Engwidh Vallen (Chains of Gold)
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Author: HanaHeart
Beta: Katie Berry
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Keys:
Dreams and Flashbacks
"Common language"
'Elvish language'
(Translations)
/Thoughts/
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Chapter Seven: Turns of Life
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Rymir watched with a deep frown as Legolas sat alone under the tree staring up at the sky with a thoughtful look in his face. The young elf has been acting strangely since they left Rivendell two weeks ago.
/Not only acting strangely/ Rymir reminded himself. /but also looking strangely./
It was the morning of their departure when Rymir noticed that his young Prince looked differently…there was something odd in Legolas' face and eyes…something that wasn't there before…something Rymir couldn't place his fingers on! Legolas' face was lit with new glow and his eyes twinkled strangely in odd pleasure!
All Rymir's attempt to uncover the reason of this unknown and unexplained change in Legolas had failed.
Every time he asked Legolas about it, the young elf would flash his innocent sweet smile and say a soft 'nothing' then walk away.
Rymir sighed deeply.
"I tell you, I'm sure of it." Rymir heard one of elves nearby saying. "I know this look very well."
"Impossible!" Another elf replied. "There is no chance that young Lasgalan has fallen in love."
With a deep frown, Rymir turned around and walked towards the two elves.
"What's this about Lasgalan?" he asked the two firmly.
"Syril thinks that Lasgalan is in love, sir." One of the elves replied.
Rymir raised a dark eyebrow at said elf, demanding an explanation.
"I'm certain of this, sir." Syril answered. "Just look at Lasgalan's eyes and you'll see yourself. The child is deeply in love. Just see the way his eyes sparkles when he's alone and lost in his thoughts and you'll see it too!"
Rymir glanced at Legolas' direction. He couldn't see the young elf's eyes from here, but the look of Legolas' dreamy expression confirmed Syril's words. Rymir blinked, unable to believe it!
The young elf was indeed in love!
It was so clear in his face, yet Rymir couldn't figure it out!
Rymir smiled warmly to himself. He couldn't see it, because he didn't expect it!
Because he didn't realise that his Prince had finally grown up!
"But isn't Lasgalan too young to fall in love?" the other elf suddenly asked. "He hasn't even reached 3000 years!"
"He may not be 3000 years old," Rymir said softly, unable to tear his eyes from the young elf. "But he's certainly not too young to fall in love." With a smile, he turned to his companions. "Do you have any idea of who might have captured our Lasgalan's heart?"
"I've heard rumors back in Rivendell," Syril said with a smirk. "That Lasgalan had caught Lord Elladan's attention. And they were spending a lot of time together in a hidden place in the gardens of The Last Homey House."
"Really?" Rymir asked in amusement. "Our Lasgalan had grown up indeed." Chuckling softly, Rymir glanced at Legolas then back at the two elves. "Keep this matter a secret between us. I don't want anyone of the rest or Lasgalan to know about it. And we'll see what happens when our King finds out about this joyful secret."
"Yes, sir." The two elves said with a smile.
Wishing them a good night, Rymir walked to his bedroll and lay down. Soon the captain drifted to dreamland with a satisfied smile on his face.
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A figure stood in one of the balconies in The Last Homey House, gazing over gardens wistfully. And for the first time, the beauty of Rivendell's night couldn't ease the sorrow of his heart or chase the loneliness in his soul away as it had done so many times before.
Estel heaved a deep sorrowful sigh as he ran one hand through his hair. For two weeks, his blessed paradise had turned into cursed hell! For two weeks, he couldn't find the peace that he had once found in Rivendell. For two weeks, he was missing the only being that had captured his heart. For two weeks, he was praying to all the Gods to reunite him with his beloved again.
'Estel.' a voice from behind made Estel jumped from his place. The man looked behind and saw Lord Glorfindel standing at the entrance of the balcony.
'Lord Glorfindel,' Estel exclaimed. 'To what business do I owe the honor of this visit?'
Glorfindel smirked as he leaned on the door frame of the balcony. 'A small matter regarding the one who stole your heart, boy.' he said. 'There is something important you have to know about.'
Estel frowned deeply. Nothing wrong had happened to his lover, had it?
But then, if something happened to Lasgalan, Lord Glorfindel wouldn't be in such an obvious good mood, would he?
'What matter?' the young man finally asked.
'Come in,' Glorfindel said as he walked inside. 'I want to have some wine first.'
Estel frowned slightly but complied anyway. Sitting on a nearby chair, Estel watched silently as the blond Lord took the wine bottle from a shelf above the fireplace and poured some of it into two glasses.
Glorfindel placed one glass on a table in front of Estel and sat opposite to the young man. He drank his wine in silence, staring into the space in front of him.
"Do you miss him?" Glorfindel asked suddenly after a while.
