Chapter 3: Pranks of Togetherness
Ohayo! Here's the next chapter everyone. Same warnings go as before and I would like to again thank everyone for the wonderful reviews. ^_^ And trust me the messenger will actually help them this time. Hehe, anyway, please read and review. I think I did okay on this fic even though it is a little short but of course that's my opinion. Now may I know yours? Onegai? *chibi eyes* Lol, I guess basically feedback is good. And we're off to the story. . .
Anou, don't ask about the chapter title cause I don't even know where it came from.
Chapter 3: Pranks of Togetherness
Glorfindel and Rai trailed in with the last of the dinner guests as they tried to hide their disheveled state from their hurry. As they both took seats as close as they could manage to Legolas, Aragorn, and Arwen, the two friends grinned at one another and began to furiously whisper.
Across the table, Haldir of Lothlorien was watching curiously as the two elven lords held a soft conversation. He frowned as he recognized the mischievous air about his friends and as subtly as he could, the blonde stood and took the chair beside Rai.
"What are you two planning now?"
Rai immediately ceased his discussion with Glorfindel in favor of attempting to appear innocent to his other light-haired friend. "Now what do you mean by that my dear Haldir?"
Haldir's eyes narrowed and he glared slightly at the younger elf. "I am certain now. There is something happening."
On the other side of Rai, there came a sound that suspiciously resembled a muffled laugh, directing the Lorien's attention to Glorfindel. "Twas you that pulled Rai into whatever this is wasn't it Glorfindel?"
"And to what 'this' are you referring to?"
Shaking his head, Haldir rolled his eyes. "Both of you will find yourselves in trouble one of these days for pulling pranks. Honestly, you act as if you were still children."
"We are just having some fun. Now sit back and enjoy the show." Glorfindel whispered as he pushed back his chair and made his way over to Legolas and Aragorn.
"Is that elf crazy?"
Rai shrugged and smirked. "Better him than I. Unlike what you believe I do have some sense of self-preservation but you know as well as I do that there is no way to change Glorfindel's mind when he has it set on some task. Better to go along with it since there is more than likely a promise of an amusing ending."
Haldir laughed lightly and nodded. "Of course. We did find out the hard way that life is never boring with Glorfindel around didn't we?"
"May we never have to experience that again." Mumbled the brunette archer as he and Haldir's gazes followed their gray-eyed friend.
* * * * *
Glorfindel pasted on his most harmless smile as he approached the eating place of the Mirkwood prince and his friends. Bowing in respect when Legolas spotted him, Glorfindel took the offered chair to the other's right, putting him directly facing Arwen and Aragorn. /This is perfect!/
The prince politely began the conversation as Glorfindel lowered himself into his seat. "Lord Glorfindel. Tis a pleasure to finally speak with you. I had heard that Lord Rai and you traveled here with the Lady Arwen. Hopefully your journey was a peaceful one?"
"Twas a pleasant journey and luckily our archery skills were not called upon. How do you and Aragorn fare?" So far, the plan was working as the elven-lord found Aragorn giving his attention to him with the mention of his name.
"We are well." A flash of pain passed through Legolas' eyes as he continued. "Although I would suspect that if you were to ask a friend of Aragorn's welfare, twould be more efficient to question the Lady Arwen. After all they are betrothed."
Aragorn faltered at the mention of their called off wedding and this captured Legolas' notice. He immediately knew that the tiny wince that he permitted to escape was a mistake when his friend opened his mouth to question his response.
/This is it./ Glorfindel sat back and allowed the situation to unfold before him with a small grin on his face.
Legolas saw his best friend's reaction to his words and great worry passed through his heart. "Why do you grimace so Estel?"
"Umm. . ." For some reason, the Ranger could not bring himself to meet Legolas' emerald gaze. /He will find out. There is no way I can explain to him my choices without revealing my true feelings. He knows me too well for me to hide it./
Arwen sensed the uneasiness in Aragon and with a sigh answered the prince. "We are not to be wed. A messenger has already been sent to my father about this."
"What?!" Legolas was in shock and he heart jumped a beat when a thought guiltily ran through his head. /Could I really have a chance with Estel then?/ Pushing aside his own feelings, the fair archer delved for the safer emotions of confusion. "When did this happen? Why did this happen?"
Unknown to Legolas and the other two, the prince's outburst had attracted the curiosity of the rest of the table and now all watched on in interest.
"Twas before we arrived here." Aragorn began slowly. "Arwen and I have both changed our feelings toward one another for we no longer love each other as husband and wife but rather as siblings."
