Summary: What happens when Legolas falls in love with the woman his brother is supposed to marry? Rated M (for sexual content) by Caitie (Arwen & Legolas)
Year 2866
Three young Elves ran through the corridors of Elrond's Hall. Two boys, twins, chased a smaller girl, who held a bow.
"Arwen! Give it back!" shouted one of the boys.
"You'll have to catch me first, Elladan!" she called back.
Arwen ran through a doorway leading to a courtyard. She turned her head to look at her older brothers behind her, as she continued to run.
They scowled at her as she ran away with Elladan's weapon. But soon their expressions changed to those of warning. "Watch out!" shouted Elrohir as he and Elladan skidded to a stop.
Before Arwen could turn her head, she ran into someone. Arwen looked up to see the face of her mother, Celebrian. "Arwen," she said calmly.
"Mother," Arwen said.
"She stole my bow!" Elladan shouted. But as soon as the words came out of his mouth, he regretted them.
"Be calm, Elladan," their mother stated.
"Arwen, give him back the weapon. You, and your brothers, need to clean yourselves up."
"Why?" asked Elrohir.
"Your father has invited King Thranduril to Rivendell to plan an alliance. You need to be on your best behavior. Elrohir, Elladan; that means no teasing your sister. And Arwen, no more stealing your brother's weapons. You must be lady-like." Celebrian scolded. All three children bowed their heads. "Go and get ready now." The children walked off to do as their mother instructed.
..::..
Elrond, Celebrian and their children awaited King Thranduril's arrival. He arrived, with an escort, on a white steed. He dismounted and walked up to Elrond and his family.
"Lord Elrond," Thranduril said as he bowed his head politely.
"King Thranduril," Elrond said as he did the same. "Come; let us talk in a more private place." Elrond then led the king inside.
"It is settled then," said Thranduril. "Your daughter will marry me eldest son in the year 2510 of the third age."
"Yes, they shall. And with their marriage, Rivendell and Mirkwood will forever be united." Said Elrond.
The two Elves sat across from eachother in a private dining room. A variety of foods laid out before them. Both Thranduril and Elrond picked up their wine goblets. "Yes, we shall." said Thranduril. They tapped their cups together then drank the contents.
..::..
Year 2966
The blade cut through the air, missing its target's neck by an inch. However, it managed to sever a chunk of her long black hair.
"You're going to pay for that," warned Arwen. She lunged at her opponent, Elrohir, catching him by surprise and knocking him off his feet. Elrohir did not stay on his back for long, he did a backward somersault. When he got to his feet he lunged for his sister, but she was already on the move. She had crept behind him and quickly held the blade up to his throat. "Do you surrender?" she whispered in his ear.
"If I must," Elrohir said. Arwen sheathed her sword. "You've gotten much better."
"Of course I have," Arwen stated as she and her brother started to walk away from the practice arena.
"Elrohir! Arwen!" The siblings looked up to see their mother walking toward them. "King Thranduril, and his sons, Hadrin and Legolas, are coming to Rivendell. They will arrive sometime this evening." She paused, waiting for some sort of response. When she received none she said, "Go get ready!"
..::..
Arwen's attendant stood in the center of Arwen's room. Arwen walked past her to a changing screen. She removed her training clothes and draped them over the top of the screen. The attendant handed her a thing silk robe which Arwen put on. The two ladies walked into another room, this room contain a large in-ground tub,
Arwen shed the robe then walked into the steaming pool. The attendant washed and brushed Arwen's long hair. After that was done, Arwen walked out of the pool and dried off. When she finished drying off, she turned around to see her attendant, who's name was Lynia, with a pale yellow dress draped across her arms. Lynia helped Arwen into the dress, then finished preparing Arwen for their guests.
Lynia knew that the King was only coming to inspect Arwen, the future queen. But Arwen, along with her brothers and Thranurils sons, were completely oblivious to the fact
..::..
Elrond, Celebrian, and their three children stood in front of the entrance of the home. They didn't have to wait any longer than a minute before they saw Thranduril and his entourage. When the group, of at least 20, dismounted, they walked over to Elrond and his family.
Thranduril bowed his head in respect to Elrond. "Lord Elrond."
Elrond did the same while saying, "King Thranduril. Welcome to Rivendell. May I present to you my wife, Celebrian, daughter of Celeborn; my two sons, Elladan and Elrohir; and lastly my daughter, Arwen."
Thranduril walked over to Arwen and took her. He raised it to his lips and kissed. "It is a pleasure to meet you," he said eloquently. "These are my sons, Hadrin and Legolas." He gestured to each one as he said their names. Each son, in turn, took Arwen's hand and kissed it."
'Come, let us go inside and eat," announced Elrond, for a feast had been prepared for the King's arrival.
