For all those who managed to get to Chapter 23 before Ff.Net decided to remove the story this is just to let you know that you can actually find the story posted on my own site amongst others at
I am currently posting the non NC-17 chapters only so as not to violate Fanfiction.net law. If anyone thinks anything here is pushing the boundaries of NC-17 please be kind and let me know so I can modify it. Thanks
Alliances Of The Heart
Written by Soar
Author's Notes: Please be aware that this is my first foray into slash fiction.
This is an AU story featuring a m/m relationship between Aragorn and Legolas. This will also feature an MPREG later in the story. I have to say this in inspired by all the great mpreg stories I've been reading here lately that have made me look upon Legolas as the perfect candidate to carry Aragorn's child.
Chapter 1
In a large armchair by a roaring fire a lone figure sat pensively. His thoughts were disturbed however by the entrance of another.
"The preparations are complete my son, all is ready for tonight." Lord Elrond said to his foster son, Aragorn, Crown Prince of Gondor.
Aragorn heaved a sigh.
"Are you sure you wish to go ahead with this my son?" Elrond questioned as he approached the young man.
"No I do not wish to go ahead with this, in much the same way as I do not wish to be crowned King in a few months, yet you and I both know it is necessary. I must be crowned King, and I must marry and beget heirs for the kingdom."
Aragorn rose gracefully from the chair and moved to look out of the windows. A variety of banners hung from every possible place around the castle in preparation for tonight's festivities. Every available potential partner and their families would be here tonight so that the future King of Gondor might choose who would rule at his side.
Aragorn winced as he thought of all the pushy mothers thrusting their children at him in the hopes that their offspring should be the one to capture his interest.
He wished it were not so, and knew that if he so much as hinted it, Lord Elrond would whisk him away to Rivendell, the place where he grew up under the loving hand of the Elven Lord. Then remorse struck him as he remembered the look of relief and joy of the old Steward Denethor's face when Aragorn had arrived a mere year ago to prepare for his crowning upon his reaching the mature age of 25.
The past year has been spent learning the ways of his kingdom, the duties that would be his upon his attaining the crown, and Denethor could not stress enough the need for a partner who would assist him, and provide the heirs his kingdom needed for it's own security. Hence this ball. Mere weeks from his coronation Denethor had suggested that the ball be the perfect opportunity for him to meet someone and for negotiations with the family to begin so that the wedding could be arranged as soon as possible.
Aragorn heaved one more sigh, and then straightening his shoulders turned to face his foster father.
"Well, time is flying, I suppose now would be a good time for me to make myself ready for tonight."
Elrond nodded in acquiescence and left his son to call upon his valet.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When Aragorn was finally ready to make his entrance things were well underway. He could hear the music being played by a small orchestra, and he resisted the urge to fidget as his herald announced his presence. He heard the music cease and as he stepped out on to the topmost step he felt every pair of eyes turn to face him.
Once again Aragorn asked himself why he hadn't just run away back to Rivendell to live out the rest of his life hunting Orc with his brothers.
He stiffened his resolve and his spine and moved forwards, slowly descending. Out of the corner of his eye he spied some mamas already trying to push their children to the front in order to catch his attention more swiftly. Some young maidens giggled and hid their features behind decorative fans whilst their eyes appraised him.
As Aragorn reached the last few steps he noticed a slight disturbance to his right. He turned and saw a young elf being pushed towards him. However the elf had his head downcast and was subtly trying to resist whoever was pushing him. The blonde head rose for a moment and Aragorn's eyes met a startled blue gaze, and he was held transfixed for a moment by the beautiful creature before him, and then the crowd surged forward once more and the beautiful young elf was lost from sight.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas held back a sigh of impatience as his father once again circled him, checking his outfit with a critical eye.
"Stop slouching Legolas, you are hardly likely to attract any attention for yourself if your posture is slumped."
"Yes Father," Legolas said dutifully and straightened. He resisted the urge to pull his collar away from his throat and scratch at his arms where the much embroidered and bejewelled cloth was itching.
The clothing of course was not his idea. He had asked why he couldn't be allowed to wear a much simpler outfit something more suited to his personality however his father had admonished him, stating that his appearance was a reflection upon the wealth that Mirkwood offered to any who wished to ally with them. Of course the alliance would come through Legolas' marriage. Hence their attendance at this ball. He was the only son of the King of Mirkwood but this was not his only value as outlined by his father.