Estel was taken aback by the sudden question and the elf's use of the common language instead of elvish but then he replied calmly. "Yes, I do."
Glorfindel smiled as he stared at his wine. "I know his father, you see." He said. "And his mother…" he let out a deep sigh. "She was a great friend of mine. She was a unique Lady in everything…She was very special for everyone who knew her." Glorfindel sighed again before taking another sip from his wine.
Estel frowned, wondering where this conversation would lead. He drank a little of his wine and looked up at the blond elf, waiting for him to continue.
"You know, I haven't seen him since he was 200 years old." Glorfindel said. "And when I saw him for the first time here, I felt as if I was seeing Iralen again."
"Iralen?" Estel asked. "She's Lasgalan's mother, correct?"
Glorfindel snorted softly. "Yes, Lasgalan's mother." he sighed again, taking another sip from his drink. "We used to be so close to each other. And in a time, my heart fell in love with her."
Upon hearing this, Estel raised a surprise eyebrow. "You fell in love with her?" he exclaimed. "But what about Lord Erestor?"
"He came later, my boy." Glorfindel replied softly, staring at his glass. "But Iralen was my first love." A small sad smile lit his face. "Sadly, I wasn't hers. She was in love with another."
"Lasgalan's father?" Estel asked.
Glorfindel nodded. "I should have expected that, though." He said. "I mean, they knew each other since childhood. And even though her personality is way far from his, there always had been a harmony between them." Glorfindel snorted again. "But I was blind to all of that. I fell in love with her yet I couldn't tell her my feelings until one day, she came and told me that he had officially asked her hand in marriage. I was so shocked to say anything. I felt my heart break as I saw happiness sparkling in her green eyes."
"Did you tell her about your feelings?"
"No," Glorfindel said. "I couldn't. I watched her marrying another then came back to Rivendell where I found comfort in Erestor's arms and heart. Gradually, my heart fell again." Estel smiled softly at the blond Lord. "Life truly is a big riddle." Glorfindel continued. "It may take from you something, but then, it gives you something back."
"I suppose so," Estel whispered.
"Estel," Glorfindel said, looking directly into the man's eyes. "There is something about your lover that I have kept secret for you. I had to make sure that you are ready to hear what I'm about to say and deal with it wisely."
"What is it?" Estel asked, feeling uneasy.
Glorfindel took a deep breath before saying. "Listen to me carefully, Estel…"
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Erestor looked out the balcony and sighed in defeat. He can't take it anymore. He can't lie on himself and keep pretending that matters between him and Glorfindel had retuned to the way they were!
They weren't!
Nothing between them had returned to the way it was before the incident in Elrond's library.
Erestor sighed and returned to the bedroom, closing the door of the balcony behind him. He stared at the empty room for a while before walking to the bed and throwing himself into it.
Their return to each other, nearly two months ago, had not warmed Glorfindel's heart much towards him. Wariness and caution filled the air whenever they are together, instead of easiness. Distrust and suspicion filled the blond elf's eyes instead of trust and love. They were more like strangers than the lovers they had been for almost 3000 years.
Erestor wondered if his supposed fault was worth all this anger and cold treatment. Come to think about it, Erestor doesn't think that he had done anything wrong. neither did Elrond. They were simply trying to protect their people…trying to prevent a war between the two dominant races in Middle-Earth!
A war that they have been trying to prevent for 3000 years!
A war that if it started would destroy all of Middle-Earth!
Erestor sighed and turned to his right side. There was no use reasoning with Glorfindel in this matter. Both had said their opinions and both weren't convinced in the other's opinions. It was useless to argue!
Glorfindel's upset was beyond any reason and his anger has last more than enough!
Erestor sighed deeply. It appears that Glorfindel wasn't coming to back tonight either. The blond elf spent most of his time alone pondering in the gardens instead of being with him in their room. And Erestor learned that if he wasn't invited to spend the night with Glorfindel then his company wasn't welcomed.
Sighing, he rose from the bed and walked to a shelf full of books. He picked a book and sat on chair. He was going to wait for Glorfindel for another hour or two…they must clear everything once and for all between them!
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Estel stared in disbelief at the blond elf sitting in front of him.
"Lasgalan is in truth Legolas!" He murmured softly. "Prince Legolas of Mirkwood? King Thranduil's only heir?"
Glorfindel just nodded.
"Oh, by all the Gods!" Estel exclaimed, covering his face with his hands. "I can't believe it. Lasgalan? Impossible!"
"No, it's not." Glorfindel said calmly. "Elrond saw that it was wise to keep Legolas' identity a secret from everyone to protect him from any possible danger."
"Possible danger!" Estel said bitterly, looking up. "You mean my father's spies…"
Glorfindel nodded silently.
