Engwidh Vallen

[Chains of Gold]

Keys:

Dreams and Flashbacks

"Common Language"

'Elvish Language'

[Translations]

Thoughts

A/N: Ok, people…here's another chpt. I want to thank all of you for your sweet reviews. And I want to thank my wonderful beta's Aini and Helena…especially Aini who was so kind and helped me in writing Estel/Legolas part

Ok, on with the chpt…hope you like it!

Chapter Four: Obstacles on the way of love

The next morning, everyone was surprised when Lasgalan didn't come to breakfast. Elrond had sent a servant to call the young elf but she had returned saying that Lasgalan didn't even answer her knocks.

Elrond frowned and looked at Glorfindel questioningly. The blond elf shrugged, shaking his head. Elrond sighed and decided to check on the young elf later.

Assuming that Lasgalan's absence might be because the young elf wanted to sleep more, Elrond called for the servants, asking them to serve breakfast.

Estel was so worried about Lasgalan that he wanted to burst out of the room and go to see his lover, but he managed to keep himself under control.

After breakfast, Estel went to Lasgalan's chambers. He knocked on the door and waited several moments before knocking again. However, he didn't receive any answer.

Feeling his worries increasing, he pushed the door open and entered the room. To his great surprise, the room was empty; there wasn't anyone sleeping on the neatly arranged bed. Estel frowned and walked to the bathroom's door and knocked on it, but no one answered it. Turning around, Estel noticed that the door that leads to the balcony was slightly ajar. He strode to the glass door and peeked through it. His heart jumped from its place at the sight that met his eyes.

Sitting on a nearby branch of a large tree, Lasgalan was gazing to the blue sky with a sad expression on his beautiful face. Two silver streams of tears were running down his pale flawless cheeks. Lasgalan was wearing a beautiful silver shirt made of silk and dark green leggings; his long golden hair was left without its normal braids, falling like a golden river midway his back.

'Lasgalan?' Estel called gently, entering the balcony.

Snapped from his thoughts, Legolas stared in surprise at the man standing on the balcony of his room.

'Estel?' he said, wiping his tears. 'What are you doing here?'

Estel frowned deeply, not really expecting his lover to ask him that question.

'I was worried when you didn't come to breakfast.' He said quietly. 'What are you doing there? And why were you crying?'

Legolas looked away, unable to meet Estel's questioning eyes. He wasn't ready to face anyone yet, specially his lover.

A small smile crept to his face at that thought. It was a warm thought to think of the gentle man as his lover, but Legolas knew very well that it couldn't last.

Last night, he thought more about Elladan's words.

The older elf was right!

No one, especially his father, will allow his love for Estel to continue. They were from different races that have been fighting over 3000 years. Elrond's acceptance of Estel doesn't change that fact. It doesn't change the fact that the race of men is hated and despised in Mirkwood. No one will accept that he, Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, has fallen in love with a man.

Legolas allowed his tears to fall once more between his tightly-shut eyes.

Estel's heart twisted painfully in his chest as he watched his lover sobbing softly. He wondered what caused his lover's upset after his happiness and joy last night.

'Lasgalan,' he said softly. 'Please don't cry. Tell me what is bothering you, Meleth, please. Come here into my arms and tell me what causes those precious tears to fall.'

Nodding slightly, Legolas climbed down the branch onto the balcony.

Estel took his lover into his arms as soon the blond beauty stood in front of him.

Legolas buried his face into the young man's strong chest and sobbed softly.

Estel waited patiently until the soft sobs ceased, before pulling away and looking directly into Lasgalan's green eyes.

'What is wrong, Meleth?' he asked. 'What had upset you that much?'

Legolas stared deeply into Estel's eyes. He freed himself from the man's embrace and walked to the edge of the balcony.

'Last night,' he said softly, looking at the gardens below. 'When I returned to my rooms, I found Elladan waiting for me. He said that he is in love with me.' Legolas closed his eyes, preventing a tear from sliding down.

'I know,' Estel whispered.

Legolas turned around, staring at Estel in surprise.

'You know?' he asked weakly. 'How?'

'Elladan.' Estel said. 'He came to my rooms and told me himself.'

'What else did he tell you?'

'Nothing important.' Estel said, shrugging. 'At first, he tried to discourage me from continuing our relationship, saying that no one will approve on it, but at the end, he gave up. Nothing will make me stop loving you, Lasgalan.'

'Really?' Legolas whispered, looking away. A tear slid along his cheek as he remembered his conversation with Elladan.

Noticing his lover's distress, Estel wrapped his arms around the blond elf's waist from behind, burying his face in the gold hair.

'Do you doubt that?' he whispered softly. 'I would fight the whole world just to be near you, Meleth.'

Legolas closed his eyes, leaning against Estel's body. It was difficult for him to deny his feelings. It was so difficult to deny the love and warmth that he felt for the man. He simply cannot deny it.