His father had told him many times of the powerful and dark sorcerer Sauron, and that although the allied men and elves had been victorious against the evil sorcerer an age ago, before Legolas himself had been born, Sauron had had the last laugh. He had cast a powerful spell from which few escaped. The result of which was decreased fertility amongst the elves. Fewer elven children had been born since the war, and fewer still would be born. In an attempt to rectify this, the elves had gathered their own most powerful magic users and a spell was cast to increase the fertility once again. However this was not wholly successful and the results had manifested themselves in a strange way. Fertile elves were still few and far between however the spell had allowed some male elves to become capable of bearing children. This meant of course that any elf capable of bearing children was highly sought after as a partner. Legolas was such an elf.
Legolas regretted that the political aspirations of his father would affect his freedom. He knew that tonight his father would begin the process of finding him a mate. He would have little say in the choice and could only hope that his father had some compassion. Legolas berated himself mentally. His father was not an unfair person; he merely had duties that meant sometimes it was difficult to be a father first. Legolas understood this and resolved to try to do more to assist his father in creating new alliances to protect Mirkwood.
Finally after some adjustments to his outfit Thranduil deemed Legolas ready to be presented to the high society of Middle Earth. He faced his son and a tender look crossed his features.
"I wish this did not have to be so my son. I wish you had the freedom I did in choosing a partner, however the times begrudge us such luxuries and we must do what we can for Mirkwood."
"I know this father, and truly I will do what is best for Mirkwood."
Thranduil smiled softly and embraced his only living son and heir. Then just as abruptly he was all business again. He pulled Legolas behind him as they made their way to the ballroom.
They were announced to the already large crowd of noble men and elves. Heads turned to see the King and Crown Prince of Mirkwood, and Legolas became aware of the many lusting gazes set upon him. He felt his father's hand on his arm and drew comfort from the support as they made their way through the crowd. They did not have to wait long until their host made his appearance. Legolas could not see Crown Prince Elessar as he made his entrance. He was far too busy trying to keep his feet and not get separated from his father as Thranduil forced his way through the crowd.
Finally there was a break in the crowd and Legolas found himself face to face with a young man with the most striking eyes that seemed to be changing colour constantly from blue to grey, then his sight of the stranger was gone as the crowds surged forward once more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aragorn held back a frustrated curse as the beautiful creature that had appeared before him disappeared, instead his attention was immediately taken in trying to gracefully fend off giggling young maidens that were thrust at him by their overeager mothers. Thankfully Denethor it seemed had seen his plight and taken pity for suddenly the music started a lively beat and the room cleared to make space for dancing. Seeing his chance to escape the throng for a short time at least Aragorn quickly espied one not so bold young maiden and asked her mother's permission for the maiden in question to join him in a dance. And so it began, Aragorn swept the girl on to the dance floor in a lively dance that did not allow for conversation.
Legolas was not as lucky in having the freedom to choose his dance partner. As soon as the dancing began several people, men and women both approached his father requesting permission for Legolas to join them in a dance. Thranduil seemed to size them up before granting permission to an older gentleman in a very expensive outfit. Legolas was spirited away his hand clasped tightly in one hand and his shoulder gripped firmly in another and Legolas repressed an uncomfortable shudder.
He looked closely at his dance partner. He was an older man with grey just beginning to streak his sandy brown hair and Legolas just stopped himself from curling his lips in disgust as he saw that the hair was slicked back with some form of grease. The man's face had some lines brought with age, but Legolas noted that few of these were around the mouth and eyes, which gave the impression that this man did not laugh or indeed even smile very often. The stranger had cold blue eyes and the elf did not like the way they seemed to roam freely over his body. As his father had noticed, the man's clothes were
very rich in both taste and cloth and they fit his body outlining his heavy muscular build.
"So young elf, what are you called?" the man asked as they twirled around the room.
"My name is Legolas, lord," Legolas replied.
"Your father is an elf king. A wealthy one they say, and you, are you fertile?" the man asked bluntly his eyes lowering until they centred themselves on Legolas' hips.
Legolas gritted his teeth and sent dark thoughts his father's way for allowing this man to dance with him. "I do not see how that is your concern sir," Legolas bit out, an angry flush staining his cheeks.