Estel shook his head in denial, still refusing to believe. He rose from his seat and strode to the window. He stared blankly at the night sky, feeling his soul drowning in a pond of misery. Now, he understood everything. He understood Elrond's range on them the other night. He understood why he and Lasg-no Legolas were cruelly separated from each other….why everyone tried to convinced them that their love was forbidden. He finally understood…and he wished he didn't!
Glorfindel watched silently as Estel dealt with his news with great concern. He feared such reaction from Estel. He feared that he would scare Estel away by telling him the truth, but in the same time, knew that he had to if he wished for Estel and Legolas' love to continue.
Glorfindel sighed deeply.
It's up to Estel now to decide!
If he could not accept Legolas' true self, or was afraid to face all the obstacles that his love may face, then maybe it was better for him to forget all about his feelings towards Legolas!
Yes, it's up to Estel to decide now whether to stand for his love or run away!
Estel stared at the stars that filled the sky, remembering his first walk in the gardens with his beloved. Life had brought them together then separated them again. And now, he discovered that the distance between them had grown beyond their reach…beyond their power.
Estel closed his eyes as he leaned his head on the glass, feeling his tears gathering in the corner of his eyes.
Thranduil's only son!
He had fallen in love with Thranduil's only son!
The heir of Mirkwood!
The heir of the kingdom that had been in war with Gondor for over 3000 years!
But does it matter now?
He had known that Legolas was from Mirkwood and it didn't matter at that time!
He had known that their love would not be welcomed among either of their people, yet, he didn't care!
All that mattered to him was to stay by his lover's side…to feel his elf's love caressing his soul…
He didn't care whom Lasgalan or Legolas was…he didn't care even if Legolas was the son of a mere servant!
"Why are you telling me now?" he asked, looking back at Glorfindel.
"Because within two weeks, Legolas will reach Mirkwood." Glorfindel replied carefully. "He'll have to tell his father about your relationship. You need to be prepared for what will happen."
"Does Legolas know who I am?"
"No," Glorfindel said, shaking his head. "Telling Legolas about your parentage will only scare him." Glorfindel noticed the hurt that flashed in Estel's eyes. "Don't misunderstand me, Estel. Legolas is young and not prepared to deal with such complex matters. He simply wouldn't know how to deal with the matter, had I told him of your parentage."
"I know." Estel said, returning to his seat. "What should I do now?"
"Do you still want him as your lover, Estel?" Glorfindel asked softly. "Hadn't your affections changed after knowing Legolas' true identity?"
"No, my lord." Estel replied. "I still love him. I still want him by my side."
"Then you have to wait for him." Glorfindel said, smiling warmly. "He had promised you that he'd come back and he will."
"How-" Estel was shocked at Glorfindel's word.
The blond elf's smile widened as he gestured to the necklace around Estel's neck. "Thranduil gave this necklace to Iralen when he proposed. I still remember how her eyes sparkled with happiness as she showed it to me. It was his vow to give her his undying love forever."
Estel held the necklace, vowing the same vow in his heart. He would love Legolas forever…no matter what happened!
"Don't worry, Estel." Glorfindel said compassionately. "All will end well…"
"How is that?"
"I don't know. It's a mystery!" With a smile, Glorfindel excused himself and left the room. After Glorfindel's departure, Estel lay on his bed, thinking of his lover until sleep consumed him.
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When Glorfindel entered his chambers, he was surprised to see Erestor sleeping on a chair; a book was lying neglected on the floor. Glorfindel walked silently to the sleeping elf and picked up the book. He placed it on a nearby table.
'Glorfindel,' he heard the soft whisper of his lover. Looking behind him, Glorfindel saw Erestor staring at him sleepily.
'I'm sorry if I woke you,' Glorfindel said softly. 'Why did you sleep on the chair, anyway?'
'I was waiting for you.' Erestor said. 'Glorfindel, we need to talk. We can't keep going like this.'
'Going like this? What that supposed to mean?' Glorfindel asked tonelessly.
'That is what I mean!' Erestor snapped, gesturing to Glorfindel. 'We're supposed to be lovers, but most of the time you're acting as if we were strangers or still trying to know each other! What happened to us, Glorfindel?' the dark-haired elf asked softly as he rose from his seat and walked towards his lover. 'What is standing between us?'
Glorfindel sighed deeply, closing his eyes as Erestor caressed his cheek tenderly. He wasn't certain what was standing between him and Erestor. He didn't know why his heart was afraid to give Erestor another chance. He didn't want to lose Erestor yet he couldn't let him in his heart again. Something in his heart had cracked when Erestor had denied Estel and Legolas their love. He understands Erestor's motives to react the way he did, but he also hoped that Erestor would see how true and strong that young love was.
Glorfindel reopened his eyes only to see Erestor looking at him expectedly, waiting for a reply.
'I don't know, Erestor.' He replied honestly. 'I supposed I was shocked by your reaction towards Estel and Legolas' relationship.'