'I love you,' he whispered softly. 'I don't care what the others think. I just want to be with you.'

'I love you too, Lasgalan.' Estel pulled away, turning the Lasgalan around and looking deeply into his green eyes. 'As long as we love each other, nothing will be able to part our hearts from each other.'

Legolas looked into Estel's eyes and smiled warmly. Seeing his lover's smile again, Estel smiled back and leaned forward, capturing Lasgalan's lips in a passionate kiss.

Legolas moaned softly and circled his arms around Estel's neck, deepening the kiss. They kissed until the need of air forced them to break away.

Seeing Legolas' flushed face, Estel chuckled softy. He took the blond elf in his arms, resting his chin on the top of the golden mane.

'You know, Meleth,' he said softly. 'Last night's conversation with Elladan made me think.'

'Of What?' Legolas whispered, enjoying the man's warm embrace.

'We should tell the Lords about our relationship,' Estel said. 'At least, Lord Elrond.'

'No!' Legolas snapped, pulling away. He looked at Estel with fear shining in his eyes.

'Lasgalan, we can't keep it secret from him.' Estel tried to reason.

'No,' Legolas insisted. 'I'm not ready to face him…I'm not ready to face anyone, not yet.' The elf looked at Estel with plea.

'Lasgalan, if we want this relationship to continue, we must face the obstacles that may result from it.'

'I know,' Legolas said softly. 'But please, not yet.'

Estel sighed deeply. 'Alright. I will wait until you are ready.'

'Thank you, Estel.' Legolas whispered, smiling gratefully at the man.

Estel smiled and pulled the young elf into another passionate kiss. Using his body to guide Lasgalan into the room; Estel guided the young elf to the bed, where he gently laid them both down, not once breaking the full body contact that each of them craved. When the kiss finally broke, Estel leaned slightly back to look at his love. Lasgalan smiled at him with a smile that burned Estel's entire being. They looked at each other, drinking in the others features, as Estel lifted his hand to run it through the soft golden hair spread out around them. Leaning down into the kiss, the young man's hand continued downward to the ties of the elf's silk shirt, quickly undoing the knots there. When enough skin had been exposed, Estel moved lower to kiss a path down the soft creamy white skin. Slowly he made his way to the dusky nipple and as he gave it a lick, he smiled at the moan he heard from Lasgalan.

Hesitantly Legolas put his hands on Estel's shoulders. A part of him was excited to finally be alone with Estel, but the innocent part of him was scared of what was going to happen.

At hearing a second encouraging moan from the elf below him, Estel moved to give the other nipple the same attention. While his lips were busy with the nipple, his hand was sliding downward to the lacings of the elf's leggings.

Legolas was so distracted by the attention his nipples were receiving that he gasped in surprise when he felt Estel's hand sliding inside his leggings.

'Estel?' he called in confusion and slight fear.

Estel stopped and looked up at the elf. He was struck to see the mixture of confusion and fear in the elf's green eyes.

'You haven't done this before, have you?' he asked softly, feeling his heart clutched at the innocent expression on his lover's face.

Legolas shook his head slowly, avoiding the man's eyes.

'Not even with maidens?' Estel asked.

Legolas shook his head again.

Estel cursed softly under his breath, pushing his body away up. He sat at the edge of the bed, watching the elf rising from his position as well.

'I'm sorry,' Legolas whispered, lowering his face. 'I'm not ready to do this. I-I've never done it before. You are the first lover I've ever had!' he bit his lower lip. 'But if you want to do it, I-I'll try to-'

A finger was placed on his lips, cutting him off. Looking up, he saw Estel looking at him lovingly.

'I will not push you.' Estel whispered gently. 'I told you before; I will wait until you are ready.'

'Thank you, Estel.' Legolas whispered, lowering his gaze again.

The two sat in silence for awhile not knowing what to say or do.

'What's this?' Estel suddenly asked, caressing the leaf-like pendant that hung against Legolas' chest.

Legolas looked down at the necklace and smiled warmly.

'It was my Naneth's.' he said softly. 'She gave it to after my birth. It was my first and last gift from her before she was slain by Orcs.'

'It's beautiful.' Estel said softly. Again, the two sat in silence for a while, until Estel spoke.

'Would you like to have some food?' he asked. 'You haven't eaten your breakfast yet.'

Legolas laughed softly. 'It's late for breakfast now, Estel. But having some fruits do sound appealing.' He smiled.

'Then some fruits it is.' Estel said, standing up. Redoing his shirt's knots, Legolas stood as well and walked with Estel out of the room.

Elladan walked alone in the garden, thinking of last night's event. Learning about Estel's and Legolas' love was a big shock to him. It simply didn't occur to him its possibility. The two were from different races…two races that have been fighting for 3000 years!