"It is if I wished to take you on. I require heirs and I cannot afford to tie myself to something that can't breed."
Legolas recoiled in outrage at being described so. "Do not fear that you will have the opportunity to tie yourself to me sir," he responded.
For the first time the man smiled and Legolas did not feel warmed by the cold look in the man's eyes.
"I do not think that the decision will be yours young Prince. It will be between your father and I."
Legolas breathed a silent prayer of relief at the reel finished and he was allowed to move away from the man. He did not look back as he made his way swiftly back to his father's side and did not see the hungry look cast back at him by the man standing still alone on the dance floor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aragorn had enjoyed the lively dance and had been surprised at the skill of his demure looking dance partner. Although his attention had been taken from time to time in a scan of the room attempting to locate the elf that had caught his attention earlier. Then he had caught a glimpse of the elf dancing with his cousin Boromir. As soon as the dance ended Aragorn had bowed politely to his partner before returning her to her mother's side. He then moved over to Lord Elrond who was standing at the side of the room with a small group of older elves. Elrond noticed his foster son approach and excused himself from
his friends before making his way over to join Aragorn.
"What is it my son?" the older elf questioned.
"Did you see the elf who was dancing with Boromir?" Aragorn got out immediately, his face alight with the anticipation of putting an identity to the heavenly body.
Elrond frowned in concentration casting his mind back to his perusal of the dancers. He recalled Boromir dancing with a blonde elf, then recollection hit him and he smiled. "Prince Legolas, son of Thranduil of Mirkwood."
Aragorn repeated the name softly with wonder, "Legolas... He is unattached?" Aragorn questioned worriedly.
Elrond laughed, "Indeed, I believe his father has brought him here tonight in the hopes of finding his son a husband or wife, so that he may build a stronger alliance for his kingdom." Elrond pasted a nonchalant look upon his face as he slyly added, "Gondor is very close to Mirkwood, it would be a fruitful alliance... and I have heard Prince Legolas is fertile."
Aragorn looked sharply at his father, and Elrond laughed at the expression of suspicion on the young man's face. Then Aragorn smiled.
"It would indeed be a fruitful alliance." He then turned quickly on his heel and went in search of the young elven Prince.
He was disappointed though as he noticed that Legolas was already back out on the dance floor, this time leading a young elven maiden around in a more sedate dance. His own attention was caught by another young maiden who was pushed towards him by her mother. Aragorn smiled politely and caught the girl as she stumbled slightly before leading her out into the centre of the ballroom.
This remained the same for the next two hours as both Legolas and Aragorn were engaged for every dance. Finally a break came when Aragorn spotted Legolas standing in a corner alone, trying to merge himself into the shadows, he noted that Legolas' father was nowhere to be found and he swiftly excused himself from an approaching mother dragging her daughter reluctantly along. He moved quickly to the food table and grabbed a selection of what was on offer before he made his way to Legolas' corner.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas was startled when he noticed someone approach. He sighed and tried to think of a reason to be excused, then he saw the approaching figure. It was the young man he had seen earlier. He took in the appearance of the simple outfit of dark blue velvet. The leggings encased strong muscular looking thighs, and the tunic hugged the strong, yet not overly built body of the young man. The man had dark hair falling to his shoulders. But Legolas was immediately transfixed by the warm blue eyes that met his, and he felt himself smiling shyly.
"Would you like to take a walk outside and partake of some food?" the young man asked.
Legolas spared a guilty thought for his father and then decided to blow caution to the winds as he nodded his agreement and walked to the large glass doors that led out into the gardens. Immediately the noise from inside was muted and Legolas smiled in happy relief as he felt a cooling breeze across his face. It was already twilight and the garden was lit with a multitude of lanterns all subtly placed.
Aragorn led the elf to a small, secluded bench where they both sat. He placed the plate of food between them and turned to face the elven Prince.
"What is your name fair creature?" he asked the Prince before him, not wanting to reveal that he had already asked after the elf.
"I am called Legolas," Legolas replied blushing at the compliment, "It means Greenleaf in the elven tongue," he offered. "And by what name should I address you?"