'Glorfindel-'
'I know what you're about to say, Erestor.' The blond elf interpreted. 'And I understand it. But as I said, I was shocked. I thought that you would understand how Estel and Legolas felt. I know you do and I want to trust you again, Erestor. I truly want that…'
'Then allow me to prove to you that I'm worthy of your love.' Erestor requested softly.
Glorfindel just nodded, allowing himself to be pulled by his lover towards their bed.
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A loud explosion was heard all over Rivendell, making Estel jumped from his bed. The young man sprang to his feet and ran towards the balcony. His eyes widened in horror at the sight that met his eyes as he looked down.
'My Gods!' he whispered in shock, still unable to believe what he saw.
Another whistle was heard in the air. Estel looked up only to see a huge gray stone falling towards Rivendell. Feared screams filled the air as the elves ran in every direction, trying to escape the death coming towards them from the sky.
Fear mixed with anger filled Estel's soul as he watched his heaven being destroyed during the night. Suddenly, different noises filled the air. Noises that screamed of war and destruction…and death!
Estel felt his body jerks violently as he recognized those screams. /NO/ his mind screamed. /Not here too! Not Rivendell/
Running inside again, Estel took his sword and left the room with a determined expression on his face.
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One week later…
Musical laughs filled the air as the group of hooded elves passed through the forest. Legolas smiled happily to himself as the smell of the fresh air coming from the forest of Mirkwood caressed his nose. It was only a matter of hours then they would reach the borders…in few hours, he'll be in the forest he grew up in and in few days, he'll be in his Ada's loving arms…
Suddenly, Legolas felt as if his head become light. He held the reins of his horse tightly to stabilize himself. Feeling her rider's sudden discomfort, the white mare stopped abruptly.
"Lasgalan? What's wrong?" Rymir asked in concern as the rest of the group halted.
"Nothing serious." Legolas said softly, shaking his head. "I'm a little tired, I suppose. Mîr must have felt it, that's why she stopped."
Rymir narrowed his eyes, studying the younger elf carefully. It wasn't the first time that Legolas seemed to be tired during the past weeks. The usual energetic young elf had been showing signs of fatigue after a short period of riding. His eating habits had changed dramatically during the journey. He can't even bear the smell of the stew that they cook and in the same time showed a huge interest in eating wild berries and mushrooms. Not that he didn't eat them before, but he doesn't eat anything else now!
'Let's stop then.' Rymir ordered, using the elven tongue for the first time since they left Rivendell. "Prepare a quick camp."
"Rymir, there is no need." Legolas argued. "I'm all right; I can tolerate riding for a few more hours."
"No," Rymir said, shaking his head as he dismounted. "You looked very tired, little one. You're paler than usual and look like you would benefit from a short nap. We are very close to home, thus, there is no need to hurry. The border guards would even be able to notice our presence…we'll rest for two hours or so then we'll proceed."
Sighing, Legolas dismounted his mare and went under a tree. The tree called for him, offering its branches for him to sleep on. Smiling, Legolas nodded his thanks and climbed to a near branch where he soon fell asleep.
Rymir shook his head as he watched Legolas sleeping almost immediately after laying down on the branch. The young elf was too stubborn for his own good!
But then, considering Legolas' parentage and who his personal bodyguard and mentor is, his stubbornness shouldn't be a surprise to Rymir at all!
Rymir sighed and sat under a nearby tree, thinking of Legolas' weird changes. There must be something to explain them! Being in love was one matter, but Legolas' weird behaviors were another! There must be another explanation.
The time passed slowly on Rymir while he tried to figure out what ales his prince; suddenly an elf approached him.
"Sir," the elf said in low voice. "The guards sense the presence of an intruder."
"What?"
"There is something or rather someone following us…" the elf said carefully. "Everyone in the camp can sense it."
Rymir frowned deeply, concentrating his senses on his surroundings. He could feel some eyes prying on them as well, plus a foul odor filled the air.
"Be on guard," Rymir said quietly. "Send two of the soldiers to explore the surroundings. Find out who is following us."
With a nod, the elf left quickly to carry out his captain's orders.
Rymir stood up, eyeing Legolas carefully. He wondered if he should wake up the young elf and alarm him, but then he dismissed the thought. Legolas would be safer on the tree in case something happened.
Suddenly something did happen.
A blow from behind came out of a sudden accompanied with a horrible howl. Luckily, Rymir's sense had warmed him about the coming danger and he managed to block it with his sword by a swift turn. He, then, withdrew his sword and swiftly plugged it into the Orc's heart.
Loud howls filled the air as the rest of the orcs attacked the small camp. The elves quickly rose to their feet and fought back, all while keeping their eyes on the tree where their prince slept.