Elladan sighed deeply.

When Estel first came here two years ago, all the elves in Rivendell hated his presence here and Elladan was one of them. Even though Rivendell wasn't in a direct conflict with Gondor, the elves knew that men hated them and so they returned the feeling. Besides, many were angry at what the men were doing to their Elven fellows in Mirkwood, and many of them had actually left to join the Mirkwood elves in their fight against Gondor.

So the elves here treated the man with hostility and hatred, making his life as difficult as possible even when Elrond announced him one of the family.

At first, Elladan hadn't accepted his Adar's reasons for welcoming Estel in their land and family. Descendant of Elros or not, Estel was a man from Gondor…no, he was the son of Gondor's King; their enemy's son!

But after knowing Estel and knowing the type of life he endured in Gondor, Elladan started to change his mind about the man. He started to change his judgement about Estel and soon they've become close friends. This of course, made the other elves accept Estel's presence if not friendship, seeing that their future ruler had accepted the man's friendship.

And now…now Estel had fallen in love with Legolas; Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, King Thranduil's only son and heir.

Elladan snorted at the irony of life. The two were the most unlikely people to fall in love with each other, yet, they did fall in love. Elladan wondered if their love was strong enough to stand in front of all the obstacles that would face it. He wondered what would be the end of this love; would it be a sad or happy ending?

Elladan wondered if he should tell his father about Estel and Legolas. He was certain that his father or any of the Lords would not to be pleased to hear about this. If he tells his father now, Lord Elrond would somehow stop their relationship before it deepens more.

/But, that would also break Legolas' heart!/ A tiny voice in his mind told Elladan. /He will hate you for being a tattler and will never stand ever your mere presence./

Elladan sighed deep, not knowing what the right thing to do was.

'Elladan, wait.' Elrohir's voice snapped Elladan from his thoughts. Elladan turned around and saw his twin running towards him.

'What's wrong, Elrohir?' Elladan asked when his brother was near.

'What? Can't I talk to you unless there was something wrong?' Elrohir said, grinning mischievously.

'No,' Elladan said, raising an eyebrow. 'But with the way you were running after me, I thought that something wrong had happened.'

'Nothing wrong happened.' Elrohir said as the two resumed their walking in the gardens. 'I just wanted to ask you about last night. How did it go?'

'Last night?' Elladan asked in surprise. 'What about last night?'

'Come on, Elladan.' Elrohir said slyly. 'I saw you going to Lasgalan's room last night. And since I already assume that you are in love the him, I can only imagine that last night you confessed your feelings to him. Am I wrong, big brother?'

Elladan stared at his brother in shock for a moment before regaining his composure. It surprised him to know that his brother noticed his affection towards the Mirkwood elf, but then maybe his feelings were so obvious that even Elrohir, who usually doesn't care to notice such things, saw it.

'Was it that obvious?' he asked quietly.

'No,' Elrohir said. 'But I did catch you stealing some glances at him when you thought that no one was watching. So I thought that you might have fallen in love with him.'

'I see,' Elladan said.

'So tell me, did you confess to him last night? Are you two lovers now?'

'Yes and no.' Elladan said, sighing. 'I confessed my feelings but we aren't lovers.'

'Why not?'

'He's in love with another.'

'What?' Elrohir asked in surprise. 'Lasgalan? The one who blushes when anyone talks to him? Is in love with another? Impossible!'

'No, it's not.' Elladan said. 'He's in love with another.'

'Who?' Elrohir asked.

'Estel.' Elladan said, sighing.

Hearing the name of Lasgalan's lover, Elrohir halted and held his brother's arm.

'Who? Estel?' Elrohir said. 'Now that's impossible. They can't be lovers.'

'They are.' Elladan said. 'After I left Lasgalan, I went to Estel. He confirmed it. The two are in love with each other.'

'But that's impossible!' Elrohir exclaimed. 'Estel is Arathorn's heir! A man! He cannot fall in love with an elf, let alone a woodland elf. Ada will not be happy to hear this.'

'I know,' Elladan said. 'I tried to warn them but neither one was willing to listen. They are too stubborn to even consider the risks they are taking.'

'Elladan, Ada should know about this.' Elrohir said solemnly.

'No,' Elladan shook his head.

'But Elladan-' Elrohir tried to protest.

'No, Elrohir.' Elladan said. 'I will not say anything to Ada. He should hear it from them. Estel is wise and surely my conversation with him last night will, at least, make him go and inform Ada.'

'What if he doesn't?'

'I will not be the one who tells Ada. And neither will you.' He said in a warning tone. 'It's their business not ours.' With that, Elladan walked away, leaving Elrohir behind.

Elrohir sighed deeply.

'I hope we are doing the right thing, brother.' he whispered before walking in the another direction.