Aragorn smiled in wonder that this Prince did not know who he was, that he was Prince Elessar future King of Gondor, raised by Lord Elrond in Rivendell. "You may call me Aragorn," he said simply. Then offered the Prince some food.
Legolas took a small sweetmeat from the plate, which Aragorn held out to him, and took a small bite, closing his eyes and savouring the taste. When he opened his eyes again he stilled as he noticed Aragorn staring at him with a strange expression on his face.
"What is it?" he asked shyly.
Aragorn seemed to come out of a trance at the sound of the Prince's voice. "It is simply that I am transfixed by the pleasure you take in simply eating."
Legolas laughed softly. "You too would take pleasure if you had not eaten since breakfast."
Aragorn smiled, "Then please by all means sate your hunger now for I would not wish you to fade away before my very eyes."
Legolas grinned and the two sat in a companionable silence as they ate all the food that Aragorn had gathered. Once they had finished Aragorn addressed the elf once more.
"I would take you back inside and ask you to dance, but I fear that as soon as we step into the room we will be separated by the large crowd of your admirers who also seek to take a turn with you." Aragorn said with a mock forlorn expression on his face.
"Then perhaps you should ask me to dance outside where we cannot be disturbed," Legolas suggested boldly.
Aragorn laughed and pulled the elf to his feet. They heard the muted sound of the orchestra inside as they moved close together and moved gently but moved more to a rhythm from within themselves.
Legolas felt a flush start at the tips of his ears that spread all the way to his toes as he was pulled close against the body of Aragorn. The stronger slightly taller man made him feel small and protected as the strong arms encircled him, and he succumbed to temptation as he laid his head softly on the mans shoulder.
Aragorn grinned to himself as Legolas' head met his shoulder and his arms tightened slightly to press the elf closer. They stayed like that for some time, until a shout interrupted them.
"Legolas!" A voice called.
Aragorn felt Legolas' start at the voice and the elf in his arms immediately pulled away, quickly adjusting his clothes to make sure his appearance was still presentable. The voice came closer, and Legolas looked at Aragorn.
"It is my father. I must go," he said with regret before swiftly running around the corner.
Aragorn looked after the departing figure of the Prince, and decided that tomorrow he would ask Denethor to approach the King of Mirkwood to make his interest in a marriage alliance known.
I am currently posting the non NC-17 chapters only so as not to violate Fanfiction.net law. If anyone thinks anything here is pushing the boundaries of NC-17 please be kind and let me know so I can modify it. Thanks
Alliances Of The Heart
Written by Soar
Author's Notes: Please be aware that this is my first foray into slash fiction.
This is an AU story featuring a m/m relationship between Aragorn and Legolas. This will also feature an MPREG later in the story. I have to say this in inspired by all the great mpreg stories I've been reading here lately that have made me look upon Legolas as the perfect candidate to carry Aragorn's child.
Chapter 1
In a large armchair by a roaring fire a lone figure sat pensively. His thoughts were disturbed however by the entrance of another.
"The preparations are complete my son, all is ready for tonight." Lord Elrond said to his foster son, Aragorn, Crown Prince of Gondor.
Aragorn heaved a sigh.
"Are you sure you wish to go ahead with this my son?" Elrond questioned as he approached the young man.
"No I do not wish to go ahead with this, in much the same way as I do not wish to be crowned King in a few months, yet you and I both know it is necessary. I must be crowned King, and I must marry and beget heirs for the kingdom."
Aragorn rose gracefully from the chair and moved to look out of the windows. A variety of banners hung from every possible place around the castle in preparation for tonight's festivities. Every available potential partner and their families would be here tonight so that the future King of Gondor might choose who would rule at his side.
Aragorn winced as he thought of all the pushy mothers thrusting their children at him in the hopes that their offspring should be the one to capture his interest.
He wished it were not so, and knew that if he so much as hinted it, Lord Elrond would whisk him away to Rivendell, the place where he grew up under the loving hand of the Elven Lord. Then remorse struck him as he remembered the look of relief and joy of the old Steward Denethor's face when Aragorn had arrived a mere year ago to prepare for his crowning upon his reaching the mature age of 25.
The past year has been spent learning the ways of his kingdom, the duties that would be his upon his attaining the crown, and Denethor could not stress enough the need for a partner who would assist him, and provide the heirs his kingdom needed for it's own security. Hence this ball. Mere weeks from his coronation Denethor had suggested that the ball be the perfect opportunity for him to meet someone and for negotiations with the family to begin so that the wedding could be arranged as soon as possible.