Legolas' sleep was disturbed by the loud sounds of battle. His eyes widened in horror as he saw his companions fighting the group of orcs mercilessly. His eyes gazed around, searching for his horse. The horses weren't around the camp since the elves hadn't tied them to the trees, allowing them to roam around freely.
Legolas felt scared as he saw the orcs continue to increase despite their losses at the hands of his fellows. He couldn't climb down to aid his friends, since his weapons were on his horse. He could only watch the battle from above with a heavy heart.
Another wave of dizziness hit him and he held the tree trunk with all his strength. Suddenly, he felt a searing burn on his right arm. He looked down and saw an Orc's arrow embedded in his flesh. Quickly, he took off the arrow, causing him to scream in pain.
Rymir looked up and to his great horror; he saw blood running down Legolas' right arm, staining the elf's light-green tunic. Legolas' face was paler than Rymir could ever remember. The captain quickly fought his way back to Legolas tree, calling the rest of his group for backup. He arrived just in time as Legolas lost his balance and fell off the tree.
The captain carried the unconscious elf and laid him under the tree as the rest of the elves formed a protective circle around them against the orcs.
Suddenly, a stream of arrows came from the trees sending the Orcs to their doom. The hideous beasts screamed and ran in every direction, afraid of their unseen enemy. Soon, the majority of them were killed and the rest fled away.
The elves were joyful to see Mirkwood borders' guardians emerged from between the trees. They made way as the leader of the guardians walked towards them.
'Legolas!' the elf gasped in fear.
Rymir looked up upon hearing the anxious whisper. He was happy to see Haldir standing in front of him.
'Haldir!' he greeted the silver-haired elf.
'Is his injury serious?' Haldir asked as he knelt beside the laying elf.
'No.' Rymir said as he bandaged the wound. 'It's not serious. There is no sign of poison. It will heal by tomorrow. I think he's only shocked.'
Haldir sighed in relief. 'That's good. We better move from here though. It's not wise to stay here after being attacked. The Orcs might come back.'
Rymir nodded and carried Legolas gently.
'How did you find us?' he asked as he walked by Haldir's side.
'We spotted your horses.' Haldir replied. 'We came to greet you only to hear the sounds of battle.'
'I'm glad that you came.' Rymir said. 'They would have defeated us if you didn't.'
Haldir just smiled slightly in reply, heading to the guardians' camp.
When Legolas opened his eyes that night, he was met with the sight of Haldir sitting next to him.
'Haldir!' he exclaimed, throwing himself into the Lothlórien's elf. 'I missed you so much.'
'I missed you too, Legolas.' Haldir whispered softly into the younger elf's ears. 'I missed you too.'
'What are you doing here?' Legolas asked, pulling away. 'Why aren't you at court with Ada?'
'He just couldn't bear to stay when you weren't there, your highness.' A cheerful voice said.
Legolas looked up at the newcomer and smiled warmly.
'Dinendal!' he exclaimed. 'You're here too!'
The blond elf smiled back, nodding his head. 'I can't leave my lover to have all the fun himself, can I?' he said teasingly as he sat next to Haldir. 'Besides, here reminds me of the days in Lothlórien when we used to guard the borders as well.'
Legolas laughed sweetly. 'No, seriously. Why aren't you two at court?'
'It's just that the palace isn't the same without you in it, Legolas.' Haldir said. 'I thought that I could occupy myself with guardian's duties once more until your return.'
'Of course, that made me extremely jealous of you, Legolas.' Dinendal said. 'Not even I managed to make Haldir stop thinking of you.'
Legolas laughed as a blush rose to his face.
'So how was your first trip to Rivendell?' Dinendal asked.
'Wonderful!' Legolas said, beaming cheerfully. 'I have never been so happy before.'
'I see,' Haldir said. 'Is that why you stayed there for almost a year? I'm very hurt, Legolas.'
Legolas giggled sweetly. 'At least, I haven't got anyone to follow me around like my shadow. I was free as a bird.'
'Bad news, bird, you've just returned to your cage.' the three laughed in amusement.
A yawn suddenly escaped from Legolas. Haldir smiled softly. Some things would never change.
'You better have some sleep, Legolas.' He said as he stood up with Dinendal. 'Tomorrow we will head to the palace.'
Wishing his friends a good night, Legolas rolled to the other side in his bedroll and retuned back to dreamland.
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One week later…
The guards of the Palace watched in amusement and joy as someone with golden hair and green clothes shot through the long corridor that lead to the throne hall.
There was only one person, they knew, who is allowed to run through the corridors of the palace, not caring about any etiquette or protocol…
The guards shook their heads in amusement as they saw Haldir, Dinendal and Rymir, followed by the escort that was sent to Rivendell, trying to cope with their eager prince's speed while trying to maintain protocol at the same time.
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King Thranduil nodded in satisfaction as he studied the wooden model of a village that he was about to have rebuilt.