All was hushed as Legolas slowly digested the information. His emerald eyes swept across the Man's face and he could tell by the faint glimmer of worry, that those weren't Aragorn's only reasons. "Why else Estel? There must be another reason that accompanies the one that you have given me."
/Oh no. Not here. Anywhere but here while everyone is watching./ The Ranger bit his lip and tried to come up with an excuse to speak with Legolas in private but his flustered mind couldn't formulate any way of escape.
Further down the table, Rai sighed. /I did not want it to go this far. They deserve to discuss this freely without watchful eyes./ Looking beyond the chairs of guests, the wintry-eyed archer could tell that Glorfindel had no intention of saving either elf or man from the upcoming embarrassment. To his side, Haldir shifted slightly when he realized the reason for Aragorn's silence and the blonde nudged Rai hard in the stomach signaling for him to interfere.
"Ouch!" Rubbing his side painfully, Rai glared at Haldir but consented to the hint his friend had given him. Muttering an incantation, the elf made sure he concealed both himself and Haldir before tugging on the Lorien's sleeve. Together, the two elves crept out of the dining hall and once they were far enough so their voices would not be heard, Rai released the spell.
"So what do we do now?" Haldir asked and he paced the hall.
"Would you really believe I would have us leave without a plan? All I ask is that you wait around the corner closest to Aragorn and Legolas' chambers. I shall return in a short while." With a graceful wave of his hand, Rai was once again the messenger from before. He smiled at Haldir and promptly ran off in the direction whence they came.
Haldir sighed and mentally wished his friend luck as he strode down the hall the opposite way.
* * * * *
Aragorn was still struggling to answer Legolas' question when the door opened and in walked a messenger. Immense relief flooded through the man as the other gave a small bow of apology and approached him.
"I am sorry for the disturbance but Haldir of Lothlorien asks for you company, my Lord along with that of Prince Legolas. He sends his regret at having interrupted your dinner but this is an urgent matter." Rai managed to refrain from laughing as Aragorn gazed at him with gratitude before standing and motioned for Legolas to follow him out of the dining hall.
They walked in silence for several minutes until Legolas spoke up with a frown upon his fair features. "We have already passed the hall in which Haldir's room lies. Where are you leading us, my good elf?"
Rai rounded on the two and nodded. "I am aware of that Prince Legolas for I am not here to bring you to see Haldir. As I recall from the situation at dinner, both of you should speak in private rather than with the numerable witnesses."
Legolas and Aragorn stared at Rai with shock, the latter registering more of this on his face than his companion.
"Who are you?"
Smiling at the Ranger, Rai shook his head. "Tis my secret but I will tell you that I am a friend. Now I'm afraid I shall have to depart. Pray, do not hide your emotions any longer Aragorn son of Arathorn. Tis now or never."
Casting a last meaningful look at Aragorn, the elven mage whispered the words of a teleportation spell and vanished only to reappear at Haldir's hiding place.
"So?" The blonde archer was not at all perturbed by Rai's abrupt appearance, having grown accustomed to the other's tricks.
"They are insured time alone to confer about their feelings." The brunette shifted back into his normal form and grimaced. "We should search for Glorfindel before he comes up with another plan."
"Wait." Haldir reached out and grasped Rai's upper arm. "Out of curiosity why did you play out Glorfindel's earlier schemes?"
"Because," Rai sighed and resumed walking. "if I had not, the results would have been far more catastrophic and painful to Aragorn, Arwen, and Legolas. Now we must hurry."
* * * * *
Aragorn fidgeted nervously as he followed Legolas out onto their balcony and again took up the chair he had occupied only the day before. The prince however, perched himself on the wooden table cross legged in front of Aragorn and waited for the Ranger to start.
Taking a deep breath and releasing it, Aragorn drew strength from the green depths of his friend's eyes. "You were correct when you said I had another reason for canceling my marriage to Arwen but I fear to say what it is for I do not wish you to hate me."
Legolas' expression softened as he lowered himself sideways into Aragorn's lap just like he had done when they were children to comfort the other. He smiled when Aragorn wrapped strong arms around his waist and Legolas placed a soft hand on his best friend's face. "I would never hate you no matter what Estel. You are my best friend and we have known each other for countless years now, do not believe that I will throw away our relationship just because one small thing."
"Tis not as simple as you would think Legolas. For this issue has plagued my mind for many years now, even before my betrothal to Arwen." Pain crossed Aragorn's features and he buried his face into the elf's shoulder. "How will I ever tell you this?"
