other hand down again, holding the base of his cock in 
a strong grip, foreskin pulled down hard, and with the other he teased the 
exposed head with strong and fast strokes. "Yes! Yes, my love, harder. 
Don't stop, please don't stop. On, Elbereth..." 
Legolas voice was barely audible as he pushed himself nearer and nearer 
to orgasm. 
Haldir's breath hitched when his husband suddenly let go of his erection 
and spread his legs further. "Come now, love. Come to me. Take me. 
Finish what you have started." 
It took Haldir a second to register that Legolas was actually addressing 
him, and wanting him there. Quickly he took Legolas’ ankles in his hands, 
spreading the long pale legs and pushing them up to the blonde’s elf's 
chest. 
Legolas hooked his knees and Haldir used his now free hands to guide his 
own arousal to the glistening opening. He was glad that the melted butter 
had lubricated it well and he pushed in with one hard thrust. Legolas 
wailed from the pain and pleasure and immediately moved his legs around 
Haldir's waist locking his ankles behind the back. Haldir was already 
thrusting into him with all the gathered need and passion, not caring if 
anyone heard or saw them. 
Legolas clawed Haldir's back, leaving dark red scratches and pushed up 
against his lover with all the force he could muster. He felt cleaved in two, 
filled to the brim and his senses were overflowing, every nerve telling him 
how Haldir's fleshed pulled out and moved in again, stretching tissue, 
every time hitting that one bundle of nerves on his way and claiming him 
as his. He could fell Haldir tense and shudder and when he pushed in one 
last time and Legolas could feel the quivering of Haldir's cock inside of 
him, he let go off his own tension and roared as his own climax hit him. 
Haldir's body shuddered while his senses slowly came back alive, and felt 
a warm wetness spread between his body and the sheets. A furious blush 
spread immediately across Haldir's face and he closed his eyes in shame. 
He was mortified at the thought that Eowyn would come and wash him 
again, or want to change sheets or anything of that thought, But than the 
second feeling of the embarrassment hit him and it was about the thought 
if he made any sounds. His dream had been very vivid and his body had 
obviously reacted quite strongly to it. 
Carefully he observed the room he was lying in. The light of the setting 
sun streamed in through the narrow window and gave it all a peaceful 
atmosphere. The other four men were sleeping deeply and neither Eowyn 
nor Marna were anywhere near. He let out a sigh of relief, when suddenly 
a gently hand touched his shoulder and he heard Eowyn speak to him in a 
quiet whisper as not to disturb the others. 
"I am sorry to bother you with this and I believe you when you are deeply 
troubled by my intentions, dear Haldir, but I witnessed something like this 
before and I am no stranger to the results of deep and pleasant dreams. But 
I believe it will be somewhat uncomfortable soon and I assure you that I 
will not look upon you with less respect after I cleansed you up a little." 

Gimli felt Legolas straightening his back somewhat as they reached 
Isengard. Theoden had reached the Tower first and looked confused when 
he was greeted by two small persons, offering him a royal welcome. 
Aragorn, Gimli and even Legolas were very happy to see the hobbits 
again. To Gimli's astonishment, Legolas actually joked a little with the 
hobbits about the wine and where they got it from. Gimli raised an 
eyebrow and gave Gandalf a small smile. Gandalf nodded to the dwarf and 
mentioned him not say anything about it. 
It was to be a long and tiring day. Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli 
had walked up to speak to Saruman and in the end it was Grima 
Wormtongue who threw the Palantir at them to drive them away. 
Aragorn picked it up and with Gandalf's help stored it safely, wrapped up 
in a cloth in one of Aragorn saddlebags. 
Treebeard agreed to stay at watch, to make sure Saruman wouldn't get 
away and to protect the Rohan country. 
So they rode on again towards Edoras for a short while until it grew dark 
and Gandalf called for a stop. Again campfires were lit and the men 
gathered in small groups around the fires. Naturally the crowd shared the 
warmth of one fire. Merry and Pippin babbled happily on about the time in 
Fangorn, telling all they knew about the Ents and entertained all that 
wanted to hear about it how they had plundered the cellar of Saruman. 
Both had not noticed the solemn faces of the others and only when 
Gandalf told them about the battle at Helm's Deep they grew more quiet 
and glanced at their fellow companions with a sorrowful look. It was 
Merry who asked the inevitable. 
"What, Haldir died? You mean that proud, arrogant, good for nothing lay 
about came to your rescue? And he died? Oh my, I am sorry, but to be 
honest I am glad it was him and not one of you." He leaned back, crossed 
his arms and stared into the round. But his eyes grew wide when he heard 
the soft hitching breath coming from the proud elven warrior who 
suddenly stood up and walked away from the fire, head bowed and his 
shoulders sagging. 
Gandalf glared at the hobbit. "I say, I am surprised it was you Meriadoc 
and not Peregrim who uttered these foolish words. I agree, you do not 
know all the circumstances, but Haldir was everything but a good- for- 
nothing lay about. He was an experienced and cunning warrior. A proud 
leader of his army and he would have given his life to save even you, fool 
of a hobbit. You have no right to judge him. We are all proud of you and 
what you have accomplished here together with the Ents, but you may not 
be so proud and overbearing as to talk about others like that. And so you 
might understand the reaction of our dear Legolas better, not only had he 
lost his brother in arms, but also his beloved and husband. Haldir was his 
mate, his bonded and the loss weighs heavily on our elf. There is the 
chance of us loosing him to the fate of the broken heart. So you better 
think first before you speak the next time and be a little more 
considering." 
Merry's face had paled drastically and Pippin's mouth stood open. To 
everyone's surprise it was Pippin who spoke up "Come Merry, we will 
find Legolas and apologise to him immediately. We are sorry Gandalf. 
Too happy were our hearts seeing all of you again and being away from 
the cursed Tower of Isengard. Merry didn't mean any harm." 
But before the hobbit could rise from the ground, Gandalf stopped him 
with a wave of his hand. "No, my dear hobbits. Forgive my harsh words, 
but the wounds of this war are fresh and our souls are weary. It's best you 
stay here right now. Better leave Legolas alone for a while. Gimli, I 
believe, will look after him and if anything should arise, he will surely call 
for our help. Let us all try and get a little bit of the night's rest and 
hopefully we'll see a brighter day tomorrow." 
When Legolas suddenly left the fire, Gimli had jumped up immediately 
and marched after the elf. He knew he was needed and it made him 
somewhat proud inside that Legolas confided in him that much. It made 
him think of Galadriel's words and a small smile crept over his face. This 
time he found Legolas very quickly, for an elf had not wandered off too 
far. He stood beside some rocks and had his face turned upwards, where a 
beam of moonlight shone through the dark clouds, that sailed through the 
sky this night and bathed in its pale light. Gimli was entranced by the way 
the elf seemed to glow in the light, and before he had reached him he 
heard the well known soft voice drift over to him. 
"I can still feel him. Like he isn't gone at all. Just like he is far away but 
still in this world. Never would I have believed a bond could be so strong 
that I could still feel him all the way to Mandos Halls. It gives me a little 
comfort but also makes me want to cry out for him. Gimli, how will I bear 
all of this in my remaining life?" 
Gimli had reached the elf's side and took his pale, slender hand in his. 
"Come my friend. Let us find a more comfortable spot and we will talk. 
We will talk about him. It will help, you will see. Tell me about how you 
lived as a married couple, tell me about his brothers, about your wish for 
children. It doesn't matter, tell me anything. Come" He tugged at Legolas' 
hand again and pulled the elf with him to some smaller boulders. He made 
the elf sit down and quickly went to gather some fire wood. While he 
busied himself with the fire until it was burning brightly, Legolas had not 
made a sound and if Gimli hadn't known better, he could have believed 
that the elf had died sitting there on that spot. But Gimli had kept a close 
eye on his friend and never failed to notice the slow, but somewhat 
shallow breathing. He moved at the elf's side and put a callused hand on 
his shoulder. 
"Now, Master elf. Tell an old dwarf how you two made your living. Did 
you stay all the time in Mirkwood or did you have a home in Lothlorien as 
well?" 

Legolas had steadied his elbows on his knees and buried his face in his 
hands. He shook his head slightly, tears slipping through his fingers falling 
onto the dry ground between his feet.  
 
"Ah, so you stayed in Mirkwood all the time?" Gimli tried to ignore the 
tears and pretended to engage in a casual conversation. 
 
Again the elf shook his head, but this time a bit stronger than before. 
 
"Come talk to me Legolas. You will see it will make your heart lighter. It 
eases the pain to remember." 
 
It took another hour until the elf was able to talk again. His body had 
grown too exhausted for any more shudders and sobs and his eyes could 
not cry anymore, they were swollen and bloodshot and he squinted even in 
the pale moonlight. 
 
With a voice so faint and trembling, that Gimli at first had problems to 
properly hear, Legolas started to talk "No, we had a housing in Lothlorien 
as well. A few years after residing in Mirkwood, I couldn't bare Haldir's 
homesickness any longer and one day I packed a few things together and 
took my husband back to Lothlorien. There we went out into the outer rim 
of the forest to look for the perfect tree for the talan we wanted to build. It 
took a few days to find it. We started to gather the wood we needed and 
went to work. At first it was going to be a smaller talan, with only two 
rooms, but suddenly I remembered the scrolls and books I found in my 
father's study so many years ago and so I tried to persuade Haldir to build 
a bigger one. I didn't want to tell him why, so I made up many feeble 
excuses. At first he wouldn't listen to my arguments but in the end he gave 
in. I think it was more because of my constant nagging than because of my 
ideas, but that didn't matter as long as we would have a three room talan." 
Quiet trembles wracked the princes frame from time to time, and in 
between his breath hitched, but he continued quietly. 
 
"After seven weeks we were finished and as it is a custom among my 
people, other elves gathered and brought us presents for our new home. 
Linen and satin for our bed, tables, cushions and pottery. Haldir's brothers 
gifted us with a large softly woven rug. It was thick and had a wonderfully 
dark, red colour. I remember the remarks they made as they gave it to us. 
When we all together had managed to bring it up the stairs into the talan, 
Rumil and Haldir unrolled it on the floor of the main room and put it into 
the desired position. When the last corner of the carpet was flattened, a 
small and delicate bottle with a wooden stopper rolled out of it, and 
Orphin put his hand over his mouth in mock surprise. Oops, there it is. I 
thought I had lost it. Well, actually it is exactly where it is supposed to be 
and, if I am not too mistaken, will be needed the most. With that he turned 
hiding his laughter and pulled Rumil after him, who was giggling too. So 
the first night we spent in our own talan ,we actually spent on the floor on 
that red soft rug." Again tears were sliding silently down the pale cheeks 
and Gimli reached out to wipe them tenderly away. 
 
"So you seemed to live a happy life then. When did things started to get 
rough? You two didn't seem to be the type to have fights." Gimli inquired. 
 
A sad smile touched the elf's lips. "Believe me, we did fight. But I don't 
want to remember the bad times. There are not worth anything. All I want 
to remember from now on are the wonderful time we had, the love we 
shared and the passion." Legolas' head dropped forth "It's all I have left, 
only my memories." 
 
"No, it is not all Legolas. You carry a part of him inside of you and not 
only in your heart but also in..., well I don't know really. Anyway in your 
body." Gimli looked at him sternly. 
 
"So, my friend tell me something nice. Tell me, when you decided to 
undergo this procedure to become fertile. Did you tell Haldir from the 
beginning?" 
 
"No, I didn't." Legolas hesitantly placed a hand on his belly. To his shock 
he could clearly feel an ever so slight bulge there. Suddenly he got up 
from the ground still keeping his hand in place. A gasp escaped him. Even 
when standing he could feel it. If it kept on growing at this rate it would 
show sooner than he would have liked. 
 
"It looks like we have to do something about that soon, right?" Gimli 
pulled him out of his thoughts. 
 
"Does it show, yet?" Legolas voice was unsteady. 
 
"No, but I know it is there." Gimli cocked his head. "Come, sit down 
again. Tell me your tale. Unburden your heart and free your mind of 
unhappy thoughts." 
 
Like a puppet the elf sat down again and closed his eyes for some seconds, 
as if to recall the past. "In the beginning I pondered about it, without 
asking anybody about it. The more time passed the more sure I was. But 
the moment I knew for certain happened a few years later, after that. A 
cousin of Haldir had been pregnant and had given a birth the night before. 
We all went to see her to bring gifts, congratulate her and her husband and 
to see the little one. When I saw Haldir holding the infant and how his 
eyes sparkled, I knew I could give him no greater gift than the child of his 
own. It was very difficult to keep it to myself, I was so eager and full of 
anxiety but I managed to keep it a secret. I had to get more information 
about it first anyway. So, when we went to Mirkwood the next time, I 
stole into my father's study in search of the books and scrolls I had seen 
there first time. It took me three nights in a row to find them. It became 
exceedingly difficult to fill Haldir with so much wine each night, that he 
wouldn't notice my absence. When I had gathered all the books and scrolls 
I could find, I started studying them whenever I had the possibility. Again, 
I was taken aback by the treatment and the measures that were involved. 
But I had sat my mind on this and after I read all that was there, my 
journey began. First I had to see an experienced Healer to see if I was able 
to undergo such a change. To be honest that was the worst part. I didn't 
want to go to Theon, as much as I liked him, but I knew he was loyal to 
my father and I didn't want anything to slip out. So I made up a dozen 
excuses to ride to Rivendell. No matter how hard I tried, Haldir was not 
letting me go on my own and so we both rode off together. In Rivendell, 
again, I had to find a ways to sneak off on my own to meet Lord Elrond in 
private. Much to my surprise it was Glorfindel who came to my rescue. He 
asked Haldir if he would join him for a ride to the Bruinen to check the 
borders. Haldir inclined and went with Glorfindel. I found Lord Elrond in 
his study and asked him for help with my problem. At first he was not 
very forthcoming and he tried to talk me out of it. Telling me how 
dangerous it all was and how stressing for my body. But in the end I won. 
Once set on his task Elrond was my pillar of strength through it all.  
 
He asked me to come with him to healing rooms where he would examine 
me. Suddenly I felt anything but sure and was very ashamed. He took his 
time with me and in the end he told me that he couldn't find anything that 
would object the procedure. He wanted to know when I wanted it to be 
done. I remember flushing terribly. I had never considered, the where and 
when. Should I tell Haldir in advance or should I surprise him?" 
 
"I hope you told him beforehand. It wouldn't have been fair to him." Gimli 
looked at the elf questioningly.  
 
Legolas drew a deep breath and shook his head silently. "At first I didn't 
tell him anything. I held onto the thought that if anything went wrong I 
would stop the whole thing altogether and if everything went as planned it 
would be a great surprise for him." 
 
Gimli shook his head in disbelief "I am not surprised you two had fights 
from time to time. Both stubborn. What made you change your mind?" 
 
"He found out." 
 
"What? Don't tell me. He got really mad with you didn't he?" 
 
"Not really. He had found one of the books and wondered what I was 
doing with it. Instead of asking me about it, he monitored my actions. He 
always knew where I went and what I did. At first he wanted to interfere, 
but then, he told me he gathered that I wanted to surprise him and said 
nothing. But I will tell you about that later. During my stay in Rivendell, 
Mithrandir came to visit Elrond and they both talked about me and my 
plans. Anyway, they came to me and asked if I still wanted to go through 
with this. I told them how certain I was and that I would hold true to my 
idea. Gandalf then told me about the first step they would take. By casting 
a spell on my body, he would provoke the growth of the womb. The womb 
would be similar to the one a female has. It was to settle low in my 
abdomen and later they would grow a tube, connecting it to my lower 
large intestine. This tube was to transport the semen to the womb." 
 
Gimli shuddered "Oh, I mean not to pry, but isn't that a bit weird? Well, I 
know for certain that even elves do have to relieve themselves from time 
to time and doesn't that cause problems? What if something of your waste 
does slip in?" 
 
It took Legolas a second to understand and then it dawned at him. A 
chuckle escaped him "Oh no, my dear Gimli. This tube is closed at the end 
it only opens during orgasm and permits nothing else to pass other than 
the semen of the partner. So do not worry about that." 
 
"Oh good. I wouldn't want to find a little brown elfling at the end of your 
pregnancy in my arms." 
 
"Dwarves" Legolas muttered but continued. "After the hopefully 
successful growth of womb and tube, which would take about a year, I 
would have to start taking special herbal teas and other potions the 
alchemist would brew for me. Gandalf made it clear to me, that it was 
going to be extremely stressful on my body and it wouldn't be an easy goal 
to achieve. I remember that I needed a nights rest thinking about it and 
when I awoke it was clear to me that I wanted to go through it. So, early in 
the morning I went back to Gandalf and Elrond and told them about my 
decision. It was then agreed upon that we would need to send Haldir away 
for a short while, for it was going to be quite painful in the beginning and 
he would surely see that something wasn't as it should be. To our surprise 
it was not all to difficult to persuade him to leave for Lorien in order to 
deliver an important message to Galadriel. Haldir suspected that Elrond 
needed a time alone with me, hence he had found out about my big secret 
and left two days later. What I didn't know was the fact that Gandalf had 
written something about the treatment I was to undergo to her, for I 
needed the help of the Lorien healer and alchemists should I stay in the 
Golden woods during the process." 
 
"It doesn't sound very romantic the whole thing." Gimli snorted. 
 
"At the beginning it wasn't I can tell you that. When Haldir had left, 
Elrond summoned me to his private chambers so we wouldn't be 
disturbed. I was to lay down on Elrond's bed and he gave me a potion to 
drink to ease any upcoming pain. I was totally terrified and on the other 
hand as giddy as child. When the potion had lulled me into a sleep like 
state, Gandalf began the enchantment. There was some weird pulling and 
stabbing in my body and I felt nauseous. After two or three hours Gandalf 
was finished and looked worn out. It must have been very tiring thing for 
him. Elrond escorted me back to my room and made me lay down again. I 
stayed in bed for three days, after that bit of the procedure. Never had I 
encountered such a pain and sadness. I cried out for Haldir more than 
once. I longed for him to be there and comfort me. Hold me and tell me 
that everything was going to be all right."  
 
Suddenly Legolas stopped and his breath hitched. He buried his face in his 
hands and his body shook with the sobs escaping him. Gimli stared at the 
elf for a second and then quickly got up to hold him by the shoulders and 
let him cry it out.  
 
After some time the sobs grew quieter and Gimli felt Legolas 
straightening his back. "I am sorry, my friend." Whispered the elf. "When 
I remembered how much I missed Haldir and how he suddenly came back 
to me, I also remembered something else. That no matter how much I miss 
him now, he will never come back to me, never hold me again and that he 
will never see his child. He will never see it grow up, see it shoot his first 
arrow, fall in love and his first smile." Tears threatened to fall from those 
large blue eyes again, when Legolas suddenly turned sharply to Gimli 
"Gimli, you are my dearest friend. You must promise me, that if 
something ever should happen to me you will take care of my child. Look 
after it, tell it about the elven ways and give it the love Haldir and I could 
not. Promise me this!" Legolas got hold of the Gimli's hands and clutched 
them desperately. 
 
"Don't talk about things like this, you crazy elf. Nothing is going to 
happen to you. I won't let anything happen to you. And besides, don't you 
think that your family in Mirkwood would be a wiser choice?" 
 
"No! Many are leaving already. And my father doesn't even know about 
the fact that I can bear children. No, I want you to take care of my child. 
Please Gimli." 
 
Gimli shuffled his feet in embarrassment "All right, all right. I will. But 
don't fret if I teach the little tyke some dwarvish ways too." 
 
Legolas gave Gimli a bright smile and drew the square dwarven hands, he 
was still holding to his lips and kissed the knuckles. "I thank thee with all 
my heart, Gimli son of Gloin!" 
 
"Now, now." Gimli pulled his hands away reluctantly. "So Haldir came to 
you did he?"  
 
"Yes, he did. He had not taken the whole way to Lothlorien when he met 
another messenger coming from Mirkwood on his way to Lorien. He gave 
him Gandalf's message and turned around back to Rivendell. It had not 
been five days since the spells had been cast and I was hardly able to get 
out of bed and into the bathing chambers. When I woke up on the sixth 
morning and I needed to relieve myself, I stumbled rather helplessly in 
direction of the bathing chamber and half way to it I felt such a searing 
pain that I collapsed on the floor. But before I could hit the ground strong 
arms caught me and when I looked up to thank whoever had just helped 
me I met Haldir's gaze full of love and worry on me. "So, you actually did 
it, did you?" He smiled at me and picked me up to carry me to the 
bathroom. 
 
I was numb with shock and feared his coming rage. But it never happened. 
Instead he held me tightly whispering words of love into my ear and 
kissed me.  
 
Later he told me, how he found the book and how he had watched me. 
When he saw me together with Elrond and Gandalf and when later they 
wanted to send him away he knew what I was about to do. Guessing that I 
wanted to surprise him and being absolutely thrilled with my crazy idea, 
he never said anything. On his way to Lorien though, he became worried 
and was only to happy to give over the message. Had I not collapsed he 
would have carried on pretending not to know anything, but he couldn't 
now that he saw how miserably I felt and he wanted to comfort me and tell 
me how happy he was. So, he was there the rest of the way. To our luck 
everything went as planned. About one year later Elrond confirmed the 
successful growth of the needed organs and gave the Lorien alchemist and 
healer further instructions. They practically filled me up to the brim with 
awful herbal concoctions and potions. One more distasteful as the other. 
Through it all I felt sick and weak, but Haldir always managed to brighten 
my mood. But it was also the time of much happiness and plans. We 
started drawing design for the third room in our talan as well as for the 
spare room we had in Mirkwood. What the crib was going to look like, 
design for the walls, pattern for curtains and so on. It was then that Elrond 
came to talk to us about the last step in the process and the change of 
getting pregnant later on. 
 
The last step was actually more a check if everything was working as it 
should be. And hence it was a very private, intimate matter, Haldir would 
have to perform it. As he described it to us, I was absolutely shocked and 
didn't want to go through it. Elrond smirked a little and told me that I 
might even enjoy it. I was beside myself." 
 
"Hey, what could be so bad, if Haldir was doing it to you." Gimli looked 
quizzically.  
 
"I am not going to describe it to you, son of Gloin? Just know this, it was 
VERY private, painful and yes in the end I did enjoy it. Actually after that 
Haldir persuaded me after some time again that he needed to check me, 
and another time he persuaded me to check him." 
 
"Well, then it couldn't have been that bad, right?" 
 
"No, it wasn't. Anyway, Elrond told us if everything was going as planned, 
it was only a matter of time until I got pregnant. He couldn't tell us when, 
it was going to be a little bit like a surprise. For the next children 
afterwards, should we consider to have more, I could, with a little bit of 
meditation and with the help of some other herbal concoction, plan as 
when to become pregnant.


 
"Well, it was a surprise, wasn't it. But why didn't you get pregnant 
before?" 
 
"After everything went as planned, we fought more and more often. And 
after a while we were both so annoyed with each other and the mistrust ran 
so deep, that I eventually went away. Over the many years I pushed the 
matter of pregnancy far from my mind and in the end I think I actually 
forgot about it.  
 
When we were in Lorien and I met Haldir again I never thought about it. 
And after not becoming pregnant when I still was with Haldir so many 
centuries ago, I wouldn't have thought about it anyway." 
 
Gimli looked thoughtful "I still think it is a wonderful thing to happen. No 
matter if the time is not the best. I will look after you and we will get 
through this alive. But we will have to think of something soon to hide 
your growing waist.  
 
When we reach Edoras again, I will try to find a small piece of chain mail 
which we could use to tie across your belly with a soft cloth. First it will 
give you a little more of extra protection and with the cloth you could 
flatten your belly a bit, should the need arise. But hopefully it wont come 
to that." 
 
Legolas looked at the dwarf doubtfully but said nothing. 
 
"Come my dear elf. I have grown tired and would like to rest my bones. 
Will you join me and we'll go back to the campsite?" 
 
"Would you mind staying here with me? The fire is warm and you are all 
the protection I need." 
 
"You feel better here?" Gimli asked. 
 
"Yes," 
 
"Let me go and fetch some blankets and bedrolls then. I will tell the others 
that we are here and that they should call on us in the morning." The dwarf 
stood and moved downhill to the campsite to fetch all they needed for the 
night. 
 
When he returned, Legolas had not moved at all, but was still sitting there 
staring into the fire and the dwarf could make out fresh moist trails in the 
pale face. He said nothing and instead laid out their bedding and when he 
had finished he snuggled up close to the fire and closed his eyes. After 
some time he heard the faint rustle of cloth and blankets and sighed 
knowing that the elf had at last decided to lay down. 
 
Legolas felt cold for the first time in his life and wished there was 
something he could do to get warmer. He tried desperately to get his mind 
off Haldir, but peace wouldn't come to his troubled soul. He even tried 
closing his eyes, but that was even worse, for now he could clearly see 
Haldir's face before his inner eyes. After a while he concentrated on 
Gimli's snores and to his utter surprise that did the magic trick. Slowly 
sleep crept up on him and without noticing he slipped into the elven 
dreamscape.  
 
Elrond stared intently at the pair opposite of him. Haldir looked taken 
aback and the look on the younger elf's face was near to shock. "He has to 
do what?"  
 
"Haldir will have to check if your body is responding to your sexual 
release as it should do. If we cannot be certain that everything is in order, 
we will not know if you will get pregnant at all in the future." 
 
"But surely there are other ways, other than that what you just suggested. 
How do you know it will fit in there anyway, this is outrageous. I can't 
believe it." Legolas fumed and his face had taken a had dark shade of red. 
 
"Legolas, believe me. First of all it does fit, second there is not other way 
and maybe you will even enjoy it a little. Haldir will have to bring you to 
an orgasm anyway and as far as I know that is an enjoyable thing." 
 
"Melme," Haldir turned to Legolas and put a gentle hand on his thigh "we 
will only do what you want. Nobody is pushing you, but if we need to do 
it to be certain, then maybe we can at least try. I will not hurt you, never. 
You know that." 
 
Elrond rose from his seat and looked at the pair. "Maybe you should retire 
for today, and if any questions should arise, don't hesitate to call me." 
With that he exited their talan and made his way down the long winding 
stairs. 
 
Haldir and Legolas sat in silence and stared at the walls surrounding them.  
 
The next days after their discussion with Elrond, Legolas feared his next 
sexual encounter with Haldir. Elrond's instruction was burned in his mind 
and it was impossible for him to relax. Many days later, in which Haldir 
had not made a single attempt to make love to Legolas or at least touch 
him, Legolas was becoming frustrated and he made up his mind to talk to 
Haldir the next day.  
 
He was lying in their bed, Haldir at his side curled up around him and 
obviously in deep slumber. The young elf groaned in frustration and tried 
to take his mind off his burning sexual desires. He had grown hard, for no 
apparent reason, some time ago and Haldir possessive legs, that were 
tangled with his own, gave him no space to move nor the chance to touch 
himself. With small humping movements, Legolas tried to achieve some 
friction, that might give him release. But it only made matters worse. He 
still didn't want Haldir to follow Elrond's orders, but maybe his husband 
was willing to share a simple night of passion with him.  
 
So he turned his head and blew softly against Haldir's exposed neck. He 
couldn't quite reach the soft skin with his tongue and so he went for the 
next best part, Haldir's chest. His tongue circled the hardening nub of the 
left nipple and from time to time he would nip at it tenderly with his teeth. 
He was rewarded with the intended hitching of Haldir's breath and the 
vacant eyes cleared. Haldir looked at Legolas in surprise and when the 
wicked tongue moved to his other nipple Haldir moaned softly. 
 
Their lovemaking was slow and full of warmth and love. Hands were 
roaming the plains of their bodies and tongues followed in their trail. Soon 
both elves were covered in a sheen of sweet and their breaths were ragged. 
Haldir had turned Legolas on his front and had pushed the long, golden 
tresses aside so he could devour the soft skin of the shoulders and neck 
before him thoroughly.  
 
Legolas was writhing beneath him and his firm buttocks rubbed against 
Haldir's straining erection. Haldir moved lower and worshipped every inch 
of skin on his way. His hands were kneading the muscular back and when 
his tongue had reached the beginning of the cleft between the round globes 
of Legolas backside, his husband arched slightly off the bed. Haldir's 
tongue went lower and lower. His hands parted the buttocks, opening 
Legolas up for him. Wet trails glistened in the moonlight, were his tongue 
had touched the tender flesh.  
 
Legolas was rubbing himself against the sheets and moaned 
uncontrollably. "Please, love let me fell your tongue, please. Haldir I burn 
for you." 
 
A smile spread on the warden's face as he touched the puckered entrance 
ever so slightly only with the tip of his tongue. "Nghhh..." was all Legolas 
was able to utter. 
 
Steadily Haldir increased the pressure of his tongue until he was sliding in 
and out of the tight hole with ease. With his left hand he carefully reached 
under the bed and pulled a linen sack quietly up onto the covers. It took 
him some time to open it without breaking the contact of his tongue with 
Legolas body.  
 
He fumbled around the sack for a second until he was able to retrieve a 
bottle of rich and slick oil and a small and slender wooden pole. It was 
curved ever so slightly and perfectly smooth. Haldir found it rather hard to 
remove the stopper of the little bottle with only one hand but he succeeded 
rather quickly. He moved himself up on his knees and now knelt between 
Legolas widely spread legs. "Oh, don't stop. Please, love. I need you. 
Don't stop!" 
 
"Haldir kissed Legolas lovingly on the back and whispered seductively "I 
don't intend to stop. Not by a long way. I love you, do you know that? I 
love how you shiver under my touch, how you give yourself to me and 
tremble with need for me." 
 
He coated his finger with the rich oil and stroked the quivering entrance 
tenderly. "Can you feel me? Can you feel my need for you, my love?" 
Haldir continued. 
 
All Legolas could manage was a nod, so absorbed he was in the sensual 
ministrations. 
 
The tip of the index finger slipped into the willing body and Haldir 
smoothed all the way with the slick substance. He carefully added a 
second finger probing for Legolas prostate. The elf beneath him convulsed 
and groaned loudly. Only a few seconds later Legolas was beyond any 
coherent thought and seemed to have lost all of his own will. Carefully 
Haldir reached with his free hand for the small wooden pole and managed 
to pour some of the oil onto it.  
 
Their bed sheets were going to be a mess in the morning but it didn't 
matter to Haldir at all. He removed his probing fingers and replaced them 
with the wood. Maddeningly slowly he pushed the pole in and out again. 
Legolas hips were bucking up, impaling himself deeper onto the wood.’ 
This is going to be better than I thought ‘Haldir mused and tried to push 
his own aroused state far from him. 
 
"Love why don't you turn around for me?" Haldir caressed Legolas hips 
with his free hand and guided his husband as he turned to lie on his back. 
The erection had taken an impressive size and colour, but Haldir restrained 
himself from touching it. It was still too early. "Oohh, Haldir what are you 
doing to me?" Legolas muttered under his breath.  
 
"Giving you some pleasure I hope" the silver haired elf smiled and 
resumed the constant motion with the carved wood. The young elf had 
pulled his lower lip between his teeth and his nostrils flared. 
 
’Good’, Haldir thought. ‘He is not paying any attention anymore to what I 
am doing.’ 
 
He fished for the next bigger wooden pole, which was about the size of his 
own cock. Again he coated it with the oil and then slowly removed the 
smaller one from Legolas body. Before any protest could be uttered, 
Haldir already breached the willing entrance with the larger pole.  
 
With this one he was able to hit Legolas prostate nearly with every stroke 
and he had to slow down for his husband was at the edge of his orgasm 
already. He was panting, muttering incoherent words in elvish. Not even 
the Valar would have been able to understand him. 
 
It was now or never. Haldir swapped his hands and while his right hand 
was slowly moving the pole in and out of Legolas’ body, he dipped the oil 
bottle so the oil was running into the palm of his left hand. A fair amount 
spilled onto the sheets as well, but that was of no importance. 
 
Legolas was hugging his knees by now, to open himself up even further 
for Haldir and was whimpering and trembling with need. 
 
The pole was removed very slowly and he touched the well slicked flesh 
with his fingers. He dipped two fingers in and when he didn't encounter 
any resistance he dared a third. Legolas was throwing his head back in 
abundance and groaned deeply in his throat. Afraid to hurt the young elf, 
Haldir trembled slightly when he added the small finger to the other three.  
 
But to his surprise, it slipped in easily with the others and shortly after he 
was moving his fingers in and out without any problem. He could see the 
long pale legs shake under the strain and Legolas was hyperventilating by 
now. Haldir took a deep and steadying breath before he folded his thumb 
of his left hand into his palm and slowly tried to push in all the way. It 
went well for the first bit, but then he found he couldn't go in any further. 
While he was still trying to think of a solution, Legolas arched his hips off 
the bed and cried out  
 
"Yes, more. Give me more. Ahhh..., Haldir please, I beg of you." And 
slowly but steadily Legolas pushed himself down onto Haldir's hand. 
Little by little Haldir's hand breached the muscle without any movement 
itself. Haldir watched transfixed as he saw his hand surely sliding in and 
vanishing from sight. He could feel the soft inner walls of Legolas body 
close around his fingers and when his Hand had disappeared all the way in 
and even his wrist was not be seen anymore, Haldir gave a horse shout and 
without having touched himself in any way climaxed with force. His seed 
spurted over his lower arm and Legolas stretched open entrance adding a 
natural lubricant to the slick oil. 
 
Haldir needed a few seconds to come to his senses again and when he felt 
Legolas moving up and down on his hand he quickly tried to follow 
Elrond's instructions. While being buried deep inside of his beloved he 
tried to find the little nub of flesh further up the intestine with his index 
finger. He could feel Legolas approaching his orgasm any second now and 
suddenly there it was. 
 
He felt something like a small dent of the soft velvety flesh. His kept his 
finger in place and reached for Legolas erection, tenderly stroking it's dark 
red head. Legolas screamed. Screamed like he never had before. His 
whole body arched off the bed as he climaxed with the last strength he 
possessed. Haldir felt tears well up in his eyes when he felt something like 
a faint sucking motion around the tip of his forefinger. 



Legolas lay panting as his body shuddered repeatedly, his eyes were 
glazed over and the long slender fingers still clutched the sheets tightly. 
With the out most care and tenderness, Haldir slowly pulled his hand from 
Legolas body. A low and soft moan escaped the prince at the loss of that 
full feeling. After wiping his hand on the sheets, Haldir moved to Legolas’ 
side and cuddled up to him. He trailed soft butterfly kisses along the jaw 
towards those lush slightly parted lips. As soon as Legolas felt Haldir’s 
lips on his skin he turned his head toward him and with his eyes closed 
probed with his own lips for Haldir’s mouth. For a long time no words 
were spoken and all that mattered was the burning sensation of utter 
contentment between them. They fell asleep in this position and did not 
awake until Arien had risen high above Middle earth.  
 
Legolas woke first and nuzzled his husbands neck, inhaling the scent of 
lust and deep sleep. "I love you" he whispered against the curved ear 
before him and was rewarded with a sleepy moan from Haldir. Strong 
arms drew the prince closer holding him tight. "Love, we will have to 
leave the bed. It is way past midday." Legolas tried to rouse Haldir, 
without much success. So he lay back and let his thoughts wander 
remembering last nights passion and what Haldir had done to him. Legolas 
still felt the humming satisfaction deep inside of his body. Never before 
had he experienced something like this. Elrond had been right, it was not a 
bad thing and, yes, he had enjoyed it. Immensely, to be honest. He was 
glad that Haldir had taken the advantage of the situation and gone through 
with it. But had he learned what they both needed to know?  
 
Flushing deeply, Legolas recalled that they would have to tell Elrond of 
their nightly escapade and of its results. Suddenly he felt Haldir stir and 
two large sleepy eyes looked at him. "Good morning, my love" Haldir 
whispered drowsily and kissed Legolas tenderly on his cheek. 
 
It took them some time to get ready and leave their talan to visit Elrond.  
 
A bright smile widened on Elrond’s face after Haldir had told him about 
their night of passion and of what Haldir’s fingers had encountered. 
 
"That does sound very promising Haldir. We had to make sure that this 
new organ inside of Legolas’ body works they way it is supposed to be. 
Now we know it does. So from now on, whenever you sleep with your 
husband and you are taking him, there is the chance that he will indeed 
become pregnant. Naturally provided that Legolas comes to an orgasm as 
well. Otherwise it was just worth the fun. I do not know when it actually is 
going to happen, but it will one day. After the pregnancy, if you two 
should consider a second child, you will not have to wait for fate to handle 
things. After the first pregnancy Legolas will be able to nudge his body 
into conceiving a child. I will tell him how it theoretically works. So, do 
not worry. He will not be getting pregnant every time you indulge in 
sexual release." 
 
"Legolas!" a soft hand was stroking his cheek. "Legolas!" 
 
It took the elf more time than usual to find his way back into the harsh 
cold world of reality. "Haldir?" he whispered unconsciously.  
 
"No, I am sorry. It’s me Aragorn. Come we must continue out journey. 
Please, wake up. Legolas?" Aragorn had crouched beside the sleeping elf. 
Gandalf was meanwhile rousing Gimli from his deep sleep and muttering 
about dwarvish sleepiness.  
 
Legolas blinked several times and at last focused on Aragorn hovering 
above him. When he was sleeping his elven features had held a small 
smile, which now was slowly turning into a frown. Legolas could feel his 
heart fluttering in his chest, as a wave of loss hit him again. Without 
noticing a soft gasp escaped him and Aragorn quickly held onto the elf’s 
shoulders. 
 
"Legolas. Hear me. You have to rise. Please let me help you. All will get 
better in time, you will see. We all want to help you." 
 
With the help of the ranger Legolas sat up and took a steadying breath.  
 
"Yes." He mumbled quietly "Yes, I will come." 
 
 
 
 
Haldir stayed quiet and calm while Eowyn changed his sheets and washed 
his body. He felt oddly relaxed after his vivid dream and he could feel the 
love and passion for his husband bubble in his veins. When Eowyn had 
finished she smiled at him and cocked her head a bit. "Are you by any 
chance hungry, my Lord Haldir?" 
 
"Actually I am. Yes, thank you." He smiled back at her. 
 
"Good. I will fetch you some food. But I dare say, I believe they have 
made porridge again." Her long dress swished behind her as she left the 
room in a hurry.  
 
Haldir turned his head so he could see one of the small windows. He had 
absolutely no idea if it was morning or afternoon, for all he could see was 
a piece of clear blue sky. He relished a slight breeze that touched his face 
and he wished he could just stand up and walk from this room to go 
outside. 
 
The pain in his back had lessened a little bit, but Haldir knew quite well 
that it hadn't healed as much as he would have liked. So he chastened 
himself and willed himself to relax and wait for Eowyn to bring him some 
food.  
 
Only a very short while later he heard her before she even addressed him. 
"Now, you seem to be lucky. Here have a look. I've got some fresh milk, 
fruit and bread. A piece of cheese, if you like, and a piece of cold meat. 
How does that sound. Obviously, the first help with supplies has arrived 
and we have some fresh things to help the wounded and the rest of the 
remaining people" 
 
Haldir smiled at her and raised his head a little "That sounds wonderful. 
To taste some fresh fruit again. " 
 
Eowyn sat down on her chair and balanced the tray with food on her 
knees. She handed pieces of fruit and bread to Haldir and was very pleased 
to see him eat heartily.  
 
"Oh, I meant to tell you, the messenger, also bearing your message for 
your Legolas has left this early morning and will move directly to Edoras. 
So as soon as Theoden, Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli will arrive at Edoras, 
they should get the message." 
 
Haldir closed his eyes for a second, and sighed in a relief under his breath. 
"I thank you so much, Lady Eowyn. This means more to than you can 
possibly imagine." 
 
Eowyn smiled, "Then maybe you could try and make me understand." 
 
"How so?" Haldir looked at her questioningly. 
 
"Tell me about you two. I know you have been together for a very long 
time, but how come you weren't with him when he arrived at Edoras? The 
way you talk about him, I would assume you wouldn't let him out of your 
sight." 
 
Haldir looked thoughtful "I wasn't with him when he joined the 
fellowship." 
 
"The fellowship?" Eowyn shook her head slightly.  
 
"Aye, the fellowship. All the races of Middle earth met in Rivendell, at the 
house of Lord Elrond and there it was decided, that the ring was to be 
destroyed in Mordor. Nine choose to travel together on this quest and they 
were called the fellowship of the ring. Legolas was one of them. We only 
met again when they came to Lothlorien in the Golden Woods." 
 
"What do you mean, ‘only met again’. Why weren't you in Rivendell. Was 
he called there and you weren't?" 
 
"No. No, my Lady. You have to understand, Legolas and I weren't 
together at that time. In fact, we hadn’t been together for the last thousand 
years." 
 
Eowyn looked positively shocked. "Oh my, for that long. What kept you 
apart. The war? That must have been dreadful." 
 
"Yes, it was dreadful. But no, it was not the war. It was us. We had 
separated all those years ago. And not on friendly terms." Haldir sighed. 
 
"But I don't understand. You obviously love each other very much. How 
could that have happened." Eowyn pulled her legs up onto the chair and 
took a more comfortable position. 
 
"We fought a lot. As hard as it is to believe, we were like fire and water. 
At first when we had gotten married, everything was going smoothly and 
we were very much in love. But after some years it all changed. I dare say 
that I was the main reason for our separation." Haldir held his eyes 
downcast and he looked unhappy. 
 
"You? I don't believe that. You look so gentle and kind. So well spoken 
and well mannered. How could you possibly be the reason." 
 
"Eowyn, what I am going to tell you, has to stay strictly between us two. It 
is not meant to be known by man or others. Well, anyway not to a certain 
extent. After the first years of our marriage had passed, I had already 
become very much scared that something might happen to my husband. It 
got worse and worse. I dreamt of it, I thought of and I imagined it. His 
death. Our people were constantly at war. Mirkwood was invaded by 
much fouler creatures, not only the orcs, and Legolas was always 
determined to fight with his folk for the freedom of the great wood. I 
desperately tried to keep him most of the time in Lothlorien. I tried to take 
his mind off the fighting. While we were living together I noticed his 
talent for music. So I encouraged him to practice more with the harp, I 
made him sing for me. Asked him to learn more and new verses of the 
songs. To write some on his own. But it didn't help much. I think in the 
end I was so overeager to protect him that I made him run away. You 
might not believe it, but you see; Legolas is able to bear children and 
so...." 
 
"He is what?" Eowyn’s eyes had grown large. "But he is male. Surely, you 
don't want to tell me...." 
 
Haldir laughed quietly "Oh, I do know he is male. Very male indeed. But 
he went through a special procedure to become fertile. I don't know when 
this idea manifested itself in his mind, but there it was. It took him all in 
all over one and a half years to achieve it, but in the end it worked." 
 
"You have children?" Eowyn still looked shaken. 
 
"No. Not yet. We hope to have children in the future, but we don't have 
any, yet. a few years after the procedure was finished and the actual 
chance existed, I had reached my worst level in over protection. The mere 
thought of anything happening to him was taking my breath away. Every 
time we slept together and the slightest chance of a pregnancy was in the 
air I lost my mind. I told him not to work too hard, not to practice with 
knives, sword or his bow. I made him sit down all the time and in the end I 
even didn't want him to leave our talan too often. 
 
Then one day, and we had many fights until then, we received a message 
that Mirkwood was under a heavy attack and Legolas immediately wanted 
to leave for his home in order to help defend it. I was beside myself. I 
shouted at him, that he was irresponsible, young and naive, overeager and 
not trustworthy. I even told him that I wouldn't trust him with the life of 
my child. I told him all of that to make him stay. But instead I drove him 
away. He left in the middle of the night. No letter, no notice, nothing. I 
knew were he had gone to, but I didn't follow him. My pride got the better 
of me. Thus we never met again, for over a thousand years. My heart bled 
and I cried for many hours when I was alone. But even then, I never 
contacted him. Yes, I know I have been a fool and maybe I don't deserve 
him, but I only know that from now on everything is going to be better. I 
will never again hold him back, never stop him again. Rather I will stand 
by his side, stand tall beside him and walk with him where ever he goes." 


They rode harsh and without much rest in order to reach Edoras in time for 
the mustering. Gimli, who was seated behind Legolas again, held onto the 
elf for his life. He doubted that he would ever become accustomed to 
riding a horse. From time to time he caught himself tenderly patting the 
elf’s slightly swollen body, mumbling reassurances to the unborn child. 
Only at those moments did Legolas allowed a soft smile to break, that 
played around his lips. But then his thoughts went back to the love he had 
lost and that he would never feel the tender touch of Haldir’s hand on his 
growing belly, that he would never be able to rouse his love at night, or 
call out for him during daytime, because he would feel the child move for 
the first time. Tears would fall then and the dwarf would try to calm his 
aching soul with comforting words.  
 
It took them nearly another two days without much rest at night to reach 
Edoras. Only a handful of people had returned yet, and they told them of 
the fallen bodies of the massacre at the Hornburg and piles of dead bodies. 
Many were slain and it was not expected to find many alive. Gimli felt 
Legolas recoil and therefore took his hand and led him away from the 
great hall in direction of the chamber he had stayed in before, muttering 
something about some minor wound he had to tend to. 
 
Aragorn shot Gimli a questioning look, but said nothing and continued 
talking to the men that had returned from Helm's Deep.  
 
Once inside his quarters, Legolas had to hold onto the four poster bed to 
keep from breaking down. Usually it would have driven him mad to 
experience a weakness like this or even worse displaying it, but with the 
loss of Haldir’s life, a virtue as this was not important to him any more. 
Meanwhile Gimli busied himself with the fireside and when finished 
moved over to Legolas, who still stood rooted to the spot and ordered him 
to sit down. 
 
"Now, Master Elf. Sit down on the bed, or rather lie down. I have some 
measurements that I want to take. Do you mind if I open your tunic and 
vest? It would be easier for me." 
 
No answer came from the blond prince and so Gimli went on as if nothing 
had happened. 
 
"No? Good. Let me just rid you of these restricting clothes and let me have 
a better look at you." Thus the dwarf opened the fastening of Legolas’ 
tunic and pushed the silver vest up to his chest. Grumbling a bit into his 
beard he went to open the slightly tight leggings. "We will have do 
something about that too, soon. Maybe we can loosen them at first, but it 
wont do much good for long. Now let me see, I have some string with me 
which I will use as a measure." By now, when Legolas was lying flat on 
his back, a bulge in the size of a man's fist was clearly to be seen forming 
just below his navel. Gimli was so busy holding the string along Legolas’ 
body that he didn't notice the door opening and Aragorn stepping in. 
 
Aragorn was worried about his life long friend and it vexed him that the 
elf did not talk to him or confided in him as to tell him about the 
seriousness of his condition after Haldir’s death. Aragorn knew quite well 
that elves could fade from grief and he wanted to make sure that Legolas 
would get all the help he needed to stay alive. Trying not to think to 
selfishly about the matter, and the fact that he desperately needed the elf 
fighting alongside him, he did not want to loose him as a friend. So he had 
excused himself and had left it to Theoden to talk to his men and had 
turned straight in the direction of Legolas’ room. When he opened the 
door quietly, he nearly took a step back in shock. There was the dwarf 
bending over a half naked Legolas on the bed and his hands were near 
regions they surely shouldn't be. What on earth was the dwarf thinking? 
 
"Gimli!" Aragorn’s voice was more than a little raised and it made the 
dwarf jump back in fright. "What, by the Valar, do think you are doing? 
Don't you think that Legolas is in enough pain, do you have to satisfy your 
sick needs now that he not able to hold you back?" he bellowed. 
 
Gimli had regained his composure quickly and put his hands on his hips 
still holding the piece of thread tightly in his hands. "Now wait here just a 
damn minute, your Lordship. Nothing has happened and for your 
information I did not indent to satisfy my ‘sick’ needs in any way. I was 
just taking Legolas’ measures to help him get some more protection for his 
body. If he would grow week in battle and could not defend himself as he 
should I want him to wear more than just the flimsy arm protectors. What 
on earth are you thinking by accusing me of anything unjust anyway? I 
was the helping our elf these last few days and nights, I was the one who 
talked to him and held him when he was crying. How could you possibly 
come to conclusions like that? The only sick thing around here, is your 
imagination!" 
 
Aragorn had paled somewhat during the dwarf's speech and it was not 
alone from the anger. The dwarf had put into those few words something 
that he had thought about himself for some time. It had not been him, the 
lifelong friend, who had helped the elf through these bitter days, it had 
been a dwarf. A person that Legolas had loathed in the beginning of their 
journey and had suddenly become fast friends with in Lothlorien. How 
could have it come to pass that it was the dwarf and not him who knew all 
about the fair elf and his troubles? But before he could utter a response, 
Legolas moaned quietly on the bed, as if he was in pain. Gimli turned with 
surprising speed back to the elf and shook him gently. "What is the matter, 
Legolas? Are you in any pain? Tell me!" But Legolas only shook his head 
slowly trying to draw breath. "I feel sick." He whispered.  
 
Aragorn had moved over to the bed in the same time that Gimli had turned 
to the elf, and now stood beside the dwarf and stared down at Legolas 
body in wonder. Just as Gimli took a hold of Legolas’ arm in order to help 
him sit up Aragorn stopped him. 
 
"Would you mind explaining what the matter is, Gimli. What is wrong 
with him." 
 
Gimli turned his head up to the ranger and grumbled dangerously "You 
know quite well what the matter is. He has lost his bonded. He is in pain 
and suffering. You should know better than to ask. He...." Gimli couldn't 
finish his sentence because Legolas had just vomited into the near bucket. 
Aragorn still stared and then pointed with his hand at Legolas’ lower 
body. 
 
"I was talking about that!"  
 
"Ahem, well...." Gimli stuttered helplessly. "I don't know really, maybe he 
got wounded. It’s a swelling and..." 
 
Aragorn had by now laid his hand carefully on the bulge and pressed 
down gently. "So it’s true then, what they tell in their tales. It is possible. I 
just cant believe it. You know quite well that it is not a swelling because 
of an injury. He is carrying a child, is he not?" 
 
Gimli stared at him. "How do you know?"  
 
Aragorn just smiled a sad smile "Are you forgetting that I grew up among 
elves? I had heard tales about this mystery, and one time I even read about 
it, but I couldn't really believe it. Until now. But how and why? Is it that 
what Gandalf was talking about, when he said, that he hoped that there 
was something in this world that would keep Legolas alive. His child? For 
how long have you known about this and what were you doing when I 
came in here." Aragorn took his hand away with a final pat. 
 
"I was taking measurements. I wanted to make him an armour. Hardened 
leather to wear over his stomach. Just a little extra protection for the little 
one." Gimli was now tenderly stroking the bulge and then helped Legolas, 
who was on the brink of unconsciousness to lie on his side.  
 
Aragorn couldn't help but smile at the gesture of the dwarf and took a 
blanket to cover up the elf, tightly tugging him in. He knew very well that 
elves didn't feel the cold but he was sure that Legolas wouldn't mind the 
comforting feeling of a warm and soft blanket around him while he 
hopefully got some rest. 
 
"Well, then please take my sincere apologies Master Gimli and forgive my 
harsh words. I was worried about our friend here and spoke without 
thinking. Why don't we try to find the material you will need for that piece 
of armour and while you work on it, you can tell me all about it." 


Aragorn and the dwarf made their way to the armoury, which was deserted 
right now and while Aragorn sat down, Gimli rummaged through piles and 
stocks of different leathers and half finished chain mail. 
 
After a few minutes the dwarf seemed to have found what he needed and 
he came over to the table Aragorn was sitting at and went to work. In the 
following hours he told Aragorn all that he knew. How he had befriended 
the elf, the nights spent hearing Legolas’ stories of his life and then the 
discovery of the pregnancy. Aragorn was holding his sides laughing when 
Gimli told him of his utter confusion about a pregnant male elf.  
 
Though the loss of Haldir had upset many of them, both knew it was going 
to be a long and hard road for their elf and they agreed to give him all the 
help he would need.  
 
Aragorn was astounded by the tender care Gimli offered to the elf and 
smiled as he watched the short, thick but nimble fingers work on the 
Legolas' armour. 
 
"What do you think, Aragorn, should we embellish it a bit. You know our 
elf is very cautious about his looks. Maybe you know an elven saying or 
spell for protection. I think we might have just enough time to work on it." 
 
Gimli was holding out a nearly fished, square piece of hardened leather, to 
be worn underneath the leggings. One could compare it to a sort o short 
apron. The thought made Aragorn smile. An apron, maybe he shouldn’t 
tell Legolas about his association. He took the leather in his hands and 
thought of any spells he knew. He could remember very little he had read 
about in Lord Elrond's library. Maybe ‘Bless’ or ‘Protection’. He would 
let the dwarf decide. When he looked up he saw Gimli working with 
needle, threading on a piece of soft and thick cloth he had previously cut 
in the same size as the leather. He also inserted some loops and holes so he 
could later attach it to the armour. Four strong leather strings were also 
lying by his side, and he undoubtedly wanted to use them to fasten the 
armour around the elf’s hips.  
 
"Well, Master Gimli, I have thought about your question. Yes, I think if 
we have some time, we should embellish it a bit. But I only know two 
spells, that might fit. Please will you decide which one is the more fitting." 
 
Gimli put down his work for a second and glanced at Aragorn. "I? You 
want me to decide? Don’t you think it would be wiser if you do it. I don’t 
know that much about elves anyway," he muttered into his beard, clearly 
somewhat embarrassed "He is your lifelong friend and..." 
 
"Shhh...., " Aragorn put his hand on the dwarf’s "It was you, Gimli who 
helped him through this, it is you who he trusts so implicitly and it was 
you who had the idea to make him an extra armour. You decide. Either 
‘Bless’ or ‘Protection’." 
 
Gimli furrowed his brow and considered "’Protection’!" 
 
"So ‘Protection’ it is." Aragorn smiled. 
 
"Right, but you have to write the words down for me, so I can bring them 
onto the leather." 
 
Since there was no paper at hand, Aragorn got up and went to the cold 
fireplace to pick up some half burned piece of wood. 
 
When he had reached the table again he used the burned end to write the 
needed words down. Vara tel’ Seldarine 
 
Gimli studied the words for a moment and nodded. "I think I will use 
silver thread to embed it into the leather. Do you think he will like it?" 
 
Aragorn smiled. "He will know you made it and so of course he will like 
it." 
 
"Maybe you should go and check on our elf," Gimli looked at the ranger 
"we have been down here for quite some time and I want to be sure that he 
is okay."  
 
Aragorn shook his head at the protectiveness of the dwarf, but he was 
right. When they had left Legolas, the elf, was far from being well. 
Aragorn feared Legolas reaction to the fact that he now knew of his 
pregnancy as well. He knew the elves well enough to be sure that Legolas 
would not stop his chosen path to go with the fellowship. He knew well 
the role of the elves here on the Middle Earth and their duty. But he 
wanted to make sure that Legolas would be unharmed through this and 
that he could continue his life with his child by his side. The main problem 
were the hobbits. Sure they were kind and nice, eager and strong at heart. 
But Aragorn doubted they would take news as this lightly, besides he 
didn’t think Legolas would be too keen on having all of their travelling 
companions watching over him, over every step that he would take and 
everybody hustling about as soon as he wanted to sit down or needed a 
rest. No, Aragorn would make sure that no one would learn about it before 
it was no longer possible to hide it. 
 
He had reached the door leading to Legolas’ room just as he had finished 
the string of his thoughts and very carefully opened it. He didn't want to 
wake the elf. But when he peered inside he saw Legolas looking at him 
with sorrowful eyes. 
 
"Why do you hesitate, my friend?" he whispered, his voice broken and 
harsh. 
 
"I am sorry, I didn’t want to wake you. How are you feeling?" Aragorn 
stepped over to the bed and sat down at the end.  
 
"Have you covered me up? I can remember you coming into this room. 
But I don’t remember much. I know that Gimli was here fussing over me, 
but you were there as well weren’t you?" Legolas eyes wavered.  
 
""Yes," Aragorn put his hand on one of the elf’s lower legs "yes, I was 
here. And to answer your question, again yes, I covered you up. You 
looked so small and worn out, that I thought you wouldn’t mind the 
comfort." 
 
"Thank you, indeed I didn’t mind. I am sorry Aragorn for being so 
hindering to our journey and quest. I promise it will get better and I will 
not fail you." Legolas tired to push himself up into a sitting position, but 
Aragorn stopped him.  
 
"You do not have to excuse yourself, Legolas. Anyone in your condition 
would be frail and ill." The second he had said those words, Aragorn knew 
he had chosen them poorly for Legolas looked at him with wide and 
shocked eyes. 
 
"My condition?" he asked with an unsteady voice. 
 
"I am sorry, my friend. I should have chosen my words more wisely. You 
have lost you bonded, and so it is only natural that you are weak." Aragorn 
patted the leg beneath his hand. "No, Legolas, that was only half of that 
what I meant. Forgive me. I am at a loss at how to explain to you what I 
saw when I entered this room. I believe you wanted to keep your bodily 
condition from me, and I don’t doubt that you had your reasons for it. But 
when I came in here, I saw Gimli bent over your lower body in a most 
distracting way. I am ashamed to say I thought of indecencies and I pulled 
him from you. The poor soul was only taking your measurements and was 
furious at me. And when I turned to look at you, you were nearly 
unconscious, and then I saw your lower abdomen. Gimli wanted to make 
me believe it might be a swelling because of an injury, but I have learned 
enough in Lord Elrond’s house to know what it actually was. Even though 
I have never witnessed something like this with my own eyes, I knew it. I 
think it is the most wonderful thing I have ever seen that had happened to 
my dearest friend. I will not tell anybody else, but I want to make sure that 
everything is all right. I presume Gandalf knows about it as well, but he 
might not be with us the whole way so I will check on you from time to 
time. And when you need the rest or help, just give me a sign. It will be 
less conspicuous, if I call for a halt." 
 
Legolas looked at the ranger with tears brimming in his eyes. Somewhere 
deep inside he wished that none of this had happened, that he wasn't 
pregnant and he never had left Mirkwood. But then again he was 
overwhelmed by the consideration and devotion of his friends and the way 
they helped him. The pain of loosing Haldir burned still so strong and he 
doubted that he would ever get over it, but their help and strength made it 
a little bit easier. 
 
Legolas smiled at his friend ever so slightly and nodded. 
 
"Will you let me have a look at you?" Aragorn asked in a soothing voice. 
 
Again a single nod told the ranger all he needed to know. The elf would let 
him do what ever was necessary.  
 
Aragorn got up from the end of the bed and moved over to the left side. 
He glanced at the elf again before he pulled the blanket away. Legolas was 
still stripped to the waist, his leggings still open and was lying flat on his 
back. Aragorn rubbed his hands together, so they wouldn’t be too cold on 
the elf’s skin and touched the bulging flesh carefully. Some light bruises 
coloured the pale skin near the hip and lower ribs, but obviously the part 
were the child grew was unhurt.  
 
"Are you experiencing any pain or spasms?" 
 
Legolas shook his head. To be honest he didn’t feel much right now. His 
body was numb from the pain of his soul. 
 
Aragorn probed gently, uttering a satisfied sigh, when he encountered 
nothing unusual. The womb was soft to the touch, without hard bumps or 
dents, and the abdominal wall was soft too, so there was no fear of an 
infection. 
 
Aragorn had just finished his examination, when a soft knock at the door 
announced a visitor. Quickly covering the elf with the blanket, the ranger 
turned and called out "Enter." 
 
The door opened hesitantly and Gimli peered inside the room.  
 
"Gimli!" Legolas called to his friend. "Why do you hesitate? Come in!" 
 
"Sorry, I didn’t want to interrupt anything. Don't get me wrong but I 
though that you two are talking, or worse, fighting. Something like that." 
He shuffled inside, one hand hidden behind his back. 
 
"No, you were not interrupting anything. I told Legolas that I know about 
his condition and what to do from now on, and he actually let me have a 
look at him." Aragorn smiled as he sat down again at the end of the bed. 
 
"Good, that is relief to hear!" Gimli turned to Legolas "I was worried you 
know?" 
 
Legolas blushed slightly and shook his head "You needn't be worried, I am 
better than it looks. And now that I have my own healer at my side, as well 
as my living armour, nothing can happen to me." 
 
"Ah, but there is something that will give you even more protection than I 
can. Me and Aragorn have something for you." 
 
"Don’t believe a word he says." Aragorn interrupted the dwarf. "I have 
only watched him. He did all the work." 
 
Now it was Gimli’s turn to blush, though his beard hid most of it. "No, 
Aragorn. I cannot take all the credit. If it hadn’t been for your knowledge 
of the elven language and their spells, it would never have been looking 
like it does now." 
 
Legolas listened to their banter and was surprised that it actually made him 
smile.  
 
"Come, Gimli. Tell me. What are you going on about." The elf looked at 
the dwarf with a little sparkle in his eyes. 
 
Gimli shuffled his feet for some moments, before his withdrew his hand 
that had been hiding behind his back. 
 
He stuffed a piece of leather into the elf’s hands and moved away from the 
bed quickly, as if he was expecting mocking laughter from the elf. 
 
Legolas looked in amazement at the leather in his hands 

It was made of strong, but flexible dark brown leather, its insides lined out 
with the softest cloth and on its surface shone elvish runes in bright silver 
threading, that had been embedded into the dark leather. Legolas brushed 
the runes with his fingertips murmuring the words on it. He felt tears 
spring to his eyes, but he held them back. He had cried too much already. 
This was a time to rejoice in the care of his closest friends. He knew quite 
well that Gimli’s strong fingers were responsible for this magnificent craft 
he was holding in his hands, and that Aragorn must have provided him 
with the runes. 
 
Gimli cleared his throat nervously "Well, come on then. Let’s see how it 
fits." 
 
Legolas got up from the bed and stood before the dwarf. "Would you 
please?" He asked Gimli and held out the piece of armour. 
 
"Maybe Aragorn should, you know...., well he knows more about....and I 
don’t....I mean:::" 
 
"No, Gimli. I want you to do it. It was you who made it, it was you who 
had the idea and it is you who is so protective of me." Legolas smiled a 
little. 
 
"Mrpf..." Gimli muttered under his breath, but took the leather and he 
moved near to Legolas' side. 
 
"Well, you would have to lift your shirt for me." He informed the elf. 
 
Legolas did as he was told and had to suppress a small giggle as Gimli 
went to work on the lacing of his leggings.  
 
Aragorn just stood there and watched these two unlike friends. He had 
leaned back against the bedpost and smiled. It was good to see the elf’s 
eyes shining a bit again and somehow he was sure that with the help of 
Gimli and maybe himself, Legolas would stay with them. 
 
Gimli had by then fastened the leather armour around Legolas swelling 
belly and crossed his arms in front of his chest circling the elf, mumbling 
to himself.  
 
"How does it look?" Legolas asked trying to follow Gimli’s movements 
with his head. 
 
"Good, good." The dwarf cocked his head in Aragorn’s direction. 
 
The ranger nodded, "Yes, very good. How does it feel then, that is far 
more important. Does it hinder you? Do any parts feel uncomfortable."  
 
"No, no. It is soft on the skin and feel quite smooth. I don’t think it will 
hinder me in any way." 
 
"Then fasten you leggings again and we will see how is it going to look 
beneath you clothing. We don’t want it to show too much, right?" 
 
But when the leggings were done up again and the silvery shirt hung over 
it nothing was seen of Legolas pregnancy. 
 
"Good," Aragorn stated "Now, my friend get some more rest, and I will 
see to the mustering. We will leave soon for Gondor." 
 
Just as he had said this a commotion was heard from the great hall. All 
three turned quickly and headed toward the hall. When they had reached 
it, Aragorn let out a surprised shout. "Elladan, Elrohir! My brothers, what 
are you doing here?" 
 
"We come with news from our father and Lothlorien." Elladan hugged 
Aragorn tightly. 
 
"Yes, and come see who else has arrived!" Elrohir pulled at Aragorn’s 
sleeve.  
 
There were Rangers waiting in the hall and leading them was Halbarad, 
who was baring the gift from the Lord of Rivendell. 
 
Aragorn left Gimli and Legolas standing and joined his kinsmen and 
brothers. He would have to decide what road had to be taken from here in 
order to get to Gondor undetected. 
 
Little did they know, for Aragorn had taken it upon him to use the Palantir 
and had gotten word from Lord Elrond hinting a way open for them and 
reminding Aragorn of an alliance that was to be called for. 
 
 
 
 
 
Eowyn wore a genuine smile upon her face when she came to Haldir in the 
early morning of the next day. The sun was shining already and at last for 
the first time in long weeks birdsong was heard around the Hornburg. 
 
"A good morning to you, my Lord Haldir." She greeted him cheerfully. 
"Let me see how your wounds are doing." 
 
Eowyn placed a bowl of warm water, some healing herbs, bandages and a 
washcloth on the chair she usually sat on. 
 
Humming a happy melody she started to work. Haldir was amazed 
because of the enchanting influence this woman had on him. As soon as 
she was near him, he worried less, relaxed more and his spirits lifted. 
 
He felt her taking bandages off his back and hoped to hear anything about 
his condition soon. He wanted nothing more than to get better soon and 
follow the paths his love had taken to be reunited with him as soon as 
possible. 
 
It reassured him to know that the messenger had left the day before and 
Legolas would hopefully receive his letter today. 
 
After Eowyn had taken off the layers of linen that covered Haldir back, 
she carefully washed off the remaining healing herbs and salve that still 
covered the swollen and red patches of the healing skin. With gently 
fingers she probed the forming scar and tried to feel whether the ribs were 
mending and growing new connections to the spine. Haldir grunted quietly 
in pain but apart from that, he said nothing. All seemed to heal very 
nicely.  
 
"It is amazing, my dear elf how quickly you heal. I will bandage you 
somewhat more tightly today, for I hope we can have you laying on your 
back. If that was indeed possible we could take you on the next group of 
injured we are bringing back to Edoras." 
 
"If that was truly possible, dear Eowyn. "He repeated" I will manage to lie 
on my back, no matter how painful it might be." 
 
Then lets see if you can sit up then." Eowyn went to work on putting tight 
fitting strips of linen around Haldir’s body suspending the healing bones 
and flesh. She could see the pain clearly visible in Haldir’s eyes but not a 
sound left his lips.  
 