'Nice work, Saelbeth.' The Elven king said. 'When could the workers start?'
'At your order, your majesty.' Saelbeth said. 'Everything is ready to start rebuilding the village again.'
'Good. Then let the wo-' Thranduil couldn't complete his sentence as the door of the hall sprang open with ultimate force that made the wooden model crash down.
' ADA!' an excited yell was heard, making Thranduil's heart jump from his chest. Swirling around, Thranduil found his arms filled with the slender body of his son.
'Legolas!' the King exclaimed in joy, hugging his beloved son tightly to his heart. 'I'm so glad that you are finally home…'
'I'm glad to be home again, Ada.' Legolas said, burying himself in his father's warm embrace. 'I missed you.'
'I missed you too, ion nîn.' Thranduil said, pulling away. 'Let me look at you,' the king gently lifted Legolas' chin upwards and stared into his green eyes. 'There is something different in you, Legolas.' The king said slowly, studying his son's features.
'Different, Ada?' Legolas asked in confusion.
'Never mind me, Greenleaf.' Thranduil said with a smile. 'It's probably because I haven't seen you in a long time.' He slapped Legolas' cheek playfully. 'You ungrateful elf! One year away from me without any word from you! One would think that you were enjoying your time away from your old Ada.'
Legolas giggled delightfully. 'Enjoying my time, certainly…but not away from you, Ada. You know that you're always in my heart and mind.' He beamed sweetly at his father.
'You little sprite!' Thranduil chuckled in amusement. 'Always knowing how to work your way out with witty answers,' his smile faltered and was replaced with a sadden look. 'Like your Naneth.'
Legolas gave his father a small smile and hugged him again. Thranduil sighed, returning the hug.
Saelbeth shifted in his place, not knowing what to do. He was torn between reminding the father and son of his presence and ruining the tender moment between the two or keeping silent and spying on a private moment between his king and prince.
Settling on the former choice, Saelbeth cleared his throat softly, gaining the attention from the two other elves.
'SAELBETH!' Legolas exclaimed delightfully. 'How are you? It's nice to see to you again!' the young elf released himself from his father's embrace and ran to the other elf, hugging him tightly. 'How is your wife? How is your new baby? What's the gender of the baby? Does it resemble you or lady Calyniel?'
Thranduil laughed amusedly at Legolas' excited non-stop questions…some things wouldn't change at all.
'It's nice to see you again, your highness.' Saelbeth finally got the chance to answer. 'I'm fine and so are my wife and my baby. The Valar have blessed us with a beautiful daughter. We've named her Nethwen (Young Maiden).'
'My best wishes for her, Saelbeth.' Legolas said, smiling sweetly. 'I can't wait to see her and lady Calyniel!'
'Of course, your highness.' Saelbeth replied. 'You can meet them at supper!'
'But before that, Legolas,' Thranduil said. 'You should go and have a bath and some rest. You need it.'
'Yes, Ada.' Legolas said and then looked at Saelbeth. 'I'm looking forward to meeting your wife and daughter at supper. Now, if you will excuse me.' He bowed slightly to his father and walked towards the door.
'Legolas!' Thranduil called as Legolas' hand was about to turn the knob of the door.
'Yes, Ada?' Legolas looked behind.
'Where is Rymir?'
'I think he was trying to keep up with me, along with Haldir and Dinendal.' Legolas said with a mischievous grin.
Saelbeth tried hard to suppress his laughter while Thranduil shook his head as he tried to scowl but failing miserably.
'Call him in.' the king said.
'Yes, Ada.' With that, Legolas left the room.
Thranduil stared at the closed the door for a moment, before whispering softly. 'I wonder who it would be?' he asked no one in particular.
'Your majesty? Who is who?' Saelbeth inquired.
Thranduil smirked at his adviser. 'One day, when your daughter is grown up, you would notice this. You would notice when your child gives away her heart.'
Saelbeth stared at his king in surprise. 'But Legolas-'
'Has grown up, Saelbeth.' King Thranduil said almost bitterly. 'I've been denying this fact for a long time, but when I saw Legolas today, I couldn't deny it anymore. My little Greenleaf has grown up. Now, I want to know to whom I have lost my son.'
'You would never lose him, sire.' Saelbeth said softly. 'You are his Adar. And falling in love with someone doesn't change his affections for you.'
'Yes, I know.' Thranduil said. 'But the selfish part of me still sees it as a loss. I just wish to know to whom.'
Saelbeth just nodded his head in understanding. Moments later, Rymir emerged into the room.
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Legolas yawned tiredly as he snuggled deeper into his bed. Yet, he was unable to sleep or even think of it.
He was too happy and excited to be home at last…to be surrounded with his father's and his friends' love once more.
Oh! How much he wished that his beloved were with him right now, so his joy and happiness would be complete!