The main conversations that took place was one about the future of Middle Earth. And only Elrond and Thranduril took part in it. The sons, on rare occasion, talked about warfare and weapons, Arwen was left to talk to her mother. When the meal was over, everyone retreated to their quarters.
..::..
Arwen had not been alone in her room for longer than a minute when someone knocked at her door. She opened the door, there stood her brother, Elrohir. She gestured for him to come in. The siblings sat across from each other on Arwen's bed.
After a short moment of silence, Elrohir spoke. "Why do you think is King Thranduril here?"
"I don't know. Why was he here last time?"
"Him and Father talked about forming an alliance."
"Maybe Mirkwood is in danger," Arwen suggested.
"I don't think so, we would have heard something about it."
"True," Arwen stated.. "A personal matter, then?"
"I suppose," said Elrohir. They were silent for a few minutes, each thinking why the King was here. Neither of them came up with betrothal. "Tomorrow morning, Legolas, Hadrin, Elladan and I are going to train. You should join us." Elrohir said as he stood up from the bed.
"Mother and Father would never allow it. I must be lady-like." She replied.
"True. When Mother watched you fight, she cringes every time you take a hit or give one." The siblings laughed. "I should go."
..::..
Morning came and the two families again congregated in the dining hall for another meal. After the meal, Thranduril, Elrond, and Celebrian talked in private; the boys went off to train, and Arwen went off on her own.
Legolas and Elrohir were the last to leave the training arena. As they left the weapons shed, Legolas noticed a long curved blade. "Who uses this?" he asked.
"That Arwen's blade, Hadafang." Elrohir answered.
"Your sister fights?"
"Yes, she's quite good."
"Then why did she not fight just now?"
"Our mother discourages Arwen from fighting."
"If Lady Celebrian did not know, would your sister fight?" Legolas asked curiously.
"Most likely. Why do you ask?"
"I want to see her fight," Legolas stated plainly.
"Then we must find her.
..::..
Elrohir and Legolas ran through Elrond's Hall looking for Arwen, but she was nowhere to be found. They went to the stables and found that Asfaloth, her horse, was still in it's stall. After searching every room, the stable, and the practice arena, Elrohir suggested checking the courtyards. Sure enough, there she was, sitting on a stone bench reading.
Elrohir and Legolas walked up behind her; Arwen spun around and grabbed him around the neck. "Elrohir," she said as she released him. "What are you doing?" She narrowed her eyes.
"Mother and Father are still with King Thranduril," Elrohir stated.
"And you're telling me this, why?"
"Because, I know you. And I know you want to fight."
"Mother would never allow it."
"Yes, but as I just pointed out, she's indisposed."
"You want to lose for a second time this week?"
"No!" Elrohir shouted. "You would be fighting a new opponent. Legolas" Arwen looked over at Legolas who stood calmly behind Elrohir. His hands were clasped behind his back as he watched her. "Will you fight?" asked Elrohir. Both young men looked hopefully at Arwen.
..::..
Legolas and Arwen stood across from each other in the practice arena. Each had one sword, no other weapons. Arwen had changed from her green dress to her training clothes.
"Alright, only one rule: do not let Celebrian find out about this." Elrohir told the two Elves. Leaned over to Legolas he whispered, "Don't go to hard on her."
Legolas lunged towards Arwen's left, she blocked it easily. With Legolas now behind her, she spun quickly to find he was gone. She spun again to find him three feet in front of her. Sword pointed at her throat.
"Drop Your sword," Legolas commanded.
Arwen did nothing, just smiled. Legolas looked at her puzzled. Arwen swiftly dropped down and swept her leg behind Legolas' legs, causing him to fall. Quickly, Arwen put her knee on his chest, holding him down, and held her sword to his throat. "Do you surrender?" She asked.
Right as Legolas began to answer her, Celebrian burst through the crowd. "Arwen!" All heads turned to Lady Celebrian. "Stand up and dispose of that weapon!" she commanded. Arwen and Legolas quickly stood and dropped their swords. "You, Arwen, are coming with me. And you, Legolas, why would you agree to fight a lady?" Elrohir and Hadrin snickered as Legolas fumbled for words. "Elrohir! You are not innocent in this matter! I know it was you who arranged this bout! Your father shall be hearing about this!" Celebrian then grabbed Arwen's hand and whisked her away.
..::..
It had been three days since the bout and Arwen was only seen at meals. Her mother had confined her to her room for most of the day. And when she was allowed to leave her room, she had to be silent.
Legolas and Elrohir could often be seen sitting on a bench in front of Arwen's balcony, hoping she would talk to them from it, but her doors were never opened.
One night, Legolas decided that he would speak to her no matter how much trouble he would get into.
Then sun had set hours ago. The Elves residing in Rivendell had all retired for the night. All except one.