After she had finished, she moved to Haldir’s shoulders and gently rolled 
him over onto his back. He closed his eyes in pain and hissed. Eowyn put 
a soothing hand on his brow and waited a moment to give Haldir some 
time to recover from the searing pain that shot through his body. 
 
His face had paled and his eyes were wide open glistening in a pale blue 
of the morning light. Haldir took a few steadying breaths and motioned 
her to continue. Eowyn moved to the head of the bed Haldir was lying on 
and pushed her flat hands, palms up, underneath the well muscled 
shoulders of the elf. With the utmost care she slowly lifted Haldir’s 
shoulders off the bed and helped him into a sitting position. 
 
When he was up she circled around to stand at the side of the bed and held 
him up, gently moving his legs toward her so that he could let them dangle 
over the side.  
 
Only then did Eowyn notice the tears running freely down the beautiful 
face mirroring the pain that he must be in. He leaned forward a little so his 
head rested against her shoulder and tried to calm his trembling limbs. He 
had felt so much better this morning, but it had been an illusion. His body 
was weak and fragile, the severe wounds on his back would take weeks to 
heal and there was no way that he would be able to follow his beloved, to 
be by his side and to protect him from any harm. Were the tears ones of 
pain before, now they had turned in tears of frustration and sadness. 
 
Eowyn comforted him as best as she could and after a while helped him to 
lie down onto his back. He turned his head away from her and she knew 
he needed some time alone. She placed a gentle kiss on his brow and left 
to help organise the next troop that would leave for Edoras.  
 
Litters had to be build and wounded prepared for the trip. It was already 
late afternoon when she returned to Haldir’s side. He greeted her with a 
shy smile and before she could say anything he spoke. "My Lady, I must 
apologise for my earlier behaviour. I had no right to ignore you after you 
were such a help for me and have done so much for me and my husband. 
Please, take my sincere regret." 
 
"Oh Haldir, you don’t have to apologise for anything. I understand you 
perfectly well. It is discomforting to know that the body does not work as 
we hope it would do. I believe you felt so much better and were thrown 
back by your own weakness. I often did encounter similar situations and 
even though I am not wounded at this point, I hate it if my body sets the 
limits. But now you will have to endure the pain one more time, for it is 
time to leave for Edoras and I don’t believe you would want to stay here." 
 
She motioned over to the door and two men carrying a litter came in 
moving to the side of Haldir’s bed.  
 
Eowyn helped Haldir up and onto the litter hoping not to cause him too 
much pain in the process. When he was rested comfortably, two men 
carried the litter outside where it was hung between two horses.  
 
The sun spread its last warm rays over the group of people and horses 
moving out of the plains that surrounded the entrance of the Hornburg. 
 
Scouts were riding up front, scanning for any foes that might stand in their 
way. It was already dark when they called for a short rest. 
 
Water was given to the wounded and walking and after having consumed 
a small meal they sat out again.  
 
Eowyn walked beside the horses that carried Haldir and talked to him 
from time to time. She was glad that he obviously had overcome his fears 
and doubts and was relaxing, staring up into the clear nights sky. When 
she looked again, his eyes had gone vacant and only the calm raise and fall 
of his chest told her that he was still with them. 
 
Eowyn shivered slightly underneath the thin woollen cape that she wore 
during the long walk in the night. Early morning dampness lingered 
around them and seemed to creep underneath their clothes and into their 
bones. A look to the sky told her that the sun would come up soon and she 
looked forward to the warming rays that would dry the clothes and make 
all of them feel better. She hurried her step noticing that she had fallen 
behind and moved beside the horses carrying Haldir again, when she heard 
a cry from one of the scouts. The trek immediately stopped and everyone, 
even the horses stayed quiet afraid of being detected of whatever was out 
there that had caused the scout to cry out. 
 
After a few minutes, that seemed to pass as slowly as hours came the 
answer whispered from front to back. When at last Eowyn heard the news 
as well, she gave a shocked cry and ran up to the front.  
 
Henneth, the first scout, knelt some yards to the left in the high grass, head 
bowed and holding onto something. 
 
Eowyn lifted her dress up and moved through the thick long grass over to 
where Henneth was kneeling. 
 
What she saw made her heart miss a beat.  
 
A body, no not quite since his head was missing, was laying on the ground 
his hand clutching tightly to the papers and in his other one a long but 
obviously unused knife. Even though the head was missing, it was clear 
who it had been. It was Harlang, the messenger who had left two days ago 
in order to bring important papers to Edoras. 
 
Eowyn knelt at the side of the corpse and pried his fingers open to retrieve 
the blood soaked paper.  
 
There it was; the letter she had written in Haldir’s name to Legolas. 
 
With weak knees she got up from the ground and without saying a single 
word to Henneth she turned to the waiting group of people and ordered 
them to move on.  
 
While she let the group pass her by, until Haldir’s litter came into view 
she racked her mind on: if or how to tell Haldir the news, but when she 
saw his face she knew that he had already heard. His face looked pale and 
his breath was coming in short and painful gasps.  
 
When she was by his side again he only looked at her, as if to ask for her 
confirmation. She nodded. 
 

During their long way to Edoras Haldir never spoke another word. The 
lady of Rohan sensed his deep traumatic fear and anguish, but there was 
nothing she could do for him. Not here and not now. 
 
His face was absent and he seemed not to be only lost in thought but also 
lost to this world. It was like he had given up. She shook her head and 
moved a little closer to him and reached for his hand. Eowyn nearly let go 
off his hand in shock. The hand felt cold and clammy, no strength was left 
in the callused fingers. She had to do something. 
 
When they reached the city of Edoras late the next day, the wounded were 
immediately brought to separate rooms. Before Haldir was taken away, 
Eowyn bid her helpers to wait and went to speak to one of the servants. 
She returned giving the men, carrying Haldir’s litter, specific orders where 
to take him. 
 
After Haldir was carefully transported onto the soft and downy bed, 
Eowyn sat at his bedside and took hold of his chin and moved his head in 
her direction, so that he had to look at her. 
 
"Haldir! Look at me!" she ordered. 
 
"Nay, my Lady. Let me be." Haldir’s voice was barely audible. 
 
"Haldir I don’t know yet if he has been here or in what condition he was. 
But I will find out. Right now there is no chance for me to ask anyone. But 
I am sure that he is all right." 
 
""You don’t understand. If he thinks I am dead..." 
 
"I know, you told me. But Haldir listen! If your bond that you share is as 
strong as you told me, wouldn’t you know if he was dying or healthy? 
You said it yourself, that you always can feel him or rather his presence. 
Could you not try to focus on that? Maybe you will know. Meanwhile I 
will try to find out as much as I can." Eowyn got up from the bed and 
moved over to the door "Oh, Haldir. I forgot to tell you, this was his room, 
before he went to Helms deep. I thought it might comfort you a little bit." 
 
Haldir drew a shuddering breath and tried to think clearly. Had Legolas 
been here after they had left the Hornburg? Wouldn’t anybody tell them 
what happened? Maybe Eowyn was right. He had always been able to feel 
his husband through the strong bond they shared. If he could just relax 
enough to focus on it. 
 
So he let his mind wander to happier times, times when he had shared a 
loving time with Legolas, a time full of plans and ideas for their future, a 
time before it all went sour. 
 
The moon had long risen when Haldir finally had found his peace and he 
decided to try and search for this one feeling of belonging inside of him. 
At first he was scared. Scared of the outcome. Scared that he might feel 
nothing. Scared that would feel a severed bond. But he had to know. 
 
So he turned his thought to himself, to his body and mind. And there it 
was, the familiar soft humming of the bond, the reassuring feeling of 
togetherness, of love and devotion. A soft but joyful cry escaped his lips, 
only to be stopped by a frightened gasp. There was something else. 
Something mingling with the bond he shared with his husband. Another 
presence. What did it have to do with Legolas? Haldir’s chest burned with 
a sudden pain. Was Legolas with someone else? Had he already taken 
another to heal his pain? Tears were running freely down the pale cheeks 
of the Lorien warrior. He couldn't believe it. No, it mustn't be. If only the 
message would have reached Legolas. But it hadn’t.  
 
Suddenly a cool and comforting hand rested upon his brow.  
 
"Shhh.... Haldir. It is me Eowyn. I have news about your Legolas." 
 
"He is alive." Haldir choked "But there is something wrong. Something 
wrong with the bond. There is something or someone else. Like he is not 
alone anymore." Haldir closed his eyes in anguish. 
 
"Maybe it feels wrong because he isn't too well. I have heard from one of 
the servants, that the elf travelling with our King had been ill and pale. It 
is said that he rested a lot while the dwarf and Aragorn cared for him, 
before they left for the Path of the dead." 
 
"Aragorn, maybe he.....NO!" Haldir suddenly glared angrily. 
 
"Be at peace, Haldir. What are you saying. What is on your mind?" Eowyn 
didn’t know what to make of Haldir’s sudden angry voice. 
 
"I told you, there is someone with him. Someone close. Someone strange 
but yet not. Maybe Aragorn has taken it upon him to comfort Legolas in 
more than one way. I have seen him look at him.... look at him like.....they 
were always so close..." Haldir turned away from Eowyn. 
 
"No! I can't believe what you are implying. Lord Aragorn would never do 
anything like that. Relax, my friend. Maybe there is another explanation. 
You said strange but yet not. What do you mean?" 
 
"It’s like I know that other presence, but then again I cannot place it. 
Therefore it is the only explanation I have. Another person I know but I 
don’t know that intimately." Haldir sighed and closed his eyes in 
frustration. 
 
"I don’t believe Legolas would do anything like that." Eowyn tried to 
persuade Haldir. "The way you talk about him, it would be more likely for 
him to perish of grief than to take another." 
 
"We had sworn to another at our bonding ceremony that if the life of one 
would end the other would follow. Apparently those words were not true." 
 
"Haldir! You are NOT dead. Maybe he can feel it the same way you can 
feel him. If that is so, then way should he die?" Eowyn had turned Haldir’s 
face towards her, by taking a hold of his chin with her right hand. 
 
Haldir blinked hard, as if to fight back tears "Eowyn, you an amazing 
woman. You give hope were there is none in sight. Do you truly believe 
that it could be the case? But how could I explain the other presence I can 
feel?" 
 
"I don’t know Haldir. I really don’t, but maybe it has a totally natural 
cause. Maybe it’s just a deep friendship you can feel along the bond. Or...., 
I don’t know." 
 
Suddenly Haldir’s brow furrowed. He stared at the ceiling clearly lost in 
thought. "A natural cause?" he murmured. 
 
"Ed’ i’ear a’alenea!" Haldir cried out and tried to sit up. 
 
"No! Haldir, you have to stay still. Don’t try to sit up on your own. What 
are you doing?" Eowyn held onto the strong shoulders, desperately 
fighting to keep Haldir on the bed. 
 
"I have to go, I need to leave now. Eowyn, if what I suspect is true then he 
needs all the help and protection he can get. It is far too dangerous for him 
out there, he shouldn’t be fighting, he shouldn’t be placed in such a 
danger." 
 
"Haldir, calm yourself. What are you talking about?"  
 
"I fear that Legolas has become pregnant during his stay in Lothlorien. I 
never thought of the fact that he could become pregnant, too absorbed I 
was in his presence. I never dwelled on it and I dare say neither did he. Oh 
no, if this is really true then I must leave, no matter at what cost. Eowyn, I 
told you that we did fight a lot in the past, and at the end the last words I 
spoke to him before he left me for such a long time were not only spoken 
in anger, but they were so harsh and unfair. I told him that I would never 
trust him with the life of my child. I wanted to keep him safe, and I feared 
the danger of loosing him in battle. And when I spoke those words 
something inside of him broke. The light in his eyes lessened when he 
turned and left my side. I even accused him of being so irrational and that 
he would even go to war carrying a child risking it's life for his own glory. 
Eowyn, we are in a war and if its true that he is carrying our child, he must 
be thinking of what I said and I don’t want him to despair. Eowyn, he is 
the only person I know well, and I would entrust my life or that of our 
child, to carry it unharmed through a battle." Tears were running freely 
down the fair features now and Haldir’s hands clutched at Eowyn’s in 
desperation. 
 
 
 
Legolas let himself being lulled into a dream like state by the continuous 
steady sway of the horses movements underneath him. Gimli had laid his 
hands loosely onto the elf’s thighs, getting more and more used riding 
behind Legolas. From time to time the elf could hear the dwarf mutter 
something under his breath, it was mostly directed not at him but at the 
unborn child he was carrying. Legolas smiled faintly, it felt good to be 
cared for like this and Gimli never ceased to amaze him. Underneath that 
sturdy and rough outer shell lay a very soft and gentle heart. 
 
It still unnerved him how tired he would get, and being dragged from bed 
early this morning did not help. Aragorn had been beside himself, after 
having looked into the Palantir and after receiving a mysterious message 
from Elrond, and telling the following troops that he was leading the way 
through the Path of the Dead.  
 
Legolas had not understood the nervous murmur that had passed among 
the men and shook his head when even Gimli complained. Why were men 
and dwarfs afraid of the dead? It made no sense to him. So he listened to 
the sounds of the nature surrounding him as they rode on toward that so 
much feared path. 
 
Suddenly Gimli shook his left thigh slightly and whispered "Legolas! 
Come on wake up. We don’t want the others to find you sleeping, do we?" 
 
Legolas blinked and straightened his shoulders "No, we don’t" 
 
Aragorn called for a halt. "The horses will go no further. We must lead 
them. Come now, dismount and let us carry on." 
 
Legolas slid of his horse and helped Gimli down. "This is a cursed place." 
Muttered the dwarf and stared ahead at the wall of rock before them. He 
wished Gandalf was at his side, but the wizard had left them in the 
company of Pippin on their way to Edoras, and had turned directly to 
Gondor. Gimli sighed, a fine fellowship they were. Never together, but 
always apart. Even Merry, who's friendly chatter could have cheered him 
was not with them, for he had chosen to stay with Theoden at Edoras. 
 
Aragorn went first into the dark path of doom and his men followed more 
driven by Aragorn’s power than by their own strength. Last came Legolas 
and Gimli and after the elf had softly sung to his horse to calm him he had 
gone into the black hole and Gimli was left alone outside. He stomped his 
foot and taking a deep breath forced himself to go too. As soon as the 
blackness had swallowed him, he felt an assuring hand taking his own and 
leading him to follow the large group.  
 
"Do not fear my friend," Whispered Legolas in the dark "no harm shall 
come to you." 


To Gimli the way through the darkness seemed endless. At times he would 
take hold of Legolas hand again, even though it shamed him deeply, but 
there were moments here in the deep and dark place that made his hair 
stand on his back. Legolas never said anything, only held the dwarf's hand 
tightly giving him a reassuring hold. 
 
He didn’t understand this concept of fear towards the dead. What possible 
harm lay in them. They were dead. Sure, he felt their presence and for a 
short moment his old self came back as he teased the dwarf telling him 
about the dead warriors following them, and he asked if Gimli could 
already feel their foul breath at his neck. Gimli shuddered and hurried his 
steps somewhat. 
 
It was a long and tiresome way and after a while the elf let his thoughts 
wander off on their own. Gimli noticed the more relaxed walk of the elf 
and with his dwarvish sight he could clearly see that the elf’s eyes had 
taken a vacant expression. It never ceased to amaze the dwarf that elves 
could walk and even run slowly, while having entered a sleep kind of 
state. Legolas had ensured him that this was normal and that this was an 
elven way of saving energy and allowing themselves to rest. So he just 
held onto the pale and slender hand and walked on. 
 
Legolas thought about their journey, the perils and this gruesome dark 
place. Since Moria, his fear of dark caves had altered a little, and now that 
Gimli was walking alongside him he felt far more relaxed. In the 
beginning he had studied his surrounding as far as it was possible, but 
even though his elven eyes were better than that of man he could only see 
for a few meters. All his eyes encountered were rough walls, scattered 
bones and puddles of slick and old, foul water. There was a moment where 
the group of men and elves had stopped and had waited for further 
instructions from Aragorn. Legolas and Gimli who still walked at the end 
waited patiently. Directly in front of the elf was a large puddle of 
unmoving water and as the elf gazed at it, he could see his own reflection. 
Slightly blurred and mysteriously glowing in the dark. 

 
Now as his mind had taken its own route it came back to that particular 
image. His own reflection, looking back at him. But there was something 
else. Something moving.  
 
It had been late and he had not been expected to return to their home at 
that night. Their rooms were faintly lit by only a few candles that gave the 
smooth stone walls an eerie glow. It had been an uneventful day and his 
border duty had ended earlier than expected. While he was shedding his 
clothes he looked back at the full length mirror in front of him. His pale 
body glowed and thrummed with need. He had been away for nearly a 
whole week and couldn't wait to join his beloved again. Hopefully they 
could serve at the borders together once they were properly bonded, but 
they had to wait a few years before that would actually come to pass. He 
had spoken to his father, but Thranduil had only shook is head and told 
him to be patient. Everything was being prepared and as soon as it was 
ready they would be bonded. Still they were already waiting for over three 
hundred years. At least they were living together and had their own private 
quarters which were very luxurious. 
 
While he was contemplating about their lives together here in Mirkwood 
his eyes were drawn back to the mirror. The dark wooden door leading to 
their sleeping room was slightly ajar, and while he looked into the mirror 
he could see part of their bedroom and a part of their large bed. 
 
It was there where he saw the movements. Slow, languid movements. 
Pale, slender but muscular legs, slightly parted. He could make out a part 
of the taunt stomach, as well as the growing erection at the juncture of the 
thighs. A long fingered hand loosely moved up and down the shaft, not 
really applying any pressure, just teasing. Legolas breath got caught in his 
throat as he watched Haldir pleasure himself. Was he that desperate, was 
he thinking of him? When a low moan penetrated the darkness, Legolas 
sighed softly. He wished that he could just step into that other room and 
join his love, but something held him back. Maybe it was curiosity, or 
mainly the excitement of watching, knowing the other one had no idea. In 
the mirror he saw his own arousal standing hard against his skin. 
Involuntarily one hand slid down to touch it, while all the time his eyes 
were fixed on Haldir’s hand moving now with more demanding strokes on 
the hot flesh.  
 
Without noticing it a low moan escaped Legolas’ lips. Suddenly Haldir sat 
up and looked right at him. Legolas was still staring into the mirror unable 
to move. Haldir’s eyes glittered in the darkness and he smiled. Laying one 
finger against his lips signalling Legolas not to speak. Haldir kept on 
stroking himself more firmly, carefully watching his lover through the 
reflection of the mirror. 
 
He slowly rose off the bed, his hand never leaving his erection. Legolas 
stayed rooted to the spot, not being able to take his eyes off Haldir. When 
Haldir had reached him and stood directly behind him, Legolas wanted to 
turn around and to touch him, but Haldir stopped his movements and 
shook his head. He moved to Legolas' side and laid a hand on his 
shoulder, gently pressing down.  
 
Legolas understood and lowered himself until he was kneeling. Haldir 
turned him around a bit until both of them were positioned sideways from 
the mirror. He pushed his hips forward a little, gently stroking Legolas’ 
lips with the tip of his arousal. The tip of a wet pink tongue darted out to 
touch Haldir's penis just merely a second. Slowly Haldir pushed forward 
breaching Legolas willing lips. He groaned and let his head fall back at the 
welcoming heat and eager tongue that ran up and down the underside of 
his cock. Legolas relaxed his throat and took Haldir to the root, humming 
to add some extra sensation to his lover. His eyes flickered toward the 
mirror and he could see Haldir’s hard erection pushing between his lips, 
the way his cheeks hollowed and his lips pursed. 
 
Haldir shuddered and carefully pulled away from Legolas’ mouth, before 
the younger elf could utter a complaint. Haldir moved behind Legolas and 
bent him over so he was on all fours. Haldir smiled menacingly at him and 
moved away into their bedroom. Only seconds later he came back keeling 
behind his lover. Legolas watched the mirror in amazement as Haldir 
parted his rear cheeks, stroking his puckered entrance. 
 
Legolas moaned with abandon and pushed back, but Haldir held him back 
and bent down lower so that he was at the same height as Legolas’ rear. 
He let his tongue travel from Legolas’ spine toward the tightly drawn 
entrance, lazily circling the muscle before sharply dipping the tip of his 
tongue inside. He felt Legolas shuddering under his ministrations and 
withdrew his tongue to lick the soft spot between the sack and anus. He 
moved lower to the balls and sucked one at the time into his mouth, 
suckling them gently. From this position he could see pre cum dripping 
from Legolas cock to the ground. Slowly licking his ways back up again 
he gave the puckered entrance a final teasing flick and straightened up 
again. 
 
Haldir reached for the vial he had brought with him from their sleeping 
area. 
 
He let the thick oil run down Legolas cleft and watched in awe as the tight 
hole twitched with excitement. With pure love radiating from every pore 
Haldir slid one finger into it, massaging the guardian muscle. Soon a 
second finger followed and the marchwarden brushed over the tender spot 
of Legolas prostate again and again.  
 
The blond prince was melting as the ice as he begged Haldir to take him. 
His body was convulsing every time Haldir moved his wicked fingers 
inside of him.  
 
Legolas could not take his eyes off the mirror, watching every move 
Haldir made and when at last the silver haired elf removed his fingers and 
held onto his own erection to guide it against Legolas entrance, the young 
elf groaned deeply from his chest. 
 
He could see and feel how Haldir’s massive arousal slowly made its way 
inside his body, breaching to his limit until he was fully sheathed. 
 
The Lorien elf watched his arousal gliding in effortlessly and when he 
pulled out again he could see the stretching of the tender flesh around his 
erection, which was glistening with oil and pre cum. As he pushed back in 
he felt the strong muscles of the velvet insides contract around him. 
 
Legolas knew he wouldn’t last too long and so he did everything that was 
in his power to stimulate Haldir. He clenched his anal muscles and set a 
steady but deadly rhythm. Soon Haldir was holding onto Legolas’ muscled 
buttocks for dear life and was slamming into the willing body with force.  
 
Legolas never got the chance to touch himself before his orgasm hit him 
like a tidal wave, washing over him with force and drowning him in his 
sensations. Haldir shuddered as he spilled himself deeply inside his lover 
and nearly fell forward onto Legolas’ back with his full weight. 
 
It took Haldir all his remaining strength to move off him and to pull his 
beloved down onto the ground with him, breathing heavily. 

 
Gimli noticed Legolas hand grasping his with such a might that it made 
the dwarf cry out. 
 
Legolas blinked confusedly and quickly pulled his hand away, watching 
the dwarf massaging his knuckles, swearing in dwarvish. 
 
"I am sorry, Gimli. I don’t know what came over me." Legolas stuttered. 
He was relieved that in this darkness nobody would be able to see the 
fierce blush spreading on his face. 
 


It surprised him that thoughts of this kind entered his mind at the situation 
like this and with his soul and body in an uproar. It ashamed him to allow 
this arousing feeling to affect him. Haldir had died not two weeks ago and 
...... but then again, he was thinking of Haldir and their happy times. 
Maybe this was only natural. 
 
A way to cope with his situation. Maybe his memories would keep him 
alive long enough to give birth to their child. Then perhaps he would have 
the chance to find his way to Haldir, without whom he did not want to 
live. 
 
Gimli tugged at his hand and Legolas looked at him. "We are moving on, 
in case you haven't noticed." 
 
"Sorry, I hadn’t. I was thinking." The elf started moving. 
 
"Good thoughts?" the dwarf inquired. 
 
Legolas tilted his head towards the dwarf and smiled a sad smile at him. 
"Mainly." 
 
All were glad to see the end of their dark and dreadful path, sounds of the 
water reached their ears and then they passed through a large gateway into 
the steep and sharp cliffs. It was still dark outside and none were able to 
say if they had wandered only one night or many days through the paths of 
the dead. 
 
A few hours later they could mount their horses again and they pushed on, 
eager to find a safe haven soon. Gimli shuddered knowing that the dead 
were following still, their gray shapes looking misty in the dim light of the 
day. 
 
It was near midnight when they had reached their destination at the Hills 
of Erech. The horses and riders were weary, when Aragorn blew the silver 
horn and announced his due. 
 
Gimli watched over Legolas that night, his thoughts still lingering on the 
sight of weariness and sadness that the elf’s face had mirrored in the 
darkness of the caves. Gandalf might have called it mood swings, but 
Gimli knew better. Legolas was on the brink of giving up. The dwarf 
knew that he was desperately trying to pull himself together, but his 
tortured soul would not let him. Even in the sleep, his eyes wide open, the 
elf looked restless.  
 
Gimli had deliberately picked a spot a little off the main fire, so that he 
and Legolas could have some peace and quiet. Aragorn came only once 
over to them, checking on the elf’s condition. The trip had worn him out, 
his body was nourishing the child and his soul was too tired to go on.  
 
"Did he eat something?" Aragorn asked Gimli in a low but concerned 
voice.  
 
"No, not a bite." 
 
"Make him eat something, he needs it!" the ranger glanced once more at 
the pale face of his friend. 
 
They rose early in the morning traveling further to the South east, passing 
village after village. Most of them were deserted, and the rest of the 
people fleeing at the sight of the army of dead. 
 
Aragorn drove them mercilessly through the wild, but what nobody 
noticed was that he kept a close eye on Legolas, looking for any signs of 
weakness or strain, willing to stop immediately if he encountered any.  
 
At the end of the first day out in the open plains, after they had left the 
razor shark cliffs, they camped out on a vast field. Once there had been 
crops, but the farmers had left and now wild beasts had roamed here and 
nothing had remained to be harvested.  
 
Gimli set up his and Legolas bedrolls, somewhat away from the others as 
usual, and made the elf sit down while he went and fetched some food and 
drinks.  
 
Aragorn watched the elf out of the corner of his eye and excused himself 
from his foster brothers and Halbarad.  
 
Elrohir and Elladan had been shocked when they heard of Haldir’s death 
and didn’t inquire further about Legolas, after Aragorn had told them that 
the prince of Mirkwood and marchwarden had made up and had been 
together again. Halbarad had heard enough of the elves to know that grief 
could kill them so he had asked no further. 
 
When Aragorn approached the elf and dwarf, only Gimli looked up and 
smiled.  
 
"Legolas!" Aragorn addressed the elf. Would you mind walking with me a 
little? I would like to check on you." 
 
Without glancing up, Legolas muttered "There is nothing to check, 
Aragorn. I am fine." 
 
"No, you are not. You have been eating very little lately and a whole week 
passed since I examined you last. I do not know much about pregnancies 
when it comes to male elves, but I believe not many of the healers do. I 
only know that with your slender body, and the way you are rejecting food 
and the stress you are under, that those factors aren't healthy for the child." 
 
"Right!" Gimli nodded. 
 
"So, please come with me and let me check you." The ranger had knelt 
down beside Legolas. 
 
Like a puppet on strings Legolas rose from their makeshift camp and 
followed Aragorn wordlessly.  
 
After they had reached a secluded spot, where the others couldn't see 
them, Aragorn bade Legolas to lie down. As if speaking to a child, 
Aragorn continued to speak to the elf while he pushed his tunic and shirt 
up and unlaced his leggings. 
 
The size of the womb had grown quite a bit since the last time and 
Aragorn was hardly able to span it with his hand. Still the womb felt soft 
to the touch and most of the bruises were gone. Aragorn sat back on his 
heels as he thought for a moment. 
 
"Legolas, have you got your little knife with you?" 
 
The elf’s eyes flew open in dismay. "Is something wrong? Why do you 
ask?" 
 
Aragorn put a comforting hand on Legolas’ swollen belly "No! Don’t 
worry. I was just wondering if I could borrow it and see if I can find an 
appropriate piece of wood for a device I wanted to make. It is a hollow 
tube made of wood. Normally one end would have a broad end like the 
foot of the wine goblet, but it is hollow all the way through. If you press 
the narrow end against the belly of pregnant person and press your ear 
against the broad end, without touching it with your hand, you can hear 
the heart beat of the child and the pulsing of the umbilical cord." 
 
"How do you know that?" Legolas looked fascinated. In these few 
moments he felt like his will of life had grew a bit stronger. But it was not 
so. 
 
"Elrond taught me." Aragorn smiled at Legolas’ interest. "Please go back 
to Gimli. I will try to find some wood I can use for it." 
 
Legolas dressed again and walked slowly back to their camp. He 
wondered about himself. There were moments when he was feeling not 
too bad, moments where he would tenderly stroke the swelling flesh of his 
body and would very quietly sing to the child. Then again there were 
times, when he didn’t even want to touch his own body. And it wasn't 
even in any sexual way, but the thought of touching his own flesh 
especially the area where the child grew repelled him. It seemed to him so 
unfair, so wrong and unnatural. He shook his head sadly and halted in his 
tracks.  
 
He felt his partly lighter mood fade with every step of the way. Why was 
he here, what did he have to do with this war. The need to end it all was 
becoming greater than ever, but the end seemed not near to his eyes. He 
would never take his own life, for then he would not be allowed to pass 
into Mandos Halls, and that meant never seeing Haldir again. Not even in 
death.  
 
A strangled sigh escaped his lips and he started walking again. Maybe he 
would get lucky in the next fight and a sword or arrow would hit him hard 
enough to let go. 
 
When he came into the view of their bedrolls and Gimli who was sitting 
crossed legged near the small camp fire, he felt guilty. Guilty for his 
thoughts, guilty for his selfishness and for the little interest he showed in 
his duty to be a guardian for this world. 
 
Gimli noticed the lone figure approaching and stood up. He couldn't help 
but see the slender shoulders slumped and the head bowed a little. The elf 
was radiating his grief with every fibre. 
 
So the dwarf called out to his friend. "Come my friend, join me here at the 
fire and tell me if you two saw anything on your walk." Gimli hoped that 
his voice was loud enough for the others to hear, for he did not want 
anyone to start asking question, why the elf and the ranger might leave the 
camp from time to time. 
 
Legolas shook his head and answered, his voice strained "Nothing dear 
Gimli, nothing." 
 
He moved over to his bedroll and lay down without uttering another word. 
 
The dwarf threw his hands up in defeat and sat down again. He watched 
the elf, but Legolas didn’t seem in the mood to talk, so he restrained 
himself from further questions and tried his best to relax. 
 
Not an hour had passed and most of the others of their company had laid 
down to rest, when Aragorn returned to them, smiling and holding a short 
round piece of wood in his hands. 
 
"Where have you been all this time?" Gimli looked up at the ranger. 
 
"I was trying to find the right piece of wood for my further examinations 
of our elf. I hope it works. Gimli would you be so kind as to sit here by 
Legolas’ side, to shield him and me from the view of the others." Aragorn 
motioned Gimli to a certain spot beside the dozing elf. 
 
"Legolas, are you awake? I am going to open you leggings again, do not 
fear. I want to see if I am able to hear the heartbeat of your child." He 
started undoing the leggings for the second time this night and Gimli 
looked in utter bewilderment at him. 
 
"The heartbeat? How can you hear that?" 
 
"With this," Aragorn held up the little piece of wood. It was not bigger 
then one of the handles of Legolas’ hunting knifes. 
 
Gimli cocked his head and muttered something into his beard. 
 
Legolas didn’t show any signs, whether he was awake or not, but Aragorn 
ignored him and carried on with his plan.  
 
As soon as he had bared the elf’s torso, he placed the smaller end of the 
wood against the middle of the bulge, producing from Legolas body. He 
held it until he had put his ear to the other broader end, and could hold the 
wood in place with a little pressure of his head. He took his hand away and 
listened. After trying the same procedure, under the guarding eyes of the 
dwarf, a bright smile lit his face. 
 
"What?" Gimli leaned closer, pure curiosity written on his face. 
 
Come here, Gimli. I can hear it. Strong and very fast, but that is supposed 
to be normal. Their hearts are very small still and so it has to work very 
fast. "Here." Aragorn got hold of the wooden piece again, without 
changing its position on Legolas body, and gestured for dwarf to come 
nearer." Put your ear against it like I did, when you are ready I will take 
my hand away again, and you can hear it." 
 
"Why do you have to take your hand away? Wouldn’t it be easier if 
you...." 
 
"No," Aragorn interrupted "you would hear my pulse that runs through my 
hand. And then you could not hear the child's heartbeat as clearly." 
 
Gimli did as he was told and when Aragorn had taken his hand away, he 
could hear the faint but regular and fast thumping of the child's heart. 
 
Unseen to them, streams of tears were running down the sides of the elf’s 
face. 


 
Haldir awoke from a restless sleep. His mind had been on his husband for 
most of the night. What if his suspicions were true, what if he was in 
danger, what if...... 
 
Suddenly the door burst open and with unseemliness manner came in 
Merry, the Hobbit, his curls in a riot and a bright smile beaming on his 
face. 
 
"I don’t believe it! But you were dead. Strider said so." 
 
And to Haldir surprise, the small creature flung himself onto the bed 
Haldir was lying in, and embraced him forcefully. 
 
"Oh my, Legolas will be so happy to hear. He was devastated, you know? 
He grew weaker with every day. I believe if it wouldn’t have been for 
Gimli, I don’t think he would have made it through the first night." 
 
Haldir’s face had paled in a dramatic way. "When did you see him last?" 
he croaked. 
 
"Oh that was a three days ago, when they left for the paths of the dead. He 
looked a bit better then, but... oh we have to tell him. I want to ride with 
Theoden to Gondor in a week, why don’t you come with us. I believe we 
will meet the others there." 
 
"I am not sure if I can make it Merry." Haldir sighed. 
 
Merry studied Haldir closely. Gandalf had been right. Beneath that 
arrogant exterior, lay a gentle caring soul. The old wizard had told Merry 
and Pippin more about Haldir and Legolas, to make them understand. 
Merry had been feeling guilty ever since, for judging the Lorien elf. He 
wanted to make up for it now. 
 
"You must have been wounded very badly, then. Aragorn was telling us, 
that you had died in his arms. He was so sure." 
 
"Maybe I did die, I do not know. All I can remember, is that pain in my 
back, my last thoughts on Legolas and then there was nothing. I believe 
my love for Legolas..." Haldir suddenly blushed and looked at the hobbit, 
but found nothing but joy in his eyes "forgive me, I don’t know if you 
know..." 
 
"Yeah, Gandalf told us all about you two, so we would understand the 
situation Legolas was in." 
 
"All? He told you all?" Haldir swallowed. 
 
"Well, about your love, your marriage, your fights and so on." Merry 
smirked. 
 
"Did you see any other changes in Legolas? Something strange?" Haldir 
did not speak that last sentence out loud. 
 
"No, you mean apart from the grief he was in?" Merry’s brow furrowed. 
 
"Yes, well, I don’t know how to put it really. What I meant was, was... ah.. 
his body. Anything unusual?" 
 
"He wasn't injured or so. No, I don’t think so. Why?" the Hobbit moved 
into a more comfortable position on the bed and eyed the elf. 
 
"It’s nothing. I just thought...." the silver haired elf leaned back against the 
headboard and worried his lower lip. 
 
"Maybe if you asked me directly, I would be able to answer you." 
 
"How much has Gandalf told you Merry?" Haldir cocked his head. 
 
"Well, he didn’t get into details. Do you want to share a dirty secret with 
me then?" Merry laughed. 
 
"No. I meant more about our relationship and what came out of it." 
 
The Hobbit sent his brown curls flying. "No. What came out of it, apart 
from you being married to one another." 
 
Haldir took a steadying breath, he wasn't sure if it was such a bright idea 
to initiate Merry with this, but he had to know. "Legolas, in the past that 
is, underwent a procedure to become fertile and thus being able to bear 
children."  
 
Merry’s jaw dropped. 
 
"I fear," Haldir continued "That Legolas might have become pregnant 
during your stay in Lothlorien. If that is so, I believe he needs help. I don’t 
know if he would tell the others, for surely they would stop him from 
continuing this journey, but he might want to keep going. It is dangerous 
for him and the child, and I don’t want them to come to any harm." 
 
For a few minutes Merry said nothing but tried to comprehend what he 
had just heard. He had noticed Gimli and Aragorn fussing over the elf 
more than usual. And Gandalf had been also overly concerned for him. 
Merry and Pippin had believed it was because of the grief the elf was in, 
but now? Maybe there had been more. More than it meets the eye. 
 
Suddenly the door opened and Eowyn stepped in carrying the all too 
familiar tray of herbs, bandages and a warm water. 
 
"Oh, here you are." She smiled at the Hobbit. 
 
"When I talked to Theoden about the fallen of Helm’s deep and about you 
and that you actually had survived, the little friend of yours came running 
out behind a tapestry and shook my arms asking me over and over again 
where you were. I hope I was right to tell him your whereabouts?" 
 
Haldir smiled at her and nodded. 
 
"Good," Eowyn sat down the tray and addressed Merry "While you are 
here now, I could use your help." 
 
"Right, what do you want me to do?" 
 
"Help Haldir to sit up and hold him steady while I redress the wound." 
 
Once Haldir was sitting Merry knelt before him and held his shoulders to 
steady him. 
 
Eowyn took away the old stripes of linen and washed Haldir back with a 
soft cloth. Merry tried to peer over Haldir’s shoulder and what he saw 
made him cringe. How on earth did Haldir survive this. There was a scar 
running from the neck all the ways down to his hips. It was ragged and 
looked slightly swollen with angry redness. The Hobbit felt a wave of 
nausea hit him as he imagined what the wound had looked like when it 
was fresh. He had heard of the elven power of healing but this was 
remarkable. Quickly he looked away and studied the interior of this room 
instead. 
 
When Eowyn was finished and had left again, Merry looked thoughtfully 
at Haldir.  
 
"Now I know why you doubt that you might not be able to ride with us." 
 
"Yes, the wound was severe, but I have to go. I need to find him." 
 
"Let’s see what I can come up with. You know, my dear Lorien elf, we 
Hobbits are known for our talent to improvise. Maybe I can come up with 
something. You lie down now and rest. And do you know what I will do? 
I will ask around a bit about your Legolas. Maybe someone else had 
noticed anything unusual." He hopped off the bed and left, winking at 
Haldir. 
 
The proud marchwarden made himself rest for the remain of the day, 
slipping into a healing sleep, his mind though fixed on his beloved 
somewhere out there in the wilderness of Middle earth. 
 
In his dreams he saw his smiling eyes, heard his laughter and felt his 
loving touch. He wished he could send a wave of love and devotion along 
their bond, but he didn’t know if Legolas had the time or peace to 
concentrate on their mutual feelings. 
 
The next morning he felt surprisingly refreshed and managed to sit up on 
his own. Ignoring the stabs of pain, he slowly swung his legs over the side 
of the bed. 
 
It felt surprisingly good to be in an upright position again, though he felt 
dizzy and a bit disorientated. But he had to make progress, he had to be 
able to leave in a week towards Gondor. 
 
Very carefully he pushed himself towards the edge of the straw mattress 
and inhaled deeply. One hand placed on the mattress the other to steady 
him against one of the posters of the bed, as he used his upper leg muscles 
to stand up. Pain was shooting, like liquid fire across his back up to his 
neck and he let out a strangled scream, but he was standing.  
 
Panting Haldir hung onto the poster, sweat pouring down his body and 
face.  
 
Merry ran towards Haldir’s room as quickly as his short legs would carry 
him. He had interesting news indeed. He had nearly reached his 
destination, when he heard a scream. It was coming from Haldir’s room 
and the Hobbit doubled his efforts to get there quickly.  
 
He flung open the door finding Haldir standing on shaking legs, hanging 
and supporting himself on the bed. His face was ashen and his breath came 
in short, painful gasps. 
 
"Are you out of your elven mind?" Merry ran over to Haldir, trying to 
hold him upright without causing him even more distress. 
 
"I have to be able to move on my own, Merry. I have to practice. How else 
am I going to go to Gondor." Haldir’s voice was strained. 
 
"Yes, maybe, but your injury. It is not fully healed yet. And what if it 
opens up again? You have to lie down." 
 
"No!" Haldir straitened a bit more "I will not lie down again." 
 
"All right, then you will sit on the bed!" Merry pulled at Haldir’s arm. 
 
Haldir did not want to, but he could feel his legs buckle under the strain 
and he obliged. 
 
When Haldir was sitting safely on the bed and his breath had eased 
somewhat, Merry sat down before the elf. 
 
"Now, do you want to hear what I found out?" 
 
"Merry, have you really heard anything? Please tell me. I must know." 
 
The Hobbit smiled self-confident. "Sure. Now, I asked many people and 
nobody could tell anything important. Until I came across the armourer. 
He told me that the dwarf and Aragorn had come to his place, asking for 
some material and a place to work. I know that, that alone is not very 
unusual, but what they were making was. The armourer described it as a 
very small peace of armour about seventeen to nine inches in size. It was 
lined with soft linen and the dwarf adorned it with a silver thread, in which 
he placed the elvish runes onto it. He said it looked like a little apron of 
some sort. It even had leather straps to fasten it around something. Now 
what do you say?" Merry beamed. 
 
Haldir had furrowed his brow and shook his head slightly. "I don’t 
understand. Of what use is that?" 
 
"Obviously the injury has not only damaged your back, but also your 
mind. An apron! Now why would someone want to tie that around 
himself. Yeah, all right, I know for cooking. But I seriously doubt that any 
of them wanted to cook something, especially not in a sturdy leather 
apron. Maybe it was some sort of additional protection. But for whom? I’ll 
bet it was an armour for Legolas. I also have heard that Aragorn and Gimli 
fussed over him quite a lot. And that was not only because he was 
grieving." 
 
"Merry, if that what you think is true and that protection is for my 
husband......." 
 
Haldir was interrupted by Eowyn, who nearly dropped her tray when she 
entered seeing Haldir sitting, rather than lying down like he should do. 
 
"What do you think you are doing there." She fumed. "The wounds could 
open up again and my whole work would have been for nothing." 
 
"My wounds will not open up again, but I need to get my body working 
again or else I will not be able to travel with you." 
 
"Travel with us?" Eowyn looked utterly shocked. "You will most certainly 
not travel with us. You will need at least a few weeks more before you can 
sit on a horses back again. Let me assure you of that." She marched over 
to the elf and placed down the tray with food and drink with force. 
 
"But I have to....." 
 
"Yes, you have to lie down again!" Eowyn put the hands on her hips and 
glared at Haldir. 
 
During the next few days, Haldir conspired with the Hobbit to come to 
him at night time and help him to get up from the bed and walk around for 
a bit. At first it was nearly impossible for Haldir to take a single step, but 
the more they practised the easier it got, and Eowyn was surprised to see 
Haldir getting better with every day thinking that it was due to her stern 
commands for the elf to stay in bed. And rest. 
 
But clearly the exercise helped to speed up the healing process and by the 
end of the week Haldir could walk without aid and was even able to bend 
down to his toes without too much pain. 
 
Early in the morning of the last day before Theoden King and his army 
were to leave for Gondor, Haldir dressed himself in an armour and clothes, 
which Merry had gotten hold of during the last days. Surely they were not 
elven made but it fitted him nonetheless, and made him feel a lot better 
then the sleeping robe he had been confined to for the last weeks.  
 
Head held high he slowly moved down towards the great hall to enlist 
himself among Theoden’s men, Merry always at his side in case he did 
need help. 
 
Half a way down the stairs, they met Eowyn, whose eyes grew wider 
when she saw Haldir descending more or less gracefully down the stairs. 
 
Tears were running down her face and it was distorted with anger. 
 
"What are you doing up and about?" she barked at Haldir. 
 
"I am going to join Theoden’s army. I am going with you to Gondor." 
 
"You are not going with me! You are going with them! Theoden wont let 
me come. They said they had no use for a woman among them!" She 
shouted at the elf. 
 
Haldir looked at her. "But you are the shieldmaiden and surely know how 
to use your sword in battle, you would be an asset to the army." Haldir had 
never understood the concept of man, not wanting their women to 
participate in a battle. 
 
"That is of no matter to them!" she wiped her tears away and looked down 
the stairs in direction of the great hall. 
 
"My lady, let me enlist and then we will meet in my room again and see if 
we can find a way to take you with us." Haldir smiled at her. 
 
She threw him a disbelieving look and went further up the stairs. 
 
Theoden was not too sure about Haldir’s wish to join them, but every 
sword or bow was badly needed and so he granted Haldir the wish and 
wrote his name down for the troop to Gondor. 
 
When Haldir walked back to his room his heart was lighter than it had 
been for weeks. Finally he was moving on again and moving in direction 
of Legolas. All of his thoughts were occupied and filled with images of his 
husband and what joy it would be see him again. 
 
He found Eowyn in his room, like they had agreed to meet, and later after 
a long talk Eowyn left the chamber with a smile on her face. 
 
 
 
For Legolas it seemed to take hours until Aragorn and Gimli left him in 
peace, sitting beside him muttering about the child, what they had heard 
and how wonderful life could be. Gimli had been talking to him, but 
Legolas did not have the strength or will to answer. Later the dwarf had 
quietly wiped the tears off the elf’s face and had moved over to his 
sleeping area, while snoring started only minutes later. 
 
Aragorn had long left by then and joined his men and friends at the 
campfire. 
 
It must have been around midnight, when the camp had at last grew silent, 
apart from the watch that circled the camp now and then.  
 
Legolas’ eyes were fixed on the stars above him and he thought about his 
life and future. But honestly he saw no future. Every time he found this 
little bit of peace and his mind relaxed, he felt this pulling. Haldir’s 
presence calling out for him. It was nearly like when Haldir had still been 
alive and far away from him. This ever lasting bond they shared, was 
confirmation for them that their bond was strong and full of love. It made 
his heart clench and tears well up in his eyes. Some time ago it would have 
shamed him deeply to be so weak and even worse to show this weakness 
to others. But nothing of that seemed to matter to him any more. His world 
had shattered and all he wanted was peace. Endless peace. 
 
He would try and keep going until his child was born, and then let his soul 
travel to Mandos halls. 
 
He was glad that he had Gimli’s promise to look after the child and was 
sure the dwarf would make a loving and just father. The grief for his 
husband was slowly but steadily taking his will to live and his strength. He 
could feel it every time he had to use his bow, every time he mounted a 
horse or had to walk for a long time. His body failed him now more and 
more often. It was only a question of time until it would cease to function. 
 
After a while Legolas eyes took the vacant expression and in his dreams 
there was Haldir calling out for him. He was standing amidst a battle 
before a city wall, waving his arms at him. Shouting something. And then 
he came running towards him, opening his arms, catching him, holding 
him and moving his lips gently over his face while the fight went on 
around them. But here in his dreams they were safe and nothing could 
harm them. It was only them. 
 
Gimli woke from the sound of a strangled sob, coming from where 
Legolas was laying. 
 
He got up immediately and crouched beside the elf, gently shaking him. 
 
"Hey, crazy elf! Wake up. It's only a dream! Legolas, please wake up!" 
Worry shone on the dwarf’s face as he watched the dark blue eyes coming 
back into focus. 
 
"You had me worried there for a moment!" Gimli smiled at the elf. "A 
nightmare?" 
 
Legolas shook his head and sat up wearily.  
 
"What was it then?" the dwarf insisted. 
 
But Legolas didn’t answer him straight away. Instead his hands went to 
his braids and with trembling fingers undid them one by one. The braided 
hair waved unlike his released hair and Legolas bowed his head and let it 
fall before his face like a curtain.  
 
Gimli shuddered watching the elf. To him it seemed like Legolas was not 
only unbraiding his hair but instead by doing so degrading himself from 
warrior to a plain citizen.  
 
Gimli would have none of it. He went over to where his pack lay and 
removed a fine silver comb, he usually used to tend to is beard, and stood 
behind Legolas. 
 
With slow and deliberate strokes Gimli combed through the elf’s hair, 
leaving it shining and smooth. The waving strands now blended perfectly 
with the rest of his straight hair and gave it a romantic touch. 
 
Gimli put the comb aside and gathered enough hair from the middle of 
Legolas skull to start the ceremonial braid warrior's braid down the middle 
of his hair.  
 
Legolas had not moved a muscle while the dwarf went to work. 
 
Cocking is head slightly and admiring his handiwork, Gimli fastened the 
end of the braid and moved over to the temples. Those braids took longer 
to finish, for his course fingers found it difficult to cope with the fine hair 
of the elf. 
 
But after several attempts he was finished and he took Legolas face in his 
hands, looking directly into his shining blue eyes. 
 
"Now, I hope you just wanted to brush your hair and would have braided it 
up again, didn’t you?" 
 
Legolas looked back at the dwarf and the dwarf could see all the feelings 
and despair openly in those cerulean orbs.  
 
"Talk to me Legolas. Please, don’t carry the burden all by yourself. We 
are here to help you. I know the grief is pulling you down, but try to 
withstand it. Now, what did you dream of."  
 
The elf sighed and cast his eyes down. "I dreamt of him. We were on the 
battle ground. I don’t know where. There was a city wall and people 
fighting everywhere, Haldir was among them and when he saw me, he 
waved and came running towards me. He held me, kissed me and it was 
only us. Nothing could harm us. Nothing. I can still fell him. Fell him 
touching me, holding me. His presence is here with me, even though its 
faint. It’s like he was there to keep me going, to hold a contact to me and 
his child. A reassurance that he will always wait for me." Legolas voice 
was soft and barley audible. 
 
"Rest a little more, my friend. Tomorrow Aragorn wants us to reach the 
harbour of Pelargir. It will be a long and tiresome journey indeed. I will 
wake you in the morning." With that Gimli pushed Legolas back down 
onto his bedroll and made sure the elf was comfortable. He did not know 
what the future might hold for them, but he was going to make sure that 
Legolas would come out of it alive. 
 
The first rays of dawn were creeping up over the plains, when Aragorn 
and his company were already up and on their way to Pelargir. The twins 
and Aragorn were riding up front while Legolas and Gimli were the last of 
the large troop. The only things behind them were the following dead. 
Misty shadows, fluttering in the breeze, nearly transparent in the sunlight. 
 
When they reached the harbour of Pelargir in the early evening, ships 
upon ships were gathered. The fleet of Umbar was mighty indeed. Fifty or 
more large vessels and countless small ones. Slaves at the oars, mostly 
Gondorian who had been taken captive. 
 
As soon as Aragorn and his army came into the sight, many ships turned 
to flee, but had not the chance to reach the other shore. At Aragorn’s 
command the army of dead paid their deed and long after midnight the foe 
was destroyed, many fleeing on foot, but many were drowned.  
 
After Isildur’s heir had released the dead from their vow, the captive were 
freed and many stayed to help their cause. 
 
While Gimli and Legolas took rest at shore near the ships, Aragorn 
mustered all the people he could find. Many coming on their own, having 
heard the rumor of Isildur’s heir marching towards Minas Tirith.  
 
At the first signs of the new day, all ships were boarded and the now freed 
Gondorians oared the ships upstream towards the main city. 
 
Legolas stood at the railing, his face tilted upwards to watch the seagulls 
flying, calling out for him, awakening the call of the sea within his heart.  
 
Had his heart had not been so heavy with grief, surly he would have taken 
up their call, but know he only stood there, hearing without listening. 
 
Gimli was true to his word and had stayed by his side, never letting him 
out of his sight, steadying him whenever there was need. 
 
 
 
 
In the early morning Theoden mustered the men that were to accompany 
him to Gondor. Merry was nervously waiting until he had finished and 
then approached the king. The Hobbit desperately wanted to go with them, 
knowing that Pippin was in Gondor and was afraid for his life. But 
Theoden told him off, not wanting any of his men to bear the additional 
weight and trouble. Merry scowled and left the great hall. Half a way up 
the stairs he met Haldir, who was on his way to the armoury.  
 
"They wont let me come!" Merry told him solemnly.  
 
Haldir looked at the Hobbit and crouched before him. " There are always 
possibilities, little one. Come to us this evening before we leave. Maybe 
you can wave us good-bye." He said with a twinkle in his eyes. 
 
Merry spent the day brooding outside the Halls of Meduseld, watching the 
preparation of the troop. After a while he spotted Haldir, his movements 
slower than that of the others, but he held his head high and never showed 
that any of his injuries troubled him. His hair was for once not braided in 
the elvish fashion. Instead all of his hair was braided down the middle in 
one tight plait. He wore the tunic and armour of Rohan and from afar only 
his light complexion and pointy ears showed his true heritage. 
When Haldir saw Merry sitting on the steps of the great hall he waved at 
him, smiling. 
 
The sun was already setting when all the riders of Rohan mounted their 
horses, and suddenly Merry heard a voice behind him. A young warrior 
clad in a long cloak with hood, whispered into his ear. He was willing to 
take the Hobbit with him, hiding him under his cloak until it was dark and 
no one would notice anything. Once they were underway and a good way 
from Edoras, it would be too late to send him back anyway. 
 
Merry agreed happily and the young warrior, who called himself 
Dernhelm, waited until nearly all had left.  
 
The ride was strenuous for Merry, who had to hold the folds of the cloak 
tightly to hide from view. He was more than glad when they halted for the 
night. 
 
He noticed that Dernhelm had chosen a spot further away from the others, 
in order to hide the Hobbit. Merry nearly jumped out of his skin when 
suddenly Haldir appeared behind him. "I told you there are always 
possibilities." 
 
Merry sighed and sat down. 
 
A short while later Dernhelm came over to them, from where he had been 
talking to Marshall Elfhelm and nodded to Haldir. 
 
"You stay here and don’t make any noise." Haldir told him and handed 
him some bread and cheese. "We will be back shortly." 
 
The two warriors disappeared into the night and Merry wondered what 
they were up to. His legs itched to go after them and have a look. What 
could they do now in the darkness. No weapons training that was sure. But 
what else.... Surely Haldir wouldn’t take comfort in the arms of Dernhelm, 
would he. Not with Legolas desperately waiting for him. But he was told 
not to move. Maybe they were only patrolling the camp. Yes, that must be 
it. 
 
So he lay down on one of the bedrolls and his battered body easily slipped 
into sleep. 
 
He woke the next day, hearing yet another voice near him. When he 
opened his eyes, he saw Dernhelm, Haldir and Elfhelm standing at their 
camp in deep discussion. From the way Elfhelm pointed at him, he was 
undoubtedly the cause of this heated talk.  
 
After some time, Elfhelm threw his hands into the air, said something to 
both Haldir and Dernhelm and marched off. 
 
"What was that all about?" Merry asked carefully, when they started 
packing their things together. 
 
"Elfhelm has found out about you and wasn't too happy about it. You are 
our responsibility now, but you may stay with us." Haldir informed him. 
 
Later that say Merry noticed that Dernhelm never spoke to him again. Had 
he done something wrong? 
 
Merry rode with either Haldir or Dernhelm and at the second night, the 
mystery seemed to repeat itself. Again both of the warriors would leave 
the camp in the darkness. This time Merry managed to stay awake until 
they came back.  
 
They appeared to be exhausted and sweating. They definitely had not only 
been on patrol. This was the moment that Merry decided to follow them if 
they disappeared at their next stop again. 
 
And surely when they made camp that following night, he was told to stay 
put and they went away. Merry waited for a minute and as quietly as he 
could, he followed them through the thicket. 

He didn’t have to track them for a long time, he heard panting breaths and 
a grunts from time to time. Shocked Merry clamped his hand over his 
mouth and crept nearer. 
 
Haldir was standing near a little clearing with his torso bared and his bow 
in his hand. Dernhelm was standing behind him working his deft fingers 
over the sore and fatigued muscles of Haldir’s shoulders, while the elf was 
repeatedly pulling the bow to his farthest extent. 
 
Sweat ran down his body and sometimes he screwed his eyes shut from 
pain. 
 
Merry scolded himself for his vivid imagination and very quietly made his 
way back to the camp. 
 
Sometime later Haldir and Dernhelm came back, sitting down on their 
bedrolls. Merry was just about to slip into the slumber, when he heard 
Haldir whisper to him "The next time you want to know what we are up 
to, just ask. There was no need to creep up on us. Not while you trample 
through the vegetation like an orc." 
 
When they had been on the road to Gondor for four days, they came upon 
some wild men. From them they received the news that the orcs were 
invading the city and Gondor fires were burning. Theoden King 
immediately called for a hasty approach while on the way towards the city 
of Minas Tirith, using a hidden path the wild men had shown them. The 
open roads towards the city were invaded by the fouls armies of Mordor. 
 
Haldir grew more and more nervous the nearer they came to the city. 
Would he find Legolas there? Every night when the others were sound 
asleep, he willed himself to relax to an extent, that he was able to reach 
out for the bond he was sharing with his husband. With anticipation and 
joy he always felt for that second presence, humming steadily along the 
bond. He still wasn't sure if he was right in his assumption, but together 
with Merry’s theory, the probability of Legolas being pregnant was high 
indeed.  
 
Haldir mused about that thought a lot. In the past Legolas desperately 
wanted to become pregnant, but everything changed and they were 
separated for a long time. 
 
Had it been the Valar’s doing? That Legolas would become pregnant in a 
time like this? A time of despair and fear. Was it a flare of hope, a sign 
that eventually it was worth fighting for, a message to others, that not 
matter how hard the time was, it was always worth living for? 
 
Every evening when Haldir fell asleep, after reaching out for Legolas, he 
did it with a faint smile on his face. 
 
 
 
Legolas had made himself a bedding area on deck of the ship as he and 
Gimli were moving up stream. He couldn't stand the thought of sleeping 
under the deck in those stuffy narrow room with a ceiling that was so low, 
that he always feared bumping his head. 
 
From here he could see the stars and breathe the fresh air, though a distinct 
foul smell hung in the air, no doubt coming from Mordor’s foul creatures. 
 
For the several times Legolas tried to find a comfortable position, by 
wriggling himself deeper into the soft blanket beneath him.  
 
Suddenly a shadow fell over his face and he looked up. Gimli was 
standing before him, his hands on his hips, one foot tapping the deck.  
 
"You are supposed to rest, my friend. Go to sleep." He ordered. 
 
"I cannot. My back is aching and I am hungry." Legolas mumbled. 
 
Did Gimli just hear right, was the elf actually complaining that the was 
hungry. 
 
"You surely have been in the company of those Hobbits for too long, my 
friend. I thought I never hear an elf complain about himself being hungry. 
But I have sworn not only to protect you, but also to look after you, I ask 
you, what do you crave?" 
 
Legolas averted the dwarf’s eyes for a moment considering "I would have 
some soup of watercress, as main course fresh game and after that a large 
peace of lemon meringue pie. But since we don’t have any of that I will 
have to do with a piece of Lembas bread." 
 
Gimli laughed. "It is good to hear you making a joke at long last again. 
Aye, I will fetch you some Lembas and a cup of fresh water to go with it." 
Gimli turned on his heel and vanished below the deck. 
 
Legolas felt awkward. Even though he felt so tired and alone, the pain 
around his heart increasing with every day, the peaceful silence here on 
this ship and the slight rocking movement eased his mind and soul. To rest 
the body and relax ones limbs was precious indeed. 
 
It took Gimli only a very short while to return with the promised food and 
he was beaming over his bearded face. 
 
"Look what I've got you. They had fresh apples and some bread onboard. 
I’d say it'll be a welcomed change."  
 
Legolas smiled his thanks to the dwarf and accepted the offered food. 
While he was munching the apple, in a half seated position, using the 
railing as a back, Gimli sat down beside him. 
 
"How are you two doing?" he asked in a low voice. 
 
"You know how I am feeling, as for the child, I don’t know. I hope it is all 
right. It feels okay, but I do not have any experience with it." 
 
"Is the armour still fitting? It is not too tight yet, is it?" Gimli let his rough 
hand wander over Legolas belly. 
 
"I feel somewhat constricted, but it doesn't hurt or anything. I haven't 
checked on it. I have been wearing it continuously for the last days. 
Though I feel myself growing within every passing moment." Legolas 
answered silently, throwing the apples core over board into the water. 
 
"Maybe we should have a look then." Gimli looked at the elf. 
 
Legolas eyes darted nervously around the deck, checking if anybody was 
near. 
 
"Do not worry. Nobody will see us here. Wait I will drag some of the rope 
coils and push some barrels in our direction and tell the others not come 
near because you are trying to get some rest. I will tell them, that elves can 
get very unfriendly when not left in peace. Aragorn will understand and 
confirm my tale." With that the dwarf got up from the ground and moved 
over to the ropes and barrels, that were lined up throughout the ship. With 
his usual muttering sounds and curses he brought them into a new order, 
making a defence wall around Legolas’ bedding area. After that he left 
and headed towards where Aragorn had gathered his men giving them 
orders for the following days. 
 
The dwarf returned to the elf’s side in a matter of minutes and gestured 
towards the ‘wall’.  
 
"How do you like it?" he grinned. 
 
"It'll give some peace and quiet, thank you." Legolas had already moved 
back into a laying position and folded his arms behind his head. 
 
"May I?" Gimli asked a little shyly. 
 
Legolas nodded his consent and removed his hands from behind his head 
and started unfastening his tunic. He gave relieved sigh as it was loose and 
pulled up the silver shirt, he was wearing underneath. 
 
Gimli cursed silently at the elvish leggings and the delicate knots of the 
fastening, but declined Legolas silent offer to help him. 
 
Underneath the dark green of the leggings, he found the shining silver 
elven runes on the dark brown of the leather armour, hiding the tender and 
swollen flesh of Legolas' lower body. 
 
Gimli quickly undid the leather bindings and lifted the armour off. "It was 
a bit tight, wasn't it?" the dwarf threw a quick glance at Legolas. But the 
elf had his eyes closed and breathed more deeply than before. Obviously it 
indeed had been a bit tight. 
 
"Why didn’t you say anything, you crazy elf?" Gimli raged. 
 
"We didn’t have the time and I didn’t want to bother you nor Aragorn." 
Legolas admitted quietly. 
 
"Mhmpf..." was the only answer the elf got. 
 
Suddenly he felt the warm and callused but tender hand of the dwarf on 
his body and opened his eyes. He didn’t lift his head though, not sure he 
wanted to know the size his body might have taken by now. 
 
"This is so beautiful. So tender and strong at the same time. A true 
miracle. Just look at it." He heard his dwarven friend say. 
 
"I'm not sure I want to see it." Legolas closed his eyes again and only 
concentrated on Gimli’s hand on him. 
 
"Then at least feel it." Gimli took Legolas’ hand without asking and 
directed it onto the mount of flesh. 
 
Legolas sucked in his breath as he felt how large he had grown and 
wondered about it. He still couldn't feel the child move, but Aragorn had 
told him that this was normal and he possibly wouldn’t until the nineteenth 
or twentieth week. While his hand was absently stroking the bulge 
producing from his lower body, he tried to calculate his pregnancy. When 
did he begin to feel odd? Actually, right in the beginning of their stay in 
Lothlorien. If that meant he already become pregnant the first time with 
Haldir, that would put him in the sixteenth or seventeenth week. 
 
Legolas didn’t feel Gimli pulling another blanket over him and checking if 
he was laying comfortable, taking a sitting position, leaning against one of 
the barrels to watch over him, for he had drifted into the elven dreamscape 
without noticing it. 
 
 
 
 
The next day Theoden continuously sent out riders to check what lay 
before them. The sky had already darkened, when they first returned with 
dread and sorrow in their eyes. 
 
Merry, who sat behind Dernhelm looked around in confusion when he 
noticed the young warrior slowly advancing the head of the troop, taking a 
position near the King. Haldir stayed with them and nodded reassuringly 
at the Hobbit. 
 
When they had reached Theoden and his men, they could overhear the 
conversation and their fears were confirmed. A large army was running 
down the city's walls and destroying the surrounding fields.

Theoden urged his army closer to the city and when they had reached a 
hilltop near the Minas Tirith, they all could see through the pale light of 
the early day the destruction and mass of orcs and Uruk-Hai. 
 
Even Theoden, so headstrong until now halted in his tracks, terror written 
clearly across his face. 
 
Then suddenly a bright light erupted from the city and Theoden sprang 
forward calling his army to war. 
 
Merry hung onto Dernhelm with all the force he could muster. They were 
charging onto the fields of Pelennor with speed and as soon as they had 
reached the first foes, the slaughter began.  
 
Merry was behind Dernhelm and had lost track of the enemies slain before 
his eyes. Haldir was near them all the time, with a hard light in his usually 
bright eyes and his bow ready. His weakness seemed to have left him 
completely and he slew orcs as they came. 
 
Suddenly there was a strange noise from above and as the Hobbit glanced 
up, he saw the most terrifying creature that had ever come before his eyes. 
 
The Witch king of Angmar was upon them, clawing at everybody who 
stood in his way, until he had reached Theoden. In naught but a second the 
King was down, when Dernhelm suddenly jumped off his horse, taking 
Merry down with him, moving in the way of the Nazgûl. 
 
Dernhelm threw off his helm and beneath it lay the shimmering hair of 
Eowyn, shieldmaiden of Rohan. Merry instantly moved to her side, his 
sword drawn. 
 
Haldir felt his shoulders ache as he killed foe after foe. His eyes constantly 
darting from left to right, trying to find any track of Legolas, Aragorn or 
Gimli. 
 
His strength was pouring from him in the same way as sweat was running 
down his torso. 
 
Somewhere to his left he heard Merry cry out in vain and from the corner 
of his eye he could make out a huge form, but he tried to get closer to the 
city gates.  
 
He would deal with his friends later. 
 
Rain had come up and hindered his view, all he knew was that he had to 
get to the southern gate and see if his friends and his beloved were there. 
 
He heard Eomer’s voice near him and threw a quick glance at the fighter. 
He seemed still in good health as he gathered his men from anew and 
charged forward. 
 
All of a sudden his men stopped dead in his tracks, pointing towards 
Anduin, their voices filled with dread and waning courage. 
 
"They are corsairs of Umbar. Oh no, now we are lost. We cannot hold 
back any more foes. The other cities must have fallen, doom is upon us!" 
 
"Then let us hold a last stand, fight as long as we have the strength. We 
will not give in nor show them any weakness. Come my men, let us show 
them what real fighters of Rohan are." With that Eomer moved his men in 
one line, blades ready to strike. Haldir moved with them, all of his hope 
disappearing, his soul bleeding, willing to fall within this battle, for surely 
his friends had fallen already. 
 
Their eyes were steadily upon the ships, as the line of warriors moved 
forward. Heavy rain now came from the west, but with it some pale rays 
of morning light, bathing the battlefield in an eerie glow. 
 