Combing, slim fingers through the brown locks underneath his chin, Legolas closed his eyes. "If this bothers you so then I am not pushing. You may tell me when you are ready. We still have many years together, my dear friend." He shifted to stand up but the arms about his waist tightened. "Estel?"
"Please do not leave yet." Whispered Aragorn gently and the rest of his sentence come out almost as just a movement of his lips.
"What was that? Twas too soft even for me to hear."
"I—" Aragorn drew back so he could see Legolas' eyes. "I love you Legolas."
The elf absolutely froze at the confession, one thought racing through his mind. /He loves me. He loves me. My love is returned./
Aragorn's heart sank as the blonde beauty showed no reaction to his words. Sighing, he lowered his eyes in shame until a delicate hand cupped his cheek and brought his face to meet Legolas'. "Do you really mean it?"
Licking his suddenly dry lips, Aragorn nodded, far beyond the capability of speech as he saw the reflection of love in the emerald gems.
Beaming with happiness, Legolas hugged Aragorn firmly. "I love you too Estel."
Little by little they inched forward and their lips grew closer and closer together but just as silky flesh was about to touch their came a knock at the door disturbing the two. Sighing, Legolas gave Aragorn an apologetic look and went to open the door. He had expected to find the messenger from before but was surprised with the appearance of a slightly disheveled Glorfindel.
"Lord Glorfindel? Wha—" The blonde was cut off by two things happening at once. Out in the hall, Lord Rai and Haldir suddenly came rushing around the corner and dragged away the protesting elven lord while the door slammed. Turning, Legolas found Aragorn standing behind him and before another word could be uttered, the elf found himself being thoroughly kissed.
Stiffening momentarily, Legolas gradually eased into the kiss. It was everything he had dreamed it would be and more. /So this is bliss. . ./
And together, the two friends became lovers and they spent the rest of the night reveling in their love for each other.
Owari. . . The End!
Ok, well I know that this fic was sorta short but hey it's finished so no more cliffhangers. So whatcha think about it? I have another idea for a chapter LotR fic that will be longer but it would depend if people think I did well on this one or not. Considering this is my first chapter fic and all. So shall I continue with another fic or no? Review please and tell me your opinions. Arigato minna!
Ohayo! Here's the next chapter everyone. Same warnings go as before and I would like to again thank everyone for the wonderful reviews. ^_^ And trust me the messenger will actually help them this time. Hehe, anyway, please read and review. I think I did okay on this fic even though it is a little short but of course that's my opinion. Now may I know yours? Onegai? *chibi eyes* Lol, I guess basically feedback is good. And we're off to the story. . .
Anou, don't ask about the chapter title cause I don't even know where it came from.
Chapter 3: Pranks of Togetherness
Glorfindel and Rai trailed in with the last of the dinner guests as they tried to hide their disheveled state from their hurry. As they both took seats as close as they could manage to Legolas, Aragorn, and Arwen, the two friends grinned at one another and began to furiously whisper.
Across the table, Haldir of Lothlorien was watching curiously as the two elven lords held a soft conversation. He frowned as he recognized the mischievous air about his friends and as subtly as he could, the blonde stood and took the chair beside Rai.
"What are you two planning now?"
Rai immediately ceased his discussion with Glorfindel in favor of attempting to appear innocent to his other light-haired friend. "Now what do you mean by that my dear Haldir?"
Haldir's eyes narrowed and he glared slightly at the younger elf. "I am certain now. There is something happening."
On the other side of Rai, there came a sound that suspiciously resembled a muffled laugh, directing the Lorien's attention to Glorfindel. "Twas you that pulled Rai into whatever this is wasn't it Glorfindel?"
"And to what 'this' are you referring to?"
Shaking his head, Haldir rolled his eyes. "Both of you will find yourselves in trouble one of these days for pulling pranks. Honestly, you act as if you were still children."
"We are just having some fun. Now sit back and enjoy the show." Glorfindel whispered as he pushed back his chair and made his way over to Legolas and Aragorn.
"Is that elf crazy?"
Rai shrugged and smirked. "Better him than I. Unlike what you believe I do have some sense of self-preservation but you know as well as I do that there is no way to change Glorfindel's mind when he has it set on some task. Better to go along with it since there is more than likely a promise of an amusing ending."
Haldir laughed lightly and nodded. "Of course. We did find out the hard way that life is never boring with Glorfindel around didn't we?"