Legolas crept through the gardens and courtyards. Silently finding his way to Arwen's balcony.
Her balcony rested 20 feet above the ground. There were no vines or trellises leading up to the top. There was nothing but the rock that the building was made of for him to use.
Legolas took a deep breath, approached the wall, and started to climb.
..::..
Legolas' hand grasped the railing of the balcony. With his next step up, he managed to get his arms over and hoist himself over the railing.
Legolas stood in front of the double doors leading into Arwen's room. He straightened his tunic and stood a little straighter before gently knocking in the glass.
After standing there for a few minutes, Arwen opened the door. Her hair was tussled, she wore a thin silk robe over her night clothes, and her eyes were half closed. But she looked as beautiful as ever. "Legolas," she said groggily. "What are you doing?"
"I came to apologize," he said.
"Apologize for what?"
"I am the reason that you're confined to her room. If I hadn't pushed you to fight, you would not be stuck in here."
"You did not push me to fight, I went willingly."
"Still…" Legolas trailed off.
"It was not your fault." She said firmly.
"We're leaving tomorrow," Legolas said.
"Oh," she said quietly.
"You and your family must come to Mirkwood sometime."
Arwen smiled, "Yes."
"I should probably leave; we wouldn't want someone to see me standing on your balcony in the middle of the night."
"We most certainly would not." Something behind Legolas caught Arwen's attention. A light, in the room across the courtyard. Elrohir's room. "It seems as if it's too late." Legolas turned around to see the light in the room being put out.
"Who's room is that?" Legolas asked as he turned back to Arwen.
"Elrohir's."
"He would not tell anyone, would he?"
"No, I don't think he would."
"Good," said Legolas, relieved. "Well, good night. I shall see you at breakfast." Legolas leaned closer to Arwen and gently kissed her on the cheek. He smiled, turned around, and jumped off the balcony.
Arwen walked to the railing. Legolas had landed gently on the ground. He looked up to the balcony, smiled at her, then started to jog away. She turned away and walked back into her room. After shutting the door, she lay down on her bed and stared at the ceiling.
..::..
Year 3016
30 soldiers sat on the backs of their horses, awaiting Elrond and his family to mount their own horses. Soon they would start their journey to Mirkwood.
Their plan was for the family to travel to Mirkwood; after staring for a fortnight Celebrian, and half of the soldiers, would leave Mirkwood and go to Lorien. After a second fortnight has gone by, the two groups would meet at the High Pass and finish the journey to Rivendell together.
King Thranduril, Legolas, Hadrin, and others from their household sat on their horses at the end of the Forest Elf Path, awaiting Elrond and his family. Finally, after waiting for several hours, they saw a large group of Elves approaching.
"King Thranduril," Elrond said.
"Lord Elrond," Thranduril replied. "Come, our home is a new ten miles away."
..::..
Arwen was in her room busily unpacking her belongings, when a knock came at her door. She walked over to it and opened the door. Legolas stood in the doorway, a sly smile on his face. Arwen smiled when she saw him.
Legolas walked into the room, wrapped his arms around her waist, and spun her around. "It has been to long since I last saw your smile." He said as he put her down. "So, when should we practice? Before or after your mother leaves for Lorien?"
Arwen laughed. "The entire journey my mother and father instructed me not to practice and the many reasons why." She said. "They even told Elrohir and Elladan that if I was caught fighting, they would be punished."
Legolas laughed. "Then we must do it in secret."
"There would never be a moment of secrecy."
"What about right now?"
"My brothers are in the rooms on either side on mine."
"Oh," Legolas said. "Well, I'll let you unpack and I'll see you at supper."
Arwen nodded as Legolas walked back towards the door.
..::..
It had almost been two weeks since Elrond and his family had been in Mirkwood. And almost every second of that time, Legolas and Arwen were together. They would talk for hours about their friends and family, and about the trips they had taken.
Legolas told Arwen about his friend, Eowyn. She was a mortal from Rohan. Her parents had passed and she and her brother lived with their uncle, King Theoden.
Arwen told him that her closest friends were her brothers. Her parents discouraged friendships with anyone outside of the family. But she did have one friend. The Steward of Gondor's son, Faramir. Elrond had taken his family to Minas Tirith a few years ago.
Arwen and Legolas had fun together, sneaking off to practice their swordplay; stealing food from the kitchens, and so forth.
One night, they were walking around the palace. Legolas took Arwen's hand, "Come here, I want to show you something." He led her down the hall to a window. Directly below the window, were trees. They were above the forest. Legolas pointed out toward the horizon, for as far as Arwen could see there were trees. The moon was high in the sky and the whole scene that was laid out before them was beautiful.
Legolas looked over at Arwen. She was beautiful. Arwen was smiling as she took in the beauty of the forest. Legolas smiled.