Just as they were about to charge down where the ships were landing, a 
banner opened itself in the winds coming from the west. 
 
Dark it was, but upon it gleamed and glistened the White Tree of Gondor 
and above it twinkled the Seven Stars, the signs of Elendil. 
 
Halting in their tracks at the sight of wonder, they could see Aragorn 
running from the largest ships slashing his way through the foes that stood 
in his way. Along with him there were Gimli and Legolas, killing as they 
ran. 
 
Haldir choked on his own breath when he saw his love as he came running 
down from the boat. 
 
Without thinking he urged his horse forward into a gallop, trying to get 
near to his husband as fast as he could. But the nearer he came the harder 
it was for him to see Legolas. The orcs were still outnumbering them by 
far, but he could make out more and more men and fighters pouring out of 
the ships belies. Relief washed over him, and he knew there was a chance. 
 
He could hear Gimli’s battle cries and as he was hacking his way through 
the vast amount of orcs, Haldir suddenly could see Legolas blocking a 
blow from an Uruk-Hai with his long knives and stabbing his enemy deep 
into the chest, when the other orc approached him from behind, sword 
ready to strike. 
 
For Haldir time seemed to slow down. A few yards to the left side of 
Legolas was Gimli who had seen the orc as well, but he had spent his 
throwing axes and there was no time to recollect them. He swung his 
battle axe screaming at the orc trying to distract him, but realisation 
clearly written on his face, knowing he wouldn’t make it on time to safe 
the young elf. 
 
Haldir threw his sword away, not caring if it was lost and drew his bow 
up, notching an arrow in one swift motion. Holding his horse still with 
pure will he didn’t take his time to aim properly, praying to the Valar they 
would grant him a clear hit. 
 
Gimli saw his friend plunging his knives into the broad chest of his 
enemy, never noticing the orc behind him. The crude blade raised high 
above his head the orc approached Legolas at a frightful speed. The dwarf 
screamed and waved his axe at the orc, hoping against hope, that the foul 
creature would hear him, but it was no use. His eyes fastened on his preys 
back, the orc came nearer and nearer. 
 
Suddenly Legolas pulled his blades from the large body before him with a 
sickening sound and spun around to find himself face to face with the 
blade of an orc. 
 
He knew then that it was over, that all had been in vain, that he would not 
make it. Some part of him was glad that he would have the chance to see 
his love again soon, but the other fought, hoping against the odds that he 
would survive, desperately trying to protect his child, letting go off the 
long knives crossing his arms protectively before his body closing his eyes 
in defeat. 
 
But the strike never came. Legolas heard Gimli howl in surprise and 
opened his eyes again. He looked into an empty space. The orc lay at his 
feet a long arrow, clearly of elven make, produced from his neck and his 
unseeing eyes stared up into the grey sky. 
 
Gimli turned in wonder and tried to make out from where the arrow could 
have come from. A strangled gasp left him as he stared at the face of dead 
warrior. 
 
Legolas needed to recollect himself, but at the sound of shock that Gimli 
made he turned to look at his friend. 
 
Gimli stood pale as the sheet, pointing uphill towards the city, his hand 
trembling. 
 
Legolas rotated slowly, following Gimli’s outstretched arm. 
 
At first all he could see was the army of Rohan riders crushing the orcs 
down like forceful waves of water, but among them stood one unmoving 
figure, bow still poised with unreadable expression on his face.  
 
At the first sight one would have mistaken him as a Rohan rider, but his 
fair and pale face betrayed him. Before them in the distance, there sat 
Haldir proud and tall on his horse, his eyes never leaving those of Legolas. 
 
Legolas cried out in shock, his knees giving in as he sobbed 
uncontrollably. His knees hit the ground hard, but nothing of that mattered 
anymore.  
 
All his fear, his despair and loneliness left him that moment he laid eyes 
on Haldir, who made his horse gallop as fast as it was possible towards his 
Legolas.  
 
His horse skidded to an abrupt halt and before it came to stop Haldir had 
already jumped off and fell to his knees in front of Legolas, immediately 
taking him in his arms holding his trembling body tight. 
 
None of them was able to speak right now and there was no need. All they 
needed to know was shown in their eyes as they looked deeply into each 
other's orbs. 
 
Legolas felt like he was in the dream, the battle was forgotten, they heard 
no other sound but the beating of their hearts. They saw no other sight 
than the face of the other and no danger was upon them, for the Valar must 
have held a protecting hand over them. 
 


Gimli blinked a few times, as if to clear his view and stayed close to the 
couple kneeling on the ground. The fight was not over yet, but he would 
make sure that nothing happened to those two.  
 
He stood, legs braced and shoulders squared, wielding his ax, snarling at 
anyone approaching him. 
 
With the help of Eomer’s and Aragorn’s armies the foe was quickly 
overturned and what ever orcs were left on their feet, fled to the river and 
surrounding hills. 
 
When Aragorn turned around to look for his friends, he saw the most 
enchanting sight. Legolas was kneeling on the ground his arms flung 
around another elf, his face hidden in the crook of the shoulder of the 
silver haired one.  
 
Aragorn cried out in shock when he noticed just who the other elf was. 
 
He had held him in his arms when he saw the eyes break. It couldn't be. 
Had he been mistaken all the time, putting Legolas into agony? 
 
Shaking his head he headed over to them and stood beside Gimli. The 
dwarf was beaming and clapping Aragorn’s back. 
 
Legolas held Haldir as tight as he could, never wanting to let go again. But 
suddenly he felt his beloved flinch and he withdrew immediately.  
 
His eyes were large and tears still spilled onto his cheeks, as he lifted his 
head to look at Haldir.  
 
"My love, what is the matter?" Legolas voice was raspy and full of 
emotions. 
 
"My back." Haldir whispered, straining to keep straight. 
 
Gimli sprang into the action at once. "Quickly let us get him inside. There 
must be a healer somewhere. Come Aragorn, help me." 
 
"No, Gimli, I will not come. I will not enter the city yet." 
 
"But, Aragorn..." Gimli looked at him, shaking his head. 
 
"You will find help. Do not worry. I will see you all in the morning." With 
that Aragorn turned and left them. 
 
Legolas got up from the ground slowly as he wanted to help Haldir to 
stand, but the other elf wouldn’t move. His face had become deathly pale 
and he struggled for breath.  
 
"No! Haldir, love! Oh no, what is wrong? Haldir?" Legolas stared down at 
Haldir in horror. 
 
"I...can’t.... move.....my...." Haldir’s breath was coming in short pants 
now. His body felt on fire and he could not move a single muscle. He 
knew his body was paying him back for what he had done to it. 
 
Gimli held Haldir by the waist carefully urging the tall elf up. When 
Legolas wanted to help and moved his arms under Haldir as if to carry 
him, Gimli stopped him "Oh no laddie, you are not going to lift him. No 
way, not in your condition." 
 
Gimli held Haldir up, while he waved a warrior standing near them, over 
to help him. 
 
Together they half carried Haldir into the city of Minas Tirith, Legolas 
never leaving their side. They huddled Haldir through the streets, people 
showing them the way to the house of healing. 
 
Haldir was on the brink of unconsciousness when they laid him on a bed. 
Legolas was holding his hand, and only when the healer had time and 
came to have a look at Haldir, he let go. 
 
The healer asked everybody to leave, and only Gimli’s persuasion could 
make Legolas come with him outside. 
 
On the hallway they were greeted by a very happy and beaming Hobbit. 
Pippin came storming towards Legolas embracing him as fondly as his 
height would let him. He cuddled his head to Legolas lower body and 
smiled, shooting a glance up at the elf. 
 
"Is it true?" he lifted his head from the elf's belly "You have something 
growing inside there, he poked Legolas slightly. 
 
Legolas looked at Pippin and seemed to recollect himself. "How do you 
know about it?" 
 
Pippin beamed at the elf "Merry told me." 
 
"And how did he know about it?" Gimli looked sternly at Pippin. 
 
"Haldir and Merry figured it out while Haldir was recovering in Edoras." 
Pippin met Legolas’ worried eyes with his sparkling ones. 
 
"Haldir? Haldir knows?" The elf stammered. 
 
"Well, " Pippin furrowed his brow "they didn’t know for sure, but...." 
 
"Oh no, if he already knows, no....." Legolas turned, hiding his face in his 
hands. 
 
"Hey, what's wrong?" Pippin asked. 
 
Gimli cut him short by waving his hand at him "Not now, Pippin. Why 
don’t you do them both a favour and find them some quiet room, where 
they can rest together?" 
 
Pippin nodded eagerly. "Sure, no problem. I’ll be back soon." He ran off 
and when he had vanished around the corner, Gimli put a supporting hand 
on Legolas’ back. 
 
"You shouldn’t worry. I know what you are thinking. Listen Legolas, I 
don’t think he will hold it against you. I mean it takes two to get one 
pregnant, doesn't it?" 
 
Legolas was leaning against the wall, while Gimli was pacing the corridor 
in front of the door to the room were Haldir was being treated. 
 
Suddenly Aragorn came around the corner, looking exhausted and tired. 
 
"Aragorn, I thought you didn’t want to come inside of the city?" Gimli 
turned to the ranger. 
 
"Aye, but Gandalf called me here. It was about Eowyn and Merry. They 
have been wounded by a Nazgûl. It has all worked out, they are out of 
danger now. How is Haldir?" 
 
"We don’t know. The healer sent us outside." Gimli crossed his arms 
before his chest. 
 
Aragorn turned and entered the room. At first the healer wanted Aragorn 
to leave as well, but when he noticed who had just entered he mad way 
from the King. 
 
Haldir was lying on his front, his abused back bared and arms stretched 
out wide to the sides. Aragorn stepped up and looked at the abused flesh. 
 
It didn’t look as bad as he would have thought. A long jagged scar, still 
slightly purple ran all the way down from Haldir’s head to his hip. The 
skin looked stretched, and Aragorn knew immediately, that this was the 
result of the far too early exercise with the bow and the hard fight they had 
just been in. 
 
Haldir must be in considerable amount of the pain and also the emotional 
turmoil didn’t help. Aragorn still couldn't believe that he had in fact left 
Haldir for dead and put Legolas in that terrible position. Even tough he 
hadn’t known about their relationship. 
 
He laid a gentle hand on Haldir’s back and soothed him. After dressing the 
scar with a tight bandage he made Haldir drink an herbal tee, that would 
take the worst pain away and make him relax. 
 
After some minutes Haldir had recovered enough to sit up and be led 
outside. Aragorn helped him together with Gimli to a room that Pippin had 
personally picked. Inside of the room the Hobbit had set out fruit, bread, 
meat and wine, to nourish the weary. 
 
It surprised Aragorn that Legolas followed only hesitantly, not really at 
their side, always trailing behind a bit. 
 
Gimli and Aragorn led Haldir to the large plush bed and gently helped him 
down.  
 
They smiled at Legolas and left the room. 
 
Haldir sighed and looked at his husband, who still stood tentatively at the 
end of the room. 
 
"Come here, my love. I need you near me. Oh, I have missed you so 
much, I was so worried." Haldir’s voice was soft and tender.  
 
Legolas hesitated and stayed where he was. His eyes were large and a 
trace of fear haunted his delicate features. He longed to be in Haldir’s 
arms, but the thought of his pregnancy kept him back. All too clearly he 
remembered Haldir’s cruel words in the past that were directed at him. 
 
Haldir held out his arms, with a pleading look on his face.  
 
"Legolas, please. Why do you hesitate? Do you not long to be in my arms 
again, gentle kisses, the burning touches bestowed with love?" 
Desperation had crept into Haldir’s words. 
 
He pushed himself off the bed and took a few staggering steps towards his 
husband. 
 
Pushing all of his own pain aside, Legolas immediately crossed the room 
to keep Haldir from falling. But when he had reached Haldir, his lover was 
already on his knees, taking a hold of Legolas’ hips drawing him near.  
 
"You are afraid, herven nín. Why?" Haldir let his forehead rest against 
Legolas’ lower body. He released one of his hands and put it against the 
slightly rounded belly before him. 
 
"This is what you fear isn't it?" Haldir whispered gently. 
 
Tears were running down Legolas’ face, as Haldir slowly opened the tunic 
young elf was wearing. Pushing the long silver shirt out of the way, Haldir 
unfastened the lacing of the leggings, to find the armour Gimli had made 
underneath. 
 
Haldir trailed the silver inlays with his fingertips. So much care, so much 
love. Given willingly by a dwarf. 
 
Haldir reached for the leather straps and undid them. And then at last it lay 
before him. The pale, tender skin of Legolas body, stretched by the 
growing child inside. So he had been right. Legolas had indeed become 
pregnant during their time in Lothlorien. They biggest wish was fulfilled. 
It was sad that it had happened at a time like his. A time of war.... 
 
Suddenly Haldir understood. It were his words that had made Legolas 
tremble with fear instead of coming to his arms. His words that now put a 
barrier between them. 
 
Haldir’s fingers stroked the swollen body of his lover tenderly, tracing 
along the new contours, feeling the hardness beneath. He brushed his lips 
over the skin, taking in the warmth, the life and new emotions.  
 
"I love you, Legolas. And you are the only person that I would trust the 
life of our child with. Even to carry it safe and sound through this war. 
Gods, I need you so much." Haldir pressed his face against Legolas body. 
 
Legolas sobbed at the words from Haldir and moved his arms around his 
husbands shoulders holding him. 
 
After some minutes the prince had composed himself again, and he placed 
his hands on Haldir’s shoulders. "Come, let me help you to the bed." 
 
Haldir nodded and got up from the ground with difficulty. Leaning on 
Legolas he moved over to the bed, sinking onto its soft mattress with a 
sigh, never letting completely go off Legolas. 
 
For the first time in many weeks full of grief, worry and emotional 
turmoil, the two lovers were holding each other close. Relishing the feel of 
the other, the soft words were with tender caresses of their hands. Not very 
long after, both had slipped into the first peaceful slumber they didn't 
enjoy for days. 
 
It was already late in the evening when Aragorn came by to look after 
them and he found them, still fully clothed, except for Haldir’s bare torso 
and Legolas’ opened leggings, spooned up on the bed. Haldir was lying 
behind Legolas, one hand protectively resting on the growing body of his 
husband. 
 
Aragorn smiled at the sight. It was something to warm his heart and he 
quietly pulled a blanket over them, blowing out the candles in the room 
and then left them to rest. 
 
It had long grown dark when Haldir awoke, inhaling the scent of Legolas’ 
hair. His body felt warm and relaxed against him. His back snuggled 
tightly to his own body.  
 
To Haldir’s surprise his own back did not hurt that much anymore, but he 
knew that this was only a short lived luxury. As soon as he would move, it 
would start aching again. But in this state he felt like in the warm cocoon, 
safe, happy and oh, so much in love. 
 
His hand was still resting on the swollen belly and Haldir concentrated on 
all the feelings his hand could absorb. A child, it came to his head. Their 
child. Something they wished for, for so long. Something that had caused 
their separation. NO! That was not the reason for their separation. It had 
been their own stupidity and pride. They wouldn’t make the same mistake 
again. 
 
This time they would stand together, go all the way together and wherever 
Legolas would be going he would follow. 
 
Was it because his back did not hurt at this moment or because of Legolas’ 
firm body pressed against him, Haldir didn’t know, but his body was 
growing aroused. A nice form of arousal, actually. Not the frantic need for 
satisfaction, not the hunger or addiction. No, it was like a warm feeling 
spreading throughout his body, leaving it tingling and humming. He 
wanted to feel Legolas’ skin on his, share this feeling with him, hold him, 
caress him and make him feel all his love and devotion. 
 
Very carefully, Haldir undid the rest of the fastenings of his lovers tunic 
and the shirt underneath. At last he could feel all of the creamy skin of 
Legolas’ torso underneath his hands. 
 
Legolas shifted slightly as he felt the warm touch of a hand on his skin and 
awoke slowly. At first he seemed disorientated and flinched at the touch. 
But only a moment later he remembered and closed his eyes fighting down 
the grief and fear that had already locked themselves again in his mind and 
throat. Haldir was not dead, as he had believed. Instead Haldir was lying 
here beside him, alive and warm, holding him close.  
 
Legolas felt his clothes had been opened and a warm caressing hand on his 
chest. He had missed these tender feelings so much. So he turned his head 
to look at Haldir and found him smiling down at him.  
 
Haldir had raised himself on his elbow and now bent down to kiss Legolas 
for the first time, since that gruesome battle at Helm’s deep.  
 
Their lips met each other tenderly and hesitantly, quickly pressing more 
firmly. Questioning tongue seeking the entrance and breaths mingling. 
 
Their kiss lasted longer than any other before and the world around them 
seemed to stand still.  
 
 
Haldir let go of Legolas’ lips with a final brush of his own ones and 
smiled dreamily down at his husband. With a gentle hand he turned 
Legolas’ head back to its former position, facing away from him. He 
trailed his fingers gently down the temple, brushing away the long golden 
tendrils on the way, laying bare the long slender neck. 
 
Haldir tilted his head down and brushed his lips over the soft and warm 
skin, nipping it lightly. Legolas shivered under Haldir’s ministrations. A 
tight and warm feeling spread through him like a wildfire, pooling in his 
stomach and groin. He closed his eyes and moaned quietly. The young elf 
could feel Haldir’s breath tingling on his skin, as these teasing lips 
traveled downwards to the junction between neck and shoulder.  
 
Haldir smiled to himself, knowing that his was Legolas most sensitive 
spot. His kissed it lightly and suddenly bit down.  
 
Legolas groaned and arched his back towards Haldir. He felt his 
coherency slipping, wanting more, more touching, friction, love .... 
 
While Haldir’s tongue was laving his skin, leaving wet trails, one hand 
sneaked over his body stroking his swollen belly, lingering there for a few 
moments. Hand then continued to Legolas' lower regions, gently caressing 
the growing erection. 
 
Legolas’ eyes fluttered closed and he sighed with bliss. He nearly had 
forgotten how lovely Haldir’s hands felt on his body, how they always 
made him shiver and beg. 
 
Through the hazy mist of rising passion Legolas felt a Haldir’s hard 
arousal pressing against his buttocks, slowly rubbing up and down his 
cleft.  
 
Haldir’s breath quickened slightly, but he held himself back, not wanting 
to rush it. He wanted it to be gentle, and never ending. He knew he had to 
restrain Legolas as well, for he wasn't sure if his back was up for more and 
it worried him just how far they were allowed to go with Legolas carrying 
their child. They would have to ask a healer about that. So for now he 
would have to rely on his capability with his hands and mouth. 
 
He could feel Legolas responding to his touch and a slight tremor ran 
through his body in delight. The feel of Legolas’ firm backside against his 
member was exquisite. He rubbed against the firm mounds and wished he 
had something to lubricate his member with to make the movement easier.  
 
Legolas was panting by now, the feel of Haldir’s hand on his erection 
quickly drove him near the edge, but Haldir must have felt him nearing his 
peak, for the hand on his member stilled and only the thumb remained 
circling over the tip spreading the pre-cum over it. 
 
It was so hard to hold back, when all he wanted to do was bury himself 
deep inside of his love. Maybe it had not been such a good idea to have 
started it at all. Reluctantly Haldir pulled away slightly, not knowing if he 
was able to keep himself in check. 
 
Legolas reacted confused as he felt Haldir withdrawing. A mixture of 
protest and fear that Haldir didn’t want him anymore, like he had before, 
flooded his mind. So he turned his head and tried to look into Haldir’s 
face. But all he saw there was love and need for more physical contact.  
 
"Haldir? What is wrong?" Legolas asked with a tiny tremble in his voice.  
 
Haldir leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on Legolas’ forehead. 
"Nothing, my beloved. Nothing is wrong. But I fear that I cannot restrain 
myself as I should and would hurt both of us in the process." 
 
"You could never hurt me." A smile lightened up the princes face. 
 
"Aye, I could. I want you Legolas. I want you so badly. But I doubt that 
my back is up for it and I do not wish to harm you or our child. For I don’t 
know if that, what I would like to do, might harm the child." 
 
"But it started out so nicely. Why not continue what you were doing? I 
need to feel your body shiver against mine, I want to feel you come 
undone, hear your breath hitch, your hand on my skin...." 
 
Haldir closed his eyes for a second, feeling his member starting to grow 
hard again. Only then did he notice, that he still held Legolas erection in 
his hand, stroking it tenderly. 
 
How he wished to rub his own against the firm body of his mate. But he 
wanted something to make it easier, to make it feel moist and slick. 
 
Haldir scanned the room, trying to find something they could use. But 
nothing obvious was standing or lying around, until he found a little jar on 
the bedside table at Legolas side.  
 
He couldn't figure out what it was. It had strange markings on it. Not in 
the hand of man, nor in elvish. These runes looked like.... 
 
Legolas had followed Haldir’s gaze and looked at the jar too. His brow 
furrowed as he stretched out his hand and took it, to bring it nearer. 
 
Haldir cocked his head and watched his husband staring at the jar, his face 
taking the shade of crimson. "What, love?" he asked Legolas. 
 
"I think we can use this." Legolas handed Haldir the jar and closed his 
eyes for a moment. 
 
Turning the jar over and over in his hands, Haldir glanced at the strange 
markings on the jar. "Those are dwarven runes, aren't they." 
 
Legolas only nodded. 
 
"How do you know, that this is safe to use?" the marchwarden looked at 
Legolas. 
 
"Gimli taught me a bit of their writing." Blushing again the younger elf 
turned his head away. 
 
"What does it say then?" Haldir took his hand of Legolas’ member and put 
his fingers under Legolas’ chin and turned his face back to him. 
 
"With love for my two favourite elves, Gimli." 
 
Haldir laughed. Never in his life would have guessed that one day, it 
would be a dwarf that would steal his way into the heart of him, the proud 
Galadrim, Haldir of Lorien. 
 
He kissed his love tenderly and turned Legolas back to lie on his side. 
 
Carefully he unscrewed the lid, and found that there was actually a nice 
smelling thick and oily substance in that jar. He tested it with his fingers 
and it strongly reminded him of something similar the elves used for 
massaging. Trailing his slicked fingers down to Legolas rear, he slowly 
drew his fingers along the cleft leaving it slick and smooth. Haldir took 
some more onto his fingers and coated his own straining member 
generously with it.  
 
Setting the jar aside he moved back up against Legolas body as he felt it 
trembling beneath his fingers 


With slow and languid movements Haldir set a slow pace rubbing his 
straining member up and down Legolas’ cleft. His fingers still slick with 
the oily substance were curled around Legolas’ erection and started 
pumping it slowly.  
 
Legolas moaned deep from his heart and pushed back slightly. He needed 
more, just a little bit more. His heart fluttered in his chest and his head 
started spinning, his body responding strongly to Haldir’s ministrations.  
 
Legolas tried to collect his wits, straining to get his head clear for a 
moment and then, just as Haldir’s erection was moving in a downward 
stroke, Legolas tilted his pelvis slightly and caught the arousal between his 
firm buttocks. 
 
Haldir’s gasped in a surprise and stilled his thrusts. Legolas had managed 
to bring Haldir’s erection directly into position at his tight entrance. 
 
When Haldir wouldn’t move, Legolas pushed back ever so slightly, letting 
his guardian muscle spread open by the head of Haldir’s member. 
 
Haldir was just about to pull back in fear of hurting either Legolas or their 
child, when Legolas’ hand came around quickly and held him by his hip. 
 
"No, don’t pull away. I need you, melethron nín." The prince whispered. 
 
"Legolas, we shouldn’t. The child...." 
 
"Shhh..., melme. I believe that I became pregnant at the very beginning of 
our time in Lothlorien. And as far as I can remember, there wasn't a night 
or day, where we stayed chaste. I don’t think it'll do any harm. But if you 
don’t feel comfortable with this, then don’t go all the way." 
 
Still Haldir didn’t move and so Legolas rocked his hips gently against 
Haldir. After some thrusts he could hear Haldir moan quietly. Legolas 
dared a stronger push and slowly let the head of Haldir’s hard erection 
breach his muscled ring.  
 
Haldir’s breath came out with a shudder. The feeling of Legolas’ literally 
sucking him in was beyond his imagination. He felt his member slip in 
without any problems, but as soon as he was in the middle, Legolas pulled 
back again. 
 
Keeping a slow and steady pace, Legolas let the head of Haldir’s arousal 
in and pulled off it again. Savouring this feeling of his muscles being 
breached over and over again. 
 
Soon, nothing but the laboured breathing and occasional gasps were heard 
in their chamber.  
 
Haldir had tightened his grip around Legolas’ member and soon felt the 
little tremble and shiver that always announced Legolas’ raising orgasm.  
 
He had been holding himself back for the last minutes and it had been 
increasingly difficult not to let go. Never had Haldir experienced this 
sucking motion of Legolas tight anus around his erection like this. 
 
Legolas threw back his head in abandon and cried out Haldir’s name, his 
body tensing up like a bow, shuddering and spilling his essence over 
Haldir’s hand and his own body.  
 
The moment Haldir felt his husband tumbling over the edge he let go and 
with a roar and emptied himself inside Legolas’ body. 
 
They lay together, their legs entwined and hands holding, until Haldir’s 
sated sex slipped from the lithe body he was holding. Never had they felt 
so complete and safe, as here within the walls of Minas Tirith, during the 
war of the ring. For the love of their hearts made the world a peaceful one 
for them, if only for a few hours. 
 
Haldir shyly placed his hand back to where it had been some time ago. 
Gently stroking the curve of Legolas’ swelling body. 
 
It was still strange to him to imagine that their child was growing there 
inside of his husband's body. When Haldir felt Legolas’ breathing 
becoming even and regular and he knew that he was asleep, Haldir sat up 
and carefully pulled Legolas over, so that he was lying on his back.  
 
His eyes vacant and a faint smile brightening his features, the prince of 
Mirkwood didn’t wake. 
 
Haldir gazed dreamily at his beloved's lower body. At first, so many years 
ago, he had difficulty to accept the fact that a pregnancy would change 
Legolas’ body and his husband would look somewhat weird at the best. 
But now as he sat here and stared down at the ivory flesh before him, it 
looked so pure, so unbelievingly normal and even a little sexy. 
 
Haldir bent down and kissed the stretching skin, whispering words of 
endearment to the unborn child.  
 
A little while later, if someone had looked into their room, they would 
have found the proud Marchwarden of Lothlorien sitting beside the 
sleeping form of his love, either softly singing or in a quiet voice telling 
tales of their ancestors to their child. 
 
Haldir did not move away until the next morning and only because his 
back hurt badly by then. With a loving smile he lay down beside Legolas, 
placed a kiss on his lips and snuggled up tightly, slipping into the elven 
dreamscape. 


Gimli walked aimlessly through the streets of Minas Tirith. From time to 
time he would shake his head at the poor state some buildings were in. 
Something has definitely to be done here. Maybe taking a walk together 
with Legolas and Maybe even Haldir, if he was up to it, would do the city 
some good. 
 
The dwarf thought about the couple and a smile crept over his face. He 
had been to their room this morning, finding both elves fast asleep. 
 
Haldir had held his husband in a very protective way and one hand was 
placed on the growing bulge.  
 
A look at Haldir’s back had made Gimli gasp involuntarily, the scars 
looked bright red and angry. Hopefully they would heal and vanish in 
time. 
 
Instead of waking them, he had left quietly and wandered off alone. 
 
What would life bring after the war? Gimli was sure that they would make 
it. They just had to. Would the elves leave to Valinor and leave him here 
alone? Funny enough, he dreaded that thought alone. Somewhere deep 
inside his heart he hoped for Legolas to stay a while longer. He had grown 
very fond of the elf and surely wanted to spent some more time with him. 
Would Legolas remember the promises they had made to each other about 
visiting Fangorn and the glittering caves together? Would Haldir 
understand? Would he come with them? 
 
And what about the child? 
 
While walking deserted streets, an idea formed itself inside the dwarf’s 
head. Something he would try and create if the elves decided to stay. 
Something to make them see how much he cared for them. 
 
Legolas stretched and tried to turn over to his side, but wasn't able to 
move. It took his mind a few seconds to register why. Haldir’s strong arms 
were holding him tight, not giving him the chance to budge. But he had to 
get up. Desperately. This was new to him, but as far as he had heard fairly 
normal. The growing child was having an impressing effect on his 
bladder. Specially in the morning. 
 
With a groan, Legolas lifted Haldir’s arm off him and wriggled himself 
free. 
 
The silver haired elf was so fast asleep, that he didn’t give a sound, but 
instead slumped over onto his stomach, not waking up for a single 
moment. 
 
Legolas sighed, put a robe over his naked body and left their room to 
relieve himself. 
 
He returned only minutes later, closing the door quietly letting the robe 
slip to the floor. Just before he turned back to the bed, a reflection caught 
his eye.  
 
A large mirror hanged on the opposite wall, and Legolas stared at it with 
widened eyes.  
 
It was the first time, that he was able to look at himself this way for some 
time. His slim, muscular body, the colour of his skin, his long legs and the 
round shape his belly was taking. He moved closer to the mirror.  
 
It looked odd somehow. So definitely male. The strong thighs and the 
slender lax member resting in a bed of fine golden curls. His sack round 
but soft underneath. 
 
But above all this was his body turning into a soft roundness. Starting just 
a few inches above his pubic hair up over his navel. He smiled as he 
unconsciously stroked it with his fingers. Slowly Legolas turned to the 
side and eyed his profile. He would only be able to hide it a few more days 
at the best. And very soon he would need some new clothes. 
 
It felt good not wear anything right now, after having been confined to the 
additional armour for so long. How large would he grow? If he had 
calculated correctly, he had about 20 to 21 weeks left.  
 
A sigh pulled him out of his reverie.  
 
Haldir was mumbling something in his sleep. Legolas looked over at his 
husband a smile playing on his lips, when suddenly his face became ashen 
and he cried out in shock. 
 
For the first time he could see the damage that had been dome to Haldir’s 
back. 
 
Tears welled up in Legolas’ eyes. He knew now why Aragorn had 
believed beyond doubt that Haldir had died. And Legolas understood how 
close it really had been.  
 
He quietly walked over to the bed and under tears ran his fingers gently 
down the ugly scar. 
 
Haldir felt the feather like touch and awoke fully. With a smile he turned 
over to face his lover and saw Legolas in tears, his face pale and lips 
trembling. 
 
"Oh, Legolas. Love, what happened?" Haldir drew Legolas into an 
embrace.  
 
"Your Back. Haldir, it must have hurt so much. I really did nearly loose 
you, didn’t I?" 
 
Haldir nodded but comforted his love immediately "But you didn’t The 
Valar must have protected me. I am here now, and nothing is ever going to 
happen again. Do you hear me Legolas? Nothing!" 
 
Haldir drew the prince closer and rested his head against his shoulder. 
 
After some minutes, Haldir pulled back and looked into Legolas’ eyes. 
"Come, love. We have a few days of peace and quiet now, before Aragorn 
will march out again. Let us visit our friends in the house of healing and 
then maybe we can take a walk into the city if you like. Maybe we can 
even find a tailor who is willing to work. We need some new clothes for 
you." 
 
Some time later Haldir and Legolas left their room in direction of the 
house of healing. Haldir still wore a slightly cheeky grin on his face, 
remembering how he had helped his husband to fasten the lacing of his 
leggings. The blonde prince was not to comfortable when they were bound 
too tightly and so it had taken some time to get it done. Now he only wore 
his silver shirt over the leggings and his rounded proportions were clearly 
to be seen. 
 
But to Haldir’s surprise Legolas did not seem to mind anymore, but 
walked with pride and dignity and showing off his growing stomach to 
everyone to see. 
 
They found Aragorn at Merry’s side when they arrived at the healing 
house and the Hobbit beamed at them. 
 
"Ha! So I was right, wasn't I. Haldir?" he shouted at the Lorien elf. 
 
Haldir nodded happily and put an arm around the growing waist of 
Legolas. 
 
Aragorn turned to them and gave his friend a lopsided grin. "I see, you 
don’t mind others to know anymore. That is good. How are you two 
feeling today?" 
 
Before Haldir could answer him, Aragorn smiled "I was referring to your 
husband and your offspring." 
 
"Oh," Haldir blushed "sorry." 
 
The ranger came over to Legolas and put a gentle hand against his 
stomach. 
 
"Could you feel any movements, yet?" 
 
Legolas shook his head. 
 
"Mhm, maybe it’s to early. But it should happen soon. Please tell me, if it 
does happen all right?" The ranger gave Legolas a final pat and turned to 
leave the room. 
 



Haldir leaned over to Legolas to whisper into his ear "Do you think 
Aragorn might know if it is safe to..." 
 
Legolas’ eyes grew wide. "Haldir! You are not going to ask him, are 
you?" 
 
"But, love. Wouldn’t you want to know? Do you really want to go on for 
some months without any more than a few touches?" 
 
"I didn’t know you were that desperate!" Legolas fumed and pulled away 
from Haldir. 
 
"Oh and who was it then who begged me last night to give him more than 
just touches?" Haldir growled. 
 
"Is there nothing more important for you?" Legolas turned and stormed 
out of the room. 
 
"Now, what was that all about?" Haldir shook his head. 
 
"You have to understand, Haldir, Legolas is going through some difficult 
changes right now." The calm voice of Gandalf made Haldir turn around. 
The old wizard had just come into the room, a smile of understanding on 
his face. He nodded at Merry, who lay in his bed, eyes round and listening 
intently to everything happening around him. 
 
"It is a known fact, " Gandalf continued "that pregnant female do tend to 
have mood swings. I don’t see why a pregnant male should be any 
different." 
 
Haldir swallowed and cast his eyes down. 
 
"Now, what was the problem, Haldir?" Gandalf pulled a chair over to 
Merry’s bed and sat down. 
 
"Maybe I shouldn’t talk about it." Haldir sighed. 
 
"He was asking Legolas, if he should ask Aragorn if it was safe to..... I 
don’t know what." Merry chirped. 
 
Haldir blushed and stared at the Hobbit. 
 
"Oh!" Merry beamed "Now I know. Hey, Marchwarden of Lorien. I am 
not such a young Shireling as that I do not know what you two are doing 
during the night, or day somewhere secluded." 
 
Gandalf chuckled. "So, my dear Haldir. You are afraid that your desire to 
couple with your husband might endanger the child. Is that it?" 
 
Haldir rolled his eyes, but nodded. 
 
"Let me assure you," Gandalf pulled out his pipe and stuffed it, much to 
Merry’s dismay, who had to lay flat on his back and watch, "it is perfectly 
safe if you want to be with Legolas in that manner. Just be careful not to 
put too much pressure on the lower abdomen. Maybe you will find it 
comfortable to lay on your side, if you want to take him, later during the 
pregnancy. For the other way around, there is no problem at all, as long as 
Legolas feels comfortable. Hence there is no problem with too early 
contractions, with a male, you needn't worry about passion at the end of 
the pregnancy. But always make sure that Legolas is comfortable and 
doesn't encounter any pain."  
 
Gandalf leaned back, as if he had just given a child a lecture on how to 
treat an animal nicely and engaged Merry in a little conversation about 
meaningless subjects. 
 
Haldir stood dumbfounded in middle of the room and slowly turned 
towards the door. His ears were burning and he knew that they had taken a 
bright shade of red. He would never have guessed, that he could actually 
get that embarrassed at his age again. 
 
He walked down the corridor in direction of the room where Eowyn and 
Faramir were being treated, when he bumped into Legolas, who was 
leaning against the wall, head bowed and his shoulders sagging. 
 
The blond elf turned at the sound of approaching feet and lifted his head to 
see who was coming. 
 
Haldir could see from the red and swollen eyes that Legolas, did indeed 
have mood swings and he obviously had been crying. 
 
His anger melted away immediately and Haldir drew Legolas into his 
arms holding him tight. 
 
"I am sorry." Legolas voice sounded muffled against Haldir’s chest 
 
 


It took Haldir some more persuasion to get Legolas to take a walk with 
him through the city. From Aragorn they had heard about Theoden’s death 
and that his body was to be laid in state in the thrown room the following 
day. This would give Legolas and Haldir the time to do as they pleased 
this day and Haldir was trying to make the most of it. 
 
The town of Minas Tirith was in a terrible state. The lasting war had many 
houses destroyed or damaged, especially the outer rim that was heavily 
damaged. It got better the further they came to the other end of the city, 
towards the mountains. 
 
But what disturbed both elves most, was the lack of plants and trees 
among the town. Legolas shook his head and decided that moment that 
something had to be done, and that he would, should they survive this war, 
call upon his woodland kin to brighten this town with gardens and parks. 
 
They had walked not for more than two hours, when suddenly a cry 
coming from their left stopped them. 
 
It was Gimli, who was overjoyed to see them. 
 
"Haldir, Legolas! So you have found your way out of those fluffy pillows 
at last!" He beamed and folded his arms across his chest. 
 
Haldir cleared his throat and tried to glare at the dwarf. 
 
"So, dwarf" he growled slightly "since you have been on your feet for a 
considerably longer time than we have, did you encounter a tailor by any 
chance, while you were roaming the city?" 
 
Gimli cocked his head and looked quizzically. 
 
Haldir couldn't help a grin and nodded towards Legolas and put one of his 
hands against the growing body of the blond prince. 
 
"I think we might need some new clothes soon." The marchwarden 
smiled. 
 
"Oh!" Gimli laughed "Oh yes! Of course. Let me see. I think there was 
one down there somewhere. Come let us try and find him." He turned and 
started marching down one of the smaller lanes. 
 
"Did you see the poor state those building are in?" the dwarf asked 
without turning his head. 
 
"Yes," Legolas replied. "and there are no parks, no green. There is nothing 
to lighten your heart here." 
 
"Oh, I forgot. I am talking to elves!" Gimli grumbled. "I was talking about 
the stone work here. No finesse, no art. It is all so plain. And did you 
happen to see the great gates? Terrible. As soon as this war is over I am 
going to let some of my folk come here and work on them. I think we 
could make some of the houses look better than they do now. And I’ll bet 
you two are already thinking about planting some trees, right?" 
 
Haldir’s rich laughter told the dwarf that he had guessed right on the spot. 
 
"Look, here it is." Gimli beamed proudly. 
 
He was standing before a small house, with only a sign that indicated that 
a tailor was housed here. Haldir looked sceptically. He could have sworn 
that Legolas was used to something a little more presentable than this, but 
his husband took a step forward and knocked at the door. 
 
After some time it was answered hesitantly. A young woman peered out in 
fear and her eyes grew large as she saw the elves. 
 
The door was opened fully and her emerald eyes shone with glee "You are 
elves! Oh my mother told me about them, but I have never seen with my 
eyes your kind before. Please, what can I do for you?" 
 
Haldir, who had noticed that her eyes were glued on Legolas, placed a 
possessive arm around his husband and answered her. "We are looking for 
a good tailor. My husband" Haldir stretched the word probably more than 
necessary "is in need of some new clothes." 
 
The eyes of the young woman grew even larger, but she caught herself 
quickly and bade them in "I see. Why don’t you come in? I normally am 
specialised in gowns for women, but I do men's clothes as well." 
 
Gimli chuckled "That seems the right place to me."  
 
They were surprised how light it was inside the tailor's shop. The house 
had large windows that led to the back into a little garden and provided the 
necessary light for the work. 
 
Gimli stood looking at different dresses and robes, hanging down from a 
wooden beam, ready to be picked up by their future owners. 
 
"My name is Eliana. So, you said that your husband need some new 
clothes?" Eliana looked quizzical. 
 
Haldir nodded and felt Legolas tense up beside him. 
 
"Yes,. This might a bit difficult to explain," The silver haired elf started 
but was immediately interrupted by the dwarf. 
 
"Now, before either of them starts to tell a long tale, listen. This lovely one 
over here" Gimli pointed at Legolas "is the bonded of that proud one." 
Gimli’s hand swung around to Haldir. "The fair one, who is in need of 
new clothes, is carrying a child. No, don’t ask any questions. Yes, you 
may be shocked and confused, believe me so was I, but those are the facts 
and he is kind of growing out of his old stuff, so he needs something new." 
 
Eliana had blinked a few times in confusion and looked at Legolas her 
brow furrowed. Yes, that elf was definitely growing rounder around the 
middle. 
 
Legolas blushed and felt embarrassed.  
 
Gimli on the other hand laughed and took one of the dresses from the 
wooden beam and held it out towards his friend. The dress was surely 
made for a rather large woman and could have housed both elves without 
difficulty. 
 
"How about this one my friend?" the dwarf chuckled. 
 
The other three looked at the dwarf and the oversized dress and all of them 
burst into laughter. The tension left them and Eliana took her measure and 
moved over to Legolas. 
 
"If you don’t mind" she smiled shyly at him "I would like to take you 
measurements." 
 
Haldir stroked his husband once more over the small of his back and 
leaned over to whisper in his ear. "I don’t think Gimli and I will be needed 
here for a while. We will go outside and look at the town for a bit more. I 
believe you are in capable hands here, my love. We will pick you up 
later." 
 
He straightened and bowed curtly to Eliana and took Gimli by his sleeve 
pulling him out of the shop along with him. 
 
 
 
Unlike the peaceful day Haldir and Legolas were able to spent along with 
Gimli within Minas Tirith, the next day was a sad one. The body of 
Theoden was laid in state for every one to see and pass by. Sad songs, 
moans and cries filled the halls and sent waves of pity and sadness 
throughout the castle. 
 
Later, during the afternoon Haldir needed to lie down again, for his back 
was giving him great trouble and he felt it impossible to stand guard 
beside the body of Theoden any longer. 
 
Aragorn called upon the members of the fellowship and warriors of Rohan 
and Gondor to make out the first plans for an attack of Mordor. 
 
Legolas felt Gimli growing nervous at his side as Aragorn asked every 
man capable of bearing arms to stand alongside him. 
 
All the present stood, including Legolas and Aragorn smiled in return. But 
then he turned to his elven friend "No, Legolas. I cannot ask you to come 
along with us. I want you to stay behind here with Haldir. You have 
suffered enough on this journey and you shouldn’t even think of coming 
with us in you condition." 
 
Legolas fought down his anger "Aragorn son of Arathorn. I have come 
this whole way with you, I have fought alongside you and I have suffered 
no more than any of us here. We all have lost kin and friends in this war 
and I will stand by you to the last. My condition has not altered since our 
departure from the Golden woods and it has not hindered me. You will not 
make me stay. For you cannot command me. Only the Valar could and 
this is a war we not only fight for ours and your freedom, but for them as 
well." 
 
Gimli could see Aragorn taking a deep breath and having the according 
answer ready, when Gandalf interrupted him. "Legolas, youngest prince of 
the woodland realm. We cannot command you to stay here, but I would 
like to appeal to your good sense, and stay behind here in Minas Tirith. 
We will not discuss the reasons here in public, but I am sure that we, the 
member of the fellowship present, do know that this would be the best for 
you and we would never take it as a cowardly act. But in the end it will be 
yours to decide."  
 

Legolas looked around and took in the glances of the surrounding 
members of the council Aragorn was holding. 
 
"Then it is decided. I will join you on your ride against Mordor. I will not 
stay behind, like a maiden in waiting." 
 
Aragorn's face darkened with anger, but he kept it at bay, not wanting an 
open outburst in front of men he would have to lead to war.  
 
Still the dwarf couldn't hold his temper. Stamping his foot, he turned 
around facing the elf, a furious anger twisting his face. He grabbed 
Legolas arm in a paining grip and only managed to not pull the elf out of 
the hall, but making it very clear that the tall blond was to follow him 
immediately.  
 
Legolas sighed and made his way out of the hall, a grunting dwarf taking 
the lead.  
 
When the large doors had closed behind them, the dwarf erupted.  
 
"Are you out of your elven mind? You cannot be serious! It was bad 
enough that you came with us through Helm's deep, you know what 
happened to Haldir out there! He very nearly got killed. What do you 
think, ELF, that this is going to be a walk down by the riverside? A stroll? 
Have you ever, just once, thought about how is going to make us feel? 
What a responsibility you put on our shoulders?" 
 
"On your shoulders?" Legolas barked at the dwarf. "On your shoulder? 
Have you any idea, DWARF, how I would feel if I let you go there on 
your own. Have you ever thought about what I already told you in Edoras? 
The responsibility is mine alone!" 
 
"It is not! Don't you think Haldir should have a word in that too?" 
 
Legolas stared at the dwarf angrily. "That is not yours to decide whether I 
tell Haldir about it or not." 
 
Gimli fumed "Are you AGAIN running away from him? Not telling him 
anything? I thought you had grown wiser over the years!" the dwarf 
stormed back into the hall to join the others. 
 
Legolas stood for a while, trying to regain some composure and then 
turned away, his face set, in direction of their quarters. 
 
When he opened the door, he found Haldir lying on the bed, face down 
and the healer bent low over the scarred back, mumbling something 
incomprehensible. 
 
Haldir had heard the door opening and flashed a bright smile at his 
husband, stretching a hand out in his direction. 
 
The healer straightened up and moved over to his pouches, he had brought 
along and rummaged through it. 
 
"Legolas my love, come here. The healer is telling me, that my back looks 
much better and if I am lucky there won't be even a scar left after some 
time." 
 
The blond elf smiled and sat down on the side of the bed, taking Haldir's 
hand in his own, brushing its knuckles with his thumb. 
 
"I am so glad to hear that. Are you not in pain anymore?" 
 
"No, the pain has lessened with every hour, and soon there will be none 
left. Why, did you have anything strenuous in mind?" Haldir asked with a 
sly grin. 
 
"Haldir! You know we don't know,...I mean maybe it's not the right 
time....we cannot be sure... anyway, no I wasn't." Legolas actually felt 
himself blushing.  
 
"Mhm," Haldir sighed "too bad. My love, what do you think, if we were to 
take a little ride tomorrow along the riverbank. Maybe we can find a place 
that doesn't reek of orc corpses and war. I need to breathe fresh air again 
and I would very much like to spend a day just with you." 
 
Legolas smiled at his husband and nodded. Maybe it would be a good 
opportunity to talk to Haldir about the upcoming march against Mordor. 
This time he wasn't going to leave Haldir without telling him. Even though 
the dwarf might have thought that way. He had changed over the years. 
And he was going to make certain that, when he and Haldir had to part, it 
would not be in vain. 
 
When Haldir got up the next morning, before Legolas was awake, to 
prepare some things for their day at the river, he met Gimli wandering the 
halls, muttering to himself. To Haldir's surprise, the dwarf vanished 
quickly behind some door as soon as he got aware of Haldir's presence.  
 
Haldir shook his head and moved to the stables. He got the horses ready 
and attached the saddle bags, he had filled with some food and other 
things. When the horses were tethered outside the stable, Haldir went back 
to the room he shared with Legolas and awoke his lover with soft kisses. 
 
He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. It was the time he loved best. The 
rich and warm scent of his husband spread beneath the covers and on the 
skin. He couldn't get enough of it, so Haldir buried his face in the crook of 
Legolas shoulder and breathed deeply. From time to time placing tender 
kisses on the warm skin. 
 
Legolas' eyes shifted back into focus and a smile crept over his face, 
feeling Haldir's breath ghost over his neck and jaw line. 
 
He shifted his body so he was lying flat on his back and turned his head to 
Haldir. 
 
"Morning, my love" Legolas whispered and kissed Haldir's brow, feeling 
the marchwarden's lips smile against his skin. 
 
Haldir snuggled closer and moved one arm beneath the covers, his hand 
tenderly stroking the warm and soft chest of his love. His hand traveled on 
until he felt the round swell of the growing abdomen. Haldir smile grew 
even broader, imagining his, no their, child growing there. 
 
It was truly a miracle.  
 
He moved his head downwards and trailed soft, tender kisses around the 
bulge. To Haldir’s surprise he heard Legolas suppress a giggle.  
 
"What?" Silver hair dangled casually across the silky skin, as Haldir lifted 
his head to look at his husband. 
 
"It tickles." 
 
"You never were ticklish there before." Haldir look questioningly at the 
blond. 
 
"Yes, I know, but the skin is so much more sensitive now. Like many 
other things. My nose is definitely more sensitive and so is my taste. Or 
rather I sometimes encounter weird cravings." 
 
Haldir laughed. "Your nose? Oh you poor thing. Travelling with smelly 
man and a dwarf. How could you stand it?" 
 
"That is a just question. I really don’t know. Maybe I am just a martyr 
type." Legolas smiled and pulled Haldir up to him. 
 
A few moments later Haldir pushed himself off Legolas, fighting down the 
urge to ravish him there and then. No, he had another plans in mind. It was 
going to be difficult enough to make Legolas believe that there was no 
harm in engaging in more pleasurable activities. 
 
"Come, you lazy elf. Out of bed with you. We wanted to ride down the 
river for a bit. I have everything ready and I don’t want to waste a fine 
day. At last the sun is shining again and I want to hear all about your new 
clothes you are going to have soon." 
 
Legolas rolled his eyes and pushed himself up. Even though he was only 
about half way through the pregnancy, he already felt the growing amount 
of weight and additional proportions he was taking. It made a few things 
more and more difficult.  
 
Haldir and Legolas were glad when they had passed the battlefield that lay 
before the city where still some rotting corpses waited to be burnt and sent 
waves of the reeking stench of death over the plain. They saw many 
helpers, with cotton cloths tied tightly over the mouth and nose, busy 
pilling up dead and burning them. 
 
Legolas turned his head away quickly, desperately fighting down the 
nausea that held his stomach in a clenching grip.  
 
It took them quite a while to reach the lower parts of the Great river, 
where it flowed freely, the air was fresh and crisp and the grass still lush 
and green. 
 
Haldir smiled at Legolas and bade him to wait by the river, promising him 
to fetch him soon. 
 
Legolas raised a questioning eyebrow but did as he as he was asked and 
got off his horse to lead it down to the river to drink. 
 
He was still lost in thought, trying to figure out the best and most harmless 
way to tell Haldir about his decision to join the army, when he heard the 
all too known whistle of Haldir. 
 
A bright smile lightened his features and he quickly mounted his horse to 
ride further down the river to where Haldir was waiting for him. 
 
Haldir stood at the riverbank, smiling and holding his arms open. 
 
Legolas jumped off the horse, sent it to join Haldir’s and fell into Haldir’s 
embrace.  
 
"I know, it is nothing like we had in Lothlorien, but I wanted to have you 
all to myself. And I tried to get everything that might indulge you." 
 
The picnic site was plain, a woollen blanket covered the grassy riverbank, 
two simple goblets accompanied a flask and different kinds of bread, 
cheese, fruit and sweets were laid out on white linen. But to Legolas it was 
the most inviting and cherished scene he ever had laid his eyes on. 
 
It radiated so much love and gentleness, that he felt his eyes water and 
quickly ducked his face into the crook of Haldir’s neck. 
 
Haldir led Legolas to the blanket and pulled him down with him. Not a 
word was spoken as hands started roaming, lips ghosting over exposed 
skin, eyes closed in expectation and low sighs and moans drifted through 
the air. 
 
Haldir slowly unfastened the soft linen shirt Legolas was wearing and 
kissed every bit of unblemished skin he freed of its confinements. 
 
He heard his husband's breath hitching from time to time and then again it 
would stop altogether for a few seconds. 
 
But as Haldir reached the lacing of the dark green leggings. "Haldir, love. 
Maybe we shouldn’t...." 
 
"No, I think we should. It will do no harm to any of us, not to you nor to 
the child. Gandalf has told me so. We only have to be careful that we 
don’t put too much pressure on your belly. Our child will feel the love and 
tenderness, it will know how much we mean to each other. Don’t you 
think it is the best for it?" Haldir placed butterfly kisses on the stretched 
skin. 
 
Legolas face had paled slightly "You actually asked him?"  
 
"No, I didn’t. But Merry told Gandalf what we two were fighting about 
when he entered the room and Gandalf answered our unspoken question. 
Please my love. I wish for nothing more than to feel you, to hold you and 
make love to you. Or you to me. Either way, but I need you." Haldir 
looked almost pleadingly at Legolas. 
 
Legolas took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a second. Oh, yes. He 
definitely wanted to feel Haldir that way, and his body thought likewise. 
But was it really safe? Had Haldir rally asked Gandalf and how much did 
Gandalf know about these matters. Had Elrond told this to them, Legolas 
would have believed it beyond doubt, but... 
 
"Melme? Talk to me. Please. If you are not sure and you don’t want to do 
it, it's all right. I just thought... maybe you wanted.... ah, forget about the 
whole thing. It was a stupid idea. Forgive me." Haldir kissed Legolas 
stomach tenderly one last time and was about to sit up, when slender but 
strong fingers stopped him.  
 
"Please, don’t stop" It was barely more than a whisper.  
 
Haldir bent over to Legolas face and kissed the still closed eyelids, 
moving down the cheeks and on to the sensual mouth. His tongue flicked 
at Legolas lips softly and when its question was answered and those lush 
lips opened it dipped in. 
 
Haldir was devouring Legolas mouth, exploring every detail as if it was 
the first time. Noticing every details. The sharpness of the teeth, the 
softness of the gum and the velvety muscle of Legolas’ tongue, dancing 
the ancient ritual of passion and love with Haldir’s. 


Legolas felt himself falling into to well known depths, slowly loosing the 
ability to think clearly, surrounding sounds beginning to fade, his very 
being only concentrating on the touches of Haldir. He felt him kissing 
every part of his body, from the soft skin of his neck, over his pectorals to 
the hem of his leggings.

With gentle tugs, Haldir freed Legolas body from the cloth surrounding it, 
taking his time with each layer. He felt his husband shifting slightly from 
time to time, as to help him to remove the clothing. When at last Legolas 
lay bare before him, the proud marchwarden rid himself of his shirt and 
leggings, desperate to feel the soft breeze, coming from the river, on his 
naked skin.
He kneeled between Legolas parted legs, stroking with long measured 
movements up and down the soft toned calves.
Legolas had his eyes closed, concentrating on the loving touches bestowed 
on him by Haldir.
He felt his left leg lifted from the ground and bend at the knee ever so 
slightly and suddenly Haldir’s soft and hot mouth taking in his toes, one 
by one. A tingling feeling spread along his leg up to his groin and he 
sighed with bliss. When Haldir had finished ravishing his left foot he 
replaced it tenderly to the blanket and turned his attention to the right foot.

Legolas shivered with delight, very rarely had he felt so much peace, love 
and belonging at once. Haldir’s tongue was soft on his skin, his sharp teeth 
gently nipping every other inch.
Haldir laved the tender skin of the ankle he was holding before laying it 
down again.
He was hardly able to contain the whirl storm of feelings that were 
coursing through him at this moment. He saw his husband before him, the 
way the slender body was sprawled out, his limbs spread wide, the shine 
of the golden hair catching the rays of the sun, the proud member straining 
against the swell of Legolas’ stomach.
Haldir had to close his eyes for a second and he leaned his head back, for 
he felt tears threatening to spill from his eyes.
Haldir did not know whom to thank for the fact that he still had this, that 
Legolas was still with him, that he had survived the onslaught at Helm’s 
deep, the child Legolas was carrying and the hope he still held for a 
peaceful world for them to live and raise their child in.
He swallowed hard and looked at Legolas again. Bending down he placed 
his hands with widely spread fingers on the growing body, feeling the new 
life sending humming vibrations through his fingers. With soft and tender 
lips he traced the skin, rubbing his cheek against the warm body, yearning 
to feel with every sense this wonder. 
Legolas arched his back off the ground into Haldir’s caresses. He lifted his 
long legs off the ground and wound them around Haldir’s broad back, 
pulling him further down.

Haldir could feel Legolas’ erection brushing against his chest and smiled. 
Stroking with hands along the bulge towards the slender hips, he placed 
butterfly kisses down the middle until he came to the hot and sensitive 
flesh of Legolas’ arousal.
Deliberately avoiding the twitching flesh, Haldir moved his mouth to the 
silken skin at the joining between hip and thigh, licking it with long and 
tender strokes. 
His hands travelled on to the back of the strong muscled thighs until they 
came to a halt at the knees.
Haldir’s tongue never ceased its ministrations while his hands spread 
Legolas’ legs wider.
He grew heady , inhaling the musky scent around Legolas genitals. When 
Haldir slid his tongue further along the inside of Legolas’ thigh, he felt the 
muscles tremble.

Legolas had his eyes closed and could barely restrain himself from 
twitching and writhing beneath Haldir’s touches. He forced his body to 
stay still, to wait and only feel. But when Legolas felt the hot and wet 
tongue of his lover sliding tantalisingly along his testicles, a needy groan 
escaped the partly opened mouth.  
All of his worries seemed to have faded into nothingness, the war was 
forgotten and all Legolas was aware of, was Haldir and his gentle 
ministrations.
Oh, how he longed to feel Haldir’s body on him, in him and around him. 
So when his legs were spread wider a small smile graced his lips in 
anticipation of what was to come.

His silver hair pooled around Legolas’ lower body, as Haldir bent down 
further to let his tongue trail down, passed the soft sack to the sensitive 
spot right underneath it. Flicking the tip of his tongue against that spot, he 
enjoyed the small whimpers coming from his husband.
Haldir pushed Legolas’ knees up further to open him up more. With slow 
and lazy moves he circled down to the puckered entrance, leaving moist 
trails on his way.
A tremor raced through Legolas’ body and he threw his head back when 
Haldir’s tongue touched the tight ring of muscles.
A sigh of disappointment escaped the prince when suddenly Haldir let go 
of him and straightened up again. Even though Legolas did not want to 
open his eyes and so he strained his ears to hear what Haldir was doing.
He heard him shift around a bit and the distinct tinkle of glass. Then he 
felt Haldir moving between his legs again, but a bit nearer to him then 
before. 
Suddenly very warm and oily hands were placed on his swollen belly and 
Haldir started running his hands in tender, yet firm motions over his flesh. 
Legolas could feel trickles of oil run down his sides, adding to the erotic 
sensations.
Very slowly, Haldir moved downwards again, still ignoring Legolas’ 
erection and went to massage the soft, but tightly drawn sack. Provoking 
his husband into deep and needy moans.
His own member was throbbing helplessly in desperate need of some 
friction, but the marchwarden pushed his own longings aside for now.
He circled his thumbs away from the sack, to the cleft between Legolas 
buttocks and bestowed fleeting touches to the hidden entrance every now 
and then. Never really touching it only caressing it on the way. 
Legolas’ breath was becoming more laboured and his lips were parted in 
total abandon. 

Taking one hand off his partner, Haldir poured some more oil down onto 
the sack and watched entranced as it flowed down lazily towards the 
puckered flesh, he wanted so badly to bury himself in.
The blond elf moaned in longing and lust, arching his hips off the ground 
to make his need known.
Haldir moved closer and started rubbing his painful erection along the 
cleft before him and thus coating it with the scented oil, he had applied.
Gripping the back of Legolas knees tightly, Haldir pushed the legs up and 
put Legolas’ calves over his own shoulders, as he moved his member 
down against the tight entrance.
He gasped as soon as the enflamed head of his arousal touched its target 
and shuddered involuntarily. 
It took all his willpower to go slowly, as he gently nudged the tip of his 
penis into the puckered hole. Always only his tip, never more until he was 
barely able to breath anymore and he could see Legolas face screwed up 
with tension and need.

Haldir nearly forgot to breathe as he watched himself breaching the 
muscled ring, the flesh glistening with oil and pre cum, slowly pushing all 
the way in.
Legolas soft pubic hair tickled his groin and his sack lay tightly snuggled 
up against the firm mounds of his husband’s backside.
He felt that they both wouldn’t last long, so he picked up the vial with the 
scented oil and with the other he grabbed the base of Legolas member, 
pulling down the foreskin tightly and holding it a way that it pointed 
skywards.
With slow measured movements Haldir started to rock in and out of 
Legolas, rubbing the hidden gland with nearly every thrust. 
Legolas’ breathing had turned into gasps and moans by now, his head still 
thrown back, arms stretched out to his sides and his chest heaving.
The arousal in Haldir’s hand was leaking pre cum constantly by now and 
the pearly white drops ran over his fingers.
Using his last energy, he held the oil vial steadily above Legolas’ erection 
and with every push of his own body into the tight heat he let some drops 
of oil drip directly onto the dark red head of the member before him end 
into the tiny slit.
Legolas was far beyond coherency by now, but when the first drops of oil 
hit his sensitive member, he looked up at Haldir and stared with wide open 
eyes at the oil dripping down on him. 
This was the most thrilling sensation he had ever felt before and the 
knowledge that he couldn’t do anything but watch drove him nearer the 
edge with every second.
Haldir moved inside him with smooth but fast thrust and Legolas’ body 
screamed for release. The tension inside coiling up in his belly.  The blond 
prince needed just a touch more, a single stroke, anything to find his 
completion and when Haldir rubbed over his prostate again and he could 
see the drops of oil falling, it was like time had slowed. The oil fell and 
fell, nearer and nearer it came and when it hit his erection, Legolas 
screamed and spurts of seed were shooting from him hitting Haldir’s 
chest, dripping down to his belly. 

Haldir had watched every single movement and reaction of his love and 
when the release of Legolas hit his chest, he exploded deep within his 
love, shuddering when the tension of his muscles were released. 


They stayed like for some time, their breathing still irregular and their 
bodies trembling from the strain. Haldir still knelt between his husbands 
thighs, buried deep in his body and only when his member was flaccid 
again he removed himself and bent down to brush his lips against 
Legolas’.
The eyelids of the blond elf fluttered open and his eyes sparkled in a deep 
and mysterious blue. Haldir smiled and looked at his love. The flushed 
body and beaming face, the totally relaxed limbs, the heaving chest and 
the new softness of his hips and stomach. Never had he seen so much 
beauty and he sighed at the view.

Legolas lifted his left arm and tenderly brushed his fingertips over 
Haldir’s chest “I love you!” he whispered, his voice still somewhat shaky.
The marchwarden smiled at him and suddenly his eyebrows climbed up 
and he looked like he had remembered something.
Turning over to his left side, Haldir fumbled for one of the saddlebags he 
had brought along and rummaged through it. After some fruitless attempts, 
he pulled out a small bundle of soft cloth, tightly held together by a piece 
of string.
Legolas eyed him curiously and cocked his head.
Haldir’s smile had grown a little bit shy, as he untied the string and 
unfolded the cloth.
When the cloth lay open on his palm, Haldir carefully pulled out 
something very small and put the cloth down again.
“Legolas, many, many years ago I gave you something, not of big value, 
but from my heart. It was a very dark day when you returned this gift to 
me and I thought I’d never have the chance to give it to you again. But 
know it seems I might have that chance and I want to ask you, if you are 
willing to take this back from me and if you will wear it again as a sign of 
our love to one another.” Haldir held his hand open for Legolas to see and 
tried with difficulty to keep his hand from shaking.
Legolas pushed himself up on his elbows and peered at Haldir’s 
outstretched hand. He gasped with an expression of shock and 
astonishment, but also guilt and looked back up at his husband, tears 
starting to glitter in his cerulean eyes.
“Haldir! You kept it? By Elbereth, I must have hurt you so much, 
throwing it at your feet. It meant so much to you, to us. And you are 
willing to give it to me again?” Legolas’ voice was small.
Haldir gently pushed Legolas into a laying position and took Legolas’ left 
into his.
He kissed the tip of the index finger and gently put the ring back into its 
rightful place. Then he placed his own ring into the pale palm of his love 
and sighed when Legolas slipped it onto his finger. 


Haldir carefully leaned down, trying to avoid putting his weight onto their 
growing child and kissed his husband. They were at ease now, with 
themselves and with the world around them.
After a while Haldir rolled off Legolas and stayed snuggled together under 
the shining sun for a long time. Tenderly caressing each other and kissing 
softly from time to time. More often than Haldir would have thought 
possible, he found his own hands wandering off to stroke and feel the 
roundness of Legolas’ body.
He had placed his head on his love’s shoulder, one arm wrapped around 
the, not anymore slender, waist and he had his eyes closed, when he 
suddenly asked Legolas what he needed to know.
"So have you already found an armour suiting your needs for the ride to 
Mordor?" Haldir felt Legolas immediately stiffen beside him and he 
removed his hand from his husband’s waist, to run his hand in soothing 
circles around on Legolas’ chest.
"Shh..., melme. I somehow knew all along that you will carry on with the 
quest. I could see it your eyes and I heard it in your voice. They are your 
friends, you are not a simple company travelling together anymore. I 
understand you, but you must understand as well, that I am not going to 
leave your side. I will not let you out of my eyes anymore."
Legolas breathing had become faster and irregular, a fierce blush had 
tainted his cheeks and his voice was raspy with guilt and tension.
"For how long have you known?"
"Oh, for a few days." Haldir turned his head a bit to kiss the pale neck 
tenderly and returning to his former position.
"I wanted to tell you today. Really. I, ....., you must believe me. I would 
have not left you again without telling you. Not like I did before. Haldir, 
please! Tell me that you believe....."
Haldir lifted his head off Legolas’ shoulder and stopped his lovers hectic 
speech with a kiss full of love, understanding and utter devotion. Legolas’ 
eyes were still wide open with fear and a slight hint of panic. Haldir 
smiled at him. 
"I believe you, my love. And I really understand you. I do resent the idea 
of letting you go into battle, no matter what battle, might it be as fierce 
and horrible as the upcoming or a simple battle to rid Mirkwood of 
roaming spiders. But we all play our part here in this time and we have no 
other choice but to play it well. And I will be alongside you, no matter 
what may happen."
They stayed out at the riverbank for the rest of the day, enjoying the feel 
of each other the, pleasures they could give to one another and the peace 
away from the noisy and sometimes crowded lanes and streets of Minas 
Tirith.
It was already nearing sundown when Legolas and Haldir arrived in the 
city and strolled back, hand in hand to their quarters. Before their door 
stood a very grumpy looking dwarf, his foot tapping annoyingly against 
the wooden floor tiles. 