"May we never have to experience that again." Mumbled the brunette archer as he and Haldir's gazes followed their gray-eyed friend.
* * * * *
Glorfindel pasted on his most harmless smile as he approached the eating place of the Mirkwood prince and his friends. Bowing in respect when Legolas spotted him, Glorfindel took the offered chair to the other's right, putting him directly facing Arwen and Aragorn. /This is perfect!/
The prince politely began the conversation as Glorfindel lowered himself into his seat. "Lord Glorfindel. Tis a pleasure to finally speak with you. I had heard that Lord Rai and you traveled here with the Lady Arwen. Hopefully your journey was a peaceful one?"
"Twas a pleasant journey and luckily our archery skills were not called upon. How do you and Aragorn fare?" So far, the plan was working as the elven-lord found Aragorn giving his attention to him with the mention of his name.
"We are well." A flash of pain passed through Legolas' eyes as he continued. "Although I would suspect that if you were to ask a friend of Aragorn's welfare, twould be more efficient to question the Lady Arwen. After all they are betrothed."
Aragorn faltered at the mention of their called off wedding and this captured Legolas' notice. He immediately knew that the tiny wince that he permitted to escape was a mistake when his friend opened his mouth to question his response.
/This is it./ Glorfindel sat back and allowed the situation to unfold before him with a small grin on his face.
Legolas saw his best friend's reaction to his words and great worry passed through his heart. "Why do you grimace so Estel?"
"Umm. . ." For some reason, the Ranger could not bring himself to meet Legolas' emerald gaze. /He will find out. There is no way I can explain to him my choices without revealing my true feelings. He knows me too well for me to hide it./
Arwen sensed the uneasiness in Aragon and with a sigh answered the prince. "We are not to be wed. A messenger has already been sent to my father about this."
"What?!" Legolas was in shock and he heart jumped a beat when a thought guiltily ran through his head. /Could I really have a chance with Estel then?/ Pushing aside his own feelings, the fair archer delved for the safer emotions of confusion. "When did this happen? Why did this happen?"
Unknown to Legolas and the other two, the prince's outburst had attracted the curiosity of the rest of the table and now all watched on in interest.
"Twas before we arrived here." Aragorn began slowly. "Arwen and I have both changed our feelings toward one another for we no longer love each other as husband and wife but rather as siblings."
All was hushed as Legolas slowly digested the information. His emerald eyes swept across the Man's face and he could tell by the faint glimmer of worry, that those weren't Aragorn's only reasons. "Why else Estel? There must be another reason that accompanies the one that you have given me."
/Oh no. Not here. Anywhere but here while everyone is watching./ The Ranger bit his lip and tried to come up with an excuse to speak with Legolas in private but his flustered mind couldn't formulate any way of escape.
Further down the table, Rai sighed. /I did not want it to go this far. They deserve to discuss this freely without watchful eyes./ Looking beyond the chairs of guests, the wintry-eyed archer could tell that Glorfindel had no intention of saving either elf or man from the upcoming embarrassment. To his side, Haldir shifted slightly when he realized the reason for Aragorn's silence and the blonde nudged Rai hard in the stomach signaling for him to interfere.
"Ouch!" Rubbing his side painfully, Rai glared at Haldir but consented to the hint his friend had given him. Muttering an incantation, the elf made sure he concealed both himself and Haldir before tugging on the Lorien's sleeve. Together, the two elves crept out of the dining hall and once they were far enough so their voices would not be heard, Rai released the spell.
"So what do we do now?" Haldir asked and he paced the hall.
"Would you really believe I would have us leave without a plan? All I ask is that you wait around the corner closest to Aragorn and Legolas' chambers. I shall return in a short while." With a graceful wave of his hand, Rai was once again the messenger from before. He smiled at Haldir and promptly ran off in the direction whence they came.
Haldir sighed and mentally wished his friend luck as he strode down the hall the opposite way.
* * * * *
Aragorn was still struggling to answer Legolas' question when the door opened and in walked a messenger. Immense relief flooded through the man as the other gave a small bow of apology and approached him.
"I am sorry for the disturbance but Haldir of Lothlorien asks for you company, my Lord along with that of Prince Legolas. He sends his regret at having interrupted your dinner but this is an urgent matter." Rai managed to refrain from laughing as Aragorn gazed at him with gratitude before standing and motioned for Legolas to follow him out of the dining hall.
They walked in silence for several minutes until Legolas spoke up with a frown upon his fair features. "We have already passed the hall in which Haldir's room lies. Where are you leading us, my good elf?"