Legolas smiled sweetly at Estel as the two sat by the river, enjoying their small picnic.

Spring had finally arrived, and with it the knowledge that the two lovers had made it through a winter with each other to keep them warm. Legolas knew that eventually they would have to face everyone, but for the winter, he just wanted Estel's company on the long cold winter days. When the days had finally started to warm up, the young elf asked his man if they could go out and picnic in the fresh crisp air. Since the young man could deny his elf nothing, they snuck out in the early afternoon and took the treats that they pilfered from the kitchen to their special spot.

Sighing in content, Legolas lied down on the green grass. Estel looked at him in surprise, raising an eyebrow.

'Enjoying yourself, Pen vain [beautiful one]?' Estel said, lying next to him.

'Aye,' Legolas replied with a smile.

'That's a good thing to hear, my sweetheart.' Estel smiled, turning to his side and wrapping one arm around the elf's waist.

'Len melin,' [I love you] Legolas whispered softly, snuggling closer to Estel's warm body. Estel kissed Legolas' forehead softly in reply, then buried his face in the golden mane, inhaling his lover's sweet scent.

Life was as perfect as it could be for the two lovers. To be in each other's arms was the bliss that Heaven had granted them and the two didn't want anything else.

Lulled by the soft ripple of the water, the two lovers soon drifted into slumber, unaware of the two eyes that were watching them.

Glorfindel smiled as he watched Estel and Legolas from above a nearby tree. It warmed his heart to see such pure love grow in the heart of the two youths, and he was very happy to see them in each other's arms.

FLASHBACK

Glorfindel was about to enter his chambers when he heard someone calling him. Looking behind, he saw Elrohir standing in one corner, staring at him nervously.

'Elrohir, what's wrong?' The old elf asked with concern, noticing Elrohir's uncertain gaze.

'I-' Elrohir said, running one hand through his raven hair. 'I-I don't know what to do, my Lord? There is something going on here. Something that my Ada would be angry if it ever reached his ears, yet, I can't tell him about it, even though, I know for certain that he would not approve it.'

'What thing?' Glorfindel asked, frowning deeply. He knows very well that Elrond was the calmest and most patient person he ever knew, and if anything was able to make the elf lord lose his temper, this thing must be very serious. Besides, he also knows that Elrond hates when things happen behind his back, especially in his own house.

'It's-It's,' Elrohir sighed deeply and looked around. 'Can we talk in your chambers, my Lord? I don't want anyone to hear us.' The young elf pleaded.

'Alright.' Glorfindel said, nodding. He opened the door, gesturing for the younger elf to enter. Once they were in the sitting room, Glorfindel sat and mentioned for Elrohir to sit in front of him.

'Now, what is going on?' he asked quietly.

'Well,' Elrohir said nervously. 'I-I heard that Estel-Estel and Lasgalan are-are in love.'

'What?' Glorfindel asked in shock.

Elrohir nodded tensely. 'Elladan said that they are in love with each other.' He said. 'He told me this morning. I was very shocked to hear this too.'

'And how did Elladan know?' Glorfindel asked calmly.

'Last night, Elladan went to Lasgalan's chambers.' Elrohir said. 'You see, my Lord, Elladan is in love with Lasgalan. He wanted to confess his feelings to Lasgalan, when Lasgalan told him that he and Estel have become lovers. Then Elladan went to Estel, who confirmed Lasgalan's claim.'

'I see,' Glorfindel said, nodding.

'I know that my Ada will not approve of this love,' Elrohir said. 'But Elladan didn't want to tell Ada and warned me not to either.'

'That's understandable!' Glorfindel said. 'Your Ada doesn't need another problem added to the current problems he already has. Besides, your Ada would become very angry if he hears about this matter.'

'But, Lord Glorfindel, someone must stop them before it's too late!' Elrohir exclaimed. 'Estel is Arathorn's son! If he was bonded to an elf, then Arathorn might use this to declare war or even use Lasgalan against his kin! As much as I like Estel, I'm worried about the repercussions there would be if one of my kin were bonded to a man!'

'You are right, Elrohir.' Glorfindel said. 'Don't worry; I'll take care of this matter.'

'What about Ada?' Elrohir asked. 'Would it be wise to hide such thing from him?'

'I said I'll take of this matter,' Glorfindel said seriously. 'There is no need to burden your Ada with it.'

'As you wish, my Lord.' With that, Elrohir stood up and left the room.

/Interesting news indeed!/ Glorfindel thought, smirking.

END OF FLASHBACK

The day after his conversation with Elrohir, Glorfindel observed the two more closely and was surprised to see the amount of the love that the two held for each other. It was shinning in their sparkling eyes whenever their gazes meet. It amazed him how such love was well-hidden from the others, yet so obvious for those who could see through that layer of friendship between the two lovers. It amazed him how such pure and strong love would be existed between two people from two different and fighting races.