“What were you two thinking? Where have you been? What could have 
happened to you? Haldir, was this your idea?” Gimli fumed.
“In fact, yes. It was! And there wasn’t any big risk, Gimli. We only went 
along the riverbank for a bit. Legolas needed some peace and quiet, some 
rest. And so did my back. We are elves, Gimli. We do need some fresh air 
from time to time.”
“Don’t you lecture me, Haldir of Lorien. I was the one looking after your 
precious husband for the last weeks. I have the right to know if you take 
him away. If you hadn’t returned, we would have not known where to 
look for you!” The dwarf stood directly in front of Haldir now and had put 
his hands on his hips.
“Gimli, nothing happened and I desperately needed some time alone with 
Haldir. Everything is fine, believe me.” Legolas tried to interfere and calm 
the dwarf.
“Mmprf....,” Gimli threw Legolas a annoyed glance “Still, you should 
have told us!”
“Was there anything you wanted from us?” the blond elf smiled at his 
shorter friend.
“Actually, yes. The tailor called. And since you were not here to go and 
pick up you new clothes, I went instead. Legolas, am I right to presume, 
that not all of the clothes are made for casual wear? Some of them do look 
distinctively like clothes one could wear on a long march or even in 
battle.”
Legolas look grew cautious “Yes.”
“Have I not told you more than one time, that I do not want you to go into 
battle. How can you be so stubborn, so daft and irresp......!”
“Tampa! Lle tela? It is not your position to accuse Legolas of anything. 
We will go into battle together and believe me it was not an easy choice, 
nor was it easy for me to accept. But he is right, he has to do this and I will 
stand by his side throughout time. About you I don’t know, Gimli son of 
Gloin, but I believe Legolas will be very grieved if you’d end your 
friendship here because of blind accusations.” Haldir glowered at the 
dwarf.

Gimli turned on his heel and pushed open the door to their room and 
stormed inside.
“Well, what? You better move your swelling body inside, so we can see if 
the clothes do fit. It will be no use standing out there in the hallway.” 
Gimli bellowed from the room.
Haldir smiled at Legolas, who drew a deep breath and together the walked 
inside.

While Legolas was trying on the new leggings and shirts, Gimli was busy 
adjusting the leather straps on the additional armour for Legolas’ swelling 
belly. From time to time he looked up at his elven friend and inwardly 
admired the strength that radiated from Legolas. Now that Haldir was back 
at his side and his heart and soul balanced again, he showed his condition 
with pride and held his head high, his eyes gleaming with an unknown fire 
and fierceness. It reminded Gimli of a wild beast ready to strike , if anyone 
would dare come near her and her brood.

Aragorn needed two more days to gather all the men and muster some 
more from the remote areas, before they were ready to ride out to Mordor. 
They were separated in groups, consisting either of riders or vanguard. 
Aragorn took Gandalf, Gimli. Legolas and Haldir, Elladan and Elrohir, 
Pippin and his Dunaidin with him while Eomer and Faramir each had their 
own troop to command.
All the men and elves gathered on the fields of Pelennor before they sat 
out in direction of Mordor.
Aragorn surveyed the people before him, marvelling about their loyalty 
and courage, following him to their most certain death. His closest friends 
waited patiently on their horses near him. It was then that the future King 
of Gondor noticed that his elven friend Legolas did not bother to hide his 
condition anymore, but instead held himself straight showing his swelling 
body proudly for anyone to see. By now rumours had spread throughout 
the castle and city that there was an elf among the fighters, a male elf, that 
did indeed carry a child. And this particular elf was now riding along with 
the people of Gondor and Rohan into war.
Aragorn could see many of the fighters stare in wonder and respect at 
Legolas, and it seemed that the fact that he was pregnant and still kept on 
going, did indeed give them additional strength and stamina. Like a good 
omen to help them on their way.

It was early morning when they left and turned towards the city of 
Osgiliath. They reached it at noon and found it laying in ruins, but still 
men had gathered here, waiting for King Elessar to join him on this 
mission of hope and desperation.
The vanguard moved for five more miles before they made camp, but the 
riders pressed on, wanting to reach the crossroad to the north.
Only then did they halted to end the tiring day. Small groups gathered 
around fires, none of the men were really able to sleep so near to the 
boarder to Mordor. The towering mountains of Ephel Duath standing 
guard not letting any strangers through to the black land.

Aragorn watched his fellow men and sighed. They would need their sleep 
and strength to keep going, no one knew what might await them when 
they reached the black gate. He lifted his head and listened. It was strange 
for him for nothing was to be heard, no birdsong, no crickets nor any small 
animals rustling through the bushes.
It felt like these parts of Gondor were already slowly dying. It made 
everyone uneasy, on edge and frightened.
While he sat there listening to the stillness, a soft and pure sound carried 
over to him. It grew faintly stronger, calming the restless hearts of men 
and beasts, bringing back hope and peace, even if only for this night. 
Aragorn looked up and saw Legolas standing a bit further away, Haldir to 
his feet, head tilted slightly singing an old love song from Mirkwood.
Had the world seemed dead just a moment ago, it now started breathing 
again and the chanting elven tunes gave the men the needed peace for a 
good nights rest.

At the early afternoon the next day they came to Minas Morgul, only to 
find it deserted and dark. Sauron’s creatures and stationed armies had 
already left, undoubtedly for the black gate. Aragorn turned his troop back 
the main road and headed north, following the sharp rocks of the 
mountainside of Ephel Duath. For four days he led his men north, always 
keeping out a fearful watch for their enemies, but none came. The further 
they came to the north the more often they saw Nazgûls flying overhead, 
but never did they hear any sound from them, nor did they attack. Often 
they would fly so high and so far away, that only the elves were able to 
make them out.

The sixth night on the road was the quietest. No fires were lit, no songs 
sung and hardly anyone dared to speak. Everybody knew that they would 
reach the Black Gate the next day and fear had crept into the hearts of 
men.

Haldir and Gimli had kept a close eye on Legolas throughout the whole 
journey, but nothing had happened to the pregnant elf and so Haldir bid 
Gimli to make camp with the others that night, allowing Legolas and 
himself a night of a bit more solitude than before. 

Gimli had shaken his head but had done as asked and now had settled 
himself along with Aragorn and the others. 
Haldir moved their bedrolls over to a more secluded spot, but in reach of 
the next group of fighters and spread them out on the ground. Legolas had 
meanwhile gathered some food and drink, which was always given more 
than freely by any of the men when they saw the pregnant elf, and headed 
back to Haldir his arms loaded with food.
He sat down with a faint grunt and put down the goods he had gathered.
“Melamin,” Haldir sat down beside his husband “what is it? Are you in 
pain?” he cautiously rested a hand on Legolas’ shoulder.
“No love, I am not really in pain. Just my back. It feels uncomfortable. 
Strained. Alright, my lower back hurts. But I don’t think it’s anything 
unusual.” Legolas leaned into Haldir’s shoulder and stretched his legs 
before him.
“Would you like me to massage your back?” 
Legolas shook his head. “No, I don’t really want to undress here, in front 
of all those people.”
“Hush, melme. I haven’t touched you for so long. Please just let me rub 
you back a little. No one will see.” Haldir kissed Legolas’ brow tenderly.
“No. Please. Leave it be, love” the blond elf bent down to take some bread 
and lay back on the spread out bedrolls and groaned. “Ah, much better.”
Haldir only shook his head but didn’t insist any further.
“Legolas, maybe it would be wise if you were to take off some of your 
constricting clothes for tonight. So you muscles can relax and the pain in 
your back will lessen.”
Legolas looked at Haldir in disbelief. “Are you totally out of your mind? 
Fantastic idea! I lie here naked in my cosy bed and the enemy attacks. Do 
you think I can scare them off by jumping out of our bedroll naked in front 
of them?”

Haldir laughed softly, but when Legolas groaned again as he tried to get 
up again, he took the initiative and held his husband’s shoulders firmly. 
“Come, you are going to strip for me now. Alright, only your leggings, but 
I will give you a back rub, end of discussion.” Haldir pushed the blond 
prince back onto the bedroll and untied the lacing of the dark green 
leggings. When he had bared his lover’s belly he grinned mischievously 
and placed a tender kiss on the heated skin. He pulled the leggings down 
to Legolas knees and urged him to turned over.
“No, wait.” Interrupted Legolas. “I can lie flat on my front anymore. And 
with these things around my knees it’s never going to work.” He struggled 
to get his legs free.
Haldir immediately freed the longer legs from their confinement and 
Legolas turned to is front, his hip tilted and legs slightly spread. He sighed 
and relaxed as he felt the fresh air caress his skin.
Haldir had moved over to their saddlebags and took out the massaging oil 
they had received from Gimli and moved between Legolas’ legs.
Haldir took a good amount of oil and warmed it between his hands. 
Meanwhile he looked down at his husband and his half bared body. To his 
surprise he didn’t grow aroused immediately, like he usually did when he 
saw him spread as this before him, but all he felt was a tender urge of 
comforting and watching over him.
He smiled to himself and gently started massaging the tensed back 
muscles. Within a few minutes Legolas had relaxed and his back started 
feeling a lot better. Haldir’s warm and gently hands sent him quickly into 
a deep and needed sleep and he never noticed being turned onto his side, 
wrapped up in the warm blanket and Haldir spooning up behind him, 
holding him close.

Haldir held his husband tightly and marvelled again at their fate. He didn’t 
want to think about the next day. Aragorn had announced that they would 
reach the black gate of Mordor and no one knew what would happen once 
they stood before it.
All he wanted to think about was the little family he was holding in his 
arms right now. He inhaled the sent of Legolas' hair, felt the velvet texture 
of his skin beneath his fingers and much to his dismay the well muscled, 
round, very tempting buttocks pressed into his groin.
Knowing that those round globes were not covered by any kind of cloth 
didn’t make the subject any easier. Haldir felt his member stir and 
growing erect very quickly, feeling quite uncomfortable. Very carefully 
Haldir took his hand off Legolas’ belly and tried to readjust his erection 
within his leggings. But when he touched it, a moan escaped his lips and 
he knew that he would have to take matters into his own hands, literally. 
Very slowly he moved away from Legolas, hoping the other elf wouldn’t 
wake and fumbled desperately with the lacing. His hands were trembling 
with pent up need and he managed to tie even more knots into it, instead 
of opening them. He groaned in frustration, but in the end had successfully 
opened them.
Gingerly he place his hands on his cock and started stroking up and down 
slowly. His hands were still slightly  oily and Haldir enjoyed the gliding 
sensation it caused. Maybe he could add a little more of the oil. He 
reached out with one hand, fumbling around in the dark, frying to find the 
jar. After some futile attempts he had a hold on it and unscrewed it 
carefully not wanting to make so many sounds. He dipped his fingers in 
and sat it aside again. Turning to his side, so to have a good view of 
Legolas’ firm backside,  Haldir started anew to pleasure himself.
He let his fantasy wander as he moved his hands on his erection with ever 
so slow and light strokes. What if he would dare to gently push inside that 
tight and hot passage before him, would he loose it immediately, could he 
stay motionless and make himself come still? An idea formed in his mind 
and he scooted over to Legolas again. 

Very gently Haldir started stroking the firm buttocks rubbing his thumbs 
into the cleft from time to time. But Legolas didn’t wake.
Haldir smiled and moved closer still. He tenderly parted the globes and 
pushed his straining member gently against the puckered entrance. He 
knew he hadn’t prepared Legolas in the slightest but he was sure that if he 
went very slowly, Legolas body would quickly adjust itself.
Haldir had to take a very deep and steadying breath as the tip of his 
erection breached the tight ring of muscle and slowly slid in. The 
sensations were overwhelming and Haldir struggled hard to keep himself 
from moving too fast. It was like a blissful agony as the engorged erection 
made its way into the hot passage, but then at last he was in the whole way 
and Haldir felt the firm round proportions of Legolas’ backside pressed 
against his tightly drawn sack.

The march warden was surprised that his husband hadn’t awoken, yet, but 
didn’t mind. Could he bring him to an orgasm in his sleep? Would the 
sensation of Legolas coming and the rippling of the internal muscles be 
enough to push him over the edge himself?
His arousal throbbed and Haldir slid his slicked hand over Legolas body 
finding the before flaccid member expanding steadily. He buried his nose 
in the blond locks and caressed his lover gently. At first Legolas seemed to 
be oblivious to Haldir ministrations but soon after his erection had grown 
to its fullest, he awoke, but before he could utter a single word or even 
worse move away, Haldir’s hand that had been stroking him held him fast 
and his other hand that had sneak around beneath Legolas neck, clamped 
over the already opened mouth.
All that could be heard was some muffled sounds coming from the prince.
“Shhh, my love. Don’t be too loud, or the others might hear us. Can I take 
my hand from your mouth? Or I you afraid you will not be able to hold 
yourself back for me?”
Legolas nodded.
Carefully Haldir withdrew his hand and he nuzzled Legolas neck through 
the long flowing hair. 
“Haldir, “ whispered Legolas unbelievingly “what are you doing?”
“Haven’t you noticed?” Haldir grinned behind Legolas’ back and let his 
member twitch.
Legolas’ breath hitched and he reduced his voice to a hoarse whisper 
“Have you gone mad? The others will notice and surely hear us or even 
worse can see what you are doing!”
“No they won’t. See?” Haldir moved his hand back down to Legolas 
erection and started stroking it very gently, hardly applying any pressure at 
all. His husband whimpered.
“Shhh, or I will have to put my hand over your mouth again.” He 
continued his caresses and kept a close eye and ear on the blond silently 
trembling in  his arms.
Haldir wondered what he could do to Legolas. Would words and gently 
touches be enough to make him come? Or would he need a little more 
encouragement.

“Can you feel me deep inside you? Do you know how deep I am in?” the 
silver haired elf whispered seductively.
Legolas’ breathing was getting heavier. Suddenly Haldir felt the soft 
velvety walls around his arousal contract. Legolas clenched his anal 
muscles and moved his pelvis in mere fragments of inches. It was like he 
was indeed testing how deep Haldir was buried inside of him and closed 
his eyes in order to stay still.
“Yes.” Legolas breathed.
Haldir continued to let his fingers ghost over Legolas’ over heated flesh “I 
will make you come, I will have you tremble and shudder in my arms, and 
when you let yourself go I will come buried deep within you. The 
contractions of your body will be my undoing. Now, tell me what you will 
have me do to you. Or shall I just continue to torment you?”
Legolas tried to pull himself together and answer halfway coherently
“Touch only the tip. Only the tip. Rub little circles over it.”

The march warden moved up Legolas’ member and let his fingertips ghost 
of the heated skin. Pre cum escaped the little slit in a steady small flow 
and Haldir smeared it over the head. He could feel Legolas tense up, his 
back muscles straining, and whimpers leaving his mouth. 
“Love, you have to be more quiet!” Haldir whispered against the blond 
hair. 
“Do I have to insure that you will be still?” he asked after Legolas still 
whined quietly.
When he didn’t get any answer, he gathered more of the pre cum on his 
fingers and let go of Legolas arousal, placing his fingers to his husband’s 
mouth. 



All Legolas could do was to moan softly as Haldir placed his sticky 
fingers against his lips, gently pushing them into his mouth. The blond 
archer circled the fingertips with his tongue and laved them lovingly. He 
could taste himself and he had to bit down a bit to stifle another moan.
Haldir let Legolas have his fun with the fingers for a while longer, before 
he removed them again and moved lower to wrap them around the 
neglected erection of his husband. 
"What would you like now?" he whispered seductively. 

Legolas’ eyes had closed and his own hands, absently played over his hard 
nipples, as he breathed “Touch my sack. Roll it in you hand, pull it down.”
Haldir kissed the soft toned shoulder and moved his free hand over the 
soft but tightly drawn sack. He fingered it feeling the twin testicles, 
grazing it slightly with his nails and suddenly pulled it down sharply, 
provoking a hiss from his love.
Haldir held the tender flesh in a firm but gently grip, reaching out with his 
thumb stroking the tender underside of Legolas’ member. By pulling 
down the sack the foreskin was pulled down all the way too and while 
caressing the erection Haldir let his thumb graze the sensitive area were 
the foreskin met the gland every other time.
He could feel Legolas trembling and writhing against him. Hardly moving, 
but sending the most erotic shivers down Haldir’s own aching member. He 
was sure by now that he would loose the battle against his orgasm as soon 
as Legolas would spasm.

Soft wails and suppressed moan brought Haldir back to what he was doing 
and he let his tongue flicked against Legolas’ ear.
“Come, let me feel you body tremble, shiver and twitch for me. I want to 
hear your breath hitch, see your eyes flutter and feel you coming over my 
fingers. I need your muscles tremor against me, I want that suction around 
my need inside you. Give in, come let yourself go. But don’t make a 
sound, or I will have to hold your mouth shut, I will cover it with my 
fingers, covered your very essence. I would smear it around your lips, 
your cheeks and you would feel it dribble between your parted lips, 
gasping for air.”
All the while Haldir continued the caressing of Legolas’ arousal and he 
could sense that his love was close, very close. 
He wasn’t much better of himself. The faint shivers and tremors wracking 
his husband’s body caused the most exciting sensations around his 
member. He had been on the edge for a few minutes by now, restraining 
himself again and again. Just the imagination of being buried inside, not 
being able to move and all he could was to wait for Legolas to reach his 
climax, and to wait and feel for the shudders and contractions made him 
pant.

Legolas was beyond clear thoughts by now. Haldir was pressed to his 
back, their skin sticky with sweat and hot from their arousal. He could feel 
Haldir’s erection so deep inside of him and every time he clenched his 
anal muscles or moved his hips mere millimetres, the blunt and hard, 
throbbing member seemed to nudge this insides. Haldir’s treatment, the 
dominant talk and the fact that he was somewhat restrained by Haldir’s 
arms and words excited him more than he had ever thought possible.
The familiar sensation in his groins and the raw heat pooling in his belly 
indicated that he couldn’t hold on anymore. Usually he would compensate 
the tension by moving his body during lovemaking, riding towards his 
climax, but he was unable to do so and his legs started twitching, his back 
arched slightly and he held his breath when Haldir’s finger let go of his 
testicles and returned to moving in ever so light circles over the head of 
his member. Legolas gasped and bit his tongue, not to cry out as his 
orgasm hit him.

Haldir’s hand that was laying beneath his head clamped over his mouth 
and Legolas’ essence spurted in hot gushes over Haldir’s hands.
He himself had been on the edge of his own release for some minutes 
now, being far more aroused than he thought possible, by the fact that 
Legolas was trembling and shivering against him. Those tiny moves and 
shivers sent the most thrilling sensations along his member and he enjoyed 
the knowledge, that he had the possibility to feel Legolas orgasm to the 
full extent, since he was not distracted by any movements.
It turned him on to fondle his love, to feel the reaction to his ministrations 
and to be the one who could provoke these exquisite sounds from the 
fierce archer.
Suddenly he felt Legolas’ body tense up, the back arching away slightly 
and the tremors of his release, followed by the tensing and contracting of 
the anal muscles. 
Haldir bit down on Legolas’ shoulder to muffle his own deep moans, as 
his body shuddered and exploded deep inside of Legolas. 


They lay exhausted for a while, breathing rapidly and holding each other 
close, Haldir still buried deep inside his husband. Suddenly a muffled 
sound tore Haldir from his dreamy state. “wu, ore crawy!”
His hand still covered Legolas mouth and he chuckled as he removed it to 
let the blond elf take a few deep breaths of cool night air.
“What?” Haldir inquired innocently.
“You are absolutely crazy!” Legolas told him in a stern voice.
“Yes! I am absolutely crazy about you!” the march warden kissed the tip 
of Legolas’ ear.
Legolas snuggled deeper into Haldir’s embrace and frowned a little when 
Haldir’s sated sex slipped from him, leaving a wet trail on his thigh.
Both slipped easily into a deep slumber and did not wake again until 
Aragorn nudged Legolas carefully awake.

“Legolas. Please wake. The others are getting ready to leave and I want 
you arm and protect yourself properly for I don’t know what we are going 
to encounter today, when we will reach the black gate. I am still not too 
happy about you coming with us, but since you won’t change you mind, I 
want you to be as best as possibly prepared.”

They waited until Aragorn had left them again and carefully tried to 
redress beneath their blanket. Haldir was just taking care of Legolas extra 
armour when Gimli showed up and glared at them. 
“You still are going with us, aren’t you?” he muttered.
Both elves nodded in consent and the dwarf shook his head, taking the 
leather straps out of Haldir’ hands, strapping them around Legolas’ waist 
himself. Checking the fit and adjustment twice, making sure it worked 
properly. He put his hands on his hips and cocked his head up to Legolas.
“Now, laddie. I want you to understand clearly. You are not to engage into 
hand to hand battle, unless it is unavoidable. You are going to stay clear to 
the main field. And the same accounts for you, Haldir!” The dwarf gave 
the look of utter displeasure.

Aragorn called to his troops and Gimli moved along with Legolas, taking 
his usual seat behind him on Arod.

The sun stood high in the sky when they reached the menacing and 
towering black gate of Mordor.
To their utter surprise, no one was there. No guards, no trolls that were 
used to open the huge gates, nor any sworn allies to Sauron himself.
Not even the always present Nazgûls roamed the skies. Aragorn took 
Elrond’s sons, Gandalf as his herald, Eomer, Imrahil, Pippin, Gimli and 
Legolas and Haldir with him to the gate.
The followers of Aragorn cried out their threat and announced the King. 
But still nothing happened.

Aragorn was still contemplating their next actions, when horns and 
trumpets sounded from the other side of the gate announcing the 
approaching of their enemies.
Aragorn’s army stood ready to fight and defend their king, when the gates 
opened.

Haldir unconsciously reached out a hand to Legolas, giving one slender 
pale hand a reassuring clasp.
Legolas looked over to his love and smiled at the tall silver haired elf.
“I love you.” He whispered and turned his eyes back to the black gate. 

Not a large army, not a horde of orcs, nor any other enemies came 
marching through the large gate, but a lone figure, riding a huge and 
frightful looking horse and all stared in horror.
Licking from the eye sockets and nostrils, were flames, flickering and 
sending ghastly shadows over the distorted features of the skull like head. 
The rider wearing a black robe was fully hiding his features underneath a 
black and lofty helmet.
Accompanying him was a rather small troop of black harnessed soldiers, 
one of them carrying a single banner baring the evil eye.

As Gandalf addressed the black figure it sneered.
“I am the mouth of Sauron and I am here to tell you, that  your quest will 
end here, for we found your spy and have ended his existence. You have 
no chance ranger King of Gondor.”
With that the creature threw a bundle on the ground that made the member 
of the fellowship wince and shudder.
There lay the sword that Sam had been carrying on their way through 
Moria and on down the Anduin, one grey elven cloak with the broach they 
had been given in Lorien and the shining mithril shirt of Frodo. 

The messenger ordered Aragorn to retread and leave the dark lord the 
lands east of the Anduin as far as the Misty Mountains and the Gap of 
Rohan.
Gandalf declined in Aragorn’s name and Sauron’s messenger glared at 
them. He turned his horse and urged it back to the gate and through it. His 
soldiers were following but instead of their silent behaviour during the 
short talks, they now sounded trumpets loudly.

Aragorn was overcome by a sense of foreboding and spun his horse 
around quickly, pulling the others with him.
But alas, it was too late. Out from the gate and the surrounding walls of 
the mountains came pouring orcs and easterlings.
They were many times more than the west man could offer and battle was 
close at hand.
Aragorn had no time to order his men and moved quickly over to Gandalf, 
but had no choice but to watch his loyal men being slaughtered.

Legolas quickly dismounted his horse, helping Gimli down, readying his 
bow the same instant. Haldir was close by his side,  a look of terror on his 
features. They couldn’t win this battle. There was no way out for they 
were surrounded and had no option to retreat.
Gimli was standing in front of Legolas, taking down any foe that would 
come to near this elf. 
Behind him he could hear the long Lorien bow sing and hardly a shot 
missed. Any approaching enemy was taken down, an elven arrow 
producing from its neck or breast. Haldir had let go of his bow by now, for 
his quiver was empty and there was no time to collect still usable arrows 
that lay scattered around them. 
He wielded his long sword slashing and hacking heads, arms and bodies.
Gimli just turned to Legolas when he heard Haldir cry out in dismay and 
anger, he spun around to look at Haldir and saw that he had lost his sword 
and try to ward off an orc wielding a mighty axe.
But before Gimli could step in between he was overtaken by Legolas, who 
had dropped his bow and had both shimmering white knives ready in his 
hands, screaming at the orc.
“You will not touch him. You will not win this battle. You will not take 
his life!” 
The orc made the mistake of his life. He hesitated for a single moment. It 
had seen elves before, and had fought them, but never had he encountered 
a fierce one like this. It had just enough time to register something unusual 
about this one. It seemed to be distorted. The figure strangely shaped, as if 
it were female and carrying a young one. 
It was the last thing the orc was able to think about.
Arms moving so fast that they seemed to blur, Legolas droves his knives 
through the body of the orc. Haldir gasped in horror as arms, the head and 
parts of the lower body were flying past him and on the ground. The orc 
was no more.

Aragorn held a worried look out for his friends and comrades as the fight 
continued. What he saw somewhere in the middle of the battle field made 
him choke. It was Pippin taking onto a troll. Slicing its hide and burying 
the short sword deep inside its bowels, he actually slew the beast.
But before the Hobbit could jump to safety, the Troll toppled forward 
burying the little fellow beneath him.
He cried out, but when he wanted to move down onto the battle field he 
was held back by Gandalf who pointed up in the sky voicing his wonder 
and relief.
There high above them, there were the large eagles chasing after the 
Nazgûls that had threatened the men of the west as well.
The large black creatures turned towards Mount Doom and fled.
But it was only a little flare of hope, for down beneath them the bloody 
battle carried on.
Aragorn could see his foster brothers, fighting together along with Eomer 
and Imrahil. Both bleeding profusely, from wounds at their arms and 
heads.

Further away he could make out the stout figure of Gimli, standing firmly, 
wielding his axe, defending two elves. A blond and a silver haired one.
Both had let go of their bows, having no arrows left, fighting with knives 
and sword.
Luckily none of them had taken any serious wounds yet, but both were 
clearly at the end of their strength and Aragorn knew that it would only be 
a matter of time, before one of them would fall.
Suddenly the earth shook, smoke was gushing up from Mount Doom and a 
deafening rumble of thunder made everyone cringe.
Gandalf threw his arms up in the air and cried out. “The reign of Sauron 
has ended. They did it! The ring is destroyed!”
Aragorn closed his eyes for a second, relief washing over him like a tidal 
wave. And when he opened them again, their foes were flying. The evil 
hold on them ended and leaving them leaderless.
He rushed down to his friends, hoping to find all them alive.    
When he turned once more to Gandalf he could see the old wizard talking 
to the giant eagle Gwaihir, who had landed near him.

Aragorn darted over to where the troll lay, calling for someone to help 
him. Together with a few men he was able to drag the massive body away 
from the still, small form of Pippin.
The Hobbit’s face was deathly pale and his breathing shallow, but he was 
alive. The King of Gondor slumped down on his knees beside the huddled 
body and carefully cradled it in his arms.
A little further off, Gimli leaned heavily on his axe, trying to regain some 
of his remaining strength. This battle had worn out even his dwarven 
stamina and he was even too exhausted to utter his relief and happiness at 
this moment.
All he could was cock his head in direction of Legolas and Haldir, who 
were embracing each other firmly, undoubtedly whispering words of love 
and encouragement in each others ears.                                                                                                

Suddenly Legolas uttered a short and strangled gasp and with both hands 
held onto his swelling belly.
Haldir paled and held Legolas’ shoulders.
“Love what is it. Please speak to me. Legolas?!” his voice had taken a 
frantic tone.
Gimli had raised his head and looked confused at the elves.
Even Aragorn had heard the panic stricken voice of the Lorien elf and 
looked over worriedly.
Legolas started to undo his tunic, tearing at the fastenings. “I don’t know. 
It was a weird feeling. No pain really, but something happening. I don’t 
know what!” he sounded confused
“Love, please. We have to go to Aragorn, or Gandalf. Legolas...!” Haldir 
looked at his husband, tearing at his clothes and couldn’t move a single 
muscle. It just couldn’t be. They had survived this battle. They weren’t 
even severely injured. Why did anything had to be obviously wrong with 
their child.
Suddenly Legolas stooped his frantic movements and gasped again. 
“There it is happening again. It’s like..., like...” he shook his head slightly 
and continued to rip off his additional armour.

By now Gimli had reached them and even though he was on the verge of 
panic himself, tried to stay calm. 
“Come, let me help you.” The dwarf pushed Legolas hands away and 
untied the leather straps holding the piece of armour in place.
Freed at last, Legolas laid a trembling hand against his swollen flesh and 
took a few calming breaths.
Aragorn had left Pippin with one of the healers that had travelled with 
them and hurried over to the dwarf and the elves.
Just when he reached them, Legolas looked up in surprise and an unsure 
smile brightened his face,
“What?” Haldir looked at him helplessly.
“Here!” Legolas smiled at his husband and took hold of one hand still 
holding him by the shoulders. He placed it on his stomach and applied a 
little pressure.
At first nothing happened and Haldir frowned, his eyes asking the same 
question over and over again. ‘What is wrong?’
But then all of a sudden, Haldir felt a strange fluttering movement against 
his fingers. Something was pushing against his hand, like a faint kick.
He furrowed his brow in wonder and Legolas beamed at him. “Can you 
feel it? Can you feel our child?”
Tears were pricking at his eyes as Haldir kept his hand on his husband’ 
body embracing him firmly.

Gimli sniffled a bit and turned away, so the elves wouldn’t see his 
reddened eyes. He found Aragorn standing beside him, clasping his sturdy 
shoulder with a firm hand and a smile of wonder on his features.
“Come, Master Dwarf. I think we are not needed here right in this 
moment.” The ranger tried to pull the dwarf along with him, but he 
wouldn’t budge.
“No, wait.” Legolas crystal clear voice stopped them. “Come here Gimli. 
If it hadn’t been for you, I surely wouldn’t be here to experience this. We 
owe you more than you can possibly imagine.”
But Gimli just stared at the, by now rather large, elven belly producing 
from the slim body.
“Can...I...” he muttered under his breath.
Haldir smiled at him and moved away from Legolas. 
“Come!” Legolas reached out a hand to the dwarf, who moved closer 
reluctantly.
Like he had done with Haldir, he took hold of one of the dwarf’s hand and 
placed it on his body.
Gimli beamed up at his friend and suddenly rumbled something in 
dwarvish. He was clearly speaking to the unborn child and when he 
finished, tilted his head back to look up at Legolas. “No, I am not going to 
tell you, what I just told the little one.”

Some hours later they had moved away from the Black Gate, set up some 
tents, in which the wounded could be treated and campfires were lit to 
prepare some meals for the remaining troops.
Gwaihir’s and two fellow eagles had returned, bearing the two missing 
Hobbits, Frodo and Sam, carefully within their large talons.
They were treated in one of the tents and the other members of the 
fellowship would not leave their sides.

Aragorn was reluctant to disturb the happy couple sitting at the bedside of 
Frodo and Sam, telling them of their journey and patiently answering their 
questions about their relationship and Legolas’ wondrous pregnancy.
“Legolas, my friend. As much as it pains me to disturb you, I would like 
you to come over here and let me have a look at you. I want to check on 
the child as well.”
Legolas nodded and excused himself from the Hobbits and his other 
friends. 

Aragorn made him lay down on one of the makeshift beds and freed the 
swollen flesh from the clothes the elf was wearing. In his hand he was 
already holding that wooden device that would allow him to listen to the 
child’s heartbeat.
“I wish Elrond was here.” He mumbled. “He knows much more about 
these matters than I do.”
Legolas smiled at him encouragingly and relaxed his abdominal muscles.
Aragorn sighed quietly and placed the wooden toll against Legolas’ belly. 
Like before he adjusted it several times. Only this time his face became 
more and more worried.
Legolas didn’t even notice that he was holding his breath by now and his 
heartbeat increased rapidly. Sweat of panic broke out on his body as he 
watched the ranger try again and again to find the child’s heartbeat.
He didn’t dare to ask Aragorn if he couldn’t find it at all, not wanting to 
hear the painful news.
Tears were streaming down the sides of his pale face, wetting the tangled 
blond hair, leaving his vision blurred and unfocused, when Aragorn raised 
his head and stroked the fair features of his dear friend. 
“Legolas, listen. I cannot make out the heartbeat very clearly.” He spoke 
softly to the elf.
A sob came from the slightly parted lips, which were trembling ever so 
slightly.
“I can hear the heartbeat, but it is somewhat irregular and fluttering. We 
will have to move back to Minas Tirith quickly. Maybe a healer there can 
be of more help than I am. Please do not despair. Please, Legolas. Don’t 
put more strain on you than you already have. Listen maybe it’s just 
because the child is moving about.”
But Legolas new better than that. He hadn’t felt the child move, while 
Aragorn had been examining him.
“Haldir!” was all he could whisper, his voice choking. 

Aragorn got up and turned to Haldir, who had still been talking to the 
Hobbits. The elf looked up and immediately recognised the stricken look 
on the ranger’s face. All blood drained from the handsome face as Haldir 
rose and quickly moved over to Legolas.
Aragorn stooped him midway.  “Wait! Listen, I cannot make out the 
child’s heartbeat as clearly as I should be able to. Maybe it is nothing. 
Maybe I am just too clumsy and stressed. Please, try to calm Legolas 
down. It won’t help if he is as upset as he is now. Look, I will see if there 
is anyone among us, whom I could send out to ride in direction of 
Rivendell. My father is maybe already on his way here. If that messenger 
could meet him on the way, I will order him to tell Elrond to hurry to 
Minas Tirith as quickly as possible.
It will take us some days anyway, because of the wounded. I want Legolas 
to be carried by a litter. No way will I let him ride. Make sure he stays 
calm. “
Haldir stared at Aragorn, clearly fighting down his own feelings. He let his 
arrogant mask slip over his face and turned again to Legolas, who was still 
laying on the makeshift bed, silently crying.
When Legolas saw Haldir approach, he stretched out a hand to his 
husband, pulling him down towards him.
“He says, something is wrong, Haldir. The child. Something is wrong with 
the child. Why? Haven’t we felt enough strain, haven’t we got enough 
burdens to carry already. Why, Haldir? Why do the Valar punish us like 
that?”
“Shh..., melme. We are not being punished. And Aragorn is not sure if 
there is anything wrong with our child at all. Maybe he just to exhausted, 
to stressed. Please, love. Calm down and rest. We will make our way to 
Minas Tirith tomorrow and you will travel on a litter between my horse 
and Arod. So Gimli can sit on Arod and we both will have an eye on you.”
Legolas eyes were red and swollen, when Haldir gently turned him onto 
the side, so he would rest a bit more comfortably and gently caressed his 
shoulder.
“Maybe we shouldn’t have....” the prince’s voice trailed off.
“What?” Haldir bent over his love “We shouldn’t have what?”
“You know. At the river’s shore, at night in the camp. It wasn’t right to do 
that. What if we hurt the child. I shouldn’t have said yes. I should have 
stopped you.”
“Stop, Legolas. Stop this instant. You know what Gandalf said. And 
besides, why do you think it could hurt the child. How do you think she 
elves and women cope with it? Do you really believe that they don’t make 
love to their husbands for the whole time? And they don’t have the choice 
whether to be taken or to take the other one. And what about the first 
months. Neither you, nor all those pregnant females know that they are 
pregnant, and they surely encounter their sexual demands. Nothing 
happened to you and neither to the females. You are worrying too much. 
And that definitely is not a good thing. Oh and before you start accusing 
me that I do not care, I do care, Legolas. But I refuse to give up hope, yet.”

Haldir got no response from Legolas and kissed his neck once. 
Straightening up again, he glanced at the Hobbits huddled together, Merry 
and Pippin clearly telling Frodo and Sam about Legolas’ condition, for 
they were pointing over to them every now and then.

Before the night fell, all of Middle Earth knew that the dark lord Sauron 
had fallen. Like an earthquake, a wave of relief and happiness washed 
over the lands and many gathered to celebrate.

In the vast caves of Mirkwood, King Thranduil felt the tremors of the 
earth that was now freed of the dark threat and a smile broke out on his 
face. Something that hadn’t happened in quite some time. He felt giddy 
and light hearted as he stepped from his study and turned in direction of 
the large entrance hall. On his way he passed the corridor that led to 
Legolas’ private quarters in the lower level of the caves.
Legolas, Thranduil worried about his son. He had no news of him since he 
left Rivendell together with the nine walkers. His son had sent him a 
message telling him of their quest and the route they would take.
From then on, Thranduil had been fed bit and pieces by Elrond from time 
to time, but ever since the last note, telling the Mirkwood King of a 
horrible battle that was to take place somewhere in Rohan, he hadn’t heard 
a thing.
Thranduil was sure that he would have felt something, if Legolas truly had 
died, but what if the Valar wouldn’t grant him this knowledge?
When he stepped out into the light, it felt like a dark cloud had been lifted 
and the sun was shining even brighter, the sky was a purer shade of blue 
and nature itself seemed to rejoice. Surely Mirkwood was still infested by 
dark creatures, but with Sauron gone, it would be only a matter of time, 
before the great wood was restored to its old self.

Thranduil was sure that, whoever had survived this quest, would gather in 
Minas Tirith, or what was left of it. He would go there as quickly as 
possible.
The first elf who passed the King was stopped and immediately sent to the 
stables, to bring Thranduil’s order to ready the horses of the King and his 
entourage.

It took the tall blond elf only a few hours to get ready and gather his trusty 
warriors who would ride with him. They would take the route south, 
passing through Lothlorien and  Rohan. As much as it pained Thranduil, 
he would even go into this cursed wood of the Lady of light and ask her if 
she had any news about his son.
Lothlorien; he hadn’t been there ever since the wedding of his son with 
Haldir. It had disturbed him deeply that Legolas had left the marchwarden, 
but no matter how much he had tried to persuade his son to go back to his 
husband, it hadn’t helped. Thranduil was sure that those two did indeed 
belong together and he never found out what had driven them apart in the 
first place, but he regretted Legolas decision immensely  even though he 
had enjoyed his son’s company. So they set out at the early evening and 
turned south towards the White city.



The sun had not been up long when Aragorn led his troop back to the road 
that would lead them to Minas Tirith. They moved slowly, having many 
wounded among them, most of them carried with litters, some of them 
able to ride on their own. All the healthy ones had to walk, even the King.
It would take them nearly two weeks to reach the city and Aragorn was 
afraid that he would loose many of the wounded in the process. 
He stepped sideways and waited for the large troop to pass, until he could 
make out Haldir sitting on his horse. Aragorn fell into step beside him and 
saw the worried expression of the marchwarden.
“He is sleeping now.” The soft voice of the elf came from above.
Aragorn nodded and patted Haldir’s leg once in a reassuring way. “We 
will stop shortly and I will check on him again.”
Haldir turned his head and lowered his eyes. “Aragorn, I want you to 
know, that I very much appreciate what you are doing for us, but are you 
sure that it is not in vain? Do you really think, that you were too strained 
to find the heartbeat properly?”
Aragorn only looked at Haldir and didn’t need to voice his thoughts. 
“I thought so.” Haldir whispered brokenly.
He had been sure that Aragorn would have been well able to find the 
heartbeat, even in a strenuous situation, and now his concerns had been 
confirmed. There was definitely something wrong with their child. 
Haldir sighed and looked down at Legolas’ face. It was contorted with fear 
and sadness even though he was sleeping deeply, his unfocused eyes 
mirroring the dark blue of the sky.

Elrond led his fellow elves and his daughter Arwen through the plains of 
Rohan, shaking his head sadly at the destruction that had taken place in 
this area. Villages were burnt to the ground, slaughtered cattle, rotting in 
the deep grass, human corpses mingling with them.
He was glad that the light breeze brought a clear sent from the mountains 
with it to lessen the stench. Arwen sat rigid on her horse, her eyes darting 
from left to right. She still didn’t know how Aragorn would be fairing 
when they met him. Had he survived the last battle unharmed? She was 
only sure that he was still alive. But nothing else.
Maybe Galadriel could have told them something, but they hadn’t taken 
the time to stop at Lorien.
What about her friends? Her brothers? She shook her head slowly as if to 
clear all thoughts of fear aside and looked straight ahead to the horizon.

Aragorn checked on Legolas for the next four days, two to three times a 
day, every time they stopped for a short rest. But nothing changed. 
Legolas told him that he still felt the child moving every now and then, but 
the heartbeat was still irregular and faint.
It tore Haldir’s heart apart to watch the love of his life become more still, 
drawing into himself, not speaking, not eating and mostly lying there with 
his eyes closed. Even Gimli couldn’t pull Legolas out of it.
At the fifth day, Aragorn ordered five of the healthy men to escort Haldir 
and Gimli with Legolas between their horses to Minas Tirith on their own. 
They would make better time without the large troop and would reach the 
city far earlier this way. He sincerely hoped that the healers there would be 
able to do more.


Elrond had halted his elves and ordered a short rest. It felt good to stretch 
the legs and walk around for a bit. He had wandered off for a short 
distance, when he suddenly saw a cloud of dust and sand in the distance. It 
obviously was a rider, moving at a very fast speed. And he was coming 
towards them.
The elven Lord turned around quickly, calling out to his warriors, since he 
couldn’t  see whether is was friend or foe.
Even Arwen jumped immediately, hoping it would be her fiancée 
Aragorn. But as they stood and waited, it soon became clear that it 
obviously was a messenger of some sort and he was wearing the colours 
of Gondor. 


The horse came to a skidding  halt before the Lord of Imladris and tried to 
catch his breath. 
“Are you the Lord Elrond I was sent out to seek?” the young man panted.
Elrond nodded slowly wondering was this was about.
“My Lord, Lord Aragorn has sent me on a most urgent request. We have 
an elf among us that is in need of your assistance.” The blue green eyes 
bore a slight frantic look.
Elrond felt Arwen relax beside him and heard her sigh faintly with relief. 
Obviously Aragorn was safe and whole.
“What elf are you speaking of?” Elrond inquired, scolding himself for 
being more worried about his sons, instead of being generally worried.
“It is the noble prince of Mirkwood, my Lord.”
“Legolas?” Arwen interrupted.
“Yes, my Lady.” The young warrior turned to face Arwen.
“What ails him? Was he badly wounded?” Elrond took this situation in his 
hand.
“No, my Lord. Naught a scratch.”
“But then why this hasty message?” dark brows furrowed above glinting 
blue eyes.
“My Lord, this might sound somewhat strange, but I assure you, it is the 
truth I speak.” The man took off his helmet and shook his brown hair.
“Then speak!” Elrond’s voice thundered. This was getting extremely 
irritating.
“Forgive me, my Lord. The prince of Mirkwood is currently, well...., he is 
expecting, my Lord.” Strong fingers fumbled helplessly with the reins.
“Expecting? Expecting what?” Arwen was confused, but Elrond seemed to 
have understood immediately. 
“What of his condition? You said he is in need of my help. How far is 
he?” the tall Lord of Imladris steered his horse nearer to the man.
“His condition is weak, Sire. How far I do not know. It does show 
however. About that much.” The warrior held his arms before his own 
body in a half circle in lack of a better explanation.
Elrond couldn’t help but smile at the young man. “I see, has Aragorn said 
anything, what might be the problem?”
“Yes, my Lord. He said something about a failing heartbeat. And lack of 
movement.” 
“By the Valar! Where is he now?” 
“My Lord, he is on his way to Minas Tirith. Some of our men, Gimli the 
dwarf and Lord Haldir are accompanying him.” 
Elrond let out a breath he had unconsciously been holding. “Haldir!” 



Elrond shot around. “Arwen I need to go to Minas Tirith immediately.”
“But father, we are not supposed to arrive there before the King has 
returned. You told me so yourself. It would be a terrible breach in 
protocol. You told me that man are very concerned about things like that. 
Couldn’t you meet with them somewhere outside the city?”
“No, Arwen. I need to be somewhere secure. Somewhere where I have 
peace and quiet. Maybe I will have to open his body. And I cannot do that 
anywhere in the open field. But I will go incognito.” Elrond turned to one 
of his elven warriors and talked with him shortly. Both turned to some of 
the large entourage and swapped cloaks with some of the servants.
Lord Elrond returned to his daughter. “I will go with Falnethir to Minas 
Tirith. We will try to slip in unnoticed. You Arwen will continue as if 
nothing had happened. Camp outside the city once you have reached it. I 
will meet you there and then we will enter the city together later as it was 
planned.”
Arwen nodded solemnly and turned her horse to the waiting entourage.
She could hear the horses of her father and Falnethir race into the distance.


Thranduil felt uneasy as he let his horse trot through the forest of Lorien, 
knowing very well that he was being watched. But to his surprise, they 
were neither stopped nor greeted. As the wood grew closer, he could feel 
Galadriel’s power descending on him. Every time he felt her presence he 
had to suppress a shudder. 
After some hours of slow riding through the thick woods they reached 
Caras Galadorn.
Life seemed to be more merry now, then it had been during his past visits. 
Clearly the knowledge of Sauron’s fall lifted even the hearts of these 
stuffy Noldor elves.

When he had reached the main habitat of Lorien, he dismounted and his 
warriors followed his example. Just as he turned towards the largest tree 
where Galadriel lived he saw her gracefully descending the long winding 
stairs.
“My Lord Thranduil! It is so good to see you!” she exclaimed and smiled 
brightly at him.
“My Lady.” Thranduil bowed his head ever so slightly.
“Come, you must be tired and famished. Let us entertain you for tonight, 
so that in the morning you will be well rested, for I believe you wish to 
continue your way to Minas Tirith, am I not right?”
“Yes, you are right as always, my Lady.” Thranduil forced a smile on his 
face.

Only a short while later they were gathers along long tables, set out in the 
open, plates upon plates of the most delicious foods were placed before 
them and even Thranduil had to admit that the wine wasn’t so bad.
“My dear Thranduil, have you had word of your son?” Celeborn leaned 
past his wife and cocked his head at the Mirkwood King.
“No, sadly not one word after they left Rivendell so long ago. But I 
believe him to be still alive, for I am sure I would have felt it , would he 
have died.”
Galadriel placed a slender hand on Thranduil’s arm and smiled at him. 
“Oh, he is in good health let me assure you. I have seen it in my mirror. 
And you will be pleased I hope to hear that Legolas and Haldir have found 
to another again.”
A truly bright and happy smile spread on the features of the stern King of 
Mirkwood and he laughed at Galadriel.
“Oh, and something else, dear Thranduil. I am not sure if I make the right 
decision by telling you this now, but I believe it is better you know 
beforehand, instead of finding out the hard way."
Cobalt blue eyes narrowed faintly “What, my Lady? What has happened?” 
“Don’t worry. Nothing bad, let me assure you. Now, how to tell you?” 
Galadriel thought for a moment. “Many, many years ago, long before 
Legolas and Haldir separated, Legolas had made up his mind about 
something. He went to Elrond for assistance and later he stayed here in the 
care of our healers and Elrond himself.”
“Healers?” Thranduil interrupted with a concerned look on his face.
“Nothing to worry about. Legolas must have come upon some old text 
scrolls and books, I believe in your library. He had set his mind on it. He 
underwent the procedure to become fertile.”
Thranduil draw in his breath sharply. 
“It was successful, but they separated shortly afterwards. I am right to 
presume that your son has not told you anything about it, right?”
The King of Mirkwood shook his head slowly and sadly.
“Now, when the fellowship stayed here on their journey south, Haldir and 
Legolas made up and have at last found their true happiness. Unknown to 
them, Legolas became pregnant right in the beginning of their renewed 
passion and relationship. I did not know at the time, but I saw it in the 
mirror later. So when you come to Minas Tirith, you will find your son 
carrying his first child and your grand child.”
Thranduil’s look had changed from worry to unknown glee and he beamed 
at the Lady of the wood. He was beyond words and was only able to nod 
at her to continue talking about it.
“Tomorrow I will give you something, which I want you to take to 
Legolas as a gift from Lothlorien. It is an old tradition here. We give a 
sapling of a Mallorn tree to any mother, who will give birth to a child. So 
when the child is born, the tree is planted and symbolises the connection 
between us elves and the nature surrounding us.”


Legolas felt sick from the ever swaying motions of his litter hanging 
between two horses.
He was more than fed up with laying down all the time and a part of him 
thought it would make no difference if he was laying or riding by himself, 
now that his child was obviously going to die anyway. He had long given 
up hope and even Haldir’s never ceasing encouragement helped any more. 
Sometimes he would have loved to scream at them all to leave him alone 
in his grief and despair.
“Look,” Legolas heard Gimli say to Haldir “Minas Tirith!”
Instantly Haldir reached down to Legolas hand taking it in his. “Legolas, 
my love. We have made it. Tonight we will have a healer to take a look at 
you. Please open your eyes. Look at me!”
But the blond elf kept his eyes shut.
Haldir shook his head in dismay and looked up again at the towering walls 
of the main city of Gondor.

Suddenly one of the men riding with them gave a shout and he pointed 
somewhat north.
Two shadowy figures on horses flew towards the large gates of Minas 
Tirith. They could hear the horses heavy breath over the distance.
When they came nearer, it was clear that those were no enemies and 
Haldir recognised horses of elven breed.
“Aiya! Man ealle?” Haldir shouted over to the two figures.
The horses were drawn to a halt and turned quickly into the direction of 
the little group riding towards Minas Tirith.
“Haldir?” one of the figures called suddenly.
Haldir recognised the voice immediately. “Elrond!” he whispered in awe.

They met right before the city gates and when they demanded entrance, 
Elrond and Falnethir stayed in the back, hoping to go unnoticed.
The city guards opened and when Haldir explained their situation they 
were escorted to the house of healing without questions. Word had spread 
within Minas Tirith about the male pregnant elf and the people were 
seeing it as a light in dark times and many were hoping to see the miracle 
of the child birth among them here in Minas Tirith. Hearing that 
something was wrong with the fabled elf, worried the guards and they 
made sure that they reached the house of healing quickly.

Aragorn’s five men were relieved and Haldir, Gimli and Falnethir helped 
Elrond getting Legolas to a spare room.
When Legolas was laying on the single bed in the room, Elrond removed 
the cloak and ushered Gimli and Falnethir out of the room. Only Haldir 
was allowed to stay.
Legolas stayed remarkably calm, while Haldir helped him to undress and 
lay down again. But it was not because he was so relaxed, no, he had 
already given up.
Elrond rubbed his hands shortly, warming them a little and stared at the 
round and swollen body before him. He had helped the young elf to 
achieve the goal of fertility, but he had never actually seen a pregnant 
male elf before. It looked beautiful and astonishingly natural. He took a 
deep breath pulling himself together. He had been told that something was 
wrong with the child. So there was no time to marvel at the sight.

With the utmost care and tenderness, Elrond started to probe and press the 
belly slightly. Checking how far it had grown and it’s consistence. After 
some time, he suddenly looked up and only concentrated on what his 
fingers were feeling. Quickly before a smile made its way to his lips he let 
go of Legolas’ belly and moved over to the door.
“I will be back immediately.” He strode out and closed the door quietly.
Haldir looked Legolas and stroked his face softly. “You will see, Elrond 
will take care of you and the little one. Everything is going to be alright.”

True to his word, Elrond returned within a very short time and carried 
something with him that looked familiar to Haldir, only that this 
instrument looked far more sophisticated then the one Aragorn was using.
Elrond leaned over Legolas again and listened for the child’s heartbeat, 
just like Aragorn had been doing it the last days before they left in a hurry 
to Minas Tirith.  
“It’s no use Elrond.” Legolas muttered, but was silenced by Elrond 
immediately.
The Lord of Imladris changed the position of the instrument several times 
and then straightened up again with a very smug and satisfied look on his 
face.
“Remind me to tell my foster son, that even though he is a good healer, he 
should keep his hands away from pregnant females or males for that 
matter.”
Haldir looked at him in confusion.
But Elrond ignored him. “Legolas, listen. There is absolutely nothing 
wrong with your child. And I am sure I know why Aragorn had such 
problems finding the child’s heartbeat. He couldn’t find it because it was, 
should we say, blocked.”
“Blocked?” Legolas felt such a relief wash over him that tears made their 
way down his temples, but what was Elrond talking about?

Some Noldor warriors stood waiting, holding the horses of Thranduil and 
his seneschal, who were having a last talk with the Lady. The other 
Mirkwood elves had already mounted and waited along with the Noldor.

Thranduil bowed to Galadriel, a bit more than the day before and gave his 
farewell, when Galadriel motioned a young elven maiden over to her, 
carrying two bundles with her.
“My Lord Thranduil. Yesterday I promised you a gift for your son and I 
stand to my word. Here are the saplings I told you about. Make sure there 
are watered from time to time and give all my love to Haldir and Legolas 
when you see them.”
Thranduil stared at the two saplings wrapped up in finest linen and knotted 
his brow.
“But, my Lady, why do you give me two saplings?” he asked hesitantly. 
But Galadriel only smiled at him and tilted her head to the side.
Thranduil’s eyes grew big “Twins?”
The Lady of the wood laughed and turned back to the large tree, still 
chuckling when she started to climb the steps.


Legolas had to keep himself from fidgeting upon the bed.
“Blocked, Elrond?” Haldir looked at the Lord of Imladris in total 
puzzlement.
“Yes, blocked. In some way. Come here Haldir.” The raven haired elf 
beckoned the marchwarden to him.
Haldir quickly stepped over to Elrond and gazed at him in anticipation, as 
Elrond took one hand in his.
“Don’t you think, that your husband has indeed grown quite large hasn’t 
he?” smirked Elrond.
“I don’t know, I haven’t seen many pregnant elves in my life. Maybe, if 
you say so.” Haldir muttered.
“Quite large?” Legolas sounded hurt.
“Now, now Legolas. I didn’t mean to offend you.” Elrond placed a caring 
hand onto Legolas’ roundness.
He turned back to Haldir. “Here,” he placed Haldir’s hand on the growing 
belly and applied some amount of pressure. “Can you feel anything?” 
Lord Elrond asked.
Haldir thought for a moment. “Something round shaped.”
“Aye, that would be the child’s back. It is not fully developed yet, and in a 
few weeks time we will be able to feel more, but now try here.” Elrond 
guided Haldir’s hand over to the other side of the round belly. Again he 
pushed down Haldir’s hand.
“What do you feel?”
Haldir looked up in surprise and his eyes grew large. “Something round?” 
he asked hesitantly. 
“Yes, exactly!” Elrond beamed.

Legolas had been very still the whole time, but now he couldn’t hold 
himself back any longer. “Elrond! Tell us what the matter is. Why could 
Aragorn not make out the heartbeat, but you can. And why all this groping 
around?”
“My, dear Legolas,” Elrond chided him “I think Haldir can tell you, can 
you not Haldir?”
The proud marchwarden still looked a little shaken, but a light shone in his 
eyes that told a different story. “Two children?” his voice trembled with 
emotion.
Elrond only nodded and moved aside when Haldir swooped down to 
gather Legolas in his arms.
He gave them a few minutes and then sat down on a chair beside the bed.
“Aragorn must have had difficulties to tell apart the two different 
heartbeats. Well, you came from a battle, it was loud, he was nervous. No 
one could blame him and he did what was right. It was very caring to let 
you travel to Minas Tirith with some guards. But now there is no more 
need for you to lay down all the time. All is well and I think the only thing 
you will have to worry about, is the fact that you will need new clothes 
from time to time and back trouble further along you pregnancy. Oh and I 
must say, now that the worst fears are over, I am somewhat proud of 
myself. It is wonderful to see you two together again and the fact that the 
procedure was not wasted and worked so well. I will leave you now, for I 
have to return to my own people and arrive here officially in two days 
time with Arwen and my entourage.”

Elrond turned a smile lingering on his face and headed out of Minas Tirith, 
hoping no one would stop him.



Thranduil sat dumbstruck on his horse while he and his fellow elves rode 
slowly further south. He had a lot to think about. How had his son found 
out about the treatment for fertility? Then it dawned him, a very, very long 
time ago, when Legolas had made it clear that his heart belonged to 
Haldir, Thranduil had indeed read about this kind of treatment and the 
possibilities for male elves to carry children. Had Legolas known?
And now? Now he was actually carrying a child. No, not only one. Two 
children, two grandchildren. The King felt butterflies flying loops inside 
his belly. 
After a while he noticed some of his guards throwing smiles and 
astonished glances at him. Unnoticed to him, a broad and slightly silly 
smile was spread across his face and his eyes were dancing with delight. 
As hard as Thranduil tried he was not able to hold it back and put a stern 
look on his face.
‘Let them grin and wonder’ he thought to himself and kept on smiling.

The royal entourage was surprised when the King did not order a stop at 
nightfall, and rather kept on riding towards Gondor.
Rumour spread among his people that something was wrong with the 
crown prince, but the rumour was in a strong contrast to the King’s happy 
appearance. Many then gathered that the princes consort Haldir of Lorien 
must have returned to Legolas, and that surely was enough reason to be 
happy.
Two days later only interrupted by very short rest they came near the 
planes leading down to the Anduin that flowed steadily towards Minas 
Tirith.
Thranduil sighed happily. Only a day or two more and he would embrace 
his son again.


Legolas had stayed very quiet while Elrond explained the situation. The 
inner turmoil was to great. The child was not in any danger. No 
corrections, the children. Two? Two children. By the Valar, how big 
would he grow? Was he going to be able to move at all in the end? 
Had he been tied and forced to a litter for long days for nothing? Did 
anybody ever ask what his back was saying to that? That he had felt 
nauseous most of the way? That the horses did not only smell, but literally 
stink? He had never noticed that as long as he was on top of one. Then 
again his nose was far more sensitive now.
Two children? Legolas thoughts whirled in his head and always came 
back to this one fact he could not believe.
Suddenly he noticed the quiet in the room and when his eyes refocused, he 
saw Haldir standing beside the bed, beaming down at him.
“Legolas, love! Everything is alright! Did you hear Elrond? Not only one, 
but two! We are going to have two little, pretty, small adorable children. 
They are going to be as strong, beautiful and smart as you. I love you so 
much!” Haldir tenderly caressed Legolas face.

“Oh, yes. I heard Elrond. But I am not sure if I am really happy right now. 
Will you still love me when I look like an old water barrel? Worn out, 
massive and wet because moving will be so strenuous that I will always be 
sweaty?” Legolas was in a foul mood. He should have been beside himself 
with happiness and joy, but right now, he just wanted to vent all his anger , 
frustration and pain.
“I will always love you! No matter what you might look like. You are 
doing the most wonderful thing I can think of. You are giving me children. 
Legolas, how can I ever repay anything like that, other than with my 
undying love for you?” Haldir looked taken aback.

“With backrubs, a massage from time to time and by getting up at night 
and bringing me whatever I crave for. And besides, I am not going to lay 
down any longer!” Legolas pushed himself up, but when Haldir reached 
out to help him he pushed the helping hand away.” No! Let me be! I am 
not an invalid, I am not ill, nor am I that fat yet. I can still move on my 
own. And as Elrond was so kind to point out, I will need new clothes 
again soon, so I will take a walk and visit the tailor again.” Legolas 
answered roughly stressing the last word.

Before Legolas could storm out of the room, Gimli entered looking 
curious. 

“Now, what is the matter with our elf?” the dwarf noticed that Legolas 
was up and about and glared at him in a most menacing way “Shouldn’t 
you be laying down?”
“No, I don’t need to anymore!” Legolas shot back and made for the door.
“What?” Gimli could only stare and suddenly two strong arms had 
encircled him and he was lifted up from the ground and twirled around.
Haldir’s voice carried all the happiness of this world “We are going to 
have two children, Gimli! Twins! And they are perfectly alright! Do you 
think you can hold both of them at once, my stout little friend?” 

It was already very late and had grown dark outside a long time ago, when 
Legolas at last returned to Haldir’s and his room. His bad conscious was 
weighing heavily on him, but he had needed some time alone to think and 
compensate all that had happened.

The desperation and sadness he had felt for the last days had put him 
through a treadmill of pent up emotions and pain. And suddenly 
everything was alright and perfect. Then the fact that he did not only bore 
one child but two. He had felt like screaming, letting it all out, but he 
couldn’t. So he had taken long walks throughout the city, had avoided 
other people and had ended up in a small, withering and untidy park. The 
pain of seeing plants and trees so carelessly and loveless planted in the 
middle of this city had ceased his own foul mood and he had sung to the 
little plants, which were struggling to stay alive. He had touched the rough 
and chipped bark of the trees and spoken in comfort to them. 
A long time nothing had happened, but then suddenly they had answered 
his call and he had promised them to return and care for them.

Later on his way back to the main castle, his heart had felt lighter, his 
troubles had lessened and for the first time a happy and beautiful feeling 
had trickled into his veins. His hand had wandered down to his swelling 
belly and for the first time he acknowledged his two children and quietly 
sung to them as well.

When he entered their room, he found Haldir already in bed, apparently 
fast asleep. Legolas was sad that he had been so harsh towards his 
husband, for the way back to Minas Tirith must have been as painful for 
Haldir as it had been for him.
His clothes were quickly discarded and Legolas slipped silently beneath 
the covers, snuggling up to Haldir as close as it was possible. Careful not 
to wake him, Legolas leaned over and whispered into a delicately shaped 
ear. 
“I love you. I love you with all my heart and soul. Nothing will ever 
change that. And I am sorry. Sorry for leaving you standing alone this 
afternoon. Please forgive me.”

Legolas snuggled his head underneath Haldir’s chin and inhaled the scent 
of his husband deeply. This was one of the rare moments, when the prince 
of Mirkwood was glad of his sensitive nose. He relished the fragrance 
emitting from the soft tender skin of Haldir’s neck.
Unknown to him, Haldir had not been asleep, but had tried very hard to 
appear sleeping. Obviously it had worked. A bright and tender smile had 
spread across his face and when he couldn’t hold back any longer, he 
moved his hand to Legolas body stroking him softly. Immediately the 
blond head snapped up, but before Legolas could utter a single word of 
annoyance, Haldir claimed the lush lips with his own and ravished his 
love’s mouth.
Their kissing lasted for long minutes and made them both pant. Haldir had 
not planned to engage into more than just kissing, but Legolas obviously 
had different plans. Strong and slender fingers roamed over Haldir’s skin, 
leaving a tingling feeling on their way.
Haldir could feel Legolas erection pushing against his thigh and he 
moaned softly. By now. Legolas fingers had coiled around Haldir’s 
erection and they teased the silver haired elf with sweet, feather like 
touches. Before Haldir what was happening to him, he found himself flat 
on his back and Legolas was knelling between his spread legs.

Lorien’s marchwarden stared in wonder at his lover and stared at the most 
enchanting sight. Legolas hard member curved against the growing belly 
and Haldir could see small wet traces of pre cum on the stretched skin. 
Legolas smiled at him and unscrewed the, well known, jar and dipped his 
fingers in. 
Haldir let his head drop back and spreads his legs wider wantonly. Like a 
smouldering fire, ecstasy is slowly burning along his nerves. He can 
hardly remember how it is, being stretched and taken. He can feel Legolas 
hand at his backside, tender fingers roaming the cleft carefully. A slippery 
sensation on his skin from the scented oil and a fingertip edging nearer 
and nearer to his entrance.
Lifting his head again, Haldir tried to hold his head up, his neck muscles 
straining. But he wanted to watch Legolas, never take his eyes off him.
The blond elf looked up and noticed the exhausting attempts of his lover. 
Smiling a little, Legolas moved away from between Haldir’s legs and 
fetched two cushions off the chairs at the other end of the room. After 
settling then underneath Haldir’s head he resumed his former position, 
placing a loving kiss on Haldir’s stomach.

Now that he could see Legolas move with the outmost care and love 
Haldir was floating in a bubble of anticipation and love. He had to stifle a 
deep moan when the first finger slowly entered him, moving back and 
forth, relaxing the tight muscles. 
Legolas eyes were shining with lust and his pupils had dilated, making 
then appear almost black.
Carefully he added a second finger, but Haldir already started bucking 
against him, not wanting any more preparation. 
“Take me, melme, take me now. Let me feel you.” Haldir was pleading, 
looking his lover deeply in the eye.
Legolas smiled at him and pulled his finger out ever so slowly, enjoying 
the impatient noises coming from the proud marchwarden.
He settled himself more comfortably between the long pale legs and 
moved his hands beneath the firm buttocks, urging Haldir to lift his hips 
off the bed, pushing his heel deeply into the soft mattress.

The archer scooted nearer and slightly under Haldir’s lifted bottom, 
holding his erection in one hand , guiding Haldir down with the other. 
Haldir groaned as he felt not Legolas entering him by his movements, but 
that he was lowering himself onto it. He could choose the pace and speed. 
So, Haldir lowered himself only a few inches, feeling the head of Legolas 
erection penetrate him, only to move upwards again. Haldir’s breath was 
becoming more and more ragged as he moved up and down only on the 
head a few times, enjoying the exquisite sensation. But all too soon Haldir 
could hear Legolas gasping. Afraid that he was causing his husband pain 
he looked at him more closely. But he found that Legolas had thrown his 
head back in abandon and panted heavily. Sweat was glistening on the 
perfect body and he was leaning back on his arms, giving Haldir more 
room to move.


With a smooth thrust, Haldir took all of Legolas’ length into himself and 
cried out with lust. Legolas started pushing his hips up in short and hard 
moves, pushing into Haldir deeply each time.
The silver haired elf groaned in desperation. Since he had pushed himself 
up on his elbows, he had no chance of touching himself and Legolas had 
both arms behind him, holding himself up.
“Please, Legolas.” Haldir whispered. “Please!”
Without stopping his movements, Legolas looked back at Haldir. 
Understanding the need in Haldir’s eyes, he pushed himself up again, into 
a kneeling position between his husbands widely spread legs, still buried 
deeply inside him.
Haldir gasped. Now that Legolas had sat up again, the swollen stomach 
rubbed and pushed against his sack and straining erection with every 
thrust from the blond archer.
Suddenly Haldir could feel Legolas hand snaking between his belly and 
Haldir’s erection. But instead of touching the hard member, Legolas 
rubbed in circles over his own skin for a few seconds before taking it away 
again.

When the next thrust came, Haldir knew why Legolas had done it. Hands 
still slick from the oil, he had rubbed it onto his belly, giving Haldir and 
wonderful slick feeling, as his erection was pushed, rubbed and pressed 
down under the weight of Legolas body.
Heat and a constant tremor was pooling in his lower body and Haldir’s 
legs started twitching as his orgasm approached rapidly. He locked his 
gaze at Legolas’ swollen body and clamped down his anal muscles, 
provoking a deep shudder and strangled cry from the pregnant elf.
Then suddenly Haldir’s vision went blank. His body twitched and he 
shook as his release hit him. He hardly had the chance to hear Legolas cry 
out and slump against him, as the blond elf reached his own orgasm and 
emptied himself in his love.