Aragorn heaved one more sigh, and then straightening his shoulders turned to face his foster father.
"Well, time is flying, I suppose now would be a good time for me to make myself ready for tonight."
Elrond nodded in acquiescence and left his son to call upon his valet.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When Aragorn was finally ready to make his entrance things were well underway. He could hear the music being played by a small orchestra, and he resisted the urge to fidget as his herald announced his presence. He heard the music cease and as he stepped out on to the topmost step he felt every pair of eyes turn to face him.
Once again Aragorn asked himself why he hadn't just run away back to Rivendell to live out the rest of his life hunting Orc with his brothers.
He stiffened his resolve and his spine and moved forwards, slowly descending. Out of the corner of his eye he spied some mamas already trying to push their children to the front in order to catch his attention more swiftly. Some young maidens giggled and hid their features behind decorative fans whilst their eyes appraised him.
As Aragorn reached the last few steps he noticed a slight disturbance to his right. He turned and saw a young elf being pushed towards him. However the elf had his head downcast and was subtly trying to resist whoever was pushing him. The blonde head rose for a moment and Aragorn's eyes met a startled blue gaze, and he was held transfixed for a moment by the beautiful creature before him, and then the crowd surged forward once more and the beautiful young elf was lost from sight.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas held back a sigh of impatience as his father once again circled him, checking his outfit with a critical eye.
"Stop slouching Legolas, you are hardly likely to attract any attention for yourself if your posture is slumped."
"Yes Father," Legolas said dutifully and straightened. He resisted the urge to pull his collar away from his throat and scratch at his arms where the much embroidered and bejewelled cloth was itching.
The clothing of course was not his idea. He had asked why he couldn't be allowed to wear a much simpler outfit something more suited to his personality however his father had admonished him, stating that his appearance was a reflection upon the wealth that Mirkwood offered to any who wished to ally with them. Of course the alliance would come through Legolas' marriage. Hence their attendance at this ball. He was the only son of the King of Mirkwood but this was not his only value as outlined by his father.
His father had told him many times of the powerful and dark sorcerer Sauron, and that although the allied men and elves had been victorious against the evil sorcerer an age ago, before Legolas himself had been born, Sauron had had the last laugh. He had cast a powerful spell from which few escaped. The result of which was decreased fertility amongst the elves. Fewer elven children had been born since the war, and fewer still would be born. In an attempt to rectify this, the elves had gathered their own most powerful magic users and a spell was cast to increase the fertility once again. However this was not wholly successful and the results had manifested themselves in a strange way. Fertile elves were still few and far between however the spell had allowed some male elves to become capable of bearing children. This meant of course that any elf capable of bearing children was highly sought after as a partner. Legolas was such an elf.
Legolas regretted that the political aspirations of his father would affect his freedom. He knew that tonight his father would begin the process of finding him a mate. He would have little say in the choice and could only hope that his father had some compassion. Legolas berated himself mentally. His father was not an unfair person; he merely had duties that meant sometimes it was difficult to be a father first. Legolas understood this and resolved to try to do more to assist his father in creating new alliances to protect Mirkwood.
Finally after some adjustments to his outfit Thranduil deemed Legolas ready to be presented to the high society of Middle Earth. He faced his son and a tender look crossed his features.
"I wish this did not have to be so my son. I wish you had the freedom I did in choosing a partner, however the times begrudge us such luxuries and we must do what we can for Mirkwood."
"I know this father, and truly I will do what is best for Mirkwood."
Thranduil smiled softly and embraced his only living son and heir. Then just as abruptly he was all business again. He pulled Legolas behind him as they made their way to the ballroom.
They were announced to the already large crowd of noble men and elves. Heads turned to see the King and Crown Prince of Mirkwood, and Legolas became aware of the many lusting gazes set upon him. He felt his father's hand on his arm and drew comfort from the support as they made their way through the crowd. They did not have to wait long until their host made his appearance. Legolas could not see Crown Prince Elessar as he made his entrance. He was far too busy trying to keep his feet and not get separated from his father as Thranduil forced his way through the crowd.