Glorfindel smirked mischievously. After running the matter over and over in his mind, the blond Lord was convinced of the importance of this love. This love, that no sane elf would support, might be what Middle-Earth needs to prevent a predicative war from breaking out between the two dominate races in Middle-Earth; and a possible union between Estel, Prince of men, and Legolas, Prince of the wood elves, would put an end to three thousands years of hatred.

So, Glorfindel decided to support the two with all his might, even if that would cause him to confront Elrond's or Thranduil's wrath, or even Arathorn's. He decided to make sure that at the end this pure love would win and overcome hatred.

/It would be really amazing to see how love would overcome hatred!/ Glorfindel thought, chuckling softly. Not wanting to disturb the two lovers, Glorfindel climbed down the tree gracefully and walked away.

Elrond smiled in satisfaction as he glanced at the dinner table. Everyone was eating dinner and chattering happily with each other…everyone except Elladan. Elrond frowned upon seeing his son playing with his food while his mind seemed to be so far away. Rivendell's Lord wondered what was happening to his eldest son. Elladan had been acting strangely for the past three months. He spent his time on his own, brooding for hours and rarely talking to anyone or staying with others and his gaze always held a glimpse of sadness. Elrond also noticed that Elladan now rarely talked to Estel or Legolas or sought their company, which puzzled Elrond even more, considering that Elladan showed an interest in befriending Legolas.

Sighing deeply, Elrond decided to ask his son about this matter after dinner and maybe seek Glorfindel or Erestor's help.

Erestor was standing in the balcony, enjoying the silence of the night when two arms wrapped around him from behind in a warm embrace.

'Tonight is a lovely night, isn't it Meleth?' a voice whispered in his ears. Erestor chuckled and leaned his back against his lover's body.

'Yes, it is, Meleth.' He said. 'And your company made it lovelier.'

'I could make it even more lovelier, if you joined me in my chambers, you know.' Glorfindel whispered seductively, licking the tip of Erestor's ear.

Erestor laughed softly, turning around. 'I'd truly love to see how you would do it!' he wrapped his arms around Glorfindel's waist.

'Would you like me to give you an example?' Glorfindel asked slyly.

'Yes, I would.' Erestor said.

Glorfindel pulled Erestor closer and kissed him passionately on the lips. He deepened their kiss, pressing his tongue against the dark-haired elf's month asking for an entrance. His request was shortly granted as Erestor opened his month, allowing Glorfindel's tongue to explore it.

A soft laugh coming from the gardens below made the two Lords break up. Looking at each other in surprise, the two Lords looked down the balcony and saw Estel and Legolas sitting together on a bench in the gardens.

'You know something Glorfindel,' Erestor said, gazing down at the two. 'Estel and Legolas' closeness is starting to bother me.'

'Why so, Meleth?' Glorfindel asked.

'I don't know. But sometimes, I have the feeling that what is between those two is something more than simple friendship.' Erestor said, looking at his lover.

Hearing this made Glorfindel chuckled softly. Erestor frowned at Glorfindel's expression.

'Glorfindel,' he said. 'Do you know something I don't know?'

'Me?' Glorfindel said innocently. 'What should I know that you don't?'

'I don't know.' Erestor said suspiciously, crossing his arms in front of his chest. 'But I know that chuckle and that look. They normally mean that you are hiding something from me or from Lord Elrond.'

'Well,' Glorfindel said, grinning. 'I do. But I won't tell you anything unless you come to my chambers with me.' With that, the blond elf walked outside the balcony, beckoning for Erestor to follow.

'Alright, I'll come.' Erestor said, following Glorfindel to his chambers.

'So what are you hiding?' Erestor asked as he lay sprawled on the bed, wearing nothing but his leggings. He tried to ask Glorfindel as soon as they arrived but the blond elf refused to say a single word until Erestor took off his tunic and shirt and lay on the bed.

'Not now, Meleth.' Glorfindel said, joining him in the bed after taking of his tunic and shirt as well. 'I'll tell you later.' He leaned forward in an attempt to kiss his lover.

'No, now.' Erestor said, placing a finger on his lover's lips. 'I have a feeling that you are hiding something very important. I want to know it now or I'll leave.'

Glorfindel sighed and pulled away. Sitting on the edge of the bed, the blond elf looked at his lover with a mischievous smirk pasted on his face.

'It came to my knowledge, three months ago, that there was something going on between Estel and Legolas.' He said. 'I was told that they are in love with each other.'

'THEY ARE WHAT?' Erestor snapped, rising into a sitting position.

'They are in love with each other, Meleth.' Glorfindel said simply.

'And you didn't do anything about it?' Erestor asked in shock.

'No,' Glorfindel replied. 'Why should I?'