Panting heavily they lay still entwined and their bodies connected in this 
intimate way, when Legolas heard a strangled whisper from the sweaty elf 
beneath him.
“Love, please. Roll off. You are not as light anymore, you know?”


Legolas threw Haldir a disgusted look and heaved himself up and away 
from the panting elf beneath him.
“Oh, thank you very much. How charming.” But Legolas voice held a 
teasing touch and Haldir knew that he was forgiven and that the blond elf 
wouldn’t hold a grudge. He still smiled happily and sated when a wet cloth 
hit him right in his face. Cursing and sputtering he tried to rid himself off 
the cloth and when he had at last succeeded, his eyes met a broad smile 
hovering above him.
“Get yourself cleaned. I detest getting all sticky when I snuggle up to 
you!” Legolas mocked and flopped down on his side of the bed rather 
ungraceful. 


Thranduil had ridden up front for the last hours, ever since they had 
reached the southern boarders of Rohan. Their journey had been hard and 
swift and the warriors and guards were silently wondering why the King 
was in such haste. Only some of them had seen, what the King had been 
presented with by the Lady of the woods and had chosen not to discuss 
this subject out of fear that they might have misjudged or misunderstood 
the situation. 
Everybody knew that Thranduil was eager to see his son again and that he 
surely was very proud of him, regarding the quest against Sauron, but 
wouldn’t a more dignified speed be more appropriate? 
There was also this rather silly smile, that had plastered itself for some 
reason upon the King’s face, ever since they had left Lothlorien that made 
the guards wonder. What ever had occurred that had made their King this 
merry?

It was already dark when the Mirkwood elves approached the city of 
Minas Tirith. To their astonishment they found a large campsite only a 
few miles before the city, clearly of elven make.
Thranduil changed their course and turned towards the site in wonder. 
As soon as they were in range of the first make shift tents, someone called 
out to them with a rich and deep, sotto voice. “Thranduil? Is that really 
you?”
The large silhouette of the Lord of Imladris appeared amidst the tents and 
greeted the Mirkwood elves.
Leaping lightly out of his saddle, the tall blond King of Mirkwood strode 
towards Elrond holding out his hands in greeting.
“Elrond! You here? Outside the city? Whatever is the matter? Will they 
not let you in? What has happened?” Thranduil shook his head slightly in 
confusion.
“No, no. Calm yourself. We have arrived early, or rather I had to come 
here more quickly than I intended to and now we are only waiting until the 
day after tomorrow, to enter Minas Tirith as it was agreed upon. You 
know mankind and its weird customs.”
A smile graced Thranduil’s lips as he inclined his head. “Oh, indeed. I 
know. Have you heard anything of my son, Elrond. Have you seen him? Is 
he well? I received the most surprising and enchanting information from 
Galadriel, telling me that my son has become pregnant. Do you know 
anything about it?” the soft voice had become a touch frantic at the end 
and Elrond laid a comforting hand on Thranduil.
“Come, let me tell you all about what I know and rest here for tonight. 
You and your entourage will surely find somewhere to sleep among my 
people and then you can go to the city in the morning.”
Thranduil hesitate, wanting to ride on this night, but Elrond was right. The 
people of Minas Tirith were surely sleeping by now and he wouldn’t have 
the chance to see his son right now any way.

So the Lord and King spent the night talking and exchanging information, 
enlightening the other with news and light hearted stories. Thranduil 
learned of Legolas secret wish for fertility, the procedure and Elrond heard 
of all the ups and downs of the young couple so many years ago. Sadly 
neither knew anything about what had occurred between Haldir and 
Legolas during their stay in Lothlorien, nor did they know any details of 
the long and dangerous journey. They agreed that their son’s would have 
to tell them everything. 
Thranduil lay awake for most of the remaining night, not being able to 
sleep because of all the excitement bubbling in his stomach. He still 
couldn’t believe that he was to become a grandfather and that his most 
precious son was bearing children.
The sun had not even risen over the horizon, when the King called for his 
people and lead them to the main city gates.


Gimli paced impatiently in front of the large wooden door and grumbled 
incoherent words into his beard. He had placed the small tray, he had 
brought along, on the floor next to the wooden door and wondered 
whether he should just knock and walk in or leave it there for them to find. 
But he was indeed anxious to find out how Legolas was faring and so he 
paced in front of the door up and down until the light patter of small feet 
pulled him out of his reverie.
Merry came huddling around the corner, slightly out of breath and cheeks 
flushed. He skidded to a halt before the dwarf and tried to catch his breath.
“Gimli! I heard rumours that you had already returned. And the others? 
Pippin?”
“Merry! It is good to see you on your feet again! Only me and the two 
love birds returned last night. Aragorn and his men and of course Pippin 
are still on their way here. But they are all in more or less good shape. 
Pippin even killed a troll during the battle! And Frodo and Sam were there 
too!”
“What?!? Little Pip? A troll? I can’t believe it. And Frodo! Sam! Both 
okay? You have to tell me all about it! But why did you and Legolas and 
Haldir returned here before the others?” Merry kept glancing at the tray, 
beside the door and the small breakfast on it.
“Hey, Merry: Hands off! This is for the elves!” Gimli had seen the 
Hobbits eyes dart to the food. "We had to make haste because Aragorn 
could not make out the baby’s heartbeat anymore and he didn’t want to 
take any risks. On the way we met Elrond and he examined Legolas.” 
Gimli’s eyes lit up remembering last night and its outcome. “But every 
thing was perfectly alright. Our dear elf is expecting twins.”
“Twins? Two little ones? That’s great. So he is alright now, is he?” Merry 
sounded excited.
The dwarf nodded and obliged happily as Merry took hold of his arm and 
dragged him along to one of the large balconies that overlooked the land 
and the Anduin, asking Gimli to tell him all about the battle, their friends 
and  the defeat of the dark Lord.

Gimli and Merry had sat down on one of the stone benches standing on the 
balcony and let their eyes gaze over the vast lands down below them, 
while Gimli told the little Hobbit all about their last venture.
After a while Merry was distracted by a large group of riders approaching 
the city.
“Gimli!” Merry interrupted Gimli “Look. I wonder who that might be.”
Gimli, stopped in mid sentence and peered down. The banner looked 
elvish to him and it seemed peculiar familiar. He didn’t think he had ever 
seen it himself, but the design...?
Merry was already excitedly counting how many riders were coming 
towards them, when Gimli suddenly gave a shout. “Mirkwood! I believe 
that is the banner of Thranduil!”
Merry’s head shot around. “How do you know?”
“My father told me about it. He was imprisoned a long time ago in 
Thranduil’s dungeon once. While he was out on a quest with Bilbo.”
“That down there is Legolas’ father?” Merry asked dumbfound.
Suddenly it dawned Gimli. “Come, Merry. We have to warn Legolas! His 
father doesn’t know anything about the pregnancy and that he is with 
Haldir again.”
“But will he not be happy to hear that his son is pregnant?” Merry asked.
“I don’t know, Merry. From what I know and have heard, he can be quite 
rash sometimes.”

Legolas slowly let his mind reach for reality, leaving the comfortable 
realm of elven dreams behind. Haldir’s warm body was firmly pressed to 
his back and strong arms holding him tenderly.
Through the haze of waking he heard a knock at their door and before 
clearly thinking he already uttered a quiet “Yes, come in.”
A split second later, Legolas knew it had been a mistake. Haldir and he 
were not in any clothes at all and during to the warmth in the room, had 
shed even their covers in the night. The lay on the bad as naked as the day 
they were born. But it was too late.
A pair of smaller feet and the sound of heavy boots were already in the 
room. The blond archer recognised the one pair of feet immediately. 
Gimli. And if his presumption was correct the other pair must belong to a 
Hobbit. In this case, none other than Merry.
But before Legolas could say anything, he heard a sound of annoyance 
from the dwarf and a blanket was thrown over himself and Haldir.

"Get up you lazy elf!" the dwarf bellowed "Your father, the mighty 
Thranduil of Mirkwood is approaching and heading through the main 
gates."

“What?” bright blue eyes flew open and the blond archer struggled as he 
tried to get up from the bed quickly, his swelling body clearly hindering 
his usual grace. 
Once standing and completely ignoring his undressed state, Legolas pulled 
Haldir’s arm, frantically trying to get his husband to move. 
“Haldir, get up! Now!” he shouted.
Gimli and Merry exchanged confused looks. They had heard that 
Thranduil was a strict ruler, but why was Legolas in such a frantic state?
Haldir mumbled something under his breath, rolled his eyes as he saw 
Merry and Gimli watching him and turned is annoyed glance towards his 
husband.
Legolas was hastily pulling up his leggings and throwing a panic stricken 
glance at the body length mirror in their room. 
“Gimli, come you have to help me!” he whimpered and dug beneath their 
other clothes obviously searching for something.
“Elf, what in Middle earth’s name are you doing?” the dwarf had moved 
over to the hectic elf and crossed his arms before his chest. 
“I need to find that armour of yours” Legolas’ voice was muffled.
“In the Valar’s name, why? You are only going to meet your father, not 
ride into battle. Besides, I don’t think, it will fit anymore. You have grown 
quite a bit.” Gimli observed sceptically.
To Haldir’s amusement Merry nodded with a bright smile on his face. 
“Oh, yes. Quite a bit!” the Hobbit agreed. “Hey, Gimli told me, you are 
going to have twins, Legolas?”
Legolas moaned unhappy.

By now Haldir had left the bed, ignoring the fact the he was walking 
around naked and moved over to Legolas, holding his shoulders trying to 
calm him down.
“Love, what’s wrong?” Haldir kissed Legolas neck tenderly.
“Are you all deaf? I am looking for that armour!” the Mirkwood prince 
barked.
“We know that!” Merry exclaimed “But why?”
Legolas’ shoulders slumped. “My father doesn’t know that I am 
pregnant.”
“Of course he doesn’t!” Gimli shook his head. “Not even you knew for 
some time.”
“Yes, but he also doesn’t know that I underwent the procedure to become 
fertile. I wanted it to be a surprise back then, but know... I am not so sure. 
And that I am with Haldir again, is knew to him too. I just don’t want him 
to find out like this.”
Haldir closed his eyes and shook his head quietly, while the dwarf and 
Merry laughed.

It took them some time to find a strong peace of linen to tie around 
Legolas bulging body and they helped him into a loose fitting tunic, hiding 
the pregnancy as best as they could. Legolas put a long flowing robe on 
and by that successfully managed to conceal any proportion that would 
show.

While Gimli groomed Legolas hair Haldir got dressed and together they 
left for the great hall.

Since Aragorn was still away and on his way back to Minas Tirith, 
Thranduil was greeted by the official representative of Minas Tirith, who 
was trying to greet the tall King in the best way he could think of. He had 
no experiences with elves and from what he had heard they were a 
friendly bunch. But this one looked very stern.
Thranduil nodded courtly and got off his horse, never giving the poor man 
a second glance. After he had rummaged through his saddle bags for a bit 
and pulled a few things out, Thranduil stormed passed the representative 
and was closely followed by some of his guards. 
In the middle of the great hall the King stopped and looked around. Was 
his son even here, yet?
“You!” he addressed the elderly man, who had tried to follow the long 
strides as quickly as possible “Is my son here, yet? Prince Legolas of 
Mirkwood.”
“Yes, I think so, my Lord.” The man stammered.
“You think so?” Thranduil brows shot up.

Suddenly a firm but somewhat insecure voice was heard from one of the 
large stairs leading into the hall.
“Father!”
Thranduil turned on the spot and had to restrain himself very hard not to 
run over to his son, who approached quickly down the long staircase, and 
hold him in a crushing embrace. Without giving away his knowledge 
about his son’s condition, Thranduil eyed Legolas figure. Obviously his 
son wasn’t either far along the pregnancy or he did the best to hide it. 
Thranduil managed not to smirk. That would be typical for Legolas. Well, 
if his son wanted so desperately to hide it, then he would do his best in not 
showing him that he already knew. Inwardly Thranduil was a little bit 
looking forward to seeing Legolas squirm underneath his gaze.

At Legolas side was Haldir, proud and protective as always. He greeted 
Thranduil with the expected inclining of his head and Thranduil gave him 
a warm smile.
“Legolas, my son. It is good to see you. You have made me very proud. 
But I dare say, this quest has taken its toll on you, hasn’t it.”
“Father, is was most kind of you to come here, and thank you for your 
kind words. Indeed, the journey has been a long and hard one with many 
perils, but also with great joys.” Legolas fidgeted nervously. Had his 
father noticed anything? 
“I can see that.” Thranduil smirked and threw a glance at Haldir.
“I see that you both have come to your senses and are together again. For 
longer this time I hope.”
Legolas had blushed slightly. “Yes, father. For much longer. I am sure of 
that.”
“So, my son. Tell me of the journey and what has happened along the 
road.”
“I believe that will take a very long time father, just let me tell you, that I 
have made many new friends and that I nearly died, but not in battle. I 
nearly died of a broken heart, for Haldir had fallen in the battle of Helm’s 
deep. Had it not been for the Lady Eowyn, he would not be at my side 
right now, and I would have surely travelled to the Halls of Mandos. But 
now that Sauron is destroyed and we all have survived, life will become 
peaceful once again.”
“So, you made new friends then. Please tell me, Legolas. Two figures are 
presently hiding in the shadows of that staircase over there. Would they be 
among your new friends?”
Legolas looked nervously over his shoulder and spotted Merry and Gimli, 
standing near the foot of the stairs in the shadows. Surely his father would 
not have a problem with Merry, but Gimli?
“Yes, father. Those two are among those friends.” The young elf squared 
his shoulders “Especially one of them. Would you like to meet them?”
Thranduil gave a short nod.
“Merry, Gimli! Please come.” Legolas called over to his friends.

Slowly the two small figures advanced. 
Thranduil sucked in his breath. A Hobbit and .... a dwarf! His son was 
friends with a dwarf? The King collected himself and waited for Legolas 
to introduce them.
“Father, this Meriadoc Brandybuck of the shire, usually called Merry. And 
this is Gimli, the son of Gloin.”
“Gloin?” Thranduil looked puzzled. “That Gloin?”
Gimli took a deep breath “Yes, that Gloin. The one you imprisoned in 
your dungeon.”
“Gimli!” Legolas scolded his friend.
But to all of their surprise the suddenly heard a chuckle. Thranduil just 
couldn’t hold himself back any longer.
“You are the son of Gloin. And you are my son’s best friend. Maybe it 
serves me right. Well met then, Gimli. And hence you hold a piece of my 
son’s heart I take it we will meet more often in the future. Let us take this 
chance and shake hands. And then tell me more about the mishaps of my 
son on this quest.” Thranduil bent down slightly and took hold of the 
dwarf’s hand in friendship.
“Legolas mishaps? My Lord, would you not rather hear of his heroic 
deeds?” Gimli looked confused still shaking the King’s hand.
“Oh no, my friend. I know what my son is capable of, and I know he is a 
cunning warrior. Won’t you give an old elf like myself not the enjoyment 
of a little bit of malicious delight. Oh, come on. Legolas must have treaded 
on somebody’s foot somewhere along the journey.”
Gimli grinned and nodded.

Legolas refrained from throwing his hands in the air in frustration and 
tried to gain his father’s attention.
“Father, why don’t you take a walk with Haldir and me in the courtyard. I 
believe we have many things to talk about.”
Thranduil turned to his son. “Yes. Yes, maybe you are right. I believe we 
have.”
The King turned to Haldir “I see you looked well after my son after you 
came back from that dreadful injury. In fact I believe he actually has 
managed to put on some weight on his skinny ribs.” Thranduil eyed his 
son up and down.
“Yes, my Lord.” Haldir’s voice was small. “Even though we only came 
back from the last battle yesterday.”
“I see, tell me, where is Aragorn and the others. Don’t tell me you came 
back alone!” Thranduil enjoyed the radiating nervousness from both of his 
son and his son in law.
“No, my Lord. We had to come back early, because.... because of my 
back. You see, at Helm’s deep, I was severely wounded at my back and I 
was in so much pain, that Aragorn bade us ride home alone in order to 
reach the city faster. A healer looked me over and assured me that nothing 
was wrong.” Haldir’s cheeks had taken a crimson colour.
“Ah,” Thranduil smiled understandingly “And here was I under the 
impression that something was wrong with my precious son. Oh, Legolas, 
and an old fool that I am, I have not even greeted you properly. Come 
here, my son, let me hold you for a short while.” The King stretched out 
his arms towards his son and wanted to draw him in, but Legolas flinched 
back quickly.
“What is the matter, Legolas?” his father cocked his head looking hurt.
“Nothing father. It’s just, well in front of your guards and my friends.... I 
am just not used to this really.” Legolas stammered helplessly.
“Oh, yes. Of course. And I thought something else might be the matter. 
Very well, I will retire to our rooms and meet you later for that walk you 
promised me.”
Thranduil signalled s servant to show them to some quarters and just 
striding after the flustering servant, when suddenly halted in his tracks and 
gestured one of his people over to him.  The called elf handed his King 
two small bundles and Thranduil moved back to where Legolas and Haldir 
were still standing.

“Oh, I completely forgot. Galadriel gave me this as a present for you. She 
said it was a tradition.” Thranduil handed one bundle each to Haldir and 
Legolas.
Haldir’s face had paled drastically and he watched the King carefully, 
spotting a smirk around the usually stern lips. Then it dawned Haldir.  The 
King had known all along.
Legolas looked at the bundle in his hands and carefully started 
unwrapping it. A small but healthy sapling of a Mallorn tree was hidden 
underneath the layers of cool and damp linen.
“They are to be kept cool and moist until the day you children are to be 
born. Then plant them and watch them grow as your children grow up as 
well.” Thranduil smiled and turned to leave.
A quiet sob held him back. “You knew?” Legolas asked quietly.
Thranduil’s eyes were moist when he turned back to his son, not caring if 
anybody was watching and pulled his son into a tight embrace.

“Yes, I knew.” Thranduil whispered and stroked Legolas’ back. Now that 
they stood so close together Thranduil could clearly feel the producing 
roundness of his son’s body.
“Galadriel told me. And she also told me about your decision so many 
years ago.”

Some time later, when all had settled down and the Mirkwood elves had 
been shown to their quarters, Haldir Legolas and Thranduil met again in 
the garden of the castle and sat down on a bench near a little fountain. 
Legolas had redressed and taken off the confining straps of linen and wore 
more casual clothes now, not hiding his condition anymore.
Once they had settled down, Thranduil took all the time he wanted and 
needed to hold his son, listen to their tales and stories of war and 
bloodshed but also of their love and Legolas sudden and unexpected 
pregnancy. The fear and pain because they thought something had been 
wrong with their child, only to find out that Legolas was expecting twins.

The King was more than happy to see his son back in the arms of the one 
he loved and had always loved. He had felt Legolas’ sadness and despair 
when his son had come back into Mirkwood announcing that he was to 
stay for good and that he and Haldir had separated.
The happiness those two radiated now, was beyond anything that 
Thranduil had ever encountered and the fact that he was indeed now to 
become a grandfather was more than he ever had hoped for.

Dusk was descending on them when Legolas started squirming 
uncomfortably. 
“Love?” Haldir asked.
“No, it’s nothing. They are just fighting for more space I think.” Legolas 
rubbed his belly.
“Ouch!” he exclaimed. “Now, listen you two. Stop that now! Argh, what 
are they doing. It feels like they want to get rid of some of my internal 
organs in order to get more space for themselves.”
Thranduil watched as Haldir drew Legolas to him. Haldir had straddled 
the bench and rested Legolas heavy body, with the back to him, so that the 
pregnant elf could stretch out his legs on the bench.
The King got up from his end and crouched sideways to Legolas, carefully 
laying his hands on the growing belly, softly lifting his voice in an ancient 
song.



Legolas walked slowly down the narrow lanes of Minas Tirith, keeping 
out an eye for deserted gardens or patches of lingering green among the 
crumbling walls and houses of the ancient city.
Haldir had not wanted to accompany him, claiming he had other matters to 
attend to. The soft glow of the fading autumn sun bathed his surrounding 
in a warm orange glow and Legolas drew a deep breath of comfort.

He had just rounded a corner when soft sounds of laughter and hushed 
voices drifted towards him, clearly coming from a tiny park, that was 
framed by hedges and old rose bushes. The blond elf smiled to himself, 
happy that the new age of peace and freedom slowly came back to Middle 
earth and love was obviously blossoming among the people again. He 
quietly turned away from the little park when a silver, bell like laughter 
stopped him dead in his tracks.
With a look of utter disbelief Legolas turned back and moved towards the 
hedges again. He was absolutely sure that it had been Haldir’s laughter he 
just had heard. Mingled with the soft voice of a female.

Just before he had reached the greenery, the laughter turned into breathy 
moans and suppressed groans.  Legolas felt his blood pounding in his ears, 
his heart hammering and his hands turned clammy.
Trying not to make any sound he carefully shifted some of the branches to 
be able to peer into the small park.
The cry got stuck in his throat as he observed his husband bending over a 
young, dark haired woman, who was lying naked across on of the marble 
benches. Haldir’s shirt hung open and his breeches were lying scattered 
beside boots and belt on the ground.
He was holding the young woman by the waist, her back arched into his 
touch and her legs were spread wide to give the tall elf full access.
Haldir was fully aroused and lowered himself down between her legs, 
going very slowly as if to savour the moment for as long as possible.

When he sank slowly into her wetness, both moaned in ecstasy.
Legolas couldn’t believe his eyes and sobbed helplessly. Suddenly the 
rhythmic movement of the two lovers stopped and Haldir turned his head 
towards Legolas. A smile spread across the handsome face “Legolas, my 
love. You really shouldn’t have come here. Did I not tell you that I didn’t 
have time for you today.”

A pale hand flew up to cover the quivering lips as tears of disbelief ran 
down the tormented face. Legolas could only shake his head slowly and 
his vision blurred. He wasn’t even able to say anything, to great was the 
pain that clenched his heart.
Haldir kept on smiling as he continued in a softer voice. “Legolas, my 
dearest. You surely don’t want me to keep my hands of such a delicacy?” 
He nodded shortly towards the woman “I mean look at her, so frail, so 
tender and such a slender waist. I love you, but look at yourself, my 
husband. You are truly not such a pretty sight anymore right now. You 
look a little bit like you are going to burst any minute now.” 
The woman giggled and suddenly wrapped her long and slender legs 
around Haldir’s waist urging the elf deeper and gave him a suggestive 
smile. Haldir turned back to her and started thrusting into her body with 
abandon.

Legolas turned and ran. He ran as quickly as it was possible in his 
condition, holding one arm protectively around his swollen body and 
wiped the tears away with his free hand that blinded his vision. 
Somewhere in the background he could hear the long and shuddering 
moan that accompanied Haldir’s release.



A strangled cry escaped Legolas lips as he sat up, hissing at the pain that 
spread across his back because of the sudden strain and he blinked 
helplessly into the darkness. His breath was coming in short and painful 
gasps and his face was wet from his tears. 
Only seconds later his eyes had fully adjusted to the pale and faint light 
the moon spilled into the room and his breath had calmed somewhat. 
Slowly he turned his head to the other side of the large bed, as if he was 
afraid to find it empty and cold. Haldir was lying on his back, one arm 
flung behind his head the other resting on his abdomen. His eyes were 
glazed over in his sleep and he wore this tiny happy smile around his lips, 
that had found its permanent place there ever since he and Legolas had 
found each other again on the fields of Pelennor.  

A well placed kick from one of his children made Legolas swear under his 
breath. Alright, time to get up and relieve his aching bladder. If this was 
going to get any worse, he would surely be better of having a bed much 
more nearer to the toilet, that was located at the very end of the hallway.
He quickly slipped into a robe and hurried off. His mind was still furiously 
working, trying to get his emotions back under control, telling himself 
over and over again that it just had been a very bad and disturbing dream. 
But a stale and numbing feeling inside his chest stayed pulling him down 
and putting him in a very depressed mood.

When Legolas was back in their chamber he stood in front of the large 
mirror and looked at himself sceptically as so many times before. True, he 
was not getting any thinner. He had grown immensely over the past two 
weeks.  Then again, there were two children fighting for the little space 
that was given to them. And they would grow even more. A lot more. 
Even now, it was becoming more and more difficult to bend down, to get 
out of bed, to walk a longer distances without pain in the back and to 
move graciously. 
Legolas turned back to the bed, quietly slipping under the cover, snuggled 
up  to Haldir and closed his eyes, only concentrating on the sensation of 
smell and touch.

Sadly Haldir woke up only moments later, robbing Legolas of the feeling 
of total peace.
“Morning, my love. “ The marchwarden mumbled sleepily as he turned to 
his side and gathered the Mirkwood prince in his arms.
Legolas felt his roundness pressing into Haldir’s abdomen and again he 
remembered the cruel words that he had heard in his dream, he quickly 
pushed these thoughts aside and smiled up the Haldir.
“So, my prince, what will you be up to today?”
“I don’t know really. I thought maybe we could take a walk through the 
city again. I wanted to map down the gardens and parks that need 
tending.” Legolas said softly, already fearing the answer.
“Oh, well. Yes we could do that. Or maybe you could start on your own 
and I’ll join you later. I wanted to go and see someone and I don’t know if 
she’s is able to see visitors, yet.”
Legolas flinched. “Oh. Who did you wanted to see?”
“Eowyn. I heard that she is getting slowly better. She is such a pearl. Nice, 
loving, caring and a very good friend. Ah and not to forget, she is very 
beautiful, too. You will just adore her, I am sure.”
“Eowyn.” The prince whispered. No, this was silly. He scolded himself for 
his panic. Haldir had already told him about Eowyn and how about she 
was responsible for Haldir being able to be back in his arms now. But 
still....
“I would very much like to accompany you. I don’t want to map the 
gardens on my own. And if you are right, Eowyn does know a lot about 
me by now anyway. It’s time that I get to meet her.” Legolas smiled 
faintly.

It was way past lunch until they were allowed to visit the Lady Eowyn. 
According to the healer she had only woken three days ago and was still 
very week.
Haldir moved very cautiously as he entered the slightly darkened room 
and beckoned Legolas to follow him.

Eowyn lay halfway propped up on her pillows and greeted Haldir with a 
bright smile on her otherwise pale face. “Haldir! It is so good to see you. 
How is your back?” her voice was soft and faint.
Haldir stepped over to her and drew her carefully into his arms. “Eowyn! 
You gave us all a fright. You must tell me exactly what happened to you. I 
was so shocked when I heard you were attacked by a wraith and its beast.”

Legolas stood at the door and swallowed hard. Eowyn had gently placed 
her hands against Haldir’s back and was now stroking carefully up and 
down its length.
And much to his dismay Haldir didn’t seemed to mind in the slightest.
Suddenly Haldir straightened up again and turned to him.
“Legolas, my love. Why are you standing there in the back. Come over to 
us. Let Eowyn see you and our small wonder.” He smiled lovingly at 
Legolas.

Eowyn turned her attention away from Haldir and gave Legolas the same 
bight and loving smile as she looked at him for the first time for some 
weeks.
“Legolas! I am so glad to see again alive and well. Oh, and look Haldir 
and I were right. He was so worried when he didn’t know what the matter 
was. You are pregnant. And you look so beautiful. Oh, Legolas I envy you 
so much.”

They sat and talked with Eowyn a while longer telling her all about the 
fight at the black gates of Mordor, their way back and that they were 
indeed expecting twins. Eowyn was beside herself with glee, squeezing 
Haldir’s hand ever now and again, throwing him knowing glances and 
smiles.
She told them in return about the incident during the battle and about her 
time here in the care of the healers. But when she told them about the 
handsome young and good looking warrior who had recently visited her, 
her eyes grew even brighter and a charming blush crept across her cheeks.

The sun had started to descend when Haldir and Legolas left Eowyn to 
herself and headed back to their room. Legolas was lost in thought and 
scanned to deserted corridors of the castle on the way. He wondered where 
Gimli, Merry and for instance his father had vanished to on this day but 
came to no conclusion. Right now he only wanted to get back to their 
quarters and lay down for a bit.
He hardly noticed Haldir opening the door for him and moved straight for 
the bed. He let out a satisfied sigh and his back relaxed immediately as he 
stretched out on the soft covers.
Smiling softly Legolas patted the bed beside him and hoped that Haldir 
would join him, but Haldir seemed to be lost in thought as he stood in 
front of the window and stared at the city that spread out below him.
Legolas closed his eyes for a bit and let his thoughts stray. To his surprise 
it didn’t take them long to fasten themselves on Haldir, imagining him 
naked and willing beside him, kissing Legolas tenderly and stroking the 
growing erection that produced from below the growing belly. Legolas 
gasped quietly and opened his eyes. Haldir still stood transfixed at the 
window.
“Haldir?” Legolas called out softly.
“Mhm?” Haldir didn’t even turn his head.
“Love, come to me. Why are you so pensive?”
Haldir at last moved his head and smiled at Legolas “Sorry I was lost in 
thought. Nothing to worry about.” He moved towards the bed and dropped 
onto the mattress beside his husband.

Legolas snuggled up and his hand journeyed down Haldir’s chest, 
playfully tugging at the fastenings of Haldir’s tunic. When Haldir didn’t 
oppose, Legolas slowly started opening the fastening, snaking his hand 
beneath the layers of clothes. In no time his hand had found the already 
hardening nipple and he toyed with it for some time. Haldir had his eyes 
closed and moaned approvingly.

Legolas’ member was hard by now and he wanted nothing more than to 
feel Haldir’s body against his own, feel the love and tenderness, feel 
himself breached by his lover and husband and scream out his release.
He moved downwards to Haldir’s crotch to find a hard arousal pressing 
against the soft cloth of Haldir’s breeches. With a wicked smile, Legolas 
pushed himself up and moved in between Haldir’s legs. The marchwarden 
still had his eyes closed but never indicated anything but approval.
The blond prince bent down as far as it was possible for him and tugged at 
the lacing with his teeth, successfully undoing them. Again using only his 
teeth and tongue he open the fly and tugged the breeches down a bit, 
freeing Haldir’s erection.

Slowly he let his tongue glide up the soft underside, giving the tip a 
teasing lick. But the position was too uncomfortable for him, so Legolas 
sat up again and took the hard member into his hands.
With a maddening slow pace he rubbed his slander finger up and down the 
length, from time to time flicking the tip of his thumb over the sensitive 
head.
Haldir groaned softly and bucked his hips ever so slightly, encouraging 
Legolas to move faster.
“Haldir, love, what would you like? Would like to feel my tongue, my hot 
mouth around you? Do you want to bury yourself deep inside of me? Do 
you like to feel the heat of my penis straining against you? Can you 
feel.....” Legolas stopped in mid sentence.
Haldir’s erection was fading, getting softer and softer by the moment.

Maybe he had been distracted by Legolas voice. But that never had 
happened before. Maybe he wasn’t in the mood, but surely then he would 
have said so. Legolas shook his head and turned his concentration on 
Haldir’s member again. Softly tugging at the twin sack below the flaccid 
penis, he bent down low again, circling the velvety head carefully with his 
tongue. To his satisfaction he felt the member hardening again. Good. 
Ignoring the pain in his back and uncomfortable pressure on his belly, 
Legolas continued to move his lips and tongue along the hard arousal 
again.
With deliberate lightness he sucked the head of the erection into his 
mouth, letting it slide out again and...... felt the organ softening.

A sound of frustration and disbelief left the prince’s mouth as he sat up 
and looked into the open but unseeing eyes of Haldir. But Haldir wasn’t 
asleep, he seemed to be completely lost in thought.
“Haldir?” Legolas carefully asked, a slight tremor in his voice. He 
couldn’t help the feeling of utter sadness that washed over him. The 
depression that started deep down in his belly and worked its way up to his 
throat.
“Haldir? Please what is wrong? Did you not like what I did? Did I...”
Haldir’s eyes refocused and he looked at Legolas like he had come  back 
from a far off place. “No. No, sorry I was just thinking about someone. It 
must have distracted me. I am sorry love. Maybe, this isn’t such a good 
idea right now.” Haldir looked at Legolas apologetically.

Legolas nodded, trying to fight back the tears that threatened to spill from 
his eyes. He hated this feelings that lately consumed him. He cried far too 
easily, his temper was easily enflamed and he had hardly any control over 
the whirlwind of emotions which currently were ablaze throughout his 
body.
“Fine, maybe I was too persistent.” Legolas offered quietly. “Who were 
you thinking of?”
Haldir turned his gaze to the window “Eowyn.” He said softly.

A cry shattered the silence of the room as Legolas literally jumped 
backwards off the bed and quickly turned away from Haldir and the bed 
making for the door. 
Haldir was up in an instant and managed to grab the sleeve of Legolas 
shirt. The younger elf was sobbing uncontrollably by now, tears streaming 
down his face and he sent his fist flailing against Haldir.
The broader elf had a hard time stooping the attempts of knocking him 
away and after some moments he had the balled fists securely in a strong 
grip. 
“Legolas! By the Valar, what ails you. I am sorry that I didn’t enjoy your 
touch as I usually do, but..”
“I know! You are not enjoying me anymore. I have grown to big for you. I 
am growing fat, undesirable, I am not the proud warrior I once was. Look 
at me! I am crying like an infant, I can’t move like I used to. I know you 
feel repelled. You need something else. You are taking you desires and 
needs to somebody else,.....you...”
“Legolas stop. Please. What are talking about. Of course I desire you. You 
are neither fat nor to big. It is a normal thing. The children grow and so 
does your body. I desire and love every single inch of you. What ever gave 
you the idea that I would go to somebody else to still my needs?” Haldir 
drew the trembling body into his arms and tried to soothe his husband. He 
lead them both back to bed where he sat down pulling Legolas with him.

After some moments Legolas had recovered enough to tell Haldir of his 
dream, the still lingering feeling of jealousy and fear of losing his love, the 
awkward feelings he had experienced in the presence of Eowyn, while he 
was watching her embrace Haldir, the uneasiness at Haldir’s withdrawn 
face while he tried to make love to him.
Haldir was shocked at himself for his lack of attention. Only now he 
remembered that Legolas had seemed to be more edgy than ever during 
this day and all he could think about was Eowyn and her infatuation with 
Faramir. And then above all, he had been so insensitive as to say her name 
when Legolas was so desperately trying to please him. What an idiot he 
had been.

“Legolas, love. I am sorry. I would never go to somebody else. I love you 
too much. Don’t you know what you mean to me? You are my live. My 
soul and heart. I could never betray you like that. And yes you are right. I 
should have told you all and everything. You see, Eowyn is a dear friend 
to me. When I arrived at Helm’s deep at first, I saw the way she looked at 
Aragorn. I felt sorry for her, knowing the Aragorn’s heart already 
belonged to Arwen. She is such a nice person. She deserves someone who 
truly loves her. And when I saw the lights dancing in her eyes and heard 
her voice when she told us about Faramir, I started to worry about her. I 
was thinking, if someone like Faramir could ever love someone like her. 
She is very headstrong and not a submissive maiden, like you find 
everywhere and men seem to like so much. I let my thoughts take over my 
body and heart, and forgot the most important part of my live, you!”

Legolas breathing had calmed and he had his face buried in the crook of 
Haldir’s shoulder.
“Will you let me make it up to you?” the marchwarden, lovingly ran his 
fingers through the golden mane of his mate.
A slight nod was all he needed. Haldir smiled to himself as he swept 
Legolas up in his arms, ignoring the weak protest and moved to the door. 
Using his elbow he opening it and once in the hallway turned in direction 
of the large bathrooms at the end of the hall.

 

Legolas squirmed slightly, feeling rather silly being carried off like that. 
Then again, he felt secure and loved being held in the arms of Haldir. 
Haldir smiled down at him and steered directly to the last door on the right 
where the biggest of the bathrooms was housed. He kicked the door open 
and proceeded to the large tub, which was not standing in the open, but 
was lowered into the ground and could house up to six people .
Gently Legolas’ legs were lowered to the ground and Haldir quickly 
busied himself opening the large water taps at each side of the tub. The 
castle of Minas Tirith held some fantastic techniques, one of them being 
the never ending supply of preheated water. As simple as it was, for they 
only used the heat coming from the kitchens, located in the cellar, to warm 
a large basin of water, it was a luxury not fairly common even in larger 
cities.
While the water was pouring into the tub, Haldir moved back to Legolas 
and slowly undressed him, lingering on each revealed patch of skin, 
showering it with kisses. 

By the time Legolas was naked, he was panting with desire and his arousal 
stood proudly in the air, its tip nudging the producing belly. But to the 
prince’s dismay, Haldir only smiled at him and led him over to the filled 
tub. He turned the taps off and gently lowered his husband into the warm 
water.
When Haldir was certain that Legolas felt well, he quickly folded one of 
the drying cloths into a kind of cushion and placed it behind Legolas’ 
neck, so he could stretch out and lean against it. With a loving smile 
Haldir added some dried rose petals and scented oil into the water and 
ordered Legolas to stay put and relax. 
Promising that he would return in a very short while, Haldir excused 
himself and quickly made his way down into the lower regions of the 
castle.

After having asked several servants, Haldir successfully located the 
alchemists laboratory. With a persuading grin on his face he was able to 
talk the alchemist into giving him different kinds of scented oils, one for 
the body, one for grooming hair and one that could be heated in a bit of 
water above a small flame and would fill the room with its wonderful 
scent. Thus equipped the marchwarden moved outside the castle into the 
back garden of the castle looking for still blooming flowers and bushes. 
Thanking the plants and offering them his voice and blessings he 
harvested their petals and raced back to his and Legolas room.


Meanwhile Legolas was enjoying the warmth and comfort of the water, 
giving his body the feeling of being weightless and floating. He wondered 
what Haldir was up to and scolded himself for his mistrust and his lack of 
objective judgement. But he had to admit, it felt good and somewhat 
arousing to be pampered like that.
His mind must have drifted off into the elven dreamscape, because he had 
not heard the door open and the soft patter of naked feet approaching the 
tub.
Only when the splashing of water indicated that someone else had joined 
him in the water, his eyes refocused and Legolas stared panic stricken for 
a moment. For a second he had feared that one of the other inhabitants of 
the castle had slipped into the tub with him, but it was no other than Haldir 
smiling at him. 

Haldir took a hold on Legolas‘ hands and pulled his husband towards him 
into a sitting position. Then Haldir moved into the space between Legolas 
and the tub and went to wash his lovers hair. Using the oil he had collected 
before he worked until it shone golden even while it was still wet. Legolas 
had relaxed totally in his arms and didn’t even move a single muscle when 
Haldir started to wash and bath the rest of his body. 
All too soon the silver haired elf was finished and lifted Legolas out of the 
tub. Without drying him, he took a very large warmed towel and wrapped 
it around his husband’s body and again lifted him into his strong arms.

Haldir hoped that Legolas would like what he had prepared in their room 
and grew more and more nervous the nearer they came to the door. 
Glancing down Haldir noticed, that Legolas had closed his eyes and a faint 
smile touched his mouth.
Carefully, not wanting to make too much of a noise, Haldir opened the 
door and moved inside, quickly pushing it closed by leaning back against 
it. It closed with an audible click and Haldir pushed the bolt close with his 
upper arm. He wanted no disturbances for some time.
Legolas had opened his eyes when he had heard the door shut and looked 
around in awe.

Candles were lit, illuminating the room with their soft glow, petals and 
leaves sparkling in the golden colour of autumn were scattered throughout 
the room and the air was filled with the faintest scent of sweet roses and a 
touch of musk.
Haldir carried his load over to the bed and placed Legolas carefully upon 
it. He folded the towel apart and fetched the scented body oil, which had 
been standing beside the lit fireside, now being warm and smooth.
The marchwarden disentangled his love from the rest of the towel and 
spread the limbs out so that the lithe body was fully stretched out.
Starting with the strong arms, Haldir massaged the oil into the skin not 
missing an inch. Legolas’ skin glistened and his muscled relaxed even 
more.

From the arms Haldir moved onto the muscled chest, to the sides, ignoring 
the roundness of Legolas belly and now concentrated on the long and 
slender legs. 
With long and strong strokes he massaged first the calves and then the 
thighs.
Small whimpers and moans told him that Legolas was enjoying this 
immensely.
When Haldir had reached the tantalising v at the junction of the well 
muscled thighs, he turned his attention to the soft velvety skin right where 
the skin started to stretch to accommodate the growing waist. With 
circular motions he tenderly soothed the taunt flesh, lightly kneading it, 
placing soft kisses onto it from time to time.

The room was absolutely quiet apart from the crackling of the fire and the 
occasional hiss of one of the candles.
No words were needed, only touches and caresses. Legolas felt like 
floating, never had he experienced such a blissful feeling. His skin was 
tingling, feeling warm and comfortable. Only where Haldir’s hands went it 
seemed to burn with its own fire. Not even his growing stomach felt as 
heavy as it usually did, it didn’t press into him nor was it in the way of any 
sort. He felt so loved and cherished it made his eyes water.
Now that Haldir was caressing and devouring his producing bulge, the 
arousal he had felt in the beginning, but had faded into the distance some 
time ago, returned with vigour. Legolas could feel his sack tighten already. 
If only Haldir would touch him right there. But  obviously the tall elf had 
other plans.

After giving the swollen belly a last kiss, Haldir gently rolled Legolas onto 
his side and moved behind him. Again he kneaded the thighs, this time 
from the back and moved onto the perfectly rounded buttocks. Every now 
and then he teasingly flicked one of his thumbs against Legolas tight 
entrance, always coaxing a small whimper from his husband’s mouth.

Whilst his hands teased the elf before him, Haldir drew close to his lovers 
shoulders and planted butterfly kisses along them. When he had reached 
the base of the neck, he suddenly bit down, knowing this to be the most 
vulnerable spot of Legolas. The reaction was immediate. 
His husband groaned and threw his head back, his breath hitching.
Haldir smiled to himself and slowly trailed downwards, licking and 
kissing the back until he reached the slender hips.
Carefully tilting the pelvis a bit more over to the front, without putting any 
pressure to the swollen belly, he spread Legolas legs slightly to give him a 
better access to the tempting backside.

Sweat had broken out on his body and Legolas panted with need. The bite 
to his neck had torn down all of his last restrain and all he wanted now 
was more, more touching, more sexual touching. Forgotten were all the 
worries, the jealousy, the pain. He could feel Haldir’s love and devotion 
with every cell of his being and he craved his husbands touch. When he 
felt his legs being spread, he unconsciously spread them even a little bit 
wider, hoping to lure Haldir into touching him more intimately.

Determined hands spread the soft, round globes laying open the tempting, 
pink hole that twitched in anticipation. Without further hesitation Haldir 
flicked the tip of his tongue over it. 
Legolas shuddered and moaned. Again and again Haldir lapped over the 
puckered skin until it was deliciously wet and glistening. His hands had 
drifted between the parted thighs and gently fondled the twin sack and the 
base of the straining erection.
Haldir let his tongue linger at the tight entrance for a short moment, before 
he slowly pushed forward, breaching the willing muscle. The hot and 
velvety inside fuelled up his own lust and he knew he would have to 
hurry, for his own body was already giving him clear signs of an 
approaching orgasm. Forcing down these strong feelings, Haldir pushed 
his tongue in and out for a few more times listening with abandon to the 
moans and gasps coming from Legolas.

With a last kiss to the twitching hole, Haldir moved his mouth further 
down between Legolas legs until he reached the soft, warm skin of the 
prince’s testicle. 
With strong hands he guided Legolas onto his back again by the hips and 
took hold of the thighs pushing them widely open.
Like a predator Haldir leaned down and gave the sack a loving bite.

Legolas hissed with pleasure and gripped the sheet he was lying on tightly 
with his hands. Trying to calm down a bit, the blonde prince took long and 
steadying breaths, concentrating on the carvings on the wooden ceiling. 
His eyes followed every ornate detail until he felt the tingling and burning 
sensation in his loins fade to a more moderate level.

Haldir watched Legolas and smirked.  So, his love wanted to last, did he? 
The marchwarden pushed himself up and knelt between the widely spread 
legs. While he was caressing the swollen flesh with his left, he quickly 
dipped his right hand down and fumbled around beneath the mattress for a 
moment until he had located what he was looking for. Successfully pulling 
out the well known jar he gave a loving smile to his husband, hoping he 
hadn’t noticed it. But Legolas seemed still to be absorbed by the ceiling. 
Good.

Haldir managed to unscrew the lid without to many difficulties or sound 
and dipped his fingers in, coating them richly with the gel like substance. 
He had to stop himself from groaning as Haldir applied the gel to his 
engorged and hard member. 

Being satisfied that his breathing had calmed down and he had prevented 
coming there and then, Legolas suddenly drew a sharp breath as he felt the 
well lubricated arousal of Haldir brush firmly against his testicle. 
All of his relaxation was gone in an instant and as Haldir continued to rub 
himself against him, Legolas was panting and moaning within seconds. He 
felt his legs lifted and  spread even more, as Haldir now moved to rub the 
tip of his penis against the quivering entrance. Never really pushing in, 
just nudging the muscles open a fraction.
Again and again, Haldir pressed against Legolas opening, loving the 
sounds he was eliciting from the other elf. 

With a wicked grin Haldir moved back up until only his sack rubbed 
against the tortured entrance and his member was aligned with Legolas 
sack. He didn’t have to hold the legs open anymore, for the blonde archer 
had placed his hands in the back of his knees by now and was holding his 
legs as wide and open as possible, giving Haldir the chance to use his 
hands as well.
While his penis nudged the base of Legolas member, Haldir took his own 
testicle into his hand and pushed it tightly against Legolas wanton hole., as 
if he wanted to push them inside. Haldir groaned deep from his chest 
thinking about the idea. How wonderful it would feel to have the sensitive 
sack buried deeply in the tight heat, not having the chance to pull them out 
because Legolas would clamp down his muscles, not wanting them to slip 
out.

Haldir knew that it wouldn’t really be possible, but it worked him up in no 
time. He could already feel the familiar tension deep down in his loins, the 
feeling of a coil winding up inside of him, ready to let go.
One look at his husband was enough to tell him that Legolas was not 
better off, than he. He had his head thrown back, the cheeks flushed and 
he was breathing hard through his open mouth. Legolas had let go of his 
legs, keeping them spread by pure muscle strength,  his long fingers were 
toying with his own nipples, pinching and rolling them between thumb 
and index finger. A fine sheen of sweat had spread over his heated body 
and his muscles of his legs and torso were trembling with strain.

Quickly Haldir dipped his fingers once more into the jar and moved 
further up, so that both erections were aligned and took them both into the 
gel covered hand. Pre cum was leaking form both elves and their sacks 
had tightened hard against their bodies.
With smooth but firm strokes Haldir moved his hands over the members 
and thus mixed their essences. 
Feeling Legolas eyes on him he quickly looked up and found his husband 
beaming at him. He couldn’t remember seeing those cobalt blue eyes shine 
with such an amount of love and lust before. Haldir smiled back at him 
and was just able to mouth a ‘I love you’ before the shudders and tremors 
of his own body and that of Legolas overtook him and he sent them both 
over the edge together. 
Their seed mingled on Legolas body and started to run down the soft 
curves of the pregnant elf as they still stared into each others eyes, not able 
to speak or move, but understanding the other completely.



It was dark outside and the city gates were closed, when two riders 
returned. Two men of Faramir’s troop and behind one sat the square form 
of a dwarf, who was muttering under his breath about the hard back of the 
horse.
After the rangers had dismounted and guided their horses to the stables, 
Gimli slowly entered the hall of the castle, clearly very much lost in 
thought. 
His eyes were lit with an inner fire and an eager look had spread across his 
face. When he had reached the large common room, where fires were lit 
and people were sitting at the tables and on the large settees near the 
windows, Gimli marched directly over to the seneschal asking him for 
direction to the library and if he could have some rolls of parchment and a 
quill and ink.

Gimli declined the offer of the seneschal, who offered to fetch those items 
for the dwarf, explaining he needed the quiet of the secluded library to 
work.
Once there Gimli sat down in one of the heavy chairs at a large table, but 
not before putting a few large books on the seat, so he could work 
properly, without having difficulties to reach everything he needed.

He unrolled a large parchment and immediately started to sketch fine lines 
and symbols on the paper. The hours passed by and when he at long last 
looked up from the desk, the first pink rays of the dawning sun peaked 
over the horizon.

Carefully rolling up the parchment, Gimli shoved the chair away from the 
table and stifled a yawn. He was pleased with what he had accomplished 
during the night, but he dreaded what he had to do now.
But first things first. He wanted to check on Haldir and Legolas, hoping 
they would still be fast asleep. It was better if they weren’t around for the 
next few hours.
He tiptoed to the door that led to the elves room and carefully probed the 
handle. Damn, the door was locked. Then again, Gimli heard nothing 
coming from inside the room, so they must be still sleeping. Maybe he 
could get Merry to keep an eye on them.

Gimli quickly made his way to the door of Merry’s room and quietly 
entered. As usual, Merry was coiled up on the large bed, snoring softly a 
slight smile on his face. ‘No doubt dreaming of food’ Gimli chuckled to 
himself, as he reached for the Hobbit’s shoulder to awaken him.
With a yelp Merry sat up and stared blearily at the dwarf. It took him some 
moments to gather his wits about, before he could actually understand 
what the dwarf was asking of him.

“Merry, can you have an eye on Haldir and Legolas today. Try to keep 
them occupied for a while. Say until lunch time. Don’t let them come near 
me.”
“What?” Merry looked quizzical “Are you mad at them?”
“No! Of course not. I am just planning a surprise for them, and I don’t 
want them to spoil it. It wouldn’t be much of a surprise then would it?”
“Oh, yes. Sure. What do want to surprise them with?” Merry beamed at 
Gimli.
“Oh no, my little one. I am not going to tell you. Not yet anyway.” Gimli 
quickly added as he saw the disappointment in the Hobbit’s face.
“As soon as I have some things organised and going, I will tell you. I 
might even need your help with it.” Gimli reassured Merry.
The Hobbit nodded eagerly and hopped out of his bed, quickly dressing 
himself and leaving his room to stand guard at the door of Haldir’s and 
Legolas’ room.

Once Merry had stationed himself at the door to the elves chamber, he 
waited until Gimli was out of sight. His stomach was making the most 
upset noises and he was in need of a decent breakfast.
When the Hobbit was sure that he was alone in the long corridor he 
sprinted downstairs towards the large kitchens and nicked food here and 
there. Some bread, apples, honey, milk and pastries. Loaded like a mule, 
he moved quickly back to his original task and sat down in front of the 
door, munching his breakfast and determined not to let anybody out until 
the sun way up. 

Once again, Gimli moved along the long corridors keeping a look out for 
the door that would be marked in a special way, announcing that a royal 
guest was being housed there.
At last the dwarf spotted the familiar marking on a large oak door. 
Drawing a deep and steadying breath, Gimli raised his hand and hesitantly 
knocked.
At first nothing happened and Gimli was about turn and leave when the 
door suddenly opened.
The long blond mane was hanging loosely about the handsome face as the 
King of Mirkwood regarded the dwarf with a questioning look that held a 
small portion of mistrust.
“You knocked?” Thranduil’s voice was a tone sharper than that of his son.
“Ahm, yes. Sorry to disturb you, your majesty. I .....” Gimli had to pull 
himself together “I need your help.” He swallowed hard and shoved his 
pride aside.
Thranduil’s eyebrows disappeared upwards. “My help? The son of Gloin 
is asking the King of Mirkwood for help. This is truly a day to remember. 
I will grant you my help. Let us meet in the great hall later on.”
Just as the blond elf was about to close door again, Gimli stooped him by 
holding onto the door. “Please, let us speak of it now. In your rooms if 
possible.”
“What?” Thranduil’s voice thundered. “How dare....”
“You misunderstood me, my Lord.” Gimli interrupted. “I want to ask for 
help in a matter concerning your son and I don’t want him to find out!”
Thranduil looked at Gimli with his steel blue eyes, obviously thinking 
about what the dwarf had just told him. 
“What matter would that be?” The King inquired.
“A surprise ....” Gimli started, but was suddenly pulled into the King’s 
room by his sleeve.

Thranduil closed the door behind them and motioned over to a large and 
softly cushioned settee at the far wall.
“Wait there. I will be right back!” Thranduil vanished behind a screen, and 
all that was heard was the rustling of fabric for a while.
After some minutes Thranduil emerged from behind the screen again and 
shook his long hair over his shoulder as he seated himself in a large 
armchair opposite from Gimli.
As Gimli watched the King of Mirkwood move through the room, now 
dressed in long, flowing, dark green robes, it struck the dwarf how much 
Legolas and his father looked alike. The same softness of the hair, the 
same features and winning smile. Only Thranduil’s appearance was far 
more regal than that of his son. Legolas had kept a kind of youthful joy 
about him.

“Now, dwa....Gimli,” Thranduil quickly corrected himself “what did you 
want to talk about.” He graciously folded his hands in his lap and leaned 
back.
Quickly Gimli handed the King the still rolled up parchment and stood 
beside the large armchair.
Thranduil unrolled the paper and his eyes grew wide.
“My Lord, I found this ever so lovely spot of land yesterday in Ithilien. It 
is near a clear stream that springs from a small waterfall near a mountain 
cliff. It is surrounded by a small forest, but not too far off. And I thought 
that it wouldn’t be wise for Legolas to travel again too soon, and I 
presume that he wants to stay near to Aragorn and Arwen anyway, and so 
I thought.....” 
“This is the most beautiful design I have seen in a long time Master 
dwarf.” Thranduil interrupted Gimli’s babbling.
Gimli’s mouth snapped closed as he stared at the King.
“Gimli, pull yourself a chair over here and tell me all about it. And what 
kind of help you need.”

Hours later Gimli and Thranduil emerged together from the royal guest 
quarters with a smile on their face. When they reached the great hall they 
separated and moved to different directions. Thranduil headed towards the 
library and Gimli out into the gardens, where he hoped he would find the 
elves.
Legolas and Haldir were enjoying the last warming rays of the autumn sun 
and were in deep conversation.
“Gimli!” Legolas cried out as he saw the dwarf. “Where were you 
yesterday. I was looking for you, missing your never ending muttering and 
grumbling, but you were no where to be seen.”
“I was out. Faramir’s men needed decent help. And so naturally, they 
asked me.” Gimli squared his shoulders.
Haldir suppressed a giggle and instead looked at Legolas again.
“If you won’t be needing me for today, I think I will retire for now. It was 
a rather hard day, yesterday.” Gimli turned, hiding a huge yawn.
“But I thought that dwarves never tire.” Legolas laughed.
“I tire because of two very demanding elves.!” Gimli muttered and 
vanished from sight.  

The silver clear sound of the trumpets pulled everybody out of their 
current occupation. Heads flew up, eyes opened and smiles broadened 
across the faces of every man, woman, elf or halfling. Only Gimli did not 
hear it, for he was fast asleep in his chamber, needing rest badly after the 
last night.

People streamed together on the streets, looked out of opened windows 
and gathered before the castle.
Aragorn had tears in his eyes as he rode through the streets of Minas Tirith 
in the lead of his troops. He had lost several more good men on the way 
back to the city, because of the extension of their injuries or due to the 
poisoned blades of their foes. And as the silver trumpets called him home 
he remembered Boromir’s words.
All he wanted now was to get to his friends, soak in a long hot bath and 
forget about war, endurance and pain.

He had already spotted the makeshift tents and campsite of the Rivendell 
elves from afar. Tomorrow he would hold his beloved Arwen in his arms 
again and slowly, very slowly their world would return to its rightful 
peace and quiet again.
Aragorn still dreaded the crown of Gondor, but he knew it was not to be 
helped. He had chosen this path and now he would try and walk it with all 
the dignity he could muster. Hopefully his friends would stay by his side 
for a while longer and aid him in his never ending quest to bring Gondor 
back to its former glory.

When the endless line of riders and footmen finally reached the castle, 
Aragorn spotted the tousled head of Merry, the Hobbit sitting happily 
astride Haldir’s broad shoulders, the golden mane of his best friend 
Legolas, with Gimli at his side and much to his surprise the tall and regal 
match to Legolas’ looks, his father Thranduil wearing a rather seldom 
warm smile on his face.
Even though everybody of the army that Aragorn had lead home was tired 
and weary, they feasted and celebrated until late at night. 
The four Hobbits were huddled in a corner, never leaving each other, 
Frodo telling Merry and Pippin over and over again what had occurred on 
Mount doom, he himself was seated between Legolas and Haldir wanting 
to hear all about their children and Gandalf who sat quietly with the King 
of Mirkwood enjoying some pipeweed while Thranduil managed to drink 
vast amounts of wine never seeming anything but graceful.


The castle stayed very quiet the next morning, everybody was lying still in 
their beds by midday.
After a rather late lunch, the servants busied themselves with cleaning the 
great hall, expecting the next celebration coming upon them very soon. 
The guards from the watchtower had already announced a large troop of 
elves coming towards the city. Elrond and his entourage were coming and 
with them the new Queen of Gondor.

Aragorn was beside himself with glee and Legolas who was helping to get 
Aragorn into a clean, shaven and groomed state was in fits of laughter 
long before he was finished. 
It was impossible to get Aragorn’s hair into a decent look, so the 
Mirkwood elf simply braided them lightly and made sure that Aragorn’s 
clothes fitted.
He accompanied his friend downstairs and then moved over to his 
husband who stood waiting patiently at the bottom of the stairs.
Both elves were looking forward to meet Arwen again. She was a good 
friend to both of them and they had spent much time together in their 
youths.

When Elrond and his fellow elves entered the castle everybody managed 
to stay calm except for one person. Dignity forgotten and not caring if 
anybody looked appalled, Arwen shouted Aragorn’s name on the top of 
her lungs and ran over to her future husband throwing her arms around his 
neck and kissing him soundly.
As if it had been a sign a loud cheering erupted around the couple and the 
freshly arrived elves were pulled into tight hugs and embraces.

Nobody was entirely surprised that the future King and Queen excused 
themselves early that night and at around midnight only Thranduil, who 
was deeply in conversation with Elrond and Gimli, together with the 
Hobbits were still in the great hall.    



Time seemed to slow down and even though the streets of Minas Tirith 
and the corridors and halls of the castle were buzzing with people, 
everything appeared to have quieted down to a more sedate life.

The people of Gondor were determined to help their future King in 
rebuilding the old glory of the white city as soon as possible. Legolas had 
written letters to his kin asking for their help in restoring the greenery and 
asked them to bring as many different plants as it was possible. 
Gimli had, as promised; called for his own kind to work on the gates and 
houses.
All they could do for now was to wait for them to arrive. 

Legolas tried to busy himself by mapping out the little gardens and 
somewhat larger parks, as well as designing some new wells and 
fountains. Haldir was nearly constantly at his side, carrying plans, papers 
and feather and quill after his love, only rarely slipping away to pay 
Eowyn a visit and to hear her news about Faramir.
To everybody’s great surprise and obvious disbelief, one could spot the 
proud King of Mirkwood sit together with the equally proud Gimli son of 
Gloin, their heads stuck together and sometimes bent low over some 
pieces of parchment. But every time that someone would come near, they 
would separate and take the parchment with them.

After about three weeks the first of the elven and dwarven kin arrived and 
met with Legolas and Gimli. Tasks were given out to each of them and 
soon the Gondorian people found elves and dwarves likewise, busy 
hammering, shovelling, planting and building among them in their city.

It was way past midday when Legolas made his way down to the lowest 
level of the city. It had grown cold and even though he didn’t really feel 
the cold, he pulled the cloak faster around himself, relishing the warmth 
and comfort it gave. He hadn’t seen Gimli for the last few days and missed 
his friend. They hardly had time to sit down and talk for a while and the 
elf longed to hear the rough and somewhat grumpy voice of the dwarf. It 
made him smile to himself, that he as an elf had grown fed up with the 
constant easy and comfortable life at the castle. Arwen had already put a 
great elven touch to it and it started to resemble Rivendell more and more. 
The court yard had been redesigned by her and Legolas and was now a 
garden of tranquillity and peace. Still it didn’t give the blond elf the peace 
he required.
So Legolas had sent Haldir off to Eowyn and had fetched his winter cloak 
and now moved his growing weight down the endless seeming and 
winding stairs that led through the city.

It took him longer than he had anticipated to reach the lowest level. 
Legolas had not thought of his much slower walk. Over were the days of 
skipping and jumping. He moved sedate and careful now, holding his eyes 
open for icy patches on the steps. For a second he wondered if he would 
still be able to walk on top on snow or if he would sink in hip deep, having 
to plough his way through it. 
His light bell like laughter carried on through the streets and made the 
people who heard it smile.

The sun had nearly set when Legolas arrived at the large gates were Gimli 
and his people were usually working. A group of dwarves were crouching 
over a large slab of stone working the finest ornate into it. The sharp and 
metallic clatter of their tools carrying over the tall form of the elf.
As soon as Legolas had reached the group of dwarves, a younger 
somewhat more female voice called for him.
“Master Legolas! What a joy to see you here!” a dwarf with sparkling 
green eyes and a light brown beard hurriedly moved over to him.
“My cousin Gimli has told us so much about you. And now I finally meet 
you in person. But you shouldn’t have come down here all by yourself at 
this hour. The stone steps might be slippery with ice and in your 
condition,” the she dwarf smiled shyly, “it is simply not sensible, my 
lord.”
“Well met,” Legolas smiled at her “but I am sorry. I am at a disadvantage 
here, for I do not now you name, my Lady.” 
Something that could have been a little suppressed giggle reached the elf’s 
ears. 
“Oh, I’m no Lady, Master Legolas, I am just  Bronwin Brockle. As I said 
a cousin of your friend Gimli. But, please do come and join us in the 
house we currently live in. It is warmer there and far more comfortable 
than out here. And it does look like it’s going to snow soon.” She reached 
out with her small and somewhat rough hand and pulled Legolas along to 
a nearby house. The warm light of candles and a lit fireside spilled through 
the windows and beckoned them welcome.

Once inside, Legolas was relieved of his coat and led to a stool near the 
fireside. He deliberately kept it to himself that he didn’t need to stay so 
near the fire in order to keep warm, not wanting to embarrass his hostess. 
Soon he was in deep conversation with the small group of dwarves that 
had been sitting at a large table and after a while more and more dwarves 
came inside and joined them. Still Gimli was nowhere to be seen. It 
confused Legolas, but he was sure that his friend would show up sooner or 
later. 
Legolas was just about to ask about the whereabouts of his favourite dwarf 
when suddenly a old and wise looking dwarf approached him carefully. 
With a look full of uncertainty the white bearded clasped his hands tightly 
behind his back, and tried not to stare too openly at Legolas rounded 
middle.
Legolas knew what was about to happen and he smiled reassuringly. He 
had seen this kind of reaction and that look before. Even though most 
people new about his condition by now, it never ceased to take them 
aback. 

The old dwarf cleared his throat and looked carefully into Legolas’ open 
smile. “So, that is the famous child of the two male elves then?” he said 
gruffly, though his eyes were lit with curiosity and amazement.
Legolas nodded.
“Mhm, Does it hurt?” the dwarf pointed a finger at the middle of the, by 
now rather large belly.
“No, of course not.” Legolas laughed.
“It not just one isn’t it?” Bronwin interrupted.
“No, I bare twins.” The elf said with a smile.
With a slight tremble the old dwarf carefully placed his weathered hand on 
Legolas’ belly and looked pensive for a moment. Then a smile lit his face 
and he looked up at the elf.
“Rather lively aren’t they?” he still felt the pushes and well placed kicks 
underneath his fingers.
Legolas nodded. “Yes, a bit too lively sometimes.”
“So, your mate is still at the castle isn’t he? Why didn’t he accompany you 
here? You shouldn’t be wandering around alone in the darkness, you 
know?” the dwarf shook his head.
“Torkin! Don’t talk like that to Legolas!” Bronwin’s eyes were looking 
worried. “He still is a prince you know. And one doesn’t talk to a prince 
like that!”
“Prince or not. He shouldn’t be running around alone in the darkness. We 
don’t now if there aren’t any foul beasts still lurking around somewhere. 
So, my prince,” Torkin stretched the last word in friendly mocking “I will 
guide you up to the castle again. And you, “ he turned to two other 
dwarves “Glorin and Marok, you will come as well.”
“That is very kind of you, Torkin, but we elves are well able to see in the 
dark and....” Legolas was interrupted immediately.
“Nonsense! Don’t tell me anything about the ability to see in the dark. Did 
you forget you are talking to a dwarf? Look at yourself. I see no weapons. 
You didn’t bring any, did you? And I doubt that you as light footed as you 
usually are. So don’t you dare to argue with me!”

“Before we leave, Torkin, where is Gimli. I long to speak to him, but I 
haven’t seen him
 for a while. I had hoped that he was here with you or would show up 
later, but it seems I was mistaken. So can you tell me where I might find 
him?” Legolas carefully fastened the warm winter cloak around his 
shoulders.
Had he paid more attention to Torkin instead of his cloak he would have 
seen the sudden, careful glance the old dwarf threw in direction of 
Bronwin.
“Sorry, but I don’t now where Gimli is at the moment.”

Legolas inclined his had sadly and followed Torkin outside. A cold and 
fierce wind was blowing and Legolas cloak billowed around his body, 
letting the icy air in. The elf frowned and pulled the cloak tighter around 
his form.
The stone steps and streets had become slippery and Legolas could make 
out the typical dull patches where a fine sheen of ice covered the ground.
But Torkin was leading Legolas and his fellow dwarves securely around it, 
always finding the safest patches for them to tread on. Legolas smiled to 
himself because of these safety measures the dwarf was taking. He may be 
more round and heavier than before, but Legolas was still light footed and 
would have had no bigger problems walking across the ice, but he didn’t 
want to upset the dwarves and so he obediently followed the track of the 
old dwarf.