Rai rounded on the two and nodded. "I am aware of that Prince Legolas for I am not here to bring you to see Haldir. As I recall from the situation at dinner, both of you should speak in private rather than with the numerable witnesses."
Legolas and Aragorn stared at Rai with shock, the latter registering more of this on his face than his companion.
"Who are you?"
Smiling at the Ranger, Rai shook his head. "Tis my secret but I will tell you that I am a friend. Now I'm afraid I shall have to depart. Pray, do not hide your emotions any longer Aragorn son of Arathorn. Tis now or never."
Casting a last meaningful look at Aragorn, the elven mage whispered the words of a teleportation spell and vanished only to reappear at Haldir's hiding place.
"So?" The blonde archer was not at all perturbed by Rai's abrupt appearance, having grown accustomed to the other's tricks.
"They are insured time alone to confer about their feelings." The brunette shifted back into his normal form and grimaced. "We should search for Glorfindel before he comes up with another plan."
"Wait." Haldir reached out and grasped Rai's upper arm. "Out of curiosity why did you play out Glorfindel's earlier schemes?"
"Because," Rai sighed and resumed walking. "if I had not, the results would have been far more catastrophic and painful to Aragorn, Arwen, and Legolas. Now we must hurry."
* * * * *
Aragorn fidgeted nervously as he followed Legolas out onto their balcony and again took up the chair he had occupied only the day before. The prince however, perched himself on the wooden table cross legged in front of Aragorn and waited for the Ranger to start.
Taking a deep breath and releasing it, Aragorn drew strength from the green depths of his friend's eyes. "You were correct when you said I had another reason for canceling my marriage to Arwen but I fear to say what it is for I do not wish you to hate me."
Legolas' expression softened as he lowered himself sideways into Aragorn's lap just like he had done when they were children to comfort the other. He smiled when Aragorn wrapped strong arms around his waist and Legolas placed a soft hand on his best friend's face. "I would never hate you no matter what Estel. You are my best friend and we have known each other for countless years now, do not believe that I will throw away our relationship just because one small thing."
"Tis not as simple as you would think Legolas. For this issue has plagued my mind for many years now, even before my betrothal to Arwen." Pain crossed Aragorn's features and he buried his face into the elf's shoulder. "How will I ever tell you this?"
Combing, slim fingers through the brown locks underneath his chin, Legolas closed his eyes. "If this bothers you so then I am not pushing. You may tell me when you are ready. We still have many years together, my dear friend." He shifted to stand up but the arms about his waist tightened. "Estel?"
"Please do not leave yet." Whispered Aragorn gently and the rest of his sentence come out almost as just a movement of his lips.
"What was that? Twas too soft even for me to hear."
"I—" Aragorn drew back so he could see Legolas' eyes. "I love you Legolas."
The elf absolutely froze at the confession, one thought racing through his mind. /He loves me. He loves me. My love is returned./
Aragorn's heart sank as the blonde beauty showed no reaction to his words. Sighing, he lowered his eyes in shame until a delicate hand cupped his cheek and brought his face to meet Legolas'. "Do you really mean it?"
Licking his suddenly dry lips, Aragorn nodded, far beyond the capability of speech as he saw the reflection of love in the emerald gems.
Beaming with happiness, Legolas hugged Aragorn firmly. "I love you too Estel."
Little by little they inched forward and their lips grew closer and closer together but just as silky flesh was about to touch their came a knock at the door disturbing the two. Sighing, Legolas gave Aragorn an apologetic look and went to open the door. He had expected to find the messenger from before but was surprised with the appearance of a slightly disheveled Glorfindel.
"Lord Glorfindel? Wha—" The blonde was cut off by two things happening at once. Out in the hall, Lord Rai and Haldir suddenly came rushing around the corner and dragged away the protesting elven lord while the door slammed. Turning, Legolas found Aragorn standing behind him and before another word could be uttered, the elf found himself being thoroughly kissed.
Stiffening momentarily, Legolas gradually eased into the kiss. It was everything he had dreamed it would be and more. /So this is bliss. . ./
And together, the two friends became lovers and they spent the rest of the night reveling in their love for each other.
Owari. . . The End!
Ok, well I know that this fic was sorta short but hey it's finished so no more cliffhangers. So whatcha think about it? I have another idea for a chapter LotR fic that will be longer but it would depend if people think I did well on this one or not. Considering this is my first chapter fic and all. So shall I continue with another fic or no? Review please and tell me your opinions. Arigato minna!