Finally there was a break in the crowd and Legolas found himself face to face with a young man with the most striking eyes that seemed to be changing colour constantly from blue to grey, then his sight of the stranger was gone as the crowds surged forward once more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aragorn held back a frustrated curse as the beautiful creature that had appeared before him disappeared, instead his attention was immediately taken in trying to gracefully fend off giggling young maidens that were thrust at him by their overeager mothers. Thankfully Denethor it seemed had seen his plight and taken pity for suddenly the music started a lively beat and the room cleared to make space for dancing. Seeing his chance to escape the throng for a short time at least Aragorn quickly espied one not so bold young maiden and asked her mother's permission for the maiden in question to join him in a dance. And so it began, Aragorn swept the girl on to the dance floor in a lively dance that did not allow for conversation.
Legolas was not as lucky in having the freedom to choose his dance partner. As soon as the dancing began several people, men and women both approached his father requesting permission for Legolas to join them in a dance. Thranduil seemed to size them up before granting permission to an older gentleman in a very expensive outfit. Legolas was spirited away his hand clasped tightly in one hand and his shoulder gripped firmly in another and Legolas repressed an uncomfortable shudder.
He looked closely at his dance partner. He was an older man with grey just beginning to streak his sandy brown hair and Legolas just stopped himself from curling his lips in disgust as he saw that the hair was slicked back with some form of grease. The man's face had some lines brought with age, but Legolas noted that few of these were around the mouth and eyes, which gave the impression that this man did not laugh or indeed even smile very often. The stranger had cold blue eyes and the elf did not like the way they seemed to roam freely over his body. As his father had noticed, the man's clothes were
very rich in both taste and cloth and they fit his body outlining his heavy muscular build.
"So young elf, what are you called?" the man asked as they twirled around the room.
"My name is Legolas, lord," Legolas replied.
"Your father is an elf king. A wealthy one they say, and you, are you fertile?" the man asked bluntly his eyes lowering until they centred themselves on Legolas' hips.
Legolas gritted his teeth and sent dark thoughts his father's way for allowing this man to dance with him. "I do not see how that is your concern sir," Legolas bit out, an angry flush staining his cheeks.
"It is if I wished to take you on. I require heirs and I cannot afford to tie myself to something that can't breed."
Legolas recoiled in outrage at being described so. "Do not fear that you will have the opportunity to tie yourself to me sir," he responded.
For the first time the man smiled and Legolas did not feel warmed by the cold look in the man's eyes.
"I do not think that the decision will be yours young Prince. It will be between your father and I."
Legolas breathed a silent prayer of relief at the reel finished and he was allowed to move away from the man. He did not look back as he made his way swiftly back to his father's side and did not see the hungry look cast back at him by the man standing still alone on the dance floor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aragorn had enjoyed the lively dance and had been surprised at the skill of his demure looking dance partner. Although his attention had been taken from time to time in a scan of the room attempting to locate the elf that had caught his attention earlier. Then he had caught a glimpse of the elf dancing with his cousin Boromir. As soon as the dance ended Aragorn had bowed politely to his partner before returning her to her mother's side. He then moved over to Lord Elrond who was standing at the side of the room with a small group of older elves. Elrond noticed his foster son approach and excused himself from
his friends before making his way over to join Aragorn.
"What is it my son?" the older elf questioned.
"Did you see the elf who was dancing with Boromir?" Aragorn got out immediately, his face alight with the anticipation of putting an identity to the heavenly body.
Elrond frowned in concentration casting his mind back to his perusal of the dancers. He recalled Boromir dancing with a blonde elf, then recollection hit him and he smiled. "Prince Legolas, son of Thranduil of Mirkwood."
Aragorn repeated the name softly with wonder, "Legolas... He is unattached?" Aragorn questioned worriedly.
Elrond laughed, "Indeed, I believe his father has brought him here tonight in the hopes of finding his son a husband or wife, so that he may build a stronger alliance for his kingdom." Elrond pasted a nonchalant look upon his face as he slyly added, "Gondor is very close to Mirkwood, it would be a fruitful alliance... and I have heard Prince Legolas is fertile."
Aragorn looked sharply at his father, and Elrond laughed at the expression of suspicion on the young man's face. Then Aragorn smiled.