After at least an hour the castle came into view and with it, a lone figure, 
marching up and down in front of the large entrance doors, worry clearly 
written all over his face.
Haldir’s cheeks had a reddened in the harsh wind and he looked miserable. 
A pang of guilt hit Legolas, when he saw his husband moving helplessly 
around like that and he called out at him.
“Haldir, melamin!”
Haldir’s head whipped around and he glared at the blond elf. But only a 
split second later, his eyes lit up with a teasing smile as he became aware 
of Legolas personal guard.
“Legolas! I see at least some people are more sensible than you are!”
Legolas shot a warning glance at Haldir. “Haldir, may I introduce Torkin, 
Glorin and Marok to you?”
Haldir inclined his head with a welcoming smile.
“You should keep a better eye on him!” Torkin remarked roughly towards 
Haldir. “He shouldn’t be up and about like that on his own!”

An eyebrow climbed up as Haldir turned his gaze back to his husband. 
“Yes, yes. You are absolutely right, Master dwarf. But it is hard to keep an 
eye on someone like my husband. He is like a young horse. Long legs, no 
manners and no discipline. Only mischief in his head.”
Legolas rolled his eyes and threw his arms up. “I am only pregnant. Not 
life threateningly wounded or ill!”
“I thank you, Torkin for returning him home to me safely. Do you wish to 
stay here with us in the castle for tonight?"  Haldir ignored Legolas 
muttered curses and bowed down to the dwarf.
“No, thank you. We rather stick with our own kind. No offence intended, 
but we want to start working early tomorrow and so it will be wiser for us 
to return to the lower level. Please tell your mate that I will tell Gimli of 
his visit as soon as I see him again.” With that the dwarves turned and 
headed back the way they had come.

Legolas stood in their room, his arms crossed before his chest and tried to 
ignore Haldir’s ongoing tirade. He found it unnecessary and tiring, but 
wisely kept quiet. Yes, alright, he was growing bigger by the day, yes; 
Haldir had to help him from time to time with his shoes and yes; he was 
not as mobile as before, but he wasn't an invalid.
Suddenly he noticed that Haldir had obviously stopped talking some time 
ago and was now staring at him with annoyance at him.
“You weren’t listening to one word I said, weren’t you?” the marchwarden 
stated.
For a second Legolas was tempted to raise his voice and vent his anger, 
but quickly restrained himself. It had only got him into trouble and it 
really wasn’t worth a fight, which they both would regret sooner or later.
So Legolas smiled at Haldir and moved towards him, placing his slender 
arms around his husband’s neck. He looked apologetically up into the eyes 
of the silver haired elf and cocked his head slightly.
“I am sorry, love. I now I should have told you where I was heading. But I 
thought I would be back earlier. I miscalculated the time I needed to get 
down to the gates. Please, forgive me. I didn’t want to upset you.”

Haldir’s anger dissolved into nothingness. He had expected complaints 
and defensive words. But never would he have thought that Legolas would 
simply apologise to him. His stern face broke into a smile and he hugged 
the form of the Mirkwood prince tightly.
“Are you hungry?” the marchwarden asked between kisses, he placed 
along the jaw line of Legolas.
A wicked glint appeared in Legolas’ eyes. “Mhm, rather. It was a long 
walk. Maybe I should take something slightly salty and sticky.”
“I was thinking of something more in the line of fruit, bread, meat and 
fresh juice.” Haldir tried to look sternly at his pregnant husband.
“Fresh juice?” Legolas put on a nearly convincing shock. “Juice? What 
about a decent glass of wine?”
“No! No wine. I promised your father to keep an eye on you and I will 
stick to that. Juice or clear water, or nothing.” Haldir held Legolas’ 
shoulders.
The blond prince bowed his head in mock defeat and mumbled “Juice it is 
then. But only if I get to take a bite out of you later on.”



Haldir desperately clutched the edge of the bed, trying not to fall out. 
Their bed was already one of the larger ones, but ever since his husband 
had grown rather round, he had the habit of shifting relentlessly during the 
night. Haldir always managed to back off a bit, but Legolas obviously 
sought the warmth and tenderness of Haldir and crept closer even when he 
was fast asleep.

This time Legolas had turned so harshly towards Haldir that he had nearly 
pushed him out of the bed.
The marchwarden grunted in obvious annoyance and climbed out of bed. 
Standing at its side he crossed his arms before his chest and watched his 
sleeping love. Due to all the twisting and turning, the cover had slipped 
and the blonde prince lay bare on the tangled sheets.
He was lying on his side, the bottom arm stretched out, as he was feeling 
for Haldir and the upper arm was loosely on his waist, bent at the elbow, 
his hand holding his belly in a protective way.

Even though the prince had again managed to end Haldir’s night early, the 
silver haired elf watched him fondly. After a few seconds of thought, 
Haldir walked over to the other and now vacant side of the bed and lay 
down again.
Immediately, as if driven by an inner force, Legolas turned with a grunt 
towards Haldir and when he felt the comforting warmth of his husband 
again a sweet smile played across his face and a slight flicker filled the 
open but vacant eyes.
Turning to his side Haldir gathered Legolas in his arms and smiled at the 
hard and round belly pressing into his abdomen.
Everything was peaceful and Haldir was about to drift back to sleep, when 
suddenly a well aimed kick, coming from one of their children made not 
only Legolas groan in pain but also made Haldir flinch.

Legolas eyes refocused and as soon as the prince was coherent again, a 
string of elvish curses left his beautiful mouth.
Haldir couldn’t help but laugh. “Good morning my love.” He greeted 
Legolas with a kiss on the nose.
“A good morning? How good can it be, when I get woken by a kick. Well 
at least they were kind enough not to aim at my bladder.” Legolas brow 
furrowed as he tried to push himself up and out of the bed. He shot Haldir 
an angry look, when he noticed that his lover was about to get up as well 
to help him.
Still muttering and mumbling to himself, Legolas put on his sleeping robe 
and vanished from the room.

With a sigh Haldir rolled back onto the bed and stretched. He couldn’t 
help but marvel at themselves and how domesticated they had become. 
The way he loved to watch Legolas body and the changes of it. Suddenly 
an uncharacteristic giggle was bubbling up from his stomach. He thought 
of the tall, proud and unapproachable prince of the woodland realm.  The 
way this particular prince had enflamed feelings in him, he never thought 
possible. Later finding out that beneath the harsh exterior was a young and 
shy elf, who wanted the tall marchwarden as much as the marchwarden 
wanted him.
And now this fierce warrior was more waddling than gracefully striding, 
having problems bending down and needed to have newly tailored clothes 
every two to three weeks.
Well, he wouldn’t need to get them tailored over and over again, he could 
use them again next time....
Next time. Haldir was surprised that he already thought of a next time. 
Even though they had gone through so much peril and pain. But then 
again, the pregnancy had been fine all along. 

Haldir was still quietly laughing when Legolas re-entered the room and 
threw his husband a disgusted look. “I look funny, don’t I?” 
“No, you don’t, my love. Come here.” Haldir held out his arms and when  
the prince moved into them, Haldir kissed his husband firmly on the 
mouth. 
“You don’t look funny and I love you.” The marchwarden stated.
“But you were laughing when I came back.” Legolas pouted.
“Yes, I was. But more about us two. I was laughing at our domestic life 
now.”
Legolas eyed him sceptically but accepted the explanation.
“I want to see if I can find Gimli today.” He announced and looked into 
Haldir’s eyes. “Will you accompany me?”
“At your service my Lord.” Haldir managed to bow his head even though 
he was still lying and suppressed another giggle.


A few hours later Legolas was storming through the castle corridors in a 
rage. Not only did nobody know anything about the dwarf’s whereabouts, 
nor was his father anywhere to be found. The usually never tiring Hobbits 
were incredibly tight-lipped and the servants seemed like they never had 
heard of a King Thranduil before.
Haldir was trying his best to calm his husband but he knew it would take 
him hours to do so and so he decided to make Legolas come with him to 
the tailor today. The prince needed a new tunic and robe for all the 
festivities and this time Haldir wanted to pick the cloth and colours.


Gimli was thankful for the cold and frosty air that day. Even though it was 
winter and the air cold, the work he and his fellow dwarves had to do was 
strenuous and made him sweat easily.
He stretched and surveyed the work they had accomplished so far. The 
ground had been levelled and the flagstones were neatly laid out for the 
ground floor. In the middle was a large square of 50 to 50 feet left out and 
instead of dwarves there were elves silently working their way through the 
muddy and stony ground.
To Gimli’s astonishment he could make out the great King of Mirkwood, 
clad only in working clothes, kneeling on the ground like any common elf, 
adding earth, specially brought from the woodland realm, to the native soil 
with his bare hands. His hair was tight back in one neat braid and a shine 
of satisfaction and happiness lingered on his face.

Only a bit further away stood a small camp, from where the sound of 
never ending hammering and song could be heard.
Beside the camp stood several wagons with trees and plants, patiently 
waiting for their new home.
Gimli smiled and walked over to the camp to have a look at the work 
being done there. Again two groups of different folk were working side by 
side. One carving wood into the most beautiful shapes and ornate. The 
other hammering with fine and small hammer and chisel finest breaches 
and delicate patterns into a large but narrow stone wall. This wall was not 
one to protect but to add to the beauty of the garden, letting the summer 
breeze through and the rays of the sun shape dancing patterns on the floor.
Gimli knew how much elves needed lightness and flowing air and he was 
determined to give all this to his favourite elf.


Haldir was satisfied with their visit at the tailor and couldn’t help but hum 
a little to himself on their way back to the castle. He had picked totally 
different colours for Legolas this time and even his still sulking husband 
had been pleased with them, even though he didn’t show it that openly.

It had upset the blond elf, that neither Gimli nor his father had been 
around for the last few days. Legolas ducked his head further into his 
cloak and mumbled something about unpleasant weather and dampness of 
the surrounding air. Sure, he as an elf didn’t have to depend on warm 
clothes and roaring fires, was it was a vast difference between being able 
to stand cold and ice and being comfortable.

His mood became even fouler when they entered their room and found the 
fire out and the air nearly as cold as the outside. Haldir threw his arms up 
in defeat at Legolas’ sour expression and immediately started to light a 
new fire in the fireside. He knew it would take some time until the room 
was warm and dry again, so he decided to persuade Legolas to join him 
visiting their friends in the great hall.

Near to the large fireside were the four Hobbits sitting close to Gandalf 
and Elrond, obviously deeply in discussion about something concerning 
food and drink. Sam was busily writing down details and information, 
Pippin’s eyes were glinting and Merry seemed to be lost in a world of his 
own imagination. Gandalf was smacking his lips from time to time and 
Frodo was smiling a little smile to himself. Elrond was constantly talking 
and unlike his usual restrained self, he was gesturing wildly with his hands 
and arms.

Only Frodo noticed Legolas and Haldir moving towards them and beamed 
at them. “Legolas! Haldir!” the little Hobbit immediately got off his chair 
and quickly shoved it more to the right to create a larger space between his 
chair and Gandalf.
Haldir fetched two more chairs and manoeuvred them into the gap and 
gracefully sat down, while Legolas rather slumped than easing himself 
down with the usual grace of an elf.

Sam quickly finished his last words on a large scroll of paper and all 
glanced at the young elves with curiosity. 
In the end it was Frodo who broke the ice, by gently laying his hand on 
Legolas’ swollen abdomen “How much longer do you think?” he asked 
carefully.
Legolas looked at Elrond for confirmation when he answered “About eight 
weeks, I think.”
Elrond nodded.
Suddenly Pippin started shifting uneasily on his seat. It was clear to all 
that a question was wanting to get out, but obviously the young Hobbit 
didn’t dare ask it.
“Pippin, stop twitching and ask what you want to ask.” Gandalf looked at 
the Hobbit sternly.
A blush made its way across Pippin’s cheeks and he looked flustered. His 
voice was barely audible when he whispered with a bowed head “I mean, I 
know what a male Hobbit looks like, and I presume an elf to be build 
likewise. Just how is Legolas going to give birth to his children?”
Merry snickered and Sam hit him on the head. Gandalf grinned and leaned 
back, while Frodo looked up at Legolas and Haldir with big eyes.

Elrond cleared his throat and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his 
knees. Legolas eyed him carefully, he knew that it was going to be hard 
and painful, but Elrond had so far not told him everything.
“They will have to be cut out.” The elf Lord said curtly. “It’s the only 
drawback for a male. It will be as painful and strenuous as for a female, 
but Legolas will not be able to give birth to his children the natural way, 
so we will provide the way out for the children.”
Haldir had grown a shade paler than usual, Gandalf nodded knowingly and 
the Hobbit’s all looked slightly shocked. Legolas swallowed hard and 
interrupted Elrond.
“As painful? Do I get contractions, too?” without noticing Legolas had 
placed both hands on his belly.

Elrond nodded solemnly “Yes, even though the contractions are not 
needed for the actual delivery, they do indicate when it is time. But they 
will different to the ones a female does experience. Yours will be shorter 
in duration but in a more frequent interval. You will feel rather 
uncomfortable and might experience nausea. The contraction of your 
womb are important to itself than to the delivery. They are necessary, so 
that your womb will be reduce itself to its original seize. It will have to do 
that faster than that of a female, for your body will not tolerate the larger 
seize, unless your body knows that it holds life. So when the time has 
come, I will give you a plant extract to drink, that will take most of the 
pain away and you will fall into a slight slumber. I will open your body 
about four fingers beneath your navel to help the children into the world.”

Haldir swallowed hard. “You will actually cut him open?”
“Yes, and I did hope that you would be present, so that the children 
immediately have a chance to bond to you. But from the looks of it, you 
don’t look like you are up to it.” Elrond finished with a smirk.
Legolas looked pleadingly at Haldir.  “I want you to be present. I want to 
know that you are near if anything happens. Please, if...”
“Nothing is going to happen!” Elrond interrupted Legolas’ worries. “It has 
been done before!”

Pippin who had been staring at Haldir and Legolas with an open mouth, 
suddenly giggled quietly.
Gandalf furrowed his brow at the Hobbit. “So, Peregrim Took, you 
obviously find it funny then?”
Pippin’s laughter died immediately. “No! No, I just wondered..... how.... I 
mean....” the Hobbit’s next words were hardly more than a whisper “He 
doesn’t have any breasts, does he?”
Even Gandalf had to smile at this statement.
“No thanks to the Valar he hasn’t!” Haldir laughed.
“Young Pippin, am I right to believe that your are referring to the fact that 
Legolas somehow has to feed his children?”  Elrond smiled.
Pippin nodded.
“Even though there are ways to make a male elf become fertile, there is no 
possible way that a male elf can provide nourishment for children. Within 
the elven society one would usually ask a wet nurse to feed the child. If 
there is none available you can feed the children with milk from goats, that 
has to be filtered and cleansed mixed with a special essence of herbs and 
plants. I will give you the lists of ingredients.” Elrond nodded at Legolas 
and Haldir.

Legolas was feeling a little uncomfortable about the direction this 
conversation was taking and was desperately thinking of a way to change 
the subject. He felt it becoming far too personal.
Frodo, who had noticed Legolas uneasiness interrupted the chatter still 
going on between Elrond Merry and Pippin.
“Have you thought of names , yet?” he asked carefully.
The idle chatter died and everybody looked curiously at the couple. Haldir 
and Legolas looked at each other and blushed.
Haldir murmured embarrassed “No, actually not yet.”
“What?” Merry nearly jumped of his chair.
“You haven’t even thought about names? And you need two of each, if 
you don’t mind me reminding you!” Pippin exclaimed. 
“Don’t worry we will help you find some beautiful names Frodo assured 
Haldir and Legolas.
Elrond and Gandalf exchanged worried glances.


Thranduil rubbed his stiff back. It had been ages since he had to sleep on 
an uncomfortable bunk. There were muscles hurting, he didn’t even know 
he had. But then again, he enjoyed working in the fresh air, loved working 
with the plants and the fresh wood they carved and worked into shape.
He even enjoyed the company of Gimli and his fellow dwarves. What had 
become of this world? Yes, it had become a peaceful world, like it had 
been so many years ago, when elves and dwarves had lived in peace and 
harmony. And he was so very proud knowing that his son had had his 
hand in it and that it had been Legolas who had become friends with a 
dwarf, thus levelling the path for others to follow.

When Thranduil overlooked the building site a wide smile spread on his 
face. Yes, it would be a wonderful and lovely place once finished.
But tonight it would be time for him to return the Minas Tirith. He missed 
his son and Haldir and even though he had been parted from Legolas so 
many times before, now was a special time and he didn’t want to miss a 
single day of it. 



Legolas heaved himself up and wished his remaining friends a good night. 
This evening had been as entertaining as it had been embarrassing and 
when Haldir placed a steadying hand at his elbow, Legolas shook it off 
and threw a dirty look at his mate.

This was the worst bit of his pregnancy. The lack of mobility and the 
waning balance. Legolas hated being helped and thus feeling so fragile 
and weak.
Elrond smiled at the little banter and motioned Haldir over to him.
When the marchwarden had reached him, Elrond made him bow down and 
carefully whispered into Haldir’s ear “As far as I can remember, there is a 
fine bit of nice golden curls growing between yours husbands legs.”
Haldir blushed but nodded.
With a wicked smile the Elflord continued “I would ask you to shave 
Legolas in the near future. Say in about one or two weeks time. And keep 
him shaven from that time on. It will be better for the cutting we will have 
to perform during the delivery.” With that Elrond patted Haldir’s shoulder 
and turned his attention back to the Hobbits and Gandalf.


Haldir straightened up and his eyes met those of his husband, who was 
standing a few feet away, impatiently tapping one foot on the ground.
Smiling Haldir moved over to Legolas and kissed him on the cheek. “I 
think our room should be warm and dry by now, my love. Let’s go and 
rest.”
“Rest?!” Legolas furrowed his brow. 
Haldir sighed and steered them out of the hall to the stairs that lead up to 
their chamber.


The hooves hardly made any sound as Thranduil rode towards the castle 
entrance. The snow had grown thicker over the day and now everything 
was covered in a glittering white blanket. He halted his mount for a 
second, surveying the castle for a moment. He was glad that his son would 
not have to live here for much longer, for he was certain, that the high 
walls and the narrow lanes and streets were sure to make his son feel more 
than only uncomfortable.

Legolas had grown up in a vast forest and had spent most of the day and 
sometimes the night outside, climbing trees and running through the 
underbrush.
Very few windows showed any light behind them, it was very late already 
and obviously most of the castle occupants had retired already. Thranduil 
smiled inwardly. This would give him the chance to look after his horse 
himself. A very rare chance. He new that his station made it nearly 
impossible to do some things himself, especially here with all these 
narrow minded men. A King was not to groom a horse himself. End of 
discussion.

Just before Thranduil moved his horse forward again, he spotted two 
moving figures behind one of the heavy framed windows, a few flights up. 
They were moving with such a grace and gentleness, that the King of 
Mirkwood immediately knew who it was. His smile brightened thinking of 
Haldir and Legolas and what they might be up to now.


The room was cosy and only illuminated be a few candles and the slow 
burning fire in the fireplace. Haldir felt a faint shiver beneath his hands as 
he steered Legolas into the middle of the room. But he knew it was not 
from cold or tiredness. 

With great tenderness and care Haldir let his hands slowly glide down 
Legolas’ body. First along his arms, moving onward to his hips and then 
forward around the largely swollen middle. He enjoyed the feeling of the 
warm and hard mound of flesh. It felt so alive and comforting. And he 
knew that Legolas enjoyed being caressed in that area immensely. It gave 
him the feeling of acceptance and love. 
Gingerly Haldir’s hands fumbled with the fastening of the shirt Legolas 
was wearing and undid them, until he was able to touch the bare flesh.
Legolas had let his head rest back against Haldir’s shoulder and had closed 
his eyes, the hint of a smile playing around his lips.

Gently Haldir caressed Legolas’ body, having his eyes closed as well, only 
relying on touch and sound. Suddenly an idea hit him.
Carefully he turned his husband further towards the small cupboard 
standing at the opposite side of the room. A short glance at Legolas’ face 
showed him, that the other elf still had his eyes closed. Haldir kissed his 
cheek and quietly opened the cupboard with one hand, the other still 
touching the bare flesh, giving comfort and trust.
After a few seconds Haldir pulled some silken scarves from the shelves 
inside the cupboards and placed them on the table right beside him.

He untangled them one handed and removed his hand from his husband, 
but before Legolas could utter a protest or even open his eyes, Haldir 
leaned forward and kissed the slightly parted lips as a reassurance.
Legolas’ lips curved up into a smile and he patiently waited for Haldir’s 
next move. When Legolas felt the soft silken scarf being placed before his 
eyes, his breath hitched. A wave of anticipation and excitement shot 
through his body and he had to suppress a small moan.

Once the scarf was securely tight into place, Haldir took another scarf and 
placed it before his own eyes. He knotted it tightly at the back of his head 
and took a deep breath.
Now both elves would have to rely on their senses and touch.
Haldir moved his hands forward until he touched Legolas. Again he slid 
his hands down his husband’s arms, but this time he needed it as an 
orientation. He took both of Legolas’ hands in his and moved them against 
his own face, letting his love know that he was blinded as well. He could 
feel the tiny shudder that raced through Legolas’ body, as soon as he felt 
the cloth before Haldir’s eyes.

With careful steps both elves moved through the room in the direction 
where the bed was. On the way, nimble fingers removed shirts, tunics and 
opened laces of leggings. The desire ran deep and the need to feel each 
other close was unbearable.
When Legolas’ legs hit the bed he pulled Haldir down with him. They 
sank onto the soft covers, their legs entwined and hearts beating in the 
same rhythm. 

Their hands showed them the way, as faces moved closer to one another 
and lips met in a passionate kiss. Bodies were melting into each other, 
while hands not needed any longer to guide the way, went on a journey of 
their own. Feeling every curve and angle of the other body, sensing the 
ripples of pleasure on the skin, the tightening of muscles and the hard 
arousal beneath the woollen cloth of their trousers.

Lost in a world of sensations Legolas and Haldir showed each other their 
love with every touch, movement and breath, though not a single word 
was spoken.
It was the younger elf, who undid the lacing of his partner’s leggings first 
to carefully feel for the throbbing need inside. A breathy moan left 
Haldir’s lips and he moved his head away from Legolas’ a bit.
Gently he manoeuvred Legolas onto his back and after some moments 
found his place between the long legs. Kneeling between them, Haldir 
caressed them from the shin upwards. Sometimes kneading the firm 
muscles on the way. The further he came to the upper thighs the more he 
could feel Legolas’ restlessness. 
Haldir’s own member was rising hard and demanding from out his open 
leggings. Haldir felt up further Legolas’ legs until he came to his point of 
desire. With the fingers of both his hands Haldir traced the outline of the 
steel erection, straining against the fabric of Legolas’ leggings.
He smiled to himself as he heard his husbands breath quicken slightly, as 
he slowly undid the lacing, freeing the member of its confinement. 

Legolas was hardly able to concentrate on his own hands. Knowing that 
Haldir was in the same position as he was, thrilled him. He could feel 
Haldir moving along his legs, felt his hands on his arousal. Unconsciously 
Legolas spread his legs further, inviting his husband to be bolder.
At last he felt his leggings give way and the considerably cool air of the 
room touch his heated skin. A groan of relief escaped him.

Haldir gently cradled Legolas erection in his hands when he suddenly felt 
something trickle down his own erection. He moaned, feeling his pre cum 
make its way all the way down to his sack. Never had he felt this before 
and never would he have thought it to be as arousing as it now happened 
to be.
Quickly he hooked his fingers underneath the waistband of Legolas’ 
leggings and started to pull them down. Carefully Haldir climbed off the 
bed to get them off all the way and divested himself of his own as well.

Legolas lay waiting for Haldir’s touch again, having felt him move off the 
bed. The rustle of clothes indicated that Haldir had gotten rid of his own 
clothing at last.
But instead of the expected hands, Legolas felt the brush of soft hair and 
only seconds later even softer lips lovingly kissing his ankle. 
He fisted the sheets beneath his body, as Haldir slowly kissed his way up 
the legs.
Legolas longed for Haldir’s touch in more prominent regions and even 
though his belly rested heavily upon him, he arched his back into the touch 
of his husband.

It was Haldir’s nose more than his other senses that told him that he was 
nearing his most cherished destination. The heavy and heady smell of 
Legolas’ sex. It was something Haldir just couldn’t get enough of. It was 
the one thing that aroused him most. 
His lips felt their way past the velvety skin of the junction between leg and 
hip, slightly downwards, along the soft and sensitive skin covering steel 
and finally he found the slightly rougher texture of Legolas sack beneath 
his mouth. Haldir lovingly lapped the skin, enjoying the feel of the skin 
tightening and drawing tighter against Legolas’ body, and then he opened 
his mouth to gently suck one of the balls into his mouth.

Legolas could feel his muscles start to tremble, his body taunt like a 
bowstring and then the sudden release as Haldir’s mouth closed over his 
sack. A long and shuddering moan left is body and Legolas bent his legs 
further to give Haldir more space to do whatever he wanted to do.
Not desiring to destroy the atmosphere with spoken words, Legolas could 
do nothing more than silently beg, that Haldir would feel his needs and 
fulfil his deepest wishes.
So in his head Legolas repeated the words over and over again, like he 
was trying to bewitch Haldir’s mind to hear him.
‘Take me, please take me. Let me feel you deep inside me. Yes, touch me 
there. Please, touch me. No, no. Don’t move you hands away. Please let 
me feel your fingers, let me feel them as you spread me open.’



Haldir drew in his breath deeply, taking in Legolas’ scent. His nose buried 
deeply within the blonde curls that surrounded the throbbing erection of 
his husband.
He could feel Legolas’ tension and want, but didn’t want to satisfy it too 
quickly.
A small smile played around Haldir’s lips as he heard the sound he had 
been expecting, when he lasciviously let the sack slip from his lips.
Legolas groaned with dissatisfaction. 

The hands still clutched the sheets tightly when Legolas suddenly felt 
Haldir moving away from him and out between his spread legs. And 
according to the movement of the mattress, Haldir even had left the bed.
But before the Prince could voice his disapproval, he could hear the soft 
rustle of the sheets along is right side. As if something, or in this case 
someone, was sliding or rather moving against the sheets. The sound was 
coming nearer to his head and Legolas felt his inner tension build up even 
more.
Then the bed dipped a little near his head. What was Haldir up to?
He could hear the slightly panting breath and smell the heady scent, but 
Legolas didn’t have any idea what was about to happen.

Something warm was coming nearer to his face. Nearer to his mouth. He 
knew that smell. Obviously Haldir was kneeling right next to Legolas’ 
head. The prince parted his lips in anticipation and arched his neck, thus 
elevating his head slightly to get nearer to the warmth.
Then suddenly something soft and hot touched his lips. Velvety skin 
covering throbbing steel. Legolas moaned and his tongue slipped out to 
touch Haldir’s member, but quickly it was moved away again, sliding 
along Legolas’ lips, barely touching them, until the heavy sack resting just 
above Legolas hot mouth.

Haldir hoped he had estimated the distance correctly when he moved his 
body closer to Legolas’ head. All he could do was to orientate himself by 
the sound of the Legolas’ heavy breathing.
And when he lowered his arousal down to where he hoped Legolas’ mouth 
was, he nearly gave himself away, feeling the hot lips and the slick tip of 
Legolas’ tongue on his heated skin. But Haldir didn’t want Legolas to 
have his way with him, so he moved slightly upwards again and brought 
his tests down onto the waiting lips.
Further and further Haldir moved downwards until his sack was firmly 
resting against Legolas’ mouth.
Hesitantly and very careful Legolas parted his lips a bit more and 
curiously lapped at Haldir’s sack. When this time it wasn’t removed, 
Legolas began to toy with it in earnest.

Legolas cherished the taste and texture of the rougher skin on his lips. He 
lapped at it longingly and nipped at it carefully with his teeth. Haldir’s 
small moan and gasps sent shivers through his own body and made him 
remember his own need.
But when he let go of the sheet with one hand and gently touched Haldir’s 
body, Haldir snatched it and pushed away from his body. Legolas sighed 
and placed it back where it had been before.

Carefully Haldir moved around Legolas’ head until his bent knees were at 
the sides of it, always keeping his sack on the lips of his husband.
Gently Haldir placed his hands on the shoulders of the blond elf and slid 
them down the body before him. Now that he couldn’t see it, Haldir took 
in every contour of the flesh with his fingers and found it to be a highly 
sensual experience. When he reached the stretched flesh of the belly, he 
bent down his upper body, careful not to put too much weight on his 
husband and kissed it.
Legolas giggled, as usual, in a very un-royal way as Haldir dipped his 
tongue into the now stretched flat navel of his love. Fighting his own urge 
to laugh, the marchwarden moved onward in direction of Legolas erection.

Suddenly Haldir’s nose collided with the soft satiny head of a very hot and 
eager member, leaving a slight wet trail of pre cum on Haldir’s skin.
Legolas moaned and suckled even more eager at Haldir’s sack.


Suppressing a giggle forming in his throat, Haldir moved onward again, 
this time parting his lips slightly and his head raised a fraction more. After 
what seemed an eternity for him, Haldir found the begging erection of 
Legolas again and lapped softly at its head. 
Legolas reaction was immediate. He bucked his hips a bit and drew in the 
air sharply. He wished that Haldir would take him deeper into his mouth, 
but his husband continued only to lap and nibble at the sensitive head.
All too soon Haldir felt Legolas’ legs start to tremble and the unmistakable 
pulsing of the erection between his lips and withdrew with a small sigh. A 
shuddering groan of frustration was the answer.
Very carefully Haldir retreated from his love’s body and felt his way over 
to the right side of the bed, where he hoped to find the small jar containing 
far too little of the gel like substance that Gimli had given them.

Cocking his head slightly, Legolas tried to hear what Haldir was doing. 
After the first moment of frustration had passed, Legolas hoped that Haldir 
had not decided to end everything right now and then he suddenly could 
make out the faint but recognisable sound of glass against wood. Haldir 
was on his right side and the bedside table was on that side too. Glass on 
wood. Was Haldir trying to get himself something to drink? No, the sound 
of the glass was too dull for that. The decanter was of elven make and thus 
light and fragile. Wait, yes. The little jar of Gimli. Was that it?
Anticipation and a trembling need grew within the blond archer, as he 
parted his legs a little bit more.

With a featherlike touch, Haldir felt his way down one of Legolas’ long 
legs until he had reached the end of the bed.
Very carefully Haldir slipped in between the spread legs and moved 
upwards a bit until his bent knees touched the strong thighs.
With trembling hands Haldir unscrewed the little jar and set it gently down 
between his own knees, dumping the lip somewhere behind him on the 
floor.
He reached his hands out somewhere behind him feeling for Legolas’ feet 
and when he had found them, he lovingly slid his hands up the calves to 
the knees. Taking a firmer grip on them, Haldir pushed them further up 
and apart, eliciting a pleased and eager moan from his husband.

Legolas parted his legs all too willingly for Haldir and reached out to 
touch his lovers hands, that were still holding his knees. He brushed over 
Haldir’s fingers in a loving caress and drew his hands back up to lie 
behind his head once more.
The next touch of Haldir was rather unexpected for the younger elf, who 
had hoped to feel Haldir’s strong fingers probing his backside, but instead 
they came to rest on the heavy and by now rather large roundness of his 
belly.
Legolas felt all of his muscles relax, as Haldir caressed his body with slow 
and long strokes, like he was massaging him. A purring sound escaped the 
prince while he was slipping into a trance like state and never noticed 
those fingers drawing nearer and nearer to the source of his need.
A stifled yelp was Legolas’ reaction as suddenly Haldir’s fingers closed 
around his length and pulled his foreskin all the way down, only to lean 
down and flick a teasing tongue over the sensitised head.

Haldir chuckled quietly and let go of Legolas’ throbbing erection and 
dipped the fingers of his right hand into the jar between his knees.
When his fingers where coated sufficiently with the substance, the fingers 
of his left hand parted the willing cheeks slightly and he gently pushed one 
finger into Legolas’ hot and tight body. 
Haldir could feel Legolas’ body arch towards him and knew the his mate 
was already further gone than he had hoped. Gently he added a second 
finger, probing his husband further open and even managed to coat his 
own erection with the gel with his left hand while pushing his right further 
into the body before him.

Legolas’ breathing was shallow and fast by now, his whole being begging 
for Haldir to penetrate him further and when he felt the fingers 
withdrawing he couldn’t help but to voice his needs.
“No, don’t stop. Please. I need more. Push more into me. Spread me open, 
as far as you can. And only then take me.” His voice strained and 
trembling.

Haldir drew a sharp breath, again taken aback by the ferocity in Legolas 
voice and the way it aroused him to hear such words.
Quickly he coated his fingers a bit more and felt Legolas part his legs 
further to give him more room and to open himself up more.
This time Haldir pushed in three fingers at once receiving a shuddering 
groan from his husband as answer. With deliberate slowness Haldir moved 
his fingers within his mate’s body and enjoyed the feeling of the velvety 
heat around his fingers. After some more moments he added a fourth 
finger and when Legolas started to push down onto his hand he quickly 
folded his thumb down into his palm, his whole body shivering as he only 
felt the tight heat sliding over his hand, slowly taking him inside.

Legolas grunted quietly with effort and pushed the small amount of pain 
far aside. His body was thrumming and pulsing with energy as he took 
Haldir’s whole hand into him. Only for a fraction of a moment he though 
about his husband and his needs, but was soon too overwhelmed to 
concentrate onto it.

Haldir felt his own concentration slipping. The pressure was immense. 
The weight of Legolas body was adding to the tightness and pushing 
himself nearer to edge. Haldir was torn between his own need to bury 
himself deep inside of Legolas’ body and the joy he felt now, if only he 
could find his own relief somewhere on his love’s body as well.
The idea struck him just in time, for Legolas’ breathing and writhing of his 
body already indicated the nearing orgasm. Haldir closed his fingers inside 
the trembling body and twisted it ever so slight from left to right.
A deep and loud groan was the response and the fierce clenching of 
Legolas’ internal muscles as the blond prince came, spending himself 
across the tightly swollen skin of his abdomen.
Haldir trembled with need and knew he only had seconds left as he 
carefully withdrew his hand and took his own erection into his hand to 
guide it towards the wide open and spasmodically twitching entrance of 
his husband.
Never had he slipped into Legolas with such an ease and as soon as he had 
buried himself to the hilt, the still clenching muscles pushed him over the 
edge and Haldir came with a hoarse cry, throwing his head back, pumping 
violently into the body underneath him until his last drop was spent.



Thranduil’s hands stopped their constant movement for a moment as he 
could make out the deep feral cry of someone reaching a powerful orgasm. 
A smile lightened the usually stern features for the Mirkwood King only 
knew too well who had uttered this cry.
With loving care his hands slowly started their delicate work again as they 
moved the carving knife with graceful strength along the dark wood.
Only a few moments later the tune of an old lullaby filled the King’s 
room.

The poles and fastening of the tents rattled as the fierce storm raged across 
the plains and through the forests of Ithilien. 
Gimli frowned and turned on his cot for the umpteenth time, still not able 
to find any sleep. He just couldn’t take his mind off measurements, 
carvings, installations and all the work that still had to be done.
Very little time was left to finish their work and that was not their only 
problem.
Just today there had been an attack of a pack of orcs, that were still 
wandering Middle Earth. It was good to know that they were growing 
fewer by the day and it really had been a minor attack, but they were a 
nuisance.
If simple farmers or country folk were attacked they still could do a lot of 
damage.

The dwarf sighed with relief remembering that those orcs luckily didn’t 
get the chance to destroy any of their work. Everything was still standing 
and the elves were nearly  finished with the garden. To Gimli’s mild shock 
he noticed a smile spreading on his face as he remembered the Mirkwood 
King happily kneeling on the ground digging the earth with his bare 
hands, singing to the plants and trees he was working with.

This morning when Thranduil had left to go back to Minas Tirith, to work 
on the cribs there, there had been the same mischievous smile in his eyes 
that Gimli often had seen in Legolas’ eyes. 
In two days the King would return and hopefully everything would be 
finished the next week. And only then would they bring Legolas and 
Haldir here.


Legolas stared angrily at the wooden panels beneath the window of their 
chamber and wondered at the miracle that it still didn’t show any dents as 
he kicked it again in frustration and anger.
Aragorn had asked Haldir this morning to join one of the patrols that were 
securing the lands of Gondor, to clear them off any foes that might still 
wander about. Happy to do something useful again, Haldir had agreed and 
promised to be back the next night. Legolas could understand his husband 
and sent him off with a kiss and smile telling him that he loved him.
And at first he really hadn’t minded, but when nobody else seemed to have 
any time to spend it with him, Legolas had grown frustrated.

What annoyed him most, was the fact that his father had returned 
sometime during the last night, had not told him so and when Legolas had 
called on him later in the morning, the King had refused to let his son in 
and told him to bother someone else.
So the blonde elf had returned to the room he was sharing with Haldir and 
had started to tidy it up a bit. But all too soon the bending down had sent 
flashes of pain along his spine and Legolas had retreated onto their bed to 
indulge in his misery.

Now he was standing at the window looking out over the city all the way 
to the fields of Pelennor all covered in a fresh white blanket of snow.
Somewhere in the far distance he could make out four smaller figures 
rollicking about in the snow. Legolas envied the Hobbits and looked down 
onto his heavy, protruding body and frowned. Of course Sam and Merry 
had been right, he was not in the condition for a snowball fight.

It was nearing afternoon and never had Legolas felt so useless and bored.
If only there was something he could do. Maybe something for not only 
himself, but for someone else.....

“Yes!” he laughed suddenly and spun around heading for the door.
Admittedly it would be a bit unusual for the some people here in Gondor, 
but for him as an elf it was a normal thing to do.
With eager steps Legolas pounded down the long staircase, past the great 
hall and deeper into the heart of the castle. Somewhere here the large 
kitchen would be housed, he was sure of that. Following his rather 
sensitive nose, Legolas found the kitchen immediately.

Surprised, sceptical and even fearful faces stared at him when he pushed 
the door open making a swift entrance.
Everybody knew about the elven prince and even though there were some 
who looked at him and his highly unusual condition with an uncertain eye, 
most were fascinated and amazed and so was the kitchen staff.
Legolas gave them all a charming smile, spreading his arms slightly and 
stepped forward. “Please do not let yourself be disturbed by my presence. 
I only would ask of you a small space were I can work and the permission 
to use what the kitchen has to offer.”

The cooks, apprentices and maids looked at each other. A prince asking 
for their permission. A sudden wave of laughter rang through the kitchen 
and the chef bowed slightly to Legolas. “Everything you need is yours, 
your Highness. And please forgive us the inappropriate reaction to your 
request. But you must understand, that it is not very common that a 
nobleman, sorry elf, like yourself comes down here to ask us for 
permission.”
“I understand.” Legolas smiled and gracefully moved through the kitchen. 
With a wave of his hand the chef signalled an apprentice away and 
showed Legolas to a table where he could work.
“Thank you.” The elf glanced around and looked a bit flustered. “Is there 
the slightest possibility that you might have a apron in my size?”, he 
gestured at his lower body. One of the older maids beamed at Legolas and 
came forward. “If I may be so bold, my Lord, I think we might have the 
same size, round the middle anyway. Though mine is more from indulging 
in food if I might add, but none the less I would like to give you one of 
mine.”
She moved to a cupboard at the far wall and removed a neatly folded piece 
of linen. She unfolded it and came back to Legolas. With a shy smile he 
put the apron on him and tied it in his back.
Legolas was only too happy that the apron didn’t have any ruffles on it, it 
was bad enough that he looked like an elephant right now. With steady 
hands Legolas grounded freshly peeled almonds, mixed flour, spices, 
rosewater and eggs.
Shortly after he had started working on the dough, all sounds coming from 
all around the kitchen ceased as everybody slowly stopped working and 
turned to watch the elf.
Legends had told them about the fact that magic wove itself into every 
work or craft done by elves. Many had believed this to be a myth but now 
some had the chance to actually witness it.
Slender but powerful fingers never faltered as they kneaded and formed. 
The most delicate designs were created and everything was surrounded by 
a soft glow.

Thranduil set down the last piece of wood he had been working on and 
tucked the carving knife away.
When finished there would be two identical cribs, on their sides 
ornamented with scenes of the life of their parents. The meeting, falling in 
love, the wedding, the ring war and the last was a picture of them standing 
by their new house and beside them one could make out the small and 
stout form of Gimli welcoming them.
He stepped out of the room and called a servant to order him to carefully 
pack the wooden pieces and have them ready at the stable by tomorrow on 
a packhorse,
Feeling a bit guilty about closing the door in the face of his son earlier on, 
Thranduil moved down the corridor to their room but found it empty.
With a frown the Mirkwood king headed downstairs and into the great 
hall. Then suddenly a familiar scent drifted towards him and made him 
smile. It was something he hadn’t smelled in a long time.

Helping hands were just taking the first baking tray out of a large oven 
when the door to the kitchen opened and the tall regal figure of Thranduil 
entered. “So this is where you have been hiding!”

Today the singing seemed more joyful than during the last days. Gimli 
mused as he stemmed his hands on his hips and looked at the building site. 
“Maybe it’s because we are nearing the end.”
Suddenly loud shouting was heard from the woods to the right and as 
Gimli spun around he could hardly believe his eyes. Out of the woods 
came two riders followed by a large wagon and some more people on 
horses.
“Master Gimli! Are we glad to find you. The lady sends her wishes and 
some things our happy couple might need.”
Rumil and Orophin halted their horses near the dwarf and dismounted.
“We asked the guards at the main gate to the city where to find you and 
they sent us off in this direction.”
“My dear elves, well met!” Gimli bowed slightly at them. “But how did 
you know that I was not in the city?”
“The Lady used her mirror to see what’s going on and we dare say we 
made her use it quite often, specially after the battle at the Hornburg. She 
couldn’t let us go to our brother then. More often than not we were 
severely under attack at that time ourselves. But now everything settled 
and we wanted to help you surprise Legolas and our brother.”
With an astonished look on their faces the brothers looked around and 
showed their respect to the dwarf. Behind them  the other Lorien elves 
already busied themselves unloading the wagon and joining the Mirkwood 
elves in their work.
“Come Gimli tell us everything!” Orophin pulled the dwarf along towards 
the main part of the building site and motioned his brother to follow.

Legolas looked up in surprise but his light hearted smile vanished from  
his face as he saw his father standing in the door.
Thranduil noticed with regret that Legolas indeed was upset with him and 
raised his voice. “Could I please ask all of you to leave the kitchen for the 
next hour. I need a word with my son and I presume he would like to 
finish what he started.”
The kitchen staff looked at each other and put down whatever they were 
holding in their hands. They didn’t like to do this at all for they needed to 
prepare the meals for tonight but who were they to question a King. They 
would just have to work faster later on. One by one they left the kitchen 
and soon the elves were alone.
Legolas had continued to shape the dough and placed the tiny figures on a 
baking tray while everybody left. He ignored his father’s presence and 
didn’t see him taking up an apron that had been dropped onto a table by 
one of the cooks, and putting it on.
Only when suddenly another pair of hands joined his in shaping the dough 
did Legolas turn to his father to look at him.
The King looked with a closed expression down at his hands and mumbled 
“I am sorry about this morning, my son.”
Carefully Thranduil glanced at his son and when he found the ghost of a 
smile lightening up the beautiful face, he turned to him and took Legolas 
in his arms. Thranduil was still whispering words of fatherly love into his 
son’s ear when Legolas suddenly flinched and drew a sharp breath. 
Quickly the Mirkwood King let go of Legolas and looked questioningly at 
him. Legolas had placed both hands against his body and was panting 
slightly. “Are you in pain, Glorlhoch nín?” falling back to the pet name he 
had used when his son had been in a very young age. (Goldilocks )
“Yes. It’s like a cramp. I can hardly draw breath.”
“Here, come sit down, I will fetch Elrond immediately.” Thranduil tore the 
apron he was wearing from his body and stormed out of the kitchen.

Gimli had shown Haldir’s brothers all around the area and now helped 
them to bring everything they had brought along to it’s right place. Now 
that he had someone else here to help him, Gimli could afford to return to 
Minas Tirith for the night to help Thranduil in the morning. Reluctantly he 
moved to the herd of horses to fetch a smaller one that Aragorn had given 
him. Gimli still wasn’t a big friend of riding but Legolas had taught him 
the basic knowledge and this horse was particularly friendly and patient.

Elrond escorted Legolas back to his room he was sharing with Haldir and 
made him lie down on the bed.
“The cramp has stopped by now” the young elf assured the Elf lord but 
still Elrond was determined to see if everything was all right. He pushed 
the soft linen tunic up and unfastened the leggings. With gentle hand 
Elrond felt and probed the swollen belly. 
“Mhm, everything seems to be fine. I think your body is just giving the 
first signals that the time is nearly up.”
“Already?” Legolas looked astounded.
“Not quite, but soon. I’d say one or two weeks. But you will have to cut 
down on your need to run around and also no riding anymore. More rest 
and relaxations for you from now on. And when Haldir comes back, try to 
keep your lovemaking gentle and slow.” Elrond finished with a gentle 
smile, ignoring the blush on the prince’s  face.
Turning his head towards the door Elrond raised his voice. “You may 
come in now, my friend.”
Slowly Thranduil poked his head through the door and gave Elrond and 
his son a questioning glance.



“All is well father!” Legolas beckoned Thranduil to him.
“Or maybe not quite” he said with a grin. 
Thranduil furrowed his brow and gave Elrond a worried look.
“I am not allowed to move anymore. Can you imagine, Elrond wants me 
to keep still!” Legolas looked accusingly at the Elven Lord of Imladris.
“By the Valar!” Thranduil cried out in mock shock, turning back to his 
son, relief spreading across his feature.
“That truly is an unjust torment for you.”
Legolas glared daggers at him and pushed himself up. “Well, now that you 
confirmed me to immobility, you may as well help me fastening my 
leggings again!”
Elrond laughed and did as he was told.
Thranduil sat beside Legolas and hugged him. “I will have to leave 
tomorrow for Ithilien, but I will see you soon again.”
With that he got up and walked back to his own quarters to get his things 
ready.
He was halfway down the corridors as a deep grumbling voice stopped 
him.
“Ha, there walks the mighty King of Mirkwood and he doesn’t here the 
stomping of a dwarf behind him!”
“Gimli!” Thranduil spun around, smiling warmly at the dwarf.
“I needed to have a decent nights rest again and I thought I’d give you a 
hand tomorrow.”
“Oh you’re most welcome Master Dwarf!” Would you care for a drink in 
my rooms before you retire?”
Mumbling his agreement Gimli strode past the elf and vanished in 
Thranduil’s rooms.

Haldir turned miserably on his travelling bedroll and tried to find some 
sleep. But it just wouldn’t come. 
He missed the slightly heavier breathing of his husband, the groans when 
he would turn his body to the other side. The pressing of the heavy flesh 
against his back and the peaceful look of the prince’s features.
Gladly they would be back at the main city by nightfall and he could take 
Legolas in his arms again.
The march warden wondered how soon their children would com into this 
world and how it would affect their future life.
An enormous happiness suddenly bubbling in Haldir’s chest and he felt 
tears priding at his eyes.
Snatching the cover faster around his shoulders, the marchwarden turned 
to his side again and dreamed of children playing in soft, sunshine bathed 
grass.

A soft knock at the door awoke Legolas from a light slumber and he called 
out for the person to enter.
Very carefully a head, framed with curly red hair fastened in a tight bun, 
peered around the door. It was one of the maids that worked down in the 
kitchen.
“Begging your pardon my Lord. I wanted to inform you that we baked the 
remaining figurines you had prepared and we dared to use up the left over 
dough, though we can never match your artistic hands we managed to 
shape it quite nicely. What is your Lord’s wish how to proceed?” The girl 
bowed politely.
Panting slightly as he pushed himself into a sitting position, Legolas 
nodded mildly.
“Please serve them tomorrow at the breakfast table. One figure for each 
person. All that are not needed you may keep for yourselves.”
A blush stained the girl’s cheeks. 
“Thank you my Lord.” As quietly as she had come she disappeared again.

Thranduil and Gimli had hardly rested the last night. Too much had the 
two unlike warriors been caught up in talk and drink.
The big table was already set out with large quantities of food and on each 
plate sat a small ivory coloured figure resembling the most delicate leaves 
and trees.
Thranduil and Gimli arrived first and took a quick breakfast.
Had Thranduil not tied his hair back in a tight braid he would have been 
able to hide his grin that spread on his face as he watched the dwarf try to 
nibble elegantly at the pastry.
Both had long left the table as Aragorn, Arwen, Elrond, Legolas and the 
Hobbits arrived.
All cheered at the sight of Legolas creative work and the breakfast lasted 
longer than usual.

Thranduil steered his horse between the narrow growing trees always 
having a watchful eye on the dwarf and the packhorse.
The air was cold and the hooves of the horses made crushing noises 
amidst the silent forest. Gimli felt more tired than before and despised his 
own inability to say no to a drink. The movement of the horse underneath 
him and the swinging of Thranduil’s braid in front of him made him 
sleepy. The dwarf felt his eyes drifting shut and that kind of dizziness one 
does encounter before slipping into a deep sleep.
A muffled cry pulled him out of the trance like state and he barely had 
time to watch Thranduil being pulled of his horse when suddenly 
something very hard and heavy robbed him of his consciousness.

Scanning the glittering whiteness of the open space around him Haldir 
marvelled at the purity of this area. Only a few weeks ago tens of 
thousands orks and other foul creatures had plagued this land.
A frown crossed his brow as the march warden spotted tracks a few 
hundred yards away. He had hoped not to find any, but obviously there 
were still some of Sauron’s beasts to be dealt with.
The tracks were about a day old and headed to the south. Maybe to the city 
of Minas Tirith but more likely to the forest of Ithilien.
Haldir quickly rode back to the men he was accompanying and together 
they slowly followed the tracks, careful not to loose them.

Thranduil struggled against the bonds and cursed himself for his stupidity. 
How could  he let himself became so distracted as not to notice their foes 
approaching.
Cold snow and pieces of Wood cut into his back because of his radical 
movements. Only now did the King notice that he had he been rid of all 
his clothing.
It was not in his nature to feel ashamed of his body but being stripped 
naked by the enemy was something that shouldn’t have happened to him.
Thranduil eased his struggling and carefully looked around. A few feet 
away lay Gimli, seemingly unconscious.
Their horses had been tethered to a tree nearby and the large saddlebags 
containing the unfinished cribs had been thrown to the ground, half of 
their contents spilled.
Somewhere in the near distance he could make out different kinds of 
voices. Some sounded orcish, of the others he wasn’t sure.
As quietly as he could, Thranduil tried to crawl over to Gimli, only to find 
that his bonds had been tied to a tree and kept him from moving any 
further.
“Gimli! Gimli!”  The King whispere4d to the dwarf but couldn’t wake 
him.
“Oh, so you have tried to escape your bonds, now have you?” A tall man 
with shaggy hair and beard approached Thranduil, an orc blade drawn.
“Well, for that I will punish you. You must learn to obey.”
Only seconds later a piercing scream echoed through the forest, followed 
by the mocking laughter of different rough voices.

Legolas, who was sitting with Arwen near a fireside in the great hall 
discussing the coronation and upcoming wedding with her, suddenly 
stiffened in his seat and grew pale.
“Legolas, what is wrong? Are you in pain? Tell me!” Arwen had jumped 
up immediately when she saw her fellow elf act that way.
But Legolas didn’t answer her, instead beads of sweat appeared on his 
forehead and his breathing had grown shallow.
“Legolas speak to me!” Arwen had taken Legolas hand in hers and thus 
tried to gain his attention.
“Ada …,” the blond prince whispered.
“Your father?” Arwen’s brow creased. “What is wrong? Can you sense 
anything?”
“Ada …, he is in pain.” Legolas suddenly pushed himself up and headed 
towards the entrance.
“Wait, where are you going Legolas?” The future queen of Gondor ran 
after the prince., but Legolas determinedly moved on without answering to 
her.
Arwen quickly turned in an other direction to fetch her father.
Once in the stable Legolas ordered one servant to ready his horse and 
another to go and get his weapons.

 Gimli’s head shot up as a gut wrenching scream hit his ears. Dazedly he 
blinked a few times and then focused on what happened opposite of him.
Thranduil was literally recoiling from the man before him, his face 
contorted with pain.
With a menacing laugh the man approached the King again and slowly but 
efficiently drew the tip of his sword down one leg, cutting deeply through 
the skin down to the muscle.
But this time, all Thranduil could do was whimper with agony as his blood 
stained the snow crimson.
“Let him go you bastard!” Gimli shouted with rage.
Reluctantly the man turned away from  the elf toward the dwarf, pointing 
his bloodied sword at him.
“One more word out of you and I will have your tongue cut out. As far as I 
have heard elves are fast healers. Well, let’s see how fast this one heals.” 
With a smile their captor walked away.
Only now could Gimli see the whole damage that had been done to 
Thranduil.
Both his arms and one leg had been cut open on the whole length, blood 
was running swiftly from the wounds and the King looked as pale as the 
snow itself.




With trembling fingers Legolas fastened his quiver as good as it was 
possible and called for a stable boy to help him onto the horse.
Knowing perfectly that Elrond had forbidden him to ride, the young prince 
took a deep breath and mounted Arod.
Once he was on the horse he felt at ease and carefully rode all the way to 
the main gate. The feeling of dread had increased during the last hour and 
Legolas could almost feel the danger his father appeared to be in.

Arwen had needed more time than expected to find her father. She 
stormed into the future throne room and nearly skidded to a halt when she 
saw her father and Aragorn deeply in conversation.
“Father! Estel!” She cried out.
Both looked up and Aragorn was instantly on his feet seeing her distressed 
face.
“Arwen, love. What is the matter?” Aragorn tried to hold her by her 
shoulders but the elf ignored him and turned to her father instead.
“Father! Come quickly, Legolas …, something seems to be wrong with 
Thranduil. He wants to go after his father. Come. We have to stop him.”
Elrond had jumped up and actually broke into a run hearing his daughter’s 
words. Arwen and Aragorn followed at his heels.
Aragorn shot Arwen a questioning glance but she didn’t knew what her 
father was going to do, so she shook her head slightly and kept on running.
Elrond hoped that they would catch Legolas in time for he was sure that 
the prince had taken a horse.
He knew that father and son shared a very tight bond but Legolas didn’t 
know where Thranduil had been heading and so would have to rely only 
on his senses to find him. Thanks to the Valar that Thranduil had told him 
about the surprise for his son and where it was. 
Elrond stormed into the stable. Arod’s box was empty.

Legolas urged his horse into a gallop as soon as he had passed the large 
gates of Minas Tirith. His body swayed slightly trying to get his body back 
into balance. He held tightly onto the reigns and pressed his lips together, 
trying to ignore the increasing amount of pain and uneasiness spreading 
throughout his body. 

Dusk was settling and the woods into the distance faded into the darkness, 
leaving Legolas without much chance to look for any tracks that might 
have given him the possibility to locate his father. Carefully he slowed 
down his faithful Arod and took a deep breath. 
He knew that his father was out there somewhere, but he had no idea as to 
where exactly.


With horror Gimli stared at the crumbled form of the usually proud and 
unyielding form of Thranduil. It was getting harder and harder to make out 
the battered body in the twilight and Gimli hoped that he had been right, 
when he had seen the wounds already starting to close up.
A short while ago the leader of their kidnappers had come back with some 
of his followers, consisting of some more wild men and orcs and had 
beaten the King to the ground. Gimli had been able to hear the sickening 
sound of breaking bones and the far more subdued sounds of tortured flesh 
from his position. But unlike before Thranduil had hardly made any 
sound. Whether because of his pride or because he simply wasn’t able to, 
was beyond the dwarf.

Now all he could make out were shallow and unsteady breaths and faint 
groans from time to time, indicating that the King was still alive.
With determination and a burning hatred in his heart the dwarf 
concentrated again on destroying his bonds. He had to get free somehow.

Suddenly the footsteps of more then just a few persons returned and the 
dwarf could barely make out some of the wild men again.
They were carrying some rope and blades of some sort.
It was hard to see what they were up to and only the laughter and agonised 
sound coming from Thranduil indicated that they were again torturing the 
poor elf. They left far more quickly than Gimli would have expected and 
on their way past the dwarf, they came over to him to check his bonds and 
kick him a few times in his back and belly, causing the dwarf to curl up 
into a more protective position.

Gimli waited until their tormentors had left and straightened up as far as it 
was possible to see if he could make out what had happened to his best 
friend’s father.
Thranduil was bound at his wrists, thus tied to a large and sturdy branch 
on a nearby tree his feet dangling only a few inches above the ground. 
Beneath his feet Gimli could see something glittering in the dark and 
immediately knew what it was.
The wild men had lowered the blades into the ground, so that only the 
sharp edges looked out. To this point Thranduil feet where still an inch or 
so above them, but the elf’s arms would soon tire and the weight of his 
own body stretch his spine far enough to scrape the feet over the blades. It 
was all just a matter of time.
The King’s head was hanging low between his shoulders and he didn’t 
seem to have enough energy left to lift it.
“Gimli,” the voice was barely audible “please try to get out of here. You 
have to tell the others about these creatures. Do you hear me?”

“Of course I hear you.” Gimli’s voice was rough and angry in the attempt 
to hide his concern. “But if you think I will leave you hanging here, you 
are insane. Oh, and don’t try to argue with me, you will have as little 
influence on me as your son!”
the dwarf again started the struggle against his bonds, frowning when they 
wouldn’t budge even a bit.


Haldir lead his group of men along the edges of a vast forest and frowned 
inwardly. He had been able to follow the tracks of that large group as far 
as here, but amongst the trees and in the darkness it was hard to keep 
track. Too many other tracks, made by animals large and small distorted 
the main ones he was looking for. He called out for his riders and ordered 
them to ride in a straight line, side by side through the woods, in order to 
cover more ground.


Legolas tried desperately to bent down as much as he could on his horse to 
look out for any signs or tracks on the ground. Halting his horse for a 
moment he analysed the situation. Where could his father have been 
heading? Had the dwarf been with his father again?
In that case, they would have most likely taken a well travelled path. He 
knew that Gimli detested riding through the woods and so always wanted 
it to be a quick travel.

Cocking his head to on side, Legolas surveyed the edge of the forest. A 
little to his right a small gap was still clearly visible, obviously leading to 
a narrow path south.
South. South? Hadn’t Gimli once told him something about riding through 
Ithilien with Faramir?
The blond elf whispered to his horse and determinedly choose the path 
heading south.


After only bruises had formed on his wrists, now the skin was swollen and 
torn, blood seeping from the open flesh. Gimli ignored the stinging pain 
from the sweaty ropes still holding his hands tightly together and 
continued fighting to get them loose.
It had been at least an hour by now that the dwarf had heard any sounds 
coming from the elf, who was now nearly totally hidden in the darkness. 
Had it not been for the dwarf’s keen eyesight in the darkness, he might not 
have been sure that the elf was still there. Gimli could still make out the 
pale form, hanging from that branch, sometimes swaying slightly, like a 
leaf in a breeze. The alabaster skin was marred and crusted with dirt and 
blood. As for the feet..... to Gimli they seemed to be two dark lumps at the 
end of the legs. He had heard Thranduil’s agonised breaths and groans as 
he no longer was able to keep his feet from being cut open by the blades. 

It drove him mad to no end that he still hadn’t freed himself and he felt 
that particular white and hot madness coiling up deep inside his belly. It 
had only happened to him once before in a battle a long time ago. It was 
something he could not control and he was frightened of. It occurred not 
among all the dwarves, only some were known as battle mad. It was like 
loosing every inch of self-control, forgetting caution and defence. If the 
heat, as they called it, came over a dwarf, it was most likely that he was 
killed in battle or would simply exhaust himself beyond the possibility of 
recovery.


Elrond had taken the next elven horse that had been at hand, had thrown 
the reigns on and mounted it without further delay. Aragorn followed suit 
and drove his heels hard into the horse’s flanks trying to catch up with 
Elrond. To their advantage, it had stopped snowing and Legolas’ tracks 
were, even though it was fairly dark already, clearly visible on the white 
ground.
Carefully Elrond and Aragorn guided their mounts down the long and 
winding lanes of Minas Tirith, not wanting to slip. Legolas must have 
driven his horse forward with more speed than sensible, his tracks showed 
long streaks where the horse had skidded on icy patches. Aragorn saw 
Elrond shake his head and muttering to himself. It had been a long time 
since the King of Gondor had seen his foster father thus worried.

A pale and slender hand resting gently on the horses neck brought it to a 
halt. Legolas closed his eyes, concentrating on the sounds around him in 
the forest. This wood was alien to him and he doubted that it was going to 
help him. Very little was to be heard, hardly any beasts were up and about, 
no breeze catching itself in the bare twigs and branches.
With a frustrated growl Legolas urged his horse forward again and hope to 
find any sign of his father soon.


Through a haze of pain and tiredness, Thranduil could make out the 
twisting form of the valiant dwarf. The constant muttering and swearing 
had meanwhile turned into grunts and heavy breathing. Had Thranduil not 
been so exhausted and full of pain he would surely have been worried and 
maybe even a little scared. 
Suddenly Gimli roared and flexed his abused muscles once more. His 
view was obstructed by the blazing of madness before his eyes, his ears 
were ringing and his blood pumping with a violent speed through his 
body. Sudden silence settled around the two unlike beings and then the 
sound of ripping rope was heard. With a howl of triumph Gimli threw his 
arms up in the air, ignoring the pain in the muscles and quickly grabbed 
the rope that held his ankles together and also tied to a tree. With another 
fearsome roar he ripped it apart and spun around facing in the direction of 
the now nearing footsteps. 

The wild men, orcs and their leader had heard the dwarfs shout and had 
jumped to their feet immediately. Readying their weapons they carefully 
approached the small clearing. At first everything seemed to be like it had 
been when they left their two prisoners. The elf was still hanging as he 
should be, his feet by now severely cut open by the blades and the dwarf 
lying like a lump near another tree. But suddenly that lump jumped up. Far 
more quickly than anybody would have expected a dwarf to move, the 
small creature shot over to the wild men and smashed into the group like a 
ram, taking down several at once. 

Foes, foes everywhere. He could smell and hear them. ‘Let them come.’ 
Gimli thought and huddled down on the ground, his muscles coiled, ready 
to move at any given moment. Wanting to maim, to crush and to tear 
apart. There, they were coming. Slowly, carefully they edged into the 
clearing, nearing the near dead being hanging from a tree. 
Like a shot the dwarf was up and with all the power he could muster and 
his weight he threw himself right into the group of approaching enemies. 
He heard some bones crush, felt the warmth of blood, pouring from 
wounds where his enemies had cut themselves in the fall. Blind with rage 
the dwarf grabbed the next object that appeared to be a weapon. Even 
though he was hardly able to wield a two handed sword properly, Gimli 
hacked at everything that moved. Cutting of limbs wherever he hit.

Those not taken down by the fierce attack now surrounded the raging 
dwarf, attacking him from behind. More than once one of the attackers 
managed to wound the dwarf but the stout creatures didn’t even flinch 
once, nor did he cease his attacks on his foes in front of him.
Many already lay slain at his feet but more were coming and it looked like 
a battle lost.


A weird and brute sound suddenly echoed through the silence of the 
forest. It sounded like a wounded animal in anger. Legolas halted his horse 
in its tracks and listened. The faint clatter of metal and the subdued sounds 
of a battle made his heart jump and he readied his bow before giving his 
horse a command to slowly advance in the direction of the noise. 
After what seemed hours to the elf he could make out a waving mass of 
creatures, consisting of foul orcs and even worse wild men. Many lying 
either dead or wounded on the ground, others fighting an invisible foe and 
some waiting with readied weapons for their turn. Obviously somebody 
was in deep trouble here. 

Legolas turned his horse sideways and notched an arrow. His swollen 
body hindered him less than he would have expected but he gathered it 
would be differently once he had to fight on foot.
Aiming carefully, the blonde prince targeted one of the larger creatures 
and fired. With a rather faint yelp the large orc sacked down, dead before 
his body even hit the ground.
With a surprised roar some of the beasts turned their heads in the direction 
of the elf, but could not make him out yet. Taking his chance, Legolas 
continued firing at them until he had to flee the scene. The last thing he 
wanted was to dismount and fight on foot. The risk of getting hurt and 
with it the child was far too great. Arod obediently jumped into a canter 
and Legolas steered the horse behind a ground of dense growing trees. 
Again he waited until his enemies were near enough and immediately 
fired a volley of shots at them.


Haldir suddenly lifted his head and signalled his men to a halt. The noises 
of a battle were not to be overheard amongst the stillness of the woods. 
With a triumphant battle cry Haldir motioned his soldiers forward, riding 
hard towards the scene of battle.


His body screamed from exhaustion, his heart was about to give up and his 
hands were hardly able to grip the handle of the sword tightly anymore but 
nothing could stop him now. It would continue until he would eventually 
break down and most likely his body would give up in the same moment.
Somewhere in the distance somebody was fighting with him, taking his 
enemies down in a flight but still there were more coming.

Then from out of nowhere riders stormed the clearing, beheading foes and 
chasing some of them into the darkness. Some riders followed them, 
making sure they would not see the light of day.
Gimli heard shouts, somebody calling his name. Somebody coming 
towards him. He raised the sword ready to strike growling at whoever was 
approaching him.
Eyes glowed wildly at the person before him. Silver hair was whipping 
around a fair face. With a shout Gimli charged at the person, but before he 
could strike, something hard and heavy hit his head, making his knees 
buckle.
With a soft sigh the dwarf crumbled to the ground, breathing heavily. 

Only now did Haldir see Thranduil and how he was hanging from that 
tree. The march warden moved forward quickly, shock written clearly 
across his face, when suddenly a loud and tormented cry made him spin 
around.

“Ada!”
Legolas rushed onto the clearing and jumped off his horse as quickly he he 
could manage in his condition.
With tears in his eyes, the prince rushed to his father’s side and dropped to 
his knees, lifting the feet away from the blades with gentle hands.

“Legolas!” Haldir looked at his husband in disbelief. What was he doing 
here? 
“Help him!” Legolas shouted angrily at Haldir. 
With slightly trembling hands Haldir put his arms around the King’s waist 
and nodded to a soldier to cut the rope holding the King.
As soon as the rope was, cut the form of Thranduil slumped lifelessly into 
Haldir’s arms.
Legolas was crying openly now, still cradling his father’s feet. “What have 
they done to you, Ada?” With tender fingers Legolas was stroking the pale 
lengths of his father’s legs.