"It's so beautiful," Arwen said as she continued to look out the window. She hesitantly tore her eyes away to look at Legolas. He stood beside her, his face turned to look at her. Arwen couldn't help but get lost in his brilliant blue eyes. Without thinking, Arwen leaned over and kissed him. Embarrassed, Arwen pulled away.
Legolas shook his head. He raised his right hand and placed it behind her neck. He pulled her closer and captured her lips with his. After a long passionate kiss, Legolas broke away. "Let's go to my room," Legolas suggested. Arwen nodded. Legolas took her hand and led her to his room.
Arwen shut the door behind them. She turned around to face Legolas. He stood a couple steps away from her. Arwen closed the space between them and kissed him.
Legolas picked Arwen up and carried her over to his bed. He set her down and broke away from the kiss.
Arwen sat up on her knees, smiled, then started to undo Legolas' tunic. She pushed it off his shoulders then placed both her hands on his bare chest. Her hands trailed down his chest to the waist of his trousers. She quickly untied the laces then placed her hands on his hips and pushed the trousers down his legs.
Legolas stepped out of his pants, then climbed onto the bed. He knelt in front of Arwen; her dress was laced from her chest to her waist. It took a little while for him to successfully unfasten the dress. He pushed it off her shoulders then past her hips so it pooled around her knees. All that was left between them was Arwen's underdress, which Legolas easily and quickly took care of.
With their clothes now discarded, Legolas laid down. Arwen sat on his hips, her hands roamed over the muscles of his chest. Legolas' hands rested on Arwen's hips, they slowly crept up her body as he sat up. His hands stopped right below Arwen's breasts, then slid around to her back. Legolas pressed Arwen's body up against his own, and rolled over.
A sigh escaped Arwen's lips as their bodies rubbed against each other. Legolas' head bent down so he could kiss her neck and face. After a while, Legolas looked to Arwen. His eyes silently begged her. Arwen nodded then raised her head to kiss him. Legolas slid into Arwen; she gasped during the kiss, she was shocked by how much it hurt. Legolas stopped, "Are you okay?" he asked worriedly.
Arwen nodded, "Yeah," she replied. Legolas leaned down and kissed her again. He started out going slowly because he was worried about Arwen. Arwen couldn't stand the pace that he had chosen, so she wriggled her hips against him. Her hands traveled down to Legolas' hips and stopped him. "If you don't go faster, I will leave." She said.
Legolas looked down at her again, smiled; then started again, this time faster. They kissed passionately until it became too hard to kiss. Legolas leaned on his elbows which were positioned on either side of Arwen's shoulders. Arwen's hands traveled over Legolas' back, her nails dug into his skin. Arwen arched her back and clung to Legolas' neck as she cried out in ecstasy. Legolas soon followed and collapsed on top of Arwen. He rolled off of her and laid on his stomach next to her, his right arm draped over her stomach.
When they finally caught her breath, Legolas turned onto his side and faced Arwen. She also turned onto her side. Arwen wrapped her arm around Legolas. Then they fell asleep.
..::..
Arwen woke to the feel of warm arms around her. She turned onto her other side to find Legolas, still sleeping, next to her. "Legolas," she whispered. He stirred. "Wake up."
A smile appeared on Legolas face and his eyes opened. "Morning," he said.
Arwen sighed, "Morning."
Legolas raised a hand and stroked Arwen's cheek. "Last night was the best night of my life."
Arwen smiled, "Yes, it was great. But if our parents find out…" she trailed off.
"Don't ruin the moment," Legolas said as he kissed her.
Arwen hesitantly broke away, "I should probably leave, we don't want my family looking for me."
After one more kiss, Legolas replied, "Fine, if you must." Legolas sat up, wrapped the sheet around his waist, then started to gather her clothes.
Arwen sat up in bed and held the blanket to her chest as she watched Legolas move around the room. When he had gathered all her belongings, he walked over to Arwen and dressed her. The underdress came first, he slid it over Arwen's head and pulled it down her body. Next came her dress; Legolas had Arwen step into it, then he pulled it up over her shoulders. He slowly laced the bodice of the dress. Legolas had Arwen sit down on the bed as he out the shoes on her feet.
Legolas leaned down and kissed Arwen's forehead, "I'll see you at breakfast." He said.
Arwen smiled as she stood and started for the door. Right before she shut it, Arwen turned to look one last time at Legolas. He smiled at her as she was slowly cut off from view.
..::..
Arwen walked through the halls to her room. Hopefully, she wouldn't run into anyone on the way. She came up to a corner and stopped. She couldn't hear any footsteps or people she started walking again. Her room was only a couple doors down when she heard her father and mother talking. Arwen cursed under her breath as she silently ran to her room.