Erestor stared at his lover with great shock. He couldn't believe that his lover heard such news and didn't do anything to stop it and most importantly, he actually hid this from all of them.

'And I supposed that you didn't inform Lord Elrond about this too?'

'No,' Glorfindel said. 'If Elrond knew, he would have flamed up with rage and then the Valar know what he would do to them.'

'Of course, he would.' Erestor snapped. 'Glorfindel, may I remind you of who Estel and Legolas are? Estel is Arathorn's only son, and Legolas is Thranduil's only son. And do you know who Arathorn and Thranduil are? Arathorn is Gondor's King and Thranduil is Mirkwood's. The two kingdoms have been fighting for over three thousand years. Estel and Legolas cannot simply fall in love with each other.'

'The two don't know each other's identity!' Glorfindel snapped.

'That's doesn't change who they truly are!' Erestor roared. 'You should have stopped them the moment you knew. You should have told me or Lord Elrond so we could act before it's too late. If Arathorn or King Thranduil hears of this, a horrible war will surely break out between the two races.'

'Listen to me Erestor,' Glorfindel said, taking a deep breath. 'If I wasn't convinced that their love was a good thing for Middle-Earth's future, I wouldn't have allowed it to continue. Believe me Erestor, if Estel and Legolas get married, they will unite the two races. Their love will remove all the hatred that dwelled between elves and men for centuries.'

'You're forgetting that King Thranduil and Arathorn will not approve of this marriage.' Erestor spat. 'Arathorn will kill his son if he ever learns that Estel has been living here for the past two years…what do you think he will do if he hears that his son is in love with an elf and Thranduil's son no less?!'

'Arathorn will not live forever.' Glorfindel yelled. 'One day that arrogant human will die then Estel will take the throne of Gondor. He will be the King of men.'

'And about King Thranduil? Do you think that he'll accept that his only son has fallen in love with a human and not any human but Isildur's descendant? Do you think, after telling me about Queen Iralen's death, that he will he'll accept his blood mixing with the blood of his wife's murderer? Do you think that Legolas would be able to live with someone who's descendant of the one who ordered his mother's death?'

'That's not fair, Erestor.' Glorfindel whispered. 'It's not fair to blame Estel for something happened even before his birth. If their love is true, then it will overcome the past. It will overcome the hatred.'

'No, Glorfindel.' Erestor said, getting out the bed. 'Their love will not survive. They will suffer from it and cause a war between humans and elves.'

'Humans and elves are already in a war, Erestor.' Glorfindel snapped. 'Every day, hundreds of elves are being slain by the Gondorions while we're here pretending that it doesn't exist, only because it's far away from us!'

'That might be true, Glorfindel, but this love would make this war spread like wildfire through the whole of Middle-Earth.' Erestor said, grapping his shirt and putting it on. 'That's why I will do anything to stop it. I'm going to inform Lord Elrond about Estel and Legolas immediately to put an end to their relationship.' With that Erestor left the room.

'Erestor wait!' Glorfindel called as he followed his lover after grapping his shirt too.

Elrond sighed deeply as he stared at the young elf in front of him. He and Elladan were sitting in his library for almost an hour. He was trying to find out what was wrong with Elladan, but the younger elf was as stubborn as a rock and refused to say a thing. Every time Elrond tried to ask what was wrong with him, Elladan would only shrug and say that there wasn't anything wrong with him.

'Elladan, I'm your Ada.' Elrond tried again. 'If anything was bothering you, you know that you can tell me. You can always confide in me to help you solve any problem, my child.'

'Ada, for the last time, there isn't anything wrong or bothering me.' Elladan said, sighing. He wondered when his father would give up and leave him alone.

'No, there is.' Elrond said sternly. 'I can tell when there is something bothering you, Elladan. You are my son and I know you more than anyone else. Now tell me, what's wrong with you?'

Elladan stared at his father silently. He didn't know what to do.

On one hand, he could tell Elrond about Estel and Legolas so the Lord would prevent them from seeing each other. Elladan, then, would have a chance to win Legolas' heart. But on the other hand, if he told Elrond, Elladan would risk Legolas' trust in him and the blond beauty might hate him for parting him from Estel. Elladan sighed deeply; he knew he wouldn't bear seeing the look of sadness or betrayal in Legolas' eyes.

'Ada-' he didn't have the chance to complete his sentence because the door of the study suddenly burst open forcedly revealing a furious Erestor behind it. Elrond and Elladan looked confusedly at the other elf. It was strange for the usually calm elf to burst in such manner to the library without knocking at this hour of the night.

'My Lord, we need to talk.' Erestor said. 'There is an important matter that you must to know.'

'Can't it wait until the morning, Erestor?' Elrond said, raising an eyebrow. 'I'm sure that-'

'No, my Lord.' Erestor interrupted, entering the room and closing the door behind him. 'It cannot wait until the morning. The sooner you know about it, the better.'