Thinking of Estel, Legolas sighed. He hadn't thought of a way to talk about him to his father yet. Legolas wondered, though, if his father suspected something. During dinner, his father kept asking him about his time in Rivendell and if he had made some special friends.
Legolas shook his head. His father couldn't possibly suspect something like that at all, could he?
Instinctively, his hand reached for his mother's pendant. Not feeling it under his shirt, Legolas jumped to a sitting position with a startle. His heartbeat raced in his chest.
Of course!
He had given his pendant to Estel as a token of his love and promise to come back.
Legolas wondered if his Ada, Haldir, or anyone had noticed the absent pendent. Probably not, or they would have asked about it.
Well, he ought to tell his father before the king finds out about the pendent and demands an explanation. But how to inform his father?
Legolas lied back with a sigh. This wouldn't be easy…wouldn't be easy at all. He must think of a way to tell his father the truth soon.
Soft knocks on the door brought Legolas back to the real world. He wondered who would be visiting him at this hour of the night.
'Come in,' he said, getting out his bed.
The door of the bedroom opened revealing Haldir.
'Good evening, Legolas.' The Lothlórien elf said with a smirk. 'I see that you haven't slept yet.'
'Nor you.' Legolas replied, sitting on the edge of the bed. 'And to what do I own the honor of your visit?' he asked teasingly. 'Aren't you supposed to be with your lover right now? Poor Dinendal. He's probably roaming the palace now, searching for his missing love.'
'I can see that the twins had managed to influence you.' Haldir said shaking his head as he joined Legolas on his bed. 'I feared that something like that would happen. That's why I didn't want you to go to Imladris alone.'
'Thank the Valar that you didn't.' Legolas said. 'If you did come with me, I wouldn't have a chance to even breathe.'
'Is that so!' Haldir exclaimed. 'Then I won't let you breathe now.' with that, he attacked Legolas, tickling him hard.
Legolas laughed loudly as he struggled to escape Haldir's firm grip. In his struggle to get free, the three buttons of Legolas' shirt opened revealing his neckline.
'Legolas!' Haldir exclaimed in surprise as he noticed the absence of Legolas' pendant. 'Where is your pendant?'
Legolas lowered his gaze as he sat up again. His hands unconsciously played with the sheets as he mumbled something.
'What? I didn't hear you.' Haldir said frowning.
'I have given it away.' Legolas replied in a voice just above whisper.
'Given it away?' Haldir exclaimed. 'To whom? And why? Legolas, what would your Adar say if he knew that you've given your Naneth's pendant away?'
Legolas mumbled another thing, his eyes still refusing to meet Haldir and an odd rosy-red color was spreading to the tips of his ears.
'Legolas,' Haldir said impatiently. 'If you are going to repeat everything you say twice then we'll stay here until the tomorrow's afternoon.'
'I've given it as token of love.' Legolas whispered. 'as a promise that I would return back.'
Haldir blinked several times, his mind registering what Legolas said. To be honest with himself, Haldir hadn't expected such confession.
Legolas is in love!
That was something uncalled for!
The elf would be barely 18 years old in the eyes of mortals yet he believes that he's in love enough to give away his mother's pendant as a token of that love!
Haldir's gaze softened, as he looked more at Legolas. He wasn't the same young elf he was charged to protect 1000 years ago. As much as he hated to admit it, Legolas has grown up and must have his chance in love as well as in life.
Sighing, Haldir gently lifted Legolas' chin with his finger. 'Who is it then?'
Legolas blinked confusedly before understanding Haldir's question. He blushed even more and looked away.
'Come on,' Haldir said, turning Legolas' face around. 'Tell me who is it?'
'Well,' Legolas started. 'He is…he is…' Legolas looked away in shyness.
/He? Interesting/ Haldir snickered at Legolas' behavior before a thought crossed his mind making him frown instead.
'He isn't one of the twins, is he?' he asked firmly.
Legolas looked at him with surprise and shook his head.
'Good.' Haldir said. 'I would have gone to Imladris myself and tore their heads apart with my bare hands if any of them tried to take advantage of you.'
Legolas giggled softly. 'As a matter of fact, Elladan had confessed his love to me.' Haldir scowled at that. 'but, I had already confessed my love to another, by that time.' Legolas continued. 'so I turned Elladan down.' He said with a little bit of guilt.
'Aren't you going to tell me who the lucky soul is that caught the heart of Mirkwood's golden prince?'
Legolas blushed and lowered his gaze. 'I don't think you know him.' he whispered.
'Then tell me.' Haldir said in amusement. 'And tell me how things evolved between the two of you.'
'Alright,' Legolas took a deep breath before starting his tale……
'HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND?' Haldir exclaimed in great shock as Legolas finished his story.