Once Arwen was in the room and the door was shut, she began to undress. If her parent's saw that she was wearing yesterday's clothes, they would know that something was up. Next, Arwen ran to her bureau and furiously combed through her hair.
A knock at the door made Arwen jump. "Arwen," her mother called from the hallway. "May your father and I come in?"
"Yes, yes. Come in!" Arwen replied.
The door opened and Arwen's parents walked into the room. "We have some very exciting news for you." Celebrian said, smiling. "Sit down." Arwen sat back down in front of the bureau. "What do you think about Prince Hadrin?"
"I don't know him very well, but he seems nice." Arwen replied. "Why do you ask?"
"For many years now, your father and King Thranduril have been planning union."
"What kind of union?"
"An alliance and forever joining of Mirkwood and Rivendell." Elrond said. "Through marriage."
Arwen sat silent for a while. She knew where her parents were going with this. "Are you asking me to marry Prince Hadrin?"
"We're not asking, Arwen. You will marry Prince Hardin whether you want to or not." Elrond said as he turned for the door and left the room.
Celebrian walked over to Arwen and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Prince Hadrin is a nice man," she said. "If you can just get to know him, I'm sure feelings will develop for him." With that said, Celebrian left.
..::..
It was just past noon as Arwen walked along the outskirts of the forest. She hadn't seen Legolas since she left his room and honestly, was not particularly looking forward to seeing him again.
"Arwen!" Legolas voice called from behind her. He ran up to her then walked around to stand in front of her. He held a small blue flower in one hand. "For you," he said as he tucked the flower behind Arwen's ear. "Are you alright?" he asked, noticing the distraught expression she wore.
"I'm fine," Arwen lied.
"No, you're not. I can see it in your eyes. Tell me what's wrong," Legolas pleaded. Arwen sighed. "You're not pregnant, are you?" He asked worriedly.
"No, I'm pretty sure I'm not pregnant."
"Well then what's wrong?"
After a long moment of silence, Arwen flatly told him, "I'm marrying your brother."
Legolas stared at her blankly, "What?"
"I'm going to marry your brother, Hadrin." Arwen stated again.
"Why would you marry Hadrin after last night?"
"It was decided many years ago when your father came to Rivendell."
"And you're only telling me this now," Legolas exclaimed.
"I only just found out this morning," she argued.
"And you're still going to marry him!"
"I have no choice!"
"You always have a choice, Arwen!" Legolas turned and stormed off back to him room, leaving Arwen standing alone at the edge of the forest.
..::..
"Legolas," Hadrin said as he knocked on Legolas bedroom door. "I know you're in there." The door opened to reveal Legolas with a bag slung over his shoulder. "Where are you going?"
"Somewhere far from here," Legolas answered dryly.
"Why? Have you not heard the news? Many years ago, Father and Lord Elrond planned a union of our two great cities, a union through marriage." Hadrin said with a smile. "I am to marry Arwen is one month."
Legolas stopped walking, forced a smile, then looked to his brother and said, "That is great news, Brother." Legolas started to walk away again.
Hadrin stopped and watched his brother walk away.
..::..
Legolas rode beside the river, his thoughts drifted to his home, where he knew Arwen would be standing by a window. He pictured her, he knew every detail about her; every wave in her long dark hair and the way it fell about her creamy white shoulders, and the way her blue/grey eyes sparkled when she smiled. He heart fell, he would never have her again, never would they be close to each other. They couldn't, she was to be his brother's wife.
He looked up to the sky and smiled, the weather always seemed to match his mood here. It was usually sunny here, but then again, he was usually happy.
Legolas thought about Eowyn, hopefully she could help him, she was Human after all. They always seemed to feel more. How many times had he cursed her Human passion? That's why most Elves didn't like Humans, or at least that's what his brother had told him. His family didn't understand why we went to visit her so often.
Slowly, Legolas' hands moved to the reigns; his horse walked lethargically up a small rocky hill to a cave. He lay down on the ground; he could still feel the way her body felt against his. Legolas fell asleep, imagining that Arwen was with him.
..::..
Arwen sat outside with Prince Hadrin. They had been talking for hours and Arwen was finally beginning to enjoy spending time with him. . He had presented a ring to her the day before and now they were practically inseparable.
Though Arwen was very fond of Prince Hadrin, she still loved Legolas. Arwen suppressed every thought of him and convinced herself to love Hadrin.
As the couple talked outside a servant ran frantically around, looking for Arwen. "Lady Arwen!" he shouted when he saw her. Arwen and Hadrin turned to face the servant. The man collapsed to his knees before them.
"What's wrong?" Arwen asked.
"Your mother and her party were attacked on their journey to Lorien. Lady Celebrian was fatally injured." The servant said breathlessly.
"Where is she now?" Arwen asked urgently.