'Erestor!' Glorfindel said, bursting into the room. 'There is no need to involve Elrond into this!'

'Yes, there is, Glorfindel.' Erestor hissed. 'Elladan, may you leave us, please?'

'No need! He already knows.' Glorfindel mumbled under his breath.

Erestor glared at Elladan then at Glorfindel. 'How nice!' he exclaimed. 'Who else knows, Glorfindel? It seems that the whole of Rivendell knows except Lord Elrond and me!'

'Can anyone tell me what's going here?' Elrond snapped, annoyed at his two friends. 'What are you all talking about?'

'There has been something going under your roof, my Lord.' Erestor said firmly. 'Something that you wouldn't have approved of. Glorfindel and your son knew about it and didn't inform you or do anything to stop it.'

'What is it?' Elrond said.

'Estel and Legolas.' Erestor said. 'Glorfindel said that they have been lovers for three months now.'

'WHAT?' Elrond yelled in rage, quickly rising from his seat.

Upon hearing Erestor's words, Elladan paled. He lowered his eyes not daring to meet his father's eyes, while Glorfindel looked away from Elrond's gaze.

'Yes, my Lord.' Erestor said accusingly. 'Glorfindel didn't do anything to separate them. And now, it appears that also your son knew about them and didn't do anything.'

Elrond took several deep breaths before addressing his son. 'Elladan,' he said coldly. 'Is what Erestor is saying true? Are Estel and Legolas in love?'

'Yes, Ada.' Elladan whispered, keeping his eyes low.

'Since when?'

'Three months.' Elladan replied.

'How long did you know about this?'

'Same period.'

'And you Glorfindel?'

'Same as him.' Glorfindel said, looking straight into Elrond's eyes.

'Who else know?'

'Elrohir.' Glorfindel said. 'He was the one who told me. He was afraid of telling you, so he came to me and asked me to take care of this matter.'

'I see,' Elrond said quietly. 'Elladan!'

'Yes, Ada?'

'You will go and inform Estel and Legolas that I wish to meet them here now! But do not tell them why.'

'Yes, Ada,' Feeling a little bit relieved, Elladan left the room as soon as he could.

The three Lords stood in their spots silently with a heavy tension reigning on the room.

'You allowed them to be friends, why don't you allow them to be lovers?' Glorfindel spoke quietly, breaking the tension.

'Friends, Glorfindel,' Elrond hissed, glaring at the blond Lord. 'Friends, not lovers! Do you realize what you are risking here? You are risking Legolas' safety! Mirkwood's safety! All the elves' safety! This love will cause either Arathorn or Thranduil to declare war openly at the other race! Middle-Earth will break into a huge war between all its creatures!'

'They love each other, for Elbereth's sake!' Glorfindel yelled. 'I'm tired of hearing how their love would bring war to Middle-Earth! Why don't you say that their love would bring peace instead?'

'Because it will not!' Elrond snapped. 'Arathorn will use this love to declare a war upon the Elven race.'

'He had already declared a war upon us, Elrond.' Glorfindel growled. 'What can't you see? He's already attacking Mirkwood and won't rest until he burns all the woods there! And after he's done with Mirkwood, he will turn his eyes to Rivendell.'

'I-' Elrond was interrupted with soft knocks on the door. 'Enter,' he said.

Legolas entered the room followed by Estel.

'You wished to see us, my Lord.' Legolas said, smiling.

'Yes, Lasgalan.' Elrond said seriously. 'There is an important matter I want to discus it with you two. Please sit.'

Legolas felt his heart drop at Elrond's stern face and voice. He felt slightly afraid of the elder Lord. He could tell that Elrond was upset about something, possibly about him and Estel.

/He knows./ His mind kept repeating to him. Slowly, the young elf walked to a nearby couch and sat next to Estel.

'I've heard that you two are in a relationship.' Elrond said straightforwardly. 'I asked you to come here so you two can promise me to end this relationship now and for all time.'

'What?' Estel asked in surprise. 'Are you serious? You can't just ask us to end our relationship. We can't end it this simply. We love each other.'

'This love, Estel, is not acceptable.' Elrond said firmly. 'You will promise me that you two will stop this relationship and never start it again.'

'And I said no,' Estel snapped, standing from his seat. 'We love each other. What you're asking us is impossible. We can't just promise you that we will stop loving each other.'

'You can't love each other, Estel. There are lots of things that prevent this love,' Erestor said. 'Lasgalan knows them as well as you.'

Estel looked at Lasgalan who was silent the whole time. The blond elf was looking downcast, while his body was shaking slightly.

'Lasgalan!' Estel said softly. 'Lasgalan, say something.'

Legolas looked up at his lover then at the three Lords. Glorfindel felt his heart breaks at the sight of Legolas' tear-stained innocent face.