"It would indeed be a fruitful alliance." He then turned quickly on his heel and went in search of the young elven Prince.
He was disappointed though as he noticed that Legolas was already back out on the dance floor, this time leading a young elven maiden around in a more sedate dance. His own attention was caught by another young maiden who was pushed towards him by her mother. Aragorn smiled politely and caught the girl as she stumbled slightly before leading her out into the centre of the ballroom.
This remained the same for the next two hours as both Legolas and Aragorn were engaged for every dance. Finally a break came when Aragorn spotted Legolas standing in a corner alone, trying to merge himself into the shadows, he noted that Legolas' father was nowhere to be found and he swiftly excused himself from an approaching mother dragging her daughter reluctantly along. He moved quickly to the food table and grabbed a selection of what was on offer before he made his way to Legolas' corner.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas was startled when he noticed someone approach. He sighed and tried to think of a reason to be excused, then he saw the approaching figure. It was the young man he had seen earlier. He took in the appearance of the simple outfit of dark blue velvet. The leggings encased strong muscular looking thighs, and the tunic hugged the strong, yet not overly built body of the young man. The man had dark hair falling to his shoulders. But Legolas was immediately transfixed by the warm blue eyes that met his, and he felt himself smiling shyly.
"Would you like to take a walk outside and partake of some food?" the young man asked.
Legolas spared a guilty thought for his father and then decided to blow caution to the winds as he nodded his agreement and walked to the large glass doors that led out into the gardens. Immediately the noise from inside was muted and Legolas smiled in happy relief as he felt a cooling breeze across his face. It was already twilight and the garden was lit with a multitude of lanterns all subtly placed.
Aragorn led the elf to a small, secluded bench where they both sat. He placed the plate of food between them and turned to face the elven Prince.
"What is your name fair creature?" he asked the Prince before him, not wanting to reveal that he had already asked after the elf.
"I am called Legolas," Legolas replied blushing at the compliment, "It means Greenleaf in the elven tongue," he offered. "And by what name should I address you?"
Aragorn smiled in wonder that this Prince did not know who he was, that he was Prince Elessar future King of Gondor, raised by Lord Elrond in Rivendell. "You may call me Aragorn," he said simply. Then offered the Prince some food.
Legolas took a small sweetmeat from the plate, which Aragorn held out to him, and took a small bite, closing his eyes and savouring the taste. When he opened his eyes again he stilled as he noticed Aragorn staring at him with a strange expression on his face.
"What is it?" he asked shyly.
Aragorn seemed to come out of a trance at the sound of the Prince's voice. "It is simply that I am transfixed by the pleasure you take in simply eating."
Legolas laughed softly. "You too would take pleasure if you had not eaten since breakfast."
Aragorn smiled, "Then please by all means sate your hunger now for I would not wish you to fade away before my very eyes."
Legolas grinned and the two sat in a companionable silence as they ate all the food that Aragorn had gathered. Once they had finished Aragorn addressed the elf once more.
"I would take you back inside and ask you to dance, but I fear that as soon as we step into the room we will be separated by the large crowd of your admirers who also seek to take a turn with you." Aragorn said with a mock forlorn expression on his face.
"Then perhaps you should ask me to dance outside where we cannot be disturbed," Legolas suggested boldly.
Aragorn laughed and pulled the elf to his feet. They heard the muted sound of the orchestra inside as they moved close together and moved gently but moved more to a rhythm from within themselves.
Legolas felt a flush start at the tips of his ears that spread all the way to his toes as he was pulled close against the body of Aragorn. The stronger slightly taller man made him feel small and protected as the strong arms encircled him, and he succumbed to temptation as he laid his head softly on the mans shoulder.
Aragorn grinned to himself as Legolas' head met his shoulder and his arms tightened slightly to press the elf closer. They stayed like that for some time, until a shout interrupted them.
"Legolas!" A voice called.
Aragorn felt Legolas' start at the voice and the elf in his arms immediately pulled away, quickly adjusting his clothes to make sure his appearance was still presentable. The voice came closer, and Legolas looked at Aragorn.
"It is my father. I must go," he said with regret before swiftly running around the corner.
Aragorn looked after the departing figure of the Prince, and decided that tomorrow he would ask Denethor to approach the King of Mirkwood to make his interest in a marriage alliance known.