"She was taken to Lorien and is being treated by their Healers."
..::..
Legolas woke up slowly. He looked around, realizing he was no longer in Mirkwood with his beloved Arwen. He sighed and sat up. Outside, his horse grazed quietly. He looked to the sky realizing how long he had slept. He stood lazily and picked up his things. He walked over to his horse, climbed onto its back, and rode toward Edoras.
As he rode through the city, people came out to watch him pass. He smiled and nodded knowing that at any moment the person he had come to see would come running. But she never did. He was walking up the steps when Aragorn met him, whom he had known for some time now, smiled, greeting him warmly.
..::..
It had been almost a week when Legolas finally decided to tell Eowyn. He was in better spirits now than he was when he arrived. He knocked softly on the big wooden doors to Eowyn's room, there was no reply, he knocked louder and the door swung open. The room was dimly light and no fire was built in the hearth.
Eowyn laid asleep in the bed a white figure in a brown room. If it was anyone else Legolas would have left, but this was Eowyn, his best friend. He pulled up a chair to her bed side and sat. He listened to her soft, slow breathing and lost himself in thought.
A few minutes later Eowyn stirred, she glared through closed eyes at him, "I can't sleep with people staring at me," she said sitting up.
Legolas smiled. "Would you like me to leave?" he said sitting back in the chair."
Eowyn rolled her eyes. "I know you want to talk to me," she said.
"It's about Aragorn," he said. Eowyn turned to look at him. "He left this morning, he told me to say goodbye to you." Eowyn frowned. "You like him don't you?" Legolas said knowingly.
Eowyn looked surprised, "He saved my life." She admitted.
"More than that though," Legolas said. "I mean you like him"
Eowyn glared at him again. "I hate it when you Elves speak in riddles." Legolas smiled, which only aggravated her more. "Is that all you have to say, because, if it is then please go, I would like to sleep some more. It's surprising how being poisoned tires you out." she barked.
Legolas moved to rest his elbows on his knees "Eowyn?" he said. "What would you say if I told you I had met someone?"
"You are very old Legolas I'm sure with all your travels you have met many people." She said lying down again. "Now if you will excuse me, my dreams are calling."
Legolas stood and began to pace the room. "No, I mean someone special. A woman." he said.
Eowyn's eyes flew open; Legolas' turned back. "I don't understand? Why is this such a problem for you?" she asked. "From what I've seen, you're very good with women."
"Because," he sat on the bed beside her. "She is going to marry my brother." he said with finality.
"Ohhh," was Eowyn's only reply. She wrapped her arms around him. "You really love her, don't you?" she said. Legolas hung his head. "It's going to be okay Legolas," she whispered. "Everything will turn out for the best." He looked at her, his stunning blue eyes full of sadness. "When was this decided?" she asked.
"The morning I slept with her," he said.
Eowyn's face was a mix of horror and disgust. "That is something I did not need to know." She said. Legolas began to laugh. Eowyn smiled, content with herself for making him feel better. A little while later Legolas left the room and Eowyn fell back to sleep.
..::..
The sun was high in the sky when Legolas walked his horse into the stables in Mirkwood. He left his horse with the stable boy and jogged up to his brother's room. "Hadrin!" Legolas called from outside the door while knocking on the door. "Are you in there?" Legolas could hear someone walking toward the door.
"Legolas?" Hadrin said as he opened the door. "When did you get back?"
"Just a few minutes ago." Legolas saw something sad in his brother's face. "What's wrong?"
"Lady Celebrian was fatally injured on her way to Lorien."
"What? When did this happen?"
"A few days after you left for…Where exactly did you go?"
"I went to visit Eowyn. What happened to Lady Celebrian?"
"Her party brought her to Lorien and she's currently being treated by their healers. Elrond took the rest of his family to Lorien. We are still waiting on a letter from Lorien informing us on Lady Celebrian's condition."
"But that's not what is bothering you the most right now, is it?" Legolas asked.
Hadrin sighed. "The wedding may be postponed until Lady Celebrian is back to perfect health."
Legolas put a hand on Hadrin's shoulder. "I'm sure she will heal swiftly."
..::..
Hadrin's personal servant walked hastily around the palace looking for his master. In his shaking hand was a cream colored envelope with Elrond's personal seal on it. But the handwriting inside belonged to Arwen.
"Prince Hadrin," the servant said as he approached Hadrin and Legolas in a hallway. "A letter from Lord Elrond has arrived for you." The servant extended his hand holding the envelope to Hadrin.
Hadrin hastily took the letter from his servant's hand, opened it, then thoroughly studied the letter.
"Well," Legolas said. "What does it say?"