'I love Estel, my Lords.' Legolas whispered. 'I love him. I don't care about our differences. Please, I can't live without his love.'

'Estel, would you leave us alone?' Elrond said quietly.

'But-' Estel tried to protest but Glorfindel stopped him with a wave of his hand.

'Leave us, Estel.' The blond Lord said compassionately. 'Leave us.'

Estel stared at Glorfindel for a moment and saw a supportive look in the Lords' eyes. Nodding silently, the man left the room.

'Legolas,' Elrond said firmly. 'Do you realize what are you doing? How could you fall in love with a human?'

'I couldn't stop myself.' Legolas said, sobbed softly. 'Estel is a gentle and kind person. And I just found myself falling for him more and more everyday.'

'Didn't you think of your Ada, Legolas? Of your kin?' Erestor said. 'How could you do this to them?'

'Stop it, both of you!' Glorfindel snapped. 'What are you two blaming him for? For falling in love? You two know very well how it is to be in love and yet you are blaming him for it?!'

'No, Glorfindel!' Elrond said. 'We are blaming him for loving a man.'

'May I remind you that you have welcomed that man into your house and family, my lord?' Glorfindel said. You even supported Estel befriending Legolas in the beginning!'

'That's different, Glorfindel.' Elrond snapped. 'And welcoming Estel into my house and family doesn't mean that I would allow him to fall in love with Legolas. Estel remains from Gondor, which is Mirkwood's first enemy. Now, Legolas,' he said, turning his attention to the still sobbing young elf. 'I want you to promise me that you will end your relationship with Estel now.'

'I can't,' Legolas choked.

'Legolas, you must!'

'I can't.' Legolas cried in distress. 'I love Estel. We don't want to be part of this war. Estel may be a human but he's different and I love him.'

'Legolas, your Ada will not approve of this!'

'Ada will do anything to see me happy.' Legolas said, sobbing. 'If he saw how happy I am with Estel, he'll overcome his hatred and accept Estel.'

'It's not as simple as you may think, Legolas.' Elrond said. 'Thranduil will kill Estel as soon as he sees him.'

'No, he will listen to me.'

'No, he will not.' Elrond yelled angrily. 'Your Adar will not tolerate the mere existence of a human in Mirkwood and your Naneth's soul will not rest as long as you're in love with him.'

'Nana?' Legolas asked; his eyes widened in confusion. 'Nana would have wanted me to stay with the one I love.'

'No, she wouldn't.' Elrond hissed. 'You're betraying her memory with your love for a human! Could you fall in love with one of those who-'

'Elrond! That's enough!' Glorfindel yelled in alarm.

Elrond's eyes widened in horror as he realized what he was going to say.

Legolas looked at Elrond with puzzlement and hurt shinning in his eyes. 'How am I betraying Nana's memory?' he said softly. 'Why? Ada always said that Nana would have wanted me to be happy and being in love with Estel makes me happy. Why am I betraying her memory?'

'Listen to me carefully, Legolas.' Elrond said calmly. 'From now on, I don't want you to even talk to Estel. You will always be accompanied by either Elladan or Elrohir to make sure that you and Estel don't meet in secret.'

'But-' Legolas tried to protest but was silenced with a stern look from Elrond.

'And if I heard that you two are meeting,' Elrond cut off. 'I'll send a message to your Ada, informing him and leave the whole matter for him to deal with it, am I clear?'

'Yes, my Lord.' Legolas whispered, lowering his head.

'You may go to your room,' Elrond said quietly. 'And remember, don't talk to Estel.'

Legolas nodded silently and left the room.

Estel was standing nearby when the door of Elrond's library opened and Legolas appeared behind.

'Meleth,' Estel said, approaching the blond elf. 'What did they say to you?'

Legolas stared at Estel sadly before shaking his head and running away.

'Lasgalan!' Estel cried. He was about to run after the elf when Elrond's voice came from behind.

'Leave him alone, Estel.' Elrond ordered.

Estel looked behind him and glared at the elder. 'What did you say to him?' the man growled in anger.

'Lasgalan will not talk to you anymore.' Elrond said firmly. 'You two are forbidden to talk to each other. If it was in my power, I would send him back to his homeland. But since I can't do this nor I can send you away, I will make sure that you two will never speak to each other. If I heard that you two have spoken to each other, I'll inform Lasgalan's Adar of this. And then, he will have to take care of it.'

'I don't understand,' Estel said. 'Why are you against this? I don't live in Gondor anymore. I've renounced my title and status as Gondor's Crown Prince. Why can't I stay with the one I love?'

'Because you are still Arathorn's son,' Elrond said. 'And Lasgalan remains an elf from Mirkwood.' with that, Elrond walked away, leaving Estel standing alone in the corridor.

To be continued…

To be continued…