'Shhh… Ada might hear you and come asking what is going on.' Legolas said, looking alertly at the door.
'If he doesn't come, I'll go and tell him myself.' Haldir said, glaring at angrily. 'Honestly, Legolas, what were you thinking! Falling in love with a human!'
'I didn't choose to fall in love with a human.' Legolas said softly with a hurt tone. 'It just happened. Besides, Estel is not like the humans you and Ada had described. He's so gentle and noble and-'
'Human!' Haldir said sharply. 'Have you ever thought about the consequence of your love on your Adar and people? What will happen if they knew that Mirkwood's Crown Prince is in love with a human?' Haldir huffed in anger, folding his arms in front of his chest. 'I'm surprised that lord Elrond had allowed a human in Imladris in the first place. How could he even approve of such thing to happen between the two of you!'
'He didn't.' Legolas said, looking away. 'He didn't approve of our love.' He stood up and walked to the window. 'He wanted us to promise that we would end our youthful love but we couldn't. He threatened me to inform Ada about it. I feared that if Lord Elrond informed Ada, he would come and kill Estel. That's why I stopped seeing Estel for a while.'
'He was right.' Haldir said. 'King Thranduil would have torn that human into pieces with his bare hands.'
'Even if it broke my heart?' Legolas looked at Haldir with sad eyes. 'I love Estel; I love him with my whole being. I don't care if he is a human. Not all humans can be cruel and heartless. Estel indeed is a human but also has elven blood in his veins, that's the reason why Lord Elrond accepted him in Imladris. I knew him for almost a year and I've seen nothing but kindness and gentleness from him.'
'That doesn't change the fact that he is a human. And having elven blood doesn't mean anything either.' Haldir scowled. 'And it won't change your Adar's opinion about the whole matter.'
'You're wrong.' Legolas said stubbornly. 'If Ada knew how much Estel means to me, then he'll agree to give him a chance. I'm sure that once Ada knew Estel as I known him, then he won't disagree on our love.'
'I highly doubt it.' Haldir said with a snort. 'I suggest that you forget about that human, Legolas. And let's thank the Valar that it ended at this level without anything serious happened.'
At this, Legolas lowered his gaze, with a visible blush on his cheeks.
'Something serious did happen, didn't it?' Haldir asked, glaring at Legolas' direction.
Legolas nodded his head slowly. 'We slept together.' He said in a voice barely above whisper.
'WHAT?'
'It was only one time.' Legolas said hurriedly.
'One time or not, how could you do that? You are a prince! And with human! How did it happen? You said that Lord Elrond forbidden you from continuing, then how?' Haldir was about to explode from range.
'Yes,' Legolas said, looking back outside the window. 'I spent one month avoiding Estel completely, but then Lord Glorfindel came and took me back to Estel. He said it was wrong to keep us apart if we truly love each other. He also told me that I should tell Ada and stand for my love…and when Rymir and the others came to take me back home, I went to Estel's room with my free will and—and gave myself one chance to experience his love.' Legolas looked at Haldir with teary eyes. 'It was only one time but it meant the whole world to me. And for it, I'll tell Ada about Estel.'
'Not now.' Haldir said firmly. 'If you didn't want your Adar march to Imladris and burn it to the ground, you must wait a little until his nerves are strong enough to take such news.'
'Haldir?' Legolas looked at Haldir questionably. 'Are you—'
'Well, it seems that I have no choice but to support you,' Haldir said in annoyed voice. 'You seem sure of your feelings and that of Estel's. Besides, if that human truly makes you happy, then I suppose I can tolerate him.'
'Haldir, thank you!' Legolas ran and launched himself into Haldir's lap, sending them both down.
'Easy, Greenleaf,' Haldir exclaimed in surprise. 'You're not a small elfling anymore!'
Legolas stuck his tongue out and both laughed in joy.
'Anyhow,' Haldir said when they stopped. 'You must inform your Adar. It's not right to keep such a serious matter a secret from him.'
'I'm afraid of his reaction.' Legolas replied as he sat up. 'He treats me as a child and will never listen to my explanations. He'll most likely attack Imladris just to kill Estel.'
'I suppose I can think of some way to tell him the truth.' Haldir said slowly. Legolas looked at Haldir questionably as the other thought deeply. 'Listen,' Haldir spoke. 'You are the Crown Prince of Mirkwood, Legolas. If you showed your Adar that you have grown up and took up your responsibilities as the Crown Prince, then he'll listen to everything you have to say and probably be convinced to go and meet that human without tearing him apart...'
'You do really think so?'
'Well, it is nearly impossible but there is no other solution. Go and ask him to allow you to attend the court. Dinendal and I will support you.'
'Thank you, Haldir!' again Legolas launched on Haldir, sending them to the bed again.
'On second thought,' Haldir said. 'I think you are still an elfling.'
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T.B.C.