"Lady Celebrian is in very bad shape, the healers don't suspect she will last very long. If Lady Celebrian awakes and is in a fairly stable condition for no less than a week, they plan on transporting her to Rivendell. And the wedding has been postponed until further notice."
"I'm sure Lady Celebrian will be fine and the wedding will proceed as planned." Legolas reassured his brother, even though his heart ached at the thought of his brother and Arwen together.
..::..
Year 3017
A year had gone by since Lady Celebrian was injured, and while the healers thought she was getting better, she was really getting worse. It got so bad that Elrond suggested she depart for the Undying Lands. It was the obvious the thing to do; there was no chance that she would survive this if she stayed in Middle Earth, therefore she must leave.
Wind whipped around the Elves that had gathered at the Grey Havens to witness the departure of Lady Celebrian. The sky was gray the sun refused to shine. It was almost like nature knew that today they would lose the Evenstar.
Arwen stood next to Hadrin, his arm wrapped comfortingly around her waist. Legolas stood across from the couple, trying desperately to hide his jealousy. This was the first time he had seen Arwen since she told him that she was marrying Hadrin. Arwen looked up from the ground and was greeted by Legolas' piercing blue eyes; she hastily looked away.
"Arwen," Elrond said. "Come, your mother would like to speak with you before she departs."
Arwen nodded, then solemnly walked over to the low bed placed on a pedestal in front of the ship. Lady Celebrian reached out for her daughter's hand. "Arwen, my daughter," she said weakly. "Do not grieve over my departure." Celebrian coughed violently. "You are now the Evenstar of our people." She coughed some more until four men came and carried the bed to the boat.
Arwen walked back over to Hadrin who embraced her warmly. A crystal like tear rolled down her cheek as the ship sailed farther away from the shore.
Elrond walked over to Hadrin and Arwen. "Now that Lady Celebrian is out of our care your wedding will no longer be postponed. King Thranduril and myself have decided that your wedding be held in a fortnight in Mirkwood."
Hadrin mentally smiled. Finally he would have his bride.
..::..
"Legolas!" Eowyn shouted from the doors of the Golden Hall. Legolas looked up to see her jogging toward him. "Back again," she said when she stopped in front of him. Legolas nodded. "More lady problems?" she asked with a smile. "Come, we'll talk in my room." Eowyn led him through the hallways to her room. They sat across from each other in front of her fireplace. "So what is the problem this time?"
"The wedding date has been set." Legolas said solemnly.
"When is it?"
"Less than two weeks."
"Oh," Eowyn said. "Maybe I should come and accompany you, so you don't feel so alone."
"I would say yes to that if my father hadn't strictly forbidden mortals."
"That does put a damper on me going, doesn't it." After a moment of silence, Eowyn spoke. "Does she love him?"
"What?"
"The girl you have fallen hopelessly in love with, does she love your brother?"
"I don't believe so."
"Then why is she marrying him?"
"Rivendell and Mirkwood are being united."
"But you are also a Prince of Mirkwood, she could marry you and the two cities would still be united. Wouldn't they?"
"Hadrin is to be king, so Arwen must go to him."
"Arwen," Eowyn said. "That's her name?" Legolas nodded. "Last time you visited me you never actually told me what her name was."
"Arwen means royal maiden. Her mother was called the Undomiel of my people, she just departed for the Undying Lands. Arwen is now called Undomiel."
"What does it mean?"
"Evenstar."
"What happened to her mother?"
"She was attacked by a band of Orcs in the Redhorn Gate last year."
"Oh."
"Were you there?"
"Where?"
"I heard that when an Elf departs Middle Earth, those close to their family go to the Gray Havens to watch them depart."
"Yes, I was there. Hadrin held Arwen in his arms as we watched the ship sail away."
"I'm sorry, Legolas." Eowyn said as she took his hand in hers.
..::..
Legolas stayed in Edoras for a week before he decided to return to Mirkwood. He knew his father would be furious if he stayed too long and came back right before the wedding.
He walked through the hallways of the palace; past his brother's room and his father's to get to his own. He rounded a corner and crashed into Arwen. Quickly he backed away from her. "Lady Arwen," he said as he bowed his head.
She shook her head, "You don't need to address me like that Legolas," she said.
Legolas looked down at her. "On the contrary, you are not family yet. Therefore, I must."
"We are still friends," she argued.
"I think our friendship ended when you told me of your engagement to my brother, Lady Arwen."
"When did you become so cold, Legolas?" she asked.
"When you ripped my heart out of my chest." Legolas replied coldly. "Now, if you don't mind, Lady Arwen, I must be going."
Arwen looked down to her feet. "If you must, Prince Legolas." Arwen gave up. There was nothing she could do for him. Nothing would bring him back.
Legolas took a step to the side and walked past her, once again leaving Arwen. She turned around just in time to see him turn another corner. A tear rolled down her cheek as she turned around and continued on to Hadrin's room.