“Legolas!” a cry echoed across the clearing. Elrond and Aragorn had 
ridden hard to follow the young elf and now sped onto the battleground.
They found the blond elf kneeling by Thranduil’s side, blood staining his 
legs, tears on his face and his complexion paler than usual.

“Legolas,” Elrond quickly dismounted and kneeled down by the prince’s 
side, afraid that something had happened to the pregnant elf. “Are you 
hurt? Are you in any pain?” But Legolas only continued to stare blindly at 
his father’s legs and feet, still caressing them.
Only then did Elrond see the damage that had been done to the King of 
Mirkwood.
“By the Valar!” he cried out and quickly turned his gaze at the King’s 
face. “Built a stretcher. Now!” the elf Lord bellowed at no one in 
particular, being used to the fact that he had enough authority to command 
any person around him. And as expected immediately some of Haldir’s 
men got down to the task.

Elrond shooed Haldir away from Thranduil’s side, who lay him very 
gently down on the ground and started checking the rest of the battered 
body.
Deep cuts on his arms and legs were already in the process of healing, 
angry blotches of purple and black around the torso indicated that the King 
had been severely beaten and the body was covered in a sheen of cold 
sweat while the breathing was shallow and unsteady. All the signs of a 
deep shock hung around the broken elven form and Elrond quickly 
unfastened the clasps of his cloak, gently wrapping the shivering form in 
it.
He turned back to Legolas, who was still sitting as before and hadn’t even 
so much as twitched a muscle.
Carefully Elrond pried the bleeding feet from the prince’s grip and took a 
good look at them. The soles had been cut open to the bare bone and 
chunks of flesh were hanging loosely from ligaments that were still intact. 
Elrond winced at the sight and gestured to Aragorn to get him some sort of 
cloth, so he could cover the abused feet for transportation.
Only when the stretcher was ready and Thranduil had been placed upon it, 
the elf Lord turned to the kneeling Legolas. Anger and frustration was 
clearly written across his face. 
“What did you think you were doing?” he asked in a sharp voice.
“You could have been hurt! What about your child!” Aragorn joined in 
with his foster father.
“Now, get up. Let me have a look at you!” Elrond’s voice made it clear 
that he was in no mood to discuss this.

Legolas slowly got up from his knees, wincing slightly from the pain of 
kneeling down for a long time and stood, head bowed, before Elrond.
Haldir had moved behind his husband and laid a supporting hand on his 
shoulder.
“Now,” Elrond muttered “tell me. Have you any more good ideas, like 
your last one? Endangering not only yourself, but also your child? Are you 
ever going to learn that it is not you alone any more?” 
Even though his tone was harsh with worry, Elrond’s hands were as gently 
as ever, probing the swollen abdomen, checking for bruises or strained 
muscles.

“Why didn’t you call us?” Aragorn wanted to know. “We could have gone 
and helped your father. “If Arwen would have pulled such a stunt whilst 
carrying our child......”
“Stop chiding him!” Haldir suddenly raised his voice in anger. “I am not 
happy about the fact that Legolas endangered himself in battle again,” 
Haldir had figured out by now what had happened but it felt wrong to him 
to shout at Legolas in a time like this. “But do you honestly believe he 
would have stood aside? His father was only too obviously in grave 
danger. It was lucky that he felt it. And he was here to help. And don’t call 
him irresponsible! It was clever of him to stay on his horse and only use 
his bow from the distance. Actually he was acting less rash than any of 
you!”
Both Aragorn and Elrond turned to Haldir with surprise and wonder.
Had they heard right? Had Haldir been defending his husband even though 
Legolas had indeed endangered his child’s life?
“Stop staring at me like that. Maybe you should better have a look at 
Gimli right now. I don’t know what has happened but he doesn’t seem to 
be in a good shape either.” Haldir glared at his two opposites

For the first time Legolas turned his head in direction of the crumbled 
form of his dear friend Gimli. As if woken from a trance, the blond prince 
stumbled over to him and crouched beside the lifeless body. Turning him 
over to his back with a gentleness that Haldir had never expected, Legolas 
lovingly stroked loose strands of coarse red hair away from the dwarf’s 
face. 
“Gimli.” Legolas whispered “Gimli, can you hear me?” Worry edged the 
delicate lines of his face as he wiped beads of sweat from Gimli’s brow. 
But the dwarf didn’t hear him. 
Elrond neared and studied the dwarf for a few moments. He had heard of 
something like this. Or maybe he had read about it. Dwarves falling into a 
battle frenzy. There was no way to stop them, no way to get through to 
them. Most of those dwarfs had died afterwards.
But maybe they still had a chance with this one. By knocking Gimli 
unconscious they might have saved his life.

Shortly afterwards a second  stretcher had been build and the group of 
elves and soldiers left for Minas Tirith. Elrond was monitoring Thranduil 
and Gimli, Aragorn was leading and Haldir had joined Legolas on Arod 
holding his exhausted husband close.
Haldir’s sleeves were soaked by now, but he couldn’t stop the constant 
flow of tears that ran down Legolas face. The young elf had very nearly 
lost two dear ones this night and it still wasn’t sure whether one of them 
might not live to see the next day.

He had been furious at first when Legolas had approached from the depths 
of the woods, but soon his pity for his husband had taken over and he had 
felt the urge to protect him against everybody else.
Once they were going to be back in Minas Tirith, he would draw his 
husband a bath and hold him close for the rest of the night. Maybe 
tomorrow he could ask him why he had followed his father alone, instead 
of asking for the help of others.



When the towering city came into sight Elrond was relieved. Soon he 
could offer his patients the treatment they needed. He asked himself for 
the thousandth time why Gimli and Thranduil had chosen to return to 
Ithilien at night. Suddenly he smacked his forehead and quickly signalled 
one of the Gondorian soldiers over to him.
Quickly stepping aside, Elrond talked to the soldier in quite words 
explaining what he was supposed to do. After having received his orders, 
the soldier turned his horse and made haste in delivering Elrond’s 
message.
Elrond sighed again and moved back to his former position between the 
two stretchers.

Haldir had talked endlessly to his husband trying to get the tired elf to 
follow him to their chamber and leave Elrond to his works. Legolas had 
refused to leave his fathers side and only after the elf Lord had raised his 
voice against the prince, Legolas had given up and now tried to relax the 
best he could in the hot water, while Haldir rinsed his body off dirt and 
blood, caressing his skin on the way.
Later in bed, Haldir still felt the tremors wracking Legolas body from time 
to time, but when one of the maidens had softly announced herself and had 
delivered the message from Lord Elrond that both patients were out of 
immediate danger and resting, Legolas had immediately slipped into a 
deep and dreamless sleep.

Early the next day Thranduil woke, his body trembling slightly from the 
strain and still lingering pain in his feet. He found Elrond bent low over 
the dwarf’s body checking breathing and reflexes.
His memory was cloudy and not all too vivid but what he could remember 
were pieces of wood on the forest ground. Pieces that were somehow 
important. Men running towards him, hurting him and then suddenly it all 
returned. The beatings, the torture, Gimli fighting like a madman against 
his bonds. He raised his hands before his face and drew a shuddering 
breath.

Elrond spun around and looked surprised at the woodland King. 
“Thranduil! You are awake.” 
Thranduil only nodded weekly.
Gentle hands pulled his hands away from his face, not giving him the 
chance to hide the tears of shame.
“My, friend. Come now, rest at peace. You are safe, Gimli is obviously 
recovering and I even sent someone to your secret place to inform the 
workers there that you wouldn’t come for the next days.”
“I never saw or heard them coming, Elrond. I was so absorbed in my 
thoughts. I should have been more careful. I brought this misery upon us.”
“Don’t talk nonsense. You brought nothing upon us. It is only too natural 
that your thoughts were occupied. Your son will be giving birth soon, you 
want the surprise to be ready beforehand and you were accompanied by a  
dwarf.”
Suddenly Thranduil’s eyes widened “The crib!”
“The crib?” Elrond looked perplexed.
“These beasts had scattered the parts on the ground. Have you found 
them?”
“Thranduil, we had more important matters at hand. I am sure nobody paid 
any attention to a few pieces of wood on the ground.” The desperation in 
Thranduil’s face took Elrond aback.
“If it is so important to you, my friend. I will send someone out there and 
if he finds anything, I will tell him to bring it to Ithilien.”
Thranduil smiled weakly and Elrond could see the King relax back into 
the pillow. Only seconds later Thranduil’s eyes became vacant and Elrond 
sighed knowing the King had slipped back into a well earned healing 
sleep.

 


Orophin and Rumil watched to approaching man from Gondor with a mild 
suspicion. Where were Thranduil and the dwarf? They should have 
returned some time duriing this night but they hadn’t shown up yet.. 
Haldir’s brothers had been very excited to see them, for they had 
accomplished a last during the last two days and were eager to show it to 
them.

The man looked flushed and at the brink of exhaustion as he halted his 
horse in front of the two elves.

“I bare ill news, my lords.” He panted slightly. “King Thranduil and Gimli 
the dwarf have been attacked. They were kept prisoners and King 
Thranduil had been severely tortured when we found them. I do not know 
of their conditions yet, but Lord Elrond is tending to them.”

Rumil had sucked in his breath sharply. How could that have happened?  
He looked at his brother. “Shall we ride to Minas Tirith?”
“No, Rumil. I think it’s best if we stay here. If Elrond tends to them, we 
know that they are in good hands. We might as well continue  the work 
here.”

Rumil didn’t seem quite so convinced but decided it was better to let his 
brother have his way. 
Smiling politely, Rumil stepped up to the guard and invited him over to 
the group of tents, to eat and rest.

The morning had long passed and all the elves and dwarves had returned 
to their work a the building site. But today no songs were sung, no jokes 
were passed among the working and no jests  were made among elves and 
dwarves.
The concern for their kind weight heavily on every single person. Rumil 
and Orophin tried as best as they good to keep up the mood, but when two 
more men from Gondor appeared at the edge of the woods, the silence 
grew deafening.

One of the men had a large bundle tied securely to the saddle behind him 
and waved enthusiastically at the group.

“We bring new from Minas Tirith!” the other cried out. At once all the 
elves and dwarves dropped their work and hurried over. 

“Tell us!” Orophin was first to reach the men.

“Lord Elrond sends his Greetings and bade us to tell you that King 
Thranduil is on the mend and Gimli the dwarf recovering. He also send us 
out to look for something that got lost in the woods. We are to give it to 
you to. He supposes that you know what to do with it.” With that he 
reached behind him to carefully free the bundle from the leather straps 
holding it to the saddle.

Orophin helped him to ease down the heavy package and carefully 
unfolded the cloth. Inside it he found the wonderfully carved pieces of 
wood that would make up the two cribs for Legolas’ children. Rumil had 
knelt down beside his brother and carefully ran his fingers along the wood. 
To his amazement it was whole. No broken parts, no splintered edges 
nothing. Smiling the elves got up from the ground and found that all the 
workers surrounding them had an equally happy expression of their faces. 

After the two Gondorian man had been given something to eat and now 
sat together with the guard that had arrives last night, everybody returned 
to work only this time with a lighter heart. It took only several minutes 
this time, before the first lilting voice filled the air, soon joined by others, 
forming a song from the heart.


Legolas turned and winced. His back was sore and his legs still felt weak. 
The memory of last night was till vivid in his mind and he hardly could 
get the image of his father out of his head. The way he had bled, his feet, 
the sunken eyes and above all the look of agony on his features. 

“Shhh...” Haldir’s soothing voice pulled him back from his thoughts. 
“Everything is alright, my love. No need to fear for them anymore. I have 
just been to the house of healing and both are doing fine. Your father is 
sleeping and Gimli is slowly making his way back to us. He has not yet 
reached consciousness again, but Elrond assured me that he will be with 
us again, most likely even today.”

“How, did you know, what I was thinking about?” the blond elf snuggled 
up to his husband. 

“You were whimpering. But very quietly” Haldir quickly assured Legolas 
after seeing his eyes narrowing. If Legolas hated something, it was his 
own weakness. 
“Come, “ Haldir nudged the pregnant elf gently, “what about some 
breakfast?”

“I’m not really hungry. Only thirsty.” Legolas smiled at Haldir.

“Listen, you will not start that again. You will have to eat! I want to make 
a deal with you.” The march warden looked at Legolas sternly “You eat a 
little bit, fruit if you like and I will give you a very nice treat afterwards.”

“A treat?” the prince looked up at Haldir and furrowed his brow.

“A very nice treat.” Haldir curled his lips suggestively.

“Oh,” Legolas smiled “fine, maybe I will succumb to you and have some 
apple and berries. Maybe even some bread and honey. How does that 
sound?”

“Perfect.” Haldir pushed himself up, kissed Legolas’ swollen belly and left 
the room with a smile on his face. 


Elrond watched Gimli’s struggle to consciousness closely, wanting to be 
alert if he needed to help the dwarf. After what seemed hours Gimli’s 
eyelids fluttered and he opened his eyes, slightly squinting against the 
light in the room.

Letting the breath go, Elrond had been unconsciously been holding, the 
Elf lord moved over to the awakening dwarf and rested a comforting hand 
on the bare shoulder. He could feel the powerful muscles move beneath 
the slightly hairy skin and murmured soothingly to the dwarf.  

“Thranduil?” Gimli mumbled quietly. Not quite yet being able to 
comprehend the situation.

“All is well, son of Gloin. The King is sleeping.” Elrond assured him, 
never taking his hand away from the shoulder.

“Legolas!” Gimli suddenly tried to push himself up. “He was there. How 
could he. The child....”

“Gimli! Calm yourself. Everybody is just fine. Legolas is resting, like you 
should. And believe me, no harm was done to him. I promise you will see 
him later on. Now, lay back down and give your body the rest it needs.” 
The Elf lord managed to keep the dwarf on his bed.

It took Gimli another few minutes to relax again. First he struggled to turn 
his head in the direction where Thranduil’s bed was standing and only 
when he was satisfied that the King was sleeping peacefully, the dwarf 
lowered his head back onto the pillow and closed his weary eyes.


When Haldir returned to the room he shared with Legolas, he found his 
husband sitting up against his headboard, legs stretched out in front of 
him, stroking his bulging belly with tender hands, singing softly.

With a smile that shone with all the love Haldir held for Legolas, the 
marchwarden carried the tray he had taken from the kitchen to the bed and 
set it down. 

“Now, what do the little ones tell you?” the silver haired elf laughed and 
bent down to nuzzle the warm and soft skin of his husband’s stomach.

“That their Ada is indeed slightly hungry and that they are fed up with the 
little space they have.” Legolas grumbled, as he felt another cramp 
approaching. He had gotten used to it by now. Some times the muscles of 
his womb would cramp down for some minutes and then relax again. Now 
that Elrond had explained to him the why and how, it didn’t bother him 
that much anymore. Only the fact that is was slightly painful. On the other 
hand the prince was glad, for it was a sure sign that it wouldn’t be too long 
now anymore until the babies were going to be born. And that meant he 
would have his old lighter figure back soon.

Haldir kissed Legolas on the cheek and picked up some bread with honey 
from the tray, carefully feeding the blond elf, never listening to his 
annoyed muttering. Haldir new very well that Legolas was able to eat 
himself, but he loved to pamper him and new that this time would be over 
soon, so he wanted to take all the chances he still had. 

They ate in silence, enjoying the nearness of the other and the warming 
rays of the winter sun shining through their window.

Legolas was still nibbling delicately at an apple when Haldir got up and 
moved towards the large cupboard. Cocking his head slightly Legolas 
watched Haldir with growing interest. 

Haldir retrieved some items from the cupboard, keeping them hidden from 
Legolas’ view and placed them on a little side table, quickly covering 
them up with a piece of cloth. With a smile Haldir moved to the door of 
the room and vanished in the hallway.

Legolas  sat on the bed, wondering what Haldir was up to. His curiosity 
grew with every minute, but the thought of getting up and waddling over 
to the table was not what the prince was feeling up to. So he let out a sigh 
of resignation and decided to simply wait.

After a few minutes Haldir reappeared carrying a bowl of steaming water 
and a few drying clothes draped over his arm.

“Do you think me too heavy and lame to walk to the bath on my own feet 
by now, that you bring the bath to me?” Legolas looked at Haldir 
expectantly.

It seemed that for a second Haldir was confused by his husband’s 
questions, but quickly a smile spread on his face as he shook his head. “No 
my love. By all means. I have something else in mind.” With that, Haldir 
placed the bowl of water on the small side table, right beside the cloth, that 
he had draped so carefully over some other things before and pushed it 
gently nearer to the large bed. When he was satisfied, Haldir placed one of 
the large drying cloths at the foot of the bed and smiled at Legolas.

“Love, could you please take of your night shirt and scoot down a bit, so 
that your feet are here at the end of the bed.” Haldir beckoned the blond 
elf to him.

“What are you up to?” Legolas asked hesitantly as he rid himself of the 
long flowing shirt he was wearing. 

“Oh, you will like it. Believe me.” Haldir grinned and patted the bed in 
front of him.

Reluctantly Legolas moved his heavy body further down the bed until his 
feet reached the edge. Haldir gently pushed him back until Legolas was 
lying flat on his back and gently pushed a pillow underneath the golden 
head. Kissing the pregnant elf on the nose Haldir moved back down and 
pushed Legolas legs apart.

“Oh, if that was what you wanted you could have just suggested it to me.” 
Legolas grinned sheepishly.

“No, my dearest husband, that it not the reason why I am pushing your 
legs apart. Just you lie back and relax for me.” Haldir shook his head.

“For you I am always relaxed.” Legolas muttered but did as he was told.

Haldir grinned and moved in between Legolas’ spread legs and sat cross 
legged between them on the bed. Sure it was a tempting sight, but he had 
to restrain himself and maybe later take advantage of it. 
Carefully Haldir pulled the little table nearer to him and pulled the cloth 
away.

On the table were lying some things he had obtained in the city some days 
ago. Some scented soap, fragranced oil and a weird looking small knife. 
This had been the most difficult part, since elves never had to shave Haldir 
had not really known what he would need. And even worse, he had to 
explain the area he wanted to shave to the barber. It all ended in a rather 
embarrassing situation until the barber’s wife had shown up and had 
laughed at her husband and Haldir. Shaking her head she had explained 
that she knew perfectly well why and where Haldir wanted to shave his 
husband and had quickly disappeared into the back room of the barber 
shop, muttering about her sister and a similar situation, getting the needed 
object. It was a shaving knife, smaller than the ones you would use to 
shave a man’s beard, slightly curved and extremely sharp.

Now that Haldir was sitting between his husbands legs about to use it, it 
felt his hand tremble a little. What if he would injure Legolas? In that most 
delicate area. But calling Elrond to do it was out of the question. Taking a 
deep breath, Haldir dipped his left hand into the warm water and scooped 
some of it in the hollow of his palm. Laying his right reassuringly on 
Legolas left thigh, he dribbled the water from his left onto the pubic area 
of his love.

Legolas drew in the air sharply at the feeling of warm water running over 
his skin and down beside his genitals, but decided instantly that it was a 
nice feeling and didn’t move. 

After Haldir had sprinkled a little more water over the body before him, he 
took up the soap, also a suggestion from the lovely barber’s wife and 
worked up some lather between his hands. With caressing movements 
Haldir worked the lather into Legolas pubic hair and smiled at the prince’s 
questioning sounds.

“Hey, what are you doing down there. Do I smell bad to you in any way? 
Are you getting funny with me?” By now, Legolas really wanted to know 
why Haldir thought it necessary to wash him like this.

“No, I don’t. Now shhh…., don’t break my concentration.” Haldir ordered 
and could well imagine the small pout now forming on Legolas beautiful 
lips.

He took the small knife and gently placed his right hand over Legolas 
penis, gently pressing it down. With the left he moved the knife against 
the growth of the pubic hair, carefully shaving it off. It was easier than 
anticipated, but the most difficult parts were yet to come.

Legolas eyes grew round at the feeling of something colder than Haldir’s 
hand against his body and the faint scraping sound together with the 
feeling of colder that usual air against his sensitive skin in that region, 
made it clear to him what Haldir was doing. But instead of saying 
anything against, as he would have thought he would immediately do in a 
situation like this, Legolas found it strangely arousing and he felt his 
member growing immediately. 

Haldir, who had nearly finished with the area above Legolas penis, felt the 
stirring of flesh beneath his fingers and halted his movements, looking up 
in surprise at his husband. Legolas smiled apologetically and shrugged his 
shoulders a little.


‘This works better than I thought.’ Haldir mused as he rinsed the 
remaining soap off, only to work up some more lather, which he started 
spreading around Legolas tightening sack and below. Legolas penis was 
half hard by now and Haldir couldn’t resist the temptation and ran his 
soapy fingers up and down the growing length.
The prince moan faintly and rested his head back on the pillow, spreading 
his legs a fraction wider.
Haldir called on all of his courage before he placed the knife against the 
soft, slightly crinkling skin of Legolas’ sack. Hopefully he wouldn’t cut 
his love by accident. With even and slow motions Haldir began to shave 
the few hairs off the sack and sighed with relief as he moved lower to the 
smooth and more taunt skin below. He didn’t really need to shave any 
further, but Legolas heavier breathing and the aroused state of the member 
before him, hadn’t left Haldir cold either. It excited him and so he carried 
on shaving all the way down to the small puckered entrance.
When Haldir took hold of his husband’s legs and pushed them up, Legolas 
immediately reacted and hooked his knees. Now Haldir could reach the 
last bit he wanted to shave easily and he quickly rid the perfect skin of any 
remaining blond curls.
Soon all the skin was smooth and hairless. Just as Elrond had required it. 
Haldir dried his hands and reached for the oil he had bought and poured a 
little into is hands warming it up, before gently spreading it onto the 
freshly shaven area.
Legolas was enormously aroused by now and when he was allowed to 
lower his legs again, he fisted the sheets beneath him to relieve some of 
the tension in his body. After Haldir had finished shaving all of his pubis 
hair off and had dried the skin Legolas could feel the new extra sensitivity 
there. He longed Haldir’s hands again, but before he could utter his 
desires, he felt the warm and oiled fingers of the march warden gently 
caressing his sack and member. Legolas groaned and flexed his thigh 
muscles. This was heaven. Pure bliss.
Haldir felt Legolas’ body respond to his touches like it never had before. 
He caresses every inch of skin that had been freshly shaven and then 
gently worked his way up Legolas’ shaft, which was hard and begging for 
his touch by now.
His own leggings had grown painfully tight and Haldir let go off Legolas 
with one hand, climbed off the bed and ignoring the film of oil still 
clinging to his fingers tore at the fastening. With some difficulty Haldir 
freed himself of his trousers and also shirt until he was completely naked 
and moved back onto the bed. This time beside his husband who lay 
panting on his back.
Legolas looked at him with passion clouded eyes and let go off the sheets 
grabbing Haldir’s head between his hands pulling him down into a fierce 
kiss. 
Soon their hands went onto journeys of their own and caressed and 
fondled the body of the other. The heat between the two elves increased, 
their minds were locked out, only their hearts were speaking and the need 
for sexual release was their primal goal.
"Can you take me?" whispered Haldir hotly into Legolas’ ear as he 
humped the swollen belly gently.
"I don’t know," panted the younger elf "let’s find out." 
Haldir pushed himself up and moved over to the bed side table to retrieve 
the small jar and turned back to Legolas, who had by now pushed himself 
up in sitting position and gave him the jar.
"Get on you hands and knees, love." The blond elf accentuated every word 
with small kisses along Haldir’s taunt body, while unscrewing the lid.
Haldir marvelled at the fact that Legolas still managed to make him blush 
and obediently got on all fours, turning his back to Legolas. He yelped as 
he felt his well muscled backside bitten not so gently but was immediately 
rewarded with the teasing lick of a tongue along the cleft.
Legolas had to stifle a grunt, when he bent down to Haldir’s backside. His 
large body was always in the way and the additional weight was not 
making things any easier. Hopefully he could still take his Lorien husband 
as he intended.
Legolas lubricated his fingers and nudged Haldir’s entrance playfully with 
the tips of two fingers, before slowly pushing them in. He knew that 
Haldir liked it a bit rougher and that a small amount of pain only turned 
him on more, so after having breached the tight guardian muscle, Legolas 
drove both fingers in with one swift move. Haldir arched his back and 
cried out in lust, trying to push himself even further onto the fingers. 
"Just take me Legolas. Please. No preparations. I need you in me." The 
silver haired elf grunted.
Quickly applying some of the gel onto his own arousal, Legolas knelt up 
behind Haldir and taking himself into his hand guided his erection to the 
quivering entrance of his husband.
Without hesitating he pushed inside, but all to soon his journey ended. His 
swollen belly kept him from going in as deeply as he wanted to. 
Frustration showed on Legolas’ young face and when Haldir started 
begging him to go deeper, Legolas pulled out again and sat back with a 
frown on his face.
Haldir nearly fell backwards when Legolas disappeared from behind him, 
for he had just started to push back. Confusion clearly written over his 
face Haldir turned to Legolas. "Love what’s wrong?" Haldir looked 
disbelievingly at Legolas’ quickly softening penis.
"I can’t. It wont work. I can’t get in deep enough, I will slip out again. But 
you want it don’t you?" Legolas looked sad.
Haldir quickly took his love’s hands in his and kissed the knuckles. "It 
doesn’t matter. Not that much. Yes, I would love to be taken again, but if 
it doesn’t work it just doesn’t."

Legolas turned his eyes down and sighed. "But I wanted to make you feel 
good, and...."
With a quick kiss to his lovers forehead Haldir pushed himself off the bed 
and fetched his robe, this time completely buttoning is, to hide his 
nakedness. "You wait here." He told a very confused looking Legolas and 
left the room.
The blonde prince sat on the large bed, near to tears. It was times like this 
that he utterly hated being pregnant and immediately regretting that 
thought. Of course he didn’t hate being pregnant, but sometimes ....... The 
other thing were these constantly changing moods, the tears that fell far to 
easily and the plumpness of his body. Suddenly a well aimed kick in his 
lower abdomen seemingly meant to pull him out of his sorrowful musings. 
A small smile ghosted across his lips and he stroked the abused flesh. He 
wondered what Haldir was up to now. He didn’t seem in a bad mood or 
too disappointed so obviously had gone on some weird errand. Legolas 
was torn between a still lingering sadness and steadily growing anxiety.
 
Haldir moved swiftly through the long hallways, hastily walking passed 
anyone he knew and was about to greet him. Letting out a sigh of relief, 
Haldir swooped down the last staircase to led into the lower regions of the 
castle, were the kitchen and storage rooms were housed. Carefully Haldir 
sneaked around the corner towards the widely open kitchen door. Only 
three persons were inside. Good. Straightening up, squaring his shoulders 
and putting on his most arrogant face, Haldir marched into the kitchen.
Three heads turned at his entrance and immediately the oldest of the three 
kitchen boys hurried towards him, quickly wiping his hands at the apron 
he was wearing. "Master elf, please how can we be of service?" the boy 
mumbled humbly.
"My husband would like something the eat." The march warden explained.
"Oh, didn’t he like the fruit we prepared for him? Was the bread not soft 
enough?" a faintly insecure voice was heard from near the stove. It was 
small boy, maybe 10 years of age.
Damn! Haldir had completely forgotten, that he had already fetched some 
food for Legolas. And even worse, he felt heat rising on his face and knew 
instantly that a flush was making its way across his cheeks. He cleared his 
throat "No, I assure you that everything for to his liking. It’s just that 
would like to have something else now, you know pregnant people" Haldir 
tried to smile apologetically "maybe some vegetables?"
"Can we cook something for your Lordship?" the kitchen boy before him 
suggested.
Haldir felt more embarrassed than he had ever been in his whole life. "No, 
he prefers his vegetables raw, mostly. Maybe I can just have quick glance 
at what the kitchen has to offer?"
"Oh, yes certainly. If you follow me my Lord." The boy quickly turned 
and lead Haldir to the storage area. Dozens of boxes were piled up against 
the wall, contained the vegetables of the season. "Thank you, my boy. I 
will just pick a few things out for him." Haldir turned to the boxes, finding 
potatoes, squash, beans, cabbage, some cucumbers and carrots. Trying not 
to arouse any suspicions, Haldir tried to find some that fitted his needs. 
The silver haired smiled to himself. ‘Fitted his needs’, huh, that was a way 
to put it. He picked one of the cucumbers, and tried to find some carrots 
that were not to narrow and short, but he didn’t have much luck. He 
picked some of them anyway and asked the kitchen boy to give the 
vegetables a quick wash. As soon as he was given them back on a platter 
Haldir fled the kitchen.
Outside in the hallway, he leaned breathing heavily against the wall and 
had to fight hard to suppress a giggle. The situation was absurd. He looked 
down at the platter and thought. Still not quite satisfied with his goods, 
Haldir silently walked to the next door to his right. As far as he 
remembered it also was a storage room. Maybe he could find something in 
there that would come in handy. By now his mind was constantly filled 
with the most erotic ideas. The mere thought of Legolas carefully and 
gently penetrating him with different object was enough to make him hard 
beneath his robe. Which was not such a good thing, since he wore nothing 
underneath and his arousal was about to find its way out between the folds 
of his robe.
The door made a creaking sound and Haldir flinched. But nobody came to 
have a look. So he quickly slipped inside the storage room and sat down 
the platter. So many different objects. He found new wooden spoons for 
cooking, no, there were far to thin and fragile. Baskets, boxes and crates. 
Empty bottles, tin beakers, glasses and cutlery. At the far end were shelves 
full of table cloths, napkins and cushions. Nothing he needed. Until he 
came to a smaller shelf with a vast amount of differently seized candles. A 
broad smile lightened Haldir’s features as he quickly choose a few 
different ones.
Hiding the candles in the wide sleeves of his robe, Haldir took the tray and 
rushed back to their chamber, hoping that Legolas hadn’t lost all interest. 
He found his husband sitting crossed legged on the large bed, fiddling 
with the strand of his hair, looking slightly annoyed.
“I am back, my love.” Haldir announced carefully as he closed the door 
behind him. Legolas looked up and his eyes grew wide as he took a closer 
look at the tray Haldir was carrying. A smile spread on his features the 
quickly turned into a full seized laugh.
“Oh, I think I can do some nice things to you with that.” Legolas waved 
Haldir over to him and snatched the tray out of his hands. At that moment 
the candles dropped from out of Haldir’s sleeve and toppled onto the bed. 
Legolas grin grew even brighter as he took some into his hands and with a 
cheeky smile stroked one of them in a lazy but provoking way.
Haldir felt his blood pool in his groin and he quickly shook off his robe 
and threw it on the ground where he stood. Climbing onto the bed beside 
his love Haldir stole a quick kiss from him and lay down on the soft 
covers, stretching his taunt body.
Legolas slipped between Haldir’s legs and ran his hands gently along the 
long, well muscled thighs. He felt Haldir’s legs tremble slightly and when 
he reached the soft skin near the raising member Haldir closed his eyes 
with a sigh.
“What would you like my love?” the blond prince whispered.
“Anything you would like to do to me.” Haldir’s voice was barely more 
than a whisper. 
“Anything?” Haldir could hear the mischievous grin around Legolas’ 
question and nodded quickly. 
“Good.” Legolas ran a teasing hand once along the hard erection, before 
he took hold of Haldir’s lean legs and motioned him to turn onto his 
stomach. When the march warden lay sprawled out before him, the 
younger elf knelt up and fetched a pillow, which he pushed underneath 
Haldir’s pelvis. With gently hands Legolas spread the legs further and 
seated himself between them in a more comfortable position. Resting his 
own heavy belly on his crossed legs.
He pulled the tray nearer to him, placed the candles on it as well and took 
the small jar they already had used before. Choosing the smallest carrot 
from the tray, Legolas covered it lightly with the gel and ran the tip of the 
vegetable teasingly along the cleft. Haldir drew a shuddering breath. He 
was looking forward to whatever Legolas was going to do to him now, it 
had been a long time since they had engaged into a bit more experimental 
sex and Haldir longed for it. He couldn’t wait for it .
Suddenly Haldir felt the cool hard tip of whatever Leoglas was using 
breaching him slowly. It undoubtedly was one of the smaller things and 
hardly filled him, but the way Leoglas was slowly pushing it in and 
immediately pulling it out again, it made him shiver in no time.
Legolas watched Haldir’s every reaction closely and smiled. It aroused 
him immensely to have this power over his husband and with a teasing 
lick pulled the carrot out again. The next choice was a candle only a bit 
thicker than the carrot but much longer. After it had been coated with the 
gel, this too was inserted slowly. Only this time, Legolas pushed and 
pushed. He saw Haldir’s back flex and the legs tremble, but he didn’t stop 
until nearly the whole candle was buried in the body before him. Holding 
the candle in place with one hand, Legolas used the other to give Haldir’s 
left leg a sign to draw up underneath the body. Quickly Haldir obliged and 
had both of his legs drawn up tightly, knees nearly touching his chest. 
Thus widely open Legolas had a far better view of things and he enjoyed 
the sight of the puckered entrance stretching deliciously around the pale 
column of the candle. 
Knowing that Haldir could take a good bit more, Legolas tore his eyes 
away from the firm backside and looked back at the tray. An idea was 
already forming in his mind, but he needed a bit more preparation before 
he could actually pull it through. Choosing the far more bigger cucumber, 
Legolas quickly checked the rounder end if it was too sharp or scratchy 
and coated it as well. Ever so slowly he pulled the long candle from 
Haldir’s body and rejoiced at the tremors already wracking his husband’s 
body. 
While he positioned the cucumber at the entrance with his one hand, he 
reached for Haldir’s sack with the other, cradling it gently between his 
fingers. Then he looked up again, watching the dark green cucumber 
stretching the muscle, gradually making its way inside the straining body 
before him. Haldir’s breath was coming in shorter and shorter gasps by 
now an his hips were humping the pillow below from time to time, eager 
for some friction. A feral grunt escaped Haldir’s lips as the large vegetable 
had slipped in fully and Legolas moved it around casually, pulling it out 
again a bit aiming for Haldir’ prostate.
A low and rough groan was the answer. Ignoring the almost painful 
erection that was straining against the roundness of his body, Legolas now 
bent as low as possible and gently lapped at the sensitive, stretched skin of 
Haldir’s anus, all the while moving the cucumber with carefully aimed 
strokes. 

Haldir was hardly able to breath anymore. His lungs were screaming for 
more and more oxygen but he couldn’t control his breathing anymore. His 
whole being had been reduced to a whimpering and shivering mass of 
want. It seemed like he was being torn in two and still he craved more. It 
was one of the rare moments when he succumbed to his most hidden 
desires and needs. When he wanted to be relieved of all control and 
needed someone to dominate him, make him tremble and cry out with lust. 
The sensations were overwhelming him and when he felt the slick tip of 
Legolas’ tongue lap at him while he was filled at the same time it took all 
of his remaining coherency to hold back from coming right there and then.

Legolas felt the twitching flesh beneath his tongue and the body buck 
before him. He knew that he was pushing Haldir hard. Harder than he had 
before. But he was not finished with him yet. Suppressing a painful moan 
as he pushed himself upright again, Legolas bent over to the tray and 
choose a slightly thicker candle than the one he had used before and a 
rather slim and long carrot. Carefully he withdrew the large dark green 
vegetable and soothed the abused flesh with his fingers, gentle pushing the 
tips of two fingers into Haldir’s body, calming him down. Haldir was 
writhing nervously, keenly missing the sensation of being filled to the 
fullest. Slowly his body descended from its sensual height and when the 
raspy breathing had become easier he felt Legolas finger withdraw from 
him.

Laying a loving and tender hand on Haldir’s hip, Leoglas took the candle 
and very slowly pushed it passed the well widened ring of muscles. 
Beneath his fingers he could feel the tension of Haldir’s strained muscles 
as the proud march warden fought for control. When the candle was half 
way in, Leoglas let go of Haldir’s hip and took hold of the carrot. He 
dipped the tip of it into the jar and then moved it in gently circles around 
the end of the candle all along the entrance of his husband. Haldir moaned 
deeply, not daring to speak out loud what Legolas already had guessed. He 
knew of Haldir’s desire to be breached to the fullest. The prince knew that 
hidden wish and wanted to fulfil it. Pulling the candle out a bit again, he 
placed the carrot right alongside it and with the next push in, both object 
were stretching the entrance. Haldir’s groans were know laced with the 
tiniest hint of pain, but it was a welcomed pain and so Legolas continued. 
Watching in amazement, feeling his own erection twitch, the blond elf 
kept his eyes fixed to the impossible width of the candle and carrot and 
how the body of Haldir responded to them, opening up widely around 
them. 

Haldir had never in his life felt so widely stretched and full. It was 
indescribable and his insides coiled, molten heat pooling in his abdomen. 
“More.” He croaked under strain and when he felt, whatever Legolas was 
using, making its way further into his body his whole body started 
quivering an twitching. Wailing loudly and bending his back up Haldir 
orgasmed, his seed spilling in pearly strings across the cover of their bed. 

When the spasms had subsided a little and Haldir had slumped down 
heavily onto the bed again, Legolas stroked the sweaty back with soothing 
strokes and very gently removed he two objects that were still lodged 
deeply inside of his love. The long legs shuddered and were stretched out 
again, after Legolas had placed everything back on the tray. His own 
breathing had quickened by the end and his arousal was leaking 
continuously. But somehow he did not wish to relieve himself, but instead 
moved to Haldir’s side and snuggled up, drawing a warming blanket over 
the shivering body. 

Tears of emotion were still clinging to the long lashes and Legolas gently 
kissed them away, as he felt Haldir slipping into an exhausted sleep. After 
a while Legolas own erection had gone and he followed his husband into 
the elven realm of dreams.


Hot and erotic images filled the prince’s dreams and he felt his body 
responding eagerly to it. In his dreams his body was light and flexible 
again and when he felt someone’s hand fondling his sack he spread his 
legs wantonly hoping for some stimulation of his aching erection as well. 
Soon his wish was fulfilled when a hot and moist heat surrounded it, a 
tongue swirled gently and from time to time teeth nipped mischievously at 
his foreskin. Needy moans escaped his mouth and suddenly he became 
aware of his surrounding again. He had left his sleep like state and the 
tender caresses still continued. 

A quick glance to his right side showed him that Haldir was no longer 
laying beside him and had obviously taken a knew position between his 
spread legs. Closing his eyes Legolas arched his back slightly and 
breathed deeply. He could feel the back of Haldir’s throat at the tip of his 
member and the teasing lips near to the base. Then suddenly something 
else caught his attention. He had been so wrapped up in the feeling of the 
tight caress on his arousal that he had not noticed Haldir’s wicked fingers 
that danced over the puckered skin of his entrance. 

Legolas clenched his teeth and tried to relax not wanting it to end too 
quickly, for his body was still very near to the edge after what it had 
undergone before. Then something cooler then Haldir’s fingers touched 
his entrance and was gingerly pushed inside. Something quite big. 
Spreading his legs even wider the blond elf cried out with lust and Haldir 
redoubled his efforts on his love’s erection deep throating again and again. 
Soon Legolas was pumping into Haldir’s mouth with hard thrusts while 
Haldir impaled him deeply with one of the thicker candles he had brought 
up to their room. 

All too soon Legolas came with a keening cry that echoed off their 
bedroom walls and panted heavily. Haldir smiled around the softening 
flesh, licking away the drops of Leoglas’ release that had escaped his 
swallowing mouth. After placing the candle back onto the tray, Haldir 
took the tray and carried it off to the a small table at the other end of the 
room and covered it up with a piece of cloth, just in case. Legolas still lay 
motionless and limp on the bed and tried to find his breath. Feeling well 
rested and somewhat in a cheeky mood Haldir pounced on the bed and 
tickled his husband’s sides mercilessly. 

“Argh..,” Legolas shrieked and tried to pull away. But he never had a 
chance. To his luck and Haldir’s dismay a loud knock from the door put 
an end to the silly game and Haldir quickly grabbed their blanket to cover 
them up, before he called out “Enter!”

A low clearing of the throat announced the wizard Gandalf, who smiled 
knowingly as he entered the room and looked at their tousled state. “I 
came to ask you to accompany me to our two patients. I thought you might 
like to see them, now that they have woken and are on the mend.”
Legolas beamed happily at Gandalf and immediately moved as quickly as 
it was possible for him out of the bed and over to the wardrobe to find 
himself some robes and leggings.

Gandalf raised an eyebrow as he observed the naked body of the young 
elf. It had been a while since he last had seen him without clothing and the 
old wizard was amazed how much he had grown. “It is getting quite 
heavy, isn’t it.” He asked Legolas, who nodded solemnly. 

“I hope it’s over soon.” The blond elf admitted, while he was struggling to 
get into his clothes. “Elrond says it will only be a few days more now. 
And though I don’t look forward to the actual birth, I will be glad to get 
rid of the extra weight.  And I can’t wait to have our babies in the arms.” 
He smiled with a dreamy expression.



Haldir and Legolas followed Gandalf a few minutes later to the house of 
healing, Legolas barely being able to restrain his impatience to see his 
father again. Even though he had known that he was in the best hands and 
on the mend, it had troubled him deeply. And then Gimli’s manoeuvre. It 
had nearly cost him his life.  But then again, if it hadn’t been for the stout 
little dwarf, his father might not have survived that night.

They found Thranduil sitting upright in his bed, while a Gondorian healer 
was just treating the King’s feet with a thick yellowish substance. Gimli 
was laying on his cot, laughing at the face Thranduil was pulling because 
of the smell the substance emitted. 

When the door opened Thranduil looked up and a warm smile graced his 
features. “Ion nìn! Legolas, come here, let me look at you!” he stretched 
his arms out and took the slim hands of his son in his. “You were there 
that night, weren’t you? Why? So much could have happened to you. If 
you would have been wounded, I can’t bare the thought of it, Legolas, 
why?”

“Father nothing happened to me and what if you would have died that 
night? What if I had lost you?” a slight tremor shook his hands.

“My son, I am an old elf. But you are young, you carry your children. 
You….”

“Now, now. Nothing happened, well anyway nothing too bad. You are 
both here now. Thranduil you are healing fast and Legolas is thriving. 
Maybe you should stop fretting and enjoy the fact that you will be father 
and grandfather in a few days.” Gandalf interrupted.

Much to Thranduil’s embarrassment he felt a blush making its way across 
his face. Grandfather. He still couldn’t believe it. Ever since Legolas had 
shown more interest in his own gender, Thranduil had almost lost his hope 
ever to have grandchildren and when Haldir had shown up and Thranduil 
had understood that his son would never give up his love, he had in the 
same moment given up his own hope. But now he was going to have 
grandchildren. Two at once. He felt a giddiness rise inside of him he 
hadn’t felt for millennia.   

Suddenly Legolas let go off his father’s hands and turned around to Gimli, 
strode over and took hold of the dwarf’s sideburns and shook him gently. 
“Gimli, my dear Gimli. My ever valiant dwarf. My friend, my most 
trustworthy little mountain dweller. How can I ever thank you?”

Gimli grumbled into his beard and smiled up at the elf. “Now, now, 
laddie. You would have done the same thing. It was the only thing I could 
do.”

“But what were you doing out there anyway. In the middle of the night?” 
Legolas let go off Gimli’s beard and sat at his bedside.

Gimli’s eyes turned away to Thranduil and the dwarf raised a questioning 
eyebrow.

The King cleared his throat nervously and pointed to Gimli “Your friend 
wanted to show me the beauty of Ithilien’s woods and its waterfalls, we 
wanted to start our sightseeing early in the morning, so we headed out 
from here in the early night.”

Elrond snorted and interrupted “Gimli, Thranduil, don’t you think it is 
time to tell them the truth?”

Legolas shot his father and then Gimli a worried glance, but before he 
could say anything he heard Haldir’s voice “The truth? That does sound a 
little strange. Anything we need to worry about? I for myself could well 
do without any more disturbing fights and dangerous situations. And I 
think Legolas as well. So I pray thee, what have you two been up to?”

Gimli, threw his arms up a little and sighed. “Alright, I was planning a 
surprise for Legolas and you, Haldir, something to show you how much 
you two mean to me, and maybe something that will keep you here in 
Middle earth a while longer. I needed Thranduil’s help and your father,” 
the dwarf turned his eyes to the still worried looking blond elf “was so 
kind to take over a few of the tasks that were to be done. Last night, we 
were on our way to your ….. well, your surprise to check on the progress 
and lay hand on the last finishing touches, when we were ambushed. I fear 
that we won’t have it ready in time now, for I wanted you to see it before, 
….. before….., you know, before the babies are to be born.”

Legolas’ eyes had lit up during Gimli’ speech and a wide smile graced his 
features “A surprise for us? Because you care so much? Oh, Gimli, that is 
wonderful. But why worry so much? Why can’t we simply ride there and 
still have a look at it?”

“For one, my young Prince,” Elrond’s deep voice brought Legolas quickly 
back to the ground “you are in no condition to ride and your father won’t 
be able to travel for the next few days.”

“Of course I can ride.” Legolas shot Elrond an angry glance. “I only did so 
last night.”

“I now, and it worried me deeply. I don’t want to risk anything. Your 
babies are due any day now and it would be most irresponsible to go for 
such a long ride now. What if they decide it is time for them to come into 
this world right there in the middle of the forest? No, we cannot risk it.” 
Elrond sounded final.

Haldir nodded in agreement and put an arm around Legolas’ waist.

“What if we let Legolas and Thranduil travel on a litter?” Gandalf had 
seen the sad look on the Prince’s face and wanted to help.
“A litter?” Legolas and his father chorused. “No way!”

“Do you remember, when you made me travel all the way back from the 
black gate on a litter because…..” Legolas fumed

“Yes,” Gandalf interrupted “because we were all worried about you 
children, as were you! Think, my young elfling, do you want to see the 
surprise now and make an old dwarf happy or would you rather stay here 
and wait until you are fit to travel again?”

“I agree, that Legolas should not ride, but honestly, I don’t need to be 
carried like an invalid. If I don’t use any stirrups, which I usually don’t do 
anyway, I can sit on a horse.” Thranduil tried to look smug.

“Oh, sure,” Elrond mocked “and the deep cuts on your legs and arms 
wouldn’t hinder you in any way, now would they?” 

“Stop! All of you!” Haldir barked “Either both agree to be placed on a 
litter, which means they will both be at the end of our riding party, so they 
can mutter and whine as much as they like without annoying us, or we will 
quit this right here and  now. I for myself, would love to see what Gimli 
has been up to and believe that Gimli is at least as excited about it as we 
are and I think so is Legolas. So why don’t you two just pull yourselves 
together and for once forget about your royalty and let us pack for the 
travel?”

It was not only Haldir that laughed at the sight of Legolas’ and 
Thranduil’s defeated looks, but Gimli’s laughter was the loudest of all.


Rumil rushed form one end of the makeshift camp to the other. “Orophin! 
Orophin!” he yelled on the top of his lungs. “Brother where are you 
hiding?”

“I am right here you big oaf!” Orophin grinned from one ear to an other as 
he rounded one of the tents. He had seen his brother some time ago 
rushing around, as hysterical as he could possibly be, but had enjoyed the 
sight so much that he had decided to wait just a little more. “So what is 
up? What makes you so nervous?”

“They are coming here. Elrond has sent yet another messenger, telling me 
that they are on their way here. Everyone is coming. Legolas, Haldir, 
Thranduil, Elrond, Gandalf, Gimli and even the Hobbits. We have to get 
everything ready. Or at least as far as we can get.”

Now it was Orophin who was growing steadily more and more hectic. 
“But, ….., but there is still so much to do! When are they going to arrive, 
you think?”

“The messenger says about tomorrow afternoon. So we have nearly a day 
left.” Rumil turned and started off in direction of the large building that 
now stood where there had been only a plain clearing within the woods 
before. Orophin rushed after him panting “Yes, and one whole night.”

Both elves rushed all over the place. Sending some of their fellow elves to 
gather some early spring flowers that surly were to be found in the deeper 
woods, underneath the snow. Due to the warmth of firesides and closed 
doors, maybe they would open their buds just in time for the arriving 
party. Others lay finishing touches at the fixed and put up cradles, laying 
out furs, pulling blankets and table cloths straight or arranging other 
decorative items within the place. Firesides were lit and last specks of dust 
cleared away.

After hours of work, during which Orophin and Rumil had continuously 
clapped themselves on their shoulders, remarking how pleased Gimli was 
going to be when he arrived, everything was as ready as it could be in such 
a short time.

All elves and dwarves had sat down heavily within the rather lofty 
entrance hall, stretching their long or short legs and now enjoyed either 
some malt beer or some of the succulent Mirkwood wine Thranduil had 
brought along from Mirkwood himself. He had given some barrels to the 
hard working people for their continuous efforts to give the best.


The large riding party moved slowly through the narrow path that led 
through the vast woods of northern Ithilien and Faramir, who rode up front 
being the one knowing every path and winding passage, smiled out of 
sheer joy and of course because of the ceaseless complaints coming from 
the two blond elves, somewhere at the rear.

Due to the slow advance it took them several hours to get to the clearing 
Gimli had beforehand described to Faramir. Everybody was feeling the 
same tension of anticipation. Whether it were Gimli or Thranduil, who 
knew what they were going to see in a short matter of time, or Legolas and 
Haldir who were nervously grinning at each other every time Haldir 
looked down to his husband, lying comfortably on his litter.

The sun was about to set when Faramir called for a halt. He could already 
see the clearing from his position and had made out a rather large shape 
standing in the middle of it. “Maybe we should get Haldir and Legolas up 
to me now.” he said and Legolas was only too happy to oblige. He 
struggled up from the litter and took Haldir’s hand, who had dismounted, 
in his.

Anxiously the two elves walked up to Faramir, who only pointed ahead 
and smiled at them. As soon as Legolas and Haldir had walked off the rest 
followed, not wanting to stay behind for too long.


Haldir could feel Legolas hand trembling faintly in his. They kept their 
eyes straight ahead and what they saw when they stepped out of the 
towering forest onto the clearing took their breath away.



In the middle of the clearing, not far from a small mountain side and a 
small waterfall, stood the most beautiful house they had ever laid their 
eyes on. Though made of stone it did not bear the heaviness of other stone 
building. It was the perfect symbiosis of stone and wood. The stonewalls 
were carved, fragile looking and adorned with the finest woodwork. They 
could see a small and shallow stream, that had been diverted from the 
pond at the foot of the waterfall, running towards the house, vanishing 
beneath it and coming back to the surface on the other side. 

“I thought of it as a reminiscence of your rooms in Mirkwood. You know 
when you told me about them, you seemed to be especially taken by the 
water running through your rooms. And I thought it would make you feel 
more at home here.” Gimli’s soft voice broke the silence. The dwarf had 
quietly approached the two elves, enjoying their sparkling smiles and 
gleaming eyes. Also Gimli had been worried if the house was ready and 
how it would look finished. Both Rumil and Orophin seemed to have put 
quite a lot of work into it, since Gimli had been gone from the site.

Now the dwarf could see the faint shimmer of tears in Legolas’ eyes and 
he gently took his friend’s hand in his and pulled him forward in direction 
of their new domicile.

Neither of the three ever noticed the rest of the party slowly advancing, so 
captured they were by the intricate work and the sheer seize of the house.

Gimli led them around to the entrance. There all of the elves and dwarves 
stood waiting, anxious of the reaction of the Prince and his husband. 
Orophin had seen the party advance and had called everyone to the front 
yard to greet them. Now they could see it with their own eyes. Their joy 
and astonishment. Loud cheers erupted and greetings were shouted from 
dwarves as well as from elves. 

Legolas could make out familiar faces in the crowd, faces he knew from 
his home. Even some elves from Lothlorien. There were dwarves that did 
look a little bit familiar, maybe Gimli’s family and so many others he had 
never actually seen. And they all had come to build this? For them? He 
felt his chest tighten and stopped dead in his tracks. Gimli looked at him 
questioningly and suddenly saw Legolas dropping down to his knees, 
throwing his arms around the dwarf burying his face in his neck.

“Gimli,” he could hear Legolas sob into his long reddish hair “this is so 
wonderful. And you made this all for us? How can we ever thank you?”

“Just don’t leave me!” the dwarf whispered back and hugged Legolas 
tightly. 

Legolas pulled back a little and looked deeply into the dwarf’s eyes. “Did 
you really believe I would leave you, just like this? I could never do that. 
But now you are going to live with us, aren’t you. Please tell me you will 
be staying here too.”

Not trusting his voice Gimli nodded and helped Legolas up into a standing 
position again.
After some silent moments they walked further to the house and stepped 
inside.

A large entry hall, decorated with large windows to either the front and to 
the back, given free the view to a large atrium that made up the entire 
middle section. Only now Legolas and Haldir understood that the house 
had been build around this atrium. Trees, bushes and paths were to be seen 
from here and invited everybody who looked at it, to take strolls, sit down 
and enjoy the peaceful harmony of nature.

Wooden doors led to left and right. Gimli moved towards the left and 
showed the elves all the other rooms. Main sitting room, a long and still 
cosy dining hall, the bedroom with all its romantic touches that clearly 
came from Mirkwood, the kitchen at the other end of the house and guest 
rooms. Then Gimli moved back to their main bedroom and opened another 
door that hardly was to be seen, so perfectly it was fitted into the wooden 
walls. It led to the bathroom. A round and deep marble bathtub had been 
placed deeply into the ground, tabs on opposite ends could supply it with 
hot and cold water, a plug in the middle between the tabs, to let the water 
run out again, wash basins and a hidden corner behind a movable screen 
with a toilet. 
Gimli cocked his head and left the bathroom again turning to his right 
where another door was hidden in the wall.

The room behind this wall was decorated with flowing and light wall 
hangings and tapestries, showing pictures of Lothlorien and Mirkwood. 
Two identical cupboards and chest of drawers were placed at the facing 
walls and in the middle stood two wonderfully crafted cribs, beautifully 
carved and within were downy soft feather beds in a creamy cover.
At the heads of the cribs were two blank, oval shapes imbedded into the 
wood. “There, where the two blank spaces are, I wanted to place two little 
stone tablets with the names of the children, but I didn’t know the names, 
yet. So as soon as you tell them to me, I will make them.” Gimli 
explained.

Gimli had saved the atrium to the last and felt proud as he showed the 
elves around. The stream from the waterfall came back up here and was 
running in a little, winding stream to the middle into a small pond and 
back out at the other end. Just like the one in Legolas’ and Haldir’s room 
in Mirkwood. Legolas and Haldir marvelled at the planted trees and plants 
that grew here. In the summer, soft green grass was going to cover the 
ground and flowers in every shape and colour would fill the air with their 
scent.

All around the atrium the walls of the actual house were made of stone, 
but they were open, like the most delicate glasswork, never closing in on 
the inhabitants. 

After some time of open mouthed walking around and gaping at the 
wonders of this place, everybody sat down in the dining hall and enjoyed 
food and drink. Thranduil was beaming for the first time in days and joked 
openly with the Lorien twins and Theon, his head healer who from time to 
time was quietly discussing the procedures of the babies delivery with 
Elrond.

When Haldir noticed Legolas growing more and more tired, he politely 
explained to their guests that he and his husband were in dire need to have 
another closer look at their wonderful bedroom once more and led Legolas 
out of the room, the laughter of their guests following them.


During the next few days Legolas and Haldir enjoyed exploring their 
house, sitting outside in the atrium even though snow was covering up 
most part of it and feasting with their friends in the evening in front of one 
of the large firesides. Life was defiantly a peaceful one now.

Every day the Hobbits would hand in a new list of names, they had made 
up for their children, Rumil and Orophin had some ideas of their own and 
Arwen and Aragorn rather took up some of the name suggestions for their 
children, they would hopefully have themselves one day.

Elrond and Theon were monitoring the young Prince even more closely 
now and were reminding Haldir every day to tell them immediately if 
something was going to happen. Thranduil healed quickly and was able to 
walk on his own again by the end of the first week.


Haldir hummed softly as he shaved off the last of the newly grown hair 
around Legolas genitals and smiled softly at the faint panting coming from 
his husband. He was astonished how much it aroused Legolas. Haldir had 
already decided that he would ask the blond elf to shave him in return. He 
really wanted to find out how it felt. Maybe it would have the same effect 
on him, and he had to admit the shaven sack and groin of his husband felt 
so unbelievingly sexy that Haldir had a hard time not jumping on him 
right there and then.

After he had washed the last of the soap off, Haldir bent down low and ran 
his tongue along the freshly shaven area. “Yes, nice and smooth.” He 
exclaimed before he climbed off the bed and smirked at the disappointed 
expression on Legolas’ face.

“Are you sure you were thorough enough? Maybe you should check every 
bit you just shaved.” The pregnant elf suggested with an hopeful 
undertone.

“Well, maybe. But not right now. I know something more relaxing and I’ll 
bet you will like it too.” Haldir put away their shaving utensils and left the 
room.

Legolas rolled his eyes and moved his right hand further down his swollen 
belly. He could still touch himself quite well, but it wasn’t as much fun. It 
was rather uncomfortable after some minutes and even if he really needed 
some release, like now, he refrained from it. He wasn’t quite sure if it was 
the pregnancy or the new house, but he felt more lustful then ever. To his 
disappointment, Haldir was more the opposite. Always being afraid for 
Legolas welfare and comfort, the march warden seemed to have put a self 
restrain on himself.

Letting his abdominal muscles relax and trying to shift into a more 
comfortable position on the bed, Legolas decided that he didn’t care about 
a cramp in his arm this time and started toying with his very aroused 
member. Just when the warm and stimulating feeling was building up in 
his lower body, the door opened again and Haldir stepped in carrying a 
large tray. Quickly letting go of his arousal, Legolas looked innocently at 
his husband.

Haldir smiled lovingly at the well rounded body of Legolas and put his 
tray down on a bed side table. “I brought you something to nibble. I 
thought you might like it.” He picked some of the evenly cut fruit, dipped 
it into a bowl that also stood on the tray and started hand feeding his 
husband with it.

“Mhm, fresh whipped cream.” Legolas beamed at Haldir. Some of his 
frustration vanished instantly.

Tossing his long silver hair over his shoulders, Haldir got down on the bed 
beside Legolas and both enjoyed the well tasting treats. 

It didn’t take Legolas long to grow drowsy and he lay his head back onto 
the pillow, closing his eyes in utter contentment. He felt loved, warm and 
happy. What more could he want? Suddenly something cold and slick 
touched the sensitive skin of his belly. With a shriek Legolas opened his 
eyes and stared at his body.

Haldir was wearing a mischievous grin on his face as he ran his cream 
covered finger over the soft but stretched skin. With languid movements 
he draw the most delicate floral designs on Legolas belly, decorating it 
with small pieces of fruit.
“Hey, what do you think you are doing there?” the blond elf demanded 
with a humorous twinkle in his eyes.

“Turning you into a piece of art. And later I am going to eat you. Alive!” 
Haldir countered and with that he bent down and flicked his tongue over a 
piece of warm flesh licking up the cream.

Legolas laughed, but also felt life and need streaming back into his penis 
without any hesitation. Well, maybe he would get his release after all.

Haldir worked his way leisurely across his artistic drawings, at first 
completely ignoring the needy whimpers coming form Legolas and the, by 
now, straining arousal that jutted up proudly between the pale thighs. Only 
when he had cleaned all of his husband’s rounded belly, Haldir took pity 
on him and moved lower. Without Legolas noticing it, Haldir dipped his 
fingers into the cream again and then smeared it gently over the heated 
skin of Legolas member. A deep moan escaped the Prince’s lips and when 
he could feel Haldir lips closing over his sack and one hand lasciviously 
stroking him his whole body started trembling. Within seconds his pelvis 
bucked and with a loud groan, Legolas orgasmed, shooting his seed over 
his body and some onto the sheets.

Haldir had to suppress a giggle and again moved with long, but soft 
strokes his tongue over Legolas’ skin. “I know not what tastes better, my 
love. The cream or you.” He teased between licks.

Just as Haldir had reached the belly button, Legolas body convulsed. 
“Mhm, did you not have enough yet. You want more?” the march warden 
mocked the blond elf and moved his hand lower, between the legs again.

Legolas panted and looked slightly confused when another shock shook 
his body. “No, Haldir. Stop. It’s not that. It’s just that…..” he gripped his 
belly hard and his body seemed to spasm again.

“Legolas?” Haldir looked irritated and then it hit him. “Do you think…., 
are you….. I mean…”

“Get Elrond.” Legolas moaned between clenched teeth. “Now!”

Haldir jumped off the bed and swiftly ran to the door and out to fetch the 
Elf Lord and Theon, Thranduil’s personal healer. He was calling out their 
names and in no time several elves came running in his direction. 
Thranduil was leading them, his face somewhat pale and looking rather 
distressed. Elrond was at his heels and simply pushed Haldir aside, 
storming into their bedroom without having asked a single question.

Haldir remained standing, utterly dumbfounded, staring at the door and 
watching the rest of the elves vanishing through it. Only when everybody 
else had simply entered their bedroom Haldir followed somewhat slower 
and a whole lot more anxious.

What he saw when he peered carefully into the room made his heart sink 
even deeper. Elrond and Theon were bent low over Legolas body and 
were gently but continuously probing and examining him. Haldir could 
see Legolas’ pale and sweaty face, the tremors that were shaking his body 
and somewhere in the distance he heard the calm and hushed voices, 
giving out orders and calming the patient. Thranduil was standing at the 
head of the bed holding one of Legolas’ hands in his, whispering to him. 

Legolas was having difficulties breathing. The cramps were coming in 
regular intervals, growing stronger and stronger. Elrond had told him that 
this would happen, but to be honest, he hadn’t been quite prepared for this. 
His father’s voice was telling him to relax, not to tense his muscles and 
breath deeply. ‘Easier said than done.’ Legolas mused and tried to look out 
for Haldir, but the elves surrounding his bed blocked his view.

At one stage the prince was to lift his pelvis a little and sheets of a 
different material were pushed beneath him. He heard Elrond mumble 
something about the nice and freshly shaven state of his body an felt a 
deep blush creeping up across his face. Theon laughed and continued 
washing Legolas’ lower body with a weirdly coloured, faintly fowl 
smelling liquid. 

Thranduil gently shook his shoulder and when Legolas focused on his 
father again, he saw that he was holding a beaker in his hand, gesturing to 
his son to drink it. But before Legolas obliged he asked weakly “Haldir? 
Where is Haldir?”

“Shhh.., ion nín. He will be here. But now drink this. It will ease the pain.” 
Thranduil helped Legolas to sip the tea.

“Father, that is revolting!” the prince exclaimed and had to restrain 
himself from spitting it out again. 
“Do you want to ease the pain or not, my son? I promise, there will be a 
lot of it in a few minutes.” Thranduil laughed quietly.

Elrond ushered some of the helping elves out of the room and waved 
Haldir inside. With hesitant steps the march warden walked over to the 
bed and tried to smiled reassuringly at his husband but failed miserably. 
“Hey you look worse then I feel.” Joked Legolas weekly at the sight of 
Haldir, when yet another cramp shook his delicate frame.

Haldir kissed his husband lovingly on the cheek and looked at Elrond. 
“What can I do?” he asked nervously and squirmed a little.

“Hold Legolas’ hand and try to calm him whenever it is necessary. He will 
encounter quite an amount of pain and will need all the help he can get to 
get through it. Legolas,” Elrond turned his attention to the panting elf on 
the bed “in a few minutes you will feel a numbing sensation in your lower 
body. Do not fear, it is from the tincture Theon has put on you skin there. 
It will ease everything a bit. And now drink the herbal tea. I know it tastes 
awful, but it will put you in a light sleep where you will not feel as much 
pain as you would without it. Haldir will always be here at your side as 
will Thranduil. Don’t worry it will not affect you thus, that you will miss 
the most important part. You will know when your children are here.”

Reluctantly Legolas drank the tea in large gulps, as to get it over with 
quickly and tried to relax back onto the bed until the tea would weave its 
own magic and pull him into that promised sleep. All the while he kept his 
eyes on Haldir and the love that radiated from his husband’s body.


Haldir could hear the excited shuffle of feet outside the door, high voices 
and the unmistakable giggle of Pippin. The rougher voice of Gimli telling 
him to be quiet and Arwen’s soothing one luring them all away into some 
other area of the house.

Elrond was busy laying out all the instruments he needed with the help of 
Thranduil’s healer. Legolas was getting drowsy and he felt himself 
drifting away feeling protected and calm. All the fear and nervousness 
were gone. Obviously the tea did not only lure him to sleep but was also a 
drug of some sort. Had he not been as sleepy, he would have laughed 
about it. 

When the sharp, thin bladed knife flashed in Elrond’s hand Haldir quickly 
turned his head away. It was strange, he had seen so much blood and 
wounded in battle, had seen men and elves die, seen bodies burn to death 
and what a sword or axe could do to unmarred flesh, but seeing Legolas 
cut open was too much for him. So he held on to Legolas’ rather limp 
hand for dear life and inwardly hoped it would be over soon.

A hiss of pain escaped the Princes’ lips as the first cut was placed only 
inches about his pubic bone. It was a searing pain, but his body could not 
react to it. All he could do was utter his discomfort and squeeze whose 
ever hand he was clutching.

Elrond was working quick and with the ease of millennia of experience as 
he worked through the layers of skin, fat, abdominal muscles and bowls. 
Then it lay before him. Legolas womb, the muscle stretched to its limits 
and hard as stone. Gently probing for the right point to place the next cut, 
he instructed Thranduil, who had gone as white as a sheet, to let go of 
Legolas hand and fetch one of the pre warmed, soft linen cloths, that were 
laying ready on a nearby table.
Raising his voice slightly, Theon called in one of the elf maidens that had 
been helping before to prepare Legolas, back into the room. It was clear 
that Haldir was not up to it to stand here beside him and Elrond, right at 
the open wound to take one of the children off Elrond’s hands.

The young she elf closed the door quietly and moved over to them. 
Without any hesitation she took the other cloth and stood beside them, 
never flinching. It was obvious that she was used to this.

Thranduil sighed and gulped. From here it looked ghastly. Not as if a 
cunning surgeon had placed well aimed cuts. No, it looked like one of the 
worst battle injuries he had ever seen. But to his amassment there was less 
blood than he had expected. Maybe it had something to do with the 
tincture, but he didn’t dare to ask.