..::..
Legolas locked his door and collapsed to his knees. He fought back the tears that he knew would eventually spill down his face. He let his head drop so he was looking at the floor of his room. A small puddle started to form in front of him. He closed his eyes and let the tears flow freely; he hasn't let himself cry over Arwen and Hadrin until now and he knew that he had to get it out of his system. When he opened his eyes a few minutes later, he could see his reflection in the small pool of tears. His eyes were red and puffy, and there were wet streaks all over his cheeks and chin.
Why did his life have to be such a mess? No, not a mess, a disaster. The only woman he had ever loved was about to marry his brother and there really wasn't much he could do about it. The wedding was the day after tomorrow. A thought occurred to Legolas. There wasn't much he could do but there was a whole lot Arwen could do.
..::..
Legolas stood in front of Arwen's door, knocking quickly. He didn't want anyone to see him in front of her door this late at night. After a few seconds of knocking Legolas paused, he heard the patter of feet walking on carpet towards the door. The door opened and Legolas swiftly placed his hands on either side of Arwen's face and kissed her.
Arwen was taken aback by Legolas and she stood motionless. When she regained her composure she started to kiss him back, her hands drifted up to his chest. She opened her eyes for just a split second and realized that they were standing in her doorway. She managed to maneuver Legolas and herself into her room and shut the door. It had been so long since she had touched him and all she wanted was to have his arms wrapped around her and to lean against his strong body; but hesitantly, she pulled away from him.
"What are you doing?" she asked breathlessly.
"Seeing if you felt the same the way I do."
"We can't do this. I'm getting married tomorrow."
"But you don't have to."
"Yes, I do. It's what my mother would want."
"I don't think so," he said. "I think she would want you to be happy and to be with whoever you wanted."
"And I want to be with Hadrin," Arwen lied.
"No, you don't. I can see it in your eyes. You don't love him." Legolas watched her. "You love me." Arwen looked away from Legolas, she couldn't look at him right now. Legolas placed a hand under her chin and lifted her face to look up at him. "And I love you." He whispered. Her eyes rose to his and he saw the sparkle in them once again. Legolas leaned down and gently kissed her lips.
Arwen closed her eyes. When they parted Arwen said, "I've missed you." Legolas wrapped his arms around her and pulled her in close to him. Her head rested against his collarbone and he could feel her breath on his neck. "What can we do?"
"We leave, right now, while everyone is sleeping. They won't know we're gone until it's too late to catch us."
"But where would we go?"
"Edoras."
"To see your mortal friend?"
"You remember me telling you about her?" Legolas asked, surprised that she remembered.
"Of course I do."
"I have two horses ready in the stables and I packed enough food and provisions for us until we get to Edoras." Legolas held her at arm's length. "Do you love me enough to do this?" he asked.
"Help me pack," Arwen said. Legolas smiled and pulled her in for another kiss.
..::..
A figure watched Arwen and Legolas from above. He watched then run to the stables and climb onto their horses. And finally he watched him kiss her then both of them smile. Somewhere deep inside of him he had known it all along. It was obvious that Arwen didn't love him. It was also obvious that Legolas had been suffering from a broken heart for the past year. But he hadn't quite put the two together.
While Hadrin did love Arwen, he more or less loved her like a sister, not a lover. He smiled as he saw Arwen glance over to his brother. She belonged with Legolas, not him. He would be happy for them, no matter what. "Be free little brother," Hadrin said as Legolas and Arwen silently left the palace grounds. "Be free."
..::..
Legolas and Arwen stopped when they reached the river. They had been riding for a little over two hours but it was already late when they left Mirkwood so they were tired. They had decided that it was safe for them to have a fire and then fell asleep under the stars in each other's arms. Legolas smiled, it felt good to hold her again, to feel her warm body next to his and know that tomorrow when he woke up she would still be with him.
..::..
"What do you mean by missing?" Elrond said, aggravated.
Arwen's handmaiden stood in front of Elrond, she nervously played with the edge of her apron. "Well…Um…I went to her room this morning to wake her and…she wasn't there." She managed to stammer out.
"Did you search the palace?" he asked impatiently.
"Yes, Lord Elrond," she said quietly. "I also asked Hadrin if he had seen her."
"And what did he say?"
"He said that he hasn't seen her since last night." Elrond face was red with anger. "There is one other thing, Lord Elrond." The girl said quietly.
"And what might that be?" he yelled.
"Prince Legolas is also missing."
Elrond's eyes bulged and his face turned various shades of red. "Get out!" he shouted. "Get out of my sight! Go and tell the King of this, you can be the bearer of this news! And tell my sons I need to speak with them now!"
The serving girl scurried away, not wanting to be in Lord Elrond's presence any longer.