Haldir felt sweat running down his spine and sides as he held on to 
Legolas hand. He was hardly able to feel his own anymore. The fierceness 
with that the blond elf was gripping him was painful, very painful. The 
awful sounds coming form the other end of the bed were frightening him 
and Legolas constant moans and small cries were taking their toll on him.

With a quick flick of his wrist Elrond positioned the final section across 
the hard muscle before him. Theon was quick to hold a large piece of linen 
in between Legolas slightly spread legs to catch the vast amount of 
amniotic fluid that now welled out generously from the open womb. 

Thranduil felt his throat constricting and had to fight down the urge to gag, 
but held his place. 

Elrond quickly dropped his knife onto the small table beside him and 
drove both hands rather violently through the cut into the body of Legolas. 
With skilled little twists and turns, he gently pulled the first of the babies 
free. 

“Here Thranduil, take it. Oh, look a little boy. Congratulations. 
Grandfather.” Elrond mocked his old friend gently. He smiled at the 
sudden gleam of unshed tears in the old King’s eyes and turned back to 
fetch the second child.

Haldir had turned his head immediately as he heard Elrond announce the 
first child and now stood transfixed, tears streaming down his face, 
smiling like an idiot.
All of a sudden he didn’t mind watching and stared at Elrond who had 
again pushed his hands inside his husbands body, waiting for his next 
child to be pulled out into this world.

Theon had let go of the linen he had been holding and gently cut the 
umbilical cord of the first child. Thranduil immediately wrapped the tiny 
form into the warm blanket and moved to the head of the bed, softly 
humming to the child, whose soft and complaining wails filled the room.

Haldir had hardly time to register Elrond pulling out the second child 
handing it to the young she elf beside him, Theon cutting the cord and 
Elrond’s soft sigh “Oh my, now you are in for it, my dear Haldir. Identical 
twins. I can tell you a few stories about that.”

Ignoring the pain in his hand, Haldir let go off his husband and took his 
second son from the young elf, staring at this small wonder in disbelieve. 
Eyes tightly screwed shut, it filled his lunges for the first time and let go 
such a loud and annoyed wail, that everybody laughed. 

The tension left every person in the room and while Elrond tenderly and 
carefully closed Legolas body again, everybody was talking, laughing and 
shaking their heads at those two little beauties that had just been brought 
into this world.

A very soft voice interrupted the merry talk “Haldir, I hear we have two 
little warriors now?”

“Legolas, love.” Haldir quickly turned to Legolas who smiled weakly at 
him. “Yes, two absolutely gorgeous boys. Look.” He held the child he was 
holding in his arms near to Legolas head. “There, see. He has your eyes.”

Legolas smiled lovingly at the child and then at his husband. “Yes, you are 
right. Yours are far more bloodshot.” The Prince tried to joke but the pain 
he was feeling was still too great to appreciate anything around him. 
Thranduil showed him the second child and soon, everybody could see the 
sparkling blue becoming distant again as Legolas drifted off into a deep 
sleep.


While Elrond and Theon were putting the last stitches to the deep cuts, the 
young nurse helped Thranduil and Haldir to wash the babies and properly 
wrap them into soft warm linen. When they were finished Elrond was 
clearing away his instruments and covered Legolas with a light but warm 
blanket. “Don’t you want to tell your friends, Haldir?” he asked “I think I 
hear some commotion in the hallway.”

 

Face beaming with pride and happiness Haldir cradled his newborn 
children in the crook of his arms and moved towards the door. Thranduil 
rushed over to open it and gently placed a small kiss on the brow of his 
grandchildren.

Once outside the room, Haldir was immediately surrounded by their 
friends and relatives, congratulating him and showering the babies with 
kisses and gentle caresses.

Gimli ran a gentle and loving thumb over the brow of the firstborn and 
whispered something in Khazud. To every bodies surprise the small infant 
tried to focus its still grey eyes on the dwarf and kept its gaze at him. With 
a low rumbling chuckle, Gimli smiled at the child and moved over to the 
second baby, repeating the gently gesture, then he moved silently away, 
the smile still playing around his lips.

Arwen was elbowing Aragorn raising her eyebrows suggestively.  The 
King of Gondor smiled at the babies with a dreamy expression and was 
courtly pushed aside by two smaller figures. “Hey, let us have a look too.” 
Pippin moved over to Haldir glaring up at the tall elf, motioning him to 
bend down a bit so that the smaller Hobbits were able to see.

Only minutes later the joyful group was quietly interrupted by Elrond. 
“Come my friends. They need some rest, just like their fathers. Let us 
venture into the garden and I am sure we will have loads of possibilities to 
enjoy their company later on.”


Haldir quietly moved back into the room, Legolas was lying in and carried 
his children over to their awaiting cradles. Laying them gently down, 
covering them up with a soft blanket. He felt Elrond’s presence before the 
older elf spoke softly “They will be hungry soon. Come let me show how 
to prepare their first food. Since we haven’t got a wet nurse you will need 
a nourishing substitute.”
“Wait, what about Legolas?” Haldir hesitated, glancing at his sleeping but 
rather pale looking husband.

“Let him rest.” Elrond answered quietly, leading Haldir out of the room, 
never noticing Gimli, who had silently entered the room and now 
crouched behind one of the cribs, hiding from view. The dwarf had felt so 
enchanted by the two infants, that he wanted nothing more than to watch 
them and dream of having children of his own. And maybe, because he 
felt nearly as proud as the two fathers themselves. He had played quite an 
important role during Legolas’ pregnancy. So when Haldir and Elrond had 
left the room, he stood up again and stared at the sleeping children, 
marvelling at their already serene faces, the tiny pointed ears and silvery 
blond colour of their wisps of hair. 


A numb but constant feeling of pain disturbed his rest, steadily pulling 
him out of his sleep. Squirming uncomfortably Legolas desperately tried 
to regain his full consciousness.  He felt befuddled and just wasn’t able to 
open his eyes properly. A weird weight rested on his aching belly, but he 
somehow didn’t seem able to reach it. 

Soft wailing noises pulled him further back into the waking land and with 
soft moans Legolas shook his head to clear his vision. Just as he was doing 
so, a gentle and soothing hand stopped his motions. “Shh…, love don’t 
move. Stop struggling. You need rest.” 

Haldir’s voice filtered through the haze and calmed him. “Want …., want 
to see….our children.” Legolas croaked weekly. 
“You will see them soon. But now you need to rest. Elrond and I have fed 
them and now they are supposed to be resting, just like you, but one is not 
the same opinion as you can possibly hear.” Haldir whispered lovingly to 
his husband.

A small smile touched the blonde elf’s lips, when suddenly the crying of 
the child stopped. Haldir’s head shot up and turned towards the crib in 
slight panic. But what he saw brought tears of silent laughter into his eyes 
and he turned back to Legolas to carefully lift his husbands head up a little 
so he could see it as well.

Hovering over the crib with the crying infant was Gimli softly humming a 
dwarvish tune rocking the crib. The child’s crying had died down and by 
now he was only cooing faintly from time to time, obviously enjoying the 
strange tunes.


Some hours later Elrond carefully lifted the blanket covering Legolas and 
without disturbing the Prince’s slumber removed the small sack filled with 
sand that had been lying right above the operational area, applying some 
pressure to help the womb to contract back into its original form and 
prevent a swelling of the freshly stitched cut. The wound looked far better 
than he had expected and he nodded approvingly to himself as he applied 
another thick layer of his special healing salve. He nodded softly in 
Haldir’s direction, who had watched him from an arm chair beside the bed 
and left the room as quietly as he could. Leaving the connecting door to 
the children’s chamber wide open, Haldir gingerly climbed into the bed 
beside his husband and snuggled up as near as he dared to without hurting 
his sleeping husband and let his mind drift off into the elven dreamscape. 

Legolas felt far better rested than the last time he had awoken and as soon 
as his senses had fully readjusted, the first thing he noticed was a loud 
rumbling coming from his stomach. The second sound that reached his 
ears were the constant and rather annoyed sounding wails of his children 
and Haldir’s nervous muttering. Judging from the sounds Haldir was 
trying to feed one of the twins while the other was not happy with being 
ignored. 

“Haldir?” his voice still a bit raspy from the long sleep, Legolas called out 
to his husband. Only seconds later Haldir appeared in the doorframe, in 
one hand holding a small bottle with a tiny nipple made out of sheep’s 
bladder attached to it and cradling one of the infants in the crook of his 
other arm. The long silver hair looked somewhat messed and a faint blush 
stained his cheeks.

“Love, you are awake!” A loving and bright smile broke out on the march 
warden’s features as he rushed into their bedroom. 
With some strain Legolas pushed himself carefully into a halve sitting 
position and stretched his arms out to husband and child. Haldir 
immediately placed the tiny elf in Legolas’ arms and was just about to turn 
around to fetch the other as the bedroom door opened and Gimli strode in, 
clad only in soft dark linen and leather, giving him a softer and more 
fatherly look, waved one hand and moved directly towards the children’s 
chamber. Within moments the wailing of the younger twin stopped and 
subtle rumbling noises, no doubt Kazud were to be heard from the 
connecting room just before Gimli appeared again, gently cradling the 
child in his strong arms, constantly babbling to it wearing a slightly silly 
smile on his face. 

“So, Master elf. Have you two decided on their names, yet?” Gimli looked 
up at Legolas desperately trying to put on a business like face as his firm, 
rough fingers ever so gently stroked the children’s cheek.

Legolas looked down at the older one in his arms as it suckled eagerly at 
the nipple of the bottle Haldir had meanwhile held out for the little elf, 
how its eyelids dropped slightly while doing so and softly said “In honour 
of my father’s family you will be named Thaurdae and your younger 
brother who will be your right hand and other half shall carry on Haldir’s 
family tree with the name Amanhír.”

“Ah, well. Yes, …..” Gimli stuttered a bit “You will have to write that 
down for me. Maybe I will have their names carved into the little stone 
tablets by tomorrow.” 

Just then there was a soft knock at the bedroom door before Arwen 
entered carrying a second bottle. “I have the other bottle ready for you 
Haldir,” she started and stopped as she saw Legolas sting up and awake, 
holding one of his children in his arms feeding it and Gimli holding the 
other, while Haldir looked thoroughly relieved. “Oh, Legolas, you are  
awake again. I hope you are feeling better already.”

“Oh, give me that.” Gimli interrupted her and reached out for the bottle. 
Arwen handed it to him with a sheepish grin and turned to Haldir. “So my 
friend and brave defender of Lorien, it seems you have no duty occupying 
you right now, so why don’t you let the magic of your finger weave one of 
the lovely tunes, like you loved to do before this war?”

“Arwen, I thank you for your kind words, but neither do I have my harp 
with me, nor have my fingers touched a harp’s string in ages. I seriously 
doubt that my fingers are still able to weave their magic.” Haldir had 
blushed at Arwen’s words and now stared at his fingers, quietly stretching 
and bending them.

“Oh, sorry I forgot!” Arwen send her dark hair flying as she turned 
quickly back to the hallway and with soft step hurried from the room.

The two elves and the dwarf stared at each other in wonder, but before 
anybody could utter a single word, Arwen came back in, her robes 
billowing behind her, carrying a large object wrapped up in dark linen.
“There Haldir. Galadriel sent it to Minas Tirith with the last party that 
arrived last week. We had it delivered here, but we all forgot about it 
because more exciting things were happening.” She smiled warmly at 
Haldir and Legolas.

Haldir carefully took the heavy object from Arwen’s hands and 
unwrapped it. Inside he found his old harp, the only remembrance of his 
parents. Legolas’ eyes sparkled as he watched his love, lovingly running 
his hands along the old and dark words and its golden inlays. “Please, play 
for us, my love. Play for our sons.”

Haldir moved over to a large arm chair and sat down, unhurriedly setting 
the harp between his feet and leaning it lightly against his right leg. 
Unconsciously Haldir cocked his head slightly and strummed the strings 
lightly, intently listening to their tune. After some tuning and readjusting, 
he let his fingers move on their own accord, letting his heart pick the tune. 
Only moments later a soft and haunting melody filled the room. Soon the 
melody changed its speed and turned into a light and cheerful theme, full 
of pleasant and joyful memories.


Elladan and Elrohir, who had been wandering the corridors and halls of 
Haldir’s and Legolas’ house, heard the playful melody drifting out from 
the couple’s bedroom. They remembered it immediately and grinned at 
each other. With swift and long strides they made they way to the camp of 
workers, that still stood outside the house and quickly found the largest 
tent of them all. Sorting through different chests, that were placed at the 
back of the tent, they soon found what they had been looking for and made 
they way back to the house.

Arwen was gently moving her feet in time with the music and watched 
Legolas’ eyes shine with love and merry spirit. The prince had his eyes on 
his husband and radiated so much gentle passion that it made her heart 
ache. Beside the bed stood Gimli, cradling Amanhír in his arms feeding 
the infant, all the while staring into the tiny face. 
Suddenly Haldir’s melody seemed to be picked up by a fiddle and a 
bodrahn, whose soft strain and warm beat perfected the tune.

With smiles on their faces the twins entered the bedroom, never ceasing to 
play their instruments. Soon the room was getting more and more crowded 
as the Hobbits joined them, their breath still coming in short pants, from 
having run all the way from the other end of the large house. Elrond stood 
silently smiling in the doorframe and Aragorn had moved behind Arwen, 
his arms lovingly wrapped around her slim waist.



The snow was slowly starting to melt and carefully the first spring flowers 
pushed their heads up through the ground to seek out the warming rays of 
the sun. Patches of soggy grass shone through the thinning layer of white 
and birds were getting increasingly restless.

Gimli leaned leisurely against one of the door frames, that led to the 
atrium and enjoyed the breaths of fresh air. It was time for warmer 
weather. Time to move around in the open again. Everybody in the house 
was getting restless. The rest of the winter had been rather cold and grey 
and even though he and the elves had enjoyed the company of the Hobbits 
and their human friends, it was time for a little peace and quite now.

A faint gurgling and squealing could be heard from the large room at the 
end of the long corridor and immediately after it an annoyed shout 
“Amanhír, no! Don’t pull the blanket again! Please, no. Stop.” Legolas’ 
voice was getting more and more aggressive. It obviously didn’t stop 
Amanhír at any rate and his only reaction seemed to be a high pitched 
giggling, shortly after joined by his twin brother.

The dwarf grinned and closed the door to the atrium again, turning 
towards the children’s room. Legolas was desperately trying to change 
Thaurdae’s nappy and Amanhír had crawled over to his bed and was now 
steadily pulling out his blanket that was hanging over the edge. It wouldn’t 
have been to bad, hadn’t Legolas placed their clothes he wanted to put on 
them out there on that blanket just a short while ago. Part of the clothes 
were already scattered on the ground, much to Thaurdae’s enjoyment. 

With swift strides Gimli entered the room and as soon as Amanhír saw the 
sturdy form of the dwarf approaching let go of the blanket looking as 
innocently as possible. Legolas sighed with exasperation and glared at the 
younger twin. “Why won’t you listen to your Ada? How come you only 
behave when Gimli is around?” Shaking his head, the elf finished dressing 
up Thaurdae and gratefully turned to Gimli “Could you hand me the light 
blue shirt? Thank you.”

To Legolas’ amazement his children had turned out to be the absolute 
opposites to their names. Thaurdae was the quieter on, the one watching 
and waiting. Very much more like Haldir. So unlike the heir to his name. 
Thaurdae was a name that came down Thranduil’s line and unlike his 
father Legolas, who had been full of mischief and wicked ideas, Thaurdae 
never ever so much as pulled his father’s hair.

Amanhír on the other hand had so little in common with the ancestral 
name of Haldir’s family. He was the wicked one. Having his tantrums, 
teasing both his fathers and demanded a lot more attention than his twin. 
Only when Gimli was around he was mysteriously well behaved. 

 Having finished with Thaurdae, Legolas turned and picked up Amanhír, 
who immediately squealed in delight and grabbed a handful of shining 
blond hair, trying to stuff it all at once in his small mouth. “Oh, no not 
again. Amanhír please let go of Ada’s hair. Thank you.” Legolas smiled 
and pecked his son on the cheek laying him down on the small table that 
sat against the wall and was covered with a soft woollen blanket.

“When will Haldir be back?” Gimli’ voice made Legolas turn his head 
shortly before quickly turning back to Amanhír who had in the meantime 
started to stuff a corner of the blanket into his mouth.

“Soon, hopefully.” Legolas replied undressing his son and fetching a fresh 
nappy, dropping the soiled one into a basket beside the table. “He told me 
that he would stay for a few days in Minas Tirith and wanted to be back at 
the end of this week.” He took the light green shirt off Gimli’s hand and 
struggled to clad his son.

Some hours later the young elf and his sturdy friend were sitting on the 
floor before the fire and Legolas was watching as Thaurdae was happily 
laying in the lap of Gimli’s crossed legs, playing with the braids in his 
beard, while he himself held Amanhír in his arms, gently rocking him into 
sleep, after their dinner. To his surprise Amanhír was quiet and let himself 
be held in the gentle embrace, making his father very happy.

“Oh, I miss Haldir.” Legolas suddenly whispered.

“Anything that is news to me?” Gimli countered with a smile, mocking his 
friend and his endless complaints.

Blushing Legolas looked up at his friend and mumbled under his breath 
“We haven’t been intimate ever since our children were born. I can hardly 
remember what it feels like to be held and loved.”

Gimli faintly cleared his throat and wondered at Legolas sudden bluntness. 
Of course he knew all to well what Legolas and Haldir more than 
frequently indulged in when they were alone, but now, nothing for over 
five months. No wonder Legolas was in such a bad state. Was Haldir 
afraid he might harm his husband, or was Legolas afraid of becoming 
pregnant again, even though he had told him that the could now control it.

“But why? Legolas, you still are loved. And I believe Haldir is holding 
you whenever he can, but what keeps him and you from coupling?” Gimli 
tried to sound not to inquisitive. 

“I think we lack the time. I am too tried when we go to bed and during the 
day we hardly have the time for it. Neither Thaurdae nor Amanhír are too 
keen on a nap during the day and they demand a lot of us. I just wish we 
would have a bit time for ourselves, just for one or two hours. Sometimes I 
fear that Haldir is getting even more frustrated than I am. What if he feels 
the need to have someone pleasuring him and now that he is in Minas 
Tirith and what if he has too much whine with Aragorn and Arwen and 
what….”

“Stop, Legolas. Stop this instant. Remember when we were all in Minas 
Tirith and you thought something alike, and you blamed it on your bulging 
body. Haldir, would never, never do something like that. How do you 
think did he manage all those thousand years when you were apart after 
you two separated? Just you wait and see. He will be back soon and back 
in your arms before you know it.” Gimli looked at the elf sternly.


Later that night Legolas lay awake in his and Haldir’s bed, his whirling 
thoughts and worries not letting him rest. He knew of course that his 
words to Gimli had been folly, but his heart ached so much and his body 
screamed for attention. I was true, that at first Haldir had been reluctant to 
make love to Leoglas because of the still fresh wound, later Legolas had 
indeed worried if that what Elrond and the Lorien healer had told him was 
really true and that he wouldn’t become pregnant again without his 
consent. But a few weeks later those worries had been thrown overboard 
and the wish to be as close to Haldir as possible had been more important. 
They had tried a few times, each as unsuccessful as the next. Either one of 
the twins had woken up, or Haldir or he himself couldn’t relax enough and 
so nothing became aroused enough for what they were up to or they were 
simply choosing the wrong time altogether. Anyway, nothing too eventful 
had happened and after a while they just gave up on it.

“This can’t be it!” Legolas threw his covers aside and padded barefooted 
out into the hall and all the way to the other side of their house were the 
guestrooms were. Hesitantly he knocked at the heavy wooden door and 
was surprised to receive an immediate answer.

Slowly Legolas opened the door, peering into the darkness. “Come in my 
son. What brings you here in the middle of the night? Is something 
amiss?” Thranduil’s deep and sotto voice rang clear through the darkness 
of the night.

“Not really amiss, father. But can I have a word with you?” Legolas felt 
like an elfling, but he took a steadying breath and entered the room, 
closing the door quietly behind him. He could make out his father’s form 
on the bed and noticed him leaning over to the right, obviously about to 
light a candle on his bedside table.

“No, please not light father. I would prefer the darkness.” Legolas stopped 
Thranduil’s movements. He knew that his father was unquestioningly 
raising an eyebrow in the dark but it couldn’t be helped.

Carefully Legolas made his way over to his father’s bed and sat down 
beside Thranduil, leaning against the headboard.

After some minutes of mutual silence, Thranduil knew that his son would 
not start the conversation, so he nudged him gently and asked “Now, what 
did you wanted to talk about?” 

Legolas cleared his throat and muttered under his breath “Well, it is a very 
private matter.”

“Alright, so then let’s whisper the words needed” Thranduil lovingly 
mocked his son.

“Oh, Ada!” Legolas punched the older elf beside him on the arm, but felt 
himself relaxing enormously. The tension he had felt drained out of him 
and so he mustered all his courage and asked bluntly “After my birth, for 
how long did you and mother not engage into sexual intercourse?”

“What?” Thranduil asked bewildered.

“I ….., I meant …. I know, I shouldn’t …..” Legolas stuttered helplessly.

“I know what you meant, son. But why put it in such complicated words? 
You wanted to know for how long we didn’t have any sex, right?” the 
King of Mirkwood smiled into the darkness.

Thranduil more felt than saw his son nodding. “Is there a problem between 
you and Haldir, my son?” he inquired.

“No! No, there is no problem between us. Honestly. It’s just, that we don’t 
seem to have either the time or energy for it.” Legolas sounded honestly 
upset.

“When you were born, there were times when your mother and I just 
didn’t feel like it and of course you demanded quite a lot of attention as 
well. But we took the time we needed. Sometimes we would ask someone 
else to look after you, or we waited until you were fast asleep, or…..”

“Thaurdae and Amanhír never seem to sleep at the same time.” Legolas 
sighed in defeat.

“Ask someone to take care of them and take Haldir to bed.” Thranduil 
suggested.

“No, I don’t want to go to someone and ask him to take my sons away, so 
I can bed my husband. It’s like asking someone to help me bedding him. I 
would feel embarrassed to no end.” The young elf shook his head 
vehemently. 

“Legolas, stop acting so foolishly. Your mother and I waited only for three 
weeks until we lay together. I know that your sons are a lot more 
demanding than a single child, but that shouldn’t stop you. How do you 
want to cope in the future? It is a natural thing, what you and Haldir want 
to do and your children will learn that. Do you really think, that there is no 
place or time during that you two can share your passion?” Thranduil 
crossed his stretched legs into a more comfortable position.

“Every time I think that we might have some time for us, I grow nervous. 
Sometimes we even get as far as undressing the other, but I always have 
one ear open towards their room. Haldir told me I go all rigid and tense. 
And mostly that’s that then.”

“Legolas, son. You need to relax more. What would you say, if I or Gimli, 
or maybe we both take Thaurdae and Amanhír for a little trip. It’s getting 
warmer and you could prepare a nice welcome for Haldir when he comes 
back from Minas Tirith.” Thranduil put an arm around his son’s shoulders.

“Do you think that this is such a wise…….” Legolas started but was 
immediately interrupted.

“Stop fretting. You know, the longer you ignore your wants and needs the 
harder it’s going to get. You will get more and more nervous, you will get 
unbearably grumpy and …”

“I get the picture, father! It just will look like I planned everything.” 
Legolas sounded terribly unsure.

“Of course. Of course it will be planned. And why not? Now, go get some 
sleep and think of a few nice things you could do to your husband.” 
Thranduil gently pushed his son off the bed and slid down into a laying 
position again, indicating that he wanted to be left alone to sleep again.



Haldir sighed with relief when he passed the wide gates that lead into the 
Pelennor fields outside of Minas Tirith. Too long had he stayed here. 
Faramir, now Lord of Ithilien had asked him to accompany him on behalf 
of the people of Ithilien, representing the elves, that had settled there. 
They had stayed in the city for two full weeks and Haldir was more than 
eager to return to his home and family.

While staying in Minas Tirith, Haldir had visited the young tailor again, 
who had made all of Legolas clothes during the last weeks of his 
pregnancy. This time however, he asked for something completely 
different. The request had made him and her blush, but know his gift for 
his husband lay carefully folded inside one of the saddlebags, waiting to 
be given to its future owner.

The path towards the woods was muddy and Haldir could hear the 
squelching noises his horse’s hooves made, but the sun was sending its 
first warming rays over the fields and Haldir felt he could no longer resist 
the urge to give his joy voice and so he lifted it in song, blessing his 
surrounding with his crystal clear tune.


Legolas wasn’t sure what day Haldir would arrive, but he knew it was 
soon. So he had carefully set out some candles, changed the bed covers, 
cleaned the room himself and had placed some necessary items within the 
drawer of the left bedside table. Also he had already chosen which clothes 
he was going to put on, as soon as one of the borders guards was going to 
announce Haldir’s approach. Still it felt awkward and strange to him. It 
had never really bothered him to this extent. Why did he make such a fuss 
about the fact that he wanted some time with his love alone and deeply 
wished for some sexual release together with Haldir?

Thranduil had talked to Gimli a few days ago, resulting into the deep and 
rich laughter of the dwarf and the faint chuckle of his father, since Gimli 
had simultaneously thought of the same thing as Thranduil had done. The 
dwarf had already made up his mind, wanting to take the children outside 
for a while as soon as Haldir would return home. And when he had heard 
that the King of Mirkwood was up to the something, he wholeheartedly 
agreed that they both would enjoy some time with the elflings and give the 
parents some piece and quiet.



“He is coming!” Gimli ran towards Thranduil’s room as fast as his short 
legs would carry him. Without delay the unlike couple made their way to 
the children’s room and on the way gave Legolas a thumbs up. Thaurdae 
and Amanhír were quickly dressed in warm cloaks and taken outside. 
Thranduil and Gimli had beforehand decided where to go and organised 
some food and drink. They didn’t want to return for several hours to give 
Legolas and Haldir enough time for their private matters.

Just as they were leaving the large clearing Thranduil spotted a flash of 
white amongst the trees at the other side. Obviously Haldir was pushing 
his horse hard to get home.

Legolas paced their bedroom nervously and scanned the bed again. Why 
was he so nervous? On the other hand he had so much to tell Haldir. 
About their children and what had happened during these three long weeks 
that his husband had been gone. Nervously scanning the bedroom again, 
Legolas groaned and ran his hands through his long blond hair. For the 
first time in weeks he had left it open and flowing freely around his 
shoulders. Usually he had it tightly braided in one plaid down his back, so 
his sons weren’t able to pull it too much. He knew that Haldir loved his 
hair and hoped this would please him.


Bringing his horse to a skidding halt, Haldir already raised his voice 
calling out for Legolas and his children. To his disappointment no answer 
came from the inside of the large house. The march warden squared his 
shoulders and quickly pushed the entrance doors open. He was greeted be 
the warmth and comforting light of the large fireside that dominated the 
far side of the large hall. Haldir turned and closed the doors behind him, 
repeating his questioning call. Suddenly he could hear a surprised squeal 
coming from the hallway that lead to their private room and Legolas came 
running into the hall throwing himself into Haldir’s arms. 

“Haldir! Love, I have missed you so!” the young prince beamed at his 
husband.

Instead of answering with words, Haldir quickly claimed the soft, slightly 
opened lips of Legolas. How he had longed for those lush and pliant lips 
beneath his own, the velvety tongue that was caressing his gum and teeth, 
the fire that was quickly spreading like wild fire through his body. No, 
stop! He couldn’t give into his lust right now. What would Legolas think 
of him? He hadn’t even once asked after their children yet. With a sigh 
Haldir pulled away from his husband and smiled at the gently pout he saw 
on Legolas’ face.

“Come love,” Haldir took Legolas’ hand in his and gentle pulled him 
towards their bedroom. “I have to see our two mischief makers. How did 
you manage all alone?”

“Oh, they were not too hard to handle, really, but ….. Haldir …. Wait!” 
Legolas tried to slow his husband down a bit but without much success.

“Why wait?” Haldir smiled at Legolas and moved quickly into their 
rooms. 

Haldir stopped dead in his tracks as he took an astonished look around. 
The soft light candles illuminated the room, some food was carefully laid 
out on a small side table and their bed was obviously covered by a new 
satin sheet in a dark and rich burgundy colour. The door to the children’s 
room was slightly ajar, but no sound came out of it. Haldir turned and 
looked questioningly at Legolas. 

“Where are Thaurdae and Amanhír?” his voice held a slight hint of 
confusion and annoyance.

“Gimli and my father have taken them for a little excursion. They wanted 
to give us some time for ourselves. Some time alone. Without any 
disturbances.” Legolas looked at Haldir apologetically, somehow realising 
that Haldir was not happy at all with the fact that his children weren’t 
here.

“Oh. Great, I have been away for three weeks and can’t see my children 
when I come back. A disturbance they are, right? Fantastic.” Haldir let go 
off Legolas’ hand and crossed his arms in front of his chest.

“Haldir! Of course they are not a disturbance! They thought we might 
want some time for us. We haven’t been close for so long. You know I 
find it hard to relax when they are in the next room.” Legolas desperately 
tried to explain.

“So it is more important for you to have me in your bed than letting me 
see my children?” Haldir advanced menacingly. 

“Haldir, stop.” Legolas looked slightly scared at his husband. “They are 
also my children. It was you who left us for three weeks. Did you hear me 
complain? No! I was alone all the time. And you? What did you do in 
Minas Tirith? Did you have a nice time? Do you not miss my touch? 
Laying together? Giving the other pleasure? Or did you have enough of 
that when you were away? Are you satisfied and not eager anymore for 
the one you bound yourself to?” by now Legolas’ eyes were ablaze and he 
reached out in his anger and frustration and sent the side table flying with 
a powerful strike of his hand, scattering the food and wine all over the 
floor.

“Have you gone totally mad? Pull yourself together. How dare you think 
of me that way. Maybe I should have taken my passion and needs to 
someone willing in Minas Tirith if I had known what would be waiting 
here at my home for me. I didn’t ask to go to the Capitol, Faramir asked 
me to. And it tore me apart being away from you all. If I had known that it 
was only the carnal pleasures you have been thinking about, I wouldn’t 
have bothered getting you something nice, I would have just torn your 
clothes off and would have taken you against the wall of the entrance 
hall.” With that Haldir pulled a delicately wrapped parcel from his riding 
cloak and threw it at Legolas’ feet.

Haldir drew his cloak close again and stormed out of the room never 
glancing at his husband again and moved quickly down the hallway 
towards the farthest away room he could find. He slammed the door of the 
unoccupied guestroom closed and locked it.


Legolas stood in a trance like state and never felt the hot tears that 
streamed down his pale cheeks, only when his eyes started burning he 
blinked and slowly slumped down on his knees, sobbing uncontrollably. 
With trembling fingers he took hold of the parcel and tenderly stroked the 
silky paper that wrapped its contents. The paper showed dark blotches 
were his tears dropped and he held the parcel tight against his heaving 
chest.


Haldir had slumped down on the bed in the far corner of the room and 
buried his face in his hands. What had gotten into him. Why had he 
overreacted so much? Well, he was disappointed that his …, no! They 
were Legolas’ children as well. So, that their children had not been here 
when he had returned, but then again Legolas had been right. They hadn’t 
really had a minute to themselves since the children had been born. Of 
course there had been nights during which Haldir had tried to seduce his 
mate, but he had not succeeded then. Other than himself, Legolas did 
always have an ear open towards the children’s room. Maybe it was 
because he had carried them and had given birth. He was more involved 
with them and always feared that they would wake or cry.


It was already dark when Thranduil and Gimli returned home, each of 
them carrying a child in their arms, chatting happily. The first thing they 
noticed was the eerie silence within these walls and the lack of light. No 
additional torches or lamps were lit, the embers in the fireside were slowly 
dying and the cold was starting to spread throughout the house.

Thranduil halted his steps and looked down at the dwarf “It feels wrong 
somehow.”

“Na, I bet they were too busy to look after anything else. They most likely 
are still laying in their bed sleeping or doing other unspeakable things.” 
He grinned.

“No, Gimli. I know my son. Something is wrong. Seriously wrong.” 
Thranduil handed Gimli the sleeping Thaurdae and turned towards the 
bedroom of his son and Haldir. Gimli struggled a little as he adjusted 
Amanhír in his left arm, to take a hold of Thaurdae and looked after 
Thranduil with a concerned glance.


Thranduil found the door to the bedroom slightly open and glanced into 
the dark room. At first he could see nothing particular, but as he pushed 
the door open he found his son laying on the floor, in between scattered 
food, a thrown over table, curled up in a foetal position hugging a, by now 
fairly crumpled, package.

The King of Mirkwood quickly crouched down beside his on and carefully 
lifted him up and gently laid him down on the soft, silky cover of the big 
bed.

Legolas stirred and his breath hitched as he opened his eyes and his mind 
became aware of his surroundings again. “Haldir?” he whispered 
brokenly.

“Ion nín, it’s me your father. What happened. Where is Haldir?” Thranduil 
soothingly brushed a few stray strands of blond hair off Legolas face.

“He left. I don’t know ….where he is.” The blond elf sobbed.

“Shh…, he surely had not left you, has he? Tell me, Legolas, what 
happened here?” Thranduil held his son close trying to give him some 
comfort.

“We fought. He was angry that the children were not here when he arrived 
and I was mad at him because of it. We screamed at each other, I pushed 
the table over and he threw this at me.” Legolas looked blearily at the 
parcel “Then he stormed out of the room. Everything went wrong, Ada, 
everything. What if he isn’t interested in me anymore? What if we have 
lost the touch. So much has changed after the war. Remember the last time 
everything went bad between us? It was similar.”

“Now, now. Calm yourself. It surely isn’t as bad as you make it sound. 
Maybe you both expected too much? For nearly half a year you haven’t 
been intimate and that surely has not only bothered you, but Haldir as 
well. Why don’t you let me see where he is hiding, mhm? Come, dry your 
tears and open the gift he, well, ‘gave’ you. Maybe you will be surprised.” 
The older elf kissed his son on the cheek and got up from the bed.

Before starting his search for Haldir though, Thranduil walked back into 
the entrance hall, where Gimli stood waiting anxiously. “Well?” The 
dwarf asked. “Was I right?”

“No, sadly you were not. I was. They had a fight and I found my son 
curled up on the floor. He had been crying a lot obviously. Haldir has 
vanished and I promised Legolas to find him. Gimli could you take the 
twins to their room and put them to bed?” Thranduil smiled reassuringly at 
the dwarf and patted him on his broad shoulder before he turned back to 
the long hallway, sighing deeply.

Gimli shook his head as he walked to Legolas’ and Haldir’s bedroom to 
move on to the children’s room. Legolas was still sitting on the bed in his 
hand something soft and shimmering. A crumpled paper lay on his knees 
and fresh tears were wetting his face. 

When Gimli entered the room the elf looked up and was just about to get 
up, when the dwarf stopped him. “No, Legolas stay were you are. I am 
going to look after your little ones. Don’t worry. Just imagine your father 
finds Haldir and calls for you. So let me take care of them both and you 
freshen up a little.”

Legolas frowned at the dwarf but was relieved that he could stay there on 
the bed. He held tightly onto the soft, shimmering robe that lay in his lap. 
It was a nearly see through, silvery nothing. Sleeveless and very long. Had 
Haldir thought of him when he bought this? Yes, definitely. But what had 
his thoughts been. Had he been imagining him in this robe? Naked except 
for this beautiful, gauzy cloth covering him? Had he imagined running his 
hands over Legolas slim hips through the cloth, enjoying the silky feeling?
Legolas shook his head quickly, blinked back the tears that were again 
threatening to fall. He pushed himself up and left the bed. Looking down 
at the mess on the floor, he was torn between bending down and cleaning 
up the room and going over into the next room and helping Gimli with his 
children.  In the end his bad conscience won and so he went down on his 
knees and started cleaning up the mess he had created. Only a short while 
later Gimli emerged from the adjoining room and when he saw Legolas 
and wanted to help him, the elf waved him off. Gimli understood and left 
the bedroom, but not before he threw his friend and encouraging smile.


Thranduil found Haldir in a similar position in which he had found his 
son, only that Haldir was lying on the bed in the guest room and was wide 
awake. But like in his son’s eyes, the King could see the glitter of tears 
and the redness of those eyes told him that those weren’t the first tears that 
Haldir had cried.

It had taken Thranduil nearly half an hour to find his son in law. At first he 
had looked outside the house and then he had started searching the many 
rooms in this house. The room was very cold and even though elves 
usually weren’t affected by it, Haldir had huddled up beneath the warm 
blanket that had been covering the bed.

Thranduil sat down beside the march warden and lay a hand on the 
trembling shoulder that pointed upwards. Haldir flinched visibly but said 
nothing. 

“Come Haldir. It is too cold here.” Thranduil tried to coax Haldir out of 
the bed. “Come with me to my room.”

“No, just leave me here.” Haldir’s voice cracked “Tomorrow, when it gets 
light, I will leave. It will be better. I have already caused too much trouble 
and heartache.”

“Haldir! What are you talking about?” the blond elf shook his head “You 
will most definitely not leave. How much heartache do you think either of 
you can stand? I don’t know why you had this fight, but believe me it is 
not that tragic. Legolas loves and misses you very much. And I am truly 
sorry that we took your twins out without your consent, but we thought 
that you would like to have some time alone with Legolas. Come now, go 
to him. He needs you and you need him. I think Gimli has already brought 
Amanhír and Thaurdae to bed and if I am not mistaken my son will be 
most worried about you. He actually thought that you were going to leave 
him for good.”

“Thranduil, I cannot go back to him. I said so many cruel things to him. I 
accused him of only being interested in …..” Haldir was interrupted by the 
King.

“I can imagine. Well, he was, no, he is very interested in bedding you 
again. As far as I know you haven’t been sexually active ever since the 
children were born. Am I not right?”

“How do you know?” Haldir gasped.

“My son came to me. He blamed himself, of course, but I told him that 
sometime one does only need a little push in the right direction to get 
going again. I obviously underestimated my actions. For that I am sorry, 
Haldir. But I think you still need to sort that problem out. Now, get up and 
go to him. It is the worst you two can do, go to sleep with a fight. Let me 
tell you something my grandmother once told me when I fell for Legolas’ 
mother and we got married. She told me to never let the sun rise over a 
fight. Meaning, always make up before you sleep. Never sleep apart 
because of a fight!” With a loving smile Thranduil drew back the covers 
and helped Haldir up into a sitting position. With a smirk he noticed that 
Haldir was still in his travelling garb.


With slumped shoulders Haldir walked down the corridor towards the 
bedroom, his steps getting slower the nearer he came. Nearly frozen to a 
halt, Haldir carefully peered into the room and found his husband kneeling 
on the floor, wiping it clean with a wet rag. Littered on the table that now 
stood again, Haldir saw the shards of the glasses and mixed up food that 
had been so carefully placed on the platters before. A sharp pain shot 
through him. He had caused all this destruction and despair. Legolas had 
put so much love and devotion into it, and he had willingly killed all the 
joy and happiness. And just because he would see his children a little later 
than expected. Legolas had not yet noticed him and when Haldir moved 
closer, he saw the unwrapped present he had brought from Minas Tirith. 
He closed his eyes briefly, again fighting against the pain in his chest. He 
had been so full of love and longing when he had bought this. Just 
imagining his husband wearing nothing but this translucent robe had made 
him hard event though he had been standing in the middle of the shop of 
the young tailor. He hoped that Legolas would still agree to wearing it one 
night for him.

Legolas had just finished cleaning the last bit of sticky honey off the hard 
wood floor when he heard soft steps entering the room. Hardly daring to 
look up, he carefully tilted his head to see who had entered. But before he 
could make out who it was, the person dropped down on his knees beside 
him and he looked into Haldir’s begging features. 

With a voice that shook and eyes that pleaded, Haldir spoke to his husband 
as he carefully stretched a hand out towards Legolas face “I am sorry, my 
love. I was not being fair to you. I said such terrible things to you and I 
even screamed at you. Please, please forgive me. I love you so much. 
Please, Legolas, my love, you are my everything, my heart, my soul.”

Legolas looked at his love and instead of saying something, or chiding 
him he only leaned forward and buried his face in the crook of Haldir’s 
shoulder. His slender arms wrapped themselves around his husband and 
the only thing that could be heard inside the room for a long time was their 
hitched breathing and occasional whispers of love and devotion.



Thranduil found his son and his mate the next morning curled up tightly in 
their bed. Haldir had his arms around Legolas, holding him close. The fact 
that they were both still wearing most of their clothes told the King that 
nothing, except for a gentle making up, had happened. He sighed 
inwardly, knowing that both desperately needed some more intimate 
contact to overcome their doubts and uncertainties.

He left them sleeping, tiptoeing over to the room of the children and found 
Amanhír already wide awake, beaming at him from his crib. Thaurdae was 
still dozing and Thranduil picked up the younger twin and went to change 
his nappy and put some fresh clothes on him. Much to his surprise 
Amanhír seemed calm and didn’t squeal or raise his voice in complaint as 
he usually did when getting dressed again. No it was like he was 
deliberately quiet today. He smiled at the child and put him back into his 
bed. Gently the King roused the still sleeping Thaurdae and kissed him on 
his forehead as he blinked sleepily. After having tended to the older prince 
as well he picked up both children and tried to slip back out into the 
hallway. But just as he passed the bed with the sleeping parents, Amanhír 
cried out as he saw Haldir. Of course both fathers awoke immediately. 
Thranduil groaned but smiled at Legolas and Haldir.

Haldir sat up in the bed and reached out with his arms for his children. 
Legolas looked sceptically at his father but said nothing. 

Holding his son Thaurdae in outstretched arms Haldir let himself fall 
backwards on the bed throwing his son up in the air ever so slightly. 
Thaurdae giggled and his eyes gleamed with joy. Legolas smiled while he 
held Amanhír in his arms and watched his husband playing with his son. A 
smile broadened on his face and a warm, tender felling spread within him.

Thranduil excused himself and slipped out of the room. Alright, he had to 
admit that his plan had failed. He had hoped that he could take the 
children with him and let his son and  Haldir some more minutes in piece. 
Maybe another time.

Legolas and Haldir played with their sons for a few good hours enjoying 
the time together. All the time Legolas tried not to think of Haldir naked 
and willing, giving himself to the prince. He told himself over and over 
again that it would get better someday. That they would hold each other 
again in passion and desire. The night before, Legolas had stored Haldir’s 
present away in their wardrobe even before his husband had returned to 
their room. Leoglas still wasn’t sure what think of it.


The next days passed with ease and everything went back to its usual way. 
Haldir looked after the border guards of Ithilien and Legolas tended the 
children and the house. At times he loathed this kind of agreement but he 
didn’t want to leave his sons in the hands of others. Still he missed the 
daily exercises and the work with bow and sword. Promising himself that 
as soon as Thaurdae and Amanhír were a bit older he would start working 
with his weapons again, he went to the kitchen to prepare dinner for the 
twins. On the other hand he would have to speak with Haldir about a few 
tasks that always had to be done in their own rooms. He wanted Haldir to 
help him with those.

Ever since the twins had learned how to crawl across the floor, their toys 
were scattered throughout their own room as well as the bed room of their 
fathers. Until now it usually was Legolas who picked up everything and 
put it away. Sometimes Gimli helped him, but the dwarf wasn’t to happy 
with spending too much time in the bed room of his friend. He would talk 
to Haldir about this matter tonight. Well, maybe not right tonight, he 
didn’t want to spoil the evening. It wouldn’t hurt to wait for a few more 
days.

Carefully carrying the tray with the two bowls with the vegetable puree for 
the twins, Legolas returned to their rooms. Pushing the door open with his 
foot and circling around the door, Legolas hummed a small tune to himself 
and nearly dropped the tray as he saw Haldir standing in the middle of the 
twins bed room, bending low to pick up a few things that were laying on 
the floor.

How had Haldir known that Legolas wanted a bit more help? Had his 
father said something? But Legolas hadn’t talked to Thranduil about the 
problem. Still wondering about this, Legolas watched his husband, who 
still hadn’t noticed him so far and felt his insides melt.

The way Haldir’s legs stretched, the toned muscles of his backside and the 
firm arms that picked up the small toys. Legolas felt his blood pooling in 
his groin and suppressed a moan. Wanting to watch Haldir for a bit more, 
Legolas moved into the shadows of their bedroom and carefully sat the 
tray with the food down on the bed. His breath was already coming in 
shorter pants and his erection fought angrily against the tightness of his 
leggings. All reasonable thought had left him and without noticing had 
turned him into a mass of want and desire.

Haldir cradled some clothes and other stuff in his arms and moved over to 
the large chest of drawers at the far wall. He dropped everything on top of 
it and started sorting it out. Today he only wore a tight and rather short 
vest instead of the usually long and flowing ones and it gave Legolas the 
perfect view of the two round and firm mounds of Haldir’s backside. 
Overcome by his needs Legolas stealthily moved out of his corner and 
approached his husband, who was still oblivious to all other things except 
sorting out different pieces of clothing.

With flush cheeks Legolas snaked his arms around Haldir’s slim waist 
from behind and pressed himself close, rubbing his hot and engorged 
member against Haldir. The silver haired march warden froze for an 
instant and then all of a sudden groaned with pleasure. The feeling that 
washed over his body was intense and nearly robbed him of his breath. 

Deft fingers immediately started unbuttoning the shirt Haldir was wearing 
and left him trembling with need. Twisting slightly the Lorien elf managed 
to turn around to face his ‘attacker’ and found his husband standing before 
him with a flushed face and wide eyes shining with untamed lust. While 
Legolas’ hands fumbled with Haldir’s shirt he lunged forward and claimed 
Haldir’s lips with his own in a passionate kiss. Without much hesitation 
their tongues met and caressed the soft caverns of the other’s mouth. Soon 
Haldir’s torso was undressed and his vest lay in a crumpled heap on the 
floor beside them. 

Legolas’ slender but strong hands ghosted over the pale flesh downwards 
to the fastening of Haldir’s leggings, leaving a trail of love on their way. 
The prince felt his mate shiver in anticipation and withdrew a few inches 
to get better access to the offending cloth Haldir still wore. Fuelled by his 
need Haldir imitated Legolas movements and started prying the soft shirt 
his husband wore open. He sighed when his hands found the soft and 
creamy skin underneath, but had hardly time to enjoy it for suddenly his 
trousers were yanked down and Legolas dropped to his feet to get them off 
together with the soft suede shoes Haldir wore. 

Instead of simply standing up again, Legolas nibbled, licked and bit his 
way up along Haldir’s long legs. He moistened every square inch of skin, 
his heightened senses clearly making out every crease, every curve on the 
way. Feeling the trembling muscles beneath his tongue send Legolas into a 
frenzy, making him groan loudly against the heated skin. Meanwhile 
Haldir’s unoccupied hands came to rest on his neglected member and on 
his chest, playing with one hard nipple. Legolas had reached the heavy, 
musky scented sack of his husband and snaked his tongue all around it, 
enjoying the rippling of the skin against his lips. His hands sneaked 
around Haldir’s knees and pushed them apart. Now Legolas’ tongue 
travelled away slightly, gently lapping at the velvety skin in the crease 
between thigh and hip. Haldir’s moans became more demanding and 
Legolas could feel Haldir’s hand moving faintly faster on the aching 
erection than before. 

Haldir had his head thrown back as he found himself suddenly lifted off 
the ground and pushed onto the chest of drawers, his legs spread wide and 
then his body was pulled forward so that he hardly sat on the furniture 
anymore. He felt his legs being spread even further and lifted up by strong 
hands that had slipped underneath his knees. Legolas’ blond head moved 
in between the creamy thighs and let his tongue wander again. Gently it 
trailed downwards gliding over the sensitive skin of Haldir’s buttocks and 
every now and then dipped into the crease. 

The prince enjoyed the feeling of utter control and having his husband at 
his mercy. The musky scent and his own arousal drove him mad with 
hunger and desire. Out of the corner of his eye he could see the knuckles 
of Haldir’s hand turning white, gripping the edge of the chest so hard that 
it must hurt. With a feral grin Legolas moved is tongue to his goal. 
Wetting the puckered skin generously with his saliva, he slowly but 
steadily pushed the slick muscle past the resistance of the guardian ring. 
Haldir’s body twitched in pleasure and a groan deep from within his body 
echoed off the walls of their bedroom.

Further and further Legolas worked his tongue into the velvety heat, his 
saliva slowly dripping down the crease between Haldir’s buttocks. 
Carefully letting go off Haldir’s leg with the right hand, the blond elf 
quickly undid his own leggings and fumbled a bit to push them down to 
his thighs. His member was rock hard by now and its head flaring. The pre 
cum, having already left a damp spot on his trousers, slowly ran in a clear 
streak down the tip of his arousal. 

Knowing that he was nearing the edge faster than he wanted to, Legolas 
carefully moved into and upright position again, locking his eyes instantly 
with those of his husband. Haldir’s words were barely audible but the 
panted breath carried the words to Legolas’ ears. “Take me!”

Haldir was holding his left leg up himself ever since Legolas’ right had let 
go off it and now the prince could use this to his advantage as he held his 
own erection firmly in his hand and guided it towards Haldir’s wetly 
glistening opening. Not being able to look anywhere else, Legolas 
watched mesmerized as the blunt tip of his member pushed its way inside 
Haldir’s body, spreading the muscle wide. Haldir’s moans became deeper 
more from the deepest parts of his body as he desperately tried not to push 
himself towards Legolas’ body, but instead craved every single second of 
this blissful feeling. The feeling of being breached, filled and taken. 

Legolas threw his head back as he felt the moist heat gripping him firmly 
and the slight sucking as Haldir clenched his anal muscles with a smirk on 
his lips. Hardly giving the silver haired beauty beneath the time to 
accommodate, Legolas pulled nearly all the way out again, still watching 
how the strong muscle of Haldir’s entrance kept its tight grip on his 
slightly glistening member. With a small cry the prince of Mirkwood 
plunged back into the wanton heat and started to drive into Haldir again 
and again with reckless abandon. Haldir was howling with the raw 
feelings that were shooting through his body and his head hit the wall 
behind him with every sharp thrust of his love. 

“Harder, please do me harder, my love.” Haldir panted and desperately 
tried to keep his balance since he had taken both hands off the wooden 
furniture and was now holding his knees as far up to his chest as he could. 

Legolas head had dropped down and he held onto Haldir’s shoulder as he 
plummeted as hard as he could into the willing body. Sweat was gathering 
between his shoulder blades and started to trickle down his back, his 
leggings were still hanging somewhere around his ankles by now and was 
hindering his movements. But the only thing that Legolas really felt was 
Haldir’s body surrounding him, the nearly unbearable love that connected 
them and the mounting tension somewhere in his lower belly.  

A few stray silver strands had sneaked their way into Haldir’s face and 
obstructed his view, as he watched intently every single motion on his 
husband’s face. Legolas eyes were wide open, the blue had become so 
dark that it seemed almost black and his lips were parted sucking in the 
direly needed air. A flush tainted the pale cheeks rosy and the hair at the 
forehead seemed darker with sweat. Haldir felt wave after wave of this 
strange sharp tingling sensation, each time Legolas’ engorged penis drove 
over his prostate, making him shudder. “Mae, melamin, saes… Come, my 
love, come with me…” Haldir’s voice was raspy.

“I love you, Haldir….” Legolas was only able to whisper as he let go off 
Haldir’s shoulder and placed one hand on his beloved’s hot and begging 
erection. His hand was shaking when he curled his fingers around it and 
gave it a gentle squeeze. It was all Haldir needed and he screamed out his 
release, spurting his pearly, white essence over his abdomen, his anal 
muscles rhythmically clenching around Legolas member.

The increasing tightness and the contractions around his arousal pushed 
Legolas immediately over the edge as well. His body twitched as he 
emptied himself deeply inside Haldir’s body and he could hardly keep 
himself from breaking down and sagging like a deadweight to the floor. 
He held onto his husband tightly and desperately tried to regain his breath. 

Neither Legolas nor Haldir could tell whether they had stayed like this for 
a few seconds or an hour. It took quite a while until Legolas’ member had 
softened and slipped easily from Haldir’s body and both of them were able 
to breath normally again. Haldir whispered words of love and endearments 
into Legolas’ ears and tender kisses were exchanged. 

Suddenly a small noise could be heard from the other room. A joyful 
squeal and faint gurgling sound, shortly followed by the crystal clear 
tinkle of a child’s rattle. Legolas’ shot up and the blush on his face 
increased enfold. “The children?” he asked quietly.

“They are in the next room. In their beds.” Haldir looked at his husband 
questioningly. 

“They never made a sound. But they must have heard us!” Legolas 
exclaimed somewhat embarrassed. 

“Yes, without a doubt. But obviously it didn’t bother them. Love, it is a 
natural thing. And I believe they should get used to it, as should we.” 
Haldir smiled at Legolas. “And I really love it when you get so aggressive. 
Why this sudden change of mind?” he had uttered the last question 
carefully, not wanting to upset Legolas but Haldir really wanted to know, 
since his fair husband had been most reluctant to make love for the last 
few months. He had always been worried about the children. Afraid they 
might hear them or see something.

Legolas looked down not wanting to Haldir in the eye and mumbled under 
his breath “When I saw you bending down and I watched those 
remarkable muscles of your …..  your backside ….. I …..”

Haldir laughed quietly and kissed Legolas soundly on the lips, before 
sitting up and sliding down from the misused furniture gathering his love 
in his arms.



Gimli toyed lazily with the braids in his beard, for the umpteenth time 
cursing the many grey streaks in it and watched the two young elves 
sticking their heads together, whispering and giggling. Without a doubt 
they were up to something. Smiling, Gimli watched them and decided not 
to interfere. Since they hardly played any tricks on him, he obviously had 
too much of an authoritative manner about him and from the earliest age 
Thaurdae and Amanhír had obeyed him without questioning, he thought it 
best to let them be and enjoy, with whatever they would come up with 
from the distance.

It was amazing just how much the twins came after their fathers. Thaurdae 
still played the more quiet and analytic part of them, whilst Amanhír put 
most of their mischievous plans into action. But when it came to the 
training of weapons and art, again they were the direct opposites of each 
other. While one would expect Amanhír to be the one best with the bow or 
sword, it was his brother,  Thaurdae the quiet one, who wielded his sword 
with a deadly precision and whose arrows hardly mist their target. Granted 
it would take many more years of practise be become as good as his father 
Legolas, but he would one day match him. 

Amanhír proved his talent for song and music. Faster then anybody had 
ever guessed he mastered he first steps in the art of the harp, flute and 
wrote his own compositions. It seemed to be the only time he would sit 
quietly and absorbed, his gestures sedate and careful. Haldir of course was 
thrilled to have a musician in the family and he had immediately ordered 
the fines instruments for his son, as soon as the talent showed.

The dwarf grunted a little when he rearranged his sore bones once again 
on the small bench, Legolas had built for him and watched the setting sun 
bathing the atrium in a warm golden light. Wondering just how many 
years he would have left in this marvellous place, he suddenly felt the cold 
hand of fear gripping his aging heart.  Fear being alone, fear of being old 
and forgotten. Already he had taken the friendship with Legolas and his 
family for granted for so many years, that it was beyond him to count 
them. Just how much longer would they want to put up with him?

With a sad smile he remembered seeing the twins growing up, hearing 
their first words being uttered. To their parents disappointment it had not 
been ‘ada’ or Haldir, no it had been ‘imi’ and a bit later ‘imli’. He had 
seen them take their first steps, their tears of anger and frustration when 
they had gotten into trouble with one of their fathers and he had taught 
them dwarvish and the dwarven culture just as Haldir, Legolas and 
Thranduil had taught them about the elves.

It was he who had dried Legolas’ tears in secret, when his father Thranduil 
had left for the undying lands, because his elven friend was too proud to 
show his sorrow before his husband. The dwarf never told the blond 
prince, that Haldir had stood in one of the archways watching them with a 
smile. He remembered only to well the argument of the two fathers, when 
Legolas had told Haldir that he would keep his promise to Gimli and visit 
the glittering caves with him and Haldir’s annoyed face when he told his 
husband that if that would be the case, they would all go. The look on the 
prince’s face had been priceless.

After visiting the caves and the awfully dark forest of Fangorn, Gimli had 
stayed in the mountains at the Hornburg and had crafted the glittering 
caves into one big shining jewel. Right afterwards he had then helped the 
dwarves in the halls of Khazad Dum to restore its old glory. But soon after 
about five to six years, Gimli could not stand it any longer and had taken 
to the road south, back to Ithilien.

All in all Gimli always had been part of the elves he loved so much and it 
grieved him to no end knowing that one day they would leave. And 
considering Elessar’s dwindling health it would be soon. Legolas had 
promised his life long friend Aragorn to stay until the end. And know the 
end was near.

It was another sad memory the dwarf suddenly clung to, remembering the 
joyous announcement that the Queen was with child. The birth of Eldarion 
and the always ongoing, joyful competition between the elves and the 
King about their children. Gimli had witnessed Eldarion’s coming of age, 
his amorous adventures, then falling in love with a simple woman from 
the city of Minas Tirith and their wedding. By now he himself was the 
father of two beautiful and healthy sons and wished for nothing more than 
to have a daughter.

Aragorn’s poor health weighed heavily on everybody and presently 
Legolas and Haldir were in Minas Tirith, to be at Aragorn’s side. Gimli 
expected them only to return when the King had indeed died. And what 
would happen then? Surely Legolas and Haldir would want to leave to 
Aman with their children and at last have the peaceful life they so much 
wished for. At last to be free of the quarrels of man, free of the fate of 
Middle earth. And they had earned it. Maybe he could go back to his clan, 
back in the lonely mountain. See if there were any close relatives left. 
With a pang of regret Gimli thought of the one time he had ventured back 
to his home in the company of Legolas and his family. Gimli’s father had 
been outraged, most of his other relatives, had turned away form the 
member of the fellowship and with tears stinging his eyes Gimli had, head 
held high, turned and left, never to return.

Legolas and Haldir had pleaded with him to try again, to bring his clan to 
its sense, but he had only shook his head and barked at them to leave him 
alone. Amanhír and Thaurdae both had been to young to understand, they 
had never experienced the hatred between elves and dwarves themselves, 
but seeing their beloved ‘imli’ in such a distress and their fathers in an 
uproar, made them stay quiet and in the background.

So that wasn’t really a choice then. Maybe he could stay here in Ithilien, 
where with Legolas’ help a kind of refuge had been born for all of the free 
people of Middle earth. There were dwarves, elves, hobbits, man and half-
breeds all living together in harmony and understanding. Even though all 
of the elves had left for the undying lands by now, surely he could stay in 
this house and then he wouldn’t be so alone.


The sounding of rustling leaves and the quiet whisper of clothes made the 
dwarf look up and he found Legolas’ sad face hovering above him. His 
eyes were still slightly swollen and ever so bloodshot. 

“It is over.” He said quietly “He went quickly. I am sure he didn’t suffer. 
Eldarion was crowned King only a day later and we left right after the 
ceremony. It is a sad time.” Legolas’ last words were but a whisper and 
Gimli had to strain to hear them.

“Oh.” Was all that the dwarf could utter as he took the elf’s hands into his 
and ran his thumbs over Legolas’ knuckles.

“Come let’s inside.” The blond elf helped Gimli up the together they went 
inside.

The next few days were spent in near silence and even the twins had taken 
their mind off any kind of mischief. Gimli watched the elves carefully, the 
plans they made, what they talked about and how they behaved. Only a 
week later Legolas left the house, large saddle bags hanging at the side of 
his horse and made his way south. He hadn’t told Gimli where he would 
go, but the dwarf could guess. As far as he knew, there were no ships left 
to bear Legolas, Haldir and the twins to Valinor, but as Thranduil had 
always put it so nicely ‘Legolas, never forget, you are a Telleri 
descendant.’. Gimli had once asked his friend what was so important 
about that fact and Legolas had then explained to him, that only elves of 
that line could built the grey ships. So Gimli was somehow sure that 
Legolas was somewhere near the coast or the river Anduin to built a ship. 
A ship that would take them away from him.

The dwarf’s heart sank even deeper when he noticed the twins and Haldir 
packing things, sorting different items out, that were obviously not needed 
and bundling clothes, linens and tapestries up so that they could be 
transported. 

He house had grown emptier over the many years, after first the hobbits 
and then the King of Mirkwood left. But now it felt like a ruin to Gimli. 
Often he would just sit outside in the garden and look up at the trees. 
Especially the two large Mallorn trees that had been planted when the 
twins had been born. It was unbelievable just how tall they had grown. To 
him the days that passed seemed endless, and yet again time was fleeting. 
Maybe it had something to with age. Gimli felt that the older he got the 
more precious time became and the quicker it went by. 

So without wanting the elves to notice, Gimli packed his belongings in 
secrecy, hiding the bundles and bags under his bed. He would not show 
his best friend his grief, he would smile at him and wish him farewell. 
Then he would leave himself. After having considered the possibility to 
stay here in this house, he had decided that it would hurt too much. Too 
many memories were bound to this place. 

Sooner than expected the day came, that Gimli saw Haldir and the twins 
race to the front door, welcoming their husband and father home. It was 
hard for Gimli to join the happy laughter and loving embraces but he tried 
his best. As soon as Legolas and Haldir retired to their bedroom Gimli 
once more ventured out into the garden and sat with a heavy sigh on his 
personal bench. No longer was he able to hold back the tears that had been 
stinging his eyes for the last hours, no longer did he want to hold back the 
feeling of utter loneliness that already crept up his body. Letting out a 
heart breaking wail the sturdy figure of the dwarf slumped down and 
cried.

Legolas sat bolt upright in his bed and listened. Only Haldir’s deep and 
regular breathing could be heard, the comfortable and satisfied deepness 
that only appeared after lovemaking and a long cuddling afterwards. But 
something had disturbed the prince and he got up quietly, quickly fetched 
his robe and tiptoed outside. 

First he turned his attention to the end of the corridor where the rooms of 
Amanhír and Thaurdae lay, but no sounds were coming out of them. 
Legolas stopped and listened again. Nothing. Maybe he had been wrong. 
Maybe it had been nothing at all, but something inside of him told him 
that something was amiss. With a look of determination he walked to 
Gimli’s room, only to find it empty. That was odd. The dwarf never was a 
night person. In the corner of the room Legolas could see neatly packed 
bundles and bags, no doubt Gimli’s most prized possessions. Though it 
hurt Legolas to leave this wonderful house, he was more than anxious to 
sail to the undying lands. He had been overly thrilled that the building of 
the ship had gone well, without any trouble or accidents and that they were 
all ready to go soon.

But first he had to find his friend. Maybe he had gone into the kitchen  for 
a midnight snack. It was the only logical reason for the dwarf to leave his 
bed at night. With a smile Legolas made his way to the kitchen, when he 
suddenly heard a sort of sobbing sound coming from the garden. He 
stopped dead in his tracks and listened. Yes, somebody was definitely out 
there, and obviously in great distress.

With the easy moves that only an elf could possess Legolas moved 
soundlessly through the darkness until he found the source of the 
disturbing sound. When the slumped form of the dwarf came into view 
and the elf got aware of the shaking o the shoulders, he quickly knelt 
down before his dear friend and took the rough and short finger in his 
hands.

With a fright Gimli’s head shot up and he stared startled into Legolas’ 
deep blue eyes.

“Gimli, dearest what ails you? What has happened? Please tell me!” 
Legolas tried desperately to hide his own emotions but failed miserably.

“Nothing. It’s nothing really. Old fool of a dwarf I am, nothing more. 
Maybe it’s just the weather that got to me.” Gimli roughly pulled his 
hands free and tried to wipe the tears from his face.

“Gimli, the weather was and still is wonderful and you are not an old fool. 
So tell me what brings you to tears? Did you receive any news from your 
kin? Bad news?” It didn’t make any sense to the prince what possibly 
could have upset his friend like this.

“I am and OLD fool. Let me tell you.” Gimli managed a hearty laugh “But 
what you youngster know about that then, ey? Oh, I think it’s just the 
thought of leaving this place and moving somewhere else. Than again, I 
might see the glittering caves again and even maybe some of my family, 
but that somehow seems unlikely.”

“The glittering caves? Your family? Gimli? But I thought…. “ Legolas felt 
himself go pale and he sat back on his heels staring at the dwarf.

“What? That I would stay here? In this huge house? All alone? Nah, I 
wouldn’t like that.” Gimli shook his head.

“Why should I think that you would stay here alone?” Legolas tried to 
comprehend. “I thought you were coming with us! But if you rather be 
with you kin, I understand…”

“What? Come with you?” the eyes of the old dwarf suddenly lit up with an 
inner fire “but I thought…., I don’t think….., with you really? But how?”

“Did you really believe we would just leave you here? Gimli, how could 
we? You mean so much to me, to Haldir and to our children. And what if I 
become pregnant again? I would never find such a perfect nurse again!”

“Legolas, I thought you would leave me and…., ah never mind my 
blabbering. It would be wonderful to see everybody again and meet the 
Lady of the wood once more. But as to being your nurse again, I seriously 
doubt that I will manage that. Or you will have to be pretty quick about it. 
I am not growing any younger you now?” once more a happy smile graced 
the dwarven features and he rested his hands on Legolas’ shoulders.

“Gimli!” Legolas’ silver laugh echoed through the garden. “But you will 
live to see my next child or children! The undying lands don’t have their 
name for nothing. If you will be allowed to enter into the sacred realm you 
can only do so as an elf, ring bearer or as an invited one. But as soon as 
you touch the grounds of Valinor, you will be immortal. You might even 
feel a bit younger after a while.”

“Can’t we take Arwen with us then? She still is an elf, isn’t she? I hate to 
see her suffer like this.” Gimli looked questioningly at Legolas.

“Sadly no.” the blond head dropped a little “She has chosen this path and 
it is irreversible. The Valar make their choice only once.”


So when a few days later the last grey ship sailed into the setting sun, 
facing away from Middle earth and all its people, among the four tall and 
elegant silhouettes stood one far smaller and broader one, his face 
beaming with pride and joy, looking forward to being with his friends for 
just a little while longer. 


The end
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